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Island Turtle Team Protecting Sea Turtle Nests During Isle of Palms Beach Renourishment By Joshua Uys Every day from May 1 through mid-August, members of the Island Turtle Team patrol the entire Isle of Palms beach at dawn. They look for new sea turtle tracks, check nests for overnight hatching and monitor for threats such as ghost crabs, sand buildup and erosion. During beach renourishment, protecting nesting sea turtles remains a top priority. If a turtle enters the construction area, all machinery and lights are shut down until she leaves. If she lays eggs, the Turtle Team carefully relocates them to a safe incubation site. Marinex, the city’s dredging contractor, also has a paid turtle monitor surveying the construction area throughout the night. Although nesting during construction is rare,

crews are prepared to respond. Most Isle of Palms nests this year were laid in Wild Dunes before renourishment work began. Under the guidance of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, nests within the three project areas were relocated to the middle of the island. A few nests at the south end were allowed to remain in place and have already hatched. Work in that area will not begin for several more months. If you see turtle activity: • Report new tracks or nests to the Isle of Palms Police Department’s nonemergency line at 843-886-6522. • Large X’s across tracks indicate that the Turtle Team has inspected the area and either

marked or relocated the nest. • Report any stranded sea turtle, dead or alive, to the same number. • An orange-painted dead turtle has already been documented and is awaiting removal by Isle of Palms Public Services. The Turtle Team reports a successful season, with 40 nests recorded on the Isle of Palms so far, about half of which had hatched by the second week of August. Across South Carolina, some beaches are experiencing record-breaking nesting numbers this season. Learn more: Beach renourishment: isleofpalms.gov/citymanaged-beach-restoration-projects Island Turtle Team: islandturtleteam.org

Page 2 • IslandEyeNews.com • August 21, 2026

Message From The Sullivan’s Island Mayor 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 August 26 for our September 4 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.

Dear Island Neighbors, I hope you have had an enjoyable summer. If it included a lengthy vacation to a clime with highs in the 70’s, no need to share...the rest of us don’t want to hear about it! But seriously, I just want us to make it through Hurricane Season without encountering anything major. Herewith a few Island items for your review in the process. GOOD SAMARITAN NOMINATION: RACHEL HART Andy Williams is the Chief Operator with our Water and Sewer Department, serving since 2018. In his work he gets to see a lot of the Island on a day-to-day basis. He recently shared a lovely observation: “There is a kind lady in in the 1700 area of Central and Middle around the Baptist Church. I’m sure you all may know who I am speaking of. She is constantly out sweeping the street gutters, with the intent to keep the storm water moving. I stopped one weekend I was working, and asked her if anyone ever thanks her for her work. She laughed and said no, then proceeded to invite me to join the church’s Sunday pancake breakfast that next morning. I couldn’t attend, but it has stuck with me, she was the sweetest lady. Do you all ever do any type of Good Samaritan or resident recognition award? If so, she has my vote. You will see her out there almost daily sweeping that gutter out.” Thank you, Andy! I can’t think of a better idea for a way to recognize Island folks who make life better for everyone, and can’t think of a better choice for our first such recognition than the Baptist Church’s great member and neighbor, Rachel Hart. (Disclosure: also a great neighbor of mine.) In the midst of our numerous big-ticket, ambitious stormwater projects, Rachel’s work is a great counterpoint illustrating the important role each of can play in keeping the stormwater system clear and flowing. Thank you, Rachel! AUTOMATED LICENSE PLATE READERS You may have seen recent mention in the national press about the growing use of automated license plate readers (ALPRs) by law enforcement agencies across the country. Using technology that actually goes back almost 50 years, these are cameras that take still pictures of the backs of vehicles and can recognize and code the license plate state and number, and often the brand and model of the vehicle. ALPRs are beneficial in helping law enforcement locate stolen vehicles, identify vehicles connected to criminal investigations, and assist in locating missing or endangered persons. Our Police Department has used ALPRs for several years now, originally in a system limited to South Carolina. Although it was a good program, it was limited in regard to access and audit controls by the police department. Some of the more recent national media stories have focused on the Flock system, which provides a platform and services to much better integrate and compile the data from such cameras across a

large number of participating law enforcement agencies. Nationwide, law enforcement agencies can each use that system to share their data with other law enforcement agencies, but ONLY with those they approve. A couple of months ago, we joined the Flock system and have designated those agencies with whom we should routinely share data. Example: we share with Mount Pleasant, Isle of Palms, City of Charleston, and a number of other agencies in our region, with whom we have aligned priorities. But we don’t routinely share our data with New York City, District of Columbia, Atlanta and other cities with whom we don’t have many overlapping law enforcement interests. So the data collected here is available only to law enforcement agencies in our general region that we designate. Of course, if there is an emergency issue involving other agencies, the data specific to that issue can be more widely shared, but only after contacting the SIPD for approval. For example, if there is an Amber Alert for a child in our part of the Lowcountry, we would be able to learn if the suspect vehicle is headed our way or on the Island, or conversely, if a carjacking were to take place on the Island, we would gain the benefit of the network of cameras in many of our neighbor communities to see where the vehicle was heading. But in all cases, access to the data is highly restricted. In light of our recent participation in the Flock system, our Chief of Police, Glenn Meadows, and Town Administrator, Joe Henderson, have created a Flock Safety Transparency Portal to be hosted on the Town’s website. The site will inform everyone about how this system is used to protect us while preserving our privacy. You can see it here: https://transparency.flocksafety.com/sullivans-island-sc-pd Chief Meadows has also produced a list of Frequently Asked Questions that you can access here https://bit. ly/4gxBbc9 . You can go there to quickly see what the Flock system does, and what it doesn’t do. As examples of the latter category, it does not record videos, capture face images, use facial recognition, or have anything to do with the game cameras in the Maritime Forest (which as a reminder, are aimed away from any nearby residences). Access to ALPR camera data is strictly limited to authorized law enforcement personnel, and every search is automatically logged and attributable to the individual user. This creates a clear audit trail, and ensures that authorized personnel understand their searches are subject to supervisory review and must have a legitimate law-enforcement purpose. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to Chief Meadows (gmeadows@sullivansisland.sc.gov) with any questions you have about this innovative and important public safety system. BACK TO HURRICANES... Please familiarize yourself with the important information at our Emergency Preparedness Page https:// bit.ly/SIPrepared. Among that info: Should the worst happen and we have mandatory evacuation and restricted access for return to the Island, you will have to have a resident hang tag for your vehicle. You can get one at the Town Hall upon the presentation of your driver’s license with your Sullivan’s Island address on it or a deed of ownership. These tags are for residents and property owners only, not visitors, guests, extended family or contractors. The old familiar windshield stickers no longer work. Here’s hoping we won’t need these hang tags any time soon!! See you around the Island! Pat O’Neil Mayor 843 670 9266 oneilp@sullivansisland.sc.gov

Page 3 • IslandEyeNews.com • August 21, 2026

Sullivan’s Island Resident Leads Effort to Address Food Insecurity

NCCAE has asked the program to return for the coming school year, and Dunn hopes the effort eventually can extend to additional schools, including Deer Park Middle School and Sanders-Clyde Elementary. Expansion, she said, will depend on additional community support and volunteers willing to serve as ambassadors who can help identify school partnerships and spread the word. Dunn said the idea for the initiative grew from her family’s desire to remain mindful of needs that can be less visible within the broader Charleston community. “Ever since we moved to Charleston in 2013, it’s been a calling on our family to keep our eyes open to the needs around us,” Dunn told the Island Eye. “We live somewhere beautiful, with kind people, and it’s easy to assume things are good for everyone. But having an others-focused mindset means staying aware of the ripple effects in our own backyard.” Residents, businesses and community organizations can support the program in several ways. Opportunities include donating food or supplies for students at North Charleston Creative Arts Elementary, serving as a program ambassador to help connect the initiative with additional schools or hosting a packing party where volunteers organize supplies and prepare bags for distribution. “My hope is that our island community becomes known for showing up when there’s a need and doing something about it, not just once, but consistently,” Dunn said. “What starts as a backpack of food and a few basic hygiene items, small things that restore a sense of dignity, could grow into something bigger.” Sullivan’s Island Town Hall has agreed to serve as a delivery location for donations supporting the program. Dunn’s Amazon wish list will remain active through Sept. 15, giving residents an opportunity to purchase needed items and have them delivered directly to Town Hall. Amazon Wish List: amazon.com/hz/ wishlist/ls/3VRBZEIGGJIZU Residents may also contact Carey Dunn: Email: careydee@gmail.com Phone: 215-680-4619

By Joshua Uys At the request of Councilmember Jody Latham, nonprofit organizer and Sullivan’s Island resident Carey Dunn addressed Town Council during its July meeting to discuss a community effort aimed at addressing food insecurity among children in the Charleston area. Dunn has extensive experience working with and establishing nonprofit organizations. Her latest initiative, the Backpack Buddy Program, partners with local schools to provide weekend meals and snacks to children who may not have consistent access to food when school is not in session. The program currently provides weekend food bags to 40 students each week at North Charleston Creative Arts Elementary School (NCCAE), a Title I school. Dunn and fellow Sullivan’s Island resident Jenna Elliot also help support the school’s on-site market pantry. Many students receive breakfast and lunch at school during the week but may face food insecurity at home over the weekend. Through the Backpack Buddy Program, participating students receive bags containing shelf-stable meals and snacks before leaving school on Fridays. Dunn said the 40 students currently served represent a meaningful start, but not the full extent of the need. One of the program’s biggest challenges is determining how to expand responsibly as other Title I schools face similar needs.

2201 Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island (843) 883-3708

Page 4 • IslandEyeNews.com • August 21, 2026

The Reddy Room: A Family Court Reform Strategy By Rom Reddy Editor’s Note - This article first appeared on FITSNews.com on July 28, 2026 During the gubernatorial campaign trail and in subsequent surveys, the one issue South Carolina families are passionate about is reforming a broken family court system. More often than not, any family who has been unfortunate enough to be trapped in the South Carolina family court web emerges broken, bankrupt or stunned by the process. Is there a silver bullet? Nope. However, like everything else, we cannot sacrifice good at the altar of perfection. Over the last several months, I have discussed components of family court reform, but I had not articulated a good first step reform strategy. So, here goes: 1. Pass Judicial reform: The judicial reform bill that overwhelmingly passed the House last year and got held up in the Senate was common sense. Legislators and their next of kin cannot serve on the JMSC, the commission that picks judges in this state including family court judges. Why? Besides violating the separation of powers clause of the US and SC constitution, it is distinctly a conflict of interest when a lawyer legislator practices in front of a judge he appointed and has to re-appoint. This is an essential step to reform family court and other courts in SC. 2. Pass 50/50 parenting: This also is a commonsense concept that shifts power away from the guardian ad litem ( GAL), consultants, counselors and lawyers back to the parents. It simply says that parents can agree on whatever custody arrangement they choose. If they cannot agree, then the default custody the judge awards is 50/50 unless there

is evidence of abuse against the child or any type of domestic violence or abuse involving the parents. Ideally, this would be passed in conjunction with item 3 below. 3. The 15-30-minute temporary hearing based on affidavits that may or may not be accurate must be modified. Temporary orders tend to become permanent by delay in South Carolina. Changing existing primary custody through a temporary hearing must be done with a full evidentiary hearing under penalties of perjury and temporary custody arrangements cannot exceed 120 days before a final resolution or a judge must issue a written explanation for extending the arrangement. 4. Each court must be measured by whether they are meeting goals to a final decision in a timely fashion. Most standard cases must have a resolution target of 120 days. 75 percent of cases must be resolved in 180 days and 98 percent within 360 days. Courts must be held accountable to these targets which must play a role in reappointments to the bench or even recalls. 5. The private guardian ad litem (GAL) system in South Carolina is utterly broken. The reforms to this are too vast to detail here but at a very minimum must include the following: • An oversight or GAL governing board needs to be established. This board will investigate complaints, audit billing practices, discipline GAL’s ,administer 40-60 hours of standardized training, administer a written certification test annually etc. None of this exists today and the GAL management is largely left to the sole discretion of the judge with little recourse for parents. • GAL’s should have PRESUMPTION AGAINST APPOINTMENT. In other words, routine disagreements in a contested case should not require a GAL. The judge should have written justification for a GAL for reasons such as abuse, domestic violence, mental illness etc. SC appoints GAL’s in 80 to 90 percent of disputed cases, Virginia in less than a third of cases and Florida in less than a fifth. • GAL fees in South Carolina are uncapped. The judge assigns the GAL, the scope and effort are not defined or effectively managed in most cases, the parents are stuck with the bill and face jail terms for contempt if they cannot pay. This has to stop. GAL fees can be set at $ 200-225 per hour but must have a cap of $ 4k for standard cases and $ 7.5 k for complex cases. GAL’s can seek an increase but only before they exceed the cap not after. The judge has to provide written approval and explanation for exceeding the cap, and the state must reimburse the fees above the parental cap. While not comprehensive, this is a start. Of course, this does not include reforms to the corrupt S.C. Department of Social Services (SCDSS) that must be done in conjunction to have a sustainable success model. We will leave that discussion for another day. There will be a new administration in Columbia starting next year. Let’s hope they champion changes to the system. This is not a Republican or Democrat issue but a citizen welfare issue that must be fixed and fixed quickly. The Reddy Room (reddyroom.com) represents the opinion of Lucky Dog Publishing owner Rom Reddy, but not necessarily the opinion of the newspaper. In keeping with our philosophy of publishing all opinions, we welcome responses, which must be limited to 400 words and will be published on a space-available basis.

Page 5 • IslandEyeNews.com • August 21, 2026

HOLY SMOKE: Heavenly BBQ at Miracle Prices By Greg Dorris If you love good pork barbecue, this event is for you. The best barbecue in the Mount Pleasant area may be the barbecue you can buy at the upcoming annual fundraiser put on by Connections, the men’s group at First United Methodist Church on Isle of Palms. A barbecue pork platter with baked beans, coleslaw, pickles and a roll is only $10. A container of barbecue (close to a pound) with no sides is $12. Desserts prepared by women of the church will be sold on-site and priced separately. Preorder online and pick up at the drive-thru at the church on Saturday, Oct. 3, between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. You can buy tickets online at iopmethodist.com using Venmo or place your order as you drive through at the church and pick it up immediately. Cash, checks and Venmo are accepted. This is great barbecue, prepared by a master of barbecuing from Shelby, North Carolina. The men of the church have held this event for more than a dozen years, so the preparation

and serving logistics run smoothly. This event has served many pounds of barbecue over the years and raised well over $100,000 for charity. Since 2018, the focus has been exclusively on local charities, such as East Cooper Community Outreach (ECCO), East Cooper Meals on Wheels, One80 Place (for veterans and people experiencing homelessness), HALOS (for grandparents providing foster care), My Sister’s House (for victims of domestic abuse) and Epworth Children’s Home. As you feast on barbecue, you will also be supporting those in our community who need a helping hand. If you are so inclined, you are welcome to make an extra donation when you order through Venmo or when you pick up your order. Again, this event is Saturday, Oct. 3, and runs only from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Plan to pick up your order to enjoy as you watch the fall football games or simply to provide a feast for your family. What a divine deal!

Page 6 • IslandEyeNews.com • August 21, 2026

JIMMY DYE Founding Partner, Island Resident, REALTOR®

Jimmy Dye is the co-founder of The Cassina Group with over 20 years of experience, specializing in luxury, waterfront, estates, and historic properties across the coast of South Carolina. RealTrends ranks him among the top 1.5% of agents in the United States. 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.

Head Count By: Ned Higgins, Sullivan’s Island Town Council Some residents on Sullivan’s Island have expressed concerns about town finances — that our spending is bloated and should be reduced. If that’s true, where can we cut? One area that has received some interest is the number of full-time employees (FTEs), or what has been called “head count.” The head count in 2026 for the Town of Sullivan’s Island is 51. Is that excessive? The graph shows the head count for Isle of Palms, Surfside Beach, Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island over 20 years. The table on the right shows the population for each community from the most recent census (2020) and the number of FTEs in 2026. All four local governments have experienced increases in town employees, and at roughly the same rate. Furthermore, the ratio of the populations in the 2020 census compared with the FTEs in 2026 is approximately the same for all four municipalities. Or, to put this another way, for every 37-45 residents, each town or city has approximately one employee. This is good news. Our head count is commensurate with our neighbors. We’re all swimming in the same warm waters. It’s expensive to run a government along the coast of South Carolina, which, in and of itself, does not mean that we need to reduce our staff. Data Source

2302 RAVEN DRIVE, Sullivan’s Island

2871 ION AVENUE, Sullivan’s Island

The Municipal Association of South Carolina maintains a website showing data on municipal compensation for more than 75 municipalities dating back to 2006. It’s full of information, including the yearly total number of full-time employees, i.e., head count. However, not every municipality reports every year, so staff at the four towns and cities have kindly provided some data where information was missing.

Page 7 • IslandEyeNews.com • August 21, 2026

Letter to the Editor: Both Sides Now By Randy Bell The long-standing narrative from visitors to the Isle of Palms emphasizes the shared ownership and enjoyment of our beach. Credit is due to Mayor Pounds for highlighting an important fact: Of the approximately $62 million in property and personal taxes collected by Charleston County, the Isle of Palms receives only about $6.5 million. It is also true that this reality is not widely understood, except by the relatively small number of residents who closely follow local government and funding issues. What is missing from this discussion, however, is the expense side of the equation. Tourism and increased commercialization bring substantial costs that deserve equal consideration. Employment remains the largest expense in the city’s annual budget, with approximately 71% of the Isle of Palms operating budget devoted to employee salaries and benefits. Those costs are driven, in significant part, by the level of services required to accommodate our residents and the influx of visitors who come to the island.

Publicly available data illustrates visitor demand and its impact on all city services. The annual departmental budgets further illustrate the scale of these services. The costs are significant. Police activity increases significantly during the tourist season, with an average of approximately 1,350 calls per month during the summer months, compared with approximately 784 calls per month during the remaining nine months of the year. Fire Department call data indicates that approximately 52% of emergency calls involve nonresidents and 35% involve residents, with the remaining calls falling into other or unclassified categories. Public Works services are enhanced during the peak tourist season, including measures such as twice-weekly trash collection. A simple numerical count of trash and recycling receptacles highlights this fact. The point is not that tourism is inherently bad. Tourism provides substantial economic benefits and contributes to the vitality of the Isle of Palms.

The issue is whether we are honestly accounting for “both sides” of the equation. As with any business activity, a meaningful cost-benefit analysis must consider both revenue and expenses. If the city receives only a portion of the tax revenue generated by the island while bearing a significant share of the public safety, sanitation, infrastructure and other service costs associated with visitors, then simply pointing to the economic activity generated by tourism does not tell the whole story. Isle of Palms City Council discussions of “family-friendly” rebranding should consider not only the potential economic benefits but also the impact of those decisions on livability, public services, infrastructure, traffic, public safety and the quality of life for the residents who call this home. Visitors are welcome, and tourism is an important part of our economy. But revenue is not necessarily a net benefit if the revenue allocated to the city is less than the cost of providing the additional services required to support that activity. It’s time to look at “both sides now.”

Letter to the Editor: Re-Branding Isle of Palms? First, “Stop the Itch.” By Jeff Lovins I’m glad I read the July 10 and 24 Island Eye News articles submitted by the Chamber of Commerce and Joshua Uys regarding IOP’s family-friendly “branding” initiative to learn that the local accommodations tax (ATAX) has a marketing mandate to spend money on attracting tourism. I could think of better ways to spend that money to make actual improvements to IOP, but I guess a mandate is just that. “Branding” today has become such a cliché. I learned about it during my first advertising agency job on Madison Avenue in New York. My first account assignment was to place advertising for Preparation H (now owned by Pfizer). You know, the anti-itch hemorrhoid ointment in the blue and yellow box, which has kept the same basic branding since 1935. My friends called me a butthole for working on that account. But my boss said, “Here’s $2 million for Preparation H advertising: Spend it.” Back then, we developed ad slogans, jingles and brand messaging only after the product was able to demonstrate consumer benefits. We tried to make sure that a product delivered its promised attributes first, and the branding naturally followed. However, too many marketers these days

have got the order reversed. They start with an ad slogan and branding, then hope the product meets expectations. The results are sometimes disappointing or even misleading. Truthful, transparent branding should come from the inside out because truth in advertising matters. Is the Isle of Palms actually “family-friendly” now, or is it just an aspirational slogan? In my opinion, some aspects of IOP need fixing before that branding can resonate with the public. E-bikes overrun our streets much of the year, along with e-scooters and golf carts driven by 13-year-olds whenever school is out (several of whom mooned my wife and flipped me the finger while tailgating us on Palmetto Boulevard). The IOP Connector and Palm Boulevard are backed up in both directions by day-trippers due, in part, to the preponderance of free public parking. We have more than our fair share of six-bedroom, four-garage mansions that are essentially hotels in disguise. The noise level on some nights presents more of a “party central” image than “family-friendly,” and the new 55-decibel nighttime limit is hard to enforce. This past summer, I saw almost as many police cars, fire engines and EMS vehicles as I did on, well … New York’s Madison Avenue. There are some days when the level of IOP’s tourist and commercial activity looks more like

Myrtle Beach or Atlantic City than the idyllic island some of us remember. A place where 95% of its workforce must commute to because they can’t afford to live here. A few days ago, I was greeted by a family of short-term renters on the porch adjacent to my condo. They smoked cigarettes and weed, drank heavily, played loud music and used foul language. I’m no goody-two-shoes myself, but it was honestly a bit much. As I walked up my porch steps, they shouted a big, warm “Hello” to me! My first thought was … “Gee, what a friendly family.” But my second thought was, “Oh well, there goes the neighborhood.” Don’t get me wrong. I chose to vacation here in the past and ultimately live here full time because I enjoy local retail, restaurants and services. I also am pro-business. But our product needs some “tweaking.” Focusing more attention on the needs of full-time residents as opposed to tourism will do more to create a family-friendly atmosphere than a marketing campaign. Because brand loyalty isn’t created. It’s earned. Fix the irritation and the itch for us residents, and the branding will take care of itself. Jeff Lovins spent 40 years as an advertising executive and marketing professor. He vacationed on Isle of Palms and owned a rental unit before becoming a full-time resident in 2020.

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.

Page 8 • IslandEyeNews.com • August 21, 2026

MLW Kicks Off Charleston Weekend With Talk’n Shop LIVE Featuring the Good Brothers at The Windjammer By Sean Grabin Major League Wrestling (MLW) returns to its hometown for a huge weekend of Southern-fried fights and festivities Sept. 11-12, kicking off Friday night with Talk’n Shop LIVE at The Windjammer on Isle of Palms at 7 p.m. Hosted by MLW’s “Machine Gun” Karl Anderson and Doc Gallows, the unpredictable podcast brings its off-the-wall stories, locker room laughs and no-holds-barred conversations to the stage for one night only. Fueled by Don Gato Tequila, the live show will feature surprise guests, audience interaction and plenty of the unfiltered mayhem that has made Talk’n Shop a fan favorite. The action will shift to downtown Charleston the following night for MLW’s live fights at Festival Hall. The Friday show will last approximately one hour and will be followed by a meet-and-greet. Tickets, which are available here, are $10. Attendees must be 21 or older.

OPEN LETTER TO SULLIVAN’S ISLAND RESIDENTS Have you heard anyone say, “There sure is a lot of history around here”? Maybe you’ve said it yourself. I know I used to. But I don’t say that anymore. It’s too vague and wishy-washy. Now I say we have the MOST history of anywhere in the United States. I define “history” as the events and people that you would have witnessed if you stood on Sullivan’s Island beach (near Fort Moultrie today) for 500 years. Those events and people would have been within eyeshot and/or earshot of where you were standing. They encompass the good, the bad and the ugly ingredients that have produced the greatest nation in the history of the world. And yes, that nation is still a work in progress, but we need to understand and build on where we have already been. Indigenous peoples, slavery, piracy and brutal combat are all part of our story. So are human perseverance and courage. Economic development. Arts and letters. We are America. I have developed my views over five years as a volunteer at Fort Moultrie. And please note these are my views and do not reflect any official National Park Service (NPS) position. Fort Sumter is the more significant visitor draw for NPS parks in the area, and many visitors have never heard of Fort Moultrie. We tell the Sumter story at Moultrie, too, but we have so much more multifaceted history to share about our fort and island. Our history is sweeping — from seeing canoes of Indigenous peoples with bows and arrows to submarines carrying nuclear missiles. From the sounds of the chains and shackles of the enslaved to the faint strains of “We Shall Overcome” wafting across the harbor from the Charleston Cigar Factory strike of 1945. And yes, the carnage of the two major wars that have defined us and maintained us as Americans. I have tested my views over many years with hundreds of visitors and find that only Boston people have a negative visceral reaction to not being No. 1! Please note I do not include our nation’s capital or single sites like Gettysburg in my “most historic” assessment. I have summarized my arguments in a book published on July 4, 2026, called BULLSEYE: Fort Moultrie at the Center of America’s History. All profits and royalties go to the NPS and Friends of Charleston National Parks, so forgive the shameless plug. Neighbors, we live on hallowed ground. Come see us at Fort Moultrie! Norm Rickeman Resident author: UNSUNG: William Moultrie and the Battle of Sullivan’s Island (2024) BULLSEYE: Fort Moultrie at the Center of America’s History (2026)

Page 9 • IslandEyeNews.com • August 21, 2026

Chamber Member Spotlight: Island Realty

By: Isle of Palms Chamber of Commerce There’s a moment every Isle of Palms local knows well. You crest the IOP Connector and suddenly, there it is: the ocean stretching across the horizon, signaling that you’ve officially made it back to our little slice of paradise. As you descend toward the island, another familiar sight sits proudly at the corner of Palm Boulevard — the white Island Realty building. You’ve probably passed it a thousand times. But the story behind that building — and the family behind the business — is woven deeply into the story of Isle of Palms itself. Island Realty’s roots reach all the way back to the 1950s, when legendary island developer J.C. Long was building homes and shaping much of the Isle of Palms we recognize today. The business eventually became Island Realty, and in 1977, Alexander D. “Don” Stone Jr. purchased the company and began what would become a multigenerational family legacy.

His son, Alexander “Sandy” Stone III, joined Island Realty in 1978 — not behind a big executive desk, but as a maintenance man. While working, he earned his real estate and broker licenses and eventually helped grow Island Realty from a small “mom-and-pop” operation into one of the island’s most established businesses. And if you’ve lived on Isle of Palms for any length of time, there’s a good chance you know Sandy — or at least recognize that famous mustache. Sandy’s connection to the island has always extended well beyond Island Realty. Over the years, he has served on Isle of Palms City Council and held leadership positions within local and state real estate organizations. But perhaps more telling is how his own sons remember growing up here: A quick trip to the grocery store was rarely quick because Sandy seemingly knew everyone and always stopped to talk. That deep sense of community continues with the next generation. Today, Sandy and Peggy Stone’s son, Alex Stone, serves as CEO of Island Realty, carrying the family business forward while

remaining firmly rooted in the island it has served for decades. Like his father, Alex’s involvement extends well beyond the walls of Island Realty. In 2025, he served as president of the Isle of Palms Chamber of Commerce, helping champion the island’s local businesses and strengthen connections throughout the community. Today, he continues that service as the chamber’s past president — another chapter in a family legacy that has always been about much more than business. And Island Realty today is far more than a place to book a beach house. Island Realty offers vacation rental management, long-term rentals, corporate rentals, HOA and regime management, property monitoring through Isle Watch It, housekeeping through Isle Clean It and maintenance services through Isle Fix It. For vacationers, its portfolio spans Isle of Palms, Wild Dunes and Sullivan’s Island — from cozy condos to spectacular oceanfront homes. Island Realty has watched Isle of Palms change tremendously over the decades. Through it all, that familiar white building has remained a fitting welcome to the island: local, family-run and unmistakably IOP. Sometimes the businesses we pass every day have the best stories hiding inside. Learn more at IslandRealty.com.

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Page 10 • IslandEyeNews.com • August 21, 2026

AROUND THE ISLANDS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21 WHAT: Drew Baldridge – on the NÜTRL Beach Stage WHERE: The Windjammer, 1008 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms WHEN: 6 p.m. MORE INFO: Drew Baldridge is a country singer-songwriter who has spent 15 years building his career in Nashville while staying rooted in the values of farm, faith, and family. After early momentum and then setbacks in the industry, he chose to bet on himself—self-funding music, rebuilding his fan base through hundreds of independent shows, and ultimately breaking through with his Platinum hit “She’s Somebody’s Daughter (Reimagined),” which helped establish him as a leading independent voice in modern country. WHAT: Jeff Houts WHERE: Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, 20 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant WHEN: 6 p.m.- 9 p.m. MORE INFO: Jeff Houts performs at The Reel Bar. SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 WHAT: Community Health Fair WHERE: We Are Sharing Hope SC, 2215 Henry Tecklenburg Drive, Charleston WHEN: 10 a.m.- 1 p.m. MORE INFO: During National Multicultural Donor Awareness Month, We Are Sharing Hope SC hosts their annual Community Health Fair, dedicated to raising awareness of organ, eye and tissue donation, as well as providing education and resources that enable our community to be proactive in their mental and physical health. They provide back-to-school supplies, free health screenings, nutritional information, family-focused activities, giveaways and more. WHAT: South Carolina Stingrays Fan Fest WHERE: North Charleston Coliseum, 5001 Coliseum Dr., North Charleston WHEN: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. MORE INFO: The South Carolina Stingrays will kick off the 2026-27 season with Fan Fest 2026. This free, family-friendly event is open to the public and is one of the first chances for fans to get ready for the new season. Fans can look forward to hourly raffles throughout the event with chances to win exciting Stingrays prizes. The Reef will be open with official merchandise available for purchase and fans will have the chance to purchase player-used equipment. WHAT: Wilderado with Sam Burchfield on the NÜTRL Beach Stage WHERE: The Windjammer, 1008 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms

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.

WHEN: 6 p.m. MORE INFO: Wilderado is an American indie folk band from Tulsa, Oklahoma. The band was first signed to Iamsound Records, but is now signed to Bright Antenna Records. In 2024 they released their new EP, “Talker.” They were also featured on the sound track for the Twisters movie. The song “Wall of Death” featured Ken Pomeroy and James McAlister. WHAT: Charleston Battery Home Game WHERE: Patriots Point Soccer Stadium, 85 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant WHEN: 7:30 p.m. MORE INFO: Catch the Charleston Battery at home against Miami FC. SUNDAY, AUGUST 23 WHAT: Slacktide WHERE: Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, 20 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant WHEN: 6 p.m.- 9 p.m. MORE INFO: Slacktide performs at The Reel Bar. TUESDAY, AUGUST 25 WHAT: Beach Yoga WHERE: 25th Avenue beach access, Isle of Palms WHEN: 7:30 a.m. MORE INFO: The City of Isle of Palms Recreation Department will continue its free Beach Yoga Series. All residents, visitors and fitness levels are welcome. Participants are encouraged to bring a large towel or yoga mat, blocks and water. THURSDAY, AUGUST 27 WHAT: Thomas Champagne WHERE: Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, 20 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant WHEN: 6 p.m.- 9 p.m. MORE INFO: Thomas Champagne performs at The Reel Bar. WHAT: STEEP CANYON RANGERS on the NÜTRL Beach WHERE: The Windjammer, 1008 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms WHEN: 6 p.m. MORE INFO: Steep Canyon Rangers arrive at a moment of renewal and reaffirmation with Next Act, their 15th studio album. The record represents a conscious tightening of focus: a return to the bluegrass foundations that first bound the band together, approached with the confidence and emotional range earned through years of collective evolution. FRIDAY, AUGUST 28 WHAT: The Wood Brothers on the NÜTRL Beach Stage

WHERE: The Windjammer, 1008 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms WHEN: 6 p.m. MORE INFO: The Wood Brothers have partnered with American Friends of Canadian Conservation so that $1 per ticket will support The Nature Trust of British Columbia (NTBC) in their efforts to conserve ecologically-rich wetlands and protect irreplaceable land from development. Every $1 donated will be matched by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service with $2 so more endangered wetlands can be saved. If you’d like to learn more, please visit this link. WHAT: Jeff Houts WHERE: Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, 20 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant WHEN: 6 p.m.- 9 p.m. MORE INFO: Jeff Houts performs at The Reel Bar. 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: 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. WHAT: Yoga on the Lawn WHERE: Hotel Indigo Mount Pleasant, 250 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Mt. Pleasant WHEN: Every Sunday at 2 p.m. MORE INFO: Join Charleston Power Yoga at Hotel Indigo for a refreshing way to reset for the week ahead. Surrounded by the breeze and Lowcountry sunshine, you’ll flow through an energizing, all-levels class led by an expert instructor. Bring your mat, breathe deeply, and make this weekly getaway part of your Sunday ritual.

Page 11 • IslandEyeNews.com • August 21, 2026

Mary Coy to Present the History of Isle of Palms at Battery Gadsden Cultural Center Program By Kelly Murphy and Linda Perkis The Battery Gadsden Cultural Center will host local historian and author Mary Coy for a presentation on the history of Isle of Palms on Thursday, Sept. 17, at 6 p.m. The program will be held at Sunrise Presbyterian Church on Sullivan’s Island. Coy, a fifth-generation Charlestonian, brings a lifelong connection to the Lowcountry and a wealth of experience as an educator, author, tour guide and local historian. A graduate of Bishop England High School and the College of Charleston, she has taught in local classrooms and worked with museums and historic sites throughout the Charleston area. A registered City of Charleston tour guide and freelance writer for local publications, Coy has written several books exploring Charleston’s history and culture, including Charleston from a Kid’s Eye-View and

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The Revolutionary War: A Walking History. During her presentation, Coy will explore the rich and often fascinating history of Isle of Palms, offering attendees an opportunity to learn more about the island’s development, its people and its place in the broader history of the Charleston area. “Local history comes alive when we understand the stories of the places we know and love.” Coy’s presentation promises to offer a closer look at the history behind one of the Lowcountry’s most beloved barrier islands. The program is free and open to the public. History enthusiasts, residents and anyone interested in learning more about Isle of Palms and the Lowcountry are invited to attend. For more information about the Battery Gadsden Cultural Center and its programs, visit batterygadsden.org.

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Page 12 • IslandEyeNews.com • August 21, 2026

Great Southeast Pollinator Census Returns Aug. 21-22 By SCDNR The Great Pollinator Census is happening Aug. 21 and 22, and here at South Carolina Wildlife magazine, we want to encourage you to take part! The census is a great activity for families and an opportunity to observe local wildlife while contributing to important pollinator research. Clemson Extension and South Carolina Wildlife magazine have worked together on multiple stories this year highlighting the Great Southeast Pollinator Census. In the May-June issue of SCW, Tess Moody of Clemson Extension wrote: “Most people think of bees and butterflies when they think of pollinators, and rightfully so! But these pollinators aren’t alone. Look a little closer, and you’ll see other interesting pollinators hard at work. It all starts with flowers. Flowering plants attract an impressive array of pollinators and insect visitors. Plants have adapted with a wide variety of flower shapes, sizes and scents to escape competition and attract new and different pollinators. This means the more types of flowering plants in your garden, the more diverse the insects pollinating them will be. This is especially good news if you plan to participate in the upcoming Great Southeast Pollinator Census (GSEPC) on Aug. 21 and 22, 2026. With a little practice, you can learn to identify and record all the amazing pollinators visiting your yard. Keep in mind that you don’t have to be an expert entomologist to participate in the GSEPC. You just narrow it down to one of eight pollinator catego-

ries. The GSEPC census form includes clues to help with identification, such as how wasps tend to have skinny waists and flies tend to have very large eyes.” The Great Southeast Pollinator Census (GSEPC) is a two-day event held each August that invites anyone, regardless of insect identification expertise, to contribute valuable data on pollinator populations across the Southeast. Founded by University of Georgia Extension pollinator specialist Becky Griffin, the census requires only minimal equipment: a timer, pencil and clipboard. Participants select a flowering plant, observe it for 15 minutes and count each insect that lands on it. The brilliance of the program lies in its accessibility. You only need to sort insects into eight basic categories: carpenter bees, bumblebees, honeybees, small bees, wasps, flies, moths and butterflies, and other insects. Study guides and practice videos are available on the GSEPC website to help you prepare. The census addresses a critical conservation need, as pollinating insects face serious declines due to habitat loss and reduced food availability. Since three-fourths of flowering plants depend on pollinating insects and humans rely on pollinators for one out of every three bites of food, supporting native pollinator populations is essential. This is particularly true in the Southeast, where native bees are vital to crops like berries, melons and cucumbers.

The GSEPC website offers abundant resources for educators and organizations, including classroom activities, identification guides and even shareable insect mascots. If you’re interested in participating, now is the time to begin preparing your garden with nectar- and pollen-producing native plants to ensure blooming flowers are ready for the August census dates. According to 2025 census data, the five most visited native plants are joe-pye weed, cutleaf coneflower, narrowleaf sunflower, swamp milkweed and dense blazing star. Keep an eye out for them when you scout locations to count! Sunflowers attract a wide variety of pollinators, like this bumblebee. Photo: Cade McCants

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Page 13 • IslandEyeNews.com • August 21, 2026

The Cassina Group Announces the Exclusive Listing of Historic Jasper Hall on Sullivan’s Island By Angela Tice The Cassina Group announced the listing of 1735 Atlantic Ave., an oceanfront property on Sullivan’s Island offered at $18.5 million. Represented by Robertson Allen, the property presents a rare opportunity to own one of the South Carolina coast’s most historically significant residences. Completed in 1933 as Jasper Hall, the officers’ club of Fort Moultrie, this beachfront landmark served for more than a decade as the social heart of one of the nation’s most significant coastal defense fortifications. Its grand ballroom hosted wellknown bands and orchestras beneath an exposed structural system with a raised performance stage and impressive stone fireplace, creating a gathering place unlike any other. Among the building’s earliest visitors was Col. George C. Marshall, Fort Moultrie’s commandant in 1933, who would later become chief of staff of the United States Army, secretary of state and a recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize. Sited intentionally as the only formal beachfront building on the former military campus, Jasper Hall commanded views of both the Atlantic Ocean and the fort, once connected by a palm-lined drive to Officers’ Row along Ion Avenue. Following the fort’s decommissioning in 1947, the property became the Sand Dunes Beach Club, with thoughtful additions in approximately 1939 and 1960 expanding the structure while preserv-

ing its historic 1933 core. Today, Jasper Hall is designated as a Sullivan’s Island Landmark and has been determined eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. Set on approximately 2 oceanfront acres, this is one of the largest privately owned beachfront parcels on the Eastern Seaboard. The Sullivan’s Island Design Review Board has approved a restoration and redevelopment plan by Cissell Design Studio, with landscape architecture by Furman Land Design LLC, transforming the landmark into an approximately 11,500-square-foot private residence while honoring its architectural legacy. The approved plans restore defining historic elements, including the Palladian entrance porticoes, brick water table, diamond attic vents and both original fireplaces. The reimagined residence includes a central living hall, library, conservatory,

wine cellar, gaming and screening room, fitness center with sauna, and a second-level primary suite opening to a new widow’s walk featuring the historic Union Jack railing. The historic pool pavilion will also be fully restored, complemented by a newly constructed garage with dedicated golf cart parking. Jasper Hall will be offered for sale for a limited 60-day period, creating a unique opportunity for a new owner to shape the next chapter of the property. At the conclusion of the 60-day offering period, the property will be removed from the market as the current owner moves forward with the approved restoration and redevelopment plans. Interested buyers are encouraged to connect with Robertson Allen during the exclusive offering period. To reach Robertson Allen, contact 843-4426534 or visit RobertsonAllen.com. The Cassina Group is a luxury real estate brokerage with offices in Charleston and Mount Pleasant.

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Page 14 • IslandEyeNews.com • August 21, 2026

Birdsong Medical Centre: A New Vision for Preventive Medicine in the Lowcountry By Stephanie Pascarella For generations, most of modern health care has largely been built around one question: What do we do once someone becomes sick? At Birdsong Medical Centre, that question has been replaced with another: What if we could identify risk earlier, understand the body more deeply and help people stay healthier for longer? Located in Mount Pleasant, Birdsong Medical Centre is redefining what modern preventive medicine can look like. Founded by environmentalist Stephanie Pascarella with a bold vision to help create one of America’s next Blue Zone-inspired communities right here in Charleston, Birdsong operates under the medical leadership of Dr. Nihar Patel. Birdsong offers comprehensive evaluations designed to uncover hidden health risks before symptoms appear. Services include physician-guided longevity consultations, preventive whole-body MRI,

advanced laboratory testing, cardiovascular and metabolic risk assessments, body composition analysis, nervous system evaluations, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, regenerative therapies and individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient. Birdsong’s clinical focus extends across many of today’s most pressing health concerns, including early cancer detection, cardiovascular disease prevention, cognitive health and dementia risk reduction, autoimmune conditions, long COVID recovery, chronic inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, Lyme disease, men’s and women’s health, perimenopause, healthy aging and performance optimization. Rather than addressing isolated symptoms, Birdsong’s approach is rooted in understanding the interconnected systems of the body. Every recommendation is guided by clinical evaluation, evidence-informed medicine and a personalized

strategy designed to help patients optimize their health over the long term. As interest in preventive health care continues to grow nationally, Birdsong represents a new model of medicine — one that prioritizes earlier insight, proactive intervention and a collaborative relationship between physician and patient. Whether you are seeking answers for a chronic condition, navigating hormonal changes, recovering from illness, pursuing peak performance or simply wanting a clearer understanding of your future health, Birdsong provides a comprehensive approach under one roof. To learn more about Birdsong Medical Centre, explore available services or schedule a consultation, call 843-936-2649 or visit birdsongmedical. com and discover how physician-led preventive medicine is helping individuals take ownership of their health before symptoms ever have the opportunity to define it.

Page 15 • IslandEyeNews.com • August 21, 2026

Sunrise Manor 601 OCEAN BLVD, ISLE OF PALMS 5 BEDROOMS • 5.5 BATHS • SLEEPS 14

Isle of Palms resident Reston Merritt watches as a sea turtle hatchling is released during one of the season’s early nest inventories (Provided)

First Loggerhead Hatchlings Emerge on Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island By Mary Pringle, Project Leader, Island Turtle Team Our loggerhead nests began hatching July 15 this season. As of July 29, seven of 40 Isle of Palms nests and one of 17 Sullivan’s Island nests had produced hatchlings. The Turtle Team follows South Carolina Department of Natural Resources guidelines, which require waiting at least 72 hours after a nest produces its first hatchlings before conducting what is known as a nest inventory. At that time, we document what is found beneath the sand, including empty eggshells, unhatched or undeveloped eggs, and hatchlings, dead or alive. Information from each nest is entered into a central database that includes nests laid in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and some of the many nests in Florida. This allows scientists to know what happened to every egg laid, every turtle that hatched, and how many made it onto the beach and into the ocean. After this three-day waiting period, most of the tiny loggerheads are gone, but sometimes a few remain in the nest. These hatchlings may have developed more slowly, have birth defects or become tangled in the roots of dune grasses such as sea oats. Some may have flippers that are weak or not functioning properly, making it difficult to dig their way out. We release these hatchlings so they can crawl to the ocean, giving them a chance to survive. Unfortunately, most hatchlings are eaten by predators during their first few days in the ocean. However, because so many thousands make this first dangerous swim to the relative safety of the sargassum floating in the Gulf Stream, many will survive the 25 to 30 years it takes to reach adulthood. WHAT TO DO IF YOU FIND A TINY TURTLE ON THE BEACH: If the hatchling is energetic and almost to the water, do not pick it up. Instead, follow it and protect it from harm until it swims away. If it is injured, too weak to swim away, or has been washed back onto the beach by the waves and will not return to the ocean, call the Isle of Palms Police Department at 843-886-6522 to report it. A member of the Turtle Team will come to collect it.

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