The pride of Isle of Palms, SC today, tomorrow and always. Photo by Rachel Basye Vol.3 Issue 11 November 2025 To read digitally, visit ReadIslandVibes.com The conversation continues at IsleOfPalmsPodcast.com IOP MARINA ADDS SAFETY SIGNAGE TO WARN MOTORISTS See Page 3 TALES OF VALOR VETERANS SHARE SERVICE STORIES See Page 18 OYSTER ROAST ESSENTIALS See Page 20 IOP PROPERTY MANAGEMENT DIRECTORY See Page 11 HARBOR COURSE RESUMES PLAY AFTER RENOVATIONS See Page 6 PAPI'S TAQUERIA CLOSES AFTER 7 YEARS See Page 10
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IslandVibesIOP.com 3 hazardous to people unfamiliar with its layout and the proximity of its parking area to the water. “It can be confusing for drivers here at high tide,” Brittelli said. “I hope these measures will help make sure we don’t have any more accidents here.” In an effort to prevent further vehicles from driving into the water, the Isle of Palms Police Department and area leaders have taken measures to make the IOP Marina safer for motorists. “In mid-September, we put up a center aisle with a lane divider, two signs on either side of the boat ramp that are always flashing with caution lights and flood lights shining down on the ramp,” said Billy Brittelli, dock master at IOP Marina. “Except for the dividers, IOP City handled the majority NEWS IOP Marina signage, lights installed to prevent future accidents By L. C. Leach III Wellness by the Sea Regenerative Medicine & Aesthetics Where It’s ALL ABOUT YOU GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE! Board-certified medical professionals that offer personalized state-of-the-art treatments for face & body. Lasers, toxins, facials, weight loss and more. REQUEST YOUR PERSONALIZED CONSULTATION IN A SERENE ENVIRONMENT. WE DESIGN A PLAN FOR YOUR UNIQUE NEEDS. TRUST THE EXPERTS. 843.894.0955 YoungerYoustudio.com 1022 Carolina Blvd. Isle of Palms, SC of the cost and the supplies and we installed it.” IOP Police Chief Kevin Cornett informed the public at the Oct. 7 Public Safety Committee meeting that he had personally reached out to Google Maps to specifically ask them to “remove the end of the roadway that goes toward the boat ramp.” “They also had a roadway that’s not there since we reconfigured the parking lot,” Cornett said. “They’ve already made (those) edits.” Cornett also recommended to Google Maps that the route to get to the Islander 71 restaurant at the marina take motorists along the main roadway and “not cut through the marina store parking lot.” The improved safety features came on the heels of a near-tragic auto accident this past August when a visiting motorist drove into the water at the IOP Marina during inclement weather and was rescued by two patrons at Islander 71. It was the second time in under a year that such an accident occurred. On both occasions, the vehicles sank and the occupants were rescued due to the quick response of witnesses who happened to be at the restaurant. Cornett previously warned of the dangers of island driving during severe weather conditions, especially at night and even more so at the IOP Marina, where water levels are often 11-13 feet deep and heavy rain can “quickly obscure where the roadway ends and make it difficult to gauge depths.” While acknowledging that the new measures don’t guarantee that there will be no additional accidents, Cornett and Brittelli are hopeful that they will at least flag to all future motorists that while the IOP Marina is one of the most appealing places on the island, it can be THE GOLD STANDARD OF VACATION RENTALS WWW.IOPESCAPES.COM 843.456.4606 EXT. 3
IslandVibesIOP.com 4 One of the things I love most about Isle of Palms is the sense of pride people take in caring for this little slice of paradise. Whether it’s neighbors helping each other prepare for a storm, local businesses pitching in to preserve our beaches or longtime residents welcoming newcomers, the sense of community here runs deep. It’s this shared commitment to keeping our island vibrant and well-loved that makes IOP such a special place to call home. Speaking of community, our IOP Property Management Directory (See Page 11) displays how all of these island companies are one big welcome wagon for vacationers. One thing for sure is getaway, this resource was created with you in mind. Thank you, as always, for being part of the Island Vibes family and for supporting the local professionals who help our community shine. Together, we keep the spirit of Isle of Palms thriving — one property, one partnership and one neighborly act at a time. Keeping positive vibes flowing, Bill Macchio Publisher worker by trade and an honest man by heart who set an example for others and always practiced what he preached. He was a simple kind of man with calloused hands and a sound mind. Out of all the beautiful things he ever built, Keith’s greatest masterpiece of all was his family. This holiday season, before we rush through shopping lists and party plans, let’s pause to reflect on the true meaning of the season. Give your time to the people you love. Call someone just to hear their voice. Share a story that makes you laugh or cry. These ordinary moments may seem insignificant, but someday they will turn into special memories. In the end, the true magic of the holidays is found in the time we spend with those who matter most. If you’re lucky enough to still have time with that special someone, don’t waste a second. Positively yours, Zach Giroux Editor The greatest gift of all this holiday season is not something that can be easily found underneath the Christmas tree. It’s not shiny, it doesn’t have a price tag and it’s nonrefundable: time. This past October, I had the misfortune of losing my father. He was only 70 years old. Fortunately, he passed away in his sleep with no lingering pain and Island Vibes Vol. 3, Issue 11, November 2025 PUBLISHER BILL MACCHIO PUBLISHER@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM MANAGING EDITOR ZACH GIROUX EDITOR@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM ART DIRECTOR BETHANY LONG ART@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM COPY EDITOR COLIN MCCANDLESS BRAND AMBASSADOR SONYA BUCKHANNON SONYA@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM PHOTOGRAPHY RACHEL BASYE COOPERRIVERPHOTOGRAPHY.COM DIGITAL MANAGER ALLYAH HARRAR ALLYAH@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER ALYSSA FRANCO THEDIGITALTOUCHCHS@GMAIL.COM WEB EDITOR GEORGE CONKLIN CONTRIBUTORS RYAN BUCKHANNON • MARY COY LAURA FOGARTY • ALLYAH HARRAR SUZETTE HEAD • L.C. LEACH III COLIN MCCANDLESS • MEL MILES PHILLIP POUNDS • SARAH ROSE • ALEX STONE SALES REPRESENTATIVES STACEY MCLOUGHLIN STACEY@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM COLLEEN KASSNER COLLEEN@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM SHARI SEBUCK SHARI@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 FROM THE TEAM Publisher’s Note IOP WE Editor’s Note The Greatest Gift of All can now rest in peace eternally. We held a week long celebration at my family’s home; the same house that my father built years ago. Here’s an excerpt from his obituary that I had the distinct honor of writing. Keith’s happy place was working outdoors or in his workshop where all of his creations came to life. If he wasn’t building a house, a barn, cabinets, sawing lumber or chopping firewood, he could be found at his Florida house in The Villages, on the golf course, the Elks Club with his buddies where he was an Exalted Ruler or in the hot tub with a cold Coors Light in his hand. He approached life with patience and quiet strength. Keith was a hard that they help vacationers create memories that last for generations. These businesses are the backbone of our community, ensuring that both fulltime residents and visitors experience the very best of Isle of Palms. Our goal with this directory is to make it easier for owners and visitors to connect with trusted local experts who understand the unique needs of island properties. Whether you’re a homeowner looking for reliable management, an investor maintaining a rental or a visitor seeking a well-kept
IslandVibesIOP.com 5 craft with an affection and energy that passersby could not help but notice, many of whom stopped to admire and compliment his work of holiday art. Our artist began this particular labor of love by pondering the tide and the sunset and their impact on the timing of our photoshoot. While predicting the tide is not an exact science, the setting of the early autumn sun coupled with the rising tide made for a spectacular backdrop on a sunny, warm and practically perfect late October afternoon. With high tide fast approaching, photographer Rachel Basye ran down the beach access path, camera in hand, and got straight to work upon reaching the waterline. Basye wasted no time getting down in the sand to capture Freeman’s dock turned buffet on film. As the water rushed around the turkey and apple pie, Basye remained focused on capturing the perfect photograph that would evoke the unmistakable fondness that can be found at an island Thanksgiving table. Award-winning sand sculptor Tommy Freeman kept his winning streak alive with this stunning creation of a Thanksgiving feast commissioned by Island Vibes for our November cover. From Piccolo Spoleto sand sculpting winner to Island Vibes cover artist, Freeman hones his NEWS About the Cover Thankful for Timely Tides By Laura Fogarty Mobility study weighs options as island popularity grows By L. C. Leach III In the quaint old days of Isle of Palms, getting around the island by walking, biking, carting or even driving was a pleasure and often a snap. It isn’t so easy anymore as island visitors and traffic continue to increase. To keep it from getting any more problematic, IOP City leaders and Charleston planners held an initial public Island Mobility Study on Oct. 20 at the IOP Recreation Center. A total of 19 people attended the study, which allowed residents and visitors to learn more, ask questions and provide feedback for what is expected to constitute part of a long-term solution to address high-volume vehicular traffic. “We have had the mobility study on our to-do list for a couple of years,” said IOP Mayor Phillip Pounds. “Its primary purpose is to evaluate existing bike and pedestrian infrastructure on Isle of Palms and identify gaps and deficiencies that create safety, connectivity and maintenance concerns.” Kathryn Basha, planning director with the Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments (BCDCOG), which assists local governments in conducting various planning studies, added that the mobility study could eventually become a major factor in encouraging alternate transportation over vehicle driving. “The city’s resident and visitor population grows constantly, placing increasing demands on the island’s current bike and pedestrian facilities,” Basha said. “The city not only needs to invest in the maintenance and improvement of these facilities, but also be prepared to address where a lack of facilities, signage and deteriorated conditions cause safety concerns.” Citizens were encouraged to offer ideas and suggestions through a brief online survey, which was available through Oct. 31. Survey questions included: • Are there any intersections that you feel unsafe at when walking and/or biking? • What is your level of support for public investment in sidewalks, bike lanes and/or golf cart facility improvements? • Please rank your most common reasons for walking or biking. • How often do you take short trips on the island using the following modes of transportation? Drive, walk, bike, golf cart, scooter, e-bike. “The ideal result would be to encourage (these) other modes of transportation,” Pounds said. “But we need to ensure the infrastructure is there to support that.” The BCDCOG project team began creating an inventory in late April, assessing conditions of the existing bike and pedestrian infrastructure on the island including sidewalks, crosswalks, bike lanes and shared-use paths. Basha said the assessment has been mapped, along with major destinations on the island, such as parks, recreation facilities, restaurants, grocery stores, fire stations, businesses and beach access paths, to provide “a starting point for public discussion of opportunities for improvements.” Along with island drainage, visitor parking, beach preservation, sea level rise and water quality, mobility has now become a top issue and challenge seemingly overnight. While Isle of Palms has been a resort attraction since the turn of the 20th century, the influx of people to the island and all of surrounding Charleston County in just the past three decades has been pushing the limits of living space, infrastructure and resources. At the height of the IOP summer tourist season, there are between 20,000-60,000 vacationers per day – more than four times the number of permanent residents. The island’s 7 miles of beaches often become so crowded at peak season that it is sometimes hard to see the sand even from a short distance. The Charleston Trident Association of Realtors estimated in 2022 that the number of people coming to the island, whether permanent or visitor, is expected to keep rising at least through the mid-2030s. Additionally, the Charleston Regional Development Alliance reported just this year that the region’s population not only stands at more than 850,000, but is growing three times faster than the national average. In a 2023 online IOP Community Enrichment Plan Survey, 59% of the 748 respondents said a more creative approach is needed to handle island traffic management during high visitation – which in the summer months can reach 12,000-20,000 vehicles per day and is likely to increase. Aside from the growing number of people and vehicles, getting around the island during inclement weather can sometimes pose hazards because of flooding. While Basha described the study as a vital first step to controlling current and future mobility, any adopted plans will have to be made with respect to balancing increased permanent populations with all sustainable resources – something uncertain at best. “Having a comprehensive inventory and assessment of facilities that are used or needed to ensure non-motorists can safely mobilize around the island enables the city to plan and budget for improvements in the future,” Basha added. “Results of the study can be used for the city in developing its capital improvement plans and/or budget.” While we at Island Vibes have much for which to be thankful, we are especially grateful to our readers and for the support of this wonderful community that is the Isle of Palms. Happy Thanksgiving, y’all! Photos by Rachel Basye, Cooper River Photography
After more than seven months of renovations and guards against increased flooding, the Harbor Course at Wild Dunes is back in business and it promises to be more challenging than ever. The renovations cost more than $8 million and when public play resumed on Oct. 28, golfers found refurbished cart paths, rebuilt and enlarged greens and tee complexes, strategic bunkers near certain holes and a new irrigation system to allow for more efficient golf course watering, leading to water conservation. “Holes 9 and 10 that parallel the Intracoastal Waterway were also raised in elevation to assist in seasonal tidal flooding,” said Jeff Minton, director of sports at Wild Dunes Resort. “The changes will allow for more pin placements, because the greens will have more movement and undulation and the new TifEagle bermuda green will make for faster putting surfaces.” The beginnings of a new $1.5 million flood barrier within the course will also be present. As the island is frequently bombarded by heavy rains, king tides and hurricanes, the city has undertaken a project to build this barrier in three phases, the first being flood control. “This phase is a combination of earthen berms, retaining walls, drainage infrastructure and raised cart paths,” said IOP Mayor Phillip Pounds. “It is behind houses that front Waterway Boulevard.” He added that the city absorbed all the costs mainly because “putting some of the drainage infrastructure on the golf course allowed us to not have to build berms or raise the multiuse path which is phase 2.” The upgrades mark the first bigscale renovations to the Harbor Course since its opening in 1985 from a design by renowned American golf course architect Tom Fazio. Since then, the course has been touted for its challenging design, beautiful views of marshes and lagoons and varied play and strategy that tests the abilities of even the most gifted golfers. Golf Digest has also ranked it more than a few times among the ‘Best in State’ for golf in South Carolina, out of more than 350 courses in an annual $3.3 billion state industry. “We average about 35,000 golfers in a year,” Minton added. “And I think the improvements will definitely increase this number.” 6 IslandVibesIOP.com Play resumes on Harbor Course after major upgrades By L. C. Leach III NEWS Par 3 Hole 11 at Harbor Course now has new tees, greens, cart path and bunker. New bunkers at Harbor Course might find you in more sand than a day at the beach. Recent renovations to Harbor Course are expected to make for an even more challenging round of golf.
IslandVibesIOP.com 7 facility, which included collaboration with the building and planning department, the fire marshal, the police chief, architects and engineers for original design and owners/clients. Rather than finding it too involved, Hart said each experience reinforced her desire to stay in planning. “You review what works and what clearly does not for an efficient city – not only the aesthetics but the function,” she said. “Each element of the design should work effectively and efficiently.” Hart’s initial duties for IOP have been to review the city’s zoning plan, tree preservation and setback requirements and the Conservation Overlay District. Aside from all the nuts and bolts, Hart’s motivation for working in zoning comes from her “insane passion” of wanting to be an integral part of the community’s growth and betterment. “I’m an island girl, I love the beach and a more coastal environment,” Hart said. “I’m thankful for the opportunity to be part of a community that is increasing and growing in shared purpose, common objectives and development of core elements – especially its environment.” McKenzie has had a lifelong love of all things water related and currently enjoys spending time surfing and fishing. He and his wife Teresa can often be found walking the beach and spending time with friends at the marina. The couple have lived on the island together for 32 years and in 2003 purchased the home that McKenzie grew up in from his mother. Teresa described the beginning of their life together: “We met through mutual friends. Our first date was a Wando football game and the rest is history!” After raising their two sons on the island and welcoming two daughtersin-law, along with their first granddaughter, the family is looking forward to McKenzie’s newly acquired leisure time during retirement. According to Teresa, one of the best things about working on the island for the always active McKenzie was the convenience of being able to walk to work as well as being able to serve the community in which they live. While spending time with their granddaughter is among the top priorities for both McKenzie and Teresa, he is looking forward to finally getting his charter fishing business, Isle of Palms Fishing Charters, off the ground and into the water. Longtime Isle of Palms Water and Sewer Commission employee Terry McKenzie recently retired after 35 years of service on the island. Prior to joining the team at the IOP Water and Sewer Commission, McKenzie worked for two-and-ahalf years with the Isle of Palms Water Company and another two-and-a-half years with Wild Dunes Utilities, which were private water companies on the island. As water and sewer operator, McKenzie’s duties included installing water meters and water taps, water and sewer repairs and locating water lines for island subcontractors. An island native in every sense of the phrase, McKenzie has lived his entire life on the island apart from a few years spent living in Mount Pleasant. Longtime city water and sewer operator McKenzie retires By Laura Fogarty City hires new zoning administrator after 6-month vacancy By L. C. Leach III NEWS Terry McKenzie and his wife Teresa Duette Hart Duette Hart, a native of Jamaica, has been hired for the long overdue zoning administrator position for the City of Isle of Palms. Hart’s hiring came after a six-month vacancy and search. “It is right up my alley with my knowledge of architecture and city/ urban planning,” said Hart, who relocated with her family from Florida to IOP. “I have always worked in private architecture firms in the U.S. and the Caribbean, each having its own area of focus and design.” Hart’s duties will include administering the city’s code and directing activities of the Building, Planning and Zoning departments to enforce zoning, flood zone, building and licensing regulations. “Without this position, either our City Administrator Douglas Kerr would have to fill in, or we would look to outsource the service,” said Mayor Phillip Pounds. “It would slow down the approval process for our residents building new homes or renovating an existing home.” Hart’s experience has included high-rise, mixed-use buildings, health care facilities, religious structures, multi-family residential, hospitality projects and civic projects. However, this is not her first job addressing zoning issues with a municipality. While working as part of a Design Research Committee for the City of Bradenton, Florida, between 2023 and March 2024, Hart was engaged in a number of city projects, such as a master plan for a new public works POINT, SCAN, CLICK Discover the Carolina Coast www.ExploreCoastalCarolina.com
IslandVibesIOP.com 8 OPINION 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 Thankful for salt marshes By Susan Hill Smith When it comes to the natural world, our island community often focuses on the beach, and understandably so. But the expanse of salt marsh, tidal wetlands and waterways of the “inner coast” that we can experience from the island’s back side also deserves our attention, devotion and appreciation. South Carolina has up to 500,000 acres of salt marsh – the most of any state – and the City of Isle of Palms includes 850. Underpinned by pluff mud and defined by cordgrass, the salt marsh mosaic has been described as a “blue carbon” ecosystem that sequesters carbon at a rate up to 10 times faster than mature tropical rainforests. Yet marshes face threats from continued sea level rise, which is predicted to increase another foot here by 2050. The salt marsh helps protect property from flooding and storm damage and continuously filters the water that surrounds us. Given that one adult eastern oyster can filter up to 4 gallons of water an hour, consider the impact of a multigenerational reef with thousands of these beneficial bivalves. Millions of animals depend on the salt marsh and tidal wetlands. This includes species of birds, fish and sea turtles that only spend parts of their lives inshore along with the species they support in other ecosystems. An estimated 75% of commercial and recreational fish species in the region rely on salt marshes and related estuaries to provide food and shelter or nurseries for their young. Island residents and visitors can enjoy marsh and Intracoastal Waterway from the new IOP Public Dock. To immerse yourself more in the ecosystem, you can use the dock’s kayak launch and paddle up Morgan Creek, past the marinas, to a tucked-away bend of marsh and hammock islands. Listen and look for wading birds stalking the shallows and legions of fiddler crabs nibbling nutrients along the banks. With the right timing, you might see a dolphin glide by or a red drum’s spotted tail flip up from the water. For a full sensory experience, dig your fingers into the fragrant, gooey pluff mud and feel the salt crystals along the blades of cordgrass. Otherwise, be thankful, like I am, not just for what the inner coast does for us, but that this wondrous place simply exists. Susan Hill Smith is working with the city’s Environmental Advisory Committee to create educational displays about the inner coast that will soon be installed at the IOP Public Dock and adjacent walkway.
IslandVibesIOP.com 9 The Family Vacation Rental Group (FVR) recently hosted its annual fall First Responders Appreciation BBQ to recognize and celebrate the dedication and service of local police officers and firefighters who help protect our residents, guests and homeowners. Isle of Palms Fire Chief Craig Oliverius expressed his gratitude for the event. “Your support through your actions and words speak volumes and it is appreciated more than you might imagine. We are proud to be your fire department and we work to deliver elite levels of customer service to our residents, business owners and visitors.” IOP Police Chief Kevin Cornett added, “Thank you for thinking of us and sharing your support. We appreciate everything you do to back our public safety teams.” The Family Vacation Rental Group (FVR) is a subcommittee of the Isle of BUSINESS FVR hosts annual First Responders Appreciation BBQ By Mel Miles Palms Chamber of Commerce comprised of 17 locally-owned and professionally-managed vacation rental companies. Representing approximately 80% of all professionally-managed properties, the FVR is committed to fostering communication, cooperation and livability among residents, guests and property managers. “Our mission is to be a responsible and caring member of the Isle of Palms community,” the FVR group stated. “We’ve worked hard to encourage our guests to be respectful neighbors – and our efforts are making a real difference.” FVR’s commitment to community harmony is reflected in a significant drop in livability complaints. For the entire month of August, the peak of the summer season, short-term rentals accounted for only 20% (26 complaints) of all 135 livability complaints, while commercial (two complaints) and residential properties (105 complaints) made up the remaining 80%. FVR remains dedicated to improving the island experience for everyone. “Thank you for welcoming us as your neighbors,” the group added. “We’re proud to work together to create a harmonious environment that benefits residents and visitors alike, ensuring that the Isle of Palms remains a wonderful place to live, work and visit.” The Family Vacation Rental Group recently hosted its annual Fall First Responders Appreciation BBQ to celebrate local police officers and firefighters.
IslandVibesIOP.com 10 BUSINESS Front Beach will soon be missing an iconic restaurant and authentic Mexican flavor when Papi’s Taqueria closes on Nov. 2. The decision came less than two months after celebrating their seven- year anniversary. “It’s bittersweet about closing, but we were purchased – the entire building and business were sold to the same local group,” said Eric Evaul, Papi’s owner and director of operations. “It’s bittersweet and has been a really great few years, but the time is right for everyone to move on to the next thing.” Papi’s Taqueria shutters after 7 years of savory tacos By L. C. Leach III Since opening in 2018, Papi’s has become known as one of Front Beach’s summer hot spots. Featuring a full-service event space and party room, the restaurant offers traditional, fresh Mexican cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, music nights and outdoor dining with breezes and views of the Atlantic Ocean. Whether it was a Mexican Cuban sandwich, a Shakira torta with pickled jalapeno and black bean spread, a Shem Creek shrimp taco, a Mt. Pleasant fish taco or just a classic street taco paired with a Mexican draft beer or Argentinean wine, Papi’s was the exotic place to unwind and enjoy an evening by the ocean. While the next use for the building is not yet public knowledge, at least one integral part of Papi’s is staying: Cachita’s Kitchen. Beginning as a food truck, then solving an employee retention problem for Papi’s by running the kitchen during COVID-19, Cachita’s Kitchen will relocate and continue to offer its south of the border cuisine. “We’re all excited about the future and what it holds,” Evaul added. A Culinary Tour of Isle of Palms IOPeateries.com For marketing in Island Vibes or online email Publisher@IslandVibesIOP.com. If you own an Isle of Palms food and beverage establishment and would like to be listed in this directory, please email Editor@IslandVibesIOP.com. ACCESS ISLAND RECIPES AND INTERVIEWS WITH LOCAL CHEFSAND BARTENDERS. 2025 ® Sean Sheppard,Owner voted THE BEST TRAINER/COACH in Mount Pleasant! VETERAN OWNED AND OPERATED Follow for more @rugd_training_and_fitness • PERSONAL TRAINING • MASSAGE • PARTNER TRAINING 843-606-2047 1985 RIVIERA DR. SUITE 101 MOUNT PLEASANT, SC
IslandVibesIOP.com 11 BUSINESS IOP Property Management D I R E C T O R Y Managing a property on Isle of Palms can be rewarding but requires the right expertise. Whether you own a luxury oceanfront home, a vacation rental or a long-term rental property, choosing the right management company ensures your property is well-maintained, profitable and guest-ready. This directory provides an alphabetical listing of professional property management companies serving IOP. Each entry includes essential contact information, helping property owners and prospective renters connect with the services that best meet their needs. Use this guide to navigate the island’s property management market and make informed decisions for your property. Beachside Vacations 1517 Palm Blvd., Isle of Palms, SC (843) 886-5586 beachsidevacations.com Carolina One Vacation Rentals 1507 Palm Blvd., Isle of Palms, SC (843) 242-3012 carolinaonevacationrentals.com Carroll Realty 103 Palm Blvd., Ste. 1A, Isle of Palms, SC (843) 886-9600 carrollrealtyinc.com Crown Coast Properties 1100 Palm Blvd., Unit 2C, Isle of Palms, SC (843) 242-8883 crowncoast.com Dunes Properties (Charleston Coast Vacations) 1400 Palm Blvd., Isle of Palms, SC (888) 250-8730 charlestoncoastvacations.com East Islands Rentals 29 J C Long Blvd., #104, Isle of Palms, SC (843) 886-0760 eastislandsrentals.com Exclusive Properties 1116 Palm Blvd., Isle of Palms, SC (843) 886-4753 exclusivepropertiesus.com IOP Escapes 103 Palm Blvd., Ste. 3-E, Isle of Palms, SC (843) 456-4606 iopescapes.com Island Realty 1304 Palm Blvd., Isle of Palms, SC (866) 380-3983 islandrealty.com iTrip Vacations Charleston Beaches 427 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Mt. Pleasant, SC (843) 303-9225 itriplowcountry.com Lowcountry Vacation Properties P.O. Box 50, Isle of Palms, SC (843) 886-1453 lowcountryvacationproperties.com Luxury Simplified Retreats 50 Immigration St., Charleston, SC (843) 793-1122 luxurysimplifiedretreats.com Palm Blvd Vacation Rentals (843) 474-1200 palmblvdvacationrentals.com Sweetgrass Properties 1204 Palm Blvd, Unit D, Isle of Palms, SC (855) 821-8602 sweetgrassvacationrentals.com Wild Dunes Resort 5757 Palm Blvd., Isle of Palms, SC (866) 359-5593 wilddunesresort.com
IslandVibesIOP.com 12 It’s hard to believe we are already getting into the holiday season! I hope you can enjoy time with your friends and family over the holidays. We have much to be thankful for. A couple of years ago during the ongoing discussions regarding short-term rentals in our community, residents asked for more enforcement of current ordinances to ensure a good quality of life. This feedback resulted in actionable items that have been implemented. For many years the city has been a leader in managing and balancing the demands of being a vacation destination. We were one of the first municipalities to require business licenses for short-term rentals, we instituted occupancy limits for people and cars, we have limited the size of square footage for houses and have enacted requirements for pervious surfaces. As a result of resident feedback, we hired a full-time short-term rental coordinator and code enforcement staff to respond to resident requests and do better at enforcing the rules. We instituted a five-strike rule where an owner could lose CIVICS Mayor’s Message It takes an island to maintain integrity By Phillip Pounds, Mayor, Isle of Palms their license for repeat offenses and we purchased different software to better track unlicensed operators. However, our staff can’t be in all places at once; we need your help. If you have a rental property near you that you think is in violation of the existing rules, please call the police non-emergency number at (843) 886-6522 and ask for help. Also, if you know who the rental management company is, call them as well. I can assure you they want to be good representatives of their owners and they are fully aware of the penalties involved. It takes all of us to ensure we maintain a balanced, livable community. There are some great upcoming community events I hope you will be able to participate in. Happy holidays to you and your family! Thank you for the opportunity to serve! See you around the island. Phillip Pounds, Mayor IOP 843-252-5359 ppounds@iop.net We Are Charleston’s Only Priority Bikes and E-Bikes Dealer! Designed for the coast with a rust and grease free belt-drive system Located in the Harris Teeter Shopping Center on IOP 1517 Palm Blvd, Ste. D, Isle of Palms, SC 29451 843.885.3090 • justbeachyiop.com Follow Us! Facebook: @justbeachyiop Instagram: @justbeachyiop Show This Ad for 10% OFF Any Bike or E-Bike! Not valid on sale items. Exclusions may apply. Expires 12/01/25 Bike, Surf, & Beach Gear We Sell the Best! Priority Bicycles & E-Bikes Electric Skateboards Stormblade Surfboards & Boogie Boards Sunflow Beach Chairs Solbello Beach Shades Turtlebox Speakers Funboy Pool Floats Nectar Sunglasses IceMule Coolers & More!
IslandVibesIOP.com 13 CRIME www.RadRydz.com | 843-972-8525 | Chad@RadRydz.com | 857 Coleman Blvd., Unit E Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 (behind REV Financial) @RadRydz WE’VE RELOCATED — COME CHECK OUT WHAT’S NEXT! Rad Rydz is your go-to source for high quality golf cart sales and service in Mount Pleasant, Sullivan’s Island, Isle of Palms, and surrounding areas. 2026 ® DON’T DRIVE IF YOUR LICENSE IS ON VACATION 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 here with comedic exaggeration. LYING AND DRIVING A total of 13 drivers were cited for driving with a suspended license: some for DUI, others for unpaid insurance and a few for letting their licenses stay expired for years. This is a misguided bunch that may just be too optimistic about their DMV luck. You have to admire their optimism though, thinking, “If I believe hard enough, maybe the DMV will believe in me too.” ISLE OF POT Drugs and alcohol once again top the charts, an IOP tradition as old as The Windjammer. Taking first place again this month: 11 violations for possession of the devil’s lettuce, earning marijuana another gold medal for consistency. Meanwhile, one adventurous soul went farm-to-fork with nature’s own psychedelic harvest, psilocybin mushrooms – or as we like to call them, “cow pasture charcuterie.” NEIGHBORLY NUISANCE The island symphony of late-night “Woos!” and Bluetooth speakers continues. Officers responded to 11 noise-related calls. You’d think the late-night noise calls were all about visitors from Atlanta or Charlotte turning their rentals into karaoke bars, but this month, the tables turned. Turns out, our locals made more of a racket than the tourists. Maybe it’s the off-season blues or maybe folks just wanted to remind the newcomers who really own the decibel meter around here. Either way, IOP residents claimed the “Loud and Proud” trophy fair and square. When even your neighbors are calling in complaints about your Bluetooth speaker, you know it’s been a lively weekend. Fall on Isle of Palms, when the beach crowds thin, the golf carts multiply and the local police stay busier than seagulls at the beach when tourists think it’s a good idea to throw their Cheetos in the air. If the latest incident report tells us anything, it’s that we don’t have a speeding problem; we have a driving without a license problem. So, as we ease into next month, remember this simple civic message: It’s not about how fast you drive on the Isle of Palms, it’s about whether you were supposed to be driving at all. LEADERBOARD OF LOSERS Our local youth came to play this month – and by play, we mean rack up the charges. Here’s the leaderboard: Attempted burglary (second degree): 3 Trespassing + fleeing to evade arrest: 6 Noise violations (unfounded): 2 Simple possession of marijuana: 2 Draining of deleterious substances: 1 Identity theft: 1 That’s 15 juvenile violations total, but wait, they didn’t stop there. Because no beach weekend is complete without someone trying to outsmart their fake ID app, add in six more citations for minors in possession of alcohol and you’ve got the makings of an after-hours youth league that really knows how to multitask. Kids these days, still failing field sobriety tests they found on TikTok. It’s great knowing that our younger generation, in a heartwarming and chaotic sort of way, is committed to both teamwork and trouble, proving that teamwork makes the dream work, even if that dream involves running from police in their rainbow flip-flops or Hey Dudes. It’s a delicate ecosystem, locals calling in on locals while the visitors sit quietly, wondering if this is some sort of community competition. Spoiler: it is. Apparently, the prize is a citation and an awkward Monday morning wave across Palm Boulevard.
IslandVibesIOP.com 14 The Veterans of Foreign War Auxiliary Post 3137 on the Isle of Palms recognizes local businesses through their Americanism Award. The award is presented to local businesses for their patriotism, veteran support and display of the U.S. flag during daily operations. Americanism Committee chairpersons Lisa Lasko and Lindsey Heppler presented a Certificate of Appreciation to The Outpost at the Isle of Palms Marina on Oct. 9. The Outpost is located at 50 41st St. on the Isle of Palms. The marina manager is Scott Toole, assisted by Will Richardson, director of marina operations, and Billy Brittelli, dockmaster. Toole also currently serves as president of the IOP Exchange Club and is a member of the IOP Chamber of Commerce. The Outpost is supportive of the community in many ways. They proudly fly the American flag over the marina. Additionally, Toole said that the IOP COMMUNITY IOP Connector Run raises $200K for child abuse prevention By Robbie C. Berg The Outpost recognized for outstanding patriotism, veteran support By Pamela Marsh IOP VFW Post 3137 Junior Vice President Isle of Palms Marina manager Scott Toole (holding award) with members of the VFW Auxiliary of IOP Fire Department provided a "bucket truck" to place the U.S. flag on an extremely tall piling and pole. The Outpost also supports the IOP Connector Run for the Child, donates to the auction for National Night Out, October is always a special month for the Isle of Palms Exchange Club, marking the culmination of months of planning, dedication and community spirit. This year’s efforts came full circle on Oct. 23 at the annual Member Dinner, where proceeds from the IOP Connector Run were proudly awarded to local child abuse prevention agencies. Each year the event continues to grow and 2025 was no exception. Breaking previous records once again, the IOP Connector Run raised an impressive $200,000 to support child abuse prevention programs during the 2025-26 fiscal year. These funds were made possible through the generosity of sponsors, donors and the 2,500 runners who registered for the race. Ten organizations received funding this year, including Windwood Farm, Landmarks for Families, Dee Norton Child Advocacy Center, CAPA-Beaufort, Florence Crittenton of South Carolina, Doors to Freedom, Darkness to Light, My Sister’s House, Lowcountry Orphan Relief and HALOS. A heartfelt thank you goes out to Michelle Priest, chairman of the IOP Connector Run Board; the entire Run Board; and Deb Barr, the Exchange Club’s Child Abuse Prevention Program of Service Chair. Deep appreciation is also extended to the cities of Isle of Palms and Mount Pleasant, their police and fire departments, the Isle of Palms Recreation Center and the many generous sponsors, donors and volunteers who made the event possible. allows Girl Scouts to sell cookies on their porch and regularly donates gift cards to various community events. “This is what it’s all about – Exchange charitable giving,” said one IOP Exchange Club member at the close of the evening, summing up the gratitude and emotion felt by everyone in attendance.
IslandVibesIOP.com 15 Celebrate the holiday season island-style at the Isle of Palms Holiday Street Festival, returning to Front Beach on Dec. 6 from 2-7 p.m. This free, family-friendly event promises an afternoon full of holiday cheer, live entertainment and festive fun for all ages. The festivities will kick off at 2 p.m. with a performance by the Sullivan’s Island Elementary Chorus, followed by live music from the High 5 COMMUNITY dunesproperties.com Nobody knows the Charleston Coast better.® Real Estate: (800) 476-8444 Vacation Rentals: (888) 250-8730 TRUSTED INSIGHT FOR CHARLESTON’S COASTAL MARKET Brian Caldwell, REALTOR® (843) 224-7948 bcaldwell@dunesproperties.com 5 Abalone Alley 3.5 BA 1,868 Sq Ft. 4 BD Your next move begins here. Isle of Palms $1,899,000 226 Old House Lane Dewees Island $1,275,000 5 BD 3 BA 2,442 Sq Ft. Jennifer O’Brien, REALTOR® (610) 283-0867 jobrien@dunesproperties.com Band and a closing performance by country music singer Haley Mae Campbell. Guests can enjoy free carnival rides, face painting, local arts and crafts vendors and delicious food from island restaurants throughout the afternoon. Santa Claus will make a special appearance from 4-6 p.m., delighting children with holiday wishes and photo opportunities. The highlight of the evening will be the official lighting of the city’s 24-foot Christmas tree at approximately 5:30 p.m., marking the start of the holiday season on Isle of Palms. “We’re excited to welcome residents and visitors to Front Beach for one of the most festive events of the year,” said a spokesperson for the Isle of Palms Recreation Department. “The Holiday Street Festival is a wonderful way to bring our community together and celebrate the joy of the season.” For more information about the Isle of Palms Holiday Street Festival, visit iop.net/recreation or contact the Isle of Palms Recreation Department at 843-886-8294. Holiday Street Festival to deck the halls of Front Beach Provided
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IslandVibesIOP.com 18 War is hell and ugly at best. It leaves scars that never heal and stories that go untold. Veterans are the living testaments of valor. Their tales are not just about battles won or lost, but about the quiet moments of humanity that shine through the darkness. Their stories remind us that true bravery is not the absence of fear, but the strength to carry on despite it. In honor of Veterans Day, Isle of Palms VFW Post 3137, aka “The Post on the Coast,” was generous enough to volunteer a few veterans to share their service stories with Island Vibes. Thank you for your service and thanks for letting us tell your tales of valor. MAJOR GEN. MATTHEW LEAIRD Born into a military household, Major Gen. Matthew Leaird grew up listening to war stories from his father. As the son of an A4 Skyhawk Attack Plane Pilot in Vietnam, defending his country was in his genes. He knew from a young age that he was destined to fight his own battles and so he did. By 1980, Leaird had followed in his footsteps, enrolling at The Citadel and later commissioning into the Marines. Though he left active duty in 1988, a distant war had other plans. Just a year later he rejoined the reserves and was activated for a 10-month deployment in Operation Desert Storm in 1990. Leaird was an assault amphibian vehicle commander, leading men into one of the most dangerous and uncertain missions of the war. Their assignment was to storm the shores of Kuwait as a diversion, drawing Iraq’s Republican Guard toward the coastline. The operation came with a likelihood of no return – his unit was warned that casualties could reach 70%. “Until you get shot at you’re just worried,” Leaird said. “Once you get shot at, your training kicks in and you do what you’ve been trained to do. You’re always concerned about dying but you’ve got to perform. You can’t freeze up.” As Leaird’s unit pushed forward, they witnessed scenes that remain burned into his memory. Under orders from former Iraq president and dictator Saddam Hussein, his forces were instructed to torch Kuwait’s oil fields. “The smoke was so thick it blotted out the sun,” Leaird recalled. “You couldn’t see your hand in front of you in the daytime.” Leaird’s team maneuvered through minefields in single-file caravans. Every rumble of their amphibious vehicles carried the possibility of detonation. Leaird was a captain at the beginning of the war and a major by the end of it. He made it through the war unscathed, with the exception of his hearing, which took a toll from tense firefights with Iraqi troops. Yet, the invisible wounds took much longer to heal. On the 30th anniversary of the war, documentaries about Desert Storm stirred up nightmares and flashbacks, pushing Leaird to seek therapy for his post-traumatic stress. “When you’ve seen people literally torn apart and the smell of burnt flesh – those things stick with you,” he said. Today, Leaird continues to honor those who served beside him. “A lot of times,” he reflected, “the people that thank me for my service are people who served themselves.”” U.S. NAVY CAPT MARYALICE MORRO, NC, USN-RET For U.S. Navy CAPT Maryalice Morro, service to her country began with a selfless affinity for helping others. Following her graduation from Villanova University and the Navy’s Officer Indoctrination School, Morro reported for her first assignment at Naval Hospital Bethesda, the start of a 29-year career of active duty that would take her across the world and into the heart of war. “The first 10 years of my career I couldn’t do a lot of stuff that I could do in the latter part of my career because I was female,” Morro admitted. But as fate would have it, she would have her opportunity. Morro’s most defining experience came aboard the USNS Comfort, a 1,000-bed hospital ship deployed during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. For 56 days in the Persian Gulf, the Comfort served as a floating trauma center, FEATURE Tales of Valor IOP veterans share stories of service By Zach Giroux Major Gen. Matthew Leaird U.S. Navy CAPT Maryalice Morro, NC, USN-Ret
IslandVibesIOP.com 19 FEATURE treating nearly 700 wounded U.S. service members and dozens of Iraqi prisoners of war and civilian casualties. The language barrier created confusion and fear. The Iraqi prisoners perceived equipment such as defibrillators as torture devices designed to get secret information from them. Little did they know that nurses like Morro were instructed to save their lives. “I think we changed the hearts and minds of the Iraqi men that were on our ship that had no idea what to expect from us,” Morro said. “In the beginning I think they thought we were going to kill them and we gained their trust slowly but surely.” Morro still has flashbacks of the terror in the prisoners’ eyes, which she described as “big white saucers.” With armed guards protecting the medical staff, Morro treated everyone under her care, even one of Saddam Hussein’s own men, part of the notorious “deck of cards” list of Iraq’s most-wanted figures. As of January 2025, all but four of the 52 most wanted have either died or been captured. But amid the trauma and tension, Morro found light in the resilience of her fellow Americans. “Laughter was the best medicine,” she said. “Some of them had pretty horrific injuries, but even in their darkest moments, they supported and teased each other. It kept them human.” Reflecting on nearly three decades of service, Morro’s pride remains unwavering. “I truly enjoyed my 29 years and wouldn’t trade one of them,” she said. “It’s a wonderful calling to be able to serve your country – and to do it as a nurse is even better.” After spending 35 years in government and serving around the world in support of peacetime, humanitarian and wartime missions, Morro still lives in the house she bought on Isle of Palms back in 1997. She currently serves as an adjunct faculty for the Swain Department of Nursing at The Citadel. COL. CHARLES PHILLIPS, COMMAND CHAPLAIN A young man took his first steps on a journey that would span the heavens and the earth – a journey of courage, conviction and calling. His name was Charles A. Phillips, and though his beginnings were humble, destiny had marked him for a life of service, both to his nation and to his God. In 1982, Phillips raised his hand and swore the soldier’s oath. He entered the ranks of the U.S. Army as a private, serving with precision and discipline as an electronics calibrator at Fort Rucker, Alabama, and later in Germany. But his eyes were ever drawn to the skies. In 1985, he returned to Fort Rucker to enter the Warrant Officer Rotary Wing Aviator Course. There, through sweat, study and sheer determination, he earned his wings – first in the nimble OH-58 Kiowa, then in the mighty UH-60 Blackhawk. From the cockpit of those aircraft, he served his nation with valor, his steady hands guiding him through missions across distant lands. Yet, even as the engines roared and the blades thundered, another call stirred within him – a divine summons to serve as a shepherd to soldiers. Trading the flight helmet for the cross, Phillips answered God’s call and became an ordained Elder in the United Methodist Church in 1999. Phillips’ mission expanded from the skies to the Holy Spirit, from flight lines to front lines of faith. As a chaplain, he became both guardian and guide, standing beside warriors in their darkest hours, reminding them that valor is not only found in battle, but in compassion, faith and endurance. Today, chaplain Phillips continues his sacred mission as senior pastor of First United Methodist Church on Isle of Palms. Col. Charles Phillips, Command Chaplain Join us for… Happy Hour: Tues - Fri 4pm-6pm Wine Wednesday: ½ off Select Bottles Cajun Brunch: Saturdays 11:30am-3pm LoLA Mt Pleasant @lolamtpleasant lolaparkcircle.com 1036 Chuck Dawley Blvd. (843) 984-5004 Scan to reserve your table! Craving New Orleans flavors? It’s closer than you think!
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