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New IOP Public Dock displays celebrate tidal ecosystems

By Laura Lovins

Just 14 months after the ribbon-cutting to officially open the new Isle of Palms Public Dock on the Intracoastal Waterway, the city’s Environmental Advisory Committee has completed a nature-based interpretive sign installation along the dock and adjacent walkways.

Located at the Isle of Palms Marina, 50 41st Ave., the Isle of Palms Public Dock is open to the public from sunrise to sunset.

The new set of 14 conservation-themed signs enhances the public’s experience at the dock by highlighting local wildlife and ecosystems in the surrounding salt marsh and waterways. They include seven “Salt Marsh Creature” signs designed to engage visitors of all ages as they walk between the dock and Islander 71 restaurant.

Major support for the project came from The Outpost at Isle of Palms Marina, Islander 71 and Barrier Island Eco Tours, as well as the City of Isle of Palms.

The project was spearheaded by Susan Hill Smith, a former City Council member who led the creation of the EAC during her tenure, and Laura Lovins, chair of the EAC.

The city contracted local graphic designer Kaitlyn Hackathorn to create the sign designs and illustrations. Hackathorn previously worked for the S.C. Department of Natural Resources, collaborating with biologists to make conservation messaging accessible to the general public.

EnviroSigns handled sign production and was selected for its experience with interpretive and educational signage, including projects in U.S. national parks.

The city will schedule a ribbon-cutting and celebration of the installation at a later date. Meanwhile, residents and visitors are encouraged to visit the dock and learn about the biodiversity of Isle of Palms.

Isle of Paws Music Fest to Bring Dogs, Music to IOP Rec Center

FEST

By Kelsey Marsh

The Isle of Paws Music Fest will bring fun for humans and canines alike to the Isle of Palms Recreation Center on Thursday, May 21, from 4 to 7 p.m.

The event will feature local dog rescues and pet services, as well as a dog show, food vendors and live music from Flat City Bluegrass and New Ghost Town.

PUBLISHERS OF:

The Island Eye News

The Island Connection SiP Magazine

In Memory of Swan Richards

EDITOR

ieneditor@luckydognews.com

ADVERTISING advertising@mylonews.com

ASSISTANT PUBLISHER

Christian Senger

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Stacey Nichols

CONSULTANT

Lynn Pierotti

CONTRIBUTORS

Geoff Bennett • Katherine Berry

Amber Doskos • Pamela Marsh

Mary Pringle • Aaron Sweet

Joshua Uys • Chris Zoeller

Campbell Sullivan

PUBLISHED BY

Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina, LLC P.O. Box 837

Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina 29482 843-886-NEWS

Submit your letters to the editor to: ieneditor@luckydognews.com

DEADLINE

April 22 for our May 1 issue

For more information and for digital flip-throughs of current and past issues, please visit LuckyDogNews.com

Op-eds and letters to the editor do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Lucky Dog Publishing or its staff.

VFW Post 3137 Auxiliary on the Isle of Palms Supports a Variety of Veteran Organizations

By Pamela Marsh

The Fisher House, located at 150 Wentworth St. in downtown Charleston, provides a “home away from home” for families of veterans receiving care at the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center. Fisher House offers free lodging, with eligibility determined by the Fisher House team

based on national guidelines. The facility offers a comfortable environment with amenities such as a kitchen, laundry and free parking.

On a recent Sunday evening, the VFW Auxiliary of Isle of Palms provided a meal for guests staying at the house. Members of the auxiliary prepared and served the meal according to guidelines

provided by Fisher House. Guests enjoyed the hot meal and the group camaraderie. A veteran who had been staying in the house for more than a month following a lung transplant was especially grateful for the “home-cooked” meal.

For more information on VFW Post 3137, visit vfw3137.org.

Photo: (l-r) Bill Marsh, Sally Few, Patti Porfeli, Pamela Marsh, Linda Forslund (Provided)

Opinion: Isle of Palms Administrative Committee Advances New Compensation Plan Structure to Address First Responder Pay and Retention

By Scott Pierce

Isle of Palms has taken an initial step toward addressing concerns about compensation and retention among first responders and other city employees. At the April 6 Administrative Committee meeting, council members advanced a seven-point set of structural and sustainable compensation changes designed to make the city more competitive with neighboring communities. The goal is to ensure the city does not fall behind the regional market.

The proposal includes a market-based adjustment to base pay across all employee groups, with a focus on public safety. Under the plan, starting salaries for firefighters and police officers would increase to above the 80th percentile compared to surrounding municipalities. These adjustments are designed to flow through each department’s full pay scale, ensuring existing employees also benefit proportionally. The changes aim to position Isle of Palms as a more competitive employer in a tight regional market.

Another key component is the introduction of formal incentive programs for both police and fire departments, allowing employees to earn additional base pay. Developed in collaboration with department leadership, the programs are designed to reward specialized skills, certifications and additional responsibilities. Examples include incentives for field training, marine operations, bilingual capabilities and advanced certifications.

The proposal also includes targeted job reclassifications for public safety, general and administrative positions to better reflect responsibilities and market conditions.

It also calls for improvements to hiring practices. A new policy would recognize up to half of a new hire’s prior relevant experience, allowing placement within the pay scale at levels up to the midpoint. This change is intended to attract experienced candidates and reduce barriers to recruiting from other departments.

To support long-term sustainability, the plan incorporates annual adjustments to pay ranges based on the Consumer Price Index for the South (CPI-U South). Beginning in fiscal year 2028, salary ranges would automatically adjust within a defined band of 1% to 4% annually. This approach is designed to prevent the city from falling behind market rates and provide greater predictability in budgeting.

The plan also calls for the development of a more structured and transparent overtime policy to ensure fairness, compliance and improved workforce planning.

Additional recommendations include monitoring market conditions more proactively and addressing the employee performance evaluation process.

Taken together, these structural compensation changes — including base pay adjustments, pensions, benefits and incentive programs — represent an incremental community investment of nearly $1 million. Officials said the

All letters submitted to The Island Eye News must bear a full name, address and phone number for verification. Only the author’s name and city will be printed. Submissions are excepted via email to ieneditor@luckydognews.com or mail to P.O. Box 837 Sullivan’s Island, S.C. 29482.

Letters may be edited for length and readability. The Island Eye News reserves the right to reject letters that are libelous, unseemly, not individually addressed to The Island Eye News or that have been previously published elsewhere.

plan is intended as a first step toward building a sustainable compensation framework rather than relying on one-time or short-term fixes.

The measures are intended to position Isle of Palms more competitively within the region, particularly for first responders. While city turnover data showed fewer departures than previously reported, with roughly 21% attributed to pay, compensation remains a contributing factor. Officials noted that retaining experienced personnel is more cost-effective than recruiting and training new hires and said they intend to address all factors affecting turnover.

The proposal now moves to the Ways and Means Committee for further review on April 14, followed by consideration by the full City Council later this month. If approved, the changes could take effect as early as July 1, at the start of the new fiscal year.

Charleston Anglers Can Expect Stronger Bite as Temps Rise

By: Capt. Geoff Bennett

At the beginning of March, Charleston began to shed winter’s hold. Conditions improved noticeably, but two weeks of storms and wind slowed things down again. Redfish are available, and trout can be found if you work the right lures. Temperatures should rebound in April, and with warmer water, the fishing should improve as well.

The big winter schools of redfish are breaking up as these fish become more active. Switch to artificial plastics that mimic baitfish — jerk shad-style lures are a great choice and come in many colors. I’ve had the best results with silver and blue patterns; they produce even when the water is stained. Rig them with a 3/0 flutter hook for optimal action.

The trout bite should ramp up in April as water temperatures warm. Live bait under a popping cork remains a top tactic. Live shrimp are now available and offer a solid alternative to mud minnows. If you can cast-net finger mullet, use them under a cork — finger mullet under a popping cork is especially effective.

Flounder are on the feed. Target structure — docks, pilings and other bottom contours — using mud minnows on the bottom or under a popping cork. Keep your bait on or just above the bottom; flounder sit tight and ambush prey, so presentation in their strike zone is key.

See you on the water!

Since 2009, Capt. Geoff Bennett has operated Charleston Charter Fishing, providing light-tackle charters. Clients can choose from a full menu of artificial, live-bait and fly-fishing options, with trips tailored to their preferences. U.S. Coast Guard-licensed and insured, Bennett is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for anglers of all skill levels and ages. For more information, call 843-324-3332, visit www.charlestoncharterfishing.com or email captain@charlestoncharterfishing.com.

Opinion: Isle of Palms must prioritize competitive pay for city employees

By Jimmy Ward

Editor’s note: This op-ed responds to Scott Pierce’s column, “Isle of Palms Administrative Committee Advances New Compensation Plan Structure to Address First Responder Pay and Retention.”

Bev Miller and Scott Pierce presented a new compensation plan structure to the Isle of Palms Administrative Committee on April 6. The presentation provided a quick overview of a seven-point set of structural and compensation changes for all Isle of Palms city employees, with an emphasis on first responders.

I commend Mrs. Miller and Mr. Pierce for taking on this very difficult and important task. I hope City Council will take a closer look at the plan, with a deeper dive into the specifics and details, at the Ways and Means Committee meeting April 14. It is imperative that Isle of Palms take the lead in the Lowcountry on employee compensation now, rather than continuing to fall behind neighboring communities.

Let’s show our valued employees that we appreciate their service by paying them what they deserve. Public safety is no place to pinch pennies.

Andy Eisner and his family from Cincinnati, OH with a redfish (Credit: Bennett)

Sullivan’s Island Officer Joshua Poole Named 2025 Officer of the Year

By Joshua Uys

The Law Enforcement Neighborhood Support Foundation (LENS)

awarded its 2025 Sullivan’s Island Officer of the Year honor to Cpl. Joshua Poole during the March Town Council meeting.

LENS is a Charleston-based nonprofit with a mission to strengthen relationships between communities and local law enforcement. The organization invited the Sullivan’s Island community to nominate officers and share their experiences with the island’s Police Department. LENS received more than 125 submissions, each filled with overwhelmingly positive feedback.

“[Poole] is endlessly dedicated to our island and to our school. Sometimes it seems he’s everywhere, from school drop-off at 7 a.m. to evening town events on the same day,” one community member wrote. “He is a reassuring, friendly presence who knows our kids’ names and goes out of his way to greet them. We are so fortunate to have him.”

LENS-Supplied EpiPen Used by Sullivan’s Island Police to Prevent Medical Emergency

By Ali Berney

The Sullivan’s Island Police Department (SIPD) successfully responded to a medical emergency earlier today using a life-saving EpiPen provided by LENS (Law Enforcement Neighborhood Support).

According to Assistant Chief Monty Anders, a local man suffered a wasp sting and began experiencing a severe allergic reaction. SIPD officers provided the EpiPen so the patient could self-administer the medication. The rapid response proved effective, and the individual recovered without requiring transport to the hospital.

This marks the second time in the past year that SIPD officers have used LENS-supplied EpiPens to stabilize and assist a community member during a critical moment.

“This is exactly why we prioritize equipping our officers with tools like EpiPens,” said LENS Director Ali Berney. “Moments like this underscore how preparedness and community support can quite literally save lives.”

LENS, a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the relationship between law enforcement and the Sullivan’s Island community, provides resources and support to local officers, including emergency medical supplies such as EpiPens.

The Sullivan’s Island Police Department continues to demonstrate its commitment to public safety through proactive training, quick response and strong community partnerships.

JIMMY DYE

Founding Partner, Island Resident, REALTOR®

A Cannon’s Echo, 250 Years Later: Carolina Day Returns to Fort Moultrie with a Soul-Stirring, Family-Friendly Celebration of America’s Defining Moment

Jimmy Dye is the co-founder of The Cassina Group with over 20 years of experience, specializing in luxury, waterfront, and historic properties across the coast of South Carolina. RealTrends ranks him among the top 1.5% of agents in the U.S. and #8 in South Carolina. A member of REALM, Jimmy Dye offers unmatched expertise and a global network connecting premier Lowcountry properties with qualified buyers worldwide.

For more information on these exceptional homes, contact Jimmy Dye at 843.452.6482 or visit JimmyDye.com

By Cheri Yates

There are places where history sits quietly behind glass… and then there are places where it still echoes.

Fort Moultrie is the latter.

On June 27–28, 2026, Friends of Charleston National Parks invites the public to step directly into the story that helped shape a nation as Carolina Day returns for the National Park Service’s 250th commemoration of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island—a weekend that promises equal parts spectacle, substance, and summer memory-making.

Two and a half centuries ago, on June 28, 1776, a fort built of palmetto logs absorbed British cannon fire and, in doing so, delivered a defining early victory for American forces. Today, that same shoreline becomes the stage once more—not for battle, but for remembrance, celebration, and a little well-earned awe.

This is not your typical “read-the-placard-and-move-along” history lesson.

This is history with a pulse.

Throughout the weekend, visitors can expect immersive living history experiences, where reenactors bring the 18th century vividly to life—uniforms, muskets, and all. Artillery demonstrations will send cannon fire booming across the harbor (a guaranteed crowd favorite), while families wander the grounds, tracing the very steps where history unfolded.

And for parents wondering if this is “too historical” for younger attention spans—Carolina Day has quietly mastered the art of making the past feel like play. Children can engage with hands-on activities, watch history unfold in real time, and perhaps most importantly, begin to understand that the American story isn’t something distant—it happened right here, in the Lowcountry they know.

It’s the kind of weekend where learning sneaks in between cannon blasts and ice cream breaks.

Where a question like “What happened here?” turns into a story they’ll remember long after summer ends.

Friends of Charleston National Parks, the nonprofit supporting Charleston’s national park sites, sees this moment as more than a milestone—it’s an invitation.

An invitation to stand where it happened.

To celebrate 250 years of resilience and resolve.

And to invest in preserving these stories for the next 250.

INTERPRETED BY: Katherine Berry

OWNER NAME: Jacquelyn Gypin & Shinyoung So

NAME: Pepper’

Ma’am’ – ‘Pep-Pep’ – ‘Peppercorn’

AGE: 11 years young

BREED: Sapsaree Mix

FAVORITE TOY: Stuffed Bear, ‘Dottie’

VET : Dr. Patrick

FOOD: Royal Canin

Pepper

DOGLUCKY

안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo). Yes, I speak Korean. Do you? No? That’s OK. I’ll still be judging you.

I’m Pepper. Eleven years young. Sapsaree mix. Village-born, spirit-trained and currently, domesticated-ish. My ancestors roamed the villages of Korea, warding off evil spirits and minding their business. I do the same thing, just with better cookies and a couch.

I allowed my parents to rescue me. Mom needed a companion while working overseas, and I was picked up from the streets. Once in their home, with terms, they considered changing my name, but they quickly realized: a) we’re keeping her and b) it’s impossible to change her name. I am Pepper — not mild, not optional and not for everyone. I have a lot of rules.

To start, I am a look-don’t-touch kind of lady. Yes, I am luxuriously soft, and my cuteness could crash the internet, but no, you may NOT pet me. Even if I know you. Even if I like you. Affection is earned. Slowly. And possibly never. My love language is a well-timed, deeply intimidating bark. I’d be excellent in law enforcement for drug detection or border patrol, and my motto is: “Don’t start none, won’t be none.” Simple. Efficient. Effective. Now, let’s talk about my humans and my domain. My humans — they are acceptable. I trained them well. Dad is the good cop. Plus, we speak the same language. But Mom and I have special moments. When she comes home, I retrieve Dottie — my travel buddy, my emotional support col-

league — and parade her around like a victory flag. There is chatter. There is ceremony. There is joy. Controlled joy. Dinner time is when I release my signature howl. Not for drama, but for communication and culture.

My days include being in charge of operations, emotional security and spirit protection. I ward off negative energy, suspicious vibes and anyone who rings the doorbell like they don’t know better. Try it. I dare you. I will black out — professionally. If I am resting and off-duty, laid out in your presence, you will say, “Excuse me, ma’am.” Otherwise, it will cost you. You’re welcome.

Other dogs want friends. Strange. This whole “let’s play,” “good girl!” situation? Unnecessary. I’m not aggressive — I’m refined. In Korea, we work. We observe. We protect. I am on duty at all times. Now listen. I didn’t plan to live this life. Domestication was not on my vision board. I am still wild. Still watching. Still working. But — shhh — lean in, and don’t repeat this: I am grateful.

Hide-and-seek with my humans is my favorite time of day. Not for fun, but to remind myself they always come back. Every time they find me, I remember: I was chosen. I was kept. But again, this is not something we discuss publicly — until now. Maybe I’m softening in my older years, but don’t get used to it. I can change my mind immediately. Stay in line. Respect the rules, and maybe — maybe — you’ll earn a seat in my presence.

안녕.

That means goodbye.

Returning to Lake Atitlán

By Carol Antman

There’s a photo on our bedroom wall that Mark and I took from the top of a mountain in Guatemala 50 years ago. We’d confidently hiked there using a bogus map, with camping equipment fashioned from shopping bags, planning to walk one day to Lake Atitlán on the other side. It was the kind of thing we did during the nine years that we traveled as much as possible and worked only enough to keep moving. The photograph shows what we discovered: the lake was two more mountains away. Over the next five days, we followed rising smoke from one Mayan village to another, seeking water and food and talking about our future.

When I heard about Joyce Maynard’s one-week memoir writing retreat at Lake Atitlán, I knew that was the story I wanted to revisit. The trip began in Antigua, where I joined a group of 14 oth-

er women for dinner. The luxurious Porta Hotel demonstrated how far the tourist infrastructure has improved since my last visit, but the curvy, bumpy roads to the lake the next day showed what hasn’t changed. After a short boat ride, we pulled up to Joyce’s dock and were greeted by a marimba band. Our happy group danced.

Joyce built Casa Paloma from an undeveloped piece of land she purchased more than 20 years ago. Now, lovely casitas, massage palapas, dining spaces, a yoga platform, porches, a stone sauna, kitchen and living room perch on the hillside. Everything is connected by steep stone steps that require careful navigation. Huipils, carvings, masks and paintings fill the walls. There’s a swimming dock, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards waiting on shore. We were given gifts: vibrant handwoven rebozos. There were snacks: tortillas with guacamole and smoothies, courtesy of Rosa, who fed

us sumptuously all week. Each accommodation offers a view of the shimmering lake and the towering volcano. My very comfortable casita even had an outdoor bathtub under a thatched roof. A nearby porch with a swinging bench made from a hand-carved canoe was the perfect spot to enjoy morning coffee before a bracing swim in the lake. Joyce Maynard has written more than 20 books and has contributed to newspapers and magazines since she was a teenager. Her career took off after she wrote an essay for The New York Times, “An Eighteen Year Old Looks Back on Life,” and she gained notoriety for her book “At Home in the World” about her relationship with J.D. Salinger. Two of her books, “To Die For” and “Labor Day,” have been turned into movies. Throughout two marriages, she has supported her family by writing, never having “the luxury of writer’s block,” she says. “I am endlessly

(Continued on page 9)

The Battle of Sullivans Island

On Tuesday, April 7, Wide Awake Films’ movie, “The Battle of Sullivans Island,” was shown at the Sullivans Island Town Hall, followed by a moderated discussion about the film. To see the film, go to the South Carolina 250 YouTube page.

Photos Credit: Carol Antman

Lake Atitlan

Continued from page 8

interested in hearing women’s stories,” she told us. Using a large whiteboard and her arsenal of tools, Joyce led us to dissect each essay. First of all, what exactly is the story? It should move like a road trip: start somewhere and get somewhere. “I used to … and now I …,” she kept repeating. She decries adverbs and interpretive language. We were prompted to add more descriptions, edit out needless dialogue and never to underestimate the intelligence of our reader by explaining everything. It was a tough lesson. Some were told to start completely over. I’d been confident in my essay, but it didn’t survive her scrutiny. “I’m giving you such a hard time! But that’s because I know you can do better.” She was right. I worked hard on the rewrite, and the story is much better. (See my blog, peaksandpotholes.blogspot.com, to read the finished essay, “Solo Para Conocer.”)

It’s clear that Joyce has a genuine reverence for the culture. Everyone who works at Casa Paloma is local and paid well. “I don’t want to pay the people here as bargain-basement workers, but I couldn’t have built this place in the U.S.,” she said. Each day began with a description of its significance on the Mayan calendar. There was a cacao ceremony and a shaman’s ritual about choosing happiness. Local women gave us massages. We toured a nearby town to learn about medicinal herbs, beekeeping, coffee roasting, dyeing and weaving. A fisherman paddled by to talk about his life and the changing ecology of the lake.

I spent each day absorbed in stories: the trajectory of my life upon returning to Lake Atitlán, the intimate insights from the other essays, the mystical Mayan customs, and the history and nature that surrounded us. Joyce has built such a remarkable place. It’s clear to see why so many who come call the retreat one of the most meaningful weeks of their writing lives.

If you go, visit casapalomaretreat.com/

Photos Credit: Carol Antman

AROUND THE ISLANDS

ONGOING

WHAT: Oyster Roast

WHERE: Islander 71 Fish House and Raw Bar, 80 41st Ave., Isle of Palms

WHEN: Every Saturday through March

MORE INFO: All you can eat oysters for $30. Available at noon until they’re gone.

WHAT: Sullivan’s Island Run Club

WHERE: Mex 1 Sullivan’s Island, 2205 Middle St.

WHEN: Every Monday at 6 p.m.

MORE INFO: Come out and join the SI Run Club every Monday! All paces are welcome as we enjoy 1-3 mile scenic historic routes along the beautiful shoreline. After the run, we’ll gather back at Mex 1 to celebrate with fun drink specials.

WHAT: Charleston Cocktail Week

WHERE: Various

WHEN: April 20 - 26

MORE INFO: Charleston Cocktail Week showcases the best bars and restaurants in the area, bringing locals and travelers together to experience the epicurean masterpieces of Charleston’s renowned chefs, mixologists, and bartenders. Passes are available for purchase on their website at charlestoncocktailweek.org.

WHAT: Mount Pleasant Farmers Market

WHERE: Mount Pleasant Farmers Market Pavilion, 645 Coleman Blvd.

WHEN: Tuesdays, April – September from 3:30 until 7:00 p.m.

MORE INFO: The weekly Mount Pleasant Farmers Market, founded in 1998, features vendors selling local farm-fresh produce, meats, sauces, baked goods, and other specialty foods in a festival atmosphere.

Our community calendar keeps you updated on local events. From festivals to workshops to family-friendly gatherings. Stay connected and never miss out on the excitement.

WHAT: Charleston Jazz Festival

WHERE: Various

WHEN: April 13 - 21

MORE INFO: This year’s festival brings together world-class artists and iconic Charleston venues for a true celebration of jazz in the cultural heart of our city.

FRIDAY, APRIL 17

WHAT: Poe-ART-try: Visual Art with Poetry (tweens and teens)

WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave, Sullivan’s Island WHEN: 4:30 p.m.

MORE INFO: Combine poem excerpts and recycled materials to create your own poetry month art piece.

WHAT: Party at The Point with Motown Throwdown

WHERE: Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, 20 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant WHEN: 6 p.m.

MORE INFO: Party at The Point is a family-friendly beachfront event that features live music and plenty of food and drinks. Gates open at 5 p.m., with music starting at 6 p.m. Free parking is available along the road leading into the Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina, as well as in the brand new parking lot across from the resort entrance. Uber and Lyft drop off area will be available to all guests to use, located 50 yards from the entrance. Tickets are $15 and be purchased here. Kids 12 and under get in for free.

WHAT: The Band of Heathens on the NÜTRL Beach Stage

WHERE: The Windjammer, 1008 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms

WHEN: Doors at 6 p.m.

MORE INFO: For nearly two decades, Austin’s The

Band of Heathens have carved their own lane— pairing sharp songwriting with a sound that’s long outpaced the Americana curve. With their upcoming album, Country Sides, the band reflects on 20 years of building something entirely their own.

WHAT: AC Scar & Reverse Cowgirl on the inside stage WHERE: The Windjammer, 1008 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms

WHEN: Doors at 9:30 p.m.

MORE INFO: Reverse Cowgirl is a brand new Charleston-based project spearheaded by AC Scar, the stage name of local country music songwriter Andrew Scardino.

SATURDAY, APRIL 18

WHAT: 22nd Annual Pat Tillman Honor Run

WHERE: Credit One Stadium, 161 Seven Farms Dr., Daniel Island

WHEN: 8 a.m.

MORE INFO: The Lowcountry community will join more than 40 cities nationwide in honoring the life and legacy of Army Ranger and former NFL player Pat Tillman. Founded in 2016 by US Marine Corps veteran Joel Jackson, the Charleston Honor Run has grown from a small grassroots gathering into a premier community event that draws runners, walkers, veterans, families and supporters from across the region.

WHAT: Macelyn Batten on the inside stage

WHERE: The Windjammer, 1008 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms

WHEN: Doors at 9:30 p.m.

MORE INFO: Charleston-based country singer/ songwriter performs at The Windjammer.

Just Beachy IOP: Your One-Stop Shop for Island Fun, Fashion & Beach Day Essentials

Sign Up for Town Notifications!

You can sign up for all our notifications by visiting our website at sullivansisland.sc.gov

By: Isle of Palms Chamber of Commerce

Anyone who has ever tried to plan the perfect Isle of Palms beach day knows the drill: chairs, umbrellas, towels, bikes, sunscreen, maybe even a golf cart to cruise the island. It’s a lot to juggle — unless you know about Just Beachy IOP, the island’s one-stop shop for beach gear, island style and souvenirs.

Located in the Isle of Palms Harris Teeter shopping plaza, locally owned Just Beachy IOP has become a go-to stop for both locals and vacationers looking to make the most of their time by the water. The shop offers a range of daily and weekly rentals, including LSV golf carts, foam surfboards, beach tents and chairs, bikes, electric scooters and music speakers — everything needed to set up a beach day or cruise the island.

But rentals are only part of the story.

Inside, shoppers will find a beach boutique filled with coastal-inspired items for all ages. From swimwear, clothing, jewelry and accessories to games, coolers, floats and towels, Just Beachy offers plenty of ways to bring a little Isle of Palms style home.

Recently, the shop expanded its retail selection with several new additions that visitors and locals are already embracing. New offerings include children’s beachwear, activity items for kids, beach and bath hair care products, beach-inspired candles and coastal home décor, along with a growing collection of souvenirs and gifts.

The goal, according to the team at Just Beachy, is simple: make it easy for customers to find what they need, whether it’s a last-minute beach essential or a keepsake from their time on the island.

“Our customers love that they can stop in and find something unique,” the team said. “Many visitors enjoy taking a piece of Isle of Palms home with them, and we’re always excited to welcome them back year after year.”

Another fan favorite is the boutique’s soft coastal tops, which have quickly become a popular souvenir for visitors looking to remember their beach vacation.

Whether renting gear for a day in the sun, shopping for island style or picking up a gift, Just Beachy IOP offers a little bit of everything, making it one of the island’s most convenient stops for beachgoers of all ages. Learn more at justbeachyiop.com or visit the shop to see what’s new.

The Town of Sullivan's Island uses several different methods to contact residents in case of emergencies, to notify of Town News, meetings and for general announcements.

TOSI TALKS

TOSI Talks is a text based system that is used to notify people of Town meetings and news like office closures as well as garbage and recycling information.

To sign up for TOSI Talks alerts, text “HELLO” to (855) 675-8674.

EVERBRIDGE

Everbridge is the Town’s Emergency Notification System that sends email alerts from the Town Administrator, Fire Chief, Police Chief or Water & Sewer Department Manager that can include information such as road closures, severe weather updates, emergency water main breaks, public works projects and other pertinent information. Sign up for EVERBRIDGE by snapping the QR code.

The Town Newsletter showcases varying stories from Sullivan’s Island departments including updates on town projects, a calendar of events, a letter from the mayor and news from the town naturalist. Sign up for our Newsletter by snapping the QR code.