The Bluffton Sun • July 2, 2024

County, Alljoy Residents

Discussing Concerns, Sharing Ideas

BY CHANNING HEISS Contributor

Amid the expressions of frustration that have been a common aspect of recent public meetings on the runoff and drainage issues facing residents of the unincorporated Alljoy community, the June 19th meeting of the Beaufort County Stormwater Management Utility Board also brought hope and progress in the form of positive new developments and the further evolution of others.

A group of Alljoy residents, many once again wearing the signature blue t-shirts of the grassroots advocacy effort Preserve and Protect Alljoy, took the opportunity in two public comment periods to describe their experiences with contamination in their homes and public areas from both runoff and drainage ditch backup. However, group

representatives Laura Wilson, Jim Lawton, and Bob Williams, also acknowledged some of the causes of current conditions, such as lack of manpower and equipment, and expressed appreciation for the support of the stormwater board and others. They said this lack of manpower and equipment has several times caused jobs to be start-

ed but not finished and that they would like to work toward a solution. At the April stormwater meeting, there was a discussion about improving the county’s website containing the maintenance schedule so residents can track when maintenance is expected to be done. Advocates asked for an update on the progress of the site and

the public works representative said they were working on updating software and would continue to address technical issues.

Among the other major initiatives being undertaken to address residents’ concerns is a comprehensive drainage study of the Alljoy area to de-

ALLJOY CONT. ON PAGE 3A

U ro l ogy C are

LOUIS REMYNSE M.D.

A board-certified and broadly experienced urologist, Dr. Remynse brings nearly four decades of clinical and surgical experience to the practice, where he diagnoses and treats a wide range of chronic and acute urological disorders, among them benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), kidney stones and urinary incontinence.

A member of the Society of Urologic Oncology, Dr. Remynse specializes in robot-assisted surgical treatments for bladder, kidney and prostate cancers. In total, he has performed more than 1,250 da Vinci robotic surgeries.

A Michigan native, he received his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Michigan Medical School and has practiced at urology groups and medical centers in Michigan, Pennsylvania, Maine and Illinois.

BEAUFORT MEMORIAL EXPANDS UROLOGY PRACTICE TO OKATIE

Dr. Louis Remynse and physican assistants Matt Baker and Kristen Callaghan are now seeing patients at the Okatie Medical Pavilion.

MATTHEW “MATT” BAKER PHARMD, PA - C

Experienced both as a physician assistant and as a pharmacist, Baker works with the practice’s clinical team to assess and manage treatment for acute and chronic urological disorders that most frequently can be addressed with medication rather than surgery.

A Yemassee native, he holds a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from South University. He joined Urology Specialists after seven years at a urology practice in Bluffton, where he gained expertise in cystoscope procedures and active monitoring of patients with an elevated PSA level and those receiving prostate cancer treatment.

Baker also holds a Doctor of Pharmacy from the Medical University of South Carolina and was employed as a pharmacist for nine years before determining that his heart lay in direct patient care.

KRISTIN S. CALLAGHAN PA - C

A board-certified and experienced physician assistant, Callaghan joined the urology practice in 2022 following seven years as an emergency medicine physician assistant at Beaufort Memorial. At the practice, Callaghan evaluates a variety of urological complaints, interprets diagnostic studies and helps patients understand their results to determine further courses of evaluation and treatment. Her clinical interests include the treatment of kidney stones, urinary incontinence, urinary tract infection (UTI), benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer.

A Lowcountry native, she received her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from South University, and previously worked in emergency medicine in Charleston, and for a urology practice in Savannah.

ALLJOY

termine possible remedies for ongoing issues. At the urging of Preserve and Protect Alljoy, the Beaufort County Department of Public Works applied for a grant from the South Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority and another grant from FEMA. Assistant Public Works Director-Environmental Katie Herrera announced at the meeting that both grants had been approved, with RIA awarding $187,000 and FEMA awarding $227,000. Herrera explained that a decision had been made to decline the FEMA grant in favor of the RIA grant because money from the RIA grant would be available sooner. She assured Chair Marc Feinberg that the $187,000 award would be sufficient. The County asked RIA for $250,000 and there is a cost share with this grant of 75%/25%. The $187,000 represents the 75 percent share from RIA, with the county covering the remaining 25 percent with stormwater utility funds. When asked for a timetable on the study, Herrera estimated it could begin in January 2025

and be completed in June 2026. Another point of progress is the positive relationship developing between Preserve and Protect Alljoy and Beaufort Jasper Water and Sewer Authority. Wilson said seven Alljoy advocates met early in the year with the leadership of BJWSA and that it was hopeful from the first meeting. “Paul Vincent and the others were great. He just said, ‘I see you have a problem. Now, let’s work on a solution.’”

According to PPA, the representatives from BJWSA have said they are willing to continue helping in any way they can and are available to attend future meetings on the issue. Jim Lawton also said their support is a major source of encouragement for him. Their next opportunity to attend a meeting on these pressing issues may be this month.

During the June 19th meeting, advocates and Beaufort County officials worked on a plan to meet this month shortly after the Independence Day holiday. Beaufort County council represen-

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Contributors

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Channing Heiss

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Sandro Virag

Cinda Seamons

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Mark Winn

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Earle Everett

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Eric Skipper

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EDITORIAL

What Does the New Town Budget Mean to You?

BY MAYOR LARRY TOOMER Contributor

Town leaders know that many residents’ eyes glaze over when we speak of the three main ingredients to the town’s annual workplan. It may sound like “government speak” when budgets, strategic plans and action items are mentioned. While the ter ms may seem boring, the projects which the town’s workplan produces may excite you. Let me break down the new fiscal budget, which began July 1, and how it may relate to you.

The new, approximate $90.6 million dollar budget aims to enhance various public services and infrastructure projects, reflecting the town’s commitment to maintaining its charm and improving the quality of life for its residents.

One of the most notable aspects of the new budget is the stability in property taxes. Since 2014, Bluffton has managed to keep property taxes steady, even reducing the millage rate in 2019 and 2023. For a typical house appraised at around $390,500, the town portion of the tax bill will remain approximately $677.32. This consistency provides financial predictability for homeowners, ensuring that the costs associated with property taxes do not increase unexpectedly.

The budget supports new projects such as the town’s new Welcome Center, which will be located at the Squire Pope Carriage House in Wright Family Park. The new Welcome Center is expected to open in early 2025. The center will give residents and visitors an overview of Bluffton’s history, culture, spirit, natural resources and attractions. The Squire Pope Carriage House is among Bluffton’s “contributing resources” with its historic significance of being one of the few struc-

tures which survived the 1863 “Burning of Bluffton.”

Thanks to a $1.35 million dollar federal grant and town funds, the Bluffton Police Department will replace its aging equipment, which will further equip the police department to provide safety, security, and more partnerships/events with the community.

Residents will also see significant investments in public infrastructure. The Capital Improvements Program (CIP) Fund, totaling $32.3 million, prioritizes parks, stormwater, and sewer projects.

This includes the Historic District sewer projects, Pritchard Street Drainage and Bridge Street Streetscape Improvement projects. Stormwater and sewer infrastructure projects, especially for the few town neighborhoods which weren’t preplanned communities, protect the towns and region’s natural resources.

The Riverside Barn Park, the town’s largest park with more than 37 acres, is expected to open in late 2024, with the barn opening for events the following year. A much anticipated splash pad will be installed at Oscar Frazier Park this summer. The New River Linear Trail will also receive a multi-million-dollar upgrade to pave half the width of the trail, making it more accessible to walkers, bik-

ers, and those with mobility issues.

The new budget also underscores Bluffton’s dedication to affordable housing. Projects like the Housing Assistance Program will continue to receive support, assisting income-qualified residents with necessary “safe and dry” home repairs. This program combats the compounding housing crisis, prevents blight and keeps residents in safe homes.

Economic development is another key focus, with incentives available for businesses to locate in the fastest growing areas of Bluffton and the ongoing support for the Don Ryan Center for Innovation, the town’s economic development department and business incubator.

The town’s Economic Development Incentive Program (EDIP) provides a reduction in fees and utility costs for businesses which are relocating or locating west of Buckwalter Parkway, in an effort to bring more services to Bluffton’s fastest growing areas.

As a reminder, the town is among five municipalities in the state with the highest bond rating for a town or city. This means the town can borrow money, if needed, at lower rates, and this status gives credence to the town’s healthy financial status. The town thanks each resident it serves as the town strives to always increase its high quality of life, we all enjoy projects that protect our natural resources, create parks and open spaces for neighbors to gather, and help each other when needed.

Larry Toomer is the mayor of the Town of Bluffton. ltoomer@townofbluffton.com

Joseph Gancio

Larry Toomer

tative and stormwater liaison Alice Howard is coordinating the planning for the meeting. Two major overarching issues for advocates throughout all of these discussions on environmental issues have been the need for consistent and effective communication and the need to include more southern Beaufort County concerns in county planning. Alljoy representatives said they would like some of the stormwater meetings to be held in southern Beaufort County. County officials said they will look into the logistics of that idea. There have been special meetings arranged on a case-by-case basis at venues in the southern part of the county such as the April meeting with Alljoy residents and representatives from the Department of Public Works and Beaufort County Council held at the Bluffton Rec Center.

Several advocacy groups have been formed in the Alljoy neighborhood over the years to address longtime issues, with Preserve and Protect Alljoy emerging as one of the most vocal and prominent in Preserve and Protect Alljoy was formed in 2021 by a group of concerned residents including Wilson, Erin Emerick, and Williams. A previous story on Alljoy mistakenly identified Lawton, a longtime Alljoy resident, as a founding member of Preserve and Protect Alljoy. Lawton is, however, a local champion of Alljoy and has helped the neighborhood for many decades. Lawton’s grandfather owned property in the Alljoy community that he deeded to Beaufort County.

Preserve and Protect Alljoy’s overarching mission continues to be protecting the May River, a source of great local pride as

well as a resource for recreation and seafood harvesting.

“The May River is everything to everybody,” Laura Wilson said.

In spite of remaining differences with public and the county, there is optimism among Alljoy advocates.

“I do see movement. It has turned a corner,” Wilson said. She gives much of the credit to others, saying she just wants to be a liaison to the Alljoy community so people can be heard.

“I’m so proud of our neighbors who have contacted me and worked so hard to get where we are. They made this happen. We’re not against anybody. We just want to work together to find solutions.”

A major ongoing issue that will likely remain a point of constant vigilance and discussion is the balance between development, population growth, and the local ecology. Jim Law-

ton explains that the original Alljoy residents like his grandfather were there when it was much less populated and much less developed, making the smart management of Alljoy and the surrounding area an even more important element in maintaining its original character and nature as the area grows. He says many of the issues being discussed today have been discussed for over half a century and will continue to be relevant. “This is area’s ecosystem is very delicate,” Lawton explains. “Even the smallest change can have a huge impact on a property or a waterway nearby.”

“It’s great to have SWUB, but we need to develop a comprehensive, long-term stormwater action plan.” Lawton says he is happy about the planned drainage and stormwater study of Alljoy and would ultimately

like to see a comprehensive study of all of Beaufort County. He is grateful for the work and vigilance of organizations such as the Coastal Conservation League and the May River Watershed Action Plan Advisory Committee in monitoring and managing the local ecology.

“They are great people and they’re doing an excellent job.” Lawton cautions that focusing on these issues will continue to take on added long-term importance as we endure more severe weather events. In the short term, Beaufort County faces the annual reality of the Atlantic hurricane season which started June 1st. Channing Heiss is a freelance writer and a member of the Beaufort County DisAbilities Coalition.

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Love and Living with Dementia

BY EARLE EVERETT Contributor

Mild Cognitive Impairment, MCI, is described as a more rapid loss of one’s short-term memory as compared with normal memory decline that we all experience during aging. Simply stated, MCI can be described as early onset of dementia, a general term to describe a decline in memory retention and later, motor skills that may interfere with daily life. It develops in stages with 6080% of the cases advancing to Alzheimer’s, a disease that is affecting an increasing number of Americans. In our 68th year of marriage, we want to share with you some constructive suggestions that have helped make our journey a more pleasant, happier experience.

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First, understand that dementia, just like diabetes, presently has no cure. Early clinical detection, prescription medications and supplements as well as life changing adjustments can help. Personally, my wife and I are convinced that the steps we have taken have contributed to slowing down her memory loss. Those include physical activities such as golf, tennis, swimming, biking, walking, gardening and aerobic exercises, social interaction such as singing in a choir, dancing, word puzzles, games and diet recommendations from the Neurologist, family acknowledgement and involvement, and a genuine loving partnership.

Finally, for spouses and those who have a relationship with a care receiver, don’t attempt to ‘go at it alone,’ get professional help, expand your knowledge, volunteer at Memory Matters, etc., while maintaining a positive attitude. Our life together continues to evolve with its challenges, most importantly with understanding and love.

A recent, featured publication in AARP’s magazine stated that “6.7 million people, 65 years or older, are living with Alzheimer’s today.” Further signs that dementia is progressing include a declining mental state, deteriorating

physical health, decreasing ability to perform basic activities, concern for physical safety and a weakening immune system. The most common cause of death is pneumonia by infection. The Alzheimer’s Association statistics state dementia begins 20 years or more before memory loss is detected for 1/3 of people age 85 or older. 6.9 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, which kills more than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined. One in three seniors die with Alzheimer’s disease.

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DEMENTIA

There are three stages of dementia:

1. Early (MCI), 2. Mild (Middle Alzheimer’s), 3. Late (Severe Alzheimer’s).

I have learned the hard way to follow AARP’s 3 golden rules of dementia, particularly as we reached the middle stages.

1. Don’t ask questions.

2. Listen to your care receiver.

3. Don’t attempt to contradict them.

My love for her makes me determined to do a better job in adjusting to all the new “rules.”

“Sundowning” is often seen in the middle and late stages of dementia, and as indicated, increases in unusual behavior in the late afternoon, although wandering (our home is locked tight during the day, and bedroom secured at night), delusion, confusion, mistaking family members for strangers, wanting to go “home,” looking for their (non-existent) baby, dog, etc., can happen anytime, and are very challenging for the caregiver to handle. During these

times, I have found looking at photo albums together, coloring, going for a short walk, setting the table or calling one of our children for her to talk to is helpful in restoring reality. Everyday can be a new “experience” for both the giver and receiver, and believe me, we have experienced all of the above.

Personally, the 13-year progression of the disease has necessitated more adjustments. Church choir, golf, driving the car and some other activities, previously incorporated into her daily life, have had to be curtailed or discontinued. Now, when I make a simple request, for example “pour some ice tea,” that request needs to be broken down into four separate instructive actions. “Please take two glasses from the cabinet. Please fill the glasses with ice in the freezer. Please pour the pitcher of ice tea at the sink into the two glasses. Please place the two glasses next to the plates on the dinner table.” However, to give the care receiver a feeling of con-

tributing, and to also help minimize boredom, simple duties should be encouraged, such as setting the table, loading the dishes into the dishwasher and folding the washed clothes. Sleeping has become an increased part of her day, taking 2-3 naps in addition to sleeping 10-12 hours at night, while nighttime incontinence continues to interrupt steady sleep.

As for me, I have redirected my day’s activities toward being a better care giver, no more time-consuming golf, but I have actually enjoyed cooking the last 6 years - not so much washing clothes! Also, we now have outside lawn maintenance, monthly house cleaning and recognize the need for inhouse, care-giving assistance in the very near future. We are blessed with living in a gated community of wonderful, understanding neighbors, employees and security who look out for us.

Above all, I have challenged myself to be more patient in dealing with the many new changes facing both of us. So, caregivers and potential care giv-

ers, how do we handle these many challenges? As I said, don’t attempt to go at it alone. There are many resources available and can be found by contacting sources such as Alzheimer’s Association, AARP and local government agencies, and learning more about the disease by reading magazines such as “Brain and Life.” Memory Matters offers programs including Brain Boosters and Savvy Caregiver, as well as weekly care receiver programs.

Hopefully, you have found some help from our personal experience. Most importantly, stay positive, with understanding and a lot of love.

Mr. Everett, is a 27-year resident of the Hilton Head area and frequent LTE and OP-ED writer to our local papers, covering topics of national and local interest. He can be reached at neeverettmc@ gmail.com, 843-837-9224.

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Estate Planning is More than “Who Gets What”

BY MARK WINN Contributor

Estate planning is much more than who gets what. Do not get me wrong, a big part of estate planning is who gets what, but it is so much more. With a good plan, you can avoid probate, maintain your privacy, defer taxes, avoid estate taxes, keep your assets in your family bloodline and make sure loved ones can get government benefits for you if you are in need. If Congress does not act, the estate tax exemption could go way down, exposing many people’s estates to the federal estate tax. If this happens, people will be wise to update and review their planning. Retirement accounts are creatures of the law. As such, they are subject to many rules, such as when you must begin taking out distributions and how much you must take (and therefore pay tax on). When one passes, the beneficiary designation “on file” with the administrator or custodian controls. The beneficiary has settlement options that they should consider before making any decisions. It is advisable to seek professional guidance on your settlement options and which choice is best to take. We usually try to structure these assets so as to preserve income tax deferral as much as the law permits.

Government benefits such as Medicaid is a lifeline to those in need. Planning in

advance so as to qualify for needs-based programs is critical to success in this arena. Making sure your agent (“attorney-in-fact”) can do this kind of planning is also critical. If you need it and you are mentally incapacitated, and you have not given your agent the authority to do this kind of planning, then your assets could be spent on long term care, leaving your family with nothing.

Keeping your assets in the family is easy if you plan ahead. The law recognizes “future interests” so you can direct that a child inherits your property for their use and benefit for their life. Then, you can direct that when they pass on, what is left goes to your blood descendants and not to your in-laws. Most people want this. With advance planning, we can help you make sure the in-law will not get it in a divorce or at death, and we can shelter it from estate taxes in the child’s estate, and remove it from exposure to creditors’ claims.

Good estate plans will address all of the issues raised above. While estate planning is about who gets what, it is also about how they get it and what that means. Today, estate plans need to be flexible, need to guard against exposure to estate taxes and take inflation into account. They also need to account for the possibility that fortune could turn against them, necessitating the need or want to obtain government benefits.

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

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Bluffton, South Carolina Real Estate Market Update: July 2024

BY DAN PRUD’HOMME Contributor

The Bluffton real estate market has been showing signs of change over the past month, reflecting a broader trend seen across the region. As we step into July 2024, it is important to understand the current conditions and what they mean for both buyers and sellers.

The market in Bluffton continues to favor sellers, though there is a noticeable softening. Historically low inventory levels are beginning to rise, yet they remain consistent with pre-pandemic numbers. This increase in available homes is a significant shift from the intense demand and limited supply experienced during the pandemic.

market.

The median sales price in Bluffton stands at $529,000, a slight decrease from $530,000 a year ago. This marginal drop in prices provides further evidence of the market’s shift towards more balanced conditions.

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As of now, there are 628 homes listed for sale in Bluffton. This figure marks a substantial 62% increase from the 387 homes available at the same time last year. Additionally, it’s a 3.2% rise from the 609 properties reported last month. This growing inventory indicates a cooling market, offering potential buyers more choices than they’ve had in recent years.

The real estate market has also been influenced by recent developments from the Federal Reserve. Late last year, there was an expectation of three rate decreases in 2024. However, the latest remarks from Chairman Powell suggest that we should only anticipate one rate cut this year. This adjustment has undoubtedly impacted buyer sentiment and market dynamics.

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The time it takes to sell a home in Bluffton has also extended. Currently, homes are on the market for an average of 60 days, compared to just 41 days a year ago. However, this is a slight improvement from the 61 days reported last month, suggesting a gradual stabilization.

Closed sales have been robust, with 897 transactions completed so far this year. This is a healthy 22.7% increase from the 731 closed sales during the same period last year. Despite this uptick in sales, the rising inventory of new listings is not being absorbed quickly enough, further indicating a cooling

Looking ahead, the growing inventory and steady demand will likely continue to shape the Bluffton real estate market. As we approach the general election, there may be increased hesitancy among buyers, leading to a wait-and-see approach on significant purchases. Stay tuned for next month’s update as we continue to monitor these trends and provide insights into the evolving Bluffton real estate market.

Dan Prud’homme is the Visionary & Success Coach of The Prudhomme Team at William Raveis Real Estate. dan@danprudhomme. com, www.theprudhommeteam.com

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Innovation at USCB Starts Close to Home

BY ERIC SKIPPER Contributor

Innovation is the lifeblood of a university, driving the evolution of academic programs, the adoption of new technologies and methodologies, the formation of strategic partnerships and the resolution of regional challenges. The first ideal of USCB’s Academic Master Plan is “a spirit of entrepreneurship, innovation, and connectivity.” At USCB, this spirit of innovation is rooted in our commitment to addressing the needs of our region.

USCB is the lead institution for a $1 million National Science Foundation (NSF) grant designed to develop a cybersecurity ecosystem in the Lowcountry. In collaboration with the SC Ports Authority (Charleston) and the GA Ports Authority (Savannah), the grant’s public and private partners have established the Maritime Cybersecurity Institute (MCSI) to address cybersecurity measures related to the commercial maritime sector. The MCSI secured 501(c)(3) status in January and an additional $1 million from the SC legislature. The Institute endeavors to elevate port cybersecurity regionally and nationally. The NSF grant follows a $1.3 million Department of Defense grant to support regional workforce development, including exiting military, in cybersecurity. With the help of state appropriations, donor funds and the Philip Rhodes family as primary benefactors, USCB faculty and students have reinvigorated research on Pritchard’s Island. The pristine barrier island provides a baseline

model for understanding and protecting our coastline, which is vital to our region’s quality of life and economy. Research includes projects related to sea turtle and shorebird research and monitoring, marine life populations, coastal erosion and the island’s ecological health. The recently established Pritchard’s Island Research and Living Shores (PIRLS) initiative will play a leading role in fortifying coastal marshes and securing the Lowcountry coastline’s vitality for the future.

To address the critical regional need for more nurses, USCB has partnered with Beaufort Memorial Hospital to build a state-of-the-art Simulation and Nursing Education Center. The partnership will provide needed facilities to enable USCB to grow its nursing program. The center will feature the latest high-fidelity equipment including advanced simulation technology, task training equipment and live standardized patient experiences. The center is supported by funding from the City of Beaufort and Beaufort County and $1 million Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) grant supported by U.S. Senator Lindsay Graham. USCB students will begin using the BMH facility in the spring, and the first cohort will rotate through in fall of 2025.

On campus, the university has endeavored to create the “library of the future” for students, employees and other patrons. The plan, under development for two years, will offer a state-of-the-art

Mathew Epps MD, MS, DABS

Jane Epps RN, BSN

FROM PAGE 19A

learning facility that anticipates advancements in AI, big data and other technologies. In alignment with USCB’s focus on experiential learning, Bluffton campus library renovations will feature an inviting, open design that includes collaborative and quiet spaces, a data visualization lab, an interdisciplinary makerspace/media lab, “genius bars” offering one-stop patron support for technology and research needs, enhanced digital and physical collections, and enhanced technology resources. Renovations are underway this summer and will be completed in September. Renovations to the Beaufort campus library will begin in spring of 2026.

The advent of the new Hyundai electric vehicle plant and the Korean EV battery facility in nearby Bryan County, Ga., has prompted USCB to assume a leadership role to enhance intercultural competencies in light of the influx of Korean culture. USCB was recently awarded a Fulbright-Hays grant to fund the “South Korean and Asian Literacy Education” (SKALE) project, which supports in-depth

cultural experiences for faculty, students and K-12 educators in the area. The grant funds a four-week program in South Korea this summer for participants, curriculum development and a Korean Cultural Studies Conference to take place in October.

As an institution committed to experiential learning, USCB engages students in tackling regional challenges through undergraduate research, service learning and field experiences. These hands-on activities have enabled USCB students to earn prestigious national awards for research and service and gain admission to highly selective graduate and professional programs.

In today’s dynamic and ever-evolving world, universities must continually innovate to meet emerging needs. At USCB, we strive daily to embed this adaptability into our core mission. Our efforts start right here in the Lowcountry.

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

Hair Loss: More Q&A

BY DR. RONALD FINGER Contributor

What can cause sudden hair loss?

The most common causes are hormonal changes, childbirth, any general anesthesia, cancer, chemotherapy and HRT (hormonal replacement therapy), but lesser-known causes can be the star t of new medications such as antibiotics, antifungals, antidepressants, birth control pills, anticoagulants and statins.

The hormones that often cause hair loss are testosterone with HRT and hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone). Lab tests and a good history and physical can reveal these issues so they can be treated. Typically, people lose 50-100 hairs per day. Stress and nutritional deficiencies can increase this hair loss by 300%.

Tension on hair such as braids or tight ponytails very commonly cause permanent hair loss.

How do I know if I am permanently losing my hair?

Men: Typically, there is hair loss in the crown and/or the hairline. Generally, a receding hair line and baldness is a family trait of aging. Hair loss can start slowly and increase with age. However, losing 100 hairs per day is normal.

Women: Thinning on top is the first sign of female pattern baldness. A hair loss of about 50% is when it becomes noticeable.

Approximately one in five people in the United States will have some sort of hair loss by age 35 in men and age 50 in women.

What can be done to slow this hair loss?

There are now pills, shampoos and sprays that can show some decrease in hair loss and in combination may show an increase in hair growth. Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) has shown promise in a range of results from slowing hair loss to increasing hair density significantly. We

are now using Exosomes (from stem cells) via microneedling. Exosomes contain many more growth factors than PRP, and blood doesn’t have to be drawn from the patient. These are particularly beneficial in women.

The most permanent solution for hair loss.

Ultimately, one may choose a hair transplant procedure, which is the most permanent solution for hair loss. Performed by a team that is experienced and skilled will yield the best and most natural result. Modern hair transplants use one hair follicle per graft for the hairline and 2-4 follicles per graft for the top and crown for more density. The direction of the grafted hairs must be placed properly to appear natural. This can be done with the strip method from the donor site or FUE (follicular unit extraction), e.g. NeoGraft. The only difference is in how one procures the grafts. The grafts themselves are the same. A hair transplant specialist will discuss the benefits of the different methods providing he/she performs both methods. Both methods have their advantages.

A hair transplant does not prevent your non-grafted hair from thinning. Thus, PRP, Exosomes, sprays, pills, etc. may still be beneficial to continue having maximum hair density through the future years.

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

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The Lowcountry’s Beautiful Barrier Islands

BY GLENDA HARRIS Contributor

Hugging South Carolina’s Lowcountry coastline and points north are 38 barrier islands, second only to the state of Florida. As defined by NOAA, barrier islands “…are a constantly changing deposit of sand that forms parallel to the coast.” These small formations protect the mainland coastal areas by reducing the high winds of tropical storms and hurricanes.

Sea islands differ from barrier islands in that they are set closer to the mainland, alongside creeks or inland rivers, and they are more stable. They also protect the coastline by absorbing some of the energy of tropical storms.

Let’s take a look at a few barrier islands along the Lowcountry coast that would make a great day or weekend trip. Some are undeveloped, their natural beauty and abundant wildlife the main attraction.

Edisto Island is about a 90-minute drive from Bluffton and Hilton Head. Although

there are condos, oceanfront homes, stores and dining options, Edisto is most notable for fishing, crabbing and the beautiful shoreline. Vacation rentals are available, but if just a day trip, get there early and park at one of the easy access areas to the beach. Edisto Beach State Park has a campground at each of their two locations: Beachfront or in the woods (near the beach). Botany Bay is a must see while on Edisto Island. The history is fascinating and on the 6.5-mile driving tour, you will see remains of two plantations from the 1840s that grew “Sea Island” cotton. Then, park and walk the ½-mile path to “boneyard beach,” named for the strange-looking trees in the surf. They are testament to the ever-changing island shoreline and water erosion over the years. This is a photographer’s dream, especially at sunset.

St. Phillips Island is a tiny, undeveloped barrier island with only two structures, three if you count the boat dock. The largest structure is the former vacation home of Ted Turner, the entrepre-

neur and media mogul. There is also a caretaker’s cottage. The property was purchased by the state of South Carolina in 2017 and is maintained by the S.C. Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism. Tours can be booked through Coastal Expeditions. The spacious home is available to rent and accommodates 10 people.

If you are seeking a quiet, totally private getaway (except for the wildlife, of course), this may be the one for you. For details, go to the South Carolina State Parks’ website.

ISLANDS CONT. ON PAGE 23A

FROM PAGE 22A

Hunting Island is a 5,000-acre semitropical barrier island. Just 15 miles east of Beaufort, it includes a large state park that is consistently ranked as #1 in South Carolina.

The park’s campsites accommodate tent camping and recreational vehicles and is just a short walk from the beach. Hunting Island State Park is an excellent choice for beach camping any time of the year and includes a historic lighthouse with amazing views of the ocean and surrounding maritime forest. Also, from December through February, you can ride horses on the beach.

More barrier islands to check out include Kiawah, Seabrook, Harbor and

Daufuskie, each with its own style, history and fun activities.

HOW TO GET THERE: Coastal Expeditions is a great resource for exploring all the barrier islands. Check their website for scheduling and pricing (www.coastalespeditions.com). They offer fishing charters and dolphin cruises. There is water taxi service from Bluffton to Daufuskie Island. It’s about a 30-minute ride through the beautiful tidal creeks.

Barrier Island hopping is year-round in in the Lowcountry, so make your plans and go explore. Stay safe out there!

Free Daily Lunches for Kids and Teens, Summer Reading and Fun Events

BY ANNE FELDMAN Contributor

With school out for summer, there’s always a place for young kids and teens to go for a free daily lunch, thanks to all of our Beaufort County Libraries. Just another reason we love our libraries!

Through a partnership with the Beaufort County School District, the Beaufort County Library is once again able to offer free lunches weekly (Monday-Friday) at all library locations this summer, now through Wednesday, July 31. The federal program is distributed through state level and local schools through local organizations including the library. No pre-registration or library card is needed, yet highly encouraged so you can take part in the libraries’ summer reading programs. All Beaufort County residents ages 0-18 can receive a free daily lunch at the following library locations:

Bluffton Branch Library

11:00am – 12:00pm Hilton Head Branch Library 10:00am – 11:30am St. Helena Branch Library 11:00am – 11:30am *Washington Park (Beaufort) 11:00am – 12:00pm Lobeco Branch Library | 12:30pm – 1:30pm

This free lunch program runs in tandem with the 2024 Summer Reading Program, offering children and teens an opportunity to read, participate in fun activities and earn prizes along the way.

“Summertime for libraries is like Christmas for retail,” said Kitti McKean, Bluffton Library Manager. Adventure begins at your library, with programs through July 31. Busy, fun and wonderful, they’re very popular and well-attend-

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The Rich History Behind the Church Bells of Bluffton, Part 3

BY MICHAEL REYNOLDS Contributors

We continue our series of articles about Bluffton area churches and the historic church bells in them. This month we will discuss the St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church near Pritchardville and the First Zion Missionary Baptist Church in old town Bluffton, both of which hold historic church bells.

ST. MATTHEW MISSIONARY

BAPTIST CHURCH:

The St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church (referred to as the St. Matthew church hereafter) is not in old town but is just beyond Pritchardville. However, it is very historic to the Bluffton area, and de-

spite being a good distance from any nearby homes where a ringing bell could be heard, it does have a historic bell in its belfry.

According to church records, the St. Matthew Church was organized in 1854 with members who had previously worshiped as enslaved church attendees of the Maye River Baptist Church that was nearby. Directly across the road from the Maye River Baptist Church, mostly forgotten in the woods, is an African American cemetery of early St. Matthew Church members. In viewing the property plats for this cemetery, it appears possible that the cemetery property may have been a church site at one time. We are still researching this, and it’s not clear where services were held for the St. Matthew Church from 1854 until it relocated to its current site around 1878. Many early churches just met under large oak trees or even in barns, and that may have been the case.

Deed research on the current church property reveals that it was purchased by Cyrus Garvin from Dr. Paul Pritchard on February 5, 1878, for $10 with intentions for the land to be used to build a church. You might know the name Cyrus Garvin, as he once owned the land where the Bluffton Oyster Factory is located, and he built the renovated historic cabin that sits on the bluff there today. Mr. Garvin was a deacon and trustee for the St. Matthew Church and in November 1878 he sold the land to the church for $1. A condition for the initial sale of the land was that no cemetery ever be created on the property. It is not clear why Dr. Pritchard did not want a cemetery at the church.

I contacted the church pastor who told me he had never heard a bell ring at the church during the 14 years he had been pastor nor for the many years his father was the pastor before him, so he assumed there was no bell. I was skeptical that a bell existed, because no houses are near-

by, and since the purpose of a church bell is to call people to service, that would have been moot since no one would hear it ring. Still, I was interested to know one way or another. The pastor spoke with one of the oldest church members who remembers as a young child hearing a bell ring. With that new insight, I was invited to come to the church and climb into the attic and belfry to take a look. It was no easy task, but I managed to climb through the attic and then climb into the belfry. Sure-enough, there is a bell in the St. Matthew Church. The rope for the bell was laying in the attic and did not penetrate through the ceiling allowing for the bell to be rung, or even for anyone to know a bell existed. Over the years it had simply been forgotten. I rang the bell and heard the pastor and a deacon in the church sanctuary below exclaim with joy to hear the sound of the bell that had not been

BELLS CONT. ON PAGE 25A

Michael Reynolds

BELLS

FROM PAGE 24A

rung in about 70 years. It turns out that some remodeling work was done on the church in the 1950s, and apparently, the construction sealed off the rope, so no one today knew a bell was there.

The 15-inch steel bell was manufactured by the Ross Mehan Foundry in Chattanooga, Tennessee. That foundry opened in 1889 initially making railroad cars. Based on my research, I suspect the bell was manufactured around 1921, but it could have been a few years later. The foundry closed in 1986, and the old foundry building today is Chattanooga’s oldest building still-standing and houses a brewery and restaurant.

While doing research for this article, I found a December 29, 1883, article in the Savannah Morning News that says a St. Matthew Church member, Annie Gordon, then 111 years old, walked four miles each way to attend church on Sundays. This church obviously meant a great deal to its members, which now celebrates its 170year anniversary. A true contribution to real Bluffton history.

FIRST ZION MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH:

The First Zion Missionary Baptist Church (referred to as the First Zion Church hereafter) was organized in 1862 by nine men who were led by Savannah reverend Abraham Merchison, who was himself a freed slave. The nine men were Union army soldiers stationed on Hilton Head where the Union army had taken control of the entire island and freed the enslaved people a few years before President Lincoln did so with the Emancipation Proclamation. At the time the church was named the First African Baptist Church. The church name was changed at least by the late 1930s to the First Zion Missionary Baptist Church. A church building was constructed around 1862 and served its members until about 1959 when it was replaced with the current First Zion Church building. Although many current church members remember the former church building, there are no known photos of it. It is said to have been a very beautiful two-sto-

ST. MATTHEW MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

BELLS

FROM PAGE 25A

ry church that provided a place of peace and comfort for generations of Bluffton residents. The First Zion Church created Bluffton’s first day care in 1962.

The original church had a bell in its belfry that was rung for locals to hear. When that church building was torn down, a new church was initially built with a belfry for the bell. Life-long church member Oliver Brown remembers there was a rope hanging from the ceiling in the back of the church that church member Clarence Orage used to ring the bell on Sunday mornings. The church was later remodeled, and the bell and belfry were removed. For many years the old bell was tucked away out of sight inside the church

The bell was later installed in an outdoor structure that was built in the front yard of the church-bychurch member Kenneth Frazier in the early 2000s. The bell remains

there today and is easily seen by church members and visitors. It is a beautiful 16-inch bronze bell, but it has no identifying information embossed on the bell or on its yoke. Without such information I am not able to establish where the bell was made or an approximate manufacturing period.

Next month we will explore the last three of Bluffton area churches and their bells. Some of our local church bells have amazing stories to tell and history to reveal that is all so amazing and needs to be discovered and told. Stay tuned.

Michael Reynolds has called Bluffton home for nearly 60 years. His family has lived in Beaufort County since the 1690s, over 330 years, and in the immediate Bluffton area since at least 1894 making him a real local. He is the founder of the “BLUFFTON HISTORY” Facebook page and can be contacted via email with history story suggestions or comments at blufftonsc@yahoo.com.

FIRST ZION MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

LEGAL

Don’t Let Death Get the Best of You

BY LISA HOSTETLER BROWN Contributor

“From my cold, dead hands” is how many people view their financial assets. When planning for the inevitable, it is important to consider how your assets will pass when you do. An unsophisticated estate plan or…GASP… estate planning documents your sister-inlaw printed off the internet may leave your hard-earned cash in the wrong hands.

Easy ways to mess it all up:

• Leaving money or property to minor children. If you pass away while your kids are under 18, assets should go into a trust for their benefit. This will keep your irresponsible ex from getting appointed to manage the money until they turn 18. Putting the money in a trust will also protect the kids from themselves. What is 18-year-old Johnny going to spend $50,000 on? How much will he put away for a rainy day? A minor trust can include provisions that allow for needed distributions now but keep the money safe until Johnny is old enough to know better.

• Not funding your estate plan. I see it all the time. Clients come in with their fancy estate plans leaving everything to their three children. Love and share alike. After we chat a bit, I learn that they have added financially responsible Haley to all of their bank accounts. Do they think Haley will get her one-third share? Yes. Is that what will happen? No. Haley will likely get all the money in those joint bank accounts AND one-third of everything else. Who is the favorite child now?

• Thinking that your family will start getting along if something hap-

pens to you. Classic amnesia. You forget about last Thanksgiving’s stand off and anticipate the family will sing “Kumbaya” at your bedside. The surest way to diminish the chances of fighting and lawsuits is to leave specific instructions for your family. This is done by executing documents that relate to your health and finances during your lifetime and your estate at death. You can prevent them from fighting over daddy’s pistol by making sure it goes where it needs to. Now is also the time to express your wishes about being hooked up to a ventilator, or what happens if you are permanently unconscious. Now is the time to plan ahead. Estate planning is best served proactively. I can help you later, but it will be harder, longer and more expensive. Don’t be fooled into thinking this is “old people stuff.” Now is the time to establish a solid foundation. Now is the time to put all your wishes down on paper. Now is the time to plan for your family. 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. 10 Pinckney Colony Rd, Ste 400, Bluffton, SC 29909 | 843-757-5294 | HiltonHeadElderLaw.com

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The StoneWorks team is always working to improve your remodeling experience, which is why we’re making it easier than ever to get the the new countertops of your dreams. If you’re a local Realtor ® , we encourage you to give us a call to and learn more about our Realtor ® referral program so you can start offering discounts to your clients.

If you’re in the market to buy or sell a house, make sure you ask your Realtor ® about the StoneWorks discount program. Plus, we’re happy to offer easy online scheduling, and a FREE estimate!

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Swing Well Into To Achieve

Health. The Future

Did you know?PRIMARY CARE

A good relationship with your primary care provider could extend your life up to 14 years.

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HEALTH

Why do so Many People Dislike the Dentist?

BY ROBYN MAY, DMD Contributor

One of the main reasons I became a dentist was the lifechanging care I received from my childhood dentist. I want to share that positive experience with my patients, but I fully understand that for some, visiting the dentist can feel uncomfortable and even scary. I love changing my patient’s perspectives from what can be a vulnerable experience to something that is actually enjoyable.

If you dread your next visit to the dentist, you’re not alone. As important as regular dental visits are for oral health, a report by the Journal of Dental Hygiene found that between 50% and 80% of American adults have mild to severe dental phobia. Let’s take a closer look at why so many people stay away and how to avoid these worries.

FEAR OF PAIN

Arguably the most common dental fear is that it will hurt. For many, fear of pain stems from a bad dental experience early in life. The good news is that modern dental practices have improved greatly and continue to do so. If you had a bad experience, chances are your dentist at that time used very different methods than what today’s dentists employ.

Dental anesthetics are highly effective. In fact, most dentists can fill cavities without you feeling a thing. Choose a dentist who understands common fears and will go the extra mile to make sure you’re comfortable.

ANXIETY ABOUT WHAT THE DENTIST MIGHT FIND

If you’ve been avoiding going to the dentist because you’re afraid you might or know you have cavities, that is both

common and completely understandable.

If you’re concerned that your oral health isn’t as good as you’d like it to be, you probably don’t want anyone to know about it. It is tempting to ignore dental problems for as long as possible, but the longer you wait, the more serious the issue is likely to become. But there’s absolutely no shame in needing dental care. It’s important to remember that dentists are on your side. We want to help, and a good dentist will never make you feel judged about your oral health.

THE FEELING OF NOT BEING IN CONTROL

It’s not always fun to be stuck in a chair, wondering what’s really going on, while someone is poking around inside your mouth. It can be invasive, and you might feel a lack of control that can lead to anxiety.

The best antidote is going to a kind, considerate dentist that understands how stressful an experience it can be. I always let my patients know what I’m about to do and walk them through the procedure as we go, so you won’t feel like the situation is totally out of your control.

NOT HAVING THE TIME

We live busy lives, so it’s understandable if you feel like you just don’t have the time to visit the dentist. Unfortunately, your teeth don’t care how busy you are. The best way to prevent cavities and tooth decay, which can lead to many more dental visits in the future, is to go to your routine teeth cleanings. Dental visits are surprisingly quick. You can be in and out in 30 minutes. Even getting a cavity filled seldom takes more than an hour. Anyone can spare that much time for the benefit of their oral health.

DISLIKING THE ENVIRONMENT

Some people shy away from going to the

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LUNCHES

ed.

FROM PAGE 23A

the Bluffton Library.

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A massage incorporating cold stones designed to alleviate the discomforts associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, mood swings, and muscle tension and restore balance.

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WHISPER CREEK

Our Beaufort County libraries have fun events and activities scheduled Monday-Saturday for all ages. From story times for the young set to “Adventure through Art History” for ages 12+ on July 9, a “Culinary Adventure with Popular South Carolina Recipes, with Leslie Rohland” on Monday, July 8 (you may know her from popular eateries The Cottage and Juice Hive). Or “Hop on the “Story Ship” with performer/educator Sean Discroll for an immersive adventure on Wednesday, July 10. He’ll also make the rounds to other branches, and do some sleuthing at “Teen Murder Mystery” (registration required) on Friday, July 13 at

DENTIST

FROM PAGE 31A

dentist because they just don’t like the vibe. Some dentists’ offices can feel cold and sterile, and the situation isn’t helped by fluorescent lighting, elevator music and that antiseptic “dentist office smell.”

Other fun events include “Teen Dungeons & Dragons” on Mondays in Beaufort and “Movie Mondays” at the St. Helena branch and Lobeco branch.

On Hilton Head, there’s “Tweens & Teens Art + Science with Sharpies” on Monday, July 8 for ages 10+, “Explore Our National Parks-Yosemite” on Monday, July 1 and more.

Check out the full calendar of events at https://www.beaufortcountylibrary.org/ calendar. To learn more about the Summer Reading Program and other BCL programs/events, visit https://www. beaufortcountylibrary.org/summer.

It’s true that dentists’ offices aren’t renowned for their ambiance. But not all dentists’ offices are the same. Many dentists go the extra mile to make their spaces feel warm and inviting, with welcoming decor and comfortable waiting areas.

So, if you are afraid, anxious, don’t think you have time or just don’t enjoy the atmosphere, talk to your local friends and family about who they see for their dental healthcare. There are so many fantastic dental professionals in our area that strive to make you feel safe and at ease, even when performing a dental procedure.

Robyn May, DMD is a dentist at ROC Dental Group in Bluffton.

Physical Activity with Neuropathy

BY DR. KENNETH HORUP Contributor

Patients I see for neuropathy often ask me, “If I exercise, will it help?” The short answer is yes; physical exercise is fantastic for the body. Though exercise will not reverse severe neuropathy, it often plays a crucial role in improving quality of life. This article will dive into the benefits of physical and strengthening exercises.

It is common knowledge that physical activity is great for the human body. For neuropathy patients, there are four key benefits to physical exercise. First, it may assist in pain reduction. Exercise releases endorphins, the body’s natural pain killers. The increase in endorphins may help reduce neuropathic pain. Secondly, it will improve circulation through temporarily

enhancing blood flow. Increased circulation promotes nerve health. Patients with neuropathy have damaged nerves, and the healthier the nerve, the better. Third, physical exercise improves muscle strength which may help compensate for the muscle weakness some experience. Greater muscle strength may allow for improved mobility. Last, but certainly not least, exercises that focus on balance and coordination may help prevent falls and injuries. A lack of balance is the last symptom to arise from neuropathy, and it is one of the most dangerous. As I have mentioned in past articles, falls and imbalance are symptoms to take seriously. Falls are the number one cause of injury related death over age 65, and the loss of balance results in a loss of independence. I encourage you to improve your balance any way you can.

Safe exercises for patients include low-impact aerobics. A few examples are walking, swimming, water-aerobics and cycling. They provide cardiovascular benefits without putting increased stress on

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the joints. Strength training with light weight or resistance band exercises can help build muscle strength as well. Yoga, Barre and Pilates classes provide a combination of balance, low-impact aerobics, strength training, and stretching. Stretching can help maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness, which can be particularly beneficial for those experiencing muscle tightness.

Physical activity is a powerful tool in managing neuropathy. By incorporating regular, appropriate exercise into your

routine, you may temporarily alleviate symptoms, improve mobility, and enhance your overall quality of life. Always consult with a trusted healthcare provider before starting a new exercise program to ensure it is safe and suitable for your specific condition. With the right approach, you can take an active role in your neuropathy, and enjoy a healthier, more active life.

Dr. Kenneth Horup, DC is a Chiropractic Physician at Discover Specific Chiropractic

Dr. Ken Horup

Don’t Let the Sun Ruin Your Fourth of July Fun

BY DR. RACHEL C. FALKNER Contributor

WHY SUN PROTECTION MATTERS

The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate our nation’s independence and enjoy the summer weather. But it is also a time to be extra careful about sun exposure, which can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, affecting one in five Americans in their lifetime. The good news is that most skin cancers can be prevented with proper sun protection. And who doesn’t want to have healthy and beautiful skin?

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR SKIN

• Avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are stron-

gest. Seek shade or cover up with a widebrimmed hat, sunglasses and protective clothing when outdoors. You can still have fun in the sun, just be smart about it.

• Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. One of the best options is Elta MD sunscreen, which is recommended by dermatologists for its gentle and effective formula. Elta MD sunscreen is available in different types and tints to suit your skin needs and preferences. Whether you have oily, dry, or sensitive skin, there is an Elta MD sunscreen for you.

• Avoid indoor tanning, which increases your risk of skin cancer and premature aging. There is no such thing as a safe tan. If you want a sun-kissed look, opt for a self-tanning product or a spray tan instead. You can also add some bronzer or blush to your makeup routine for a natural glow.

Whether you’re recovering from an injury, dealing with a chronic condition, or simply looking for a comfortable and convenient chair, Zecliner® is the ideal choice that provides you with the support and assistance you need.

• Protect your lips from sun damage with a lip balm that contains SPF. Your lips are very sensitive and prone to dryness and cracking. A lip balm with SPF can help moisturize and shield your lips from the sun. You can also use a lip gloss or lipstick that has SPF for added color

and shine. Don’t forget to smile and show off your lovely lips.

• Consider taking a supplement that can help boost your skin’s natural defense against sun damage. One of the most popular supplements is Heliocare, which contains a powerful antioxidant derived from a tropical fern. Heliocare can help reduce the effects of sun exposure, such as inflammation, redness and aging. However, Heliocare is not a substitute for sunscreen, and you should always consult your doctor before taking any supplements. Think of Heliocare as an extra layer of protection for your skin.

If you have any questions or concerns about your skin health, or if you would like to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist, please visit our website at PinnacleDermatologyMD.com. We wish you a happy and safe Fourth of July.

Rachel C. Falkner, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Pinnacle Dermatology.

Rachel Falkner

BY JUSTIN JARRETT Contributor

Hilton Head Baseball, Bluffton Softball Dominate District

The baseball all-stars from Hilton Head Island and the softball stars from Bluffton were the big winners in this month’s Diamond Youth baseball and softball district tournaments. Three Hilton Head baseball teams are headed to the state tournament along with the 6-and-under Rookie League all-stars from Bluffton, which is sending four softball squads to state.

Hilton Head hosted both the 8-and-under coach pitch and 10-and-under Minors tournaments at The Crossings Park, and both host teams breezed to the titles. In the 8u coach pitch tournament, Hilton Head outscored its four opponents 40-6, wrapping up the title with back-to-back shutouts. The island’s 10u all-stars were even more dominant, racking up 56 runs in three wins — all shutouts.

The 12u O-Zone all-stars from Hilton

Head also went undefeated in district play, winning their three games with a 37-3 run differential, including a 13-2 win over Bluffton in the championship.

The Diamond Youth Softball district tournaments all followed a similar script, and the theme was a budding rivalry between Beaufort and Bluffton for Lowcountry bragging rights.

Bluffton was on the better end of things, winning the 8-and-under, 10-and-under, and 12-and-under district titles.

In the 8u coach pitch division, Bluffton’s bats were ablaze, posting 47 runs in three wins, and the 10u lineup was nearly as prolific with 31 runs in three victories.

The finale of the series of district showdowns came in the best-of-three series for the 12u title.

After Beaufort struck back for a hardfought 4-3 win following a 5-1 loss to open

the best-of-three series, Bluffton pulled away for a 9-3 victory in the decisive game. Emma Wall was the winning pitcher in both of Bluffton’s win, striking out 13 in the opener and racking up nine strikeouts in the clincher with some help from her defense to work out of jams and limit the damage against a pesky Beaufort lineup.

The teams traded punches early in the finale, but Bluffton took a 4-3 lead in the third and broke it open with five runs in the fourth before Wall closed the door. There’s a chance for one more head-tohead clash when both towns send teams to the 6-and-under Rookie League state tournament starting Saturday in Loris.

15U ALL-STARS HEADED TO STATE

The 13-and-under and 14-and-under Beaufort County all-stars get to bypass their state tournaments and exercise host

bids into the Diamond Boys Baseball World Series at Burton Wells Complex from July 26-31, but the 15-and-under squad will have to win a state title to punch its ticket to the World Series in Sterlington, La.

Beaufort County is one of four teams in the state tournament bracket this weekend in North Charleston, where three straight wins will earn a state title. Beaufort County opens against Mohawk at 5 p.m. Friday with a matchup against either Fort Mill or North Charleston on Saturday.

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.

ESTATE Navigating the Appraisal Process in Real Estate Transactions

BY CHIP COLLINS Contributor

In the desirable Lowcountry of South Carolina, the real estate market is experiencing a shift back to normalcy after the pandemic-induced frenzy of cash purchases. As lenders become more involved in transactions, appraisals are once again a critical aspect of home buying. Understanding appraisals, their impact on market value and the steps to take if an appraisal comes in under the contract price can be crucial for both buyers and sellers. Appraisals serve as the bank’s method of validating a property’s value, ensuring it aligns with the market. This process is essential for securing a mortgage. When a contract includes a financing contingency, the lender evaluates both the property’s value and the borrower’s ability to repay the loan. The loan decision is based on the lower of either the appraised value or the contract price.

In today’s market, appraisals are increasingly becoming a focal point in the

contract process. A typical financing period might span 30 days, during which appraisers assess the property using comparable sales data and current market trends. Their goal is to validate the agreed purchase price for the lender.

Appraisers consider the broader market conditions when evaluating a property. They analyze whether prices are appreciating, stabilizing or declining. If an appraiser perceives that the agreed purchase price is too high compared to market conditions, it can pose challenges. An appraisal lower than the contract value can trigger a series of steps and negotiations that you should strategize with your real estate agent well before the appraisal even takes place. For instance, if a property is under contract for $500,000 but appraises for $485,000, and the buyer is seeking an 80% loan-to-value mortgage, the discrepancy must be addressed. The first step involves reviewing the appraisal for accuracy. Common areas to scrutinize include the accuracy of property measurements, bed and bath counts and the inclusion of all relevant comparable sales.

If the appraisal is accurate but lower than the contract price, the parties must

Chip Collins

REAL ESTATE FROM

navigate the resulting financial gap. Buyers might need to make up the difference in cash, or they could attempt to renegotiate the sale price with the seller. Contract language can also be tailored to protect both parties. For example, including a clause that obligates the buyer to cover any shortfall in cash can prevent disputes.

Additionally, providing the appraiser with pertinent information upfront can mitigate issues. For example, if a property has had significant upgrades or if a comparable sale was influenced by unique circumstances, sharing these details can help the appraiser make a more informed evaluation.

Effective communication between agents, buyers, sellers and appraisers is key. While it’s illegal to influence an appraiser, providing factual information that could assist the appraiser is not only legal but also advisable. For instance, noting recent renovations or explaining the context of comparable sales

PAGE 36A

can aid the appraiser’s assessment. Ultimately, understanding the appraisal process and preparing for potential discrepancies can smooth the path to closing a real estate transaction. In a market where appraisals play a pivotal role, being informed and proactive can make all the difference in achieving a successful sale.

Chip Collins is the Broker-Owner of Collins Group Realty founded in 2002. Find Chip at chip@collinsgrouprealty. com or collinsgrouprealty.com

Board-Certified Physician Assistant to Join Beaufort Memorial Surgical Specialists

Beaufort Memorial Surgical Specialists added Bailey Stewart Toulson, PA-C, a board-certified physician assistant to its clinical team, enhancing surgical care for area residents.

Toulson will assist board-certified general surgeons in both the clinic and operating room where she’ll perform pre- and post-operative procedures. Additionally, she will evaluate patients pre- and post-surgery and provide consultations to emergency room and hospital patients.

A Georgia native, Toulson earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry at Georgia Southern University. She holds a Master of Science in Physician Assistant from South University and fulfilled 1,121 clinical hours during the program. Her decision to pursue a career in medicine stemmed from a lifelong passion for science, but it was undergoing hip surgery at 16 years old that prompted her aspiration to become a physician

assistant. Sensing the young Toulson’s distress over the impending surgery, Toulson’s physician assistant took the time to provide comfort and explain the procedure.

Beaufort Memorial Surgical Specialists offers a full range of surgeries, from simple, minimally invasive procedures to complex operations. Its highly experienced, board-certified surgeons are skilled in using the latest minimally invasive and robot-assisted surgical techniques. Toulson joins general surgeons Drs. Deanna Mansker, Aubrey Place, and Stephen Sisco; and physician assistants Laura Livergood Kaiser and Anna Grace Stoddard at the practice. The practice has two locations: Beaufort Medical Plaza, 989 Ribaut Road, Suite 360, Beaufort; and Beaufort Memorial Okatie Medical Pavilion, 122 Okatie Center Blvd. North, Suite 300, Okatie. To make an appointment, call (843) 524-8171.

BY MATHEW T. EPPS MD Contributor

Restoring Facial Volume Loss

The once-weekly injectable pharmaceutical Semiglutide is an FDA-approved a once-weekly injectable designed to treat Type II diabetes and off-label to treat obesity.

In March of 2021, the New England Journal of Medicine identified at 68-week follow-up that injectable Semiglutide conferred an average of 15% decrease in weight and an improvement in cardiovascular health when paired with diet and exercise.

However, the rapid weight loss among Semiglutide users is often accompanied with a facial appearance now termed “Ozempic Face.” Semiglutide depletes fat stores within the face resulting in gaunt or hollow appearance. In other words, the Hollywood elite using this drug feel that

their physique looks fantastic, but their faces looked aged.

The gaunt Ozempic face appearance can be treated using HA (Hyaluronic Acid) based dermal fillers injected in the temple, cheek and piriform sinus (the small area of shadowing beside to the nostrils) to restore the volume lost and fill sagging skin. This method of using dermal fillers in multiple areas is often referred to as a “liquid facelift.”

The goal should be to gracefully enhance with existing volume, not to overfill. Additional filler can always be layered to achieve increased fullness at any time. Moreover, dermal fillers are precise, predictable and safe.

Many patients have been very satisfied with this approach. It is important to note that most dermal fillers last between 12 and 18 months.

Other injectable products such as Sculptra stimulate volumization over a series of injections spaced months apart. Results can be good, but variable, with ef-

fects lasting 24 months on average.

For patients who have experienced significant weight loss that are weight stable and desire a more long-lasting treatment, a well-tolerated, minimally invasive outpatient procedure called Facial Fat Grafting is an excellent option.

In this procedure a patient’s own adipose cells, typically from the abdomen, are made into nano-fat particles that are then injected into the hollow appearing areas of the face. Patients can expect an improvement in the texture of the skin as

well through a theorized stem-cell like effect.

Ultimately, the way to begin the process of facial rejuvenation and the best approach for restoration of a youthful and natural appearance is first through an aesthetic consult with a plastic surgeon or an experienced aesthetic provider.

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

Dr. Mathew T. Epps

Finding Light in Song: Reflecting on “God Bless America” for Independence Day

BY RABBI KANTER Contributor

I am grateful to The Bluffton Sun for the privilege to share some thoughts with our Bluffton community. And I wouldn’t be at all surprised if you would expect an article about Jewish customs or holidays or beliefs or practices from the rabbi of Bluffton’s Temple Oseh Shalom. So, it may seem a bit unusual to select an American patriotic song as the subject of my article this month of July, the 248th

INDEPENDENCE CONT. ON PAGE 40A

of

Rabbi Kanter

INDEPENDENCE

birthday of our country.

No, it is not about the “Star Spangled Banner” or “My Country Tis of Thee,” but rather a beloved song written by a Russian Jewish immigrant for his adopted country, introduced in a famous movie by a statuesque, brown-haired woman in her silver satin Statue of Liberty-like stature, smiling, grasping a large scarf. And behind this sincere and earnest woman were rows upon rows of proud, handsome, clean cut young Americans, wearing uniforms of the several military services. Adding their voices and energy; marching, marching, marching into formation, a huge flag dropping behind them. Listening to Kate Smith and all those soldiers singing the people’s choice for our national anthem, written by that immigrant whose family somehow got to America seeking a new life, a life which they found on the streets of the Lower East Side of New York, a life made comfortable by the talent of this most patriotic American, yet Russian born Jew, Irving Berlin.

“God bless America, Land that I love,

FROM PAGE 39A

stand beside her and guide her, through the night with the light from above.” Irving Berlin meant those words when he wrote them. He wrote them to be sung by American “doughboys,” the American soldiers in the “Great War.” It was World War I and all that America stood for was being challenged by a group of large and powerful imperial nations spreading their hegemony over the natural resources, territory and people of the entire world. But before the song became known, that war was over, the hated Central Powers had been defeated. And Irving Berlin put the song away for twenty years.

But then twenty years later, Kate Smith introduced that song, and the citizens of our country sang it proudly. For the world outside America was at war again, fighting a hated, demonic enemy who believed that he could march into any country he desired to gain “lebensraum,” living space. Every place and every person was threatened by the mad desires and hateful vision of this despotic dictator.

“God, Bless America, land that I love.

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Stand beside her and guide her.” We believe those words. God needs to bless our country, her citizens, her leaders, her military, her rich and her poor, her black and her white, her rural and her urban, her Christians, Jews, Muslims, her citizens of every faith. In Hebrew the word “to bless” is “L’varech.” It not only means “bless,” it means “sanctify,” that we should make our lives, our actions, our food, our worship, our day-to-day activities more holy and sacred.

This beloved song continues: “Stand beside her and guide her, through the night with a light from above.” While we ask God to guide our nation, we must also make our feelings and opinions known; to be the guides, as the song says, of our public elected officials. At this Independence Day season, what does that heavenly light illumine? We see a country deeply split, without consensus on what is best for our nation, its citizens or its role in the world, and we see a national leadership just as divided, yet just as adamant in its unwavering unwillingness to open its eyes to the diversity of opinions among the citizens who elected it. We see an America frightened by events around the

world, political divisiveness, war and hunger, anti-Semitism and racism, extremism and hate.

Yet there is another part of that song, less known, perhaps but equally important:

“While the storm clouds gather, far across the sea, let us swear allegiance to a land that’s free. Let us all be grateful for a land so fair, as we raise our voices in a solemn prayer”

Dear God, as we commemorate the anniversary of the birth of our nation, bless America, this land that we love, stand beside all of us, guide our president, our leaders, our citizens, through this nightlike doubt and fear, with Your insight and wisdom like the light from above. From every corner of our land, the mountains of the Rockies and the Appalachians, the Low Country of America’s southland and the prairies of the American heartland, and the ocean beaches from Oahu to the Keys, Bless us, o God, every person, in every family, in every home. Amen. Rabbi Kanter currently serves the local Jewish congregation at the Temple Oseh Shalom in Bluffton, SC.

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BY REV. THERESE DONLAN LEE Contributor

Truth is eternal and everlasting. For this minister it means, God Is. Period. End of sentence. What else, what more do I or any of us need to know?

Well, we all need to know that because God Is, I Am! Because God is, You Are! Because God is, We Are! God Is always and in all ways. This knowing (deeper than just believing) makes everything well with my soul. Please join me in saying, “Amen.”

And now, breathe, and exhale. My dream come true as a Minister would be that everyone, everywhere has a relationship with the God of their own understanding. We experience this each time we

“God Knows”

go within. As each of us knows the true nature of God, we know the true nature of prayer. For me this means recognizing, in the depths of my being, “God’s got this. It is done.”

As a Unity Truth student for more than 35 years, I have come to know, through my own prayer-filled experiences, it really is this simple. I let go and I let God. I get myself (my control gift and my ego) out of the way. I remember that God knows. I allow God to be God. In Unity we pray affirmative prayers, the way Jesus did – seeing it is as so and knowing it is done. And we get to remember it is in God’s time, not our time. We all get to let go our old ways of trying to influence, convince or advise God. Keep breathing. As we get ourselves settled into our heart space and pray from our knowing, we are able to hear that still, small voice within (that which I call God) allowing ourselves to be enlightened, informed and fortified. I wonder, would it

be ok to be more open-minded? More aware? More strength-filled? Would it be ok to create the space for a closer walk with God? You might be saying, “Yes, and how do I do this?” You and I get to engage our listening ear and turn off our working mind. We get to consciously move from our head to our heart remembering

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we are human beings not human doings. The Twenty-Third Psalm is a wondrous example of affirmative prayer, wherein David doesn’t ask God for anything, not one single thing, not even once. He says, “The Lord Is my Shepard, I shall not want. He leads me beside still waters. He makes me lie down in green pastures.” David isn’t telling God or begging God nor working to get something from God. Instead, David recognizes the Omnipresence, the Omnipotence, and the Omniscience God -- acknowledging God as everywhere present, all-powerful, all knowing. You and I get to be like David -- praying affirmative prayers knowing God is that which resides within each of us, therefore I Am and You Are.

Many Blessings.

Rev. Therese Donlan Lee is the senior minister of Unity Spiritual Center on Hilton Head Island. revthereseunityhiltonhead@gmail.com

Reverend Shannon Bullion Anna Marie Kuether Director of Music & Worship Arts

Therese Donlan Lee

Good Golf is Knowing About Cause and Effect

BY DR. JEAN HARRIS Contributor

So many beginners have difficulty understanding the game of golf because it doesn’t make sense to them. However, if they learn the laws of physics, their golf game will improve. Golf is a game of opposites and understanding “cause and effect.” In order to hit a shot straight, you must aim correctly and have a square clubface at impact and an inside-out swing path (red) to the target.

Some of the opposites in golf include:

• Swing easy to hit it hard.

• Aim to the right to make the ball turn to the left.

• Aim to the left to make the ball turn to the right.

• Hit down on the ball to make it go up.

The typical beginner’s mistake is the slice. There are two basic reasons for the ball to slice.

The clubface is “open” to the target line

at impact. The direction the clubhead’s path is moving at impact is “outside-in” (green above) relative to the target.

Most beginners put the wrong “BandAid” on their swing problems because they find it difficult to understand that the same swing path can case the ball to go in opposite directions if the clubface is open or closed.

For example: The longer the club is the more difficult to square up the clubface at impact. That is why the same person will pull their short irons and slice their long

irons, hybrids and woods.

A pull is an outside-in path with a closed clubface, which is easier to achieve with a short club. A slice is also an outside-in path with an open clubface, usually done with your longer clubs.

Try to learn how to hit the shot opposite of your normal miss. If you learn how to hit the opposite shot, you will start hitting the ball straighter (slicers need to learn how to hook the ball).

How to hook/draw the ball for a right- handed golfer:

• Aim your body and clubface to the right.

• Move your ball position back in your stance.

• Rotate your hands on the grip slightly to the right (stronger grip).

• This will help you with an “inside-out” swing path.

How to slice/fade the ball for a right-handed golfer:

• Aim your body and clubface to the left.

• Move your ball position forward in your stance.

• Rotate your hands on the grip slightly to the left (weaker grip).

• This will help you with and “outside-in” swing path.

If you have difficulty making these swing corrections, I recommend that you see a qualified golf professional.

Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional at Pinecrest Golf Club. Jean.golfdoctor.harris@gmail.com

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BY COLLINS DOUGHTIE Contributor

I was sitting down near the May River the other afternoon just staring at the water and enjoying the late afternoon sea breeze, and out of nowhere, I had an epiphany. I think I know what prompted this mind flash because all day long my back had been giving me fits, and I was experiencing a mixture of feeling sorry for myself, and at the same time, I was mad and frustrated because my back problems were robbing me of the ability to do many of the things that I love the most.

I know I am not the only person around that has been the victim of a life-changing event, but dealing with the consequences of such an event is a real roller-coaster ride. For those that read my column, I often talk about my back, but maybe you don’t know what happened to me. I was driving along with a blue bird on my shoulder, life was good and in the time it took a gentleman to run a stop sign, t-bone me and roll my car down the highway, my life changed completely. I went from being a runaway freight train to the Little Train That Could chanting “I think I can, I think I can” as I tried to do the simplest tasks. Before this, I had always found a way to bounce back from traumas, but after about the third or fourth operation, I knew for a fact that things were never going to be the same. For someone like me, that is one hard pill to swallow.

The grand plan for my life went back to the day my second child, Logan, was born. I decided that just as soon as Logan gradu-

NATURE’S WAY

The Very Best Medicine

ated from college, I was going to bag thirty stressful years of advertising and design and spend the rest of my life doing what I like best, fishing. Unfortunately, that twoton curve ball knocked my dream right out of the ballpark.

If you read my ramblings with any regularity, I can only imagine what you are thinking. No doubt it goes something like this; “man oh man, this guy has the life! He gets to fish all day, every day and what about all the things he gets to do and see! What a lucky stiff.” The fact is I don’t fish every day. For every one day that I fish, I spend about two to three days recuperating. Even on a day when the winds are calm and the sea is as flat as a pancake, I pay dearly for my hours on the water. I guess the big question has to be “is it worth it?”

The answer to that question usually

strikes me just about the time my doctor shoves a foot long needle down my spinal column. At that particular moment I would probably say, or rather scream, “No!” But once the meds kick in and my back begins to relax a bit, I think back to the highlights of my excursion, and a smile rises up out of the pain. It may have been the time that right whale that came up next to the boat with a dinner plate size eye that looked straight through to my soul. Or the massive manta ray I hooked by accident, a good twenty feet wing tip to wing tip, that stole my pain and replaced it with awe. These are the sights and experiences that make it all worthwhile.

My pain never goes away. It is there every moment of the day and night with the only unknown being what degree of pain will I wake up to on any given day. That’s the part that really throws a mon-

key wrench into the works. Take this scenario for instance. I had been preparing for weeks for a trip offshore only to wake that particular morning to pain that bordered on being indescribable. It’s days like that when I have to suck it up, put on my back brace and play pretend so my fishing buddies think I’m 100% and raring to go. Luckily, most of these buddies are understanding and excuse me from doing chores like net throwing and anchor pulling. Now here’s a fact about me that I’ll bet you would never guess. I haven’t reeled in a big fish in years. That’s right. If I hook a big fish, I hand the rod off to the person standing closest to me. I call it adapting. Ironically, as you sit and read this, I was in the Gulf Stream for nearly 14 straight hours, and like I said, I am currently paying for every minute spent in that beautiful blue world. Even as I write, I am sitting on a pillow and when done I plan on diving into an ice bath. Talk about a wake-up call, holy camole.

For me it is my back. For others it is simply old age or some physical ailment that puts the skids on one’s passions. And there lies the epiphany that I experienced as I sat beside the river. Everyone at some time in his or her life is going to be dealt a bad hand. Unfortunately, mine is permanent, so I have to learn from it, adapt and accept it for what it is. It can be extremely depressing, but after fighting that depression for years, I have come to the conclusion that nature, and for me the wide-open ocean, is in my case the very best medicine.

Catching a brilliant mahi mahi in cobalt blue water is by far my best medicine.

HEALTH

Hair Loss in Men and Women

BY OSWALD LIGHTSEY MIKELL, MD Contributor

Everyone loses hair. It is normal to lose about 50-100 hairs every day, but if you see bald patches or lots of thinning, you may be experiencing abnormal hair loss. There are many causes of hair loss –child birth, stress, some diseases and medical treatments, but the most common cause of hair loss is hereditary. Treatment for hair loss helps many people feel better. Hair loss, especially in women, can cause low self-esteem. Many women feel unattractive and embarrassed. Your dermatologist can offer solutions to help you feel and look your best.

Q: Are there different types of hair loss?

A: Yes, there are several different types, but most cases fall under the following two:

Androgenic Alopecia

Also called male pattern baldness, is a genetic condition that causes hair loss in both men and women, though men are more likely to have it. In men, this is characterized by the loss of hair above the temples and around the crown of the head, while women typically experience overall thinning of the hair.

Alopecia Areata

This occurs when your immune system attacks your hair follicles in certain areas, which causes patchy hair loss. This can occur in both males and females of all ages, including children. Normally in this case, the hair grows back. If large areas

of hair are lost, regrowth does not always occur.

Q: How is hair loss treated?

A: It all depends on the type of alopecia. If you’re experiencing pattern baldness there are several treatment options:

•Over-the-counter topical medications can prevent further hair loss

•Finasteride, an oral medication that inter rupts the hormone responsible for hair loss

While these two medications are effec-

tive in slowing the progression of hair loss, neither can always help you regain the hair you’ve lost. The only way to do that is to undergo a hair transplant.

Q: How does a hair transplant work?

A: There are various methods which involve taking hair from the healthy areas of your head, usually around the back, and transplanting it into the areas you need it most.

Most causes of hair loss can be stopped or treated. If you want to further investigate ways to manage, or even reverse, your hair loss, call Dermatology Associates of the Lowcountry, (843) 689-5259 on Hilton Head Island or 843-705-0840 in Bluffton/Okatie. Our experienced staff will be able to provide proper treatment.

Dr. Oswald Lightsey Mikell, certified by the American Board of Dermatology and the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, is the owner of Dermatology Associates of the Lowcountry.

Oswald Mikell

How to Beat the Odds and Have a Thriving Business

BY JOSEPH GANCIO Contributor

In a day and age where customers can share their opinions of your business in a few quick taps of their fingers or a click of a button and share it with millions of eager eyes, who are so quick to agree or disagree, it’s no wonder approximately 20% of all new businesses fail within the first two years of opening. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), even if you survive the first two years, 45% of new businesses fail during the first five years and 65% during the first 10 years.

While those statistics are staggering, there’s something to be said about the kind of person it takes to have the drive,

stamina and capital to create a business that all started with just a simple idea. The question is, how do you beat the odds?

Research your specific market area. Whether you’re in New Jersey or South Carolina, you have to research and analyze the market specific to your area. For example, say you’ve always dreamed of opening a real estate agency, and you finally either raised enough capital or saved the money to do so, but your aspiration to open the agency blinds you to the fact that the economy is in a downward trending housing market and the area where you want to service is already chock-full of agencies, making it very difficult to break in and get your foot in the door. This is an oversight that will result in failure from the start. You have to find a want or unmet need within a market and then fill it rather than try and push your particular product or service in. It’s

a lot easier to fill a need rather than create one and have to persuade people that they should spend money on it.

Take advantage of social media. The good, the bad and the ugly. Nowadays, your business’ location on the internet and your social media presence can be just as substantial to your business as your company’s actual physical location. With the majority of today’s society spending so much of their time on social media, if you don’t have an online presence then you might as well close your doors before you even open. According to a data report done by GWI, on average, social media accounts for 35.8% of our daily online activities, meaning that more than 1 in 3 internet minutes can be attributed to social media platforms. An online presence will let your community know that you even exist for them to give you their business, so if the need for your product or service is already there, the

visibility of your business online is the next significant step.

Take advantage of free exposure. Do your best to associate your business name with the service or product you’re providing. For example, when people think of ‘men’s haircut’ they immediately associate it with ‘Joe’s Classic Cuts’ because you’ve saturated your market’s social media with visual content of your work. Last but not least, take pride in your business.

Take pride in your business, after all, it’s an extension of you. Enjoy your customers, have witty banter, make your presence known and never stop reinventing yourself and your business. Life is too short not to absolutely love what you do.

Joseph Gancio is the owner and the Master Barber of Joe’s Classic Cuts in Bluffton and Okatie, www.joesclassiccuts.com

Joe Gancio

Planning Ahead for Cozy Winter Evenings: Transform Your Outdoor

BY RYAN CHOWANSKY Contributor

Have you noticed that once it we get into late July, stores start putting out Halloween decorations? You think, “...but it’s still so hot!” “Halloween is 4 months away!”

“Consumerism is just absurd anymore!” Then, you start thinking about almost boycotting the store, out of spite, because you just watched Fourth of July fireworks and now, all of the sudden, fall decorations are on display. That is, until you realize you still need to purchase food to survive, so you continue to provide your patronage, and just carry on with normal life as you also grab that new pumpkin shaped pillow that caught your eye. Now, those stores wouldn’t maximize on

sales if they only put Halloween decorations out in October. They are planning ahead, and this is how I segue into telling you...

“If it’s hot outside, now is the time to think about adding heat if you want a cozy and enjoyable outdoor living space for the upcoming cool weather season.”

So, pour yourself a cold iced tea, go sit out on your desperately needing to be remodeled patio, and let’s sweat out a game plan on how to create your dream outdoor living space for your home this winter.

First, let’s start with the end in mind. What are you going to do in this space? Are you just going watch some football with a TV mounted over your new gas fireplace with a couple friends while the pizza oven is heating up? Are you looking to capture the unobstructed beauty of your backyard, while living outside as much as possible? That may mean adding square footage to your existing patio, with a full kitchen, grill exhaust hood, and seating for a dinner

table for twelve. Maybe you want to have protection from the biting gnats when they’re around, but when they’re not chomping on you, you want gorgeous unscreened, unobstructed views. If so, maybe you should consider roll up screens. Is the room the right size to be heated by just the fireplace? If not, you add some electric heaters to really enjoy the full space in the cold of the winter.

Secondly, you need to think about how you’re going to get electric, plumbing, and even gas, to that space. You do not need to know how it’s going to happen, that’s what a knowledgeable contractor is for. Just keep in mind, each one of those items will need to be pulled from either inside the house, around the house, utilizing the existing supplies, or a combination of all of those methods.

Also, keep in mind, simply adding a fireplace on your porch requires the same process as building an addition on your home, potentially including architectural plans, engineering

drawings, approvals from your neighborhood review board, as well as permits from your town or county depending on where you live.

Finally, it is very important to know that this entire planning and permitting process I just described, on a custom remodel, could easily take three to four months before you even physically get the project started.

This is why we are talking about planning your dream, cool weather, outdoor space, in the thick humid heat of July. So, in a few weeks, when you see those “premature” Halloween decorations, take a page from the retailers’ playbook: think ahead, plan ahead, and maybe this winter, you’ll be the one enjoying a hot cocoa, watching holiday classics, by your new outdoor fireplace while others are sitting next to their rusty old space heater and a brown lizard, only to be wishing they had taken action in July.

Ryan Chowansky is the owner of Bluffton Builders, LLC.

Ryan Chowansky

Virtual Healthcare Isn’t Just for Humans Anymore

BY LINDSAY PERRY Contributor

As a private, non-profit, no kill animal rescue organization, Palmetto Animal League (PAL) is fiercely dedicated not only to saving animals, but also to preventing animal homelessness in the first place. In 2012, the PAL Veterinary Clinic officially opened its doors giving thousands of hardworking Lowcountry families access to quality, affordable veterinary care.

“Accessible care helps keep pets in a loving home for their lifetime, decreasing the number of animals surrendered to shelters,” says PAL President Amy Campanini.

Now, in the midst of a nationwide veterinarian shortage, PAL has gotten creative to continue offering the vet services so many in our community rely on. By introducing virtual vet visits, PAL is able to serve the pets of established clients need-

PAL vet techs Colby Smith and Hannah Terry conduct a virtual vet visit while Dr. Kirsten Cianci monitors via video .

ing routine care, minor wellness checks and rechecks. Similar to telehealth visits for humans, during virtual vet appointments, a PAL veterinarian calls in via video to monitor the visit while vet techs are hands on in the office.

“It benefits the client because unlike

true telemedicine, our virtual visits still provide the ability to conduct diagnostic testing, administer medications and give vaccines,” explains PAL Vet Clinic Manager Colby Smith.

The only difference between PAL’s virtual visits and a regular veterinary visit is that the doctor is on a screen instead of physically in the room.

“Without using our virtual vet option, we would not be able to offer enough appointments to serve the needs of our community,” says PAL Veterinarian, Dr. Kirsten Cianci.

Dr. Kris may be retired from her career as a full-time veterinarian, but her desire to help animals is as strong as ever.

“Virtual appointments give pets access to veterinary care that they might not receive otherwise, as their owners can still take advantage of PAL’s reasonably priced care even when the veterinarian isn’t in the building,” says Cianci.

Not only do PAL’s virtual vet visits provide affordable, loving care for every pet and every family, but they also come full circle to support our organization’s no kill adoption center that is a refuge for over 300 animals until they find a loving home.

“All proceeds from the PAL Vet Clinic are funneled back into PAL’s mission to provide a safe, homelike environment and medical care for abandoned, abused and neglected animals in our community,” says Smith.

Help homeless animals when you care for your pet at the Palmetto Animal League Veterinary Clinic in Okatie’s Riverwalk Business Park. For details on our services and to make an appointment, call 843-645-1727.

Lindsay Perry is the Marketing Coordinator for Palmetto Animal League. www. PalmettoAnimalLeague.org

PALMETTO ANIMAL LEAGUE

BY WENDY KUSHEL Contributor

Why Shea Butter is the Best

Shea Butter helps your skin feel smooth and moisturized as it protects it from wrinkles. What exactly is Shea Butter? One of my mom’s husbands was named Shea. Are they related? He was a nut, and Shea Butter comes from a nut, so maybe?

As it turns out, the Shea Tree grows in Africa, not Harrisburg, where that particular husband was from. The raw fruit of the Shea Tree is picked, extracted and then melted down.

You might notice that there is some shea butter in your lotion or shampoo -

that’s great! Better than none. But, unrefined shea butter is the true winner. It hasn’t gone through a refinement process to remove color, it’s natural nutty scent or the skin nourishing properties of Vita mins A, E and F.

Here’s the smooth buttery lowdown on what’s in Shea Butter -Vitamin A, E and F.

Vitamin A was the first vitamin approved by the FDA as an anti-wrinkle agent. Not the Get Smart kind of agent. This Vitamin A is proven to be an anti-wrin kler - like The Fonz - except without the R. If you don’t know who the Fonz is, skip this article. You’re too young for Shea Butter.

Vitamin E is full of antioxidants. Anti-

oxidants are the good guys, like Harrison Ford in every movie he’s ever in. The antioxidants in Vitamin E go to town on those scavenging free radicals that can affect your skin, like dry air, pollution, age or even stress.

Vitamin F isn’t even a vitamin. It’s a fat. A good fat! The kind of fat you want on your skin. It helps create a barrier on your skin to protect it from icky stuff. Vitamin F is found in many skincare products such as oils and creams because it is full of antioxidants.

Keep a jar of Shea Butter next to your chair where you watch television. Apply a bit to the top part of your hand. Then,

mush the tops of your hands together. After that, get some on your palms. Just don’t touch the clicker for five minutes. No-brainer here, my husband is a clicker hog. The shea butter eventually absorbs into your skin, and the greasy feel disappears. Shea Butter is great on the lips, the heels of your feet and those other feet next to your eyes.

To keep your Shea Butter in top condition, store in an airtight container in an area less than 75 degrees. Side note: Shea Butter contains natural latex.

Wendy Kushel is the owner of LowCountry Sugar Scrub, LLC based in Bluffton, SC. New to the Beauty & Personal Care Industry, Wendy’s 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.

Wendy Kushel

BY AVA ELIZABETH RIOS Contributor

I still remember the first time I volunteered for the Hilton Head Audubon. My brothers, Thaddaeus and Nathanael, both high schoolers at the time, had just gotten back from a workday at the Newhall Preserve. Like any little sister, I was curious to know what they had been doing for the last four hours. “Well, we set up a tent, spread some asphalt, trimmed the forest trails and had donuts,” Thaddaeus (or Nathanael?) responded. DONUTS?! I was entranced.

Thus, the very next month, July 2022, I found an old pair of gardening gloves beneath my mom’s bed and piled in the car with my siblings. After spending the morning rolling logs to the parking lot, I fell in love with volunteering. I’ve been attending workdays at the Newhall Audubon Preserve since.

VOLUNTEER

Students Take Action

By helping to maintain the beauty of this preserve, I have learned so much about the necessity for conservation efforts of Hilton Head Island’s flora and fauna. Participating in physical labor has inspired me to get other kids my age involved.

Thus, I am currently forming Adolescents Advocating for the Hilton Head Audubon, an expansive network of middle school and high school students dedicated to supporting the Hilton Head Audubon through volunteer work and community outreach. There are currently 20 of us, and we are hoping to grow in size by garnering support from other local schools. We all share a dedication to protecting the environment.

At the Hilton Head Audubon’s Juneteenth Celebration, which celebrated Naych and B’uhds, Adolescents Advocating for the Hilton Head Audubon organized a craft table for all ages. Adults and

species to create, including the Eastern Bluebird, American Goldfinch and Summer Tanager. Each bird had its own unique station, with cupcake wrappers and heart-shaped wings to match the bird’s corresponding colors. Furthermore, posters were created for each bird species to make the experience engaging and informative.

We all had an amazing time helping out the Hilton Head Audubon, and we are looking forward to growing this network further.

Ava Elizabeth Rios is a student at Bluffton High School and the founder of Adolescents Advocating for the Hilton Head Audubon (AAHHA) to involve kids in conservation efforts in the Lowcountry. If you are interested in joining AAHHA, contact Ava at avaelizabethrios@hargray.com.

children alike seemed to have a lot of fun creating cupcake liner bird crafts. Visitors could choose from a variety of local bird

Student volunteers for the craft table included Natasha and Michelle Diaz, Evelyn Madrigal, Tony Facenda, Ava Elizabeth Rios, Anna LaPour, Katie and Addison Sanofsky, Ava Gerschutz and Brooke Sweigart.

Dogs: Be Aware of Summer Dangers

BY ABBY BIRD AKA ALPHADOG Contributor

Summer is fraught with dangers for your dogs. Let’s begin with July 4. Most dogs and wild animals fear loud noises. This holiday is the number one time of year when dogs get lost. They have been known to break out of their homes and escape yards and leashes in order to escape the noise. During fireworks where should your dogs be and not be? Not out in the yard and not on leash walks. Walk them before or after the fireworks. Even in your own yard keep them on a leash so they don’t try to jump the fence to get away. Inside try to keep them in a room without windows. If you have a crate, then use it, possibly covered. Give them something to calm them such as CBD or just a Benadryl. Keep them tired the day of any fireworks. Play with them or give

•

• Private & serene setting

them something long lasting to chew on to keep them preoccupied. If possible, put them in a windowless space with a TV or music on louder than usual. Dogs should have microchips and phone numbers on their collars.

Heatstroke is pervasive during the summer months. It doesn’t take much for dark colored dogs and long-haired dogs to suc-

cumb. Don’t walk them during the heat of the day but early in the morning or later in evening. If you are out walking them, use a cooling bandana and make sure they have access to plenty of water. This includes any beach or hiking adventures. If you are hiking you may need sunscreen or insect spray to further protect them. Keep them in shady areas outside, and if you can, keep an outdoor fan on them or faced into a pen. Outside plastic kennels and dog houses are not safe for the summer as they accumulate too much heat. They need air circulation. If your dog should get overheated and display excessive panting, collapsing, vomiting (watch to be sure not drinking salt water at the beach), red gums or seizures, get them to a vet quickly. Cool them down by a placing a cool wet towel on their neck, paws and under their arms. Hose down with cool water. If you have a

bathtub, then use cool but not cold water. Hot cars are a killer. They will heat up faster than you think. Leave dogs home or leave them in an air-conditioned car, in the shade with water.

Their paws will burn very quickly walking on hot sand and pavement. Keep them on grass or use booties on their feet. They don’t like them, but it keeps their paws safe.

Ticks, snakes and more are possible during the summer. Make sure you have a dog first aid kit which includes Benadryl spray, Benadryl, tweezers, bandages and antibiotic cream, cortisone spray and hydrogen peroxide. There are lots of other dangers so be alert and keep your dogs safe.

Abby Bird is the owner of Alphadog Training Academy. AlphadogTrainingAcademy@gmail.com

Summer Camping Adventure: Essential Tips for Fun and Safety Under the Stars

BY CINDA SEAMON Contributor

Lots of families will be going camping this summer for their vacation. Here are a few tips to keep your trip fun and safe. Plan ahead for your park or camping visit. Many parks offer lots to do, so when you plan your trip, make sure they offer activities that are right for your family. Is your group one who likes to watch birds and enjoy easy hiking, or is your group more adventurous and wants to do whitewater rafting or mountain climbing? Injuries occur when you push your group beyond their physical abilities.

Consider your setting – is it a beach, a desert or a forest? What will the temperature be like? Is the campsite accessible, or will you have to hike to get there? Do you know how much to pack based on the length of time you are planning on stay-

ing? Will you be staying in a cabin or a tent? Are their showers and restrooms easily accessible? One of the worst things is forgetting essentials like a raincoat or camp stove. Make a packing list and double check it to see that nothing is left behind.

Before your trip, look at the “plan your visit” section on the park’s website. This will include food storage and disposal requirements, fire regulations, pet rules, etc.

Pack your food properly in tight, waterproof containers and store in an insulated cooler. The last thing you want is anyone getting sick from contaminated food.

Don’t forget the sunscreen – remember you can burn on both sunny and cloudy days.

Keep an eye on the weather before your trip.

Fires within your campground should

be at least 15 feet from tents, shrubs and trees. Keep your fire small and contained in a designated area like a fire pit. Never leave a fire unattended and keep a water

bucket nearby. Make sure the fire is out before going to sleep.

Prepare for the unexpected. With children, emphasize staying together and carry a whistle. Use the buddy system and make sure everyone is physically capable of participating before setting out on an adventure. Write your campsite number on their hand or on a sticker inside their shirt sleeve. That way they can quickly find their campsite number. Kids should keep their shoes on at all times. They can slip, step on a poisonous spider or a sharp rock. Teach your kids about poisonous plants and what they look like. Safety should always come first because it only takes one mishap for your trip to be ruined.

Cinda Seamon is the Fire and Life Safety Educator for Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue.

BY LARRY STOLLER Contributor

Larry Stoller

REAL ESTATE

The Pros and Cons of FSBO

When getting ready to sell your house you might think that there are just two ways of doing that, selling with a real estate agent or selling by yourself (FSBO). But here is a third way, sell your home on your own but with agent assistance as needed.

According to the National Association of Realtors, in 2023, FSBO transactions accounted for 7% of real estate sales. With the changes on how real estate commissions will be paid in the future (that I talked about in previous arti cles), I am willing to bet that in 2024 & 2025 there will be an increase in home sellers selling on their own.

Selling your home as a FSBO does

come with a number of challenging “cons”.

They include: pricing the home right to sell, marketing the home to reach all prospective buyers, finding and uti-

price and terms, tons of paperwork, dealing with low ball offers, dealing with inspection issues, dealing with contingencies, very time-consuming, emotional issues, and increased stress of doing everything on your own.

However, on the flip side, there are some “pros” as well.

They include: not having to pay a commission to a listing agent or a buying agent (however if a buying agent brings in a buyer, he or she will want to receive a commission from the seller), having complete control over the home selling process,  and providing the best sales features of the home to prospective buyers (after all, who knows more about the home than the home owners / home sellers).

Not having to pay a commission is a big savings!

When I sold my home in West Bloomington, MN is 2005 (before moving here in 2006), I owned and operate a real estate

brokerage, so in my mind, the best way to sell my home would be the through my real estate company.

However, my wife felt that since I knew the real estate business, that I could sell our home as a FSBO. So that is what I did and the savings from not having to pay any commissions amounted to more than $20,000 (a lot of money back then and still a lot of money today).

If I wasn’t a real estate broker back then, I would have listed my home with a real estate company or hired a real estate agent to help me sell it on my own.

Larry Stoller is a local Broker and Realtor with Real Estate FIVE of the Low Country. He sells homes throughout the Bluffton and Hilton Head area. Larry@ RealEstateFive.com, www.RealEstateFive. com.

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

Eeyore Cheesecake

EEYORE (DOG): “Thanks for noticin’ me.” - Eeyore (Winnie-the-Pooh)

Palmetto Animal League’s Eeyore hopes someone will notice her! She’s a beautiful soul with a sweet, gentle, easy-going personality. She is sure to bring love and joy into any home. She is spayed, up to date on vaccinations and microchipped. For more info, call PAL at 843645-1725 or email Info@PalmettoAnimalLeague.org.

CHEESECAKE (CAT): Anyone want Cheesecake? This divine, 2-year-old boy calmly keeps to himself at the Palmetto Animal League Adoption Center. As you can see, he was blessed with lots of fluff, and to add to his charm, he has the cutest bobtail! He is neutered, up to date on vaccinations,and microchipped. For more info, call PAL at 843-645-1725 or email Info@ PalmettoAnimalLeague.org.

PERMANENT HAIR REMOVAL: Zapped by Diane, Licensed Electrologist for over 20 years. Safe, sterile, permanent hair removal. Sheridan Park in Bluffton; close to Hilton Head, Okatie, Savannah, & Beaufort. Hours are M-F, 10 AM to 5:15 PM. Call 203-241-0553 for an appointment.

CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507

CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507.

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CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507

CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507

First Presbyterian Church seeks a part-time sexton to perform janitorial services, room set-up/break down and minor repairs of the facilities and grounds; up to 20 hours/week; flexible schedule based on church needs. Inquiries to shelms@fpchhi.org; 843-422-7928.

Arts & Entertainment Calendar

JULY 1 THROUGH JULY 31

Maye River Gallery is excited to host guest artist, Joanna Chalson along with her collection of intriguing mixed media art work during a month-long exhibit entitled, “Puzzles From My Mind”. The gallery is open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. until 4 p.m. and is located at 16 Church Street, Old Town Bluffton. For more information go to: www.mayerivergallery.com.

JULY 7

Buffalos Brunch Series in Palmetto Bluff - Mark your calendars for a sensational all-you-can-eat brunch experience at Buffalos! Indulge in a culinary adventure with adult admission thoughtfully priced at $49. For our little brunch enthusiasts aged 5 to 12 years old, a curated brunch experience is available at $20, while children aged 4 and under enjoy complimentary entry. Elevate your brunch experience with our $20 Bottomless Mimosa option, adding a touch of sparkle to your day! Enjoy the vibrant ambiance

with music provided by Alan Price, adding rhythm and soul to your brunch affair. For reservations, please call Buffalos directly during operational hours at 843-706-5455.

JULY

10 & JULY 24

Mixology Class at Burnt Church Distillery where you will create two Burnt Church cocktails and one Amethyst NA Spirt cocktail under the direction of one of their amazing mixologists. Enjoy the cocktails with light appetizers from their kitchen. Afterwards, stick around for dinner! Participants must be 21+ . 6:00 PM at 120 Bluffton Road. Visit https://burntchurchdistillery.com/tours/ to book your spot!

JULY 19 THROUGH JULY 21

Women’s Luxury Wellness Retreat hosted by Michelle Grandy at May River Manor. Indulge in an exquisite escape to the serene landscapes of Bluffton and Hilton Head Island. This exclusive retreat promises an experience of pure luxury

and rejuvenation, curated to immerse you in tranquility and opulence. Visit https:// view.flodesk.com/emails/666e5ece20ad341b5099c221 to book your stay.

JULY

11

Summer 2024 - Summer Sweetgrass Series: The Arts Initiative at Palmetto Bluff will host its first “Artist in Residence Summer Sweetgrass Series” July AIR Michael Smalls and Dino Badger, July 11: Michael Smalls is a 7-generation basket-sewer from Mt. Pleasant, SC. Dino Badger, former apprentice and now partner of Michael, has roots that can be traced back to Round O, SC. Tickets available at https:// www.palmettobluff.com/explore/artist-in-residence/michael-smalls-and-dinobadger/

JULY 12-14

Spartina 449 Warehouse Sale at Hilton Head High School. Visit https://spartina449.com/pages/warehouse-sale for more information and to purchase tickets.

AUGUST

3

Everyday Mission Trip is preparing for its annual Back-2-School Backpack Giveaway event on Saturday, August 3 at Buckwalter Community Park in Bluffton, SC. Their aim is to distribute 300 free Under Armour backpacks to the grade school students of Beaufort County, empowering them with a new backpack which they can be proud of for the new school year.

JULY 5 THROUGH JULY 28

Sea Glass Stage Company at Coligny Theatre – The Great American Trailer Park Musical. This is a rollicking comedy that dives into the wild and wacky lives of trailer park residents, filled with love, infidelity, and a touch of spray cheese. Visit https://www.sgstage.org/current-season for tickets.

Exploring Culinary Delights: Where Every Thursday Night Is an Adventure

BY KEVIN FITZPATRICK Contributor

So where, exactly, do we go?

My wife, Sue, and I moved to Bluffton from Connecticut back in August of 2021, so we are still pretty new to the area. We made the move for all the usual reasons: I wanted out of winter (I was done with roof raking), we love the ocean, and from our visits to Hilton Head, we found a very diverse and vibrant food scene. Having spent most of our time visiting on Hilton Head (Disney Vacation Club members from when my kids were young), we were not very acquainted with the options in Bluffton itself.

When we were teaching, we traded off cooking a week each, and it be came a tradition that on Thursday night, the “cook” would take the other person out to dinner to ease into the weekend. Even though we are now fully retired, we have maintained that tradition, so each Thursday, the question is always, “where should we go?”

What we found by ask ing questions (and reading social media posts) is that very question will result in a myriad of opinions, and they are all valid as personal preference, so we decided to simply start exploring and

working our way around town and onto the island.

What we found is that there is something for every taste, and you don’t have to look too far to find it.

You want large portions; you can get them. You prefer a lot of small bites, you can find those as well. You prefer to sit/ dine/sip outside, you have multiple options. Great cocktails, you have lots of choices. Family friendly, throw a dart. You prefer a more adult only setting; you can walk across the street from one of the “family friendly” places and find that. Craft beer and/or outstanding and varied wine choices, box checked. Seafood, of course, that goes without saying, multiple options, a variety of different cuisines, pub food, “land lubber,” sweets all within a short distance.

In fact, each and every one of these choices can be found in the Promenade alone, and that does not even begin to scratch the surface.

We have found that the best way to decide is to park the car (that can be a chore) and simply walk around.

I do know that if you have visitors for the upcoming holiday, or are simply relaxing yourself, you can’t go wrong visiting the Promenade area and sampling all it has to offer.

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.

Chicago is the one musical with everything that makes theatre shimmy-shake! This satirical tale of fame, fortune, and all that jazz has one showstopping song after another. The slick and sexy show is permeated with the genius of Bob Fosse and his signature dance style.

See why Chicago has been celebrated with 6 Tony Awards, 2 Olivier Awards, a Grammy, and thousands of standing ovations.

Jamie Karen (Velma Kelly) in Chicago

Photography by Gustavo Rattia

Kevin Fitzpatrick

Exp 7/31/24

www.kyrasrestaurant.net

EARLY BIRD SPECIALS

TUESDAY – SATURDAY 4:00 – 5:30PM

[[ DRINKS ]]

1/2 off house wine by the glass $1 off all bottled beer & liquors

[[ EATS ]]

FISH TACOS $12

Two tacos filled with grouper, coleslaw & drizzled with chipotle aioli

FRIED OYSTERS $9

Breaded fried oysters served with chipotle aioli

BEER BATTERED GROUPER S14

Battered grouper filet served with fries

ONION RINGS $8

Homemade beer battered onion rings served with ranch

SPAGHETTI BOLOGNESE $11

Tender semolina pasta tossed in homemade bolognese sauce

MARGHERITA FLATBREAD $12

Fresh mozzarella, house marinara, fresh basil, balsamic drizzle

MEDITERRANEAN PASTA $14

Tender semolina pasta in EVOO, feta cheese, grape tomatoes, kalamata olives & Hungarian hot peppers

MEATBALL SPLASH $11

Meatball in marinara, shredded motz, on toasted bun

Served with Fries

PRIME RIB SANDWICH $14

Shaved prime rib, sautéed peppers, onion, motz on toasted bun

Served with fries

Local Cafe Favorite, The Grind, Expands to New Riverside with Exciting Community Events and Luxe Lowcountry Vibes

BY KAT RICE Contributor

Local roaster and cafe, The Grind, is preparing for their second location in New Riverside this summer. Their first location at Sheridan Park opened in 2019, and the local cafe brand has been striving to perfect their retail experience ever since.

Last year, the owner of the New Riverside Village retail development approached café leadership with the idea of moving into one of the new storefronts. Owner Ian Duncan says the idea was in line with the company’s goal of expanding the retail brand throughout Bluffton. So, with some additional prompting from customers, they decided New Riverside was the right location for their second store.

The new store is currently waiting on a permit to be able to open, and the team expects it to be up and running by mid-August. One thing they’re particularly excited for is the possibility of serving more of the community. They already have a full lineup of events planned – movie nights on the lawn, trivia nights, live music and an evening des-

sert bar. Ian says, “we want to have a place for the community to come and to thrive. To have that place where it’s 10 o’clock at night and is still a chill space.”

The new cafe has an industry luxe aesthetic with a flair of the Lowcountry. They wanted to create a different look from their Sheridan Park location and are taking full advantage of the new building’s open concept and abundance of natural light. There will also be outdoor covered seating, and they’re teaming up with the French Bakery on Hilton Head for pastries, quiche and quick-grab salads.

Their vision doesn’t stop there, though. They’re actively scouting third and fourth locations. Ian says it’s important to be a neutral safe space for people to come hang out and enjoy a cup of coffee.

“When people are tired in the morning and just need a cup of coffee, they can have a place that’s chill and people can put their headphones in, read a book and feel like they’re at their home away from home. That’s what we’re about.”

As the company has grown, they’ve continued to focus on developing their product and their team. They’ve created a defined pathwork to success for their employees so there’s always a chance at internal promotions and personal growth. With this model, they’ve been able to promote from within and build a senior staff that’s been with the company for three years or more. That stability within their team will be a key component for making this new location a success.

The cafe will be in New Riverside Village beside Eggs Up Grill. Starting in June, you can stop by Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. to visit their mobile cart and grab a seat on the outdoor patio. They’re offering espresso drinks, cold brew and root beer from Southern Barrel. Follow them on Instagram for updates on the new location, @ GrindRoasters.

A Force of Nature – Art & Alligators

BY MURRAY SEASE Contributor

This series of Studio Visits has revealed some very different, but each so effective, creative spaces of local artists. Today takes me to Winn Studios, a collaboration of artists Bill and Sheryl Winn who together are a creative force of nature. I’m here to visit with Bill and check out his new studio. It is a mini version of his previous studio which, shared with his ceramic artist wife, took up the entire top floor of their spacious home. They have recently downsized to a smaller home and found

that less space may actually be a blessing. Perhaps they realized what I have found – the bigger the space, the more stuff you seem to accumulate – smaller space, less stuff, less stress!

Bill and Sheryl now occupy separate smaller studios in a lovely one-story, freshly renovated home. The welcoming front door of the house leads into an open but very interestingly shaped living and dining area with angeled walls and arches that lead into the adjoining kitchen and cozy sitting areas. The home is full of work by distinguished artist friends Bill

and Sheryl have known throughout the years. Looking straight ahead through the main living area is a set of glass doors that open into Bill’s neat and compact artist’s haven. His wife’s new studio is a different part of the home – a tiny but efficient space with clay and all her tools close at hand. There she handbuilds stunning ceramic pieces, many incorporating our local spanish moss into her design. A new kiln keeps her whole process ‘in house.’ It would be easy to get sidetracked by Sheryl’s charm and her beautiful work, but I have come to interview Bill and gain insight

into the surroundings where he creates his gorgeous paintings.

Bill’s studio has large windows looking out to a pretty patio with umbrella-ed table and seating. A French-style door opens up to this delightful outdoor space and perfectly manicured lawn. It is adjacent to a large lagoon with peaceful woods on the opposite bank. In the tidy studio, Bill first shows me a pair of paintings depicting the same waterway view, one at dawn and one at dusk. Hanging

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on the freshly painted warm gray walls, they are complete and ready to be displayed at one of the local galleries where he exhibits. Custom-made wood racks on the floor keep other in-progress and completed paintings separate and organized. One gorgeous piece is front and center on his easel. It is a rustic farmhouse in a field of warm browns and ecrus. Bill will be adding glazes to this one – a technique he uses to give the piece more depth and transparency. He has another on his drafting table that he will manipulate with deeper colors and glazes to draw the viewer’s attention to the shrimp boat in the center field.

Bill’s many years of experience as an artist make him an expert at knowing how to focus attention exactly where he wants it. His style is classical realism with care given to the elements of composition and design. His paintings often have moody and atmospheric qualities making the viewer feel as if they were experiencing the setting. With a background in advertising and medical illustration he brings his superb skills to the easel. He cre-

ates works in almost all mediums, painting stunning landscapes, strong portraits and luscious still lifes. He works on commission, and for display at local galleries. His paintings show off his talent whatever the medium – watercolor, acrylic, oils or pastels.

Bill is immensely enjoyable to talk to and funny. He has an engaging story to share every time I see him – today it was about an alligator encounter right outside his studio patio. As he watched, a large gator attacked a smaller one for no apparent reason and threw it up into the air. Luckily the gator (and all neighbors) survived the tussle! All in all it was a fun afternoon getting to learn about the creative space and processes of yet another talented Bluffton artist. Bill Winn is one of six artist/owners of the cooperative La Petite Gallerie in Old Town Bluffton. He generally works there on Tuesdays where he is happy to greet you and talk art. Please visit soon to see his work in person! Murray Sease is a fellow artist at LaPetite Gallerie, 56 Calhoun Street, Bluffton, SC. lapetitegallerie.com

Sheridan Park Dr. (843) 815-6738

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Digging into Summer at The Sandbox

BY BARRY KAUFMAN Contributor

With a slew of new exhibits and renewed focus on educational fun, The Sandbox is ready for summer.

At one end of the soaring cathedral hall at The Sandbox, an interactive children’s museum next to Hilton Head’s Celebration Park, a young pilot is radioing ahead to the tower signaling their approach.

Nearby, a chef is preparing a feast of waffles and ice cream. Across the room, engineers are fine tuning their soapbox derby cars for maximum speed. And in the vet’s office, a kitten is being fitted for an adorable little cast.

It’s a cacophony of imagination, a rare chance for children to exercise a part of their brain that they only use when they put the electronics down and lose themselves in play. And for generations of Hilton Head Island children, The Sandbox has become a rite of passage.

“We are booked solid a lot of days,” said

Executive Director Alicia Powell. “We strongly encourage reservations because of that.”

Powell took the reins in October of last year, tasked with consolidating the museum’s collection into the 4,000-square-foot facility at Celebration Park. In that short time, she has expanded on the museum’s

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exhibits, adding aeronautics displays including jet planes crafted by Bluffton 3D artist Alex Coplo.

“We have a Wright Brothers plane and a blimp coming, so that’s not finished yet,” added Powell, surveying the aircraft from the lofty reading perch soaring above the main play space. Adorning one entire wall, the unmistakably colorful artwork of Amos Hummell will serve as the backdrop for an exhibit about Gullah culture. On the wide outdoor space, a music wall built by local Marty Doran lets kids find their tune.

“This has all been put in since I got here in October,” said Powell. “I dream about what I’m going to do now.”

The first priority is getting The Sandbox ready for its summer camps. Running all summer long, these five-day programs incorporate a slew of activities designed to keep young minds engaged and fight off the dreaded “summer slide.” On one day, campers might be making slime with “Mr. Bob,” the resident science nut. They

might be building LEGO with local master builder Christian Sudduth. They might be encountering local reptiles courtesy of the Port Royal Sound Foundation.

“It’s not a daycare setting. There is a curriculum, but it’s a fun curriculum,” said Powell. “It’s not like traditional summer camps. I didn’t want to mold it into that, because I wanted kids to get an experience for a lot of different things.”

Looking around at the array of activities, that “a little bit of everything” approach seems in keeping with The Sandbox’s dedication to building young minds through play. In a world that wants kids to experience the world through a screen, it’s a chance to show them the power of their own imagination. And maybe let their parents rediscover their own sense of wonder.

Summer camps at The Sandbox run through July 19. Visit thesandbox.org for more information.

Lowcountry resident Barry Kaufman is a freelance writer.

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Unveiling the Heart of Giving: Blessing Boxes Make a Difference in Bluffton

BY DANIE CONNOLLY Contributor

Sadly, a lot of people don’t understand the meaning of giving.

I’m sorry to start a story with negativity, but sometimes people are afraid of giving. They think it will jinx them into becoming one of the needy takers. They become fearful that there’s a strange twist of fate, and it will turn them from being the head of a company to the head of a chain gang.

Fear can stop you from doing a lot of things you should do. It’s easy to be generous when you have more than you need, but maybe just being grateful can help you give. Look around you. There’s a roof over your head at night, food in your belly and your family is pretty much healthy. Do you think it’s time to give to someone who doesn’t have any of that? It’s not

going to change your path, but it could make the one that they are walking on a little easier. Sometimes it might be as simple as donating a jar of peanut butter.

In a world where we’ve been brainwashed into thinking we’ve got more than enough, there are more people than you could imagine who would be happy with a morsel of food. People are too embarrassed and proud to tell you.

When school closes, we don’t understand the peril children experience with food insecurity. They’re not going to eat breakfast because no one is going to provide it to them like they do at school. They’ll be lucky to have a bread and mayonnaise sandwich with hope that dinner will be better. Hunger doesn’t discriminate. It doesn’t care how old you are. Regardless of if they have two or three jobs that barely make ends meet, it’s usually food that is sacrificed and meals

begin to be missed. Eye contact is lost; they disappear at break time so no one can tell they have an empty lunch bag. Food insecurity is an uncomfortable, serious problem in this country that is ignored and is being sparsely addressed by churches and caring communities.

I had plans to write this glowing article about Kathy Straughn, the founder of Giving Hands of Bluffton. But, in all honesty, she’s too kind of a person to really want any glory for herself, nor do any of the people who help stock the shelves of the Blessing Boxes. Without any fanfare, this group of volunteers check on the boxes, silently refilling them occasionally a few times a day so there is something for the next person. Finding the inventory low means that they’re doing their job, and the mission is being accomplished. There are pages of information on the Blessing Boxes of Charleston that supply

food to shelves for help to towns like Bluffton and Hilton Head and beyond. I know she’d rather have an article asking you to help the people that fall through the cracks. Many food insecure families do not qualify for assistance from food banks. One bad month can plunge a family into food insecurity. Food insecurity is not the same as poverty. People living below the poverty level have access to various programs that ensure there will be food in their home.

No one is excluded. If you find you can’t make ends meet for whatever reason, there will be food waiting for you –no questions asked. Just a little quote on the front glass of the simple gray box that says, “Take what you need. Leave what you can.”

There’s no red tape here. If you’re hun-

BLESSINGS CONT. ON PAGE 13B

BLESSINGS

is the only food allowed. Can goods, packaged meals that water can be added like mac and cheese with already prepared squeeze pack cheese are on the shelf.

While speaking with Kathy in front of the Blessing Box, a very nice gentleman named Abraham walked up and politely began to wait his turn. We motioned him forward and asked if he had been coming to the box recently and he happily answered, “Oh yes, all the time - usually on my bike, but it’s broken.” His eyes never stopped searching the shelves as he shared his story. He was smiling at all the choices and suddenly realized he didn’t have a bike bag or anything to carry his food away. Kathy motioned for him to wait and went to her car, returning moments later with a paper bag. We asked him if it was all right to ask a few questions concerning what was easier to prepare, cook and enjoy. Did he have friends that used the box? He answered that a couple of friends had just discovered the Blessing

Box - then he smiled and offered to have his picture taken for the story - delighted to show how happy he was to benefit from the generosity. When we replied that wasn’t necessary, he insisted, smiled and continued on his way.

“You’d be amazed at how many times we could refill this box. That’s why they’re so needed. Usually at night when there’s not so many people looking around seems to be a popular time. People still have pride.” Kathy was grateful to Sea Smiles Dentistry because the manager keeps a watchful eye to check the stock on the shelves during business hours. If it gets low, she goes out and replenishes it.”

When I looked surprised by that dedication, she was quick to add, “They were the first ones to volunteer to host a Blessing Box. They know the community and how desperate some children are for a meal.”

Ironically, when I had a chance to check a few facts with Kathy days later, she informed me that Friday night someone had vandalized the box and torn the door off. They had rushed to have it repaired and back up Saturday as soon as they could.

That hurts your soul to think that the people who damaged it didn’t realize the negative impact felt on disadvantaged others. Finding safe spots for food boxes as I mentioned earlier, is difficult. Here are 3 places that if you know someone or a family that are experiencing food insecurity, please tell them to go to the following places: Creative Church 1293 Plantation Dr. in Hardeeville, Sea Smiles 164 Bluffton Road in Bluffton New Life Church 389 Ford Island Rd. in Bluffton.

If you know of someplace that is reachable by foot, bike or car, please consider erecting one to host - it’s harder to find a place to put it in a visible spot. It takes so little to sponsor building a box, whether you make it yourself or designate someone (they have building plans). Check with Kathy at the end of this article and addresses where the Blessing Boxes can be located. They need you more than you’ll ever know. And thank you for any help you can offer- donations of money, food, or volunteer time.

Kathy Straughn can be reached at Blessingboxbluffton@icloud.com.

Dancing with the Local Stars

BY SANDRO VIRAG Contributor

What does it take to plan a Dancing with the Local Stars? Well 3 months of preparation paid off as a group of non-dancers set out to learn to perform a dance routine for a recent fundraiser. And what did they think about it? Here’s what they had to say.

This is the 2nd time Editor in Chief of CH2/CB2 Maggie Washo danced in Dancing with the Local Stars. How did it compare with the first time? She said a little more fun this time because she knew what to expect. Over time, Maggie has learned to go with the flow and enjoy every moment. She even scored higher than last time!

Joe Babkiewicz, Chief of Bluffton Police, was clearly out of his comfort zone but he said he had no problem embarrassing himself for a couple of minutes in order to raise money for charity. Even though numerous pranks were played on him at the police department after the

event, he said it was well worth it!

Daniel Cort, winner of the Mirror Ball trophy, said he had watched DWTS a few times when it originally debuted in 2005. He was intrigued by how they chronicled rehearsals. Daniel said this event gave him a small dose of terror, but he wouldn’t trade the exhilaration and friendships made for anything!

Riley Miller, anchor and reporter for WJCL, is used to the spotlight. However, she said when she anchors the news, she only sees a camera – she doesn’t see the faces watching her. At DWTLS, she could see the audience, so it was very different. She also knew that just one step could throw the whole dance off. Thankfully the dance went off exactly as practiced and she had an amazing support system cheering her on which made it worth all the time and energy put into her performance.

Rosie Jones, professional golfer with the LPGA tour, said she was really nervous the day of the performance. She remembers she has driven into the gates of

a major golf tournament preparing to perform on TV and wasn’t nervous at all! But dancing – yes, she was out of her element. Her training as a pro golfer taught her to keep her anxiety in check but she said she felt unsettled as she stepped onto

the dance floor. She was committed to doing her best and overall had a blast doing the dance. Rosie said the whole process was amazing.

Julia Herrin, Ms. South Carolina 2021, said while doing the pageant, she competed with skills she honed for several years but dancing was totally new for her. She really enjoyed the challenge. So, it just goes to show that any non-dancer can become a dancer!

Sandro Virag is a partner and instructor at Hilton Head Ballroom Dance Studio of Hilton Head, hiltonheadballroom.com