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IslandVibesIOP.com 5 Isle of Palms' hospitality is as good as it comes. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood or a sweet treat, IOP has everything your stomach desires, thanks to its robust food and beverage scene. The busy season for restaurants runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Some in the industry call it “100 days of hell” because every day is like a Saturday. Now, they finally get to relax. NEWS IOPPD leads the march for Mothers Against Drunk Driving SC holds highest rate of drunk driving fatalities per capita in US By L. C. Leach III About the Cover Hospitality Heroes By Zach Giroux Photos by Rachel Basye, Cooper River Photography. Put on your beat-up running shoes, fill up your water bottle and prepare to hit the road this autumn for the Isle of Palms’ 7th annual walk/run fundraiser to benefit Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). The event, known as Move With MADD Lowcountry, will be held Oct. 25 at Hampton Park in downtown Charleston. “Every dollar supports MADD’s efforts here in South Carolina to support victims and survivors and to educate the community about the dangers of DUI,” said Steven Burritt, regional executive director with the MADD state office in Irmo near Columbia. “Especially in an era of shrinking grant funding, those who support MADD through our fundraisers help us ensure every victim that needs us will have a passionate advocate supporting them.” The local fundraiser began in 2019, when IOPPD Sgt. Sharon Baldrick initiated the agency’s participation. All participants who register by Oct. 1 will be guaranteed a T-shirt. All remaining shirts will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Medals will be awarded to those who place in the 5K run. Since its launch in 1980, MADD has sponsored a variety of fundraisers for victims of drunk drivers such as cycling races and fishing and golf tournaments. The impetus for its creation was 13-year-old softball player Cari Lightner, who was killed May 3, 1980, in Fair Oaks, California, when she was struck from behind by a three-time repeat offender, throwing her out of her shoes 125 feet as she and a friend were walking to a church carnival. This incident led to the formation of MADD by Cari’s mother, Candace Lightner, whose daughter continues to represent the many pedestrian victims killed or injured due to drunk driving. The offseason will soon be here and that’s when business typically slows down due to a decrease in tourism. This is the most pivotal time of year for residents to support their local establishments by going out to eat more even when it’s not warm and sunny at the beach. To celebrate their success all summer long, Island Vibes wanted to personally thank all of the talented people behind the delicious food. Here’s a list of recommendations of what to order the next time you and your family frequent any of the following restaurants: Acme Charles Arena, Chef Shrimp & Grits/Succotash Coastal Provisions Steven Troilo, Chef Duck Burger Huey’s Shardine Anderson, Server Chicken Tenders & Caesar Salad IOPizza Tanja DePass, Manager Pepperoni Slice Islander 71 Goran Nanevski, Server Mahi Mahi Laughing Gull Emma Fair, Server Tuna Poke/Burger Eriek Imbaquingo, Cook Shawarma Sandwich Oystercatcher Austin Blake, Chef Whole Branzine (fish) Sea Biscuit Cafe Wendi Szymanski Crab Cake Simmons Seafood Kate Simmons, Daily operations Key Lime Pie The Nest Eliot Desjardines, Server Pimento Cheese Charcuterie Woody’s Ghani Mack, Cook Blackened Mahi At the time, nearly 25,000 people were killed each year in alcohol-related crashes – 50% of all traffic deaths in 1980. In the past 45 years, Burritt said that MADD volunteers across the U.S. have not only made a difference in the lives of individual victims such as Cari but have helped cut drunk driving deaths by 40%. “At one point we had reduced deaths by 50%, but the incredible spike in drunk driving deaths seen starting with the pandemic erased some of those gains,” Burritt said. Burritt also pointed out that despite the gains, there is still a long way to go in South Carolina because “we have the worst drunk driving fatality rate per capita in the nation.” “Any family impacted is still devastated beyond comprehension and they need all the support we can provide,” Burritt said. “Our work and our mission is as important today as it’s ever been, especially as we now see the reality of technology bringing an end to drunk driving – we have to advocate all the way to victory.” Front Row: Charles Arena, Acme and Wendi Szymanski, Sea Biscuit Café Back Row: Kate Simmons, Simmons Seafood, Tanja DePass, IOPizza, and Goran Nanevski, Islander 71,. Front Row: Emma Fair, Laughing Gull and Austin Blake, Oystercatcher Back Row: Eliot Desjardines, The Nest and Ghani Mack, Woody’s Eatery Front Row: Shardine Anderson, Huey's and Eriek Imbaquingo, Laughing Gull. Back Row: Steven Troilo, Coastal Provisions and Bobby Simpson, Hudson’s Market
IslandVibesIOP.com 7 After several years of weighing the benefit of an island traffic study, Isle of Palms City Council members agreed at their July 22 meeting to move forward with plans over the next year, by first sending the proposal back to its Public Safety Committee for more discussion. Though no vote was taken to approve or reject the study, all members favored granting more time toward developing a better proposal, and several favored both public input and partnering with surrounding communities as vital parts of any future action. The original intention was to consider employing Stantec Consulting Services Inc. to conduct an evaluation of vehicular traffic conditions and recommend potential improvements related to peak beach traffic, which usually occurs on Memorial Day weekend and the week of July Fourth. But Councilwoman Jan Anderson, who has long supported an island-wide traffic study, pointed out that because these times have passed, “that window of opportunity is gone for this year.” IOP traffic study to seek input from residents, neighboring communities By L. C. Leach III IOP sets example as hate crime bill stalls at state level SC not among 48 states with hate crime laws By L. C. Leach III NEWS “So I’m proposing that we send out a request for a proposal to a number of engineering firms and get more than one set of ideas of how we can improve traffic on the island,” Anderson said. “There’s also been an expressed interest from one of the council people over in Mount Pleasant to possibly do a joint study with them.” Mayor Phillip Pounds added his approval, saying, “I think Mount Pleasant, Sullivan’s (Island) and the county would all be good partners to have at the table.” IOP tourism, while always healthy in summer, has become popular yearround, with upward of 60,000 visitors per day in peak season, spread across 4.44 square miles of land. "The amount of regional growth we've experienced in the past five to 10 years has had a significant impact on the number of day visitors to the island," said Kathryn Basha, planning director with Berkeley-Charleston-Dorchester Council of Governments in 2023. "And this is an issue that city leaders are already grappling with in terms of parking and traffic." Along with new parking arrangements and Palm Boulevard improvements, the traffic study would be the next initiative to help manage IOP’s anticipated growth in visitors. Councilman Jimmy Ward favored city leaders hosting one or two workshops this fall at the recreation center to “open up the idea for discussion among the residents.” Councilmembers Katie Miars and Rusty Streetman said more time and discussion is the best possible next step toward a workable plan. “I have been pushing for a traffic study for three-and-a-half years now,” Anderson said. “And it’s finally on the agenda.” In an effort to further discourage area crime and criminal intent, the Isle of Palms recently became the 21st South Carolina municipality to enact hate crime legislation. The new measure took effect July 22 after the IOP City Council unanimously approved an ordinance pertaining to more than 10 kinds of crime based on personal bias that violate public peace. “We passed a resolution a couple of years ago to ask the state to pass a state-level hate crime bill,” said IOP Mayor Phillip Pounds. “Since they haven’t taken any action yet, we felt the need to join other municipalities and pass a local hate crime bill.” Per the new ordinance, offenses involve crimes motivated by bias or hate towards any person or persons, in whole or in part, because of actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability or national origin. “Our principal intention is to send a message to residents and visitors that those types of crimes aren’t going to be tolerated here,” Pounds said. Penalties for committing these crimes include: • Fines of not more than $500 and/or imprisonment for not more than 30 days. • Community service or participation in an educational program, as set forth by the court. • Restitution up to the limits of the court’s jurisdiction for damages sustained by victims, which may include compensation for medical bills, counseling or therapy or damage to property. A person cannot be found guilty of hate intimidation unless first convicted under the underlying crime; hate intimidation may not be used as a stand-alone crime. As of August 2025, South Carolina and Wyoming are the only states not to have passed any statewide hate crime laws. Of the other 48 states, only 14 have laws against all hate crimes, but each state can include additional types of hate crimes. Other Lowcountry municipalities to enact hate crime legislation are the City of Charleston, Town of Mount Pleasant, City of Myrtle Beach, City of North Charleston and the Town of Summerville. While hate crimes are more public now than in the past, the U.S. Congress passed the first federal hate crime statutes in 1968: one prohibiting violent interference with housing rights and another prohibiting violent interference with several enumerated rights, including voting and employment activities. Other measures have included the Church Arson Prevention Act of 1996, the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009 and the Emmett Till Anti-Lynching Act in 2022. “So far, we have had very little past problems with this issue,” Pounds said. “But we passed this ordinance because we are trying to be proactive.”
IslandVibesIOP.com 15 As an end-of-summer salute to Isle of Palms’ hospitality scene and all of the food and beverage workers that have survived the busy tourist season, we thought it was an appropriate time to remind regulars of their favorite places to frequent this offseason. The offseason represents a dramatic shift for local restaurants. As the tourist crowds thin out following the busy summer months, the vibrant energy of packed patios, long waitlists and bustling beachgoers gives way to a much quieter time. While this lull can be a welcome breather after months of nonstop service, it also brings significant financial and operational challenges for restaurant owners and staff alike. Undoubtedly, summertime is a make-or-break season for the food and beverage industry. The revenue generated between Memorial Day and Labor Day often sustains them through the slower fall and winter months. Once the vacationers leave, so does the money in their pockets. Staff hours are often reduced and in some cases seasonal workers work jobs elsewhere. For the establishments that stay open year-round, keeping business steady becomes a matter of community. This is where the role of locals becomes vital. The support of year-round residents can mean the difference between survival and closure for many small businesses during the offseason. Locals help provide consistent income when tourism dries up. "For a small community, our island offers great choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner," said IOP Mayor Phillip Pounds. "I love the variety we have on the island and what each business brings to our community. During our busy season, it is infinitely more convenient to stay on the island and not fight the traffic to go elsewhere, but as full timers, it’s important to remember to support our local businesses during the offseason when our crowds are smaller." Beyond just the financial support, locals help create a sense of community and stability for restaurant owners and staff. Regulars become familiar faces and relationships form that go beyond transactions. These connections are part of what makes IOP more than just a tourist destination. Restaurants that thrive during the offseason are often those that have built strong ties with local patrons through excellent service, consistent quality and a genuine presence in the neighborhood. “Watching the Isle of Palms evolve over the past 40 years, it’s remarkable to see the diversity of options now available — from world-class cuisine to grab-and-go sandwiches, stretching from one end of the island to the other,” said Alex Stone, president of the IOP Chamber of Commerce. “We are truly blessed with a vibrant food and beverage community, each establishment offering its own unique flavor and hospitality. As residents, we have the privilege and responsibility to support these businesses not just in peak season, but year-round — ensuring they continue to thrive as the heart and soul of our island.” The following is a rundown of recommended restaurants, bars, quick bites and onthe-go places. We couldn’t pick just one because we love them all. So, we decided to list them all. Bon appétit! Prices: $ – $15 or less | $$ – $15-22 | $$$ – More than $22 TASTE OF IOP Help food & bev industry thrive this offseason By Zach Giroux RESTAURANTS Acme Lowcountry Kitchen com‑ bines upscale, yet casual elements of traditional coastal cuisine with classic fare. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in a casual beach atmosphere with flavor profiles that exemplify fresh local ingredients and sustainable seafood. Cuisine: American/Seafood | $-$$ 31 JC Long Blvd. | (843) 886-3474 acmelowcountrykitchen.com Indoor/Outdoor Seating | Pets Allowed Coastal Crust (Wild Dunes Resort) brings hand‑stretched, wood‑fired Neapoli‑ tan‑style pizzas and Italian‑inspired dishes made from scratch—think fig & prosciutto, short‑rib gnocchi and flavorful shared plates in a relaxed resort setting. Cuisine: Italian/Pizza | $‑$$ 5802 Palmetto Drive | (843) 886‑7300 coastalcrust.com Indoor/Outoor Seating | Pets Allowed Coastal Provisions (Wild Dunes Resort) blends upscale yet resort-casual dining with coastal charm, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner in a warm, inviting atmosphere inspired by Charleston’s sailing heritage. Cuisine: American/Seafood | $$–$$$ 200 Grand Pavilion Blvd. | (843) 886‑2200 wilddunesresort.com/dining Indoor/Outdoor Seating | Pets Allowed Coconut Joe’s dishes up island-inspired eats and offers stunning views of the ocean from a covered outside deck, air-condi‑ tioned dining room or open-air rooftop bar. Cuisine: American | $-$$ 1120 Ocean Blvd. | (843) 886-0046 coconutjoesbeachgrill.com Indoor/Outdoor Seating Coda del Pesce offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy handmade pasta, fresh Italian cuisine inspired by the sea and a stellar Italian wine selection. Cuisine: Italian/Seafood | $-$$ 1130 Ocean Blvd. | (843) 242-8570 codadelpesce.com Huey’s on the Links Course (Wild Dunes Resort) provides a relaxed, golf‑clubhouse atmosphere with casual lunch and small‑bite lounge menus, paired with scenic views of the Links golf course fairways. Cuisine: American/Southern | $‑$$ 10001 Back Bay Drive. | (843) 886‑2297 wilddunesresort.com/dining Indoor/Outdoor Seating | Pets Allowed IOPizza Co. serves up casual, fami‑ ly-friendly vibes with a retro‑80s décor, offering wood‑oven pizzas, subs, salads, wraps, pasta and a full‑service bar—perfect for post‑beach casual dining, dine‑in or takeout. Cuisine: Italian/Pizza | $‑$$ 1101 Ocean Blvd., Unit C | (843) 242‑8121 www.iopizzaco.com Indoor/Outdoor Seating | Pets Allowed IOP Raw offers a modern, upscale twist on the classic oyster bar experience, fea‑ turing East Coast and local oysters, peeland-eat shrimp, lobster tails and creative coastal dishes in a laid-back yet refined setting. Cuisine: Seafood/Oysters | $$–$$$ 1515 Palm Blvd. | (843) 886-8809 longislandcafesc.com Indoor/Outdoor Seating | Pets Allowed Islander 71 is a waterfront dining expe‑ rience that brings back the beach life. Enjoy live music under the sun with incredible Southern-inspired menu items and a raw bar. Cuisine: Seafood | $$ 80 41st Ave. | (877) 420-9558 www.islander71.com Indoor/Outdoor Seating | Pets Welcome Laughing Gull Restaurant & Bar (Wild Dunes Resort) offers a vibrant, Caribbean-inspired dining experience with tropical cocktails and island-flavored dishes, all served poolside at the Sweet‑ grass Inn. Cuisine: Caribbean/American | $$–$$$ 757 Palm Blvd. | (843) 886-2280 wilddunesresort.com/dining Indoor/Outdoor Seating | Pets Allowed Lawrence’s Seafood Company is a lively beachfront restaurant known for its fresh seafood and Southern-inspired dishes. Cuisine: Seafood | $$ 1130 Ocean Blvd. | (843) 242-8470 lawrencesseafood.com Indoor/Outdoor Seating Long Island Café first opened in 1986. This hidden gem of a restaurant for locals and tourists alike has a seafood-centric menu plus beef, chicken and handmade pasta options. Cuisine: American/Grill/French | $-$$ 1515 Palm Blvd., Suite A | (843) 886-8809 longislandcafesc.com Oystercatcher (Wild Dunes Resort) offers a glob‑ ally inspired, seafood-focused menu in a relaxed, resort-style setting, featuring small plates, shareable dishes and signature cocktails. Cuisine: Fusion/Seafood | $$–$$$ 5757 Palm Blvd. | 843) 886-2280 wilddunesresort.com/dining Indoor/Outdoor Seating | Pets Allowed Papi’s Taqueria offers authentic Mex‑ ican cuisine with a twist. Enjoy some of their delectable dishes with an ocean view on their rooftop bar. A favorite spot among locals and visitors. Cuisine: Mexican | $$ 1012 Ocean Blvd. | (843) 926-7274 papisiop.com Indoor/Outdoor Seating | Pets Welcome Sea Biscuit Café is a bright, cozy cafe with nautical touches serving delicious American breakfast and brunch options. Seasonal hours. Cash only. Cuisine: American | $ 21 JC Long Blvd. | (843) 886-4079 seabiscuitcafe.shop The Boathouse at Breach Inlet serves dinner nightly and Sunday brunch. Its roots run deep when it comes to South‑ ern cooking, drawing from family recipes scrawled on cards in plantation kitchens and relying on South Carolina’s natural abundance. Cuisine: Seafood | $$-$$$ 101 Palm Blvd. | (843) 886-8000 boathouserestaurants.com Indoor/Outdoor Seating The Refuge is a family-owned restau‑ rant and coffee bar that features a bright, modern eatery with coffee, bagels and WiFi by day and cocktails and New American fare by night. Cuisine: Southern | $-$$$ 1517 Palm Blvd. | (843) 242-8934 refugeiop.com Indoor/Outdoor Seating | Pets Welcome Woody’s Eatery (Wild Dunes Resort) offers a laidback, resort-style deli experience with all-day breakfast, hearty sandwiches and classic lunch fare, perfect for golfers, swim‑ mers and families seeking a quick bite or casual sit-down meal. Cuisine: Deli/American | $–$$ 5891 Palmetto Drive | (843) 886-2233 wilddunesresort.com/dining Indoor/Outdoor Seating | Pets Allowed BARS Beachside Burgers & Bar (Wild Dunes Resort) serves up classic American eats with a coastal twist, offering juicy burgers, fresh salads and laid-back favorites in a fun, beachy setting. Perfect for lunch, dinner or sunset cocktails, it’s a casual spot just steps from the sand where locals and visitors kick back and enjoy island vibes. Cuisine: American | $ 1130 Ocean Blvd. | (843) 555-2784 beachsideburgersiop.com Indoor/Outdoor Seating | Pets Allowed Smuggler’s Island Eats allows guests to enjoy a casual and family-friendly dining experience right next to the beach. Cuisine: American | $ 1122 Ocean Blvd. | (843) 885-7009 smugglersiop.com Indoor/Outdoor Seating The Dinghy Tap Room & Kitchen has a laid-back Key West vibe, great food options and plenty of beers on tap. The Dinghy also features a spacious side porch and live music. Cuisine: American/Seafood | $ 8 JC Long Blvd. | (843) 242-8310 dinghyiop.com Indoor/Outdoor Seating Continued on Page 17. FOOD & BEVERAGE
IslandVibesIOP.com 19 coffee to go but a lot of times they’ll stay for breakfast,” she said. “The favorites include locally-baked cinnamon rolls and other gluten-free pastries.” This past spring Anderson graduated from Clemson University with a degree in nutrition and dietetics. She is currently working towards earning her master's in that field. On Sept. 2, she began a dietician internship at MUSC. While this next chapter will require her to cut back on her hours at The Refuge, she intends to pick up some shifts on Saturday mornings. When she’s not behind the bar or a computer screen, Anderson enjoys taking long walks on the beach, traveling to new places, cooking with her mom and thinking about plans for her wedding to her fiancé Jonathan Togami, who grew up on Sullivan’s Island where his family has lived for many generations. “This is home for us,” Anderson said. “I don’t see us moving away.” Renowned for its refreshing frosé, the Co-Op also offers delicious meals for the whole family. Whether grabbing an order to go on your way to the beach for a day playing hooky or dining in, it’s hard to choose between the following options. Breakfast menu selections include staples such as the classic egg sandwich, on wheat; whipped ricotta on multigrain toast with local honey; or avocado toast with olive oil, salt and pepper on sunflower multigrain. For lunch, enjoy the California turkey with bacon, avocado, tomato, sprouts and herb cheese spread on whole wheat. The cowboy chicken, served with bacon, avocado, mixed greens and ranch on brioche, is another delicious choice. Classics such as the Caprese panini with tomato, mozzarella, basil pesto and balsamic vinaigrette on sourdough and the Cubano layered with deli chicken, ham, spicy brown mustard, mayo and pickles on a baguette are always crowd pleasers. Same goes for the Italian, which is stacked with salami, ham, capicola, mozzarella, lettuce, tomato, onion, oregano and oil and vinegar on sourdough. If you prefer lighter fare, try the veggie sammie, which comes with herb cheese, tomato, cucumber, red onion, hummus and alfalfa sprouts on sunflower multigrain. Traditional sandwiches include The Masters, a delightful fresh house made egg salad and sprouts, served on toasted wheat; the tuna salad with balsamic and olive oil dressing, Swiss cheese, pickles, mayo and mustard on whole FOOD & BEVERAGE Behind the Bar Latte art with Grace Anderson By Sarah Rose On the Menu Catching up with the Co-Op By Sarah Rose made with two fried eggs and cheddar served on a kaiser roll with the option of adding bacon or sausage. Spice the day up with the breakfast burrito, loaded with bacon, eggs, mozzarella, roasted red peppers, hummus and hot sauce wrapped in a flour tortilla. Heart-healthier alternatives include two fried eggs, hummus, cheddar and spinach served (left) The Veggie Sammie is served on toasted multigrain bread with hummus, sprouts, tomatoes, red onions, cucumbers and herb cheese (middle) 10 oz Froze (right) The Masters Sandwich is a fan favorite, served on toasted wheat bread with egg salad, sprouts and tomatoes. wheat; and the chicken salad with mixed greens and tomato on whole wheat. Alternatively, ask for the Greek salad, which is packed with spinach, black olives, feta, red onions, cucumbers, roasted red peppers and artichoke hearts and drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette dressing. The Cobb is another good choice with its artful blend of romaine, chicken breast, hard-boiled egg, bacon, tomato, avocado and bleu cheese crumbles served with ranch. For the kids, pick up a PB+J full sammie with grape jelly served on white; a hickory ham or turkey sammie with cheese; or the grilled cheese, toasted and pressed with American on white bread. (top) Greek Salad (bottom) The Cobb Salad. Don’t forget to pair your fare with the frosé. To view the full menu, visit thecoopsi.com/location/ isle-of-palms. As a little girl, Grace Anderson lived in Australia, Spain and England, moving countries when her father’s career in finance required a transfer. In 2012, when she was 10 years old, her family settled on the Isle of Palms and the island became her home. “Our family has always loved spending weekends at the beach, so having this proximity is wonderful,” Anderson said. “Plus, the small-town feel is so cozy since we are always running into our friends and neighbors everywhere.” In seventh grade, Anderson landed her first job scooping ice cream at Ben & Jerry’s on Front Beach. When a position at Cafe Paname opened up in 2020, she took it. There, she learned how to make coffee from the then owner, who was French, and his son, who had trained in Australia. During the summer of 2023, Anderson transferred over to The Refuge, where she started as a barista. She said she enjoys working at The Refuge because regulars from around the island stop in every day to say hello. Anderson added, “It’s also fun meeting vacationers and talking to them about the island.” In addition to experimenting with what she calls “latte art,” crafting brews such as the best-selling Refuge Signature coconut and salted caramel, Anderson works as a server at the restaurant adjacent to the coffee shop. “Sometimes customers will take their To learn more about menu offerings at The Refuge, visit refugeiop.com.
IslandVibesIOP.com 20 Born and raised in Harlem in New York City, Tyquan Poinsette grew up watching his grandmother cook. As her taste tester, Poinsette became enamored with the culinary arts early in life. At 14-yearsold, he moved to Charleston, where he’d vacationed every summer while visiting family. By high school he was winning cooking competitions in home economics class and fell head over heels with gastronomy. As Poinsette was wrapping up his senior year, he consulted with a career counselor who guided him to a job bussing tables at O’Charley’s in West Ashley. While simultaneously attending Trident Technical College to earn a degree in the culinary arts, he moved up in the ranks to dishwasher and then to sauté cook. When he graduated, he realized there were no further options for adFOOD & BEVERAGE Meet the Chef Talking flavor with Tyquan Poinsette By Sarah Rose vancing his career at O’Charley’s, and decided it was time to move on. His next stop was East Bay Deli, where he became a line cook at both the downtown and West Ashley locations. After three or four years there, he began looking for experience in fine dining. A line cook position opened up at the Old Village Post House, where he said he had the opportunity to learn from and work alongside great chefs, such as Forrest Parker, who now leads Undiscovered Charleston culinary history walking tours downtown. One of the other chefs moved to The Refuge and he helped out there parttime while still working at the Post House. When she left, he took over her role as the executive chef. Poinsette’s favorite Refuge menu items to make – and eat – are the best-selling chicken pesto tortellini, the seared scallops or the triggerfish, which is accompanied by Lowcountry-style crab rice, bacon cauliflower puree and a garlic dill beurre blanc. He also enjoys creating daily specials as well as theme nights, such as steak Tuesdays, prime rib Thursdays and lobster Sundays, the latter of which features fresh lobsters flown in from Maine. At home, Poinsette loves to make soul food such as mac and cheese and collard greens. When he’s not in the kitchen, he builds motorized bikes, chills at home or hangs out with friends. He is also a barbeque connoisseur who favors Rodney Scott’s and Home Team. “Everyone around is like family,” Poinsette said. “It truly is a place to come and seek refuge." To reserve a table, visit refugeiop.com. Book your Fall Family Session, Today! E-mail Rachel Basye at cooperriverphotography@gmail.com. As the Days Cool, Memories Stay Warm. FOR MORE, VISIT COOPERRIVERPHOTOGRAPHY.COM ISLE OF PALMS COMMUNITY PARTY Wednesday, October 15th 5:30pm - 9:00pm 3708 Palm Blvd., Oceantfront Sponsored By The pride of Isle of Palms, SC today, tomorrow and always. Let's enjoy each other's company and strengthen our Island.
IslandVibesIOP.com 25 An island girl from the very beginning, Elle Robison has lived all her nearly 21 years on the Isle of Palms. “All of my core memories involve the island,” reflected Robison. “To highlight a few, growing up on the island was amazing! I loved long beach days with my family, riding my bike to the marina for boiled peanuts and slushies, riding the cart on the golf course at sunset and so much more!” Robison is beginning her senior year at the College of Charleston and will graduate in the spring with a major in communications. As a sports photography intern at CofC, she has created her brand, LVL Elle, for social media management, photography and other creative brand media services. If her name sounds familiar, it could be that you know her as the youngest of four siblings growing up on the Isle of Palms in the tight-knit Robison family. It could also be that you recognize Robison from her role on the Prime Video series “Sweethearts,” a documentary about high school sweethearts navigating the challenges of high school and beyond. Robison recounted, “Filming ‘Sweethearts’ was a very cool experience! It was crazy to have a camera crew follow us around Charleston, but we eventually got more used to it. A highlight was that we all got to go to St. Augustine together and do some pretty cool experiences there – it was a wonderful part of being a part of the show. We got to jet ski in St. Augustine and again in Charleston at Shem Creek. Because two years passed from filming to the release it was a very surreal experience seeing it all put together on Prime. Justin and I celebrated three years of dating in May and a few of the other couples are still together as well.” Robison and 1-and-a-half-year-old golden retriever Obi love to ride the golf cart all around the island, and Obi especially loves walks to the marina. She continued, “I always like to get a good burger and mac and cheese from Home Team or some pizza from Coastal Crust. Other island favorites include beach or pool days, always.” Upon graduating from the College of Charleston, Robison is hoping to continue growing her media brand and to gain more clients and gigs. We hope that for you as well, Elle. Best of luck to you and Obi! To be frank, I am continually confounded by the behavior of local maritime enthusiasts. Careless (dare I say reckless?) behavior within the confines of a floating vessel puts not only the entire boat’s population at risk but also fellow boaters, docks and other property and of course, aquatic creatures. Dear reader, you can find rules and regulations, laws, tips and guides with a quick visit to dnr.sc.gov. For today, let us focus on waterway etiquette. No wake zones, for example, mean just that – no wake. Slow down. Pull the throttle back, perhaps coast for a bit and take in the scenery. Whatever you do, do not speed through a no wake zone, water skier in tow, making a nuisance of your vessel and yourself. Speaking of unnecessary acceleration, please be sure to secure your refuse before speeding off, lest you make us all observe your litter moving swiftly from bow to stern and flittering high into the air before making its final disastrous descent into the water below. We’ve all seen that guy. Don’t be that guy. Speaking of “that guy,” we’ve all seen it. You know, the gentlemen who turn the railing of their boats into a not-so-private restroom. I, for one, have considered bleaching my eyeballs after one such encounter, but my humans managed to dissuade me. If you have not witnessed such ill-mannered, barbaric treachery count yourself spared, lucky, blessed even. Friends don’t let friends use any waterway as a restroom. Be a friend. Speaking of being a friend, be sure to wave a friendly hello when crossing paths with other vessels. It’s the polite way to travel. If you’re fortunate enough to see me out on the water, a wave will suffice. No need to approach. I cherish my private time and lately the paparazzi have been relentless. Stay safe out there! Meet Your Island Neighbors! By Laura Fogarty Elle Robison: A modest actor with ambition PEOPLE & PETS TO BE FRANK, Boat politely or walk the plank -FRANK Luna is a stunning tortoiseshell Devon Rex who came into her family’s life as a 16-week-old kitten. She's now 2 years old and proudly wears the nickname her paw-rents gave her: Lunatic. You may be wondering: Why would this sweet, innocent-looking girl earn such a nickname? Well … Luna is one hilariously quirky kitty. Her favorite hobby is talking to her squirrel friends through the screen porch. She mimics their noises as if she's saying, “Hey you little acorn hoarders, why do you keep burying your delicious treats when I'm right here to help lighten the load!” She also loves climbing as high as she can. Where there’s a curtain rod, fridge or any other lofty surface, she’ll always find her way to the top. When she's not planning her next ascent, she's bravely “protecting” her family from a nail in the Pet of the Month Luna the loveable lunatic By Allyah Harrar wall that she's fully convinced is a bug. All in a day's work for this little queen. On warmer days, you'll find Luna sunbathing on the screened porch – on a towel, of course. She wouldn't dream of lying on the floor like a peasant. Luna spends the colder days climbing all over Gidget, the family’s 16-year-old shih tzu, trying to steal her sweet, sweet body heat. But for all her antics, Luna is a world-class cuddler, with a big heart and an even bigger sense of humor. Her human mom Tina said, "She's always making us laugh; it's impossible not to smile when you're watching her.” Do you know an island neighbor who deserves recognition? If so, contact Editor@IslandVibesIOP.com..
IslandVibesIOP.com 31 With Labor Day kicking off September, I wanted to ask people about their first job and their current one. My questions included: What was your first job? When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up? What did you end up becoming? Isle of Palms Police Department Sgt. Sharon Baldrick “My first job was when I was 15 years old, working at Dairy Queen in Greenville, South Carolina. That was more than 35 years ago, and I still dream I have ice cream orders I need to make! As a kid, I always knew I wanted to be a police officer, and I ended up being a police officer, just like I wanted! Currently, my rank is sergeant, and I oversee the Detective Unit, the Code Enforcement Unit and the Traffic ISLE OF PALMS CROSSWORD PUZZLE Kids' Corner Labor Day: Celebrating hard workers By Suzette Head ACROSS 1. Alack’s partner 5. Speck 9. Plant trunks 14. Fizz drink 15. Part to play 16. Mush up 17. Tel __ 18. Adolescent 19. Carrot cousin 20. Marred 22. Person from Africa 24. Neither’s partner 25. Says (slang) 26. Live-in babysitter 28. December 29. Madagascar franc (abbr.) 32. Capital of Morocco 33. Strange 35. MGM’s Lion 36. City 37. Dozen 38. Mythological water nymph 40. Jell 41. Thicket 43. Shades of color 44. Vane direction 45. Highest trump in some loo 46. Saturated 47. Family group 49. Flightless bird 50. Attacks 53. Ref 57. Short person 58. Ancient Indian 60. Jacob’s son 61. Author of “The Inferno” 62. Upper part of shoe 63. Put down 64. Guide 65. Dueling sword 66. Women’s magazine DOWN 1. University (abbr.) 2. Like 3. First letter of the Arabic alphabet 4. Tropical grassland 5. Aorta 6. Has toed 7. Bullfight cheer 8. Wild animal collection 9. Afford 10. National capital 11. Little Mermaid’s love 12. Plateau 13. Was looked at 21. Brand of cold remedy 23. Central points 26. Nominates 27. Lessen 28. Rationalism 29. Pitch 30. Meaningful 31. Idols 32. Thorned flower 33. Wide 34. Lay to rest 39. Needle-shaped rock 42. Opaque gem 46. Mexican cloak 47. Ala __ (menu listing) 48. Criminal imprisoned for life 50. Totals 51. Hit a fly 52. Reasonable 53. Apex 54. Bluish-green 55. Cruel 56. Sit in a car 59. Doze SEPT 2025 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 www.CrosswordWeaver.com AUGUST 2025 FUN & GAMES Unit for the Isle of Palms Police Department. The best part of my job honestly depends on which hat I am wearing. When I am working in the Detective Unit, I have a tangible victim who needs my help to get justice served for them. When I am focused on traffic safety, I can prevent someone from becoming a victim by stopping a speeder or arresting an impaired driver before they hurt themselves or someone else.” Judge Mary Paige Adams “At 14, my first job was at a retail store in Mount Pleasant. My second job was at the Wild Dunes Tennis Center. I wanted to be a news anchor. It was in the era of investigative journalism on TV, and it was the beginning of shows like “Dateline.” I was always fascinated by that research and storytelling. My undergraduate degree is in broadcast news and one summer during college, I worked for a law firm called Ness Motley (now Motley Rice), which was suing the tobacco companies. I had an incredible experience and realized the training I was receiving in researching was very similar to what a trial lawyer does. And you are also a storyteller for your clients in a lot of ways. At that moment, I decided to go to law school. I was a trial lawyer, then a litigation consultant and then a special assistant administrative law judge in Georgia. I was appointed last year as a magistrate judge for Charleston County. I really enjoy serving the community that raised me.” Vince Iwinski “While growing up on the South Side of Chicago, an older friend of mine had a job delivering newspapers. It was a 365-day-a-year job delivering three papers to around 40 houses. When my friend retired, I begged the owner of Ray’s News Agency for the opportunity. I was only 7 years old when Ray gave me the chance. I was the youngest paperboy he had ever hired. As a kid, I wanted to become a writer, like Henry David Thoreau, and write books about nature. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame I went into advertising, and shortly afterwards began managing the jam rock band Umphrey’s McGee, which I still manage today. Over the years, I’ve worked with many additional artists, taught a class at the College of Charleston and have produced music festivals and events around the world. Recently, we did a music festival in Marrakech, Morocco. I was able to take my son, Leo, and daughter, Ivy, with me, which was a very magical experience! Vince Iwinski Sgt. Sharon Baldrick
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