The
Bluffton Blufft n Sun January 22, 2025 • Volume 28, Issue 2 • Complimentary • BlufftonSun.com
Novant Health plans major health care expansion in Bluffton and the South Carolina Lowcountry 10A
Celebrating young creativity: The 2025 Bluffton 8th Grade 21A Juried Art Show
Bluffton wetlands hang in the balance LETTER TO THE EDITOR BY JESSICA PALLADINO Contributor Development is inevitable. However, development can be done while protecting the community at large. On January 23 at 5 p.m., there will be a county meeting to vote on special use permitting to fill non-tidal wetlands for a 38-unit housing development located at 34 Ulmer Road. Not sure where it is located or if it will affect you? It’s the forest right across from the Rec center where citizens go to vote. This is a call to all Bluffton residents. Write to the council or attend the meeting. One of our last unprotected and irreplaceable ecosystems is at stake. This wetland forest has one of the last unfenced natural freshwater ponds in Bluffton, acting as a habitat corridor connecting fragmented habitats which allow
animals to move safely between them. Some of the creatures that live here include Blue Heron, Pileated Woodpeckers, Wood Storks, Anhinga, Osprey, eagles, geese, ducks, foxes, possum and deer. Symphonies of amphibians and owls fill its evenings. Plants such as endangered sundews grow in dappled patches of sunlight alongside wild old willows, elderberries and native blueberries. Per the plans, there is little to no space between the proposed homes, and less than an 800 ft. buffer between the lowest point of the PF01A classified wetland edge to be developed and the May River. Consequently, it is likely to increase water pollution in the May River. During the summers, the county requests us to limit water usage for irrigation. Occasionally, brown water comes out of our faucets. Reports of increasing pollution in the May River are not uncommon. In 2011
The Town of Bluffton passed the May River Watershed Action Plan to restore and implement preventative measures to protect the May’s water quality and shellfish industry from future degradation due to overdevelopment, a fantastic, proactive step. However, although Ulmer’s wetland
WETLANDS CONT. ON PAGE 3A
Alljoy residents, Beaufort County reps meet; Krause announced as liaison 31A
Lowcountry mothers have a new resource with the Balanced Birth and Wellness Collective 44A
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The Bluffton Sun
January 22, 2025
Francis O’Neill, M.D. to Beaufort Memorial Heart Specialists
T
o further expand and enhance cardiac care for Lowcountry residents, Beaufort Beaufort Memorial has added an experienced interventional cardiologist to the team at Beaufort Memorial Heart Specialists.
Board-certified in Internal Medicine and fellowship-trained in Cardiovascular Disease as well as Interventional Cardiology, Dr. Francis O’Neill brings his background with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to the practice where he will diagnose and treat patients with cardiovascular conditions.
In addition to seeing patients in both the practice’s Beaufort and Okatie offices, Dr. O’Neill will also perform cardiac catheterization procedures in the newly renovated cath lab at Beaufort Memorial Hospital. The New York native joins the hospital from his role as an interventional cardiologist and Director of both Cardiac Catheterization and Cardiac Critical Care at Nassau University Medical Center in East Meadow, N.Y. Having performed over 1,000 coronary procedures, his focus is interventional cardiology – but his diverse experience will bring specialized, high-quality care in the areas of heart failure, hypertension, pacemaker and defibrillator management, coronary disease,pulmonary embolism, cardiogenic shock, valve disease and arrhythmia management.
CALL 843-770-4550 TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT.
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Nassau University Medical Center East Meadow, N.Y.
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Nassau University Medical Center East Meadow, N.Y.
Interventional Cardiology
Morristown Memorial Medical Center Morristown, N.J.
At the practice Dr. O’Neill joins board-certified interventional cardiologists Drs. Stuart Smalheiser, Stephen Fedec, and physician assistants Tara Kay and Taylor Robinson.
January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
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WETLANDS FROM PAGE 1A is half a mile from Bluffton’s Town Hall, Beaufort County Development Council still has the final say in what is to befall us. These permit requests to fill Ulmer’s non-tidal wetlands undermine the spirit of not only the Cleanwater Act Section 404 but also Federal Executive Order 11990, “To take action to minimize the destruction, loss or degradation of wetlands and to enhance and preserve.” To agree to filling in the wetlands for development is based on short term profits. When the May River fills with blue-green algae due to eutrophication, the cleanup cost will likely exceed the proposed tax revenue. Armada Acquisitions proposed bioretention basins seem inadequate, as whenever it storms the whole open wetland area floods. Furthermore, upon viewing the plans, one can see that there is a lack of water remediation in effect between established homesteads on Confederate Avenue and this proposed enormous development. During hurricane season, I’ve waded through those waters almost to my
knees where usually there are forested deer paths. If they fill in the wetlands to build houses, where does the water go if they remove the permeable land? Our ditches are already 6 ft. deep, can swallow a car and current infrastructure is insufficient for the few houses already on Confederate Avenue. Will existing homes without a history of flooding become the new floodplain as the new development’s lowest point for runoff ? Currently there is no existing storm water system there. How can there be enough sewage capacity? Who is responsible for putting that in? Beaufort County taxpayers? There are lots of unanswered questions. If the wetlands must be developed, if there is no other option, they could implement Green Building procedures such as those we see in the Hilton Head municipality or Palmetto Bluff’s eco-friendly building requirements. If they limited the number of buildings so that the stormwater had somewhere to infiltrate, it would help. Encourage them to utilize Green Building procedures if they
must build atop our wetlands. So, you might be asking yourself, “What action can our community take?” Empower your voice! Write an email or letter to the County Community Development Office in defense of one of our last Bluffton freshwater wetlands by 5 p.m. on Jan 23rd or come to the meeting in Beaufort. Reference: 34 Ulmer Rd Bluffton or Special Use Permit Request #R600 039 00B 0038 0000.
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The Bluffton Sun
EDITORIAL
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Contributors Jessica Palladino Rep. Weston Newton Ryan Chowansky Dr. Epps Mark Winn Justin Jarrett Dr. Horup Danie Connolly Edwina Hoyle Glenda Harris Leslie Rohland Kevin Fitzpatrick Channing Heiss Collins Doughtie Nick Martin
January 22, 2025
Lisa Hostetler Brown Wendy Kushel Zach Deloach Abby Bird Tracy Winslow Rob Pearson Dr. Jean Harris Paul Tollefson Joy Ross Andrea Hoerner Joe Turino Gary Smythe Chris Roosa Lucia Crosby
Contact us Melissa McCullough PO Box 2056, Bluffton, SC 29910 843-757-9507 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 2, January 22, 2025, is published twice monthly by Beaufort Media Group, LLC, 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.
Reflecting on family, transitioning to legislation: Priorities for South Carolina’s 126th General Assembly BY REP. WESTON NEWTON Contributor Just like that our last child left to go back to school this afternoon and the house is Weston Newton quiet again with all the decorations and evidence of the season back in the respective areas of the attic waiting to be retrieved and carefully placed next year to welcome home the part-time occupants whose time here simply flew by too quickly. Despite the chaos and occasional conflicting personalities that now comes with a full house of adults, our time together was the best present I could have received – except if I could turn back the clock 10 years or so! With the New Year now upon us, the General Assembly is prepared to return to Columbia every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday beginning the second Tuesday in January and continuing until the second Thursday in May for the first year of the twoyear legislative session, the 126th General Assembly. My return to Columbia includes a renewed enthusiasm and continuing commitment to work with all of my House colleagues in an open, transparent and ethical manner, doing
the people’s business in public. I have been re-elected as Chair of the Judiciary Committee, and along with Judiciary Committee Staff, have been reviewing as many of the 323 out of the around 400 bills pre-filed in the House that have been assigned to our committee as possible. Generally, two-thirds or more of all legislation is assigned to our committee for vetting. Prioritizing the bills and the order in which they may be vetted can be a difficult task, but by engaging as many of the 124 House Members as possible and coordinating with other leadership and the majority caucus, our scheduling work becomes more apparent. Many of our priorities include items of importance to various constituencies that did not make it to the finish line during the 125th General Assembly, including concerns over squatting, organized retail crime (smash and grab), liquor liability and skyrocketing insurance costs, parental consent for minor’s social media accounts, artificial intelligence morphed images of child pornography, strengthen penalties for juveniles who commit violent crimes and magistrate’s court reform. These are just some of the Judiciary Committee highlights and are not meant as an exhaustive list of priorities. After hearing from each of the standing committee chairs last week at a Speaker/Chair-
man Retreat, the issues expected to receive early attention from the other standing committees include Education Savings Accounts and the expansion of school choice options for families from the Education, Public Works and Transportation Committee chaired by Representative Shannon Erickson from Beaufort. Representative Bill Herbkersman’s Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee will begin hearings on an energy capacity and generation promotion bill as well as a small business regulation reduction bill (the Small Business Regulatory Freedom Act). The Agriculture Committee will begin taking testimony on the impacts and the recovery costs from Hurricane Helene and the 2024 flooding events, consider venomous reptile legislation and evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of the Palmetto Pride program and related spending.
The Municipal, Medical and Military Committee will debate the appropriateness of 16 being the medical age of consent in SC and of restricting access by minors to “soft drinks” containing THC. Finally, the Ways and Means Committee is expected to evaluate and recommend historic income tax cuts, simplifying our tax system with the goal of cutting the South Carolina state income tax rate to a level below that of our border states. Collectively, these priorities reflect our commitment to building on the successes of past sessions and addressing the most pressing needs of South Carolinians. It is an honor and privilege to serve the citizens of South Carolina District 120 in the SC House. If I may be of assistance, please do not hesitate to call upon me. Weston Newton is the representative for District 120 in the State House of Representatives.
January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
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The Bluffton Sun
January 22, 2025
New year, new you, new project BY RYAN CHOWANSKY Contributor Every January, millions of us set resolutions. We vow to exercise more, eat better, save money or spend more time with family. The New Year is a time for fresh start, a chance to make changes that improve our lives. Ryan Chowansky But here’s the thing about resolutions. They’re only as good as the actions we take. If we don’t commit to the process, those goals turn into another list of “what if’s” or “I should have done it then!” They always say the best time to plant a tree was 10 years ago and the second-best time is right now. This year, do things differently. Turn those goals into detailed plans and those plans into progress. Whether your resolution is to create a healthier lifestyle, build stronger relationships or finally tackle the clutter in your life, it all comes down to prioritizing what matters most. A goal without a plan is just a wish, but a goal with clear steps and intentional effort and action is where real changes happen. For many, those goals involve creating spaces that better serve their lives. Maybe you’ve outgrown your current home and you’re ready for your forever home. Perhaps your home office needs a massive upgrade to elevate the background of your zoom calls, or maybe you need to finally knock down that raised bar top in your kitchen. Does your early 2000s tan everything bathroom finally needs to be redone, or your outdoor space doesn’t function the way you need it to. Why wait another year to fix it? If you’ve been dreaming about a remodel, a new home or upgrading your business space, there’s no better time than the New Year to make it happen. That energy you feel now, the drive to improve, to grow, to build something better, is the perfect fuel for starting a project that can transform your home and your life. Plus, you know, that whole, “reputable companies are al-
ready booking into mid-summer and beyond” thing. Just like changing your body, you need to play the long game. Starting now is exciting, but you also have to keep the end in mind and remember it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Imagine starting 2025 in a space custom-built for your needs, with every detail reflecting your vision to be ready for Fourth of July 2026. That is some freedom to celebrate! Maybe you just had your family over for the holidays, but you realized it was like three separate parties because your large family had to section off into different parts of your room to make it work. Picture a kitchen where everyone wants to gather or a gorgeous bathroom that feels like a spa retreat, so you can dodge your family members and take a breather from all the insanity. If you’re a business owner, envision your business thriving in a space designed to reflect your brand and inspire your team and clients. That’s not fluff, that is the truth. A commercial remodel to make clients, potential clients, your employees, and even you, feel like you’re in an embodiment of your brand and business. It’s like finally dropping that weight or kicking the bad habit. These aren’t just projects; they’re investments in your future. Don’t wait. Act now. Just like you need a coach to help you along your journey of greatness, you need a knowledgeable contractor to guide you through your next journey of taking that dream space vision to reality. The biggest hurdle in any New Year’s resolution is starting. Whether it’s hitting the gym or starting a remodel, taking the first step is what sets the rest in motion. At Bluffton Builders and Chowansky Construction, we believe that the spaces we live and work in shape the lives we lead. Let’s work together to make 2025 the year you achieve your goals, not just for yourself, but for your home or business, too. Let’s build something incredible together in 2025 and beyond. Ryan Chowansky is the owner of Bluffton Builders, LLC, www.bluffton.builders.
January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
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The Bluffton Sun
January 22, 2025
Benefits of Retinol versus Tretinoin for facial rejuvenation
"My husband told me that he has never, in 41 years, seen me truly smile like I do now!"
BY MATHEW T. EPPS Contributor
-Judy, actual patient
Stop waiting. Start smiling! We see it every day. Healthy, beautiful smiles improve our patients' self-esteem and overall health. Make 2025 the year you attain the smile you always wanted. Schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our amazing dentists so we can achieve your smile goals!
Scan to see JUDy’s smile transformation
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Medical-grade Retinol, a vitamin A derivative, has become a cornerstone in the treatment of facial aging. This ingredient offers significant benefits for skin rejuvenation, making it a Dr. Mathew T. Epps valuable addition to many patients’ skincare routines. From an aesthetic plastic surgery perspective, a well-structured retinol regimen—initiated at an appropriate potency and supplemented with soothing and protective products—can substantially improve facial skin quality and delay the need for more invasive procedures. With careful patient selection, conscientious dose escalation, and attention to barrier support, retinol creams remain a pivotal option to help correct facial aging while minimizing unwanted side effects. Retinol works by increasing cell turnover, stimulating collagen production, and improving skin texture. These effects can lead to a reduction in fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation, resulting in a more youthful appearance. While not as potent as its prescription counterpart tretinoin, retinol is generally better tolerated, making it an excellent option for those new to vitamin A derivatives. Tretinoin, while more potent and often prescribed to treat dermatological conditions, can cause significant irritation, redness, and peeling, especially in new users or those with sensitive skin. In contrast, retinol is converted to retinoic acid in the skin, allowing for a more gradual and gentle effect. This conversion process means that retinol is approximately ten times less potent than tretinoin, reducing the risk of adverse reactions. It generally takes several weeks of
consistent use before visible improvements from retinol become apparent— like improved smoothness and subtle reduction in fine wrinkles—around the 4-week mark, though more definitive improvements in wrinkle depth, pigment irregularities, and firmness often require at least 8 to 12 weeks of regular application. This window can vary based on factors such as retinol concentration, product formulation, skin sensitivity, and adherence to a regular skincare regimen. To maximize the benefits of retinol while minimizing potential side effects,
it’s crucial to use complementary skincare products. A gentle, non-foaming cleanser helps maintain the skin barrier. Hydrating serums containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid can combat dryness. Most importantly, broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential, as retinol can increase sun sensitivity. Medical-grade retinol creams offer a balanced approach to addressing facial aging, providing significant benefits with a lower risk of irritation compared to tretinoin. When used in conjunction with appropriate skincare products, retinol can be an effective tool in an aesthetic plastic surgery practice for non-invasive facial rejuvenation. Mathew T. Epps, MD, MS, DABS is a plastic surgeon, triple-fellowship trained in facial, eyelid, and breast surgery visit: matheweppsmd.com or info@dreppsmd. com.
January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
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COMPLIMENTARY WILLS and LIVING TRUST SEMINAR South Carolina Law Firm reveals the 7 costly mistakes families make in their estate plans!
WILL YOUR BASIC ESTATE PLAN ADDRESS THESE ISSUES?
1. PROBATE COSTS AND DELAYS 2. ESTATE TAXES 3. IRA PROBLEMS 4. DIVORCE 5. REMARRIAGE 6. INCAPACITY 7. LOSS OF PUBLIC ASSISTANCE
When you attend one of our Wills and Living Trusts seminars, you’ll immediately discover how you can prevent this from happening to you and your family.
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RESERVE YOUR SEAT TODAY! All seminar attendees will receive a FREE private attorney consultation to see how a proper estate plan will benefit you and your family.
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Wills . Trusts. Probate.
10 Pinckney Colony Road Suite 400, Bluffton, SC 29909
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The Bluffton Sun
January 22, 2025
Novant Health plans major health care expansion in Bluffton and the South Carolina Lowcountry Novant Health has unveiled plans to build a new full-service community hospital campus in Bluffton, designed to increase access to health care in South Carolina’s Lowcountry region and meet the long-term needs of a growing population. The Novant Health Bluffton Medical Center will initially feature 50 beds with plans to expand to 100 as demand grows. The facility will offer a wide range of services, including medical, surgical, emergency, trauma, intensive care, labor and delivery, cardiology, neurology, orthopedics and other specialties identified as community needs. The project is currently undergoing the Certificate of Need approval process, with construction anticipated to begin once approved. The hospital is expected to open by mid-2028. The $320 million, four-story, 194,500-square-foot facility will be located at the intersection of Buckwalter Parkway and Lake Point Drive in Bluffton. Notably, the fourth floor will house HVAC systems and is not designated for patient care. In addition to the hospital, Novant Health is investing in several freestanding emergency departments, outpaJob #: 60271-109 Color(s): 4C services, urgent tient clinics, surgery centers, imaging Size: 9.96" x 4.8" Bleed?: .125" Center: 108
care, primary care and specialty care facilities in Bluffton. These expansions are expected to bring approximately 1,000 new jobs to the region and significantly enhance local access to health care. “Our integrative approach will reduce the need for residents to travel outside the area for care, creating a comprehensive medical hub that meets the needs of our community,” said Jason Bernd, president of Novant Health’s South Carolina region. Novant Health is also addressing the critical issue of affordable housing in Beaufort and Jasper counties, a challenge that impacts the region’s health care workforce. The organization recently contributed $1 million to affordable housing initiatives and is collaborating with local leaders to develop further solutions. This announcement follows Novant Health’s February 2024 acquisition of East Cooper Medical Center in Charleston, Hilton Head Hospital in Hilton Head, Coastal Carolina Hospital in Hardeeville and 27 associated physician clinics. Investments are already underway in these facilities, including operating room upgrades and emergency department expansions. As the Lowcountry continues to attract retirees and
families, Novant Health is strategically expanding its services to accommodate population growth while maintaining a focus on quality care and safety. The organization plans to recruit at least 20 new primary care providers and additional specialists to ensure patients have access to a comprehensive range of health care options locally. “We look forward to partnering with physicians, team members and community leaders as we enhance access to high-quality care,” said Bernd. “These developments not only improve health care access but also bring significant economic benefits to the region.” By addressing both health care and housing challenges, Novant Health is reaffirming its commitment to the holistic well-being of South Carolina’s Lowcountry communities.
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60271-109 Epperson Bluffton Sun:Hilton Head Sun 9.96x4.8 4C.indd 1
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THE E F I L GOOD T I A W T ’ N O W
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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 DAYTONA BEACH ARE IN THE CPS-12 APPLICATION AVAILABLE FROM SPONSOR, MINTO COMMUNITIES, LLC. FILE NO. CP17-0092. 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. THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS FOR THE SALE OF LOTS IN LATITUDE MARGARITAVILLE WATERSOUND ARE IN THE CPS-12 APPLICATION AVAILABLE FROM SPONSOR, LMWS, LLC. FILE NO. CP20-0062. Pennsylvania Registration Numbers OL00169 (Latitude Margaritaville at Daytona Beach), OL001170 (Latitude Margaritaville at Hilton Head) and OL001182 (Latitude Margaritaville Watersound). Latitude Margaritaville at Daytona Beach, Latitude Margaritaville at Hilton Head and Latitude Margaritaville Watersound are 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 2025. 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. 2025
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TRIPLE FELLOWSHIP TRAINED PLASTIC SURGEON SPECIALIZING IN EYELID SURGERY FACELIFT BREAST ENHANCEMENT
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January 22, 2025
Sometimes distributions in wills and trusts are not equal among children because of “the circumstances.” Assume, for example, recent retirees Max and Gracie are worth collectively 1.8 million, and they Mark Winn own their home here in South Carolina and a timeshare in New Hampshire. They have two daughters, Sabrina and Florence. Sabrina is supported very well by her husband, Marvin, who is a plastic surgeon. Jack and Christy are their children. Marvin’s parents are wealthy, and Marvin is an only child. Max and Gracie know that Sabrina does not need their money, and that Jack and Christy will have all the privileges and educational advantage that money can buy. Florence and her husband, Derek, struggle financially. Derek is a spendthrift. They live in a declining neighborhood and have two children. Harold and Gina are their children. Max and Gracie are concerned Derek will waste Florence’s inheritance, and that Harold and Gina will not have all the privileges and educational advantage that money can buy. They also want Florence and Derek to be able to move to a safer neighborhood. What can Max and Gracie do? Max and Gracie can use revocable trusts to make it so they will not have probate in New Hampshire and only summary administration here. They can direct that upon the death of the survivor of them, $250,000, or 15% of the overall collective estate, whichever amount is more, shall be placed into an educational trust for Harold’s and Gina’s benefit. With the rest, they can direct half into a trust for benefit of Florence, and half into a trust for the benefit of Sabrina. The remainder interest on Sabrina’s trust can be di-
rected to go to Florence’s trust if she survives, or in default, to Florence’s children (or to their educational trusts) if they are under age 35 at the time. This favors Florence and her children to the detriment of Sabrina and her children, but under the circumstances, it is appropriate. To guard Florence’s inheritance from Derek’s wasteful spending and possible “pillow-talk,” or access to the funds, Gracie and Max can make it so an independent trustee must act jointly with Florence on her trust and on the trusts for Harold and Gina, and that while entitled to all the income, principal distributions shall not exceed 5% per year unless medically necessary or to live in a safer community. Aside from avoiding probate in New Hampshire and reducing legal and court fees here, what would this plan accomplish? It would: (1) Protect Florence’s inheritance from Derek’s wasteful spending, (2) Provide needed funds to educate Harold and Gina, and (3) Make it possible for Florence, Harold and Gina to have a much better life, living in a safer community. Those are good results under the circumstances. Mark F. Winn, J.D., Master of Laws in Estate Planning, a local tax, asset protection and estate planning attorney.
January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
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The Bluffton Sun
January 22, 2025
Sand Sharks serving wake-up call to PBC BY JUSTIN JARRETT Contributor When the USCB Sand Sharks were picked to finish last in the Peach Belt Conference ahead of their inaugural 2023-24 season, it was to be expected. A first-year program dropped into a notoriously competitive league is not supposed to kick down the door. And they didn’t. The gauntlet chewed up Ron Fudala’s freshman-laden roster, as the Sand Sharks endured eight single-digit losses in Peach Belt play, including five by a single possession, leading to a 3-15 conference record and the projected last-place finish. However, those three wins included a loud arrival on the scene in a 114-112 debut triumph over Augusta that set The Cove on fire and a 123-118 slugfest with Columbus State that went to four overtimes, and for a moment, the Sand Sharks could smell blood. A string of four consecutive losses by
three points or fewer took an emotional toll, though, and USCB finished the season on a nine-game losing streak. The Sand Sharks likely would have regarded more highly entering their second campaign had Marcus Overstreet returned for his sophomore season, but the dominant big man from Chicago hit the transfer portal after earning PBC Freshman of the Year honors and landed at Mercer, leaving a gaping hole in the paint. Perhaps that’s why the league’s coaches picked the Sand Sharks to again occupy the PBC cellar, but they appear to have underestimated Fudala and the culture he has built in his short time in the Lowcountry. Moreover, they inflated the importance of any one individual in Fudala’s program. Despite beefing up the early-season schedule substantially, including two road trips to the Pittsburgh area where Fudala cut his teeth as an assistant and mined
SAND SHARKS CONT. ON PAGE 16A
ASHTON MCNAIR/USCB ATHLETICS
USCB’s Hudson Norton works in the paint during the second half of the Sand Sharks’ 81-70 win over Clayton State on Saturday, Jan. 4. Norton had a career-high 23 points and nine rebounds to lead the Sand Sharks.
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January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
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The Bluffton Sun
SAND SHARKS
FROM PAGE 14A
several of his prized recruits, the Sand Sharks went 8-2 in non-conference games, and after a stinging loss at Augusta to open PBC play, they’ve rattled off three straight wins to match last season’s Peach Belt win total. In Overstreet’s absence, the parts have become more interchangeable in Fudala’s “shift changes,” with five players frequently going to bench to be replaced by fresher versions of themselves during a key sequence. The 10man rotation encourages everyone to play with maximum intensity for short spurts, emphasizing defensive pressure and constant motion punctuated with a team-first, win-atall-costs mentality. And the recipe is starting to simmer to a boil. The selflessness is evident on the stat sheet, where 10 players average at least 14 minutes and 5.6 points, yet only two average double-digit scoring — Kenney Gaines (12.4) and Kevaughn Price (10.6). This in spite of the fact that the Sand Sharks average 88.9 points per game and have four players in double figures
per game on average. In fact, USCB is 10-1 when at least three players hit double digits and 1-2 when only one or two have hit the mark. Seven Sand Sharks scored 10 or more in a 92-91 thriller at Georgia Southwestern on Saturday, with Gaines splashing a late 3-pointer that proved to be the game-winner. On any given night, a different hero can emerge. The addition of point guard Alejandro Ralat, a fifth-year transfer from Florida Atlantic who was part of a Final Four team in Boca Raton, brings a veteran presence who can help this young team navigate the bumps in the road that inevitably lie ahead. Everyone has bought into what Fudala is selling, and the market is rising. If the Peach Belt coaches haven’t figured it out by next year’s preseason poll, well, bless their hearts. Keep up with the USCB Sand Sharks with new episodes of Sand Shark Rewind at 8 p.m. Sunday on the Lowco Media YouTube channel! Justin Jarrett is the sports editor of The Island News and is the founder of Lowco Sports. He has a passion for sports and community journalism and a questionable sense of humor.
January 23rd 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Sun City Residents Only Lakehouse, Bayside
“Get Your Ducks in a Row: Preventative Planning for
Health and Happiness”
Learn legal, health, and financial strategies to safeguard your independence and make informed decisions for your future.
January 22, 2025
Beaufort Memorial to offer free joint pain seminar in Bluffton If achy knees or sore hips are slowing you down, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that more than 30 million Americans suffer from osteoarthritis, the most common type of joint problem in older adults. Symptoms include pain, stiffness and a loss of ability. “Many people start noticing joint pain in their 40s, but it’s not necessarily enough to slow them down,” said Dana Aiken, RN, total joint and spine coordinator at Beaufort Memorial “But by the time they reach their 50s and 60s, the pain is often bad enough to seek medical attention.” If joint pain keeps you from doing the things you love, join Aiken for a free joint pain seminar to learn about available solutions. The hour-long class, “Solving Hip and Knee Pain,” will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 29
from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. in the multipurpose room at the Bluffton Branch Library (120 Palmetto Way, Bluffton). Aiken will discuss symptoms of joint-related problems and will provide information about treatments to relieve or resolve pain that can be personalized for specific needs, including in-home exercises, medical management and physical therapy. She will also explain available surgical options, including robot-assisted joint replacement and outpatient surgery, as well as what can be expected during recovery. There will also be an opportunity for questions and answers from event attendees. The seminar is free, but registration is required as space is limited. To learn more or make a reservation visit BeaufortMemorial.org/SolvingJointPain.
Why You Need Prevention Planning:
You are healthy and living your best life now, but don’t overlook the importance of planning for all possibilities in the future. Ensure that you and your family are prepared no matter what happens. Do you have a plan beyond the basic estate planning documents?
843-757-5294 LISA HOSTETLER BROWN | CERTIFIED BY THE NATIONAL ELDER LAW FOUNDATION | 2 HAMPTON HALL BLVD, STE A, BLUFFTON, SC 29910 | 843-757-5294 | WORKSHOPS ARE NOT INTENDED TO CONSTITUTE LEGAL ADVICE NOR DO THEY ESTABLISH AN ATTORNEY-CLIENT RELATIONSHIP.
January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
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Winter wellness: Tips on managing the cold BY DR. KENNETH HORUP Contributor With this cold front we are having, our bodies react differently. Some of you reading this may have lived in snow for many years and find humor in those of us struggling in this weather. Others of you may be like me and deDr. Ken Horup spite growing up in Denmark, we do not like the cold. Whether you are used to it or not, your body may respond to changes in temperature. I have many patients that experience different symptoms like joint ache, stiffness, inability to warm up their feet, etc. So, let’s talk about easy tips for healthy bones/muscles in this cold weather. The first tip is most people’s natural intuition. Dress in layers. Those of you who moved here from up North may have proper apparel like thermal clothing, thick jackets
and coats. I am personally a huge fan of heated vests. However, I want to emphasize the importance of keeping your feet warm. In most people, the feet are the slowest to warm up because they are most distal from your heart. So, double up on socks, wear thick socks or furry boots. Anything you can do to not let the cold front get the best of your feet’s temperature. Even if you can “tough it out,” I encourage you not to. If your feet get wet or feel like they are cold, change your socks/shoes and layer up! Secondly, it’s important to stay active during these cold days. Many golf tournaments, pickleball and tennis matches are being cancelled due to the weather. Though it is an easy excuse to have a lazy, relaxed day, I encourage you to find an indoor activity to keep yourself moving. This may be a gym work out, indoor walk, or you can try something new with indoor classes like Jazzercise, Barre and Pilates. Reducing your activity level may increase the stiffness in your body, especially when it’s chilly outside. So, keep your body moving and stretch
at home to help avoid those achy joints. Third, make sure to stay hydrated. When it is cold outside, most people lean toward a hot coffee, hot tea or hot chocolate. While I relate to that want, it is very important to maintain your water intake. In the heat of summer, drinking water comes naturally, but in the cold of winter, many do not realize that they lower their water consumption. Proper hydration can help with that joint stiffness many people complain about in the winter. Hydration may help your synovial fluid, which lubricates and cushions the joints. Most people need 4-6 cups of water daily; however, this can vary by age, weight, activity, gender, etc. A quick Google search or advice from a professional can give you a more accurate goal for you personally. Lastly, I recommend people, especially those suffering from neuropathy, create a daily foot care routine. Efficient foot care may save you from long term effects. It can start as simply as inspecting your feet. Check daily for any potential cuts or discoloration in the toes/feet, especially after
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being outside in the cold. I would encourage you to stretch your feet in the morning as well. This can be done by rolling your foot on a spike ball, flexing it against a wall or going to a professional for customized advice. Also, in this dry season, keep your feet moisturized. Applying lotion or coconut oil can help your foot health, and a podiatrist or dermatologist could give you specialized cream. Keeping your feet healthy and happy can increase your overall health and happiness during this time. While there are many proactive and preventative measures you can take during the winter like supplements, dietary changes and warm baths, these are four very easy ways to help stay mobile and reduce achiness. My hope is that you and your loved ones stay warm, stay safe, and stay healthy during this season. Enjoy it as much as we can before that summer heat comes again. Dr. Kenneth Horup, DC is a Chiropractic Physician at Discover Specific Chiropractic, Board Certified in Neuropathy.
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The Bluffton Sun
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January 22, 2025
I am my mother’s child. She changed her bedspreads, linens and curtains on the start of every season. There were spring colors for February and March that segued into white quilts Danie Connolly for summer moving onto autumn colors and then plaid for November, December and January. She changed the linen more than a moon waxes and wanes. And, with that, came matching pillows. My husband, Big Beautiful Bob (BBB), has his own philosophy, only one pillow for each side. The others are unnecessary. I, on the other hand and contrary to his popular beliefs, don’t agree. I feel like I earned my PhD in HGTV. My degree isn’t just in single pillow living. I’m an expert in square pillows, rectangular pillows, round pillows and even ruffled pillows. And a minor degree in color and fabrics. I’ve given up admonishing him about the actual fact that a toss pillow doesn’t mean that it gets tossed from the hallway door onto the bed. Nor does it mean he gets to yell “CONNOLLY for three!” like he’s Larry Bird and playing for the Celtics. The effort he puts into rearranging them completely opposite my continued instructions on how to layout a dozen pillows is astounding. He says
that D-Day didn’t have this many intricate moves. I reply that if our bed were a lottery ticket, he’d never get one number right! My girlfriends think we should form a pillow talk club based on our husband’s sarcastic resistance. They could call it Pillow Armageddon and create a video that they’d get points if the pillows didn’t fall off if they landed on the bed. They could earn extra points if it landed straight up. Since retirement, he has found a new obsession, vacuuming. If it stands still, he vacuums it. He’s also into mopping. I’m at a loss for words. I could’ve used those new skills slightly earlier in our lives rather than grow the extra pair of hands to do all that housework myself. One of these days, he’s going to accidentally watch one of my decorator channels, and soon he’ll be carrying around color swatches and paint chips. In the meantime, he likes to brag to his buddies that his wife never met a pillow she didn’t like. I tell him it’s all for his health. “By the time you take off all these pillows, you’ll be exhausted and will get a full night sleep. I’m just eliminating your sleepless nights thanks to these 53 pillows.” Melatonin has nothing on me!
January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
Blufft n Sun
The
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T E K TIC O N E , ISSUE 2 T I M D A E 28 • VOLUM
JANUARY
22, 2025
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January 22, 2025
Arts & Entertainment Calendar
JANUARY 25 Savannah Music Festival’s Winter Bash Saturday, January 25 at Plant Riverside District. The 2025 Winter Bash, an elegant party and concert, features musician Matthew Whitaker, who has been blind since birth and has been called “the next Stevie Wonder.” Proceeds from the Winter Bash benefit Savannah Music Festival‘s artistic programming and year-round free education programs and community outreach events. Winter Bash tickets are currently on sale at https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/WebLink.asp?name=E75067&id=41
ary 28th at Soundwaves at Coligny, 7 Lagoon Rd. Suite 100. Doors open at 6:00PM; dinner at 6:30 PM; concert at 7:30PM. Brought to you by: The Gullah Museum of Hilton Head Island, Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra, Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park, and Native Island Business and Community Affairs Association. Reserved seating expected to sell out quickly. Get your tickets now! To order tickets, go to https://hhso.my.salesforce-sites. com/ticket/#/instances/a0FPb000007IZwAMAW or call the HHSO at (843) 842-2055.
JANUARY 25 THROUGH FEBRUARY 1
JANUARY 31
2025 Chamber Restaurant Week – hosted by the Hilton Head Island – Bluffton Chamber of Commerce. The 17th annual Chamber Restaurant Week is back January 25-February 1, and it’s the best way to try the area’s newest and hottest spots. With over 80 of Bluffton and Hilton Head Island restaurants participating, there will be something for everyone. Restaurants will offer prix-fixe menus starring new entrees, signature dishes, and fan favorites. Visit www.hiltonheadisland.org/chamber-restaurant-week to see the list of participants.
JANUARY 27 Eating & Cooking for Brain Health – hosted by Memory Matters and FPC Health Ministry on January 27th from 2PM – 4PM at First Presbyterian Church, Fellowship Hall. Chef Kim Baretta will talk about the benefits of the Mediterranean & MIND lifestyles. Cooking and grocery shopping tips will be part of this presentation as you learn to eat like a Mediterranean! This is a FREE event; RSVP is not required. Questions call Debbie Anderson at 843-757-6103.
JANUARY 28 Gullah Geechee Cultural Series – presents General Harriet Tubman on Tuesday, Janu-
Cocktails & Camellias - The Coastal Discovery Museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate, invites the community to its annual Cocktails & Camellias fundraiser on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 5 to 8 pm, at the Mary Ann Peeples Pavilion on the historic Honey Horn grounds. This outdoor event offers a special evening under the stars, surrounded by majestic live oaks and the winter blooms of Honey Horn’s renowned Camellia Garden that features 135 varieties. Guests can enjoy handcrafted cocktails, unique hors d’oeuvres and live music, while supporting the museum’s mission to inspire people to care for the Lowcountry. To purchase tickets to Cocktails & Camellias, visit https://bit.ly/cnc2025 or call 843-689-6767 ext. 224. The deadline is January 24, 2025. Sponsorships are available to individuals and organizations seeking to support the museum’s programs and initiatives. The museum is a 501c(3) nonprofit organization. Event Highlights: • Craft Cocktails & Hors d’oeuvres: Savor handcrafted, innovative cocktails and artisanal creations by Sprout Momma. Non-alcoholic cocktails will be available, too. • Raffle & Silent Auction: Purchase raffle tickets to win an authentic Gullah sweetgrass basket by Michael Smalls and Dino Badger of Gullah Creations, and bid on exclusive Low-
country experiences at the silent auction. • Tickets: $150 per person. All proceeds benefit the museum and its educational programs, tours, workshops, exhibitions and conservation initiatives.
JANUARY 31 THROUGH FEBRUARY 2 Lowcountry Dry Fest - In celebration of Dry January 2025, Amethyst Non-alcoholic Spirits and Burnt Church Distillery has partnered with wellness influencers Jessa Frances from Untoxicated.World and Kayla Lewis from NAPSChicago (Non-Alcoholic Party Scene) for the first alcohol-free festival in South Carolina’s Lowcountry. The festival will be centered around inclusiveness, innovation, versatility, and will feature a variety of workshops, demonstrations, vendors, yoga, mixers, a silent disco, in addition to opening and closing events. The weekend festivities will take place January 31 – February 2, 2025 at Burnt Church Distillery, 120 Bluffton Rd. See the official schedule for full event details and to purchase tickets at burntchurchdistillery.com/tours.
FEBRUARY 3 THROUGH 28 SOBA’s Annual High School Art Show happening February 3-28. This inspiring exhibition features the creative works of students from Bluffton High School, Cross High School, and May River High School. Located at SOBA Gallery, 6 Church Street, Old Town Bluffton. Join SOBA for an afternoon of artistic celebration, where you can meet these talented students, enjoy their artwork, and show your support for the next generation of creatives.
FEBRUARY 6 EMROSE projects proudly presents Slippage and Structure, a two-person art exhibition featuring works by Keith Crowley of Sarasota, FL, and Emma Barnes of Beaufort,
SC. Curated by Maria Hooper of EMROSE projects, the exhibition explores memory, place, and identity through innovative uses of materiality, pattern, and form. The opening reception will be held on Thursday, February 6, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Coastal Lighting Studio, 53 Persimmon St, Suite 101, Bluffton, SC. More Information: emroseprojects.com/slippage-and-structure/. The exhibition is open by appointment through April 30, 2025. To schedule a visit, or for collector previews, pricing, and commission inquiries, contact Maria Hooper at maria@emroseprojects.com or 856-316-8664. High-resolution images and artist interviews are available upon request.
FEBRUARY 6 There is no Greater Love - The Evolution Big Band will perform a concert February 6 to benefit multiple youth programs around the Lowcountry. The concert will be held at Saint Gregory the Great Catholic Church’s Parish Life Center in Bluffton, starting at 7 p.m. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and there is no reserved seating. A $25 donation per person is appreciated. The Evolution Big Band is an all-volunteer, all-star organization, and its members receive no pay. Its concerts raise funds to support worthy causes such as Youth, Healthcare, Affordable Housing, and our Veterans. Proceeds from this concert will support youth-related organizations: Backpack Buddies of Bluffton and Hardeeville; Bluffton Dance Boosters; and the Junior Jazz Foundation. For more information about the band and its mission, you can check out our website and follow us on Facebook. The links are provided below. https://www.evolutionbigband.com/ www.facebook.com/EvolutionBigBandJazz
January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
Celebrating young creativity: The 2025 Bluffton 8th Grade Juried Art Show BY MELISSA MCCULLOUGH The Bluffton community is abuzz with excitement as we gear up for the 2025 Bluffton 8th Grade Juried Art Show. This annual event showcases the extraordinary creativity and talent of our local 8th-grade students through stunning 2-dimensional artwork. With hopes of increased student participation this year, the show promises to be a vibrant celebration of artistic expression and youthful imagination. This year’s event features a beautifully designed poster by Piper Thomas, a student from River Ridge Academy, under the guidance of his art teacher, William James. Their collaborative effort is a testament to the talent within our schools. Prints of the poster will be shared with schools and sponsors to promote the show further—feel free to use it to spread the word!
KEY DATES AND SCHEDULE:
• March 7: All artworks from the five participating schools will be collected. Each student may submit one piece. • March 10-12: Judges from the Society of Bluffton Artists (SOBA) will carefully select 30 outstanding pieces for professional mounting. • March 13: Selected artworks will be delivered to The Great Frame Up for mounting, while all other pieces will be returned to their respective schools. • March 27: Professionally mounted
artworks will be received from The Great Frame Up. • March 31: All selected pieces will be displayed at the Bluffton Library in preparation for the show. • April 1: The 2025 Bluffton 8th Grade Juried Art Show officially opens. Community members can begin voting for their favorite pieces through the People’s Choice balloting. • May 3: People’s Choice balloting closes. • May 8: Join us for the Artists’ Reception at the Bluffton Library at 5:30 PM, a wonderful opportunity to meet the young artists and celebrate their achievements. • May 10: The art show comes to a close. This art show is not just an exhibition; it’s a platform for young artists to shine and a chance for our community to come together to support and celebrate their creativity. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious, we encourage everyone to visit the Bluffton Library, admire the remarkable works of art, and cast a vote for the People’s Choice award. Mark your calendars and join us in making the 2025 Bluffton 8th Grade Juried Art Show a memorable and inspiring event. We look forward to seeing you there!
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DON’T MISS THIS SEXY SIDE-SPLITTING ROMP!
A DELICIOUSLY FUNNY ROMANTIC COMEDY Fresh off a successful Broadway run in 2023 starring Laura Bell Bundy and Eric McCormack, The Cottage is a brand-new, side-splitting romp! Written by Sandy Rustin (Clue), this ridiculously funny romantic comedy calls into question fate and faith, identity and infidelity, and love and marriage as a surprising and riotous web of secrets unravels. The Cottage is hilarious from start to finish, with a few scandalous – and even murderous - plot twists!
JAN 29 – FEB 23
DIRECTED BY BLAKE WHITE
Content warning: Contains infidelity and mature language. Suited for ages 13 & up The Cast of The Cottage, Photography by Gustavo Rattia
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The Bluffton Sun
January 22, 2025
MAY RIVER THEATRE PRESENTS... “A raucous, pop-rock-musical send-up of gender expectations and stereotypes... that takes it all off “
2nd Annual Hilton Head Bold Beer Festival BY EDWINA HOYLE Contributor BOOK BY TERRENCE MCNALLY
BY MUSIC AND LYRICS DAVID YAZBECK
February 7 - 23, 2025
09 SUPERBOWL PREGAME PERFORMANCE FEB
Give aways & Raffle
14 VALENTINES DAY PERFORMANCE FEB
Date night / Galentines
by written by Simon Beaufoy, Produced ed by Fox Searchlight Pictures and Based on the Motion Picture releas Cattaneo Uberto Pasoliniand directed by Peter rized Theatre International (MTI). All autho h special arrangement with Music The Full Monty is presented throug om ows.c mtish www. MTI. by ied performance materials are also suppl
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MARCH 28 - APRIL 6
Mark Weisner has 30 years of experience discovering the best beers in the world. He grew up in New Jersey, and one of his first jobs was as a bartender. Next door to the bar was a package store where he would buy a different beer every week to sample on the weekends. “I’ve traveled all over the world to visit breweries. I’ve gone to Belgium, Germany, Holland, Greece and all over the United States. I was a beer tourist before it became a thing,” Weisner said. On Saturday, March 1 from 3-6 p.m., the 2nd Annual Hilton Head Bold Beer Festival will take place in Shelter Cove Community Park. The festival is organized by Bear Foot Sports, Weisner’s event planning company. “This is a boutique festival, a tasting experience where beer lovers can try some rare, high-quality beers. We will offer stronger and harder to find beers that have more flavor. We search out beer from around the world, like Belgium. There will be great craft beer from
local breweries, from across the state and the region. It is an opportunity to try some rare, high quality, high gravity beers, flavored beers, stouts, double IPA and Belgium Golden,” Weisner said. “There will be 25-30 different two-ounce beer samples to try. It’s a premium experience of quality, not quantity.” High gravity beer, also known as “big beer,” refers to beers with a higher alcohol by volume (ABV) than standard beers, typically greater than 7.5%. It also has more flavor and complexity such as malt sweetness, robust hop bitterness and a warming alcohol presence. In addition to a diverse selection of beers, attendees will also enjoy live music with Pat Cristaldi, premium cigars and food. Ticket packages are available for both beer lovers and cigar aficionados. For tickets and more information visit bearfootsports.com or call 843-7578520. All purchases at the event are cash only. Edwina Hoyle is a freelance writer in Bluffton.
January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
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Southeaster Wildlife Expo 2025: 43 years and better every year BY GLENDA HARRIS Contributor There are few events that remain popular, maintain a fresh feel and get better every year, but count the Southeastern Wildlife Expo (SEWE) as one of the few. This year, the 2025 version of Glenda Harris SEWE includes all you have become accustomed to and more, and if you have not yet been, maybe this is the year! With five venues across the city of Charleston and always held in February, the Lowcountry and beyond can always count on this stalwart of conservation, art and the sporting life to deliver a great weekend for all ages. There is seemingly no end to the fun, original and educational events going on around every corner, as well as great food, live music, retriever exhibitions, free samples, travel info, fabulous shopping, live demonstrations of birds of prey and an up-close snake exhibit. There is so much more, but you will have to go and see for yourself. SEWE this year is from Friday through Sunday, February 14-16, 2025. Hours on Friday and Saturday are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There are also VIP special events starting on Thursday, February 13.
THE FIVE VENUES: • Marion Square (no ticket required at this venue) features outdoor exhibits, food samples, chef demonstrations, lots of Boykin Spaniels and the Center for Birds of Prey flight demonstrations. There is truly so much to see and take in.
SEWE CONT. ON PAGE 24A
• The Gaillard Center is mostly indoors with food venders often set up on the extensive patio out front. An extraordinary shopping venue, you will see oneof-a-kind knives made by craftsmen, women’s and men’s clothing, fine furniture, art of every type, sunglasses and accessories. Also check out the Busch
HERITAGE LIBRARY WINTER CLASSES Classes are held at the USCB Hilton Head Island Campus, Room 115 unless otherwise noted. Wednesday, Jan 22, 2025 1:30pm - Joe Grondalski Beneath Your Feet – Hilton Head’s Forgotten History Through Historic Maps $10 Members | $12 Non-members
Wednesday, Jan 29, 2025 10:30am - Amanda Hughes Intro to Genealogy
Wednesday, Feb 12, 2025 1:30pm - Lee Wilwerding Paul Revere’s Ride
$10 Members | $12 Non-members
Wednesday, Feb 19, 2025 1:30pm - Luana Graves Sellars Going Home
$10 Members | $12 Non-members
$10 Members | $12 Non-members
Wednesday, Jan 29, 2025 1:30pm - Amanda Hughes African American Genealogical Research Tips and Techniques $10 Members | $12 Non-members
6-PART WRITING SERIES Writing the Stories of Your Life - Ruth McCully
$120 for the 6-part series (6 seat limit)
Wednesday, Feb 12, 2025 | 10:30am PART 1: Writing the Stories of Your Life Wednesday, Feb 19, 2025 | 10:30am PART 2: Writing the Stories of Your Life Wednesday, Feb 26, 2025 | 10:30am PART 3: Writing the Stories of Your Life Wednesday, March 5, 2025 | 10:30am PART 4: Writing the Stories of Your Life Wednesday, March 12, 2025 | 10:30am PART 5: Writing the Stories of Your Life Wednesday, March 19, 2025 | 10:30am PART 6: Writing the Stories of Your Life
Wednesday, Feb 26, 2025 1:30pm - Jane Thiessen Family Search - The Free Genealogy Resource You Didn’t Know You Needed $10 Members | $12 Non-members
Wednesday, Mar 5, 2025 1:30pm - Lee Wilwerding O’ Canada
$10 Members | $12 Non-members
Wednesday, Mar 19, 2025 1:30pm - Rich Thomas Land Battles of the American Revolution in Beaufort District $10 Members | $12 Non-members
Wednesday, Mar 26, 2025 10:30am - Ron Roth The Indispensable Man: Robert Smalls and Reconstruction in the South Carolina Lowcountry $10 Members | $12 Non-members
Wednesday, Mar 26, 2025 1:30pm - Rich Thomas Naval Actions of the American Revolution in Beaufort District $10 Members | $12 Non-members
Scan to view our full Winter class list (Jan-Mar) with descriptions and register at HeritageLib.org 843.686.6560 | HeritageLib.org
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The Bluffton Sun
January Fun
Starts Here! The Sandbox offers weekly, staff-guided programming and a variety of other programs and events for members, local visitors and tourists.
Imagination Hour
Every Thursday at 11;00 AM January 23rd and 30th Make your reservation today!
www.thesandbox.org
SEWE FROM PAGE 23A Wildlife Sanctuary live animal shows presented by Forrest Galante. • The Charleston Place features an extensive display of first-class fine art upstairs in the beautiful setting of this legendary hotel. There are scheduled talks by some of the artists. A restaurant is on the ground level. • Brittlebank Park is west across the Ashley River and features the “DockDogs”, one of the most popular events of SEWE. Crowds continually gather throughout the weekend to cheer on the athletic Labs and Boykins in this competitive event. The Boykin Spaniel Society is a long-time regular at Brittlebank. Watch them demonstrate the keen retrieving skills of the Boykin Spaniel. Then, visit the Sporting and Marine Village, where you can shop for a new boat or find fishing and hunting guides. Add great food and bluegrass music and it’s a big ol’ Lowcountry party! • The Charleston Marriott is across the street from Brittlebank Park where you will find top-of-the-line sporting apparel, outdoor outfitters, souvenirs and art from artisans and craftsmen. GENERAL ADMISSION: Tickets are sold as daily tickets and are $40 per
January 22, 2025 ticket for Friday and/or Saturday. Sunday tickets are $35. A 3-day ticket is $85. Get your tickets online before February 1 at www.SEWW.com and the price is lower. Tickets are also sold during the event at each of the five venues. HOW TO GET AROUND: Walking is possible (and very popular) between the venues except for Brittlebank Park, which is across the Ashley River. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. SEWE offers a shuttle system, free to all badge holders, so keep your SEWE ticket handy. The shuttle stops at all of the venues. IMPORTANT: No dogs are allowed on the bus. SPECIAL EVENTS: There are several special events scheduled and tickets should be purchased in advance of SEWE to maximize chance of availability. You can also buy raffle tickets. Contact SEWE at 843-723-1748 for more info or any questions or special requests. In closing, I hope to see you there! If you can still get a hotel either in Charleston or North Charleston, explore SEWE for the whole weekend. You won’t regret it, except maybe if you overspend because there is so much cool stuff. A former Bluffton resident, Glenda finds stories everywhere and writes about nature, travel, healthy living and books.
January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
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Bucatini Bolognese: A hearty January delight
BY LESLIE ROHLAND Contributor When the chill of January settles in, there’s nothing quite like a steaming plate of Bucatini Bolognese to warm both body and soul. This classic Italian dish is the epitome of hearty comfort, blending Leslie Rohland rich, slow-cooked flavors with the satisfying chew of bucatini pasta. The magic begins with the Bolognese sauce, a luxurious blend of ground meat and aromatic vegetables simmered in
crushed tomatoes, milk and wine. This slow-cooking process allows the flavors to deepen and meld, creating a sauce that’s rich, savory and utterly satisfying. The addition of milk gives the sauce a creamy texture, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes and elevating the dish to comfort-food perfection. Bucatini is the ideal partner for this robust sauce. Its hollow center soaks up every drop of the flavorful Bolognese, while its thick, sturdy strands ensure a satisfying bite. It’s pasta that holds its own against the heartiness of the sauce, making every forkful a perfect balance of texture and taste. In January, when the days are cold and the nights long, Bucatini Bolognese of-
w o h S d e g d Ju The Society of Bluffton Artists' 31st Annual
CALL FOR ENTRIES
EXHIBIT: March 3-30
fers nourishment and warmth. It’s a meal that invites you to linger, savor and reconnect. Whether shared around a table with loved ones or enjoyed solo as a cozy indulgence, this dish embodies the essence of winter comfort. Full of depth, richness, and homemade goodness, Bucatini Bolognese is the perfect antidote to winter’s chill.
BOLOGNESE CONT. ON PAGE 26A
Grab and Go! Delicious offerings made daily Specialty cheeses, olives, peppers, meats & more for the finest charcuterie Homemade pasta and sauces Speciality Italian foods not found anywhere else Huge selection of Italian wines.
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6 CHURCH STREET • OLD TOWN BLUFFTON • SOBAGALLERY.COM
10B Johnston Way, Bluffton, SC 29910 843-540-2095 blufftonpastashoppe.com
Tuesday to Friday 9am - 5:30pm Saturday 9am - 2pm Closed Sunday and Monday
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The Bluffton Sun
BOLOGNESE FROM PAGE 25A INGREDIENTS • 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • 5 cloves garlic, minced • 1 medium onion, diced • 2 large carrots, diced • 6 celery ribs, diced • 1 pound ground pork • 1 pound ground chuck • Kosher salt, to taste • Fresh ground black pepper, to taste • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) • 1/4 cup tomato paste • 2 cups red wine • 2 cups chicken stock • 1 cup milk • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (such as San Marzano) • 1 handful of fresh basil, roughly 1/2 cup, chopped • 2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme leaves • 1-pound dry bucatini pasta
• 1/2 cup thinly fresh grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese
INSTRUCTIONS 1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the garlic, onions, carrots and celery. Cook slowly until vegetables are soft, about 10-15 minutes. 2. Add both meats and cook slowly, stirring frequently, until the meat is browned and starting to crisp, at least 20 minutes. Salt and pepper generously. Stir in red pepper flakes, if desired. 3. Add the tomato paste to the meat mixture and sauté for 5 minutes. 4. Deglaze the pot with the red wine. Scrape all the bits and pieces that might accumulate and let simmer to start reducing, about 10 minutes. 5. Add the chicken stock, milk, crushed tomatoes and cheese rinds and let simmer over low heat for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
January 22, 2025
6. Turn off the heat and remove what is left of the cheese rinds and discard. Stir the basil and thyme into the sauce. Let the sauce rest while you prepare the pasta. 7. Cook the bucatini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain all but a 1/2 cup of water off of the pasta and put the pasta directly into the pot of Bolognese sauce. Simmer for 2 minutes to incorporate the sauce into the pasta, adding the reserved pasta water as necessary. 8. Toss the bucatini with the sauce, then plate it. Add a spoonful more of Bolognese sauce then finish with the grated cheese, more basil and a drizzle of ex-
tra-virgin olive oil. Leslie Rohland is the owner of The Cottage Café and Bakery, The Juice Hive and the Bluffton Pasta Shoppe. Leslie was named one of the South Carolina Chef Ambassadors for 2024.
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January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
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Resolutions of the New Year
BY KEVIN FITZPATRICK Contributor
I have Kate Taylor’s version of Auld Lang Syne playing in the background (James’ sister with some excellent recordings in her own right), as each year comes to an end, I flip through a myriad of versions of that Kevin Fitzpatrick song. Alongside Kate’s (probably my favorite) sits Dougie MacLean, The Beach Boys, Dan Fogelberg’s riff on it in his song “Same Old Lang Syne,” and of course, the one I was raised on for four decades, Guy Lombardo and the Royal Canadians version that played at the turn of the year on CBS. All of these playing brought me to think of the always discussed idea of New Year’s Resolutions.
Persistent Dandruff?
That brought me on a deep dive into the etymology of “resolution,” and I came up with the two I liked the best. Recorded since 1412, as Middle English resolucioun (“dissolution”), either from Anglo-Norman resolucion or directly from Latin resoletie (“a loosening, solution”), from resolve(“I loosen”), itself from the intensive prefix re- + solve (“I loosen”). “Resolution” is from the Latin solvere “to loosen, release, explain.” Its original meaning “a breaking into parts,” has remained as it developed the sense of solving a conflict, and of image detail. The term “New Year’s resolution” (1780s) drew from the “determined” sense of the word (“resolute”). I’ve always just thought of the idea more as being determined to make positive changes, yet the background of “loosening” or “dissolving” seems to be more important to me.
Full disclosure at this point: I have never been one to make such resolutions just because the calendar changes digits as December turns to January. That’s not to say I have never been determined to make positive changes when it seemed appropriate, some far more successful than others. For example, in late July of 2015, I had bariatric surgery to ameliorate decades of excess weight. I decided that I would run the SoNo Half Marathon in October of 2016, a distance three times longer than I had ever run before, even in my youth. I was resolute in my training and did, in fact, finish the race. While I was the last finisher out of over a thousand, I felt like I had won the entire event. Five years later, in August of 2021, both Sue and I retired fully from teaching and moved to Bluffton. I was born and raised in the Bronx, and spent the prior 44 years in Conn. Sue was brought to Conn. as a baby and had lived there ever since.
The majority of our blood family was still within 30 miles of where we lived, and our friends, more like “chosen” family, were all around us, so it was a true dissolution of all that, a real version of breaking into parts. Now, it’s not like we were moving to the moon, but being close to 1000 miles away made it impossible to gather on the spur of the moment for drinks or dinner or just getting together. We resolved to visit whenever possible and to host any and all who wanted to come to our new home and experience all that it has to offer. We still travel with the same folks we did when we were up north, though we now fly in and out of different airports. Much to our delight, Savannah airport is an easy 25 minutes away and easy to park at, making that part of our trip much easier, though the downside is the occasional lack of di-
RESOLUTIONS CONT. ON PAGE 28A
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The Bluffton Sun
January 22, 2025
RESOLUTIONS FROM PAGE 27A rect flights and abysmally early options. We’ve had family and friends visit, and that, too, has been fun. Using both FaceTime and Zoom, we have been able to keep up with our resolve to stay in touch as we continue to loosen and release our tethered feelings. That brings me full circle to the song itself. I remember as a much younger man sitting around at a friend’s house as the year was about to turn over, watching and listening to the aforementioned Guy Lombardo, clinking glasses, hugging and kissing each other and, of course, singing along. It’s amazing the fond memories that come up when remembering the bubbles back then were from a bottle of Andre Cold Duck as opposed to the much more elevated bubbles of my life today, but whether it’s Cold Duck or Cristal, that is secondary to being around folks who warm your heart and bring you joy. One particular night, more than a few “cups” into the new year, someone asked the question “what, exactly, does Auld Lang
Syne mean anyway?” What resulted was a lengthy exchange of ideas, many of which were, for the room full of young, well-fueled “philosophers,” remarkably on point. I decided to revisit that discussion on my own, this morning, and look into the song’s origin and meaning and see if it still rang true to what I remembered. Here is a brief summary of what I discovered. “Auld lang syne” is a Scots phrase that
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translates to “old long since” in English. However, it’s more commonly interpreted as “old times, especially times fondly remembered” or “for old time’s sake.” The song’s first line, “Should old acquaintance be forgot, and never brought to mind?” is really a question to create a reminder to cherish fond memories. The chorus suggests sharing a cup of kindness for old times’ sake and letting go of the past. I remain grateful, all these decades later, to the incredible education I received, where we were encouraged to read and analyze poetry alongside reading novels, historical works, nonfiction and of course, the “classics.” I do remember asking why we were reading Robert Burns, a Scottish poet from the 1700s, and the answer was always the same, “one day you’ll figure out why.” I do remember reading his Auld Lang Syne poem in 10th grade English back in 1968 and being given an assignment to write and submit an interpretation, so the discussion a few years
later was just a revisit. These are among the many fond memories I still cherish. I will also share more than a few cups this evening, and remember those who are no longer physically around, but whose spirits still are here. Letting go of the past does not mean to forget it. I take it to mean that you let go of that which does not lift you up, while continuing to bask in the warm glow of wonderful memories. I hope, by the time you read this, that you have had the time to share many cups of kindness and are looking forward to only the best that the Lowcountry and a new year has to offer. I’ll close with one of the stanzas that never made it to the current version of the song but is the best way to end. And there’s a hand my trusty friend! And give me a hand o’ thine! And we’ll take a right good-will draught, for auld lang syne. Kevin Fitzpatrick is a retired teacher who, along with his wife Sue (also a retired teacher) is enjoying exploring life in the lowcountry and all it has to offer.
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January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
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Tips for preventing your pet from becoming lost BY ABBY BIRD AKA ALPHADOG Contributors Once again, we are seeing local Facebook postings about lost pets. As a pet parent and dog trainer, I am so distressed to see these. Accidents do happen, of course, but dogs that escape from your house or yard multiple times I just don’t get. Owners seem to be in denial about their responsibility. Part of that is teaching children safety measures and taking increased precautions. If you know you have a dog that digs under or jumps over a fence, why is the dog left unsupervised? These are owner responsibilities.
So how do we reduce the number of these potentially disastrous situations? 1. Teach your family not to open outside doors unless their pet is secured. This could include a gated area, crate or another room with a door. 2. Design a barrier if possible which bars access to the door with a gate that people can go through but the pet cannot. 3. In some cases, the barrier can be an indoor version of an electronic fence which is reasonably priced over the internet. The pet wears an electronic collar which is activated as they near a restricted area. It keeps most pets away from doors. 4. Even if your pet is mostly reliable outside off leash in a non-fenced area, remember they are animals and will often be distracted by prey. In general, they should not be outside without a fence or electronic fence or electronic collar or on a leash or long tether line. A pet on the loose should not be acceptable to any caring pet parent.
5. Losing a pet by accident can happen. The biggest problem is an owner’s ego thinking their dog can be off leash and can be trusted to stay with them 100% of the time. 6. Train your dog! The Stay and Come command can be trained by your family or any local trainer. 7. Make sure any workers in the area understand to double check locking of gates to yards, or check them yourself when they leave the property. 8. If you have just adopted a dog, there are extra precautions to take. The dog hasn’t bonded with you yet and often doesn’t have a name or know where they live. For that reason, when walking the dog, you should have a double control on the dog. Not just a harness which is easily slipped or even a regular collar, but a martingale collar or a slip leash as well as a harness. Also, if possible, don’t let them out of the car on the street but only inside a garage with the door down. Invest in a GPS type tracking device. Be
aware that some devices have monthly monitoring fees. This is a sound investment but is not foolproof since some pets can lose their collars along with the device. But if tracked quickly, it could be a lifesaver. Some pets are never found. Whether stolen or lost, run over by cars, taken by alligators, it is a nightmare for families as well as the pet. Post on Facebook, Next Door, veterinarian offices and shelters so the community can help. Also post in Lost Paws of the Lowcountry on Facebook. Brian Pierce from Coastal Solutions has a local fee based thermal drone pet recovery division that can be reached at (678) 416-5997. But for the most part, lost pets shouldn’t happen in the first place. This is a problem pet owners can solve. Abby Bird is the owner of Alphadog Training Academy. AlphadogTrainingAcademy@gmail.com
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Instructor Jessica Hooper leads these transformative sessions combining meditation, journaling, and mindful art.
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The Bluffton Sun
Hours 10am-4pm Mon thru Sat
January 22, 2025
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January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
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Alljoy residents, Beaufort County reps meet; Krause announced as liaison BY CHANNING HEISS Contributor Representatives from Beaufort County government hosted an Alljoy community meeting on January 7th from 6-7pm at the Bluffton Library, drawing an estimated 70 people who engaged in discussion on many ongoing issues. As part of the introductory remarks by Councilman Mark Lawson and County Administrator Michael Moore, Matt Krause was introduced as the newly-designated Community Point of Contact for Alljoy, an announcement anticipated since the new arrangement was reported by Taylor Brewer at the October 16th, 2024, meeting of the Beaufort County Stormwater Management Utility Board. Krause agreed to serve in this role as an additional part of his current position as Beaufort County Disaster Recovery Man-
ager. Though many topics were to be addressed, such as the drainage study, the sewer connection project, Bailey Memorial Park, the sidewalk project, and the Ulmer Green Space application, several County and Alljoy attendees noted the boat landing discussion guided by Assistant County Administrator Jared Fralix was at the forefront. Based on his attendance at the January 7th event, decades-long Alljoy resident Jim Lawton believes officials understood residents’ desire to keep the boat landing primarily functional as opposed to being a public amenity such as a proposed pavilion. “We want to keep the neighborhood vibe,” Lawton explains. Related concerns include polluted runoff into the May River
A site plan proposal for the Alljoy Boat Landing
LIAISON CONT. ON PAGE 32A
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The Bluffton Sun
January 22, 2025
LIAISON FROM PAGE 31A and the need for parking. He made a point of clarifying that they do understand the need for public access to the river. Another point of clarification Lawton wanted to Matt Krause emphasize is one that Bluffton Mayor Larry Toomer addressed at the meeting. They explain that there is a misconception that the Town of Bluffton wants to annex Alljoy, and they Jim Lawton want everyone to know that Bluffton has no such plan or desire. For their part, there is widespread opposition to annexation among Alljoy residents. The long-time community advocate whose family has over a century of history in Alljoy, said one of the things he and many other Alljoy residents he spoke to appreciate most about the meeting was being included and listened to on issues of concern. “We felt like we were heard,” Lawton said. From this point, Matt Krause will be working to maintain that feeling and Lawton is optimistic. “He’s a nice guy and he truly wants to help.” “I’m a people-oriented person,” says Krause, who will be posting a quarterly progress report in the Alljoy section of Beaufort County Connect to keep resi-
dents fully informed and will be providing other situational updates to residents as needed. “My role as Community Point of Contact for Alljoy is, instead of residents in Alljoy trying to contact four or five different departments, they can contact me, and I’ll contact these departments and ask for an update.” “I’ve already had a couple of people reach out to me.” He says the key to making this new relationship a success is open communication. “Being able to respond to folks and answer them quickly, that’s the key-two-way communication.” Krause has a strong desire to help and an ability to relate to people in frustrating situations, attributes he uses in leading disaster recovery. He wants to carry those skills over to his role with Alljoy residents. After the community meeting, he stayed to introduce himself and mingle. Krause has great respect for the passion the people of Alljoy have for their neighborhood and for the pride shown not only by the residents of Alljoy but also by the County maintenance workers who have been working to clear the ditches in the neighborhood. “Stephen Carter took me around to show me what they were doing.” He also admires the passion Alljoy residents have for preserving their neighborhood and doesn’t take offense when discussions get heated. As an empathetic person, I think, “How would I want to be treated if I were them?” I would want people to be willing to listen to my voice--to actively listen and be interested.” Krause explains that, even when things get heated, he is happy to see residents exercising their rights. “I’m always of the mind that we have our constitutional rights of freedom of speech and assembly, and to see people putting those into practice--it makes me kind of proud to be an American.” Channing Heiss is a freelance writer and a member of the Beaufort County disAbilities Coalition.
January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
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Nature’s Way
Time travelling in the Lowcountry BY COLLINS DOUGHTIE Contributor Since I don’t cotton to cold one bit, it shouldn’t surprise you one bit that I haven’t wet a line in quite a while. For an outdoor writer and avid angler, these conditions give me a stunned, somewhat blank look whenever I look in the mirror and consider what in the heck could I possibly write about. It wasn’t until I was reminiscing with my daughter Camden that two words popped up. The words were “what if ?” As she was growing up, she and I developed a “what if” game on long car trips which always started with those two words. Nothing was out of bounds, with one example being a semi with large letters along its side flips over on us as we skid down the road. We wondered if those letters would be transferred to our squished, flattened bodies. Morbid, I know, but it was her 8-year-old “what if” that inspired this somewhat off the wall column. I have always been fascinated with time travel and often consider what it would be like if I was able go back in time here in the Lowcountry with one of today’s boats and all the right tackle. Movies like “The Final Countdown,” where the aircraft carrier the Nimitz is transported back in time to the day before Pearl Harbour was attacked. Could two of its jets thwart the Japanese attack? I love “what ifs” like that. Googling my heart out, I researched this area eons ago and learned some very interesting critters that might make this trip a trip indeed. The first thing I would need other than a boat and tackle would be a sturdy trailer because the coastline was a good 60 miles inland from where it now lies. There were no sandy beaches, but rather, the coastline was rocky. Imagine trying to find a launching spot! Even if I were able to find the perfect launching sight, I learned that I sure as heck would need to keep my head on a
xiphiorhynchus rotundas (TOP), megalodon shark (bottom) swivel. I know that most of you that know me think my head is always on a swivel, but more like the girl in the “Exorcist” spitting out green gunk. I didn’t know that Smilodon or saber tooth tigers roamed that area. I also learned that those long fangs were not used to bite and kill prey because they were so big the tiger could not close its mouth on unfortunate critters. They were most probably used for scraping away the hide on things they caught. Another thing to watch out for were herds of Columbian mammoths somewhat akin to elephants, but these giants weighed in at over 20,000 pounds. I can’t wait to ask my daughter “what if” one of these bad boys fell over us and slid along. What a mess! Then, there were the ground sloths. Having had a few
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encounters with sloths in Costa Rica, these were nothing like those slow-moving gentle creatures. Standing at least 13 feet tall and weighing a hefty 10,000 pounds, they had massive claws, but thankfully, they were plant eaters, so I should be ok. But if I were accompanied by a friend that was a vegetarian, he might want to rethink his eating habits. Herds of bison also roamed our area, and extinction took them out, not greedy, great white hunters. Now, I have finally made it out on the water. Oddly enough, there was a horseshoe crab scurrying right by my foot. I couldn’t believe it until I read that they have changed little in 150 million years. Crazy, huh? My time trip was really all about fishing, but I had run 60 miles to get to deeper water. As I was running along, a shadow passed over my head. Looking up was the largest bird I had ever seen. Called a Pelagornis Sandersi, its wingspan was nearly 24 feet wide. With small needle-like teeth, it drifted over the ocean, much like today’s albatross. Enough of that. It was time to do some trolling. Using my heaviest tackle and largest lure I had when this massive, and I mean massive, billfish took one of my baits. It was a Xiphiorhynchus Rotundus! Way bigger than any blue or black marlin, it was a good 17 feet long, and instead of one bill, it had two, one on top and one on the bottom that opened and closed like a mouth. I fought that monster for nearly 10 hours, and just when I thought it was spent, up comes a megalodon shark, and in one bite, takes half the marlin! Reaching 60 feet long and weighing upward of 50 tons, I decided then and there it was time to head back to my time. Try playing “what if” sometime. It’s an awesome mind game. Collins Doughtie is a 60-year resident of the Lowcountry, is a sportsman, graphic artist, and lover of nature. collinsdoughtie@icloud.com
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BY NICK MARTIN Contributor
The Bluffton Sun
January 22, 2025
Financial resolutions for 2025
Start the new year right by reviewing and revamping your financial plan. Instead of hauling out those familiar New Year’s resolutions about keeping a journal or drinking more water, how about focusing on your fiNick Martin nancial well-being? Here’s a set of resolutions that can help ensure your long-term financial confidence. Update your beneficiaries If you don’t correctly document your beneficiary designations, who gets what may be determined by federal or state law, or by the default plan document used in your retirement accounts. When did you last update your designations? Have life changes (divorce, remarriage, births,
deaths, state of residence) occurred since then? Update your beneficiary listings on wills, life insurance, annuities, IRAs, 401(k)s, qualified plans and anything else that’d affect your heirs. If you’ve named a trust, have any relevant tax laws changed? Have you provided for the possibility that your primary beneficiary may die before you? Does your plan address the simultaneous death of you and your spouse? An estate attorney can help walk you through these various scenarios. Create flexible liquidity Cash has inflation and opportunity tradeoffs, but a lack of access can cause greater problems if you find yourself needing to draw from your investments. Finding a balance in line with your life and goals is important to avoid disrupting your long-term plans. The right liquidity strategy will be different for every investor and could incorporate cash reserves, cash alternatives,
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highly liquid securities, lines of credit, margin loans or even structured lending. Multiple institutions and account owners can be used to hold more than $250,000 with FDIC guarantees.
ways that simple. Titling has implications across a range of estate planning issues, as well as other situations such as Medicaid eligibility and borrowing power, too.
Develop a charitable strategy Giving comes from the heart, but you Evaluate your retirement progress can also do well when doing good. For exWhat changes are needed given your ample, consider whether or not it’d make current lifestyle and the market environsense to donate low-basis stocks in lieu of ment? Don’t fixate solely on your assets’ value. Instead, drill down into what types cash, or learn about establishing a donor of securities you hold, your expected cash advised fund to take an upfront deduction for contributions made over the next sevflows, your contingency plans, your aseralWashing years. Give, but doInside so with anOut eye tosumed rate of return, inflation rates and We Know The Car Business and ward reducing your tax liability. how long you’re planning for. Retirement plans have many moving parts that must Spark a family conversation be monitored on an ongoing basis. Sustaining the benefits of wealth for generations is nearly impossible without Review your account titling a mutual understanding among family Haphazard account titling can create NOW members. Consider creating a family misproblems down the line. If one partner OFFERING MONTHLY sion statement that outlines the shared vidies and an account is titled only in their NOW MEMBERSHIPS sion for your wealth and legacy. This name, those assets can’t be readily acOFFERING cessed by the survivor. The solution may MONTHLY be creating joint accounts, but it’s not alFINANCIAL CONT. ON PAGE 35A
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January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
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FINANCIAL FROM PAGE 34A should include nonfinancial topics, too, like your values, expectations and important life lessons. Digitize your record keeping You likely receive emails, letters, reports and updates from multiple accounts. Consider going paperless and centralizing important files in one place to reduce frustration and ensure easy access when needed. Your advisor may have access to secure storage tools that can help. Invest with your values Your portfolio should reflect what matters to you, and that can mean anything from avoiding particular industries to actively pursuing an ESG (environmental, social and governance) investing approach. So, whether you want to promote the transition to clean energy, advocate for diversity and inclusion in the workplace or support companies with strong data privacy practices, your portfolio can be tailored to reflect those priorities.
Check in with your advisor Your advisor can offer specialized tools, impartiality and experience earned by dealing with many market cycles and client situations. Communicate openly about
what’s happening in your life today and what may happen in the future. It’s difficult to manage what they aren’t aware of, so err on the side of over-communicating and establish a regular check-in schedule for the year ahead.
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Welcome
These suggestions are a helpful starting point, but no two long-term plans are identical, so reach out to your advisor for more specific guidance about progressing toward your goals in 2025. Investing involves risk, and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of the strategy selected. Not all investments or strategies mentioned are suitable for all investors. Donors are urged to consult their attorneys, accountants or tax advisors with respect to questions relating to the deductibility of various types of contributions to a donor advised fund for federal and state tax purposes. To learn more about the potential risks and benefits of donor advised funds, please contact your advisor. Nick Martin is a financial planner and the founder of Bluffton Financial Planning. Bluffton Financial Planning is not a registered broker/dealer, and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc.
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The Bluffton Sun
January 22, 2025
Ask the expert: With tax season coming, how can I protect against identity theft? BY LISA HOSTETLER BROWN Contributor Expert Answer: With identity theft and taxpayer fraud on the rise, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is encouraging taxpayers to take extra caution when filing tax returns. One simple way Lisa Hostetler Brown to help safeguard your identity is to create an identity protection personal identification number (IP PIN) through the IRS. An IP PIN is a six-digit number that helps the IRS verify your identity when you are filing your tax return.
The IP PIN program was initially implemented to help higher-risk groups of taxpayers, such as high-net-worth individuals and those who had previously reported identity theft to the IRS. However, as tax-related identity theft grew, the IRS expanded the program to allow all taxpayers to request an IP PIN voluntarily. This move empowers taxpayers to be proactive in protecting their tax filings. Taxpayers who enroll in the program must use their IP PIN when filing their federal tax return, either electronically or on paper. The IP PIN helps verify the taxpayer’s identity, ensuring that only authorized individuals can submit a return with their SSN. If an individual’s IP PIN is missing or incorrect, the IRS will reject the filing, helping prevent unauthorized filings.
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You can receive an IP PIN through the IRS website by verifying your identity using the “Get an IP PIN” online tool. Once enrolled, the IRS issues a new IP PIN each year to maintain the security of your information. You can always retrieve your IP PIN if you lose it. Find instructions on how to do so via the IRS website. In addition to the IRS’s IP PIN program, you can also take additional precautions. Here are some recommendations: • Use Trusted Software or Hire a Reputable Tax Preparer • Avoid Phishing Scams and Be Suspicious of Emails or Calls from Anyone Claiming to Be from the IRS. • Enable Two-Factor Authentication for Online Accounts • Regularly Monitor Financial Accounts for Unauthorized Activity
• Safeguard Personal Documents and Shred Any Sensitive Documents You No Longer Need By providing taxpayers with an extra layer of security, the IRS’s IP PIN program helps prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information. Working with a trusted tax professional can help reduce the risk of fraud and identity theft. With an experienced estate planning attorney, you can pursue strategies to reduce the amount of taxable assets you have and help you plan for your future. For educational purposes only. This is not legal advice. Lisa Hostetler Brown is a Certified Elder Law Attorney certified by the National Elder Law Foundation. 2 Hampton Hall, Bluffton, SC 29910 | 843757-5294 | LawyerLisa.com/Bluffton
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January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
Stand-up comedy BY WENDY KUSHEL Contributor
For most, the idea of standing in front of a bunch of people you don’t know and spouting out jokes that may or may not be funny or practiced is terrifying. Lots of careers have learning Wendy Kushel curves and everyone has to hone their skills somewhere, but comedians have to learn their craft in front of a live audience. That takes gumption, and that is why stand-up comedy can prepare you for life. Getting up there in front of people, even if it’s an open mic, and being able
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to accept the rejection for when they just stare at you like you’re speaking Bulgarian requires immense courage. When you step on stage, you face the very real possibility of bombing - delivering a joke that lands with an awkward silence. Learning to embrace this discomfort builds thick skin. The ability to laugh off rejection and move forward is invaluable in life, whether in personal relationships or your career. There’s also the idea of thinking on your feet. In a snap you must say something funny and quick-witted. There might be a heckler trying to interrupt your routine. Thinking on your feet are excellent skills to have as you navigate life. Stand-up comedy teaches you to embrace life’s unpredictability. It’s not about being perfect but about showing
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up, laughing at your mistakes and learning as you go. Whether you’re on stage or navigating the complexities of daily life, comedy provides a toolkit for resilience, adaptability and joy. In the end, life is one big stage. So why not face it with a little humor? After all, if you can survive a silent crowd, you can handle just about anything. Wendy Kushel is the owner of Wendala’s LowCountry Sugar Scrub, LLC based in Bluffton, SC. Drawn to the Beauty & Personal Care Industry Wendy founded her company in 2020. Her background includes stand-up comedy, film, TV and a lot of sales and marketing. For more information about Wendala’s® LowCountry Sugar Scrub visit www.lowcountrysugarscrub.com or call/text 843-949-8933.
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The Bluffton Sun
January 22, 2025
Essential winter lawn tips BY ZACH DELOACH Contributor We hope everyone is off to a great new year and has stayed warm during this January cold snap. If your new year’s resolution involves getting the lawn and landscape back in shape or just keeping what you have looking its best, this article is for you. Throughout the year we will be giving updates on what to look out for, action steps on applications and information on watering to keep your landscape in top shape. As we just start the new year, there is not a ton that needs to be done but a few preventative measures to take to ensure a smooth spring transition. As our weather dips into freezing temperatures, you will see very little activity from your plants and lawn. To avoid having your shrubs damaged by the cool winds, we recommend covering your younger, sensitive and tropical plants any time we dip below freezing. Make sure that your lawn and landscape irrigation
remains off to avoid ice forming around roots which can kill out sections of lawns or plants. Keeping your grass length above 2” throughout the winter will also reduce the risk of damage to the root system. As far as applications go, very little is needed on the lawn this time of year as the grass roots are taking in and utilizing very little nutrients. The one thing that you do want to do is make sure to stay on top of broadleaf weeds to keep mats from forming in the lawn that could choke out sections of grass. When the weather levels back out, it is important to put down spring pre-emergents prior to spring weed germination. A soil sample can be very beneficial at this time as well. Soil samples can be sent off through your local extension office or through your lawn treatment company. This will give you the information needed to make any necessary PH adjustments prior to any fertilizer applications. It will also give you an indicator as to which fertilizer blend will be
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most effective on your specific grass type. Although chemicals may not be necessary, there are a few things that can be done physically to boost your spring recovery. If you had areas of grassy or matted weeds during the summer, I would recommend analyzing them at this time. Weeds such as crabgrass and lespedeza can remain in the lawn until coming back the following season if not pulled or raked out even with pre-emergent applications.
Look for thin wiry mats of weeds with no foliage and rake those out. If the area is large enough, you probably want to place down a piece of sod in its place to avoid it from coming back. Be careful not to mistake grass stollens for weeds, even stollens(roots) with no grass blades can come back healthy as our weather warms up. It is also important to keep any debris that can trap in moisture and block sunlight off the lawn. Lastly, when it comes to applications to your trees and shrubs, little is needed at this time. However, insecticides such as horticultural oil can be beneficial in taking out any residual insect eggs and residues like sooty mold. With these tactics in place, you will be setting yourself up for a smoother spring transition. We will keep you updated on the action steps you need throughout the year. If you would like to consult with an expert, feel free to give us a call. Zach Deloach is the owner of Lawn Doctor of Beaufort County.
January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
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Fore the love of God BY TRACY WINSLOW Contributor I live on a golf course because Bluffton and Hilton Head has eleventy-five thousand miles of them. But I never take advantage of it. One late afternoon my husband and I decided to dust off my starter set of Tracy Winslow teenage golf clubs for a quick round. With my high-end tools and mad skills, I’m almost positive the club will try to recruit me to be one of their pros. Thankfully the course wasn’t busy - so we could play just the two of us. We used to play occasionally at a club we belonged to when we lived in California. And by “play” I mostly donated golf balls to Mother Nature because there were the following warnings posted about the potential to have a wild animal or two join your twosome: Wild boar trying to lower their handicap - I’m not here for it. Golf should be about looking cute in your golf attire and wearing fabulous shoes. Boars DO NOT look cute in collared shirts, and can you imagine them trying to fit their hooves into a pair of black and white saddle Calloway’s? Not so much. Anyway, my husband and I headed out to the course. Despite the many years between my last golf game and today, my game is consistent. And, by “consistent,” I mean bad. But it’s ok to be bad at golf while looking cute in the golf outfit, right? Hence the reason boars will never be sponsored by Titleist. All went well for the first few holes. I’m blind as a bat and can never see where my ball goes, I mean, the times it goes farther than a worm burner. But no one flipped me a personal birdie for hitting their house - so I consider that a resounding success. We were about to tee off on hole 3 when we had someone try to join our twosome: a venomous cottonmouth. I specifically play with only my husband at odd times because I don’t want strangers to join us. I am trying to have fun and not stress about how bad I am.
Which is really, super-duper, extra McBad. How am I ever going to improve my game if I’m all nervous about looking like a complete fool while playing? And, of course, there’s that small concern about DYING FROM A VENOMOUS SNAKE BITE. Plus, they never pay for drinks after. They’re all “I can’t carry money because I don’t have any hands.” Which is rude because they basically are a wallet. I have lived in South Carolina for five years and am very familiar with the different wildlife that lives among us. And, I have a healthy respect for them. When I first moved here, I was a bit nervous about alligators, as they would be new neighbors for me. I am fascinated by them, but view them from afar, knowing how dangerous they are and how quickly they can move short distances. We have lived harmoniously for years now. I even have one that lives in the water near the entrance of our gate that I have named Cupcake because that is how super Zen I am about them being in my backyard. Well, we rounded the corner on the cart
path and almost ran directly into an alligator the size of Egypt. And being as cool as I am about these bad boys, I acted very calmly and screamed “OH MY GOD WE’RE ALL GOING TO DIE!!!” Which is always super helpful behavior in a crisis. My husband stopped the cart a few feet in front of the giant pile of dinosaur offspring impeding our way to the next hole. This alligator was literally over 13’ long. He could have used me for floss after he enjoyed an appetizer of my husband and the golf cart. I kept hearing some crazy lady screaming like a banshee “WHY ARE YOU NOT DRIVING AWAY? BACK THE CART UP! IT’S GOING TO EAT US! I AM NOT IN A CUTE ENOUGH OUTFIT FOR IT TO BE WHAT I WEAR AS A GHOST!” Someone should spike her White Claw with a Xanax or three. The alligator couldn’t have cared less about the woman standing on the roof of the golf cart screeching so loudly that dogs in Jasper County were howling. It glanced our way like, “Oh hey, just out for a little stroll this afternoon. I saw that
Swamp Moccasin you wouldn’t let join your twosome. Good call. He’s got alligator arms. Haha, get it?” Then lumbered off. Crisis averted. Good thing I handled it so calmly. Now, how close are we to the 19th hole? Tracy Winslow is the owner of Low Country Shrimp and Knits, the premier yarn store in the Low Country. Tracy really should give meditation classes because she is clearly so chill that doctors often comment that she may actually be dead inside. To hear this and other stories in person, take one of the many classes offered at Shrimp and Knits. It’s like a two-hour stand-up comedy show where you do fun things with yarn. Check out the Classes and Events Calendar at shrimpandknits. com to join in on her humor.
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The Bluffton Sun
January 22, 2025
Change is inevitable, so embrace it BY ROB PEARSON Contributor We’re not even one month into the New Year and have already experienced significant changes. The weather in the Lowcountry was freezing and is gradually warming up again. Leadership in our nation’s Rob Pearson capital has transitioned. Some of us are reacting to these and other changes like relocating to the area, starting a new job or volunteer opportunity, losing a dear friend or family member who recently passed. Admit it. Change is inevitable. It’s one of the few things we know will happen. How we react to change affects our mental health. Are we going to embrace change or resist it? As humans, we are creatures of habit and often fear the unknown. If we allow it, change can cause mental health concerns such as anxiety
and depression. According to experts, adjustment disorders occur when there is a reaction to a stressful change or event that is much more intense than would typically be expected. These can cause a lot of problems in getting along with others at work, school, on the golf course or pickleball court. However, change can also bring about positivity by becoming more adaptable and navigating the new situations we’re in. When we
willingly confront life’s shifts, we build mental fortitude and develop the ability to cope with unexpected challenges. By confronting our own fears regarding big shifts, taking these risks can increase our self-esteem as we begin to understand what we are capable of. Once we are aware of our negative thoughts, we can be more active in shifting them to positive ones. Be present in the moment and reduce our anxieties about what may lie ahead.
Approaching change as a learning experience can foster growth in our own lives. Viewing every challenge brought upon us as an opportunity to learn something new about ourselves is a perfect way for us to gain new skills and insight during a particularly difficult time. Talking to friends and loved ones about our struggles can bring us a sense of comfort and give our thoughts a voice by allowing us to talk through our feelings. We don’t have to face these alone. Embracing change is not always easy, but it is a crucial step toward improving our mental health. We develop adaptability, resilience, personal growth, and a broader perspective on life. Change is often positive! Rob Pearson, M.S. is Executive Director of Mental Health America of the Lowcountry, providing daily adult group mental health counseling programs in Bluffton and Beaufort for clients with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD and more. Contact: robp@mhalowcountry.org , 843-415-9110
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January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
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Shelton, Connecticut USA: William Raveis expands to The Hamptons and North Fork Long Island in strategic partnership with Town & Country Real Estate tons and The North Fork luxury real estate. T&C’s founder, Judi Desiderio (CEO) and Janet Hummel (Managing Partner) will stay on as partners, along with more than 150 T&C sales agents. “We’re delighted to welcome Town & Country to our family company,” said William, “Bill” Raveis, Jr. adding, “I’ve gotten to know Judi and Janet over these many months and found our business model, family culture and entrepreneurial approach to helping the agents aligns beautifully.” This year, William Raveis celebrates 50 years in business, with Bill Raveis at the helm, sons Chris and Ryan Raveis as co-presidents, and strong management support, they are on a trajectory for growth, making company acquisitions in top luxury markets along the East Coast.
William Raveis, the Inman-awarded Top Brokerage in the U.S. (2023), and number one privately held real estate company in the Northeast, Florida and South Carolina is proud to announce the strategic partnership with Town & Country Real Estate (T&C), a luxury brokerage serving the East End of Long Island, New York since 2005. The Brokerage synonymous with luxury real estate is growing throughout the luxury triangle—The Hamptons, New York City, The North Fork, Palm Beach, and Westchester County marketplace. The T&C offices will be joining forces with William Raveis’ growing network of over 140 offices and 4,500 agents from Maine to Florida. Likewise, the award-winning brokerage, William Raveis, gains a foothold within the Hamp-
Chris Raveis comments, “T&C’s stellar reputation for luxury service resonates with clients in the Hamptons and will elsewhere in our footprint.” Judi Desiderio agrees, “Our trademark has always been our ability to pivot to the needs of buyers, sellers and renters. This expansion through the Raveis footprint gives our associates the single best opportunity to grow their businesses and service their clients in a unique way bolstered by superior technology and support. Which is why we’re excited to grow our business throughout the luxury Triangle—New York City, The Hamptons, Palm Beach, and Westchester County. Stronger together, the possibilities are endless with William Raveis.” Bill Raveis is confident in their mission. “Our expertise in luxury marketing and
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The Bluffton Sun
January 22, 2025
Great golf excuses BY DR. JEAN HARRIS Contributor A friend of mine gave me a fun book for Christmas, 501 Excuses for a Bad Golf Shot. I also added a few that I have used over the years. It is important for your sanity to have some good excuses. Below are 20 excuses that can help you get through your round of golf. • Practice putting green wasn’t the same speed as these greens on the course. • I didn’t have time to warm-up on the driving range. • I am playing with new clubs and don’t know my distances. • The tee markers were lined up toward the trees. • The group in front of us is too slow, and it’s ruining my tempo. • I just had a lesson, and I am thinking too much about the changes. • There is no sand in these bunkers, just dirt. • This is my first time out since my
wrist surgery. • The greenskeeper must have been in a bad mood. I have never seen so many bad pin positions. • The groups in front of us are dragging their feet on the greens making it impossible to putt. • The flagstick was out or that putt would have gone in. • The ball should have gone left off this uphill lie instead of slicing to the right. • My range finder picked up the wrong target. • I hit my drives straight on the driving range, so I don’t know why I am slicing it out here on the course. • The weather forecast was for warm temperatures, and I can’t play on this cold windy day. • I hate playing on Sunday mornings when the cart girl doesn’t sell beer until noon. • I can’t focus on my golf game when my favorite football team is playing on
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TV. • I hate Cart Path Only days because I always bring the wrong club to my shot. • The lessons I watched on Youtube aren’t working for me.
• What do you mean “winter rules” aren’t allowed in July. Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional at Pinecrest Golf Club. Jean.golfdoctor.harris@gmail.com
January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
Spillin’ the Tea
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The heroic rescue of 2018: How an outdoorsman and a brave dog saved lives on the Okatie River BY PAUL TOLLEFSON Contributor Jason Dubose is an outdoorsman, through and through, a man who would much rather spend his time on the water or in the woods than live his life cooped up inside. Jason has spent the last 20 years in Bluffton, and specifiPaul Tollefson cally, Oldfield Club as a charter captain and the hunt program director. As with many folks who spend their life on the water, he has his fair share of great stories, and this one takes the cake. It was a chilly March morning in 2018 when Jason was perched in the office at work, as a fishing charter had cancelled. The phone began to ring and on the other line was a woman who said she was on the nature trail in Oldfield and thought she faintly heard cries for help, but she couldn’t be sure. Jason assured the lady that he would be right over to see if he could hear anything as he jumped in his truck. “I met up with the lady on the nature trail that runs along the Okatie River, and she went over again what she thought that she had heard. The wind was blowing at 25 miles per hour gusts, and it made it quite hard to hear anything, let alone cries from the riverbank, which she could have sworn she heard. Close by there was a new house going up, and perhaps she had just heard the construction workers yelling at one another.” “I stayed with her for about 10 minutes or so, just trying to listen to see if this was perhaps a false alarm. As I started to walk back to the truck, oddly, the wind just stopped for a moment. In that time, I heard it, plain as day, that someone was yelling ‘help!’” Jason quickly went with the Director of Security, and they jumped in the club boat to go investigate the windy river. As they are driving along, they spot something red
about 300 yards away right on the edge of Jack Ass Island, a small piece of land off Pinckney Point. “I could only see the red silhouette in the marsh, but I had traveled that area enough times in the past week, I knew it hadn’t been there. As we began to pull closer, we could see a man up to his waist in pluff mud, waving his hands frantically, calling for help.” As Jason and security pulled up to the man, it became soon apparent that he was suffering from hypothermia and was not coherent at all. They knew they had to get him out of the mud and get him dry and warm, quickly! But, if you have ever been stuck in pluff mud, it’s not only hard to get out, it’s downright scary to feel that trapped. “We end up grabbing him under the arms, and put the motor in reverse to pull him free. The whole time he is fighting us and still speaking incoherently. We get him onto the boat and strip him down immediately. We wrapped him in whatever we could find and started back to the Oldfield dock. I made a call to the naturalist on site and told her to get the truck started and blast the heat.” “When we got him in the truck and began to warm up him up, he told us that there were still two more out in the frigid water, as their boat had flipped. I immediately knew we were now on a rescue mission. I really thought we were going to be looking for bodies by this time. I call 911 and the Beaufort Marine Resue Squadron, and we got back onto the boat and shoved off again.” “When we got to the area of Camp St. Mary’s, we could see a man off in the distance standing on a dock with a dog next to him, waving his hands at us. We quickly rode over there and found the man wet and cold but wrapped in a towel. He explained that he was one of the men on the capsized boat. They had been working on a dock and decided on their lunch break they were going to cruise around for a bit in their little 15-foot Jon boat. Somehow, one of the men who was in the front of the small boat tried to climb to the back, and in the windy and unstable conditions, the boat flipped. He ex-
plained to me that there was one more man still in the water that needed to be found.” Jason radioed again to 911 and told the rescue squad that they had found man number two, but there was still one more to be found in the water. “I began asking the gentleman we found on the dock how he managed to get where we found him, and he told me a story I’ll never forget.” “When we flipped, chaos ensued. The water was freezing, and I knew that I was not a very good swimmer. I saw a dock in the distance, and I thought my best bet was to try to make it there, if I could. I got about 30 or 40 yards, and I started to feel my body give out. I’d go under for a short period of time but then pop back up. Every time I popped up, I saw that dock and a dog frantically barking at me. That happened a few times, where I would go under, then pop back up again. I knew I didn’t have much time left.” “Next thing I knew, I popped back up one final time and the dog that was on the dock, was now coming right for me. I reached out, and I managed to grab his tail and hold on for a moment before my hands cramped up and my hand slipped off. Once my hand slipped, I saw the dog keep swimming for the dock. I knew that was it for me.” “Alas, the dog circled around one final time, and this time, I reached for his collar and felt the cold fabric on my hands. I held on for dear life, and this time, I didn’t let go!”
“That dog not only pulled me to safety but also pulled me to a dock that had collapsed during Hurricane Irma, and half the decking was in the water so I could climb and pull myself to safety.” As Jason listened to this amazing story, the whole time he had thought to himself that the dog was this man’s dog. Turns out, this man had never seen this dog before in his life, and it was simply the yellow lab of a caretaker of house just down river! The third man had safely been found walking down Pinckney Colony Road, wet and afraid, but nothing that some blankets and a warm truck couldn’t fix. As Jason tells me this story, I can still sense the amazement in his voice from that day, a day those three men will never forget. All memories thanks to some quick-thinking outdoorsmen, and a yellow lab named Woody! Paul Tollefson is the Director of Tennis at the Hampton Hall Club in Bluffton. He found his love for the Lowcountry in early 2002 after graduating high school and unsure of what career path he was destined towards. After moving from Hilton Head to Bluffton he became enthralled with the history of the town and the people and cultures that called it home for many generations. He has found a passion in writing and enjoys being able to share the stories and pictures of long-time locals. He is the co-creator of the Facebook page “Bluffton Then and Now”.
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The Bluffton Sun
January 22, 2025
Lowcountry mothers have a new resource with the Balanced Birth and Wellness Collective BY TRACY WINSLOW Contributor The Balanced Birth and Wellness Collective is a new, nonprofit maternal mental health program that offers free and low-cost services to women in need. Their primary purpose is to provide access to mental health Tracy Winslow support and doula services, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent access to necessary care. The organization aims to promote the emotional well-being of families and foster a healthier community by offering free and low-cost mental health therapy services, increasing access to mental health support and doula services for marginalized com-
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munities, and making charitable donations to organizations improving birth and postpartum mental health outcomes. The Balanced Birth and Wellness Collective was created by two organizations with women’s heath focused programs: Balanced Birth Doula Agency and Balanced Wellness. The Balanced Birth Doula Agency provides holistic care for women to help navigate the early days of parenthood. The role of a doula is to provide individualized pregnancy, labor and postpartum support. Balanced Wellness works with women and families’ mental health to help navigate the multifaceted road of parenthood. Over the past three years, these organizations have donated almost $70,000 in care to families in need. Women from both companies have combined their talents to create a community of wellness for women in the Lowcountry.
Dr. Theresa Roman, Chief Psychologist/ Clinical Director of Balanced Wellness and Alexandra Gonsor, Executive Director/ Co-Owner of the Balanced Birth Doula Agency felt that women in the Lowcountry need access many grants, programs and support, but often times don’t know about what is available or how to access it. The Balanced Birth and Wellness Collective offers the space, expertise and camaraderie women need to be successful as parents, partners and individuals. Dr. Roman says, “Bringing a new life into the world can be both beautiful and overwhelming. No one should have to navigate that journey alone. At Balanced Wellness, we’re honored to provide mental health support through our non-profit partnership with Balanced Birth Doula Agency because caring for families means caring for the whole person - mind and body. Everyone deserves a safe space to process, heal, and feel supported
during this vulnerable chapter in their lives.” This program is not designed to be a “Mommy and Me” playgroup but instead is aimed to provide comprehensive support to families throughout conception to birthing and beyond. The Balanced Birth and Wellness Collective helps ensure support is accessible to everyone by removing the financial strain of hiring a doula or therapist. Gonsor says, “We know that every family deserves to feel cared for and supported during the pregnancy, birth and postpartum months. When we can offer free and low-cost doula and mental health services, we’re helping families feel less alone and more confident during such a tender and life changing time. This work comes from the heart because every parent should be surrounded by care and kindness.”
WELLNESS CONT. ON PAGE 45A
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January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
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Combat winter dandruff: Tips for healthy, flake-free hair in 2025 BY JOY ROSS Contributor I wish each and every one of you and yours the happiest, healthiest 2025. I strive to share any and all tips I have up my sleeve to keep everyone aware of ways to stay looking our best. Aging is a process we Joy Ross are all dealing with, albeit different stages, but we aren’t getting any younger, sadly. I hope I have helped and continue to help you understand ways to stay looking younger, things to do to expedite our styling and the reasons why our hair behaves the way it does. This article may not be the most beautifying, but it will help you to understand and hopefully correct a problem both
many men and women deal with on a regular basis, dandruff. It is a common problem, especially at this time of year when the heat is on and dry. There are several myths and truths to why we get dandruff and what to do about it. First of all, dandruff is usually caused by oil from our oil glands mixed with dead skin cells and/or product buildup. This combination causes itchy and flaky scalp. It can worsen during the winter because our skin gets drier. It’s also exacerbated by stress, diet, poor hygiene, and as I mentioned in several of my articles, cheap hair products that have waxes and oils as fillers. Any sensitivity to any products adds to the issue. There can be other reasons for flaking as well, such as eczema, infection or psoriasis, which need medical attention. One misconception is to brush or scratch the scalp before shampooing to loosen the flakes. This is definitely not
druff shampoos are not the answer. They make the hair dry and brittle. Dandruff doesn’t directly cause hair loss. However, the reasons dandruff appears are the same reasons hair thins. Shampooing occasionally with clarifying shampoo helps remove build up and dead skin cells. All in all, awareness is the first step in combatting those nasty flakes on your shoulders. Then, speak to a knowledgeable stylist or dermatologist about the problem. Once again, salon shampoos for these issues may be more expensive but so worth it in the long run. If you see these flakes, pay attention to your lifestyle and products you’re using. Hydrate, look at your hair products and make the minor changes I’ve suggested. It will be one less thing to worry about in this upcoming year. Joy Ross is the owner of Style It Salon. styleitsalon.com, 843-338-1530.
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WELLNESS
FROM PAGE 44A
So, how can you become involved in the Balanced Birth and Wellness Collective? Volunteers are always needed to be a part of peer support groups as well as to help in whatever way best serves the new parents. And, as a nonprofit organization, they are always looking for some financial support. Make a donation or learn more about The Balanced Birth and Wellness Collective at their website: https://www.balancedbirthandwellnesscollective.org. Tracy Winslow is the Owner of Low Country Shrimp and Knits, the Lowcountry’s premier yarn store. When she is not teaching knitting classes, she teaches Spanish at Montclair State University, and writes about her life’s foibles in the humor column, Chaos on Fire, for the Bluffton Sun. You can reach out for help with yarn, Spanish past tense conjugations, and more at shrimpandknits.com.
recommended because it could cause irritation and may make the flakes become thicker because the scalp is trying to protect itself. Don’t start scratching. Dandruff is not contagious, although there are other itchy scalp disorders that are. So be certain the itchiness is from dandruff. One remedy to calm the scalp and help the itchiness is to put half Listerine and half water in a spray bottle, spray directly on the scalp and let sit for a few minutes before shampooing. The menthol and other ingredients have soothing and anti-fungal qualities that help soothe and combat the irritation and dryness. Dry heat and cold weather are definitely major culprits in the production of more dandruff and flakes at this time of year. A proper diet rich in A, B and C vitamins and drinking plenty of water are easy ways to make the scalp healthy. Dan-
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The Bluffton Sun
January 22, 2025
Annual wreath laying at Beaufort National Cemetery BY ANDREA HOERNER Contributor Each December, for the past 17 years, Beaufort National Cemetery has participated in Wreaths Across America. Wreaths Across America is a national effort to place remembrance wreaths on the graves of veterans. The organization’s mission is “Remember, Honor and Teach,” and this year more than three million wreaths were placed at over 4,900 locations, including Arlington National Cemetery. For centuries, the wreath has been a symbol of victory, honor and eternity. These fresh evergreen wreaths are symbolic. The red bow symbolizes sacrifice, the greens represent endurance and the circular shape, eternity. This year’s event was held at noon on December 14. Following a solemn ceremony which included the National Anthem, playing of taps and prayer, volunteers of all ages placed the wreaths reverently on each headstone, pausing to say the veteran’s name aloud. Every one of the 28,000 plus graves received a wreath, thanks to the efforts of many community groups, including families, scout troops, church groups, military groups and Sun City Hilton Child placing a wreath Head. President Abraham Lincoln created Beaufort National Cemetery in 1863. It began as a burial site for patients from local Union hospitals during the Civil War. In 1997, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The cemetery is one of the oldest final resting places for veterans in the United States and buried there are veterans from every major American conflict, making it a truly hallowed place.
Senator Tom Davis speaking
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David Edwards, Local volunteer Coordinator
January 22, 2025
The Bluffton Sun
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The Bluffton Sun
Ask r Ou t u o Ab TER N I W E IN V O M L! A I C SPE The Palmetto’s person-centered approach supports the mind, body and spirit of each of our residents.
Assisted Living • Memory Care Respite Care The Palmettos Assisted Living of Bluffton, a National Healthcare affiliate. 3035 Okatie Highway, Bluffton, SC 29909. Non-Discrimination Policy - As a recipient of federal financial assistance, NCH does not exclude, deny benefits to, or otherwise discriminate against any person on the grounds of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender, or on the basis of disability or age in admission to, participation in, or receipt of their services and benefits of any of its programs and activities or in employment. For more information, please contact 843-707-9400 or for TTY callers in SC dial 1-800-735-8583. ©2017 The Palmettos Assisted Living. All rights reserved. The Palmettos and The Palmettos Tree logo are registered trademarks of The Palmettos Assisted Living in the State of South Carolina.
January 22, 2025