Where Wine Meets Island Time: Sullivan’s Wine Shop
Fine wine, small plates, and a relaxed take on luxury
By: Hanalei Potempa
Locally owned Sullivan’s Wine Shop offers a niche, elevated experience while maintaining the relaxed, coastal vibe of Sullivan’s Island.
Laine Rosmarin, owner of both the Wine Shop in Old Village and the Sullivan’s Island location, said she always felt Sullivan’s Island would be the perfect setting for a specialty wine shop — and something she could uniquely bring to the community.
“When I had my eyes on the Old Village location, my dream was to open the Sullivan’s location,” Rosmarin said. “I just thought it was such a charming concept to have a community space
where you could enter into some of that luxury, but still be as casual as it is.”
Rosmarin explained that Sullivan’s Wine Shop serves as a welcoming escape — a place to enjoy a quality glass of wine without the formality or pressure of a traditional restaurant. She recalled that when she and her husband spent time on the island each week, they often wished for a cozy spot where they could simply relax with a good drink.
“We just always felt like there was a little bit of a niche: good-quality wine, good expertise in what’s being served and just small plates and snacks,” she said.
While the shop welcomes its share of visitors, Rosmarin
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Legal Updates for Sullivan’s Island
By Lynn Pierotti
The South Carolina Court of Appeals has handed down two separate decisions that have the potential to affect both quality of life and property ownership on Sullivan’s Island.
In a 2-1 ruling on Feb. 18, the Court of Appeals overturned a Circuit Court decision that SC Lighthouse, doing business as Pacaso, a California-based company that sells fractional ownerships in luxury homes, was operating as a shortterm rental on the island, which banned short-term vacation rentals around 25 years ago. According to the Appeals Court decision, selling shares of the vacation home “does not constitute commercial use of the property.”
A week later, on Feb. 25, the Appeals Court upheld a Circuit Court ruling that the town’s Oct. 7, 2020, settlement agreement in Bluestein vs. Sullivans’s Island concerning property abutting the Maritime Forest is invalid. As part of the agreement, the town opted to settle the lawsuit by implementing a “selective thinning” plan for the Forest that would
consist of the removal and trimming of vegetation on the accreted land.
The parties in the long-term lawsuit stipulated that the settlement agreement could not be “modified or amended, nor could any of its provisions be waived, except upon mutual agreement of all parties or their authorized agents in writing.”
The agreement also provided that it would be “binding upon and inure to the benefit of all the parties, and their heirs, successors and assigns.”
However, after a new City Council was elected in May 2021, the Town brought a declaratory judgment action against Property Owners in February 2022 seeking an order that the settlement agreement was invalid and unenforceable, arguing that it unfairly bound future councils to this agreement.
The Court of Appeals sided with the town, finding, “Our courts have consistently invalidated contracts that bind future governing bodies because the contracts involved the bodies’ legislative functions or governmental powers.”
Sullivans Island Town Council Approves Palmetto Fort Replica on The Mound
By Joshua Uys
The Sullivan’s Island Town Council voted 6-1 on Tuesday, Feb. 17, to authorize the site at Battery Capron, commonly referred to as “The Mound,” to be used by SC250 to construct a partial replica of the 1776 Battle of Sullivan’s Island fort.
The fort replica will be built, maintained and removed entirely at the expense of SC250 Charleston. The town estimates its own related costs at approximately $20,600, which will fund improvements that can continue serving the community after the fort is dismantled.
Planned town expenditures include:
• Two ADA spaces: $8,000
• Gravel walkways: $5,000
• Driveway gate: $2,000
• Security cameras: $600
• Electrical conduit: $5,000
Town Administrator Henderson said many of the upgrades will provide lasting benefits beyond the 15-month life of the exhibit.
“Running the conduit to the top of the mound will allow events to take place there,” he said. “I think it’s money well spent.”
Parking capacity was a central topic during discussions. The Public Facilities Committee identified approximately 250 to 275 parking spaces in the surrounding area, including on-street parking, Battery Gadsden, Battery Thomson, townowned property and seasonal use of the elementary school lot during the summer months.
Mayor Patrick O’Neil emphasized that the exhibit will primarily attract daytime visitors.
“This is going to be a daytime activity, not a nighttime one, so we shouldn’t be competing with dinner-time restaurant parking,” he said. “We’ll have to regulate visiting hours anyway due to darkness.”
Safety concerns regarding the stability of The Mound were also considered. During the Public
PUBLISHERS OF:
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CONTRIBUTORS
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Joshua Uys • Chris Zoeller
Campbell Sullivan
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Message from the Mayor
Dear Island Neighbors,
I hope this finds you well. Nope, I haven’t resorted to ChatGPT or its kin for these missives (yet!), but I bet you thought from that giveaway first sentence that I had already done so. If I knew how to make an em dash, I’d have thrown that in, too. Since my first two topics are about scam vs. spam vs. reality, the nod to AI seemed appropriate.
DON’T FALL FOR FAKE INVOICES
As a reminder, last month I mentioned scam emails going to people with business before the town. The emails appear to be from the town and tell recipients they must pay their “invoice” through a nongovernmental platform. The town never uses any online payment system other than “sc.gov.” If you receive one of these emails, please let us know. Otherwise, ignore it.
And the deadbeats go on, for example:
THE JURY’S STILL OUT
Our Clerk of Court, Becky Williams, asked me to share important information about legitimate and fraudulent jury summons notifications. In recent months, residents have called or visited to report threatening calls claiming they missed jury selection. This is a scam.
We may send a letter informing a resident that they missed jury duty, but we will not send threatening letters and will never call or send a police officer regarding jury service.
Providing clarification, Williams notes that the town holds jury trials twice a year, during spring and fall sessions:
“We get our list from the Charleston County Election Commission of everyone currently registered to vote on the island. Each term of jury trials, our system randomly selects 150 residents who are registered to vote. We then mail juror summonses via USPS only, in a Sullivan’s Island Municipal Court envelope. They are mailed to the address listed on the resident’s voter identification. They are not sent by certified mail.
page: https://bit.ly/TOSICourt .
REMINDER ABOUT PROVIDING CONTACT INFORMATION TO OUR WATER AND SEWER DEPARTMENT
When you’re out of town or off the island for a few hours, you’ll want to be notified if a water outage affects your home or if your water line springs a leak. Please make sure Water Department Billing Clerk Mary Poole (843-883-5733; mpoole@sullivansisland.sc.gov) has your current emergency contact phone number on file.
The importance of this was evident during our recent freeze, when water was seen pouring from a line under a house, but the owner was away and could not initially be reached. When calls go out about water outages, they come from a notification service we use. The calls originate from an Oklahoma number (area code 405). If you do not answer, a message should be left. This is also the service used to notify customers with delinquent accounts that their water service may be shut off. So a call from area code 405 is not necessarily spam or a scam.
BUDGET PLANS
It’s that time of year again. Town Council and staff are developing the budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1. A Finance Committee meeting devoted to the budget will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 11.
This is a good opportunity to learn about the coming year’s budget and the development process. Please attend if you can. If you miss it, the video will be available on the website within 48 hours of the meeting.
MUSIC FOR OUR 250TH ANNIVERSARY
As you have no doubt heard, this year marks the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding. There will be many related events around Charleston, which is one of only four “signature cities” designated for the national observance. Some events will take place on the island at Fort Moultrie, sponsored by the National Park Service and its Friends, especially on Carolina Day (June 28) and Independence Day weekend. Elsewhere on the island, there will be a special free concert marking the occasion. “Life, Liberty and Pursuit of Happiness” will be presented by the Sullivan’s Island Club under the artistic leadership of island resident Carol Antman.
“Because our island is small, a person’s chances of being selected — and selected somewhat often — are greater than if they lived in a larger town or city.”
There is great information about our court and its processes at the Town website at the municipal court
As Antman explains, “As the war raged and soldiers fought, communities were sustained by their music and storytelling traditions. This concert will feature music from three of the country’s historic cultures — African American, Native American and colonial — performed by some of the Southeast’s most eminent performers, including Ann Caldwell, The Bright Family and Singers, Carol Rifkin’s Appalachian Trio, plus Delia Chariker and Keepers of the Word.”
On Saturday, June 20, performances will be held at Sunrise Presbyterian Church at 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Admission is free, but seating is limited. Funding has been provided by the S.C. Sestercentennial Commission and the Town of Sullivan’s Island. Mark your calendar so you don’t miss this unique and creative celebration of our 250th anniversary.
See you around the island!
Pat O’Neil Mayor
843-670-9266 oneilp@sullivansisland.sc.gov
Historic Sullivan’s Island Bunker at Center of Development Debate
By Joshua Uys
A proposal to construct three new homes atop a historic World War II bunker on Sullivan’s Island has been sent back for revisions following its initial review by the town’s Design Review Board.
The properties, located on Brownell Avenue between Stations 30 and 31, encompass Battery 520, a reinforced concrete coastal gun battery constructed between 1942 and 1944 as part of the Harbor Defenses of Charleston under the Fort Moultrie Military Reservation. Built to defend Charleston Harbor during World War II, the installation was deactivated after the war.
Today, the 38-foot-tall mound that conceals the former munitions bunker spans the center of four long, narrow lots that front Brownell Avenue to the south and I’On Avenue to the north. The former gun mount ends of the bunker have already been converted into subterranean dwelling units. Developer Pat Marr of Cobalt Property Group is now seeking to develop three additional homes across the central portion of the bunker site.
The proposal, presented to the Design Review Board on Feb. 18, 2026, would require multiple variances from the town of Sullivan’s Island zoning ordinance, including:
1. Increasing the maximum building height from 40 feet to 50 feet, 4 inches.
2. Expanding the permitted third-floor square footage from 400 square feet to 1,050 square feet.
3. Using substantial portions of the bunker as accessory structure space, exceeding the 750-square-foot limit and requiring recognition of the bunker area as principal building square footage.
4. Eliminating the required 5-foot step-back for the second floor, resulting in a second floor that is 28 feet wider than the first.
Project architect Ross Ritchie of Loyal Architects argued that the site presents unique challenges not contemplated by traditional zoning standards.
“There’s nothing in the ordinance about subgrade or partially embedded floors,” Ritchie told the board. “A typical second floor is 2030 feet in the air. We can’t look at something that’s sitting on grade as something 30 feet in the air.”
Ritchie described what is labeled as a “third floor” under the ordinance as effectively functioning as a second floor, given the sloped topography. He said the design steps back as it rises from the street and attempts to work with, rather than against, the mound.
“It’s an amazing, incredible site,” he said. “We think it’d be a completely missed opportunity just to plop a house in front of it.”
Conceptual drawings indicate the top level of the proposed homes would offer ocean views despite being located three rows back from the beach.
Former council member Scott Millimet voiced opposition in written comments, stating the homes would dominate the surrounding neighborhood.
“[The houses] will tower over the neighborhood,” he
Fisher Glass Recycling Program to Be Discontinued on IOP
By Laura Lovins
As of Feb. 28, 2026, the Fisher Glass recycling program on the Isle of Palms will end.
The program began in October 2022, when the City of Isle of Palms contracted with Fisher Glass Co. to set up bins at Mayor Carmen Bunch Park and the IOP Marina to collect glass deposited by residents. Much of the glass was used by Fisher to create its GlassEco Surfaces, and the remaining material was recycled, effectively keeping 100% of the glass out of the county landfill.
The program was created in 2022 after the Isle of Palms Environmental Advisory Committee and city officials learned that a large majority of the glass residents placed in their blue recycling bins was not being recycled. Instead, much of it was ground up and used to fill roadbeds at the county landfill. In addition, an average of 33% of the glass could not be recycled because it was too small or mixed with other materials, such as bottle caps, plastic and metal, which can damage recycling equipment.
In 2025, the city’s contract with Fisher Glass cost $10,000. The contract was set to expire or renew in October 2025, with a renewal cost of $10,500.
The Environmental Advisory Committee later became aware of changes to the county’s glass recycling process, specifically that glass was no longer being used for roadbeds at the landfill. The committee collected three months of recycling data from Sibelco, the company that receives the county’s glass, and found that, on average, 66% of the glass is recyclable — an average of 198 tons per month. Fisher Glass collected an average of 3.2 tons of glass per month on the Isle of Palms, 100% of which was recyclable.
At its Feb. 12, 2026, meeting, the committee determined that the county was now doing a better job of recycling glass and that the cost of the Fisher program was no longer cost-effective for the city.
The Environmental Advisory Committee will continue to monitor the county’s glass recycling program to ensure recycling levels remain consistent.
Historic Bunker entrance on I’On Ave left unchanged
Southwest Side Exterior Elevation - 3204 Brownell Ave
Brownell Elevation - 3204 Brownell Ave
Historic Bunker
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said. “The developer specifically noted the plan is to provide ocean views and enhance the sales price. That should not come at the expense of the aesthetics of the surrounding neighborhood.”
Millimet also raised concerns about stormwater management and potential erosion of the mound if existing ground cover is removed. Marr responded that planned drainage improvements associated with the Station 31 basin project include inlets on Brownell Avenue, and that the development team intends to design an on-site system to capture and disperse stormwater rather than allowing runoff to flow directly into the street.
Ritchie added that while portions of the site are currently classified as pervious, the bunker’s concrete structure beneath the surface limits true soil absorption. He contended that the project remains below the allowable pervious surface coverage and that much of the building footprint would
rest atop the existing bunker structure.
The development team stated that the historic wooden facade along I’On Avenue would remain largely unchanged, with only minimal cleanup. The new homes would be sited on the Brownell Avenue side, with the stated goal of preserving the bunker’s concealed appearance as originally intended during its military use.
After discussion, the Design Review Board sent the proposal back for further refinement. Board members encouraged the applicant to more fully acknowledge the historic significance of Battery 520 and to explore design alternatives that do not place new construction directly atop the mound. Board members noted the opportunity to incorporate the bunker’s central opening and interpret its history more directly into the overall concept.
The project could return to the Design Review Board as early as April 15, 2026.
Rising Temps Kick Off Spring Inshore Fishing Season
By: Capt. Geoff Bennett
Chilly days are quickly fading as temperatures rise well into the 60s and sometimes push into the 70s. Warmer water temperatures will wake the fish and get them feeding. Trout should be ready to go in mid-March. It’s time to break out your reels and rods and get ready for a great season.
Having spent the last few months laying low and avoiding dolphins, redfish are now focused on eating instead of simply surviving. Low tide will be the best time to target large schools of redfish that can number in the hundreds. These fish are still skittish, so a quiet and subtle approach is important. On many days, it pays to stay in one spot when you find a school and wait for them to come to you instead of scaring them away.
Because these reds are nervous, I try to disturb them as little as possible by minimizing casting. This is a great time to fish with bait on the bottom. I’ll put a chunk of frozen mullet or blue crab on a 3/0 circle hook and let it rest until the redfish swim over it. Make sure the barb of your hook is fully in the bait and the point is cleanly exposed. Place your rod in a rod holder and get ready for it to whip over once the circle hook sets itself.
As trout begin to feed, popping corks cast along grass banks and over oyster beds will be a good bet with mud minnows attached. I usually pair an 18- to 24-inch fluorocarbon leader with a size 1 circle hook. While there is no shortage of options, I use oval-shaped corks that are heavier and can cast farther. When using a popping cork, do your best to keep slack out of your line, and when that cork drops under, just reel without lifting the rod tip. You’ll find that the circle hook rarely misses as long as your line is tight.
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 and live-bait fishing options, with charters tailored to their preferences. U.S. Coast Guard licensed and insured, Capt. Bennett is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable charter to anglers of all skill levels and ages. For more information, call 843-324-3332, visit charlestoncharterfishing. com or email captain@charlestoncharterfishing.com.
Alan Vanhoven of Milwaukee, WI with a redfish (Credit: Capt. Geoff Bennett)
Steeped in First Church history, spring tea room returns with tasty menu
By Susan Hill Smith
Isle of Palms First United Methodist Church will once again welcome guests to its annual Spring Tea Room and Crafty Ladies Boutique, a community-driven tradition that dates to 1993.
This year, the tea room will open for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 18-20 and will also fill takeout orders. Proceeds will benefit the church’s Lowcountry missions. Groups of eight or more are encouraged to make reservations by calling 843-856-2690. To place a takeout order, call 843-886-6610 during tea room hours.
The menu includes chicken salad, shrimp salad, okra soup and tomato bisque. Desserts feature strawberry shortcake, turtle brownies and two cheesecake options, including one named for volunteer Inge Baechler, who was instrumental in the inception and continuation of the tea room.
“In her hundredth spring, she could still be found in the dessert room,” said her daughter, Anne Bushong. “And in her final days, she stressed to church friends the importance of using the tea room as a way to involve new members in the work of the church.”
While the church’s traditional cheesecake with berries has long been popular, Baechler suggested adding a turtle cheesecake with a drizzle of chocolate and mini Heath Bar pieces,
“and it doubled sales,” her daughter said.
The tea room continues to engage a well-organized team of volunteers.
“It’s a way for our church family and the community to come together,” said Dolly Dangerfield Cannon, who grew up in the church and is helping Cindy Carpenter recruit servers this year.
Cannon encourages guests to visit the Crafty Ladies Boutique. “I seem to buy something every year from the Crafty Ladies,” she said.
According to church history, Cannon’s parents — Clyde and Betty Dangerfield — helped found the church in 1950, prompted by 6-year-old Bob Deans, who asked them, “When are you going to build a church on the island?” as they drove him to Mount Pleasant for Sunday services.
Located at the intersection of 21st Avenue and Palm Boulevard, the “Church at the Bend in the Road” was completed two years later and continues to serve as a spiritual and directional beacon for Isle of Palms. Visitors are welcome to join members for the 10:30 a.m. Sunday service, as well as Sunday school classes that begin at 9:30 a.m.
The church offers additional activities and spiritual programs for all ages throughout the week. To learn more about the church and its history, visit iopmethodist.com, which also provides a link to view Sunday services online.
Inge Baechler helped with the tea room through her hundredth spring. The turtle cheesecake she inspired is still a favorite dessert.
Faithful volunteers Carol Chaconas Truslow (left) and Dolly Dangerfield Cannon grew up together in the church.
Palmetto Fort
Continued from page1
Facilities Committee meeting on Feb. 9, an initial interpretation of a geotechnical analysis by Terracon indicated The Mound can support the replica structure. Engineers recommended undercutting three feet of soil and replacing it with geogrid-reinforced compacted aggregate beneath the fort footings.
The design will be semi-pervious, functioning more like a deck than solid concrete to allow for stormwater drainage and avoid worsening pooling beneath The Mound. Vehicle traffic will be restricted, with pedestrian-only access to the top and a gate-controlled system for ADA vehicle access.
Mayor O’Neil expressed confidence in the project’s purpose.
“We’re celebrating a very significant event in the history of the island, the history of the state and the history of the country,” he said. “I think we should be proud of that.”
Since January, Town Council members have received 10 emails supporting the project and 16 opposing it. One resident spoke against the project during the February council meeting.
“We have our national park and visitor center. Why isn’t that good enough?” he said. “We want to invite as many extra people to the island when we’ve got a wonderful park less than a mile away.”
Councilmember Jody Latham said her personal interactions with constituents have been “overwhelmingly positive — about two to one in favor.”
“I’ll vote based on what I’ve heard from the people who have spoken to me,” she said.
Other council members echoed support for the fort’s educational and historical benefits.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for people when they come to this island to not just see it as a beach, not just see it as a place they pass through and grab dinner, but see it in the context of the importance it has to the founding of the country,” Councilmember Justin Novak said. “There is an opportunity here to educate people about really how special our community is. Maybe they’d treat it with a little more respect when they get here.”
Councilmember Ned Higgins also voiced support.
“We’re guardians of the history on this island,” he said. “I’m willing to put up with the annoyance that extra traffic might cause for the cause of displaying our history.”
The sole opposing vote came from Councilmember Melanie Burkhold.
“I love my country, and it is a great honor for me to be sitting in front of you as your representative, but I have to move forward with opposing this for various reasons,” she said.
Mayor O’Neil noted that increased visitation to the island is inevitable as part of the national semiquincentennial, marking the nation’s 250th anniversary, and that Charleston is one of four primary locations for related events.
“There’s no denying there’s going to be more people coming here in the next two or three years,” O’Neil said. “The island’s going to see a huge bump in visitation, and I don’t think the fort will add much to it.”
The motion passed 6-1, with O’Neil and Councilmembers Novak, Schroeder, Higgins, Hubbard and Latham voting in favor.
Fire Department at the IOP Exchange Club open house
Members of the Isle of Palms Firefighter Association held an open house at the IOP Exchange Club on Sunday March 1. The program introduced some of the fireman to the community and explained some of the many services they provide.
Photo by Julie Reuther-Nestler.
Record Crowd Hears Hunley Presentation
By Battery Gadsden Cultural Center
On Thursday, Feb. 19, a large audience gathered at Sunrise Presbyterian Church for the monthly speaker program sponsored by the Battery Gadsden Cultural Center. In recognition of the 162nd anniversary of the Confederate submarine H.L. Hunley’s successful attack and sudden disappearance, Warren Lasch presented his latest research in a talk titled “The Final Silence — A Forensic Reconstruction of the H.L. Hunley’s Loss.”
The story of the Hunley is well known to many who live in the area. On the evening of Feb. 17, 1864, the Hunley departed from Sullivan’s Island via Breach Inlet to attack Union ships blockading Charleston Harbor. Using the outgoing tide, the vessel reached the USS Housatonic. The crew detonated a 135-pound charge of black powder against the ship’s hull, becoming the first submarine in history to sink an enemy ship in combat. A blue light — the prearranged signal to their comrades on land — was reportedly seen. Then nothing.
using a model made of real iron and period powder that showed only a fraction of lethal force would have reached the crew, as well as reports of the blue signal light. As he noted, dead men do not signal mission success. Archaeologists found the remains of the crew seated at their assigned stations. There was no sign of panic or an attempt to escape. What could have caused such circumstances?
The submarine was not seen again until it was discovered in 1995 in 30 feet of water about 4 miles off Sullivan’s Island. It was raised in 2000, thanks in large part to Lasch, who served as founding chairman of the Friends of the Hunley. The vessel now rests in a tank at the Warren Lasch Conservation Center on the former Navy base in North Charleston. In recognition of his role in raising and preserving the submarine, Lasch has received numerous honors, including the Order of the Palmetto, the state’s highest civilian honor.
As the evening unfolded, Lasch addressed many of the topics that have emerged over the past 25 years, focusing on what caused the crew’s demise. Various theories have been proposed. Was it the blast effect from the detonation of the charge? Lasch refuted that theory, citing tests conducted
While emphasizing that his conclusions reflect his personal research and not the official position of Clemson University, the Warren Lasch Conservation Center, the Friends of the Hunley, the Naval Base Museum Authority or the South Carolina Hunley Commission, Lasch said he believes the eight crew members were victims of what he described as three “invisible executioners”: decreased oxygen levels after strenuous labor cranking the submarine’s propeller, increased carbon dioxide levels, and elevated carbon monoxide levels. That combination, he said, led to physiological failure.
“Physiology sealed their fate,” Lasch said. “These eight men wrote the first chapter of submarine warfare, and they wrote it with bravery that still echoes 162 years later.”
The evening also included additional historical details, audience participation and an extended question-and-answer session.
According to Adele Tobin, vice president of the Battery Gadsden Cultural Center, “This was undoubtedly one of the most successful sessions we’ve ever had with our monthly speaker series. I’m sure there must have been 200 people here,” demonstrating the ongoing fascination with the story of Lt. George Dixon, his seven shipmates and the H.L. Hunley.
For more information on the Battery Gadsden speaker series, visit batterygadsden.org or email batterygadsden@gmail.com.
Dr. Jeffrey Johnson
Op-Ed: The Battle of Sullivan’s Island Deserves a Bigger Place in American History
By Norm Rickeman
The Battle of Sullivan’s Island on June 28, 1776, remains one of the most significant — and misunderstood — events in our nation’s history. Ken Burns hit the target but missed the bull’s-eye in his American Revolution documentary. He covered the battle briefly, and it was well done, but he missed its strategic importance.
I was disappointed after two episodes of the documentary, which covered events through July 4, 1776. The June 28 battle was not included. However, I was pleased to see its inclusion early in the third episode. Unfortunately, it was treated as somewhat of an afterthought and a subset of what was happening in the North.
The episode begins with the naval invasion of New York. It mentions that the massive fleet was reinforced by vessels from the South, then explains what those ships had been doing in Charles Town. A strong description of the battle and the leadership of Col. William Moultrie follows. It concludes by noting that the British were so soundly defeated they would not attempt another Southern invasion for years.
If this battle had been fought in Boston Harbor, it would be part of American lore. Four hundred thirty-five untested militia members defeated the might of the British army and navy. This was a full-scale invasion by the most powerful military force in the world, aimed at capturing the richest city in the colonies and its strategic harbor.
Nine warships attacked the fort from the harbor, and nearly 3,000 redcoats were poised to strike from Long Island (now the Isle of Palms). The mission was authorized by King George III. Controlling Charles Town Harbor could have taken the Southern colonies out of the war early, as a significant Loyalist population in the Carolinas and Georgia was expected to join British forces. A substantial neutral population may also have sided with what appeared to be the winning side.
The fall of Charleston in 1780 is often described as the greatest American defeat of the Revolutionary War. What if that defeat had
Wine
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emphasized that the heart of the business is its local community. That focus is reflected in the shop’s intentionally intimate atmosphere, designed to offer a laid-back yet refined experience.
If there is one wine she recommends, Rosmarin points to the Fishwives Sauvignon Blanc imported by Sundella Wines from South Africa. Like many standout selections, she said, it comes not only with a distinctive taste and eye-catching bottle but also a meaningful story.
“Their story was that during COVID in South Africa, selling wine was illegal because they didn’t want to utilize their resources for any alcohol-related issues,” Rosmarin said. “So during that time period, the only way they could stay open or survive COVID was to export to America.”
In addition to its curated wine selection, the shop offers a variety of snack options to complement each pour. For those who prefer not to drink alcohol, there are also nonalcoholic choices available, from alcohol-free beers to bubbly mocktails, ensuring there is something for everyone.
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: 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.
WHAT: Charleston Wine + Food
WHERE: Various
WHEN: March 4 – March 8
MORE INFO: The 2026 festival marks 20 years of Charleston Wine + Food, celebrating the past, present and future of Charleston’s culinary scene. Since its inception, CHSWF has welcomed more than 12,000 participants from around the world, generated over $191 million in economic impact, and contributed more than $550,000 to scholarships and charitable education causes.
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: Roller Skating on the Point
WHERE: Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, 20 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant
WHEN: Select days from March 6 to March 29
MORE INFO: Located beneath the Charleston Harbor Pavilion, the family-friendly roller rink will be set up in the same space as the resort’s popular wintertime synthetic ice rink.
Individual tickets are $18 per person and include skate rentals and up to 60 minutes of skating.
WHAT: MJ The Musical
WHERE: North Charleston Performing Arts Center, 5001 Coliseum Dr., North Charleston
WHEN: March 10 - 13
MORE INFO: He is one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Now, Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry comes to the Lowcountry in MJ, the multiple Tony Award-winning musical centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour.
WHAT: The Charleston Festival
WHERE: Various
WHEN: March 18 – April 11
MORE INFO: Historic Charleston Foundation has celebrated houses, history, and culture through its annual spring festival since its founding in 1947 as the Festival of Houses and Gardens. As the Foundation’s longest running fundraising and educational event, the Festival has evolved into a celebration of Charleston’s history, architecture, culture, and community.
FRIDAY, MARCH 6
WHAT: Can Tab Crafts (grades 6-12)
WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave, Sullivan’s Island
WHEN: 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
MORE INFO: Craft a kitty keychain (2/20) or
Residents’ efforts halt beach project amid environmental concerns
Staff Report
The Army Corps (USACE) project was finally halted on Friday, February 27th due to the efforts of several determined residents.
As you may recall, the USACE in conjunction with the City of Isle of Palms began pumping spoils from the Intracoastal Waterway onto the beaches starting February 2025. This project was initially described by the City as a major renourishment with the Mayor publicly stating that they had in effect negotiated the equivalent of $10 million of sand. This despite the USACE repeatedly saying they did not consider this a renourishment but a disposition of spoils to make room at their spoil site. The city engineer CSE repeatedly stated at Council meetings that he expected to retain a large amount of the sand and by the time the pumping started, the project was being billed as a renourishment. When the USACE was asked publicly if they had done any studies to assess the impact of the spoils on the beaches, they said they had not. A resident who submitted a FOIA request to the USACE several months ago to see what analysis had been done to ensure there was no damage to the beach has yet to receive any information confirming an experiment with spoils was undertaken with no assessment of the impact.
Once the pumping started, it quickly became apparent that we had a serious problem. Starting with the oily substances that caused residents and visitors to slip and slide to the smell to the clay balls, it was a slow destruction. The spoils pumped had a fine sand component most of which was not beach compatible and it became very obvious from aerial pictures that the sand either
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chainmail-inspired earrings (3/6) using can tabs, cord, and jewelry hardware.
WHAT: The Gringos with Wim Tapley And The Cannons + Tomorrow’s Problem – on the NÜTRL Beach Stage
WHERE: The Windjammer, 1008 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms
WHEN: Doors at 6 p.m.
MORE INFO: Born from house shows, late-night living room sessions, and college basements, their sound blends raw indie rock energy with melodic songwriting and a loose, lived-in Southern warmth.
WHAT: High Society on the inside stage
WHERE: The Windjammer, 1008 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms
WHEN: Doors at 10 p.m.
MORE INFO: 90’s-2000’s Hip Hop and R&B cover band based in Charleston.
SATURDAY, MARCH 7
WHAT: March Music and Marble Painting
WHERE: Edgar Allan Poe Branch Library, 1921 Ion Ave, Sullivan’s Island
WHEN: 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. (drop in)
MORE INFO: Using boxes, marbles and paint... create fun paintings while listening to music! A multi-sensory activity for all ages.
WHAT: Oyster on the Point: 54 Bicycles WHERE: Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, 20 Patriots Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant WHEN: 2 p.m. - 6 p.m.
MORE INFO: The Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina’s popular Oysters on the Point series will return for several dates this winter. During each event, guests can enjoy buckets of steamed oysters, live music, beach games, cold beverages, and more.
2026 Polar Plunge raises funds for Special Olympics
The 2026 Isle of Palms Polar Plunge took place Feb. 28 outside of The Windjammer. The event raised $50,000 that will directly benefit Special Olympics athlete programs across the state. Photos by Matthew Peacock, Mpeacockmedia.
Beach Project
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migrated to the Sullivan shoals or the tide carried it into the inlet. The sand migrating to the shoals pushed the Breach inlet flood channels on to the southern beaches creating up to a 50-foot reverse stream of water flowing on to the beach causing massive erosion. The sand that migrated into the channel filled up the docks on Hamlin Creek and the owners of the docks were up in arms as they could not use their docks.
All along, no one was monitoring this on behalf of the city. Videos and pictures of the sludge, mud, and clay being pumped on the beach were ignored and there was no one analyzing the sand pumped for hydrocarbons and toxins.
Things came to a head when a second vendor was brought in by USACE to pump spoils directly from the intracoastal vs the spoils site. A second set of pipes went in and the traffic of heavy equipment going back and forth on the beach doubled.
Last week several residents who have been documenting this destruction with videos and photos got together and wrote letters to Council members asking them to get USACE to stop this destruction.
At the Council meeting on Feb. 24th, https://youtu.be/x-n0xFpf9Tc Council had a long discussion and finally asked the City Administrator Kerr to discuss the matter with the Corp. and stop the destruction. Kerr got back to Council and said that he had the discussion with the USACE but despite the obvious damage,
the Corp. informed him that they were close to finishing the project in a few weeks and intended to complete the project.
At this time, a group of residents decided to bypass the City and go directly to the head of the Department of Environmental Services (DES) with the evidence that had been shared with the City.
The very next day DES sent their representatives out to IOP and in a very short time informed the Corp. that the material they were pumping on our beaches was inconsistent with the permit. The next day, USACE decided to abandon the project.
These same residents have now asked DES as to how the beach needs to be remediated. A lab would need to be hired to test the sand and haul away noncompatible sand. The substantial trenches on the southern beaches caused by the secondary channels being forced on to the beaches would need to be filled and Hamlin Creek would need to be dredged.
Garry Flowers, a homeowner on Hamlin Creek stated, “I have had property on Hamlin Creek since 2013 and for the majority of that time the creek was consistently deep and navigable, and all property owners were able to get their boats and other watercraft in and out of the water even at low tide. Today, that is no longer the case. Since the Beneficial Use Project between the City and the USACE began in February 2025 significant changes have taken place. The impact of that program has resulted in a creek that is less navigable and at times very dangerous. In addition, many homeowners on the creek are unable to get their boats, Jet Ski‘s kayaks, etc., into the water from their docks. Many floating docks are sitting on the ground for
several hours. The silting of Hamlin Creek will continue until serious changes are made in the COE’s methodology.”
Let this be a good example of never doing experiments without a safety net of testing and monitoring to ensure that when someone is trying to dispose of their waste material we are not so naïve as to ignore the downside of us accepting it. But for a dedicated group of residents, this would have been much worse.
Residents who spoke at the recent council meeting expressed grave concerns that the same city engineer CSE who served as a liaison with the disastrous USACE project has been tasked with managing a $30 million renourishment project coming up.
This major renourishment will be the first one for the southern public beaches and the residents have expressed concern that CSE has already started deducting out the USACE spoils pumped as an offset for renourishment sand. This is illogical as more sand is needed on the southern beach to remediate the USACE disaster.
IOP Cleanup Crew spring litter sweep series kicks off busy calendar
By Susan Hill Smith
The Isle of Palms Cleanup Crew will launch its 2026 spring litter sweep series at Front Beach on March 9, partnering with the South Carolina Aquarium’s conservation team.
Each spring litter sweep includes an optional welcome session geared toward students, groups, employee volunteer teams, families and newcomers. The series will continue every other Monday evening on March 23, April 6 and 20, and May 4 and 18.
The welcome session runs from 5:30 to 6 p.m., with the litter sweep continuing through 7 p.m. Volunteers check in at the beach access in the 1100 block of Ocean Boulevard, near the city restroom building featuring the IOP postcard mural and Coconut Joe’s.
The Cleanup Crew will celebrate Earth Month during the April 20 sweep. The 2026 Earth Day theme, observed internationally on April 22, is “Our Power, Our Planet,” emphasizing the role individuals and communities play in driving progress through local action, civic participation and sustainable practices.
As temperatures rise and visitor traffic increases, the Cleanup Crew will shift to its summer schedule, hosting weekly litter sweeps every Monday from 6 to 7 p.m., June 1 through Labor Day.
In place of the former Wednesday Breakfast Club cleanups, the group will introduce a new series of five Thursday evening sweeps in July, from 6 to 7 p.m., when beach and parking areas tend to be busiest. The July dates are July 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30.
The Isle of Palms Cleanup Crew relies on volunteers to help keep the coast clean, protect natural ecosystems and public health, document litter
INTERPRETED BY: Katherine Berry
OWNER NAME: Riley Dippert
NAME: Jemma
Chunk, Dama, Jemmacita, Ladybug
BREED: Staffordshire mix of excellence
FAVORITE TOY: Pink Unicorn
VET : Patrick Vet
FOOD: Purina Pro Plan
data, and address pollution. Approximately 75% of items collected and documented in the Litter Journal are plastic or contain plastic components, including cigarette filters.
Since 2018, thousands of volunteers have collected more than 263,000 litter items, documenting the data in the South Carolina Aquarium’s Litter Journal, which is available for public use. The City of Isle of Palms and local businesses support the Cleanup Crew’s volunteer efforts.
2026 Dates and Details:
• Every other Monday in spring: March 9 and 23; April 6 and 20; May 4 and 18.
• Welcome session: 5:30 to 6 p.m.; litter sweep continues through 7 p.m.
• No registration required.
• Meet at the 1100 block of Ocean Boulevard beach access near the city restroom building and Coconut Joe’s.
• Supplies provided.
• Volunteers who clean for at least 30 minutes receive a magnet for free parking in city lots during future sweeps and a discount at a participating Isle of Palms restaurant.
• A special post–Memorial Day sweep will be held Tuesday, May 26, from 6 to 7 p.m.
• Weekly Monday sweeps resume June 1 through Labor Day, 6 to 7 p.m.
Everyone is welcome, and students may earn volunteer hours.
For questions or to arrange participation for a group larger than 15, contact co-founder Susan Hill Smith at susanhillsmith@gmail.com.
Follow the Isle of Palms Cleanup Crew for updates, including weather-related changes, at www. facebook.com/IOPCleanup.
LUCKY
Hi. It’s me. “Jemma.” But you may call me “Dama.”
That means “lady,” and I am every bit of that — with a dose of sass. You’ll see it in the way I strut. I have a lot to strut about because life in the beginning could have gone very wrong if my auntie hadn’t shown up. They found my mother pregnant and tied to a tree, surviving on rocks. That explains my sass and my insistence on premium living conditions. We were born for better things. Like sunshine. Upholstery. And lots of snacks.
The moment I arrived in my new home, my whole family safe with their humans, I met the love of my life — aside from my awesome human mom. My vessel for life appeared: the couch. I immediately claimed it. Popped up. Pitched upright in the corner. Snuggled in. Yes, this will do. Mine. No negotiations. Thank you. Now pet me. Aren’t I cute? I’m going to sit right here and watch life happen. My motto: “Life begins on the couch.” It’s my home base.
Most of my days are about eating, supervising and maintaining eye-level dominance from the couch. I do not gaze out windows like common dogs. Nature bores me. I prefer my people. They all have opposable thumbs and access to refrigerators.
DOG
I am a medium-sized Staffordshire mix of brilliance. Tan coat. White tuxedo chest. Matching white socks. Permanently unimpressed expression with watchful eyes. I look like I’m judging you — because I am. Mostly about snack distribution and how best to manipulate something fun in the house. Like distracting you so you leave treasures on the counter for me to “clean up” when you turn your back. I also rhumba the floor. I saw you drop something. I’m contributing.
In my younger years, I had a tendency to overindulge. I went to college with Mom and majored in Socializing and Advanced Snacking. That’s when I earned one of my many nicknames: “Chunk.” Well, those days are over. It’s “Dama” now. Growth. I hide my curves better these days.
I like what I like. I manipulate strategically. I nap professionally. I rule gently.
From my rocky beginnings to my present-day royalty, one thing remains true: this house is my kingdom. That couch is my throne. You? My staff. Now pet me and carry on.
Remember, I’m the luckiest dog on the planet with the best mom in the universe. Expect big things, people.
By Mike Walsh
Op-Ed: Palmetto Log Fort Project Approved
At the Town Council meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 17, the long-discussed creation of a small section of the palmetto log fort, garrisoned by Col. William Moultrie and his men on June 28, 1776, was approved in a 6-1 vote. This authorizes SC250 Charleston, the steering committee for events occurring in Charleston County celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, to proceed with construction of the display atop the mound behind Stith Park. Construction, maintenance and removal of the model fort will be funded by SC250 Charleston.
To accommodate the display, the Town of Sullivan’s Island will make several improvements to the town’s infrastructure that will last well beyond the life of the exhibit. These include improved walkways to the top of the mound and enhanced safety features. The cost of these town improvements comes in under the $22,000 remaining from the total of $50,000 budgeted this year to celebrate the 250th.
Challenges still remain, especially if the project is to be finished by Carolina Day 2026, the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island. As this is written, there are fewer than 125 days remaining, and the hope was to have the exhibit completed well before June 28. SC250 Charleston already has an architect and professional engineer as part of its team, but the task now is to find a construction company with the resources and time to accomplish the job.
The palmetto logs have already been
furnished by Dominion Energy and are awaiting their transformation into this public exhibit, which will serve as an educational resource reminding us of the important role Sullivan’s Island played in the founding of our country. As SC250 Charleston Chairman Brett Bennett has said repeatedly in presentations before town committees and council, this project is not a foregone conclusion. If a construction company cannot be found, costs are too high or funding is inadequate, it may still not become a reality. But the first step has always been approval of a site by Town Council.
Despite detailed presentations by SC250 Charleston to Town Council and the Public Facilities Committee, and repeated responses to questions from the public, a great deal of misinformation about the project continues to circulate. Even the council vote last Tuesday has been criticized.
There was strong public opposition to some of the earlier proposed locations for the display. Simply put, no one wanted it in their backyard. But since a location was found that is not in anyone’s backyard — namely atop the mound — the tide of public opinion has shifted. One resident who spoke two council meetings ago had initially opposed the site adjacent to Battery Gadsden because of the impact it would have had on his family. After learning about the mound location, he spoke in support of the project. Council member Latham said last Tuesday she has been receiving comments 2 to 1 in favor
of the location. Yet critics continue to raise the same arguments.
• There will be an increase in taxes. No, there will not. The project is funded by SC250 Charleston and a one-time line item in the town’s budget to celebrate the 250th. There is no plan to continue that funding.
• There are safety issues. These have been addressed. A geological study of the mound led to recommendations that are being followed. The expertise of a professional engineer will ensure sound structural integrity. The impression that pedestrians walking up the driveway will encounter traffic as if crossing Interstate 26 is false. Only two ADA-compliant parking spaces are planned at the top of the mound, with limited access. Pedestrians will use a gravel walkway adjacent to, but separated from, the driveway.
• There will be a negative effect on the infrastructure project scheduled for Stith Park. This is not accurate. There will be no direct effect of one project on the other.
• The project will increase stormwater runoff into Stith Park. The palmetto log exhibit will be pervious and will not increase runoff.
• There are liability concerns. Adequate liability coverage will be in force, and legal agreements among the involved parties will address this issue.
• Neighbors will be impacted by the lighting planned for the project. The selected location is well away from homes and will use only low-voltage illumination, no more intrusive than
typical landscape lighting.
• There will be hordes of visitors, severely aggravating traffic, congestion and parking. Busy summer weekends already test island residents’ patience. However, Charleston has been designated one of only four “signature cities” for the 250th anniversary and the only one in the South. Tourism to the area, including Sullivan’s Island, is and will be promoted.
Fort Moultrie typically receives about 51,000 visitors a year. A typical Carolina Day celebration brings 800 to 1,000 attendees. This year, national parks related to the Revolutionary War have reported about a fourfold increase in visitors. Our park anticipates an increase as well, possibly 4,000 to 10,000 visitors during the week leading up to Carolina Day and July 4.
How many of those visitors will come specifically because of a palmetto log exhibit on the mound? Likely very few. Some may stop to take a look, but this project is not another theme park. Overall, there will probably be fewer visitors coming specifically for the palmetto log display than for the Polar Plunge, St. Patrick’s Day or July Fourth celebrations.
This is an opportunity to celebrate our unique and important history. It offers an educational experience for residents, children and grandchildren alike — a chance to see, in some small way, how Col. Moultrie and his 435 men defeated the British on June 28, 1776, and helped secure our independence.
