012016 bs pages

Jan. 20, 2016 • Volume 19, Issue 2 • Complimentary • www.blufftonsun.com

INSIDE • Life on the May 6A • 20th Gullah Celebration kicks off Jan. 31 16A • Chamber Restaurant Week 17A • Don’t let your small business get hacked 22A • Concussion is a serious issue 25A • Sporting Clays event Jan. 29 47A

Growth of Hispanic population brings opportunities, challenges

By Gwyneth J. Saunders CONTRIBUTOR

The growth of the Hispanic population in the Lowcountry has brought not only opportunities but also a plethora of challenges for residents and the region.

South Carolina has experienced a 300 percent increase in Hispanic residents since the 2000 U.S. Census, more than any other state: nearly 250,000, or 5.3 percent of the state’s total population.

That data is part of a report resulting from the Hispanic Forum held on Hilton Head in February 2015. The forum findings released Jan. 13 also noted that a report from the South Carolina Consortium for Latino Immigration Studies reflected actual figures are three times that number because “not all

Hispanics fill out the census or share information.”

Eric Esquivel, president and publisher of La Isla Magazine, hosted the press conference that included executives from the South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs. He said what has made the Palmetto State an emerging destination for Hispanics is the same thing that draws many non-locals to make the Lowcountry their home.

“Economic opportunity. That started in the early ’90s and really started on Hilton Head,” Esquivel said. “It’s a unique place compared to the rest of the state.”

The economic opportunity in work force, in tourism, food and beverage, and development draws people from everyP H OTO B Y G W Y N E T H J. S AU N D E R S

Please see HISPANIC on page 12A

Eric Esquivel addresses a press conference to announce findings from a Hispanic Forum report.

TCl offers open house for adults seeking to begin or continue college The Technical College of the Lowcountry will host an open house for adult learners at 5 p.m. Feb. 11 in building 12 at the TCL Beaufort Campus.

The event will feature information about TCL’s programs of study, admis-

sions, financial aid and veteran resources.

Campus tours will also be offered.

TCL, which also has a Bluffton campus, serves both traditional and nontraditional college students. Adult learners make up a large portion of the

student body, which has an average age of 27.

TCL offers degree, diploma, certificate and transfer programs in industrial technologies, business technologies, arts and sciences, and health sciences. Continuing

education and workforce development options are also available.

Federal and state financial aid options are available. For more information, call 843-525-8207 or visit www.tcl.edu/ nevertoolate.

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SUNNY SIDE UP

Aching muscles a sign of something good to come

By Lynne Cope Hummell EDITOR

I’m doing my best not to release primal grunts or heavy sighs while I’m typing. My quadriceps – all four of those large muscles on the fronts of my thighs – are in distress.

No, I don’t use Lynne Hummell them to type, but they ache every time I shift in my chair, get up to walk to the printer, or sit back down.

Getting in and out of my car is tricky, because the added elevation forces me to raise my legs. Ouch.

When I walk, I look like the dogs in that viral video where their owners made them wear booties. (It’s pretty funny.

Google “dogs in boots.”)

Two days ago, it was my arms that were pounding. I almost dropped my freshly made breakfast smoothie in the kitchen floor. I swear I could hear my biceps throbbing through my sweater.

Tonight, I will sleep like a baby, though I am certain I will awaken and not be able to sit up without groaning.

My triceps will ache and my abdomenals will feel as if I’ve been filling in as Floyd Mayweather’s punching bag.

By now, you might have guessed that either 1. I’ve been in some kind of horrible accident, or 2. I’ve been back to the gym.

If you guessed #2, you win 30 minutes on the recumbent bike!

Yes, I finally came back to my senses and realized that the best route for me to return to optimum weight and toning is to go back to the gym. You see, over the past year, I have gradually gained back 20 of those 50 pounds I lost in 2012.

(Had you noticed that I haven’t mentioned fitness in this space in quite some time? Now you know why.)

I got complacent and let myself get un-fit. I let my gym membership lapse, thinking I could just walk a few miles every other day or so and be fine. I probably could have, if I had kept up with that plan – and if I hadn’t started allowing myself too many unhealthy treats. (That was something I could do every day!)

So, checking my pride at the door, I walked back into Powerhouse Gym in Bridge Center. I first thought I’d just jump back on the elliptical and other equipment I had conquered by the end of 2012. But once I chatted with Joey Watkins, the head honcho personal trainer, I knew I had to go all in and sign up for the tough stuff. Joey paired me with Jenn Schmidt.

Jenn is one of those gals who, if I met

her at a party, I’d instantly like. She has a great smile, a quirky sense of humor, a bit of a sassy way about her, and two sleeves of tattoos.

At first glance in the gym, I wondered whether this very lean, perky younger woman could push me like I know I need to be pushed. That’s what I was used to in a trainer.

Boy, did I read her wrong! (See paragraphs one through six above.) Our journey together has just begun, and I’m pretty sure it will be a wild ride. For the next six months, we’ll be hanging out three times a week, Jenn calling the shots and me trying not to fall down.

So, I’m in a little bit of pain at the moment. But once my muscles remember what they are capable of doing, and my brain re-connects with the motivation, I know what the results will be.

I’m really looking forward to that.

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Jan. 20, 2016

EDITORIAL Current Circulation Via USPS is 27,494 Finalist: Small Business of the Year, 2014, HHI-Bluffton Chamber.

Winner of the 2011 SAPA General Excellence Award; 1st place, Front Page Design; 2nd place, Most Improved Publication; and 3rd place, Self-Promotion Advertising.

2013 IFPA-SAPA 3rd Place, Business Coverage

PUBLISHER B.J. Frazier, bjf.citysun@hargray.com

EDITOR Lynne Hummell, editor@hargray.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kim Perry Bowen

OFFICE MANAGER Susan Tarbona

CONTRIBUTORS Pete Berntson Abby Bird Stuart Blickstein Amy Bredeson Caroline Bundrick Regina Canella Rachel Carson Sallie Collins Karen Doughtie Jessica Goody Margaret Griffin Dr. Jean Harris Joe Henne

Dr. William Kyle Maria Malcolm Lou Marino Dr. Oswald L. Mikel Edward Poenicke Joy Ross Gwyneth J. Saunders Cinda Seamon J Lanning Smith Larry Stoller Kathie Walsh Dr. George Warner Mark F. Winn

COPY EDITOR Pam Gallagher

ADVERTISING • B.J. Frazier 422-2321 • Tim Anderson 540-0882 • Bill Griffin 705-9453 • Dean Rowland 609-505-2195 • Stan Wade 338-1900 • Larry Stoller, real estate, 290-5101

VISIT: www.blufftonsun.com For more information, contact: B.J. Frazier PO Box 2056, Bluffton, SC 29910 843-757-9507, 843-757-9506 (fax) 14D Johnston Way Bluffton, SC 29910 All submissions must include name, address and phone number. The Editor reserves the right to edit or reject any material, including advertisements. The Bluffton Sun does not verify for licenses, endorse nor warrant any advertised businesses or services. The opinions and views expressed in the editorials are not necessarily those of the Editor and Publisher. Member: Southeastern Advertising Publishers Assoc., Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, Greater Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, Old Town Bluffton Merchants Society.

Old home movies reveal ‘reel’ truths

By Margaret Griffin CONTRIBUTOR

Here’s to another year. The older I get, the faster the years go by, to the point they are blurring into just stages in my life.

This became more apparent as I watched a DVD of Christmases gone by.

After a visit to see Margaret Griffin us last year, our son returned to his home with a box full of old home movies from the days when film was processed by Kodak.

His wife Connie did the most remarkable thing. She went through them and compiled all the 8 mm Christmas movies into a single DVD and made a gift of copies to us and to each of our children.

What a treat. These were scenes we had not watched in years. It was the most thoughtful gift I have ever received.

It’s quite apparent in these Christmas scenes that they were all taking place in different homes. The number of kids also helps to identify the time frame and location.

We had two kids by the time we filmed the Christmas in Spokane, Wash., then three by the time we lived north of Atlanta in Roswell, Ga., which was at that time a very small town.

We moved to New Jersey and lived in an apartment until we bought a house.

We returned to the Atlanta area, had another kid, and then moved to Florida.

I felt like a migrant worker who could afford to hire a moving company.

Our last big move was to New Jersey and a little town, Mahwah, on the border with New York State. This is the town that the kids think of as home.

The youngest, Audrey, had the good fortune of doing all her schooling in one location, from kindergarten to graduating from high school, then on to Ramapo College in Mahwah. Okay, so she snuck off to England for a year to take a course or two, but otherwise, she has roots.

The five years that I lived in just one place was the longest time I had ever been in one location as a child. Before I was married, I spent my years going from country to country in Europe. At least in the states we all spoke English.

But Mahwah gave this family roots.

As I watched the DVD, one scene in particular was a hoot: three little girls dancing. I don’t think they took lessons at that stage, but they were in tights and leotards, and their ages spanned from 2 to 7 years old.

The eldest, Caroline, had the rhythm down pat. She kept her steps simple and repetitious and had some idea of what she was doing.

Cathy on the other hand was not going to be dictated to by the rhythm.

She was doing her thing, and her dance steps kept changing, but she was happy.

Audrey, the youngest, was clueless at age 2. Whatever her big sister did was what she was trying to copy, adding a little of Cathy’s jumping up and down for effect.

They took this pattern through life.

How can three girls born of the same parents be so different? They are each their own person, and what great women they have become!

To Connie, I say thank you again for giving me this glimpse of Christmases past.

Margaret Griffin has lived in Sun City Hilton Head for 16 years.

Letters to the Editor To the Editor: “What can be done about ISIS?” was the question addressed to League of Women Voters of the U.S. President Elisabeth MacNamara at a recent local League luncheon. Her immediate reply was “vote!”

She believes voting is key to trying to solve the problems of our times.

We strongly agree, and believe voting for wise and effective leaders is essential whether the problem is ISIS, education, poor roads or healthcare.

The League urges all registered voters to become informed and show up at the polls. In South Carolina, we’ll soon have the opportunity to vote in the presidential primary of our choice.

Because we do not register by party in this state, voters can vote on Feb. 20 in the Republican Primary or on Feb. 27 in the Democratic Primary. They cannot vote in both.

To vote in the primary, voters must be registered by Jan. 27. Information on how to register is available at www. bcgov.net or 843-255-6900.

We hope all eligible citizens not previously registered exercise that right now.

Other elections in 2016 will include the special election for Beaufort County Board of Education District 2 on Feb. 2 and the Nov. 8 election for president and many state, county and town offices, as well as probable referenda.

There will also be primaries for some

of the races.

Let’s not take our right to vote for granted. Let’s cherish it and exercise it, and let’s be sure to be informed.

Fran Holt, President League of Women Voters of Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Area To the Editor: Is effective leadership a lost art in our society?

Dale Carnegie stated that an effective leader is someone who leads by example and others tend to follow because they believe it’s the right thing to do.

In defining “success,” guru Peter Please see LETTERS on page 10A

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LIFE ON THE MAY

What’s it doing out there, and do I need an umbrella?

By Sallie Collins CONTRIBUTOR

Two years ago, our sons gave my husband a weather station kit for Christmas.

I must tell you that there were some snickers and inappropriate titters from the distaff side of the family.

In retrospect, it was most unkind and ultimately wrong of us to have treated the gift and the givers that way.

In fact, it was a wonderful present. He loves it.

It came in many pieces, much assembly required, directions printed in several foreign languages and just exactly what my husband wanted – even though he didn’t know it at the time.

Things that come in many pieces, by their very nature, require trips to hardware stores. And, in this house, a day without a trip to a hardware store is, well, a day without sunshine or purpose.

Thus, that weather station was the gift that kept on giving, from day one.

I’ve been told that in its assembled state, it lives on our dock. I prefer the accu-window style of forecasting, but apparently there are better, more up-todate and precise ways to determine the weather.

As an aside, I’ll admit to a bit of jealousy here. That weather station gets over 8,000 hits a month. Eight thousand! I, dear reader, don’t get that many, not even close. Can you feel my angst?

In defense of the weather station, it’s fun to learn that you’re going to get a pop-up shower at 2:15 in the afternoon.

On the other hand, it’s also fun to be surprised by the dark rain clouds forming in the west, bringing a cooling storm our way.

It’s a little like knowing – or not knowing – the sex of your unborn child.

Okay, maybe not quite that dramatic, but still. You get my drift.

One of my daughters-in-law, who lives near us and shall remain nameless, said she has her own weather station and has had it for years. Do tell, we asked.

“It’s simple,” she said.

“You hang a piece of rope from a tree in the back yard. If it’s dry, it hasn’t rained. If it’s wet, it has. And if it’s gone, we’ve had a hurricane.”

I just love the way she thinks.

Sallie Collins enjoys living on the banks of the May River and writes about it in her blog, www.LifeOnTheMay.com, from which this article is taken.

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Prom dresses sought for Junior Service League donation project The Junior Service League of Beaufort will hold its fifth annual Prom Boutique from 1 to 5 p.m. March 12 at BeaufortJasper Academy for Career Excellence, 80 Lowcountry Dr., just off S.C. 170 in Okatie.

The Prom Boutique allows Beaufort and Jasper county students to shop for and select the perfect dress, jewelry and accessories for prom at no cost to them.

Dresses and accessories are needed for

the event. JSLB will accept new or gently¬ used long and short dresses in all sizes and accessories, such as earrings, necklaces, bracelets, shawls and handbags. Dresses must be clean and have no visible tears or stains.

Donations can be dropped off at the following locations: • SugarBelle, 905 Boundary St., Beaufort • Fabulous Girl Boutique, 110 Sea

Island Pkwy., Lady’s Island • Amazing Event Rentals, 35 Parris Island Gateway, Beaufort or 352 Argent Blvd., Hardeeville • Island Getaway, 28 New Orleans Rd., Hilton Head Island • Gigi’s Boutique, 40 Calhoun St., Bluffton JSLB is a nonprofit organization founded in 2005 dedicated to supporting and enriching the lives of women, chil-

dren and families in our community. The league has donated more than $100,000 to area nonprofits since its founding, and league members regularly volunteer at organizations such as Child Abuse Prevention Association and Citizens Opposed to Domestic Abuse.

For more information, visit www.juniorserviceleagueofbeaufort.org, email jslbft@yahoo.com or find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/JSLBFT.

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GROUPS & GATHERINGS Civic Clubs • American Legion Auxiliary: 2nd Monday, 7 p.m.

4 Clubhouse Dr., Rose Hill Plantation.

• Bluffton Rotary Club: Every Wednesday, 7:30 a.m., Bluffton Community Center at Oscar Frazier Park.

815-2277. www.blufftonrotary.org.

• Bluffton Toastmasters: Every Thursday, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Lowcountry Presbyterian, Simmonsville Rd. Dave Robbins 705-9997 or darobbins67@gmail.com • Democratic Club of Beaufort County, South of the Broad: John Giles, 689-3006. president@scdem club.com; www.scdemclub.org • Lions Club of Bluffton: 2nd Tuesday. Brenda Linblad, 757-3747.

• Military Officers Association of America, Lowcountry: 2nd Wednesday, 8:30 a.m. Lady’s Island Airport. lcmoaa@gmail.com or www.lcmoaa.org.

• Republican Women of Southern Beaufort County, 3rd Monday. 912-401-2628, vano9144@bellsouth.net • Rotary Club of Okatie: Every Tuesday, noon.

Sigler’s Rotisserie. Julie Lester, 384-8010 or jlester@bbandt.com. www.rotaryclubofokatie.com • Unanimity Masonic Lodge #418. 2nd Monday, 6:30 p.m. St. Andrew By-The-Sea United Methodist Church, 20 Pope Ave. Hilton Head. Jim Kilgore, 785-4766.

• VFW: Call Joe Viens, 757-2757.

• Zonta Club of Bluffton: 3rd Wednesday, 5 p.m. info@zontaclubofbluffton.com.

General • Bluffton Book Club: 3rd Wed. 1:15-3 p.m.

Bluffton Library, except June, July, Dec.. 255-6503 • Bluffton Public Library: 10-7 p.m. Mon.-Thurs..; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Closed Sun. 255-6490.

• Bluffton-Jasper County Volunteers in Medicine: 706-7090.

• Christian Fishing Association 247-0241 or www.christianfishingassociation.org, or stuartg@christian fishingassociation.org.

• Dos Lupes Gun Club: Every Saturday at club’s gun range in Ridgeland. Russ Keep, 683-4407.

• Drinking Liberally: 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m., various locations. www.hiltonhead@drinking liberally.org.

• Genealogy Group: Thursdays, 2 p.m. Bluffton Library. 255-6503.

• Green Drinks Bluffton: Last Thursday. 6:30 p.m.

Chris, 816-0317, or Mark 301-2327.

• Heritage Library History & Genealogy Center, 852 Wm. Hilton Pkwy. Mon.-Tues., Thurs.-Fri., 10 a.m.-3

p.m. Linda Piekut, 686-6560. www.heritagelib.org • Hilton Head Island Ski Club. Monthly TGIF, trips, socials, skiers and non-skiers. www.hiltonheadskiclub.com • Island Singles, social activities for mature singles.

Jane Tapia, 785-5724. www.hiltonheadislandsingles.com • Island Writers’ Network, first Monday, Heritage Library, 852 Wm. Hilton Pkwy. www.iwn-hhi.org or call Sansing McPherson, 682-8250.

• Italian-American Club of HH, 12:15 p.m.

Thursdays, Flora’s Cafe, South Island Square, 841 Wm. Hilton Pkwy. John De Cecco, president, 401-524-1416.

• La Dolce Vita, Italian American Club Sun City, quarterly. 7 p.m., Pinckney Hall, Sun City Hilton Head. Jim Cacciola, 705-2771.

• Lowcountry Chapter American Guild of Organists: 2nd Friday. W. Raymond Ackerman, 888-8400152. www.lowcountryago.org • Lowcountry Civil War Round Table: 2nd Wednesday, Sept. to May (no Dec. mtg.) 6:45 p.m. at Bluffton H.S. auditorium. Joe Roney 838-4972.

• Lowcountry Professional Women’s Networking Group, 3rd Tuesday, noon, luncheon, Oldfield Club. Danielle Jeffcoat, 815-4054.

• Lowcountry Property Management Association, third Tuesday, noon, Country Club of Hilton Head. 785-3447. lcpmahhi@aol.com • National Active & Retired Federal Employees (NARFE)-Hilton Head-Bluffton Chapter 2258: First Tuesday (Sept-June) 11:30 a.m., Golden Corral, 1196 Fording Island Rd., Bluffton. Bob Chase, 705-6125.

• Rug Hooking Group, 2nd Sat. 1-3, Bluffton Library. 255-6503.

• U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Uniformed, volunteer component of USCG. Hal Blaisdell, 705-5424.

• Widows and Widowers (WOW), 3rd Thursday, 7 p.m., All Saints Episcopal, 3001 Meeting St., Hilton Head.

Marilyn Brian, 689-5378.

Health and Fitness • Bluffton Health Center: Immunizations, family planning, STD control. Appt only. 757-2251.

• Bluffton Fins Swim Team & Bluffton Redfish Summer Swim Team: Swim programs for all ages.

Practice groups at Bluffton Pool. 298-4491 or www.blufftonfins.com.

• Community Weight Loss Challenge: Ongoing 8-week program, payouts for winners. 843-644-1991.

• Diabetes Classes: Free to Medicare participants.

1-800-922-3089, ext. 7585 for times, locations.

• Lowcountry Vegan Community Outreach.

Various events. www.meetup.com/Lowcountry-Vegan

• Med-I-Assist: Free assistance for low-income patients. Tues., Thurs. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 757-4818.

• PRC Running Club: Group runs, various times, locations. www.meetup.com/Palmetto-Running-Club.

• Sea Island Sea Kayakers: 684-3296.

• Senior Tennis: Thursdays, 9 a.m. edchen@aol.com • Team in Training: Local training for Leukemia and Lymphoma Society fundraisers. Jade, 843-881-8176.

Support Groups • Aging Gracefully: 11 a.m. 3rd Wednesday, various locations. Leah Kidwell, 843-422-2612.

• Alcoholics Anonymous: Meeting daily at YANA Club, 107 Mathews Dr., Hilton Head. For schedule, www.YANAClub.com.

• Alcoholics Anonymous: For meeting information and locations call 785-2921 or (888) 534-0192 or en Espanol 247-2713. www.area62.org.

• Al-Anon: Bluffton UMC, Calhoun St., 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday and Thursday; St. Luke’s UMC, 3080 Okatie Hwy. 10:30 a.m. Wednesday.

• Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Group: 2nd Wednesday, 2 p.m. NHC, 3039 Okatie Hwy. Stacy Floyd or Heather Miller, 705-8220.

• As It Began Group, Alcoholics Anonymous: Tuesday 1:30 p.m.; Thursday 7:30 p.m. YANA Club, 107 Mathews Dr. 290-2292.

• Bereavement Support: New Beginnings, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays, 2:30-4 p.m., Lowcountry Presbyterian.

Renee, 706-2296.

• Bereavement Support: Thursdays, 5 p.m.

Tidewater Hospice, 10 Buckingham Plantation Dr., Ste. A. 757-9388.

• Breast Cancer Support: First Thursday at 10 a.m.

Bluffton-Okatie Outpatient Ctr. Pat Southworth, 705-5607 • Breastfeeding Support Group: Thursdays, 2:30 p.m. Hilton Head Hospital. 689-8110.

• Cancer Support: 3rd Tuesday, 3:30 p.m., BlufftonOkatie Outpatient Center. 815-4090.

• Caregiver Support: 3rd Wednesday, 10:30 a.m.

Palm Meadows Court, 48 Main St., 342-7122 • Compassionate Friends: For bereaved parents and other adult relatives. Usually 3rd Saturday, 1 p.m.

Bluffton Library, 120 Palmetto Way. Chris 422-2083 or Jay 422-2082.

• Diabetes Support: JDRF Adult Type 1 support, adultt1dgroup@gmail.com • DivorceCare Group: Lowcountry Community Church, 816-7722. divorcecarelcc@hargray.com. Church of the Cross, Calhoun St. 757-2661.

• Emotions Anonymous. Mondays, 6:30 p.m. Call

252-917-7082 or 252-2479.

• Experiences in Aging Support Group: Twice monthly, alternating between Bloom Hilton Head, 35 Beach City Rd.. and Bloom Bluffton, 800 Fording Island Rd. Carly Wallace, 342-5599 • Hearing Loss Association of America Lowcountry: Quarterly. Laurette Del Pozzo 705-3088.

• Helping Parents Heal, for parents who have lost a child, 2nd Sunday, 1-3 p.m., Seaquins Ballroom, 1300 Fording Island Rd., Bluffton. 201-233-6015 • HIV/AIDS Support: Free, confidential HIV testing, counseling. Call 379-5600.

• Literacy Volunteers of the Lowcountry: Free adult literacy tutoring and English instruction. 686-6655.

• Many Faces of Dementia: 2nd Monday, 10 a.m.

Bloom at Belfair, 60 Oak Forest Rd., Bluffton. 815-5350.

• Memory Matters: Dementia care support groups, various focus, times. 117 Wm. Hilton Pkwy. 842-6688. www.memory-matters.org • Mental Health Association of Beaufort-Jasper Counties Rendezvous Club: 1st and 3rd Wednesday, 6 p.m. Social club for adults recovering from mental disorders. 682-2900.

• MS Lowcountry Support: Betty, 757-4402.

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Caregiver groups, 4th Tuesday, 10 a.m.

Lowcountry Presbyterian, general; NAMI Connection: Monday, 5:30 p.m. NAMI office, 117 Wm. Hilton Pkwy.; Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., USCB Gateway Library. 681-2200.

• NAR-ANON: Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Central Church, 975 Wm. Hilton Pkwy., Hilton Head. Kevin, 717-314-9704.

• Narcotics Anonymous: Wednesday, 6:15 p.m.

Bluffton Library.

• Overeaters Anonymous: Tuesdays, 6 p.m. St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 3080 Okatie Hwy. Bebe, 318-393-5297.

• Pain Support Group: Mondays, 2 p.m. Church of the Palms, Okatie. DeeAnn, 298-2900, 681-7830.

• Parkinson’s Disease Support: 3rd Thursday, 2:304 p.m. Memory Matters, 117 Wm. Hilton Pkwy. Adrienne O’Neill, 836-2727. 4th Thursday, 12:45-2:30 p.m., Bluffton Medical Campus. Muriel Coleman, 987-3505.

• Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support Group: 6 p.m. 2nd and 4th Wednesday, Hospice Care of the Lowcountry, 7 Plantation Park Dr., unit 4. 706-2296.

• SC Chapter of the Scleroderma Foundation.

Joanna, 785-9109.

• Survivors of Suicide (SOS) support: 6 p.m. 1st Monday, First Presbyterian Church library, 540 Wm. Hilton Pkwy. Vanessa Riley, 384-2901. vrileyhhi@gmail.com

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LETTERS from page 4A Drucker said “Management is doing things right, leadership is doing the right things.”

Forbes listed three fundamentals of effective leadership: inspire successful vision, excel at communicating, use good judgment.

The seven tenets of effective leadership found in Google are: inspire action, be optimistic, have integrity, give support, have confidence, communicate, be decisive.

Whether in government, business or family life, effective leadership is a necessity for successful results; unfortunately our country is failing in all three.

Currently, partisan, dysfunctional government in Washington, lack of ethics in corporate America, failure of our educational system and family unit indicates leadership is greatly lacking throughout our society.

Congressional and administration approval is at an all-time low. The Edelman poll showed less than 50 percent of Americans trust chief executives

while 35 percent of employees judged their supervisors to be ineffective, misshired or failures.

Parental responsibility continues to decline, while selfish irresponsibility is rising.

In conclusion, what does this tell us?

Successful, common sense leadership starts by leading by example, by being a positive motivator and communicator with high ethical standards and integrity, inspiring action and decisiveness.

You and I can encourage society to live by these standards and by setting the right example in our daily lives.

Live in the moment; you can make a difference!

Earle Everett Hilton Head Island To the Editor: After reading letters demeaning Trump, I decided to respond with Clinton’s resume.

• First Lady 1993-2000.

Accomplishments – none; experienced

gleaned – heard husband making decisions.

• N.Y. Senator 2001-2009 (promised 200,000 jobs). Accomplishments – named a historic site, post office, highway.

• Secretary of State 2009-2012, when asked about accomplishments, she fumbled, responding “read my book.”

Accomplishments were racking up frequent flyer miles visiting 112 countries.

Hillary was involved in unrest in Syria, collapse of Libya, rise of ISIS, Arab Spring, the death of four Americans including U.S. Ambassador in Benghazi, renewed Russian aggression after her reset.

• Foundations received millions of dollars from foreign countries for future favors (FBI investigating).

• Used personal email server transmitting hundreds of classified and top-secret documents (FBI investigating).

Some of her lies: • Allegations against Bill Clinton’s extra-marital affairs were result of “vast

right wing conspiracy.” (He lost his law license.) She ruined the lives of women making the accusations.

• Invested $1,000 in commodities, making $100,000 profit in two weeks by reading Wall Street Journal.

• Dodged sniper fire while landing in Bosnia.

• Benghazi attack was caused by a video.

She was an ineffective senator, a disaster as Secretary of State.

Is this who we want for president? She will continue Obama’s policies.

If you feel safer and are better off financially after the last seven years, vote for Hillary.

I’ll take the loud-mouth, experienced, successful Trump over a lying, greedy, ineffective Hillary any day.

Vince Sgroi Bluffton

SEND LETTERS TO editor@hargray.com

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HISPANIC from page 1A where. That draw is what makes the place because of the people, he added.

“We have amazing people from all backgrounds who have come to Hilton Head. A lot of those people have very open minds and cultural experiences both within the country and abroad,” Esquivel said. “And that has contributed to that mentality of welcoming people.”

The growth, however, comes with challenges. The forum’s report points out that many of the challenges originate P H OTO B Y G W Y N E T H J. S AU N D E R S because of a lack of language skills and a Benjamin Washington, program manager of CMA difference in cultures – the same obstacles immigrants have always faced. Those people lives below the poverty level in in turn often translate into conditions of Beaufort County,” Washington said. poverty and deprivation.

The CMA, working with local organiBenjamin Washington, research and zations and agencies, seeks to address the policy program manager for the commis- issue of poverty, as well as language barsion, said that Beaufort County ranks riers, cultural differences, navigating the 44th out of 46 counties in the state with health systems, building trust with law a 14.1 percent annual poverty rate and enforcement agencies and increasing an average unemployment rate of 5.7 educational and entrepreneurial opportupercent. nities through collaboration and partner“That means one out of every seven ships.

P H OTO B Y G W Y N E T H J. S AU N D E R S

Thomas J. Smith, executive director of CMA

The full report is available online at www.cma.sc.gov.

“Our job really is to discover what it is that is driving poverty and deprivation, the impact it is having on minority population. And then find out what it is we can do about it,” said Thomas J. Smith, executive director of the state Commission for Minority Affairs. “What we now know and have known for a while is that whatever it is that needs to

be done, we realize that we cannot do it alone so partnerships and collaboration are absolutely essential.”

Further action steps include a followup meeting of interested organizations, linking community leaders and grass roots organizations to resources, continuing research and making data available for grants that will help minority communities and continuing to work with Hispanic organizations to break the cycle of poverty.

“Our goal is that everyone in South Carolina not only survives but thrives.

That your race, your color, your religion, your background – none of those things are impediments to your being the best that you can possibly be,” said Smith.

“And that you can set goals in South Carolina and you can meet those goals if you are willing to work hard, no matter if you come from a minority group or not.”

Gwyneth J. Saunders is a veteran journalist and freelance writer living in Bluffton.

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

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Featured Pet

Payton is an adorable 4-month-old female Bulldog mix. She is available for adoption at Jasper Animal Rescue Mission in Ridgeland. For more information on how to adopt, call 843-726-7799 or visit www.JARMission.org.

Jan. 20, 2016

Changemakers series starts season with Sen. Tom Davis A dynamo of ecofreighters. The port is nomic energy lies in an planned for the South uninhabited seaside Carolina side of the marsh between Savannah River, more Savannah and Hilton than a dozen miles Head Island. State Sen. closer to the ocean than Tom Davis of Beaufort current facilities. knows how to charge it With a vast ability to up. handle containers from Davis will tell how anywhere in the world and why on Jan. 25, as S.C. Sen. Tom Davis, R-Beaufort and quickly connect the first presenter in The Changemakers them to rail and truck transport 2016 Speakers Series at Coligny Theatre. throughout the United States, the Jasper The event will begin with a 5:30 p.m. terminal would complement the alreadyreception, with Davis’s talk at 6 p.m. busy Savannah shipping complex and Proceeds from the event will benefit the would boost South Carolina’s export Heritage Library of Hilton Head Island economy. and the Coastal Discovery Museum.

Tickets for Davis’ presentation are $20 Davis has been an early and leading (or $30 for a couple) and can be pursupporter of the Jasper Ocean Terminal chased online at www.HeritageLib.org or project, which would create a convenient www.CoastalDiscovery.org or by calling state-of-the-art port for major ocean 843-686-6560.

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

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20th Gullah Celebration kicks off Jan. 31

The 20th annual Hilton Head Island Gullah Celebration will present 15 events Feb. 1-29 in various venues. Since 1996 the event has showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Gullah People and their history on the island.

Back by popular demand is the Arts Ob We People art exhibition and sale, beginning Jan. 31 at the Art League of Hilton Head gallery, 14 Shelter Cove Lane. An opening reception will be held at 6 p.m. Jan. 31; tickets are $20 each.

Other favorites are the Gullah Music Series at 7 p.m. Feb. 12, 19 and 26 at various venues; the Sweetheart Ball with Deas Guyz at 7 p.m. Feb. 14 at the Westin Hilton Head Resort and Spa; and

the Arts, Crafts and Food Expo Feb. 2021 at Coastal Discovery Museum.

Additional highlights of the celebration include the introduction of the Community Wellness Initiative that kicks off Feb. 6 at the Fish Haul Creek 5K Run-Walk, and the national observation of Freedom Day Feb. 6 at the historic Cherry Hill School, 209 Dillon Rd. A Celebration of African American Authors will be held at 2 p.m. Feb. 27 at Custom Audio Video, 48 Pennington Dr., Unit B. Meet published authors who will share insights, and share authentic Gullah cuisine.

Debuting this festival season is the National Gullah Institute, which will present its first panel discussion on the American South’s Connection to West Africa at 5 p.m. Feb. 28 at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane.

For more information and to purchase tickets for all Gullah Celebration events, call 843-255-7303 or visit www.gullahcelebration.com.

Jan. 20, 2016

Nonprofit News • Registration is now open for the 33rd annual Hilton Head Island St. Patrick’s Day Parade, to be held March 13, beginning at 3 p.m. on Pope Ave. Schools, churches, civic clubs, businesses and other groups may apply to enter the parade by registering at www.hiltonheadireland.org and paying a fee. Cost is $300 per entry, or $125 for a nonprofit organization, through Feb. 15. Entry fees increase by $25 as of Feb. 16.

For more information about the parade, visit www.hiltonheadireland .org or find it on Facebook.

• New members of the 2016 board of Hilton Head Hadassah were installed at a luncheon held Jan. 6 at Berkeley Hall.

Executive board members are Judie Shatz, president; Eileen Goldberg, executive vice president; Judy Goldberg, treasurer; Nancy Schwartz,

recording secretary; Judy Glazer, corresponding secretary; Arlene Wizer and Jane Rosendorf, co-vice presidents, education; Susan Safranek and Hedda Tischler, co-vice presidents, programming; Marsha Heisler and Joan Schwartz, co-vice presidents, fundraising; and Suzan Crane and Carole Lurie, co-vice presidents, membership.

General board members for 2016 include Barbara Abrams, Susan Angelico, Karen Bayer, Sheila Borland, Jean Caplan, Judy Glazer, Jerri Kurowski, Carole Lurie, Elaine Lust, Jean Pustilnik, Ruth Reinhold, Heddie Richter, Susie Rosenzweig, Paula Rudman, Joann Schor, Arlene Schwartz, Barbara Solon and Sue Wiener.

The installation was conducted by Barbara Solon, past president. Rabbi Brad Bloom of Congregation Beth Yam, Hilton Head Island, was guest speaker.

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

Chamber Restaurant Week great time to dine around town With specially crafted “prix fixe” menus, Chamber Restaurant Week, which runs Jan. 23-30, is the week to make reservations to dine in participating restaurants all over Bluffton and Hilton Head Island.

Now in its eighth year, Chamber Restaurant Week, presented by the Hilton Head IslandBluffton Chamber of Commerce, features more than 60 of the area’s top restaurants. The event has become one of the Lowcountry’s most popular weeks for dining out, trying new restaurants and visiting old favorites.

Old Town Bluffton favorites include May River Grill, The Bluffton Room, Red Fish Bluffton and Captain Woody’s.

Enjoy fine dining at the renowned River House at Montage Palmetto Bluff or a casual dinner with friends at The Cottage,, Red Fish or Corner Perk Café.

“It’s a win-win for both area chefs and restaurant goers, as restaurants are able to offer specials that showcase their cuisine at great prices,” said Dorothy Guscio, chamber events manager.

Area chefs like to share their culinary passion and the week-long event is the perfect venue to showcase their creations. “I love Chamber Restaurant Week because it’s the biggest week for locals to venture ‘outside the box’ and try new restaurants,” said Chef Russell Keane of Neo Farm to Table. “We use it as a springboard for new menu items as well as prix-fixe, multi-coursed menus.”

Last year more than 33,000 people visited the Restaurant Week web page to check out menus and make their plans for an evening on the tow. New menus are being added daily at www.

ChamberRestaurantWeek.com.

Learn about school choices at regional events BEAUFORT – The Beaufort County School District is gearing up to accept school choice applications for the 201617 academic year, the second year of the district’s expanded choice initiative.

Applications approved for the current academic year allowed more than 2,900 students – 13 percent of the district’s total enrollment – to attend schools outside their zoned attendance areas.

Two information fairs will give students and their parents opportunities to learn about the district’s choice programs and how to apply for them. The first fair, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Jan. 25 at River Ridge Academy, will feature choice programs in southern Beaufort County. The second fair, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 1 at Robert Smalls International Academy, will feature choice programs in northern Beaufort County.

After the two regional fairs, individual schools will host their own meetings so

students and parents can get more detailed on-site information about the choices they offer.

Curriculum options include such instructional choices as Montessori, International Baccalaureate, arts infused, classical studies, dual language immersion, early college, leadership programs and advanced math and science.

Beaufort County students who attend choice programs will not pay extra tuition, although families are responsible for their students’ transportation if they live outside of the school’s attendance zone. All choice schools also serve children who live in their attendance zones, in addition to students from outside the zone who apply to attend.

School choice applications will be posted to the district’s website Feb. 1, and must be turned in by 5 p.m. March 1. Paper copies of the application will be available in school offices.

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Jan. 20, 2016

Noteworthy • The Battle of Pocotaligo Civil War Reenactment returns to Frampton Plantation in Yemassee Jan. 23-24.

Held on the 1862 battle site at Point South, the annual living history event is hosted by the Sons of Confederate Veterans Col. Charles Jones Colcock Camp #2100, the South Carolina Palmetto Battalion, and the Lowcountry & Resort Islands Tourism Commission.

In addition to the battles, visitors can explore a Civil War encampment and tour a life-size replica of the CSS H.L. Hunley, the first submarine in history to sink an enemy warship.

Gates open at 9 a.m. with battle reenactments at 2 p.m.

Daily tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children, and free for ages 8 and under.

Admission into the Frampton Plantation House-Visitor Center & Gift Shop and the Hunley traveling exhibit are free.

For more information, visit www.battleofpocotaligo.com. To learn more about Frampton Plantation Visitors Center and

the Lowcountry & Resort Islands Tourism Commission, call 843-7173090 or visit www.southcarolina lowcountry.com.

• Chad Martin, organist and handbell director at First Presbyterian Church Hilton Head Island, will present an organ recital at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 27 at the church, 540 William Hilton Pkwy.

Martin, a native of Blackville, started playing piano at age 4, obtained his bachelor’s of organ performance from Anderson University in 2009, and his master’s of organ performance from Winthrop University in 2012. He served as organist, music associate and handbell director at Saxe Gotha Presbyterian Church in Lexington from 2009 until last year. He was also the assistant accompanist of the Lexington County Choral Society and accompanied students and professors from the University of South Carolina and Columbia College.

Admission is free. For more informa-

tion call the church at 843-681-3696.

• Liberal Men of the Lowcountry will hold a luncheon meeting at noon Jan. 27 at the Golf Club at Indigo Run, 101 Berwick Dr. John Gilbert, a retired Air Force Colonel with more than 40 years’ experience in nuclear and missile technology, strategic operations, and arms control will speak on “The 2015 Iran Nuclear Agreement – Facts, Features, and Developments.”

Cost is $15 for lunch. To RSVP, contact Richard Hammes at 847-921-8188.

• Carolina Swing, a 10-member ensemble with a big band sound featuring Lowcountry jazz singer Candice Skingley, will perform from 7 to 9 p.m.

Jan. 28 for dinner and dancing at Zeppelins in Station 300, 25 Innovation Dr., Bluffton.

The band’s repertoire includes hits recorded by Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett,

Natalie Cole, Billy Joel, Count Basie and others, as well as sounds from the world of cool jazz.

There is no cover or minimum, but reservations are recommended. Call 843815-2695.

• A Parenting with Purpose workshop will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. Jan. 30 at First Presbyterian Church Hilton Head Island.

The event is free and open to the public, but reservations are required by Jan. 20 for people attending the workshop and-or for childcare (up to fifth grade).

The workshops will be held quarterly as an outgrowth of church members coming together following the shootings at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston last year.

Reservations can be made by emailing pwphhi@gmail.com or by calling the church office at 843-681-3696, ext. 123.

Jan. 20, 2016

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Noteworthy • The Rotary Club of Bluffton will hold its annual Oyster Roast from 5 to 8 p.m. Jan. 30 at Bluffton Oyster Factory Park in Old Town.

The event will feature local oysters, live entertainment by bluegrass band Lowcountry Boil, and a bonfire.

Bluffton Rotarian Quinn Baldree is chairman.

The ticket price covers all-you-caneat, freshly harvested May River oysters.

Chili, hot dogs, brats and the Rotary’s homemade fries also will be available, and wine and beer will be sold.

The annual event supports the Bluffton Rotary’s efforts in the community and around the world, and is frequently sold out.

Advance tickets are $30 per person; $35 at the event. For tickets, call 843815-2277, visit www.blufftonrotary.org or ask any Bluffton Rotarian.

Tickets are also available at State Farm, 103 Buckwalter Place; Fat Patties, 207 Bluffton Rd.; Bluffton Oyster

Company, 63 Wharf St.; and Cregger Electric, 41 Plantation Park Dr., Suite 100 (behind Sunshine Nursery).

• Red Dam Baptist Church, 488 Red Dam Rd., Hardeeville, will host a Fifth Sunday Sing Fest at 6 p.m. Jan. 31 in the sanctuary. The event, which is free and open to the public, will be followed by a finger-foods reception in the Fellowship Hall.

For more information, call 843-7846083, or email info@reddambaptistchurch.org.

• Memory Matters will offer Dementia Dialogues, a free, five-part series on Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, from 1 to 3 p.m. each Monday in February at Hilton Head Presbyterian Church, 235 William Hilton Pkwy.

The training will be held in Ilderton Hall, and will be led by Melissa Dalton of Memory Matters. The sessions are

designed to educate individuals who care for persons who exhibit signs and symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias.

Registration is required. To attend or for more information, call 843-842-6688 or email Melissa@memory-matters.org • Parenting in the Digital Age, a free seminar, will be held at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 1 at Cross Schools, 495 Buckwalter Pkwy.

The seminar will be led by Joe Ryan, education coordinator for Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Office of the Attorney General.

Topics will include online safety, personal information, social media, online predators and cyberbullying.

For more information, call 843-7062000, visit www.crossschools.org or find Cross-Schools on Facebook.

• The Maye River Quilters will meet Feb. 6 at Palmetto Electric Cooperative, 1 Cooperative Way, Hardeeville.

The social will start at 9:30 a.m. with the meeting following at 10 a.m.

For more information call 843-7572526.

• The Women’s Association of Hilton Head Island will hold a luncheon at 11 a.m. Feb. 9 at Sonesta Resort, featuring TV director Martha Mitchell as guest speaker.

Mitchell started in the industry in 1982 as a script supervisor before rising through the ranks to direct more than 100 nighttime television shows in various genres, including crime, medical and family dramas such as “NCIS,” “Chicago Hope,” “House,” “Mercy,” “Judging Amy” and “Bluebloods.”

Luncheon at noon will follow the social hour. Tickets are $30 for members, $38 for non-members, and guests are welcome to attend.

Reservations are required by Jan. 29.

To reserve, email lunch.WAHHI @gmail.com.

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Jan. 20, 2016

Business Briefs • Gary Muller has joined Town Square Realty, located in the Okatie Shopping Center, as a broker-associate.

After graduating from Rutgers University and Seton Hall University, his background and Gary Muller work experience have spanned many areas, including education, communication and customer service. In addition, he has 25+ years’ experience in real estate in Florida and South Carolina.

His wife, Pat Muller, who is also a licensed real estate agent, is extremely helpful, assisting Gary in all aspects of his real estate profession. The Mullers, who live in Sun City Hilton Head, have expressed their joy in finding the “ideal” community and area in which to live and are always eager to show it off to family, friends and prospective buyers.

Muller can be reached at 803-3703722 or via email at pgmuller@ hargray.com.

• Susan and Lloyd Richardson, owners of a CruiseOne franchise in Bluffton, recently completed an intensive training program to become certified CruiseOne Vacation Specialists.

As a result of being part of a national, home-based travel agent franchise network, the Richardsons will have access to all of CruiseOne’s exclusive, elite product and service offerings.

The certification required in-depth training and workshops, product briefings, computer systems orientation, and onboard ship inspections at the CruiseOne training center in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Susan Richardson, a former U.S. Army Nurse, and Lloyd Richardson, a former U.S. Foreign Service Officer, have traveled the globe for many years, personally experiencing some of its most exotic and romantic destinations.

The Richardsons use their experiences to help clients plan their excursions.

Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and weekends by appointment. For more information, call 843-970-9070 or visit www.susanlloydtravel.com.

• The Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce will host the 2016 State of the Bases Breakfast at 8 a.m. Jan. 21 at the Beaufort Holiday Inn & Suites, 2225 Boundary St. in Beaufort.

Col. Peter Buck, commanding officer of the Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, will be the keynote speaker. There will also be updates from military leaders at Parris Island and Naval Hospital Beaufort as well as leaders from the South Carolina Military Base Task Force.

During the event, the Chamber’s Military Affairs Committee will recognize the Military Family of the Quarter, which is sponsored by Atlantic Marine Corps Communities.

Cost to attend is $15 for members and $20 for non-members. Tables of eight may be reserved for $120. Cost includes full breakfast buffet.

To RSVP, call the Chamber office at 843-525-8500.

• Utah-based Extra Space Storage, owner and operator of self-storage properties, has acquired SmartStop Self Storage Inc., including the storage facility on Red Cedar Street in Bluffton and 164 other stores.

The total purchase price was approximately $1.4 billion. The acquisition was finalized in October.

For more information, visit www.extraspace.com.

CORRECTION A Business Spotlight article in the Dec. 15, 2015, issue of The Bluffton Sun incorrectly stated two facts about the installation of Sun City Hilton Head's first residential solar-electric energy system last fall. At the recommendation of the Solar Subcommittee of the Modifications Committee, the Sun City Board of Directors approved changes to the Design Guidelines in May 2015 to allow solar panels in the community.

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

Voice of Reform

P H OTO S U B M I T T E D

Fourteenth Circuit Solicitor Duffie Stone, along with Gov. Nikki Haley and other members of the South Carolina Domestic Violence Task Force, held a Statehouse press conference on Jan. 7, announcing the implantations of the first set of significant, statewide reforms to address domestic violence in the state. The Governor’s Executive Budget Recommendation for FY 2016-17 for prosecuting domestic violence includes funding for an additional 144 prosecutors, three new judges and 88 new public defenders. Stone, who was the only solicitor asked by the governor to speak, said it was a great day in South Carolina as the state reaches a “turning point” in the fight against domestic violence. The 14th Judicial Circuit includes Allendale, Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton and Allendale Counties.

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Jan. 20, 2016

BUSINESS

Don’t get hacked: Five ways to safeguard business data

By Keith Fletcher CONTRIBUTOR

In today’s age of digital information nothing is more important than keeping your data secure. However, we see stories in the news all the time about large corporations and governments having information stolen.

But, those large corporations aren’t the only ones at risk. The fact is that more than 70 percent of security breaches are targeted at small businesses. In fact, if you are a small business owner, there is a 50-50 chance your company will be the victim of a cyber attack.

You might be thinking if large corporations can’t seem to avoid cyber crime, there’s little you can do to prevent the same thing from happening to your business. But there are several things you can do to safeguard your online data.

In many cases, especially with today’s sophisticated hacking schemes, there aren’t as many telltale signs of being hacked as you might imagine. However, you should always be alert for: • Slow or lagging computer response time; • Pop-up windows that you can’t close • Your contacts reporting questionable or strange emails from your account that you did not send; • Strange programs or websites asking for your credentials.

If you do discover malware or a virus in your system, you’ll first want to see if any data was compromised. Recovering that information is usually impossible, but your priority is to piece together what happened, how bad it was and which customers might have been impacted.

Preventing breaches Many businesses discover the weaknesses in their online security protocols only after they suffer a data breach. It’s often only after getting the situation under control that steps are taken to

tighten security to prevent another incident from happening. But experiencing a breach should not be a prerequisite to taking the basic steps to prevent one.

To best minimize the risk of an attack, you should do the following simple things: 1. Back up your data daily. While you should back up data to an external drive, it’s important to back up regularly, and to secure backups in a different location from your computer.

The most reliable way to safeguard files is to back up to a cloud server with multiple security and failure-protection protocols.

2. Have a good firewall. A firewall is designed to prevent unauthorized access to or from a private network. Firewalls can be implemented in both hardware and software, or a combination of both.

If you have more than one computer connected in a small office network, you should have a hardware firewall to protect your network.

3. Install antivirus software on all computers. Antivirus and anti-malware software is used to prevent, detect and remove malicious software.

4. Use an anti-spam system. “Spam” is most often defined as electronic junk mail or junk newsgroup postings. More than just annoying, spam can also eat up network bandwidth and might carry attachments with viruses or spyware.

5. Multiple backups. Again, the single most important thing is to make sure you regularly back up your computers and servers, but go a step farther and ensure you have multiple backups or multiple versions of the backup.

Above all, understand that your business needs to stay vigilant and informed from the risks a cyber-attack could have on your company, your reputation and your future.

Keith Fletcher is the Chief Operations Officer at Speros, a technology solutions company. kfletcher@speros.com

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

Bowling Champs

P H OTO S U B M I T T E D

These Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Special Olympics adult bowlers all earned medals in the state games held in Greenville and qualified for the National Special Olympics Bowling Competition to be held in Reno, Nev., in March. The bowlers are, from left, top row, Nick Mikkelson, Corey McCall, Scott Truitt, Steve Cole; bottom row, Jane-o Sum, Lindsay Persoon, Katie Usefara. From 4 to 7 p.m. Jan. 24, a fundraising event, “Road to Reno,� will be held at Station 300 in Bluffton to help send these local athletes to the national competition. Guests can participate in bowling, fun, food and silent auction. Call Marion McCall at 843-422-6256 for tickets and details.

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Jan. 20, 2016

LEGAL

Revocable trust a good way to avoid probate limbo

By Mark F. Winn CONTRIBUTOR

Many people do not realize that a will alone can cause assets to be held in probate court for months, even years. A will only directs where assets should go, not how they get there.

The probate process is closely supervised by the court and highly regulated by procedures mandated by probate law.

Because the process often necessitates an attorney, a will alone often leads to unnecessary fees, costs and taxes.

Attorneys who handle probate matters typically charge from $250 to $400 per hour.

Probate fees, payable to the Treasurer, are based on the value of the probate estate. In Beaufort County, the fee to the County Treasurer alone would exceed $1,800 for a probate estate worth $1 million.

So you see how the money can add up.

A revocable living trust is an excellent way to avoid probate limbo. It is called revocable because it can be changed. It is a living trust because it is created while the creator (you, the “settlor” or

“grantor”) is living.

Initially, the agreement is between the person making the trust and the person who is to benefit from the trust (the same person). The agreement also names who will serve as trustee once the creator becomes disabled or dies.

This allows all the assets legally titled in the name of the trust to pass automatically to the successor trustee (usually spouse, then children) upon disability or death.

All the trust assets are immediately transferred to the successor trustee with directions, avoiding probate altogether.

That’s because the assets held in the trust are not considered probate assets.

Without a trust, many assets can be probate assets, which require they be listed for all the public to see.

Allowing a loved one to avoid unnecessary probate with a trust is a valuable gift that can ease the pain of loss. It won’t make losing a loved one any easier, but it sure will reduce unwanted delay and cost.

Mark F. Winn, J.D., Master of Laws (LL.M.) in estate planning, is a local trust, asset protection, probate and estate planning attorney. www.mwinnesq.com

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

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HEALTH

Movie draws attention to sports-related head injury

By Dr. George Warner CONTRIBUTOR

It seems that sports-related traumatic head injuries are always sitting on the cusp of being a highly charged topic.

Recently it has been a prevalent conversation because of the film “Concussion,” starring Will Smith.

This biographical sports thriller and medical drama is about a physician who fought against efforts by the NFL to suppress his research on the brain damage suffered by professional football players.

A concussion is typically related to a head trauma caused by biomechanical forces such as an injury that results in temporary loss of normal brain function.

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, there are 1.6 million to 3.8 million recorded sportsrelated concussions annually in the United States. This number is most likely

underestimated because of all the concussions that do not present for medical attention. In the U.S., males have the most concussions by sheer number.

Pediatrics and adolescents also have some of the highest rates.

Concussions are most commonly caused by a blow to the head, and in many cases there are no external signs of head trauma. It takes multiple caregivers to manage a concussion, and those closest to the athlete or patient need to know what important questions need to be entertained.

This “team” approach can be made up of trainers, coaches, family, teachers, pediatricians and other physicians.

Once a concussion is suspected, the player should be removed from play for initial assessment. The player should undergo serial post-concussion assessments until there are no concussive signs or symptoms while at rest.

Then, sprinting, drills, and sport-specific exercise can be introduced as long as the player remains asymptomatic. If the patient and the people closest to him do not resolve each step to identify the concussion, the risk for injury becomes significantly higher when they return to play.

The signs and symptoms of a concussion can fall into many categories. The cognitive and mental status changes to monitor might include amnesia, confusion, inattention, disorientation and cognitive slowing.

You will also want to pay attention to the person’s physical symptoms. The physical indicators to watch for are headaches, nausea, light and sound sensitivity, incoordination, slurred speech and blurry vision.

Head trauma such as concussions can be recurrent and accumulate microinjuries to the brain that go underesti-

mated over time. Every potential concussion or head injury needs to be well documented. In some cases the brain can have adverse responses to the injuries, causing advanced neurodegenerative disorders similar to Alzheimer’s.

Many concussions could be preventable if the proper changes in equipment, techniques and rules are made across the board. Examples might include not allowing headers in soccer and having harsher penalties for head-to-head contact in football.

There are available concussion grading tools and programs available for pregame activities, during a game, and during rehabilitation. The movie “Concussion” is bringing knowledge to the forefront and has the potential to help athletes to better understand the potentially devastating head injury.

Dr. George Warner is a Neurologist at Coastal Carolina Hospital.

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Jan. 20, 2016

Beaufort Memorial’s CEO announces resignation BEAUFORT – After eight successful years of leading major growth and health initiatives for the notfor-profit Beaufort Memorial Hospital (BMH), President and CEO Rick Toomey announced he is leaving his position at Rick Toomey the end of 2016.

Toomey announced his resignation to the Executive Committee of the BMH Board of Trustees at a monthly meeting held last week.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my eightplus years working as the leader of this incredible organization,” Toomey said. “It has been an honor to work with the medical staff, employees, volunteers and leaders of Beaufort Memorial, and I could not be prouder of the work we’ve accomplished together during my tenure.”

Toomey joined BMH in November 2007 after serving 18 years as executive vice president and, later, president of Rocky Mount, N.C.-based Nash Health Care System.

Under his leadership, the hospital has seen tremendous growth in both providers and services. Among his accomplishments were the establishment of a robotic surgery program; the opening of a Wound Care Center; the renovations and expansions of both the Pratt Emergency Center and Intensive Care Unit; the opening of the Women’s Imaging Center; the development of a nationally designated Joint Replacement Center; the development of an interventional cardiology program; plans for a full renovation and expansion of the Collins Birthing Center, and the explosive growth of Beaufort Memorial Physician Partners, the hospital-owned practices and providers.

“Rick has been a tremendous leader whose experience in both hospital administration and health care consulting has paid dividends to Beaufort

Memorial and the community at large,” said BMH Board of Trustees chair Terry Murray. “We understand his desire to pursue other opportunities at this point in his career and are thankful that we will enjoy one more year with him while we begin the process of working together to find his replacement.”

“Rick’s integrity, compassion and dedication to our patients have been unwavering,” said Murray. “His shoes will, no doubt, be hard to fill,” she added.

Toomey’s longtime health care career has included positions in health care administration, health care consulting, and numerous board chairmanships with organizations like the North Carolina Hospital Association, South Carolina Hospital Association, Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Rocky Mount Chamber of Commerce.

A Greenville, S.C., native, Toomey is a graduate of Duke University, where he received his undergraduate degree in Management Science and his Master’s degree in Hospital Administration. He received his Doctor of Health Administration from the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. He also was inducted into MUSC’s College of Health Professions Hall of Fame.

“Rick’s education, experience, knowledge of health care issues and his proven track record as a strong leader were all reasons we hired him in 2007,” said former BMH Board chair Bill Paddock.

“When he was hired we wanted to raise the bar at our hospital – do more and do better. I enjoyed working with him as his board chair and we all are very proud of the work he has done to grow Beaufort Memorial into the strong, diverse organization it is today.”

Toomey and his wife, Dr. Linda Hawes, a board-certified nephrologist who works as a hospitalist at BMH, plan to stay in the Beaufort community, which they consider to be their home. Dr. Hawes will continue to work as a hospitalist at BMH.

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

Building a Better Future

P H OTO S U B M I T T E D

Agape Family Learning Center of Hardeeville spearheaded an event Jan. 9 to help the community with health care information and parental involvement with their children’s education.

The staff at Agape, led by Dr. Delois M. Young, CEO, joined with several other organizations to provide winter clothing to 50 children and food from the Agape food bank, help with reading skills, and information on health care services. From left are Dr. Debora W. Butler, vice chairman of the school board, District 2 in Jasper County; Joyce Gerald, director of AFLC afterschool program; and Marva Tigner, senior executive director of academics and federal programs. Representatives from Blue Cross Blue Shield also assisted with the program.

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Jan. 20, 2016

HEALTH

Different types of pink eye require different treatments

By Caroline Bundrick CONTRIBUTOR

Many of us have experienced one of our eyes becoming suddenly red and irritated. Sometimes it can be easy to pinpoint the cause; maybe something got into the eye or you were unable to dodge your toddler’s finger as it darted into your eye.

However, the redness often comes about with no obvious inciting factor.

We see many patients who come into the office thinking they might have pink eye.

What is pink eye, and what causes it?

Pink eye is actually a rather broad term that encompasses a variety of conditions. What immediately comes to mind when most people think of pink eye is something called bacterial conjunctivitis.

This is an acute infection; the eye is red, the eyelids are often swollen, and

there is a whitish-yellowish discharge present. Bacterial conjunctivitis is much more common in children than adults and is easily spread by physical touch.

The conjunctiva is a clear tissue that lies on top of the sclera, the white part of the eye. When it is inflamed, you have “conjunctivitis.”

A bacterial infection is just one thing that can cause this. You can also have a “pink eye” that is a response to a viral infection and is fittingly called viral conjunctivitis. This might occur at the same time as, or right after having, a common cold.

Viral conjunctivitis signs and symptoms are very similar to those of bacterial conjunctivitis: The eye is red and the eyelids might be swollen.

The eye will tend to tear a lot with a viral conjunctivitis and feel scratchy or irritated.

Both viral and bacterial forms might spread from one eye to the second eye within a few days, and we always recom-

mend washing hands, towels, pillowcases, etc.

A third cause of a “pink eye” is an allergic conjunctivitis. This condition looks a lot like a viral conjunctivitis, with a red eye, swollen eyelids and a watery discharge.

However, the distinguishing factor is often itching of the eye itself. This can range in severity and can be caused by a variety of allergens.

These are just a few of many causes of a “pink eye,” and they are all treated differently.

Pinning down the cause of a “pink eye” can be difficult, and it is always a good idea to pay your eye care professional a visit any time you develop a red, irritated eye.

Caroline Bundrick, O.D. is an optometrist practicing at Darling Eye Center, with offices in Bluffton and on Hilton Head Island.

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

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HEALTH

Older adults typically develop common benign skin growths

By Dr. Oswald Lightsey Mikell CONTRIBUTOR

Your skin is subject to a variety of common benign growths. In fact, most people develop at least one type of skin growth at some point in their lives, especially older adults.

Although most skin growths are painless and require no treatment, you might decide to have them removed if they become irritated by clothing or for cosmetic reasons Q: What can be done about skin tags?

A: Skin tags occur in almost half the population, most commonly in middle age. You should not attempt home remedies. The treatments for skin tags are simple and effective, but to avoid unnecessary health risks, a physician should perform them.

Q. How can I tell if my moles are dangerous?

A: Recognizing changes in your moles is crucial in detecting malignant melanoma and other cancerous skin growths at its earliest stage of development.

Look for these warning signs: asymmetry, ragged or irregular borders, or a change in color or size. If you notice any changes, make an appointment to have them checked right away.

Q: Recently I have developed some pale or colored warty growths on my face and back. What is it?

A: They might be seborrheic keratoses. They have a waxy, scaly, slightly elevated appearance. Occasionally they appear singly, but multiple growths are more common. These growths are normally painless and require no treatment.

You might decide, however, to have them removed if they become irritated by clothing or for cosmetic reasons.

Typically, seborrheic keratoses don’t

become cancerous, but they can look like skin cancer. You should have your dermatologist check to determine exactly what it is.

Q: How do I know if a cyst is harmful?

A: Many cysts aren’t harmful, but you might want to have them removed for cosmetic reasons, or to prevent them from becoming irritated or an abscess.

Your dermatologist can remove them in the office.

Q: Are freckles considered skin growths?

A: Freckles (ephilides) are not growths per se; they represent increased pigment in the skin and tend to darken with increased sun exposure in the summer and lighten in the winter. When present in large numbers, they indicate excessive sun damage and an increased risk of suninduced skin cancer.

Topical bleaching creams, chemical

peels or laser and light treatments can lighten freckles for cosmetic purposes.

Q: What is dermatographism?

A: Dermatographism means the ability to “write” on the skin. With this condition, the skin is sensitive to touch and pressure as well as scratching. The areas of skin that are touched or scratched get a raised, red and itchy rash.

If dermatographism is not particularly bothersome, then no treatment is needed. Symptoms can be decreased with the use of various antihistamines – those containing hydroxyzine seem to work especially well.

Most skin growths are benign and harmless, but differentiation from malignancy is essential. If you have concerns, call a dermatologist.

Dr. Oswald Lightsey Mikell, certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, is the owner of Dermatology Associates of the Lowcountry.

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The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 20, 2016

HEALTH

To be happier, focus on life’s everyday miracles

By Karen Doughtie CONTRIBUTOR

A miracle is an event not explicable by natural or scientific laws. Such an event might be attributed to a supernatural being (God or gods), magic, a miracle worker, a saint or a religious leader, according to Wikipedia.

I believe in miracles. I look for them in everyday life. When we focus on the miracles in our lives, we are happier.

Think about your miracles.

Healthy family relationships: Living under the same roof with the same people day in and day out can be strenuous on any relationship. Family relationships can be some of the closest, while at the same time, the most distant.

Personalities clash, feelings get hurt and bridges have a way of burning, often causing feuds that can lasts years.

This is especially difficult when caring for someone with dementia.

People who find themselves in situations like these might think, “It would take a miracle to fix our family.” And then a miracle happens.

Random acts of kindness: Cookies delivered to your door, a nice note in the mailbox or inbox, a smile from a stranger. These seemingly small acts can often have miraculous effects – from healing the sick to causing more kindness to be spread.

When one feels loved, he or she is more apt to show kindness toward others. Kindness is contagious.

What prompted me to write about miracles today?

I do look for miracles in everyday life, but recently three were presented to me on a silver platter.

A week before I went out of town for Christmas, I found a dog wandering around in a parking lot. She had no tags,

no microchip and was very scared. I took her home and before going to bed I wanted to see if she needed to relieve herself.

Long story short, she slipped out of the lead and ran. I felt totally responsible for this fur baby.

I found a similar looking dog on Google, posted a picture to Facebook, and five days later a family found her and fell in love with her. End result: happy family, happy puppy.

Then, while in Texas over Christmas my daddy became ill and was admitted to the hospital. He needed four blood transfusions and multiple tests.

Just before I left to come back to South Carolina he was released in good health.

I have been praying that my little sister and her long-time companion commit themselves to one another in marriage. They truly love one another but just have not been able to move forward. Good news: They are moving forward this year.

Make this your year of daily miracles.

Just keep an open mind and kind heart.

If you are caring for someone with dementia, it might also be a good year to let Memory Matters help you with resources, support, and exceptional day programs.

Don’t let another day go by without reaching out for help. Call us and talk with one of our dementia specialists at 843-842-6688.

Karen Doughtie is assistant director of Memory Matters, serving Bluffton and Hilton Head. karen@memory-matters.org

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

HEALTH

Recommended vaccines for the over-65 crowd

By Dr. William Kyle CONTRIBUTOR

Q: I am a fairly healthy 65-year-old on Medicare. Which vaccines should I get?

A: There are a handful of vaccines recommended for those who are 65 and older and in good health.

Most are given to Dr. William Kyle boost the immune system, because there is a slight decline in your body’s ability to fight infection as you age. Discuss with your healthcare provider if these vaccines are right for you.

The vaccines most commonly recommended are for shingles (Zostavax), pneumonia (Prevnar-13 and Pneumovax-23), tetanus (mostly Tdap) and influenza.

Zostavax prevents the rash caused by shingles and, most importantly, it alleviates the severe pain associated with the virus.

Although it is recommended and approved by most insurance companies for those 60 and older, Medicare does not pay for it. The average out-of-pocket cost for the vaccine is $250.

If you have a Medicare supplemental policy, it might cover a small portion.

Ideally, you should get the shingles vaccine before you begin receiving Medicare. It is a onetime vaccine, regardless of whether or not you have had shingles in the past.

Pneumovax-23 is recommended one time after age 65 to cover 23 important strains of pneumococcal pneumonia,

which is one of the most dangerous pneumonias.

Some patients with certain chronic health issues might get this vaccine earlier, but it will need to be repeated once after age 65. Medicare covers the Pneumovax-23 vaccine.

Prevnar-13 was recommended in 2014 for patients 65 and older. It covers the same strains of pneumococcal pneumonia as Pneumovax-23, as well as a couple extra strains.

If you have not received the Pneumovax-23, you should start with Prevnar-13. The vaccines are usually taken about a year apart. Prevnar-13 is a onetime vaccine that is covered by Medicare after age 65.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend everyone have a tetanus booster, or Tdap, every 10 years.

Most people should receive a onetime Tdap to protect against pertussis (whooping cough).

Medicare might not cover Tdap unless other medical events occur.

An influenza or flu shot is recommended yearly for most age groups. Medicare and most insurance plans cover it.

The varicella (chickenpox) vaccine is also recommended but might be unnecessary for most adults.

About 99 percent of people over the age of 40 have had chickenpox and carry immunities against the virus.

Talk to your healthcare provider about whether you need the varicella vaccine, or any other vaccines.

Dr. William Kyle is an internal (adult) medicine physician in practice at Memorial Health University Physicians-Legacy Center in Okatie.

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Jan. 20, 2016

HEALTH

Better to have hearing screened than belong to HOH club

By Joe Henne CONTRIBUTOR

According to the World Health Organization, as of March 2015, more than 360 million people worldwide have profound to disabling hearing loss.

Depending on the accuracy of the statistics, that number could be much higher – especially if we throw in the debate of affect and effect.

Since there is no legal definition of deafness comparable to the legal definition of blindness, “deaf” and “deafness” can have a variety of meanings.

I choose to open the deaf definition window to include “hard of hearing” as they are included in the deaf statistic whether they belong or not.

People of all ages can develop hearing loss; those over 50 years of age are particularly affected. Hearing loss is the third most common chronic disorder. It is

invisible and usually has a gradual progression.

Deafness has a profound influence, not only with the affected persons but with everyone around them. I know this because when I am viewing the television at a comfortable listening level and about 20 feet from the kitchen, I have great difficulty correctly answering any interrogatives from my wife. Obviously, I too am

joining the HOH (Hard Of Hearing) club. It is nice to know I am one of about 360 million others who have hearing issues.

Here are some hints to help us HOH-ers: • Speak clearly and naturally. It is not necessary to shout or exaggerate the message.

Maintain a normal tone of voice, speak clearly and slow down the rate of your speech (just a bit). Remember face to face at 5 to 10 feet is nearly perfect.

• Move closer. Reduce the distance between you and the listener, especially when there is background noise or other adverse listening conditions.

• Take the surroundings into account.

Do not try to converse from one room to another, or in rooms or places with dis-

traction (such as a vacuum cleaner or a chainsaw in fourth gear). These attempts lead to mutual frustration.

• Practice encouragement and patience (as in: “You know you really need to do something about your hearing issues ... maybe talk to your health practitioner, have your hearing screened by an audiologist, or perhaps talk to a hearing coach?) One can never lose with an honest, heartfelt discussion with no shouting or aggression.

It might be nice to be one of 360 million, but it’s better to have your hearing screened. If you have questions or concerns, feel free to email me at HearingBetterHearing@yahoo.com.

Happy Hearing New Year!

Joe Henne is a licensed audiologist who spends summer and fall on Drummond Island, Mich., and winters on Hilton Head Island.

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

WELLNESS

Don’t worry – take a deep breath and relax

By Regina Cannella CONTRIBUTOR

On a typical day, a 90-something Georgia native used to stroll to the town’s pub where he’d consume his usual meal of steak and potato, followed by no less than three whiskeys. Ambling back home, he’d smoke a cigar or cigarette, whichever he had handy.

After decades of consuming gobs of red meat, carbs galore, endless whiskeys and countless smokes, he was eventually asked the secret to his longevity. “I don’t worry about anything,” he said. “Never have.”

We, as a society, can learn a lot from this Southern sage. Worry creates stress.

Long-standing stress in our lives can lead to many physical imbalances and even disease.

How can we abstain from such a health-deteriorating habit such as worry?

One of the answers might be as close as your next breath. To breathe is to live.

We can live about three to seven minutes without it. Practicing deep breathing techniques might or might not be what our elderly Georgian did to not worry, but we can begin to practice allowing our breath to lengthen and deepen to positively benefit our physical, mental and emotional states.

When we deeply inhale and exhale for a period of time, all of our cells become increasingly oxygenated, saturating them with life-sustaining energy.

Deep breathing releases feel-good endorphins, exchanging worry for calm, replacing fear with peace and trading anger for ease. Deep breathing is free and you can practice it anywhere without anyone being the wiser.

Standing in a long line at the grocery store, feeling your ire rise? As you begin to breathe deeply, you’ll more easily release the building impatience.

Here’s a simple exercise to fold into your day as needed: Focus your mind on your lower belly, intending to breathe from here rather than your upper chest.

Inhale through your nose for a slow count of four, hold your breath for another four counts, and then exhale for a relaxed count of four.

Allow your stomach to inflate upon inhale and deflate while exhaling. Repeat at least three times – more is better. As you breathe deeply, include an inspiring phrase such as, “I am relaxed” or “I am at peace.”

You will soon find yourself feeling ever-increasing amounts of relaxation in your mind and body.

Allow the words of the Victorian era poetess, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, to take you into 2016 and have it be your best New Year ever: “He lives most life whoever breathes most air.”

Regina Cannella writes about various health issues from her home in Charleston.

This article is provided in collaboration with Health Smart in Bluffton. gina@health smartsc.com

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Jan. 20, 2016

WELLNESS

Travel events focus on whole foods, plant-based eating

By J Lanning Smith CONTRIBUTOR

Whole foods, plant-based eating is gaining ground throughout the United States and around the world. It’s not just a local phenomenon.

The admonition by Michael Pollan in his book and on his PBS J Lanning Smith Special, “In Defense of Food,” to “Eat food, mostly plants, not too much,” is being widely recognized.

Accordingly, there are lots of opportunities to take cruises, attend lectures and meet some of the gurus of this movement. This article presents a few of those opportunities coming up during the first eight months of 2016.

First, there is the Holistic Holiday at

Sea out of Miami, in which 20 local residents participated last year. This year the cruise is Feb. 27 to March 5, and it visits ports in the eastern Caribbean.

All the food served is whole foods, plant-based, so it’s an excellent way to take a vacation even if not attending the lectures.

Presenters on this cruise include Dr. T. Colin Campbell, Dr. Neal Barnard, Dr. Michael Greger, Dr. Michael Klaper – all of whom are pioneers in the movement – and that’s just four out of 47 people who will be making presentations on the cruise.

For more information or to sign up for the cruise go to www.holisticholiday atsea.com or call 877-844-7977 and choose option 2.

From April 23 to 30 is the Global Roots Total Health Conference in the Dominican Republic. This is a week that allows attendees to eat delicious plant-

based foods, play on the golden sands of Playa Dorado, learn to cook from worldfamous chefs like Del Stroufe, and learn about whole foods, plant-based eating from leading scientists and medical professionals.

Learn more about this immersion week at www.globalroots.net.

Then on June 17 through 19, the Remedy Toronto conference will be held at the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel in Toronto, Canada.

This conference includes six allincluded plant-based buffet meals along with a lineup of all-star speakers

including Dr. Richard Oppenlander, Lindsay Nixon (aka The Happy Herbivore), Brenda Davis, Dr. Garth Davis, Jane Esselstyn, John Pierre, Doug Lisle and more.

Sign up for this conference is at www.cvent.com/events/remedy-foodlive-event/event-summaryea74f423dda04bc0a6d9b1bea1c2a280 .aspx. By using the discount code EAT SMART, registrants can get 20 percent off the conference charges.

Finally, the Esselstyn family will be hosting Plant-Stock at their family farm in New York on Aug. 20-21 in Claverack, N.Y. This outdoor event includes great food and great speakers as well. Readers can go to www.engine2diet .com/eatstrongplant-stock to learn more and to sign up for this conference.

J Lanning Smith is a local freelance writer focused on the whole foods, plantbased lifestyle.

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

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WELLNESS

Journal your way to health and happiness

By Maria Malcolm CONTRIBUTOR

At this time of year, most of us have a laundry list of self-improvement projects to be completed in 2016.

Whether your goals involve greater mindfulness, healthier relationships or better self-esteem, writing in a journal can be a powerful tool.

A journal provides an opportunity for self-reflection, goal-tracking or recording the ebb and flow of emotions.

Psychotherapy clients can use a journal as a bridge between sessions, maintaining daily awareness of treatment issues and providing excellent data for subsequent therapy appointments.

Journals can take a variety of forms.

Some of us are “old school” and prefer to use pen on paper. Others prefer a digital journal kept on a PC or laptop, somewhat akin to a personal blog.

Others utilize smart-phone capabilities and record a series of voice memos, available anytime, anywhere.

The format one chooses is purely personal.

Journaling is powerful because it reflects your commitment to personal growth and to making reflection a part of one’s day.

Here are some tips for getting started.

• Suspend judgment: Adopt a curious and nonjudgmental attitude toward your entries.

Remember that this is for your personal growth, not to be sent to a publisher.

• Establish a routine: Try to make a place in your daily routine for your journal entry. It can take as little as 5 minutes, but still needs to be a priority. If daily journaling sounds overwhelming,

plan to check in two to three times per week. Remember that consistency is key.

• Be honest: If you want to collect good data, you have to be honest with yourself. Try to state your goal or focus area at the start of each entry, and then proceed to honestly assess your current progress. This might be a place where

you’ll need to remember the first tip (be nonjudgmental.)

• Give yourself credit: Every time you make a journal entry, give yourself a pat on the back. Regardless of the entry’s content, you just “showed up” for yourself, and that deserves recognition.

Journaling is one of those “small steps” practices, where growth needs time to emerge.

Journaling can be used to track progress toward fitness goals, to process mental health issues, or to document one’s journey toward compassion and self-awareness.

Make this inexpensive and flexible tool your own. If consistently utilized, your journal practice can yield many valuable rewards and insights.

Maria Malcolm Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist and associate at Psychological & Counseling Associates of the Lowcountry.

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Jan. 20, 2016

SENIORS

Does your elder loved one need help at home?

By Rachel Carson CONTRIBUTOR

For most people, the word “home” conjures up good feelings of safety, warmth and love. Nearly 90 percent of seniors say that home is where they want to be.

One of the reasons for wanting to stay home is fear of the potential loss of independence. They want to maintain their lifestyle.

They don’t want to be dependent, so they deny their need for assistance and might make poor decisions that negatively impact their health and safety.

It is important to look for signs that these seniors might need help. If these warning signs are ignored, it could very well lead to the kind of dependence they are trying to avoid.

Warning signs can be divided into three categories: Physical symptoms and mental or emotional changes, loss of attention, or environmental clues.

Physical or emotional changes might be: • Persistent fatigue and loss of energy • Loss of interest in their usual social activities or hobbies • A major change in mood or attitude • Difficulty getting up, standing, decreased balance or unsteady walking • Loss of weight or diminished appetite Loss of attention: • Changes in physical appearance and hygiene • Diminished driving skills, poor car maintenance • Difficulty concentrating or memory loss • Poor judgment Environmental changes could be: • Poor housekeeping and lack of home maintenance • Spoiled or expired food in refrigerator, freezer or drawers

• Evidence of spilled food, soiled carpet, clutter • Stacks of mail or unpaid bills • Loose towel rods from pulling up to stand All the above are clues that the senior needs assistance to remain at home. So what do you do about your concerns?

1. Share your concerns with your loved one.

2. Encourage a medical checkup.

Determine if he or she is taking medications as ordered and drinking lots of water to avoid dehydration.

3. Do a safety check of the home to avoid falls. Do adaptations need to be made, especially in the kitchen and bathroom?

If your loved one is having difficulty with household tasks, personal grooming, preparing meals, housekeeping or needs transportation, consider home care services to help them remain in their home where they really want to be.

Let your loved one know you are acting out of concern and trying to help them maintain independence.

Community services to deliver meals may be available. In some areas neighbors help neighbors through volunteers who provide occasional transportation or weekly “check-in” calls. The home safety check on www.caregiverstress.com is also a great resource.

When you care about someone, you don’t want to recognize diminishing capacities. Be her advocate and protect her from falls, hazards, medication errors, anything harmful. After all, if she was your child you would certainly make sure she was safe and healthy. Why not do the same for your senior loved ones?

Rachel Carson, Certified Senior Advisor, is the owner of Home Instead Senior Care serving The Lowcountry since 1997.

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

SENIORS

Allen Kupfer: The human spirit can endure

By Jessica Goody CONTRIBUTOR

Allen Kupfer is one of the lucky ones.

The Sun City resident and Holocaust survivor has experienced more loss, pain and cruelty in his 92 years than most, yet it has left him with an open heart and an abiding faith in humanity.

When the Nazis invaded Poland, Kupfer’s family was forced into the Warsaw ghetto. “I had to wear a Star of David on my arm,” he remembers.

“People died of hunger because the rations were barely enough.” Kupfer saw Orthodox men being forced to walk on burning coals. “The spirit of the Jewish people is unbelievable,” he said. His parents were sent to Belzec, an extermination camp on the Russian border. “I lost all my family in one day. Only my sister and I survived,” he said.

Sixteen-year-old Allen and his younger sister Rita were sent to work in the Hasag Munitions Factory. “As a youngster, I would go under the fence and forage whatever I could carry with me. I’d come back under the fence into the camp and we would split the food: a potato, a piece of bread.”

After escaping, Kupfer took shelter in haystacks and barns, living on crops that he helped farm. “When harvest time came, I helped myself from the fields. I ate a lot of corn and roasted potatoes in the ground,” he said. “You don’t know how much a human being can endure. A person will do anything to survive.”

The Macugowski family rescued him.

“I had nowhere to go. It was December, and I slept in a hole in the ground, halffrozen to death,” he said. “They are the two biggest heroes in my life, because they risked their lives hiding Jews. Some of us were lucky, some of us were not so lucky.”

After the war, Kupfer returned to the ghetto to try to locate any surviving rela-

P H OTO B Y J E S S I C A G O O DY

Allen Kupfer at home in Sun City Hilton Head.

tives. He said that 142 members of his family that he knows of perished during the Holocaust.

In 1949, the United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Administration provided him with passage to America. “I brought $3 to the United States,” Kupfer recalled. “When I saw the Statue of Liberty, I went down on my knees and cried.”

He settled in Chicago and worked in the garment import business. He and his former wife, Lillian, also an Auschwitz survivor, became U.S. citizens in 1954.

Kupfer met his partner, Blanche Frank, 25 years ago while on a Sierra Club campout in Kentucky. They have lived in Sun City for 18 years.

Kupfer was instrumental in the creation of the educational statute requiring that the Holocaust be taught in Illinois schools. “Anti-semitism, it’s here and it’s alive,” he said. “Hate is the disease of humanity.”

Kupfer’s deep-seated appreciation of life has inspired him to live every day to the fullest. “Life itself depends on attitude,” he said. “I don’t hate. Hate brings you to terrible things.” Despite all that he has experienced, “I never lost faith in people,” said Kupfer.

Jessica Goody of Bluffton has written two volumes of poetry and is working on her first novel.

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Jan. 20, 2016

BEAUTY

Starting off the New Year with a whole new look

Diana Deal before her New Year’s makeover

By Joy Ross CONTRIBUTOR

Happy, healthy 2016 to all, and thank you for being loyal readers. I hope this year will be full of wonderful makeovers and hair tips.

Dianna Deal has been a client of mine for quite some time. She has more hair than most people should be allowed to have, and it’s wavy and it gets frizzy.

It’s basically your typical problematic hair for our climate.

We have been highlighting and low lighting it, and I had given her a bi-level haircut that she wore nicely for quite some time.

After the first of the year she decided she wanted a whole new look.

That, of course, made my day, because her hair was slowly morphing into the wrong shape.

The upside-down triangle I preach about was slowly becoming a right-sideup triangle, which isn’t flattering on anybody. I know I’ve said that a million times, but it still stands true. So we needed to start over.

I decided she needed to be lighter, and she wholeheartedly agreed. “Nature’s blonde” (i.e. gray) was becoming more prevalent in her hair, and we both agreed that we needed to embrace it and work with it. This will save her time and

Diana after highlights, Brazilian blowout and cut

money in the future.

I heavily highlighted it, which took out a lot of the brassiness left from her previous color. The little bit that remained gave it enough contrast and added some dimension.

I then decided to do a Brazilian blowout. For those of you who missed my previous article, this treatment is perfect for this climate and her type of hair.

It calms the frizziness and makes the hair so much more manageable without removing the body, which is exactly what most people need.

It came out absolutely gorgeous and did not take out the body but took out the frizz and the waviness, and it was shiny and perfect.

The final part to the makeover was to get rid of the bi-level haircut and give her a stacked bob.

The shape of the stacked bob put her back to the upside down triangle that we all want, bringing the focus to her cheekbones instead of her jowls.

Her profile now brings attention to her crown instead of making her neck look thick. I gave her a nice, soft side bang to soften her forehead.

A new “do” for the new year, and a happy client to boot.

Joy Ross is owner of Style It Salon in Old Town Bluffton. www.styleitsalon.com

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

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Jan. 20, 2016

PETS

Clicker training can help improve basic skills

By Abby Bird CONTRIBUTOR

For most owners, having their puppy and eventually their dog listen to the basic commands and learn everyday skills is sufficient for their dog to become an acceptable pet.

Basic commands such as Come, Lie Down, Stay, Go to Your Place, and skills such as loose leash walking, curb jumping, barking, and good manners when greeting other people or dogs are necessary, everyday commands that help make living with your dog a joy.

If you work with your dog when he is young or at least when you get him as an older pup or a dog and practice repetitions, your dog will achieve these to your liking.

For some dogs and owners this is not sufficient. Many dogs have difficulty attaining the degree of fluency and immediacy that are necessary to keep them safe or to make their social skills what they need to be in a community.

For those dogs, some of whom are immature, stubborn, have attention deficit disorder, or just have limited desire to please their owners, then Clicker Training at a more advanced training level may be for them and for you.

Once your dog has learned the basic skills but needs to do better with things such as immediacy, consistency, ignoring distractions, distance and duration, consider taking a Clicker Training class.

What does clicker training do?

Clickers provide a sound bridge between the command and the approval and reward for having done the skill correctly. It can help to improve your dog’s behavior as well as his obedience.

Simplistically explained, give the dog a cue or command and when he acts upon it, Click, Treat and Praise. If he

doesn’t perform the desired behavior, no Click or Treat. This method allows you to proof for distance, distraction, duration, accuracy, consistency and speed.

Distance: Will your dog’s response be just as good when he is 100 yards away as when only six feet away?

Distractions: Will your dog respond just as well when there is another dog nearby or when in a pet store as he does in your own home?

Duration: Does your dog Stay when told to Sit or Lie Down, or does he get right up?

Accuracy and Discrimination: When told to Sit, does your dog Lie Down instead? Or does your dog give paw even when not commanded to do so?

Speed: Does your dog take too long to respond to the cue command or to enact or complete the behavior?

A clicker gives the dog a sound to listen for which results in receiving a treat. This sound takes much of your voice out of training, enabling your dog to respond with more consistency and even more quickly. Once they get the hang of it many dogs improve their skills dramatically. If trained with clicker and repetition, the dog will perform with more reliability in realistic, distracting environments and situations.

Abby Bird is owner of Alpha Dog Obedience Training. ajbird@hargray.com

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

Island club hosts regional bridge tournament Feb. 8-14 The Lowcountry Classic Mid-Atlantic Bridge Conference Regional Tournament will be held Feb. 8 through 14 at the Marriott Resort and Spa. The event, the second largest regional bridge tournament in the U.S., is a popular draw for snowbirds and more than 2,000 locals.

The Hilton Head Island Bridge Club hosts the tournament every other year.

The event brings an estimated $1 million in revenue to local businesses. ”It’s a getaway from cold-weather country, but there’s no doubt that everybody’s there for the competition,” said tournament chair Ann Grindstaff. “For bridge players, this is one of the ultimate events for them to come to. We attract some of the highest caliber players in the country.”

There is a special newcomer-intermediate program, with free play all day Feb. 9 for players with 0 to 5 master points.

Carol Kerr, intermediate-novice organizer, said Hilton Head is lucky to have a biennial regional tournament in its backyard. “To see the Marriott ballroom filled with bridge players is an incredible sight for newcomers to the game,” Kerr said.

Registration gifts, prizes for section tops and overall winners, and an open hospitality suite are part of the tournament package.

Expert teachers and professional bridge players will be giving lectures daily.

The tournament costs $11 for each session, but no pre-registration is required. For more information about the event, call Grindstaff at 843-3416337 or Dave McClintock at 843-7052704.

To see the Hilton Head Island Bridge Club’s daily game schedule and winter class schedule visit www.bridgewebs .com/hiltonheadisland.

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Jan. 20, 2016

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The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 20, 2016

SPORTS

Learn to make your game work with the winds of winter

By Lou Marino CONTRIBUTOR

Now that we’re in our Lowcountry winter, the wind tends to be more noticeably having an effect on our tennis games. One minute the ball is there, no, here – no, wait, where did it go??

Well, here are some ways you just might be able to work with windy conditions and get more favorable results rather than being “blown away”: • Footwork. Use lots of little steps to get your body in position to hit the ball.

Two of the best examples to watch from the tennis archives are Jimmy Connors and Billie Jean King (that’s going back a while!).

They had great footwork and always seemed to be poised and balanced to hit the ball. Taking big steps will make you prone to the wind moving the ball one way while you’re going the other way.

• Improve your margin of error.

Instead of aiming for the lines, try hitting the ball about a foot or two inside them.

Aim a little higher over the net and add more topspin to help keep the ball in the court.

Also, be sure to contact the ball firmly, especially when hitting into the wind.

Hitting too easy allows the wind to be more of a factor.

• Shorten your backswing. A big backswing will give the wind more time to do crazy things to the ball before you actually contact it, causing a mis-hit, or worse, a complete whiff.

• Hit with different spins, and use the drop shot.

Practice using these two tools, coupled with the effects of the wind and you can wreak havoc on an opponent.

• Be ready to get to the net as soon as possible. If your opponent is hitting

into the wind, chances are a lot of balls will be short and you should be ready to put them away.

• Hit your serve with a little more spin vs. power. Remember, spin already makes the served ball move when it bounces, so let the wind help do even more to keep the opposition guessing.

Take your time serving because the wind might affect your toss. Catch the ball and toss it again if the wind moves it around too much.

• Overheads. Again, take your time.

Let it bounce (if necessary) and you’ll be better prepared to make the hit.

Here’s to hoping you enjoy working with the winds of winter tennis in the Lowcountry.

Lou Marino is a USPTA Cardio and Youth Tennis coach who lives and teaches in the greater Bluffton/Hilton Head Island area.

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

Marathon, half marathon set for Feb. 13 on island The Publix Hilton Head Island Marathon and Half Marathon and 5K will be held Feb. 13, departing at 8 a.m. from Jarvis Creek Park.

The Half Marathon course takes participants through two parks and over Broad Creek. The Marathon travels over the Broad Creek twice, runs through Spanish Wells Plantation, Point Comfort, and Honey Horn. The Marathon is a Boston Qualifier that is fast and flat except for the bridge crossings.

Both The Marathon and Half Marathon will feature all standard male and female divisions.

Marathon Race Day will also feature a 5K Run-Walk, Children’s Fun Run, and post-race party with live music, vendors and a craft beer garden with more then 20 different styles of beer.

A percentage of proceeds will benefit several Hilton Head Island area charities,

including Hilton Head Rotary Club, Hilton Head Island High School Athletic Department and Junior ROTC, Hilton Head Christian Academy and others.

“Over the course of the past 12 years, this event has donated over $42,000 to area charities and in 2016 we look forward to increasing our total,” said Mark Weisner, race director.

The Publix Hilton Head Island Marathon, Half Marathon and 5K is presented by Hilton Head Hospital, Island Car Wash, Village Park Homes, Kennedy & Blackshirt Attorneys at Law, and Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport.

The combined events will be limited to a total of 2,500 participants. Online registration is open. To register or for more information, call Bear Foot Sports at 843-757-8520 or visit www.bearfoot sports.com/heels.

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Jan. 20, 2016

SPORTS

Stretching exercises help improve range of motion

By Jean Harris CONTRIBUTOR

Don’t put your golf game on the back burner during the colder weather.

Winter is the time to work on your physical fitness.

The time you put in exercising during the winter will show up with lower scores in the spring.

You don’t have to go to a gym to work on your flexibility and range of motion.

Start with flexibility exercises.

According to golf fitness expert Roger Fredericks, lack of flexibility is the number one problem in the golf swing.

Our sedentary, sitting-at-the-computer lifestyle has weakened some muscles, tightened others and might make it difficult to get into position to make a proper golf swing.

The good news is that everyone can improve their range of motion by

• Sitting wall: Sit tall against a wall.

Press your shoulders into the wall and make sure your tailbone is close to the wall.

Pull your feet back while pressing knees to floor. Hold this pose for two P H OTO B Y R I TA S P R I G G S minutes.

Dr. Jean Harris demonstrates the plank, an exercise that help golfers – • Hip crossover: or anyone – improve posture.

Lie on the floor with stretching the right muscles in the right both knees bent and feet flat on the floor, way. A good place to start is with posture. arms out to the side. Raise left leg so left Rounded shoulders and forward head thigh is perpendicular to floor. are common problems. Also tightness in Cross right ankle over left knee and the hip flexors makes it difficult to main- press right knee away from you. tain your spine angle during your swing.

Now roll right knee and foot over left Here are some great stretches to until right foot is firmly on the floor. improve your posture and strengthen the Hold for one minute and switch to oppocore. site side. Repeat two times on each side.

• Bridge: This exercise stretches the hip flexors and strengthens the lower back. Lie on back with knees bent and arms at your sides.

Raise hips and hold for 20 seconds.

Repeat six times.

• Planks: Lie on forearms as if you were about to do a push-up. Lift torso keeping hips level. Hold for 15 seconds.

Then lift one leg while keeping body propped up. Hold for 30 seconds and alternate to the other leg.

Repeat two times on each leg.

I will continue with golf fitness in my next article, giving you suggestions on cardiovascular endurance and classes you can take to improve your strength and endurance.

Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional and teaches at Brown Golf Management courses. jean.golfdoctor.harris @gmail.com; www.golfdoctorjean.com

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

SPORTS

Fifth annual Sporting Clays event benefits CRF

P H OTO S U B M I T T E D

This happy foursome enjoyed the day-long CRF Sporting Clays Shoot in 2015. From left are Chris Spires, Ryan McCarthy, Craig Gilmour and Jeff Spencer. The event benefits Children’s Relief Fund, a nonprofit provider of services and resources for special needs children.

The fifth annual CRF Sporting Clays Shoot will be held Jan. 29 at Forest City Gun Club in Savannah.

The shoot has grown in popularity into a full day of competition and camaraderie, offering a unique way to support the mission of Children’s Relief Fund.

CRF, a nonprofit 501(c)(3), provides benefits and services for children and families with special needs in the Bluffton and Hilton Head Island area. CRF is the primary financial supporter of Challenge Camp at the Island Recreation Association and Area 8 Special Olympics.

“The event has been a tremendous success because participants see the real and immediate need to support those with special needs,” said Clays Shoot organizer Fuzzy Davis. “This is a fun shoot, and the money raised has a serious impact on our community.”

Forest City Gun Club is the oldest and largest continuously operating skeet, trap and sporting clays private club in the

U.S. The day kicks off with a Lowcountry lunch by Jim ’N’ Nick’s BBQ. Trick shooter Michael Perry will return to dazzle the crowd with an exhibition, and a silent auction and awards reception will conclude the festivities.

This year the CRF Sporting Clays will benefit a new non-profit, Pockets Full of Sunshine, whose mission is to help those with special needs transition their individual skills into jobs and become active members of their communities while helping the environment by crafting recycled materials into sellable products.

“The neat thing about our event is that anyone can participate and make a difference, whether you’re a shooter or not,” said participant-organizer RJ Bartholomew.

For more information, contact Carol Bartholomew at 843-384-1315 or register online at www.thechildrensrelief fund.org.

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Jan. 20, 2016

BRIDGE

Using Stayman convention to find your major suit fit CONTRIBUTOR

One of my favorite things about January is filling in my new calendar – with bridge dates, of course. I hope you will do the same and jumpstart your January by learning new tools for your bridge game.

Kathie Walsh Are you up to speed with modern no trump bidding?

Our favorite opening bid in bridge is 1 No Trump, and it shows a hand of 15 to 17 total points.

Our favorite contract to play in, however, is a major suit, because suit contracts are usually easier to play and make than no trump contracts.

Do you know how to use Stayman

and Jacoby transfers? These two conventions are quickly becoming a part of Standard American Bridge because they allow you and partner to find a major suit fit (eight or more cards in hearts or spades.)

After your partner opens 1 No Trump, you use Stayman to ask your partner if she has a four-card major, and you use transfers to tell your partner you have five or more cards in a major suit.

Stayman is the bid that the responder makes when he has “2-4-8.” That is, he bids 2 clubs with a 4 card major and 8 or more points.

The no trump bidder then bids 2 diamonds with no four-card major. A bid of 2 hearts by opener shows four hearts and possibly four spades; a 2 spades bid by

now re-bids 2 hearts. What is your call with the following hands?

1. AQ87 Q876 98 K82 2. KQ87 87 AJ76 987 3. A3 K432 876 J876 4. QJ87 A3 9876 Q98 5. A987 QJ4 KJ876 4

opener shows four spades but not four hearts. Now the responder must show the opener her point count.

In brief, Stayman asks the No Trump opener if she has a four card major, but remember, responder must have the magic 8 points to use this convention.

Try a few. Your partner opens 1 No Trump; you respond 2 clubs. Partner

This winter the Hilton Head Island Bridge Club will offer Friday workshops on using and understanding Stayman and Jacoby transfers after partner opens 1NT. All workshops begin at 10 a.m. and end at noon. It’s time to get your New Year “on” by filling in all those empty Friday boxes on your 2016 calendar with reminders of bridge lessons.

Kathie Walsh is a certified ABTA teacher at Hilton Head Island Bridge Club. kbwalsh@roadrunner.com Answers: 1. 4H; 2. 3NT 3. 3H; 4. 2NT; 5. 3NT

By Kathie Walsh

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

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SAFETY

How to safely use a portable fire extinguisher

By Cinda Seamon CONTRIBUTOR

When used properly, a portable fire extinguisher can limit property damage and prevent injuries.

When should you use an extinguisher and attempt to fight the fire?

• When the fire department has been Cinda Seamon called – get the experts on the way • Everyone is evacuating the building • The fire is contained to a small area and not spreading • You have an easy escape route • You have the right fire extinguisher Every fire extinguisher is designed to fight a certain class or classes of fire.

There are various classes of fire, and

identifying these will help you select the right fire extinguisher.

The classes are normally printed on the box of the extinguisher and the extinguisher itself. For home use, most people will need an ABC extinguisher.

Keep in mind that using the wrong type of fire extinguisher can cause a fire to spread and place you in greater danger.

Class A – ordinary combustibles such as wood, cloth, paper, rubber upholstery and many plastics.

Class B – flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, grease, tar, oil-based paint, etc. (Best example is a grease fire on the stove.)

Class C – energized electrical equipment, including wiring, fuse boxes, circuit breakers and appliances.

A home fire extinguisher is recom-

mended for each floor level in the home or anywhere there is a risk. It should be placed near an exit in the event a fire breaks out. Keep extinguishers easy for adults to see but out of the reach of children.

Most extinguishers have printed or visual how-to instructions for use right on the extinguisher. Make sure you understand them before a fire breaks out.

The time of the emergency is not the time to be figuring out how to use an extinguisher.

There is an acronoym that might help you remember how to use an extinguisher: P-A-S-S This means: • Pull the pin to unlock the handle. (It is located at the top of the unit.)

• Aim low at the base of the fire.

• Squeeze the handle that will release the extinguishing agent.

• Sweep from side to side at the base of the fire.

After using an extinguisher, either replace it or have it serviced. Most home extinguishers are for one-time use.

If at any time the fire spreads, smoke starts to fill the room or you feel overwhelmed, cut your losses and get out.

Cinda Seamon is the fire and life safety educator for the Town of Hilton Head Island Fire & Rescue.

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The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 20, 2016

PARENTS

Group offers parents new way of coping with grief

By Amy Coyne Bredeson CONTRIBUTOR

Irene Vouvalides lost her 24-year-old daughter, Carly Hughes, to esophagealgastric cancer in February 2013. But the Bluffton woman feels her daughter is never far from her side.

A special song plays on Pandora and she is reminded of her presence. A session with a medium revealed things only Vouvalides and her daughter would know.

Like probably most parents who have lost a child, Vouvalides thought she could not live without her daughter.

After finding a group online called Helping Parents Heal, she realized maybe she could.

Helping Parents Heal is a nonprofit organization that gives grieving parents the opportunity to meet with other parents whose children have died. The

doorway into the afterlife?”

Vouvalides has started her own chapter of Helping Parents Heal, which meets from 1 to 3 p.m. the second Sunday of every month in the Seaquins Ballroom in Bluffton. (Note: The next meeting will be held Feb. 7 instead of on the second P H OTO B Y A M Y C OY N E B R E D E S O N Sunday.)

Irene Vouvalides leads a group meeting of Helping Parents Heal.

The group, along with group provides resources to help parents this alternative way of thinking about through the healing process and encour- death, has given Vouvalides peace. So has ages them to share their spiritual experistarting a foundation in her daughter’s ences of their children in the afterlife. name.

“I truly believe that consciousness surDuring her time at Boston College, vives death of the physical body, and if where she earned a degree in education consciousness survives, there must be a and mathematics, Hughes led a service place that we go,” Vouvalides said. “What trip to the oldest African-American if you thought of death, instead of being Catholic School in the country, Holy an ending, as being stepping through a Family School in Natchez, Miss. The

school was and still is struggling with finances, and Hughes was dedicated to helping the children.

After Hughes’ death, her boyfriend, Mike Hughes (coincidentally, they had the same last name), and her mother started Carly’s Kids – A Foundation for Education.

Carly’s Kids supports Holy Family School as well as esophageal cancer research at Columbia University Medical Center.

“I’m just looking to be able to help other people, to offer hope, to say, ‘Yeah, we’ve got dealt the worst possible deal,’” Vouvalides said. “There could be nothing worse that happens to a person than losing a child … But maybe we can open our hearts to other people, and maybe we could help some other people.”

Amy Coyne Bredeson of Bluffton is a freelance writer, a mother of two and a volunteer with the Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance.

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

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THE PURPOSEFUL TRAVELER

Plan side trips in advance for successful travel experience

By Stuart Blickstein CONTRIBUTOR

Karen and I (mostly Karen) are in the midst of filling in details for our upcoming trip to South America. As it often is with us, this is a triple combination of a cruise, a land tour and some onour-own travel.

Successful trips require careful planning, which you can do by yourself or with some professional help.

We generally find the “tour” the easiest part to plan. Once you have selected an operator who can show you what you want to see at a price that suits you, planning is largely done. You may accept or decline some optional tours, but that’s about it.

Adding your own pre- or post-trips to a package can be a bit more challenging.

You will need to choose and book a mode of travel, a place to stay and sights to see.

Internet-based booking is really not

difficult, and travel advice websites abound. Use your search engine to home in on your needs.

While a really knowledgeable travel agent or friends who have “done that” can also be very helpful, be sure to choose knowledgeable advisors who have “been there.”

Surprisingly, it is the cruise portion that has occupied most of our planning for this trip. While all vessels offer shore excursions at each port of call, these

might not meet your requirements. They tend to be large groups and somewhat impersonal for our taste.

Cruises around South America offer many opportunities to see penguins, but often not much else. These shore excursions are easy to select and book and, while we love wildlife, one or two rookeries are enough, so we have spent a lot of time surfing the web for local suppliers.

Many ports offer excellent tours by

certified local guides with as few as two to eight passengers and the flexibility to do some customizing for you. Ratings and recommendations are readily found online, but the volume of offers makes the search time consuming.

Be sure the guide has good recommendations and speaks your language.

When you are using the cruise line’s shore excursions, select them in advance, well before you embark. That way you will have time to create more variety in your excursions and avoid being closed out by booking too late. Space is often limited.

Travel planning need not be difficult, and Karen and I find it to be a pleasurable part of the overall experience.

Keep on trippin.’

Despite more than five decades of travel, Stuart Blickstein still delights in finding new and exciting experiences. thepurposefultraveler@gmail.com

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The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 20, 2016

GARDEN

Lawns and gardens need tending in winter, too

By Edward Poenicke CONTRIBUTOR

With all the cold weather we’ve been having, many of our perennial plants look sad with dead branches and flower stalks, but take pleasure in knowing they will be coming back this spring.

Just leave this dead foliage alone until mid-February and then prune out the dead material. This dead material is protecting the plant from further damage by not exposing healthy tissue to more cold damage.

Continue to fertilize your winter flowering plantings to help support new growth, flower development and blooms.

By fertilizing on a regular basis, the plants keep growing slowly during the winter waiting for when the weather warms up so the plants can explode with growth and color.

Continue to remove leaves off the

lawn so the grass can dry out and not have disease waiting to attack as the new grass starts to grow this spring.

If you have not run a soil sample to check your pH, do so now to get the maximum benefit from the fertilizer applied later this spring. If the pH is low,

dolomitic lime is applied now to help raise the pH. Continue to do weed control throughout the winter months to help control winter weeds and early germinating spring weeds. By treating weeds now, you reduce the stress on your lawn

later as it is greening up.

It’s time to prune crape myrtles now.

You want to remove most of last year’s growth and any weak limbs or limbs that cross through the middle of the plant.

When you are finished pruning, the plant should look like fingers pointing upward.

It’s also a good time to mulch your shrub and flower beds to refresh the bed outlines and add a little bit of new mulch to help replace the mulch that has broken down.

It’s time to spray shrubs for insects, such as scale, that have built up on the underside of leaves or stems of the plant.

Lawns should have weeds treated to remove them and reduce any new weeds from germinating at this time.

Edward Poenicke is a retired Chatham County extension agent. This article is provided in collaboration with Lawn Doctor of Beaufort County.

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

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REAL ESTATE

2015 a very good year for Bluffton real estate CONTRIBUTOR

Over the past year, residential real estate sales in Bluffton have perked up and continue to pace forward as we start the New Year.

For the most part, 2015 was a great year for residential real estate in the Bluffton and Hilton Head area. Market statistics (as of Dec. 10, 2015) provided by the Hilton Head Area Association of Realtors indicate that sales were up almost 20 percent, and the median sales price increased by about 8 percent.

Here are some additional market area statistics that might be of interest to you: • In the Bluffton area, new listings were up 17.3 percent, closed sales up 18.8 percent, median sales price up 8.6 percent, and the percent of list price received was 97 percent.

• In Sun City and Riverbend, new listings were up 5.4 percent, closed sales nearly the same as last year, median sales price up 9.1 percent, and the percent of list price received was 97.5 percent.

• In Oldfield, new listings were down 2.9 percent, closed sales up 28.6 percent, median sales price up 29.3 percent, and the percent of list price received was 96.4 percent.

• In Moss Creek, new listings were up 12.5 percent, closed sales up 5 percent, median sales price up 10.6 percent, and the percent of list price received was 94 percent.

• In Hampton Hall, new listings were the same as last year, closed sales up 42.5 percent, median sales price up 20.7 percent, and the percent of list price received was 96.5 percent.

• In off-plantation Bluffton, new list-

ings were up 18 percent, closed sales up 26.8 percent, median sales price up 12.7 percent, and the percent of list price received was 97.2 percent.

If you would like to see the 2015 market area statistics for your plantation

or development, please contact your favorite local real estate expert for a current market update.

If you would like to know the value of your home in today’s real estate market, ask your agent to include that information as well.

Speaking of home values, as of Dec. 18, what do you think was the asking price of the most expensive listing in the Bluffton area? And where was that home located?

Wishing you a Happy New Year, and great real estate values and experiences in 2016.

Larry Stoller is a real estate consultant and advertising executive who loves living in Bluffton and helping real estate agents and sellers get homes sold.

Answers: $12,600,000 in Colleton River Plantation, and described as the “Crown Jewel of South Carolina.”

By Larry Stoller

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The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 20, 2016

FAITH

Each day a gift when viewed through lens of faith

By Pete Berntson CONTRIBUTOR

A highly anticipated Christmas present, a new calendar adorned with treasured photos and artwork by grandchildren, has been put into service. The new year of 2016 has officially arrived!

Numbered boxes Pete Berntson are neatly arranged in rows of weeks and pages of months.

Innocuous in appearance, this simple tool will be both the determiner of my priorities and the recorder of my memories.

Some boxes came pre-filled with critical dates so that this patriarch wouldn’t be able to claim forgetfulness of key family birthdays, wedding anniversaries

or planned gatherings. For my part, I have already placed notices of appointments and meetings and upcoming events in particular boxes so those too would not be overlooked.

But as is common in the early days of a new year, most of the many square boxes are still empty.

Each awaits the possibility that a word, a name, a time, a place will be written within its small space.

Each of these boxes waits for something to hold, to guard in trust, for those of us who each morning scan the lines of boxes to know what is to come.

Even though there seems to be an abundance of open space on this 2016 calendar, I acknowledge that none of us are promised a full page or even a complete line of boxes. Some day, one day, our journey from one box to the next,

from one page to the following page, will come to an end.

Yet those of us who view all of life through the lens of faith know that each and every day, whether it is a box filled with activities that spill out over the lines or one entirely empty, is a day given to us as a gift from God – a gift to be opened

and a gift to be treasured even as it is enjoyed and experienced to the fullest of our ability. For I trust in a God who is ever at work for good in the world and in me, and who delights in surprising and filling me with awe and wonder.

But it will be my choice. I can ignore the signs of God’s work around and in me, or I can be intentional in expressing great gratitude as into each little box I place a reminder of the grace from God that I have experienced that day.

And with that, whether 2016 holds for me 366 days or just one more, it does not matter. In any case, I will give thanks to God for all that has been and will say yes to all that lies ahead.

May it be so for you as well, in 2016.

Pete Berntson is the pastor of Church of the Palms United Methodist Church in Okatie.

Jan. 20, 2016

The Bluffton Sun

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CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING FOR SALE: 2014 SPECIALIZED LANGSTER STREET 10TH ANNIVERSARY edition bicycle, fixed gear at its finest, without those pesky brakes. Frame is aluminum alloy, fork is carbon fiber. New inner tubes, Cinelli tape, headset. If you've never ridden brakeless, I recommend you try. It's kind of scary at first, but then you realize that you have all the control in your legs. You will build a ridiculous amount of muscle if you keep at it. $700. 347-746-8611.

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The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 20, 2016