Dec. 5, 2023 • Volume 26, Issue 23 • Complimentary • BlufftonSun.com
INSIDE • USCB Announces New Alumni Plaza and Tribute Program 8A • Bluffton Self Help Offers Free Shopping For Those In Need During Holidays 10A • Operation Turbo Sends ‘Boxes of Home’ To U.S. Troops 16A • Local Schools Receive Grants For Innovative Learning Projects 14A • Town Council To Hold Special Election 27A
Get Rid Of E-Scrap Responsibly To Make Room For That New Tech By Gwyneth J. Saunders CONTRIBUTOR
Black Friday has come and gone, and so has Cyber Monday. What hasn’t gone is all that old technology that will be replaced during holiday gift-giving celebrations. Not to worry: Beaufort County has an op for that. An opportunity, that is, to turn it in at one of two county electronics recycling events. Disposing of all that modern technology is not as simple as dropping it into the gaping maw of a trailer at the county convenience centers. According to Victoria Hoffman, Beaufort County Solid Waste and Recycling Program manager, storage of electronic materials is regulated, and cannot be stored uncovered outdoors. “Materials collected must be stored in a facility. Beaufort County Solid Waste and Recycling does not currently have a facility for such purposes,” Hoffman said. “Also, if we collected the material at the centers, we would need additional Beaufort County employees to collect and haul the materials from the centers to a centralized location for
storage.” If there is any doubt as to what constitutes e-cycling material, the list includes any personal computers, laptops, CRT monitors, LCD monitors, CRT televisions, non-CRT televisions, printers, hard drives, and miscellaneous electronics such as cell phones, radios, and fax machines. Stay in your car, and the staff from the contracted recycling provider will haul out your unwanted goods and take them away. Only residential e-waste will be accepted. What is not acceptable are household items, including microwaves, vacuums, stereos, speakers, tuners, VCRs, DVDs, and lamps. These can be taken to the convenience centers for disposal and will not be unloaded at the event. E-waste events aren’t a matter of a couple dozen cars driving through the location site to get rid of two old flip phones, a small computer monitor and that laptop that still runs Windows 7. The quarterly events are well-attended. The August e-waste drew 866 cars to
Please see E-SCRAP on page 12A
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Bluffton and 411 to Beaufort. The total of electronic waste collected and recycled was 42,430.25 pounds from Bluffton and 34,117 pounds from Beaufort. In addition to needing storage space, there are several reasons why recycling e-waste is important. It’s a hazard to the environment, and a waste of valuable resources, according to the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. “Unwanted electronics are one of the nation’s fastest growing waste streams. Often called e-scrap, electronics contain poten-
tially hazardous material such as lead
and mercury that can pose a risk to human health and the environment if not properly managed,” according to DHEC’s website. “Electronics also contain valuable material such as precious metals that can be recovGet rid of unwanted electronics in a responsible way by attending the Dec. 9 E-Waste Event in Bluffton and Beaufort.
ered through responsible recycling. The recycling of electronics, beyond protecting the environment and conserving resources, also provides the raw material for recycling businesses and creates jobs.” Powerhouse Recycling Inc., the company the county contracts with for this event, uses
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
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Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
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VIEWPOINT
Embracing The True Spirit Of The Holiday Season By Shannon Copcutt EDITOR
As the calendar turns to the final pages and our small town begins to shimmer with holiday lights, there’s a palpable shift in the air. It’s more than the chill of winter; it’s the warmth of the holiday spirit that enlivens our community. In these moments, we are reminded of the profound importance of giving, being kind to others, and truly embracing the spirit of the holidays. Like a fine tapestry, the holidays are woven with threads of traditions, celebrations, and a shared sense of togetherness. Yet, amid the bustle of preparing feasts, decorating homes, and shopping for gifts, the essence of this time of year can sometimes be overshadowed. It’s crucial to pause and reflect on the deeper meaning of these holidays: the spirit of generosity and kindness that lies at their core.
Giving is not confined to the exchange of material presents; it encompasses the giving of oneself – time, attention, and compassion. In our town, where every face is familiar, acts of kindness have a ripple effect, touching lives and knitting us closer. Whether it’s volunteering at local shelters, helping a neighbor decorate their home, or simply offering a listening ear, every act of kindness is a testament to the strength and warmth of our community. The holiday season also presents a unique opportunity to teach younger generations
Holiday Blends & Seasonal Drinks
the value of compassion and community service. When children participate in acts of giving, they learn important life lessons about empathy, generosity, and gratitude. These experiences shape their understanding of the world and their role in it, fostering a future generation that values and practices kindness. Furthermore, this season is a time for inclusivity and understanding. Our small town is a mosaic of diverse traditions and beliefs. Embracing this diversity enriches our holiday experience, allowing us to learn from each other and celebrate the season in a myriad of beautiful ways. From Christmas to Hanukkah, to Kwanzaa, each tradition brings its unique light to our community’s holiday tapestry. It’s also important to acknowledge that for some, the holidays can be a difficult time. For those dealing with loss, financial hardships, or loneliness, this season can amplify
their struggles. It is during these times that our acts of kindness and community support become even more vital. Reaching out to those who might be struggling, offering support, or simply acknowledging their challenges, can make a significant difference. It reminds them, and us, that no one is alone, that our small town is a community in the truest sense. In this issue, you will notice that our small community is a giving one. Many give time and money, organize events to share and open their hearts and homes. As we move through this holiday season, let’s carry the spirit of giving and kindness with us. Let’s look beyond the twinkling lights and festive decorations and find ways to contribute positively to the lives around us. By doing so, we not only make the holidays more meaningful for ourselves and others, but we also strengthen the bonds that make our small town a wonderful place to live.
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
EDITORIAL
Current Circulation Via USPS is 25,015 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
EDITOR
Shannon Copcutt, editor@blufftonsun.com
GENERAL MANAGER
Melissa McCullough, melissa@blufftonsun.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Wendy Price Janelle Medeiros
CONTRIBUTORS
Abby Bird Amy Coyne Bredeson Amy Campanini Collins Doughtie Dr. Tom Dorsel Dr. Mathew T. Epps Dr. Ronald Finger Earle Everett Jada Gaines Luke Gawronski Glenda Harris Dr. Jean Harris Channing Heiss
Rev. Christopher Thompson Rabbi Ken Kanter Dr. Oswald Mikell Dan Prud’homme Gwyneth J. Saunders Lisa Sulka Michael Reynolds Cinda Seamon Lisa Sulka Larry Stoller Mark F. Winn
ADVERTISING
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It Has Been An Honor To Serve As Bluffton Mayor
happiness in being part of an elected body. Over the years as a council woman and CONTRIBUTOR then Mayor, I found my place and my passion and that was encouraging Running for political office was and mentoring young people, and not something I had on any bucket working very hard to make a place list growing up. But the influence that our younger population would my parents had on me and my yearn to move back to at some siblings, to always help others point in their lives. To focus on and to pay it forward, was strong that goal, I made a concerted effort so part of my decision to run for to work on jobs, housing, recreTown Council in 2004 had a lot ation, educational opportunities to do with my upbringing-- that and more. Some of this has been paired with a lot of peer pressure Lisa Sulka accomplished by the recruitment from my two close friends, Oscar to bring CareCore (now Evicore/Cigna) to Frazier and Bill Herbkersman. Note to self: allow yourself to take on new challenges and our town, along with the development of Palmetto Bluff. These have been the two not always stay comfortable in your current largest employers in our town and offer a path. variety of jobs to our residents. More on this Overall, it has been a rewarding 20 years front is coming soon, and I am excited to spent. Looking back, while there are issues we are dealing with, I am very proud of what play a role in that with our Beaufort County I was able to be part of and will always cher- Economic Development Corporation and the Don Ryan Center for Innovation. I have ish the time I had in local government. supported the town investing in parks, Advice to any future leaders in our town: developing our historic district, supporting don’t have an agenda, pure and simple. I events throughout the year, affordable/worksaid this a lot over my tenure as mayor, that force housing, our May River/environmental anyone wanting to succeed in an elected position should “love, live for and believe in initiatives and have been a vocal supporter your town” (in this instance Bluffton). If you of public and private schools. While Mayor, this town has become transdo, then you are serving others and trying to bring value and pride to everyone who lives parent and easily accessible. Online business licenses, live-streamed meetings, online here and it will bring you so much joy and
By Lisa Sulka
VISIT:
BlufftonSun.com For more information, contact: Melissa McCullough PO Box 2056, Bluffton, SC 29910 843-757-9507, 843-757-9506 (fax) Physical address: 181 Bluffton Rd., Ste F103-2 Bluffton, SC 29910 All contents are copyrighted by Beaufort Media Group LLC. 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 23 December 5, 2023 is published twice monthly by Beaufort Media Group, LLC, 181 Bluffton Rd., Ste F103-2, 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.
finances, easily accessible strategic and comprehensive plans, a public information effort that consistently provides information to local media, our county, and our own social media, and we have made investments in our own employees to ensure they are happy and healthy. Over my tenure, we have dealt with hurricanes, floods, deaths of young residents, COVID and rapid growth. And through these challenges, we also have had amazing accomplishments – providing water and sewer to all of Buck Island/Simmonsville Road and the historic district, rehabilitating several historic structures to ensure their stories will always be told, seeing medical services starting to invest here, developing the New Riverside area where the largest amount of our growth lies, partnering with the county and other groups to get properties that lie in our watershed off of septic, achieving a AAA bond rating (we are one of 5 towns in South Carolina to have this rating), creating strong partnerships with our neighboring municipalities, counties, non profits and utility companies and at the end of the day, have made Bluffton a place where people want to move to and our young population wants to stay or come back home. Looking through my photos, I took a trip
Please see MAYOR on page 12A
Letter to the Editor Dear Editor RE: Postmaster’s Report – Readiness for the 2023 Holiday Season As the Postmaster of Bluffton Post Office, I am excited to let our community know of several significant updates that will enhance service and ensure a seamless experience for our customers during the upcoming holiday season: No Holiday Surcharges — There will be no additional surcharges for Postal Service customers for holiday packages or mail and there will be no additional fees for residential area delivery, for Saturday delivery or for minimum volumes. USPS will continue to
be the most affordable way to mail and ship holiday season. Utilizing 348 new package sorting machines — since the beginning of 2021, USPS has installed 348 new package processing machines nationwide and expanded our daily package processing capacity to an industry-leading 70 million packages. This is part of a $40 billion investment in new technology and facilities under our Delivering for America plan. Hiring 10,000 seasonal employees — Stabilizing our workforce has been a top priority over the past two years. We have converted more than 150,000 pre-career
workers into career positions since October 2020. Due to this progress, USPS anticipates the need to hire only an additional 10,000 seasonal employees. I encourage you to visit the Bluffton Post Office for your mailing and shipping needs during the holiday season. We offer a range of services, from packaging materials to shipping options, to make mailing and shipping holiday greetings hassle-free. We look forward to serving you and being a part of your holiday season! Sincerely, Postmaster Teri Yardley, Bluffton Post Office, Bluffton, South Carolina
Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
SUN ON THE STREET
The Holidays Are Most Meaningful With The Ones We Love As the holidays approach in our small town, familiar faces are the cornerstone of celebrations, and a communal spirit seems to be in the very air we breathe. Streets lined with shoppers, Christmas tree lightings, food
Rebecca Novak It’s all about love and magic and good cheer. This time of the year can’t be beat.
pantry runs and other local events brings us together more than any other time of the year, reminding us that the spirit of the holidays is all around. There is a palpable combination of generosity, kindness, gratitude and joy that
Joanne Swetman The holidays mean family love and hope for the future. It is a cheerful time of year.
makes up the magic of this time of year. And while the way we celebrate may differ, most agree that what makes the holidays special is the people we celebrate with. It is a time for sharing with others, not just through gifts, but
Kristin Morris The holidays mean meeting people with kindness and love and treating others a little extra special this time of year because you never know what others are going through.
also through acts of service, kindness and time, as it is usually the good times, not the things, that we remember most about the holidays. Here is what some of our neighbors had to say about what the holidays mean to them.
Anna Mealer The holidays mean spending time with my family and friends and just enjoying the company of those I love.
Kate Schwartz The holidays mean spending time with those that you truly love and giving back to your community.
Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
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Page 7A
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The Bluffton Sun
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USCB Announces Alumni Plaza And Tribute Program By Shannon Copcutt
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EDITOR
Parents, alumni and supporters of the University of South Carolina Beaufort (USCB) are invited to honor or celebrate a loved one through the university’s newly launched tribute program and alumni plaza. This fund-raising effort allows individuals and families to inscribe a commemorative paver for the brick alumni plaza on the Bluffton campus. Engraved plaques can be added to rocking chairs (Bluffton and Beaufort campuses) and benches (Blufffton and Hilton Head Island campuses). “USCB’s tribute program is an impactful way to honor a loved one, friends, family, and pets by making a lasting impression on our landscape,” said Mary Lurry, USCB Director of Development. Inscriptions in the alumni plaza name USCB and USC-Columbia graduates. The rocking
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chairs and benches can be dedicated to anyone. Money raised through this iniative will go to the USCB Annual Fund, which provides capital for the university’s greatest needs. This community support allows USCB to respond to issues and opportunities across its three campuses. The link to order a paver or plaque tribute is below. For more information contact Mary Lurry, USCB Director of Development, at 843208-8032 or mlurry@uscb.edu. The University of South Carolina Beaufort (USCB) is a public university located in the southeastern United States, with campuses in Beaufort, Bluffton, and Hilton Head Island, SC. USCB offers a range of undergraduate degree programs, covering areas such as business, education, hospitality management, human services, and the liberal arts and sciences. It’s known for its small class sizes and a student-centric approach to education, providing a personalized learning experience.
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Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
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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 2023. 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. 2023
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
Bluffton Self Help Gives Parents A Chance To Shop For Free By Amy Coyne Bredeson
hugs. I felt so lucky to play a small role in that family’s holiday. I’m still thinking about them.” The Holiday Toy Shop is set up just like a toy store, with sections for books, puzzles and games, and a wide selection of toys. Each parent is paired up with a volunteer or staff member who helps them shop for just the right gifts for their children. The shop is arranged by age group so it’s easy to navigate. Registration for the Holiday Toy Shop ended Dec. 1, and the shop will open to customers Dec. 8–14. Parents were able to choose a day and time to do their shopping. That way the shop isn’t too crowded at any point, and parents can do their shopping when it’s most convenient. “Last year we distributed 14,619 toys and expect an increased need this year,” Hampson said. The organization is expecting to serve at
CONTRIBUTOR
According to Bluffton Self Help, almost 60 percent of Beaufort County families and 75 percent of Jasper County families are not earning a living wage. Struggling to make ends meet, many parents just can’t afford to buy Christmas presents for their children. Thankfully, the people of Bluffton aren’t going to sit back and let children go without gifts on Christmas morning. Every year, Bluffton Self Help volunteers and staff, along with various organizations and individuals in the community, come together to provide a free Holiday Toy Shop for children 12 years old and younger in Beaufort, Jasper, Hampton and Colleton Counties. “For me, the Holiday Toy Shop is the most holiday-spirit-inducing experience I have ever had,” Bluffton Self Help CEO Courtney Hampson said. “I will never forget shopping with one mother last year for her
Volunteers get ready for shoppers.
four children. She told me that her husband died earlier that year, and this would be their
What financial choices today will you look back on with gratitude or regret? Working with a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM professional can help you get a full understanding of your finances and properly plan for your future goals.
first Christmas without him. That shopping experience ended with a lot of tears and
Please see TOYSHOP on page 20A
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Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
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The Bluffton Sun
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E-SCRAP from page 1A its shredding and separation equipment to break down the electronics to its individual parts. “All electronics contain toxic, hazardous materials that cause substantial harm to our water, soil, and air when improperly disposed of,” states PHR. “Certified electronics recycling is the process of responsibly transporting, processing, and recovering commodities from discarded electronics.” “PHR personnel load the materials onto pallets, prepare the pallets for transportation, then takes them to their warehouse,” said Hoffman. “Once at the warehouse the mate-
MAYOR from page 4A down memory lane and thought a few of these things I experienced here would put a smile on your face: -Jumped out of an airplane -The Bachelor filmed one of its nights in Bluffton and I was in one of the scenes -Watched our PD chase buffalo across Pinecrest and hwy 278 -Allowed Tom Tom the Billy Goat permanent residence in Historic Bluffton -Welcomed dozens of presidential candidates to our town -Rode with the Clydesdales in two Bluffton parades -Celebrated with Lee Jean making top 9 on American Idol -Toured Boeing with Bluffton Students -Met a family who loved our town so much they named their son ‘Bluffton’ We live in an amazing town that lies in the
rial is weighed, sorted and sent to the various markets for processing and recycling. With no storage facility and limited personnel, we opt to contract this service out.” In Bluffton, drop off your old electronics at River Ridge Academy, 3050 River Ridge Drive; in Beaufort the drop-off is at 140 Shanklin Road. The event is Dec. 9 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The next e-waste event is Feb. 10. And for everyone who decked the halls with a live tree and festive fir garlands, they can be dropped off at your local convenience centers when the time comes to pack up the lights and trim. best area of the country. We have an incredible staff as well as talented and hardworking residents- and for that I am so grateful. The help and support so many of you have given me over the years will never be overlooked and please know how appreciative I am for this. While I will no longer be Mayor at the beginning of 2024, I promise I will not stop helping others and also doing what I need to do to help this, and future councils continue with our progress. This town is in amazing hands with our staff and a council and Mayor who truly love this town. Lisa Sulka Mayor, Town of Bluffton Lsulka@townofbluffton.com 20 Bridge Street, Bluffton SC 29910 “When you have a reasoned, hard-earned confidence in the rightness of a course of action, don’t quit until your goal is accomplished”
COMMUNITY
The Search Is On For Next Miss Hilton Head Island Miss Hilton Head Island Organization officials announced the search is on for the next Miss Hilton Head Island and Miss Hilton Head Island Teen. Applications are currently being accepted to compete. The Pageant Competition will be held on Saturday, Jan. 31 at 7 p.m. at the Hilton Head Island High School’s Seahawk Cultural Cen-
ter, 70 Wilborn Rd. The Miss Hilton Head Island Scholarship Pageant is in its third year back return after a 15-year absence from the island and the Miss SC Competition. For competition applications and information misshhipageant@gmail.com or misshiltonheadisland.org.
Dec. 5, 2023
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Dec. 5, 2023
Local Schools Snag Grants For Innovative Learning Projects By Shannon Copcutt EDITOR
The Foundation for Educational Excellence awarded 12 Innovative Teacher Grants and seven School Resource Grants to teachers across Beaufort County from 13 different schools—with many of those schools being Bluffton and Hilton Head education centers. These grants, totaling over $25,000, were awarded to teachers and schools for innovative learning opportunities and projects that go beyond the regular school district budget. “The Foundation is honored to help provide these individual learning experiences to students across the district,” stated Michel Claudio, Innovative Grants Chair and Foundation Board Member. “It is our hope that these funds greatly impact the educational journey of each student involved in these innovative projects and we can’t wait to see the results!” Projects funded by the Foundation this year range from purchasing sewing machines for elementary school students to
providing equipment for gaga ball and helping a school spruce up their outdoor spaces for students to enjoy. For example, at Hilton Head Island School for Creative Arts, P.E. Teacher, Jennifer Friend-Kerr and Matthew Bauman were awarded a grant for their project “Going Gaga for Fitness.” The purpose of the project is to give students the opportunity to collaborate with confidence using teamwork, physical fitness, math, science, social studies, and research skills when planning and participating in the game, gaga ball. The funds provided by the Foundation will be used to purchase equipment for the game as well as providing a literacy component to the
project with the book, “How to Play Gaga Ball” by Alexander Kazachk. The students will begin the project by researching the game’s origin and learning the rules. They will integrate the concepts of geometric shapes, as they create a model using recycled materials, keva planks, or legos. They will also research the history of the game and apply scientific concepts involved in playing the game including force, friction, push vs. pull, and energy when strategizing to win or eliminate players. Students will make videos teaching other students how to play the game and helpful strategies to be an effective competitor. Finally, students will participate in the game applying the rules and concepts
learned. The best part is that the equipment purchased will be utilized at the school for many years to come. Other grant recipients in our area include: Hilton Head Island School for Creative Arts for its Creative Keys: Playing & Composing Music program submitted by Melinda Bray and Heather Bell, Okatie Elementary School for its Makerspace in Computer Science program submitted by Lisabeth Webber, Bluffton High School for its Transforming Family & Consumer Sciences for Today’s Demands program submitted by Christina Herrington, Hilton Head Island High School for its Illustrate Your Life program submitted by Kimberlee Smith, Okatie Elementary School for its If They Build It, They Will Learn program submitted by Amy Fleury, Bluffton Middle School for its Energy Transfer Baked program submitted by Heidi McAllister, M.C. Riley Elementary School for its International Festival Perfor-
Please see GRANTS on page 28A
JOAN AND WADE WEBSTER JOAN AND WADE WEBSTER JOAN AND WADE WEBSTER
Established in 2022 by the Community Foundation of theFoundation Lowcountry, the generous support of Established in 2022 by the Community of thewith Lowcountry, with the generous of Joan andFoundation Wade Webster, this award Established in 2022support by the Community of the Lowcountry, Joan and Wade Webster, this award recognizes an individual within the Foundation’s service territory recognizes an individual within the Foundation’s service territory that Established inof 2022 by theWade Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, with the generous support Joan and Webster, this award that has made a significant impact on the quality of life in the Lowcountry. The nominee has made a impact on the quality of service life the Lowcountry. with the generous support of Joan andin Wade Webster, recognizes ansignificant individual within the Foundation’s territory thatthis award must be a Themade nominee must be a resident Hampton, recognizes an individual within the Foundation’s service territory that has a significant impact on of theBeaufort, quality ofColleton, life in the Lowcountry. resident of Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, or Jasper county who has demonstrated dedication and leaderor Jasper county who demonstrated dedication and leadership has made a significant impact on the quality of life in the Lowcountry. The nominee must be ahas resident of Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, ship in a community activity or on behalf of a community organization or nonprofit. This award is not a inJasper a community ordemonstrated on behalf adedication community organization Theactivity nominee must be a of resident of Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, or county who has and leadership This award not a lifetime achievement award but is or Jasper county who has dedication and leadership inoranonprofit. community activity orison behalf of ademonstrated community organization lifetime achievement award but is designed to recognize individuals who have made significant recent/ designed to This recognize who madeof significant recent/ in a community or have on behalf a award community or nonprofit. awardindividuals is notactivity a lifetime achievement but isorganization continuing contributions. continuing contributions. or nonprofit. This award not made a lifetime achievement award but is designed to recognize individuals whois have significant recent/
CO OM MM MU UN N II T TY Y C C O M AWARD MUNITY IMPACT IMPACT AWARD IMPACT AWARD
designed toreceive recognize individuals who have made continuing The awardcontributions. recipient will a $10,000 grant to bestow to asignificant recent/
The award recipient willThe receive a continuing $10,000 grant toa $10,000 bestowbased to a tocharitable organization or organizations contributions. charitable organization or organizations the Community award recipient will receive grant in bestow to a Foundation’s service territory, aswill wellreceive as a well piece of to memorialize The award recipient a $10,000 grant to to a charitable organization or organizations based inas theart based in the Community Foundation’s service territory, as aCommunity piece of bestow art to memorialize the the honor. The following groups people are ineligible receive charitable organization or in the the Community Foundation’s service territory, asof well asorganizations a piece of artbased totomemorialize honor. The following groups of people are ineligible to receive the award: current board and staff of CFL; award: current board and staff CFL; individuals serving in a Foundation’s service asineligible well currently as ato piece of art memorialize the honor. The following groups of territory, people are receive theto public current elected o honor. ice;elected and individuals who areindividuals paid staffare of who aineligible nonprofit. the The following groups of people award: board and staff of CFL; individuals currently serving a receive individuals currently serving in a public office; and areinto paid stafftheof a nonprofit. board and staff of CFL; individuals public elected o ice; current and individuals who are paid staff ofwill a nonprofit. The Joan andaward: Wade Webster Community Impact Award be currently serving in a
elected oCommunity ice; and Community individuals who are staff of a nonprofit. presented onpublic March 20, 2024 at the Foundation of the The Joan and Wade Webster Community Impact Award will be presented March 20, 2024 at the The Joan and Wade Webster Impact Award willpaid beon Lowcountry’s Annual Community Meeting. Joan and Wade Webster Community Impactof Award on The March 20, 2024 at the Community Foundation the will be Community Foundationpresented of the Lowcountry’s Annual Community Meeting. on MarchMeeting. 20, 2024 at the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry’s presented Annual Community To complete and submit a nomination for the 2024 Joan and Wade
Lowcountry’s Annual Community Meeting. Community Award, please the QR and codeWade below or and submit a nomination forand thescan 2024 Joan To complete and submitToWebster acomplete nomination forImpact the 2024 Joan Wade Webster Community Impact Award, visit theCommunity Community Foundation website atscan cf-lowcountry.org. To complete and submit a nomination 2024 Joan Webster Impact Award, please thefor QRthe code below or and Wade please scan the QR code below or visit the Community Foundation website at cf-lowcountry.org. Webster Community Impactat Award, please scan the QR code below or visit the Community Foundation website cf-lowcountry.org. visit the Community Foundation website at cf-lowcountry.org.
The Deadline to Submit Nominations The Deadline to is January 16, 2024. The Deadline to Submit Nominations Submit Nominations is January 2024. Use QR code16, to connect to Nomination Form isconnect January 16, 2024. Use QR code to to Nomination Form Use QR code to connect to Nomination Form
2024 NOMINATIONS ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED 2024 NOMINATIONS ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED 2024 NOMINATIONS ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED
Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
Page 15A
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
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Special boxes send a piece of home to troops who will not be home for the holidays.
Operation Turbo Sends ‘Boxes Of Home’ To US Troops By Channing Heiss CONTRIBUTOR
In November of 2010, a couple drove out to visit a niece serving in the Navy stationed at Norfolk on the USS Stout. It was a visit so powerful that it would one day touch the lives of thousands of Americans. During the visit, Dyan Smith’s niece, Heather, gave Smith and her husband, Jeff, a tour of the Stout and mentioned along the way how seldom her shipmates received letters or packages from home. This news hit hard, and Smith decided in the car while they were still in the parking lot that they had to do something to change that. She and Jeff immediately started contacting everyone they could and within minutes the first installment of project Operation Turbo was underway. Operation Turbo, a registered, nonprofit since 2014, is named for Heather, whose job on board her ship earned her the nickname “Turbo.” When the inaugural effort of Operation Turbo was finished, they had written and sent several hundred notes of gratitude to men and women in the service. The project has since grown, with Jeff handling
the financials and the “heavy lifting,” while founder and CEO Dyan taking on the rest. This month, the Hilton Head based 501c3 said it will have sent out over 10,500 “boxes of home” to U.S. military around the world, a record number for the nonprofit organization. “These people can be deployed for six months or even 12 months, and I just can’t imagine them doing that without the support of people here at home,” said Dyan. In addition to reaching the shipping milestone in December, Operation Turbo will also be the Nonprofit of the Month at the Hilton Head Island Community Market. That means it will receive 50% of the revenue from the vendor registration fees in December. Operation Turbo stands by the quality of the care packages and inspects each one. Each of the 6-lb. boxes are unique in their specificity. They are customized male and female, seasonal, and climate appropriate. The contents are further specialized into toiletries, proteins, and “treats.” Smith is not a stranger to patriotic duty, with her father having served in the Army.
Please see TURBO on page 25A
Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
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Page 17A
Page 18A
The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
Annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count Is Approaching By Gwyneth J. Saunders CONTRIBUTOR
It’s time for the annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count when birders turn into citizen scientists and take a tally of their avian visitors. The count takes place Dec. 14 through Jan. 5 every year, and bird groups as well as individuals participate by spending about two hours watching from their porch, driving around their neighborhoods or walking particular patches of nature. This is the 124th annual CBC, and will involve participation across more than 2,500 separate 15-mile diameter CBC circles. Each circle has birders who observe, count, and then forward their totals to a designated area compiler who then submits the data to the National Audubon Society which coordinates the event. The Okatie circle is comprised of Sun City and on up to Callawassie. Sun City has designated Dec. 16 as its day
Photo by Cliff Amos Sun City Hilton Head Bird Club President Cliff Amos, right, and his crew of Larry Plakcy, Kevin McManus, and Jannettge McManus prepared to get under way at one of the community’s golf courses during the 2022 Christmas Bird Count. Participants will repeat the activity this December.
to count. Cliff Amos is president of the Sun City Hilton Head Bird Club, and has been an ardent birder for the past nine years.
“I really enjoy being out-of-doors. It’s a very interesting, sometimes complex hobby,” he said. “I enjoy the international
travel involved, and I have been to Uganda, Costa Rica, Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands, and Brazil. Here in Sun City, I enjoy volunteering with the Avian Conservation Center, doing rescue of birds-of-prey and shorebirds.” In 2022, the Sun City count involved 27 people and only covered the golf courses. Dave Davis, the community’s compiler, tallied a total of 2,892 birds from 75 species. Among the unusual sightings for winter in Sun City were the orange-crowned warbler and the black-bellied whistling duck. Other seasonal rarities were the Baltimore oriole, northern flicker, merlin, and loggerhead shrike. The gated community, which comprises the majority of the Okatie circle, will carry out the 2023 bird census in three different ways. Six teams will be walking the golf courses, with each team doing a 9-hole section.
Please see BIRDWATCHERS on page 30A
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Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
Page 19A
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Page 20A
The Bluffton Sun
TRIPLE FELLOWSHIP TRAINED PLASTIC SURGEON SPECIALIZING IN EYELID SURGERY FACELIFT BREAST ENHANCEMENT
TOYSHOP from page 10A least 1,500 children at this year’s toy shop. It’s not too late to help stock the shelves of the toy shop. BSH will continue to accept donations of new, unwrapped toys, books and games through Dec. 9. Donations can be dropped off at Bluffton Self Help, located at 39 Sheridan Park Circle, Unit #10, between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday and Wednesday, or between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday or Friday. Please drive
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Dec. 5, 2023 around to the back of the building to leave donations. Since more than 46 percent of children registered for the holiday shop are between the ages of 8 and 12, organizers are asking for more donations of items for children in that age group. For holiday wish lists and shopping guides, or to donate to the Holiday Toy Shop, visit www.blufftonselfhelp.org. For more information, call 843-757-8000.
Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
HEALTH
Actual Patient
Nose Surgery Vs. Nasal Fillers For The Aging Patient By Dr. E. Ronald Finger
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This month’s ROC Star charity is Hilton Head MLK Committee for Justice. Learn about their January Community Events at hiltonheadmlk.com. BS1223
hour or less. Virtually all noses are different when the CONTRIBUTOR details are assessed, so a complete examination of the nose must be performed Virtually everyone is familiar by an experienced surgeon, and the with a “nose job,” the proper name patient’s goals documented. Many being rhinoplasty. Noses come patients of ethnic background want in all shapes and sizes. Some are to change their nose but keep their crooked, usually due to the nose ethnic appearance. being bumped or broken during Can some of the changes be one’s lifetime. Others have large performed non-surgically? Yes, bulbous nasal tips, humps, some with reservations. The bulbous turn down excessively, and others nasal tip cannot be changed with a are too large for one’s face. Nasal Dr. E. Ronald Finger “filler,” which is usually the method septums can be crooked obstructof non-surgical nose jobs. Tips can be raised ing the airways and further resulting in the and even turn upward somewhat. Significant nose being crooked as well. All combinachanges can be made with fillers in deprestions of the above make the rhinoplasty sions or to camouflage a minor hump. For a most challenging procedure for plastic the bulbous nose typical of the aging nose, surgeons. the excess tip cartilage is reduced requiring What about the nose in an aging patient? an incision inside of the nose to gain access Let’s start with the concept that cartilage never stops growing, and about two thirds of to the cartilage to be reduced. Generally, a rhinoplasty is performed the nose, including the nasal tip and septum under general anesthesia, but some smaller are cartilage. The upper one third is bone. procedures can be done under sedation with The result of continued cartilage growth local anesthesia. Typically, gauze is placed in causes the nasal tip to become wider and the nostrils for a day or so after the procemore bulbous, and the tip begins to point dure, and tape applied to the outside of the downward. Often during a face lift, a tip nose. A splint is used if the bones are altered rhinoplasty is done, making a face more youthful in appearance. Unless the nose was and removed on the seventh post-operative undesirable to begin with, the goal will be to day. Postoperative pain can be minimal if the change it back to its appearance in younger surgeon uses proper long-acting local anesdays. If more change is needed than the thesia during the procedure. tip, then it is probably best to perform this E. Ronald Finger, MD, FACS is a board cerprocedure later as a separate procedure. A tified plastic surgeon with offices in Savannah complete rhinoplasty involving the bones and Bluffton. fingerandassociates.com and even a septoplasty can take three hours or longer, whereas a tip rhinoplasty takes an
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Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
Page 23A
Beaufort Memorial Acquires Coastal Carolina Urology Group
Dr. Louis F. Plzak III, and board-certified physician assistants Kristin Callaghan and Nancy Thomas.
Beaufort Memorial (BMH) is expanding its growing family of specialty providers with the acquisition of Coastal Carolina Urology Group, the practice of Dr. Louis F. Plzak III, and board-certified physician assistants Kristin Callaghan and Nancy Thomas. The newly renamed Beaufort Memorial Urology Specialists will continue to offer a wide range of general urology care, from male and female urinary conditions to kidney and prostate issues. The group plans to expand offerings and increase access to much-needed urology services in the coming year with the addition of a new provider. However, patients can expect to see all the same caring and efficient staff that they’ve come to know. “We are excited to join Beaufort Memorial and to grow our services to meet the increasing need for urological care,” said Dr. Plzak, a board-certified, fellowship-trained urologist who has been a member of the BMH medical staff for more than 20 years and the chief of surgical services since early 2022. “This partnership will allow us to attract new talent and offer more comprehensive services to our community.” Dr. Plzak joined the practice in 2002, partnering with urologist Dr. John Adams, who has since relocated to Charleston with MUSC Health. A graduate of Duke University and the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Dr. Plzak completed his surgical internship and urology residency at the University of Pennsylvania. He also completed a fellowship in Incontinence and
Female Urology at Harvard University’s Beth Israel-Deaconess Medical Center. “Dr. Plzak has been a crucial member of the medical community and a valued partner on our medical staff. We look forward to working with him and his team to expand on their tradition of providing excellent urology services,” said BMH President and CEO Russell Baxley. Nancy Thomas, PA-C, has been part of the urology practice for the last six years. Prior to joining the team she spent four years as an emergency medicine physician assistant for TeamHealth and working in the BMH Emergency Department. She also worked as a general surgery physician assistant with Beaufort Memorial Surgical Specialists for three years. Kristin Callaghan, PA-C, joined the team in late 2022 following a seven-year tenure as an emergency medicine physician assistant at Beaufort Memorial Hospital. She also worked in emergency medicine in Charleston, and for a urology practice in Savannah, Ga. Beaufort Memorial Urology Specialists offers patients expertise and experience in the diagnosis and treatment of urinary system diseases and conditions, including those affecting the kidneys, bladder, adrenal glands, ureters, urethra and male reproductive organs. The practice can be reached at 843-524-7607 and will remain at its current location at 1055 Ribaut Road in Beaufort. For more information about Beaufort Memorial visit BeaufortMemorial.org.
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Page 24A
The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
HEALTH
A Breakdown On Aging Skin And How To Combat It By Dr. Oswald Mikell CONTRIBUTOR
As our bodies age fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots and sometimes hollowed areas around the eyes and cheeks begin to appear. You may also experience a noticeable loss of firmness on the hands and neck. And while you cannot stop or even slow down the aging process, there are some things you can do to help prevent signs of premature aging. Good skin care — including sun protection, gentle cleansing, and quitting smoking can keep your skin healthy and glowing for years to come. Q. What causes the skin to age? A. Over time, the skin loses its underlying layers of fat, and the production of collagen and elastin fibers slows. As a result, the skin loses its fullness. There are two distinct types of aging — aging caused by the genes we inherit, and aging caused by environmental
factors, such as exposure to the sun’s rays or smoking. Q: How much damage does sun exposure cause? A. Just a few minutes of sun exposure each day can cause noticeable changes to the skin over time. The term “photoaging” is used to describe this sun-related skin damage. Photoaging occurs over a period of years. With repeated exposure to the sun, the skin loses the ability to repair itself, and the damage accumulates.
on the face, hands, shoulders and arms — those areas most exposed to the sun. For cosmetic reasons, age spots can be lightened with skin-bleaching products or removed. However, avoiding the sun and using sunscreen can help avoid these dark skin spots.
Q. Older people often complain of itching skin. What causes this? A. Aging and sun damage reduce the capacity of the skin to moisturize itself — so the skin Dr. Oswald Lightsey becomes dry. Dry skin is one of Mikell the major causes of itchiness in aging skin. Severe itching as well as itching that does not respond to moisturizing should be evaluated by a dermatoloQ. What are liver spots? A. Liver spots — also called age spots and gist. solar lentigines — actually have nothing at Q. What treatments are available to rejuall to do with the liver, and they are not an indication of liver disease. They are flat gray, venate aging skin? A: There are a variety of treatments availbrown or black spots that usually appear
able to improve damaged skin. Injectable fillers, Botox, and Fraxel are suitable for people with busy lifestyles who do not want the inconvenience of downtime. Dermabrasion, laser resurfacing, chemical peeling, microdermabrasion, and some topical treatments can restore skin, giving it a smoother and refreshed appearance. If you want to diminish the signs of aging or have developed a condition that does not go away, call Dermatology Associates of the Lowcountry (843) 689-5259 (Hilton Head) or (843) 705-0840 (Bluffton / Okatie) to schedule a consultation. Remember, any abnormality of the skin should be looked at by a dermatologist. Dr. Oswald Lightsey Mikell, MD, certified by the American Board of Dermatology and the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, is the owner of Dermatology Associates of the Lowcountry.
Dec. 5, 2023 TURBO from page 16A He taught his daughters early on the importance of honoring America and remembering the troops who keep us safe. Heather, now a lieutenant commander, is third generation Navy “We have it pretty good here and it’s important to remember to show appreciation for those who keep us safe and free,” said the Pennsylvania native, and now Hilton Head resident since 2021. While she understands that life is busy and many people may want to help, but feel they don’t have time, Dyan Smith wants everyone to know that there are many ways to help and encourages potential volunteers to look into which activities are the best fit for them. “We have volunteers doing lots of different things. Some pack boxes, some write notes. It only takes five or 10 minutes to write a note to tell someone ‘thank you’ and that means so much to them when they are so far away,” Smith explained. “We get notes back saying ‘thank you for remembering me.’” Heather is continuing her naval service,
The Bluffton Sun and like many of her comrades is not home this holiday season. Still, Operation Turbo will be here to send a little piece of home to them.
Page 25A
Town To Host Reception To Honor Mayor Lisa Sulka’s 22 Years Of Service
Town of Bluffton leaders and staff are hosting a public reception before December’s Town Council meeting to honor Mayor Lisa Sulka’s more than two decades of service. Sulka did not run for re-election therefore, this is her last council meeting. The reception will be Tuesday, Dec. 12, from 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. at Town Hall, located at 20 Bridge Street. Light refreshments will be served. The December Town Council meeting begins at 5 p.m., immediately after the reception.
Lisa Sulka was first elected in 2004 to Bluffton’s Town Council. After one term on Town Council, Sulka was elected mayor in 2008 and has been serving as Bluffton’s top public official and cheerleader ever since. Prior to elected office, Sulka served two years with the Town’s Accomodations Tax Advisory Committee. She has called Bluffton – Hilton Head Island area home since her graduation from Clemson in 1982. Sulka is a realtor with Carson Realty, a full-service real estate firm in Bluffton.
A soldier opens a box from Operation Turbo.
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Page 26A
The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
HEALTH
Get That Refreshed Look In Just 10 Days And A Few Steps By Mathew T. Epps CONTRIBUTOR
With the holidays approaching many of us are planning to spend time with family and friends and for many of us we look in the mirror and wish we could dial back the hands of time for a refreshed, confident, and glowing look in as little as 10 days. Here’s how: Day 1. Seek a well-qualified injector to conservatively re-volumize the midface with an HA dermal filler… focusing on the common trouble spots– the cheeks and temples. The family of Restylane products are excellent. This line of filler material in skilled hands is highly predictable, soft, and very safe. Next, use a neurotoxin (Xeomin, Daxxify, Dysport) to elevate the brows and soften the crow’s feet. These products are similar to
treatment. When performed after a traditional Botox yet begin to work chemical peel, I term this a “Cleanmuch faster in as little as 24hrs Up” Hydrafacial. The Hydrafacial to seven days, and also at a better MD treatment for lack of a better price-point than Botox. It is a description is akin to a fancy deep win-win in the hands of an artistic wash cycle for skin. It will remove injector for rapid results. residue oils or skin residue to leave Then, rejuvenate fine lines your skin glowing! And, with all around the mouth and creepy that flaky skin gone your medical under eye skin with a medium Dr. Mathew Epps grade skincare regiment will be depth chemical peel immediately absorbed 30-40% better throughafter filler and neurotoxin placement. If your weekends are light, do the peel out the holiday season and beyond. Finally, after the Hydrafacial, refresh your on a Wednesday or Thursday afternoon and hair with anything from a simple blow-out you’ll be wrapped up peeling by Monday to a full color and style. You deserve it and or Tuesday depending upon the number of peel passes and the amount of damaged skin you’ll be glam for those holiday moments and memories! to be removed. If your weekends are busy, When it comes to aesthetic treatments, set the peel on Monday and you’ll be set by always do your research. It is especially the weekend. important to find an experienced aesthetic plastic surgeon or lower-level provider you Day 7-10. trust. Schedule a Syndeo Hydrafacial MD
Wishing you happy holidays! Mathew T. Epps, MD, MS, DABS is a plastic surgeon, triple-fellowship trained in facial, eyelid and breast surgery. mathewepps.com or info@dreppsmd.com
Refresh your face to put your best look forward for the holidays.
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Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
Town of Bluffton To Hold Special Election To Fill Vacancy Left By Toomer On Town Council
The Town of Bluffton Municipal Special Election will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024. Voters will cast their ballot for one town council seat to fill the unexpired term of Larry Toomer due to Mr. Toomer being elected mayor. This council seat expires in 2026. The filing period for candidates for Town Council opens Friday, Dec. 1 at noon and closes noon, Monday, Dec. 11. Late filings cannot be accepted. In accordance with the Town of Bluffton Code of Ordinances, and the South Carolina Code of Laws, election results are determined under the nonpartisan election and runoff election method. If needed, a runoff election will be held Tuesday, Feb. 27. The Town of Bluffton operates under a Council-Manager form of government, with a mayor and four additional council members, all of whom are elected at-large. Beginning in January 2022, Council members are
compensated $11,000 annually for their service. The mayor is compensated $16,500 annually. Council member terms are staggered every two years. Each term is four years in length. For more information about filing for candidacy, please contact Town Clerk Marcia Hunter at 843.706.4505 or email (mhunter@ townofbluffton.com).
Candidates wishing to file for the office of town council must do the following: 1. Must be a South Carolina registered
voter who resides within the Town of Bluffton. 2. Go online to the SC Election Commission Website to obtain and complete a Statement of Intention of Candidacy – Non-Partisan Form. Form can be accessed at https://tinyurl. com/BlufftonElection. 3. Pay the required filing fee (i.e., $100 for Town Council) exercising one of two options: Pay fee in-person with Town Clerk Marcia
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Hunter or provide Hunter with your credit card information and she will file this fee online. 4. Candidates are also reminded that they are required to complete forms required by the South Carolina Ethics Commission online at https://ethics.sc.gov/ campaigns. Town Clerk Marcia Hunter will provide a packet of information for each candidate after he or she files. This packet will include further instructions about all requirements and how to set up an account with the SC Ethics Commission. 5. Recommended filing procedure: Make an appointment with Town Clerk Marcia Hunter and the candidate and Town Clerk will fill out and file all necessary paperwork during this appointment. Please bring government identification card, voter registration card and filing payment to
Please see VOTER on page 62A
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IS YOUR BUSINESS. HOW OLD YOU ARE Page 28A IS YOUR BUSINESS.
HOW YOUNG YOU HOW OLD YOU ARE HOW YOUNG YOU HOW YOU ARE IS YOUR BUSINESS. LOOK IS OLD OUR LOOK IS OUR IS YOUR BUSINESS. HOW YOUNG YOU BUSINESS. BUSINESS.
The Bluffton Sun
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GRANTS from page 14A mance Equipment program submitted by Melanie Nolan, May River High School for its Cultivating the Seeds of Success program submitted by Joseph Williams, and Bluffton Elementary School for its VEX123” Robotics and Coding for Early Elementary program submitted by Dara Kappel. “It’s exciting to be a part of helping the teachers and students of our district by awarding these grants,” said Lisa Carroll, the Foundation’s Board Chair. “Due to the overwhelming generosity of the Foundation’s supporters, thousands of students throughout the county will be impacted through the implementation of these creative and innovative projects.” The Foundation for Educational Excellence raises funds to support the mission and goals of the Beaufort County School District by furthering student instructional activities and projects through Innovative Teacher Grants, Innovative School Resource Grants and Student Enrichment Grants. Established in 2007, the Foundation awarded its first grants in 2009 and has awarded over $350,000 in grants to the teachers and students in the public school system since its inception benefitting thousands of students
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“At Pinnacle, we want our patients to feel like they are up with the latest advances, but our practice uniquely part of our family and we strive to treat them that way separates the gimmicks from the options that produce from the first time they visit. We pride ourselves on the results. It is our philosophy to listen first to our patients’ customer experience. It is important to always keep goals and then help guide them to the treatments and up with the latest advances, but our practice uniquely procedures that will help us all work toward that shared separates the gimmicks from the options that produce goal. Yourourinner and outer be in “At Pinnacle,results. we want patients to feelyou likeshould they are partharmony.” of our family It is our philosophy to listen first to our patients’ and we strive to treat them that way from the first time they visit. We pride goals and then help guide them to the treatments and ourselves on the customer experience.Board It is importantCertified to always keep up Dr. Audrey Klenke, MD, FACS, procedures that will help us all work toward that shared with the latest advances, but our practice uniquely separates the gimmicks goal. that Yourproduce inner andresults. outer you be in harmony.” from the options It is should our philosophy to listen first
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Dec. 5, 2023 across the county each year. Grants are applied for and awarded once a year. Projects are chosen on their merit by board members of the Foundation. Innovative Teacher Grants are for learning experiences above and beyond the normal classroom like science projects, arts performances, and robotic materials and provide unique learning opportunities that are not funded through traditional budgets. Innovative School Resource Grants are for innovative instructional school-wide projects. These grants help spark the imaginations of students to create a life-long interest in learning. Often these grant awards provide multi-year learning impact. The Foundation is supported by individual donations and these local charities: The Bargain Box of Hilton Head, Friends of Callawassie Island, Italian-American Club of Hilton Head, Moss Creek Charitable Fund and Women In Philanthropy of Hilton Head. We are grateful for their ongoing support of our work. The Foundation is a fund of Community Foundation of the Lowcountry and a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Donations are tax deductible as allowed by law and can be made at https://www.foundationedexcellence.com/donate
Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
Page 29A
Holidays Bring Unique Opportunities To Buy, Sell Homes By Dan Prud’homme
al of visitors and potential buyers keeps the market active. CONTRIBUTOR As of October 2023, Bluffton’s real estate market maintained a healthy Bluffton is renowned for its vibalance. The median listing home brant culture and warm hospitality. price hovered around $599K. But believe it or not, this charm Homes sold close to their asking extends to its real estate market, esprices, and the average time on the pecially during the holiday season. market was about 42 days. This staThis festive period, encompassing bility is a stark contrast to the 2008 Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukrecession, characterized by forekah, Kwanzaa, and other celebraclosures and a market downturn. tions, brings a unique dynamic to Bluffton continues to be an attracthe local housing scene. While the Dan Prud’homme tive location for home investment, number of listings usually decreasand the holiday season presents an es as residents focus on family ideal opportunity for such ventures. time, this doesn’t signal a halt in real estate The holiday season’s limited inventory activities. Instead, it opens up distinctive benefits those considering selling their opportunities for both buyers and sellers in homes. With fewer properties on the this bustling town. market, individual homes may draw more During the holiday months, a trend of attention from potential buyers, including reduced house listings is observed. Many visitors who are serious about making a homeowners opt not to sell, leading to a decrease in inventory. However, this doesn’t purchase. Sellers listing their homes during quiet the market. On the contrary, the arriv- this period often find earnest buyers eager to
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close deals swiftly. For buyers, the holiday season can be equally advantageous. They may encounter better deals from sellers and face less competition from other buyers, making it a prime time to explore the market. Despite a perceived quietness, the holiday season in Bluffton is ripe with potential. Whether looking to buy or sell, the market’s unique characteristics during these months
can be beneficial. Wishing everyone who lives or visits Bluffton a delightful holiday season filled with joy and prosperity, and may it be a time of fruitful opportunities in the real estate market. Dan Prud’homme of The Prud’homme Team at William Raveis Real Estate, dan@danprudhomme.com theprudhommeteam.com
Page 30A BIRDWATCHERS from page 18A Several other teams consisting of a driver, scribe, spotter, and photographer will be on golf carts traveling through various neighborhoods. Both groups will begin their count at 4 p.m. The amount of time spent by each group can range from an hour to 2.5 hours. All of the available slots for both groups filled quickly after the announcement was sent out by the bird club, but there is one other way for bird lovers to count: from the comfort of one’s own home watching the activity in the trees and at the feeders. That count may begin at 10 a.m. If you are interested in participating in the Sun City backyard count, please contact Noah Rosenstein at 518-496-7301 or nbrosenstein@gmail.com. Participants will receive the official Audubon species checklist to use in the count. When volunteers are finished counting, return checklist to the Lake House Dockside room on the North side. After dedicating time counting indoors or outside, refreshments will be available at the Lakehouse Dockside from 3 to 7 p.m.
The Bluffton Sun For birders who want a refresher, volunteers who are new to the project or anyone who wants to know more about birds that live in the Okatie area, there will be a Bird ID Class at 2 p.m. Dec. 9 in the Edisto Room of Pinckney Hall. The presentation will include slides of some of regular winter visitors as well as year-round resident birds. The Hilton Head circle will conduct its count on Dec. 15. Stephen Dickson is the coordinator at Colleton River Plantation, which falls within the island’s circle. “We had about 40 people last year. I think we had about 75 different species, and probably 1,200 birds” Dickson said. “There was a Western Kingbird, which was unusual. The rest of the birds were fairly normal.” Hilton Head Island Audubon will host a meeting and presentation at 7 p.m. Dec. 7 in the First Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall at 540 William Hilton Parkway with a reception followed by a program lead by Bob Speare. To participate in the Island’s CBC, email Susan Murphy at HHICBC@ gmail.com. Go to www.hiltonheadaudubon.org for more information. For those who are truly independent and
Dec. 5, 2023
Photo by Julia Parrish The red-bellied woodpecker was one of nearly 3,000 birds counted by the Sun City Hilton Head Bird Club during the 2022 Christmas Bird Count. Participants will repeat the activity this month.
want to fly on their own, a handy phone app called eBird will help track the birds as well as help identify by description or photo. Download the app from the online store and follow directions. It’s a handy tool
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for those who like hanging out on their porch, walking nature trails or even while playing golf should some raucous bird fly past the tee box. For more information, go to eBird.org. According to the Audubon website, “The data collected by observers over the past century allow Audubon researchers, conservation biologists, wildlife agencies and other interested individuals to study the long-term health and status of bird populations across North America. The long-term perspective is vital for conservationists. It informs strategies to protect birds and their habitat, and helps identify environmental issues with implications for people as well.” The Environmental Protection Agency included CBC data as one of 26 indicators of climate change in a 2012 report. Audubon’s 2014 Climate Change Report was a comprehensive study that predicted how climate change could affect the ranges of 588 North American birds. Models indicated that 314 species will lose more than 50 percent of their current climatic range by 2080. “It’s important to have the bird count because it’s an honest-to-goodness citizen-sci-
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Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
A Cross Schools’ Newspaper Cross off Campus Paxton Jones, Ethan Land, Madeline Holmes, and Payton Ward, upper school students at Cross Schools, choose what they love doing when it comes to volunteering off campus. Holmes (junior) and Ward (senior) share a love of caring for neglected animals at Palmetto Animal League (PAL) adoption center, a private, non-profit, nokill animal rescue organization located in Okatie, SC. The students spent this past summer working at the shelter and connected over their shared interest. How did they both come to choose PAL as a focus for their volunteering? Madeline explains that prompting from her mother to help at PAL finally convinced her to sign up. “I kind of dragged my feet about signing up in the beginning because who the heck wants to do work over the summer? I signed up and lo and behold it worked just fine for me! I’m a big cat person so obviously things clicked in no time,” explains Holmes. She now volunteers once or twice a week after school. Payton Ward began volunteering at PAL in her junior year and felt right at home in the environment she loved. This year, she volunteers weekly during her senior year. “At first, I wasn’t exactly sure where to volunteer. However, after volunteering at PAL and taking care of a variety of neglected animals, I’ve found that I can collect community service hours by doing something I love!” Sophomore Paxton Jones serves at Bluffton Self Help and started volunteering in early June. Continued on page 4
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
25 Years of Cross Schools in Bluffton
By: Alexandra Homann Steeped in tradition and now an integral part of the Bluffton community, Cross Schools, originally Cross Episcopal School, was established in 1998. Housed on the current Buckwalter campus, the school’s name was changed in 2005 after the construction of this new campus. Founder Father Chuck Owens explains that the symbolism of the Cross is essential to the name, as it is the center of all Christian faiths. In 1998, the campus was located on Ulmer Road in Old Town Bluffton. The town was one square mile characterized by dirt roads and familiar shady oaks, with the nearest high school on Hilton Head Island. The genesis of the school began when a group of parents attending the Church of the Cross decided they needed an education, infused in the Christian faith, for their children. They approached Father Owens, a former headmaster of Thomas Sumter Academy and a math teacher at Beaufort Academy who had attended independent schools himself, to found a school that best fit the needs of the greater community. The first permanent teacher and then headmistress, Sandra Decker, began teaching six first graders in a one-room school. Father Owens describes her as a “consummate professional educator” who was never “possessed by her position as headmistress”. One of Cross’ highest student recognition awards is named after her. The community lent its support and founding parent, Mr. Robert Trask, explains that a small group of ladies who volunteered their time to read helped make Cross a “special place”. Motivated by values developed from hardships experienced living through
World War One and World War Two, with God’s grace “they gave their time and benefit of their experiences willingly,” explains Father Owens. The early days brought challenges, as most beginnings do, but Father Owens saw the opportunity to establish a school as “a clean slate” and, with the benefit of his past experience as an educator, he overcame what Mr. Trask describes as “an overwhelming fear of failure”, “competition”, and limited access to all the “bells and whistles” that a new project brings. Both men highlight that looking to God to get through these struggles proved powerful. Cross has been expanding at a steady, sustainable rate. As a visionary, Father Owens finds he has to be patient as his dreams come to fruition. He explains that Cross “will be huge, but in pockets of small”. The Buckwalter Campus is one of those pockets, with future expansions planned.
With this end game in mind, Father Owens believes that Cross Schools is here to “maximize the gifts and talents of students, and to [realize] dreams”. From those early days, the goal to provide academically challenging coursework and an education in Christ for Lowcountry families remains steadfast and is echoed in the school’s mission statement.
Photo Credits: Cross 2002-2003 Yearbook
Pictured above and right: Cross Episcopal School students pose for a group photo in front of the Ulmer Road campus and headmistress, Sandra Decker, smiles for the 2002-2003 yearbook.
Photo Credits: Cross stock photography
Pictured above: An aerial photo depicts the current Buckwalter campus.
Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
Page 33A
By Autumn Osher A variety of Cross Schools students have attended schools in foreign countries. Dashnelle Elysee, a sophomore at Cross, was born in Haiti before moving to the U.S. in 2018. In Haiti, she started school at three-years-old, and the institution was integrated into the community “like a big family, where you know everyone and they watch your back.”
Junior, Aiden Osher, spent six years living in Japan. He attended three different schools across his primary, secondary, and high-school years. Aiden describes the community within his schools, “The social dynamics were localized into small cliques, not much intermingling happened, but these smaller groups were connected, I talked to a greater number of friends more often.” José David Garcia, a junior at Cross, was born in Venezuela and lived there until moving to the U.S. in 2015. José
claims that his school life in Venezuela was similar to school at Cross, “everyone was friendly and everyone was easy to talk to.” Regarding his school’s education system, José found the school’s approach effective, “with a lot of lecturing and note taking,” he says. Despite their different approaches, schools around the world all share a similar goal: to raise and educate good citizens within their culture.
Pictured above: Dashnelle Elysee, six-years-old, in her Haitian school uniform.
Pictured above: Aiden Osher with his mother, Olivia, and younger sister, Autumn, in Japan.
Pictured above: José David Garcia, six-years-old, in desk, ready to learn.
School Around the World
Cultural Ties - Business Thrives
Pictured above: Mrs. Rosa Garcia, of Rosa’s Artisan Bakery, holds a variety of freshly-baked breads.
By Alexandra Homann Rosa’s Artisan Bakery puts a spotlight on cooperative family entrepreneurs in the Bluffton community. The Garcia family, and their Cross students José David, José Gabriel, and José Miguel Garcia, all work to make their small family business a success. Established about eight years ago, when the family arrived in the U.S. from Venezuela, Rosa’s Artisan Bakery developed from her love of cooking. She remembers fondly helping her mother cook and eventually taking over that household function as her mother worked outside the home. “From there it became my great love. I am fascinated by cooking and [the opportunity it gives me] to be creative and experiment with different seasonings and ingredients,” explains Rosa. While some of her customers are looking for a taste of home, she notes that their demographics range between
Honduras, El Salvador, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Colombia, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, all joined by a shared love of food. Mrs. Garcia comments that food connects cultures all over the world, as they borrow from each other. “We have hot dogs from the United States, pizza from Italy, tacos from Mexico, and of course, pastelitos, tequeños, empanadas, golfeados, and sweet bread, all from Venezuela. “Para estar vivos hay que alimentarse or to be alive you have to eat,” she reflects and what people eat deepens their connection to culture. Food binds people to their past, encourages socialization in the present, and creates memories for the future.” Rosa’s Artisan Bakery ties people to Venezuelan culture and with cultural ties - business thrives.
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The Bluffton Sun
Steps For World
Youth around the world are making a difference. Cross Schools’ student Max Homann is working on a project to do just that. The project, Steps For World, is a developing youth-led charity organization which aims to help. Their first project is to help provide athletic shoes for underserved youth in East Africa through shoe collection drives in the Lowcountry. Max comments that most kids in the Lowcountry have a pair of sneakers to wear to school, sport and for outdoor activities. Contrastingly, the lack of athletic shoes for similar activities in this region of Africa is often the barrier to participation in education, health services, and recreational activities. The Steps For World team includes Max as president, Ayanfeoluwa Banigbe as vice-president, Zion Fennell as treasurer, and Alex Homann as head of fundraising. Steps For World has also recruited multiple students from different schools in the area to represent the organization at their school and support the foundation’s collection drives. Max explains that while Steps For World is just beginning its mission, the group is in communication with a lawyer to help with incorporation as well as applying for a 501c3 nonprofit status. The team is currently working on logistics and has plans for shoe drives during 2024. Please visit the Instagram page @steps.for.world and website www.stepsforworld.org for more information.
Cross Internships Internships are important for high-schoolers: they establish experience in different areas of work, give an idea of what a real career would be like, and let students dip their toes into the world of business. Cross Schools is making it a priority to offer more internship opportunities to upperclassmen, as they are a vital element to success. Cross senior, Alex Homann, interns at the Law Office of Delighla Brehm, who specializes in family law, real estate law, and estate planning. Three times a week she assists Mrs. Brehm by helping her with her work and Alex learns more about what she is interested in.
Photo Credit: Alex Homann
Pictured above: Alex Homann working at her internship analyzing court cases with her mentor, Delilah Brehm.
Cross Off Campus
Photo Credit: Payton Ward
Pictured below: The Steps For World team, Zion Fennell, Ayanfeoluwa Banigbe, and Max Homann.
Continued from page 1 “In total I volunteered 100 hours and I loved every minute of it. They’ve asked me to come back and help with the holiday activities and I am looking forward to that,” he explains enthusiastically. “Bluffton Self Help was really my first job. I learned about responsibility, to be on time and to complete all of the tasks that I have been assigned.” Ethan Land has been giving back to his community his whole life and is earning Eagle Scout recognition, the highest rank in the Boy Scouts movement. Ethan committed to redoing Cross Youth Group’s activity field located on the church’s Mission Mall in Bluffton. Improvements included installing a volleyball net, a firepit with two benches and four picnic tables. Materials were donated by The Barber Shop, Eastman Marine Construction and from friends and family. He finds designing his Eagle Scout project to contribute to a community need is rewarding.
Dec. 5, 2023
Alumni Column
Savannah Young, pictured below, is first to feature in the new Cross alumni column. In catching up with where she is in the world now, she comments, “I have been in school my whole life, LOL! I went to undergrad at the University of South Carolina where I studied Pharmaceutical Sciences with a minor in Spanish. I am currently in pharmacy school at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC where I will graduate with my Doctorate of Pharmacy degree in May.” Savannah encourages alumni to keep Cross Talk updated on their milestones and life events for this column. If you would like to be featured in our alumni column email the team @slip.stream@crossschools.org.
First Homecoming Six seniors were nominated for Cross Schools’ first ever homecoming court: Alex Homann, Payton Ward, Jaylen Hamilton, Ethan Land, Xavier Toles, and Imisi Banigbe. Selected for their intense school spirit, these six students represent Cross and what it means to be an exemplary role model for their peers. Within the court, Alex Homann was crowned Homecoming Queen and Ethan Land, King.
Photo Credit: Luis Barero
Pictured above: The 2023 Homecoming Court with US principal Stacie Greene and US teacher Lauren French. Not pictured: Jaylen Hamilton
Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
Page 35A
Women’s Summit Promotes Community Not Competition By Shannon Copcutt EDITOR
The wheels are already turning for the next Women’s Summit of the Lowcountry, a once-a-year event that gathers women business leaders, and movers and shakers to share best practices, network and give back. Slated for March 1, 2024 at the prestigious Belfair, the 4th Annual Women’s Summit, started by Sierra Pollard, Professor of Innovation at University of Florida and CEO & Founder of Winnovation Agency Marketing, serves as a catalyst for impactful conversations, creating an environment where attendees can ignite their businesses, amplify their services, and cultivate enduring connections. The event, founded and run by Pollard, has become a beacon of empowerment and networking within the South Carolina community, particularly shining a light on the Lowcountry area as a must-attend networking event of the year offering a much-needed platform for women from various walks of life to forge connections, celebrate achievements, and offer mutual support as they embark on entrepreneurial ventures, promote their services, or simply seek to build lasting relationships. The event also coincides with the celebration of the area’s most remarkable women, with a tradition of honoring a standout individual each year. In 2021, for instance, News 2 Today named one woman as the Lowcountry’s most Remarkable Woman, acknowledging her contributions with a donation to a charity of her choice. “We offer an exclusive community platform for women business owners to build community over competition,” said Pollard. “The aim is to build a sense of community for women leaders in the Lowcountry.” Sponsorship opportunities are available for the event through its Sponsorship Showcase, crafted to highlight the distinct tiers of sponsorship available at the Women’s Summit. This platform serves as a vibrant avenue for our esteemed business sponsors to present and market their array of products and services within an immersive and engaging
setting. Offering three comprehensive sponsorship levels – Silver, Gold, and Platinum – the Showcase embodies the event’s commitment to ensuring optimal visibility and assistance for each sponsor, guided by our team of seasoned professionals. According to Pollard approximately 120 are expected at this next Women’s Summit of the Lowcountry, which shows continued growth from the first event in 2020. Pollard, a resident of Bluffton, has a Masters degree in Product Innovation. She has also written the INNOVATE Series.
Have A Light, Bright,Safe & Happy HolidaySeason! Palmetto Electric Cooperative is grateful for our members this holiday season and every day. May your home radiate peace, comfort, joy and warmth always.
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
FINANCIAL
It Is Time To Consider Year-End Charitable Giving By Luke Gawronski
the amount of the contribution. If you claim written acknowledgment of the contribution (AGI). For example, your defrom the charity. If you make any noncash a charitable deduction for any contribution duction for gifts of cash to public CONTRIBUTOR charities is generally limited to 60% of $250 or more, you must substantiate Please see CHARITABLE on page 41A the contribution with a contemporaneous of your AGI for the year (50% in With the holiday season upon us California). Other gifts to charity and the end of the year approachare typically limited to 20%, 30% ing, we pause to give thanks for or 50% of your AGI. Charitable deour blessings and the people in our ductions that exceed the AGI limits lives. It is also a time when charimay generally be carried over and table giving often comes to mind. Luke Gawronski deducted over the next five years, The tax benefits associated with subject to the income percentage charitable giving could potentially limits in those years. enhance your ability to give and should Make sure you retain proper substantiabe considered as part of your year-end tax tion of your charitable contribution. In order planning. to claim a charitable deduction for any contribution of cash, a check, or other monetary Tax Deduction For Charitable Gifts gift, you must maintain a record of such If you itemize deductions on your federal income tax return, you can generally deduct contributions through a bank record (such as a cancelled check, a bank or credit union your gifts to qualified charities. This may statement, or a credit card statement) or a also help you potentially increase your gift. written communication (such as a receipt or However, keep in mind that the amount of your deduction may be limited to certain letter) from the charity showing the name of As we approach year-end, let’s explore the power of giving back. Discover how the tax benefits associated with the charity, the date of the contribution, and charitable donations can amplify your impact and become a key element in your year-end tax planning. percentages of your adjusted gross income
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Page 37A
Beaufort Memorial Pulmonary Specialists Practice Welcomes Experienced Nurse Practitioner
sity Center, Mich. She worked as a To promote respiratory health registered nurse in urgent, intensive and provide greater access to puland emergency care, in addition to monary care for area residents, caring for patients recovering from Beaufort Memorial has added an open-heart surgery before returnexperienced and board-certified ing to school to become a nurse nurse practitioner to its Beaufort practitioner. Memorial Pulmonary Specialists After earning her nurse practipractice in Okatie. tioner degree and several advanced Shawna Nievierowski, FNPShawna Nievierowski intensive and critical care certificaBC, works with the practice’s tions, she was recruited into pulmoclinical team to prevent, diagnary care where she developed a passion for nose and treat acute and chronic diseases the specialty that she’s now worked in for and conditions of the respiratory system, more than a decade. including lung cancer screening and care Nievierowski joins Dr. Chris Stafford, coordination. In addition to seeing patients a board-certified specialist in pulmonary in the practice, she works in the Intensive disease and critical care medicine, and Risa Care Unit (ICU) at Beaufort Memorial Hospital, treating some of the most severely Linford, a board-certified nurse practitioner, at the practice, which is located in Beaufort ill patients. Memorial Okatie Medical Pavilion, 122 Nievierowski holds a Master of Science Okatie Center Blvd., Okatie. and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Saginaw Valley State University in Univer-
Second Helpings Addresses Local Food Insecurity With Donation From Food Lion
Second Helpings has received $2,000 from the Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation to help nourish neighbors experiencing hunger. The Feeding the Hungry grant supports Second Helpings’ purchase of supplemental healthy food for the food pantries, soup kitchens, and family programs it serves as well as by helping neighbors increase their access to nutritious food and providing nutrition education to eliminate health risks for those experiencing food insecurity. Executive Director Marcus Tanner praised Food Lion for its support of Second Helpings. In 2022, Food Lion stores donated thousands of pounds of food to Second Helpings for the feeding programs in the area. “Food Lion is a true partner to us in helping our community. Their stores are always generous in contributing food. We could not serve so many in need without this support and are grateful for this
financial donation.” The Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation is committed to supporting families facing food insecurity. Established in 2001, the foundation provides financial support for organizations dedicated to feeding local neighbors in the communities it serves. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded more than $18.1 million in grants. Second Helpings is a nonprofit food rescue organization striving to eliminate hunger in the South Carolina Lowcountry. They collect and distribute food which would have otherwise ended up in landfills. Its 368 volunteers deliver 3.2 million pounds of food annually, free of charge, to over 50 agencies in Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton counties. Second Helpings is a United Way Agency. For more information, visit www.secondhelpingslc.org , find us on Facebook or call 843-689-3689.
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The Bluffton Sun
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Bluffton Police Hold 2nd Annual Shop With A Cop The Bluffton Police Department will hold its second holiday event “Shop with Cop,” Saturday, Dec. 16. The brainchild of a Bluffton police officer, this event began in 2018. Each Bluffton school resource officer selects two children from a financially challenged family. There are nine schools in Bluffton. Those 18 children receive a $100 gift card and with a Bluffton police officer, go to WalMart and “Shop with a Cop.” The students use the gift cards to purchase holiday gifts for their families or themselves. “The Bluffton Community has always been a community focused on making each other’s lives better,” Chief Babkiewicz said. “These two programs are a way for our Officers, our community, and these children to share the joy of giving to someone who is less fortunate than them.” “These events give our Community and Police Department a tremendous opportunity to make a positive impact on our young community and to remind ourselves what this season is all about.” Chief Babkiewicz
said. How you can participate/donate: •Drop off unwrapped toys to the Bluffton Police Department or Town Hall for children, infants to 15 years old. Deadline is Friday, Dec. 8. •Donate to “Shop with a Cop.” Send donations, via the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry (CFL), to the Bluffton Police Department Benevolence Fund. The link is: https://lowcountry.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/ create/fund?funit_id=1039 •If you want to mail a check, please send in c/o The Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, P.O. Box 23019, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina 29925. CFL is a 501(c ) (3) and donations are tax-deductible. Please write “Shop with A Cop” in the memo section. •If you need more information about partnering with the Bluffton Police Department for these events, please contact Chief Joseph Babkiewicz at: (Email) jbabkiewicz@ townofbluffton.com (Office): 843.706.5417
Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
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It’s Time To Get Uncomfortable: How To Discuss Estate Planning With Your Family Members By Jada Gaines CONTRIBUTOR
Truth is, even in very close families, discussions about estate planning are uncomfortable. It’s the dreaded conversation that many do not want to have – but need to have. Often times it’s difficult to know the right time to bring up the subject, or even what to say. Children of elderly parents are often concerned that they’ll offend their parents. While parents often worry that their children may not be able to handle the conversation or will get too emotional. As we know, death is inevitable. Passing without having an estate plan cannot only make the process of settling an estate stressful, costly, and challenging for your loved ones but may also cause a disharmony between your family members. Below are a few tips to help families approach the topic and have that uncomfortable conversation.
For Parents: 1) Discussing death and incapacity is a frowned upon dinner conversation for the majority– so don’t ruin the meal. Enjoy the food, time and laughter. 2) Once you’ve decided to have the conversation, give your family some forewarning about the discussion to come. 3) Inform your children what your estate plan says and why. Explain your choices and the decisions that you’ve made. 4) Discuss what will happen if you become incapacitated. Lifetime planning is an important part of any well-crafted estate plan and if you’ve executed a power of attorney your family should know. 5) If you already have an estate plan in place – Great! Discuss whether any changes may need to be made -i.e. has an event triggered a required update to your current plan etc.? 6) Tell your family who your attorney or financial planner is.
7) Make the conversation educational. For example, you can use the conversation to discuss financial concepts with your children who may be in the earlier or prime stages of their careers. 8) Be transparent, open and inclusive during the discussion. 9) Tell your family where your estate planning and other important documents are located. Its best to keep the items in a location that your family (spouse, child, personal representative, or trustee) is aware of and can access upon death or emergency. Remember, estate plans are worthless if they can’t be found! For Children: 1) Casually bring up the topic. You can mention that you read an article or attended an estate planning workshop that discussed various challenges that can arise in situations where someone died intestate. 2) Ask your parents if they have an estate plan in place or if they would like to meet with an estate planning attorney.
3) Be clear about your reasons for bringing up the topic and express the concerns you may have. 4) Don’t pressure your parents but stress the importance and benefits of this conversation to everyone affected. 5) Ask “what if” questions that involve both lifetime and end of life planning. 6) Ask where estate planning and other important documents are located. 7) Be understanding and patient. 8) Be willing to listen. 9) Approach the subject with love, respect, genuine concern, and empathy. Remind your parents that they’re not alone in the process and you’re here to help them. Be comfortable with being uncomfortable. The conversation may be tough, but it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. Jada Gaines is an associate attorney with Elder Law & Estate Planning Center in Bluffton. hiltonheadelderlaw.com
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
LEGAL
Planning To Avoid Family Disputes, Taxes, And Probate Raises Some Unique Questions By Mark Winn CONTRIBUTOR
Planning to avoid family disputes, taxes, and probate raises some questions. Let’s take a look. 1. What will your legacy be? 2. Will your family argue? 3. Will you minimize, avoid or defer taxes? 4. Will you spare your family from unnecessary and complicated Court involvement? 5. Will you leave assets to children so they are protected from (a) lawsuits (divorce), (b) estate taxes, and (c) will stay in your family? If it is a blended family (2nd marriage) care needs to be taken to ensure your wishes will be followed. The answer to those questions depends in
large part on whether or not you have an updated estate plan. If you have moved from another state recently, or more than five years have passed since you prepared legal papers, it is a good idea to get your papers updated, or at least reviewed by a professional. Laws change and are always changing. With an updated pour over will, Mark Winn revocable trust, powers of attorney, and updated beneficiary designations on life insurance, annuities, and retirement plans, and close attention to the best manner of owning your property, you can make sure court complications will be minimal, family disputes will be much less likely, and your assets will stay in your family protected from lawsuits, loss to in-laws and unnecessary taxes. If you fail to plan ahead, then the
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Contributed by: Mark F. Winn, Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Estate Planning, a local asset protection, estate planning and elder law attorney. www.mwinnesq.com
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Open The Lines Of Communication To Promote Healthy Kids
The Lowcountry Alliance For Healthy Youth, (LCAHY) announced several tips to help commemorate National Communicate With Your Kids Day, which is celebrated on Dec. 5 to raise awareness of the importance of communicating with your children. According to the organization, which works with children, teens and the community to promote positive youth development by addressing substance use/abuse and related risk behaviors, children who can express themselves clearly and effectively have greater opportunities to form friendships, work together productively, and boost their sense of self-worth and confidence.
5 Facts About Kids and Communication 1. Communication with children is essen-
CHARITABLE from page 36A contributions, there are additional requirements. Year-End Tax Planning When making charitable gifts, you should consider them as part of your yearend tax planning. You generally want to time your recognition of income so that it will be taxed at the lowest rate possible, and time your deductible expenses so they can be claimed in years when you are in a higher tax bracket. A tax professional can help you evaluate your individual tax situation. A Word Of Caution Be sure to deal with recognized charities and be wary of charities with similar-sounding names. It is common for scam artists to impersonate charities
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tial to their relationships and development. 2. Good communication involves listening in ways that make children feel valued. 3. A child who’s good at communicating verbally will likely perform better in school. 4. Children thrive with words of encouragement and praise. 5. Children will respond better to a smile than a frown. Lowcountry Alliance For Healthy Youth, (LCAHY) is a grant recipient of the DrugFree Communities (DFC) Support Program grant awarded by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) and administered by the CDC. The Community Foundation of the LowCountry serves as our fiscal agent.
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
Sea Turtle Patrol: Safeguarding The Future Of Sea Turtles By Glenda Harris CONTRIBUTOR
A recent event at Poseidon Rooftop Bar was held in celebration of sea turtles and the success of the 2023 Sea Turtle Patrol (STP) Hilton Head Island. Led by the director of STP, Amber Kuehn and Dr. Brian Shamblin of the University of Georgia, attendees enjoyed good food and drink and the informative discussion regarding new and continuing efforts to protect and conserve habitat for sea turtles. They also shared the results of these efforts including DNA discoveries on the island. The results of the 2023 Sea Turtle Patrol season were about the same as last year with a total of 353 nests on the island’s shores. Surprisingly, this included three Green sea turtle nests and one Kemp’s Ridley nest. The Loggerhead is the most commonly seen along the Carolina coast; however, the nests of the Leatherback, Kemp’s Ridley and Green turtle are sometimes found. Turtle
nesting season runs from May through October with some sea turtles showing up in shallow waters as early as April. The results from the last few years are a huge increase compared to before the turtle patrol started almost three decades ago, said Keuhn. Sea Turtle Patrol Hilton Head Island and many other sea turtle patrols along the southeastern coastal waters have a common mission to educate residents and the general public about known dangers and share the many ways we can welcome these ancient sea travelers to a safe environment along our shores. Kuehn said, “The best thing you can do to help the species is to continue turtle-friendly beach practices year-round. Filling holes, picking up trash, knocking down sandcastles, don’t leave your things behind. It becomes critical when the sea turtles start nesting, but if you get in the habit of doing it, you don’t have to think about it later.” According to Sea Turtle Patrol Hilton Head Island, the University of Georgia’s
nesting sea turtles and since 2010, a sample has been collected from every known sea turtle nest in Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. Samples are then processed at the University of Georgia
Warnell School of Forestry & Natural Resources has been devoted to a project that can make significant strides in sea turtle population recovery. Dr. Brian Shamblin developed a method to identify individual
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The Bluffton Sun
Insufficient Savings Leads To Mental Stress
By Jake Hill CONTRIBUTOR
It is no secret that Americans’ stress increases during the holiday season. This can lead to physical illness, depression, anxiety, and substance misuse. Financial pressure is the biggest stressor because of the temptation to spend money families don’t have. As debt increases, mental health suffers. According to a new survey from DebtHammer, almost half of Americans don’t have enough savings to cover an emergency $400 expense, and 5% of those surveyed said if faced with such an expense, they would suffer extreme depression or other mental Low savings can lead to stress and depression, especially during the holidays. health issues. Due to a lack of emergency savings, Key takeaways A 2021 survey showed that three in five almost half of Americans have had to turn • Borrowers can’t afford to repay the Americans feel their mental health is negato payday lenders for quick cash. Because loans. Though a $200 loan with a $30 fee tively impacted by the holidays. these loans are so difficult to repay, the loans doesn’t sound like much, borrowers simply Prolonged exposure to stress can lead intensify borrowers’ stress levels, and as the can’t afford to make the lump-sum payment to mental and physical health problems, holiday season approaches, so does the presin two weeks. According to statistics, about including death in severe cases. sure to spend money people don’t have. 19% repaid their loan late, while another
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14% got an extension or rolled it over into a new payday loan. About 5% never repaid the loan at all. • Americans are using loans to repay other loans. More than half of payday loan users borrowed from a payday lender and used the money to pay another loan. • We overspend for the holidays according to statistics. Approximately 12% of payday loan borrowers have used the loans to pay for holiday gifts or other holiday-related expenses, like meals and travel. To read more about this, check out the full report at https://debthammer.org/paydayloan-use-survey/. DebtHammer is an industry leader in the business of fighting to get Americans out of debt. Please email media@debthammer.org for more information or if you would like to schedule a phone or video call. Jake Hill is DebtHammer founder and CEO
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The Bluffton Sun
Is Multitasking Culture Beneficial Or Harmful?
By Earle Everett CONTRIBUTOR
The dictionary explains multitasking as the performance of more than one task at the same time. Other sources say human multitasking is the concept that one can split their attention on more than one task or activity at the same time such as speaking on the phone while driving. Stated benefits of multitasking are primarily increasing productivity and completing more tasks in a given period of time. The downside, however, far outweighs any advantages including wasted time due to human context switching and becoming prone to errors due to insufficient attention among other things. Perhaps the most significant downside factor to multitasking is its possible effect on initiating or advancing ADHD, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The Mayo Clinic indicates that this disorder is affecting our society in escalating numbers while describing ADHD behavior as follows:
. Inattentiveness, hyperactivity, impulsivity. . Reduced focus, increased feelings of distress, exacerbating, negative feelings and anxiety. . Worsening performance at work or school. In other words, a person with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, controlling their impulsive behavior, acting without thinking, resulting in overactivity while contributing to low self-esteem and troubling relationships. Unfortunately, most of us are being increasingly affected in our declining cognitive years. According to AARP Magazine’s article in November 2023, called “Super Agers” the disadvantages of multitasking can be described in this way: “Multitasking and processing new information becomes increasingly more challenging as we age. Memory peaks at age 30-40, overall brain volume begins to atrophy in our 50’s, particularly in areas linked to complex thought processes and learning.” Dementia and Alzheimer’s
Dec. 5, 2023
Multitasking may have detrimental side effects.
can be accelerated as a result. Never has there been so many external and personal distractions as threatening our society today. Television, cell phone, texting, political propaganda, deadlines, annoying commercials, robotic calls, etc. vie for our
time together with multitasking are contributing to possible ADHD symptoms. Most discouraging is the association of ADHD and multitasking and their dan-
Please see MULTITASKING on page 53A
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GOLF
Items You Need To Have In Your Golf Bag Regularly By Dr. Jean Harris CONTRIBUTOR
Your golf bag is not just for holding your golf clubs and balls. You need to clean out your golf bag and make sure that you have the necessary items. It is also important to have a bag that has plenty of pockets and a hood to make sure your clubs don’t get damaged when traveling or used when it starts raining. Below are items all golfers should have in their golf bags: • A bag tag on the outside of the bag so the cart attendant knows where to put your bag. • Extra dollar bills to tip the cart attendants and beverage cart drivers. • At least six to 10 balls that are marked with a line or an
identifying mark so you can make sure that you are hitting the correct ball once the hole gets started. • Tees of all sizes. Tall tees for your driver and short tees for irons on the par 3 holes. • Two gloves in case your glove gets wet or ripped during your round. • Large towel to wipe off grips and lay extra clubs on when chipping or playing a hole that is cart path only. • Wire brush to keep your clubs clean and free of dirt. • First aid supplies for pain relief, band aids and elastic wrap for sprains. • Sunscreen, which should be re-applied every few hours. • Insect repellent for mosquitos and no-see-ums. • Snacks, preferably fruit,
nuts and energy bars. • Water, either bottles or in an insulated tumbler. You need to drink water every other hole. • Protective pouch for your cell phone and wallet. • Rangefinder to help you dial in yardages. • Waterproof jacket and pants. • Golf umbrella for rainy days or extreme heat. This seems like a lot of things to have in your bag but it will help you be ready for just about anything that can happen during your round. Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional and teaches at local golf courses.
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Dec. 5, 2023
YESTERYEAR
A Look At The Postal Service: It Pre-dates Bluffton By Michael Reynolds CONTRIBUTOR
A post office was first established in what was to become Bluffton on May 21, 1839, when the May River Post Office opened. Burwell Wiggins is listed in the national archives as the first postmaster. It was likely the early post offices were located somewhere along Calhoun Street as that was the core of the town at the time, but there are no records to establish the location. On April 22, 1842, the name of the post office was changed to Bluffton. This is the earliest known reference to the name Bluffton. George Allen is listed in the archives as the first Bluffton postmaster. The Allen family lived on Water Street across from the Church of the Cross and Allen Street (one
block north) was likely named for the Allen family. While the motto for the U.S. Postal Service is “Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet, nor hail shall keep the postmen from their appointed rounds” we do not know what impact the U.S. Civil War had on mail delivery in Bluffton. It is possible that mail delivery was slowed but did continue. The postmaster during that time is unknown and we do know that most of the white population had abandoned Bluffton for a number of years following the Civil War. In 1890 US Postmaster General John Wanamaker appointed an African American woman as postmaster for Bluffton named Georgina P. Riley. Mrs. Riley is mentioned as being the Bluffton postmaster in an 1894 Palmetto Post newspaper article.
You might find it interesting that Bluffton had a female postmaster in the 1800’s but according to the US Postal Service website women served as Postmasters in the United States more than a century before they won the right to vote. Over the course of the 1800s, the number of women Postmasters increased from fewer than a dozen to more than 6,000. By the end of the twentieth century, more than half of all Postmasters were women. This was especially true in the post-Civil War South since prospective postmasters had to swear that they had not voluntarily aided the Confederacy and few southern men could take that oath so most southern postmasters were women. Although sometimes popularly called “postmistresses,” their official During the 1930’s the Bluffton post office occupied a small corner of Mattie title has always been “Postmaster.” Simmons’ store that was located at the corner of Bridge and Calhoun Streets.
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In the early 1900’s Agnes Coe was the Bluffton postmaster. She lived on Water Street near the Church of the Cross. According to the 1903 town of Bluffton incorporation documents, which I recently reviewed at the South Carolina Department of Archives, the post office in that year was located at the center of town. The center of old town Bluffton is the intersection of Calhoun and Lawrence Streets. That intersection was a robust area back in the day but none of the buildings that were there in 1903 exist today so there is no way to know exactly where the post office was in 1903. By the 1920’s the post office had moved to a wooden building on Allen Street across from the Seven Oaks house. Eventually the wooden building was moved to the rear and attached to become a part of the Graves House (85 Calhoun Street) for many years. The old post office building was later torn down. During the 1930’s the Bluffton post office occupied a small corner of Mattie Simmons’ store that was located at the corner of Bridge and Calhoun Streets (the Messex corner). That store burned down in December 1941 and Mattie Simmons died in the fire. We
do not know if Mr. Simmons was ever the postmaster. After the fire in 1941 the post office moved across the intersection into a slanted-built store that was located on a different corner of Bridge and Calhoun Streets. Gladys Harrison and Cora Jane Graves were both the postmaster during different periods of the time that the post office was located there. Mrs. Harrison lived in the Seven Oaks house and Mrs. Graves lived in the Graves House, both of which still exist on Calhoun Street today. Mrs. Graves’ grandson, John Graves, says that his grandmother had some type of drive-thru kitchen window and was known to distribute mail from her house before and after business hours when Bluffton residents would drive up to the window. From 1955 until the fall of 1964 the post office occupied the building that had previously housed a store operated by Gaillard and Lucille Heyward. That building is still located at the corner of Bridge and Boundary Streets and is commonly referred today as “The Rate”. The Heyward’s daughter, Anne Heyward, says the Postal Service had to make a special concession to allow the
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post office to be in a building owned by the postmaster. Lucille Heyward was the postmaster from 1953-1975. By 1964 Bluffton had started to grow and the population demanded a stand-alone post office so Gaillard Heyward built a new post office in the red brick building that still sits on Bridge Street, immediately beside The Rate building. A number of different postmasters served in that post office before the post office was moved in about 1989 to a new and much larger building that still is located at the corner of Bruin Road and Pritchard Street. That post office served the growing Bluffton area until the current post office was built in 2002. In surrounding areas, a post office was established in Pritchardville on February 8, 1876. C.F. Pritchard was the first postmaster. Not much is known about the Pritchardville post office for the next 75 years but Louise Preacher was the postmaster and Harry Hutson was the mail carrier in the early 1950’s before the post office was permanently closed on April 30, 1954. The building sat empty for decades thereafter and was torn down not too many years ago. In Okatie, a post office was established
on July 15, 1889, and Mrs. Jane Sanders was the first postmaster. We do not know where the post office was located but according to Robert Wilson Sanders, Jr., great grandson of Mrs. Sanders, it probably was not on the Wilson’s farm property. A post office remained in Okatie until February 19, 1928. Phillip Cooler was the last postmaster. Bluffton’s postal history pre-dates Bluffton itself and through time the post office’s location and service has evolved to provide a valuable and consistent asset for Bluffton citizens.
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Don’t Let Stress Steal Christmas: Tips To Be At Peace This Season Manage Eating and Drinking Make a plan that recognizes that weight CONTRIBUTOR gain comes from three things regarding eating: selection, quantity and Christmas is supposed to be frequency. For example, make about joy and toys, but too often healthy, lower calorie cookies (seit turns out to be about stress and lection); commit to eating two per mess. So here are few psychologday (quantity); and eat them only ical musings to keep Christmas when you are leaving the house, under control this year. so you can’t go back for “just one more” 10 times (frequency). Keep It Simple Engage in Christmas activities, Get a small tree or just decorate rather than centering Christmas the house without a tree. I’ve come Dr. Tom Dorsel around food, drink and presents. to find mounting a dead tree in How about attending concerts, your house not much different plays, movies and sports events focused on than an artificial tree. In fact, the latter is safer. Soft candlelights in each window also holiday themes. Run the Christmas 10K trumps excessive lighting all over the bushes. anyone? How about easing your decision making Limit Commercialism by getting the same present for everyone. Commercial interests will try to convince Years ago, our son made little one-decade you that you are lacking as a human being, rosaries for everyone. I still have mine at if you don’t spend, spend, spend. Establish bedside. an understanding with family members re-
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garding a spending limit on any one person, or for the whole holidays, in general. When my wife and I were first married 53 years ago, the limit was $10. I still have her present to me; not sure about mine to her! Do things together, like multiple family gatherings, rather than one big present fest
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Page 49A
SAFETY
Take Precautions For Safety With Christmas Trees, Candles & Lights By Cinda Seamon CONTRIBUTOR
As you decorate your home this holiday season with trees, candles, and lights, be sure to take some safety precautions. When using a live tree, check to make sure the needles are fresh and green. If the needles fall off easily, that means the tree is drying out and a dry tree is a fire hazard. Location of the tree is important-- do not place it near any heat source like a fireplace. Water your tree daily. Make sure all candles are in non-tip candle holders. Trim wicks before use. Long wicks can cause uneven burning, dripping or flaring. Don’t burn a candle all the way down - stop using it when about 2 inches of wax remain. Keep candles away from curtains, windows, or exits. Candles on a low coffee table can be a danger for small children or pets. Never leave candles unattended.
Be sure all indoor and outdoor holiday lights have a label from an independent testing lab. Don’t keep any lights with frayed or cracked cords or damaged sockets. As a general rule, never connect more than 3 strands of lights together but it’s best to check the manufacturer’s recommendation. Don’t overload your outlets or run extension
cords under carpets. Are your lights approved for outdoor use? Indoor lights can catch fire if used outside. Do not overload your lights by connecting more than is recommended. Not only will you short out circuits but you could also cause a fire. Make sure all exterior lights are plugged into a ground fault interrupter
circuit. When putting up lights outside, try to pick a day when the weather is good. Wind can increase the chance of you losing your balance and in the case of rain, no one wants to be working with electricity! Test all your lights before you get up on the roof. It’s easier to replace bulbs on the ground! Make sure your ladder is on stable even ground before you use it. Use clips made for hanging lights such as gutter clips and trim clips. Do not use a staple gun to hang your lights. A staple gun can crush the light strand and cause it to short out or catch fire. Keep in mind that decorative lights are made for temporary use-- take them down within 90 days to prevent them being damaged by the weather. Happy and safe decorating! Cinda Seamon, Fire & Life Safety Educator, Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
Senior Shelter Cat Wishes For A Home This Holiday Season By Amy Campanini CONTRIBUTOR
If there were ever a cat in need of a second chance, it would be Leroy Brown. Don’t let his face fool you. He is one of the sweetest cats at Palmetto Animal League. And unfortunately, this is his second time living at our adoption center. Leroy originally came to PAL in 2020 when he was 7 years old, and that’s when we discovered what a sweet, nurturing cat he is! “Now that Leroy is 10, he has transitioned from a “cat daddy” to a grandpa,” says PAL Foster Coordinator Sally McCoy. “He still takes the kittens under his wing, but these days, he leaves the playtime to the youngsters.” Back in 2020, Leroy was adopted into a loving home, along with one of his kitten friends where they lived a wonderful life together. Then, this September, Leroy’s family was battling some health problems, and both cats came back to our adoption center.
Leroy Brown waits for someone to chose him at the PAL Adoption Center.
“PAL makes a lifetime commitment to every animal and adopter,” explains McCoy. “We never give up on an animal, and that includes senior cats in need of second chances.” Leroy Brown and his friend readjusted to life in PAL’s cat rooms, but then Leroy’s friend was adopted in November, and since then, he just seems a little sad.
“I feel so bad for Leroy.” says PAL Veterinarian, Dr. Kirsten Cianci. “I have been giving him extra attention and treats. He’s such a sweet boy who needs a new home!” Leroy’s gentle, loving nature has made him a favorite among the staff and volunteers at PAL. He is an easy-going puddle of a cat whose big cheeks seemingly melt onto his cat bed when he naps.
“Leroy is always ready to groom any of his kitty friends - whether they want it or not,” says McCoy smiling. “He would love to find a home with another cat or two.” Change the life of a homeless pet this holiday season during Palmetto Animal League’s “Season of Second Chances.” We are waiving adoption fees for cats, kittens, and adult dogs through January 6. All pets are spayed/ neutered, microchipped, and up to date on vaccinations. Can’t adopt? You can still make a difference! Drop by the PAL Adoption Center at 56 Riverwalk Blvd in Okatie for our Holiday Open House Saturday, December 9 from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Enjoy cookies, cocoa, and lots of good cheer as you spend time with homeless, yet hopeful, pets like Leroy Brown. Please consider bringing a donation of food, toys, treats, or cozy blankets and provide animals in need with a little extra holiday cheer. Amy Campanini is president of Palmetto Animal League.
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Page 51A
PETS
Dogs Need To Work To Be Happy, Healthy Pets By Abby Bird aka Alphadog CONTRIBUTOR
Owners of dogs that are way too busy doing things such as digging, chewing and racing around, know that their dogs need to work. Most of us don’t have time to entertain our dogs enough to satisfy them. Knowing what types of activities tire them out both physically and mentally helps immensely. Herding dogs Dogs that like to herd and chase are marvelous dogs to bike ride with. Products like Cycle Leash and Walky Dog attach to your bicycle to keep the dog safely by your side without pulling you over. These dogs are fabulous at agility and Frisbee tricks and will fetch balls until they drop! Anything that requires running like a day at the beach will also be fun for them. Directed play will tire them out if you can get to a fenced area.
Sporting dogs They like to run run run! Jogging and cycling are the top two activities. Hide bird dummies for them to find and work them on a long line. Get canvas dummies and bird scent at hunting stores such as Bass Pro Shops, Dick’s Sporting Goods or online at www. gundogsupply.com. You can take them to the beach and throw unscented retrieving dummies into the water for them to fetch. Many are swimming breeds so water sports will thrill them. Terriers Hunting games and tunneling are best. Buy an agility tunnel for them to play in. Hide animal scented items around the yard for them to find. Walk them in areas that
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have lots of scent. Create a sandbox style digging pit for them to find rubber toys and bones. Hound dogs Hunting and sniffing is what they do best. Find It games that mimic seeking out scents of prey work well with this group. Hide them in your yard, anything that smells good even food stuffed bones or Kongs they can track. Rabbit and Raccoon scents will be a sure thing. Speed games like lure coursing for Whippets or Greyhounds. Others are more sedentary except for the sniffing. Give them a good run and they will all be happy and tired. Working dogs There is such variety here that one can’t generalize advice. Some pull carts, some
guard, some swim. Knowing your breed will dictate the form of exercise for their physical and mental needs. Look up your breed or mix to find out the best way to occupy this varied group. One size can fit all if you do the following: Remember that all dogs benefit from oneon-one time with owners not just in play or exercise mode but also practicing obedience skills. Tired dogs that receive adequate attention and the right forms of toys, play etc. engage in less destructive behavior. Consider agility as a sport that dogs enjoy, and many breeds excel at. Working your dog daily on obedience helps them attain their best and enhance your bond. Mind games stimulate all dogs’ brains with puzzles that result in treat rewards. A great idea when you can’t be busy with them. And then there are those dogs that enjoy bringing joy to others… train them to become therapy dogs!
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Page 52A SEA TURTLES from page 42A lab. This project is one of the largest of its kind in the world and offers unique insight that can help create solutions to safeguard the survival of the species. SEA TURTLES IMPACT TWO ECOSYSTEMS Sea turtles are actually an integral part of both the coastal ecosystem and the marine ecosystem. If sea turtles became extinct, both systems would be negatively affected. Also, because humans utilize the marine ecosystem as a natural resource for food and use the coastal system for a variety of activities, a negative impact to these ecosystems would negatively affect humans. According to Defenders of Wildlife organization, all sea turtle species (except the flatback) found in North American waters are listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act. Consider the longevity these air-breathing creatures have enjoyed thus far: they have been around for 110 million years and throughout their lives, journey to different seas of the world. Earth dwelling species are all connected in some
The Bluffton Sun way and when a species is gone, it’s gone forever. The Sea Turtle Patrol is always looking for additional resources, and luckily support is growing and results get better every year as dedicated professionals, volunteers and beach goers heed the advice to be aware and respect sea turtles and their nesting space. If you are lucky, you may one day get to see a nest “boil.” Watching the tiny hatchlings scrambling over each other to get out of the nest is a unique and heartwarming experience. The little turtles must then hurry to the surf before a predator picks them up. Even in the ocean waters, the percentages are not in their favor. Congratulations to Sea Patrol Hilton Head and the many local volunteers and residents who are dedicated to the cause. Anyone can join the mailing list by going to their website www.seaturtlepatrolhhi.org. You will receive timely information on the nesting season, the status of the nests and any special events. The Sea Turtle Patrol is a 501C3 tax deductible organization, so donations are deductible and will support programs and research.
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Dec. 5, 2023 STRESS from page 48A Christmas Isn’t Just About Kids An over-abundance of presents, or getting anything and everything you want, is a bad message to send kids about Christmas and materialism. Give rather than get. How about the family, kids included, going through all their stuff and give, at least, the excess to reputable thrift stores? Or maybe you can identify a family that you can give to directly. How about a family community project for the season? Instead of feeding yourselves, how about the whole family serving at the soup kitchen on Christmas Day? Remember the Real Meaning Join the church choir in time for the Christmas services. Ask what other ministries you might serve in, so as to participate with your church during the Christmas season.
The Bluffton Sun Same Old, Same Old Ultimately, Christmas is a giant example of how stress develops and can be handled all year long. Stress does not come from situations, events, or holidays. It comes from what goes on inside your head about these things. When you “say to yourself” (that is, “think”) that you are responsible for the whole family’s Christmas happiness, you are creating holiday stress for yourself. Everybody has to play a role in the joy of the season. The only Christmas happiness you are solely responsible for is your own. So try saying this to yourself: “I am going to make wise choices this Christmas; not only for my happiness, but also for the happiness of all who interact with me.” Dr. Tom Dorsel is a clinical/sport psychologist, the father of 5 and grandfather of 13. He lives on HHI with his wife Sue and is the author of “GOLF: The Mental Game.” He can be reached on Facebook or at Dorsel.com.
Page 53A
MULTITASKING from page 44A
utilize time and in particular young parents and their families. Our children, our nation’s future. Here are a few suggestions from researchers to help limit multitasking: -Limit the number of things you do at anyone time to just one task. -Use a time rule, allow a set time to complete a task. -Batch similar tasks. -Limit distractions, find a quiet place, phones off. -Practice mindfulness in your daily routine. In conclusion, it is my hope that you will agree that the multitasking activity, left unaddressed, will continue to negatively affect our society in the future. Lowcountry neighbors, please, slow down and smell the roses!
gerous effect on our children. I am reminded of a letter to the editor from 4/14/2014 entitled, “Parental Responsibility,” describing a young family of four, sitting at the next restaurant table, heads down, completely engrossed in their own personal cell phone, no conversation, no sharing of their day. Psychologists and medical professionals are in agreement that multitasking is injurious to one’s health, particularly young children. They found that the foundation of a child’s personality begins to take shape in the early years and is directly affected by their environment and parental guidance given or not given. Further, they found that our brain can be hampered by over-productivity, encouraging less efficiency and impairing executive function. Unfortunately, ADHD cannot be cured but can be successfully managed. Focusing on single tasks, one at a time is highly recommended for all ages. What does this all mean? First, we need to examine how we and others
Mr. Everett, a 25-year resident of the area, is a frequent LTE and Op-Ed writer to our local newspapers. He welcomes your constructive comments at neeverettmc@gmail.com.
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Page 54A
The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
FAITH
Chanukah: A Timeless Rededication To Faith By Rabbi Ken Kanter CONTRIBUTOR
It is my privilege to introduce myself to you in this first article. I am Rabbi Ken Kanter, the rabbi of Temple Oseh Shalom, Bluffton’s oldest Jewish congregation, which began more than 15years ago. Temple Oseh Shalom is a welcoming, inclusive synagogue with members who have come from all over the country to live in the Bluffton-Sun City- Hilton Head community, representing congregations from Reform, Conservative, Reconstructionist, and Orthodox Jews—sort of a wonderful melting pot of Jewish traditions into an active and vital diverse congregation committed to friendship, community service, and worship. I am excited to share with you my insights here, as we are entering one of the most active times of the religious year. For you in the Christian community, you are counting
down the days until Advent and Christmas. For us in the Jewish community, we are looking forward to Chanukah, and while not a religious celebration, exactly, our African-American community looks to the celebration of Kwaanza. Chanukah serves many purposes. It commemorates an historic moment, with the victory of the small Maccabean force over the mighty Assyrian Greek armies in the ancient Jewish homeland two thousand years ago, when a small but inspired military force proved victorious over a great and mighty world force, after the death of Alexander the
Great. Chanukah celebrates an event 2,000 years ago as a symbolic moment of the victory of good over evil, of the bravery of the few empowered by God over the machinations of the many and the powerful, the story of which we could be proud but could not personally feel connected. But we have seen in recent years clear examples of modern battles that are very similar, whether it be the Russian attacks in the Ukraine, or the tragic deaths in Israel and the battles which resulted. Somehow those stories of Judah Maccabee (Judah the Hammer) and his loyal, mighty band of sup-
porters feels much more contemporary now. For many of our readers, you will not know the meaning of the word “Chanukah.” It does not mean holiday or victory. It means “rededication.” In our ancient story, it meant the rededication of the eternal light in the ancient Jewish temple of Jerusalem, 2,000 years ago with its story of oil lamps and miracles. For those of every faith, this is the time of rededication to our faiths, our families, our congregations and friends, to support the values of our great country. As we are challenged by the events of these past months, may we be rededicated and inspired. Like the lights on the Christmas tree, the Advent candles, the candles of Kwaanza, and the candles on the Chanukah menorah, may we bring light to our world, rather than curse the darkness. A happy holiday of lights to us all. Rabbi Ken Kanter Temple Oseh Shalom, Bluffton
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Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
Page 55A
FAITH
Now Is The Time To Be A Blessing And Give Praise By Rev. Christopher L. Thompson CONTRIBUTOR
This month we will celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. During this time, we may travel to be with family and friends to partake in the ceremonial exchanging of gifts and the breaking of bread. As we are in the festive spirit let us remember those who are less fortunate or those who may be going through something. Everyone is special in the sight of God and as His children we should make sure that we are looking out for all who have been placed in our path. It is our way of being a blessing to others just as God has been a blessing to us. As we look to Luke, the physician of the disciples, we find these words recorded in the book of Luke, the 17th chapter, in the 11th through the 19th verses: “11 Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus
traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. 12 As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance 13 and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” 14 When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed. 15 One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. 16 He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan. 17 Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? 18 Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” 19 Then he said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.”” (NIV) When we look at the text, we find that Jesus blessed 10 lepers on his way to Galilee, but when I looked around only one returned to give thanks. How many of us get up in the morning and give thanks for what God has
done for us? How many of us give thanks for what God is doing for us? How many of us give thanks for what God is about to do or has yet to do for us? You see, God does not have to do anything to us, for us, with us, or even through us, but God does. These things don’t have to be grand in our eyes, but they are grand indeed. When we look at ourselves, today, in context with the text, we will find that we too were once standing on the side of the road, waiting for a blessing/miracle and it has happened. We were once clothed in sin and estranged from God, but he sent Jesus to into the world, being born to the common/ working class, that we might have a right to eternal life through his suffering and dying on the cross. When Jesus healed those 10 lepers, he told them to go and show themselves to the priest, but he also was astonished that only one came back to give thanks and praise as
Pastor Shannon Bullion
well as follow him. We have been healed and it is our chance to turn back, give praise, and follow Him. Let us stop counting the cost and truly help to heal those who come before us. Let us beat the bushes for those who are truly in need and meet that need. Jesus never asked for anything in return from those he helped, he only asked that they do like he has done and follow Him. I can say that God is truly still in the blessing business. Each day is a day to give thanks and praise for the things that God has done, is doing, and has yet to do in your life. This is the season in which God showed favor to the whole world by sending His son Jesus to live among us and to later die on the cross for our sins. This is a time to be thankful for the many blessings that God has bestowed on us and be a blessing for others. Rev. Dr. Christopher L. Thompson is pastor of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Okatie.
Connecting to God, Connecting to One Another www.palmsumc.org
Anna Marie Kuether Director of Music and Worship Arts
We are now in-person at 5:30 p.m. on Saturdays, and 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m on Sundays Live-Streaming the 5:30 and 11 services. 12/10 - Christmas Cantata
12/17 - Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 & John 1:6-8,19-28 “To Testify to the Light”
12/24 - Luke 1:46-55 & Luke 1:26-38 “Favor with God” A Stephen Ministry Congregation
1425 Okatie Hwy. (170)
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843-379-1888 • www.palmsumc.org
Page 56A
The Bluffton Sun
A NIGHT FILLED WITH LIGHT
Christmas Eve
U N D E R
T H E
S T A R S
DECEMBER 24TH 6:30PM
Free refreshments starting at 6:00pm Family-Friendly Candlelight Service Bluffton Oyster Factory Park 63 Wharf St., Bluffton SC 29910
A service for the community by
The New Bluffton Worship & First Zion Missionary Baptist Church Christmas is truly a season of light. Not just light shows or tree decorations, but to worship God for the light of hope that came when Jesus was born. The service includes messages, carols, and lighting of candles to Silent Night under a Christmas sky on the May River at Oyster Factory Park in Old Town Bluffton. The New Bluffton Worship is an independent church family with a non-trditional style of worship. Regular Schedule in-person or live streamed: 9:00 & 10:30AM at 39 Persimmon St. #203, Blufft5on 29910 www.theNewBlufftonWorship.com
First Zion Missionary Baptist is located at 10 Robertson St. in Old Town Bluffton.
Dec. 5, 2023
Daufuskie Island: A Hidden Gem In the Lowcountry By Glenda Harris CONTRIBUTOR
Daufuskie is a remote island just a short boat ride from Hilton Head and Bluffton. Located between Hilton Head and Savannah, this is the southern-most sea island in South Carolina. It is a natural preserve with so much beauty to see and appreciate including the Atlantic ocean, tidal creeks, ancient live oaks, wildlife and fishing and of course, the island’s unique history. According to the Haig Point Foundation, the peak population on Daufuskie was in the early 1900s and numbered close to 3,000. Interestingly, human activity on Daufuskie goes all the way back to the 1500s. Most of the culture and dialect was shaped by the Gullah people and has been kept alive by descendants living on some of South Carolina’s barrier islands. You can take “Sallie Ann’s
Authentic Gullah Tour” to learn more of the history. Sallie is a sixth generation Gullah native. For more details on the Gullah people and other history of the island, go to (www. haigpointfoundation.org) In 2018, the Frances Jones Community Park and Daufuskie Island Trail opened, providing a recreational space for both island residents and visitors with playground equipment for the kids and nearby benches. And there are plans for more to come including a dog park, trailside informational signs about the flora and fauna and a frisbee disc golf course designed to fit within the trail area. With all of its beauty, it’s no surprise it has become a popular destination. In fact, the The South Carolina Lowcountry website reported that more than 175,000 people visit Daufuskie Island every year. Many are from
Please see DAUFUSKIE on page 60A
Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
Page 57A
NATURE’S WAY
Change Is Inevitable, But Boy We Had Fun Back In The Day By Collins Doughtie CONTRIBUTOR
It seems that nearly every time I meet someone new to the Lowcountry and they find out I have lived here nearly all my days; one question seems to always come up. That question being “are you sad that all the development changed the paradise you and your family seemed enjoyed before the area became popular?” My answer to that question has changed as the years have gone by and though I wish that things had not changed, I will always love this area, people or no people. If ever there was a time I considered becoming a radical, it was the day they began cutting down the hundred year old live oaks that lined Hwy 278 on Hilton Head so they could four lane the road. Almost everyone living on the island at that time was devastated when the first chain saw screamed. I can still remember my thoughts when that happened. Those oaks were massive, all gnarled and weathered and all I could think was what those trees had seen. They had witnessed thousands of Union soldiers marching along that very path during the Civil War along with ox drawn buggies filled with seafood and local produce being taken to the families on the south end of the island plus countless other events that were part of the island’s history. You know that I fished a lot during my early years but what else was a youngin to do when there were only a handful of kids around my age? Luckily, the statue of limitations will keep me out of the pokey but I will say that my friends and I were, well, adventurous. Most of the roads were still dirt and though we rode marsh tacky horses owned by the Depkin and Hack families, most of the boys had motorcycles. I wasn’t into dirt biking, so my ride was a motorized bicycle from France called a Solex. The Solex was an odd contraption. It looked like a regular bicycle but on top of the front tire was this little engine that spun a small wheel inside the motor. Once you got the engine started, you would push a handle down and that
Yes, I did have hair back then!
small wheel would sit on the front tire of the bike and off you went. I think the top speed was around 20mph and believe it or not, it was quite the chic magnet. Or maybe it was my good looks and long, flowing hair. Oh well, whatever it was, it worked. I’ve done it now by bringing up girls but I might as well run with it. Unlike the tourists that come to Hilton Head now, back then the same families would come back year after year for two or three weeks at a time. And because there were not nearly as many people, summer weekends for us boys meant slathering ourselves with cologne and heading to the William Hilton Inn (now the Marriott Grand Resort) to check out the new crop of girls that might, or might not, be hanging around the pool. Other than the Seacrest Motel and the Adventure Inn, there simply weren’t any other places to go for young bucks bursting with testosterone. If I had to put a ratio on boys vs. girls, it was nirvana for us guys because for whatever reason, there always seemed to be way more girls than boys. Even with more girls than boys, competition was fierce. If one young lady was particularly appealing, it was “may the best man win” scenario. Usually though, by the time someone won that girl’s attention it was time for their family to head back to wherever they lived. Then the whole cycle would begin again as a new crop arrived. Looking back, it was pretty darn funny thinking about the lengths we would go to outdo one another. Imagine if places like Sea Pines still offered “Friday Night Coon Hunts” or Saturday pig hunts. That was the way we entertained ourselves. That and catching rattlesnakes, baby gators and exploring places that were like stepping back 100 years. I was sad, and at times mad, when everything changed but time has tempered my memories somewhat. I just feel fortunate to have experienced the best of those early days (and that includes the girls). The only thing I regret is how I am going to explain this column to my wife. Any suggestions?
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Page 58A
The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
Palmetto Animal League Invites Community To Help Spread Holiday Cheer To Loving Shelter Pets By Lindsay Perry CONTRIBUTOR
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of their monthlong Season of Second Chances. “If you are looking to add the warm, fluffy, loyal presence of a pet to your home, PAL’s Open House is the perfect time to find your next great love,” says PAL Adoption Coordinator Sally Dawkins. “And if you can’t adopt, that’s ok! Bring all those you hold dear to make some holiday memories and spread cheer to shelter pets.” As a part of their mission, PAL is collecting much-needed food and other supplies for less fortunate pets, including cat and dog food, toys, treats, pet beds, and cozy blankets. PAL will distribute the donated items to area pantries to help pet owners experiencing food insecurity. Green Home Solutions of the Lowcountry
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Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
Page 59A
Antique Yacht Restored, Back In Water At Palmetto Bluff By Shannon Copcutt EDITOR
Grace, a 60-foot antique motor yacht originally built in 1913 for the purposes of commuting across New York Harbor, was recently placed back where she belongs, in the May River, thanks to a group dedicated to the boat’s restoration. “In November The Grace Club was thrilled to announce that Grace has been restored to her former glory and once again adorns the May River and surrounding waterways,” said Gray C. Stahlman, MD, Historian, The Grace Club. Under the guidance of a newly formed group called The Grace Club – a founder/ member sponsored, not for profit organization – the iconic ship was brought back to its original splendor. Built on the partnership structure between The Grace Club founders and Southstreet, a full speed ahead approach to restoring the Grace was adopted, resulting in her return to the water late November af-
ter being land locked since December 2020 from experiencing a cracked block. It was in December 2022, when a Palmetto Bluff Club member formed Operation Saving Grace to find a path forward for putting the Grace back into service in partner-
ship with Southstreet Partners. Southstreet Partners and the management team of the Palmetto Bluff Club, worked collaboratively for nine months toward this shared objective. Southstreet was so committed to the endeavor it transferred title of the Grace to
Grace, a 60-foot antique motor yacht originally built in 1913 has been restored and returned to the water.
The Grace Club; provided long term rentfree access to the Grace Dock; and supplied ongoing marketing and communications support for The Grace Club operations. “Grace is an elegant and iconic motor yacht with a storied background and rich history spanning 110 years. I’m proud to say she is standing tall and will be available for scheduled cruises, as well as private charters,” said Lee Leonard, President of The Grace Club. Grace was named in honor of Grace Graham Vanderbilt, the sister of the original owner of Palmetto Bluff, Richard T. Wilson Jr., and wife of Cornelius Vanderbilt III. The iconic vessel – replete with a celebrated background and illustrious history – was brought to Palmetto Bluff in 2005 and, for 15+ years, provided a unique member cruising experience on the beautiful May River affording guests incredible views of the property, the town of Bluffton and the surrounding waterways, which it will now be able to do again.
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Page 60A DAUFASKIE from page 56A nearby Savannah, Bluffton and throughout the Lowcountry but also from afar. A few island eateries you may want to try: • Old Daufuskie Crab Company for indoor and outdoor dining and a bar. Signature dish is Daufuskie deviled crab. • General Store at Freeport Marina for ice cream, snacks and some convenience foods. • School Grounds Coffee Shop (former schoolhouse where Pat Conroy taught the island students) is a window service place for coffee and brownies or cake. You can enjoy them sit outside at the picnic table. • D’Fuskie’s Located at the boat dock when you arrive, you can pick up kitchen necessities, order pizza or a deli sandwich. Taco Tip: They have tacos on Thursday which is very popular. The majority of the island is a maritime forest with ancient live oak trees and magnolias as well as cypress trees. Wildlife species abound with deer, squirrels, land turtles, sea turtles (during nesting season from May through September), right whales, alligators, snowy egret, 60 species of birds and various
The Bluffton Sun birds of prey. Daufuskie is an historic district, named in the National Register of Historic Places. Cruise around on your golf cart and see Gullah-constructed homes as well as newly constructed homes. Though not widely known, there are celebrities with homes on the island to include hall-of-fame rocker John Mellancamp and NHL star Mark Messier. One more bit of folklore about this quiet little island: the Lowcountry’s favorite son, author Pat Conroy taught school here in the 1960s. He felt an intense calling to teach these young children who had not received any manner of education. Most did not know the country they lived in and could not recite the alphabet or say numbers in order. He would spend a just one year there as a teacher. While his methods were most effective, they were not conventional enough to meet approval with the “suits” at the school board and he was fired. Pat Conroy wrote a book about this time in his life. Published in 1972, it was entitled “The Water is Wide” and reading it will evoke tears of laughter and tears of heartbreaking sadness.
THE BLUFFTON SUN IS MOVING! We are thrilled to announce that our dynamic team is transitioning to a new location, a move that signifies a noteworthy milestone in our journey. This relocation reflects our evolution and reinforces our commitment to providing exceptional news within and about our amazing community. Our new space, designed to foster collaboration and efficiency, will be located at 181 Bluffton Road, Suite F103-2, in Magnolia Village Business Park, which is located across from Old Town. We’re excited to embark on this new chapter, one that promises to enhance our capabilities and further our mission to deliver unparalleled local newspapers to our residents in this much-loved community.
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Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
Page 61A
REAL ESTATE
Should You Stay Or Right-Size To A Better Home For Your Circumstances? By Larry Stoller
as you want with no monthly payments required? For more information, talk to your CONTRIBUTOR attorney, accountant, or meet with a local reverse mortgage expert. Like most Americans, as you grow older, However, is that the best way to you probably want to stay in your use the equity in your home? It home for as long as you can. And might be, but it is a decision that living the good life, here in beauyou should consider carefully. tiful Bluffton, you may never want Maybe it’s better to right size, sell to leave. However, as life goes on, your home and buy a home that is it may become harder to do all the better suited to your specific needs, house chores on your own. Or, the or think about an independent costs to obtain help may become living type of arrangement. too much of a burden. If you are planning to remain in Older Americans often think of Larry Stoller your home, as abilities diminish their home as a nest egg. They may with the aging process, assistance and/or decide to use their home equity to get some changes may be needed to maintain your extra money. Home equity is the difference independence and safety at home. You between the appraised value of your home may want to consider consulting with an and what you owe on any mortgages. occupational therapist to obtain recommenDid you know that a Reverse Mortgage is dations that are specific to your needs, skills, one way that you can convert a portion of environment, and budget. your home equity into cash and allow you On the other hand, if you are thinking to continue to live in your home for as long
is www.ncoa.org). Others include: www. eldercare.aci.gov, www.benefitscheckup.org, www.homemods.org, www.caregiver.org, and www.reversemortgage.org.
about right-sizing, there are a number of local real estate agents who are very familiar with all the home ownership options that are available here in our Lowcountry paradise. Some of these agents may have special designations and valuable experience in working with seniors. A great resource of information is the National Council On Aging (their website
Larry Stoller is a local Broker and Realtor with Real Estate FIVE of the Low Country. He may be contacted at: Larry@RealEstateFive.com, www.RealEstateFive.com.
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Page 62A VOTER from page 27A appointment. Hunter can be reached via (email) mhunter@townofbluffton.com or (Office) 843.706.4505. Voter Registration Information: Voters must be registered to participate in this election. Any person wishing to register to vote for this election must do so by the following deadlines: • In-person registration closes January 12 at 5 p.m. • Email, fax, or online registration closes
The Bluffton Sun at 11: 59 p.m. January 13, 2024 • Registration by mail must be postmarked by January 16. • Beaufort County offices of the Board of Voter Registration and Elections are located at 15 John Galt Road in Beaufort or within the Bluffton Satellite Office at 4819 Bluffton Parkway. This office is closed until January 2, 2023, its hours are 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
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• For specific information regarding registering to vote: https://beaufortcountysc.gov/ vote/voters.html. Further Registration Status Information:
• To check voter registration status, verify precinct or polling locations, please visit the Beaufort County Board of Voter Registration and Elections at https://www. beaufortcountysc.gov/vote or call 843-255¬-6900. • If residents are unsure if they are a Town of Bluffton resident or if they live in the unincorporated parts of Beaufort County, otherwise known as “greater Bluffton,” please check your address within the “Am I in Bluffton?” Map. The link is: https://www. townofbluffton.us/bluffton/. Only Town of Bluffton residents can vote in Town of Bluffton elections.
Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
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The Bluffton Sun
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Dec. 5, 2023 • SECTION B Volume 26, Issue 23
‘Holiday Inn The Musical’ Arts Center of Coastal Carolina See Page 7B
Page 2B
The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
Arts & Entertainment Calendar
Dec. 2-12 Free Performances at the Bluffton Library in December include: Latin Vox Music Academy’s Holiday Recital Dec. 2 from 2 - 3 pm. There will be singing and playing a variety of instruments and styles for honoring the most beautiful time of the year; The Lowcountry Harp Ensemble Dec. 4 from 11 am - 12 pm; and, Good Company Readers Theatre An O. Henry Christmas—their own adaptation of The Gift of the Magi and The Cop and the Anthem—Dec. 9 from 11 am - 12 pm. These events are first come, first seated. Light refreshments will be available, compliments of the Friends of Bluffton Library. Question? Call 843-2556503. Dec. 8-9 May River Theatre Company presents It’s a Wonderfa-lalala Life on Dec. 8 at 7:30 p.m.
and Dec. 9 at 2 p.m. For tickets visit: www. mayrivertheatre.com Dec. 8 Hilton Head International Piano Competition proudly presents internationally renowned classical and jazz pianist, Simon Mulligan, in a program of holiday-themed music for solo piano on Friday, Dec. 8 at 7:30 p.m. at SoundWaves. Tickets are $35. Or call (843) 842-2055 for reservations/questions. Dec. 9 Palm Trees & Pistons car show will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. Dec. 9 at Sea Turtle Marketplace on Hilton Head Island, in the parking lot of the former Stein Mart store. The show will feature vintage, antique, exotic, muscle and unique cars owned by area locals. The show is free for all.
Dec. 13 Christmas Celebration on Ice will take place at USCB on Dec. 13 at 6:30. Tickets are on sale now at USCBcenterforthearts.com December 9-10 A HOLIDAY MUSICAL I.D.E.A., A Holiday Music Variety Extravaganza is a concert to celebrate Inclusion-Diversity-Equity-Access. The event will feature a variety of songs and singers including: Gullah Christmas Classics, Swing, Holiday Standards & Latino Flair featuring the Unity Choir and many soloists. The show will run on two separate dates, Dec. 9 at 7p.m. and December 10 at 4p.m. at Christ Lutheran Church, 829 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. Tickets are $20 and available at: lowcountrydiversity.org
Dec. 10 Chabad Greater Hilton Head will be having their 5th annual Car Menorah Parade on Sunday Dec. 10, departing from Tanger Outlets 2 traveling to Shelter Cove Town Center culminating in a grand public menorah lighting. The parade route will travel via the main thoroughfares of Bluffton and Hilton Head, promoting holiday awareness for the Chanukah celebration. The parade will end at Shelter Cove Towne Center for a grand celebration including live entertainment, and the lighting of a giant 9-foot Chanukah menorah. Through Dec. 11 Mailboxes for Letters to Santa are available through Dec. 11 at several Bluffton Township Fire Department locations. Drop off your letters at a location accepting them by Dec.
Please see CALENDAR on page 4B
Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
Beaufort County Council, Community To Hold Tree Lighting
Friday, December 8, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., all Beaufort County employees and the public are invited to attend the annual Christmas tree lighting in the Beaufort County Courthouse Plaza. Gates will open at 5:30 p.m. and the event is free to the public. There will be an appearance by a special guest from the North Pole arriving in his sleigh, face painting, activities and games, food trucks, and of course lots of music and
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NOV 29 – DEC 24
singing holiday carols. There will be performances by Hobbit Hill Preschool who will do the pledge of allegiance and a short song, Riverview Charter School Choir, and Lady’s Island Middle School Band. Attendees will vote on the best decorated Beaufort County Department Christmas Tree. Parking is free and available at the Administration Building located at 100 Ribaut Rd, Beaufort. Holiday Inn tells the story of Jim, who leaves the bright lights of show business behind to settle down on his farmhouse in Connecticut. His luck takes a spectacular turn when he meets Linda, a spirited schoolteacher with talent to spare. Together they turn the farmhouse into a fabulous inn with dazzling performances to celebrate each holiday, and of course, a “White Christmas.” The Cast of Holiday Inn | Photography by Gustavo Rattia
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Page 4B 11 and get a response! Call 843-757-2800 for more information or check their facebook page at BlufftonTownshipFireDistrict. Dec. 12 The Lowcountry Community Concert Band’s final concert of the year will be presented on Tuesday, Dec. 12, at 7 p.m., at the Center for the Arts Building (CFA) at USCB’s Beaufort Campus, located at 805 Carteret Street. The event is free and open to the public. For further information, visit our LCCB website, at www. ollilccb.com Dec. 14 The Hilton Head Branch Library will offer an adult crafts class where registrants will learn how to make Santa Claus ornaments from local oyster shells! Materials will be provided, just bring along your holiday spirit! Registration is required, please call 843-255-6525 or email emma.maines@bcgov.net to reserve your place.
The Bluffton Sun Dec. 15 First Presbyterian Church will hold its “Light & Lighter” Holiday Concert Friday, Dec. 15 at 7:00p.m. The event is the perfect way to celebrate and get in the spirit of the holiday season! The evening will be an inspiring illumination for all concert-goers as the HHCS is accompanied by Rushingbrook Children’s Choir from Greenville, SC. The evening will include songs ranging from classics like “Breath of Heaven” and “O, Holy Night” to some lighter, fun, and familiar Holiday songs like “Sleigh Ride” and “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas.” It’s a holiday celebration that you don’t want to miss! All concerts take place at First Presbyterian Church and we sincerely hope to see you there at First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Pkwy. Dec. 17-25 St. Andrew By-The-Sea United Methodist Church (SABTS) at 20 Pope Avenue on Hilton Head Island has announced plans for the Advent and Christmas season. The theme is HOPE is on the Way, including HOPE for Heal-
Dec. 5, 2023
ing, Love, Peace, and Joy. On Sunday, December 17, the church will have a special musical worship service, “Sounds of the Season,” during its 10:00 a.m. service. Thursday, Dec. 21 at 6:00 pm, The Longest Night Service, also known as Blue Christmas, will be held. On Sunday, Dec. 24, the Children’s Christmas Pageant will take place during the 10:00 a.m. service. That Sunday evening, the church will offer two traditional Christmas Eve candlelight services with Communion at 4:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. For more information please visit www. hhiumc.com. Dec. 19 Holiday Trivia with Warren Hilton Head Branch Library will offer Holiday Trivia with Warren at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Dec. 19. Make a list of answers and check it twice, we’re going to find out who’s nice at holiday trivia. Treat yours’elf to some challenging questions and try to win something from Santa’s big bag of presents! Contact the reference desk at 843-255-6525 for more information.
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Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
Page 5B
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
HERITAGE LIBRARY WINTER CLASSES Family Tree Maker Classes: A Four-Part Series Thursday, January 11, 2024 10:00-11:30am PART 1: Overview and the First Steps Thursday, January 18, 2024 10:00-11:30am PART 2: Getting Started – People and Media Tabs Thursday, January 25, 2024 10:00-11:30am PART 3: Introducing the Web Search Thursday, February 1, 2024 10:00-11:30am PART 4: Creating a Final Product – Find and Fix Errors and Get Started with the Publish Tab
Tuesday, January 23, 2024 10:30-11:30am Community & Conflict: Colonial Hilton Head 1717-1783 Tuesday, January 30, 2024 1:30-2:30pm Getting Started in Genealogy Tuesday, February 6, 2024 4:30-6:00pm History & Happy Hour Meet the Generals View our full Winter class list (January-March) with descriptions and register at HeritageLib.org The Professional Bldg, Suite 100 | 2 Corpus Christi | Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 843.686.6560 | HeritageLib.org
Grand Menorah-Topped Cars To Parade Through Bluffton, HHI A Chanukah celebration like no other is coming thanks to Chabad Greater Hilton Head as it sees growing engagement and expands to meet the local need. To celebrate the 2023 Chanukah season, Chabad Greater Hilton Head will be having their 5th annual Car Menorah Parade on Sunday Dec. 10, departing from Tanger Outlets 2 traveling to Shelter Cove Town Center culminating in a grand public menorah lighting. The parade route will travel via the main thoroughfares of Bluffton and Hilton Head, promoting holiday awareness for the Chanukah celebration. The parade will end at Shelter Cove Towne Center for a grand celebration including live entertainment, and the lighting of a giant 9-foot Chanukah menorah. The menorah will be lit on the fourth night of the eight-day Festival of Lights. The event will feature a juggling show, Jewish music, donuts and hot latkes. Complimentary Chanukah menorahs and candles will be distributed as well for participants to light at home. “Everyone is especially excited about
Chanukah this year,” said Rabbi Mendel, Rabbi of Chabad Greater Hilton Head. “You see, the war in Israel is being fought everywhere. Our defense is not guns and bombs ... it’s something much more powerful: our strength as a people. Standing together. Supporting one another. Celebrating, connecting, as we have done through the centuries... boosts the pride and courage of everyone.” “Just like the Maccabees of old. They fought their war, lit the Menorah, and reunited the community. Our community can rally around during Chanukah and say ‘We are here! It boosts the pride and courage of everyone,’” said Rabbi Mendel. Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, begins this year on the evening of Thursday, Dec. 7 and concludes the evening of Friday, Dec. 15. “People are preparing to celebrate with family and the light of Chanukah, and there’s palpable joy,” said Rabbi Mendel. For more about Chabad Greater Hilton Head programming CONTACT: 843-3011819 rabbi@jewishhiltonhead.org
Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
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Irving Berlin’s ‘Holiday Inn’ Now At Arts Center In this dazzling holiday musical, based on the beloved Bing Crosby/Fred Astaire film, Jim Hardy leaves behind the hustle and bustle of a successful showbiz career for a quiet life on a Connecticut farm fixer upper. Jim’s agrarian efforts are a flop (he thinks growing bananas in Connecticut is a good idea), but things start looking up when he falls for a talented schoolteacher named Linda. Together, they infuse their sleepy rural setting with some Broadway razzle-dazzle, with shows to celebrate each holiday. They take the concept one step further and combine their seasonal productions by offering a bed-and-breakfast, and ta-da – the Holiday Inn is born! At the helm of this exciting musical is David Grindrod, whom many of you have seen on our stage as recently as a couple of years ago in Elf! David is the show’s director and choreographer and reminisced about seeing shows at the Arts Center when
he visited his grandparents who live here. When asked what drew him to Holiday Inn, he said, “The show revolves around the idea of community really … specifically, the theater community, and how this group of performers came together to make something truly special happen.” Featuring more than 20 classic songs from the Berlin catalogue, including
“Cheek to Cheek,” “Steppin’ Out with My Baby,” and “White Christmas,” this show – full of big singing and dancing numbers, and some romance – is a true crowd pleaser. This Arts Center production has over 300 costumes, a sprawling set that encompasses the entire stage, visually exciting projections and scenery, and six holidays
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spanning the entire calendar. The production will run at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina from Nov. 29 to Dec. 24. Tickets to Holiday Inn are a wonderful gift to yourself, your family, and your friends. It’s one they’ll need to unwrap quickly though, because seats are going fast. They may be purchased at tickets.artshhi. com or by calling (843) 842-2787 (ARTS).
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
Maye River Gallery Nutcrackers Raise Money For Charity By Shannon Copcutt EDITOR
For the past 15 years, the artists of Maye River Gallery have created Christmas ornaments with 100% of proceeds going to local charity. To date, over $10,000 has been donated. This year’s beneficiary is Hopeful Horizons. The organization provides programs to promote hope and healing to survivors of child abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault. The artists of Maye River Gallery have created, fun and whimsical, These handmade nutcrackers were auctioned off to raise money for Hopeful Horizons. hand-painted Nutcrackers of all sizes as this year’s featured ornament. A special bell when creating the piece. Some examples are: What is the charity you will donate to? is rung by gallery staff when a nutcracker The Big Dill (pickleball nutcracker), Heritage Hopeful Horizons (https://www.hopefulhoriis purchased as a special thank you to the Golfer, Oysterman, Quilter. I will send you zons.org/) based in Beaufort & Bluffton customer. photos in a separate email as they are on my Who made the nutcrackers?, what kind of The nutcrackers will be available through phone. nutcrackers are there? The nutcrackers were the holiday season. There are 6 special nutTwenty nutcrackers, hand painted by our handpainted by the artists of Maye River Galcrackers that are on a display for silent aucartists, are on display at the gallery ranging lery. They are various and whimsical, some tion until November 30th. Auction bidders in size from 4” tree hangers to 17” tabletop 15” tall and some minis tree ornament size. will be entered into a drawing to win a special models. The artists were free to express themselves handmade angel by artist Margo Duke.1 11/13/23 11:37 PM Page 3 Thanksgiving-Roadhouse.qxp_Layout
Six large nutcrackers have entered into a Silent Auction format; min bid $75/ $5 bid increments ending Nov 30. All proceeds/donations benefit Hopeful Horizons. In addition, every nutcracker purchaser will be given the opportunity to enter our raffle for an Angel Tree topper made by one of our Fiber Artists Margo Duke.
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Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
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The Bluffton Sun
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Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
Page 13B
Lights Display At Shelter Cove Is Biggest To Date
This year’s holiday lights display at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina across from Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort on Hilton Head Island, S.C., is the most expansive yet, delivering a dazzling family display to savor and remember. Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort and Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina on Hilton Head Island, S.C., wanted to make the 2023 holiday season the most memorable yet for island residents and guests. Following months of planning and preparation, the holiday lights display at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina simply must be seen to believe. This holiday season, your entire family will enjoy Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina’s version of a winter wonderland — strolling around the award-winning marina, while taking in views of the expansive coastal light display. Take a walk along down the promenade for a festive, colorful affair, as the marina is decorated with holiday lights, and enjoy everything a Lowcountry “winter” has to offer. Over 125,000 lights have been installed at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina, as well as 16, 2D displays including boat dock entrances, 54 multi-color changing orbs and over 1,100 feet of garland. For added memories, feel free to snap a selfie or a photo at the Shelter Cove Marina light display and hashtag it with #ShelterCoveChristmas. Check out ShelterCoveHiltonHead.com/santa to enjoy a preview of the
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dazzling holiday light displays. Of course, Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina is also the ideal spot to “shop local” on Hilton Head. The eclectic array of merchants includes Southern Tide Signature Store, Christmas on the Harbour, A&M Provisions, Neptune’s Niche, Tradewinds Trinkets & Treasures, Treasure Island, Nash Gallery, Pure Salt Studios and more. And while you’re enjoying the holiday lights and shopping at Shelter Cove, be sure to dine at your choice of the seven waterfront restaurants open for the holidays: Bistro 17, Top Dawg Tavern, Top Dawg Pizzeria (coming soon), ELA’S on the Water, Hilton Head Social Bakery, San Miguel’s Mexican Restaurant and Scott’s Fish Market. As you may have heard, Hilton Head Social Bakery was recently named “Best Bakery in South Carolina” by Yelp — quite a feat in a state renowned for its culinary offerings. Locally owned by award-winning chef Philippe Feret from Manhattan, who previously served as executive chef at Manhattan’s renowned “Windows on the World” Restaurant, as well as Tavern on the Green, The Regency Hotel and many others, Hilton Head Social Bakery features a variety of classic American-style baked goods with a twist of French flair. Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina is located in the middle of Hilton Head Island across from Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, just off the Intracoastal Waterway. Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina offers year-round waterfront dining, shopping and entertainment, and water activities and tours. All kinds of water activities may be enjoyed at our Hilton Head Island marina, from inshore and offshore fishing charters to sport crabbing, sailing and dolphin tours, sightseeing and nature excursions. Shelter Cove Marina is your #1 destination for Hilton Head Island water adventures. With 178 slip rentals, Shelter Cove Marina is the largest award-winning deep water marina on Hilton Head Island. For information about activities and slip rentals, please visit www.sheltercovehiltonhead.com.
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
SOBA’s 30th Annual Judged Show Calls For Entries The Society of Bluffton Artists (SOBA) invites Lowcountry artists to submit their works of art for The Society of Bluffton Artists’ (SOBA) 30th Annual Judged Show. The event, which will take place March 4 to 31, will be judged by renowned artist Greg Barnes. Winners of the judged event will be awarded first, second and third place cash awards in the following categories: oil, acrylic, watercolor, photography, drawing (includes pastel, pencil, ink), collage and 3-D (includes pottery, wood, stained glass, sculpture). The registration deadline is February 23 with registered art drop-off from 9-11 a.m. March 4th at The SOBA Art School. Murray Sease, who won “Best of Show” last year for her oil painting “Abandoned,” said the annual judged show attracts the best from local artists, making the competition fierce. “Events like the judged show encourage
ing online artists to do at https:// our best, alsobagallery. ways learning com/product/ and hopefully register-forgetting more judged-show/. proficient,” The cost Sease said. “It to register is brings new $25 for SOBA eyes to the members gallery and atand $75 for tention to the non-SOBA growing arts members. The community in registration the area. And, deadline is of course, it February 23. helps the winThe deadline ners gain new for dropping followers and year’s winner of the Judged Art Show was this painting by Murray off your art customers!” Last Seas called Abandoned. is from 9-11 Registration is required by completing a registration form a.m. March 4th at The SOBA Art School, 8 Church St., Bluffton, SC. No entries will be available at the gallery, located at 6 Church accepted after 11 a.m. Street in Old Town Bluffton or by register-
The Judged Show exhibit will be on display from March 4-31 at the SOBA gallery. An awards ceremony will take place from 4-6 p.m. March 6. These events are free to attend and open to the public. Artists can pick up unsold artwork at the end of the show from 9-11 a.m. April 1 at The SOBA Art School. Registration and a full list of rules are available online at https://sobagallery. com/2024-judged-show/. SOBA is the heart of the flourishing art hub in Old Town Bluffton’s historic district at the corner of Church and Calhoun streets. As a non-profit art organization, SOBA offers regular art classes, featured artist shows, exhibitions, scholarships, outreach programs and more. The gallery is located at 6 Church Street and is open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on Sundays. Please visit www.sobagallery.com for a complete calendar of events and other information or call 843-757-6586.
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Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
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Lowcountry Community Concert Band Presents ‘Herald the Holidays’
The Lowcountry Community Concert Band’s final concert of the year will be presented on Tuesday, Dec. 12, at 7 p.m., at the Center for the Arts Building (CFA) at USCB’s Beaufort Campus, located at 805 Carteret Street. The event is free and open to the public. Enjoy great seasonal music favorites played by over 60 volunteer musicians. The program includes: Fanfare for the Festival Of Lights, setting by Evan VanDoren; Herald the Holidays (Holiday Flourish for Band), by Robert W. Smith; Sleigh Ride, by Leroy Anderson; O Magnum Mysterium, by Morten Lauridsen, transcribed by H. Robert Reynolds; Greensleeves, arranged by Alfred Reed; Christmas and Sousa Forever, by John Philip Sousa, arranged by Julie Giroux; Lo, How A Rose E’er Blooming, arranged by Larry Kerchner; and Minor Alterations (Christmas Through the Looking Glass), by David Lorien. The LCCB performs under the baton of
Conductor/Artistic Director David Carbone, who has over 30 years of experience in music education and the marching arts as a performer, conductor, educator, arranger and adjudicator. Associate Conductor, Deborah Hamner, currently teaches Band, Music Appreciation, and Piano at May River High School. Her background includes years of prior experience with the Marine Corps, as a clarinetist and later conductor of Marine Bands at Parris Island, as well as various overseas locations. The LCCB is sponsored by the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of South Carolina - Beaufort. The LCCB provides an opportunity for musicians of all ages and abilities to play instrumental music together for enjoyment as well as to perform for the community. Any OLLI member is welcome to join. Students and adults of any age can also join the band. The LCCB is 100% self-sustaining, and receives no state or local funding. Donations are welcome
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
HHIPC Announces BravoPiano 2024 Festival Dates The Hilton Head International Piano Competition (HHIPC) has announced dates for its BravoPiano! 2024 Festival happening in the upcoming year. The event, which is the third BravoPiano! 2024 Festival, will be held Thursday, Feb. 29 through Monday, March 4, and will feature eleven world-class artists over five days on Hilton Head Island. This triennial festival celebrates the HHIPC and its rich history, and this season’s event is entitled “PLAYS WELL WITH OTHERS…,” which showcases the piano’s many collaborative capabilities. Guest performers include outstanding HHIPC alumni—both prize-winners and judges—as well as prominent jazz pianists in a variety of ensemble settings. The festival opens with two premier piano duos in classical music and jazz, who also happen to be married couples: classical virtuosos Ran Dank and Soyeon Kate Lee, (February 29), followed the next night by jazz greats Bill Charlap and Renee
Rosnes (March 1). Saturday’s spotlight is on chamber music, with piano quintets performed by pianist Angela Cheng and the award-winning Verona Quartet (March 2), and Sunday’s program combines jazz and classical music in the masterful hands
of pianist Aaron Diehl and bassist David Wong (March 3). The finale on Monday, March 4 is a three-concerto extravaganza with the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra and Maestro John Morris Russell entitled “Rhapsody and Fantasy,” featuring three
different guest soloists. Drew Petersen, 2011 HHIPC Second Prize winner, will play Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue (in honor of the 100th anniversary of the premiere); Wynona Yinuo Yang , 2022 HHIPC Medalist, will perform Busoni’s rarely heard Indian Fantasy for Piano and Orchestra; and the program culminates with Orli Shaham, HHIPC 2019 Juror, playing Rachmaninoff’s thrilling Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. Competition Director, Steven Shaiman, said, “We started this festival in 2018 to recognize the HHIPC’s significance as one of the premier international competitions, providing important opportunities since 1996 for young pianists to perform and grow. By bringing back former winners and judges to perform and by including eminent jazz pianists as well, we shine the spotlight on the HHIPC and proudly cel-
Please see HHIPC on page 19B
TICKETS ON SALE NOW! savannahmusicfestival.org 912.525.505 For an interactive guide of the lineup, scan the QR code to visit savannahmusicfestival.org and listen to audio and watch videos of all performers.
Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
Page 17B
Cacky Rivers Featured At Palmetto Bluff’s FLOW Gallery Palmetto Bluff’s Artist of the month for December is Cacky Rivers and will be featured from Dec. 6-9. Cacky Rivers was born and raised in Charleston, SC, and considers herself a true Lowcountry “salty” girl. Her father greatly impacted her love of wildlife, nature, and birds. One of the greatest gifts he gave her when she graduated college was a Peterson’s bird book and a pair of binoculars. On the inscription, it said, “slow down and enjoy!” Recently, Cacky took up wildlife photography and has yet to look back. Not only is this a true passion for her, but she also enjoys learning and sharing her knowledge of birds with others. Her work will be shown off at the FLOW Gallery beginning with a welcome reception on Wednesday, Dec. 6 from 4-6 p.m. where Rivers will offer a slide presentation and attendees will have the opportunity to meet the artist and learn about her new publication, Born & Raised, which explores her love of photography. On Thursday, Dec. 7 Rivers offers Birds
Photo Credit: Cacky Rivers The beautiful photography of Cacky Rivers will be on display at Palmetto Bluff’s FLOW Gallery.
by Land: An Immersive Experience. The workshop will start with an expedition on a Palmetto Bluff Conservancy truck where attendees will take a journey through the
wilds of Anson for an opportunity to explore the land, learn photography techniques, and about the diverse bird species that inhabit the region. After lunch, attendees will re-
group outside of the Conservancy classroom and journey to River Road Preserve where Rivers will provide valuable insights about her unique self-taught approach to using camera settings, lighting, and compositionn On Friday Dec. 8 Birds by Sea is a unique workshop designed for photography and nature enthusiasts alike who want to learn about wildlife photography while capturing the natural beauty of the May River at Palmetto Bluff. Attendees will embark on a journey from Wilson Landing Marina to explore the May River waterways while Cacky discusses her photography and the various bird species that inhabit the area. In addition, Cacky will discuss her approach to camera settings, composition, lighting, and other essential elements of wildlife photography. On Saturday, Dec. 9, FLOW Gallery + Workshop will offer an opportunity to meet Cacky and purchase her new book or a wildlife print.
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
Popular Salsa Variations Differ In Movement, But Not Enjoyment By Sandro Virag CONTRIBUTOR
Salsa today is much like Swing or Jitterbug – everyone seems to know some version of it or at least has heard of it. Salsa is a popular form of social dance that originated in eastern Cuba. Different versions of the Salsa developed in Cuba, Puerto Rico, Columbia, Los Angeles and New York and each one is danced differently. As it grew and spread around the country, here are the more popular styles that emerged.
more circular motion.
Miami Style This style Salsa is influenced by the Cuban culture derived from those who immigrated to the United States around the Miami area. Dancers do not shift their body weight greatly as seen in other styles. Instead, dancers keep their upper body still, while concentrating more on the leg work or footwork. The moves are demanding in a
New York Style New York style Salsa is danced in a straight line. While dancers are dancing as partners, many times they break off from each other and both dancers will do their own steps without actual physical connection but then they will come back to each other to reconnect. Instruments are emphasized in this style and keeping time with the
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melody is not so important. Salsa is one of the most popular Latin dances in America today. It is suited to every age group, the music is fun and lively and every Salsa song is danceable. It is not only gaining popularity in the U.S., but also in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and many other countries. Because of the widespread acceptance, more and more individual styles are popping up. In fact, there are now national Salsa
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competitions as well as world competitions. They are showcasing all styles of Salsa in these championships and it’s very interesting to see how one dance has transformed into many. It is not just a social dance anymore and is becoming a formal competitive style. There are Salsa classes, workshops, coachings, and competitions. I love teaching Salsa because it is so easy for people to learn initially. The basic elements are easy pick up and retain. It is also one of the easiest dances to lead and follow. The music is also a helpful tool because the beat is so pronounced and consistent. Due to the speed and the nature of the movements of Salsa, it is a great workout and is great exercise for the whole body. Don’t miss out on an opportunity to learn this dance. You will be surprised at how many places you will hear Salsa music today. Sandro Virag, owner of Hilton Head Ballroom Dance Studio
Dec. 5, 2023
The Bluffton Sun
HHIPC from page 16B ebrate our successful impact on the piano world. For our third BravoPiano! Festival, since professional solo pianists live very solitary lives as performers, we decided to focus on the piano’s natural collaborative nature, and I am absolutely thrilled to bring these amazing artists here to share their talents with our Hilton Head audience.” The first four BravoPiano! Performances, Feb. 29 through March 3, take place at St. Luke’s Anglican Church, at 50 Pope
Avenue, and the finale on Monday, March 4 will be at the HHSO’s traditional concert home at First Presbyterian Church Hilton Head Island at 540 William Hilton Parkway. Tickets for all concerts are on sale now through the HHIPC website (www. hhipc.org). More information and tickets can also be obtained by calling the box office at 843-842-2055. The Hilton Head International Piano Competition, one of the leading international piano competitions in the United States, operates with a three-year rotation
of events: an adult competition for pianists 18–30 years of age, a young artist competition for pianists 13–17 years of age, and a festival—BravoPiano!—which showcases past prize winners and other prominent keyboard artists performing music ranging from classical to jazz. The HHIPC, inaugurated by the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra in 1996, draws applicants, artists, and audiences from numerous countries the world over, and many HHIPC artists are now enjoying thriving professional careers.
Adoptable, Adorable Pets Of The Week Cache is one handsome guy! This guy has a big heart that is eager to share his love with a family. Cache is often found waiting for a yummy snack or wrestling with his buddy, Slice. He came to us from another shelter, and has not known a home in far too long. Cache is 3 years old, neutered, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped. If you are interested in adopting Cache, call our adoption center at (843) 645-1725 or email us at info@palmettoanimalleague.org to set up an appointment.
Chaise may sound like a lounger, but he is full of spunk! This spry guy loves to find the best smell around and follow it. He understands commands and is eager to please for a tasty treat. He would make a great addition to an active family who enjoys outdoor adventures. Chaise is 4 years old, neutered, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped. If you are interested in adopting Chaise, call our adoption center at (843) 645-1725 or email us at info@palmettoanimalleague.org to set up an appointment.
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Featuring works in oil, acrylic, watercolor and mixed media by Rose Coeld | Sue Grilli | Murray Sease Lauren Arsenault | Bill Winn & sculpture by Wally Palmer
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Page 19B
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Fresh local seafood provided by Lemon Island Seafood.
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The Bluffton Sun
Dec. 5, 2023
Holiday Pla tters Available!
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HOLIDAY MARKET OPEN THRU DEC. 23 HOLIDAY-THEMED FINE ARTS & CRAFTS FOR HOME DECOR, HOLIDAY DECORATION AND GIFTS FOR FAMILY & FRIENDS