VOLUME 12, ISSUE 8 • AUGUST 2, 2023

Lithium-ion batteries power laptops, scooters and deadly fires

By Gwyneth J. Saunders CONTRIBUTOR

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, anåd 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 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

Josephine Wright’s fight to keep property attracts big names 16A

Photo by Capt. Bryan Riley, Montgomery County, Md., Fire & Rescue Service. The explosion of cells from a lithium-ion battery pack sent one cell under the dishwasher and set it on fire as firefighters were cleaning up from the initial battery fire in the living room of an apartment in Chevy Chase, Md.

Please see LITHIUM on page 8A

BOARD-CERTIFIED, FELLOWSHIP-TRAINED GASTROENTEROLOGIST

Michael Sciarra , D.O. and

Marie Wilkinson ,

FNP-BC

to Beaufort Memorial Lowcountry Medical Group Specialty Care

Michael Sciarra, D.O.

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.

Marie Wilkinson , FNP-BC

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

Michael Sciarra, D.O. and Marie Wilkinson, FNP-BC join board-certified nurse practitioner Kimberly Stockstill, board-certified physician assistants Kristen Johnson and Kimberly Thorpe, and board-certified physicians Drs. John Crisologo, and Richard Stewart on the gastroenterology team at Beaufort Memorial Lowcountry Medical Group Specialty

“We Bid a Fond Farewell, But Not Goodbye, To Lynne”

Our former Editor, Lynne Hummell, has filled this space in virtually every edition of The Bluffton Sun and The Hilton Head Sun since her arrival in 2009 - over 170 columns. Lynne wanted to call it “Sunny Side Up” which was a perfect title for a commentary that filled us all with joy, laughter, optimism, sentimentality, wonder, motivation and, occasionally, sorrow.

And we knew our readers read and enjoyed her musings because of countless anecdotal stories such as this:

One of our ad guys was at a chamber meeting talking with a few clients and a woman rushed up to him, after noticing his Bluffton Sun name tag, and said “I take you to bed twice a month!” She then told the surprised ad guy that when the Bluffton Sun arrives in her mailbox, she grabs it and runs upstairs and locks her bedroom door, jumps into bed, and reads the entire paper, starting with Lynne’s column, while her kids plead with her to open

the door.”

During her tenure here, Lynne was a beacon of profound insight and sensibility. As a long-time resident her local knowledge of the Lowcountry was immense and invaluable and her writing and editing was in total sync with the Bluffton and Hilton Head communities we serve. In fact, we heard time after time from Sun City residents and readers of The Bluffton Sun that they would love a Sun paper of their own, so we created The Sun City Sun. The same was true of Hilton Head residents that continually requested a Sun paper of their own and the Hilton Head Sun was launched. Much of this success and reader loyalty was due to Lynne’s tireless efforts over the years. It is a rarity these days to find newspapers that are expanding and growing like our Sun publications. Most are slashing local news budgets and filling their pages with national and international news that you have seen on other media days before. Every bit of the

editorial content in our papers is produced locally and was magically edited into a readable, well-written and enjoyable local journalism by Lynne and Lynne alone.

As our readership, distribution and advertising support grew, so did our page counts and the amount of editorial content. Lynne never wavered from her responsibility to produce quality content about our neighbors, businesses, social trends, education, sports and more that our readers would enjoy, savor, and learn from. Whether our papers contained 24 pages every month to upwards of 220 or more, our readers could always count on a paper that was interesting, well written and on time! Lynne’s professional and personal relationships with her writers, correspondents, co-workers, and readers was always congenial which was not always easy to achieve as the mighty pressurized print deadlines loomed.

Well, Lynne is off on her well-deserved new

journeys. While most of us view retirement as a time to watch “The Price Is Right”, play some golf, or collect stamps on our passports, Lynne said she has a wish list that starts off with “writing a book, taking short trips and long naps.” Knowing Lynne, she will want to spend much more time with “her boys”- her long-time husband, local noted artist, Amos and sons, Clark and Chandler. Her ongoing and relentless responsibilities here at the papers prevented her from enjoying a leisurely life and we are sure she will fill her time with interesting experiences, hobbies, and adventures.

We are hoping that Lynne can find the time to occasionally fill this space with her wonderful prose in the future. In the meantime, we wish her a wealth of good health and boundless happiness as she enjoys her long overdue next steps in her journey.

-Her Bluffton, Hilton Head and Sun City Sun co-workers

Ambitious 2023 Agenda Achieves Many GOP Legislative Goals

Current Circulation Via USPS is 25,266

By Jeff Bradley CONTRIBUTOR

PUBLISHER

Kevin Aylmer, kevina@blufftonsun.com

EDITOR

Lynne Hummell, editor@blufftonsun.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Melanie Dodson

Wendy Price

OFFICE MANAGER

Melissa McCullough

CONTRIBUTORS

Jeff Bradley

Amy Coyne Bredeson

Amy Campanini

Collins Doughtie

Mathew Epps

E. Ronald Finger

Leslie Francis

Jennifer Herrin

Ken Horup

Amber Linaburg

Alan Perry

Larry Stoller

William Ward

Mark F. Winn

Tim Wood

ADVERTISING

B.J. Frazier, Sales Director, 843-422-2321

Claudia Chapman 814-434-3665

Mike Garza 804-928-2151

Mary Pat Gifford 912-414-7122

CONTACT

For information about The Hilton Head Sun, 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 copyright protected 20220. All submissions must include name, address and phone number. The Editor reserves the right to edit or reject any material, including advertisements. The Hilton Head Sun does not verify for licenses, endorse nor warrant any advertised businesses or services. The opinions and views expressed in the editorials are not necessarily those of the Editor and Publisher. Member, Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce. Circulation verification for each issue provided with USPS Form 3541 and/or USPS Form 8125. These forms are available for review during normal business hours at the offices of The Bluffton Sun, 14D Johnston Way, Bluffton, SC 29910.

At the beginning of the 2023-2024 legislative session last December, we set an ambitious agenda in the SC General Assembly. It included improving statewide economic development, reforming our education system, implementing fiscal discipline, increasing personal freedom, and prioritizing public safety.

As I reflect on our accomplishments during the session, I feel a lot of excitement and optimism for our great state which is currently experiencing its most robust period of growth and prosperity in history. The outlook for a brighter future for our state’s citizens is as good as it has ever been.

Here are some of the key accomplishments of the final month that received very little attention in the media.

Preparing Our Workforce

We passed the SC Education and Workforce Development Act (H.3726) which aims to prepare 60% of SC students with a postsecondary degree (which means a degree or industry certification beyond high school)

by 2030.

This means our education programs will mandate measures such as better preparing high school students for college-level math and reading and utilizing technical colleges for workforce training. The comprehensive bill would also require an annual analysis of how many jobs are open across the state and how many graduates there are to fill them.

We believe by improving efficiencies and achieving a more coordinated approach in the workforce and education pipeline this bill is a great starting point to prepare future generations for their career paths.

DHEC Restructuring

Modernizing government agencies and making them more efficient continues to be a major priority; and as Chairman of the House Regulations and Administration Committee, I was deeply involved in helping Bill S.399 pass the House. This bill splits the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) to create the Department of Health and the Department of Environmental Services. Under this new restructuring, some of the highlights include:

• Both the Department of Public Health and the Department of Environmental Services will become cabinet agencies, with their directors appointed by the Governor with advice and consent of the Senate.

• The food safety program will be trans-

ferred to the Department of Agriculture.

• The flood mitigation program which currently resides with the Department of Natural Resources would be transferred to the Office of Resiliency.

• Water Resources would be transferred from the Department of Natural Resources to the Division of Water within the Department of Environmental Services.

We believe these changes, plus several others, will help citizens find our government process less cumbersome.

Death Benefit for First Responders

Additionally, I was very pleased to help pass a new law in South Carolina that mandates a one-time death benefit to all first responders who are killed in the line of duty, including law enforcement, firefighters, and EMS personnel.

The benefit ranges from $75,000 to $150,000 if the death was the result of an unlawful act by another.

Until now South Carolina was one of only 16 states that did not have a special death benefit for personnel killed in the line of duty. Our Beaufort County delegation of legislators was credited with spearheading the bill in both the Senate and House by Beaufort County Sheriff P.J. Tanner

Jeff Bradley is the representative for District 123 in the State House of Representatives.

HHI Town Council to Hold Workshop

The Hilton Head Island Town Council will hold a public workshop about its Strategic Action Plan on Wednesday, August 9, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa, 2 Grasslawn Avenue.

At the workshop, Town Manager Marc Orlando and senior staff members will review progress toward initiatives in the Fiscal Year 2023-2025 Strategic Action Plan. They will also lead a discussion on the prioritization of projects over the remainder of the current fiscal year.

“We believe that the strength of our strategic action plan lies in the active

involvement of our community,” said Alan Perry, Mayor of the Town of Hilton Head Island. “This workshop will serve as a critical forum for us to collectively examine our progress, address emerging challenges, and fine-tune our strategies to best serve our residents.”

“As Town Manager, I am humbled and thrilled to see our strategic goals being realized day by day, as our dedicated staff tirelessly works towards implementing them,” Orlando said “We are not merely checking boxes; we’re generating meaningful change that residents can see and feel. Our Town is becoming more vibrant,

more inclusive, and more resilient, and that is what this strategic plan is all about.”

The Strategic Action Plan contains strategies to protect and preserve the Island’s natural environment, manage growth, develop creative revenue sources to fund service delivery, and provide exceptional quality-of-life offerings in arts, culture, and recreation.

For more information, contact Carolyn Grant in the Town’s Communications Department at 843-341-4618 or CarolynG@hiltonheadislandsc.gov.

Jeff Bradley

What a great way to spend a Saturday morning...

With this feature, we seek to capture a glimpse of what you and your neighbors have to say about a variety of topics, issues, events; and

just plain fun questions. You might see us anywhere around town with notepad and camera, randomly seeking out folks

who are willing to participate. If we find you, we hope you will want to respond.

At the Palm Trees & Pistons Car

Show at Sea Turtle Marketplace, we asked: “what was your favorite car of your past?”

Atlee Compher, Hilton Head: “My Dad’s 1948 Studebaker Champion.”

Joey Mucia, Bluffton: “A 1973 Ford Bronco, my first car that got me into the business and I’m still playing with cars 40 years later at Bluffton Autobody (shameless plug).

Pat Sheridan, Hilton Head: “I was a Marine in Viêt Nam for 18 months, saved up all my money and bought a 1973 TR6.”

Steve Lash, Sun City: “1974 Spitfire, first car when I got married.”

Wayne Casper, Hilton Head: “65 Mustang, it was my first car and I met my wife in that car!”

LITHIUM from page 1A

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 impressive. 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 ordi-

Paul Bell, MD

Our Newest Comprehensive Ophthalmologist

Bishop Eye Center now has eight physicians in three Lowcountry locations to welcome you with an exceptional eye care environment and premier patient experience right where you live.

Dr. Bell, who served as the flight surgeon for Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 in Beaufort, SC, relocated from Charleston, SC after being on staff at the Storm Eye Institute. He is especially interested in helping people maintain and improve their lifestyles with refractive cataract surgery.

nary 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 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

When it comes to caring for your vision, you deserve the very best.

Photo by Aldo Zambana, Charles County, Md., DES

The battery to a Dewalt tool had been left plugged in on the floor of a truck. The fire caused loss of the whole house.

Please see LITHIUM on page 10A

MORE WOW.

Less Time, Money & Hassle.

LITHIUM from page 8A

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.”

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.

Let A meric A n Wood r efAce create your new dream kitchen in less than a week with our premium 1/4'' S olid Wood c A binet r efA cing . Saves time and hassle, and saves up to half the cost of custom cabinet replacement.

Our experienced carpenters painstakingly reface the cabinet boxes with premium furniture-grade 1 ⁄4” solid hardwood

We install brand new Amish-crafted solid wood doors and drawer fronts –cabinets look and perform JUST like neW AGAin!

Huge selection of styles, colors, and wood finishes in eight different domestic woods.

Beautiful new stone countertops.

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.

Modify and customize cabinets: change function, extend, reduce or add new cabinets. Roll-outs† and drawer banks for accessibility and convenience.

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.

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.

c OM pa RE

O u R qua L i T y A superior refacing job starts with quality materials. Gorgeous solid hardwoods and custommade components enhance your kitchen’s beauty and value.

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“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 lithium-ion batteries has not been reached, with the estimated mileage between

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.

Meet our Contributors

GWYNETH J. SAUNDERS, JOURNALIST

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.

ENJOYS: Books, performing, art, cooking

Welcoming Our New Editor

By Kevin Aylmer PUBLISHER

The Bluffton Sun, Hilton Head Sun, and Sun City Sun are pleased to announce the incoming of our new editor, Shannon Copcutt.

Shannon is an experienced editor with over ten years of staff leadership and a track record of motivating teams to produce innovating content across various platforms. She brings a wealth of experience and an exceptional track record to the family of Sun papers. Previously, Shannon served as the Executive Editor of ICD Publications, where she developed and oversaw the evolution of print and digital content strategy, directed editorial talent, and led overall brand strategy. After that that, she was the Editor-in-Chief of Focus On Publications where she oversaw, trained, and developed writers and associates, assistants and

junior editors to optimize production and quality of work.

When asked about her appointment, Shannon expressed her excitement saying, “I am honored to have been selected to represent these wonderful local publications and cannot wait to bring residents even more great community coverage.”

In her new role, Shannon will continue the work of outgoing editor, Lynne Hummel, in fostering an environment of collaboration, growth, and continuous improvement among the Sun publications. She will guide our editorial team in delivering stories, indepth analyses, and exclusive features that highlight life in the lowcountry and the lived experiences of you, our loyal readers.

Please join me in warmly welcoming Shannon, and don’t hesitate to reach out to her at editor@blufftonsun.com.

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First Beaufort Memorial Facility to Open on Hilton Head

TUESDAYS AT 10:30AM

HISTORIC FT. MITCHEL TOUR

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.

THURSDAYS AT 10:30AM

65 Skull Creek Dr., Hilton Head Plantation

$10/ADULT • $8/CHILD

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.”

Visit the gravesites of four Revolutionary War heroes and find out about the bloody skirmish that was fought just steps away. Site on the SC Liberty Trail.

Corner of Hwy. 278 & Mathews Dr. $10/ADULT • $8/CHILD

Fort Mitchel contains the remains of a coastal defense battery erected in 1862 to protect the Port Royal Sound by way of Skull Creek from incursions by Confederate gunboats.

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Josephine Wright’s Fight

By Bakari Sellers CONTRIBUTOR

I’ve long believed in the power of local newspapers; I discussed it recently on an episode of my podcast with Slate writer Joel Anderson. As we see more and more local newspapers cut back on coverage and staff, and increase focus on national politics it becomes ever important for folks to stay engaged in what’s happening in their communities. Something happening right now in the Hilton Head and Bluffton area that has caught both national and local attention is the fight of Josephine Wright. The 93-year-old Hilton Head native has been fighting a development group who has been trying to force her to sell her land in Hilton Head to be part of a 147-unit neighborhood. Bailey Point Investment LLC, the development group behind the concerted effort to take property away from a black family in the community, has spent the last several months dragging Ms. Wright through the legal system.

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ONLY ONE STEP AWAY

The land had once belonged to her husband, a Gullah Geechee islander, before it passed to her after his death in 1998. It has been in her family since the end of the Civil War, and Ms Josphine has spent her entire life pouring heart and soul into maintaining it for generations to come. The fight has caught the attention of celebrities, from Tyler Perry to Kyrie Irving, who have contributed to a GoFundMe that was started to help the Wright family cover the costly legal battle, cover property taxes, and construct a fence between the Wright property and the new development. Bailey Point has already taken quite a bit from the community - the land that is now developed was once home to Hilton Head’s diverse wildlife and served as a reminder of what the island once looked like. I hope you’ll join me in working to make sure they don’t take more.

Bakari T. Sellers is an attorney, political commentator, and politician. He served in the South Carolina House of Representatives for the 90th District from 2006 to 2014.

Josephine Wright, pictured with family members and Bakari Sellers, at a press conference on Hilton Head Island.

PHOTO BY POST AND COURIER

C e l e y t h e

T o w n ' s i n c o r p o r a t i o n a n d t h e 3 6 0 t h

a n n i v e r s a r y o f t h e I s l a n d ' s s i g h t i n g w i t h a m e n u o f e v e n t s !

Philanthropic Opportunities for Lowcountry Residential Communities

By Scott Wierman CONTRIBUTOR

E V E N T S :

C o m m u n i t y P i c n i c

A u g u s t 2 6 | 4 p m - 8 p m

L o w c o u n t r y C e l e b r a t i o n P a r k

T o u r S e r i e s &

S o n g w r i t e r F e s t i v a l

C o m m u n i t y C o n c e r t

S e p t e m b e r 1 6 | 7 p m

L o w c o u n t r y C e l e b r a t i o n P a r k

L e a r n M o r e :

V i s i t h i l t o n h e a d i s l a n d 3 6 0 - 4 0 . o r g

F o r t h e f u l l l i s t o f e v e n

Since 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 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

Scott Wierman

EXPERIENCE SUPERIOR SERVICES ALL UNDER ONE ROOF

Since 1999, Superior Services has been the trusted choice for residential and commercial needs in the lowcountry. Our comprehensive services include HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical, Water Remediation, and more, ensuring healthy homes and businesses. With experienced licensed and factory certified technicians, we deliver excellent service, streamlined processes, and first-class solutions. No need for multiple contractors or companies when Superior Services has it all under one roof. Make the Superior Choice.

Our Dental Hygienists ROC!

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.

Winners, and their Families, Avoid Problems

By Mark F. Winn CONTRIBUTOR

The tools available to a carpenter are hammers, nails, and power tools. The tools available to an estate planning attorney are: Wills, Trusts, Powers of Attorney, Advance Directives, Contracts, and Deeds. Matters we address are manner of ownership of assets, present and future beneficial interests, covering contingencies, managing tax uncertainty. If used properly, these tools can avoid legal problems and headaches. What problems? What headaches? Unnecessary legal and probate court costs, unnecessary family conflicts, unnecessary taxation, and lack of privacy.

survivorship rights or designated to go to the survivor. So, Mom may think that she should just put one child (let’s call him Clark) on the house and the accounts. Mom thinks Clark will “do the right thing” and make sure his siblings get their share. This is an accident waiting to happen. If Clark is sued while Mom is alive, can Mom’s house and assets that she owns with Clark be in jeopardy? Yes. If Mom passes, and then Clark gets divorced, can his wife get half? Yes.

Advancing Wellness Since 2000

In the game of golf, the winner has the lowest score. In the arena of estate planning, the winner is the one who plans ahead and structures their legal affairs to avoid problems. Over the past 19 plus years of helping people with estate planning, I’ve learned smart people who seek out and follow an experienced lawyer’s advice are the ones who are successful. People who try and configure their own solution based on something they read on the internet, or based on what a friend told them.... are the ones who are more likely to experience problems. Their families often experience the problems.

For example, let’s say Mom survives Dad and basically inherits everything from Dad free of trust. This transfer may not have been easy -- the assets may have all been owned jointly with

If Mom passes and Clark’s siblings plead with Clark for their share, are they legally entitled to it? No. There is a better way. Mom hires a lawyer and creates a Trust Agreement where she and Clark are co-trustees (co-fiduciaries), and that Clark can act alone, as Trustee, while Mom is alive. Mom wants Clark to handle the bills, so she makes him a co-trustee with the full authority to act. Mom’s Trust Agreement directs Clark to distribute the property to he and his siblings in equal shares and she leaves it to them “in trust” so they can use the money but can’t lose it if they get sued. Now, under this better way….

If Clark is sued while Mom is alive, can Mom’s house and assets that she owns with Clark be in jeopardy? No. If Mom passes, and then Clark gets divorced, can his wife get half? No.

If Mom passes and Clark’s siblings plead with Clark for their share, are they legally entitled to it? Yes.

What is the moral of the story? Winners, and their families, plan ahead to avoid problems.

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

LaDonna

Michele

Bluffton

Amber

Julie Megan

Elizabeth Hilton Head

THE CHILDREN’S CENTER IS THIS MONTH’S ROC STAR CHARITY. check out their swing for the future golf event on sept. 18. THECHILDRENSCENTersc.org

Mark F. Winn

Hurricane Season

Hurricane Season

The Top 3 Advantages of Non-Surgical Knee Treatment: A Path to Effective Relief

By Dr. Ken Horup CONTRIBUTOR

3. Personalized Approach and Cost-Efficiency

Be Read y Be Safe Be Prepared

Be Read y Be Safe Be Prepared

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 are 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/.

Tips for before, during and after the storm, visit palmetto.coop or go to https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes.

Palmetto Electric’s official emergency information stations:

• HOT 98.3 (WGCO) • G 100.1 (WXYY) • Rock 106.1 (WFXH) • Bob 106.9 (WUBB)

• Rewind 107.9 (WRWN) • La Pantera FM 96.1/AM 1130/ (WHHW)

Download the free South Carolina Emergency Manager mobile app to help build and customize a personal emergency plan.

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.”

Dr. Ken Horup is a chiropractic physician, Board Certified in Neuropathy, serving the Lowcountry for 25 years. specificchiropractic.com

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.

Beware Medicaid Renewal Scams

Now is the time to have your guard up about possible Medicaid renewal scams. The one-year period during which individuals must renew their health care coverage through Medicaid began in April 2023 and will go through March 2024. During the COVID-19 pandemic, eligibility reviews for Medicaid were put on hold. Prior to the pandemic, the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services reviewed Medicaid eligibility on an annual basis. For the last three years, individuals could be added to Medicaid but generally not removed, baring certain cases, because of the federal COVID public health emergency. That came to an end and in April states could resume disenrolling people again.

Since then, the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has begun warning the com-

munity about current Medicaid renewal scams. Medicaid members in several states, including South Carolina, have received emails, texts or calls from

scammers asking for money or gift cards to keep or reinstate health coverage, or to sell enrollment services that offer quick and easy enrollment assis-

tance. In some cases, callers demand the individual pay hundreds of dollars to maintain their health care coverage. The best tool consumers and families have to combat scams is knowledge. Officials have shared that the Healthy Connections Medicaid program is sending legitimate texts to inform members that their annual review form is in the mail and prompt them to complete it. Unlike scams, these messages will never ask for money. The South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has advised that if someone receives an email or text asking them to pay money or provide gift cards to keep or renew their Medicaid coverage, please contact the Medicaid fraud hotline at (888) 364-3224 Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. This can also be reported by sending an email to FraudRes@scdhhs.gov.

Lower Body Rejuvenation

By Dr. Ronald Finger CONTRIBUTOR

What are the problems that are seen with the lower body?

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. com

By Dr. Jean Harris CONTRIBUTOR

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

From left are: Dr. Jean Harris and Nancy Lopez

DR. JEAN HARRIS

Record External Funding at USCB Elevates Students, Region

By Eric Skipper CONTRIBUTOR

Since 2020, the University of South Carolina Beaufort has more than quadrupled externally sponsored funding, a testament to the talent and resourcefulness of its faculty and staff. Awards received during fiscal year 2023 respond to educational needs and other regional challenges the university is meeting head-on with the strength of its intellectual capital.

On a per capita basis, external funding at USCB outpaces that of many institutions classified as “high research,” or R2 designation in the Carnegie classification.

In September 2022, USCB’s Public Health program was awarded $1.5 million by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to provide students scholarships. In October 2022, USCB was announced as recipient of a $5.1 million Department of Education (ED) grant aimed at recruiting and retaining high-quality teacher candidates to serve Beaufort County School District’s (BCSD) high-need schools.

In April, USCB was awarded $1 million in HRSA funding to enhance healthcare workforce development in partnership with Beaufort Memorial Hospital, Beaufort County, and the City of Beaufort. Through grants from the Town of Hilton Head Island and the Town of Bluffton, USCB’s Center for Event Management and Hospitality Training continues to provide Island Ambassador training annually to hundreds of members of

our local workforce.

Thanks to area donors, USCB offers a Summer Math Camp for rising junior and senior high school students from nearby underserved counties. In the fall, USCB was awarded a grant through the Partnership Among South Carolina Academic Libraries (PASCAL) consortium to make textbooks and other educational resources more affordable for our students.

In addition to educational projects, USCB focuses on regional problem solving, in alignment with the American Association of State College and University’s (AASCU) call for regional universities to be “Stewards of Places.”

In May, USCB received a $1 million planning grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for maritime cybersecurity. The grant positions USCB and its partners to apply for up to $160 million to cultivate a regional ecosystem for workforce and research development related to maritime cybersecurity. The NSF grant follows a $1.3 million DOD-funded grant for enhancing cybersecurity education in the region.

Active federal grants also include a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) grant for sustaining Gullah/ Geechee agriculture, an NSF grant for materials assembly and design, a Department of Transportation (DOT)-partnered grant for monitoring the environmental impact of noise levels emitted by ocean vessels, a pair of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)-partnered grants to promote estuarine health and sustainability, and a National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) stipend

Please see USCB on page

Eric Skipper

USCB from page 30A

for a project studying 19th century women reformers in the Sea Islands.

Other projects are funded by regional and state donors such as the Port Royal Sound Foundation, the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, the Stewart Family Office, the SC Arts Commission, the USCB Education Foundation, private donors, Beaufort County, and the municipalities of Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, and Beaufort. These projects support educational endeavors, water quality, the health of our intracoastal waterways, cybersecurity, and others.

As part of the USC system, USCB faculty are eligible to apply for grants to support, in addition to their own research, student research projects. USCB faculty are prolific in mentoring undergraduate and graduate researchers. It is one of many ways faculty engage students in experiential learning—or learning by doing—a hallmark of the USCB educa-

tional experience.

Moving forward, USCB is designing a water-themed Innovation Center that will focus on topics critical to regional vitality such as ecological studies, sustainability, and maritime cybersecurity. These efforts will be aided by the state’s commitment to supporting research and educational opportunities at Pritchards Island. Other projects in queue would support growth of USCB’s Nursing program and enhance STEM education opportunities.

USCB continues to elevate its impact on education and quality of life in the Lowcountry. The work would not be possible without the shared vision and support of partners across the Lowcountry and beyond.

Eric Skipper, Ph.D., is provost and executive vice chancellor for academic affairs at University of South Carolina Beaufort.

A Fresh Coat

By Megan Aylmer CONTRIBUTOR

“Paint makes walls and women look like what they ain’t.”

-A Southern Gentleman

Lowcountry homes are known for their timeless beauty, rich history, and distinct architectural styles. Our lovely region offers a unique blend of Southern elegance and coastal charm. One of the key elements that brings these homes to life is the selected paint colors. A quick stop to your local paint store is a must! Simply ask the paint professional “what is the color trend the builders are utilizing for the Lowcountry look?”

The popular choices are as follows:

Oyster White…SW7637 Inspired by the shells found along the Lowcountry’s pristine shores, Oyster White is a warm and inviting color choice for walls and trim. This off-white shade with subtle hints of beige and gray creates a cozy atmosphere while reflecting natural light. Designers frequently use Oyster White as a neutral backdrop, allowing the furnishings and architectural details to take center stage. It complements a variety of design styles, from traditional to coastal contemporary.

Charleston Green…SW232b2b…or as we say around here, Belfair Green. It is a classic

color that pays homage to the historic city of Charleston. This deep, rich shade of blackgreen exudes sophistication and a touch of drama to any space. It is mainly used for front doors, mail boxes and cabinetry.

Haint Blue…SW6219, BMHC144, BehrMQ3-21…This soft blue-green shade is believed to ward off evil spirits and keep homes cool during the scorching summer months. Home owners often apply Haint Blue to porch ceilings, believing that it mimics the color of the sky and helps to repel insects. Its calming hue adds a touch of tradition and authenticity to Lowcountry homes.

Savannah Moss…BM385…This paint captures the lush greenery and vibrant nature of the Lowcountry landscape. This earthy green shade brings a sense of freshness and vitality to any room. You can incorporate Savannah Moss into accent walls, or kitchen cabinets. It pairs beautifully with warm wood tones and brass accent.

From the dramatic Charleston Green, and the traditional Haint Blue to the earthy Savannah Moss, these favorite paint colors capture the essence of the coastal beauty and historical heritage. By embracing these colors, homeowners can infuse their spaces with the same timeless elegance and effortless allure that make Lowcountry homes truly special.

Facial Rejuvenation with Fat Transfer

By Dr. Mathew T. Epps CONTRIBUTOR

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.

Mathew T. Epps, MD, MS, DABS is a plastic surgeon, triple- fellowship trained in facial, eyelid, and breast surgery. matheweppsmd. com or info@dreppsmd.com

Bluffton’s Five

Bluffton’s Five Star Luxury Day Spa

At Gullah Women Yoga, it’s all about breathing, stretching and relaxing

and I had our first couples massage at Whisper Creek spa and the was a 5 Star. Truly, the best and most beautiful spa in the area!”

The Perfect Spa Day

The Perfect Spa

Bluffton’s Five Star Luxury Day Spa

“My husband and I had our first couples massage at Whisper Creek Spa and the experience was a 5 Star. Truly, the best and most beautiful spa in the area!”

5.0 

Day Affordable indulgence for your health, wellness and beauty so you

The Perfect Spa Day

PHOTOS COURTESY GWYNETH J. SAUNDERS

“My husband and I had our first couples massage at Whisper Creek spa and the experience was a 5 Star. Truly, the best and most beautiful spa in the area!”

Amenities • Complimentary wine or champagne • Infared sauna • Meditation salt room • Resort inspired locker room • Easy parking Groups & Events • 17 treatment rooms • 4 VIP nail rooms • 2 couples duet rooms • Private event space • Retail boutique with wine & gifts Bluffton’s Five Star Luxury Day Spa “My husband and I had our first couples massage at Whisper Creek spa and the experience was a 5 Star. Truly, the best and most beautiful spa in the area!” The Perfect Spa Day Affordable indulgence for your health, wellness and beauty so you will feel fully

Affordable indulgence for your health, wellness and beauty so you will feel fully refreshed.

Events rooms rooms duet rooms space boutique with

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1196 Fording Island Rd., Bluffton, SC 29910 ( I-278 between Burnt Church and Malphrus Rds.)

• 17 treatment rooms

• 4 VIP nail rooms

• 2 couples duet rooms

• 4 VIP nail rooms

• Private event space

• 2 couples duet rooms

• Private event space

• Retail boutique with wine & gifts

• Retail boutique with wine & gifts

Amenities

refreshed. To

• Complimentary wine or champagne

• Infrared sauna

• Meditation salt room

•

Amenities

By Gwyneth J. Saunders CONTRIBUTOR

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.

• Complimentary wine or champagne

• Infared sauna

• Meditation salt room

• Resort inspired locker room

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.

• Easy parking

Resort inspired locker room

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Affordable indulgence for your health, wellness and beauty so you will feel fully refreshed. To see our menu of services, Scan the QR code 1196 Fording Island Rd., Bluffton, SC 29910 ( I-278 between Burnt Church and Malphrus Rds.) For Reservations 843-960-0100 | whispercreekspa.com @whispercreekspa | #SpaDay Amenities

To see our menu of services, Scan the QR code

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 vari

Please see YOGA on page 35A

ous 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.

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

Board-Certified Medical Oncologist Comes to Beaufort Memorial

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.

Darren E. Mullins, M.D.

Community Foundation of the Lowcountry Welcomes New Board Members

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.

Please see NEW BOARD on page 44A

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Estate Planning Tips for Kids or Grandchildren Going Off to College

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.

Jada L. Gaines is an associate attorney with Elder Law & Estate Planning Center in Bluffton. hiltonheadelderlaw.com

Back to School Tip: Prepare Now for 529 Withdrawals

By Curtis Loftis CONTRIBUTOR

As a firm believer in the many benefits of saving with a Future Scholar 529 plan, I commend families who consistently contribute to their accounts to help pay for a loved one’s future education. They can be proud their dedication will provide funds to help cover qualified expenses for 529 beneficiaries taking the next important step in their educational journey.

When that exciting time comes, you won’t need to worry. The process of withdrawing 529 funds isn’t difficult. But as always, it helps to be prepared.

Most 529 plans will allow you to make a withdrawal request by accessing a form on their websites, by mail or by telephone. Usually, the most efficient way to receive your withdrawal is to have your funds deposited directly into your bank account or the beneficiary’s bank account. You can then simply submit the payment to your child’s school electronically or reimburse yourself if

you have already paid for qualified education expenses.

If you choose this method to receive your funds, be sure to have your bank account on file with your 529 plan at least 30 days before you plan to withdraw your funds. Take time to visit the website of your child’s school to be sure of the date the payment is due. Sending your payment early will ensure you avoid class cancellation.

To avoid tax penalties, you will want the funds you withdraw to pay for qualified education expenses only. Qualified education expenses for higher education include tuition, fees, books, supplies, computers, equipment, meals and housing (if your student is at least part-time). For K-12, qualified education expenses include tuition up to $10,000 per year per beneficiary.

You will receive a Form 1099-Q at the end of the year for all withdrawals, but those used for qualified education expenses will not be taxed. In the event that funds are used for non-qualified purposes, the earnings portion, not the contributions themselves,

will be taxed and you may also incur a 10% federal tax penalty. Be sure to consult with a tax professional if you have any questions.

You should withdraw your funds in the same calendar year you plan to use them so that the year’s withdrawals match up with the year’s education expenses. Be sure to keep all of your receipts. Toward the end of the year, go back through expenditures to make sure you have withdrawn funds to cover all qualified education expenses. Be sure to give your 529 plan administrator enough time to process your withdrawal request in the same calendar year.

Helping your child prepare for higher education can raise lots of additional questions.

• Where can I use 529 funds? Your 529 funds can be used at any eligible educational institution in the U.S., as well as many international schools. These institutions include two- and four-year public and private colleges, graduate and professional programs, as well as vocational and technical schools. A full list of eligible institutions is on the Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) website.

• How does my 529 account affect financial aid? When determining eligibility for financial aid, funds in a 529 account are treated as the account owner’s, not the child’s, assets. In 2022, only 5.64% or less of the account’s value will be factored in for financial aid purposes.

• What if my child receives a scholarship? If your child is lucky enough to receive a scholarship, you may withdraw up to the full amount of the scholarship without tax penalty. You will only be responsible for paying income tax on the earnings portion of the withdrawal.

Congratulations on a job well done. You are providing a loved one with the incredibly important and lasting gift of education. Over the years, you’ve worked toward the meaningful goal of saving for your child’s future.

Curtis Loftis is the State Treasurer of South Carolina. He also serves as the administrator of South Carolina’s Future Scholar 529 College Savings Plan.

“Silver Paw Seniors” long to find their final… forever home

By Lindsay Perry CONTRIBUTOR

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.”

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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

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Local Golf Rule Regarding Lagoons and Alligators

By Tom Dorsel, Ph.D. CONTRIBUTOR

It seems to me that a solution to the alligator problem when it comes to golf is to keep players away from the banks of the lagoons, since the alligators are not going to stay away from the banks of the lagoons and the golfers. So I have two suggestions:

1. Establish a local rule of 2 club-lengths relief from any lagoon, no closer to the hole and remaining in the same condition (e.g., rough, sand) for any ball that comes to rest within 2 club lengths of a lagoon and is not in the lagoon. Of course, if it is in the lagoon, the normal hazard penalty applies.

Now this is not the same as the “dangerous animal” rule (Rules of Golf, Rule #16.2). This local rule would apply to any lagoon, whether a dangerous alligator is visible or not. I think this would be a good rule for all courses in the low country; and some prom-

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inent course could set the example, that is, step up and be proud of being the first to implement the “Local Lagoon Rule.”

2. If the local rule option is sadly not adopted, then let the rough on the bank grow an inch or two longer. Now I don’t mean 3rd cut U.S. Open rough, just one or two inches, such that balls can still quickly be found, but also be less likely to roll all the way down to the water’s edge, where players

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are tempted to look for it, and/or play it, while standing very near the lagoon. Again, if you outright hit the ball in the water, the normal hazard rules apply.

3. As an adjunct to both suggestions above, starters should tell groups on the first tee that if one of the players in the group is going to play a shot from close to a lagoon, everyone else should stand nearby with heavy sand wedges at the ready. These

“armed guards” would be in a position to provide warning of a floating predator, or (golf-gods forbid) clobber the creature, if one surreptitiously attempts a sneak attack! This is just an application of Teddy Roosevelt’s: “Walk softly, but carry a big stick.”

Further support for this 3rd suggestion is to gather as a group on the bank is that kayaks on expeditions down the Nile River in Africa would travel in close proximity, almost linked together, so they looked more like one big boat in the water, thereby deterring crocodiles from attacking such a big object. If that same logic were to apply to alligators, a group of people close together on the bank might be interpreted by alligators as one big formidable creature that the alligator does not want to risk attacking.

Dr. Tom Dorsel is a sport psychologist on HHI. His best selling book is “GOLF: The Mental Game.” Contact him at Dorsel.com.

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Exploring the Seafood Delights of South Carolina

By Charles Russo III CONTRIBUTOR

The Palmetto State boasts nearly 200 miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline, and plenty of rivers and lakes, making it an ideal destination for seafood lovers. From savory shrimp and grits to crispy fried flounder, there’s an abundance of seafood options for everyone. Join us as we dive into the seafood delights of South Carolina and discover what this beautiful Lowcountry has to offer.

1. Shrimp

South Carolina’s shrimp industry is well established, producing around 25 million pounds of shrimp every year. Thanks to the state’s extensive coastal marshlands, our local shrimp thrive in our rich waters, resulting in the sweetest and most succulent meat. Shrimp and grits is a popular classic dish in the state, but there’s more to explore. Try a

Lowcountry Boil, which is a one-pot recipe featuring shrimp, corn, smoked sausage, onion and potatoes boiled with a blend of seasoning.

2. Blue Crab

Blue crab is another favorite seafood staple in South Carolina. Local blue crabs are served in various dishes, including crispy crab cakes, creamy She-crab soup, a fresh crab salad, or a rich crab dip. Blue crab can also work wonders added to a Lowcountry Boil. The state of South Carolina promotes sustainable seafood practices, ensuring that the blue crab population is well-managed and sustainable.

3. Flounder

Flounder is a seafood staple in South Carolina. The fish thrives in both the state’s inshore and offshore waters. The most popular way to enjoy local flounder is fried in a

light batter served with tartar sauce, honey mustard sauce, or simply some fresh lemon juice. Baked flounder with crab stuffing is another favorite way to enjoy this mild, flaky fish.

South Carolina is a food lovers’ paradise, and seafood certainly takes center stage.

With its location on the Atlantic Coast and an abundance of freshwater sources, South Carolina has many seafood options to explore with fresh daily catches and seasonal specialties. From crab cakes to fried flounder, the Palmetto state is home to some of the most delicious seafood dishes you will ever enjoy. Be sure to take a food tour of the state, try the traditional dishes, and discover new and exciting flavors.

Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or want to try something new, the abundance of seafood in South Carolina is sure to satisfy your cravings. So why not discover the seafood delights of South Carolina for yourself? You’ll be glad you did!

And if you’re looking to buy fresh, local seafood, don’t forget to contact your local fishmonger.

Charles J. Russo III is the owner of Russo’s Fresh Seafood Bluffton. Visit russosfreshseafood.com.

Summer takes me back

By Collins Doughtie CONTRIBUTOR

Though I can’t explain it, the first few days of summer always makes me think back to the time when my folks picked up all five kids and moved us to the Lowcountry. The year was 1961 and if my mind serves me correctly, we arrived just a month or so before school was ready to start. I was barely six years old and Hilton Head was nothing more than a two-lane paved highway lined with massive oak trees and deer outnumbered people fifty to one.

Even before I moved here, I was already a fishing fool so you can imagine how excited I was to see water, water everywhere. Most of the roads were dirt and other than the old William Hilton Inn, the Adventure Inn and the Seacrest Hotel, there was very little construction going on. For everyday staples there was one tiny grocery store at Coligny Plaza but for serious shopping that required piling the kids in the car and making a weekly pilgrimage to Savannah. The only other hangout, if you could call it that, was an open-air beach shop called the Arcade which was located on South Forest Beach road between where the Holiday Inn now stands and the Adventure Inn. You could walk down to the beach and look in both directions and not see a soul. So, you can imagine that for a skinny little kid like me with an imagination that was always in hyper drive, it was paradise.

The bridge, a swing bridge, had just been built and up on top of the structure was a little house where the bridge tender lived. It was customary to honk your horn as you passed under his digs and it wasn’t unusual to travel the entire length of the island and not see another car. Being the youngest of five children, only my sister Grace and I had the privilege of attending Bluffton High School while the older kids commuted to a school in Savannah. You probably think we rode ox drawn carts to school but we did actually have a regular yellow school bus but because there were so few of us, the drivers were always students at the school. As you might imagine, many of the drivers were good ol’ country folk and the ride home was almost always an adventure. I can remember when a couple of these upstanding high school senior bus drivers would disconnect the buses governor, used to keep the top speed at 45mph, and we would hit speeds meant for racetracks. They would do things like veer off the road and drive through fields bouncing our little heads off the roof, chase chickens, of which there were plenty,

and pretty much break just about every rule in the book. Looking back now, these are just a few of the things that made my childhood so great.

After Bluffton High School burned to the ground during one Christmas vacation, we used the Methodist Church in downtown Bluffton as our school. After about a year of that my folks decided that it was best if I too commuted to school in Savannah. Along with the Hacks, who owned Honey Horn Plantation, and all of Joe Fraser’s kids, an old, green Checker limousine was purchased to take us to school in Savannah. Driven by an elderly black gentleman named Willy, it was quite the trek. The Talmadge Bridge was a rickety metal bridge with a tollbooth and Savannah proper pretty much stopped at around Victory Drive. Our school, Savannah Country day, was way out on Abercorn long before the malls were built so these daily rides made for a long day especially for kids my age.

I was by no means a model student solely because my mind was always thinking more about how to catch a channel bass (redfish

were called that back then) than it was learning a dead language called Latin. It didn’t make any difference how late I got home, I would always hop on my bike and get in an hour or so fishing before I was made to sit down for homework. Though I didn’t realize it at the time that this inclination was no doubt why my folks sent me off to boarding school, and not a fishing school, when I reached the ninth grade.

I have to give it to my folks for making such a brash move. I can’t imagine nowadays having a brood the size of theirs and just picking up and moving to some remote corner of the world. My dad was a big shot advertising man on Madison Avenue in New York but being in advertising myself until I retired a year or so ago, I can now understand why he did what he did. He and my mom opened the very first shop on Hilton Head, The Island Shop, which was located at the William Hilton Inn where the Marriott Grand Ocean Resort currently stands. Instead of riding a train to work every day as he did before moving here, my dad sailed to work on a little sunfish from our home in Sea Pines. If nothing else, my folks taught me that quality of life trumps wealth ever time. All I can say is what a life I’ve had and Lord willing that blessing continues on for many more years.

Collins Doughtie, a 60-year resident of the Lowcountry, is a sportsman, graphic artist, and lover of nature. collinsdoughtie@icloud. com

This Column Brought to You By:

Jim Wagner –Wagner returns to the Community Foundation for his second term on the Board of Directors (after a four-year hiatus).

Wagner began his distinguished career working for the U.S Food and Drug

and Administration and successfully transitioned into collegiate academics. 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 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.

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 843-6819100.

Jim Wagner

Favorite Passages...

By Brett Myers CONTRIBUTOR

I recently taught one of my favorite passages in a Sunday morning small group that I lead, looking at Ezekiel 37 and the passage of the “Valley of Dry Bones.” In this passage, the Israelite prophet Ezekiel is given a vision by God. He’s taken out into a desert valley, and the valley is filled with dry bones. God then asks Ezekiel a question that seems to have a simple answer: “Can these bones live?” Not only were these bones, but they were dry bones…bones that had been long baked by the sun, years past comprising the frame of a living breathing person. The answer seems simple: “Of course not.” However, the prophet gave a profoundly correct answer when God is involved: “O Lord God, only you know.”

Ezekiel would then be instructed to prophesy over these bones, and within this

vision, God would bring these bones back to life, first rattling, then sinew forming to connect them, then flesh and organs, and then breath entering these restored bodies. What would stand before Ezekiel would be a massive and powerful army, that originated with dry useless bones until God got involved.

God would go on to explain that this vision was about how He would intervene in the hopeless situation in which the people of

Israel had gotten themselves into. Over and over again, God makes “I will” statements, promises of action for Ezekiel to pass on to His people.

If we are honest, we all face times when life seems hopeless; when a situation rises up in front of us like an unscalable mountain exploding upward from what seemed to be flat ground. It may be a medical prognosis, a financial situation, or a broken relationship. It may appear as though there is no earthly

way this could ever work out. When that happens, it helps to remember that God is not bound by earthly reason. He is far more powerful than what our finite minds can comprehend. Now, He may not always answer in the precise manner in which we would like for Him to, as His ways are above our ways, His plans are superior to our plans, and sometimes He uses difficult situations to bring about our growth or, more importantly, His glory. But when we are walking in relationship with God which we find through Jesus Christ, we are walking through life with a God who is infinitely capable of all life can throw our way, and who promises that regardless of how dark and deep the valley may be, He will be with us through it. Ezekiel didn’t bring hope in the valley. Only God can do that.

Brett Myers is the senior pastor at First Baptist Church on Hilton Head Island. FBCHHI.org

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UPCOMING WORKSHOPS

Arts & Entertainment Calendar

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

Ellie Hicks Showcases “Abstract View” At Hilton Head Island Recreation Center

“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. “

BEST SEATS. BEST PRICE.

Artwork by Ellie Hicks, Untitled 1

Artwork by Ellie Hicks, Untitled 2

SOBA Awards Scholarships to High School Graduates

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-

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.

Nathalia Roco, scholarship winner, from left; Marie Burgeson, SOBA President; Teddy McCracken; Emmett McCracken; and Amanda Frazier, scholarship winner, receive their awards July 15th at a reception held at SOBA Gallery. Not pictured: Liam Giblin

Anniversary of the 360th sighting of Hilton Head Island

This year marks the anniversary of the 360th sighting of Hilton Head Island by Captain William Hilton and the Town’s 40th anniversary as a municipality. The Town is planning special events to commemorate these milestones and we need your help.

In your upcoming newsletter, please include the news release and save the date card below. We are encouraging our community members to participate in our celebration as volunteers, contributors, and attendees. The celebration includes two free anchor events – a community picnic from 4 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, August 26, and a concert at 7 p.m. on Saturday, September 16. Both events are free and will be held at the Lowcountry Celebration Park, 94 Pope Avenue. Between those dates, a series of unique experiences designed to honor the Island’s rich natural, cultural, and historic resources will be offered.

Check out our dedicated event website (hiltonheadisland360-40.org) for all the details about the celebration events and a

NY Style Bagels

chronicle outline of the Island’s history and accomplishments. Via the website, community members can:

• Volunteer for 360/40 Celebration Events

Volunteers are needed to help with the community picnic, community concert,

and various celebration events from August 26-September 16. Sign up through the 360/40 event website.

• Submit a Hilton Head Island Milestone

You can share memorable moments or photos about Hilton Head Island’s unique

history and culture. Submit online at the 360/40 event website.

• Submit a 360/40 Celebration Event

The 360/40 Celebration Committee seeks event submissions from local nonprofits, businesses, and the cultural community to showcase and celebrate our Island’s rich history. Please submit your event information by July 15 for the first round of promotions and by August 1 for the second round. The Celebration Committee will review all submissions promptly, but the earlier, the better for robust planning and promotion! The online submission form and more details are available on the 360/40 event website.

We’re excited about this upcoming celebration that honors our Island’s milestones, history, growth, and people. We hope you will join us in promoting 360/40. If you have any questions or need help, email us at 360-40celebration@hiltonheadislandsc.gov.

Carolyn Grant is the Communications Director for the Town of Hilton Head Island, hiltonheadislandsc.gov.

Underwater Fantasies on Exhibit at Art League Gallery

By Kristen McIntosh CONTRIBUTOR

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.

WHAT:

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

Aug 29 – Sept 29

Mon-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 12-4pm and 90 minutes before every Arts Center performance

Opening Reception: Wed, August 30 • 5-7pm Enjoy refreshments and meet the artist • Free and open to the public

Artist Demo: Thursday, Sept 7 11am

Learn more about the artist and her process

Presented by Art League of Hilton Head Inside Arts Center of Coastal Carolina

Music and BBQ Festival to Raise Funds for Food Foundations

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.

By Amos Hummell

Matt Bodie is a freelancer who writes about life in the Lowcountry

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Gullah Heritage Books Various Authors and Illustrators

Underwater Fantasies on Exhibit at Art League Gallery

By Kristen McIntosh CONTRIBUTOR

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.

WHAT:

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,

Conroy Center Hosts Annual Children’s Book Fair, August 8

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

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.