The Bluffton Sun • January 3, 2024

The

Blufft n Sun Jan. 3, 2024 • Volume 27, Issue 1 • Complimentary • BlufftonSun.com

Bluffton Made Some Amazing Strides In 2023

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The Don Ryan Center 6A Expands Programs

HIC Land and D.R. Horton will build a mulit-use development community on a large tract of land purchased for $36 million along 278.

HIC Land Buys Parcel Along 278 For Master Development

BY SHANNON COPCUTT Editor A new master-planned live-work-play community has been announced along the U.S. Route 278 corridor in Hardeeville, SC as a result

of the $36 million land purchase of a 2,600 acre parcel of land there called the Morgan Tract by HIC Land, a premier land investment company and master-planned community developer in the Southeastern

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U.S. HIC Land said it will be working with homebuilder D.R. Horton to convert the expansive piece of land into a multi-use development including a diverse selection of homes, commercial spac-

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es, first-class amenities, parks, nature trails and sidewalks. The projected 20-year development is expected to break ground in 2024. As part of the project, HIC Land

PARCEL CONT. ON PAGE 16A

Treat Your Home To Gifts That Keep Giving

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How And When Bluffton 38A Became A Town

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The Bluffton Sun

COASTAL CAROLINA

January 3, 2024

welcomes

UROLOGY GROUP TO ITS HEALTH CARE FAMILY

LOUIS PLZAK III, M.D.

KRISTIN CALLAGHAN, PA-C

F

or more than two decades, Dr. Louis F. Plzak III and the team at Coastal Carolina Urology Group have been providing the highest quality of care to patients suffering from kidney stones, urinary incontinence, bladder cancer and other urological concerns.

On December 4 the practice reopens as Beaufort Memorial Urology Specialists, where together with the same caring and efficient staff, its board-certified providers will continue to provide

NANCY THOMAS, PA-C

superior expertise and care in the diagnosis and treatment of urinary system diseases and conditions in both men and women.

Providing access to outstanding specialty care is critical to Beaufort Memorial’s mission to enhance the quality of life in the communities we serve. And we are proud to welcome these skilled, compassionate professionals to our growing team of specialty care providers in Beaufort, Jasper and Hampton counties.

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Patients will recognize the same friendly faces of the medical and administrative staff they’ve come to rely on for excellent urological care.

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January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

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VIEWPOINT

Together We Write The Next Chapter: 2024

BY SHANNON COPCUTT Editor As we step into 2024, we stand at the threshold of a new chapter, not just in our individual lives but in the life of our community. The new year is traditionally a time of personal resolutions, but this year, I invite you to join me in a collective resolution—a commitment to community service and kindness.

The story of 2024 will be written by all of us. It’s a narrative that will unfold in the local schools where we volunteer, the parks where we meet with friends, and in the community centers where we gather to plan and dream. Every act of service, no matter how small, is a sentence in this story, a contribution to the legacy we leave for future generations.

This year, let’s create a pattern of involvement and support for one another, as well as a respect for each other’s opinions. Whether it’s organizing a neighbor-

hood clean-up, mentoring a young person, or participating in local fundraisers, all of our actions create a ripple of positive change.

And everyone has their own interests and ideas on how to make Bluffton a better place.

Community growth isn’t just about physical improvements; it’s also about strengthening the bonds between us. It’s in the shared goals and collaborative efforts that

we find common ground and build lasting relationships. In a world that often feels divided, our collective efforts in community service can be a unifying force, bringing together people from all walks of life.

As Senator Lindsey Graham said recently during the State of the Region address, “we need to find common ground to move forward.” This is an important concept for being a part of a solution for the

many issues that plague our community, and our nation.

This year, while we celebrate things anew with family and friends, and resolve to make changes in our personal lives, lets also think about our community, and what we want our tomorrows to look like.

Let’s remember, the story of 2024 will be read by future generations. What message do we want to leave for them? Let it be a story of a community that came together to face challenges, celebrate successes, and work towards a common goal.

A story where every member felt valued, every effort was appreciated, and every achievement was a shared victory.

In 2024, let’s pledge to be authors of a year marked by compassion, collaboration, and growth. The pages are blank, the pen is in our hands, and the possibilities are endless. Together, let’s write a chapter that we can all be proud of.

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The Bluffton Sun

EDITORIAL

Our Staff Current Circulation Via USPS is 25,012

Editor

Shannon Copcutt editor@blufftonsun.com

General Manager

Melissa McCullough melissa@blufftonsun.com

Graphic Designers Wendy Price Janelle Medeiros

Page Designer

Cary Howard cary@blufftonsun.com

Advertising

Mary Ann Kent, Sales & Marketing Manager 843-575-4151 BJ Frazier, 843-422-2321 Claudia Chapman, 814-434-3665 Mike Garza, 804-928-2151 Mary Pat Gifford, 912-414-7122

Contributors Dr. Alikakos Abby Bird Amy Coyne Bredeson Amy Campanini Chip Collins Therese Donlan Collins Doughtie Dr. Mathew T. Epps Dr. Ronald Finger Jada Gaines Glenda Harris Dr. Jean Harris

January 3, 2024

Channing Heiss Andrea Hoerner Kenneth Horup Julie Lewellyn Dr. Oswald Mikell Weston Newton Lindsay Perry Dan Prud’homme Michael Reynolds Anita Stephens Lisa Sulka Mark Winn

Contact us 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 blufftonSun.com 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 1, January 3, 2024 is published twice monthly by Lowcountry Local Media, Inc., 181 Bluffton Rd Suite 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.

Bluffton Made Some Amazing Strides In 2023

BY LISA SULKA Contributor

2024.

• Constructed Additional Sidewalks and Park FeaWe were busier than ever tures Near the Rotary Comthis year and so proud of munity Center the accomplishments we • Began Splash have made. The list Pad Project in Oscar is longer than this Frazier Park, which article allows, so will be located near take a peek at a few Oscar Frazier Park’s of them. restroom pavilion • New Riverside and will be comBarn Park is 37 pletely ADA accessiacres and will feable. The splash pad ture large open spaces, perimeter will be comprised of trails, a large play- Lisa Sulka 2,200 square feet of ground for diverse recirculating water ages, as well as the with 23 spray and water play 2,700-square-foot iconic barn features and have rubber and restrooms. surfacing.

• Squire Pope Carriage • Opening of second park House (Wright Family Park) in Buckwalter Place formerwill be preserved with as ly owned by eviCore and inmuch historic character as cludes a fenced-in park, possible. This house, which complete with restrooms, an has weathered more than amphitheater, and a large 150 years of Bluffton’s histo- field. This park is adjacent ry, will be designed for futo the Town’s Buckwalter ture use as the Town’s WelPlace Park, where the Bluffcome Center. ton Veterans Memorial Park • Completed Bridge resides.

Street Streetscape Phase 1 • Implemented Economic between Calhoun Street and Development Incentive ProBurnt Church Road. The gram, the objective of which project included an extenis to bring professional sersive drainage system to sigvices closer to customers, nificantly reduce and treat reduce traffic on major arstormwater runoff and elim- teries and give businesses fiinate pollutants from enternancial incentives to locate ing the May River. or relocate to the town’s • Completed the Final fastest growing areas. This Phase of Sidewalks in the recently passed ordinance Buck Island/ Simmonsville dovetails into the objectives Neighborhood providing a of both the Town’s Comprepedestrian connection for hensive Plan along with the residents to neighborhood town’s guiding plans, which schools, parks, and busiall strive to cultivate a nesses. Final street lighting strong, diverse, professionalis under contract and ly centric economy. For planned for installation in more information regarding

these incentives, contact Assistant Town Manager Chris Forster: cforster@townofbluffton.com.

• Bluffton Police Department celebrated the completion of its Reflection Plaza.

This outdoor space, located behind the Bluffton Police Department, provides officers and staff with a safe space to communicate and rejuvenate.

• Bluffton is the fourth municipality in South Carolina to adopt a local hate crime ordinance joining Charleston, Columbia and Greenville. South Carolina and Wyoming are the only two states in the country with no statewide law. Bluffton’s local hate crime law will create a new chargeable offense and can be “added” to a primary charge where a bias against a protected class is a contributing cause for the crime.

• Municipal Association of South Carolina (MASC) honored Bluffton with Achievement Award for its Neighborhood Assistance

Program Neighborhood Assistance Program assists income-qualified residents with basic housing repairs to keep their homes “safe and dry.”

• Moody’s Investors Service Upgraded the Town of Bluffton’s Bond Rating to “AAA” elevating the Town’s credit rating to the highest rating for a municipality.

The Town of Bluffton is the 5th municipality in South Carolina to achieve this status – joining Hilton Head Island, Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, and Greenville.

• Town hosted children’s movie series and two summer events.

• Town of Bluffton dedicated the Calhoun Street Dock Improvements to S.C. Rep Bill Herbkersman for his assistance in securing state funds that contributed to the project and for his service and dedication to Bluffton.

Lisa Sulka Mayor, Town of Bluffton

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

Don Ryan Center Expands Programs To Help New Businesses Succeed

BY ANITA STEPHENS Contributor With Bluffton on the nation’s radar as a desirable place to live, we welcome many new residents and businesses. For the Don Ryan Center for Innovation this means busy times. The center, an economic development department of the Town of Bluffton, is a key component of our growth as it supports and shepherds start-up businesses and growth companies looking to put down roots here. Celebrating its 12th year stimulating development in Bluffton, it has a good track record, having reported at the end of 2023 that 75% of its business incubator program “graduates” are successfully operating after five years in business.

In today’s fluctuating economic times, these statistics are impressive. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics approximately 20% of new businesses fail

during the first two years of being open and 45% during the first five years.

Through specialized programs, along with mentorship provided by retired business professionals, the Don Ryan Center assisted 21 new businesses with their launch in 2023, and will persist with these efforts in 2024 and beyond.

In a recent interview on the Hilton Head-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce’s video newscast, The Power Hour, The Don Ryan Center for Innovation CEO David Nelems shared new developments and expansion plans for the upcoming year. The center will launch a five-part, educational series beginning in April 2024 aimed at helping small businesses understand, navigate and harness the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI). “AI is the hot word right now. If we thought the Inter-

DON RYAN CONT. ON PAGE 20A

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

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The Bluffton Sun

Looking For An

...for high school juniors!

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• A Trip to Washington DC • Meet juniors from across SC and the country • Meet lawmakers • Tour all the sights • Round-trip plane ticket and meals • All-expenses paid PEC’s 2023 Washington Youth Tour representatives:

(l-r) Olivia Besecker, May River High School Bryan Ruiz, Hilton Head Island High School Garrett Simons, Hilton Head Island Won the 2023 R.D. Bennett High School $5,000 Scholarship

• A Trip to South Carolina’s capital • Tour the Statehouse • Meet the state’s lawmakers • See how the co-ops are preparing for our state’s energy future • Visit popular Columbia attractions like Riverbanks Zoo & Garden • All-expenses paid PEC’s 2023 Cooperative Youth Summit representatives:

(l-r) Bella Johnson, Hilton Head Preparatory Jack Keller, Hilton Head Island High School (Sponsored by ECSC)

Colin Owen, Heritage Academy Alex Rosier, Won a $5,000 scholarship in Hampton County High School the podcast team competition

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January 3, 2024

COMMUNITY

Beaufort County Announces 2024 Election Dates Beaufort County is gearing up for an active electoral year in 2024 with several important election dates, early voting opportunities, and engaging community forums. All eligible residents are encouraged to participate actively in the future of our community through these democratic processes.

ELECTION DATES AND EARLY VOTING The Town of Bluffton Special Election will be held Tuesday, Feb. 13. Early voting will be available at the Bluffton Recreation Center. Early voting for the Special Election will run from Jan. 29 – Feb. 9, Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

If necessary, run offs for the Special Election will be held Tuesday, Feb. 27, with early voting from Feb. 21 to 23 at the Bluffton Recreation Center.

The Democratic Presidential Preference Primary will be held Saturday, Feb. 3. Early voting will be available at the Hilton Head Government Complex, Bluffton Rec Center, Beaufort Voter Registration Office, and the St Helena Library Branch. Early voting will run from Jan. 22 – Jan. 27 and Jan. 29 – Feb. 3 from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The Republican Presidential Preference Primary will be held Saturday, Feb. 24. Early voting will be available at the Hilton Head Government Complex, Bluffton Rec Center, Beaufort Voter Registration Office, and the St Helena Library Branch. Early Voting will run from Feb. 12 – Feb. 17 and Feb. 19 – Feb. 22 from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

South Carolina’s Statewide Primary Elections will be held Tuesday, June 11.

Early voting will be available at the Hilton Head Government Complex, Bluffton Rec Center, Beaufort Voter Registration Office, and the St Helena Library

Branch. Early Voting will run from May 28 – June 7 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m Monday – Friday. If necessary, run offs for the Statewide Primary will be held Tuesday, June 25, with early voting from June 19 – 21 at the above listed locations.

The General Election will be held Tuesday, November 5, 2024. Early Voting will be available at the Hilton Head Government Complex, Bluffton Rec Center, Beaufort Voter Registration Office, and the St Helena Library Branch. Early Voting will run from October 25 – November 2 (Monday – Saturday) (8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.). If necessary, run offs for the General Election will be held Tuesday, November 19 with early voting available at the above listed locations from November 13 – November 15.

COMMUNITY FORUMS Engage with your community through a series of community forums. There are currently forums scheduled for: • April 3, 2024 at the Bluffton Branch Library • April 10, 2024 at The Penn Center’s Frissell Hall • April 17, 2024 at the Port Royal Town Hall • April 24, 2024 at the Hilton Head Branch Library All forums will be held at 6:00 p.m. Additional dates will be scheduled, please stay tuned for event and location announcements.

The county encourages residents to join one of these community events to learn about elections, noting, “Your informed participation is vital to this fundamental component of our representative democracy.”

To learn more about voting in Beaufort County, or to check your ballot, please visit www.beaufortcountysc.gov

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

Upcoming Restaurant Week Spotlights Dining Creativity

BY CHANNING HEISS Contributor The Hilton Head and Bluffton culinary scene will soon take center stage as palates are treated to a weeklong special offering of diverse dining experiences January 27-February 3 during the 16th annual Chamber Restaurant Week, one of the signature events sponsored by the Hilton Head Island Bluffton Chamber of Commerce.

Over 50 restaurants representing the flavors of Hilton Head and Bluffton are expected to participate, featuring everything from innovative new specials to longtime favorites. Participating restaurants will offer several course prix fixe menus, spotlighting their best creations across this wide landscape of cuisines. Along with celebrating the enduring and familiar places you have enjoyed for years, the chamber noted that Restaurant Week is “the best way to try the area’s newest and hottest spots.”

This year’s participating restaurants are

once again a mix of the best of the old and the best of the new. Whichever you choose, check with the restaurant for information on menu selections, prices, and reservations.

While there is not a final list of all of the restaurants that will take part in this year’s event, we can offer a small preview.

On the fancier side, there is Chez Georges, opened on Hilton Head in the summer of 2020. The French bistro and bar is offering a three course meal with optional wine pairing. It begins with appetizer selections

of goat cheese salad, escargot, and French onion soup. For an entrée, diners may select pan seared chicken breast, parchment steamed salmon filet, or beef Bourguinion.

The experience is topped off with a dessert selection of crème brulee, mousse du jour, or chestnut cake a la mode.

If a burger in a casual atmosphere is more your style, you can check out Top Dawg Tavern at Shelter Cove, which will have a burger and fries special with four combinations of toppings. For those looking to return to some of the area’s most re-

nowned and established dining spots, Michael Anthony’s and Reilley’s are still there for you to enjoy. To get into the Bluffton state of mind, try the Bluffton Oyster Company Family Seafood House, family owned since 1899.

Some recently featured eateries at Restaurant Week have brought their cuisine to both Hilton Head and Bluffton, such as Local Pie and Nectar Farm Kitchen.

Whichever side of the bridge you want to explore for its creative food culture, there are venues waiting to be discovered and old friends to visit.

Those wishing to have their menus and logos featured on the 2024 Restaurant Week landing page must submit them no later than January 19, but the Chamber urges everyone to get their graphics in as early as possible to get maximum exposure for their business. Those files should be uploaded at the link on the landing page and will be posted three business days after they are submitted. Specific requirements for the images are available on the landing page.

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January 3, 2024

Bluffton Rotary Announces Final 2023 Grant Recipients Actual Patient

Greet 2024 with a Brighter Smile

The Rotary Club of Bluffton is pleased to announce that it has awarded $23,000 in grants for the second half of 2023. The grant recipients are: Habitat for Humanity, Hospice of the Lowcountry, Lowcountry Legal Volunteers, Moss Creek Stables Equine Assisted Program, and Second Helpings.

The club evaluates dozens of grant applications every year and donates to selected organizations on a semi-annual basis. All organizations that receive grants are involved in charity

work in the local community.

The organization also hosts notable speakers and recognizes outstanding students in the local schools. Chartered in 1988 the Rotary Club of Bluffton is one of more than 46,000 Clubs in the world. With a network of more than 1.4 million individuals located in more than 200 countries, Rotarians take action on sustainable projects that improve our environment and our communities.

The organization’s motto is Service Above Self.

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

A BLUFFTON

Christmas Story

The Town of Bluffton thanks our wonderful community!

The Town of Bluffton’s Police Department hosted its holiday event, “Shop with a Cop”, December 16th at Wal-Mart. Since 2018, each Bluffton school resource officer selects children from each Bluffton school whose family is experiencing financial challenges. This year, each child received a $300 gift card to buy gifts and his or her family received $200 for food or other supplies. In the past, officers witnessed children buy essential items for their families with their gift card. To ensure the children received some Christmas magic, a gift card for their families was included this year. Officers then surprised 10 people and handed them a $100 gift card as they walked around Wal-Mart.

This event helps children know they are valued and advocated for thanks to the generosity of the Bluffton community. Bluffton police officers saw parents and guardians cry from this random act of generosity and the children can be so overwhelmed, at times, they can’t believe they had money to spend.

The Town of Bluffton is able to help our neighbors because of the people who donated this year (as of 12.15.2023). A special thanks to all who donated to this event, the annual Toy Drive or the “Blessings for Bluffton” program, which helps families year-round who are experiencing a financial challenge. For more information about any of these programs, visit: www.townofbluffton.sc.gov or call the Town of Bluffton at 843.706.4500.

$100 - $499 Donors

Accurate Reproductions (Shop with a Cop) Anonymous (All programs) Boshaw Law Firm (Shop with a Cop) Chick-fil-A (Toy Drive) Lawrence & Lisa Fox (Blessings for Bluffton) Warren and Carol Fritz (Toy Drive) Jaime Haight (BPD Benevolence Fund) Tony and Heather Hollstegge (BPD Benevolence Fund) Bob & Sue Koppes, (Blessings for Bluffton) Kroupa & Bush Real Estate Partners (Shop with a Cop) Lowcountry Homes Realty (Blessings for Bluffton) Lowcountry Retired Law Enforcement Officers Association (Toy Drive) Nick Mosesso (BPD Benevolence Fund) William Rickett (BPD Benevolence Fund) Michael & Carol Smith (Blessings for Bluffton) Mike Sneden (Shop with a Cop) Ward Family Trust (Shop with a Cop) Sean & Joanne Welch (Blessings for Bluffton)

$500+ Donors

All Pro Tire Pros (Shop with a Cop) Kenneth & Arlene Anderson (Shop with a Cop) Anonymous (All programs) Benchmark Interiors (Shop with a Cop) Full Circle Construction Company (Shop with a Cop) The Ginn Family Foundation (BPD Benevolence Fund) Island Plaster (Shop with a Cop) Lowcountry Therapy (Shop with a Cop) Marks Family Giving Fund (Shop with a Cop) Marks Family Giving Fund (BPD Benevolence Fund) Nick Mosesso (BPD Benevolence Fund) Fred Park (BPD Benevolence Fund) Randy Jeffcoat Builders (Shop with a Cop) Carol Riddick (BPD Benevolence Fund) Charles Rigsby (Shop with a Cop) Rugs by Shawn (BPD Benevolence Fund) Temple Oseh Shalom Sisterhood (Shop with a Cop) Watson Development Group (Shop with a Cop)

Updated reviews regarding the Island Improvement Corridor Project call for potential tax, travel choices and more to alleviate traffic.

Island Improvement Corridor Project Receives Updated Review

BY GWYNETH J. SAUNDERS Contributor An independent review of the William Hilton Parkway Corridor Improvement project presented to the Hilton Head Town Council in late 2023 reinforced the need for highway improvements, and offered ideas to help slow the capacity.

Members of CBB Transportation Engineers and Planners, a St. Louis firm, spent a week on Hilton Head Island experiencing all of the traffic parameters available, according to its representative Shawn Leight.

“After spending a week driving in traffic at all times of the day, riding bikes on the Island, walking along the paths a well as using the public transit, CBB was able to provide several recommendations on how to slow future traffic growth on Hilton Head,” Leight told the council. “We really tried to experience what transportation felt like, and what that really looks like in the area.”

Among the tools used by CBB to determine what could mitigate the congestion was time or transportation demand management (TDM). The Federal High-

way Administration defines it as “providing travelers, regardless of whether they drive alone, with travel choices, such as work location, route, time of travel and mode. In the broadest sense, demand management is defined as providing travelers with effective choices to improve travel reliability.”

Using TDM strategies, some of CBB recommendations focused on providing travel suggestions that would mitigate the congestion and add longevity to the life of the new bridge and road expansions. Potential results included: establish a dedicated and local sales tax for transit that would provide for increased and stable funding; establish park-andride facilities and use transit to get around; increase marketing to branding for increased awareness and use of service; develop service to new markets, such as retirement communities to increase use; work with partners to encourage employees and patrons to use public transit; provide and promote service from local airports instead of trav-

TRAFFIC CONT. ON PAGE 18A

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

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y e k r You

E S I D A R TO PA

New homes from the $300s

Sunshine and cool breezes. Palm trees and margaritas.

Welcome to Latitude Margaritaville, a 55-and-better community inspired by the legendary music and lifestyle of Jimmy Buffett, built on food, fun, music and escapism.

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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 2024. 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. 2024

MINTT-110_lmhh_Q1_2024_BlufftonSun_9.96x9.765.indd 1

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The Bluffton Sun

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PARCEL FROM PAGE 1A and D.R. Horton are committed to improving the area’s infrastructure, including roads and utilities. The project is expected to also create hundreds of local jobs and significantly increase the tax base.

According to HIC Land Founder/ CEO Stefan Hoyer, HIC Land privately sourced and managed the due diligence and entitlements for the landmark purchase of $36 million. The company worked with the sellers for over two years to create a win-win scenario for HIC Land and the Morgan family.

“Local and national developers have attempted to purchase this land for over 25 years with no success. HIC took on the challenge, and our team overcame the many obstacles to close on the property. Because we are a privately funded company with no outside investors, we were able to buy the land directly from the Morgan family without red tape or bureaucratic decision-making,” said Hoyer.

“This plot of land is ideally located as the last remaining large developable tract in the area, with easy access to many nearby amenities including the beautiful beaches of Hilton Head Island, the Historic City of Savannah and rapidly growing employment opportunities. There is also a significant demand for more housing in this area, which the tract’s location is well-suited to aid,” said Hoyer. “The Morgan Tract is extremely well located to supply the increasing demand and HIC is uniquely positioned and very capable to execute and deliver this first-class community.”

As for the types of residential developments offered within the plan, Hoyer noted that “Housing will consist of a mix of different sized single family homes, townhouses and rentals. A public school site is also in plans for the development.”

The property has been in the Morgan family for over 100 years, according to John and Harry Morgan, who noted that “while we have contracted multiple times with various buyers, only Stefan Hoyer and HIC were able to perform. We are pleased to know that HIC will write the next chapter of this property which is so dear to our family.”

D.R. Horton’s Brad Brundage, Coastal Carolina Region President noted that this development will be a premier community in the area. “The Hardeeville/Bluffton/Hilton Head area

January 3, 2024 is difficult to penetrate with a large community, and this tract of land is in the perfect location to achieve our goal.

When complete, it will be one of D.R. Horton’s flagship communities in the country.”

According to Lisa Sulka, Mayor of the Town of Bluffton, this is an extension of the growth we have seen here, and she is hopeful that there will be services added in addition to residential development. “The entire coast line of South Carolina and Georgia have been growing for many years now, and we are seeing Hardeeville attract the same today. We meet regularly to discuss many regional issues like growth and are here to help our neighbors with similar issues that Beaufort County has seen. Transportation and services are key to these new developments, and I am hopeful that there will be a push to have both included up front before the residential growth takes over.”

The desirability of this coveted location is growing exponentially due to the influx of people moving to the Southeast from other areas of the country. It is also close to the site of a future Hyundai Giga factory, which will employee 8,500 people and is slated for completion in early 2025.

Headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina, the privately owned company has built a reputation for buying large tracts of land, installing infrastructure, and selling to some of the top publicly traded homebuilders in the United States. Its experienced team is deeply rooted in local communities and strives to be an excellent partner for land sellers and builder customers. For more information, visit hicland.com.

Hoyer Investment Company Land, LLC (“HIC Land”) is a Charleston, SCbased real estate investment company and land developer that acquires, rezones and develops land throughout the Southeastern United States It specializes in land acquisition and lot development for the largest publicly traded homebuilders in the U.S. Headquartered in Arlington, Texas, D.R. Horton has operations in 118 markets in 33 states in the North, East, Southeast, South Central, Southwest and Northwest regions of the United States. D.R. Horton has been the largest builder in the United States by volume since 2002 and has been building families beautiful homes in desirable locations for 45 years.

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

HEAL LIKE YOU WERE BORN TO

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MEET THE EXPERT Heather Hinshelwood M.D.

Heather Hinshelwood, MD, owner and medical director of the Fraum Center for Restorative Health, represents a shift in healthcare. With degrees from Florida State University and the University of Florida College of Medicine, she moved from emergency medicine to preventive, integrative care. Her leadership at the center is marked by a dedication to uncovering the underlying causes of health issues, favoring a holistic approach over symptomatic treatments. As a Navy Commander reservist, her discipline and expertise are instrumental in steering the center towards innovative, patient-focused healthcare solutions.

A Transformative Journey The Fraum Center for Restorative Health has been one of the only facilities in the United States offering a stem cell technology alternative to joint replacement. A cutting edge technology, restorative medicine utilizes Human Cellular Tissue Products (HCTPs) to support the body’s natural healing processes. Damaged tissue in joints is supplemented with healthy structural tissue, creating an opportunity for internal restoration. With most patients feeling maximum results within 10 to 12 weeks and up to 95% within 6 months, make 2024 your body’s year of transformation with the Fraum Center.

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The Bluffton Sun

TRAFFIC FROM PAGE 14A elers using taxis, rental cars or rideshare services; and explore the possibility of a bus lane, allowing buses to jump the queues when traffic is backed up.

“One of the things that we noticed, sitting through the morning queues was the traffic builds up before the sun comes up.

These aren’t tourists sitting in this traffic queue right now. We looked around, and we noticed a lot of work trucks,” Leight said. “One thing that occurred to us is what you really have in this morning rush hour is your workforce getting onto the island.”

In the evening, Leight and his team noticed that not only were the roads filled with the same people returning home, but the variability that comes because of visitors, a scenario that peaks during tourist season.

“There are about 20 million annual bridge crossings; about three million are annual visitors,” he said. “We’re estimating probably 10-20% of those trips are actually visitor trips, so the vast majority of the people are commuting in and out

every day.”

Half of the jobs on Hilton Head cannot be carried out from home by computer because they are in accommodation, food service, retail trade, construction, and health care. Out of those folks who work on the island, 64% commute from off-island.

With the exception of the COVID blip in 2020, traffic to the island has gradually increased since 2010. Both the CBB study and the South Carolina Department of Transportation Environmental Assessment estimate that the annual average daily traffic (AADT) will reach nearly 80,000 drivers.

Leight added that if there was a 5-10% mode shift – people having and choosing another form of transportation rather than using their own cars – it would make a big difference in helping out the traffic flow.

Councilwoman Patsy Brison asked Leight to confirm what she understood were the main points he was making concerning the plans for the new bridge. Al-

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January 3, 2024

though it was not in the scope of work as outlined by the county, CBB provided the mass transit system suggestions as “an extra for the county and city.”

“What we’re trying to do with the mass transit system was to address this question here as far as future growth. If we can bend this curve down and get less future growth, and slow down the growth of traffic, then that would allow the SCDOT project to last longer,” said Leight. “We thought this was important to look at and explore with the growth that was out there, and what opportunities we have to limit that growth without building an extra bridge.”

Brison, who was spent her career as a traffic engineer, noted that her summary of the presentation was the solution is first, bridges to address capacity; second, the SCDOT plans will work until about 2040 when there will be additional delay and congestion, with some spots showing problems by 2035; and third, that an analysis of adaptive traffic in CBB’s system in the future included building a mass transit system.

“The new bridge will operate better than the existing bridge operates,” Leight

confirmed, “and there will be more capacity in the system to lead more through during the peak hours with a new bridge as opposed to the system that you have today.”

A copy of the Oct. 17, 2023, presentation can be found at hiltonheadislandsc.gov/us278corridor/presentations/ home.cfm where a link to the recorded town council can also be found.

Get started with a complimentary consultation by calling (843) 484-9255 Lowcountry’s own: Luke Gawronski, CFP®, CEPA Wealth Management Advsior 7 Arley Way Suite 102-B Bluffton SC 29910

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January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

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Welcome Our Newest Physician Kayo Perley, MD

Board Certified in Family Medicine

Join us in welcoming Dr. Kayo Perley to Medical Associates of the Lowcountry. Dr. Perley is board certified in family medicine. Dr. Perley is excited to not only serve the Bluffton community but to help change her patients’ lives for the better. She has extensive training in preventive health and is happy to see all adults 18 years and older.

Areas of Interest: • Preventive medicine • Women’s health • Heart failure • Mental health • Hypertension • Diabetes • Arthritis/joint pain • Weight management

Call 843-706-2523 to make an appointment.

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

DON RYAN FROM PAGE 6A

THROUGH PERSONAL LEADERSHIP AND DEVELOPMENT OF LIFE SKILLS

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS GRADES 9-11

net was revolutionary, this will be even more so,” said Mr. Nelems. The rapid advances in AI technology provide great opportunities but also pose a steep learning curve. For those who are old enough, remembering the wild rodeo days regarding the applications and advancing capabilities of the Internet makes a good comparison. The Ryan Center educational program will provide help in putting policies in place as well as ethical considerations of AI as applied to business practice. “We want to teach start-up businesses and growth businesses to leverage this power the right way,” he said.

More positive news for 2024 involves the recent passage of the Economic Development Ordinance as voted by Bluffton/Hilton Head Island Town Council. The ordinance seeks to balance new business development across Beaufort County. Its primary focus is on reducing traffic congestion along US highway 278 and establishing a broader scope of services to areas deemed disproportionate based on population. More information will be forthcoming early this winter and will

outline incentives and requirements, according to Nelems.

Looking further ahead to 2025 and beyond, Nelems noted plans that are in place for the start of construction on a new multi-use Class A office, business and warehouse flex-space building located within Buckwalter Place complex. The proposed 50,000-square-foot center will provide a landing pad for new businesses coming to Bluffton and is anticipated to provide over 100 job opportunities. The Don Ryan Center for Innovation will occupy a part of the proposed complex as a secondary location.

The Don Ryan Center for Innovation was established in 2012 as a 501(c) (3). The mission of the group is to help innovators, start-ups and early-stage businesses launch and grow their companies, providing the resources and experienced business guidance needed to help them achieve their goals – and help create a vibrant entrepreneurial business climate throughout the region. Additional information can be found on the center’s website: www.donryancenter.com.

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THE SOUTH CAROLINA YOUTH LEADERSHIP COUNCIL is offering a 10 week course on developing LIFE SKILLS through personal leadership.

Students will learn time management, critical thinking, decision-making, teamwork, and how to build self-confidence along with numerous other elements of leadership.

Classes held each Saturday February 24th – April 27th Heritage Academy, 11 New Orleans Road, Hilton Head Island.

For Info Contact: Dave Fuka at (203) 253-5612 or Bill Moss at (843) 422-1728 Cost: $650 per student includes all materials and the Wiley & Sons DiSC® program

Online option for eight weeks only at $450 per student (Wiley & Sons DiSC program not included)

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Historic Bluffton Foundation Review Of 2023 The Historic Bluffton Foundation, which plays a vital role in sustaining the Heyward House Museum, programming to educate others about the Bluffton, and helps preserve Bluffton’s history and sense of place, had a successful 2023.

In 2023 alone, the Foundation had many accomplishments including restoration work on the Heyward House’s slave cabin, updating the Heyward House with a new HVAC systems and ductwork, and contracting with the pre-

eminent preservation engineer Craig Bennett to make sure the Heyward House will have many more years as being one of the important jewels of Bluffton’s National Register Historic District.

As we reflect on the accomplishments of the year gone by, it is important to recognize that the generosity of individuals in our town have helped make all of this possible.

If you would like more information or to donate visit: https:// historicblufftonsc.com/donate.

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

Let’s Talk: Investing Myths Vs. What Really Works

BY LUKE GAWRONSKI Contributor

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For investors looking to be more aggressive, it can be difficult to differentiate between what’s rumored to ALWAYS KEEP YOUR work and what does work EYE ON YOUR when it comes to creating a PORTFOLIO successful investment stratLuke Gawronski egy. Current conditions You don’t need to conmake it tougher for those instantly check and adjust vestors trying to mitigate risk with your portfolio to see your investtheir investment decisions. It’s imments pay off. Sometimes the best portant to understand a few investstrategy is to wait, even during a ing myths to help you make good de- volatile market. In fact, constantly cisions. changing your investments can cost you more than help you.

EVERYONE FITS INTO A CATEGORY

Investors are people, too. While there are certainly many different investment strategies, investors don’t come with labels attached.

Some investors may be in a spot where mitigating risk is paramount above all else. We can safely label these folks as conservative investors, perhaps in a spot where they’ve accumulated a portfolio that doesn’t need to be exposed to high-risk, high-reward strategies. But you don’t have to designate yourself as a certain “type “of investor.

THE EXPERTS MUST KNOW Cable news and financial news websites are filled with “Wall Street Insiders” who cannot wait to provide the scoop on what the future holds with the market. While these insiders may provide useful insights, it’s important to understand that the media business and the world of investing are two very different things. There is nothing wrong with listening to the insiders who get paid to speak to the masses, but their words should not be more im-

YOU NEED A CERTAIN AMOUNT OF MONEY TO BEGIN INVESTING Much like you are never too young or too old to begin investing, you also do not need a set or fixed amount of money to begin. It is more about defining your investment goals and preparing a sound, realistic strategy to meet those goals.

YOU NEED AN EXPENSIVE PROFESSIONAL TO REALLY MAKE MONEY Your needs and goals are yours and yours alone. You may have plans to save for retirement while also looking for way to pay for your children’s education. Work with someone who fills your need, rather than assuming you need to pay top dollar to find your best resource.

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

Wreaths Across America Decorates Beaufort National Cemetery

BY ANDREA HOERNER Contributor Escorted by 200 roaring motorcycles, a line of 18-wheelers rumbled down Boundary Street to deliver rememberance wreaths to 26,000 graves at Beaufort National Cemetery on Saturday, Dec. 16, honoring deceased veterans.

It was a drizzly day, but that didn’t deter hundreds from coming out to the cemetery. Families, scout troops, military, organizations and community members were there for one reason only: to honor our deceased veterans by placing wreaths on their graves.

Following a moving ceremony at noon that included the Sun City Veterans Association Color Guard, placing of commemorative service wreaths, singing of the National

Anthem, playing of taps and prayer, the crowd disbursed and within hours every grave had received a remembrance wreath.

Volunteers remembered our fallen as they said their names aloud.

Tradition has it that a person dies twice, once physically, and then when their name is said for the last time.

“Today was a remarkable day in Beaufort. I feel so blessed. If the whole country participated in events that honor those who preserved our freedom, there might be more unity among us. Thank you.” commented one participant.

For over 15 years, David Edwards has led the effort to place wreaths at Beaufort National Cemetery. He started with a handful of wreaths, and for the past three

years, a wreath was placed on every one of the 26,000 graves. Sun City Hilton Head has been a strong supporter of this endeavor since 2017, donating over $97,000 this year.

This year, National Wreaths Across America Day took place at over 4,225 participating locations across the country, including Arlington National Cemetery, honoring over three million veterans.

Thanks to the millions of volunteers who took the time to “REMEMBER the fallen, HONOR those who serve, and TEACH our children the value of freedom.”

Beaufort National Cemetery was established by Abraham Lincoln in 1863, and contains the graves of unknown soldiers as well as military leaders.

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January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

Beaufort County Urges Christmas Tree Recycling Recycling live Christmas trees saves valuable landfill space. Beaufort County residents who have decals are encouraged to bring live Christmas trees to any County Convenience Center during normal Center hours. Trees should be placed in the yard waste bins.

For residents who do not have Convenience Center decals, Christmas trees can be brought to the Shanklin Road, Beaufort or Simmonsville Road, Bluffton locations only.

The county asks that residents make sure all ornaments, lights, and other decorations are removed from the trees prior to recycling them.

In anticipation of increased amounts

of post-holiday waste and as a courtesy to other county residents, please remember to flatten all cardboard boxes before placing them in the appropriate dumpsters. Bubble wrap and air pillows can be recycled in the Plastic Bag & Film Collection bins at the Bluffton, Hilton Head, Shanklin and St. Helena Convenience Centers.

Remember too, after the feast, recycle the grease. For more information about recycling household grease and other accepted recyclables at the Convenience Centers click here.

For more information on locations and hours of Beaufort County Convenience Centers, please visit www. beaufortcountysc.gov/recycle or call 843-255-2736.

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Beaufort County Council Appoints Public Works Enforcement Officers Beaufort County announced the appointment of John “Bradley” Harriott and Farie Rile as public works enforcement officers for Beaufort County.

In their capacity as Public Works Enforcement Officers, Harriott and Rile will play a crucial role in ensuring the adherence to public works regulations within Beaufort County. This includes overseeing construction projects, infrastructure maintenance, and various public works initiatives to uphold safety standards and community well-being.

Before undertaking any official duties, each appointed officer is required to

present the appropriate certificate to the Beaufort County Magistrate’s office, demonstrating their commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and compliance with county regulations.

Interim County Administrator John Robinson expressed enthusiasm about the appointments, stating, “the appointments of Bradley Harriott and Farie Rile will further enhance the effectiveness of the Public Works Enforcement team, contributing to the continued growth and well-being of the community.”

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

USCB’s Fulbright-Hays Korea Project Participants Chosen USCB announced the selection of a talented group of scholars, educators and students who will participate in the university’s 2024 Korea-focused Fulbright-Hays Group Program Abroad. The successful applicants include two Bluffton high school teachers and two USCB students from Beaufort County.

Members of the USCB faculty, USCB students, and local K-12 educators entered a competitive application process in their quest to join the innovative South Korean and Asian Literacy Education (SKALE) project. Funded by a $161,778.27 grant from Fulbright-Hays Group Programs Abroad in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Education, SKALE is designed to equip local communities with cultural readiness amidst the growing South Korean influence in our region.

Applicants selected for SKALE are listed below.

• Kyle Messick (Assistant Professor of Psychology) • Angela Nadeau (Instructor of Psychology) • Caroline Sawyer (Associate Professor of Communication Studies)

USCB EDUCATION STUDENTS: • Celeste Cruz-Reyes (Elementary Education Major) • Evan Calabrese (Secondary Education – English Major)

K-12 EDUCATORS: SOUTH CAROLINA • Elizabeth Schlieger (Beaufort County, May River High School)

USCB FACULTY:

• Mary Katherine Schramm (Beaufort County, May River High School)

• Cindy Lahar (Degree Coordinator, Psychology)

K-12 EDUCATORS: GEORGIA • Sharon Butler (Bryan County, Richmond

Hill High School) • Amber Crews (Bryan County, Richmond Hill High School) • Roman Czerwinski-Haro (Bryan County, Richmond Hill High School) • Elizabeth Rodgers Clarke (Bryan County, Richmond Hill High School) The South Carolina Lowcountry and Savannah, Georgia, metro area have seen a surge in South Korean cultural impact since 2022, with ongoing construction of a Hyundai EV facility at a mega site near the Port of Savannah; ongoing construction of a Korean EV battery facility near Savannah; and the relocation of the PGA Tour CJ Cup from Jeju Island, South Korea, to Conagaree Golf Club in Ridgeland, SC. The SKALE project has emerged as a vital initiative to enhance community preparedness.

In August 2023, USCB initiated a call for participants from its internal community, seeking four faculty members specializing in

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KOREA PROJECT CONT. ON PAGE 34A

PROVIDING EXCEPTIONAL PALLIATIVE, HOSPICE AND GRIEF

CARE FOR OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1977

The Bluffton Sun

HEALTH

Important Considerations For Breast Augmentation

BY DR. MATHEW T. EPPS Contributor

to address sagging or asymmetry. A thorough discussion with your surgeon will help determine if a lift is necessary to achieve the desired results.

Breast augmentation surgery is a highly sought after procedure as it can enhance the silouhette, boosting self confidence with a desired and natural look. Common questions and factors to consider in planning breast augmentation surgery with your plastic surgeon include the type and placement of the implant, as well and indications, timing and specifics of breast augmentation surgery.

Mathew Epps

1. IMPLANT MATERIAL: SALINE VS SILICONE Choosing between saline and silicone implants is a fundamental decision in breast augmentation. Saline implants provide a firmer feel, while silicone implants offer a more natural look and feel.

Understanding the pros and cons of each type is essential for achieving the desired outcome. For example, use of a saline implant may lend to a look of “ripling” within the lateral aspect of the breast.

This may be mitigated with the placement of the implant.

2. PLACEMENT: SUBGLANDULAR VS SUBMUSCULAR Determining the implant placement – whether subglandular (above the chest muscle) or submuscular (below the chest muscle) – impacts the final aesthetic result. Submuscular placement may provide a more natural appearance, while subglandular placement may be suitable for certain body types as well as breast shape. Additionally, it is important to consider activity level, highly athletic individuals may require subglandular placement as it leaves the pectoralis muscle uninterrupted.

3. DO YOU NEED A LIFT? In some cases, a breast lift may be necessary in conjunction with augmentation

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Save a lot.

Sacrifice nothing.

4. TIMING OF SURGERY Consider the timing of your surgery, especially if you enjoy water activities. It is recommended to wait at least four weeks before exposing the incision sites to chlorinated pools. Additional caution is advised for swimming in lakes or oceans, requiring a few more weeks of healing.

5. SIZE CONSIDERATIONS Avoiding the most common complication in breast augmentation – size mismatch – is crucial. This is where the patient’s ideal for breast size does not match the post-operative result. Bringing a photo depicting the desired look. Utilizing Vector 3D Imaging during consultations can greatly assist in selecting the appropriate implant size for a satisfying outcome. Vectra simulation, a cutting-edge tool, allows for meticulous adjustments between specific sizes and shapes, tailored to the offerings of each implant manufacturer. The software can simulate a simultaneous lift as well. This advanced imaging technique ensures a personalized approach, guiding patients towards choices that align with their unique preferences and anatomical considerations.

Achieving successful breast augmentation involves a comprehensive understanding of these factors. By carefully navigating choices related to materials, placement, the need for a lift, surgery timing, and size considerations, individuals can make well-informed decisions to enhance both their physical appearance and overall well-being.

Mathew T. Epps MD, MS, DABS is a Triple Fellowship Trained Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon Specializing in Facial, Eyelid, and Breast Surgery. Visit Matheweppsmd. com or info@dreppsmd.com

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

LEGAL

Creating An Estate Plan Is A Selfless Act Of Love

BY MARK WINN Contributor Creating an estate plan is a selfless act of love. The reason you are doing it is to avoid problems, costs and headaches for your family. When you have a good estate plan, you can be assured there will not be costly public legal proceedings. You can be assured family conflict is likely avoided, or at least minimized. You can preserve your privacy and make sure what you do leave to loved ones will be protected from divorce and other lawsuits and be kept in the family. The benefits are substantial. The problems avoided are many.

The peace of mind you get is real.

Assume for example, Jack and Jill just moved here from New Jersey. They have two sons, Frank and Sam, who are married. Each son has two children. Jack and Jill want to make sure each son inherits

signed to gather some information (family 50% but they want to (1) keep their affairs and financial) and to introduce the clients private, (2) avoid unnecessary court into the papers they should have, their volvement and (3) make it so their sons choices, legal concepts that are inheritance will be protected relevant and to establish a profrom lawsuits and divorce, (4) not fessional relationship. Once that subject to estate tax in their esis done, we typically have an tate, and (5) will go to their in-person review meeting, a telegrandchildren (not the in-law) phone conference or two, and when they pass on. And if it goes then we meet to sign the papers. to the grandchildren, we usually We usually use Revocable Trusts direct their share in a trust for (Living Trusts) because assets in their education, health and maina trust do NOT go through protenance until they attain age 25 Mark Winn bate which keeps your affairs or 30. private and minimizes many As I said, creating an estate costs. plan is a selfless act of love. Jack and Jill Every case is unique. Some cases inwill only need to meet with an attorney volve blended families. In these cases, we two or three times to complete the procan use agreements and trusts to guarancess. We have been serving Bluffton, Hiltee remainder interests. In all events, we ton Head and the remaining Lowcountry turn over the issues that apply and we for over 20 years. The first meeting is de-

seek to address each one so as to provide maximum protection for your family and maximum peace of mind for you.

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

January 3, 2024

REAL ESTATE

HOW OLD YOU ARE The Bluffton SunIS YOUR BUSINESS. HOW YOUYOU ARE HOWOLD YOUNG ISLOOK YOUR ISBUSINESS. OUR

Treat Your Home To Gifts That Keep Giving

BY CHIP COLLINS Contributor

associated with this traditional set-up can be a burden. Enter the electric fireplace! Yes, it may be a stretch for An adage suggests that you should some, but in the right mindset and take care of the things that take care home, these remote-controlled plug-in of you... and what better place to start appliances go a long way to replicate than your home! the look, feel, and even heat of a real Beyond the typical tasks of home fire. And, once again, your inmaintenance, repair, upkeep, surance company might deand cleaning, yet shy of the oflight in the lower risk that ten-daunting renovation projthese units present in your ects, lies a layer of home imhome. provement/enjoyment offerExterior Lighting: The ings that can go a long way to splendor of the Lowcountry’s making your home a happier, natural landscape doesn’t have safer, and even more beautiful to be muted at night, especialplace to live... without necesly with the relatively easy apsarily breaking the bank. plication of low-voltage LED Here are some of the “gifts” Chip Collins landscape lighting. Trees, colthat your home (and YOU!) umns, patios, and walkways can all be just might appreciate and enjoy: Sensors: Of course, smoke detectors enhanced, made safer, and their enjoyment extended by the installation of (and even carbon monoxide detectors) accent lighting that offers low-mainteare a staple of every home as required nance and high-elegance to any home by building code, and with very good or setting. With some quick work and reason. But did you know that there assurance by an electrician, this can are a couple of other sensors that you even turn into a very rewarding DIY (and your insurance company) may project! come to value just as much? One such Gadgets: From robot vacuums to sensor is a water use/flow sensor that surveillance cameras to weather stamonitors and reports when there is tions, the world of technology has creany water flow in your plumbing supated a lot of useful tools that are foply line. Functioning through an app cused on saving homeowners time and on your phone, the sensor can detect a hassle. Safety, convenience, and inforrunning commode or, worse yet, a blown water heater, and it can/will au- mation are at the heart of today’s latest home tech-tools, making our familtomatically close a valve to minimize iarity, awareness, and enjoyment of your water loss and/or damage. Simiour homes just a touch of our phones larly, another handy sensor can detect (or remote controls) away! surges and abnormalities in your elecSo, if you’re looking to enhance your trical system, alerting your phone the house investment, increase your safemoment an issue has developed. These ty, or just spruce up your space, congifts provide peace of mind for those sider treating yourself (and your who own second homes and offer savhome) to a gift that will start the new ings on your homeowner’s insurance year off with something fun and fresh! policy.

For links and info to my favorite Fireplaces: Many would agree that products, visit https://bit.ly/3NDaN1L nothing beats the smell, sound, and Chip Collins is the broker-owner of ambiance of a wood-burning fireplace Collins Group Realty. in a home. However, the risk of fire, hassle of clean up, and maintenance

27A

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28A

The Bluffton Sun

What is vitiligo?

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January 3, 2024

REAL ESTATE

Bluffton Housing Market Will Continue To See Demand In 2024

BY DAN PRUD’HOMME Contributor

the upcoming presidential election cycle.

The real estate market doesn’t typically move much in an election year, but my money is on 2024 being another Hey there, Bluffton neighbors! double-digit appreciation year.

Let’s chat about what’s going on If you’re hanging tight, hoping in our local real estate scene. No for prices to drop, it’s time to adsales pitches or fancy talk, just a just your expectations. While the friendly update from someone in pace of price growth might shift, the know. a massive market crash isn’t in First things first, Bluffton’s the cards. Bluffton’s still a real estate market is still humsought-after spot, and those low ming along, however with a few inventory levels are likely here quirks. Right now, it’s still a seller’s world, and that’s got a lot to Dan Prud’Homme to stay.

So, there you have it, a laiddo with supply and demand. back chat about Bluffton’s real estate There just aren’t enough homes on the scene. No pressure, no big sales pitch – market to satisfy all the eager buyers out just the scoop from a friend in the know. there.

Here’s to a fantastic 2024, whether you’re Now, the economy has been a rollerbuying, selling, or just dreaming and coaster for the past couple of years, soaking in those beautiful Bluffton vibes! right? But here’s the scoop – unemployment is in check, and interest rates are Dan Prud’homme of The Prud’homme inching down. Yep, that’s good news for Team at William Raveis Real Estate anyone considering making a move. Peodan@danprudhomme.com ple are still buying and selling! theprudhommeteam.com Let’s get into the nitty-gritty without making your head spin. In the first eleven months of 2023, new listings were down about 10%, and closed sales dipped by nearly 13%. But despite the drop in sales, inventory has put a twist in the tale– the median sale price has shot up by a solid 13.5%. That means if you’ve been holding off because of higher interest rates, you’re getting some relief now.

Here’s the thing, though – while interest rates are playing nice, home prices keep playing leapfrog. The money you save on interest is getting gobbled up by those rising prices. So, keep that in mind as you weigh your options.

So, what’s coming our way in 2024?

Well, nobody’s got a crystal ball, but some things are sure bets. Bluffton’s got this magnetic charm that just won’t quit, and folks can’t resist its Lowcountry allure. And it’s likely our town’s popularity isn’t going away. The wildcard for 2024 is

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

29A

HEALTH A Younger Appearance Can Be Obtained With New Technology

BY DR. RONALD FINGER Contributor

would be skin cosmeceuticals level of skin care. There are several, but we use Most people know that lifestyle contrib- New Youth because I furnished the ingredients and had an experienced chemist utes greatly to the aging face, such as formulate them. The result will smoking, excess exposure to the be clearer younger and tighter sun or tanning beds, diet, and appearing skin. massive weight changes.

Next would be to assess the inThe facial problems associated dividual’s problem with a soluwith these environmental changtion. es are fine wrinkles, sagging The newest technology is the skin, age spots, large pores, and Ellacor micro-coring device. overall loss of clarity. The sagThrough the generations, we ging skin is typically in the eyehave learned that a punch biopsy lids, and mostly the lower face less than 0.5 millimeters leaves and neck, ultimately resulting in Ronald Finger no scar, but it does remove a cythe “turkey gobbler” neck. As lindrical core of skin through the epidermentioned in many previous articles, we lose volume of both fat and bone with age mis/dermis. The Ellacor removes these cores and can remove up to 8% of one’s as well, so aging isn’t just loss of elasticifull thickness skin. Removing 8% of the ty, but also loss of volume. skin anywhere makes a difference in the The first item for looking younger

tightness of the skin, whether it’s the face, neck, knees, abdomen, arms, and anywhere there is extra skin. Because there is no heat, as from a laser, the recovery time is less. This is done under local anesthesia and can be repeated in 2-3 months if desired. Use it twice, and 16% of your skin is removed without scars.

The next latest technology is the Helix laser. This laser is unique because it can perform many different combinations of CO2 lasers, the ultimate ablative lasers. It also combines a non-ablative laser to tighten the skin even better. This additional laser is called the Sultra.

Using these technologies, what should a patient know about achieving their goals? If there is significant loose skin, and a facelift is not desired, or even after a facelift with recurring sagging, the El-

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lacor will remove the most skin and is very effective for cheek wrinkles and around the mouth. Regarding the face, it’s limited to below the eyes down to the entire neck.

The Helix can resurface and tighten skin in virtually any area, including the forehead and eyelids effectively. The above treatments are performed as office procedures under local anesthesia, and the downtime is 5-10 days.

In conclusion, the combination of both Ellacor and Helix can result in a totally nonsurgical face, neck, brow, and eyelid lifts for those who want non-surgical alternatives.

E. Ronald Finger, MD, FACS is a board certified plastic surgeon with offices in Savannah and Bluffton. fingerandassociates. com

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

TCL Recognizes 18 Nursing Graduates The Technical College of the Lowcountry recognized 18 associate degree nursing (ADN) graduates during its Dec. 8 pinning ceremony at the Beaufort Mather Campus.

During the ceremony, graduates received their pins and lamps, a nod to Florence Nightingale who carried a lamp to light her path as she cared for the sick and dying soldiers during the Crimean War. TCL’s two-year ADN program prepares graduates to practice as registered nurses. Students experience on-campus learning using high-tech simulation equipment and receive intense additional hands-on practice at clinical sites throughout Beaufort, Jasper, Hampton and Colleton counties.

Most graduates then go on to work in many of those same clinical sites right here in the Lowcountry, said nursing instructor Ashley Turbeville.

“Our graduates are entering the workforce to fill much-needed critical nursing positions,” she said. “While we will see

many of them working in traditional hospital settings, we will also see our graduates exploring employment opportunities in various outpatient roles.”

Regardless of where they go to work, TCL nurses are dedicated and “passionate about improving access to healthcare,” Turbeville said.

The graduates are: • Jennifer Adomat • Sarah Antalek • Aylesia Baase • Michael Brim • Jessica Britt • Russel Carpio Castro • Irene Carrion • Latanya Cuyler • Erin Drew • Katie Foskey • Alicia Heidacher • Jessica Hein • Brayden Lowther • Savannah Mullen • Valerie Nemes • Stephanie Shaw

PHOTO COURTESY OF TCL

Pictured left to right are Erin Drew, Aylesia Baase, Latanya Cuyler, Irene Carrion, Sarah Antalek, Katie Foskey, Stephanie Singleton, Savannah Mullen, Michael Brim, Russel Carpio Castro, Brayden Lowther, Dora Whited, Jessica Hein, Valerie Nemes, Jennifer Adomat and Stephanie Shaw. Not pictured: Jessica Britt and Alicia Heidacher.

• Stephanie Singleton • Doralynn Whited The Technical College of the Lowcountry is the region’s primary provider of higher education and workforce training.

The public, two-year, multi-campus com-

munity college serves approximately 5,000 students annually. TCL has campuses in Beaufort, Bluffton and Hampton and serves Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper Counties. For more information visit www.tcl.edu.

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January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

31A

Make Estate Planning A New Year’s Resolution

BY JADA GAINES Contributor So, you thought New Year’s resolutions were for losing weight or joining a gym. Or maybe taking up a new hobby or even traveling more. One goal that should be at the top of everyone’s list is “Dealing with my Estate Plan.” Whether that means finally creating your estate plan, or simply reviewing and updating your plan, take the time to make certain your estate plan still works for you because if you don’t the state has a plan for you.

Here is a basic idea how to take steps with this 2024 New Year’s Resolution: 1. Start with a Qualified Elder Law and Estate Planning Attorney.

Do some research and find a good estate planning attorney in your area; check out reviews, websites, ask for referrals and become educated by attending an educational workshop, do not rely on Google searches for answers.

2. If You Do Not Have Estate Plan-

ning Documents. If you do not have a the state in which you live.

Will, Trust or Powers of AttorA. How Old Are Your Docuney, now is the time to get those ments? If your documents are documents in place. Give yourmore than 10 years old, they self and your family peace of may need to be updated. mind.

B. Assess Your Current Situa3. Locate Your Existing Estion. Since creating your estate tate Planning Documents. planning documents, have you Many people have no idea gotten divorced or married? where their estate planning Have you had any more childocuments are kept. Do you dren or grandchildren? Major have originals or copies? If only Jada Gaines health issues? Death in the famcopies, who has the originals? ily? Major financial issues?

Do you keep them in a safety Children or grandchildren have deposit box? Do you have electronic cop- any major health/financial issues? ies only?

These life changes could have a signifFor those of you who are able to put icant impact on your estate plan. your hands on your documents, follow For example, if you recently remarthe remaining items on this list. ried, do your documents reflect the new 4. Review Your Estate Planning Docuspouse or do they still mention the exments. Reviewing your documents perispouse? If you are no longer in contact odically is very important. Life changes with a child, are you still considering and reviewing your documents allows leaving them part of your estate? Have you to make sure your estate plan is still any of your named agents become incameeting your goals. Ensure that your pacitated or died? documents comply and are reliable in C. Are You Satisfied with Your Named

Agents? Are you still satisfied that your named agents are the best choices to handle your estate to make financial or healthcare decisions for you?

5. Review Beneficiary Designations.

Another crucial step to take when reviewing your estate plan is to review who you have named a death beneficiaries. For example, if your spouse is named as the primary beneficiary, did you think to name a contingent beneficiary?

Reviewing your estate plan regularly is the only way to ensure it is always up to date. A good rule of thumb is to review your plan at every big life event, i.e divorce, marriage, birth, or death, or every three to five years.

Contact a qualified estate planning attorney to have documents prepared and/or reviewed. Treat procrastination as your enemy.

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

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32A

The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

HEALTH

Does Technology At The Dental Office Really Matter?

BY JULIE LEWELLYN Contributor

painless, and incredibly accurate. It provides a very low dose of radiation while capturing a complete and accurate image of the entire jaw. This allows for greater Having worked as a dental hygienist for diagnostics, creation of the most effective 30 years, 20 here in the Lowcountry, I treatment plan, and increased patient have certainly seen technology advance trust. over time in the dental field. But Dental issues and concerns are does it really make a difference not always painful or symptomatin your care? The answer is a ic. Using this type of technology whole-hearted “yes”! It allows during examinations is very imthe dentist and hygienist to proportant in providing a thorough vide the most accurate diagnosis and complete evaluation. The and the best, most efficient treatdentist also uses it during treatment possible to meet each paments like implant placement for tient’s individual needs. a drastic increase in accuracy My favorite piece of technoloJulie Lewellyn and time efficiency. Dental imaggy was first introduced to dening has come a long way since 2D tistry in the early 2000’s.

X-rays were used early in my career.

Three-dimensional cone beam computed The intra-oral camera is my other fatomography (CBCT) imaging shows all of vorite tool because, while simple, it allows the mouth’s supporting structures a patient to see what the dentist, hygienist bones, nerves, and soft tissue – not just the teeth, in high detail. It is non-invasive, or dental assistant sees in the mouth. For

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example, if a tooth has a large visible crack, but the patient has no bothersome symptoms, they will know to be aware of the issue or understand why treatment is needed. When the patient can view an image that would otherwise only be visible to the clinician, it helps us to communicate with them while giving them the confidence and trust in our diagnosis and treatment.

Your dental professionals don’t employ the most up-to-date technology to increase revenue. Rather, it allows them to provide the most accurate diagnosis so that they can provide the best care possible. Every patient presents with different concerns, medical conditions and needs; therefore, a complete picture is needed to best evaluate and treat any issues. And the latest advances in dental technology assure that this can be done effectively and efficiently.

Julie Lewellyn is a Registered Dental Hygienist, ROC Dental Group in Bluffton

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January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

33A

What Is Vitiligo And How To Treat It

BY OSWALD LIGHTSEY MIKELL, MD Contributor Vitiligo is a condition that causes depigmentation of parts of the skin, affecting men and women, and people all races. 1-2 million people in the U.S. are affected by these white patches on their skin. Vitiligo is not contagious or life-threatening, but it can be life-altering. Some people develop low self-esteem, no longer want to socialize with friends or develop serious depression. Most people have vitiligo for life, so it’s important to develop coping strategies.

Q: What causes vitiligo?

A: The cause of vitiligo is not known, but doctors and researchers have several different theories. Vitiligo may be an autoimmune disease, which happens when your immune system mistakenly attacks some part of your own body. In vitiligo, the immune system may destroy the melanocytes in the skin (these are the cells that make the pigment in your skin called melanin). When attacked, they can no longer make pigment in normal

• PUVA, a treatment that combines amounts. Some people have remedicine with ultraviolet A (UVA) ported that a single event, such as light sunburn or emotional distress, • Removing the color from other triggered vitiligo; however, these areas so they match the white patchevents have not been scientifically es proven as causes of vitiligo. VitiliSurgical treatments include: go sometimes runs in families.

• Skin grafts from a person’s own Children whose parents have the tissues. The doctor takes skin from disorder are more likely to develOswald Mikell one area of a patient’s body and atop vitiligo. However, most chiltaches it to another area. This is dren will not get vitiligo even if a sometimes used for people with small patchparent has it, and most people with vitiligo es of vitiligo. do not have a family history of the disorder.

• Tattooing small areas of skin to apply Q: How is vitiligo treated? pigment and diminish the pale appearance A: There are several treatment options to of the vitiligo patch. restore color to the white patches of skin.

Other treatments include: Current treatment options for vitiligo in• Sunscreens clude medical, surgical, and other treat• Cosmetics to cover the white patches ments.

Q: Will the white patches of vitiligo spread?

Medical treatments include: A: There is no way to predict if general• Medicines (such as topical corticosteized vitiligo will spread. For some people, the roids) de-pigmented patches do not spread. The dis• Medicines that you take by mouth order is usually progressive, however, and • XTRAC Laser

over time the white patches will spread to other areas of the body. For some people, vitiligo spreads slowly, over many years – for others spreading occurs rapidly. Some people have reported additional de-pigmentation following periods of physical or emotional stress.

Q: What can I do to cope with vitiligo?

A: If you have vitiligo, you may be upset or depressed about the change in your appearance. Learn as much as you can about the disorder and treatment choices. This can help you make decisions about your treatment.

Some treatments are not right for everyone. If you have questions or concerns call Dermatology Associates of the Lowcountry (843) 689-5259 (Hilton Head) or (843) 705-0840 (Bluffton/Okatie) to schedule a consultation.

Oswald Lightsey Mikell, MD • Dermatology Associates of the Lowcountry American Board of Dermatology | American Board of Cosmetic Surgery

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January 3, 2024

Pulmonologist Joins Beaufort Memorial Pulmonary Specialists To expand access to respiratory care services for area residents, Beaufort Memorial has added a board-certified, fellowship-trained pulmonologist and intensivist to Beaufort Memorial Pulmonary Specialists at its Okatie Medical Pavilion in Okatie.

John Krcmarik, M.D., FCCP, draws on more than two decades of widely ranging experience in his specialty to prevent, diagnose and treat acute and chronic diseases and conditions of the respiratory system, and brings particular expertise in the treatment of sleep disorders. He also manages care for patients admitted to the Beaufort Memorial intensive care unit (ICU).

The Chicago native came to the Lowcountry from Munson Medical Center in Traverse City, Mich., where he served as medical director of both Respiratory Care Services and the Munson Sleep Disorders Center.

Krcmarik earned a Bachelor of Arts in

philosophy, summa cum laude, from Loyola University of Chicago and a Doctor of Medicine from Loyola’s Stritch School of Medicine. He did his postgraduate training at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, N.H., completing an internship and residency in internal medicine and a fellowship in pulmonary critical care. He is board certified in the two specialties as well as in sleep medicine and is a fellow of the American College of Chest Physicians.

Located in the Beaufort Memorial Okatie Medical Pavilion, 122 Okatie Center Blvd., Beaufort Memorial Pulmonary Specialists also includes board-certified pulmonologist Christopher Stafford, M.D., and board-certified nurse practitioners Shawna Nievierowski, FNP-BC, and Risa Linford, AGACNP. To make an appointment with Dr. Krcmarik or any of the practice’s providers, call (843) 7078040.

KOREA PROJECT FROM PAGE 24A global/international teaching and research, along with two sophomore or junior education students who plan to become future educators within our local community. Subsequently, in September 2023, the call extended externally to K-12 educators across Beaufort, Jasper, Chatham, Bryan, and Effingham counties, leading to an extensive two-month search and a rigorous selection process.

In October 2023, the SKALE selection committee finalized its roster. The 12 participants for the project will be led by project director Dr. Juanita (Babet) Villena-Alvarez (Assistant Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Coordinator of USCB’s International Programs), in conjunction with subject-area scholar Dr. Greg Choy (University of California, Berkeley).

Over the next 12 months, this team will

delve into an immersive study of South Korean culture, language, and education. The program will include a four-week field study in South Korea, encompassing visits to destinations including Seoul and Busan, as well as to culturally significant sites.

The group will present their findings and experiences gained from the SKALE project at the Korean Cultural Studies Conference (KCSC) in October 2024, hosted on the USCB Hilton Head Island campus in collaboration with USCB’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI).

This initiative stands as a testament to USCB’s commitment to fostering cultural awareness and preparedness within our communities. We eagerly look forward to witnessing the impact and outcomes of the SKALE project as it unfolds over the coming months.

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

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GOLF

Plan, Set And Achieve Your Golf Goals In 2024

BY DR. JEAN HARRIS Contributor I am writing this article in late December because I want to set goals for the 2024 golf season beginning in January. My goals include playing and practicing golf, fitness, and mental goals I want to achieve. I want to make sure my goals are measurable, believable, and achievable. I will keep a golf journal if I want to achieve my goals.

Here are some of my measurable goals.

PLAYING GOALS: • On my scorecard, I will set my scoring goal for that day. My scoring goals are different depending on the course I am playing.

• I will set a scoring goal I want to reach for today’s round.

• I will keep statistics during my golf rounds. I will chart fairways hit, greens in regulation and what club I used to

reach the green, and finally putts taken. I will keep track of “my” greens in regulation (GIR). This should be two less than “my” par for the hole. For example, if my par for the hole is six, then my GIR is four. This helps me figure out where I need to practice.

• I will aim for the middle of the green.

If the flag stick is behind a bunker on the right side of the green, I will aim to the left side of the flag. This gives me a better margin of error.

• I will keep track of all my putts, and make sure I putt all the short putts out.

BELIEVABLE GOALS: • My goal is to drop my handicap three strokes in one year. Dropping more than three strokes in a year would take more practice and effort then I am willing to do.

• I will achieve this goal by lowering my handicap index one stroke every four months. If I achieve this goal, I will lower

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PRACTICE GOALS: • I will learn how to take a divot with my irons in front of the ball. I will keep track of how many irons I hit solid divot during my practice. I will practice this on the driving range by hitting off a powder line and aa slanted tee in front of the ball.

My goal is to take a divot in front of the powder line and hit the slanted tee.

• I will practice with my three wedges to produce different distances and trajectories.

• I will practice putts from 10 feet in so that I can have less putts per round.

GOLF FITNESS GOALS: • I will increase my flexibility by doing 15 minutes of flexibility exercises four days a week. My hip flexors need more strength and flexibility to help me make a better turn on my backswing.

• I will go to the fitness center four days a week working on cardiovascular, strength and flexibility exercises. I will keep track of changes and improvements in my workouts.

MENTAL GOALS: • I will stay in the present during my round. The only shot that is important to me is the shot I am getting ready to hit.

The past is history.

• I will not think mechanics when I am addressing the ball.

• I will think only positive thoughts over the golf ball.

• Finally, I will choose to be happy and not loose my temper on the golf course.

• As you can see, I have lofty goals for myself. I hope you will use some of my goals to help you get ready for a great 2024 Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional and teaches at local golf courses.

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January 3, 2024

Gun Violence Survivors Event Planned For February

BY AMY COYNE BREDESON Contributor Amy Howerton knows all too well the emotional impact gun violence can have on survivors.

In 2018, her son’s father was shot.

Thankfully, he recovered, but the incident took a toll on their son, who was only in the fifth grade at the time.

“For six weeks,” she said, “he wanted to know, ‘Is my dad going to live or not? Is he going to be OK like everybody’s saying?

Why can’t I talk to him? Why can’t I see him?’”

While that was a difficult situation to navigate as a mother, nothing came close to the trauma felt by the Bluffton woman and her family when her best friend’s son was shot and killed the following year.

“The thing about his death is that I didn’t just lose him,” Howerton said. “I lost my best friend because she is a different person than she was. Losing a child changes you, and it changes everybody who has been impacted by that loss. None

of us will ever be the same.”

A few years later, Howerton’s son witnessed a shooting at a local park, and she realized just how close she came to losing him.

Howerton is one of three gun violence survivors who will speak at a Feb. 3 event organized by the Greater Beaufort County Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to noon at the Bluffton Branch of the Beaufort County Library.

“The first week of February every year is Gun Violence Survivors Week,” local Moms Demand Action leader Richard Hammes said. “So, we decided to put together a gun violence survivors event to honor the survivors and to inform the public about gun violence in our communities. We’d like to get a big turnout from the community so we can give them information about things that are going on here, not just in big cities.”

SURVIVORS CONT. ON PAGE 52A

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The Bluffton Sun

37A

HEALTH

New Year, Better Health: Balance Problems And Neuropathy

BY DR. KENNETH HORUP, D.C. Contributor Falling is far too common a problem in older generations. As a chiropractor, I see the pain, and long-term issues that falls can cause every day. It is now approximated to be the second leading cause of death from unintentional injuries. Over 40,000 deaths occur in the United States a year just from falling. If you or someone you know has had a severe fall, you know the physical and emotional strain it causes.

Maintaining our balance as we age is crucial to our longevity. So, what causes us to lose it? There are a variety of reasons we have falls; vertigo, head injuries, vision problems, and migraines are frequent examples. The most common reason that I have seen is due to balance issues stem-

ming from neuropathy. Individuals with neuropathy have an increased risk of falling. To explain, we must dive into how our nerves work.

“Neuro” means nerves and “pathy” means suffering or damaged. So, someone with neuropathy has damaged nerves.

Nerve damage typically begins in the feet as it is farthest from your heart; blood flow is important for healthy nerves. A healthy peripheral nervous system will send signals to the body through motor nerves, and signals to the brain through sensory nerves. These signals are highly

important as they tell your body where it is in space. When these nerves become damaged, the signals are interrupted, and they do not transmit to the brain fast enough. The body no longer knows where it is, or what it’s standing on. The knowledge of texture, stability, surface height, temperature etc. is lost.

This delayed response and numbness results in decreased balance and increased falls.

Neuropathy declines exponentially. The diagnosis is severe once an individual has lost their balance as it is the last symptom to appear. This is why it is important to not wait until your balance has reached a point of falling before getting tested to see if you have neuropathy.

A good practice to monitor your balance is to time yourself standing on one

foot every couple weeks. Please make sure to do this with someone monitoring you or with stable support so you do not fall during testing. If your balance begins to decrease by greater than 4 seconds, it would be recommended to get a consultation to see if you have neuropathy, especially if you have noticed cold feet, numbness or hypersensitivity in your feet, or the feeling of “walking on a cloud” or “sponge”.

Once your balance is gone, and your neuropathy is severe, it is difficult to recover. Consult with a doctor you trust to see if your balance issues are related to neuropathy and discover what they can do for you. Take control of your health in 2024.

Dr. Kenneth Horup, D.C. Board Certified in Neuropathy

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

YESTERYEAR

How And When Bluffton Became A Town WRITTEN BY MICHAEL REYNOLDS Contributor In the 1960’s and 70’s there was a Bluffton historical sign along May River Road near the Stock Farm neighborhood that said Bluffton was settled in 1825. That sign was damaged by a car and was never re-erected. Other accounts suggest Bluffton was established in 1820. But exactly when was the “town of Bluffton” created?

We know the first reference to the name “Bluffton” was in 1842 when the post office name was changed from May River to Bluffton but Bluffton was not incorporated as an actual town until legislative act number 4092 was passed by the South Carolina legislature on December 16, 1852.

That incorporation was amended on December 22, 1852 to slightly change the town limits to include the home of the late James Kirk because the original incorporation had excluded the Kirk home.

This was a significant find in that it establishes exactly where James Kirk lived.

James Kirk and Squire Pope are considered to be the two men who founded Bluffton and it was known that James Kirk lived along the bluff overlooking the May River in what was then known as Kirk’s Bluff as early as 1817 but the exact location of his home was not known until this discovery. The headstone for James Kirk’s daughter Caroline says she was born at Kirk’s Bluff in 1817, which establishes the Kirk family was living there in that year. Squire Pope’s summer house was located on the property where the Wright Family Park is today but may not have been built until the late 1830’s.

The original town limits as described in Act 4092 reads: As on the North from the Northern edge of the public road (later defined as North May River Road), beginning from a dividing line between Stock

Farm and Buck Island Plantation, belonging to James Pope, senior; thence Eastwardly to the Northwest angle of Boundary Street; thence down the Eastern edge of said street until it joins the North west angle of Rowel’s lot; on the South by the May River; on the East by lots indicated on the plat of Deputy Surveyor Buckner; excepting and excluding the lot on which is the residence of the late James Kirk; known and marked on said plat “Mr. Kirk’s settlement” on the West by the diving line between Stock Farm and Buck Island Plantation. Seems pretty clear huh?

Well, not exactly but it does give us a basic understanding of the original town limits despite lacking definitive demarcation lines that we can recognize today, especially since we don’t know who Rowell was or where he lived.

The December 22, 1852 amendment (Act number 4468) simply changed the eastern

town boundary reading: “shall be the eastern boundary of a lot known as Mr. Kirk’s Settlement, now owned by Clarence B. Kirk, to its intersection with the North May River Road, and that the northern boundary shall be the north side of the said North May River Road; thence to its intersection with the western boundary of said town.” The amendment didn’t add much clarity, but it does seem to add James Kirk’s property to be in the town of Bluffton.

The “You Know You’re from Bluffton When” Facebook group researched Bluffton’s history as a town and found a September 26, 1855 Charleston Courier newspaper article that reported an election had been held in Bluffton and Theo. H. Coe (Theodore Hay Coe), Esq. was elected Intendant (now called mayor) and P. Purchres (sp), John Cole, W. H, illegible and C. B. Kirk were elected as Wardens (now

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January 3, 2024 called council members). However, according to a Coe family letter, within just a few short months these men were removed from office.

Thoedore Coe’s daughter Agnes Emiline Coe, being bothered by this, wrote in a letter to her brother Georgie on January 10, 1856 “Bluffton is at the mercy of all the rowdys in it, of whom there are not a few.” It’s not known who the town leadership was thereafter.

The Charleston Mercury newspaper reported on September 26, 1857 that an application would be made in the next legislative season for “recharter” of the town of Bluffton. We don’t know what this meant but it was very interesting to learn though, for whatever reason, which we may never know, the original Bluffton town incorporation was repealed by the South Carolina legislature by Act number 4563 on January 28, 1861. This happened just after South Carolina succeeded from the union on December 20, 1860 and just a few months prior to the start of

The Bluffton Sun the U.S. Civil War. It is unknown if the repeal of the town’s charter was related to this in any way since Bluffton was well known to be the catalyst and the seat of secession.

Regardless the town of Bluffton did not legally exist thereafter.

The town was incorporated for a second time on April 18. 1903.

George Sewell Guilford was the first intendant (mayor) under the new incorporation. He served as the town intendant for 11 years until 1914.

Original Wardens listed in the 1903 incorporation document included William John Fripp, Richard Woodberry Bailey, N. H. Crosby and A. Fischer. Daniel Hasell Heyward was Bluffton’s next mayor starting in 1914.

I turned up another mystery involving Bluffton’s existence. According to a 1903 Beaufort Gazette newspaper article, with the headline “Bluffton Still a Town.” It appears that a group of “prominent Bluffton ladies” filed for an injunction against the 1903 incorporation but

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circuit judge Watts ruled against the injunction allowing the town to continue. A check with the Beaufort

BLUFFTON CONT. ON PAGE 48A

ABOVE: The Old Bluffton historical sign said Bluffton was settled in 1825, however previous references were also found.

RIGHT: After the town was incorporated for a second time on April 18. 1903, George Sewell Guilford was the first intendant (mayor).

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

HEALTH

7 Ways To Stay Well This Year

BY DR. ALIKAKOS Contributor Many things come in sevens. There are seven days of the week, seven colors in the rainbow, and seven continents. Not to mention seven is considered by many to be a lucky number. Now, there are also seven ways you can keep fit in 2024.

5. WATCH YOUR WEIGHT. Talk with your doctor about a healthy weight loss plan that includes good nutrition and exercise. Steer clear of fad diets and other gimmicks.

help you lose weight, boost your energy, improve how your body functions, and lower your risk for certain diseases. Go for fruits, veggies, whole grains, low-fat or nonfat dairy items, fish, lean meat, and skinless poultry.

Limit saturated and trans fats, as well as added sugars, which can contribute to type 2 diabetes.

1. DON’T SMOKE. “Tobacco smoke contains more than 7,000 chemicals, including 250 that are known to be harmful, such Dr. Alikakos 3. EXERCISE. Regular physical as arsenic and benzene,” says activity can help strengthen bones, tone Dr. Timothy Alikakos, a cardiologist with muscles, relieve depression, and improve Hilton Head Heart. “Smoking causes sleep. “Aim for at least 30 to 60 minutes of heart disease, stroke, cancer, emphysema, activity most days of the week,” advises asthma, and cataracts. If you smoke, you Dr. Alikakos. “You don’t have to go all out need to stop.” Ask your doctor for help. to achieve benefits, but you will reap 2. EAT HEALTHY. A nutritious diet can greater rewards by increasing the intensi-

ty, duration, and frequency of workouts. “ 4. DON’T DRINK TOO MUCH. Excessive alcohol consumption can increase your risk for liver disease, heart failure, certain cancers, stroke, and high blood pressure. Men should have no more than two drinks a day; women no more than one.

6. GET KEY HEALTH TESTS. “Ask your doctor about regular health screenings based on your age,” says Dr. Alikakos. “Everyone should have their blood pressure checked at least every two years and cholesterol about every five years.”

7. RELAX. Being stressed can cause you to overeat, start smoking, or drink more than you would normally—all bad habits.

Learn relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, to calm stress when it creeps up.

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The Bluffton Sun

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Coastal Carolina Hospital Creates Special Christmas For New Families

Newborns who arrived at Christmas were given a special photoshoot to celebrate.

The nurses at Coastal Carolina Hospital created a festive Christmas-themed backdrop and props to show off the precious newborns. Parents were excited to have their babies treated to a photo shoot.

“The birth of a baby is already a memorable time for families, but we wanted to add

to the experience by giving parents the chance to get some photos that will serve as a keepsake and fun, sweet memory,” said Erica Kubicki, registered nurse and Clinical Lead in the Nursery at Coastal Carolina Hospital who helped choose props and created the background for the photography

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

PETS

Begin Early With Age-Appropriate Puppy Training

BY ABBY BIRD AKA ALPHADOG Contributor At the beginning of the year many families will purchase puppies/dogs or adopt.

By far the largest number will be puppies.

Holidays are a popular time to do this since families may be home and can dedicate time for potty training and bonding.

There are two behaviors that should begin as soon as possible when one gets a new puppy. One is potty training, and the other is nipping and biting. These are both age related, and timing is critical to get the pup started.

Potty training takes months to do, instilling the correct timing with the humans and those same months to make sure the pup is being guided down the right developmental path. Potty training usually takes til a pup is about 7 to 8 months old but should be getting constantly better after about 5 months of age.

This is only true if the owners are doing scheduling properly. Keeping a time chart along with an activity spreadsheet will help the owner avoid common errors through this process. Crate training and knowing the right way to use it is still the best possible method to ensure success.

What are we looking for? Anything and everything that creates pee/poop. Food is the primary culprit for pooping along with walking but literally everything else creates pee! Napping, sleeping, walking, drinking, playing by themselves, playing with people and playing with dogs. This is why pups may pee 10 to 15 times a day but only poop two to five. Setting up that chart will help the owner to realize just how often that pup really needs to be going outside! It is much more often than you think. Even setting a timer or Alexa can help to avoid common timing issues.

The next biggie is definitely nipping and biting humans as part of play and

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seeking attention. It is the natural way dogs play both with other dogs and people. Dogs will tend to correct other dogs, but it is up to us to teach a pup it is not appropriate to put their razor sharp teeth on human flesh! A verbal correction cue, redirection with appropriate chewing toys and other mild correctives such as sound, water spray and bad tasting deterrents can assist quite a bit at an early age. Consistency in the

family is so important, especially with children! Pups and kids should never be unsupervised. It is a recipe for something bad to happen, when the dog is not really being bad- just a normal puppy. Children can aggravate the situation by how they play and their voice pitch and quick movements which only serve to stimulate nipping behavior.

Start the pups off right and they will be such an important part of your family unit. Ask a dog trainer for guidance early on if possible.

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

43A

PETS

Beaufort Family Finds Benefits Volunteering With Shelter Pets

BY LINDSAY PERRY Contributor “Time Spent with Cats is Never Wasted” - Sigmund Freud The sentiment behind this popular quote has become a way of life for one Beaufort family. Cassie Dunn and her two sons 16-year-old Hayden and 12-year-old Elias first started volunteering for cat rescues when both boys were in elementary school. They loved volunteering so much, they have kept it up through the years, across several states and two continents!

“We adopted our two cats when we lived in Japan,” said Cassie. “They are sisters who were born blind.” But before the family was able to adopt, volunteering allowed them the joy of being around cats.

“When we couldn’t have a family cat, we always ‘had’ the shelter cats,” explained Hayden.

The Dunns have been volunteering at Palmetto Animal League since February, and they have not only bonded with the cats at our adoption center, but with our staff as well.

“The Dunns have become a part of the PAL family,” said Animal Care Technician Ryan Sheaffer. “They’re always helpful, smiling, and busy keeping the cats entertained and socialized.”

Cassie and her boys help homeless cats everywhere they go, including at hotels while on vacation and at gas stations.

“We are very much a cat family,” said Cassie. “Both of the boys and my husband

are all dubbed cat daddies!”

Hayden and Elias have always had a special place in their hearts for cats and their compassion is on full display at PAL every time they gravitate toward the cats most in need of a helping hand.

“We had a special connection with a cat named Burke,” said Elias. “He was badly injured when he came to PAL and our visits helped his recovery.”

While the family takes great joy in helping homeless cats, they have found that time spent with cats has also blessed them.

“It’s something really important for me to do,” said Elias. “Being with cats helps me to not be anxious, and it gives me a chance to be part of a group of people who love cats as much as I do.”

Cassie enjoys watching Hayden and Elias laugh and play with the cats at PAL each week, and she knows that giving her kids a solid spirit of volunteerism at a young age will have a lasting impact on their lives.

“Be an example for your kids,” urged Cassie. “You can make a real difference in the lives of these animals. Most of them just want to be loved.”

Become a part of something meaningful in the new year. Learn more about volunteering with Palmetto Animal League at PalmettoAnimalLeague.org/volunteer.

Lindsay Perry is Palmetto Animal League Marketing Coordinator.

Volunteer Cassie Dunn visits the PAL Adoption Center with her sons every week.

Happy New Year FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS!

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

Town Of Bluffton Has Myriad Of Capital Improvement Projects Underway

BY CHANNING HEISS Contributor At the start of 2024, the Town of Bluffton had more than 37 capital improvement projects in the works including efforts to enhance some of its greatest assets such as local parks, improvements to lighting, streetscapes and sidewalks, as well as the restoration of historic sites.

According to the town’s capital project dashboard, 100% of the projects are on budget and on schedule.

While these capital improvement projects do include extensive improvements to infrastructure such as sewers, roads and transportation, a noteworthy portion of them focus on the enjoyment of Bluffton for its residents. Several of these recreational enhancements are projected to be completed during 2024.

Among the projects underway for community fun is the installation of a splash pad at Oscar Frazier Park which will give

visitors a chance to cool off on a hot summer’s day. At Oyster Factory Park, work is expected to begin soon on a walkway, seating areas, terracing, bandstand, lighting, furnishings, and landscaping. One of the longer-term park projects in Bluffton is the development of the New Riverside Park/Barn Site. It started in late 2018 with the town’s acquisition of the land. A barn had been

New Year, New Start, New Home!

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built on the land in 2005. In the coming year, phase two is expected to be completed with the following phase of the playground and community gathering spot extending into 2025.

Another recreational spot on the town’s dashboard is the New River Linear Trail, a hiking and running trail that is part of the east coast green way and runs along an old railroad line. The proj-

ect scope proposes the planning, design and construction of a paved multipurpose pathway. The trail originates at the banks of the New River, extends northward along abandoned railway and powerlines to the Sun City Community boundary and is planned to proceed eastward along the proposed Bluffton Parkway extension to connect to Highway 170. Phase 1 consists of the New River Trail head area to include lighting, restroom and well and the section of the trail from the Okatie Highway south to the east bank of the New River. Phase 2 includes the section of trail from the Okatie Highway north to the south boundary of Sun City Hilton Head.

History is an important aspect of Bluffton, and great efforts are being made to preserve it. Restoration of the circa 1850 Squire Pope Carriage House is continuing and is planned for completion and reopen-

PROJECTS CONT. ON PAGE 52A

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

45A

HEALTH

Be Sure To Take Your Mental Health Seriously

BY STAN POPOVICH Contributor

Many people underestimate the impact that mental illness can have on an individual or family. It can be difficult to admit that you have a mental health problem in your life. Secondly, it can be just as difficult in getting the people you know to understand your situation without making any kinds of judgments.

As a result, here are six reasons why you should make your mental health an important priority in your life.

1. Your situation will improve if you get help: Your anxieties and fears can be challenging to manage and more than likely you will need some help. Just as you talk to your doctor about your regular health, you should not be hesitant in seeking help for your mental health. If left untreated, your anxieties and fears may not go away.

2. Drugs and alcohol are not the answer: Drugs and alcohol can make your

problems more complicated. Many people have said that drugs and alcohol will only add more problems to your situation. Be smart and learn how to cope with your mental health issues by talking to a qualified professional. There are many health professionals in your area that can give you some ideas on where you can go for assistance.

3. You will save time and money: Eventually, you will have to confront your fears and mental health issues. Save yourself the time and heartache and confront your problems now rather than later. You will save months of struggling by getting help right away. The sooner you get assistance the faster you will start getting some relief.

4. You are not alone: Everyone deals with fear, stress, and anxiety in one’s life whether your friends and others care to admit it. In addition, do not be embarrassed that you are getting help. We all

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learn new things from others on a daily basis and learning how to manage your anxieties is no different. In addition, your goal is to get your life back on track and not to get everyone’s approval. If people start asking you questions, just say your dealing with stress. Most people can relate to dealing with stress and anxiety!

5. Do not make the mistake of doing nothing: There are many people who struggled with anxiety and other mental health related issues, and they tried to ignore their problems. As a result, some of these people struggled on a daily basis and eventually things became more difficult. It can be scary asking for assistance, but the key is to take things one day at a time.

6. You have a variety of options: There are many mental health support groups, organizations, and counselors in your area that can help get your life back on track. Talk to your doctor to get more de-

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tails on where you can go for some assistance. Help is available but you must be willing to make the choice of getting better. Remember that every problem has a solution. You just have to make the effort to find the answers.

Stan is the author of “A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear” which covers a variety of techniques that can drastically improve your mental health. For more information, please visit Stan’s website at http://www.managingfear.com

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

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We Want To Continue Sending You The Bluffton Sun. YOU CAN MAKE IT HAPPEN! Simply Go to www.blufftonsun.com/free-subscription/ and Complete the Form online.

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

“Yes! I Want To Continue To Receive My Bluffton Sun Delivered To Me FREE In The Mail.”

The Bluffton Sun is delivered on the first and third Tuesday of every month to nearly 25,000 households safe and dry into mailboxes by the US Postal Service. If you wish to continue to receive your free copy of the Bluffton Sun, or are new to or returning to Bluffton, you need to sign up so we can continue your free delivery. If you have already signed up (via mail, phone, or online) in the past year you do not need to do anything else.

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The Bluffton Sun

Quick Facts: Life, Legacy Of Martin Luther King Jr. Americans have honored Martin Luther King Jr. on the third Monday in January every year since 1986. In honor of the legacy of this selfless hero, Martin Luther King Jr. Day is observed by Americans as a day of service. This year, it takes place on January 15. How will you serve your community on Dr. King’s birthday?

Although you may know him as a national civil rights icon, how much do you know about Dr. King’s life? Here are five facts about the life and legacy of this American hero.

1. This year, King would turn 95 years old on January 15. His childhood home in At-

lanta, GA, is now part of Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park.

2. Dr. King led the Selma to Montgomery March, which took place in 1956 from March 21 to 25. Approximatly

25,000 people par- ticipated, which covered about 50 miles. This historic march led to the passage of the 1965 Voting Rights Act. 3. Despite receiving a C grade in public speaking

while he was at Crozer Theological Seminary, King went on to become class valedictorian in 1951. His famous I Have a Dream speech, delivered at Washington’s Lincoln Memorial to a crowd of about 250,000 peo- ple, was partially improvised.

4. He was 15 years old when he started college after skipping two years of grade school. He received a B.A. in Sociology from Morehouse College at the age of 19 and a Ph.D. from Boston University at 25.

5. Dr. King was arrested 29 times, and many of the charges were dropped. His open letter dated April 16, 1963, from Birmingham City

January 3, 2024

BLUFFTON

FROM PAGE 39A

County Clerk of Court’s office finds that court records prior to 1936 are not indexed and difficult if not impossible to find so it’s not known if a court record of this filing still exists. The article does say the unknown prominent ladies were concerned due to “disturbances in the place prior to incorporation.” One must wonder what those disturbances were and who the perpetrators of such had been. The 1903 incorporation remains in effect today, making the current town nearly 121 years old.

Bluffton may be an age-old town but today is a very fine place to live and raise a family largely due to the acts of those in years gone by. May we pay tribute.

Michael Reynolds has called Bluffton home for nearly 60 years. He is the founder of the “You Know You’re from Bluffton When” Bluffton history Facebook page and can be contacted via email with history story suggestions at blufftonsc@yahoo. com.

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January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

49A

FAITH

Be Conscious In Your Relationship With Christ

BY REV. THERESE DONLAN LEE Contributor Together let us welcome 2024. Now is the time. We, you and me, are the ones.

This New Year beckons us to embrace the awakened Christ consciousness within.

This awakening is that which we celebrated on Christmas morning in the manger of our hearts last month. We get to revel in this awakening each and every day, regardless of the month or time of year.

Christmas is a state of consciousness -one we each get to choose.

The beginning of this New Year summons us to honor the truth of ourselves.

Our truth is that each of us is Christ-like and also the light of the world. We are all a unique unrepeatable expression of God. Our inherited gift of free will allows for us to make choices. We get to choose how we will express our uniqueness. In unity we honor the many paths to the one God.

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Verse 2, “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind so you may discern the will of God.” This discernment allows for us to pause, to breathe, to renew. We know as truth students that the renewing process starts first in our minds. How do you spend time each morning with yourself, getting centered in your truth, determining what is yours to do for the day?

How will you be the Christ expressing

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each day with authenticity and great enthusiasm, engaging your truth? We don’t have to have all the answers nor all the know-how. We get to just start, one thought at a time, with the intention of being on purpose, allowing ourselves to be spirit-led rather than ego-driven. This month of January is imbued with potential, possibility and blessings. Charles Fillmore, our Unity co-founder, shared, “Pile up those blessings in your consciousness, and they will multiply and increase and your joy will be full.” Would it be ok to have more joy in your life as you engage your awakened Christ consciousness? Are you willing to embrace and be open to all that life has in store in 2024?

I’m saying, “Yes!” Please join me as you are able. Blessings on your new year.

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

SAFETY

Use Precautions During Christmas Clean Up

BY CINDA SEAMON Contributor All those holiday decorations are really great to add holiday cheer, but taking them down can be an even bigger task. Start with small goals for cleanup and tackle one item at a time. Start with ornaments and keep only those that are in good shape for next year. It might be helpful to store them in clear bags sorted by color or style in the same container.

When you take down your lights, this is the time to check for broken bulbs or frayed cords. Don’t keep anything that has cracked or frayed cords-- this will be a fire hazard next time you go to use them. The same goes for extension cords. When putting your lights away, don’t just throw them in a heap– organize them and label the box or wrap them in masking tape and mark the tape. You can also wrap them around cardboard, and they will be less likely to tangle. Be sure to label whether they are in-

Make sure to check lights, cords and ornaments when cleaning up Christmas decor, and throw out what is compromised. door or outdoor lights. Remember if you are storing your lights in the attic, summer temperatures can get very hot and plastic lights can melt. If you store in the attic,

check your lights thoroughly when you get them out for the next Christmas.

As for your artificial tree, if you store yours in the garage consider shrink wrap-

ping it. This will keep it clean and protected. If you used a real tree this year, you will want to recycle that tree and help the environment. Please remember to remove all ornaments, tinsel, lights, etc.

As you put away gifts you have received, throw away the old version. New pajamas?

Maybe it’s time to throw the old ones out.

Remember the more cluttered your home gets, the greater your fuel load becomes for a fire.

Since your stove and oven most likely had lots of use over the holidays, this is a good time to really get your oven clean. It will make a difference for future cooking.

Make sure your fireplace is kept in good working condition. If you will be using it over the holidays and throughout the winter season, be sure to have it inspected for cracking or deterioration and make any necessary repairs.

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January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

51A

NATURE’S WAY

Reflecting On Christmases Past In Simpler Times

BY COLLINS DOUGHTIE Contributor There is something about the holidays that brings out the reflective side of me.

On one hand, I relish the fact that I will get to spend time with my family and then on the other hand, I inexplicably feel a tinge of sadness. What is there to be sad about you ask? I guess it is for the many that have little or nothing.

I have never been a wealthy man by any means, but I am wealthy in a whole different way. I had great parents that instilled in me a will to help those in need that is something I try to do each and every day.

It could be an act as simple as helping an elderly woman carry her groceries to her car or buying a cup of coffee for someone that doesn’t have enough change to buy it themselves. It’s all about awareness of your surroundings in the here and now.

Besides my parents, nature also taught me to be aware of the moment. Whether I am out fishing, hunting or simply taking a walk, I find myself scanning my surroundings all the time. Many of the most memorable things I have witnessed in nature happened in the blink of an eye. Two bald eagles wrapped in a ball falling from the sky, a blue marlin appearing out of nowhere to take a bait, a lightning bolt striking from the ground up — each of these events witnessed only because I was practiced in the art of seeing. There stands my true wealth.

Raised in a family with five kids, me being the youngest, you know I was the baby of the family. Sadly, I have lost two

My brother Dan (left) and I wrapping presents in 1960. siblings, my brother Tim from pancreatic cancer and my sister Alice from a horrendous car accident with my folks that left her in a coma for four years before she passed. Then there is my sister Grace who lives in Indian Harbour Beach, Florida and my brother Dan who resides on a mountain top in Saluda, NC. Thankfully both are coming here for Christmas not only to see Karen and I but also my daughter Camden, an orthodontist, her hubbie Andrew, an architect and their two children Alice, 10 years old and Ben, a precocious 7-year-old.

What really got me thinking about Christmases past was a call I got a few days ago from my brother Dan. Very cerebral, he brought up how much simpler it was in those earlier days. He used Norman Rockwell paintings as an example of

those days. “In my mind, so many of his works remind me of exactly how it was back then,” he stated. Googling Rockwell images while we talked, many of those images could definitely have been our family back then. Road trips with all the kids and my parents piled into our Ford Galaxy station wagon. If you remember, the farthest back seat faced out the back of the car and being the two youngest, my sister Grace and I had a very different view of the world since we faced backward while the rest faced forward. Maybe, just maybe this contributed to rather odd view of the world that still stands today.

Our conversation lead to just how different kids are raised today versus our childhood. There were no I-pads or cell phones, so we had to invent our own entertainment. Can you imagine today’s

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young parents giving their 8-year-old son a BB gun? Or how about candy cigarettes or a cap gun? Every kid I knew had at least two of these things!

One Christmas when I was six or seven my folks got me a wood burning tool and sure enough by the end of the day I had 3rd degree burns on my hand. Live and learn, I reckon. One of my favorite gifts of all time was an erector set. The pieces were all metal, no plastic and to put things together you used hundreds of tiny screws and nuts. Wrist watches didn’t have batteries but instead you had to wind them up every day. On that front here is a funny Christmas tale. My mother gave my dad a very expensive Rolex watch but my dad was not quite sure about the proper way to wind it up. Enter my brother Dan. He grabs the Rolex, walks out on our back deck, puts the winding stem on the railing and rolls it a good ten feet before the stem and a few other parts go flying everywhere. The look on my dad’s face was priceless.

My best Christmas flub was when I tried to get a peek at Christmas presents my dad stored in his bedroom on the very top shelf in his closet. While he was off to the grocery store, I went in the closet and like climbing a mountain I scaled several shelves to get to the honey hole when I heard my dad walking down the hall. He had forgotten his wallet, so there I was hanging on that shelf like a cat dangling from a tree limb when the shelf slid out and I crashed to the floor covered with the wooden shelf and Santa’s secrets. So I hope you had a Merry Christmas!

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52A

The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

HHI-Bluffton Chamber Strengthens Tourism The Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce is ready for 2024, but highlighted a few of its accomplishments in 2023.

According to the chamber, local support has helped them accomplish so much in the region in 2023 with many successful programs. A total of $12,978,984 was spent in 2023 to promote the area, with a whopping 73% on marketing, enabling the area to thrive. The chamber itself has grown, welcoming over 150 new members.

It has hosted 120+ events and meetings with over 10,000 in attendance this last year.

In addition, the chamber has

advocated for business-friendly policies at the local, state, and national levels. It has also worked tirelessly to keep you informed of what’s happening locally and beyond.

As a result of its marketing and other efforts, the chamber has continued to strengthen our tourism industry, which has a $3.1 billion economic impact. It has also formed programs that encourage internships, encore careers, and more to help fill the workforce pipeline, and continued to develop leadership programming, tourism marketing, and so much more.

SURVIVORS FROM PAGE 36A Representatives of Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, Beaufort County Emergency Medical Services and Hopeful Horizons will also speak at the event.

Contrary to what some might think, Hammes said Moms Demand Action is not trying to take away people’s guns. The organization recognizes that gun ownership is part of the American way of life, and just wants to promote gun safety and end gun violence.

At the February event, Hammes will share statistics on gun violence and discuss what the organization is doing to prevent future tragedies, like practicing proper gun safety.

“During the time people will be in this

meeting, during the two hours, four children will be wounded or killed by a gun somewhere in the United States,” Hammes said.

Over that two-hour period, Hammes said, eight people will be killed with a gun; four people, including a veteran, will commit suicide with a gun; and two hate crimes will be committed with a gun.

Hammes said gun violence is the number one cause of death among children in South Carolina. He said the state ranks seventh in the nation for gun deaths per capita.

In addition to educating the public about gun violence, Moms Demand Action lobbies for gun-sense legislation and pro-

PROJECTS FROM PAGE 44A ing to the public toward the end of 2024.

Located along the May River and built in 1850, the Squire Pope Carriage House is one of the Town’s remaining 10 antebellum structures. It was one of the out buildings at the summer home of Squire William Pope from Hilton Head who

served in the South Carolina legislature.

It is listed as a contributing structure in the Town of Bluffton’s National Register Historic District. The overall property was acquired May 9, 2017 by the Town of Bluffton and the Beaufort County Rural and Critical Lands Program. The project

motes gun safety.

Hammes said in South Carolina, no permit is required to purchase a gun, and background checks are not required for private sales. He said there is no assault weapons ban or magazine capacity restriction in the state.

In January, the South Carolina Senate is expected to discuss the Constitutional Carry Act, which Hammes said would allow people to open carry without a permit.

Moms Demand Action is pushing for background checks and permits for anyone to purchase a gun and for an extreme risk “red flag” law, which Hammes said would prevent people designated as a danger from purchasing a gun. The group also wants to get rid of the “Charleston

Loophole,” which allows people to purchase guns if a background check is not completed within three days.

“The three-day wait period expired for Dylann Roof, and he was allowed to purchase a high-capacity handgun without a background check,” Hammes said. “Had the seller been restricted to wait for completion of this check, he would have been denied and the Mother Emanuel AME Church tragedy in Charleston could have been avoided.”

To register for the gun violence survivors’ event or learn more about the local chapter of Moms Demand Action, email lowcountrymomsdemand@gmail.com.

scope includes a Preservation Plan as phase 1 (FY19-20), which is inclusive of a stabilization plan and structural assessment. The second phase is the preparation of construction drawings in FY21-22.

Construction of the rehabilitation to be determined pending funding availability.

According to town information, the projects currently under design and develop-

ment for this are projected to extend into 2026.

For more information on Capital Improvement Projects, including structural enhancements like transportation and sewer collection, visit the Town of Bluffton website, Capital Project Dashboard page.

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

53A

REAL ESTATE

‘Apparitions’ Helped Me Price My Home To Sell

BY LARRY STOLLER Contributor

will sell for?” “$850,000”, I said. “You’re right! Sign this listing agreement.” I told him I’d have to run it by my wife. He said The December holidays were over, the he would call me tomorrow and new year had arrived, and we disappeared. were thinking about selling our I was awakened again by a sechome in Rose Hill Plantation. ond spirit. “I want to sell your Based upon what we originally home. What’s your price?” “It’s paid, I determined how much our $850,000”, I said. She replied, home appreciated over the years “With your waterfront location and factored in all the home imyou could get $990,000. Wake up provements that we made. I also your wife and we’ll sign this listchecked out what comparable ing agreement.” I told her no homes were listed and selling for. way, call me tomorrow. She said It looked like our home should Larry Stoller okay and then she was gone. sell for about $850,000. We should The music was soft and sweet. probably list it at $879,000.

When I opened my eyes, there were two It was late and I was tired. As I went to spirits (he & she) looking at me. The spirit sleep, the thought of what our home team said, “We would like to share some would sell for was very comforting! information with you about your home’s Rattling by the window awakened me. market value.”

The apparition said. “I’m the spirit of I asked them if they wanted to know your local real estate agent. I want to sell what I thought our home would sell for. your home. What do you think your home

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“Oh no,” they said. “Better to compare our information with the price you came up with.” With a wave of their hands, a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) appeared on a screen that was suspended in air. It compared homes for sale and homes that sold (similar to ours), indicating that our home would sell somewhere between $885,000 and $925,000.

With another wave of their hands, the three of us were visiting these homes for

sale and those that sold. They were priced between $875,000 and $945,000, and while they were all very comparable to our home, some were a bit nicer and others not as nice. If I were a buyer, I would have no problem in paying $895,000 for our home.

I wish you all a Happy & Healthy New Year, and if your home is for sale, I hope that it sells fast and for the highest possible price!

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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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

Pets of the Week Gumbo is a mixture of everything sweet!

She knows her beauty and is not afraid to show off her fluffy tail. Gumbo does well with cats and animals of all ages, so she would be happy in any home! Gumbo is 8 months old, spayed, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped. If you are interested in adopting Gumbo, call our adoption center at (843) 6451725 or email us at info@palmettoanimalleague.org to set up an appointment.

Duke is all hound! Duke and his super sniffer are ready to find a fellow adventurer who enjoys searching for treasure. He was found wandering all alone until a kind person picked him up, we know he was a loved companion to a family. Duke is 7 years old, neutered, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped. If you are interested in adopting Duke, call our adoption center at (843) 6451725 or email us at info@palmettoanimalleague. org to set up an appointment.

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Visit the PAL Adoption Center at 56 Riverwalk Blvd in Okatie or call 843-645-1725.

Pets are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date on vaccinations.

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

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CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE: Kimball piano, full size studio upright, excellent condition. $800 Phone 404 242-6182.

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January 3, 2024

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T E K TIC O N E 27, ­ISSUE 1 T I M D A ME B I VOLU

T 024 • SEC JAN. 3, 2

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‘Action Painting’ SOBA Gallery’s January Artist Missy Gentile See Page 3B

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January 3, 2024

Arts & Entertainment Calendar

JAN. 6-MARCH 16

The Big Bamboo Annual Winter Concert Series has many performances in 2024. The concerts are offered every Saturday through March 16, from 8:3011:30p.m. at The Big Bamboo, 1 North Forest Beach Drive in Coligny, Hilton Head Island. For more information, visit https://colignyplaza.com/bigbamboowinterconcertseries

JAN. 6-13

Bluffton Branch Library is offering the following free special adult programs in January: Ask the Authors: Fiction Writers Answer Your Questions on Jan. 6 from 3 - 4 p.m.; Tax Time Tips, a SC Dept. of Consumer Affairs presentation (Reg. Req.) on Jan. 9 from 11 am - 12 p.m.; and, Gardening in the Lowcountry: Tomatoes & Vegetables (Reg. Req.) on Jan. 13 from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Register at 843-255-6503 for program marked “Reg. Req.”

JAN. 11 – 21, 2024

Lean Ensemble Theater presents Around The World In 80 Days, by Mark Brown from Jules Verne, directed by Libby Ricardo.

Hold onto your seats for the original amazing race! Join fearless adventurer Phileas Fogg and his faithful manservant as they race to beat the clock! Danger, romance and comic surprises abound in this whirlwind of a show as five actors portraying 39 characters traverse seven continents in one of the greatest adventures of all time. There will be talkbacks with members of the cast and special guests following the Jan. 12 & 19 7:30 p.m. and the Jan. 14 and 21 2 p.m. performances. All performances held at the HHPS Main Street Theater, 3000 Main Street, Hilton Head.

JAN. 17, FEB. 9

USCB Center for the Arts will also feature Broadway’s Next Hit Musical, an original improvised award show on Jan.

17 at 7:30 p.m., as well as Septima, a play about the life of civil rights and voting rights activist and teacher Septima Clark on Feb. 9 at 7:30 p.m. and Feb. 11 at 3 p.m.

JAN. 18-19

Palmetto Quilt guild is proud to kick off 2024 with its Jan. 18 meeting with special speaker Anne Marcellis. She is the published author of the One Block Wonder. Meet at 12:00 p.m. for social hour followed by our meeting and speaker. Location is at Island Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall, Main Street, Hilton Head.

Then on Friday, January 19, 2024,9:00 AM - 3:30 PM, we will participate in our workshop at have our “One Block Wonder” Workshop. Email us at palmettoquiltguild.com to check for availability.

Location is Palmetto Electric Cooperative, 1 Cooperative Way, Hardeeville, SC

JAN. 21-22

The HHSO welcomes back Zhonghua

Wei, winner of the 2023 HHIPC, to perform the Grieg piano concerto, one of the most popular in the entire genre. A rising star, this remarkable 14-year old artist will be competing in the Cliburn Junior Competition in June. Performances are scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 21 at 4 p.m. and Monday, Jan. 22 at 7:30 p.m.

JAN. 27- FEB. 3

The Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce will host its 16th annual Chamber Restaurant Week from January 27-February 3, 2024.

FEB. 9

A Night to Shine 2024 will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Lowcountry Church in Bluffton. This event, sponsored by the Tim Tebow foundation, is an “unforgettable prom night experience” for people with special needs ages 14 and older.

January 3, 2024

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Gentile’s Abstract Art On Display At SOBA This Month

BY SHANNON COPCUTT Editor Missy Gentile’s abstract art will be the featured art exhibit in January at The Society of Bluffton Artists gallery in Old Town Bluffton. Her show, titled “Action Painting” will run through Jan. 28 with an opening reception from 5-7 p.m. Jan. 11.

“Action Painting” will feature several pieces of her abstract works that convey strong emotional or expressive content, breaking away from traditional processes.

“My art reflects my vision of no boundaries,” Gentile said. “What the eye sees is what it is — how it moves you is most important.”

When asked what abstract painting is to her, Gentile explained, “to me is freedom.

It doesn’t represent an accurate depiction of a virtual reality.” She noted that the freedom in her abstract art comes from the use of colors, forms and gestural marks. In this way, “the artist assigns their own meaning to the piece,” she said. “Abstract Art frees the brain from the dominance of reality, enabling the brain to flow within its inner states.”

Gentile said she loves the magic that abstract art brings to the world. “The first piece of abstract art I saw was in the Guggenheim museum in New York City by Kandinsky. I was blown away! The picture moved me. I still remember the way it made me feel. I liked the outside the box thinking and the approach the artists seemed to possess,” she said.

Her process when creating her pieces is unique and all encompassing. “It starts with a color and a canvas on my studio floor or on the grass outside. I like to move around the canvas, 360 degrees, working on it from four sides.

I don’t use an easel or brushes. Instead, I use mops, sponges, sticks, towels, brooms and my fingers,” she said.

She works in a soak-stain technique that Helen Frankenthaler pioneered. “I pour thinned paint or ink directly onto unprimed canvas then move it around with my tools creating rich passages of color that seem to float and merge ethereally,”

she explained.

As an artist, often times a vision will come to her that is a feeling she must express. “Sometimes I will see the picture in my mind, and I have to get it out onto the canvas as soon as I can. I’m in an open eye meditation as I create. An energy takes over,” she explained. “I let myself go, not holding anything back, trying everything.”

Much of Gentile’s inspiration comes from her time living in Paris, France. She later settled in Houston, TX, and for the next 20 years, dedicated her life to art and serving others. She created her first studio and art gallery there. She volunteered in hospitals, where she facilitated connections and emotional care through art experience. Additionally, she taught in the school system.

Gentile’s paintings are in collections internationally. She continues to exhibit her work locally and teaches Abstract Painting at The SOBA Art School, and private classes in her studio.

Dedicated to her style of creation, Gentile noted that she hopes her art moves people in a profound way when they see it.

“I want to see people say ‘wow’ or ‘how did you do that?’ I want people to be pulled in and cry, and feel like they want to touch the picture, and stare at it up close. I want my work to inspire and encourage and mesmerize.”

When asked if she has a favorite piece of art she has created, Gentile said yes. It is a piece of art called Feeling Her Power, which she created in 1993 while living in Houston, TX. “It was the first piece to sell in my solo exhibition,” she explained. It’s a figurative abstract woman, with her oversized hands raised up over her head. “The person that bought it stared at it from a distance and said, ‘it touched me in a way that I had tears in my eyes.’”

This piece of Gentile’s has been featured in several art publications, is on greeting cards, and is in the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. The exhibition at SOBA of Gentile’s art is free and open to the public.

JAN 31 — FEB 24 BASEBALL, FAMILY DRAMA, & THE AMERICAN DREAM

A MESMERIZING AND IMPORTANT PIECE OF AMERICAN THEATRE. Set in Pittsburgh in the 1950s, Fences depicts the life of Troy Maxson, a former Negro League baseball star now scraping by as a sanitation worker. A towering figure facing thwarted aspirations, Troy attempts to assert control in his life through his relationships with his wife and his son, who now wants his own chance to play ball.

But even as he takes responsibility for their safety and well-being, he betrays them each in ways that will forever alter their lives.

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

HERITAGE LIBRARY WINTER CLASSES Family Tree Maker Classes: A Four-Part Series

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 10:30am-12:00pm How to Use the Ancestry DNA “Side View Tools”

Thursday, January 11, 2024 10:00-11:30am

Tuesday, February 13, 2024 1:30-2:30pm

PART 1: Overview and the First Steps

The Coercive (aka Intolerable) Acts of 1774

Thursday, January 18, 2024 10:00-11:30am PART 2: Getting Started – People and Media Tabs

Tuesday, February 20, 2024 10:00-11:00am

Thursday, January 25, 2024 10:00-11:30am

The Underground Railroad and Quest for Freedom

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

Tuesday, February 20, 2024 1:30-2:30pm The Joys & Pitfalls of Publishing Your Family History Book Tuesday, February 27, 2024 1:30-2:30pm Tea and Torture in 1774

Community & Conflict: Colonial Hilton Head 1717-1783

Tuesday, March 5, 2024 10:30-11:30am

Tuesday, January 30, 2024 1:30-2:30pm

Crossing the Combahee – Settlement of the Southern Parishes and Beaufort District

Getting Started in Genealogy

Tuesday, March 12, 2024 10:30-11:30am Women in the American Revolution

View our full Winter class list (Jan-Mar) 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

USCB Arts Center Presents Doo Wop Project USCB Center for the Arts will present “The Doo Wop Project” on Feb 16 at 7:30 p.m., featuring the progression of Doo Wop through the harmonious sounds of this sensational group.

The Doo Wop Project begins at the beginning: tracing the evolution of Doo Wop from the classic sound of five guys singing harmonies on a street corner to the biggest hits on the radio today. In their epic shows The Doo Wop Project takes audiences on a journey featuring foundational tunes from The Crests, The Belmonts and The Flamingos through the vocal artistry of Smokey Robinson, The Temptations, and The Four Seasons all the way to DooWopified versions of modern hits from Michael Jackson, Jason Mraz, Maroon 5, and Sam Smith.

Featuring stars from the Broadway hits Jersey Boys, Motown: The Musical, and A Bronx Tale, The Doo Wop Project brings unparalleled authenticity of sound and vocal excellence to recreate—and in some cases entirely reimagine—the greatest music in American pop and rock history.

Cast members include: Dominic Nolfi, a vocalist who most recently performed on Broadway in Chazz Palminteri’s A Bronx Tale - The Musical, directed by Robert DeNiro and Jerry Zaks; Charl Brown, a vocalist, was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a

Musical for his role as “Smokey Robinson” in Motown The Musical; Dwayne Cooper, a vocalist from Florence, SC who currently lives in New York City and first began singing with a Christian a cappella group called “The Cunningham Singers”; Russell Fischer, a vocalist, cast in the Broadway company of Jersey Boys on his 22nd birthday, marking his Broadway debut; John Michael Dias, a vocalist, recently appeared on Broadway as Neil Sedaka in the Tony and Grammy Award-winning hit Beautiful: The Carol King Musical; Sonny Paladino who most recently served as Music Director, vocal/dance and incidental music arranger and orchestrator for the Broadway musical Gettin’ The Band Back Together, and for the off-Broadway revival of Smokey Joe’s Café.

USCB Center for the Arts will also feature Broadway’s Next Hit Musical, an original improvised award show on Jan. 17 at 7:30 p.m., as well as Septima, a play about the life of civil rights and voting rights activist and teacher Septima Clark on Feb. 9 at 7:30 p.m. and Feb. 11 at 3 p.m.

USCB Center for the Arts, located at 801 Carteret St. in Beaufort, SC, brings a diversity of cultural offerings to the southern Lowcountry, including dramatic and comedic theater, dance, children’s theater, visual arts, independent film and more.

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

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HAPPY HOUR Happy Hour starts January every day 4:00-5:30 pm

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ONION RINGS $8

Homemede beer battered onion rings served with ranch

PENNE ALA VODKA $11

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Join the Main Stage Community Theater this spring in bringing Thornton Wilder’s classic to life on stage. This Pulitzer Prize-winning play explores the beauty of everyday life and the connections that bind us. Whether you’re a seasoned actor or new to community theatre, Main Stage Community Theater invites you to audition.

Auditions will be held Jan. 4 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. All actors auditioning should come at the same time. Auditions will take place at Kawai Piano Gallery by Herrin, 17 Sherington Dr. A. Bluffton,

SC. Callbacks will be held Jan. 5 if needed, at the same location.

When is the actual show? Performances will be from March 7 - March 10 at Coligny Theatre.

To audition, you must fill out an electronic audition form at www.mainstagecommunitytheatre.org. Main Stage Community Theatre is a 501 (c)3 nonprofit. The organization maintains a commitment to the community to develop and utilize the talent available in the local and surrounding areas to cast all productions.

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

It’s Oscar Season At The Center For The Arts If you are ready to kick off the new year with cinematic joy, then The Center for the Arts is the place to go. CFA announced two captivating movie screenings coming your way this January: Oppenheimer will be shown Jan. 8 at 3 and 7 p.m., and The Holdovers will be shown Jan. 22 at 3 and 7 p.m.

Oppenheimer is a film set during World War II, wherein Lt. Gen. Leslie Groves Jr. appoints physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer to work on the top-secret Manhattan Project. Oppenheimer and a team of scientists spend years developing and designing the atomic bomb. Their work comes to fruition on July 16, 1945, as they witness the world’s first nuclear explosion, forever changing the course of history. Runtime is 3 hours.

In The Holdovers, a curmudgeonly instructor at a New England prep school remains on campus during Christmas break to babysit a handful

of students with nowhere to go. He soon forms an unlikely bond with a brainy but damaged troublemaker, and with the school’s head cook, a woman who just lost a son in the Vietnam War. Runtime is 2 hours and 13 minutes.

Both films will be screened at the Center for the Arts, providing you with a chance to witness these cinematic gems in a comfortable and immersive setting, just in time for the Academy Awards in March.

For ticket purchases and additional information, please visit Center for the Arts Movie Tickets.

In preparation for the Oscars, screenings of both “Oppenheimer” and “The Holdovers” at CFA are open to the public.

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January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

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TRY SOMETHING NEW

Bluffton Youth Theatre Auditions Underway Bluffton Youth Theatre is looking for actors for its production of Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka Jr. Actors age 7 years old and up can audition. All auditions will be done over video, and are due Jan. 5.

Performances for Willy Wonka Jr. are scheduled for March, beginning Friday, March 15 through Sunday March 24.

Bluffton Youth Theatre, founded in 2015

by Cynthia and Gregory Ford, is all inclusive theatre program that gives the same

opportunity to all youth, no matter their physical or mental challenges.

HILTON HEAD BRIDGE CLUB, WINTER 2024 LESSONS BEGINNER BRIDGE LESSONS Wednesday Mornings at The Bridge Center Bridge is a game you can enjoy for a lifetime! Please join us this winter at the Hilton Head Island Bridge Club for lessons Wednesday mornings 10:00 – 12:00. The course will run for ten weeks, you can attend the classes as they fit your schedule. If you are brand new to the game, you will gain the most if able to attend a majority of the classes.

Conroy Literary Center To Hold Monthly Book Club The nonprofit Pat Conroy Literary Center and the award-winning Rhett House Inn will host a monthly book club discussion of Pat Conroy’s books in order of publication, moderated by Charlene Spearen and Jonathan Haupt. Book discussions will be held on fourth Thursdays of each month beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Inn. The event will be limited to 20 participants each month, $10/person. Advance registration required. Participants are expected to read the books and to come prepared to discuss.

Discussions will be held on the following dates for the following books: January 25: “South of Broad” (2009), February 22: “My Reading Life” (2010), March 28: “The Death of Santini” (2013), April 25: “A Lowcountry Heart” (2016).

Dr. Charlene Monahan Spearen received her MFA degree in Creative Writing and a Ph.D. in Composition and Rhetoric from the University of South Carolina. She is currently serving as the Public Relations and Special Projects Coordinator for Penn Center after a successful career in academia at Allen University. She served as the Program Coordinator for the University of South Carolina’s Arts Institute and was the Assistant Director for the South Carolina Poetry Initiative.

In addition to her work throughout the Carolinas, Spearen has been a featured

BRIDGE

reader and Creative Writing instructor and scholar in County Monaghan and County Mayo, Ireland. She has published a full-length collection of poems titled A Book of Exquisite Disasters. Her poems have appeared in journals and publications throughout the United States.

Jonathan Haupt is the executive director of the nonprofit Conroy Center and the former director of the University of South Carolina Press, where he created the Story River Books fiction imprint with Pat Conroy, named by Garden & Gunmagazine as one of “the top ten things to love about the South.” Haupt’s book reviews and author interviews have appeared in the Charleston Post and Courier, Lowcountry Weekly, Beaufort Lifestyle, Savannah Morning News’ Beacon magazine, Southern Review of Books, and Southern Writers Magazine’s Suite Tblog. He is co-editor of the anthology Our Prince of Scribes: Writers Remember Pat Conroy, the recipient of seventeen book awards. He serves on the boards of the Friends of South Carolina Libraries and the South Carolina Academy of Authors. In 2020, Haupt was recognized with the Doug Marlette Literacy Leadership Award presented by the Pulpwood Queens, the largest book club in the U.S.

Jan 17

Introduction to Bridge and Taking Tricks

Feb 28

Major Suit Bidding Practice Hands

Jan 24

Choosing a Contract

March 6

Minor Suit Opening Bids & Responses

Jan 31

Opening Bids, Hand Evaluation

March 13 Minor Suit Bidding/Practice Hands

Feb 7

No Lesson, Hilton Head Bridge Tournament! March 20 Overcalls

Feb 14

No Trump Opening Bids and Responses

Feb 21

Major Suit Opening Bids & Responsess

March 27 Bridge Plus Game

Each lesson is $15.00. We will be using Audrey Grant’s textbook, Bridge Basics One, which will be available to purchase for $20.00. Please contact Kristi Menees to indicate your interest in attending classes so that she will order the correct number of textbooks. Class is taught by Kristi Menees, kristimenees@mac.com. 551-795-6329

COMPETITIVE BIDDING & POPULAR CONVENTIONS Sunday Afternoons Beginning 1/21/24 from 1PM-3PM Cost: $15 Per Lesson Jan 21 Preemptive Opening Bids

Feb 18 Stayman Basics

Jan 28 Weak Two Bids

Feb 25 More on Using Stayman

Feb 4 Take Out Doubles

March 3 Jacoby Transfer Bids

Feb 11 No Class: Hilton Head Regional Tournament March 10 More on Using Jacoby Transfer Bids

Instructors: Joe & Bev Meyers Register @ jmeyers247@aol.com or 917-836-3459 Audrey Grant’s Competitive Bidding, Bridge Basics 2, Available @ class for $15.00.

THURSDAY MORNINGS AT THE BRIDGE CENTER, 10 – 12 Supervised Play! Each session begins with a ten minute mini-lesson, and then each table plays hands at their own pace. You are able to ask questions at any time about bidding, defending, playing the hand. It is a perfect way to practice in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. Come alone, come with a partner, or come along with a full table.

Cost is $10. Any questions: kristimenees@mac.com 551-795-6329 HILTON HEAD ISLAND BRIDGE CLUB, ACBL Sanctioned See our website www.bridgewebs.com/hiltonheadisland for a schedule of our Face to Face duplicate games.

Located at : 95 Mathews Dr., Port Royal Shopping Center.

For more info: 843-342-7529. Also see us on Facebook: Hilton Head Bridge Club

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

Winter Concert Series At Big Bamboo On HHI: A Benefit Program For The Pratt Family The Hilton Head Island and surrounding communities are invited to participate in the Winter Concert Series, a vibrant and heartfelt benefit for Island musician, Gary Pratt- hosted every Saturday through March 16. The events, which will be held at The Big Bamboo Café, a South Pacific-themed haunt in Coligny, promise to be a fusion of fellowship, music, and community support.

This year’s lineup features an eclectic mix of bands and artists, including Traynrek, the Horan Brothers, Chiggers, La Bodega, 4 Piece & a Biscuit, Boswell, JWV, Rock Candy, Hannah and the Rumpshakers, Warship, Georgia Overdrive, and National Standards. These talented performers are united by a common cause: supporting the Pratt Family in their time of need.

The event is founded by Tristan O’Grady of COAST Realty and The Big Bamboo and organized by Islander Bob Myhre, both of which have a history as long-time supporters of live music and community causes. “This series isn’t just about music; it’s a testament to the

strength of our community. Our friend Gary Pratt has been diagnosed with ALS and it’s important we come together to uplift them through the power of community”, says Tristan of the series.

The concert series is proudly sponsored by JR Richardson of The Richardson Group and Coligny, as well as, COAST Realty, Oak Advisors and Local Pie. JR Richardson, emphasized the importance of such events; “Hilton Head Island is built of a tapestry of diverse individuals, and when one of us faces challenges, we all step up. This concert series is an embodiment of our commitment to Islanders and the power of unity through music and one Coligny is proud to sponsor.”

This Annual Winter Concert Series has many performances in 2024. The concerts are offered every Saturday through March 16, from 8:30- 11:30p.m. at The Big Bamboo, 1 North Forest Beach Drive in Coligny, Hilton Head Island.

For more information, visit https://colignyplaza.com/bigbamboowinterconcertseries

SCHEDULE 1/6 ROCK CANDY 1/13 VANNA & THE RUMPSHAKERS 1/20 TBD 1/27. LA BODEGA WITH 4 PIECE & A BISCUIT 2/3 THE BOZWELLZ 2/10 WARSHIP 2/17 HORAN BROTHERS 2/24 GROOVE TOWN ASSAULT 3/2 BOBBY MAGYAROSI BAND 3/9 WHITE LIQUOR 3/16 JOJO SQUIRREL

Sports Bar Atmosphere Plenty of TV’s, Games, Great Food & Drink Selection Open for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 9:00 am to 11:00pm Monday - Sunday

1Loc0al R%esidoenftsfO*NLY New Restaurant • Locally Owned

843-342-6007

44 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island, SC

d. s Exclude ty Somt beeaItBeeamufort or Jadrspesers onCounid.

*Mus ith valid ad resident w

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

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O FFIC E S N OW O PEN O N HILTO N HE A D IS L AND & BLUF F TO N THE #1 INDEPENDENT FAMILY-OWNED REAL ESTATE COMPANY IN SOUTH CAROLINA, FLORIDA & THE NORTHEAST

NE

Number One Luxury Broker #1 Real Estate Company in the U.S. by Inman1 #1 Independent Luxury Broker, in SC, FL & the Northeast2 #1 Luxury Broker by Luxury Portfolio International3 #1 Luxury Real Estate Agency in FL, CT & MA4 #1 Overall Winner of HGTV’s Ultimate House Hunt5 SC

WE WELCOME THE OPPORTUNITY TO REPRESENT YOUR MAGNIFICENT PROPERTIES

FL

HILTON HEAD ISLAND 3 EXECUTIVE PARK ROAD | 843.341.5660 BLUFFTON 10 WESTBURY PARK ROAD | SUITE B | 843.341.5660

140+ OFFICES | 4,500+ SALES ASSOCIATES | 9 STATES

1. Awarded 2023 Top Brokerage in the U.S. by Inman. 2. According to RealTrends based on 2022 sales volume. 3. Awarded 2018 Top Luxury Broker by Luxury Portfolio International.

4. Awarded Best Luxury Real Estate Agency in FL, CT & MA in 2022 & 2023 by Luxury Lifestyle Awards. 5. Awarded in 2022.

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

We won the Top Brokerage in the United States, because our sales associates are

1

among the best in the United States.

#

Top Brokerage The #1 Real Estate Company in the U.S.

Hilton Head Plantation 26 Bent Tree Lane | $1,799,000 The Prud’homme Team Garrett Vilcheck | 843.548.1486

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island

3 Conservancy Court | $1,099,000

130 Sandcastle Court | $2,099,000

The Prud’homme Team

Heather Nix | 843.384.4769

Gerry Prud’homme | 843.548.1486

Belfair | Bluffton

Belfair | Bluffton

Belfair | Bluffton

30 Lady Slipper Island Drive | $2,899,000

30 Summerton Drive | $1,695,000

316 Bamberg Drive | $1,592,000

The Prud’homme Team

The Prud’homme Team

The Prud’homme Team

Dick Datz | 843.548.1486

Ken & Renee Vilcheck | 843.548.1486

Ken & Renee Vilcheck | 843.548.1486

The #1 Independent Family-Owned Real Estate C

Bluffton 10 Westbury Park Road | 843.341.5660 Hilton Head Island 3 Executive Park Road | 843.341.5660

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

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Okatie 13 Barksdale Lane | $2,150,000 The Broadhurst Group | 843.837.7773

Hilton Head Island

Okatie

101 Sandcastle Court | $1,795,000

6 Waterfall Lane | $5,150,000

The Broadhurst Group | 843.837.7773

The Broadhurst Group | 843.837.7773

Explore Our World of Luxury Living

Chatham, MA

Naples, FL

Redding, CT

504 Old Harbor Road | $12,900,000 Chatham Office | 508.945.7777

3401 Rum Row | $34,500,000 Naples Broad Avenue South Office | 239.307.4612

229 Umpawaug Road | $8,500,000 Greenwich Office | 203.869.9263

Company in South Carolina, Florida & the Northeast 140+ Offices 4,500+ Sales Associates 9 States - CT, FL, MA, ME, NH, NY, RI, SC, VT

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The Bluffton Sun

We won the Top Brokerage in the United States, because our sales associates are among the best in the United States.

We are committed to growing 20% a year through expansion markets and hiring of high-performing sales associates.

HILTON HEAD ISLAND | BLUFFTON 843.341.5660

January 3, 2024

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

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Moor Spa Hilton Head To Host Healing Event Moor Spa Hilton Head, the holistic wellness spa that opened on Hilton Head Island late last year and the first Moor Spa Concept Spa in the world, will be holding a special grand opening event on Jan. 25 for its latest addition to the spa: a new upstairs private lounge and treatment space that takes pampering spa services to the next level. The grand opening event will feature an exclusive Soul Fire Sound Healing Experience led

by Candace Blair of Soul Fire Social providing attendees with a unique sound healing experience featuring a wave of sound to soothe the mind, body and soul.

As part of this very special event, the Soul Fire Sound Healing Experience will give attendees the opportunity to quiet the mind, calm the nervous system, shift stale energy, and elevate the spirit. The experience will begin with setting an intention for the journey, selecting an inspiring oracle card and sharing a cup of ceremonial chocolate (Guatemala’s purest criollo bean cacao which is a natural

heart opener and mood enhancer, which releases serotonin, dopamine and anandamide, and is known as a “bliss molecule”) Attendees will then lie back and receive the healing vibrations of Candace’s gongs, crystal and alchemy singing bowls, drums, chimes and bells – providing a relaxing and uplifting experience for mind, body and spirit.

The “Elevations” grand opening event / Soul Fire Sound Healing Experience will take place on Thursday, Jan. 25 from 4:30 - 6: p.m. at Moor Spa Hilton Head, located at 4 Dunmore Court on Hilton Head Island. The event is free to attend, but space is limited. To register for the event, call (843) 681-6060 to reserve a spot (a $40 “hold fee” will hold your spot, which will be returned to you.)

For more information, and to RSVP call (843) 681-6060. For more information about Moor Spa Hilton Head, including a complete list of the spa’s unique treatments, services and upcoming events, visit www.moorspahiltonhead.com.

OPEN 6 DAYS PER WEEK – TUESDAY THRU SUNDAYS – OPEN 4:00PM TO 10:00PM

CALAMARI NONNA ROSA CALAMARI FRITTI ANTIPASTO BRUSCHETTA EGGPLANT ROLLATINI MOZZARELLA FRITTI GLUTEN FREE FOCACCIA

ZUPPA DI FAGIOLI Our house made soup with white beans, spinach and cherry tomatoes CREAMY POMODORO Basil Soup

$14 $12 $18 $9 $11 $9 $5

$6

SPAGHETTI VONGOLE SPAGHETTI COZZE PASTA POMODORO SPAGHETTI POLPETTE RIGATONI SAUSAGE & PEPPERS LA PUTTANESCA MATRICIANA GNOCCHI SORRENTINA PAPPARDELLE BOLOGNESE RIGATONI ALA VODKA LASAGNA MANICOTTI

$23 $21 $15 $17 $20 $20 $20 $20 $20 $20 $20 $20

$6 All of our entrees come with a side of angel hair pasta, gluten free options available.

GARDEN $5 CAESAR (anchovies available upon request, add $1.50) / $6 CAPRESE $12 PEAR AND GORGONZOLA $14 PROSCIUTTO & MOZZARELLA $14 ADDITIONS Chicken $7 Shrimp $8

2 2

DAILY TO-GO SPECIAL PASTA DISHES OR ENTREES EXCLUDES VEAL ENTREES

SALADS

(choice of Garden or Caesar)

2

CANNOLIS or one TIRAMISU

49

$

POLLO PARMIGIANA POLLO MARSALA POLLO LIMONE POLLO FIORENTINA VEAL PICATTA VEAL MARSALA VEAL SALTIMBOCCA VEAL PARMIGIANA EGGPLANT PARMIGIANA

$21 $23 $21 $23 $25 $25 $25 $24 $21

SIDES POLLO $7 SHRIMP $8 VEGETABLE OF THE DAY $5 SPINACH $5 SAUSAGE AND PEPPERS $7 POLPETTA $6

All coupons valid through 1/31/24, cannot be combined with any other offer.

843.707.1750 198 Okatie Village Dr., Suite 105 (Next To Sun City Food Lion)

ALL SURFACES FULLY SANITIZED

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

The Foxtrot: A Great First Dance To Learn

BY SANDRO VIRAG Contributor Let me introduce you to the Foxtrot – the dance that can suit everyone and never goes out of style.

It used to be that Frank Sinatra did all Foxtrot music and now Michael Buble has refreshed and revitalized Foxtrot music.

When we think Foxtrot, we all think Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, but where did the Foxtrot really come from? The Foxtrot originated in the summer of 1914

by Vaudeville actor Harry Fox. In early 1914, Fox was appearing in various vaudeville shows in the New York area. The New York Theatre, one of the largest in the world, was being converted into a movie house and as an extra attraction, the theater’s management decided to try vaudeville acts between the shows. They selected

Harry Fox and his company of “American Beauties” to put on a dancing act. As part of his act, Harry Fox was doing trotting steps to ragtime music, and people referred to his dance as “Fox’s Trot.”

As ballroom dance became increasingly popular, Foxtrot was one of the dances that was easy to learn, and it was easy to accomplish the steps. This meant that a large number of people could enjoy and afford having fun with the Foxtrot. Foxtrot is a great first dance to learn because it teaches all the fundamentals – holding the frame, leading a partner, learning timing, and maneuvering on the dance floor. Foxtrot is also an easy dance to learn in a group setting because it is not too fast, and it allows you to lead and follow with different people.

The Foxtrot was the most significant development in all of ballroom dancing. Combining quick and slow steps allowed more flexibility. People enjoyed it more than the one-step and two-step which it replaced. There is more variety in the fox-trot than in any other dance, and in some ways it is the hardest dance to learn due to the complex rhythm.

Variations of the foxtrot music include the Peabody, the Quickstep and Roseland foxtrot. Even dances such as the Lindy and the Hustle are derived to some extent from the Foxtrot.

I recommend everyone learn the Foxtrot because it’s danced to some of the most popular big band music out there today!

Sandro Virag is the owner of The foxtrot is easy to learn and never goes out of style.

Hilton Head Ballroom Dance Studio.

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

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BOOK REVIEW

A Look At ‘The Water Is Wide’

BY GLENDA HARRIS Contributor The beloved son of the Lowcountry, Pat Conroy, wrote about his year-long experience teaching on Daufuskie Island, (called “Yamacraw” in the book) in the book “The Water is Wide.” After visiting the island in 1972 and upon observing the conditions and teaching methods, he was drawn to do what he could to help and as there was a paucity of applicants for the job, he was hired.

His portrayal of the conditions and practices upset many in 1972. Speaking only the truth of what he saw, “The Water is Wide” was written about the young black children on this small island along South Carolina’s coast. The children lived in poverty and their education had been so neglected that many could not recite the alphabet or name the country they

lived in.

In a pitiful, drafty one-room schoolhouse with outdated textbooks, the children had been beaten regularly and called names by their only other teacher. Conroy promptly implemented his own ideas and somewhat unorthodox ways of teaching, including taking the children across the water on field trips to experience the strange and unfamiliar world off island.

The men in power at the school board learned of these trips and his job security was threatened when he refused to change his teaching methods.

Despite the great progress he made in educating the students and expanding their world view and knowledge, Conroy was eventually fired for unconventional teaching practices at the conclusion of his first year on the island. He would not budge in his steadfast refusal to use corporal punishment on his students.

“The Water Is Wide” won Conroy a humanitarian award from the National Education Association and an Anisfield-Wolf Book Award. In 1974, his book was adapted for the big screen starring Jon Voight and was entitled “Conrack.”

Pat Conroy’s year teaching on Daufuskie Island

HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS!

APPETIZERS MONDAY TO FRIDAY | 2-5 PM DRINKS EVERYDAY | 4-6 PM *DINE-IN ONLY. NOT AVAILABLE FOR PICKUP OR ORDER ONLINE.

25 BLUFFTON RD. #613, BLUFFTON, SC

(843) 815-4540

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

Step Back In Time With Scottish History Event

BY ANITA STEPHENS Contributor Turn down the volume. Tune out the hustle and bustle of six lanes of quickly moving traffic along US 278 and allow yourself to float back into time. Imagine yourself entering the archives of history when cars, Walmart and Home Depot didn’t exist. (Do not really do this while you are driving.) But, you get the idea.

Letting yourself mentally travel back into time, thinking about real people and real events that helped shape life as we know it today is something that most of us give little thought to throughout our modern and hurried lives. It’s a helpful and interesting exercise however, as it serves to remind us about the struggles and challenges faced by those who came before us, often putting our current “issues and stresses” into new perspectives.

Having trouble letting yourself mentally float back and imagining you say? No worries – as history will be coming to life

Bluffton Historic Foundation welcomes Scottish Clan Nan Con for day-long live history event.

Lulu at Rose Hill IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!

You’ve Tried The Rest, Delivery and/or Pick-Up, Now Experience The Best Kept Secret!

Order by Friday for Tuesday Delivery

843-812-8870

Free delivery with $46 order. Order online at www.beaufortscmealdelivery.com

Tell security at the gate you want a fabulous dining experience at Lulu at Rose Hill. We will gladly serve you.

Lulu at

Rose Hill

Call for hours 4 CLUBHOUSE DRIVE BLUFFTON

843-757-3766

WWW.LULUATROSEHILL.COM

Order By 1/5 – Deliver On 1/9 Order By 1/12 – Deliver On 1/16 London Broil w/ Balsamic Roasted Vegetables Frito Pie Pork Tenderloin Stew BBQ Ribs & Chicken Dinner ALWAYS Chicken Marsala Veggie Pesto Pasta LOW SALT LITTLE Shrimp Cakes w/ Remoulade Sauce Panko Encrusted Flounder SUGAR Broccoli, Ham & Cheese Quiche w/Lemon Butter Sauce Seafood Salad over Fresh Greens & Side Mushroom Asparagus Quiche Greek Chickpea Soup Egg Salad over Fresh Greens & Side Chocolate Banana Nut Bread Chicken Cacciatore Soup *$24.00 meals w/sides included, large enough for 2 moderate eaters. $12.00 for QT. Soup and breads or 1/3 Deep Dish Quiche. Always low salt/sugar delivered cold in microwaveable/freezable containers. Let Us Know Your Allergies or Dislikes As We Pick Appropriate Sides

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

in Bluffton on Jan. 20. The Bluffton Historical Society will present a day-long event at the Heyward House Museum and Welcome Center located at 70 Boundary Street, in historic downtown Bluffton featuring living historians from the Scottish Clan Nan Con (in Gaelic, “Clan of the Dog.”) Historic reenactors will be dressed in full colonial Scottish kilts and costume typical of the late 1600’s and early 1700’s.

The public will have the opportunity to stand elbow to elbow with the gnarly bunch of kilt-clad lads and hear their tales of the history that helped shape the Lowcountry and South Carolina.

Historian and local Lowcountry resident, Steve Quick will be among the group of reenactors from Clan Non Clan and The Highland Independent Company of Darien based out of Georgia. “This is the first of this kind of re-enactment in South Carolina,” said Quick. “All of our members are of true Scottish descent.”

The troop of historians currently reside between North Carolina and Florida, traveling to other locales throughout the year to present history in 3-D fashion.

“Our presentation of history is not ‘dry’

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and our stories provide an understanding of the role Scottish settlers played during the timeline of an emerging Southeastern portion of the United States,” he said.

Visitors will be able to observe the appearance, lifestyle and martial tradition of Scottish Highlanders from the bygone era complete with musket firing demonstrations, a traditional bonfire and a bagpiper musician adding strains of hauntingly melodic Scottish music all in an effort to enhance the authentic feel to the historic atmosphere. Scottish bakery treats will be on sale for those who wish to sample.

Plan your visit between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. for this engaging, special day and step back in time. The event promises to be of interest to young and old alike.

Mark your calendar and don’t miss the chance to connect with living history. Admission is free but donations to the Heyward House and the Bluffton Historic Foundation will be gladly accepted for funding of future living history events.

For more information go to: www.historicblufftonsc.com or call (843) 757-6293.

Community Engagement Builds Cohesive Communities The Bluffton Sun and Hilton Head Sun invite you to like and follow our socials, as we will be more active on our social media channels moving forward to keep an open dialogue with our community members. We will also be posting events, calls to action, and opportunities to get involved in the newspaper. Don’t miss the chance to get involved and/or get published! We look forward to your feedback, ideas, and ongoing communication. facebook.com/blufftonsun instagram.com/the_real_blufftonsun

Thank you for supporting our local newspapers!

Steve Quick is a local resident of Bluffton and is responsible for organizing his group in the upcoming event.

We Are Moare!

Than Pizz

Steaks, Seafood, & Authentic Italian Entrée’s and of Course Pizza!

Enjoy Our Signature Dishes From the

Wood Fired Grille

$10 OFF

$50 OR MORE WITH THIS AD

(dine in only, 1 coupon per table, offer expires 1/24/24)

Let Us Cater Your Next Event at Our Place or Yours.

7 Greenwood Drive Suite C Hilton Head Island (Reilley’s Plaza)

843-686-3000

To order online or reservations go to

www.deanoshhi.com

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The Bluffton Sun

HHSO Welcomes Back Zhonghua Wei The HHSO welcomes back Zhonghua Wei, winner of the 2023 HHIPC, to perform the Grieg piano concerto, one of the most popular in the entire genre. A rising star, this remarkable 14-year old artist will be competing in the Cliburn Junior Competition in June.

Performances are scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 21 at 4 p.m. and Monday, Jan. 22 at 7:30 p.m. John Morris Russell will conduct, and Zhonghua Wei will play piano including Alexander Borodin In the Steppes of Central Asia, Edward Grieg Piano Concerto, Op. 16, A minor, Johannes Brahms Symphony No. 2, Op. 73, D Major.

To purchase tickets visit www. hhso.org/orchestra-series-2023-2024/

January 3, 2024

Pets of the Week Sophia is one golden girl! Sophia and her siblings were born on Betty White’se birthday in 2022. She and her brother found their way back to us after being in a home for the first year of their lives. She is now the last one in her litter waiting to find her home, she is a very sweet and social cat who is ready to find a family again!

Sophia is a year old, spayed, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped. If you are interested in adopting Sophia, call our adoption center at (843) 645-1725 or email us at info@palmettoanimalleague.org to set up an appointment.

Destiny is ready to find her forever home! Destiny is a new addition to our kennel and quickly won over all of our staff. She really enjoys spending time in the dog yard with a toy or going on a nice walk. Destiny has a very sweet personality and will certainly steal anyone’s heart! Destiny is 5 years old, spayed, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped. If you are interested in adopting Destiny, call our adoption center at (843) 645-1725 or email us at info@palmettoanimalleague.org to set up an appointment.

Shop Nash Gallery Today!

Happy 2024 From Your Island Bagel Family!

Blufft n NY Style Bagels Made Fresh Daily Sun Assorted Bagels and Spreads Fresh Baked Pastries Everyday • Sandwiches SERVING FRESH BREAKFAST AND LUNCH DAILY, 7AM - 2PM

Jewelry, Glass, Metal, Ceramics & So Much More All done by North American Artists

13 Harbourside Lane #2-H Hilton Head Island 843-785-6424 • Nashgallery.com

The

TWO LOCATIONS! Bluffton . Sheridan Park Circle . (843) 815-5300 Hilton Head . 841 Wlliam Hilton Pkwy . (843) 686-3353

Do you like to write?

Do you like to tell stories?

Can you take nice photographs?

Do you want to contribute to the Bluffton Sun?

If so, we want to connect with you! Email editor@blufftonsun.com for details!

January 3, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

•Food! •Gifts •Art! •Dine! •Shop! •Fun! •Galleries and More!

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The Bluffton Sun

January 3, 2024

Closed Until Jan. 9, 2024.

Happy New Year!

Tues., Weds., Thurs., Fri.

BUY ONE ENTREE GET

2ND 1/2 PRICE!

You Must Be Seated Between 4:45 to 5:15

Dine In Only. Must present coupon.

One coupon per couple. Can not be combined with other offers.

Automatic 20% gratuity will be added to original price.

Valid only Tues., Weds., Thurs., Fri.

Effective Jan. 9, 10, 11, 12. & 16, 17, 18 & 19 2024.

FISH FRY TUESDAY

Tues: Fresh Lake Perch Served w/French Fries and Vegetables!

Only $28

Tuesdays during January 2024.

*No other coupons, discounts, or substitutions can be applied to the Fish Dinner *Must present coupon for offer.

Open Tues. thru Sat., 4:45 Until...

Call for Reservations 843-757-5755 1263 May River Road • Old Town Bluffton

THE SOCIETY OF BLUFFTON ARTISTS PRESENTS

•Food! •Gifts •Art! •Dine! •Shop! •Fun! •Galleries and More!

Morning Fog by Bill Winn

THURSDAYS • 12 - 4PM

Old Town Bluffton • Boundary Street www.farmersmarketbluffton.org

by featured artist

Missy Gentile RECEPTION:

EXHIBIT: JAN 2-2 6 CHURCH STREET OLD TOWN BLUFFTON

SOBAGALLERY.COM

Featuring works in oil, acrylic, watercolor, pencil and mixed media by Lauren Arsenault | Mary Burrell | Sue Grilli Murray Sease | Bill Winn & sculpture by Wally Palmer

Adjacent to “The Store” 56 Calhoun Street lapetitegallerie.com

Market on re-opens ith w 1/11/24 rs! new hou

68 Boundary Street, Martin Family Park • FRESH PRODUCE • SPECIALTY FOODS • PREPARED FOODS ENJOY LIVE MUSIC & SEATING AT THE HEYWARD HOUSE

A Nonprofit Organization Serving Our Community With Pride