Dec. 21, 2021 • Volume 24, Issue 24 • Complimentary • BlufftonSun.com
INSIDE • Bethlehem scene shares tradition of three generations 16A • High-tech musical light show thrills fans, helps charity 22A • Find more extravagant light shows in community 27A • Hurricane season ends without storms 30A • On the Porch with Doug Corkern, architect turned artist 32 A
Holiday harvesting of oysters requires care, culling, control By Gwyneth J. Saunders CONTRIBUTOR
’Tis the season for feasting on beasts for the table, but some treats don’t need a carving knife to relished. Oysters have always figured prominently among Lowcountry’s culinary delights, from beach bonfires, outdoor grills, home cooks and restaurant chefs, and this is the time of year when they are in their glory. Oyster harvesting season opened Oct. 15 and runs through May 15 – usually, barring storms or heightened bacteria levels. You don’t need a large, commercial boat like local companies have to harvest oysters. Individuals may harvest their
own oysters – if you’ve got the right knowledge and equipment. You have to also be willing to protect the oyster beds, because oysters are not only a choice morsel valued my many, they are also one of the reasons our local waters continue to be treasured. “Not only are oysters important to our waterways because of the habitat they create and the erosion they prevent, but one single adult oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water a day thereby improving the water quality,” said Rachel Hawes, Land, Water and Wildlife project manager for the Coastal Conservation League. “The SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES presence of oysters in our waterways is Make sure to take the proper tools, and be prepared to get muddy when harvesting oysters. Cull
Please see OYSTERS on page 12A
the dead shells and oysters smaller than three inches where you harvest. Enjoy your haul, and remember to recycle the empty shells at recycling stations around the county.
Another round of school violence threats has families on edge By Tim Wood CONTRIBUTOR
After dealing with an unprecedented challenge last year with the COVID pandemic, Beaufort County school officials and families are dealing with an escalating level of social media idiocy this year with
a series of “challenges” inciting violence in the schools. A 12-year-old student was arrested on Dec. 10 after officials at H.E. McCracken Middle School found graffiti threatening a school shooting. The student was charged with making threats and malicious injury to property at the school. Bluffton Police
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Chief Stephenie Price said the minor is being processed through the family court system. A second threat of violence of McCracken is still being investigated, along with eight other instances of threats against schools across the county. Seven of the eight incidents revolve around
warnings of shootings at the schools either on Dec. 10 or Dec. 13. Thankfully, none of the threats led to actual reports of gun violence. BCSD spokesperson Candace Bruder said that officers are still working to
Please see THREATS on page 10A
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
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Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
Page 3A
SUNNY SIDE UP
Lighten up this holiday season, find your joy and share it By Lynne Cope Hummell EDITOR
We can blame my dad for my early obsession with Christmas lights. He wasn’t necessarily over the top with a light display at our house on Cornwall Road, but he made sure the entire front of the roofline and the windows were outlined with large, multicolored strings of big fat lights, Charlie Brown-style. He also decorated the azalea and camellia bushes, the dogwoods, and the mailbox. Our modest Christmas tree was always set up on a table in the den so that its full glory shone through the window facing the street. He was less concerned about spending extra dollars on the electric bill than he was about having enough lights for the neighbors to enjoy. He said the lights were for my mom, but he loved them too.
I remember piling into the car during the season to “go look at Christmas lights” – Dad knew where all the good spots were, and we were annual visitors to all of them. We had such fun on those nights, singing “Jingle Bells” and “Silent Night” and “Rudolph” as we drove from one show to the next. It was a joyous time. When I moved into my first apartment after a divorce, my Christmas tree was a ficus plant with one string of white minilights. It was, by far, the most depressing display I ever had, even with the small red ornaments I hung on it. There wasn’t much joy there. The next year, I returned to my roots and bought a “real” tree to decorate. My roommate and I draped lights on the railing of our condo’s patio. It was fun, happy and colorful. Over the years since, especially after I got married and had children, I’ve been known to go a little crazy with the
outdoor lights. (I’ve also been known to decorate seven or eight trees at a time inside the house!) I think it has something to do with being happy. At this moment, our yard, trees and shrubs are covered with lights. I have long had a healthy competition with our next-door neighbor, whose wife complains every year that “Christmas has thrown up on my house.” (I think she secretly loves it!) I’m not ashamed to admit I love Christmas lights! In fact, now that the Dove Street lights are back on in the North Forest Beach neighborhood, I’ll be spending more evenings with friends who live there. Talk about joy! The first light display extravaganza on Dove Street, 30 years ago, was to welcome a new baby to one of the homes there. The dad started by stringing lights in their magnolia tree, assisted by his neighbor. The neighbor also put up some lights, then others joined in,
until the whole block was lit up. Almost 20 years ago, as our family drove through the magical scene, our younger son decided that he must wear his mini-Santa suit on Dove Street as often as we would take him there. Night after night, he joined the big Santa to “ho, ho, ho” and wish visitors Merry Christmas as they drove slowly past. Even at 6 years old, he understood about spreading the joy of the season. (If you haven’t seen Dove Street yet, make a point to visit any night through New Year’s Eve, from dusk to 11 p.m.) In other pages of this paper, you will find more stories about folks who light up their homes and neighborhoods with brilliant displays to bring joy to all. Several of those mentioned take the opportunity to collect toys, food and funds for neighbors in need, to provide some Christmas joy for their children. Wherever you may find it, I wish you many joys of the season.
12/31/21
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
EDITORIAL
Current Circulation Via USPS is 24,720 Finalist: Small Business of the Year, HHI-Bluffton Chamber. Winner of the SAPA General Excellence Award; 1st place, Front Page Design; 2nd place, Most Improved Publication; and 3rd place, Self-Promotion Advertising. IFPA-SAPA 3rd Place, Business Coverage
PUBLISHER
Kevin Aylmer, kevina@blufftonsun.com
EDITOR
Lynne Hummell, editor@blufftonsun.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kim Perry Bowen
OFFICE MANAGER Melissa McCullough
CONTRIBUTORS Abby Bird Jon Black Mark Deloach Collins Doughtie Jordan Haire Jean Harris Tony Kukulich Weston Newton
Joy Ross Gwyneth J. Saunders Cinda Seamon Eric Skipper Larry Stoller Rebekah Thompson Mark Winn Tim Wood
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BlufftonSun.com For more information, contact: Kevin Aylmer PO Box 2056, Bluffton, SC 29910 843-757-9507, 843-757-9506 (fax) Physical address: 14D Johnston Way Bluffton, SC 29910 All contents are copyrighted by Lowcountry Local Media Inc. All rights reserved. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. All submissions must include name, address and phone number. The Editor reserves the right to edit or reject any material, including advertisements. The Bluffton Sun does not verify for licenses, endorse nor warrant any advertised businesses or services. The opinions and views expressed in the editorials are not necessarily those of the Editor and Publisher. Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, Greater Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, Old Town Bluffton Merchants Society.
THE BLUFFTON SUN Issue 24, December 21, 2021 is published twice monthly by Lowcountry Local Media, Inc., 14D Johnston Way, Bluffton, SC 29910. Periodicals Postage Paid at Bluffton, SC and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE BLUFFTON SUN, PO Box 2056, Bluffton, SC 29910-2056.
Blessed and grateful for prayers, and for angels By Weston Newton CONTRIBUTOR
Over the past four months or so, we have been working to redraw the lines of the South Carolina House districts attendant to the once a decade reapportionment process to equalize and reconfigure the various legislative districts, based on the latest population Weston Newton figures to ensure equal voting rights. I was on the subcommittee that held numerous public hearings all across the state and presented the proposed plan to the Judiciary committee. As a member of the Judiciary Committee, I was prepared to join my subcommittee colleagues on the House floor the first week of this month to present the redistricting plan for deliberation and passage. But all of that changed in an incident during the first few minutes of the Carolina-Clemson state rivalry football game with a medical emergency that I am blessed to have survived.
After the first face to face visit my children had with my mother since the start of the pandemic, my brood made the seemingly endless journey from my sister’s home in Maryland back to Columbia for the game. I escorted a friend and his son to their seats in the stadium and headed to join my bride with the other members of the board. When I entered the lounge area adjacent to the seats, I picked up a piece of roast beef and took a bite. At the same time, I was greeted from behind and reflexively turned – in an instant, I knew I was in distress. I could not breathe. I made it across the room to interrupt and grab the arm of a friend, signaling that I was choking. That is my last clear memory until 48 hours later when I woke up on a ventilator in the Prisma Hospital in Columbia. Based on all accounts, but for the actions of a couple of people (who I consider to be God’s angels), I would not be here today. Apparently the first folks to render aid tried the Heimlich maneuver but could not clear my airway. My first angel that night was an off-duty ICU nurse who came to the game at the last minute and responded to the call
for help, immediately starting CPR. (A few days later at the hospital she “apologized” for “breaking all my ribs.”) While EMS was in route, an effort was made to hook me up to an automatic defibrillator, based on the belief that I likely had had a heart attack. Fortunately, a doctor friend intervened, listened to a suggestion that I was not breathing because I was still choking and, against his training, shoved his hand down my throat and removed the blockage. By that point, I had aspirated into my lungs and was not able to breathe on my on – hence the ventilator and four days in ICU. While I was not able to vote for passage of the redistricting plan on the House floor, each day I am a bit stronger and healing nicely. The outpouring of love, support and prayers has been overwhelming. I am convinced that many prayers were answered that night and I am blessed beyond measure. I am immensely grateful. Weston Newton is the representative for District 120 in the State House of Representatives. WestonNewton@ schouse.gov
Letter to the Editor To the Editor: Humility is described as a state of being unimpaired, while others say it is a character weakness. Some claim humility is greatly underrated and certainly misunderstood. Psychologist William Jones writes that the deepest cravings in all human beings is to be appreciated, yet sociologists find that public discourse and respectful dialogue is at an all-time low. Such common attributes as empathy, truth, trust, friendship, reconciliation, strength of character and consensus building have taken a back seat to arro-
gance, selfishness, and an inflated sense of importance. Most importantly, experts agree, humility is one of the most important contributions to growth, helping to build trust, while facilitating learning, key aspects of leadership and personal development. Further, they say, history teaches us that the great peacemakers are people of integrity, honesty and humility, using their success for the greater good rather than their own self-aggrandizement. Spiritually, we are guided throughout the Bible with verses such as 1 Peter 5:5: “God opposes the proud but gives
grace to the humble.” So, how can one become more humble? Spend more time listening to others, practice mindfulness, focus on the present, be grateful for what you have, seek feedback from others, ask for help when needed. Above all else, we need to work on being a gentler, more understanding society. We can start here at home in the Lowcountry. Humility starts with you and me, and is a worthy New Year’s resolution.
Earle Everett Moss Creek
Dec. 21, 2021
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Dec. 21, 2021
SUN ON THE STREET
Christmas movies you’ve seen a dozen times, and keep watching 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
Missy Malool, Bluffton: “The black and white, original version of ‘It’s a Wonderful Life.’ I try to watch it every year.”
plain fun questions. You might see us anywhere around town, with notepad and camera, randomly seeking out folks who are
Gigi Gregory, Bluffton: “It’s an old one, ‘The Little Match Girl,’ the original British version. My grandmother introduced me to it.”
willing to participate. If we find you, we hope you will want to respond. At the Lowcountry PRIDE Festival held Dec. 11 at Oyster Factory Park,
Glory Ramos, Bluffton: “‘Serendipity.’ It’s a love story that starts in the Christmas season in New York City. I’ve been in all the places it was filmed, and it’s fun to watch.”
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Mandi Szerszen, Savannah: “Since I was a little kid, I’ve loved ‘A Christmas Story.’ The tradition continues!”
Santa, Savannah: “It has to be ‘Die Hard.’ It’s just not Christmas until I see that guy fall off Nakatomi Plaza!”
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Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
Page 7A
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Visit online for more information LatitudeMargaritaville.com Obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. WARNING: THE CALIFORNIA BUREAU OF REAL ESTATE HAS NOT INSPECTED, EXAMINED, OR QUALIFIED THE OFFERINGS. Latitude Margaritaville Kentucky Registration Number R-201. For NY Residents: THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS FOR THE SALE OF LOTS IN LATITUDE MARGARITAVILLE AT HILTON HEAD ARE IN THE CPS-12 APPLICATION AVAILABLE FROM SPONSOR, MINTO LATITUDE HH, LLC. FILE NO. CP18-0021. Pennsylvania Registration Number OL001170. Latitude Margaritaville at Hilton Head is registered with the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salesmen, 1000 Washington Street, Suite 710, Boston, MA 02118 and with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, 1700 G Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20552. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required and has not been completed. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only and are merely representative of current development plans. Development plans, amenities, facilities, dimensions, specifications, prices and features depicted by artists renderings or otherwise described herein are approximate and subject to change without notice. ©Minto Communities, LLC 2021. All rights reserved. Content may not be reproduced, copied, altered, distributed, stored, or transferred in any form or by any means without express written permission. Latitude Margaritaville and the Latitude Margaritaville logo are trademarks of Margaritaville Enterprises, LLC and are used under license. Minto and the Minto logo are trademarks of Minto Communities, LLC and/or its affiliates. CGC 1519880/CGC 120919. 2021
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Dec. 21, 2021
EDITORIAL
Fortunes of SC’s DACA recipients can change in 2022 By Eric Skipper CONTRIBUTOR
A MODERN DAY HOLIDAY CL ASSIC Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The wouldbe elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity.
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The 2021 legislative session marked positive efforts to improve educational and job opportunities for South Carolina’s more than 5,500 Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients. Heading into 2022, separate bills introduced by Sen. Brad Hutto, D-OrangeEric Skipper burg and Rep. Neal Collins, R-Pickens are poised for increased traction and hopeful passage. Respectively, the bills would grant college-going recipients instate tuition and access to state-funded scholarships, and would allow access to professional licenses required for numerous jobs in the state. South Carolina has critical job shortages that would be alleviated in part by the new legislation. Already in the midst of a teacher shortage crisis, the state’s teacher vacancies nearly doubled during the pandemic. As of 2021, South Carolina had the fourth-highest nursing shortage in the nation. The need for social workers, in particular bilingual ones, is projected to increase drastically in the next decade. The needs in Beaufort County, whose population has increased by more than 20% in the last decade, mirror those in the state. With better access to educational opportunities at USCB and TCL, among other state institutions, DACA recipients will be more likely to remain in the area, filling critical workforce needs. The proposed legislative bills are as timely as they are critical. They would greatly improve pathways and certification opportunities for more South Carolinians seeking to educate, care for, and support our increasingly diverse
citizenry. Economic benefits are there too. The COVID economic recovery model has been described as K-shaped. The graph lines depicting already drastic disparities between higher and lower household income levels in the U.S. have widened, exacerbated by increased reliance on digital technologies and fewer service worker jobs. Providing more opportunities for individuals previously unable to participate fully in the labor force will help to lessen these disparities, and keeping more local talent in state will strengthen and diversify the economy. Boosted by the effects of the pandemic, the accelerated digital age will require an increasingly educated and skilled workforce. Conversely, there will be fewer opportunities for low-skill workers as these types of jobs diminish due to automation and artificial intelligence (AI). Opening educational and professional pathways for DACA recipients will not only increase opportunities for a largely untapped pool of in-state talent, it will knock down barriers for a new wave of talent in a rapidly diversifying and increasingly ambiguous digital economy. DACA recipients in Beaufort County are set to enjoy access and opportunities similar to those afforded in other parts of the U.S. While having DACA status technically allows citizens to work and to pay taxes, current state laws prevent those things from happening to full effect. The bills sponsored by Sen. Hutto and Rep. Pickens would open the opportunity door for an important segment of our population. In doing so, the bills would help to fill critical vacancies, elevate the state’s economic viability, and enhance quality of life for South Carolina’s DACA recipients and their communities. Eric Skipper, Ph.D. is provost and professor of Spanish at the University of South Carolina Beaufort.
Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
Page 9A
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
THREATS from page 1A
Craig Burgess of
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Bluffton Police Chief Stephenie Price speaks at a press conference Dec. 10 at Bluffton Police Department, with Beaufort County Schools Superintendent Frank Rodriguez waits to address those gathered.
identify the source of social media threats made at four schools and additional cases of bathroom vandalism at two additional campuses. The nexus of the threats appears to revolve around a social media challenge on the Tik Tok platform, as schools across the country reported similar threats last week in the wake of the school shootings in Oxford, Mich. – a prank timed to prey on the fears of a real-life tragic event. “I’ve talked to colleagues and friends in Washington, Ohio, all over, all saying the same thing,” said Beaufort County schools superintendent Dr. Frank Rodriguez. “It is a very serious issue. We have kids making a prank out of gun violence. We have to take every threat as being real. You have a lot of man hours and attention and resources both by the schools and the police being dedicated to it nationally, and I want parents and families to know we’re not going to tolerate it.” This is the latest in a disturbing trend of challenges being acted on by students nationwide. A similar call to action earlier this fall, deemed the “Devious Licks” challenge, led to students filming videos of stealing furniture and destroying bathroom fixtures across the country, including reports here in Beaufort County. Law enforcement officials have estimated more than $5 million in “Devious Licks” damage to schools nationwide. While Rodriguez and his team are forced to take every threat seriously,
parents are left to discern what’s real and what’s fake, while facing a harsh new daily reality with their kids. “A lot of times we feel we live in a bubble here in our paradise, but we’re not immune,” said McCracken parent Alyssa McCombs, one of many McCracken parents who kept their kids home from school Dec. 10 after District officials alerted families of graffiti found in the bathrooms that warned “someone is going to shoot up the school on the 10th.” “And how do we just know it’s an empty threat? Especially when you hear things like what we heard in Colleton County,” McCombs said, referring to a Dec. 7 report of an AirSoft gun that looked like a real firearm found in an elementary school student’s backpack. One of the reports BCSD had to deal with during the week involved a Whale Branch elementary student who showed other students pictures of a gun. Bruder said an investigation into the source of the gun is ongoing. There was an increased police presence at schools across the county after the reports surfaced. Local parents took to online forums such as the What’s Happening in Bluffton Facebook group to voice their concerns. “I asked my daughter how she felt,” said Ashton Hayes of sending her daughter to school on Dec. 10. “She said there
Please see THREATS on page 14A
Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
OYSTERS from page 1A
SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
critical to the health of our estuaries and important in ensuring the water is safe for recreational activities.” The Conservation League’s latest press release states that “Oysters are crucial to our estuaries, providing key habitat for many economically important species like shrimp, blue crab, red drum, and flounder. In total, there are about 120 species that rely on oyster reefs! Along with habitat creation, they also protect our shoreline from erosion and flooding by trapping sediment, enhancing the salt marsh, and disseminating wave energy from boat wakes and storms.” The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources has plenty of information on how to harvest oysters while taking maintaining the health of the estuaries in which they live. Oysters can be harvested during the six-month window, but only from certain locations, and only during certain hours. It is illegal to harvest between one halfhour after the official sunset and one halfhour before the official sunrise. Only certain areas may be harvested. SCDNR maintains a monitoring system that keeps track of the level of harmful fecal coliform bacteria that can be found at certain points in the waterways. Too high a level and the area is closed for all harvesting. Heavy storms, especially hurricanes, can change the salinity and the amount of bacteria in certain areas, making the shellfish unsafe to consume. Up-to-date maps
of permitted recreational shellfish beds can be found on the SCDNR website at dnr.sc.gov/marine/shellfish/shellfishmaps. While on the website, apply for a saltwater fisherman’s license. Money from license fees goes back into the water through restoration and conservation efforts. A license costs $10 per year, or $9 if you’re a little older than the average oyster-loving harvester. If you really love oysters, you alone can harvest up to two bushels of oysters in one day, two calendar days per seven-day period. That’s enough for a pretty good roast for at least two people. Depending on how many friends you harvest with, only three people per boat can have the maximum limit of two bushels each. Wise harvesters believe in sustaining the bed by culling in place. A recommended tool is a flat-head screwdriver to break off clusters of oysters from their beds. And wear heavy gloves. Oyster shells are sharp and jagged, and a slipped screwdriver can end a harvest quickly. SCDNR recommends you keep only those oysters that are three inches or longer. Knock off the dead shells and smaller oysters where and as you harvest. These will fall back onto the beds to make way for next year’s crop and a continuing habitat for the spat, or oyster larvae, that will grow and eventually reach adult sizes. Once you’ve harvested your oysters,
Please see OYSTERS on page 14A
Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
VOLUME 36
Page 13A
THE
MAR 25-27 2022
HHA HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
COMING MARCH 2022
36th Annual Lowcountry Home & Garden Show Tanger Outlets - 1414 Fording Island Rd. Bluffton
Page 14A
The Bluffton Sun
THREATS from page 10A
Dec. 21, 2021
OYSTERS from page 12A
has been enough police presence this week to feel safe. She also felt like not going would be giving the kids who did this as a prank what they want, a day off from school.” “I just hate that this is the new reality for our kids,” said another parent. “Between the medical lockdowns and these gun threats, my son is numb to it by now, like it’s just another part of school life.” The latest round of threats of violence has also led a renewed call for increased security measures like metal detectors and random locker checks in all county schools. Rodriguez said that while he understands the fears these threats bring to the surface, he has confidence in the school resource officers assigned to middle and high schools across the district. “The SROs do an outstanding job, they are an important part of the process here and I applaud them here again,” Rodriguez said. “I’m also proud of the collaboration between the schools and both the Bluffton Police and Beaufort County Sheriffs Office. Schools are a place for learning
in a safe environment and we take that seriously and all committed to providing that environment.” The district has also committed close to $1 million over the next year to hire 18 private security guards that will be assigned to elementary and early childhood centers. BCSD has contracted with the GuardOne security firm for one year, with an option for up to five years of coverage. Rodriguez said that the district is committed to every resource in keeping kids safe, including open communication with district families as these threats are reported. “Social media can be a friend and an enemy, because rumors and the telephone game that they become can lead to increased resources having to be expended,” he said. “We just ask families to not post rumors or other things that may not be accurate. Wait for information and facts from the School District; we’re committed to providing that guidance.” Tim Wood is a veteran journalist based in Bluffton. Contact him at timwood@blufftonsun.com.
and roasted, baked, stewed or eaten them on the half-shell, there’s that pile of oyster shells remaining in your backyard. What do you do with them? Recycle them in appropriate places – and that doesn’t mean back in the water or in the dump. There are three recycling centers south of the Broad River: Edgar Glenn Boat Landing, 305 Okatie Highway; Trask Boat Boat Landing, 325 Sawmill Creek Road, Bluffton; and Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head. Don’t wash them. Just drop them off in the designated spots – no trash or containers such as bags or buckets – and SCDNR will collect them, quarantine them for six months and recycle them onto oyster beds to create more habitats for oysters. Local restaurants also recycle their shells, from Harbour Town Golf Club to Skull Creek Boathouse, from Capt. Woody’s in Bluffton to Morgan River Grill on St. Helena. Imagine the amount of shells they have to haul. Oysters have been consumed in this
area for more than 4,000 years, as evidenced by the middens or mounds and shell rings formed by indigenous people. Protecting the oysters while enjoying their succulent and sweet saltiness will help continue that tradition. “Although we cannot predict future harvest levels, commercial oyster landings in South Carolina have remained relatively consistent in the last few years at around 19,000 to 20,000 bushels (475 to 500 tons), 95% of which is sold in state,” said Ben Dyar, head of the SCDNR shellfish management section. “This is commercial landings only, as we do not have reliable recreational harvest data, especially on a monthly record since reporting for recreational harvest is voluntary.” For more information on how to harvest, protect and enjoy our local oysters, go to SCDNR.gov or sccoastalresources. com. You do want to keep eating oysters, right? Gwyneth J. Saunders is a veteran journalist and freelance writer living in Bluffton.
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Page 16A
The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
Three-generation, hand-built village tradition continues
TIM WOOD
Joe Distoli of Bluffton shows a visitor the presepio, or extended nativity village, set up in his home workshop. Distoli’s grandfather first displayed the presepio in 1932, followed by Distoli’s father in the 1980s. Distoli has restored the figures and built new structures for his display.
By Tim Wood CONTRIBUTOR
When 4-year-old Joe Distoli posed for a photo for a newspaper photographer in 1954, he had no idea of the importance behind his grandfather’s figurines that were also being pictured. Now, 67 years later, Distoli is focused on keeping a family tradition alive by restoring and adding to his grandfather’s collection. “That picture, it’s one of my earliest memories. Now, I’m honored to bring this Bethlehem village tradition alive,” Distoli said. “It’s connecting four generations of our family.” Joe is the namesake of Joseph Distoli, who immigrated to the U.S. from Filadelphia, Calabria, in 1921 at the age of 18. He was a craftsman and built wrought iron gates as a way to make a living. One of his dreams was to buy a house and be able to display his Bethlehem village. Tracing its origins to Southern Italy in the 1300s, the presepio, or nativity scene, is a deep-seated religious tradition in Italy to
celebrate the birth of Christ in Bethlehem. Joseph had 3-inch-tall figurines made in Naples, and in 1932, he first achieved his dream, proudly building and displaying his village in his living room in Stamford, Conn. The installation grew each year, as did the following of neighbors amazed by the detail in the village. His work drew the attention of the Stamford Advocate, who sent a photographer to the family’s Martin Street home in 1954 and asked young Joe to be in the picture. Soon after, Joseph stopped displaying his presepio. Joe’s father Michael (Joseph’s son) reignited the village tradition in the 1980s, adding his own touches. Michael too landed in the Advocate, displaying many of the 3-inch-tall handmade shepherds, mill workers and gift bearers that his father had brought from Naples. Michael passed away 10 years ago, and after the funeral, the family gathered his possessions. Joe brought home a number of boxes he never went through for years.
Please see VILLAGE on page 18A
Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
Page 17A
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Page 18A
The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
VILLAGE from page 16A
TIM WOOD
A close up of the manger scene in Joe Distoli’s presepio, set up in his workshop at his home in Hampton Hall.
“We just kind of forgot about them. I don’t think we were ready at first to really go through anything,” he said. Joe built a career in women’s footwear and made many trips to Italy as part of his work. In 2000, he bought a number of hand-painted figurines from Sicily, thinking someday he’d start his own village. These figures had the terracotta build of his grandfather’s figurines but added fabric for the clothing. When he and wife Marianne finally went through the boxes, they discovered the family village pieces, including many from the 1930s from his grandfather. When he finally retired last December, Joe made it his mission to restore the figurines and build his own village in his Hampton Hall home – close to 30 years since his Dad last displayed the presepio. The couple were born in Stamford but moved to Bluffton 26 years ago, moving from Moss Creek to Belfair to Hampton Hall, where he has the perfect workshop room off the garage to showcase his work. Over the course of the year, with fits and starts, Distoli put over 1,000 hours into building his own two-tiered village using Styrofoam, wood, modeling clay and other natural materials. He began on top, carving Styrofoam to look like weathered brick and cobblestone.
Next was the vineyard, complete with grapes in a bucket tub and a pergola with moss on top. Next was the bakery with stone oven, then a bit of temple remains reminiscent of Greek and Roman times. Then came the manger with the holy family, a fruit and vegetable stand, a farm area with cows, and a shepherd with his flock. Marianne suggested a bridge and pond for their fisherman figurine. Houses were built to fill the landscape, with cardboard roofs rippled to resemble terracotta tiles and doors made from an intricate weave of popsicle sticks. He restored missing arms and legs to the figures from the 1930s and 1950s with a fresh coat of paint to go with his Sicily finds, more than 80 figurines in all. His grandson, 9-year-old Vincent, even helped craft some of the goods for the vegetable stand. “This is to honor my grandfather and our heritage. It’s really special what he brought here and kept alive when he came to America,” said Distoli, who admitted it was hard not to tear up a bit as he was constructing his own presepio. “My grandfather taught me so much. He made the time for me. He was a kind and gentle soul, just a wonderful man.”
Please see VILLAGE on page 25A
Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
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Page 20A
The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
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The Bluffton Sun
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
Cypress Ridge high-tech light show thrills fans, helps charity
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PHOTOS BY TIM WOOD
The singing light bulbs over the garage at the Sharman Family Light Show in Cypress Ridge are a favorite for visitors of all ages. The house is covered with lights programmed to flash along to selected music.
By Tim Wood CONTRIBUTOR
Every night in December in the Cypress Ridge neighborhood, cars and golf carts start to line the edges of the curbs on both sides of Lombard Mills Lane around 5:45 p.m. All eyes are fixed on 43 Neligh Lane, the home of Tom and Erin Sharman. As dusk turns into darkness, the “why” behind the hubbub starts to take shape. LED lights on the house begin a second-by-second one-minute countdown, followed by a barrage of the senses filled with a spectrum of colors and 6,500 LED lights, all seemingly dancing to music. If you drive up and just see the lights, it’s mighty impressive. But tune your radio to 99.3 FM and that’s when the mind-blowing begins. “It is so cool every time I can see that person experience it for the first time,” said Tom, the mastermind behind the Sharman Family Light Show, now in its fourth year. “I grew up in Orlando as that kid that was wowed by the neighbor’s Christmas lights. It just sparked so much creativity and imagination, I told myself one day I was going to be the one behind the show.” Sharman grew up admiring static light displays a la Clark Griswold from “Christmas Vacation.” As technology evolved, he
started noticing the LED displays becoming more elaborate for the holidays. He began planning and learning about the technology behind the displays while still in Orlando. When he landed a job as a process control engineer with International Paper and moved his wife and daughter Kaylee, now 14, to Bluffton in 2017, he decided to put his research into action. “I saw this guy that explained the whole process on YouTube, all the how-to, and I just absorbed it. I’ve always been kind of a tech nerd, so this was right up my alley,” Sharman said. He automated assembly lines for IP, so how hard could a little light automation be? Uh, very. “It’s involved, a lot of hours to learn. I Googled plenty, found a Facebook community of enthusiasts that use the XLights shareware to control their light shows and it just took off from there,” he said. “But even after learning the how and why, it’s still a lot of time to put it together.” In all, Sharman estimated he spent 1,000 hours the first year just coordinating the show and programming all the light sequences. The first year was a bit simpler, with a mega light tree in the yard. The second year is when the show really blossomed, as he added in the
Please see LIGHTS on page 24A
Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
Page 23A
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Page 24A
The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
LIGHTS from page 22A house outline lights and the arches and the talking Christmas light bulbs, four epic slabs above his garage lined with lights that are programmed to sing along to the music. “It’s done with phenomes, which is essentially like stop-motion animation,” he said. “Every word in the song is a series of actions that are programmed into the lights to make the bulbs appear to be singing the songs.” He added candy canes and presents and mini trees in year 3, but the stars of the show and the attraction for the kids are the singing bulbs. Sharman curates a list of 18 songs with input from Erin and Kaylee. About 85 percent of the songs are Christmas-themed, but Sharman mixes in current music like “Butter” from BTS and “Bang” from AJR, along with favorites by groups like Pentatonix that work well in showing off the magic of all four of the singing bulbs. And Sharman likes to throw some tricks into the mix to keep everyone engaged. “I throw in something like ‘Thunder-
reography from 6 to 8:15 p.m. each night. The show has been a word-of-mouth sensation, as Sharman has tried to keep traffic manageable for his neighbors. The lights are not visible from space like the Griswolds, so the brightness impact to surrounding neighbors is minimal. “We were the first house built on the street and we’ve made friends with as many folks as we can and been respectful to their needs,” he said. “We’re ending the show an hour earlier this year after a pregnant neighbor asked for an earlier end to the crowds on the street. I’m doing this to bring joy to folks and challenge my inner nerd to achieve that, so we don’t advertise this other than alerting folks on Facebook.” The show hit Tik Tok last year, as Sharman was spurred on by Kaylee to post Tom Sharman stands outside his Cypress Ridge in daylight, when his 6,500-light animated display a few videos of the show. His first video is unlit. The action starts around 5:45 p.m. nightly. garnered more than a million views and 35,000 followers. Sharman breaks the shows into struck’ from AC/DC to keep the Dads The big question everyone asks: How 10-minute segments, usually three songs, interested. At first, a lot are like, ‘Oh, much does it add to the electric bill each as he’s found that’s about as long as cars Christmas lights, yay,’ but then they hear will stay to watch. But if you wanted to, the AC/DC and they start singing along Please see LIGHTS on page 25A you could watch new animated light chowith the bulbs,” Sharman said.
Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
LIGHTS from page 24A year? The answer makes jaws drop. “It’s LED technology, so it’s really only about $20 per month more. Honestly, this is living proof of why the electric companies are trying to get us all to convert to LED,” he said. “These lights run on 12-volt DC power as opposed to typical 120-volt lights.” Don’t be fooled though; this is far from a cheap hobby. Sharman said he’s met every walk of life in the XLight community, from janitors to multi-millionaires – all different economic backgrounds, but all with one thing in common: a child-like fascination with Christmas. “When you see that joy you can bring folks, turning a bad day around or creating memories, or folks planning their holidays around the show, it’s what it’s all about,” he said. The family sits in lawn chairs in the driveway the first night of the show to greet visitors and make sure the show is running smoothly. “I love seeing the kids dancing along to the lights. One girl this year, she memorized the whole show. Her Mom said she won’t go to bed without coming by to watch.”
Sharman began raising money for charity two years ago, with the modest proceeds from donations going to Give Kids the World, an 89-acre resort outside of Orlando that works with Make-a-Wish to give kids and families one last vacation together. “I volunteered there with my church and it’s just an amazing organization, so whatever we can give, we give,” he said. Sharman said his wife has been the angel in indulging this elaborate hobby. She’s just as big on Christmas and handles the inside decorating while outside is Sharman’s domain. “I’m funny. I can’t do lights inside and I hate all the tree needles,” he said. “Seeing the tech come alive and the people loving it, that’s my thing. We’ll continue growing it as long as people keep digging it.” For more information about the light show, see “Sharman Family Light Show” on Facebook and @sharmanfamilylightshow on Tik Tok. Tim Wood is a veteran journalist based in Bluffton. timwood@blufftonsun.com.
VILLAGE from page 18A This is not the only artwork that Joe has made through the years. He has also made a series of ceramic portraits of family dogs through the years. But this is by far the most time he’s ever taken for an art project. “It’s just a labor of love. And to see the reaction from the neighbors we’ve shown, it really brought home how my grandfather must have felt displaying his presepio in 1932,” Distoli said. The tradition is to begin the display on the night of the Immaculate Conception, Dec. 8. The baby Jesus is added to the display on Christmas Eve. Joe’s grandfather would take the village down after The Epiphany of the Lord, 12 days after Christmas. His dad would leave the village up until after Easter. “I think I’m going to follow my dad’s path there,” he said. Now that he has wowed his neighborhood, the question is what can Joe add to the village next? “Oh, there’s plenty to do. I haven’t added any lights yet, especially to the Star of Bethlehem,” Joe said. “I’ve used acrylics to fabricate a lot of the moss and the weathering.
My grandfather used to pick real moss. But you’ve got to spray that every day to keep it alive. Jury’s out on that but I might try it just around the shepherds for the flock.” He already hollowed out space in the innards of the houses to allow for wiring. And there are a few tricks that the artists in Sicily showed him on animating the figures. “They could see how much this meant to me,” he said. “That’s all I want out of any of this, to honor my family and celebrate the true spirit of Christmas.” And now, he’s the third generation to display his work to the masses in the newspaper. “Who knows, maybe Vincent takes this up 30 years from now and get his work shown too,” he said. “It’s an incredible through line right to my family roots in Calabria. I loved my work and it took me around the world. But I think I’ve found a passion to keep me out of Marianne’s hair too much in retirement.” Tim Wood is a veteran journalist based in Bluffton. Contact him at timwood@blufftonsun. com.
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
Heritage Scholar application now open; submit by Jan. 15 The Heritage Classic Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting educational and charitable initiatives to enhance the quality of life and economic vitality throughout South Carolina, is proud to announce applications for the 2022 Heritage Classic Foundation Scholar Awards are now available online for all Beaufort and Jasper county high school seniors.
The Heritage Classic Foundation will name new Scholars from the 2022 graduating class. Seniors in all Beaufort and Jasper County high schools are eligible to apply. Each Scholar will have an opportunity to receive a four-year grant totaling up to $16,000 or $20,000. Scholarship applicåations are reviewed based on academic success, community service, essays written by the student and
financial need. An interview is required by all finalists. Since this Scholar program was instituted in 1993, 353 graduating seniors have been named Heritage Scholars. These grants, to a college of the student’s choice, have totaled more than $4.63 million. Applications are now available at heritageclassicfoundation.com. All applications must be completed by Jan. 15,
2022. The 2022 Scholars will be recognized at the 54th annual RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing, to be conducted over the Harbour Town Golf Links April 11-17, 2022. For more information, call 843-6712448, visit heritageclassicfoundation.com or Facebook (Heritage Classic Foundation) and Twitter (@HCFGolf).
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Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
Page 27A
HOT SPOTS
Where to find the holliest, jolliest holiday light displays This year, it’s time to get your Holiday Roast from a real Butcher! • Prime Ribeye • Standing Rib Roasts • Tenderloins • Leg of Lamb • Pork Crown Roasts COURTESY MAYE RIVER QUILT GUILD
While elves and others hang out in their driveways on Arbormeade Circle to welcome visitors, the neighbors also accept donations to provide a merrier Christmas for 15 families in the area.
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By Tim Wood CONTRIBUTOR
We are headed into the final stretch of holiday cheer for 2021, but so many busting their behinds at work or to keep up on the hamster wheel of daily life, this coming week might be the first chance you get to take a bit of a breather and take in the sights and sounds of a Lowcountry holiday. I lived in many places before Bluffton became our family’s hometown, most of them with snow this time of year. And even with Mother Nature providing the perfect background, few Northern locales ever came close to matching the spirit on display across our little slice of paradise. So whether you’re a Bluffton newcomer or are finally taking a moment for yourself to enjoy the view around you, here is our blue ribbon panel’s picks for the best spots to find glorious displays of Christmas lights and music.
BLUFFTON Arborwood Lights, facebook.com/ arborwoodlights: These lights are hard to miss as you drive down Buckwalter Parkway. They are specifically located on Arbormeade Circle, where the entire neighborhood goes all in on trying to one-up each other’s light displays. The end result is a magnificently eclectic display in styles and colors. The Wiltse family runs a hot cocoa stand and there are ornaments you can select to purchase toys, gift cards and much-needed supplies to provide a Christmas boost for 15 families across the area. The lights are lit from 6 to 9 p.m. each night through New Year’s Eve. Sharman Family Light Show: You can read more about Tom Sharman and his high-tech light display in this
Please see HOT SPOTS on page 28A
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Page 28A
The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
HOT SPOTS from page 27A
LYNNE COPE HUMMELL
Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the Dove Street Festival of Lights offers a drive-thru canopy of dazzling lights, sounds and “beach snow,” where neighbors often come out to greet visitors and invite them to donate to Deep Well and the Island Rec Center.
issue. We love all the displays, but this one wins the prize for techno wizardry and the most fun effort (outside of the Clarke “Griswold” Family display in Sea Pines, held just one day each year, this year on Dec. 20). At the Sharman house, you can sit in your car, tune to 99.3 FM and watch an orchestra of lights at 43 Neligh Lane choreographed to 18 songs over two hours (with shows in 10-minute increments). The Sharmans go equally all-out for Halloween, but their Christmas display is the perfect elixir for anyone needing a caffeine jolt of holiday excitement. Trail Of Lights: The Lowcountry Community Church has a walking trail of lights that are elegant and whimsical and sure to delight kids of all ages. The shows run this week on Dec. 23-25 from 5 to 9 p.m. It’s just the latest gift to the community from LCC, who also recently announced a partnership with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to provide free books for kids ages 5 and under across Beaufort County. We have also head wonderful feedback from neighborhood displays on Red Cedar Street in Bluffton Park, Hidden Lakes Circle, Palmetto Pointe Townes and Argo Circle in Cypress
Ridge. HILTON HEAD ISLAND Dove Street Lights, culturehhi.org/ portfolio/dove-street-holiday-lights: It’s a wonderful holiday miracle to have this island tradition back after being dark for the past 10 years. Paul and Kristi Beckler ran the show with the help of neighbors, friends and family for 20 years and have returned once again to raise monies via scannable QR codes for the Island Recreation Center and the Deep Well Project, which provides more than 700 families with toys for Christmas. Paul, aka “The Duke of Dove” is the master of ceremonies in the Cat in the Hat chapeau blowing bubbles “beach snow” each night from 5:30 to 11 p.m. through New Year’s Eve. Take Avocet Road to Dune Lane, then turn left onto Dove Street to begin your magical journey. Fire Rescue Station 3 drive-thru display, facebook.com/hhilights: Located at 534 William Hilton Parkway, this is a perennial favorite for those looking for the quintessential lights display. You will also find worth-your-drive
Please see HOT SPOTS on page 29A
Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
Page 29A
HOT SPOTS from page 28A displays at Shelter Cove (both the boats lit up in the marina and the storefronts of Towne Centre), Coligny Plaza, Harbour Town. HEADING OUT S.C. ROUTE 170 Brendlen’s Lowcountry Light Display, 1570 Driggers Lane, Ridgeland: This is the 25th year the Brendlen family will be putting on their lights spectacular, and this year’s display is done in honor of the four Jasper County firefighters who have died over the past two years – Coleman Loadholt, Andy Orphanoudakis, Chad Atwood, and Brian Mixson. This is the most interactive family experience, as families can get out of their cars, walk around and decorate their own Christmas ornament or holiday cookie, enjoy face painting, hot chocolate, desserts, hamburgers, hot dogs and BBQ sandwiches for sale. Blue Heron Nature Trail, 321 Bailey Lane, Ridgeland: Honestly, this might be the unsung hero of
the area Christmas displays, simply because it’s county-run and does not do much advertising. Locals know it’s worth the trip, with more than 15,000 lights spread across 57 displays shining bright nightly from 6 to 9 p.m. through Christmas Eve. Cadd Family Light Show, 66 Springfield Road, Lady’s Island: Our blue ribbon panel raved about this display, now in its 10th year of wowing visitors. The Cadds have decorated their property with a seemingly endless array of lights, all synchronized to music. Plus, there’s a “snow” machine to give kids the feeling of a white Christmas. Visitors are asked to park roadside and walk through the displays, which are open 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 5:30 to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday through the end of the year. Mink Boulevard, Beaufort: There are two homes on one street directly across from each other that stage
what feels like a good ol’ fashioned Christmas lights duel, as both show off their themed displays set to music. It’s hard to crown a neighbor winner, but you’re the winner if you make the ride out. You might want to take in a collection of the S.C. 170 displays to truly make this worth the trip, but even on its own, it will give you one big Christmas smile. ONE WAY OR THE OTHER So if you’re fixin’ to really take a drive, we can point you in two directions. Head to Georgia and I-16 toward Statesboro for the TMT Farms Christmas Lights Drive-Thru (16710 Old River Road North). Admission is free for this collection of both static and animated light and inflatable displays, but donations of non-perishable food, new unwrapped toys and gift cards for families in need, and pet food and supplies to help out area rescues are welcomed. The unique part of this 25-year-plus Bulloch County favorite: farm owner Roy Thompson built a
replica Western town with a saloon, livery stable, stores, an authentic moonshine still and a chapel (presumably, for the moonshiners to pray for forgiveness). If you’re more in the mood for a ride toward Charleston, we highly recommend the James Island County Park’s Festival of Lights (871 Riverland Drive, Charleston, ccprc.com). This is not a free endeavor (it’s $25 in advance, $30 at the gate per vehicle) but there is plenty to make the price of admission worth it, including a Santa’s Village with a carousel, a portable climbing wall, pictures with Santa, festival fun foods and a build-a-reindeer stuffed toy workshop. The Winter Wonderland includes a 12-minute train ride, gift and sweets shops and a holiday sand sculpture. Tim Wood is a veteran journalist based in Bluffton. Contact him at timwood@ blufftonsun.com.
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
Storms, drought and climate change converge in Lowcountry By Tony Kukulich
recent years. “It seems in the last decade we have been getting impact from more May storms for South Carolina,” added Cary Mock, professor with the University of South Carolina Department of Geography. “(We’re) not sure if that is due to human-induced climate change or not, but it clearly shows up in the observational record. These are tropical storms, not hurricane intensity.” There are three types of tropical cyclones that are differentiated by their level of intensity. Tropical depressions are the weakest, followed by tropical storms. Hurricanes are the most intense form of tropical cyclone. The World Meteorological Organization assigns names to tropical storms and hurricanes, while tropical depressions are assigned an identification number. “In terms of number storms, it was a very active season,” Strait said. “We had 21 named storms. The average is 14. It was a
CONTRIBUTOR
A busy Atlantic hurricane season ended with a whisper Nov. 30, with no weather threats developing in the Atlantic basin. “It is not unheard of for a storm to form in December, but it is far from ordinary,” wrote Frank Strait in the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) weather alert newsletter for Nov. 30. Strait is the severe weather liaison for the agency. “There have been a total of 16 named December storms in the Atlantic’s historical record, second-most of the off-season months, behind May. One storm impacted South Carolina back in early December 1925. So, while it’s unlikely that we will see any more storms until at least late May, it’s something we have to watch.” The hurricane season traditionally runs from June 1 to Nov. 30. However, Strait said that there has been discussion of moving the start date up to May 15 due to the number of storms occurring in May in
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Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
Page 31A
STORMS from page 30A pretty active season. It wasn’t as active as last year. We had 30 last year, which is the record.” According to Strait, six tropical cyclones impacted South Carolina residents this year. Of particular note in the Lowcountry were Tropical Storm Danny that brought over 6 inches of rain to Bluffton on June 28; Tropical Storm Fred, which delivered 3 to 6 inches of rain across the Southern coastal region Aug. 17; and Tropical Storm Mindy pounded the Lowcountry with another 6 inches of rain Sept. 9. One factor driving the high number of storms over the past two seasons has been the presence of La Niña conditions. During La Niña, cooling waters in the Pacific leads to increased hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin. These conditions were present during the record number of tropical cyclones in 2020, and they are expected to continue into the coming year. La Niña not only influences the number of hurricanes in the area, but it also leads to drier winter conditions in the region. Only 10 days after the end of the hurricane season, state officials declared
incipient drought conditions – the lowest level of drought – in 34 of the state’s 46 counties. Beaufort, Charleston and Jasper counties are among the 12 counties with normal conditions according to the SCDNR. However, the U.S. Drought Monitor, a research organization that watches drought conditions across the nation, reported recently that at least a portion of every county in the state is experiencing either abnormally dry or moderate drought conditions. “We are currently in a La Niña winter, which tends to provide winter conditions that are warmer and drier than normal for the Southeast United States,” said Elliot Wickham, SCDNR climatologist. “Unfortunately, most of the state started out dry as we entered the La Niña, which increases the potential that the drought will intensify. Winter rainfall is important for recharging our surface and groundwater resources when evaporation and demand are low.” Wickham added that an active hurricane season doesn’t necessarily negate the potential for drought.
“An active season means that many tropical systems may form, but an active season status does not predict how many storms will reach North America, nor how many will impact each state,” Wickham said. “So even if we have an active season, some of those storms may loop back into the Atlantic and never hit land. Or, they may hit another part of North America and not affect us in South Carolina.” The impact of climate change is another factor influencing this seemingly mixed bag of Lowcountry weather. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), its scientists and partner scientists found that climate change is likely fueling more powerful hurricanes, while flooding during hurricanes is being amplified by sea level rise. While the intensity of tropical cyclones is expected to increase, some models predict that the number of storms per season will decrease. Researchers have also found that the speed of tropical cyclones might have slowed, leading to more local flooding as storms linger over impacted areas. There
is some evidence that the change in speed observed is the result of more accurate tracking available as a result of improved technology, and further research is required before the matter can be definitively decided. “The point that we want to make above all others is that, no matter what might happen each season, we strongly urge all South Carolinians as well as residents of any other area with risk to tropical cyclones, to be diligent in preparedness efforts,” SCDNR’s Strait said. “No matter whether we have a season with 25 named storms or an unusually quiet one with just a few, one of those storms might well be a major hurricane headed toward you. Being prepared in advance makes dealing with a hurricane much easier when the threat is realized and a major hurricane is clearly on the way.” For more information on hurricane preparedness, visit hurricane.sc. Tony Kukulich, a recent transplant to Bluffton, is an experienced freelance news writer and photographer.
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
ON THE PORCH WITH …
Retired architect now sketches houses others built long ago
GWYNETH J. SAUNDERS
In his home studio, Doug Corkern sketches one of the many historic structures he has found on his bike rides around Bluffton.
Sydney Caskey, DDS Indiana University
Matthew Mastrorocco, DMD University of Pittsburgh
Jordan Haire, DMD University of Louisville
James Jenkins, DMD University of Pittsburgh
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Artists will set up camp just about anywhere to capture a scene with pencil, paint or ink, and retired architect Doug Corkern is no different. “I’m the little old guy on the threewheel bicycle who rides around town and talks to everybody,” Corkern said. He not only talks but looks around him and sees art in every corner. He’s out almost every day, driving around and capturing Bluffton’s unique character and the people who live and visit here. “Since my childhood, I liked to draw and sketch and sculpt. I used to buy a 10 cent pack of typing paper – Blue Horse typing paper with lines on it,” he said. “Later in my architectural career – when I first moved to Hilton Head and was designing houses with (the late architect) John Wade – I worked on a house that was being built by the owner
of Blue Horse Paper Company, Louis Montag.” Corkern was born in 1935 in Panama City, Fla., while his father was a mill worker for International Paper Company. When he was 4, the family moved to Georgetown, just up the coast from Bluffton. “We grew up on seven acres. We had a farm and grew all of our vegetables during World War II. We only bought sugar, coffee and bread from the store. We had really good eats: chicken, hogs, cow. I grew up on whole, unpasteurized milk,” said Corkern. “I had a great childhood. I had three little boys as neighbors across the street. We played cowboys and Indians, made slingshots, shot targets, ran around barefoot all the time. Corkern and his brother would help their father with the crops. “We raised peanuts, and we would
Please see PORCH on page 33A
Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
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PORCH from page 32A pull the peanuts, load them on a flatbed wagon, put them in the barn and feed the hogs,” he said. “I’d crop the corn, and we would have cornmeal and grits made at one of the plantations in Georgetown.” In school, Corkern’s favorite subjects were recess and football, he said. “I was not a good student in high school. I think I got by with a lot. I’ve always enjoyed drawing and enjoyed art, even on the weekends during my practice. I used to draw horses on the front of notebooks of girls. They loved that,” Corkern said. “My father insisted on an education for me and my young brother. I think he had a third grade education, and we had no choice. We were going to college. My brother went to North Carolina State, and majored in pulp and paper technology after my father.” Corkern attended Clemson University, admitting he finally began to get good grades his sophomore year, enjoying architectural design, history and literature – calculus not so much.
His degree in architecture was the result of a “little seed” planted by a teacher, he said. “In the fourth grade, it was during the Second World War, and you couldn’t buy toys. I found a board in the road, found a book and drew out a shape of a gun from the Civil War. I cut it out, carved it and took it to school,” said Corkern. “My history teacher liked it and asked if she could bring it around to the teachers. She came back and said, ‘This is nice piece of sculpture, and you should consider being an architect.’ I had no idea what an architect was. We didn’t have one in town, but that was a little seed that she planted and it grew. So when I went to Clemson I picked architecture. I guess it turned out pretty good.” As the owner of Doug Corkern Architects Inc., Corkern and his company made their mark on the Hilton Head-Bluffton area. “I’ve done a lot of houses, me and my firm. It wasn’t all on me. I had 50 people in the firm at one time. And we
did a lot of the homes, we did schools. I really enjoyed doing the clubhouses – Sea Pines, Dataw Island and Haig Point. I enjoyed playing golf and designing the golf clubs. I did a couple of churches,” Corkern said, “and one of the real joys was doing the Campbell A.M.E. church in Bluffton. I met a lot of really nice people and some lifelong friends there.” When it came time to retire, Corkern determined he was heading either back to Georgetown or over the bridge to Bluffton. The decision was fairly easy. “I was going to retire, and the cost of Hilton Head was a little more than Bluffton, and we made a choice to move between Bluffton and Georgetown, and I have two sons living here in Bluffton so I chose Bluffton,” he said. He’s very emphatic about his affection for the town. “I like everything about Bluffton. The people. It’s a great, wonderful place to live with the people. They’re all so friendly. I have the greatest neighbors in the world,” said Corkern. “And I think one of the things that makes Bluffton so
attractive to other people is the vegetation, the trees. I have friends who come here from California and Texas and they stand on my front porch and marvel at the vegetation.” That’s something Corkern hopes will continue to be a marvel. “What I’d like to see happen in the future in Bluffton is we keep all of our trees and keep planting them,” he said, “and I encourage the use of vernacular architecture in Old Town Bluffton.” “Vernacular architecture” is structures that are unique to a place by virtue of the style, building materials, and local traditions. The Garvin-Garvey House is one example of vernacular architecture unique to Bluffton. Corkern’s passion for drawing became more noticeable when he moved to Old Town since he was frequently seen pulling out one of his many moleskin sketchbooks and an ink pen or pencil. He’s drawn many of the old buildings in Bluffton – the ones with
Please see PORCH on page 34A
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
PORCH from page 33A nearly-fallen-down character as well as those still stately with sturdy bones. He’s also sketched the more simple facets of Bluffton life, such as shucked oysters, oyster harvesters, people he meets around town, and scenes by the water. Local faces have caught his eye, and goats, crabs and birds of all sorts have been captured and colored on the pages of his books. He’s posted many on his Facebook page and has stacks of sketchbooks, but he never anticipated that his love for drawing would evolve into something so unexpected. “When we built in Bluffton, I built a studio, and I was happily doing work and sketching all of the iconic houses in Bluffton when Charlene Gardner came by to see what I was doing,” he said. Gardner owns and operates Four Corners Art Gallery on May River Road in Old Town. “She asked to take some of my work to the gallery, and see if it would sell. And the rest is history,” said Corkern. A prolific artist, his work in ink and
watercolor wash or chalk is on display and for sale at Four Corners. At home, his dining room is his studio, the table covered with glasses full of lead and colored pencils, art books, card stock, drawing paper, his current project and his ink pen. A pencil drawing of an old building gets a quick application from his pen, the lines drawn with a quick, sure hand. Corkern said he loved being an architect, a talent for which he and his company got many awards but not a lot of press coverage. He’s bemused that as an artist, he has received much more recognition. He loves that something he has done for so many years for fun and pleasure makes other people happy. He credits Gardner with his “second career.” “She has given me the best retirement an old architect can have,” he said. Gwyneth J. Saunders is a veteran journalist and freelance writer living in Bluffton.
COURTESY GFWC WOMAN’S LEAGUE
The Bluffton Chapter of the GFWC Woman’s League of the Lowcountry recently opened its fourth Mr. Pig’s Book Nook Library in the Piggly Wiggly of Walterboro. Pictured are Mr. Pig, program chair Joanne Hines, and store manager Steven Sherman. The lending library features books for children in grades K through 8. Other libraries are located in Piggly Wiggly groceries in Ridgeland, Hardeeville and Port Royal.
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Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
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NEWBIES GUIDE
Newbies Guide to Bluffton: The ‘why’ and ‘E’ of the May River By Tim Wood
of the fact and fiction behind this debate. If we want to be technical (and hear me when I say that NO ONE wants to be technical about this), the May is an inlet, a small arm of a larger body of water. Many with bigger scientific bona fides than myself want to call the May an estuary. It’s not. An estuary is where freshwater from a river meets salt water from the ocean. The May is 100 percent salty from start to finish. So how did this mislabeling begin? To find those answers, I turned to the man behind the You Know You’re From Bluffton When … Facebook group, a walking encyclopedia of State of Mind history, Bluffton native Michael Reynolds. “It’s been the May River since 1668, that’s the first maps I could find with it labeled that way,” Reynolds said. “It’s always been the May River, and I don’t think they’re going to change it now.”
CONTRIBUTOR
I am an old newbie, part of the Boomerang Club. I came to Bluffton in 2004, left in 2014 for family concerns back North, and dreamed of returning every day until we made it happen in August 2020. So I have my toes dipped in the long-timer and the newbie waters, and feel I can translate concerns for both sides. The question I get more often than any other from the current influx of newcomers is so blasphemous, I beg them to never again utter the inquiry aloud: “Why is the May River a river?” Heads turn, whispers begin, license plate numbers are jotted on napkins. It’s the surest sign of someone who didn’t read their orientation packet. In the interest of not being seen adjacent to the next person to audibly insult our precious resource, let’s lay out some
COURTESY MICHAEL REYNOLDS
The First Lords Proprietors’ Map Of Carolina, dated 1672.
Please see NEWBIES on page 36A
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
NEWBIES from page 35A But even Reynolds can’t connect the dots on the “why” of it all. He’s found and posted maps to the group that show the May River as far back as 1672, the First Lords Proprietors’ Map of Carolina – a depiction that is upside down and riddled with inaccurate depictions. A 1731 map he posted is more accurate and has the May as well. (Both maps have it listed as the River May, where others like the Ashley and the Cooper have “River” after it; this is a rabbit hole for a separate column.) Reynolds believed the river was named by the French, as history books have them in Beaufort County as early as 1562 on a two-month voyage with 150 military men from France to Florida that turned northward toward South Carolina near the modern-day Port Royal. That crew included Jean Ribaut, a name synonymous with all things Beaufort. But why “May”? There’s no historical relevance to the name, such as it being the name of one of the crew’s captains. “A lot of map entities like bodies of water and cities were named after months of
salt content of the water. When you’re on the Sandbar, when you’re breezing past the docks at Palmetto Bluff, does it feel like an easy breeze down a river or a struggle with Mother Nature the likes of which are depicted in “The Perfect Storm”? It’s clearly the former, often made all the more relaxing by a playful interaction with a dolphin or two. And yes, you’re about to overthink it again. Rivers are freshwater but dolphins hang out only in salt water. Au contraire, mon frere. There are plenty of species of dolphins that hang in lakes and estuaries, according to Whale and Dolphin Conservation USA. But your overthinking it interrupted the feeling, man. GWYNETH J. SAUNDERS The Broad River actually has some The May River these days is lined with docks and riverfront homes, and is a source of sustenance, freshwater in it at its headwaters near entertainment and sheer enjoyment by its simply being there. Coosawatchie. The New River drains out When I’ve broached this question in of Bill John Swamp, so it’s a river, too. So the year – that’s about as close to the truth private quarters around native Blufftoas I can get on that,” Reynolds said. does that make the May the bastard of the nians I trusted not to forever shun me for mapmaking world? Many of the earliest maps were also written in French, including the premiere raising the topic, I have often been told to think of it more of a feeling and forget the Please see NEWBIES on page 37A references to the May.
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Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
NEWBIES from page 36A Heck, no. May Inlet sounds about as natural as Murrells River, though Murrells Inlet is technically a river. The reality is, there are inconsistencies and oddities galore in how we label landmarks around us. The Baptist Church on S.C. 170 goes by Maye River, the only reference using the “E” that we can find on record. How’d that happen? Insert shoulder shrug emoji here. Roll down the road a bit and you’ll come upon Gibbet Road. Reynolds has searched extensively but can’t find any families named Gibbet in the area. It’s thought to come from the French word for guillotine or gallows, even rumored that’s where the early French settlers performed executions (a notion Reynolds calls hogwash). And for a time in the 1970s and 1980s, Gibbet Road actually was labeled Giblet Road. Reynolds remembers it well. “Tommy Heyward used to say to whomever would listen that the county doesn’t even know what the street signs say,” Reynolds said. “Somehow, soon after,
the Gibbet signs reappeared.” The Gulf of Mexico isn’t technically a gulf, but are you going to be the one to champion that name change? So let’s be real about it. Nobody wants to say “Save the Inlet.” Yes, the May flows into the Atlantic, but when you think ocean, you think of waves crashing against the beach. That’s not the brand of serenity we feel looking out over the May from the lawn of the Church of the Cross. It’s more of an essence that was actually captured on one of the early French maps, which said under the May label, “where the flying fishes play.” It’s a chill vibe, a real-life Norman Rockwell painting for all of us to enjoy, so don’t mess that up with your fancy schmancy science. Just be cool, Mr. Newbie. After all, it’s these little quirks and oddities that make Bluffton the French Riviera of the Eccentrics. In this case, there won’t be an answer, but let it be. Tim Wood is a veteran journalist based in Bluffton. Contact him at timwood@blufftonsun.com.
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Sun City swimmers succeed Eleven members of the Sun City Swim Club won second place in their first post-Covid competition at the U.S. Master Swimming SC State Meet in Charleston in early December. Coached by Cynthia Smith and Deb Walsh, the swimmers competed against teams with up to 42 members ages 18 and over. Sun City swimmers dominated the Relay events placing first in the Women’s and Men’s 400 meter medley relay events. Two teams placed first in their age groups in the 400 meter medley relay and also placed second in 200 mixed free relay. In the mixed 200 meter medley relay, one team placed third and the second team placed first in their age group. Four swimmers earned the High Point award for their age group. Ann Tullie placed first in all seven events she entered. Chet Richards earned
four first place finishes and four second place finishes. Ginger Richards earned two first place finishes, three second place finishes, two third place finishes, and one fourth place finish. Ginny Taylor earned three first place finishes, four second place finishes, and one third place finish. Also contributing to the team’s scoring were: Pete Gordon with four first place finishes, a second, and a fourth place finish; Mike Farnham with two first and one third place finish; Rick McFadden with two first place and two second place finishes; Don Sealy with one first place and two third place finishes; Cynthia Smith with four first place and three second place finishes; Ruth Dvorscak with three second place, and one third place finish; and Deb Walsh with one third place finish. All swimmers placed in the top 4 in their events.
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
Business Briefs • Brenda McPherson has joined Cross Schools as director of admissions, assuming her new role with the beginning of the second semester in January. She brings to the position an extensive history of serving Christian Schools in this role; she curBrenda McPherson rently is the director of admissions for Covenant Christian school, a classical Christian school of 400 students north of Boston. The enrollment of Covenant grew by 50% during her tenure. She has been in that position since 2013. No stranger to the Lowcountry, McPherson was the director of admissions for Hilton Head Christian Academy for eight years, beginning in 2005. McPherson will be working with Kate Brown, the current director of
admissions, on preparation for re-enrollment, which beings Feb. 1, for the 2022-23 school year. • Boys & Girls Clubs of the Lowcountry (BGCLC) announced recently that its board of directors has unanimously named Jim Wentworth as the next chief executive officer, effective Jan. 17, 2022. Wentworth grew up in Woburn, Mass., and spent his childhood as a Boys and Girls Club member. He has fond memories of his time in the Keystone Club, participating in the “Wizard of Oz” play and raising money in the 24-hour basketball marathon. Upon high school graduation he attended Syracuse University on a football scholarship and received a bachelor’s degree in retail/marketing. Wentworth spent his college summers working for local Syracuse businesses and after graduation he joined the Pepsi Cola Allied Beverage Company as a manager trainee. He worked
POST CHRISTMAS
five years with Pepsi before joining the pharmaceutical industry in 1997. He worked the next 24 years with Sanofi and Cipla, and most recently was the vice president, head of sales, and vice president, head of U.S. Market Access. Prior to accepting the role, Wentworth and his wife, Michelle, had planned to move fulltime to the Lowcountry and started building a new home a year ago. They are the parents of two children. As CEO, Wentworth’s responsibilities will include leading the organization’s strategic direction, oversight of organizational operations, financials, programming, brand reputation, talent recruitment, resource development, and stakeholder relationships. The CEO also serves as the organization’s primary ambassador and lead communicator. Wentworth, in partnership with his team, will oversee the organization’s clubs.
Refresh
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• Jackson Massey of RE/MAX Island Realty has earned the Seller Representative Specialist (SRS) designation. The SRS designation is the premier credential in seller representation and was designed to elevate professional standards and enhance personal Jackson Massey performance. The designation is recognized by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and is awarded to real estate practitioners who meet specific educational and practical experience criteria. For more information, visit jackson. homesonhiltonhead.com, call 803517-6693, or email jacksonmassey. realtor@gmail.com. For more information on the SRS designation, visit rebinstitute.com.
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Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
Page 39A
Business Briefs • Alex Meintel, CMT has joined Dividend Assets Capital, LLC (DAC), an independent Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) in Ridgeland. Meintel will serve as portfolio manager with the expanded Private Client Group in the firm. Meintel’s expertise includes technical Alex Meintel and tactical equity research, authoring research reports as well as developing equity selection criteria to assist in generating potential excess return within client portfolios. As portfolio manager, he will be responsible for working directly with DAC’s clients to ensure their financial goals and objectives are being met. With 10-plus years in the financial services industry, Meintel most recently served as a vice president at Goldman Sachs in the Tactical Research Group. Prior to Goldman, he was a director and research analyst with Renaissance Macro Research, LLC, a boutique macro research firm in New York. Meintel is a member of the Market Technician’s Association and is a CMT charter-holder. A native of Portland, Maine, he holds a B.A. in government studies from Harvard University, where he played on the men’s ice hockey team and, after graduating, he played professional hockey in Germany. For more information, visit dacapitalsc. com. • Laurie Brown, founder and owner of Aunt Laurie’s, an award-winning gift basket business based on Hilton Head Island, with a mission to help adults with disabilities learn job skills, announced an expansion of fulfillment and warehouse activities with a new partner, Spectra, a fully integrated fulfillment services provider based in North Charleston. Walter Kohn is its CEO and president. With increasing nationwide order volumes and growth of product offerings, Aunt Laurie’s will expand its operations. The company’s mission will continue its focus to help adults with disabilities learn
job skills. Aunt Laurie’s is a national e-retailer and winner of a 2018 Excellence in Workplace Diversity Finalist from the South Carolina Chamber; 2017 Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year; and 2017 SCORE National Community Impact Business of the Year. • Wood+Partners Inc., an award-winning regional land planning and landscape architecture firm, recently received an Award of Excellence and The Frederic B. Stresau Award through the Florida American Society of Landscape Architects for their work on the Captain Leonard Destin Park in Destin, Fla. The Frederic B. Stresau Award is bestowed upon an Award of Excellence winner that best exhibits innovation and design excellence of the profession. Wood+Partners Inc. is located on Hilton Head Island, and integrates sustainable design practices to create places that enhance quality of life. WPi specializes in providing landscape architectural services for resorts, communities, urban design and downtown redevelopment, parks and recreation, institutions, private residences and retail village projects throughout the Southeast. • Patrick O’Keefe has been named director of tennis at Sea Pines Resort. He replaces Job de Boer who retired in June after 30 years. O’Keefe previously served as director of tennis at Hidden Valley Country Club in Salem, Va., and as a coach to notable college-bound junior players at the Smith Stearns Tennis Academy. He holds a degree in business and marketing from Radford University in Virginia, where he was a four-year varsity athlete, the 2015 Big South Player of the Year, and a two-time All Big South First Team Player. In his new role, O’Keefe will be responsible for overseeing all tennis operations, including lessons, clinics, tournaments and camps. For resort information and reservations, visit seapines.com or call 866561-8802.
3 Northridge Dr. Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 P.O. Box 22209 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925 “Amaze Our Customers; Enhance Our Community”
Sales Associate Position Summary The primary responsibilities of the Sales Associate position are to maintain outstanding customer service, generate sales, merchandise product, and support the store management team. Major Responsibilities The major responsibilities for this position include: • Ensure each customer receives outstanding service which follows the S.A.L.E.S process. All knowledge required will be taught. • Fills Cashier role in conjunction with Sales Associate role (insures at least one person is always at the POS ) • Maintain awareness of all promotions and advertisements. • Execute the daily operational, day-to-day goals and priorities assigned by store management • Assist in the training and development of peers • Engage in all changes and opportunities at the store (understands and acknowledges Weekly Notes) • Uphold merchandising and store cleanliness standards • Participate in the processing of new shipments and help the team to keep the receiving and back stock area clean and organized • Responsive of safety issues • Conscious of shoplifting activity (uses radio call sign “Mr. Washington” to identify potential shoplifter) • Aid customers in locating merchandising in store, on acehardware.com, as well as, processing special orders • Solicit customers to open an Ace Rewards card • Answer customers’ questions and provide information on procedures and policies Minimum Requirements The minimum requirements for this position include: • Education/Training: High School degree. Possess a willingness to learn. All hardware knowledge will be taught. • Ability to establish relationships and work with customers • Previous experience in a retail environment is a plus • Skills/Knowledge: Knowledge of retail computer systems, MS Word and Excel a plus but all required knowledge will be taught. • A commitment to service excellence and customer satisfaction • Solid team player with excellent interpersonal skills • Excellent communication skills, organizational ability, high attention to detail, and ability to multi-task • Ability and willingness to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays to meet the needs of the business Physical Requirements The minimum physical requirements for this position include: • Must be able to lift 40 pounds frequently to load and unload customer orders. • Ability to stand for an extended period of time • Move and handle boxes of merchandise and fixtures throughout the store, which entails lifting and perform all functions as set forth. Job responsibilities may change based on the needs of the business. Why work at Ace HHI? • • • • • • • • • •
$13.00/hr – Review after 90 day to $14.00/hr. if successful Path to $15.00/hr. Program available after 90 days Holiday and Sunday Pay – 1.5x Regular Pay Healthcare Benefits – 100% Paid - Full Time Associates Only – With Proof of Enrollment at Blue Cross Blue Shield Matching 401k Program– 100% Match on First 3%; 50% of next 2% - After 1 year or 1000 hours of service Quarterly Bonuses based on Company Performance (paid every year since 2016) Company Paid Training – Basic and Advanced Special Employee Discount for Personal Purchases Advancement Opportunities – Local and National Fun and Gratifying Place to work!
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
LEGAL
Estate planning is a vital 2022 New Year’s resolution By Rebekah Thompson CONTRIBUTOR
Every year we do our very best to set goals for ourselves for the upcoming year. Yet how many times have you set a New Year’s resolution only for it to fizzle out after January ends? Setting realistic expectations is a matter of identifying what you want and creating achievable steps to lead you to that goal. One goal that should be at the top of everyone’s list is “Dealing with my estate plan.” Whether that means creating an estate plan, or simply reviewing and updating your plan, just take the time to make certain your estate plan works for you. Here is a basic idea of how to take steps with this 2022 New Year’s Resolution: 1. Start with a qualified elder law and estate planning attorney. Do some research and find a good estate planning attorney in your area. Check out reviews, visit websites,
ask for referrals and become educated by attending an educational workshop. Do not rely on internet searches for answers . 2. If you do not have estate planning documents. If you do not have a will, trust or powers of attorney, now is the time to get those documents in place. Give yourself and your family peace of mind. 3. If you do have existing estate planning documents, locate them. Many people have no idea where their estate planning documents are kept. Do you have originals or copies? If only copies, who has the originals? Do you keep them in a safety deposit box? Do you have electronic copies only? For those of you who are able to put your hands on your documents, follow the remaining items on this list. 4. Review your estate planning documents. Reviewing your documents periodically is very important. Life changes, and reviewing your documents allows you to make sure your estate plan is still meeting
GET DONE!
your goals. Ensure that your documents comply and are reliable in the state in which you live. Note these three questions and act according to your answers: A. How old are your documents? If your documents are more than 10 years old, they might need to be updated. B. What is your current situation? Since creating your estate planning documents, have you gotten divorced or married? Have you had any more children or grandchildren? Major health issues? Death in the family? Major financial issues? Do your children or grandchildren have any major health or financial issues? Life changes could mean significantly affect your estate plan. If you recently remarried, do your documents reflect the new spouse? If you are no longer in contact with a child, are you still leaving them part of your estate? Have any of your named agents died?
C. Are you satisfied with your named agents? Are you still satisfied that named agents are the best choices to handle your estate or make decisions for you? 5. Review beneficiary designations. Another vital step to take when reviewing your estate plan is to review who you have named as death beneficiaries on your assets. For example, if your spouse is named as the primary beneficiary on your IRA, did you think to name a contingent beneficiary? Reviewing your estate plan regularly is the only way to ensure it is always up to date. A good rule of thumb is to review your plan at every big life event, i.e. divorce, marriage, birth, or death, or every three to five years. Contact a qualified estate planning attorney to have documents prepared and/ or reviewed. Treat procrastination as your enemy. Rebekah Thompson is an associate attorney with Elder Law & Estate Planning Center. hiltonheadelderlaw.com
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Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
Page 41A
LEGAL
Leaving assets to kids, not in-laws, is popular planning tool By Mark F. Winn CONTRIBUTOR
Have you ever wondered if you could make sure your children inherit your assets, but that their spouses do not get access to it? If you have thought about this, you are not alone. In the United States, statistics indicate nearly 50% of marriages end in divorce. When they do, division of assets is mandated by Mark F. Winn the court to accomplish what the court considers fair and “equitable.” If your child inherits from you outright and free of trust, then, if they commingle funds, they could lose assets to a spouse (your in-law) in a divorce. Your child could lose what you leave to them in a lawsuit, and they could direct it to their spouse
when they pass and NOT to your grandchildren. Most people love their in-laws. However, statistically, half the time their married child will become divorced. If that happens, your in-law could possibly get half of what you left your child free of trust. Fortunately, with planning, you can make sure that will not happen.
Let’s say Brian and Bridget have a grown son, Samuel, who is married to Cindy. Now, Brian and Bridget like Cindy, but they also think that Cindy may seek a divorce in the future. If Brian and Bridget wish to ensure that Samuel’s inheritance will not be lost to Cindy in a divorce, they can direct Samuel’s inheritance be left to him in trust. Samuel can be the legal owner (trustee) and the beneficial owner (the beneficiary). Samuel can be in charge of the money and have total use and access to it for all of his needs to maintain his accustomed manner of living.
The trust can direct that upon Samuel’s passing, the assets go to Samuel’s children, not to Cindy. In effect, Brian and Bridget can make sure that Cindy will not get any of their assets if their child gets divorced, and they can ensure that the money will stay in the family bloodline. Is doing this like creating a built-in prenuptial agreement for your child’s inheritance? Yes. Do many people want to do this? Yes. Does this protect your assets? Yes. Does it make sure assets stay in your family? Yes. In a world filled with uncertainty, making sure your assets will stay in your family bloodline is a comfort to many. Fortunately, proper use of the law and a little bit of pre-planning can make sure your assets will be protected from most lawsuits, and will stay in your blood family. 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
Happy Holidays and A Healthy New Year!
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
HEALTH
Tips for a healthier mouth that will impact your whole body By Jordan Haire CONTRIBUTOR
Whether I’m taking my new puppy for a walk or attending a fitness class, I like to stay active. Being able to get outside year-round is why I love living in the Lowcountry! But I’ve caught myself being a bit over-indulgent this holiday season and I am ready to get Jordan Haire back to a healthy routine as 2022 approaches. If you’re committing to a healthier you in 2022, be sure to include your oral care in the plan; it has a huge impact on overall health. Bacteria that live in the mouth have a direct
effect on your well-being. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on teeth and hardens. It causes gum disease, an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. Researchers suspect that bacteria present in gum disease can travel throughout the body, triggering inflammation in heart vessels and infection in its valves. Additionally, diabetes is associated with an increased prevalence and severity of periodontitis, or inflamed gums. Periodontitis can also lead to the gums shrinking and teeth loosening. Trust me, you definitely want to avoid these symptoms! My first recommendation for your 2022 oral care plan is to establish yourself as a patient with a highly recommended dentist. Many people have moved to our area lately and finding a dentist is often low on the
HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM ALL OF US!
priority list. Don’t wait until something hurts to find a dentist! My next recommendation would be to schedule a professional cleaning. Even if you brush and floss regularly at home, you just can’t clean beneath the gumline, where tarter and plaque can calcify on the tooth, like a professional dental hygienist can. Hygienists use special equipment – picture power washers for your teeth – to remove buildup. Regular cleanings include X-rays that can spot things like cavities. And hygienists are not simply teeth cleaners! They identify issues before they get worse, which will save you time, expense, and a lot of pain in the future. The following are a few more of my top tips for a healthy mouth in 2022: • Change that toothbrush! If your current toothbrush was around for the 4th of July fireworks, it’s time to
switch! • Schedule your professional cleaning every six months, especially if you have not had a cleaning since the pandemic began. Dentists follow the highest protocols for a safe and clean environment. • Invest in an electric toothbrush, which is more effective than a manual toothbrush. • Rinse with water after enjoying sweet holiday treats to remove the sugar right away. • Floss or use a Waterpik often; they are great for removing plaque. • Stay hydrated; a dry mouth can lead to cavities. Here’s to a very happy and healthy 2022! Jordan Haire, DDS is a dentist in practice with ROC Dental Group in Bluffton.
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Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
Page 43A
BEAUTY
Tips for a younger-looking you this holiday season By Joy Ross CONTRIBUTOR
It’s hard to believe the holidays are just around the corner! Another year bites the dust and at a much-too-rapid rate. That means we’re not getting any younger. The good news is there is a lot of things, big and small, out there so that we don’t have to look or feel older. Yes, there’s plastic surgery – and it is expensive. However, a great haircut and color could take 10 years off your appearance and cost much less. Besides that, contrary to some beliefs, one doesn’t have to be a slave to the salon. If your hair is done properly, you could look years younger without breaking the bank. The shape of the haircut is of most importance. The fullness of your style must be at the level of your eyes and cheekbones in order to draw attention there – instead of accenting the neck, chin and jowls. Changing the shape of your haircut alone will turn back time. My theory of the
upside-down triangle-shaped haircut stands firm. The widest part of your style needs to be at your eyes and cheekbones; the narrowest part needs to be softening your chin. Depending on the size of your forehead, a soft bang or side bang will also soften
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your look, taking attention away from those little lines that sometimes the rear their ugly heads. No more Botox! Gray hair is an absence of color, washing out any kind of warmth in your skin and, again, aging your look.
If highlights and/or low lights are added, they will grow out gracefully without the ugly stripe of gray that appears after a short time if you have your hair all one color. That’s not attractive, and it doesn’t look natural. Add to that the fact that the more gray that is hiding under the color, the sooner it needs to be re-colored. Many other things can be done to make your hair subtle warmer, brighter, and more youthful. Who wouldn’t want that for Christmas? A younger-looking you is not that expensive if you go to the right places. Eating right, exercising, and staying busy are common recommendations to stay looking and feeling your best. Really, though, the number one priority is when you look in the mirror. That will start your day the right way or the wrong way – you be the judge. Maybe a new hair style, cut or color could be your great start to the new year. Joy Ross is owner of Style It Salon in Old Town Bluffton. styleitsalon.com
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
Make Christmas clean-up safe By Cinda Seamon CONTRIBUTOR
It’s not quite Christmas yet, but here are some smart and safe ideas to help you with clean up after the big day. Start with your ornaments and decor. Keep only those that are in good shape for next year. It might be helpful to store them in clear bags sorted by color or style in the same container. When you take down your lights, check for broken bulbs or frayed cords. Don’t keep anything that has cracked or frayed cords – this will be a fire hazard next time you go to use them. The same goes for extension cords. When putting your lights away, don’t just throw them in a heap. Organize them and label the box or wrap them in masking tape and mark the tape. You can also wrap them around cardboard and they will be less likely to tangle. Remember, if you are storing your lights in the attic, summer temperatures can get
very hot and plastic lights can melt. If you store in the attic, check your lights thoroughly when you get them out next year. If you store your artificial tree in the garage, consider shrink-wrapping it. This will keep it clean and protected. If you used a real tree this year, you will want to recycle it and help the environment. Remember to remove all ornaments, tinsel and lights. A good Christmas clean-up will make things so much easier next year. Cinda Seamon is the fire and life safety educator for Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue.
For Unto You Is Born This Day, In The City Of David, A Savior Which Is Christ, The Lord.
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Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
Page 45A
FAITH
Crooked lines of modern Christmas lead straight to light, joy By Jon R. Black CONTRIBUTOR
One of my mentors would frequently say, “God writes straight with crooked lines.” I guess that was his interpretation of a verse made famous by the TV series “Manifest.” Throughout the series, the actors cite Romans 8:28, which reads “And we know that all things work together for good to Jon R. Black them that love God.” God has a way of taking the shortcomings of life and channeling them into a higher good. God takes the messiness of life and provides us with clarity. God is constantly turning our crooked human lines into straight ones. The celebration of Jesus’ birth on Dec. 25 is a prime example of God writing OPEN MON. - FRI. • 9 AM TO 3 PM 2 Southwood Park Drive • Hilton Head, SC 29926 Next to Dunkin Donuts • 843.683.7770
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straight with the crooked lines of life. Most Bible scholars believe Jesus was not born on Dec. 25 or in the year A.D. 1. There is nothing in the Bible that supports our modern observance of Christmas. The Bible writers were capturing more important truths and not attempting to create a new holiday. Having our modern Christmas fall on Dec. 25 is one of those unusual, crooked lines. Scholars note that there is a high possibility that Christmas falls into a long list of winter solstice holidays. The winter solstice occurs when the Northern Hemisphere has its shortest day – that is to say, the day with the least amount of daylight hours. This year, the winter solstice occurs on Dec. 21. Those who worshipped in Stonehenge, the Druids, ancient Romans, and many hunter gatherer tribes observed the winter solstice. The word “yule” as in “yule log” is a direct reference to the winter solstice. As we look closely into our modern
Christmas celebration, we discover an uncomfortable truth. Christianity has co-opted the practices and observances of many different cultures to produce our modern Christmas. The Christmas tree, yule log, holly, mistletoe and even Saint Nick were borrowed from other traditions. We would mislabel some of these groups as “pagan.” While the origins of our modern Christmas might be questionable, I believe most would admit that quietly watching the lights on the Christmas tree, kissing a loved one under the mistletoe, drinking cider before a fireplace, and singing Christmas carols with the neighbors add much joy and wholeness to our lives. We are no different from our ancestors who felt the need to have a winter party. As the weather becomes harsher and the daylight hours diminish, we all feel the need to seek comfort and support from friends and loved ones. Early in my faith walk, I was a purist and did not want to
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incorporate non-Christian holidays into my celebrations. Today, I rejoice in the crooked lines that produced our modern Christmas. This winter solstice holiday is the perfect time to remember that while our world was growing morally darker, God sent light into the world through the birth of an infant boy born in Bethlehem. Just as the daylight notably increases between Dec. 21 and Dec. 25, the spiritual light of Christmas beams across our land year after year. The joy of our gatherings remind us of the joy of having God in our lives. There is a very significant number of people who seem only to make it to church during Christmas and Easter. They seem to understand that at this time of the year, all of us need a party, and all of us need a Savior. The Rev. Dr. Jon R. Black is senior pastor at Campbell Chapel A.M.E. Church in Bluffton.
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021D
NATURE’S WAY
Season of anticipation: Can’t wait for Christmas presence! By Collins Doughtie CONTRIBUTOR
There is something about the holidays that brings out the reflective side of me. On one hand I relish the fact that I will get to spend time with my family, which until now were strewn across the nation; and then on the other hand I feel an inexplicable tinge of sadness. What is there to be sad about you ask? I guess it is for the many who have little or nothing at all. I have never been a wealthy man by any means, but I am wealthy in a whole different way. I had great parents who instilled in me the will to help those in need, which I try to do each and every day. It could be an act as simple as helping an elderly woman carry her groceries to her car or buying a cup of coffee for someone who doesn’t have enough change to buy it themselves. It’s all about awareness of your surroundings in the here and now. Besides my parents, nature also taught me a great deal about being aware of the moment. Whether I am out fishing or simply taking a walk, I find myself scanning my surroundings all the time. Many of the most memorable things I have witnessed in nature happened in the blink of an eye. Two bald eagles wrapped in a ball falling from the sky, a blue marlin appearing out of nowhere to take a bait, a lightning bolt striking from the ground up – each of these events witnessed only because I was practiced in the art of seeing. There
The author, center, with his children, Camden, left, and Logan, at home on the May River.
stands my wealth. So that you know, my sad thoughts were brought on by events during the past few weeks – in particular, the tornado outbreak that decimated towns across six states. I am sure all of those that were in the path of these nightmarish storms were so looking forward to the first normal Christmas after the past year and half of Covid. Then, in the blink of an eye, all their Christmas wishes are gone, literally wiped off the face of the earth. This horrific event has me thanking my lucky stars for each and every day I have on this earth, where each moment is precious and every second a gift. Before I sat down to write this column, I talked to my wife, Karen, telling her I was not sure this would be the right subject
matter for an outdoor writer. She said, “If it is what your heart tells you to write, then do it.” She also brought up how so many people wish for what others have. A perfect example happened to her recently when a woman drove down our street. Dressed to the nines, adorned with priceless jewels, and driving a very expensive car, it was easy to think, “I wish I had what she has.” In reality, that woman told Karen that she had just lost her husband of more than 40 years. Be careful what you wish for. There is wealth to be had every second of every day. But the wealth I am talking about is right in front of you if you choose to see it. Maybe you are not a fisherman or an avid outdoorsman, but nature’s beauty is still there should you choose to look around. Nature has continuous shows playing 24-7
but if that isn’t your cup of tea, then random acts of kindness are there for the giving every moment of every day. Though I have never had huge sums of money to fall back on, I do know this. The feeling you get from helping others is the greatest feeling there is. Given the choice between having all the wealth I could possibly want, or truly making a positive difference in someone else’s life, I would take the latter every time. So, with that off my chest, here are my Christmas plans. Every other year my entire family descends on Bluffton, and this is the year for the get-together. My son, Logan, is flying in from Los Angeles, while my daughter, Camden, her husband, Andrew, and my two grandchildren, Benjamin and Alice, have to travel – at most – 30 yards. Talk about a Christmas presence! I am over the moon. Marsh monkeys at heart, Logan and I plan on spending every free moment either fishing or clamming – and knowing Camden and her kids, they will be right in there, too. Finally, I want to thank all of you who have called or emailed me over the past year encouraging me with your kind words about something I wrote that touched you in some way. You have no idea how these random acts of kindness have made me feel. Have a great holiday and remember that wealth is there for the taking if you simply choose to see it. Collins Doughtie, a 60-year resident of the Lowcountry, is a sportsman, graphic artist, and lover of nature. collinsdoughtie@icloud.com
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Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
Page 47A
PETS
Steps we can take to help curb growing number of lost pets By Abby Bird CONTRIBUTOR
Occasionally I write about a topic dear to my heart. This is one of those times. As Beaufort and Jasper counties grow, we are seeing an increase in lost pets. On Facebook, these postings now make up a serious number of entries. There are local groups who are always posting to help find these lost dogs and cats. This is not to say that accidents don’t happen; of course they do. However, over a lifetime of owning house pets, what would you consider the norm of having one lost – meaning escaped, not stolen? Once or twice? Stolen is another category, based mostly upon having a dog or cat unsupervised on your property. Accidents happen when dogs escape from the home or get out of a gate, usually as a result of being unsupervised or someone accidentally leaving a door or gate
open. Dogs escape from cars when you leave a window open. Dogs escape in the midst of car accidents. These are mostly things one has a hard time preventing. But there are so many other situations that are preventable. In the summer, when owners and dogs are outside, and holidays in general, because more people are around, dogs tend to be the last thing you are watching. Perhaps you have left your dog with a sitter who is not as careful as you are. These are incredibly common occurrences. Taking extra care during these times is critical. Put a note on the door – “Watch Out For The Dog.” Or crate them or put them in a secure room, or take them to dog kennel if things are just too busy during holidays. So how do we reduce these potentially disastrous situations? Teach your children not to open any outside door unless their pet is secured elsewhere. This could include a gated area,
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crate or another room with a door. If possible, design a barrier that blocks access to the door. This might be a gate or indoor electronic fence. In general, dogs should not be alone outside without a fence or electronic fence, or electronic collar, or on a leash or long tether line. Do not trust your dog to just stay in your yard!
Fence in your yard. Electronic fences don’t work for all pets but they are fairly reliable for most dogs and cats, and they are reasonably priced. If your dog digs under a physical fence, then put an electronic fence inside the physical fence that will keep them away from the actual fence barrier. Train your dog to stay away from doors without permission. Yes, training! The Stay command can be trained by your family or any local trainer. Invest in a GPS type tracking device. There are several on the market that are reasonably priced. Bottom line: Missing pets are not always found. Whether missing, stolen or lost, run over by cars, or taken by alligators, it is a nightmare for families as well as the pet. This is mostly a solvable problem. Abby Bird is owner of Alphadog Training Academy. AlphadogTrainingAcademy@gmail. com
Page 48A
The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
SPORTS
Start now on setting your golf and fitness goals for 2022 By Jean Harris CONTRIBUTOR
I am writing this article in late December because it gives me and you time to set our golf, fitness and social goals for 2022. Looking back, I did achieve my social goals for golf. I made a lot of new friends this past year on the course. The pandemic brought more Jean Harris people to the game of golf. I also had a fantastic time meeting new ladies for my Chicks with Sticks group, which gave 35 ladies a chance to play some of our great local golf courses and make new friends. My exercise goals were met as well. I went to the gym four days a
week. Playing tennis and pickleball has helped me with my reflexes and strength. I feel so much better this December then I did a year ago. When it comes to golf goals, you need to monitor your golf scores. Your golf goals must meet the A, B, M assessment. Sit down and start a golf journal. The goals that you write down must be Achievable, Believable and Measurable. Achievable means the goal must be realistic. Set short-term goals and re-assess them after each month. Figure out how to achieve this goal. Is it by hitting your driver 10 yards farther? Is it by getting better with your chipping and pitching? Is putting the major problem? Believable means feeling like you can actually reach the goal. If you are shooting scores of 110 or more, then breaking 90 this year might not be something you can reach. Looking at your golf scores every month in your journal can help you get to a believable
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goal. Measurable means you have to keep track of your scores. You must write them down and keep track every time you play. Pick dates you want to have met intermediate goals. Only by writing down your goals are you going to know if you achieved them. I have my students keep track of several things on their scorecard. They can then go to their golf journal and keep track of how they are playing and what they need to work on to get better. On your scorecard you will set your scoring goal for that day. Your scoring goals are different depending on the course you are playing. Keep track of the following: • Scoring goal – number you want to meet or beat for that round. Look at the scorecard and find out the hardest holes, and they will be the holes where you get the most strokes. • Fairway hit – this is on the first
shot on the hole. Did you hit the fairway? If you are using a driver, it will let you know if the driver is a problem. On a par 3, it will let you know if you chose the proper club. • Green in regulation – this will be two less than your goal for that hole. For example, if my goal is 5 on a hole, then my green in regulation will be a 3. • Putts – this is so important. Ideally you want to have two putts on each hole. Add up your putts at the end of the round and it will help you assess if putting is a problem. Keep track of your golf game and then practice the areas you need the most help. Contact your local golf professional to help you reach your goals in 2022. Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional and teaches at Pinecrest Golf Club. jean.golfdoctor.harris@gmail.com; golfdoctorjean.com
Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
Page 49A
50th annual Bluffton Christmas Parade, Dec. 4 PHOTOS BY TOM MILLS
PHOTOS BY TONY KUKULICH
Page 50A
The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
GARDEN OUR SHOWROOM IS STOCKED WITH NEW CARTS Winter garden chores include AND READY FOR YOU! proper pruning, debris clean-up By Mark Deloach CONTRIBUTOR
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It is always fascinating to take a drive and see the many different ways Crape Myrtles are pruned. As you continue to expand your knowledge about this tree, you realize many people prune incorrectly and for the wrong reasons. Before you prune, consider these tips: The proper way to prune would include pruning the lower limbs for structure. The next step would be to remove any cross branching to allow for proper air-flow. The third step is for height and size control. When we remove all the limbs, the tree will be more prone to insect and disease issues during the spring and summer. Most people believe in order to have blooms the following year, all limbs must be removed. This is not the case. Other things to continue to monitor: Leaf and pine straw debris: Continue to remove weekly or bi-weekly to allow plenty of sunlight and airflow for your plants and lawn. If the debris is allowed to collect, your risk of fungus is greater. This will show during the spring green-up process. Keep your irrigation system turned off. We do not need to continue to water. Our saturation level of available moisture is between 26% and 31%. This will encourage the root system of all plants to move deeper to pull in this valuable resource. Now is a great time to purchase a rain gauge and begin to monitor our rainfall. How much sunlight does your turf
require? How much sun do you receive? Every turf type requires a specific amount of sunlight to be healthy and happy. Check this list to see if you are providing one of the necessary requirements for a healthy lawn. • Centipede and Bermuda: Full sun all day, all year • Zoysia: Six-plus hours of sun, all year • St. Augustine: Four-plus hours of sun, all year If you are not receiving the volume of sunlight necessary, now is the time to limb up or prune selective branches to allow the most sunlight. We will soon be at 6 to 6.5 hours of sunlight, so now is the time to get maximum sunlight for the lawn so you will have a better spring density. If you are receiving the proper amount of sunlight and your yard still isn’t responding, there might be a problem with your soil nutrients. We can test your nutrient levels at any time with a soil sample analysis to ensure that you are using the right fertilizer blend and the PH is at a healthy level. Drainage: After a heavy rain is the time to check and make sure you have proper drainage. Check all planting zones to ensure plants are not sitting in water, check all areas where the down-spouts are located and check lawn areas to make sure you have no areas under water. If you find areas collecting water, you might want to consider having catch-basins installed, or perhaps a French drain. Mark Deloach is the owner of Lawn Doctor of Beaufort County.
Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
REAL ESTATE
Santa’s elves help price, sell home faster – for more money
Page 51A
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It’s almost the end of December, the holiday season is in full-swing, and we were thinking of selling our home. We noted what we originally paid, added home appreciation and improvement costs, and determined that our home should sell for $749,000. It was late and as I went to sleep, the thought of what our home would sell for was very comforting! Rattling by the window awakened me. The elf said: “I’m your local real estate agent. I want to sell your home. How much do you want? “$749,000,” I said. “You’re right on the money! Sign this listing agreement.” When I told him I have to run it by my wife, he said he would call me and disappeared. I went back to sleep but was awakened again by a second elf. “I want to sell your home. What’s your price?” “It’s $749,000.” She replied, “With your waterfront location you could get $100,000 more. Wake up your wife and we’ll sign this listing agreement.” I told her, “No way, call me tomorrow.” She said okay and then she was gone. I fell asleep again. The music was soft and sweet. When I opened my eyes, two
elves (he and she) were looking at me. “We would like to share some information about your home’s market value,” they said. I asked them if they wanted to know what we thought our home would sell for. “Oh no,” they said. “Better to compare our information with the price you had in mind.” With a wave of their hands, a Comparative Market Analysis appeared before my eyes. It compared similar homes for sale and homes that sold suggesting that our home would sell somewhere between $735K and $765K. With another wave of the hand, the three of us visited these homes (which were priced between $700K and $800K). They were all very nice and confirmed our $749K home value. The elves explained that we were in a seller’s market, and since there were no homes like ours for sale in Rose Hill, that we should strategically list price our home at $799K. We agreed to meet tomorrow so my wife and I could list our home. As the elves departed, they wished a Happy and Healthy Holiday to all! Larry Stoller is a broker and Realtor with Real Estate Five of the Lowcountry. Larry@ RealEstateFive.com, RealEstateFive.com, SunCityOpenHouses247.com
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Page 52A
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Dec. 21, 2021
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EMPLOYERS: WANT TO ADD YOUR OPENINGS TO THIS LIST? THIS IS A FREE SERVICE. CALL MELISSA AT THE BLUFFTON SUN/HILTON HEAD SUN AT 843.757.9507
Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
Page 53A
LOCAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES LOOKING FOR A NEW POSITION?
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Page 54A
The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 21, 2021
A NEW HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS! 415 Handsome Oak Drive $1,100,000
A Southern estate with space and grace awaits! Perfectly situated between Bluffton and Savannah, this 4BR/4B/3,600 SF home on 3 acres offers plenty of space to relax and play plus easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Pretty palms frame the welcoming travertine stairway and 20 ft. portico leading to a light-filled foyer and family room. Modern classic touches such as beadboard ceiling and Deco style fireplace with wood mantle. Spacious rooms with high, smooth ceilings, crown molding and plenty of windows throughout. Lagoon and wooded lot. Large open yard with room for sports and boat/RV/ATV storage. 2-car garage. No HOA! *Listing shared with Christine Wisniewski
Adoption Fees Waived December 1 - January 1 See adoptable pets online at PalmettoAnimalLeague.org. Visit the PAL Adoption Center at 56 Riverwalk Blvd in Okatie. Pets are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date on vaccinations.
Happy Holidays IT’S TIME TO MAKE YOUR HOLIDAY PET PLANS NOW. PLEASE CALL US AND RESERVE A SPOT NOW, WE ARE FILLING UP FAST.
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FO RS AL E
Dec. 21, 2021
The Bluffton Sun
CLASSIFIEDS SPORTS CARDS WANTED: Vesci Sports Cards, specializing in pre-1972 baseball, football and basketball cards. Looking for personal collections. Cash paid for cards. Hilton Head resident Jim Vesci 215-266-2975 jdvescisr@gmail.com
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The Bluffton Sun
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