• Bluffton Woman Brings Home Gold 16A
• Is Ozmepic for Everyone? 26A First Beaufort Memorial Facility to Open on Island 52A
• Policy Ideas that Unit 24A
• Sip N’ See Social At
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• Gullah Women Yoga 38A
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A quick look around most homes will reveal how many personal electronic devices we all own. Cell phones, laptops and tablets, cordless hand tools, hoverboards, scooters, E-bikes, electric toothbrushes, vaping devices, and solar power backup storage are all powered by rechargeable lithium batteries.
They’re convenient, usually come with the device, and are safe for everyday use.
“Most of the problems are when people use replacement batteries that aren’t for that piece of equipment, or they use the wrong charger,” said Battalion Chief Anthony Van Nes, Bluffton Township Fire Department’s training chief. “Each specific item has its own charger. Even though the plugs might look the same, you have to use that particular item. People when they go to replace it either go to whatever website and buy the cheapest one there is even though the factory one is the proper one.”
The more sophisticated electronic devices often have what Van Nes called
fail-safes: a smart computer chip inside that tells the charger to stop charging when the device is fully powered. Many others – like scooters, E-bikes, hand tool batteries, golf carts – do not. Nor do any of the cheaper replacement batteries for things like computers.
A fire in Charles County, Md., was caused by an unattended Dewalt tool battery plugged into a truck inside a garage. The result was the loss of the truck, garage and the whole house.
“It keeps on charging and charging until it’s hot. You’re working on your laptop, it’s on your desk or on your lap, and it gets hot,” said Van Nes. “Once the charge is done, whether it’s a tablet or an electric golf cart, if it’s plugged in all the time, over time, the batteries are going to break down. Personally, I don’t charge anything when I’m not there. My vacuum cleaner has a lithium battery. Once it’s charged, I unplug it. I wouldn’t charge it overnight.”
Van Nes said there have been no fires caused by lithium-ion batteries within the BTFD community, so there were
Please see LITHIUM 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
Bluffton Police Department’s domestic violence investigator, Detective Angela Serrano, is asking local businesses if they will allow her to place stickers in their bathrooms in efforts to reach potential victims of domestic violence. The sticker will have a QR (i.e., Quick Response) code which will lead the responder to a quick survey. This information-gathering technique will connect potential victims with Detective Serrano or BPD’s Victim Advocate Kate Cooler for resources and law-enforcement guidance.
Detective Serrano developed this innovative system to open a line of communication with potential victims. The scan will result in a six-question survey and will prompt a response from BPD.
The QR code survey leads to a
form on the Town of Bluffton’s website. This survey also has Spanish translation. The survey is first step of opening the lines of communication. It does not automatically result in a police report.
If you have a local business and are willing to have QR Code Stickers which read, “Stop Domestic Violence – Scan For Help” with a BPD logo on it, in your stalls, please contact Detective Angela Serrano at (aserrano@townofbluffton.com) or (cell): 843.540.5123.
BPD is especially looking for businesses which attract a cross-section of the public such as grocery stores, restaurants, bars, and so forth. Detective Serrano will also be reaching out to major businesses, however, if a business is willing, they are encouraged to email or call
her.
The “Stop Domestic Violence –Scan For Help” QR Code Stickers are currently located at Town Hall (20 Bridge Street, Bluffton) and the public restroom in the main lobby of the Bluffton Police Department (101 Progressive Street) as well in
the bathrooms of Oscar Frazier Park and Oyster Factory Park.
This program is a component of a $141,404 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice which was awarded to the Bluffton Police Department in October 2022. This grant funds a dedicated domestic violence detective and program which enables the BPD to focus on case closure and prosecution for domestic violence offenses and provide resources to victims.
For more information:
Detective (Cpl.) Angela Serrano Criminal Investigations Division Bluffton Police Department
(Office): 843.706.4527
(Cell): 843.540.5123
(Email): aserrano@townofbluffton.com
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There is a famous quote, “Do what you can, with what you got, where you are.” This sums up the role of each local governmental agency. The challenge for newcomers to Bluffton is figuring out which agency has responsibility or jurisdiction over each what component of your life. Understanding the role and the parameters of each government agency can be confusing, espec
local government.
The Town of Bluffton Government is a limited services one and is responsible for the growth management (i.e., development plans, permits, master plans, etc.), natural resources protection, community events, public parks and open space and public projects (i.e., streetscapes, parks, sanitary sewer for communities which aren’t in a planned neighborhood) and economic development within the town limits, as well as our amazing Bluffton Police Department.
the Town to have ownership. If a road or highway travels in the Town but also in the unincorporated parts of Beaufort County, jurisdiction must belong to the Beaufort County or the state (SC Department of Transportation.)
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VISIT: BlufftonSun.com
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.
Mark ially if a residents compares it to the local government from which he or she came. Just like families, each local government has a different way of “parenting” the community and depending on the resources and needs of that communities, those roles and parameters are different with each
In most cases, the Town has a voice, not a vote when it comes to decisions made by other governmental agencies. Town leaders feel it is among their responsibilities to represent their residents to other agencies when they are making decisions which may affect Bluffton residents. For example, which agency is responsible for what roads is a frequent point of confusion. The Town only “owns” about a dozen roads, most of them in the Historic District. The rule is a road must begin and end within the Town limits, for
To the Editor
Bluffton Pharmacy provides Superhero care to its customers. They represent and continue to provide that personal smalltown care to all of their customers. Rob Vaughn is now the owner and as always with Bluffton Pharmacy, another Super-Hero has arrived. I went rushing off to California to meet our first grandchild and stayed for many months to help out, the last thing on my mind was medication. I was nearly out and I called Rob, and to the rescue he mailed my refills to me in California. And we think Amazon is special? Now in our lives we are battling cancer! The side effects from the infusions make it really tough! After checking with family physicians, a pulmonologist and
receiving good news about his lungs, his coughing continues. In fact, for his age, my husband would be in great shape if he didn’t have cancer! But the coughing continued and was wiping him out everyday. So, who do I turn to for help, Rob Vaughn at Bluffton Pharmacy. He of course knows the drugs that could help but because of the infusions he calls the doctor treating his cancer. That afternoon, the cancer treatment center sent us to the emergency room. He had developed pulmonitis, one of the side effects from the infusions which could be deadly. In my mind, Rob Vaughn may have saved his life. My level of concern was obvious to him because he knows me, like a small town pharmacist. I’m extremely loyal to Bluffton Pharmacy,
While local agencies continuously work together to provide the best decisions for the community, the Town does not have authority for final decisions for major roads, streets, highways,or parkways (i.e., Beaufort County or SC DOT), schools (Beaufort County School District), water and sewer service (Beaufort Jasper Water & Sewer Authority), fire fighting service (Bluffton Township Fire District) or youth sports leagues (Beaufort County Parks & Leisure Services.)
Town staff members are available to help you navigate you to the correct agency for any specific concerns or issues. You can reach Town Hall at 843.706.4500.
and discard the automatic refill programs my insurance companies try to force me to use, because they won’t be there to help me on Christmas Day!
Elizabeth Henry Bluffton, SC 29910The Bluffton Sun welcomes letters to the editor. Letters must be no longer than 250 words and must include the writer’s name, address and phone number. Email letters to editor@ hargray.com.
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 Chamber for Young
Professionals at Indy Karting & Amusement, we asked: “what music is playing in your head as you’re racing around the track?”
LITHIUM from page 1A
no local photos available. Although the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control has a detailed section on lithium batteries, neither did they have images of such fires. The same cannot be said for other areas of the country.
On July 9, in an apartment building in Chevy Chase, Md., firefighters were called to a fire in an apartment on the third floor. They extinguished the fire, and were checking for extension and searching.
“Cells in the battery pack shot out and launched across the room, landing in front of us on fire,” said Bill Riley of Company 6. He said it was a battery pack for a portable camera/photographer light that had been exposed to the fire. “Another cell went under the dishwasher causing a secondary fire with the dishwasher. Even after taking multiple classes, and even giving several classes about lithium-ion batteries, to see one actually explode and shoot across the room was pretty impres-
sive. Also, to find a secondary fire in the kitchen area away from the primary fire area was eye opening of this fire danger.”
A lithium battery fire is not an ordinary housefire in which one can extinguish the flames with a wet blanket, flour, salt or even a home extinguisher.
“The problem with lithium batteries is it’s not like a typical fire. It’s more of a chemical reaction. It gets somewhere over 2500 degrees. These things can get that hot,” said Van Nes. “I’ve seen where those batteries could explode and go up to 60 feet. At that point, it’s a chemical reaction that takes a lot of water. We’re actually not going to put the fire out. We’re just going to cool it enough that this reaction is going to stop.”
Van Nes, who came to Bluffton from New York City, said there are a lot of these fires in apartments.
“People are charging inside. They’re not using the correct equipment. They’re
LITHIUM from page 8A
plugging their kid’s scooter in and going into work,” he said. “This is a big topic. There was an online symposium that the Washington, D.C., fire department put with the International Fire Chiefs Association for chiefs across the country. They do a yearly safety week, and the focus this this year was these lithium-ion batteries.”
Car fires that use the lithium-ion batteries take thousands and thousands of gallons of water just to cool them down.
“The number one cause of electrical vehicle fires is accidents. The number two reason is not using the correct charging. Ford and Teslas can now be charged on the same charger. Tesla’s got those rapid chargers, and that’s like buying the online cheap one,” said Van Nes. “They don’t jive together.”
There are 7,104 lithium-ion cells in most Teslas. The latest configuration numbers 8,256 cells. All of the batteries are located beneath the floor pan of the vehicle. Between the front and rear wheels.
Van Nes said if you get in a car crash get out of your car. But how? Everything these days is electric with no way to roll down the windows.
“There are manual releases, but people don’t know where they are, and they’re there. They’re not in the same in every car, they have to be within arm’s length, and every car is different,” he said. “So make sure unless you look in your owner’s manual, you’re probably not going to know where that manual release is. After a crash is not the time to be looking in the owner’s manual.”
The lifespan of most automobile lith-
ium-ion batteries has not been reached, with the estimated mileage between 300,000 and 500,000 or reportedly 22-37 years for someone who drives 40 miles a day. But laptops, cell phones, scooters, E-bikes, and the smoke alarms with the 10-year sealed batteries all have shorter shelf lives, and require special handling when it comes to disposal.
“The lithium batteries need to be taken to the household hazardous waste area where they can be properly stored away from the elements, and those are accepted at our four large centers,” said Victoria Hoffman, Solid Waste and Recycling Program manager.
Lithium batteries are accepted at the four big convenience centers: Bluffton, 104 Simmonsville Road; Hilton Head, 26 Summit Drive; Beaufort, 80 Shanklin Road; and St. Helena, 639 Sea Island Parkway. See the attendant for assistance because lithium batteries need special handling.
According to DHEC, Li-ion and other rechargeable batteries can be recycled at major retailers (e.g., Lowe’s, Best Buy, The Home Depot) that participate in the Call2Recycle program. The program is free to residents. To find a participating location near you, visit www.call2recycle.org.
Beaufort County conducts quarterly E-waste events at the Shanklin Road site and at 9 Benton Field Road in Bluffton. The next E-waste event will be from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Aug. 26.
Gwyneth J. Saunders is a veteran journalist and freelance writer living in Bluffton.
Lowcountry resident for 13.5 years
Gwyneth was born in Pennsylvania, raised in South Jersey, now living in Bluffton. She retired from the U.S. Navy after 26 years as a Navy journalist. She earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Norfolk State University (“Go Spartans”). Married 19.5 years to Tony, an adorable Welshman. They have two sweet rescue cats, Tigger the tripod and Benji (neither are spoiled). She is a member of Sun City Veterans Association; chorus, Sundancers, softball, art, and computer clubs. A Philadelphia Eagles fan, Gwyneth love pasta, sushi and great burgers. Love my family, friends. I have the best job.
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By Shellie West Hodges CONTRIBUTOR
The Historic Bluffton Foundation has completed the preservation of the slave dwelling located behind the Heyward House at 70 Boundary Street in historic downtown Bluffton.
The Heyward House’s slave dwelling stands as a powerful testament to our nation’s complex history, offering a tangible connection to the past and an opportunity for reflection and understanding. Funding for the project was secured through the Town of Bluffton’s Preservation Grant and South Carolina Parks, Recreation & Tourism (SC PRT) funds and ATAX (Accommodation tax) funds. The Town of Bluffton’s grant generously contributed 75% of the funding, exemplifying their commitment to preserving our local heritage. An additional 25% of the funds was graciously provided through a SC PRT grant received this year.
Renovations included a preservation treatment on the shake roof to ensure its durability against the elements. There was one original shutter and the front door. The chosen color, haint blue, captures the essence of a shutter from an Edisto Island slave dwelling that was donated to the new African American History Museum in Washington, DC.
The Foundation credits Mr. David Pratt
ONLY ONE STEP AWAY
for much of the success of this achievement. Recognizing the value of the original flooring, Mr. Pratt executed sensitive and meticulous patch repairs, preserving as much of the original material and character as possible. The interior of the slave dwelling was painted with a traditional limewash treatment, using large bristle brushes to enrich its ambiance and preserve its historical essence. This work also led to an exciting
discovery—an original corner pier—which provides clues about the building’s original position. Anecdotal historical information indicates that it was moved off its foundation during the 1893 hurricane and had new piers constructed during subsequent repairs.
The successful completion of this restoration project represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to preserve and interpret our local history. The Heyward House Slave Dwelling will continue to serve as a timeless educational resource to gain a deeper appreciation for the experiences of those who were once enslaved.
The Historic Bluffton Foundation will remain steadfast in their dedication to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of our community.
Shellie West Hodges works in the Marketing & Development department for the Historic Bluffton Foundation (HBF) at the Heyward House, Shellie@HistoricBluffton.org, www. historicbluffton.org
As a retired registered nurse, Linda had undergone back surgery four years prior to treatment at Fraum. She was in so much pain after her procedure that just never fully resolved. Wanting to avoid a second surgery, Linda made the decision to seek treatment with the doctors at Fraum. The combination of restorative medicine and physical therapy has improved her range of motion and pain levels significantly in order to give Linda her life back in a way she hadn’t experienced before.
Charlotte Lewis, a Bluffton local, has been competing in the Special Olympics since 2015. This past June she brought home a gold medal for the women’s 200-meter kayaking race that took place in Berlin, Germany. Lewis had to qualify for the world games by competing both locally and in Texas, then making it through an interview process. The Special Olympics World Games run from June 17 through the 25.
She put in work with hours of practice at Shelter Cove Harbour and Marina multiple times a week with her Outside Hilton Head coach, Patty Robbins. In addition to kayaking, Lewis has competed in basketball, bocce, bowling, and equestrian. The town of Bluffton held a celebration parade for Charlotte at Wright Family Park on July 13th where Mayor Lisa Sulka presented Charlotte with the keys to the town.
Charlotte’s church, Lord of Life
Lutheran Church, the Rotary Club, The Kiwanis Club, the Knights of Columbus were all behind Charlotte financially and in spirit. Charlotte, and Kathy Cramer, the Executive Director
of SOAR Special Recreation of the Lowcountry describe it as a whole community experience.
The Bluffton Sun sat down with Charlotte to hear more about her
experience.
BS: You competed in five sports, is there a favorite? Do you prefer team sports or individual?
Charlotte: My favorite is bowling, I started that in 2018, my favorite other sport to do is horseback riding
BS: Training takes dedication. How much time each week do you spend training and how do you decide which sport to focus on? Do you train evenly for each?
For a year I did strictly kayak training. Twice a week I went out into the water when it was warm enough, and on the days I didn’t go into the water I would go to the gym. I competed in trial games in San Antonio, Texas. I was going to the gym 3 or 4 times a week. The coaches were sure we were going to make it. The requirements were that you have to get up and moving on your own, and you have to be
Please see CHARLOTTE on page 18A
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Hurricane season begins in June and runs through November. It is important to plan ahead so you are safe in an emergency.
Hurricane season begins in June and runs through November. It is important to plan ahead so you safe in an emergency.
Prepare now for the risks associated with stormy weather and be prepared to act on that plan. Palmetto Electric is here and ready to respond.
Like us on Facebook and/or follow us on Instagram and Twitter or visit our website for the most up-to-date storm and outage information.
Call 1-866-445-5551 or use our free PEC MyEnergy mobile app to report power outages
Download the 2023 Hurricane guide at https://www.scemd.org/ stay-informed/publications/hurricane-guide/.
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okay to fly by yourself. The kayaking in Texas was rainy and cold! The first day of practice it was so cold and rainy we had to go to the gym instead.
BS: Do you have a pre-competition ritual? Do you follow any special diet pre-competition?
Charlotte: For every special Olympics sport we have to stretch and have water with us. I just try not to eat a lot of sugar, and I drink lots and lots and lots of water. We ate a lot of Sausage in Germany. We got to spend time in a host town getting used to the culture. We met the mayor, we went on a boat ride, and went to the zoo.
BS: What was the most memorable moment from Berlin?
Charlotte: When I got to see my mom after I won my gold medal, I broke down and cried. Kathy and Tom from SOAR were there too. e.
BS: Do you interact with the crowd? Do you find their cheering to be distracting or motivational?
Charlotte: The crowd was loud, very into it, very encouraging!
Kathy: In Germany, as soon as it’s one minute before the race start, they ask that everyone respect the athletes, they “shhh” for 60 seconds. It
Charlotte: It helps clear peoples’ heads out.
BS: You’ve met people from all
over the world in these competitions, have friendships develop? Do you stay in touch?
Charlotte: I talked to really nice people from Ireland but didn’t have much time because of the competition. I was able to meet a bunch of people from the U.S. team that I’m now friends with on Facebook.
BS: What advice do you have for other who are thinking about competing in the Special Olympics?
Charlotte: If you don’t know what sport you want to do, come out and see what it’s all about! Not every sport is for everyone, but I encourage everyone to come out and try. You can choose form tennis, kayaking, bocce ball, pickleball, swimming, horseback riding, cheerleading, track and field.
BS: What first motivated you to compete?
Charlotte: A friend at work who was already doing it told me to give it a try, my mom looked into it, I went out for bowling first and that’s when it all started!
BS: Future plans on competing?
Charlotte: Yes, I want to go to the next US games in 2026 in Minnesota and the World Games in Australia. I’m taking classes to become a certified global messenger to speak to others about Special Olympics.
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Debilitating knee pain can severely impact one’s mobility and quality of life. While surgery has long been considered the standard treatment, non-surgical approaches have gained traction as effective alternatives. Let’s explore the benefits of non-surgical knee treatment and shed some light on why it is such a reasonable choice for individuals seeking relief from chronic knee pain.
1. Minimized Risks.
Non-surgical knee treatments offer several advantages over surgical interventions. Without the need for incisions or anesthesia, these procedures minimize the chances of complications. This translates into a faster recovery period, allowing individuals to return to their daily activities sooner. By avoiding the risks associated with surgery, such as infections or wound healing issues, non-surgical options provide a safer and more efficient path to recovery.
2. Preserved Joint Function.
Non-surgical treatments prioritize preserving the natural structure and function of the knee joint. Through methods like active and resistance training, targeted exercises help strengthen the muscles around the knee, enhancing stability and reducing stress on the joint. Injections, such as corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid, may provide temporary relief, maintaining the integrity of the knee joint and possibly delaying surgery. Non-surgical treatments such as Knee Decompression can extend the longevity of the joint and potentially prevent the need for more invasive procedures in the future.
Non-surgical knee treatments offer a tailored approach to address everyone’s unique needs. After a comprehensive evaluation to determine the most suitable treatment plan, considering factors like age, activity level, and severity of the condition, specific recommendations provide clarity to our patients. This personalized approach ensures that patients receive targeted care, optimizing outcomes. Additionally, non-surgical treatments tend to be more cost-effective compared to surgical procedures, which often involve hospital stays, anesthesia, and post-operative care expenses. Choosing non-surgical alternatives can provide effective relief while minimizing healthcare costs.
Non-surgical knee treatment offers numerous benefits, including reduced risks, faster recovery, preserved joint function, and a personalized approach. By exploring non-surgical options, individuals can find effective relief from knee pain while avoiding the potential complications and longer recovery times associated with surgery. Treatment, however, is not for everyone. Only after a thorough evaluation can we determine who may be a good candidate. Consulting an expert is essential to determine the most suitable non-surgical treatment plan for each person’s unique circumstances. “Sometimes we must realize that knee surgery is the best option.”
You wouldn’t know it from watching the news, but there is more that unites Americans than divides them. In fact, most Democrats and Republicans share more in common with each other than they do with the extremes of their own parties. I’m part of a movement called No Labels that is working to ensure these Americans—the commonsense majority—are offered a choice that more closely aligns with their shared values during the 2024 presidential election.
Right now, there is a collective sense of dread about next year’s election, a likely rematch between Donald Trump and Joe Biden that 7 out of 10 Americans don’t want.
If a majority continue to be unsatisfied with their two options and if polling shows a pathway to victory, No Labels will run a unity ticket featuring a Democrat and Republican as running mates.
It isn’t just the name-calling and division
that No Labels would seek to correct with its run, but also the lack of unifying ideas about the future. To fill this vacuum, No Labels released a booklet last week called Common Sense that features 30 ideas that a majority of Americans in both parties support.
I know from my time representing South Carolina in Congress that people who disagree can still work together. In fact, disagreeing on some things is inevitable. I always liked to quote Ed Koch: “If you agree with me on 7 out of 10 things, vote for me. If you agree with me on 10 out of 10 things, see a psychiatrist.”
It’s a great quote to drive home the central point of politics: That just because we don’t agree on everything doesn’t mean we can’t accomplish anything. And engaging in an open discussion about areas of agreement—and making progress on them—is a great place to start. That’s what No Labels is seeking to do with Common Sense.
One of the ideas in the booklet is to respect the rights of law-abiding gun owners
while keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminals. This is a prime example of the common sense that most South Carolinians and Americans support. In the wake of the Mother Emanuel AME Charleston church shooting in 2015, I saw up close that there was bipartisan support to reform our gun laws in a way that balanced both safety and freedom.
One way to do so was to close the Charleston Loophole, which allows someone to purchase a firearm if their background check takes longer than three days. This is what allowed the Charleston church shooter to obtain his weapon, and it runs against common sense in every way. Imagine if a pharmaceutical company was allowed to proceed with selling a drug just because the FDA took too long to review it.
Our push to close this loophole may have had common sense on its side, but that wasn’t enough in Washington, where the two-party machine crushes ideas for the simple reason that the wrong side thought of
them first.
Another idea that has suffered a similar fate, and also earned inclusion in Common Sense, is that Dreamers—those brought to the U.S. illegally as children—should have a path to citizenship. People shouldn’t be punished for an act they had no say in. Many Dreamers don’t even speak the language of their home countries. Most of them were brought into our country as babies or toddlers, around the same age as my son. Should they really be sent back? I spoke to a Dreamer in my district who couldn’t access in-state tuition or a student loan because of his lack of legal status. This is an affront to our American values. Both parties can work together to solve it.
As a final example, the Common Sense book also discusses the idea that no child should go hungry in America. This isn’t controversial. It’s incredibly upsetting that many kids are arriving to and leaving school
Please see NO LABELS on page 25A
• Lowcountry Christian Women’s Connection Fall Fest September 20, 2023 will take place at the Hampton Hall Clubhouse (170 Hampton Hall Blvd). The Fair will take place from 10:00-11:30, Luncheon and program will run until 1:00. Music, fun, inspiration, door prizes, and a customized menu. Prepaid reservations required. $28.00 payable to CWC, 607 Argent Way, Bluffton, SC 29909
• The Bluffton Library (120 Palmetto Way, in Bluffton Village) will hold the following book club meetings in August: Riveting Read Fantasy-Horror at 5:30 pm on 8/7 and Page Turners at 11 am on 8/29. On 8/15 Grownups’ Getaway Matinee at 1 pm. Call 843-255-6503 to learn this month’s film and to register for book clubs.
• Outside Brands has announced a new initiative to give back to the local community, while also providing patrons with incredible deals to accompany South Carolina’s Tax-Free Weekend. The four-day sale will begin one day before the tax-free weekend and take place from August 3 to 6 at the Outside Hilton Head retail store located in Shelter Cove Plaza at 50 Shelter Cove Lane. For only a $5 donation, patrons will receive a ticket to enjoy a 50% discount on premiere brands including Patagonia, Faherty, OluKai, and more. All proceeds from ticket sales will directly benefit the Outside Foundation, the organization’s nonprofit sector.
NO LABELS from page 24A
hungry, which causes their academics to suffer and behavioral problems to manifest. Yet our partisan system continues to disincentivize taking action to solve this problem. That should shake all of us to the core and cause us to reexamine whether the political status quo is working.
In releasing the Common Sense booklet in New Hampshire last week, No Labels brought together Republicans and Democrats to demonstrate that we can have these discussions in a civil manner. Washington, D.C. should reflect that ethos. Democrats and Republicans should be coming together
• The Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH) Annual Golf Tournament is scheduled for September 16, 2023 at Pinecrest Golf Club in Bluffton. The proceeds will go to benefit Christian education and various other local charities in the Low Country. Registration is at 8:00 a.m. with a shotgun start at 9:00 a.m. (Rain date is September 23, 2023). Registration is $100 per player. This covers greens fee, cart, range balls, lunch and prizes. For additional information, registration and sponsorship’s please contact either Pat McInerney at patjmcinerney@gmail. com or by phone: 843-706-6105 or Tim Rossiter at tim@rossiterfg.com or by phone: 631-374-0470.
• Conroy Center Hosts Annual Children’s Book Fair, August 8. Dinah Johnson will be the special guest author at the Pat Conroy Literary Center’s annual Children’s Book Fair, to be held on Tuesday, August 8, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Port Royal Sound Foundation Weezie Educational Pavilion (130 Okatie Hwy, Okatie).
•Join Community Bible Study for a study on Ephesians, Ruth, and 1 & 2 Samuel at First Baptist Church on Hilton Head Island, Thursdays beginning September 7 from 10 am to 12 pm. Evening groups will begin on September 12 on Tuesdays from 6:30 pm to 8 pm at Grace Community Church. To learn more visit hiltonhead.cbsclass.org or contact Sharon Riggs at striggs@bellsouth.net.
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and engaging in meaningful discussion that transcends the winner-takes-all mentality. This false binary—where both sides feel they must get all or nothing—must be dismantled.
The true strength of our democracy lies in our capacity for compromise and cooperation on areas of agreement. It’s time we moved beyond political tribalism and towards a united future. That’s what No Labels is fighting for. And to most Americans, it’s common sense.
Joe Cunningham is a former United States Representative and National Director of No Labels.
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Ozempic is everywhere at the moment. Whether in the form of Ozempic or its generic form Semaglutide or as another brand medication known as Wegovy, most have heard of it. Originally developed for those suffering from diabetes, it has also garnered interest as a very effective weight loss medication.
So, what does this medication do exactly? Ozempic/Wegovy/Semaglutide is considered a GLP-1 Analogue. Glp-1 is a natural hormone that your body produces, generally in the intestine, to stimulate the release of insulin in the presence of high blood sugar while decreasing the release of glucagon (which helps to not raise blood sugar). In layman’s terms, it is an effective tool in the fight to control ones A1C and help reduce the risk of stroke or heart attack in people with diabetes who cannot produce enough insulin on their own.
Another important activity of GLP-1 is that it helps to delay gastric emptying in turn decreasing the amount one eats because it makes you feel fuller faster and for a longer period of time. This is why people report significant weight loss while taking these medications. Most who take one of these
medications for weight loss report some sort of nausea especially when eating too much because of the delay in gastric emptying. As a pharmacist, I have seen both sides to this. From a standpoint of controlling A1C and protecting those with diabetes from possible cardiovascular events due to the metabolic disorder, it has shown to be very effective. Also, it has shown great promise in those who have taken it to help lose weight in order to avoid becoming diabetic, or to avoid other health problems associated with weight.
If you are taking this medication for weight loss, its important to take notice in the changes to your eating habits if you are wanting to stop taking it and still maintain the weight loss. Semaglutide will make you want to eat less. So, take notice of your portions and continue to eat as if you were on the medication.
One confusing point of note is that Ozempic is approved by the FDA only for use in diabetes, while Wegovy is FDA approved for weight loss, even though they are the same thing. There is evidence to suggest that Semaglutide in all forms may soon be approved for both diabetes and weight loss.
Beaufort, SC – Beaufort County has announced a grant to the South Carolina Nurse Retention Initiative (SCNRI) and will be working with SCNRI to align retention efforts for health care workers in the PATH program and for nurses wishing to practice in Beaufort County. The PATH (People Achieving Their Highest) Program, the innovative career growth program launched last year by a group of partners including Beaufort Memorial Hospital, Beaufort County, the City of Beaufort, University of South Carolina Beaufort (USCB), and the Beaufort County School District, is designed to help develop and grow the health care workforce in Beaufort County.
SCNRI has received a grant from Beaufort County and will be working closely with PATH program leadership on retention initiatives. This partnership complements PATH’s efforts to create a bigger and stronger health care system, and helps
the program get a return on their initial investments in the BMH workforce through retaining health care workers that are part of the program.
“We are pleased that our Nurse Retention Initiative has been recognized as an integral part of workforce development in support of the PATH program,” said Bob Elliott, Co-Founder of the South Carolina Nurse Retention Initiative. “The SCNRI has demonstrated that retention of health care workers can make a difference to health care providers and to the quality of health care for all citizens. I commend the Beaufort County Council for their commitment to workforce development and am extremely proud to be part of this Initiative.”
The PATH program was designed as a part of a greater initiative to help establish and grow a comprehensive pipeline of health care workers. This involves recruiting and training more high school students and college students, along with existing employees at Beaufort Memorial Hospital, in order to help them advance along the
PATH to a better career and quality of life. Students and workers on the PATH learn new skills, earn advanced certifications, and grow their careers at Beaufort Memorial. BMH, Beaufort County, City of Beaufort, and USCB are also working to bolster the ranks of nursing program graduates with a new training facility and clinical instructors.
The South Carolina Nurse Retention Initiative (SCNRI) was launched in 2021 to combat the nurse shortage facing Beaufort County. The program offers a financial
incentive to nurses who remain employed in Beaufort County Primary Health Care and the opportunity to grow their careers and prosper while remaining in Beaufort County.
“Beaufort County is excited to support SCNRI as another step on the PATH to a great Healthcare career,” said Hank Amundson, Special Assistant to the County Administrator. Amundson added, “SCNRI will help the newly graduated nurses remain local and put down roots. This financial support, while they get settled into their new career, will allow them to live where they work and play. This retention initiative will pay dividends for us all, as a community, by supporting a more robust, sustainable healthcare system.”
For more information about the South Carolina Nurse Retention Initiative, visit www.scnurseretention.org.
Ellen Linnemann is the Vice President of Public Relations, SmartMarketing CommunicationsSince its inception in 1994, Community Foundation of the Lowcountry has provided the strategy, structure, and guidance to donors to maximize their giving opportunities. The support offered by the Community Foundation to donors stretches beyond individuals and families – it also includes businesses, giving circles, service groups, private foundations, nonprofit organizations, and residential communities. Community Foundation of the Lowcountry currently administers 13 residential community charitable funds:
Belfair, Berkeley Hall, Colleton River, The Cypress, Hampton Hall, Hampton Lake, Long Cove, Moss Creek, Palmetto Bluff, Palmetto Dunes, Port Royal, Riverton and TidePointe. The impact of these funds, with numerous resident donors, can be transformational.
Rapid growth is a benefit of a residential community fund. The Port Royal Community Charitable Fund, in just its second year of grantmaking, granted over $84,000 to eight local nonprofit organizations, more than four times its initial $20,000 granted in 2022. A resident of Port Royal summed it up best by stating “you are not just raising funds; you are building a community.”
Each residential community fund is unique with varying grantmaking themes and geographic focal points. Palmetto Dunes Cares grantmaking efforts focus on organizations that provide services to
youth or the environment in the greater Hilton Head area. In 2023, Palmetto Dunes awarded 20 grants and presented its first scholarships to local students. Riverton Charitable Fund, who awarded its first grants in 2023, provides grants and resources to benefit their neighbors in Jasper County. The Colleton River Charitable Fund awards grants that support Greater Bluffton nonprofit organizations who supply residents in need with the tools and support to build a better future.
Community Foundation of the Lowcountry has built longstanding, collaborative relationships with many of the residential community funds. Long Cove Club created its Community Endowment Fund in 2003 with the Community Foundation and added the Long Cove Charitable Fund in 2014, which disburses all funds raised through contributions and fundraisers within that fiscal year. The two
After living 50 years on Hilton Head Island, David and Nancy Ames have cultivated deep roots in our community. David, a land planner, developed Long Cove Club during Hilton Head’s early days. In 2016 he was elected to town council. They’ve both invested their invaluable talent, along with countless hours, to nonprofit boards and volunteer activities.
They wanted a way to continue to support the community after they’re gone. They found it at the Community Foundation.
As members of our Legacy Society, they’ve named the Community Foundation as part
of their estate plan. Why? “We want to create a safety net for our community, and an endowment at the Community Foundation does that,” David says. Nancy agrees, “Building the Community Foundation into our estate plan allows us to continue to invest in the community we love, even after we’re gone.”
Their love of our community shines in all they do now and, through our Legacy Society, that light will continue to shine for years and years to come.
What will you endow for future generations? Let’s start a conversation today.
Long Cove funds combined have contributed over $2 million to local nonprofits.
In total, the residential community funds administered by the Community Foundation have awarded over $5.5 million in grants and scholarships to local organizations and students!
Community Foundation of the Lowcountry is honored to be a trusted resource and partner to our residential community funds, and we continue to engage with additional communities about their philanthropic options. If your residential community is interested in creating a fund, please contact the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry team at 843-681-9100 or email us at info@ cf-lowcountry.org.
Scott Wierman is the president and CEO of Community Foundation of the Lowcountry
By Oswald Lightsey Mikell, MD CONTRIBUTOR
Skin Self-Exam. If you can spot it – you can stop it.
Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers, afflicting more than two million Americans every year. It is also the easiest cancer to cure, if diagnosed and treated early. When allowed to progress, however, skin cancer can result in disfigurement and even death. You should examine your skin from head to toe every month and see a dermatologist every year for a professional skin exam.
Q. How do I perform a self-exam?
A. Follow these steps:
1. First inspect your hands, including the tops of your hands, your fingernails, your palms, and the skin between your fingers.
2. Next, stand in front of a fulllength mirror and examine your face and ears.
3. Part your hair to ensure you can clearly see your scalp.
4. Continue by inspecting your neck, chest, and torso; women should check under their breasts as well.
5. Lift your arms to examine your underarms, elbows, and the front and back sides of your arms.
6. Turn your back toward the full-length mirror, and use a small handheld mirror to inspect your neck, shoulders, back, buttocks, and the back side of your legs.
7. To complete the exam, sit in a chair and examine the front side of your legs, and your feet, including the
tops of your feet, your toenails, heels, soles, and the skin between your toes.
Q. I perform self-skin exams, but I still worry I will miss something.
A. If feasible, ask someone close to you for help when checking your skin.
Q. What are the warning signs?
A. There are several signs you should watch out for – any skin growth that over weeks to months increases in size and appears pearly, translucent, tan, brown, black, or multicolored; a mole, birthmark, beauty mark, or any brown spot that changes color, increases in size or thickness, changes in texture, is irregular in outline, or any spots or sores that itch, hurt, crust, scab, erode, or bleed; or open sores that do not heal within three weeks.
Q: At what age should you begin self-exams?
A: You should begin teaching children at an early age how to perform self-skin exams so that they can do it themselves by the time they are teens.
Q: Is there anything that can be done to prevent skin cancer?
A: Yes! – use sun screen and protective clothing! About 90 percent of non-melanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. If you discover anything suspicious – don’t delay! Skin cancer can be cured with early detection and treatment. Call Dermatology Associates of the Lowcountry (843) 689-5259 (Hilton Head) or (843) 705-0840 (Bluffton/Okatie) right away to schedule a consultation.
Darren E. Mullins, M.D., a board-certified, fellowship-trained medical oncologist, has joined Beaufort Memorial Oncology Specialists, part of the hospital’s nationally recognized Keyserling Cancer Center in Beaufort.
Dr. Mullins brings extensive knowledge of the full range of established and emerging therapies—among them chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, biological therapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapy—to the treatment of a wide variety of cancers, including those of the breast, prostate, head and neck, GI system and blood.
The Tennessee native had spent the whole of his career at medical oncology practices in the South before deciding to, as he put it, “do something different.” In 2017 he accepted an offer to establish a new practice and service line at Central Peninsula Hospital in Soldotna, Alaska, returning to home base after six rewarding, productive years to join Beaufort Memorial. No stranger to the Palmetto State, Mullins founded Waccamaw Oncology in Georgetown/Murrells Inlet and practiced there from 2002 through 2013.
He holds a Doctor of Medicine from the University of Alabama School of Medicine in Birmingham and a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry, cum laude, from the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, and completed a residency in internal medicine at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine in Memphis and a fellowship in medical oncology at the University of Virginia Health Sciences Center in Charlottesville,
(now known as UVA Health).
“Dr. Mullins brings unmistakable expertise and compassion to the practice of medical oncology, a specialty that requires both,” said Russell Baxley, president and chief executive officer at Beaufort Memorial. “Area patients will greatly benefit from his care.”
Awarded full accreditation with special commendation from the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons, the Keyserling Cancer Center in Beaufort and the New River Cancer Center in Okatie provide access to medical oncology, radiation oncology, cancer surgeries, and lab, imaging, infusion and breast health services. Both centers are affiliated with the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC Health) and its experienced subspecialists to provide additional treatment options when needed, as well as access to promising clinical trials, allowing local treatment for even the most complex cancers.
As part of the hospital’s two cancer centers, the Beaufort Memorial Oncology Specialists practice offers treatment for broadly ranging cancers and benign hematological conditions. Dr. Mullins will treat patients at the Beaufort medical oncology office, located in suite 310 of Beaufort Medical Plaza, 989 Ribaut Road, with board-certified nurse practitioners Katy Jones and Susanne Baisch. Dr. Stephen Tiley leads the Okatie medical oncology office at the New River Cancer Center, located in the Okatie Medical Pavilion, 122 Okatie Center Blvd. North.
For more information or to make an appointment with Mullins or any of the other medical oncology providers, call (843) 522-7350, or visit BeaufortMemorial.org/cancer.
It seemed like a good idea at the time… to possess a pet pig, a goat, a duck at Easter, a rabbit, a Marsh Tacky horse, and even an African tortoise. However, life overtakes you and circumstances change and you have to surrender that animal somewhere…but where?
Perhaps, you encounter an orphaned animal, an abandoned critter or one that is injured in the wild. Who do you contact?
“Two Old Ladies trying to get things done” is how they describe themselves! They are hardly old, unless old stands for Ongoing Love and Devotion to animals!
Laura Sterling of Lauras Little Critter Barn and Susan Lamberger of Singing Mouse Wildlife Rescue and Rehab are both nonprofit organizations in Bluffton, who have never met an animal that they didn’t like and are a special breed of humans!
Laura first began taking dogs, then farm animals in 2018, through Beaufort County Animal Control. Susan began
taking injured squirrels at her home in 2019. Today a visit to the Barn and Singing Mouse Wildlife Rescue is a little slice of Noah’s Ark! Greeting you are goats and horses followed inside by Lucy the sweetest pig! There are bunnies and parakeets and raccoons and opossums, turkeys and chickens, ducks and deer! The mission is to rescue, rehab and release the wildlife and find homes for all the others! In other
words…they are adoptable online! The responsibility can be draining both emotionally and financially. Donations made be made on their Facebook Page…Singing Mouse Wildlife Rescue and Rehab and Lauras Little Critter Barn.
Here’s an idea, next Party ask invitees to participate in a chow & kibble donation instead of hostess gift and birthday presents! Then have the thrill of seeing the child/
adult feed the animals with the donated food! They are always in need of cat, dog, puppy chow and chicken, duck, rabbit and turkey feed. Fresh greens and salad scraps are also appreciated…Donnie loves a good salad! Shoutout to Carter Veterinary Services in Hardeeville who come alongside the woman to care for the animals! For more information or to schedule food drop off please go to the Facebook pages.
AUGUST 16TH . Wednesday . 5:30-7pm
“Fundamentals
Estate Planning”Susan Lamberger and Michaela Yates bottle feed Kiwi and Blueberry. Connie Johnson a GOAT friend! Donnie is a seven year old African tortoise who lived in a bathtub, and was owner surrendered.
Payton Ward, Bluffton, was one of 94 high school seniors selected to attend American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Girls Nation July 22-29 in Washington, D.C. Ward was one of two participants who will represent South Carolina as a “senator” at ALA Girls Nation. Two delegates from each ALA Girls State program are chosen to represent their state after participating in an ALA state-level program held across the country. At ALA Girls Nation, senators participated in mock Senate sessions complete with caucuses and debating bills that range from personal to political interests.
The Bluffton Sun caught up with Payton to hear more about her trip and experience with the ALA.
BS: What has been the best part of the trip to DC?
It’s hard to say because there’s been so many amazing aspects of the trip! But if I had to choose just one, I’d say being able to be among so many different women while listening to their unique perspectives. It was
so incredible to learn so many new things about our nation through their beautiful stories.
Payton: What’s something you’ve learned from the ALA experience/DC trip
that you’ll bring back with you to Bluffton?
During my ALA experience I’ve been able to witness women that are going to change our world for the better up close and
personal. An important lesson I learned this summer was that there is truly no limit to the power of our voices. There is something so beautiful and empowering about seeing others speak their deepest passions for the greater good of America. Whatever it is, it truly has such an impact on all of those who are able to listen. It’s often said that we are the future of tomorrow, but I have learned that we are the future of today, tomorrow, and so much more to come.
BS: How has the experience shaped your future school or career goals?
Payton: I aspire to be a future lawyer one day. This experience has brought me inspiration, empowerment, and determination for my future. This program has planted an even greater love in my heart for the nation I live in and the people who make it so special. As I continue to learn more about our nation, government, and the people who bring it all together, I only become more passionate
Please see ALA on page 33A
about my future career and experiences.
BS: What would you say to others who are considering participating in ALA?
Payton: If you are considering possibly participating in the ALA, I could not recommend it enough! Whether you believe this would be the experience for you or not, I say go for it. Maybe politics and law isn’t your thing, but this program is so much more than just that. This program is friendship, it’s hope, it’s inspiring, and it’s uniting. You have a voice and it deserves to be heard along with your passions and dreams. Think about the things that make you light up and bring the power of your voice to the surface. Not only are you going to learn so many new things about our nation and the women around you, but you’re going to learn so many new things about yourself as well.
Ward, a rising senior at Cross Schools, was active in many ways during her week at ALA Palmetto Girls State. She also participates in many activities in her school and community. Some of her activities and interests include: 2022-2023 Student Body president,
2021 Teens for Healthy Youth vice president, Student Advisory Council Youth in Government, Anne Frank Archivist Club, Student Ambassadors, Palmetto Animal League volunteer, Cat Care Team Lead at Palmetto Animal League 2023, and Old Town Bluffton volunteer. Her honors and awards include Conference of National Affairs, Governor’s Cabinet for Youth in Government nominee, Pioneer Spirit Award, Youth in Government Spirit Award, first place for Extemporaneous Speaking in SCISA (South Carolina Independent School Association), first place in Science Art/Poetry Contest, bronze in Mayors’ Service Award, and youth representative chosen to receive Mayor’s Teens for Healthy Youth Proclamation. Students leave the program with increased confidence and leadership skills for college and in their future career paths. Some participants of the program go on to have careers in public service at the local, state, and national levels. No matter what their future holds, all leave with a better understanding of civic responsibilities.
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The past several years have seen a multitude of advancements in both surgical and non-surgical facial rejuvenation. Modern advancements in aesthetics aim to lessen the effects of facial aging. These include a decreased production of nutrients and essentials to the skin such as elastin and collagen, bone resorption, and a loss of subcutaneous tissue leading to sagging skin and a gaunt appearance. The good news is Facial Fat Transfer (aka - Fat Grafting) is an advancing technology that restores facial volume and a natural contour for a more youthful look. Candidates for facial fat transfer are of any age group when the effects of aging by fat atrophy have led to decreased volume in the temples, cheek, midface, and chin hollows. Fat transfer effectively improves fine lines and wrinkles by restoring the volume between the muscle and the skin, especially when paired with skin resurfacing such as peels and lasers. Older patients appear to have a greater benefit from fat grafting, specifically in the areas of the temple and cheek hollows. The transferred fat integrates seamlessly with the existing facial tissues, creating a smoother and more harmonious appearance. This natural outcome is attractive for those who wish to enhance their features without appearing overdone or fake.
The process of facial fat grafting has advanced significantly in recent years. Historically, fat transfer was less predictable as the fat graft survival rate was 40-60% which infrequently required repeat grafting and revision. However, advancements in harvesting, processing, and grafting techniques can achieve close to an 85-95% success rate in fat graft survival. The result is a safe and predictable replacement of fat cells that can last years. Further, grafts in recent studies have noted the fat grafts produce a stem-cell like rejuvenation of the overlying skin, for enhanced age rejuvenation.
Facial fat transfer can be performed in the outpatient setting in close to an hour. Fat is harvested through a small incision from a multitude of locations including the abdomen and thighs. While the cost is typically more than fillers, fat grafting does not require yearly touchups. Other factors to consider include a longer time to achieve results, possible bruising and swelling, and the need for a medical or surgical professional with an advanced understanding of anatomy and procedural skill set. With proper planning and expert implementation, Facial Fat Transfer can help you achieve a refreshed and more youthful appearance.
The Burnt Church Distillery in Bluffton has chosen Memory Matters as its nonprofit to promote during the month of August. Memory Matters, which has served this area for over 25 years, provides memory care programs, education, support, and services for caregivers and individuals living with memory-related conditions.
As part of its culture of philanthropy, which is detailed on its website, the Burnt Church Distillery hosts a nonprofit throughout the month and donates 5 percent of the revenue from its memberships and community events to the chosen organization. Memory Matters will operate a booth at the Distillery on Fridays from 5-8pm and Saturdays from 12-3pm through August. Those interested in volunteering to assist the organization with its activities are asked to contact volunteer coordinator Ginny Underwood.
Joy Nelson, director of marketing and communications at Memory Matters, said the Distillery has been very supportive of the nonprofit. “They have been so sweet to us, letting us do whatever we want and be as creative as we want,” Nelson said. She explains that this month-long invitation is a unique opportunity for Memory Matters to educate the community about the organization specifically and more broadly about brain health.
Memory Matters is working to reduce stigma, increase empathy, and promote self-advocacy with regard to brain health issues. They are doing this through a series of classes they started in 2018 as well as through other community training.
Stressing the importance of augmenting these efforts with community outreach events, Nelson points out that the Distillery is ideally suited to help them accomplish their goals of awareness and education.
“The Distillery and the surrounding area is the ‘in’ place to be in the Bluffton social scene. It’s a great place to gain a wide audience. People bring their kids.” She explains these events provide a unique low-pressure atmosphere with a jovial mood and a greater chance to engage people. “When people are sitting around with friends, they are more receptive and it allows more people the opportunity to become educated and to know about what we do,” she said.
It also makes that learning experience fun. Among the activities available will be Brain Trivia, a game where guests will have a chance to win prizes by answering questions about brain health—perhaps while enjoying the Memory Matters signature cocktail.
“It’s so cool because mixologists are doing the cocktail, “ Nelson said with excitement. As for the ingredients of the secret cocktail, you will likely have to show up at the Distillery in August to find out.
For more information on the month of events at the Burnt Church Distillery, contact:
117 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head
843-842-6688
Web: mymemorymatters.org
info@mymemorymatters.org
and on Facebook
Channing Heiss is a freelance writer and a member of the Beaufort County Disabilities Coalition
Our dental hygienists are caring, compassionate, highly educated professionals who love connecting with our patients and guiding them to their best health. They would love to welcome you to our Bluffton or Hilton Head location.
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.
The Community Foundation of the Lowcountry is pleased to welcome four new members to our Board of Directors, effective July 1, 2023. Board members serve three-year terms and can serve a total of two terms:
Laura A. Bush – Throughout an accomplished 40-plus year career in public service, Bush has been a fixture in her native Bluffton and continues to have a positive impact on generations of Beaufort County residents. Bush served 26 years as an elected member of the Beaufort County Board of Education and finished her tenure on the board as vice chair. She also spent 13 years as Emergency Assistance Coordinator for Beaufort County and created a countywide management system for local agencies and churches. Bush currently serves on multiple local boards, including Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry, and has served on several others. Bush has received numerous awards and recognitions, including from the South Carolina House of Representatives, Beaufort County Council, NAACP, South Carolina School Board, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Bluffton MLK Committee.
Faye Gooding – A lifetime resident of the Lowcountry, Gooding retired in 2019 from Le Creuset, the world’s leading cookware brand, where she worked for nearly 40 years in various executive leadership roles, most recently as CEO of Le Creuset North America. During her tenure as CEO, Le
Creuset launched ecommerce in the USA and Canada and expanded to more than 100 retail stores in North America. Gooding’s footprint in Hampton County is vast: she served on the Board of Directors of Hampton Regional Medical center for six years and (two as chair) and currently serves on the Varnville town council. In 2021, Gooding created Hampton County Citizens for Active Restoration (HCCAR), a non-partisan citizens forum working to improve local government services, county facilities, schools, and work skills training. For her work with HCCAR, Gooding was honored with Rotary Club of Hampton County’s Citizen of the Year in June of this year.
Judi Levy – Born in Oceanside, CA and raised primarily in Norfolk, VA, Levy had a distinguished law career combined with a strong commitment to public service. Public service has always been a priority for Levy’s family. She began her law career assisting American industries impacted by foreign countries inundating the U.S. marketplace with their products. She established a scholarship fund at the Yale University Law School (with the sole requirement being a commitment to public service in their career) and took leadership roles with various organizations’ boards, including Juvenile Protection Association, Montgomery County (MD) Public Schools, Chicago Foundation for Women, and Montgomery County of Coalition for the Homeless. In 2011, Levy moved to Hilton Head and has volunteered for local community organizations, including Memory Matters and Volunteers in Medicine.
NEW BOARD from page 36A
President of Emory University, where he spent 13 years before retiring in 2016. Wagner has served on over 20 boards, including Atlanta Committee for Progress, and 10 society memberships, including the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers.
Jim Wagner
Wagner was an Assistant Professor of Materials Science and Engineering at Johns Hopkins University (where he had earned his Ph.D. in the same discipline), and eventually elevated to professor and chair of the department. Wagner also spent time in senior leadership roles at Case Western Reserve University before becoming
The Community Foundation of the Lowcountry would also like to express their sincere appreciation for the four retiring board members and wish them the best in future endeavors: Shirley “Peaches” Peterson, David Rosenblum, Allen Ward, and Michelle Wycoff.
The 2023-24 board officers are Jackie Rosswurm (Chair), Sheila Mahony (Vice-Chair), Paul Moeri (Treasurer), and Al Panu (Secretary).
To learn more about Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, please visit cf-lowcountry.org or call 843681-9100.
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Every Tuesday and Friday morning, a lively group of 15 to 17 women gather in the meeting room at the Bluffton Public Library for an hour of yoga and laughter.
On a recent Friday morning, the session ended – as it usually does – with chatter, jokes and the anticipation of lunch at The Crazy Crab. Post-workout lunches at area restaurants are an occasional event, especially if there are reasons to celebrate, and this day it was for three July birthdays.
But that’s not why the women – not all of whom are of Gullah heritage – get together.
Beverly Youngblood leads the group through numerous yoga moves and generally ends the day with some thought-provoking words. She, Anne Cooke and Sandy Bedosky were the ones who got it started. Or, actually, got it restarted, as they explained around the table at the restaurant.
“Three of us were in a yoga class a few years ago, and then it disbanded,” said Anne Cooke. “And then I ran into Beverly, and she looked like she was going to be depressed. She said we need to do something, so I said let’s do something. So, we started talking,
and then Sandy came along and we got going.”
Three years ago, a lot of programs were shut down due to COVID, and often those people who were leading such groups did not return, but the participants missed not only the activities but the people.
“We needed something to do. And to exercise and to get out, and just to be around,” said Youngblood. “We needed it for our health. A lot of us had high blood pressure w were working on, so that’s what really started this.”
Because the class had been held previously at the library, they approached the staff to return, and in March 2022, the group began to meet.
At first, it was just the three women and maybe one or two others popped in. They designed a flyer and the library posted it on their bulletin board.
“We told everybody else we knew, so word of mouth and I think a couple of people I’ve sent emails to and say join us,” Cooke said.
Youngblood says she is a teacher, not a certified instructor. She has been practicing yoga for years, and leads the women in
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various moves and poses, incorporating some of the qigong she practices at a class on Hilton Head. The exercise has been positive for many of the women in attendance, and not just for moving the body.
“This is a big thing for me because if I didn’t have this to do, I wouldn’t be dressed. I’d tend to just schlep around, so it gives me a purpose to get up and get moving,” Youngblood said.
Elizabeth Thompson and Dottie Holman enjoy the sessions because it lifts their spirits.
“I have more flexibility and better balance,” added Thompson.
“Not only were they some of the universal benefits, but also more energy, being able to move the body easier (and sexier, said one member), as well as having a structure during the week,” said Bedosky who recently retired.
“I get more stretching and bending, and it’s great that I get up early enough to get out of the house at nine o’clock in the morning, because otherwise I probably wouldn’t get up that early, of course it’s good for myself,” said Cooke. “It’s also good for my mental health, because again, just breathing hard and getting oxygen into your head clears your head. It’s just really fun. It makes me feel better. Increasing your body image makes you feel better.”
Between answering questions, ordering lunch and generally having a lot of laughs, the consensus of everyone gathered around the table was those who showed up for the first time felt a warm welcome from those already in the group. The Gullah Women
Yoga was as much about being together and enjoying one another as it was about exercising.
“She gives us instruction on what to do. And she says she doesn’t want us to hurt ourselves, do what you can,” said Julie Cordray, who has been a member from the beginning. “And if you can’t do what the others are doing, don’t worry about it, you do what you can. That means so much.”
On new T-shirts made for everyone were the words “Breathing, Stretching, Relaxation.” The group calls itself Gullah Women Yoga but it is open to everyone, and occasionally a man shows up, does yoga but doesn’t return. There is no cost to attend, but the participants value being part of the group.
“I tell you, this lady, we owe the whole thing to her,” said Cordray about Youngblood. “She and her nice, quiet person, she leads this group of ladies. And you know, ladies are not easy to lead. It is so refreshing. We have the most wonderful ladies, and it just seems like everybody is on one accord. And we are not shy about smiling with one another. And correcting one another, as Miss Cooke will do from time to time. Call us out. And we all just laugh, and go on and do what Miss Cooke says.”
Gullah Women Yoga meets from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. every Tuesday and Friday at the Bluffton Public Library.
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1. Cellulite is one of the most common problems seen for correction, and finally there are solutions. The cause of this deformity, which is present in mostly women of practically any age, is presence of fibrous bands between the skin and underlying tissue. This is much like the buttons on a pillow. If the cord between the buttons on each side of the pillow is cut the indentation goes away. With cellulite, the fibrous bands must be accurately cut, and occasionally any void of fat must be refilled with fat or another filler. Cellulite is present mostly on the buttocks and lateral thigh. The treatment is with a device called Cellfina, and the newest device is the Aveli, which has some advantages in my opinion. Both are performed under
local anesthesia and with mild sedation if requested.
2. The next most common lower body treatment requested is the BBL or Brazilian Butt Lift. Aging often causes a decrease in buttocks volume, particularly in the outer part, and oddly an increase in volume in what is called the “muffin top” just above the lateral buttocks. The treatment is generally fat grafts, or other products, into the buttocks. The fat must be liposuctioned from one area, processed, and injected into the areas of the buttocks that need volumizing. Donor sites are often the abdomen, sides, or the “muffin top.” This is usually performed under general anesthesia according to how much liposuction must be done.
3. Saggy thighs with wrinkles or in extreme cases the “cobblestone” appearance. The treatments vary significantly according to how severe the problems are. In the mildest cases maybe only the knees
are wrinkled and can be treated with the VirtueRF (radiofrequency) micro needling and with PDO threads or a mild CO2 laser, such as the Tetra. Even for more severe cases this treatment can be effective.
4. For severe cases of loose skin in the anterior thighs, a liposuction with a “basket” cannula or even what is called a “pickle fork” is used to break up the fibrous bands like
those mentioned above. This is followed by the Renuvion, which is a radiofrequency device that tightens skin and any fibrous bands connecting the skin to the underlying muscles. Somewhat like shrink wrapping the skin.
When resurfacing is performed such as the mentioned lasers or VirtueRF, it is helpful to apply Exosomes to the skin for more collagen production and much faster recovery time. Most often a combination of treatments mentioned above is needed to achieve the optimal goal with the problem at hand.
Through thorough assessment with your plastic surgeon, your goals are evaluated, and the choice of treatment(s) are decided upon.
E. Ronald Finger, MD, FACS is a board-certified plastic surgeon with offices in Savannah and Bluffton. fingerandassociates.
As my friends will tell you, I am an intense individual. I always believed that I was an overachiever that had to work hard to succeed. I was a good golfer as a junior and into my early adult life. However, I never “played happy’”.
I met one of my golf heroes, Nancy Lopez, about 15 years ago and she told me that you must “play happy”. I had always thought that I would be happy if I played well. Instead, Nancy Lopez told me that if you play happy you will play better. Nancy always plays with a smile on her face.
Nancy’s father, Domingo, taught her that a positive attitude is the way to play happy golf. When Nancy was a child playing golf, he got her to stop crying because he reminded her that she couldn’t see the golf ball when she was crying. Domingo would
tell her when she slammed her club into the ground in anger, that you cannot focus
on hitting the ball when you are angry. He admonished her to “play happy”. Domingo
taught Nancy that positive attitude was as important as technical performance.
When you think negative thoughts, negative things happen. Anger, frustration, and ambition can get in the way of enjoying your round. When you are angry it is because your expectations and skill level are at odds with one another. You need to matchup your expectations with your current skill level. You can either work harder to increase your skill level or adjust your expectations downward.
Finally, if golf is a big part of your life you need to make sure it brings you happiness. Remember that golf is a great way to be outdoors, enjoy nature, exercise, and spend quality time with your friends and family.
Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional and teaches at local golf courses. jean. golfdoctor.harris@gmail.com; golfdoctorjean. com
“YES! FREE “YES! please send - or keep sending - my Bluffton Sun FREE
The Bluffton Sun is delivered on the first and third Tuesday of every month to nearly 25,000 households safe and dry into mailboxes by the US Postal Service. If you wish to continue to receive your free copy of the Bluffton Sun, or are new to or returning to Bluffton, you need to sign up so we can continue your free delivery. If you have already signed up (via mail, phone, or online) in the past year you do not need to do anything else.
We look forward to continuing to deliver the most local news, features and information about your neighbors and the community we live in!
Sincerely,
Kevin Aylmer Lynne Hummell Publisher EditorSimply scan the QR Code and complete the form online. Simply scan the QR Code and complete the form online.
By Nancy Sulek CONTRIBUTOR
For the past 15 years, Corey has been a familiar face at Programs for Exceptional People (PEP), a place that holds a special significance in his life. Corey, a 36-year-old high functioning autistic individual, faces physical challenges too, as he battles severe hip dysplasia and flat-footedness, affecting his mobility. Yet, these hurdles haven’t stopped him from embracing life with determination and enthusiasm.
Every afternoon, you can spot Corey walking with a cane along Rt. 278 in Hilton Head Island for an hour and a half, defying the limitations imposed by his conditions. His spirit of independence shines brightly as he lives on his own, a testament to his strength and resilience. PEP plays
a crucial role in supporting Corey’s journey, with their transportation service picking him up every weekday to attend the program.
At PEP, Corey has found his sanctuary, a place where he can explore his passions and interests. Among the various activities offered at PEP, ceramics holds a special place in Corey’s heart. His eyes light up when he’s crafting masterpieces with clay, showcasing an innate talent for the art. Over the years, he has become the Ceramic Assistant, generously sharing his knowledge and skills with others.
Not only is Corey a fast learner, but he is also an avid reader, constantly seeking knowledge and learning from the world around him. But his journey doesn’t end there - he is also
Please see PEP on page 43A
deeply committed to giving back to the community that has embraced him with open arms.
PEP’s Annual Gala, scheduled for September 16 at the Marriott Hilton Head Resort and Spa, is a highly anticipated event that serves as the organization’s biggest fundraiser of the year. The gala is a lively affair, complete with a delightful dinner, an auction, and dancing. It brings together supporters, donors, and individuals like Corey, whose lives have been positively impacted by the organization.
What makes this year’s gala even more special is Corey’s dedication to making a difference. Despite his physical challenges, he has poured his heart and soul into creating two remarkable pieces to be auctioned at the event. A meticulously crafted painting and a beautiful, hooked rug, both the products of months of labor,
are his generous contributions to the cause he holds dear.
The story of Corey’s labor of love is an inspiration to all, a reminder that the human spirit knows no bounds when fueled by passion and a desire to give back. His commitment to helping PEP through his creative contributions reflects the true essence of community and support.
If you wish to be part of this heartwarming celebration and support PEP’s mission, you can purchase tickets for the gala at https://event.gives/ pep, call PEP at 843-681-8021, or visit their website at https://pephhi.org. Your presence and contributions will not only make the event more special for Corey and others like him but will also help PEP continue its vital work in empowering exceptional individuals and fostering a more inclusive society.
The Historic Bluffton Foundation is pleased to announce a Sip N’See Tea Social for Ladies of the Foundation and guests. This event is to be held at the Colcock-Teel House at 46 Colcock Street in historic downtown Bluffton on Wednesday, September 13, 2023 at 4:00pm.
This event is complimentary to Friends of the Foundation and their guests. Celebrating tea in true fashion with a Southern twist of iced teas and tasty accompaniments, Ladies are encouraged to come in their best afternoon tea attire. Hats are welcome!
The Executive Director of the Historic Bluffton Foundation, Robert Jones, will speak on the significance of the home with special emphasis on the intricate red door that serves as its entrance. Attendees will be allowed to tour the home as well during the event.
For more information, please call the Heyward House Gift Shop at 843-7576293. Or email at heywardhouse@ gmail.com.
Just returned from journeying a month in India, as I have done annually since 2015, going to a people and serving with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength, and returning with my cup overflowing. I have always believed we are Church wherever we may find ourselves, even in faraway places like India where we sit cross legged in prayer and meditation! Over the past 40 years, I have been blessed to serve in many Churches of differing denominations. Yet, it is the Sandalwood Community Food Pantry, I founded 15
years ago, that has been the most fertile and sacred ground. Here I have witnessed the many miracles of transformation and experienced the reciprocity of unconditional love. Our neighbors in need and our volunteers come from all walks of life and differing beliefs yet they grace us with their friendship, gratitude, and powerful witnessing, reminding us that people, much more than things, must be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed; but never thrown away, because we have always known, there are no throwaways!
Church, as I have come to know, has little to do with fundraising, attendance numbers, ministry programs, art exhibits, book signings, building projects, padded pews, or social events and everything to do with loving, serving, feeding the hungry and getting dirty with dignity, no matter how tired or weary one grows.
Being church, temple, mosque, synagogue, monastery, even if it be on the Ganges River or high in the Himalayas, means answering God’s call wherever and whenever. Just as we all desire to nourish our body with what we believe is best, we must also have the freedom to choose, without persecution, what nourishes our soul. Personally, for me, Jesus is the Way. In John 21:17 He asked three times, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt that he asked him a third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” “Feed my sheep,” Jesus said.” Jesus also asks me every day, “Do you love me?” He knows I do! Yet, He asks me every day so I can hear those very same words, Feed my sheep! 1 Corinthians 13:8-10,13 reminds us, “Love never fails. Prophecies will cease; tongues will be stilled; knowledge will pass away. For we
know in part and prophesy in part, but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.” If you seek love yet find yourself holding onto anger, don’t work through your anger, give it up! See who you can be when you’re finished with being who you think you are and realize you are love. Oppose, stand up, stop unjust actions, and do what must be done but never close your heart. Speak truth, Love everybody, Feed everybody, see God in everybody and don’t try to make sense of it. Then you too can experience a joy where your cup overflows because Love never fails!
The words “faith” and “religion” are used interchangeably and with little distinction in news reports, articles, talks shows, and social media. Writers affirm that they are “people of faith” or “spiritual but not religious.” Editorial and Op-ed columnists opine regularly on faith and religion in politics and morality.
Our own Bluffton Sun offers excellent and thought-provoking articles on faith in every issue. I’ve had the privilege of contributing regular articles on faith here. Since I write from a Christian perspective, I have – hoping to engage a broader audience – added a phrase of encouragement, “whether you are a person of faith or not …” But upon reflection, I realize that – contrary to what I might have implied – everyone has faith.
Oxford Languages distinguishes between religion as “a particular system of faith and
worship” versus faith as “complete trust or confidence in someone or something.” Most other dictionaries have similar primary definitions. It might be helpful to distinguish religion” as the “practice of one’s faith.” Almost two thousand years ago, an early Christian writer provided an excelled definition of faith, “… faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1a).
One problem is that idea of certainty in the absence of what we want as “proof” or,
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as the ancient writer put it, “what we do not see.” Before we dismiss faith because we want proof (or “science”), consider how often we act confidently without rigorous proof. As a multi-million-mile flyer on a major airline and on corporate aircraft, I have always assumed that the aircraft was airworthy, that the flight deck crew was competent, and that air traffic control would orchestrate orderliness in the skies. Never once did I have any specific proof that all those conditions were, in fact, as I trusted.
Perhaps you are facing surgery or chemotherapy or other drug protocols. You trust that professionals, equipment, and pharmaceutical manufacturers will deliver “what we hope for.” I’m pretty sure that there is some aspect of your life where we all proceed with complete trust or confidence without specific “proof.” In fact, we couldn’t function productively without faith. When we are willing to have faith, it is because of past performance, safely statistics, academic degrees, or certification – something that tells us that we can have hope and be certain. We all have faith. The question is, “in what do you have faith?” The ancient writer argued that in the past God proved trustworthy and I agree. Where do you place your trust?
Rev. Joseph P. Crowley, D. Div., D. Min. (ABD) Founder, Pastor, and Executive Director The Berean Institute
By Jada Gaines CONTRIBUTOR
The high school chapter in your child’s life story book has come to an end. The past few weeks and months you likely have spent running around trying to prepare to send your new college student off to school. Chances are that if you have or know of a college-aged student, estate planning is probably the last thing on your mind when making that handy-dandy checklist of items that need to be packed or purchased for a dorm room or a new apartment. You’re filled with so much excitement for this new chapter and think the only documents your college-aged student needs to be concerned with are relating to housing assignments, class schedules, and admission records, right? Wrong!
Sometimes it’s hard to take a step back and remind yourself that your new (or current) college-aged student, who is likely at least 18
years old, is technically an adult! Yes, your baby is legally recognized as an adult, and with that recognition means that they are the only person responsible for their decisions regarding things such as their health, finances, and having access to records, etc. To no surprise, at the age of 18 or even early 20’s a college student may still want or need their parents or guardian to be by their side when they get sick, but legally, any decisions for medical care is theirs alone. For example, if the student were involved in a bad car accident that rendered them unconscious, a parent may find themselves having to jump over some hurdles (including the need to go to court) to have medical information released or even authorize medical care if there are certain documents in place. Here are three important documents that you, your college student, and a local estate planning attorney should take care of before the college student embarks on their new
journey:
1. Health Care Power of Attorney (“HCPOA”)
A HCPOA allowed for the student to designate you to make medical decisions on their behalf. The HCPOA should be fully comprehensive and include more than just certain life ending decisions. Typically, a HCPOA also includes a general HIPPA release and waiver, but this type of waiver is oftentimes found as a standalone document.
2. HIPPA Authorization
HIPPA refers to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act that was designed to protect a patient’s privacy. This means that medical records or information cannot be released without the patient’s consent. You and your college student should consider having them sign a fully and legally compliant HIPPA waiver and authorization.
3. Durable Power of Attorney (“DPOA”)
A DPOA, also known as a financial power
of attorney, allows for the student to designate you to handle and manage their legal and financial matters on their behalf. You would be able to manage all of their affairs to ensure that their affairs are properly handled during a time when they can’t. Ideally, your family would never have to rely on these documents. However, unfortunate events occur daily and the same way there’s insurance on a car that your new college student may be parking on campus, you should view the above documents as another form of insurance that’s in effect and ready to use when needed. Take your college student to speak with an estate planning attorney today in preparation for their next chapter in life.
Since I am new at being old, I guess reminiscing becomes more frequent in ones so called “Golden Years.” Before my dad passed away, I remember hearing the same story umpteen times but it really didn’t bother me much. The way I figured it was if he got a kick out of telling me about some speck from his interesting life, then I should just shut up and listen because it obviously made one heck of an imprint on his memory.
Since bringing up the good old days in my last column I have received tons of emails wanting more about those times. Quite honestly, if I were to keel over right this minute, I would go down happy as a clam. What a neat life I have lived and I owe it all to my folks making the decision to bag the mundane 9-5 working life and move all five of us kids to a relatively unknown island off the coast of South Carolina. Of course that island was Hilton Head.
I was only six years old but I can still remember driving by cotton field after cotton field as we headed to our new home. I didn’t know that cotton balls still in the field will rip you to shreds but I do remember that I begged my parents to stop so I could roll in that fluffy cotton. Luckily, they opted to keep going no doubt because there were five kids piled in that old Ford Galaxy station wagon and the South Carolina state line couldn’t come quick enough.
If only you could have seen this area back then. If you think it is paradise now, it was heaven then. The swing bridge coming onto the island had just been built and the twolane road was lined with monster oaks that had so much Spanish moss on them that it draped all the way to the ground. Highway 278 was paved but pretty much every other road was dirt.
Even at six, I was hooked on fishing so you can imagine what was going through my mind when I realized that every lagoon was chock full of shrimp and fish. Crabbing was as simple as walking down to the beach and filling a bucket with crabs that would be in the tide pools at low tide. Deer, wild turkeys, pigs, ducks and lots of rattlesnakes
and alligators were absolutely everywhere you looked. I often got spooked during the night when I would wake to a noise and with my curtains drawn, all I could see were the moving silhouettes of herds of deer in our yard. At times there would be as many as thirty deer in the yard at one time. As you can imagine, landscaping didn’t stand a chance.
With so few people around, and even fewer kids, entertainment was what you made it. Friday nights were for coon hunting. We would meet up at the Plantation Club in Sea Pines and then follow the baying dogs through swamps and woods alike. I wasn’t ever big on coon hunting but I’ll admit it was educational especially when the dogs
would tree a big fat racoon. PETA would have a field day if I were to tell you the finale of these hunts. Can you imagine Sea Pines sponsoring deer, coon and pig hunts these days? Personally, I would love to see it happen!
Bluffton was not just a sleepy town it was more like it was in a coma. The sound of cicadas and tree frogs was deafening and besides the brick schoolhouse where the courthouse now sits, Messex Store (where Eggs N Tricities used to be) was about the only other place to go especially if you wanted an RC Cola, which was definitely the drink of choice in these parts. I attended Bluffton high from the second through six grades and then commuted to school in Savannah every day with my brothers and sisters. It was weird going to school in Savannah because those city kids regarded any of us from Hilton Head as country bumpkins. That view didn’t change until the late 70’s when Hilton Head’s fame exploded. From then on, we were the “rich kids.” Yeah, right. I wish I had more space to write but I don’t so I guess I’ll have to continue time around. Just telling some of these stories has brought out other quirky things about my life here in the lowcountry that I haven’t thought about in years. Next time folks, next time.
Collins Doughtie, a 60-year old resident of the Lowcountry, is a sportsman, graphic artist, and lover of nature. collinsdoughtie@ icloud.com.
Teaching US history in schools particularly in grades 6-12 has become controversial and is the subject of legislation in many states, including a bill pending in South Carolina. Crosscurrents is a group with both conservative and liberal political perspectives seeking to find common ground through dialogue and reach bi-partisan agreement on difficult public policy choices. We recently tackled teaching of history and describe below what we came to agree on.
Crosscurrents members believe there are at least two important objectives achieved in teaching US history besides learning about the important events and people which have shaped that history. The first is understanding that your point of view influences how you interpret the facts of history, and
that different points of view should be considered in reaching a fuller understanding. A second is improving critical thinking skills. A by-product of reaching both objectives is greater tolerance for the opinions of others.
Crosscurrents participants learned it is misguided to believe that history can be taught exclusively in an objective fact-based manner. Subjectivity is inherent in weaving together related facts to create a narrative that explains the facts. The goal is not to eliminate subjective individual or teacher perspectives. More than one interpretation of history can be created to help explain events, and students must learn about and critically weigh alternative explanations to achieve a more definitive understanding of history.
Teaching history requires selection of which facts are to be presented which also involves subjective choices. Facts
which describe both the mistakes made in the past as well as the accomplishments are desirable. Mistakes made provide the opportunity to learn and avoid repeating them, and facts about accomplishments are a means of fostering patriotic love of country. Overall, students should have a balanced and realistic understanding of our past.
Values, expert standards, and curricula control
Precisely because teaching history in grades 6-12 has such high stakes, it is important to hire well-qualified teachers. They must navigate the challenging terrain of teaching history in ways that avoid bias. They must also balance competing goals for learning from mistakes and taking pride in accomplishments. Sometimes that content is bound to make some students and their parents uncomfortable. That is unavoidable. Nevertheless, parental and community voices, while not subject matter experts, have a right to be heard.
It is important for teacher retention to avoid making the job even more stressful than it already is. School professionals and school boards working together with expert history consultants, teachers and parents can provide guidance and oversight to ensure the purposes of teaching history are being accomplished. In a time of heightened partisanship in the US, a balanced view of American history is vital to prepare young citizens for the country they will inherit.
To join the Crosscurrents initiative and help expand civil public dialogue, contact rogbernier@gmail.com
Current members of Crosscurrents group who worked on this statement are Starr Barnum, Roger Bernier, Greg Blackburn, Haim Bober, Marnie Brophy, Bruce Bunevich, George Clare, Gerry Cyr, Raymond Dominick, Ray Haley, Mark Koenig, Laura McFadden, Michael Sacks, and Suzanne Yuskiw.
Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Bluffton recently celebrated five years of providing innovative rehabilitative care to the local community. The hospital first opened to patients in the summer of 2018 as a 38-bed inpatient hospital, located at 107 Seagrass Station Road.
“Since we opened our doors five years ago, Encompass Health of Bluffton has helped hundreds of patients gain greater confidence and independence to return to the people and activities they love most,” said Wayne Boutwell, CEO of Encompass Health of Bluffton. “We are honored that so many patients choose our hospital for their rehabilitation needs, and we look forward to continuing to serve individuals in the Bluffton community and beyond for many years to come.”
The hospital provides inpatient therapy for patients recovering from debilitating illnesses and injuries including strokes, amputa-
tions, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other complex neurological and orthopedic conditions. The multidisciplinary rehabilitation team includes physicians, registered nurses, case managers, and dieticians, who combine the latest technologies and individualized treatment plans to help patients progress toward independence. With at least three hours of comprehensive therapy for five days each week and around-the-clock nursing care, teams of expert clinicians combine customized treatment plans with advanced technologies to help train patients for everyday tasks.
The hospital has received The Joint Commission Gold Seal of Approval for disease-specific certification for stroke rehabilitation. For more information about Encompass Health of Bluffton hospital, programs and services, visit encompasshealth. com/blufftonrehab.
Misinformation circulating within the community states the Cross Island Boat Landing located at 68 Helmsman Way is being closed, however, that information is inaccurate.
Rumors falsely suggest the County is in the process of condemning the boat landing, and this is leading to concerns among residents and boating enthusiasts. The properties that the County is condemning are the adjacent parcels for ferry parking to preserve boat ramp capacity.
As with any County construction project,
there are multiple stages of approval, progress and notification to the public.
Beaufort Count wishes to assure the public that these claims of a shut down are entirely unfounded. Beaufort County is NOT closing any boat ramps, and is instead working to enhance and improve the Cross Island Boat Landing to better serve our residents and visitors.
For more information or questions, please contact Hank Amundson with Beaufort County at 843-255-2705.
As the oldest pet at the Palmetto Animal League Adoption Center, 18-year-old Henrietta has a story to tell. That story is undeniably intertwined with her lifelong housemate and devoted companion Lucielle.
The girls recently found themselves at the PAL Adoption Center after their mom passed away and their dad had to move into an assisted living facility. Having been inside cats since kittenhood, Henrietta and Lucielle adapted to the shelter environment smoother than most.
“I love how these two old girls settled into life at the adoption center after spending a lifetime in a home,” says PAL President Amy Campanini.
Henrietta and Lucielle were staying in one of PAL’s homelike cat rooms, but staff members started letting them out so Lucielle
could do laps around the adoption center as part of her weight loss journey. Now, they have the freedom to roam 24/7.
“They spend their days on or around the front desk eagerly awaiting visitors,” says PAL Foster Coordinator Sally Dawkins. “Lucielle is known to insert herself into adoptions and conversations just to make sure everyone knows she deserves a treat.”
When Henrietta had to spend a few days recovering in PAL’s Vet Clinic due to a mild injury, our team members would take Lucielle back to visit her friend and their heartwarming interactions, with head bumps and kisses, were the stuff of pure, unconditional love. While there’s no doubt, they’re a bonded pair, Henrietta and Lucielle have distinctly different, yet equally charming personalities.
“Lucielle may be 15, but she still has spunk and loves to play with toys,” says Dawkins. “Henrietta enjoys anything warm. We frequently give her heating pads, so she feels cozy.”
Years of experience have taught Henrietta
and Lucielle a few things. Henrietta understands the calming and rejuvenating effects of a good cuddle session. Lucielle prefers to savor her food… Every. Last. Morsel. Both girls enjoy basking in the warm sun.
“They make me smile and a little sad that they have no home of their own,” says Campanini. “They deserve all the attention and love of a devoted family for whatever time they have left.”
If you have room in your heart and home for a couple of sophisticated “Silver Paw Seniors,” who appreciate the sweeter things in life, call Palmetto Animal League at 843645-1725 or visit our adoption center at 56 Riverwalk Blvd in Okatie Monday through Saturday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Henrietta and Lucielle will be happy to greet you at the front desk.
Lindsay Perry is the Marketing Coordinator for Palmetto Animal League. PalmettoAnimalLeague.org
Beaufort Memorial Hospital recognized as one of the nation’s Top General Hospitals by The Leapfrog Group has acquired Island Imaging, an independent imaging center on Hilton Head Island. The center will reopen as Beaufort Memorial Island Imaging on October 1, 2023.
While upgrades to align IT infrastructure and equipment to the BMH network will be taking place prior to the transition, imaging patient appointments will continue as normal. Patients can expect to be seen by the same friendly, caring staff that they’ve come to know. The same services will also continue to be offered, including 3D mammography, CT, ultrasound, fluoroscopy and bone densitometry.
“Given that the mindset of the Island Imaging physicians and staff aligns well with our culture and core values at Beaufort Memorial, we anticipate this being an easy transition for everyone
and ultimately a benefit to the Island community,” said BMH President and CEO Russell Baxley, MHA. “This strategic entrance onto Hilton Head is the first of our efforts to improve access to the high quality of care for which Beaufort Memorial is known.”
Island Imaging opened at 40 Palmetto Parkway on Hilton Head Island in 2013 and has been accredited by the American College of Radiology for CT, 3D mammography and screening chest CT for lung cancer. The center’s radiologists,
David Estle, M.D., and Patricia Shapiro, M.D., will continue through the transition.
“Beaufort Memorial’s dedication to patient-centered care and commitment to the overall health and well-being of the community makes them a perfect fit for the future of Island Imaging,” said Dr. Shapiro, one of Island Imaging’s founding physicians. “Our staff is excited to join the team of one of the nation’s top hospitals and have access to the depth of resources that brings.”
All fifteen of the imaging center’s employees have been offered positions to continue in their same role at the center with Beaufort Memorial.
“Adding Island Imaging to the Beaufort Memorial family is another step toward our vision of transforming health care in the Lowcountry,” Baxley said. “We recognize the unmet demand for quality health services on the Island and intend to work to meet those needs.”
American Legion Auxiliary Unit 205 members and the Bluffton Boys and Girls Club selected student Joseph Russo from May River H.S. as the ALA Youth of the Year Scholarship Award winner. Joseph was chosen for his leadership, service, and academic achievements at a ceremony on July 17th. Coach Bruin has known Joseph for eight years. “Joseph is like having a reliable staff member. He has made a difference in how students engage in the physical fitness program. Students admire and respect him”. As a student at May River, Joseph has maintained high academics and is focusing on preparing to attend a college for fine arts. “I am extremely grateful to the Auxiliary for this honorable award” stated Joseph. He exclaims that “this past year has been an amazing year with the Boys and Girls Club. Being selected as the ALA Youth of the Year and to have the ability to be a national
representative for the Bluffton Boys and Girls Club has been a rewarding experience. It has allowed me to be able to witness how, when everyone works together, we can make a significant difference for others.
ALA Committee Chairperson, Holly Sherburne, herself a previous parent of children in the Bluffton Boys and Girls Club,
presented the award. “We are extremely proud of Joseph, and I, along with all of us at ALA Unit 205 look forward to his continued success as an inspirational leader as he pursues his personal and academic ambitions”.
Kay Ranta, Chaplain/Public Relations Officer, ALA Unit 205Getting 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.
Come see us at 680 MLK
HOURS:
Tuesday-Friday 10 AM – 6 PM Saturday 10 AM – 4 PM 806.625.2372
store@freshstarthealingheart.org
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.
but
Proceeds benefit the survivors of human trafficking & community education
each
encompasshealth.com/blufftonrehab
encompasshealth.com/blufftonrehab ©2023:Encompass
“HEALING AND FREEDOM FROM HUMAN TRAFFICKING FOR ALL”From left are: ALA Committee Chairperson, Holly Sherburne, student Joseph Russo, and Coach Bruin from the Bluffton Boys and Girls Club
Osia is the queen biscuit maker in room 1! She is often found curled up on a soft blanket watching her roommates wrestle and tumble around the room. Osia is a sweet and laid back cat who would do well in any home. She would not mind another cat or
two in her home. Osia is 2 years old, spayed, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped. If you are interested in adopting Osia, call our adoption center at (843) 645-1725 or email us at info@palmettoanimalleague.org to set up an appointment.
By Megan Aylmer CONTRIBUTOR
Nestled along the scenic coastline of South Carolina, the Lowcountry is a region rich in history and culture. Among its many treasures, one unique tradition stands outthe fish camps. These humble establishments have played an essential role in the lives of local communities, serving as a meeting point for fishermen, a source of sustenance, and a place to cherish the natural wonders of the surrounding environment.
The origins of fish camps in the Lowcountry can be traced back to the early 19th century. Settlers, both Native American and European, recognized the abundance of aquatic life teeming in the region’s marshes, creeks, and rivers. These resourceful individuals developed small fishing huts along the waterways, creating a haven for fishermen seeking to make a living from the bountiful waters. The fish camps were simple structures, constructed from locally available materials like cypress logs and thatched roofs,
showcasing the region’s rustic charm. In the late 1800s, as transportation and communication improved, the popularity of fish camps surged. They evolved into communal gathering spots, where families and
friends would come together for fellowship, food, and fishing adventures. Fish camps became beloved symbols of the Lowcountry’s tight-knit communities, fostering a sense of camaraderie and cultural identity among the
locals.
The fish camps’ heyday reached its peak in the early to mid-20th century. These waterfront retreats offered a much-needed escape from the daily grind of work and responsibilities. People from various backgrounds would visit, united by their love for fishing and the desire to connect with nature. The camps also attracted artists, writers, and photographers seeking inspiration from the picturesque landscapes and serene waters. During this era, fish camps developed their signature culinary traditions. Seafood delicacies, such as Lowcountry boils, shrimp and grits, and she-crab soup, became staple dishes at these establishments. Local fishermen supplied the freshest catch of the day, ensuring that the food served was a testament to the region’s maritime bounty. These delectable dishes remain iconic symbols of the Lowcountry’s gastronomic heritage to this day.
However, with changing times and the
advent of modern amenities, the popularity of fish camps started to wane in the latter half of the 20th century. The rise of more upscale restaurants and tourist-oriented establishments drew visitors away from the traditional, unassuming fish camps. Many of these cherished landmarks fell into disrepair and were eventually abandoned. Fortunately, the late 20th and early 21st centuries saw a resurgence of interest in preserving the heritage of fish camps. Cultural enthusiasts, historians, and local communities rallied to revive these historic landmarks. Efforts were made to restore and maintain the old fishing huts, ensuring that they retained their authentic charm while adapting to the needs of contemporary visitors.
The history of fish camps in the Lowcountry of South Carolina is a tale of resilience, camaraderie, and cultural heritage. From their humble beginnings as fishing huts to becoming cherished gathering spots, these waterfront retreats have played an integral role in the lives of local communities. As the
world changes around them, the enduring charm and significance of fish camps serve as a reminder of the region’s deep-rooted connection to its coastal treasures. Revi-
talized fish camps aim to strike a delicate balance between preserving tradition and embracing progress.
Addison is a young and smart pup who would love a family! She is a hound mix who is very quick to learn new skills. She is a great walker and really loves to play with her toys outside. Addison is 5 months old, spayed, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped. If you are interested in adopting Addison, call our adoption center at (843) 645-1725 or email us at info@palmettoanimalleague.org to set up an appointment.
By Larry Stoller CONTRIBUTOR
In a perfect world you would sell your old home, buy a new home, close on the old before the new, have your proceeds in your bank, leave the old keys, get the new keys, and make one move from your old home to your new home. Easy, peasy, right? Except for one thing, the world is not perfect.
Here are some suggestions that may work for you (your resourceful real estate agent may have some ideas as well):
Your best friends
If it’s a short stay maybe you can stay with your best friends, who have that large house and love your company. That might work if there’s just one or two of you. Two other downsides are storing your stuff and that dreaded double move.
Your family
Staying with your loved ones is another
option, and it might be like an extended vacation hanging out with your brother, sister, or adult children for a while. You would still be dealing with the storage and moving twice.
House Sitting
Some companies specialize in facilitating house sitting arrangements (you can find them online). If you have the time to check them out, you might find one not too far
from the location of your new home (could be free or even paid).
Short-term rental
How about renting a furnished apartment, townhouse, or single-family home? That might be perfect, so you can look for your new home with no time stressors and/or stay in a great place in a great location until your new home is ready.
Flexible closing date
Here’s where your resourceful real estate agent can really help you. When negotiating the terms on the offer for your current home, you can negotiate a flexible closing date to give you time to find, close and move to your next home.
Leaseback agreement
Even with a flexible closing date, if needed, you could add a leaseback agreement for a specific period of time (rent would be paid to the new owner that covers the costs of owning the property while not living there for a period of time).
I have worked with Sellers and Buyers many times utilizing flexible closing dates and leaseback agreements that resulted in a WIN-WIN agreement for both of them.
Larry Stoller is a local Broker-Owner and Realtor of Real Estate FIVE of the Low Country. Visit www.Realestatefive.com, larry@ realestatefive.com.
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
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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.
Through 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
Through August 26
“Aquascapes,” coastal abstracts, by Andrea Smith, at Art League of Hilton Head, 14 Shelter Cove Ln., Hilton Head Island. 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.
August 5
Maybe 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 978-4640585.
August 6-20
Savanna, 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 Valls 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
Dinah Johnson will be the special guest author at the Pat Conroy Literary Center’s annual Children’s Book Fair, to be held on Tuesday, August 8, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Port Royal Sound Foundation Weezie Educational Pavilion (130 Okatie Hwy, Okatie). Presented in partnership between the nonprofit Conroy Center, the Port Royal Sound Foundation, the Storybook Shoppe children’s bookstore, and DAYLO: Diversity Awareness Youth Literacy Organization, this special event is free and open to the public.
Dinah Johnson is the award-winning author of many books for young readers, including H Is for Harlem, which received five starred reviews and was named a Kirkus Best Book of the Year, a School Library Journal Best Book of the Year, and a Horn Book Fanfare title. Learn more about Johnson at www.dinahjohnsonbooks.com
She will give a reading from Indigo Dreaming, her newest picture book, at 11 am. Indigo Dreaming is a meditation on place, wonder, and connectedness as experienced by two young girls on opposite sides of the Atlanta Ocean.
Student volunteers from DAYLO will be hosting a Teddy Bear Picnic read-aloud throughout the event.
Other participating authors and artists
in the Children’s Book Fair are Patricia Bee, author of Try’umsee’s Wings; Bill Borg artist of Myrtle the Loggerhead Turtle; Rebecca Chamberlain, author and artist of Maralee & the Turtles of the Sea; Lisa Anne Cullen, author and artist of Haskel and Greta; Mary T. Jacobs, author of the Big Daddy Series; Ann Eilers Lilly, author of Scoot’s Savannah Rescue; Susan Montanari, author of My Dog’s a Chicken; Robin Prince Monroe, author of The Silent Glades; Sheree Richnow, author of Dixie the Rescue Dog Makes New Friends; and Susan Diamond Riley, author of the Delta and Jax Mystery Series, including, most recently, The Sea Witch’s Revenge; and Katherine Robinson, author of The Crabs on Calhoun.
All Hands on Deck, the student anthology from the 6th annual Camp Conroy will also make its debut at the Children’s Book Fair. The Bluffton-based Storybook Shoppe will have a selection of other popular lowcountry children’s books available as well.
Learn more about the Pat Conroy Literary Center at www.patconroyliterarycenter.org, about the Port Royal Sound Foundation at www.portroyalsoundfoundation.org, about the Storybook Shoppe at www.thestorybookshoppe.com, and about DAYLO at www. instagram.com/beaufort_daylo.
WHEN
By Matt Bodie CONTRIBUTOR
On October 19-22, 2023, Rock N Ribs Music and BBQ Festival will return to Coligny Plaza for its second year celebrating music, BBQ, and the people who make both. This year’s festival will benefit Second Helpings and The Carl Ruiz Foundation, two food-focused charity organizations that closely match Rock N Rib’s culinary roots. Second Helpings is a food rescue and distribution network striving to eliminate hunger and food waste in the South Carolina Lowcountry. The organization collects and distributes food that would have otherwise ended up in landfills, and provides it, free of charge, to more than 50 food pantries, soup kitchens, and family and senior programs in Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton counties. In 2022 alone, they rescued and distributed 3.2 million pounds of food. This October, they expect to surpass 50 million pounds of food rescued and distributed to neighbors who
need it. Recent statistics show that about 40% of food produced, processed, and transported in the U.S. is wasted and ends up in our landfills (119 billion pounds annually). At the same time, one in nine people, and one in seven children in South Carolina, struggle with hunger. An estimated 60% of South Carolina’s children qualify for free or reduced-price school lunches. In some towns, this number can reach 100%.
The Chef Carl Ruiz Culinary Arts Education Scholarship, established in memory of Chef Carl Ruiz by his family and friends, provides scholarship awards to assist qualified students who are in pursuit of an apprenticeship, certification, or post-secondary education in the area of Culinary Arts through an accredited culinary or hospitality school program. Chef Carl is best known as a favorite and frequent guest on Food Network shows like Guy’s Grocery Games and Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives. His larger-than-life personality and practice of living every day to its fullest are represented
in the use of “#Ruizing,” which his friends and family proudly proclaim when they are living in a way that would make Carl proud. However, Ruiz’s humble beginnings as the son of immigrant parents working his way up through the ranks of the New York culinary scene instilled in him the importance of access to culinary education programs. “With every success that Chef Carl achieved, he was always looking for those around him that he could bring up with him and share the limelight,” says foundation head, Gloria Chabot.
Festival organizer, Lee Lucier, says of the choice of charities, “It was important to
us to select beneficiaries that are close to our hearts, as well as ones that affect our local area. We hope that the surrounding community recognizes the importance of this mission and chooses to support Rock N Ribs!”
Rock N Ribs Music and BBQ Festival will take place at Coligny Plaza on October 1922, 2023, and will include multiple events, both ticketed and free, over four days for connoisseurs, as well as, casual fans of food, and music. Events included shopping deals around Coligny, cooking classes, four-course BBQ-inspired dinners created by celebrity chefs, a comedy show, and a Grand Tasting featuring over a dozen world-renowned pitmasters, local musicians Cranford Hollow, and legendary Southern Rock band 38 Special.
Learn more and purchase tickets at https://rocknribshhi.com.
Below the Surface, an exhibit of paintings by Judy Blahut will be on view at Art League Gallery from August 29-September 29. This collection of acrylic and charcoal paintings is Blahut’s colorful interpretation of underwater environments, balanced between realism and fractured, playful abstraction. These fantastical “waterscapes” are made of sinuous and lyrical forms bathed in translucent light.
Blahut is a lifelong painter inspired by natural forms and environments. This new series is an ode to water’s hidden beauty and power. “The weightiness of the water above gives the sense of being submerged, offering us the opportunity to appreciate our breath,” says Blahut. “The paintings are a celebration of breath, our life force, and the fragile relationship between life and death.”
An opening reception will be held Wednesday, August 30, 5-7pm. Blahut will hold a demo of her work on Thursday, September 7 at 11am. The exhibit, reception, and demo are all free and open to the public.
Below the Surface: Paintings by Judy Blahut
WHEN:
Exhibit: Tuesday, August 29 through Friday, September 29, 2023. Art League Gallery is open every day: Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm, Sunday 12-4pm, and 90 minutes before every Arts Center performance.
Opening Reception: Wednesday, August 30, 5-7pm. Enjoy refreshments and meet the artist. Free and open to the public.
Artist’s Demonstration: Thursday, September 7, 11am. Learn more about the artist and her process.
WHERE:
Art League Gallery is located mid-island inside Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island,
843.681.5060.
ABOUT ART LEAGUE OF HILTON
HEAD:
Art League of Hilton Head is the only 501(c)(3) nonprofit visual arts organization on Hilton Head Island with a synergistic art gallery and teaching Academy.
Art League Academy welcomes artists and students in all media at all skill levels, including true beginners. Taught by professional art educators, students can choose from many art classes and workshops that change monthly.
Art League Gallery features local artwork in all media created by more than 200 member artists. All artwork on display is for sale and exhibits change every month. Located mid-island inside Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, next to the box office. Art League Gallery is open every day, Monday - Saturday 10am – 4pm & Sunday 12 – 4pm plus 90 minutes prior to all Arts Center Performances.
“Inspiring visual arts for our community and its visitors through exhibitions, education and partnerships” is the mission of Art League of Hilton Head.
Kristen McIntosh is the Executive Director of the Art League of Hilton Head, admin@artleaguehhi.org
“Abstract View” by local teenage artist Ellie Hicks, will be on display at Island Recreation Center Saturday, July 29 through Thursday, August 31, 2023. Monday through Friday from 6am to 7:30pm, Saturday from 8am to 3pm and Sunday from 11am to 3pm. The exhibition is free and open to the public. The Hilton Head Island Recreation Center is located at 20 Wilburn Road, Hilton Head Island.
“The art show is a great opportunity for the young artist to display her talent to the community. Visitors can admire the artwork and learn more about the artist’s inspiration and creative process,” says Richard Grant, curriator for the exhibits at Island Recreation Center.
“The show is a testament to the importance of supporting young artists and celebrating the arts in our community. If you’re in the area, be sure to check out the exhibit and show your support for this talented teen artist.”
Hicks credits her family members,
who are artist’s themselves, for inspiring and encouraging her to become a fine artist. “My mom used to make jewelry, my dad plays guitar and skates, and my older cousin taught me how to paint,” she says. “Thanks to her, I discovered my passion for painting in a more abstract manner, which heavily influenced my current style. “
Amanda Frazier, Liam Giblin, and Nathalia Roca have been awarded $2000 each from The Society of Bluffton Artists (SOBA) Naomi McCracken Scholarship. A special reception was held July 15 at SOBA Gallery, 6 Church Street in Old Town Bluffton.
The scholarship is presented every year to a deserving public high school graduate who is pursuing a major in the art field at the college level.
Frazier recently graduated from Bluffton High School and plans to attend Winthrop University to study Illustration. She would like to become a comic book illustrator and hopes to one day become an artist for Marvel Comics. Frazier was a member of the National Art Honor Society, and she created portraits that were gifted to children in Cameroon and Ukraine.
Giblin will be in his second year at Winthrop University, also studying illustration. A Bluffton High School graduate, Giblin was a recipient of the Naomi McCracken Scholarship last year. Giblin has been involved in
a project at a museum in Rock Hill, SC to make a virtual recreation of the museum’s past exhibits, using 3D digital images. In addition to illustration, Giblin has discovered a passion for printmaking, and he took part in an art history study abroad program in the Netherlands.
Another past recipient of the Naomi Mc-
is expanding his great cuisine to the club house at Rose Hill.
Cracken Scholarship, Roca has completed two years at Columbia College in Chicago in illustration. Roca uses faith-based themes through her art, drawing on her Venezuelan heritage and Christian worldview to create works that reflect her interpretation of the world around her.
About The Naomi McCracken Scholarship and The Society of Bluffton Artists: Naomi McCracken was one of the founding members of SOBA. When Naomi passed away in 2006 her family requested that in lieu of flowers donations should be made to SOBA. In the spring of 2007, her son, Emmitt McCracken, and Dave Dickson, then president of SOBA, established the scholarship program for a graduating senior who planned to further their studies in the field of art.
SOBA is the heart of the flourishing art hub in Old Town Bluffton’s historic district at the corner of Church and Calhoun streets. As a non-profit art organization, SOBA offers regular art classes, featured artist shows, exhibitions, scholarships, outreach programs and more. The gallery is open from 10 a.m.5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on Sundays. Please visit www. sobagallery.com for a complete calendar of events and other information or call 843757-6586.
