BEACH NOURISHMENT PROGRESSING IN RECORD TIME See Page 3 Photo by Rachel Basye Vol.4 Issue 10 October 2026 LOCAL PIRATE HISTORY AND LORE See Page 24 LENS FOUNDATION LAUNCHES AFFORDABLE HOUSING INITIATIVE See Page 6 To read digitally, visit ReadIslandVibes.com The conversation continues at IsleOfPalmsPodcast.com ‘WITCHY WOMEN’ WITCHES RIDE EVENT RETURNS FOR 5TH YEAR See Page 9 A PENCHANT FOR POE THE HISTORY BEHIND THE SI PLACE-NAMES See Page 23 HAUNTED TALES OF IOP AND CHARLESTON See Page 12
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IslandVibesIOP.com 3 The outcome of any IOP beach renourishment is about as predictable as the next location of a rip current. But based on the momentum of the island’s ongoing $21.47 million project, engineers and city leaders think this one might end up as the premier effort by which all future ones will be measured. “We have had really good progress so far, and to date the weather has been cooperating,” said Mayor Phillip Pounds. “There has been great coordination between the city, Wild Dunes and the state agencies that oversee our beaches.” This is mainly because of the on-schedule speed by project contractor Marinex Construction of North Charleston to place 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 since the project began in June. Once completed, this placement will cover three of the island’s seven reaches, or sections. Beach consultant Steven Traynum, president of Coastal Science Engineering in Columbia, presented an update at the city council’s Aug. 25 meeting, in which he explained area volume gains and progress of the three reaches: • Reach 1. Stretching from Mariner’s Walk past Ocean Club, and tapering off towards Dewees Inlet, this section of beach was completed in 35 days, more than two weeks ahead of schedule. Work crews deposited 900,000 cubic yards of sand, about the size of 275 Olympic-sized swimming pools. • Reach 2. Running from the western edge of Wild Dunes to 55th Avenue, Marinex began pumping in sand on Sept. 1, placing more than 170,000 cubic yards and progressing 900 feet south to Dunecrest Lane. • Reach 3. Later this year, crews will renourish the third and final reach on the south end of the island, stretching from the pier to Breach Inlet. “The city has developed a forecasting map so residents, visitors and business owners can see when beach construction will be near their home or business and plan accordingly,” said IOP Public Information Officer Joshua Uys. “For Reaches 1 and 2, the city is contributing 47% of the cost, with the Wild Dunes Community Association contributing the remainder. For Reach 3, the city is covering the complete cost with some help from a state grant.” As for volume gains, Traynum pointed out that while island erosion has been at its most critical each year since 2018, the tide may be turning at least a little, as the island gained an overall net total of 229,675 cubic yards in the past year. “Volume gains were highest along the south end, in Reaches 1 and 2,” Traynum told the council. “The area south of the pier gained 317,725 cubic yards – with 152,875 cubic yards of that total being gained over the past four months.” He further explained that while Reach 3 also gained 1,750 cubic yards in the past year, erosion has started to increase in other areas in the past four months with the disruption in the upcoast sand supply. For example, from August 2025 to June 2026, Reach 4 – which is not part of the current nourishment effort – lost a total of 62,100 cubic yards. But directly following the completion of the 2026 nourishment project, Traynum said he expects the sand supply to Reach 4 to increase, resulting in “a new accretional wave that propagates south,” with Reaches 5 and 6 standing to get additional sand as well. “Reaches 5 and 6 are the most dynamic, highly developed shoreline in South Carolina,” he said. “The current shoal attachment (in front of Wild Dunes) is toward the end of its cycle but NEWS Beach Nourishment Progressing in Record Time Latest effort looking to set future standard 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 is still bringing sand to the center portions of Wild Dunes. Sand has started to spread along other areas of the reaches, slowing down some of the erosion rates that were present in recent years.” Uys added that city leaders have issued a request for bids to install dune vegetation and sand fencing throughout the renourished areas. This reinforcement would include two phases of planting about 500,000 square feet of sea oats, bitter panic grass and beach morning glory, as well as installing approximately 10,000 feet of sand fencing. “Together, these measures will help capture windblown sand, promote dune growth and stabilize the restored dune system,” Uys said. “Because planting conditions are generally less favorable after Dec. 1, planting in Reach 3 may be postponed until spring 2027, depending on when Marinex completes renourishment in that area.” Of course, the lingering question is always how long these efforts will last. But so far, the island’s beaches seem to be in better shape to last for the long haul than ever before. “The first time we did this it lasted about 10 years, and the last one in 2018 lasted only eight years,” Pounds said. “Our project and financial forecasts assume an eight-year cycle. And this year, the state put $10 million in their budget for beach renourishment, and we are hopeful IOP will receive about 4 to $5 million of this after receiving about $1.5 million last year.”
IslandVibesIOP.com 4 Island Vibes Vol. 4, Issue 10, October 2026 PUBLISHER BILL MACCHIO PUBLISHER@ISLANDVIBESIOP.COM MANAGING EDITOR MARY BELL 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 WRITERS RYAN BUCKHANNON • LAURA FOGARTY ALLYAH HARRAR • BELLA HARRAR CARI LAWSON • L.C. LEACH III COLIN MCCANDLESS • PHILLIP POUNDS SARAH ROSE SALES REPRESENTATIVES STACEY MCLOUGHLIN STACEY@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. About the Cover By Laura Fogarty From the Publisher FROM THE TEAM As is most often the case for our cover photo shoots, plans changed and changed again. Weather was uncooperative on the first two evenings we planned to shoot, and then a bustling, vibrant, well-attended Front Beach did not allow for a clean view of the rising moon. So we shifted the plan, readjusted the lens and set out to capture a quintessential October vibe. Once again, our photographer, Rachel Basye of Cooper River Photography, was up to the task and the end result did not disappoint. Our witches, dressed in black and linked hand in hand, were adorned with pink ribbons and set in the dunes against a harvest moon background, completing the tie-in for all things October. From Breast Cancer Awareness Month to the annual Witches Ride, to the spooky season of Halloween, this issue’s cover had it all covered, pun intended! The weather finally cooperated on a beautiful, early fall evening and the rising moon opposite the setting sun lent a spectacular glow to the ocean and provided the perfect backdrop for Basye’s artistic vision. We at Island Vibes are holding on to hope that the weather and the sunsets remain calm and gorgeous as we journey into and through autumn and all that the cooler weather in the Lowcountry brings with it. Oyster roasts, football games, fall break, trick-or-treating, the Halloween Golf Cart Parade & Carnival, crisp evening breezes and perfectly lovely afternoons are among island fall favorites. Whether you stay on the Isle of Palms to enjoy October happenings or venture off island to enjoy apple picking, corn mazes, pumpkin patches, tailgating for college football, fall foliage, hiking in a cozy sweater and beyond, here’s to a happy and safe fall, y’all! I don’t know about you, but it’s hard for me to believe we’re already into the last quarter of 2026. Looking back over the past 10 months, this community has achieved some incredible things. Of course, along with the good, there are always challenges. But since we’re known for spreading positive Island Vibes, let’s take a moment to do just that. One of the most significant events has been the Beach Restoration Project, which began July 22. By the time the project is complete, as much as 2.5 million cubic yards of sand will have been moved. A tip of our hats to Douglas Kerr and his team at City Hall for doing an outstanding job of keeping everyone informed. Also, a shout-out to Bobby Carrier of Vision Media, who has helped us get an up-close look at the work underway. The Beach Restoration Project is certainly a historic undertaking for the island, but many other accomplishments also reflect the strength and character of IOP and the people who call this island home. In January, our Police Department became South Carolina’s first law enforcement agency to receive KultureCity’s Sensory Inclusive First Responder Certification. This kind of outreach and effort reflects the commitment of everyone who calls this island home. Kudos also go to the IOP Fire Department for achieving a Fire Safe SC designation. The LENS Foundation honored the island’s first responders at its annual banquet. In a future issue of Island Vibes, we’ll feature an article highlighting the many awards and achievements the Isle of Palms has garnered in 2026. If you’ve been following Island Vibes, whether in print or digitally at readIslandVibes.com, you know how much we love what we do and care about the Isle of Palms. Thanks for spending your time with us. Positively yours, Bill Macchio Publisher Bill Macchio celebrating Halloween with an old friend.
IslandVibesIOP.com 5 October has always been one of my favorite months, but I have a feeling it is going to look a little different now that I get to spend it in the Lowcountry. Instead of watching the leaves change, I’m trading fall foliage for beach walks, cooler evenings and sunsets over the water. And as I’ve quickly learned, living somewhere with as much history as Charleston and the surrounding islands means October comes with plenty of good ghost stories, too. That made putting together this issue especially fun. We’re embracing the spooky side of island life with haunted tales from Isle of Palms and Charleston, the return of the Witchy Women ride, the history behind local placenames connected to Edgar Allan Poe and a look at the pirates and legends that have been part of our coast for generations. But one thing I’m discovering about this community is that there is always more to the story. Alongside the Halloween fun, this issue also examines what is happening on the island right now, from the progress of beach nourishment to local efforts to create more affordable housing for first responders. As someone who is still relatively new to the area, I love that working on Island Vibes gives me an excuse to keep learning about the place I now call home. Every article introduces me to another piece of its history, another tradition or another person who makes this community what it is. I hope you have as much fun reading this issue as we did putting it together. And if you happen to find yourself walking the beach after dark this month, maybe keep an eye out. I’m learning that around here, every corner seems to have a story. Happy Halloween! Mary Bell Managing Editor The Law Enforcement Neighborhood Support Foundation (LENS IOP) has launched a new Affordable Housing Program for first responders, providing practical housing support to members of the public safety community at several stages of their housing journey. IOP Mayor Phillip Pounds said: “This is another great benefit LENS is bringing to our staff to fill a need, and more importantly, provide another tool for personnel retention and recruitment for these critical roles. I believe this program is unique to other municipalities, and we are so fortunate to have it.” The three-part program was developed in partnership with trusted service providers to address immediate temporary housing needs, provide greater flexibility for rent payments and help first responders and their families pursue the long-term goal of homeownership. STOP-GAP HOUSING Stop-gap housing provides temporary, transitional housing for first responders with an immediate shortterm need. For stays of fewer than two weeks, LENS IOP works with the South Carolina Lutheran Retreat Center (SCLRC) on Palm Boulevard in Isle of Palms to determine availability and coordinate reservations. Lori Bode, executive director of SCLRC commented: “First responders give so much to our communities, often being there for others in moments when they are needed most. Our retreat centers exist to provide places of welcome, rest and renewal and this partnership with LENS IOP gives us an opportunity to extend that mission in a very practical way. We are honored to make the Coastal Retreat Center available as temporary housing for first responders and to play a small part in supporting those who serve the Isle of Palms community every day.” FLEXIBLE RENT SUPPORT Flexible rent support helps individuals manage monthly cash-flow challenges. Through Flexible Finance Inc. (Flex), participants receive information and guidance to explore flexible rent arrangements, including the option of dividing monthly rent into two or more manageable payments that better fit their budgets. “At Flex, we believe that people who protect our communities should not have to sweat their rent. By letting firefighters and police officers split their monthly payments into smaller, more manageable installments, we help first responders keep more breathing room in their budgets … and one less thing to worry about after a long shift. We are proud to support the LENS Affordable Housing Program and the families it serves,” said David Sullivan, VP of partnerships. PATHWAY TO HOMEOWNERSHIP Pathway to homeownership provides first-time prospective homeowners with consultation, evaluation, financial education and a recommended path toward homeownership. In partnership with LENS IOP, Huntington Bank Branch Manager Kate Polcha and her staff provide guidance through established modules covering key financial topics. Potential grant and funding opportunities are also identified to help make homeownership more attainable. Polcha stated: “Partnering with the LENS Foundation is an incredible opportunity to combine two causes that are very important to me: financial literacy and supporting our local first responders. I am passionate about helping people build financial confidence and achieve their goals, and I’m grateful for the chance to share that knowledge with the men and women who do so much for our communities. This partnership reflects our commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those who serve others every day.” Together, these three initiatives are designed to provide meaningful housing support from an immediate need for a place to live, to greater financial flexibility while renting to a sustainable pathway toward owning a home. IOP Fire Chief Craig Oliverius noted: “LENS continues to identify and implement creative opportunities to support our public safety professionals through community-driven initiatives and collaboration. Our fire rescue professionals are blessed to serve such an engaged community. This new trailblazing programming in regard to housing education and home ownership will be impactful and make a difference, as housing and owning a home is a big piece of the American dream. This program provides education and creative support mechanisms that will assist our firefighters in putting down roots in our Lowcountry communities.” “There is no better time than now to offer affordable housing assistance to our first responders,” said Ted Kinghorn, director of LENS IOP. “Increased inflation and rising interest rates make it more difficult to manage rental expenses and achieve the purchase of a home. We hope our first responders utilize these services as their needs arise. Our three partners and Lens IOP are here to serve those who serve all of us.” For more information and program details, visit lensiop.org. From the Editor NEWS LENS Foundation Launches Affordable Housing Initiative for Isle of Palms First Responders Provided
6 IslandVibesIOP.com NEWS Outdoor Lighting Ordinance Passes – Then Fails City leaders and police uncertain how to enforce measure By L. C. Leach III IOP Rebranding Effort entails more than changing words and logos By L. C. Leach III If you are an IOP resident wondering how city leaders are planning to regulate new and existing outdoor lighting for residential structures, you might be wondering for a long time. At their Aug. 25 meeting, the IOP City Council unanimously vetoed on second reading a measure to enact a lighting ordinance of any kind – at least for now – because there is no simple way to define what is acceptable and what isn’t. The reversal came on the heels of a first-reading passage in July, following a recommendation by the Environmental Advisory Committee as a way to protect the island’s natural environment by keeping excessive lighting away from natural areas. Committee member Todd Murphy gave a summary of three goals, detailing what neighboring communities were doing toward the same objective: to prevent sky glow caused by excessive exterior lighting; not allow excessive lights from one property to shine into another property; and to prevent light trespassing into other natural areas besides the beach. “This could be rivers, marsh, ponds, forest – any other natural wildlife area,” he said. “So the Environmental Advisory Committee is recommending changes to our existing residential lighting ordinance to accomplish those same three goals.” But after 20 minutes of discussion and comments from all nine council members, plus input from Police Chief Kevin Cornett, the only item of agreement was that the ordinance as written simply couldn’t be accomplished. “It’s not enforceable,” said both Councilman John Bogosian and Mayor Phillip Pounds. For example, part of the proposal, as written, calls for ‘Outdoor lighting shining directly onto the Intracoastal Waterway, marsh or other natural areas outside of the owner’s property shall be extinguished (turned off) when the outdoor area is not in active use or occupancy.’ Bogosian pointed out that the zoning enforcer wouldn’t be able to testify that there were lights on at any particular dwelling at night “when they’re not here.” Another questionable section read: ‘Light fixtures on residential properties in excess of 40 watts or 300 lumens shall be installed so that the lamp or light-emitting is not visible beyond the property.’ Councilman Scott Pierce affirmed that while he favors reducing IOP’s lighting footprint and not shining lights in a neighbor’s window, he concluded that upon reading the document as proposed, “I’m not sure that that accomplishes the objectives.” Councilwoman Katie Miars got a laugh when she said, “It sounds like we’ve gone a really long way to get to the wrong place … But I do think that a lot of people have put a lot of time into this and there are two good valid goals. So I would like for this to come back in a better form.” When asked how this issue began, Councilman David Cohen said it originated partly from the 2023 Community Enrichment Plan, in which some residents expressed interest in regulating residential lighting, and others in marsh lighting. “And somehow it all ended up in one package,” he said. “This is the third time it’s come before council for a formal vote. And it came before the Planning Commission before I got on the council.” Going forward, the measure could either be remanded to the Environmental Advisory Committee for more consideration or just dropped entirely. But until a more specific and enforceable ordinance can be reached, there won’t be any changes to new or existing lighting. “I think we all realized that there are just too many extremes to reach a compromise,” Cohen said. “The measure started as a way to protect the marshes from people shining their lights into them at night but morphed into residential lighting at night. So at this point, I’m not sure where the issue is headed.” Ask anyone who has been to Isle of Palms in the last few decades to name one attraction, feature or psychological intangible that makes the island either a signature getaway spot or place to live, and chances are you won’t hear anything that stands up to scrutiny. This is precisely why city leaders have undertaken the effort to rebrand the entire island into a place synonymous with its name. On Sept. 1, Blue Ridge Creative Marketing, based in Wilmington, North Carolina, began extensive work toward this goal. The push came after two years of discussion, research, a 2023 community enrichment survey and consulting by the IOP City Council, which approved the measure for a cost of $50,000 following Blue Ridge’s presentation this past May. The project is expected to last five months across four phases and involves more than just changing a few words and logos. Once finished, the rebranding is expected to give IOP the kind of trademark distinction it has heretofore lacked. “It’s about what type of tourists we want to market to, and an image of what we want to show to people who come here,” said Councilman David Cohen. Right now, that image is blurry at best. For example, IOP beaches aren’t much different than others along the Grand Strand coast, yet a weeklong vacation in a short-term rental costs an ever-increasing pretty penny. And residents and visitors alike constantly must deal with beach erosion, property flooding from king tides and hurricanes, parking space availability and even beach coyotes. Whereas if you were to visit South Beach in Miami, you would at once get the impression that its intention is to attract a non-stop party-and-nightclub crowd. Anoka, Minnesota, leaves no doubt that it caters year-round to all things Halloween, ever since its at-large designation in 1937 by the U.S. Congress as the ‘Halloween Capital of the World.’ The tiny town of Tusayan, Arizona, with only about 600 residents, makes up for its otherwise obscurity with the nearby presence of the Grand Canyon. But since IOP doesn’t have any of these hallmark attractions or the kind of local getaway appeal that used to carry a natural, seasonal charm, it makes rebranding the island somewhat tricky. “Isle of Palms exists at an intersection of multiple identities: a close-knit residential coastal community, a destination for families drawn to the South Carolina shoreline and a municipal government serving residents while welcoming visitors,” said Aaron Lee, creative director/founder of Blue Ridge Creative Marketing. “This complexity makes the branding initiative both important and nuanced.” To meet the challenge, Lee and his team have developed a line-item timetable in four separate phases that will include: • What residents value and want to protect • Workshops and collaborative feedback sessions • Audience and visitor perception analysis • Competitive and regional positioning review • Research into tourism and destination search behavior “We begin by reviewing existing brand materials, tourism positioning, communication systems and peer businesses,” Lee said, “to identify what’s working, what’s not and where the real opportunities exist.” Once implemented, a three-year consultative advisory period will follow to review progress, address challenges and provide recommendations to support consistency and evolution over time. Blue Ridge director of content strategy Amanda Donohue pointed out that local input will be critical in all phases. “We have a lot of stakeholders that we’re going to be involved with in the next few months,” she said. “Messaging is a huge part of this in terms of what Isle of Palms is and what it wants to continue to be.” Mayor Phillip Pounds added that while the rebranding deliverables will land differently on everyone, the island needs to “continue to reach new visitors by tweaking our look and messaging.” “This project has spurred a ton of resident interest, which is great,” he said. “We have a very engaged community – response to the survey has been very high. And maybe we will catch someone’s eye that we haven’t before.”
7 a different kind of attention, but the island still kept its easygoing character. That balance is part of why people love it. It has the feel of a destination, but it is still very much a place where people live their lives. The last two sentences are what struck me. That’s us! We get to live in this beautiful slice of paradise that some only get to visit. I hope you take IslandVibesIOP.com CIVICS Mayor’s Message October 2026 By Phillip Pounds, Mayor, Isle of Palms October brings cooler days, beautiful fall colors – OK for us it’s more like November – and many opportunities for our community to come together. Some of my favorite community events happen in the coming months. Stay up to date on what’s happening at isleofpalms.gov. I encourage everyone to take part in our upcoming events, support our local businesses now that our large crowds are gone for the season and enjoy our beautiful island. If you drive an electric vehicle, until recently you may have had a hard time finding a charging station. EV drivers now have a new charging option on the Isle of Palms. Construction was recently completed on a new Tesla Supercharger station at the Island Center shopping center, near the Harris Teeter. The new charging station will provide a convenient amenity for both residents and visitors traveling to the island in electric vehicles while supporting a wider range of transportation options. Hopefully you have seen our new tennis courts at the rec center. The project replaced the aging courts with modern playing surfaces designed to provide improved durability, a better playing experience and reduced long-term maintenance. Did you see the recent Sullivan’s Island and IOP Living issue? It had a good article on the role IOP played in the Revolutionary War and then brought our history forward. A few specific lines caught my eye. The article described our island from the late 1800s detailing ownership and name changes up to current day. The part that caught my eye was the paragraph about the 1970s: There was another wave of growth in the 1970s, when Wild Dunes helped shape the island’s modern identity. Golf, resort life, and more tourism brought in full advantage of what our island and community have to offer. Thank you for the opportunity to serve! Phillip Pounds, Mayor IOP 843-252-5359 ppounds@iop.net Deep Charleston Roots, Three Generations of Real Estate Knowledge Selling where I LOVE Living Mount Pleasant & Isle of Palms Winslow Carroll Dunes Properties 843-886-9600 wcarroll@dunesproperties.com
IslandVibesIOP.com 8 CRIME remains evenly divided on the age-old question: “Is that music actually too loud, or am I just getting old?” Somewhere on the island, one person is turning the volume up while the neighbor is standing at the window wondering when exactly 9:30 p.m. became “the middle of the night.” Perhaps my favorite charge this month, purely for its 1800s terminology: “defrauding an innkeeper.” You almost expect the next line of the report to involve horse theft, a stagecoach and somebody fleeing toward Mount Pleasant before sundown. It sounds less like a modern criminal charge and more like something a sheriff would read aloud outside the saloon. So as summer fades, the monthly standings remain remarkably consistent. Marijuana is still marijuana-ing. People without valid licenses are still driving. People who have been drinking are still driving. And somebody, somewhere on Isle of Palms, remains absolutely convinced the neighbor’s music is too loud. STAY TUNED, STAY SAFE AND REMEMBER: IF YOUR LICENSE IS SUSPENDED, YOUR HEADLIGHTS DON’T WORK, YOUR TAG IS EXPIRED AND THERE’S MARIJUANA IN THE CAR, PERHAPS TODAY IS NOT THE DAY TO TEST WHETHER THAT TURN SIGNAL STILL WORKS. IOP 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. THE TRIPLE D’S ARE BACK SUMMER MAY BE WINDING DOWN ON THE ISLE OF PALMS, BUT APPARENTLY NOBODY TOLD THE POLICE BLOTTER. From Aug. 14 through Sept. 14, our old familiar cast of characters returned for another episode of “What Exactly Did You Think Was Going to Happen?” And once again, marijuana claimed the top spot. Sixteen people found themselves facing marijuana-related charges this month, ranging from simple possession to possession with intent to distribute. At this point, marijuana has become the Tom Brady of the IOP police blotter. Every month you think somebody else might finally take the title, but – nope. Weed is back on the podium. Marijuana had some serious competition this month though. Driving under the influence and driving under suspension finished in a dead heat with 10 participants each. Nothing says “solid decision-making” quite like getting behind the wheel after drinking – or getting behind the wheel after the state has already specifically asked you not to. The DUS category continues to fascinate. Apparently, some view losing your driver’s license less as a prohibition and more as a gentle suggestion. And several contestants earned bonus points with expired tags, illegally tinted windshields, missing insurance, defective equipment and assorted other clues practically begging an officer to say, “You know what, let’s take a closer look.” Then there was noise complaint season. Fifteen reports were specifically labeled noise violations. Seven were founded. Eight were unfounded. That is about as close to a statistical tie as you can get, meaning Isle of Palms CARROLL REALTY, INC. (843) 532-6288 mattdeantonio.com
IslandVibesIOP.com 9 ‘Witchy Women’ Witches Ride event returns for 5th year By Sarah Rose When Cindy DeAntonio and Lauren Sullivan met for the first time in 2021 while watching their children play at the playground, they had a conversation that prompted the first Isle of Palms Halloween Witches Ride and after party. “Lauren showed me a photo of a Witches Ride in another town and said that she wanted to create a similar one here,” DeAntonio said. “And I was on board from the start.” DeAntonio then reached out to her friend John Bushnell, a partner at Islander 71 Fish House and Raw Bar, to organize an after party that concludes the short 15-minute bike ride from where the route begins at the Isle of Palms Recreation Center. The first year’s gathering was a group of about 50 women who learned about the event from word of mouth and a mom’s text chain. When plans were impacted by rainy weather, the friendly witches were not to be deterred and took over the Islander, where they enjoyed socializing over a cocktail or two, along with a conga line and deejayed dance party. Now in its fifth year, the ride is still going strong with between 70-100 participants. “Halloween is always all about the kids, so this is a fun way for moms to get together and celebrate,” DeAntonio explained. She added that costumes and bike decorations are encouraged. “Many of the participants go all out, painting their faces and bodies green, dressing up as famous witches.” As most of the witches live on Isle of Palms or Sullivan’s, their annual bike parade has become a beloved tradition in the community. “The kids and neighbors come out to wave at us as we ride by,” DeAntonio said. This year’s ride begins at 4 p.m. on Oct. 25 and will take the usual route from the rec center to the Islander, where according to DeAntonio, everybody pays for their own drinks and food. All are welcome to join in the festivities and no registration or fee is required for participation. COMMUNITY
IslandVibesIOP.com 10 COMMUNITY Photo courtesy Alicia Woods, president of the Carolina Lady Anglers 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 Carolina Lady Anglers’ annual Fishing for the Cure tournament raises funds for breast cancer By Sarah Rose In 1997, Linda Moyer, Helen Hudson, Melissa Barfield and Paula Dahlke founded the Carolina Lady Anglers as a space where women could enjoy the sport of saltwater fishing while raising money to support local breast cancer survivors. According to Carolina Lady Anglers President Alicia Woods, the organization has donated more than $250,000 to After Care Essentials and Hollings Cancer Center through its annual inshore Fishing for the Cure tournament over the nearly three decades since its founding. This year’s competition, held Sept. 26 at the Charleston Rifle Club, drew 139 participants and generated approximately $20,000 in donations, according to Woods. Registration is open to women, men and children and takes place during the Captain’s Meeting at the Charleston Rifle Club on the Wednesday before the tournament. The $40 registration fee includes dinner, live music, raffle prizes, a branded T-shirt and other swag. During the Captain’s Meeting, organizers also review tournament rules. Pond fishing is prohibited, and each catch must be a species recognized as legal by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. Fish must weigh at least one pound, cannot be mutilated and must be caught on the day of the tournament. The fundraising event takes place on a Saturday each September, with anglers competing from midnight to 5 p.m. in seven species categories: trout, flounder, sheepshead, dogfish, king mackerel, ladyfish and Spanish mackerel. SCDNR is on-site at the Charleston Rifle Club to assist with weigh-ins, where the competition begins and ends. The angler who catches the largest king mackerel receives $1,000, while first-place winners in each of the other species categories receive $500. Second-place finishers in each category receive $150. Each tournament also recognizes a Continued on Page 11.
IslandVibesIOP.com 11 COMMUNITY From Left to Right: Ronan, Jack, JP and Niclas Lurkin breast cancer survivor. This year, two of Carolina Lady Anglers’ founding members, Hudson and Dahlke, received the honor. From Page 10. Woods, who joined the organization in 2002, is an experienced angler in her own right. She has been fishing with her father, uncles and cousins since childhood, catching her first shark at just 4 years old. Her largest catch to date is a 35-pound king mackerel. Now, she is passing along the techniques she learned growing up to her son. While Woods loves fishing offshore with her family and trolling for mahi-mahi, wahoo, sailfish, marlin and king mackerel, she also enjoys the camaraderie that comes with Carolina Lady Anglers. The organization’s approximately 30 members meet on the second Wednesday of each month at the American Legion on Ashley Hall Road in West Ashley. Meetings often feature speakers who teach skills and techniques ranging from knot tying to boat safety. Beyond its monthly meetings, the group hosts social events including bowling, wine tastings and fishing outings at local piers, all while preparing for the following year’s Fishing for the Cure tournament. To learn more about becoming a Carolina Lady Anglers member or tournament sponsor, visit carolinaladyanglers.org or attend a meeting on the second Wednesday of the month at 1748 Ashley Hall Road in Charleston. Private donations can be made through the Carolina Lady Anglers Facebook page. Follow @carolinaladyanglers on Instagram for additional updates.
IslandVibesIOP.com 12 FEATURE Creating Unforgettable Memories BRINGING DELICIOUS MEDITERRANEAN AND SOUTHERN FARE RIGHT TO YOUR DOOR YOUR TRUSTED CHARLESTON VACATION RENTAL CATERING PARTNER Get a Quote or Order Online, Today! SouthernSirenCHS.com (843) 481-2790 | meg@southernsirenchs.com Continued on Page 13. Spooky Vibes Haunted Tales of IOP and Charleston By Laura Fogarty Spooky season is upon us, and with it comes a vast array of opportunities to frighten and be frightened. Whether you prefer a toddler-friendly version of Halloween or you’re into the scarier, darker side of all things ghostly, you’re certain to find something to suit your tastes on the island and beyond. Firstly, there is IOP’s annual Ghostly Tide Tales. Kelsey Marsh, recreation supervisor at the Isle of Palms Recreation Department, described the much adored and anticipated event. “If you’re looking for a family-friendly, good time on the beach, Ghostly Tide Tales will not disappoint. Professional ghost storytellers join us on Front Beach behind the Sea Cabins with bonfires and spooky stories. Kids are running around and the storytellers from Bulldog Tours do an exceptional job telling ghastly, ghostly, spooky tales as a fun alternative on the beach. This year’s event will feature more barrel fires than ever before and will run from 6-7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 16.” Marsh continued, “This is a free event, open to the public. There will be ample parking available in Municipal Lot B on Pavilion Drive adjacent to the beach access path beside the Sea Cabins.” If you’re feeling brave, join the legendary storytellers from Bulldog Tours for an exciting beachfront evening illuminated by firelight with the Atlantic Ocean as the backdrop. Bulldog Tours offers additional ghost and graveyard tours with lantern-lit walks showcasing exclusive access to historic churchyards and cemeteries, the Old City Jail and the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon. The closest ghost tour to the Isle of Palms is located at the USS Yorktown, featuring guided, narrated tours of the
haunted corridors of the World War II aircraft carrier. While there are many stories of ghosts and hauntings from professional storytellers, great ghost stories abound from locals and island visitors alike as well. One local recently described a haunted happening at the Dock Street Theatre in downtown Charleston. “In 1976 while hanging out after rehearsal for Charles Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol,’ we heard footsteps up in the mezzanine and went up there to take a look. No one was there. Later we learned that the theater is haunted by past performers and other spirits. One such spirit has a wooden leg and is visible late at night, walking the streets close to the theater.” Another area legend describes America’s first female serial killer, Lavinia Fisher. Fisher and her husband operated a wayfarer’s inn at the site of the old Naval Hospital. Trapdoors, startling, disembodied voices and shadows, unexplained lights and strange encounters with otherworldly beings at the site are largely attributed to myths and exaggerated folklore but still inspire speculation and apprehension. Additionally, several locals have spoken of a ghoulish spectacle they claim to have witnessed, recounting a nightly scene in a vacant lot near the heart of the island. According to local legend, nearly every morning between the hours of 2 and 3, an apparitional line of soldiers clad in Civil War uniforms march through the lot in a long straight line, shoulder to shoulder and elbow to elbow. Bandages, slings, crutches and heads resting across shoulders create the gruesome imagery as these soldiers drag themselves across a landscape that once must have held uncertainty and tragedy. One resident described the scene. “Watching those soldiers march, bedraggled and forlorn across that lot, which surely must once have been a battlefield, is an unsettling sight. It’s like watching a 90-second video on a loop. The soldiers support one another as they limp and struggle to make it to the end of the lot only to start all over again. It’s eerie and fascinating at once.” The Isle of Palms and nearby Charleston are rich in folklore, legends and haunted happenings, and not just during the month of October. Whether you are asking residents to share their stories of the paranormal or booking a tour with a local company for a ghost walk or haunted hayride, or perhaps visiting one of the many legendary historical sites in our area, there is something to satisfy nearly every spooky appetite in or around the island. 13 IslandVibesIOP.com FEATURE From Page 12. 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
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IslandVibesIOP.com 17 Summer is better on the island. From coastal bites and spa time to tennis, pickleball, and pop-up events, Wild Dunes Resort is your go-to. Scan to explore resort happenings WildDunes.com | 5757 Palm Blvd., Isle of Palms, SC
IslandVibesIOP.com 18 Burger Time Heavy’s brings killer smashburgers and fun vibes to the island By Cari Lawson FOOD & BEVERAGE 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 CHEFS AND BARTENDERS. There are restaurants you go to because you’re hungry, and then there are restaurants where you somehow end up staying longer than you planned. Heavy’s Barburger is aiming for the latter. Walk into one of Heavy’s three locations and the formula is simple: excellent burgers, fried chicken, creative salads, cold beer, good drinks and music that might be playing just a little louder than expected. It’s casual. It’s energetic. And perhaps most importantly, it doesn’t feel like anyone is in a hurry to get you out the door. That was the idea when Heavy’s opened its original location on Morrison Drive in downtown Charleston in 2022. “We wanted a neighborhood burger joint with really good food, good people, a great vibe and a lot of fun,” the Heavy’s team said. In other words, they wanted to create the kind of place where they would want to hang out themselves. Four years later, that idea has grown into three locations: Morrison Drive, Daniel Island and Isle of Palms. But the goal hasn’t changed much. Heavy’s still wants to feel like the neighborhood spot where people know your name. The place where you can walk in alone, grab a seat at the bar and feel perfectly comfortable; where regulars have a favorite bartender, a usual seat and, inevitably, a “go to” order they could probably recite in their sleep. For Heavy’s, the crew isn’t simply the group behind the counter or carrying food to the table. They’re a huge part of what the restaurant is trying to be. Heavy’s puts a major emphasis on training, helping employees grow and creating opportunities for people who want to take on more. The philosophy is straightforward: work hard, take care of people, take care of each other and have some fun while doing it. Underneath all the structure, standards and training that guests may never see, Heavy’s wants the experience to feel effortless. You shouldn’t have to think about the restaurant’s carefully considered systems while you’re sitting at the bar. You should just hear a song you like, eat something delicious, have a refreshing drink and feel like you’re somewhere you want to be. Being a neighborhood restaurant also means being part of the neighborhood. Heavy’s has endeavored to show up for schools, teachers, veterans organizations and other local groups. Its catering truck, affectionately known as the HeyRide, has become another way to get out into the community, feed people and have a little fun along the way. But perhaps the best measure of Heavy’s success is what its customers have made of it. There are regulars who stop in multiple times a week, as well as locals who bring visiting friends and family because Heavy’s is one of the places they want to show them. Heavy’s is still growing, learning and figuring things out, but the ambition remains uncomplicated. Their aim is to serve tasty fare, take care of people, be a good neighbor and create a place where everybody can enjoy themselves. To view the full menu, visit heavysbarburger.com/isle-of-palms.
19 IslandVibesIOP.com LISTING AGENT LISTING COMPANY SELLING AGENT SELLING COMPANY CLOSING DATE SELLING PRICE PRICE PER SQ. FT Robertson Allen The Cassina Group Marjorie Corbin EXP Realty LLC 5/1 $15,000,000 $3,323/ft² Robertson Allen The Cassina Group Robertson Allen The Cassina Group 7/31 $12,700,000 $1,787/ft² Andrea Rogers AgentOwned Realty Alex Brener Carolina One Real Estate 9/18 $11,500,000 $1,934/ft² John Smith John Smith Property Group Sarah White Brand Name Real Estate 1/12 $9,500,000 $1,934/ft² Kristin Walker Dunes Properties of Chas Beau Hollingsworth Hollingsworth Realty 7/01 $8,475,000 $5,985/ft² Chauncey Clark The Peninsula Company, Jayson Wingfield Redfi n Corporation 8/20 $7,300,000 $1,351/ft² Mel Miles AgentOwned Realty John Rudloff Carolina One Real Estate 6/10 $7,200,000 $1,466/ft² Mel Miles AgentOwned Realty Aaron Lemke Adams Properties Powered By PMI 5/13 $6,811,200 1,855/ft² Amy Rogers Crown Coast Properties Kimberly Wills Century 21 Properties Plus 9/18 $6,500,000 $1,318/ft² Chuck Mimms The Mimms Group Joanna Barganier InterCoast Properties 7/31 $6,000,000 $2,222/ft² LISTING AGENT LISTING COMPANY SELLING AGENT SELLING COMPANY CLOSING DATE SELLING PRICE PRICE PER SQ. FT Ashley Haynes East Islands Real Estate Brian Whitsitt The Boulevard Company 6/15 $6,495,000 $1,340/ft² Steven Koleno Beycome Brokerage Realty Oliver Caminos St. Germain Properties 8/26 $5,000,000 $1,300/ft² Chris Marquez The Boulevard Company Gina Foster Dunes Properties 5/1 $4,490,000 $1,340/ft² Linda Laird Carolina One Real Estate Amy Rogers Crown Coast Properties 6/08 $3,600,000 $798/f t² Elise Rivers Kennedy Carolina One Real Estate Nathan Bullock Deserving Vacations LLC 3/20 $3,200,000 $970/f t² Jimmy Dye The Cassina Group Nat Wallen EXP Realty LLC 4/29 $3,150,000 $987/f t² Brandy McMahon Dunes Properties Sam Rogers Carolina One Real Estate 6/16 $3,050,000 $896/f t² Debbie Rogers Carolina One Real Estate John Beall Carroll Realty 4/06 $3,025,000 $747/f t² Jack Gumb The Exchange Co. Amanda McKinney Wild Dunes Real Estate 1/27 $2,600,000 $783/f t² Amy Rogers Crown Coast Properties William Barnwell The Cassina Group 5/22 $2,525,000 $1,536/ft² TOP TEN MOST EXPENSIVE HOMES SOLD January 1, 2026 - September 29, 2026 * Island Publishing, LLC does not take responsibility for any information deemed to be incorrect, including: MLS listed or sold price, listing agent or company, selling agent or company. Please note that agents and companies can and do change. Photos Provided by Zillow.com. ISLE OF PALMS WILD DUNES 1. AMY ROGERS Crown Coast Properties Sales $57,600,800 Average Sale $3,031,621 amy@crowncoast.com | 843-824-4892 2. ROBERTSON ALLEN The Cassina Group Sales $42,700,000 Average Sale $10,675,000 3. Marjorie Corbin EXP Realty Sales $15,000,000 Average Sale $15,000,000 4. Mel Miles AgentOwned Realty Sales $14,269,200 Average Sale $4,756,400 5. AMANDA MCKINNEY Wild Dunes Real Estate Sales $13,849,000 Average Sale $4,756,400 6. OLIVER CAMINOS St. Germain Properties Sales $12,197,500 Average Sale $2,710,556 TOP 10 AGENTS January 1, 2026 - September 21, 2026 ISLE OF PALMS / WILD DUNES * Island Publishing, LLC does not take responsibility for any information deemed to be incorrect, including: MLS listed or sold price, listing agent or company, selling agent or company. Please note that agents and companies can and do change.. 7. ALEX BRENER Carolina One Real Estate Sales $11,500,000 Average Sale $11,500,000 8. BEAU HOLLINGSWORTH Hollingsworth Realty Sales $11,250,000 Average Sale $5,625,000 9. GARY LANGHOFF The Boulevard Company Sales $11,150,000 Average Sale $3,716,667 10. JAMIE HOLLINGSWORTH Hollingsworth Realty (+1 prior office) Sales $10,065,000 Average Sale $2,013,000 Sponsored by:
Welcome to 9002 Palmetto Drive, unit 119, where ocean views and salty breezes abound. This beautiful beachfront condo in Seascape Villas inside Wild Dunes is a stunning two-bedroom, two-bath, oceanfront home. Featuring spectacular waterfront views, an updated kitchen, hardwood floors and a private balcony overlooking the Atlantic, this turnkey home is ready for its new owner. Additionally, Seaside Villas provides beach access, an oceanfront pool and 24/7 gated security with optional club membership for Wild Dunes golf, tennis and dining. This gorgeous seaside home is being offered fully furnished and is already performing as a short-term rental, providing a vacation getaway and a proven rental income investment in one. Located minutes from the Isle of Palms Marina, a grocery store, boutiques and restaurants, and a short walk away from the amazing amenities of Wild Dunes, this property has something for everyone. Your front-row seat to the ocean awaits. Offered at $1,299,000 by Erica Zepp of Southern Bell Living. Please contact the listing agent with questions or to schedule a private tour at erica@ southernbellliving.com or 607-742-9546. 20 IslandVibesIOP.com REAL ESTATE 9002 Palmetto Drive, Unit 119 Your front-row seat to the ocean By Laura Fogarty Book your Spring Family Session, Today! E-mail Rachel Basye at cooperriverphotography@gmail.com. Timeless Family Moments, Framed by the Beauty of the Island! FOR MORE, VISIT COOPERRIVERPHOTOGRAPHY.COM WWW.IOPESCAPES.COM 843.456.4606 IOP ESCAPES IOP ESCAPES OCEANS 22 | 22 BEACH CLUB VILLAS 3 BED | 3 BATH OCEANFRONT IN WILD DUNES COMMUNITY POOL NewListing! NewListing!
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