• Welcome to our new editor 19A
• Josephine Wright’s fight 14A
• Town awards preservation grant 10A
• Back to school tips for 529 Withdrawals 12A
• Record external funding at USCB 17A
• Beware medicaid renewal scams 22A
• Community in need of volunteers 34A
Bluffton – with its numerous galleries, festivals, performing arts, and beautiful parks – has been designated by the South Carolina Arts Commission as a cultural district. It’s one of nine in the state so labeled, including Camden, Congaree Vista, Florence, Greenwood, Lancaster, Spartanburg and Beaufort.
What would it look like if Bluffton beyond the Old Town cultural district became an actual public art gallery with sculptures, murals, decorative elements or environmental art?
That is what’s behind the town’s Public Art Policy and its soon-to-be-named committee.
“What we’re working with now is trying to figure out how to embrace it and grow,” said Town Manager Stephen Steese. “We’re doing a public art policy that’s going to extend beyond the cultural district and cover the entire town. This is another tool that the town is putting together as an investment in the cultural arts.”
Charlene Gardner, owner of Four Corners Gallery in Bluffton, said the earlier effort to designate Bluffton as a cultural community began with Doreen Bauman, a transplant who thought it would be fitting to make Bluffton even more sought after as an arts destination.
“She recognized that art was a driving economic force in Bluffton, and she thought that we certainly fit the bill for this opportunity. It was really quite a nice opportunity for us to be designated,” said Gardner.
The state’s vision of a cultural designation is one that is walkable and easily identified by visitors and locals as a center of cultural, artistic and economic activity.
“A cultural district may contain galleries, live performance venues, theaters, artist studios, museums, arts centers, arts schools, and public art pieces,” states the Arts Commission’s website.
In order to maintain its standing, Bluffton must continue to meet the requirements outlined in the original
application. The town’s new art policy fits right in with developing the image of a cultural destination.
The Bluffton Urban Sketchers group leader Pam Johnson-Brickell considers
Bluffton’s designation as very important.
“Calhoun Street is loaded with galler-
Please see CULTURAL ARTS on page 8A
BOARD-CERTIFIED, FELLOWSHIP-TRAINED GASTROENTEROLOGIST
Board-certified and fellowship-trained, Dr. Sciarra specializes in performing routine and complex GI procedures as well as in treating chronic and acute GI disease. Born, raised, educated and trained as a physician in New Jersey, Dr. Sciarra also had practiced in the state 15 miles from where he grew up for the entirety of his medical career before coming to the Lowcountry. In private practice at Riverview Gastroenterology in Edgewater since 1997, he was on the medical staff at three nearby medical centers; the director of the gastroenterology fellowship program at Hackensack Meridian/Palisades Medical Center in North Bergen and Hackensack; and an associate professor at Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine in New York City.
At Lowcountry Medical Group, Wilkinson works to promote patients’ digestive health, assisting its board-certified gastroenterology team with clinical assessment and pre- and post-operative care. An experienced nurse practitioner, most recently she worked at Tampa General Hospital Urgent Care in Florida and assisted in the opening of the Clinical Decision Unit in TGH’s emergency department. She has also done missionary work in West Africa.
BOARD-CERTIFIED NURSE PRACTITIONER
Doctor of Osteopathy
University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey School of Osteopathic Medicine
Residency
Internal Medicine
St. Michael’s Medical Center
Newark, N.J.
Fellowship
Gastroenterology
St. Michael’s Medical Center
Newark, N.J.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
University of Delaware
Master of Science in Nursing
Family Nurse Practitioner
University of Delaware
Our former Editor, Lynne Hummell, has filled this space in virtually every edition of The Bluffton Sun and The Hilton Head Sun since her arrival in 2009 - over 170 columns. Lynne wanted to call it “Sunny Side Up” which was a perfect title for a commentary that filled us all with joy, laughter, optimism, sentimentality, wonder, motivation and, occasionally, sorrow.
And we knew our readers read and enjoyed her musings because of countless anecdotal stories such as this:
One of our ad guys was at a chamber meeting talking with a few clients and a woman rushed up to him, after noticing his Bluffton Sun name tag, and said “I take you to bed twice a month!” She then told the surprised ad guy that when the Bluffton Sun arrives in her mailbox, she grabs it and runs upstairs and locks her bedroom door, jumps into bed, and reads the entire paper, starting with Lynne’s column, while her kids plead with her to open
the door.”
During her tenure here, Lynne was a beacon of profound insight and sensibility. As a long-time resident her local knowledge of the Lowcountry was immense and invaluable and her writing and editing was in total sync with the Bluffton and Hilton Head communities we serve. In fact, we heard time after time from Sun City residents and readers of The Bluffton Sun that they would love a Sun paper of their own, so we created The Sun City Sun. The same was true of Hilton Head residents that continually requested a Sun paper of their own and the Hilton Head Sun was launched. Much of this success and reader loyalty was due to Lynne’s tireless efforts over the years. It is a rarity these days to find newspapers that are expanding and growing like our Sun publications. Most are slashing local news budgets and filling their pages with national and international news that you have seen on other media days before. Every bit of the
editorial content in our papers is produced locally and was magically edited into a readable, well-written and enjoyable local journalism by Lynne and Lynne alone.
As our readership, distribution and advertising support grew, so did our page counts and the amount of editorial content. Lynne never wavered from her responsibility to produce quality content about our neighbors, businesses, social trends, education, sports and more that our readers would enjoy, savor, and learn from. Whether our papers contained 24 pages every month to upwards of 220 or more, our readers could always count on a paper that was interesting, well written and on time! Lynne’s professional and personal relationships with her writers, correspondents, co-workers, and readers was always congenial which was not always easy to achieve as the mighty pressurized print deadlines loomed.
Well, Lynne is off on her well-deserved new
journeys. While most of us view retirement as a time to watch “The Price Is Right”, play some golf, or collect stamps on our passports, Lynne said she has a wish list that starts off with “writing a book, taking short trips and long naps.” Knowing Lynne, she will want to spend much more time with “her boys”- her long-time husband, local noted artist, Amos and sons, Clark and Chandler. Her ongoing and relentless responsibilities here at the papers prevented her from enjoying a leisurely life and we are sure she will fill her time with interesting experiences, hobbies, and adventures.
We are hoping that Lynne can find the time to occasionally fill this space with her wonderful prose in the future. In the meantime, we wish her a wealth of good health and boundless happiness as she enjoys her long overdue next steps in her journey.
-Her Bluffton, Hilton Head and Sun City Sun co-workers
Current Circulation Via USPS is 24,720
Finalist: Small Business of the Year, HHI-Bluffton Chamber. Winner of the SAPA General Excellence Award; 1st place, Front Page Design; 2nd place, Most Improved Publication; and 3rd place, Self-Promotion Advertising. IFPA-SAPA 3rd Place, Business Coverage
PUBLISHER
Kevin Aylmer, kevina@blufftonsun.com
EDITOR
Megan Aylmer, editor@blufftonsun.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Melanie Dodson
Wendy Price
OFFICE MANAGER
Melissa McCullough
Abby Bird
Erica Brown
Shannon Bullion
Bob Colyer
Tom Dorsel
Collins Doughtie
E. Ronald Finger
James Hamilton
Jean Harris
Gwyneth J. Saunders
By Weston Newton CONTRIBUTOR
Bakari Sellers
Mikaelah Seifrit
Eric Skipper
Larry Stoller
Weston Newton
Mark F. Winn
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For more information, contact: Kevin Aylmer PO Box 2056, Bluffton, SC 29910 843-757-9507, 843-757-9506 (fax)
Physical address: 14D Johnston Way Bluffton, SC 29910
All contents are copyrighted by Lowcountry Local Media Inc. All rights reserved. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. 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. Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, Greater Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, Old Town Bluffton Merchants Society.
As discussed last month in this space, while the Legislative Session for 2023 concluded in midMay, the Governor in consultation with the House and Senate leadership “called” us back to session to resolve differences between the House and Senate on a handful of issues including bond reform and fentanyl trafficking as well as to finalize the budget. The House’s commitment to prioritizing public safety and the diligent work of the Judiciary Committee, which I chair yielded results. Lives will be saved and South Carolina will be a safer place to live, work and play as a result of the legislature’s activities this session. The Fentanyl Trafficking bill (H 3503) which was signed into law on June 17 establishes and enhances criminal penalties for fentanyl trafficking and possession. It provides a person in possession of 5 grams or more of fentanyl is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 7 years or more and establishes a possession with intent to distribute charge for a person with 2 grains of fentanyl (presumed to be dealing) with a first offense of up to 15 years, a second
offense of a mandatory 5 years up to 30 and a subsequent offense mandatory 10 year sentence up to 30. The bill adds a simple possession charge starting with 2 grains with graduated penalties for first second and third offenses of up to 5, 10 and 15 years respectively. Finally, the bill prohibits persons convicted of certain drug offenses from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
On June 20, the Bond Reform bill (H3532) which amends a number of sections of existing law dealing with bonds, pretrial release, electronic monitoring, and related criminal proceedings was signed into law. The bill, aimed at stopping the revolving door at the courthouse, creates a new criminal offense with a sentence of up to 5 years when a person commits a violent crime while out on a bond for a previous offense and provides that a person must pay a 100% cash bond if the person commits a violent offense or felony firearm offense while already out on bond for a previous offense. Further, this bill provides that a person who commits a violent offense or felony firearm charge while out on bond for a previous violent offense or felony firearm charge must have an immediate bond revocation and a hearing on a new bond must be held within 30 days. The bill also creates a uniform electronic monitoring system and allows judges to order electronic monitoring in addition to bond if the judge finds that a victim may be in
danger. Finally, the legislation requires bondsman to report violations of conditions of release within 48 hours subject to fines or suspension or revocation of the bondsman’s license for failure to do so.
On July, 12, the Governor held a ceremonial signing of the Ignition Interlock bill (S36) which expands “Emma’s Law”, the 2014 ignition interlock device law named after a 6 year old girl (Emma Longstreet) killed by a drunk driver on New Year’s day 2012. Now anyone convicted of driving under the influence in SC with a blood alcohol level (BAC) in excess of .08% will have to blow into a device installed in their vehicle proving they are sober in order for the vehicle to start; if any measurable of alcohol is detected the vehicle will not start. Previously the law applied to drunk driving convictions with a BAC .15% or higher or a second DUI offense. According to the SC Highway Patrol 1/3rd of the 1037 traffic fatalities last year were due to alcohol. These expansion of the use of these devices which stopped close to 25,000 vehicle starts in SC last year will make SC a safer place. It is an honor and privilege to serve in the House of Representatives. If I may be of service please do not hesitate to call on me.
Weston Newton is the representative for District 120 in the State House of Representatives. WestonNewton@ schouse.gov
Do you have some thoughts you w ould like to share about local issues? Have you wanted to commend a local business or organization for its good work in the com-
munity?
The Bluffton Sun welcomes letters to the editor from Bluffton residents or visitors. Letters must be no longer than 250 words. Longer op-
ed pieces on timely topics will be considered on an individual basis. All submissions must include the writer’s name, address and phone number. Email submissions to edi-
With this feature, we seek to capture a glimpse of what you and your neighbors have to say about a variety of topics, issues, events; and
just plain fun questions. You might see us anywhere around town with notepad and camera, randomly seeking out folks
who are willing to participate. If we find you, we hope you will want to respond.
At the Palm Trees & Pistons Car
Show at Sea Turtle Marketplace, we asked: “what was your favorite car of your past?”
Since 1981, everyone here at Epperson Service Experts has kept one thing top of mind: providing the residents of the Epperson community peace of mind by keeping them comfortable in their own homes. For over 40 years, we’ve remained as locally minded as ever—through good times and not-so-good times.
To deliver the service you deserve, our Experts are ACE certified (like a master’s degree for HVAC technicians) and have passed comprehensive screenings and background checks. Our work is backed by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee and in addition to 24/7 service, we offer membership programs to cover your every HVAC need. Just give us a call to enroll or learn more.
ies. We live in the most beautiful area on the East Coast but then I’m biased,” she said. “We live in vacationland and sketchers from all over the world come here.”
Local artist Doug Corkern, a local retired architect who is as well known for his sketches of Bluffton’s people and places as he is for the buildings he has designed – such as the Campbell Chapel A.M.E. Church – said what is important to him “is all these icons in Bluffton that we can sketch.
“We have some beautiful historic architecture, beautiful animals, beautiful people and interesting characters in Bluffton,” he said. “I see that as a great place to live, not just an invitation to other people.”
Steese said the public art policy was developed through conversations with the local artists and residents who were involved with cultural events such as symposiums, special exhibits, performances and creative activities.
“The cultural district would be important because that would be where we look for art, but we have some other places such as the New Riverside Barn park, Buckwalter Park, the police department and our other parks and facilities throughout town where we might want to put art,” he said.
The document details the criteria for art selection, information about the development of a public art master plan, and the process for identifying and selecting art and artists.
When it comes to what kinds of artistic endeavors will be considered, one might say the sky is the limit. The goal is to involve local, regional and national artists of diverse backgrounds to create and provide: sculptures of all kinds in any approved material; paintings in all media, portable or permanently affixed to its location; graphic arts; mosaics; crafts both functional and ornamental; photography; mixed media; earth works and environmental installations; light-based or luminal art; sound art; video and animation; and portable art that may be displayed at various locations.
Numerous variations are possible within each of the categories. That fits into Bluffton’s unique artistic style and fortunes.
Since art can cost a fortune, funding will come from various sources. Each fiscal year, the town will designate funds to be maintained in the Capital Improvements Fund account for public art. Funds can be allocated from the General Fund, State Accommodations Tax Fund, Local Accommodations Tax Fund, Hospitality Tax Fund or other accounts.
There is also an opportunity for private funding through donations, Steese said. Knowing there would be a public art policy, the town established a 501(c)3 nonprofit within the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry called the Town of Bluffton Parks and Public Art Fund.
“We have people who wanted to donate a bench in somebody’s honor. It’s the same thing – if we have somebody who wants to donate a piece of art, or donate money for art, they have a way to do that through the foundation,” said Steese. “Private funds that are donated for public art will be put directly into the Public Art Account or held by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry per our partnership.”
Bluffton’s artistic and cultural community is woven into its character.
“It has been an economic force for Bluffton for a long time. Babbie Guscio set the tone for the town back in the day with her store,” said Gardner. “You never know what you’ll find in her store from one time to another. She changes all the time, promotes a different artist, a different product. It’s always fluid.”
The announcement for the Public Art Committee went out in April, and since then Steese and others have interviewed a diversity of individuals who are connected in one way or another with the art community as well as representatives of the Bluffton Cultural District Advisory Committee. The seven-member committee will be introduced at the Aug. 8 town council meeting.
Escape to the place where fun and relaxation meet.
Escape to island-inspired living as you grow older, but not up. Escape to Latitude Margaritaville.
On June 29, 2023 The Town awarded an Historic Preservation Grant to the Historic Bluffton Foundation for exterior renovations to the enslaved cabin on the grounds of the Heyward House Museum and Visitors Center, located at 70 Boundary Street. The $12,075.00 Grant will help cover the cost of the project.
This is the second grant awarded to the Historic Bluffton Foundation. It also received a $20,000 grant in December 2022 for exterior renovations to the Heyward House. The Town’s Historic Preservation Grant Program, established in January 2022, is available to owners of “Contributing Resources” to the Old Town Bluffton Historic District to financially assist in the preservation, restoration, or rehabilitation of these structures so, collectively, these will continue to represent the history of Bluffton. To date, more than $60,000 has been awarded under the Program.
Bluffton currently has 84 structures on its list of “Contributing Resources” which means these homes, church-
es, schools, and other resources (i.e., non-structures which include the Heyward and Huger coves,) significantly
contribute to the Bluffton’s history and tell a story about our collective past.
“The Town’s historic preservation grants help ensure these meaningful components of Bluffton’s history won’t be lost to time,” Mayor Lisa Sulka said.
“Town leaders and staff are fully aware the template to maintain Bluffton’s spirit, starts with preserving it’s ‘sense of place.’
“Bluffton’s structures and stories of our past influence Bluffton’s unique identity and continues to influence our community pride.”
Owners of qualifying structures in the Old Town Bluffton Historic District can apply for grants up to $30,000 for residential structures and for up to $20,000 for non-residential/commercial structures.
For more information contact the Town’s historic preservationist Glen Umberger at gumberger@townofbluffton.com.
By Curtis Loftis CONTRIBUTOR
As a firm believer in the many benefits of saving with a Future Scholar 529 plan, I commend families who consistently contribute to their accounts to help pay for a loved one’s future education. They can be proud their dedication will provide funds to help cover qualified expenses for 529 beneficiaries taking the next important step in their educational journey.
When that exciting time comes, you won’t need to worry. The process of withdrawing 529 funds isn’t difficult. But as always, it helps to be prepared.
Most 529 plans will allow you to make a withdrawal request by accessing a form on their websites, by mail or by telephone. Usually, the most efficient way to receive your withdrawal is to have your funds deposited directly into your bank account or the beneficiary’s bank account. You can then simply submit the payment to your child’s school electronically or reimburse yourself if you have already paid for qualified education expenses.
If you choose this method to receive your funds, be sure to have your bank account on file with your 529 plan at least 30 days before you plan to withdraw your funds. Take time to visit the website of your child’s school to be sure of the date the payment is due. Sending your payment early will ensure you avoid class cancellation.
To avoid tax penalties, you will want the funds you withdraw to pay for qualified education expenses only. Qualified education expenses for higher education include tuition, fees, books, supplies, computers, equipment, meals and housing (if your student is at least part-time). For K-12, qualified education expenses include tuition up to $10,000 per year per beneficiary.
You will receive a Form 1099-Q at the end of the year for all withdrawals, but those used for qualified education expenses will not be taxed. In the event that funds are used for non-qualified purposes, the earnings portion, not the contributions themselves,
will be taxed and you may also incur a 10% federal tax penalty. Be sure to consult with a tax professional if you have any questions.
You should withdraw your funds in the same calendar year you plan to use them so that the year’s withdrawals match up with the year’s education expenses. Be sure to keep all of your receipts. Toward the end of the year, go back through expenditures to make sure you have withdrawn funds to cover all qualified education expenses. Be sure to give your 529 plan administrator enough time to process your withdrawal request in the same calendar year.
Helping your child prepare for higher education can raise lots of additional questions.
• Where can I use 529 funds? Your 529 funds can be used at any eligible educational institution in the U.S., as well as many international schools. These institutions include two- and four-year public and private colleges, graduate and professional programs, as well as vocational and technical schools. A full list of eligible institutions is on the Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) website.
• How does my 529 account affect financial aid? When determining eligibility for financial aid, funds in a 529 account are treated as the account owner’s, not the child’s, assets. In 2022, only 5.64% or less of the account’s value will be factored in for financial aid purposes.
• What if my child receives a scholarship? If your child is lucky enough to receive a scholarship, you may withdraw up to the full amount of the scholarship without tax penalty. You will only be responsible for paying income tax on the earnings portion of the withdrawal.
Congratulations on a job well done. You are providing a loved one with the incredibly important and lasting gift of education. Over the years, you’ve worked toward the meaningful goal of saving for your child’s future.
By Bakari Sellers CONTRIBUTOR
I’ve long believed in the power of local newspapers; I discussed it recently on an episode of my podcast with Slate writer Joel Anderson. As we see more and more local newspapers cut back on coverage and staff, and increase focus on national politics it becomes ever important for folks to stay engaged in what’s happening in their communities. Something happening right now in the Hilton Head and Bluffton area that has caught both national and local attention is the fight of Josephine Wright. The 93-year-old Hilton Head native has been fighting a development group who has been trying to force her to sell her land in Hilton Head to be part of a 147-unit neighborhood. Bailey Point Investment LLC, the development group behind the concerted effort to take property away from a black family in the community, has spent the last several months dragging Ms. Wright through the legal system.
The land had once belonged to her husband, a Gullah Geechee islander, before it passed to her after his death in 1998. It has been in her family since the end of the Civil War, and Ms Josphine has spent her entire life pouring heart and soul into maintaining it for generations to come. The fight has caught the attention of celebrities, from Tyler Perry to Kyrie Irving, who have contributed to a GoFundMe that was started to help the Wright family cover the costly legal battle, cover property taxes, and construct a fence between the Wright property and the new development. Bailey Point has already taken quite a bit from the community - the land that is now developed was once home to Hilton Head’s diverse wildlife and served as a reminder of what the island once looked like. I hope you’ll join me in working to make sure they don’t take more.
Bakari T. Sellers is an attorney, political commentator, and politician. He served in the South Carolina House of Representatives for the 90th District from 2006 to 2014.
“Paint makes walls and women look like what they ain’t.”
-A Southern Gentleman
Lowcountry homes are known for their timeless beauty, rich history, and distinct architectural styles. Our lovely region offers a unique blend of Southern elegance and coastal charm. One of the key elements that brings these homes to life is the selected paint colors. A quick stop to your local paint store is a must! Simply ask the paint professional “what is the color trend the builders are utilizing for the Lowcountry look?”
The popular choices are as follows:
Oyster White…SW7637 Inspired by the shells found along the Lowcountry’s pristine shores, Oyster White is a warm and inviting color choice for walls and trim. This off-white shade with subtle hints of beige and gray creates a cozy atmosphere while
reflecting natural light. Designers frequently use Oyster White as a neutral backdrop, allowing the furnishings and architectural details to take center stage. It complements a variety of design styles, from traditional to coastal contemporary.
Charleston Green…SW232b2b…or as we say around here, Belfair Green. It is a classic
color that pays homage to the historic city of Charleston. This deep, rich shade of blackgreen exudes sophistication and a touch of drama to any space. It is mainly used for front doors, mail boxes and cabinetry.
Haint Blue…SW6219, BMHC144, BehrMQ3-21…This soft blue-green shade is believed to ward off evil spirits and keep
homes cool during the scorching summer months. Home owners often apply Haint Blue to porch ceilings, believing that it mimics the color of the sky and helps to repel insects. Its calming hue adds a touch of tradition and authenticity to Lowcountry homes.
Savannah Moss…BM385…This paint captures the lush greenery and vibrant nature of the Lowcountry landscape. This earthy green shade brings a sense of freshness and vitality to any room. You can incorporate Savannah Moss into accent walls, or kitchen cabinets. It pairs beautifully with warm wood tones and brass accent. From the dramatic Charleston Green, and the traditional Haint Blue to the earthy Savannah Moss, these favorite paint colors capture the essence of the coastal beauty and historical heritage. By embracing these colors, homeowners can infuse their spaces with the same timeless elegance and effortless allure that make Lowcountry homes truly special.
By Eric Skipper CONTRIBUTOR
Since 2020, the University of South Carolina Beaufort has more than quadrupled externally sponsored funding, a testament to the talent and resourcefulness of its faculty and staff. Awards received during fiscal year 2023 respond to educational needs and other regional challenges the university is meeting head-on with the strength of its intellectual capital.
On a per capita basis, external funding at USCB outpaces that of many institutions classified as “high research,” or R2 designation in the Carnegie classification.
In September 2022, USCB’s Public Health program was awarded $1.5 million by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to provide students scholarships. In October 2022, USCB was announced as recipient of a $5.1 million Department of Education (ED) grant aimed at recruiting and retaining high-quality teacher candidates to serve Beaufort County School District’s (BCSD) high-need schools.
In April, USCB was awarded $1 million in HRSA funding to enhance healthcare workforce development in partnership with Beaufort Memorial Hospital, Beaufort County, and the City of Beaufort. Through grants from the Town of Hilton Head Island and the Town of Bluffton, USCB’s Center for Event Management and Hospitality Training continues to provide Island Ambassador training annually to hundreds of members of
our local workforce. Thanks to area donors, USCB offers a Summer Math Camp for rising junior and senior high school students from nearby underserved counties. In the fall, USCB was awarded a grant through the Partnership Among South Carolina Academic Libraries (PASCAL) consortium to make textbooks and other educational resources more affordable for our students.
In addition to educational projects, USCB focuses on regional problem solving, in alignment with the American Association of State College and University’s (AASCU) call for regional universities to be “Stewards of Places.”
In May, USCB received a $1 million planning grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for maritime cybersecurity. The grant positions USCB and its partners to apply for up to $160 million to cultivate a regional ecosystem for workforce and research development related to maritime cybersecurity. The NSF grant follows a $1.3 million DOD-funded grant for enhancing cybersecurity education in the region.
Active federal grants also include a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) grant for sustaining Gullah/ Geechee agriculture, an NSF grant for materials assembly and design, a Department of Transportation (DOT)-partnered grant for monitoring the environmental impact of noise levels emitted by ocean vessels, a pair of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)-partnered grants to promote estuarine health and sustainability, and a National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) stipend
Please see USCB on page 18A
USCB from page 17A
for a project studying 19th century women reformers in the Sea Islands.
Other projects are funded by regional and state donors such as the Port Royal Sound Foundation, the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, the Stewart Family Office, the SC Arts Commission, the USCB Education Foundation, private donors, Beaufort County, and the municipalities of Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, and Beaufort. These projects support educational endeavors, water quality, the health of our intracoastal waterways, cybersecurity, and others.
As part of the USC system, USCB faculty are eligible to apply for grants to support, in addition to their own research, student research projects.
USCB faculty are prolific in mentoring undergraduate and graduate researchers. It is one of many ways faculty engage students in experiential learning—or learning by doing—a hallmark of the USCB educa-
tional experience.
Moving forward, USCB is designing a water-themed Innovation Center that will focus on topics critical to regional vitality such as ecological studies, sustainability, and maritime cybersecurity. These efforts will be aided by the state’s commitment to supporting research and educational opportunities at Pritchards Island. Other projects in queue would support growth of USCB’s Nursing program and enhance STEM education opportunities.
USCB continues to elevate its impact on education and quality of life in the Lowcountry. The work would not be possible without the shared vision and support of partners across the Lowcountry and beyond.
Eric Skipper, Ph.D., is provost and executive vice chancellor for academic affairs at University of South Carolina Beaufort.
The Bluffton Sun, Hilton Head Sun, and Sun City Sun are pleased to announce the incoming of our new editor, Shannon Copcutt.
Shannon is an experienced editor with over ten years of staff leadership and a track record of motivating teams to produce innovating content across various platforms. She brings a wealth of experience and an exceptional track record to the family of Sun papers. Previously, Shannon served as the Executive Editor of ICD Publications, where she developed and oversaw the evolution of print and digital content strategy, directed editorial talent, and led overall brand strategy. After that that, she was the Editor-in-Chief of Focus On Publications where she oversaw, trained, and developed writers and associates, assistants and
junior editors to optimize production and quality of work.
When asked about her appointment, Shannon expressed her excitement saying, “I am honored to have been selected to represent these wonderful local publications and cannot wait to bring residents even more great community coverage.”
In her new role, Shannon will continue the work of outgoing editor, Lynne Hummel, in fostering an environment of collaboration, growth, and continuous improvement among the Sun publications. She will guide our editorial team in delivering stories, indepth analyses, and exclusive features that highlight life in the lowcountry and the lived experiences of you, our loyal readers.
Please join me in warmly welcoming Shannon, and don’t hesitate to reach out to her at editor@blufftonsun.com.
On Saturday, July 29, the The Technical College of the Lowcountry, the region’s primary provider of higher education and workforce training, will host a Fall Semester Enrollment Fair at two of its campus locations.
“Step In & Step Up” will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, July 29, at its Beaufort Mather and New River campuses. The fair will give prospective enrollees the chance to get one-on-one assistance and answers to all your questions about programs
and majors, admissions, course planning and registration, and financial aid. The Beaufort Mather Campus event will take place at The Hub in Building 2, 921 Ribaut Road, in Beaufort. The New River Campus event will take place in the lobby at 100 Community College Drive, in Bluffton. Fall registration ends Aug. 14 and classes begin Aug. 16.
For more information or to RSVP visit www.tcl.edu/stepin.
I noticed this sign while waiting for my secondary search in the airport the other day. The fact that I am a former FBI Counter-Terrorism Agent, have TSA Pre-Check, and Clear, and continually get selected for secondary, or “random”, searches is a topic for another day.
The sign struck me for it’s ridiculous insinuation - stand here and you will be safe. Safe from what? Covid? Violence? Terrorism? Random Crime?
How is that even possible?
But it is such a great example of where we are now. We are literally bombarding our citizens with the message of safety:
• Do this to be safe
• Stand here to be safe
• Buy this to be safe
• Read this to be safe
• Download this app to be safe
There is so much bad guidance provided to our citizens and unfavorably, those who espouse these edicts are never held accountable for the legitimacy of their suggestions. As someone who has dedicated his entire adult life to the precise area of personal safety, the flippancy galls me.
The human experience carries a degree of personal risk and 100% safety is inconsistent with reality.
If you really want to be safe, prepare yourself physically, mentally and psychologically. Educate yourself by hiring, reading, or learning from an actual expert. Check their resume or assess their background in an effort to confirm the efficacy of the claims before taking their guidance. Don’t be distracted by the videos or enamored with the persona they have carefully created. Use curiosity, suspicion, and intuition to help
you.
Constantly assess if they can really help you in your situation, with your capabilities, and capacities? Are they recommending something that will put you in prison or get you killed? Are they espousing some specific weapon - that only they sell and are willing to discount to you, today? Are they myopic in their approach to personal safety and constantly preach from the pulpit of only one tool for the job - the job of keeping yourself safe. What happens when that tool is not available at 40,000 feet, or in a public environment that forbids that tool - what now says the expert?
If learning about Active Shooter, are they just regurgitating Run-Hide-Fight through a canned PowerPoint or have they actually put some thought into what they are presenting. Do they notice you are incapable of running due to an injury or life circumstance? What are you to do in these situations? Perhaps
you are responsible for infants, young children, patients, or the elderly who cannot Run or Fight effectively. What does the expert say here?
During your assessment, your common sense will formulate a smart question and I beg you to ask it. If the expert gets offended or angry - you have just exposed their amateur status. A professional has an answer for these situations and can happily provide sound guidance for your unique situation. And if they do not know, they will have the humility to say: Great question, let me look into that and I will get back to you with an answer.
At the end of the day, you are responsible for your own personal safety. I just hate that in the quest to get there you have to wade through the swamp of unrealistic and just bad guidance.
James Hamilton is a former FBI Special Agent.
At Bishop Eye Center, we’re helping set the world standard by advancing the precision of cataract surgery through our partnership with Johnson & Johnson CATALYS and Cassini technologies. We were chosen to be the first in the country to collect FDA approval data and also achieved best-in-class success rates. Our patients receive world-class cataract expertise and industry leading technology right here in the Lowcountry.
We look forward to serving you.
By Erica Brown CONTRIBUTOR
Dental assistants, sometimes called dental techs, are vital to modern dental practices. Have you ever wondered what is required to become a dental assistant or about the day-to-day responsibilities? Perhaps you know someone looking to make a career change or a recent high school graduate interested in getting into the dental field? Erica Brown, lead dental assistant at ROC Dental Group’s Bluffton location, gives us an inside look into a dental assistant’s life and what surprised her most in her career.
Q: How did you begin your career?
I’ve been in the profession for over 10 years. I began my career in early childhood education, but the dental field always interested me, maybe because my dad was a dental health fanatic who would walk around the house brushing and flossing throughout the day! Years ago, at my son’s soccer game, a parent asked if I had ever considered becoming a dental assistant. She was a dentist and told me I had the personality for the job. I had no idea what that meant or what was required, but her comments piqued my interest. Soon after I began my journey to becoming a dental assistant.
Q: What education is required to be a dental assistant?
A: It varies from state to state and can range from 6-12 weeks of coursework, with some states requiring more. I feel like my schooling laid the foundation, but honestly, the most education came while on the job! I have learned and grown tremendously working beside experienced dentists. Watching, listening, and learning to anticipate what happens next during treatment has been invaluable.
Q: What are the day-to-day responsibilities?
When you interact with different people each day, no two days are the same; however, our responsibilities generally focus within three larger groups: room and instrument prep, patient care, and assisting the dentist. Room and instrument prep include setting up the rooms before and after appointments, organizing and sterilizing instruments, and cleaning workstations. The patient care component starts from the moment we greet the patient, walk them to the treatment room, and make them as comfortable as possible as we prepare for the doctor. The third part, assisting the dentist, is my favorite because I become the dentist’s extra set of hands, anticipating their needs. Although my focus is on assisting during treatment, my eyes are always moving between the dentist and the patient, evaluating the needs of both and being available when needed.
Q: What has surprised you most during your career?
I am surprised most by how much I lean on my educational background each day. I didn’t realize how little the average person knows about their oral health and I love educating patients about small adjustments that can have the most impact on their overall health. I am constantly coaching, training, and encouraging patients on how to care for their teeth. I love it!
Q: What advice would you give someone thinking about a career as a dental assistant?
The role of a dental assistant would suit someone who loves working as a team, enjoys people, is outgoing enough to interact with a variety of personalities each day, and wants to play a part in changing lives. This is an extremely rewarding career because it allows you to meet wonderful people with interesting stories from all walks of life. And the best part is that you get to help them. What I love the most is that even though I am not responsible for 100% of the work, I get to share in 100% of the reward!
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Now is the time to have your guard up about possible Medicaid renewal scams. The one-year period during which individuals must renew their health care coverage through Medicaid began in April 2023 and will go through March 2024. During the COVID-19 pandemic, eligibility reviews for Medicaid were put on hold. Prior to the pandemic, the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services reviewed Medicaid eligibility on an annual basis. For the last three years, individuals could be added to Medicaid but generally not removed, baring certain cases, because of the federal COVID public health emergency. That came to an end and in April states could resume disenrolling people again. Since then, the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has begun warning the com-
munity about current Medicaid renewal scams. Medicaid members in several states, including South Carolina, have received emails, texts or calls from
scammers asking for money or gift cards to keep or reinstate health coverage, or to sell enrollment services that offer quick and easy enrollment assis-
tance. In some cases, callers demand the individual pay hundreds of dollars to maintain their health care coverage. The best tool consumers and families have to combat scams is knowledge. Officials have shared that the Healthy Connections Medicaid program is sending legitimate texts to inform members that their annual review form is in the mail and prompt them to complete it. Unlike scams, these messages will never ask for money. The South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has advised that if someone receives an email or text asking them to pay money or provide gift cards to keep or renew their Medicaid coverage, please contact the Medicaid fraud hotline at (888) 364-3224 Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. This can also be reported by sending an email to FraudRes@scdhhs.gov.
Getting over a major medical crisis isn’t easy, but a trusted provider can help ease the burden. At our hospital, we create rehabilitation programs that are specifically designed for each patient’s needs, using advanced technology and innovative treatments to maximize recovery. It’s why so many people and their caregivers choose us. And why we are the trusted choice of a growing number of medical professionals.
a major medical crisis isn’t easy, but a trusted help ease the burden. At our hospital, we create rehabilitation programs that are specifically designed for each needs, using advanced technology and innovative to maximize recovery. It’s why so many people caregivers choose us. And why we are the trusted growing number of medical professionals.
Getting over a major medical crisis isn’t easy, but a trusted provider can help ease the burden. At our hospital, we create rehabilitation programs that are specifically designed for each patient’s needs, using advanced technology and innovative treatments to maximize recovery. It’s why so many people and their caregivers choose us. And why we are the trusted choice of a growing number of medical professionals.
encompasshealth.com/blufftonrehab
HALO Primary Care is a new primary care office in Bluffton, SC. Here at HALO, we believe you should be in charge of your health. We understand that each patient is different; therefore, we strive to work with you to develop a plan of care that is obtainable and reasonable.
Celebrating 5 years of serving patients in the South Carolina Lowcountry.
• House calls are offered to homebound patients living in the 29909 and 29910 zip codes.
• Telehealth visits are also offered for established patients.
encompasshealth.com/blufftonrehab
create each
encompasshealth.com/blufftonrehab
Celebrating 5 years of serving patients in the South Carolina Lowcountry.
If you watch an efficient swimmer push off the end wall of a pool, gliding long and relaxed, it seems effortless. Alas, it is not.
The process of duplicating that effort takes up a full chapter in my book. However, it is worthwhile to do so because the same principles are involved in stroking efficiently. A good push-off is essential, regardless of whatever stroke is swum.
Struggling swimmers have little to no idea of how to position their bodies for efficient locomotion. Many moderately efficient swimmers are unaware of how to begin each lap they swim.
Here’s how it’s done:
The swimmer’s body faces one side of the pool with knees bent and feet on the wall, toes facing toward the side. One hand holds on to the deck or gutter, while the other,
submerged, arm points to the opposite end.
What’s needed now is the patience to keep those feet on the wall until the upper body is properly positioned to get the most distance from the push-off.
The first move is just to lift the hand and arm from the pool end. Why lift the arm instead of moving it under water to meet the
other? The lifting action causes (by Newton’s Third Law of Motion) an equal and opposite reaction that helps send the upper body under water, while the top arm extends to join the bottom arm.
Finally, everything is in position to unbend the knees and explode off the wall into an extended, firm-yet-relaxed glide.
On the side? Like a fish? Of course. It’s the path of least resistance to glide as far as possible before adding propulsive kicks or arm strokes to sustain that long and relaxed position for the length of the pool.
The push-off is also the second half of an efficient turn. For the first (easier) half, the extended arm(s) reach the wall and stop the upper body. This lets the momentum of the lower body carry it to the wall (on its side), where the feet can be placed in position for another push-off, same as above.
It takes relaxation, patience, and some practice, but the reward of efficiency is well worth it. Thus, you will save yourself strokes and effort – which is the purpose of this column.
Dr. Bob Colyer of Bluffton is an actively retired college professor, coach, and author of “Swim Better: A Guide to Greater Efficiency for Swimmers & Instructors,” directed primarily to non-competitors. bobcolyer@yahoo.com
Southern interior design exudes a timeless elegance that evokes warmth, hospitality, and a distinct sense of history. Drawing inspiration from the picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the American South, homeowners seeking to infuse their spaces with a classic Southern feel can incorporate several key design elements. Here are the top three ways to achieve that quintessential Southern charm:
Embrace Warm Color Palettes:
One of the defining characteristics of Southern interior design is the use of warm, inviting colors. Opt for a palette that echoes the natural beauty of the South, such as soft neutrals, earthy tones, and warm hues of gold, rust, and terracotta. Consider painting walls in creamy whites or warm beige, which provide a versatile backdrop for accentuat-
ing other design elements. Incorporate pops of deep rich color through upholstery, throw pillows, or curtains in shades of sunny yellow, moss green, or deep blue to add depth and visual interest.
Incorporate Traditional Patterns: Southern design often incorporates traditional patterns that reflect the region’s heritage and cultural diversity. Consider using timeless patterns for upholstery, wallpaper, or curtains to lend a touch of Southern charm. Plaid or checkered rugs can also be employed to add visual texture and create a sense of coziness in living spaces.
Add Architectural Details: Southern homes are known for their distinctive architectural features, and incorporating these elements into your interior design can enhance the overall Southern aesthetic. Consider incorporating crown molding, wainscoting, or beadboard paneling to add a touch of elegance
and character to your walls. Exposed wooden beams on the ceiling or decorative columns can evoke a sense of grandeur and showcase the timeless beauty of Southern architecture.
Moreover, adding vintage fixtures and hardware, such as aged brass doorknobs, sconces, or chandeliers, can enhance the classic Southern ambiance.
In addition to these three key elements, accentuating your space with carefully curated accessories can further enhance the Southern feel. Consider incorporating elements such as classic chinoiserie vases and ginger jars, woven baskets, botanical prints, antique furniture, and vintage family heirlooms.
These touches will not only add a personal touch but also contribute to the overall charm and authenticity of your Southern-inspired interior design. Curated Southern Decor can be shopped online at www.Grace-
Ultimately, Southern interior design is about creating a warm and inviting space that celebrates the region’s cultural heritage. By incorporating warm color palettes, traditional patterns, and architectural details, homeowners can transform their spaces into havens of classic Southern charm. So, whether you reside in the Lowcountry or simply wish to bring a touch of Southern hospitality to your home, these design tips will help you create a space that embraces the timeless beauty and grace of the South. For personalized design advice for your home, consider hiring professional interior design help with Southern Grace Interiors. Visit www.SouthernGraceInteriors.com.
Mikaelah Seifrit is an Associate ASID and Principal Interior Designer with Southern Grace Interiors www.SouthernGraceInteriors. com
Golf is one of the only sports where you don’t practice on the field or court where you compete. Also, with most sports the dimensions are the same and there are lines on the court or field. In golf you also have more than one implement (up to 14) to hit the ball. Not like tennis, pickleball, basketball, etc. I play tennis and I don’t have to change racquets to hit a forehand, backhand or serve.
Practice should take place on days other then the day you play. If you are on the range prior to playing, it should be warm-up and not thinking everything your pro told you or what you watched on U-Tube.
Below are suggestions on how to practice:
· Practice using your pre-shot routine.
· Play shots to different targets with random clubs. Make sure you know the distances of these shots.
· Practice using the same club to different targets not just down the middle.
· Practice hitting to the same target with different clubs using different length swings.
· When practicing chipping and putting play a one-ball game. Chip and then putt the ball into the hole. See how many times you
can get up and down.
· Practice hitting different ball flights: high, low, left to right, right to left.
· Practice trouble shots: uphill, downhill, out of divots, fairway bunkers.
· Work on your weaknesses, not your strengths. Therefore, you need to keep statis-
tics during your round.
· Hit more wedges than drivers. A strong wedge game can help you save your round when your ball striking isn’t good.
· During putting practice ,work on distance control.
· Play holes on the range. Practice the first three holes on the range using the clubs you would hit on the first three holes of your course.
Finally, more isn’t always better. Hitting a jumbo bucket without having a game plan is not better than a small bucket going through some of the suggestions above. Quality is always better than quantity. Remember practice doesn’t make perfect. Start working on making your practice more perfect.
Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional and teaches at local golf courses. jean.golfdoctor.harris@gmail.com; golfdoctorjean.com
By Tom Dorsel, Ph.D. CONTRIBUTOR
It seems to me that a solution to the alligator problem when it comes to golf is to keep players away from the banks of the lagoons, since the alligators are not going to stay away from the banks of the lagoons and the golfers. So I have two suggestions:
1. Establish a local rule of 2 club-lengths relief from any lagoon, no closer to the hole and remaining in the same condition (e.g., rough, sand) for any ball that comes to rest within 2 club lengths of a lagoon and is not in the lagoon. Of course, if it is in the lagoon, the normal hazard penalty applies. Now this is not the same as the “dangerous animal” rule (Rules of Golf, Rule #16.2). This local rule would apply to any lagoon, whether a dangerous alligator is visible or not. I think this would be a good rule for all courses in the low country; and some prom-
inent course could set the example, that is, step up and be proud of being the first to implement the “Local Lagoon Rule.”
2. If the local rule option is sadly not adopted, then let the rough on the bank grow an inch or two longer. Now I don’t mean 3rd cut U.S. Open rough, just one or two inches, such that balls can still quickly be found, but also be less likely to roll all the way down to the water’s edge, where players
are tempted to look for it, and/or play it, while standing very near the lagoon. Again, if you outright hit the ball in the water, the normal hazard rules apply.
3. As an adjunct to both suggestions above, starters should tell groups on the first tee that if one of the players in the group is going to play a shot from close to a lagoon, everyone else should stand nearby with heavy sand wedges at the ready. These
“armed guards” would be in a position to provide warning of a floating predator, or (golf-gods forbid) clobber the creature, if one surreptitiously attempts a sneak attack! This is just an application of Teddy Roosevelt’s: “Walk softly, but carry a big stick.” Further support for this 3rd suggestion is to gather as a group on the bank is that kayaks on expeditions down the Nile River in Africa would travel in close proximity, almost linked together, so they looked more like one big boat in the water, thereby deterring crocodiles from attacking such a big object. If that same logic were to apply to alligators, a group of people close together on the bank might be interpreted by alligators as one big formidable creature that the alligator does not want to risk attacking.
Dr. Tom Dorsel is a sport psychologist on HHI. His best selling book is “GOLF: The Mental Game.” Contact him at Dorsel.com.
Bishop Eye Center welcomes ophthalmologist Dr. Paul Bell to its growing practice. Appointments are now being scheduled with Dr. Bell at all three Bishop Eye Center locations.
Dr. Bell is the newest comprehensive ophthalmologist at Bishop Eye. He joins us from the Storm Eye Institute in Charleston, SC, and he was the recipient of the M Edward Wilson Residency Award “as the resident who best displays the behaviors and attitudes each of us looks for in our own physician.”
Dr. Bell earned his undergraduate degree at James Madison University and his MD degree from the Eastern Virginia Medical School.
Following his internship at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Dr. Bell served as the flight surgeon for Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 in Beaufort, SC. He is especially interested in helping people maintain and improve their lifestyles with refractive cataract surgery. He is extremely grateful that he gets to work to help patients have the best possible vision. He is convinced that new technology and advances have made and will continue to make patients more satisfied with their vision after surgery. He is excited to join Bishop Eye at such a great time!
Bishop Eye Center is a Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, and Hardeeville, SC-based leader in refractive cataract surgery that is internationally recognized for patient outcomes. The doctors and staff view each patient as unique and focus on their needs as they come together to achieve their personal best eyesight.
Hi everyone! I hope you’re staying cool and dry. This is an especially bad summer for our hair. Frizz, damage, fading, flat and limp. I know all of you have at least one of the above if not more. Misery loves company so know you’re not alone. I can’t stress enough how important it is to take extra special care of your hair in these hot, sticky months. Please use good shampoo and conditioner and a spray leave in when outside. A heat protectant before blowing and styling will help to protect the hair. Do not shampoo every day. It strips the natural oils and actually makes the hair greasy. Wet , saturate the hair before swimming so it cannot absorb the chemicals in the pool water. It will make a big difference in the health of your hair and keeping the color in place longer. I cannot stress this enough. I know I’m being
redundant but so these simple things are so important. Having regular trims is second of importance. I know it’s easier to put your hair up and forget about it but it needs the extra attention..
I decided I would give you some little known facts about hair. I’ll quit preaching this month. I will say that if there’s some-
thing you think is a subject others would like to hear about, please email me joy@ styleitsalon.com. I do have a difficult time coming up with new subjects every month so this will help me quit repeating myself. I can be your Dear Abby for hair. I would welcome your thoughts questions. Now for some little known, somewhat
useless, hair facts.
Black is the most predominant hair color, followed by brown, then blonde then red which is the most rare.
Hair can stretch up to 30% of its original length when wet. This is why you shouldn’t brush or pull your hair when it’s wet. The elasticity will cause it to damage and snap when it’s stressed.
Hair grows faster in the spring and summer months (just like the plants). The vitamin D and C are the culprits. Finally, your follicles are alive, but the strand is dead. Therefore, it cannot absorb toxins and chemicals.
Now you have nonsense to chat about at a dinner party when there’s a lull in the conversation.
Till next time.... stay cool.
Joy Ross is owner of Style It Salon in Old Town Bluffton. styleitsalon.com
By Mark F. Winn CONTRIBUTOR
In the arena of estate planning, avoiding unnecessary Court involvement, preserving privacy, maximizing income tax deferral planning (IRA’s), planning to ensure availability of government benefits (Medicaid), and structuring affairs to ensure assets stay in the family bloodline (Bloodline trusts) are the big areas we address for most of our clients. The federal estate tax is usually not a concern but if there is a change in Administration, then the estate tax exemption could be substantially reduced making it so many more estates are subject to the tax. If this happens, people will be wise to update and review their planning.
Retirement accounts are creatures of the law. As such, they are subject to many rules such as when you must begin taking out distributions and how much you must
take (and therefore pay tax on). When one passes, the beneficiary designation on file with the administrator or custodian controls. The beneficiary has settlement options that they should consider before making any decisions. It is advisable to seek professional guidance on your settlement options and which choice is best to take. We usually try to structure these assets so as to preserve income tax deferral as much as the law permits.
Government benefits are a lifeline to those in need. Planning in advance so as to qualify for needs based programs is critical to success in this arena can be the difference between someone who gets care and someone who does not get care. Making sure your agent can do this kind of planning is also critical. If the person who needs it is disabled, nothing can be done absent express specific authority to the contrary.
Keeping your assets in the family is easy if you plan ahead. The law recognizes “future interests” so you can direct that a child inherit your property for their use and then when they pass it goes to your blood
descendants, not your in-laws. Most people want this. We can make sure the in-law will not get it in a divorce or at death, and we can shelter it from estate taxes in the child’s estate and remove it from exposure to creditors’ claims.
Good estate plans will be comprehensive and will address all of the issues raised above. While estate planning is about who gets what, it is also about how they get it and what that means. In today’s day and age, estate plans need to be flexible. They need to guard against exposure to estate taxes and take inflation into account. Estate plans also need to account for the possibility (however remote) that fortune could turn against them, necessitating the need or want to obtain government benefits.
Mark F. Winn, J.D., Master of Laws (LL.M.) in estate planning, is a local asset protection, estate and elder law planning attorney. mwinnesq.com
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Billy Casper staged one of the greatest comebacks in sports history in 1966 when he beat Arnold Palmer at the Olympic Club in San Francisco to win the U.S. Open. The same year Jack Nicklaus won his third green jacket and pocketed $20,000. But for me, 1966 has a far greater golf story line. It was the year my father introduced me to the Game.
Whether he knew it or not, he did it exactly the right way. To my knowledge my father never spent a moment on a practice tee. No, to him, golf was a social activity. As long as there were others enjoying the fairways and greens with him, he was happy.
Five decades later, a friend and I were playing in Western Pennsylvania with a couple from a golf course community in Florida. In this case, the woman was a far
superior player. It was obvious from their first few shots. Off the tee, she’d hit it straight down the middle every time. Him, not so much.
Then it happened. After hitting his second shot to the second green, he threw down
another ball, then another, and hit the same shot. After watching this a few times, my typically taciturn friend turned and asked, “What are you doing?” The reply was instant, “Oh, we play NATO golf.” “What’s that?” my friend
asked. The man chortled, “Not Attached To Outcome.”
Now I can assure you my father never ever played NATO golf. He’d count every stroke or tried to. While he’d roll the ball over wherever he’d find it, he’d never cavalierly throw down another ball or two. There was an alternative outcome that drove him, the fellowship of others.
As I now reflect on nearly 60 years of teeing it up, that alternative outcome has rubbed off on me. It has caused me to cherish a multitude of memorable rounds. None dominated by swing thoughts, ball striking, or quantity of birdies, or eagles, but by cherished time spent with friends, old and new. Those are the stories that live deep inside me. Tales of walking or riding with friends, chasing a ball, and touching the soul.
Adapted from God, Golf, and Grace by best-selling author Douglas A. Rehberg. Copies may be ordered from The Bluffton Sun.
Put your produce stand haul to good use with this easy and delicious summer recipe.
Prep time: 8 min. Chill time: 1 hr. Quantity: 6-8 servings
• ¼ cup butter, softened 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tablespoon brandy
• 1 - 9-inch pie shell, baked and cooled as directed
• 6 large ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ¼ cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar for garnish
• In a medium bowl, beat butter until creamy, about 1 minute.
• Add powdered sugar and brandy to butter; mix well. Spread in bottom of pie shell; chill for 20 minutes.
In a medium bowl, combine peaches, lemon juice and ¼ cup sugar; toss gently. Arrange on top of creamed mixture in pie shell; chill for 1 hour. Top with blueberries and serve with vanilla ice cream - or as is!
Hargray Regional General Manager Joel Braun recently proudly presented Bluffton Community Soup Kitchen with a $5,000 Charitable Giving Fund grant to recognize the important work it does in the Bluffton community.
Bluffton Community Soup Kitchen is a community service organization that provides assistance to underserved families experiencing various uncertainties, including hunger, job insecurity, child development, senior wellness, housing, education, and community engagement throughout the Lowcountry.
“The Hargray grant will be used to purchase, prepare and distribute food on Mondays and Wednesdays, 50 weeks each year,” said Executive Director Constance Martin-Witter.
The Charitable Giving Fund, which annually awards $250,000 in grants to local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations served by the Cable One family of brands (Sparklight®, Fidelity Communications, Hargray, ValuNet Fiber and CableAmerica), concentrates support in the following priority areas: Education and Digital Literacy, Food Insecurity and Community Development. Nonprofit organizations may apply for grants during open application periods each spring and fall. Applications for Fall 2023 grants will be accepted between October 1-31, 2023. For more information about the Charitable Giving Fund, please visit https://www.sparklight.com/ charitablegiving.
PRISM HomeWatch has earned accreditation from the National Home Watch Association for the second year. The NHWA was formed in 2009 in order to establish and maintain the highest industry standards for Home Watch and absentee homeowner services throughout the United States and Canada (www.nationalhomewatchassociation.org). Home Watch is a visual inspection of a home or property, looking for obvious issues, which means that it is a service that “keeps an eye on things” at your vacation or primary home while you are not in residence. All principals of NHWA Accredited Member companies are background-checked, insured, and bonded.
General Manager Mike Grossman proudly leads PRISM’s family-owned and operated business. The PRISM HomeWatch team is invested in maintaining their clients’ homes while they are away, enabling them to have more time to focus on enjoying life.
Mike is a graduate of the NHWA’s Home Watch Boot Camp and has earned the designation of Certified Home Watch Professional, which places him in the category of elite Home Watch providers in the industry. The CHWP designation and Boot Camp training exemplify Mike’s commitment to Home Watch excellence.
PRISM HomeWatch serves Historic Savannah, Tybee Island, Hinesville, Hilton Head, and the surrounding areas in Coastal Georgia and the South Carolina Lowcountry. You can reach them at (912) 355-1349 or at info@prismhomewatch.com. Learn more from their website, at https://prismhomewatch.com.
Are you tired of hearing “for better or worse, but not for lunch”? Are you having trouble meeting friends between the “newlywed” and “nearly dead” stages of life? Put your worries to bed by signing up for amazing volunteering opportunities! The Community Foundation of the Lowcountry cf-Lowcountry.org has made it easy! Visit Lowcountry Volunteer connections Lowcountryvolunteerconnections. org to find that match and start making a difference! Here are just several to get you started!
Hilton Head Choral Society is looking for a Grant writer and singers! Anyone interested in joining should be able to sing on pitch, and the ability to read music would be helpful. Contact Walter Lowe WeLowe51@gmail.com
Arts Center of Coastal Carolina would like ushers and bartenders. Email them at Volunteers@artshhi.com
Port Royal Sound Foundation is looking for hosts/docents to welcome visitors to the Maritime Center in Okatie. Please contact Sarah Welbert at 843-645-7774. Oyster recycling and reef building. To sign up, please email oysters@outsidefoundation.org
Kids in Kayaks! Fun filled, science based mission to get children out on the water! Email JEAN@outsidefoundation.org
Hopeful Horizons needs administrative and crisis intervention volunteers. Please call 843-379-6155.
First Tee Hilton Head have need of assistant coaches, office help, golf course and driving range maintenance. Contact Pat Zuk at 843-686-2680.
The Heritage Library is looking for event planning assistants, genealogists, docents, and historical site tour guides. Please contact Barbara Catenaci 843-686-6560 or info@heritagelib.org
Perhaps we can agree that dreaming dreams is something we can celebrate in humanity. Perhaps we can even say that it is one thing that may separate us from the animals – though animals may literally dream in a certain way. And yet, can animals dream dreams and bring them to life?
I have always been in love with dreamers and dreams. I even have the wall art from Willy Wonka’s famous quote that is written on recycled wood with a burned script that states: we are the makers of music and the dreamers of dreams. While I don’t make music, I am from Nashville originally and prefer that it pour out of every open door. What is just as good though is a beautiful dream to dream.
There is a homeless mission in Columbia, South Carolina that was founded on the
dream of a single woman and a group of church women who could dream with her. One of her favorite things to say is “dream a big enough dream that unless God is behind it, it will fail.” In other words, dream a dream that requires your faith and your faithful endurance.
I often wonder what my big enough dream is. Sometimes I tell God that if I could just live out the Greatest Commandment that would be enough for me. That,
“Love the Lord your God with ALL your heart, soul, mind, strength, and love your neighbor as yourself.” Or, if I could just manage to live out the Golden Rule by doing unto others what I would want for myself.
As much as I too want the homeless to have homes and the hungry to be fed, and for all of Matthew 25:35-36 to be fulfilled, I also want everyone to be loved. That seems to be my dream.
I recall when I was a student at Vanderbilt Divinity School that a professor asked us if we thought loving others was hard. I raised the argument that it is entirely hard. I was a minority vote. Everyone else seemed to go
against me and wonder how I could find it hard. After all, we were at Divinity School. Shouldn’t we already know how to love everyone?
I told my professor that I thought it was hard because loving people in the way that they need to be loved is often absent from our privy knowledge. I can only love them in the way I think they will receive love, but I may just be loving them within my own limited understanding. And that may not be love to them at all.
Luckily, for me, I won the argument on love. My professor agreed with me that it is hard to love people. But, oh, the irony! This is why I will yet dream to love the way God wishes for us to love. That will be my biggest dream.
By Abby Bird CONTRIBUTOR
There are any number of styles of dog containment products. Some work for certain dogs and others for different dogs depending on their size, age or behavioral issues. How do you know what style crate or kennel is the right one for your dog at a specific age or time of their life? Since we can’t always make the correct decision the first time, I recommend that you buy it from a place that it is returnable if it doesn’t turn out to be the right one for your dog.
For a new puppy I usually recommend a small wire crate (open and airy) that has a removable panel that we can use to make the crate smaller if we need to help with potty training. That enables you to buy a crate of the correct size for an adult dog but to make it smaller for current use and make sure that the puppy does not have access to the back
where they’ll have freedom to pee or poop. If a dog is especially anxious or has issues with noise and activity you could purchase a fitted crate cover. This is better than putting a towel over the crate as they can pull that in and chew it and possibly injure themselves.
The covers are fitted exactly to the crate and are very much more difficult for the dog to pull inside. Darkening that crate helps a dog to relax when they are stressed or just to sleep.
Another option is a plastic dog kennel. Often this is a better solution for dogs that are stressed by noise or light as it is darker than a wire crate and is easily movable. It is much safer for them to travel in a car in a plastic kennel. A wire crate can be very dangerous in a car. If your dog is an escape artist a plastic kennel is generally
considered better than a wire crate where a dog can injure themselves trying to get out. Another option in a metal kennel that is used for things like thunder anxiety or for dogs that are expert escape artists. It’s all metal but has limited holes for light. The roof looks like a house so the dog can stand up and have plenty of room. However, it is primarily made for a large dog (I have not seen them for small dogs.) They do need space in your home and not everyone has that. I own two of these personally and love them for my fosters and rescues.
If simple travel in the back of an SUV is what you require, and your dog has no desire to try to chew through a kennel or a crate I use a canvas style kennel which has zipped mesh doors for your dogs. It is light and airy, very comfortable and easy to move if you need to take it out of the car. You can always change products later if your dog needs change.
We are a melting pot of religious beliefs
You forge your own spiritual path; no dogma is pushed on you
We are a melting pot of religious beliefs
We are a melting pot of religious beliefs
We are a melting pot of religious beliefs
We are a melting pot of religious beliefs
You forge your own spiritual path; no dogma is pushed on you
You forge your own spiritual path; no dogma is pushed on you Believers and non-believers alike come for intellectual stimulation, meaningful bonds with like-minded folks, and community involvement
Believers and non-believers alike come for intellectual stimulation, meaningful bonds with like-minded folks, and community involvement
Deep conversations, moving weekly messages
Believers and non-believers alike come for intellectual stimulation, meaningful bonds with like-minded folks, and community involvement
You forge your own spiritual path; no dogma is pushed on you Believers and non-believers alike come for intellectual stimulation, meaningful bonds with like-minded folks, and community involvement
Deep conversations, moving weekly messages
Deep conversations, moving weekly messages
You forge your own spiritual path; no dogma is pushed on you Believers and non-believers alike come for intellectual stimulation, meaningful bonds with like-minded folks, and community involvement
Open-minded religious education for kids
Open-minded religious education for kids
Deep conversations, moving weekly messages
Deep conversations, moving weekly messages
Open-minded religious education for kids
LGBTQIA+ welcome
LGBTQIA+ welcome
Open-minded religious education for kids
Open-minded religious education for kids
LGBTQIA+ welcome
LGBTQIA+ welcome
We are welcoming to all loving, compassionate people
We are welcoming to all loving, compassionate people
We are welcoming to all loving, compassionate people
LGBTQIA+ welcome
We are welcoming to all loving, compassionate people
We are welcoming to all loving, compassionate people
Though I can’t explain it, the first few days of summer always makes me think back to the time when my folks picked up all five kids and moved us to the Lowcountry. The year was 1961 and if my mind serves me correctly, we arrived just a month or so before school was ready to start. I was barely six years old and Hilton Head was nothing more than a two-lane paved highway lined with massive oak trees and deer outnumbered people fifty to one.
Even before I moved here, I was already a fishing fool so you can imagine how excited I was to see water, water everywhere. Most of the roads were dirt and other than the old William Hilton Inn, the Adventure Inn and the Seacrest Hotel, there was very little construction going on. For everyday staples there was one tiny grocery store at Coligny Plaza but for serious shopping that required piling the kids in the car and making a weekly pilgrimage to Savannah. The only other hangout, if you could call it that, was an open-air beach shop called the Arcade which was located on South Forest Beach road between where the Holiday Inn now stands and the Adventure Inn. You could walk down to the beach and look in both directions and not see a soul. So, you can imagine that for a skinny little kid like me with an imagination that was always in hyper drive, it was paradise.
The bridge, a swing bridge, had just been built and up on top of the structure was a little house where the bridge tender lived. It was customary to honk your horn as you passed under his digs and it wasn’t unusual to travel the entire length of the island and not see another car. Being the youngest of five children, only my sister Grace and I had the privilege of attending Bluffton High School while the older kids commuted to a school in Savannah. You probably think we rode ox drawn carts to school but we did actually have a regular yellow school bus but because there were so few of us, the drivers were always students at the school. As you might imagine, many of the drivers were good ol’ country folk and the ride home was almost always an adventure. I can remember when a couple of these upstanding high school senior bus drivers would disconnect the buses governor, used to keep the top speed at 45mph, and we would hit speeds meant for racetracks. They would do things like veer off the road and drive through fields bouncing our little heads off the roof, chase chickens, of which there were plenty,
and pretty much break just about every rule in the book. Looking back now, these are just a few of the things that made my childhood so great.
After Bluffton High School burned to the ground during one Christmas vacation, we used the Methodist Church in downtown Bluffton as our school. After about a year of that my folks decided that it was best if I too commuted to school in Savannah. Along with the Hacks, who owned Honey Horn Plantation, and all of Joe Fraser’s kids, an old, green Checker limousine was purchased to take us to school in Savannah. Driven by an elderly black gentleman named Willy, it was quite the trek. The Talmadge Bridge was a rickety metal bridge with a tollbooth and Savannah proper pretty much stopped at around Victory Drive. Our school, Savannah Country day, was way out on Abercorn long before the malls were built so these daily rides made for a long day especially for kids my age.
I was by no means a model student solely because my mind was always thinking more about how to catch a channel bass (redfish
were called that back then) than it was learning a dead language called Latin. It didn’t make any difference how late I got home, I would always hop on my bike and get in an hour or so fishing before I was made to sit down for homework. Though I didn’t realize it at the time that this inclination was no doubt why my folks sent me off to boarding school, and not a fishing school, when I reached the ninth grade.
I have to give it to my folks for making such a brash move. I can’t imagine nowadays having a brood the size of theirs and just picking up and moving to some remote corner of the world. My dad was a big shot advertising man on Madison Avenue in New York but being in advertising myself until I retired a year or so ago, I can now understand why he did what he did. He and my mom opened the very first shop on Hilton Head, The Island Shop, which was located at the William Hilton Inn where the Marriott Grand Ocean Resort currently stands. Instead of riding a train to work every day as he did before moving here, my dad sailed to work on a little sunfish from our home in Sea Pines. If nothing else, my folks taught me that quality of life trumps wealth ever time. All I can say is what a life I’ve had and Lord willing that blessing continues on for many more years.
Collins Doughtie, a 60-year resident of the Lowcountry, is a sportsman, graphic artist, and lover of nature. collinsdoughtie@icloud. com
Palmetto Animal League is waiving adoption fees during the PickMe! SC statewide adoption event. Pets are microchipped, spayed/neutered, and vaccinated. Visit PalmettoAnimalLeague.org for details!
We are what
All that arises with our Thoughts. With our Thoughts we make the World. Speak or act with an
MIND And trouble will follow you, as the wheel follows the ox that draws the cart. We are what we Think. All that we are arises with our Thoughts. With our Thoughts we make the World. Speak or act with a PURE MIND And Happiness will follow you as your shadow, unshakeable. From
FIREARMS TRAINING, basic safe handling to advanced defensive shooting. Have you recently acquired a pistol and would like to feel comfortable with it? Classroom and range training for men, women, small groups, and couples. Call certified instructor Dr. Jack at 843-422-3172.
CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507.
YOUR AD HERE CAN REACH 25,000 households and businesses from Moss Creek to Sun City to Callawassie Island. Promote services, sell goods, announce a yard sale, buy a house, sell a house, find a job, find employees, ask for help, offer help! Ads starting at $28 for 40 words.
843-757-9507.
CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507
CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507.
CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507.
CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507.
CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507
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CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507.
We provide weekly or biweekly visual inspection of your home or property looking for obvious issues in your absence.
The largest and most reliable local, family-owned, independent home inspection company in South Carolina LowCountry. Our friendly inspectors provide thorough inspections and detailed explanations along with a same-day report. We also provide lifetime technical advice as long as you own the property.
July 31 - August 21
July 11-September 28
Reconstruction Era National Historical Park will host a traveling exhibition at Darrah Hall entitled, “Justice For All” from the University Of South Carolina Center for Civil Rights History and Research.
July 18-20
“Halfway Home,” sea turtle art exhibit at Art League Academy, 106 Cordillo Parkway, HIlton Head Island. In collaboration with Sea Turtle Patrol HHI, featuring sea turtle-themed artwork by local artists.
Through July 22
“Come to the Table: A Celebration of Food and Drinks,” exhibit of art works by Denise Liotta DeMarzo, at Art League of Hilton Gallery, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. Gallery hours Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, noon - 4 p.m. and 90 minutes before all Arts Center performances.
July 23
HHI Cranford Hollow Live Concert & Recording, Hilton Head Community Church. Doors open at 5:30, event starts at 6 pm.
July 24-28
Broadway Dance Camp, program of Main Stage Community
Theatre at Hilton Head Ballroom Dance Studio, 1300 Fording Island Road, Bluffton. Daily 11 AM to 1 PM, taught by Sandro Virag, five time national dance champion and Broadway dancer. For ages 12 to 28, all levels of experience. Space limited; more information at info@msctheatre.org.
July 25-August 26
“Aquascapes,” coastal abstracts, by Andrea Smith, at Art League of Hilton Head, 14 Shelter Cove Ln., Hilton Head Island. Opening reception July 26, 5-7 p.m. Artist demonstration, August 16, 11 a.m. Free and open to the public. Gallery hours 10 AM to 4 PM Monday to Saturday, Sunday hours noon-4p.m. and 90 minutes before every Art Center performance. ArtleagueHHI.org or 843-681-5060.
Through July 30
“From My Imagination to Yours,” exhibit of works by Virginia Cassidy at SOBA, 8 Church St., Bluffton.
July 31-August 21
SING INTO SUMMER
Are you a singer looking for a summer activity? If so, please join the Shore Notes women’s chorus on Mondays: July 31, August 7, August 14, and August 21, from 6:30 to 8:30 PM, and discover the fun and camaraderie of a cappella singing. On August 28 at 7:30 the program finale will be a Friends and Family night, where you can perform the two songs
you learned from the chorus! Okatie, Baptist Church, 5467 North Okatie Highway (Route 170),Ridgeland.
August 5
Maye River Quilters will meet at 10 a.m. on August 5, at Palmetto Electric Cooperative, 1 Cooperative Way, Hardeeville. Social hour begins at 9:30 a.m. To attend as a guest, email RSVP to Mayeriverquilters@gmail.com For more information call 978-464-0585.
August 6-20
Savannah Voice Festival, various venues, including Hilton Head Island, in partnership with Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra. Recitals, concerts, opera, movie nights, and more. Info@savannahvoicefestival.org
Through August 20
“Jersey Boys,” Tony Award -winning story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, at Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island, Tickets on sale now at artshhi.org or 843-842-2787.
August 24-27
“God of Carnage,” Sun City Community Theatre at Pinckney Hall, Aug. 24-26 at 7 p.m., Aug. 27 -2 p.m. More information and tickets at suncitytheatre.org
Katherine Mace
“There is pressure on this culture, and we are working to preserve it. We’re growing and we want to branch out and share our experience.” A sparkling confidence emanates from Dominique Tuttle when she talks about her love of art and Gullah traditions. Tuttle, and well-known artists Abraham Brown and Johnnie Simmons echoed this keen enthusiasm at a recent All About Art Club (AAA) meeting in Sun City.
AAA Club members gathered to meet the artists and learn about the traditions and art that is made across the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor, a National Heritage Area that recognizes the unique culture of the African American people, especially those who have lived on the hard-to-reach sea islands off North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida. According to AAA club co-president, Jan Urbanic, “The Gullah artists have a unique ability to convey their love for color, family, faith. and culture in their art. I was in awe of use of color and the energy it brought to the canvas.”
This meeting of the Gullah and Sun City art cultures was animated and engaging. Tuttle, Brown and Simmons set out to educate about the characteristics that are specific to the Gullah culture: the use of vibrant colors, the matriarchal society, slavery, and the expression of things done as family. Church is a staple of the art.
According to Tuttle, “Often faces in
Gullah art are blacked or blued out. Why?
Two reasons: first - a political statement since our people historically were not recognized as individuals.” She went on to explain that the art portrays people in situations that are familiar and we “each can relate to them—and see our own families.”
Tuttle was born on St. Helena and moved to Port Royal in 5th grade. She got a degree in art education at Claftin University, then returned to her childhood home and started volunteering at the Penn Center, home of our nation’s first schools for formerly enslaved people. The Penn Center continues to promote education, community welfare and African American cultural heritage. After one month, she was made a docent, and after 2 more months she was the full-time manager of the Welcome Center. “I was there for 2.5 years, and learned gallery techniques.”
Tuttle, a textile and mixed media artist herself, then spent four years as the curator of the Black Chamber of Commerce
Gullah Art Gallery/Museum in Beaufort.
The Sun City event featured artist Johnnie Simmons, who started making art by woodburning and painting in 2003. “I paint and develop things I’m used to and what I know. That’s farming and fishing.” Simmons’ explanations of his art are hilarious! His lively stories tell of his St. Helena Island up-bringing, recalling memories of the 1950s and ‘60s. The art features farm animals many of whom he refers to by
Please see TUTTLE on page 4SC
TUTTLE from page 3B
name. He paints and woodburns images mostly on birch boards, and adds printed commentary that is quirky and colorful.
New Orleans born Abraham Brown is an experimenter. He paints, works on wooden panels, pours resin, and even uses recycled items and cement to makes his art, “I just love art. I’m always messing with materials. When he retired from the Marines in 2010, he followed his dream to be an artist. “I went to SCAD (the Savannah College of Art and Design.) I was the oldest guy in my classes, but it’s what I always wanted to do – to be a professional artist.” Brown has done murals in at least four local schools, and collaborated in a project to create a mural in a tunnel at the Technical College of the Lowcountry’s Mather School.
The presentation in Sun City ultimately turned into a conversation among artists, with the Sun City artists asking questions about materials and techniques. “How’d you do that?” one member asked, referring to a heron Brown had carved from birch and applied to another board.
The energy in the room was palpable. Sun City resident and AAA member, Marcie Frisch was enthusiastic. “I was impressed with the wood carvings and the process that was used.”
AAA Program Coordinator Pauline Oliver echoed that enthusiasm and said, “From the moment I met Dominque Tuttle, I knew she was exactly who I was looking for to be a presenter. She was so passionate about getting the word out. She, along with artists Johnnie Simmons and Abraham Brown, were a delight when they came to our own Sun City studio to talk about the history, the stories behind their work, and their unique styles.”
Currently both Simmons and Brown have art in the Gullah Art Gallery, and the Four Corners and Red Piano galleries. For more information contact the Gullah Art Museum at 711 Bladen Street, in Beaufort, email ARTGALLERY@BCBCC.
ORG. You can see photos of Brown’s art on Instagram at abrahambrownartist or search the internet for paintings by Brown or Simmons.
Rosemary is a sweet and kind lady who would love a quiet and peaceful home. She spends her days relaxing in a comfy bed and waiting for her snacks and pets. Rosemary spent most of her life in a home and would love to be in a home again. Rosemary is 4.5 years old, spayed, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped. If you are interested in adopting Rosemary, call our adoption center at (843) 645-1725 or email us at info@palmettoanimalleague.org to set up an appointment.
Dancing with a partner, whether it’s the shag, ballroom dancing, or social dancing, has always been known to be a great form of exercise but it can also offer an exciting new way to connect with your partner.
Think about when you see people on a dance floor - aren’t they usually smiling?
As far as couples go, it’s a great interactive activity. Talk about body language! Just looking into each other’s eyes can somehow create renewed feelings.
Not only does dance get you moving together but allows you both to enjoy learning together without being competitive or critical. You can both laugh at your mistakes as you explore the process of learning a new dance. And before you know it you will find you are complimenting each other as you master the moves. You’re interacting with each other by anticipating the next move. You will be meeting the physical challenge together as well as the mental challenge it
takes to dance and learn new steps. Dancing can help create a respect for each other while the work is being done - you realize some of those steps are not as easy as they look and understand you are both working hard to learn them. When you’re dancing you are not distracted by problems at home or work and the time alone with each other allows you to start new conversations. You can just enjoy being together - touching, smiling, laughing. Dance can elevate your mood by raising endorphin levels which can really help with stress. And dressing up to dance just adds to the fun!
What a great idea for a first date! It is a perfect way to get to know each other better because it is a collaborative effort. It can really be fun learning something new together.
Consider getting away from the grind of everyday life and nurturing your relationship with your partner by giving each other the gift of time. Experience the dance, feel the romance and reignite the spark.
Chef Scott Hastings is expanding his great cuisine to the club house at Rose Hill.
It’s never to early to start stashing away those Christmas gifts (and forgetting where you put them!). Here are some ideas from local vendors. Many of the products below can be found by getting off the beaten path and visiting Binya at 556 Spanish Wells Road.
The Hilton Head Choral Society is seeking new members to join for its 2023-2024 season. Those interested are invited to sit in for one of the Sunday rehearsals which begin July 23 at 7 p.m. at Christ Lutheran Church, 829 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island, SC.
Singers 18 and older and all voice parts are invited to join! The only requirement is a love of singing and ability to match pitch. While no audition is needed, the ability to read music and previous choral singing experience will increase the enjoyment of the weekly rehearsals and four concert performances each year.
The repertoire for HHCS’s four annual concerts is highly diversified from Pops, Broadway, the American Song Book, Light Classical, and Patriotic melodies of American Composers, and, of course, our legendary Christmas concert packed with Holiday joy. For most concerts, the Choral Society
is accompanied by a professional chamber orchestra.
Interested singers may go to the website www.hiltonheadchoralsociety.org and click “JOIN US” for more information about the organization and the upcoming concert schedule. You may also contact Kathy Burmeister at ksbworthy@aol.com.
Hilton Head Choral Society is open to people who love to sing, can match pitch, and who enjoy good fellowship. The Choral Society is a 5013(c) non-profit organization. Dues are charged to partially cover musical expenses. The primary source of financial support comes from ticket sales, donors, program advertisers, concert sponsors, and grants. The Hilton Head Choral Society is a member of Chorus America, a national organization promoting the art of choral singing.
