The Bluffton Sun • November 1, 2024

The Bluffton Sun

Thousands of Beaufort and Jasper County residents slated to lose their Medicare Advantage Plans

BY CHRIS DEWEY Contributor

Thousands of folks on Medicare Advantage were notified last week their plan is terminating on Jan uary 1, 2025. Five Humana ad vantage plans and two Aetna plans are leaving our service area.

Don’t panic because sometimes the worst thing that can happen turns into the best thing. Why? Because if your plan is exiting our area for 2025, Medicare offers you a Guaranteed Issue right. This right allows you to avoid medical underwriting and purchase a Medicare Supplement with no health questions asked. Why change to a supplement rather than an advantage plan? Sup plements allow you to go to any provid

in the country including the Mayo Clinic. Providers like the Mayo Clinic or MD Anderson will not take your advantage plan. You will not deal with prior authorizations, routine denials, or a restrictive doctor network that’s constantly changing. You pay a monthly premium with no out-of-pocket costs other than a small annual $240 deductible. Many of my clients had the Humana Choice PPO advantage plan with a $3450 max out of pocket.

In 2025, the Humana advantage plan that includes drug coverage in our area has a max-outpocket of $9,350 per year. Consider changing back to Original Medicare and get a supplement with no underwriting.

MEDICARE CONT. ON PAGE 3A

At Beaufort Memorial, our advanced orthopedics and spine care team is committed to helping you be your best and enjoy life without pain.

Whether neck or back pain is slowing you down or your activities are limited due to hip or knee pain, our board-certified specialists will personalize your care using sophisticated diagnostic and treatment options. Our advanced techniques and technologies, including Mako SmartRoboticsTM and VELYSTM robotic-assisted joint replacement, will improve function and relieve pain quickly. Many surgical patients even go home the same day.

Visit BeaufortMemorial.org/Ortho for help addressing your pain.

At Beaufort Memorial you’ll also find:

• Joint preservation therapies

• Numerous non-surgical treatment options

• A personalized approach to restoring mobility and joint function

• Pre-operative education classes that engage patients and caregivers in the healing process

• An Optimization Program that follows you through the process to ensure the best outcomes

• Outpatient and in-home rehab services to get you back to doing what you love faster

MEDICARE

FROM PAGE 1A

For a 69-year-old married couple the husband would pay $100 per month with no out of pocket costs other than monthly premium and a $240 deductible so regardless of your health, you’ll pay $1440 per year with no other out of pocket costs ever, and you’ll have the luxury of seeing the doctors you want without the hassle of a managed care plan denying care or requesting prior authorizations for routine procedures. The 69-year-old wife will pay $92 dollars per month for a Plan G Supplement.

If you were 65 or over on January 1st of 2020, you’ll enroll in the Plan F, which pays all bills Medicare does not pay, but if you were under 65 on 1/1/2020, you’ll enroll in the Plan G supplement.

Advantage Plans are great for folks under 65 on disability with Medicare, folks with both Medicare and Medicaid, and those who receive extra help for paying their prescription drugs.

Lower income seniors on Medicare who can’t afford a medigap plan should find an agent that can look up drugs and doctors

as well as help you with appeals when your managed care plan denies claims or requests a prior authorization.

Medicare Advantage is NOT Original Medicare. My advice: take back your original Medicare rights you worked your entire life for. With Original Medicare you’re

in the driver’s seat. You control who you see and what you get done; with advantage plans, a private insurance company manages your care and decides what and where you get procedures done. Chronically ill folks losing their advantage plans have a golden ticket they should cash in by

enrolling in original Medicare with a stand-alone drug plan.

Consider a Medicare supplement with no more copays, coinsurance, restrictive networks, or prior authorizations.

Chris Dewey is the founder of May River Medicare Insurance in Bluffton.

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Contributors

Chris Dewey

Mayor Larry Toomer

Rhoda Gordon

Thomas M. Dowling

Lisa Hostetler Brown

Dr. Jean Harris

Dr. Mikell

Dan Prud’homme

Dr. Epps

Dr. Horup

Mark Winn

Dr. Blocker

Channing Heiss

Chip Collins

Ryan Chowansky

Dr. Finger

Rob Pearson

Contact us

Wendy Kushel

Paul Tollefson

Glenda Harris

Rev. Donlan Lee

Cinda Seamon

Tracy Winslow

Collins Doughtie

Justin Jarrett Dr. Callejo

Abby Bird

Rosemary Staples

Lee Wilwerding

Jeff Urell

Murray Sease

Sandro Virag

Joe Turino

Kevin Fitzpatrick

Melissa McCullough PO Box 2056, Bluffton, SC 29910

843-757-9507

Physical address: 181 Bluffton Rd., Ste F103-2, Bluffton, SC 29910 BlufftonSun.com

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EDITORIAL

BY MAYOR LARRY TOOMER Contributor

Bluffton has often been compared to a scene straight out of a Hallmark movie for its winter wonderland décor and charming scenery. A few years ago, town staff witnessed a gentleman proposing to his girlfriend in front of Bluffton’s Christmas tree, creating a picture-perfect moment.

That’s when town staff knew we had accomplished something special. But each year, we aim to add a little more magic to our holiday celebrations.

Visit Bluffton’s Winter Wonderland

Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, Greater Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, Old Town Bluffton Merchants Society.

THE BLUFFTON SUN Issue 21, November 1, 2024, is published twice monthly by Beaufort Media Group, LLC, 181 Bluffton Rd Suite F103-2 Bluffton, SC 29910. Periodicals Postage paid at Bluffton, SC and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE BLUFFTON SUN, PO Box 2056, Bluffton, SC 29910-2056.

The Christmas tree will arrive from the mountains of North Carolina on Wednesday, November 27, and will be set up at Martin Family Park. Our public services team will transform the Historic District, Buckwalter Place and other areas around town into festive landscapes filled with lights, street banners and holiday decorations. Fun fact: The town uses over 10 miles of holiday lights to create our own Norman Rockwell-inspired setting.

Unfortunately, due to the Grinch, otherwise known as Hurricane Helene, New Riverside Barn Park won’t be able to participate fully this year as it sustained electrical damage. However, town staff will still add lights to the park’s fencing to expand the town’s spirit to this section of town.

On Monday, December 2, Bluffton staff will spend the day decorating the Christmas tree at Martin Family Park. This towering tree, which surpasses the height of the DuBois Park Pavilion, requires numerous team members and heavy equipment to reach its highest points.

As always, the holiday parade will take place, rain or shine, on the first weekend of December. It will only be canceled if the town deems weather conditions unsafe, so be sure to mark your calendars for Saturday, December 7, starting at 10 a.m.

Bluffton’s Tree Lighting ceremony will kick off at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, December 6, at Martin Family Park, followed by Santa’s Workshop at the DuBois Park Pavilion. At 6:30 p.m., the movie Polar Express will be shown at Martin Family Park. Be sure to bring blankets or chairs to enjoy the evening. Both Martin Family Park

and DuBois Park are conveniently located next to each other on Boundary Street in the Historic District.

New this year, we’re offering complimentary miniature train rides during the Tree Lighting event from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., with the train route near the two parks.

The town also supports the second annual Menorah Lighting, held Sunday, December 29, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Martin Family Park. This is a free, public event so the community can celebrate additional holiday traditions.

The parade has always been one of the town’s most beloved and well-attended events, officially kicking off the holiday season. It’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase our town’s unique spirit and create cherished memories for families. On behalf of the Town Council and our staff, we are excited to decorate the parks, host the tree lighting and present the parade. These events are our holiday gift to you, our residents.

If you get engaged or celebrate a special moment in Bluffton’s Winter Wonderland, please share your photos and stories with us. We’d love to hear all about it!

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

Larry Toomer

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Create easy projects with your photos in minutes

BY RHODA GORDON Contributor

Happy November! I originally planned to write about amazing photo gifts for the holidays, but since today is my daughter’s birthday, and I just created a meaningful memory gift for her in minutes, I wanted to share how easy it is to create with you. And don’t worry, I’m not taking time away from her. She’s up in NYC visiting her brother and friends. Next month, I will discuss the holidays and great gifts for all ages.

In today’s digital age, we capture countless memories through photos, but

often they remain hidden on our camera roll, maybe shared at the moment of taking, but rarely revisited. If you take photos with an iPhone, Apple Photos provides an intuitive platform to not only organize but also create meaningful projects with your digital collection. Whether you’re looking to curate a family album, design personalized greeting cards or simply get creative with your snapshots, there are a multitude of simple yet rewarding projects you can make right from your iPhone, iPad or Mac. Today, we’ll explore easy ways to turn your digital photos into something special, a slideshow, using Apple Photos’ built-in tools and features. Ready to dive in? Let’s unlock the potential of your

Rhoda Gordon

PHOTOS FROM PAGE 6A

photo library.

I am assuming you are creating a slideshow for someone special in your life, and you have a number of photos on your camera roll of them. We will be using the People Album to create the slideshow. If you have not set up the People Album, open Apple Photos and find the People Album. On iPhone/iPad: Tap on the Albums tab at the bottom of the screen, scroll down to the People & Places section, and tap People. On Mac: Look at the sidebar on the left side of the screen and click on People. Apple Photos automatically scans your library and groups photos by faces. When you open the People album for the first time, you may see several unnamed faces. You can assign names to faces by clicking on the face, which opens an album with that person’s pictures in it. You will then see a prompt to Add Name, tap and type their name.

Once you have your People Album set up, you are in amazing shape to quickly create a memorable slideshow. To start, go into the person you want to celebrate

People’s Album, or alternatively, you can search the entire library for that person’s name. Then, choose the photos to include in the slideshow. I click on the first one I want to include, and then to select all the others, I hold the Command key and click all the other photos I want to include. This keeps all the selections active. Once you have selected the photos for the slideshow, it is time to create the slideshow. If you are on a MAC or MacBook, to create the slideshow (or any other project with those photos) click on the File menu and select Create > Slideshow > Photos.

On iPhone/iPad: After selecting the photos, tap the 3 dots on the lower right and scroll down to choose Slideshow. I recommend creating this and all projects on a MAC or MacBook, as the operating system gives you a much richer feature set, and it allows you to see the pictures larger.

You can customize the slideshow with Themes like Origami, Ken Burns, Magazine and more. These themes change the style and transitions between your photos. Play around with them and have fun. Add background music from Apple’s se-

lections or add your own from your music library. To change the music, tap the Music button or Theme Music option while editing the slideshow. If you are not happy with the order of the photos, on your MAC or MacBook, you can drag and drop them to the correct order. Additionally, you can add photos to the slideshow after the initial creation by dragging photos from your library to the project or clicking on the photo and going through the above process of Create > Slideshow > Photos, and when the menu comes up with new slideshow, pull down that menu until you see the slideshow name that you are working on.

You have a choice to play the slideshow from the Photos App or save it elsewhere on your computer, perhaps to send in a message or email or share online. Tap Play to view your slideshow instantly. If you want to save the slideshow to share later, you can export it by clicking File > Export > Slideshow on Mac, but on the iPhone/iPad, your option is limited to sharing to an Apple TV screen. This process turns a collection of photos into a personalized, visually appealing

slideshow that highlights the special moments shared with the person you’re featuring. It makes a great birthday surprise or way of telling someone you are thinking of them or miss them.

My goal is for you to make sure your photos are protected and to share the memories with family and friends. If you need help organizing your print photos, check out DIG YOUR PHOTOS!, A DIY Photo Organizing Kit. It is essential to organize your photos before you digitize. If you would like help with your media collection or have questions, please reach out. I am passionate about helping people save and share their memory collections.

Rhoda Gordon is a local certified photo manager, owner of Sunflower Photo Solutions and creator of DIG YOUR PHOTOS!, a DIY photo organizing kit. Rhoda has been helping families and businesses organize and back up their print and digital collection for almost a decade. See more tips, tricks and how-tos on her YouTube channel: youtube.com/@digyourphotos and check out sunflowerphotosolutions. com and digyourphotos.com for guidance and support with your media collection.

Feeling philanthropic? A charitable planning primer

BY THOMAS M. DOWLING Contributor

Do you want to make a significant impact on a charity or cause that means a great deal to you, while also benefiting financially? If so, you’re not alone. Charitable giving is a top financial issue for many individuals and families, offering both personal fulfillment and financial rewards.

Some ways to accomplish charitable giving are:

1. Will bequest. You leave a charitable gift that does not go to the charity until the will is probated. Bequests are convenient because the assets are still available to you during your lifetime. Your estate can also take an estate tax deduction for the value of the charitable bequest.

2. Private foundation. This private, nonprofit organization receives most of its contributions from a single wealthy individual or family. With a private foundation, a minimum amount of the foundation’s assets must be distributed annually.

3. Donor-advised fund (DAF). What you donate to the DAF earns a federal tax deduction for the entire gift. You can then, at your own pace, pinpoint certain charities and decide how much to give to each one.

4. Charitable gift of life insurance. This approach to planned giving uses an innovative, traditional financial tool— life insurance. As the donor, you designate a charity as the owner of your life insurance policy. Generally, you can take a tax deduction for the premiums and create a significant charitable gift.

5. Charitable trust. As part of the gift, the trust provides income for you for your lifetime or a set number of years. Once the trust is terminated, one

or more charities you chose will receive the assets held. With another type of trust, a charitable lead trust, you transfer assets to the trust for life (or a specific number of years), and the trust’s income is paid to your charity of choice. When the trust expires, the assets are either returned to you (or your estate) or passed on to the heirs you designate.

CHARITY FIRST

While charitable gifts can substantial-

ly benefit donors, it is essential to remember that charity comes first in the equation. If tax mitigation is your only concern or primary concern, other wealth management strategies may give you better results.

Charitable planning is often facilitated by various professionals working within philanthropic organizations. This is mainly due to practicality: Coordination of a giving effort can have many multiple parties involved—donors and charitable organizations—and the multiple goals that may be pursued (charitable impact, tax mitigation, estate tax reduction, family legacy development, and so on).

Thomas M. Dowling, CFA, CFP®, CIMA® is the Head of Wealth Management at Alliance Global Partners of the Lowcountry on Hilton Head. He can be reached at infohh@allianceg.com or (843) 420-1993.

Thomas M. Dowling

Ask the expert: what is my role as the trustee of a trust?

BY LISA HOSTETLER BROWN Contributor

Expert Answer: Whether it feels like an honor or a burden or both, you may have been appointed to serve as the trustee of a trust. In this article, I will share a list of 10 responsibilities you face in this role and an important action to avoid.

10 DO’S

1. Do read the trust document: It sets out the rules under which you will operate, so you need to understand it completely, including your specific responsibilities and limitations.

2. Do create a checking account for the trust: All income and expenses should go through this account.

3. Do act in the best interests of the beneficiaries: You must avoid any conflicts of interest. You have what’s called a “fiduciary” duty to them, which is an extremely high standard.

4. Do keep your personal financial dealings entirely separate from the trust: For instance, you cannot borrow money from the trust or lend the trust money to anyone.

5. Do communicate with the trust beneficiaries to understand their needs: This may include updating them on the trust’s performance or any changes that may affect their interests.

6. Do invest the trust funds prudently and productively: You cannot simply leave the trust funds in a savings account, and you can’t put them all into a promising new company. You need to diversify the trust portfolio among stocks and fixed income securities.

7. Do keep meticulous records of all transactions and decisions you make on behalf of the trust to ensure accountability.

8. Do be aware of any public benefits the beneficiaries may be receiving and make sure you do not jeopardize their access to these benefits.

9. Do file annual income tax returns for the trust.

10. Do stay informed: Consider enhancing your knowledge and skills as a trustee by attending workshops or seminars on trust management.

1 DON’T

1. Don’t fly solo: Get professional advice to make sure you are correctly fulfilling your role.

An estate planning attorney can serve as a strong source of support for a trustee of a trust. They can provide invaluable guidance by clarifying your legal responsibili-

ties as a trustee. They can help in ensuring compliance with trust laws and helping navigate complex tax issues. They can also assist in drafting necessary estate planning documents and offering strategies to protect the trust’s assets, ultimately ensuring smooth administration.

Collaborating with professionals can provide you with peace of mind. You will know that you are handling the trust to the best of your ability with expertise and care. It also can provide reassurance to beneficiaries that their interests are in fact top of mind.

For educational purposes only. This is not legal advice. Lisa Hostetler Brown is a Certified Elder Law Attorney certified by the National Elder Law Foundation. 2 Hampton Hall, Bluffton, SC 29910 | 843-757-5294 | HiltonHeadElderLaw.com

Lisa Hostetler Brown

Mathew Epps MD, MS, DABS

Jane Epps RN, BSN

Driving the ball – what is more important?

BY DR. JEAN HARRIS Contributor

There is an old saying in golf that “You drive for show and putt for dough.” I think that depends a lot on your misses. Getting longer is important if your lack of accuracy isn’t causing penalty strokes. For professionals, distance gained gets them hitting a shorter club to the green, even if it is in the rough. For amateurs, however, you need to keep track of strokes taken after your drive: from the rough, bunkers, unplayable lies and out of bounds, and see if it is worth hitting it further.

I interviewed Gina Gallagher, women’s club champion from Sun City. She just got fitted for a new driver. “I wasn’t looking for more distance. I needed more accuracy. I had too much spin and the ball curved to the left. I went to a Taylor Made Fitting and hit their Qi10 driver. I hit it straight every time. I didn’t need an adjustment period and took it straight to the course.”

Choosing a new driver can be difficult if you don’t know what to look for. I suggest getting a driver fitting. Below are some of the things the fitter will cover:

Loft – depends on your ability and clubhead speed.

Shaft Flex – a shaft too stiff can cause lower launch with little spin; too weak a shaft can cause the ball to fly to high and spin too much.

Length, lie, swing weight, and grip size.

Head size and club face material.

Adjustable weighting – weights can change your shot shape and loft.

Below are some tips to become a better driver of the ball:

Good course management starts with a good pre-shot routine.

Know your specific target in the distance and then bring it back to you using an intermediate target.

Have a consistent tee height. There are pre-marked tees you can purchase.

Have some movement prior to swinging: a waggle, movement of feet,

thumbs, etc. (No freeze time).

The Swing itself:

Ball position – closer to the target instep; weight 60% on rear side

Shallow one-piece takeaway - “Think long and wide: (extension on the backswing).

Load the back side – make sure you don’t shift to outside of back leg (sway). Keep back knee flexed.

Shoulders must turn more than hips.

Rhythm is critical – think consistent acceleration; don’t speed up at the top of the backswing as you start your transitional move.

On the forward swing, feel a “shallow” angle of approach. Contact needs to be on the “upswing.” You should never break a tee on your drive.

Think of your swing as a “merry-goround” instead of up and down like a “ferris wheel.”

Finish your golf swing with the clubhead and shaft behind you and the back shoulder, back knee and back shoelaces facing the target in balance.

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

Gina Gallagher

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What are age spots?

BY DR. OSWALD MIKELL Contributor

Age spots, also called brown spots, liver spots and solar lentigines, are flat gray, brown or black spots. They vary in size and usually appear on the face, hands, shoulders and arms, the areas most exposed to the sun.

Q: What are the symptoms of age spots?

A: Although age spots typically develop in people with a fair complexion, they can also be seen in those with darker skin.

Age spots are:

• Flat, oval areas of increased pigmentation

• Usually brown, black or gray

• Occur on parts of the skin that has had the most sun exposure over the years, such as the backs of hands, tops of feet, face, shoulders and upper back

• Can range from freckle-size to more than a half inch (1 centimeter) across and can group together, making them more prominent

Q: What causes age spots?

A: Age spots are caused primarily by years of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun. Tanning beds can also contribute to the development of age spots. The pigment in the upper layer of skin (epidermis) that gives your skin its normal color is called melanin. UV light accelerates the production of melanin, creating a tan that helps protect deeper layers of skin from UV rays. On areas of the skin that has years of frequent and prolonged sun exposure, age spots appear when melanin becomes “clumped” or is produced in particularly high concentrations. In addition to sun exposure, simply becoming older can cause the extra production of melanin.

Q: What treatments are available?

A: If you’re unhappy with the appearance of age spots, treatments are available to lighten or remove them.

• Medications. Prescription bleaching creams (hydroquinone) used alone or with retinoids (tretinoin) and a mild steroid

• Laser therapy. Laser therapy destroys melanin-producing cells (melanocytes) without damaging the skin’s surface.

Treatments with a laser typically require several sessions.

• Freezing (cryotherapy). This procedure involves applying liquid nitrogen or another freezing agent to the age spots to destroy the extra pigment. As the area heals, the skin appears lighter. Freezing is typically used on a single age spot or a small grouping of age spots.

• Dermabrasion. This procedure consists of sanding down (planing) the surface layer of your skin with a rapidly rotating brush, removing the skin surface. A new layer of skin grows in its place.

• Chemical peel. A chemical peel involves applying an acid, which burns the outer layer of your skin, to the age spots. As your skin peels, new skin forms to take its place.

True age spots are harmless and don’t require treatment, but if you have spots that are dark or have changed in appearance, you should consult a dermatologist because these changes can be signs of melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer.

Call Dermatology Associates of the Lowcountry (843) 689-5259 on Hilton Head Island or 843-705-0840 in Bluffton and 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

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Bluffton Real Estate Market Update: November 2024

BY DAN PRUD’HOMME Contributor

The Bluffton real estate market remains stable and continues to favor sellers, despite a few notable changes in recent months. While the community of Bluffton is wellknown for its charm, I would like to take this opportunity to focus on the numbers, providing a comprehensive update on the market conditions since I reported to you last month.

Bluffton is still very much a seller’s market, driven by historically low inventory. However, that inventory has been slowly growing for most of 2024—although it’s still well below pre-pandemic levels. The number of available homes for sale has increased significantly from last year, when there were 635 homes on the market. Currently, that number has risen by 23% to 779 homes for sale. Despite this increase, the inventory is still lower than the 900 homes that were on the market as of this past April, which suggests a recent tightening.

Days on the market have also seen a shift. Last month, the average time for a home to sell was 47 days, but this has now jumped to 65 days. While this may seem like a significant increase, it’s worth noting that this time last year, it was taking an average of 62 days to sell, so the current market pace is not unprecedented. I attribute this recent change to the fast-approaching election. It’s well known that people tend to put large purchases on hold just before a hotly contested election.

Closed sales in Bluffton have been strong this year. To date, there have been 1,695 closed sales, a 9.5% increase from the 1,548 sales at this time last year. This strong sales activity has resulted in just over four months of inven-

tory available on the market, which keeps Bluffton firmly in seller’s market territory.

The median sales price in Bluffton has also risen slightly. Currently, the median price sits at $551,000, reflecting a 2.0% increase from the $540,000 seen at this time last year. This steady price growth highlights the ongoing demand for Bluffton properties, even as the pace of sales has moderated compared to the pandemic surge.

In conclusion, while inventory has seen a significant decrease in recent months and days on the market have lengthened, the Bluffton real estate market remains highly favorable to sellers. With interest rates likely to decrease further and the recent election behind us, now is a prime opportunity for buyers to negotiate favorable terms before the market becomes even more competitive.

As we look toward the end of 2024, I want to wish everyone a very happy Thanksgiving. Enjoy this time with loved ones and stay tuned for more updates in the coming months!

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

Dan Prud’homme

BY MATHEW T. EPPS, MD

Contributor

Approaching facelift surgery

Achieving a successful facelift involves a multi-faceted approach, starting with choosing a qualified and competent cosmetic surgeon. When seeking complex surgery such as a facelift, it is important for the general public to be informed as to what constitutes a cosmetic plastic surgeon.

During the facelift consult, ask smart questions regarding experience, training, preferred techniques, and most importantly, the percentage of cases the surgeon performs that are cosmetic versus reconstructive. The goals of reconstructive surgery are to attempt to restore normal appearing tissue, whereas the goal of cosmetic surgery is to confidently take normal and make it look better – two markedly contrasting skillsets.

Dr. Rod Rohrich, an international renowned plastic surgeon in Dallas, Tex., famously wrote some surgeons specialize in particular procedures, and your procedure type should be in [their] top three.

Once you have found a good fit with a plastic surgeon, the next step in facelift planning is optimization of skin

quality and texture. Cosmetic plastic surgeons emphasize the importance of enhancing skin elastin and collagen content, recognizing that the foundation for an aesthetically pleasing outcome begins with the skin itself.

Cosmetic plastic surgeons also understand the nuances of pre-operative facelift incision design, ensuring that the scars remain discreet and inconspicuous, allowing patients to enjoy the rejuvenated appearance without the telltale signs of surgery.

Traditionally, an intricate retro-tragal incision is preferred for women, with curves and angles that is strategically placed behind the tragus, the raised structure in front of the ear canal. This technique requires a high level of skill to perform effectively.

Conversely, for men, a pre-tragal incision is classically preferred to avoid pulling the sideburn hair-bearing skin onto the tragus.

There is a growing trend among a subset of facial plastic surgeons to use a pre-tragal incision on women due in part to simplicity and convenience. Rushed or imprecise pre-tragal incisions, especially on women when under excess tension, can and often do result in a visible widened permanent scarring that is difficult to correct — a result that runs counter to the desired outcome.

A successful facelift involves a combination of attention to skin quality and precise incision techniques. Pa-

tients should be discerning in choosing surgeons who prioritize these elements to achieve optimal and natural-looking results.

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

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Dr. Mathew T. Epps

Safe not sorry; practical ways to stay safe with neuropathy

BY DR. KENNETH HORUP Contributor

I like to say that when it comes to neuropathy “ignorance is not bliss.” This is because there are many dangerous side effects that arise from lack of feeling in your extremities. Whether your symptoms are numbness, tingling, cramping or lack of balance, there are easy ways to increase your safety while struggling with neuropathy. It is a mission of mine to help people help themselves. For those of you who do suffer with neuropathy, or if you know someone that does, I encourage you to read this article as I will break down a few practical ways to stay safe.

Tip #1: Monitor Temperature Sensitivity. When I perform neuropathy examinations, I often find that patients are unable

to feel temperature, such as cold and hot, with accurate measure. The nerves are unable to sense temperature correctly. So, my first recommendation is to test water with an area of your body not affected by neuropathy before stepping into a shower, bath, hot tub, etc. Also, be careful with heating pads. If you are using a heating pad on an area affected by neuropathy, please test the temperature first, and time how long it is applied to the area. This will help reduce your risk of burning.

Tip #2: Increase Foot Care. At least once a week a patient comes into my office with

Dr. Ken Horup

PRACTICAL

PRACTICAL

FROM PAGE 22A

a cut they don’t know about; they are unable to feel it due to nerve damage. Please do daily inspections of your feet and ensure there are no open wounds. Avoid walking barefoot, even at home, to avoid nicks on the feet. The risk becomes high when you have an unknown wound as it can easily become infected, leading to further serious conditions. Also, keep your feet clean and moisturized with daily care and cleaning in the shower/bath.

Tip #3: Walk Safely. Falls are one of the leading causes of injury-related deaths. Though it may be a difficult adjustment, using a cane, walking sticks or a walker when you are moving will significantly help prevent falls. Without proper feeling, walking becomes difficult and unstable. I encourage you to take precautions with walking assistance, even if you do not want to.

Tip #4: Drive Responsibly. Unfortunately, with neuropathy comes a loss of independence. However, it is more important that you are safe. If you find your feet are numb and you are unable to feel the gas/brake

pedal accurately, I encourage you to have someone else drive you. Car accidents due to neuropathy are more common than you think. When it is difficult to feel how hard you press the pedals, or which pedals you are pressing, car accident risk skyrockets. It is very important to be safe when you are driving.

Tip #5: Medical Check-Ups: The benefits of routine medical check ups are plentiful. A healthcare provider will be able to recommend specific treatments for your personal case. Whether it is to seek a physical therapist, apply new creams, get a referral to neuropathy specialists, or to simply check that your system is functioning properly, a healthcare worker can help guide you in the right direction.

Living with neuropathy requires proactive measures to stay safe and manage your health. My wish is that this article will encourage you to act on your health and safety as you navigate your condition. Though some of these tips may seem simple, they can change someone’s life when put into action; you may minimize the impact of neuropathy and improve your quality of life.

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

Lauren Remegi, MS, PA-C

A. Thomas Bundy, MD, FAAD, FACMS

Amy Myers, Licensed Esthetician

Emily Murphy, MSN, FNP-C

Marissa Barrett-D’Amico, MS, PA-C

Esthetician

The importance of a good estate plan… your peace of mind

BY MARK WINN Contributor

What will a good estate plan do for you and your family? It will give you peace of mind. Why? Because it will protect you and defend against: (1) unnecessary probate court costs and fees, (2) acceleration or avoidance of income taxes – in the form of maximum deferral of taxes on retirement assets or in maximizing the step up in basis at death, (3) loss of assets to federal estate taxes, (4) loss of assets from lawsuits (legal claims and divorces) (5) loss of assets from wasteful spending. Also, it will or can guarantee your assets will stay in your blood family. Perhaps the greatest

benefit of a good estate plan is the peace of mind you will have knowing that you have put these affairs in order. If you want the protection a good estate plan will do for you, it must be done before you need it. If you have moved from another state, your legal documents should be reviewed and probably updated. At our office, we usually meet with clients three to four times during a representation. The first meeting is complimentary. The second meeting is to review a draft of the papers. Then, the third meeting is usually via telephone conference or zoom call to answer any questions or make any changes. Then, the final meeting is to get the papers signed.

Let’s say Bryan and Clarabelle have a son named David who is married to Sue. David and Sue have a daughter named Tasha who gets government benefit due to her disability. Bryan and Clarabelle want

to make sure Sue will not get their assets. The solution is to leave their assets into a trust for David’s benefit with the remainder to Tasha. Doing this will guarantee that (1) Bryan and Clarabelle’s assets will not get lost in a divorce if David divorces Sue, (2) when David passes, the assets he inherited from Bryan and Clarabelle will go to Tasha and not Sue. Bryan and Clarabelle can make sure that when Tasha inherits what is left over, she inherits in a special needs trust so she will not lose her government benefits. If not planned for in advance, David could inherit the assets and lose them to Sue in a divorce or other lawsuit. On David’s death, Sue could get half, if not all, of those assets. In addition, whatever Tasha inherits could jeopardize her government benefits. The bottom line is that if you want to keep your assets in your family, and you want the peace of mind that comes from it, you must plan in

advance. You will get peace of mind, and your family will thank you for it. Remember, a little bit of planning can make a big difference.

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

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Get a grip: what is trigger finger and how is it treated?

BY DR. EDWARD R. BLOCKER Contributor

When it comes to conditions that can affect your hand, trigger finger is one that many people experience throughout their lives.

The name “trigger finger” is a descriptive term of what the finger feels and even looks like when the symptoms of the condition occur. After making a fist or closing your hand around an object, the trigger finger (or thumb) will catch or “trigger” as you try to straighten it. These triggering episodes can be mild or can cause quite a bit of pain. There is often a painful nodule that can be felt in the palm at the base of the triggering finger.

Although it may feel like the problem is in your knuckle, it’s caused by an issue with the tendon that controls your finger.

Think of our tendons like puppet strings. Muscles pull the tendons, which then move your fingers. The tendons that flex your finger down pass through a sheath as they slide back and forth to move your fingers. The tendon can get caught as it passes through this sheath, causing the finger to “trigger.”

Trigger finger is generally a simple problem to treat, and those dealing with the condition have a few different options for treatment. It might resolve on its own. We call this treatment “tincture of time” or “benign neglect.”

An anti-inflammatory such as Advil or Motrin can quiet down the inflam-

mation around the tendon. Not everyone can take anti-inflammatory medication, so if in doubt, check with your medical provider.

A cortisone injection near the tendon can sometimes cure the problem. Cortisone is a strong steroidal anti-inflammatory that is applied right at the source of the problem to soothe the inflammation and allow the tendon to glide back and forth.

Finally, a simple outpatient procedure can be done to open the area of the tendon sheath where the triggering occurs. This will also allow the tendon to glide back and forth more easily.

In my practice, if someone comes in with a trigger finger, they’ve usually already put up with it for a while –often using anti-inflammatory medications – so, the next step I usually recommend is an injection.

Sometimes a patient will say they don’t want an injection because it’s “just temporary.” However, an injection can sometimes cure the problem and is therefore usually worth a try before resorting to surgery.

Of course, sometimes an injection is temporary or doesn’t work at all. For the patients that have persistent, bothersome triggering not relieved by the other options, surgery is an option and has a very high likelihood of success.

Trigger finger is common, and while it isn’t debilitating, it can certainly be annoying. Talk to your medical provider about which treatment option will work best for you.

Board-certified in orthopedic surgery, Dr. Edward Blocker has been a member of the Beaufort Memorial medical staff since 1998 and currently serves as chief of the hospital’s orthopedic department. He sees patients at Beaufort Memorial Orthopaedic Specialists in Okatie, Beaufort and Varnville.

Welcome Dr. Lunsford!

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Bluffton High earns top rating in SC education report

BY CHANNING HEISS Contributor

The SC Department of Education and the SC Education Oversight Committee released the annual statewide school report cards in early October, and Bluffton High School maintained its overall rating of “Excellent” for the fourth straight year while also earning other recognition for school quality.

The school ranks fourteenth in the state and first in Beaufort County overall. The state rates schools on a range of criteria including test scores, teacher qualifications, parent involvement and school climate.

Principal Matthew Hall, who was selected last summer to succeed Denise Donica, is proud to be a part of Bluffton High and optimistic about the future of the school.

“Denise Donica and the staff have earned all of these accolades. This is all because of our dedicated staff and students,” Hall said.

In addition to its top-tier overall quality rating, Bluffton High School earned its first “Excellent” ranking in school climate, on which Hall says they have been placing a great deal of focus.

“We’ve been working hard on this. We celebrate everyone’s success and work to make Bluffton High a place everyone enjoys coming to.” The school climate rating is calculated based on surveys focused on the primary areas of safety, environment and engagement.

Hall cites many elements of Bluffton High School that have contributed to its success. He notes the school’s offering the AP Capstone program, a two-year course of study offered by a small percentage of US high schools, and focusing on areas such as analytical skills and problem solving. Bluffton High most recently had over 30 students qualify for

the Capstone diploma. Principal Hall also points out the students’ excellent record of achievement in Biology, Algebra and History, where test scores have been at or near the top in the school district.

“It’s a testament to the great work our teachers do,” Hall said. “In academic achievement, our teachers and students always perform towards the top...I want to celebrate and highlight that and to let everyone know how wonderful Bluffton High School is.”

Channing Heiss is a freelance writer and a member of the Beaufort County disAbilities Coalition.

BLUFFTON HIGH SCHOOL

BHS Principal Matthew Hall

Navigating a buyer’s market versus a seller’s market

BY CHIP COLLINS Contributor

In real estate, market conditions can be classified as a buyer’s market, a seller’s market or a balanced market, each defined by supply and demand. These distinctions impact not only the mood of the market but also the strategies employed by buyers and sellers. Understanding these differences is crucial for making informed decisions, whether you are purchasing a home, selling one or simply observing market trends as a property owner.

A buyer’s market occurs when there is an excess of inventory relative to the number of active buyers. Typically, this scenario arises when the monthly housing supply exceeds six months. In such a market, sellers face more competition, as buyers have a plethora of options. This gives buyers significant leverage in negotiations, allowing them to make lower offers, ask for more concessions and request property repairs and terms favorable to them before finalizing a deal.

Unlike what we saw in the COVID market, a softer market offers buyers a range of choices and enables more time for decision-making. It’s common to see price reductions and sellers willing to entertain offers below asking price, especially if their property has been on the market for an extended period. Buyers might even request home-to-sell contingencies, which are usually not palatable in a more competitive market.

From the seller’s perspective, however, a buyer’s market can be more challenging. Sellers need to be more strategic with their pricing and property presentation. This means ensuring the property is in prime condition, address-

ing deferred maintenance and potentially making aesthetic updates prior to going on the market to stand out against the competition. Sellers may also have to be flexible with their asking price and terms of sale.

In contrast, a seller’s market occurs when the housing supply is less than three months, meaning there are fewer homes available than the number of buyers actively searching. In a seller’s market, homes tend to sell quickly, often at or above asking price. Buyers, anxious not to miss out, may enter into bidding wars, further driving up the final sales price.

Buyers in a seller’s market have less leverage. They may need to move swiftly to place an offer, often with fewer contingencies, to be competitive. In this scenario, buyers are less likely to request extensive repairs or adjustments and are often willing to pay over the asking price to secure the property.

Sellers in this type of market are in an advantageous position. They can be more selective with offers and may not need to make as many concessions. Additionally, the pressure to invest in extensive home improvements is reduced because buyers are eager to secure properties regardless. However, sellers should still ensure their pricing is competitive and fair/justified, as overpriced homes, even in a seller’s market, can linger unsold.

A balanced market occurs when the monthly housing supply is between three and six months, meaning the number of homes available matches the demand from buyers. In this type of market, neither buyers nor sellers hold a clear advantage. Homes sell at a steady pace, and prices tend to remain stable, with minor fluctuations based on location and property condition.

For buyers, a balanced market offers

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MARKET

FROM PAGE 27A

the opportunity to negotiate but not with the same level of aggression as in a buyer’s market. Buyers can expect fair pricing and reasonable terms, though they may still face competition for well-priced, attractive properties. It is also easier to include contingencies like inspections and appraisals in the offer, as sellers are more likely to agree in this neutral environment.

Sellers in a balanced market need to be aware of pricing trends and ensure their home is presented well. While they won’t face the aggressive competition of a buyer’s market, they also won’t have the luxury of a quick sale unless their property is particularly desirable. Proper pricing, home presentation, and flexibility in negotiations are key to securing a timely and profitable sale.

Understanding the type of market you are entering is crucial for success in real estate transactions. By closely monitoring market indicators such as the monthly housing supply, both buyers and sellers can make strategic decisions that align

with their goals. Whether navigating a buyer’s market, a seller’s market or a balanced market, being informed about the

current market conditions is always the key to maximizing success.

Chip Collins is the Broker-Owner of Col-

lins Group Realty founded in 2002. Find Chip at chip@collinsgrouprealty.com or collinsgrouprealty.com

A Complete Circle

By Autumn Osher

Cross Schools is expanding its footprint, from a small mark made in the Bluffton community 25 years ago, to its current presence as it embraces a growing future. The growth is evidenced in an expanding physical campus and in education outreach as this edition looks at the indelible impressions left by both current and former students.

Autumn Waite, 2006-2016, returns to campus this year as a middle school Faith Formation teacher. Cross Talk’s Autumn Osher talks to her about a journey that comes full circle. “Cross gave me roots and kept me grounded as I transitioned into high school,” says Autumn, who attended Cross Schools from kindergarten to eighth grade, after which she completed high school at May River High School.

Proof of this strong foundation lies in her recall of how her teachers recognized and nurtured her God given gifts, encouraging her natural talent to write, explore her interest in art, and develop the school’s first volleyball team.

After high school, Autumn was unsure of what to do. Many of her family members were a part of the beauty industry, “so I went with it,” says Autumn. After graduating from esthetician school, Autumn began her career, and she hated it. With lots of prayers, thought, and consideration, she decided to go back to school. She applied to Liberty University’s online Bachelor program where she studied sports management.

“However, it did not take long for the Holy Spirit to convince me that this was also not where He wanted me. I felt called to ministry,” she explains as she shifted gears once again to major in Biblical and Educational Studies with a concentration in Biblical Theology and a minor in Creative Writing.

“In the throes of my educational and career crisis, I used creative writing, nurtured so caringly by a fifth grade teacher, Mrs. Kristin Thompson, as an outlet to glorify God even in the unknown of what my future would look like,” Autumn explains, and as she began to post her poetry onto TikTok, she was encouraged by followers to publish her poetry. Since then, she has published three collections of Christian poetry and prose, To Paint a Praise, Notes From the Hem, and Every Bird in the Mountains.

Continued on page 4

By Autumn Osher

Gracyn Drury, 2004-2016, graduated from the University of Charleston Honors College in May ‘24 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. While attending UC Honors College, Gracyn participated in translational spine research at the Medical University of South Carolina in the regenerative cell labs, and her field experience landed her a position with Meridian Bioscience as an inside sales representative with the point of care team. “In this role, I will be educating physicians, lab technicians, and public health officials about the dangers of lead and lead poisoning in children, and selling lead testing equipment,” Gracyn explains.

Emma Drury, 2005-2017, is a senior at Mercer University, completing a B.S.Ed. in Elementary/Special Education - The Holistic Child. In addition, Emma will earn a Reading Endorsement, and spent time on Cross campus working with young readers. She previously served on the Executive Board of Mercer University as the director of philanthropy and is currently serving as the director of new member experience. Through her sorority, Alpha Delta Pi, Emma has been awarded a national scholarship. “I have loved my college experience at Mercer University, but am very excited to begin my career in education!”

Ryan Donahue, 2008-2018, is a junior at the University of South Carolina, Columbia. He is a year away from graduating with a BA in both Political Science and History, after which he is considering attending law school. His interest in government and policy led him

Cross Trail Blazers

to work at the South Carolina State House of Representatives as a page. He hopes to intern this summer either with a private law firm or a county solicitor’s office to gain experience before graduation. While the future remains wide open for him, he is most interested in working in policy law.

Sisters Mackenzie Kronimus, 20102017, and Morgan Kronimus, 2010-2019, are students at the University of Alabama. They are both active members in their sorority, Alpha Gamma Delta, and are often together despite their different schedules. Kenzie, in her senior year, is double majoring in Political Science and Psychology with a minor in Italian. Additionally, she attends the Honors College in Alabama and works for two district court judges at the Tuscaloosa County Courthouse. Morgan, in her sophomore year, is a nursing major and an ambassador for the nursing college. After graduation, Morgan hopes to become a travel nurse and go back to school for her nurse practitioner license.

James Grainger, 2008-2018, is currently a junior at Charleston Southern University enrolled in a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and the Air Force ROTC program. On completion, he will be commissioned into the Air Force as a Second Lieutenant. James aims to work as an aerospace physiologist, helping pilots and astronauts deal with the many physical aspects their bodies have to battle while in the air. This may take him to Germany but he expresses that any base in Europe will allow him to work in this field and hopefully complete a full 20 years of service in the United States Air Force.

Pictured top: Emma Drury. Pictured bottom: Ryan Donahue.

Pictured above, left to right: Kenzie and Morgan Kronimus on the UA campus.

Pictured above: Gracyn Drury.

Pictured below: James Grainger and his mother, Rita Grainger.

Seventhgraders Owen Hedges and David Ramirez are attracted to the opportunities that the Cross middle school football team offers and are contributing to the team together. Owen plays quarterback and David plays wide receiver. They are impressed with how welcoming the team is and how their personal efforts help the team continue to grow.

Owen transferred from HHCA, where he played running back on their team and David transferred from May River Montessori, playing flag football for the local recreation teams. Both boys played Island and Bluffton Rec Center flag football with Coach Hedges and now work with him as one of Cross’ middle school coaches.

David and Owen also have unique international experiences as part of their education. Owen attended MC Perry Primary School in Iwakuni, Japan from kindergarten through second grade before returning to Atlanta, GA while David attended Lugar B in San Cristobal, Venezuela for his early elementary schooling.

Right off the bat, twelfthgrader Yashira Albertson, embraces Cross’ mission of “active service all for the glory of God” as she works with director of athletics, Suzie Hollings, to start a color guard team that will develop daily procedures for raising and lowering the American flag, and singing or playing the national anthem at games and ceremonies like Veterans Day. Yashira transferred from Bluffton High to be with her six-year-old twin brothers who attend Cross. She runs with the cross country team, although competition is new to her, and is thrilled at how welcoming and supporting the athletes are. From a family with a military tradition, Yashira hopes to train in the Marine Corps when she graduates.

Being a member of a family is what draws eleventh-grader Alondra Vasquez-Reyes to the Cross community. Jumping in on the yearbook committee provides an opportunity for Alondra to engage in “inquisitive learning” from the start. She attended Hilton Head High School before transferring to Cross and

New Faces From Different Places

her family hails from Honduras. Alondra will join basketball cheer during the season and hopes to play softball in the spring.

Freshman Monroe Porter, grew up in Michigan before moving to South Carolina where she enjoys lowcountry life at the beach with friends. Monroe is no stranger to cheerleading and jumped straight into the Cross varsity cheer team. She joined the Student Ambassador program, an integral part of the admissions process where students welcome and interact with prospective new students and their families on open days.

Elizabeth Duncan embraces the challenge that competitive sporting situations present but always has in mind the ultimate goal, “for the glory of God”. Liz is excited about the opportunities that winter basketball season will bring as she plays shooting guard and small forward but in the meantime she is an outside hitter on the JV volleyball team. Her passion for mathematics and her dream to attend Houston Christian University to pursue a degree in Accounting and Business is reflective of her independent learning style and inquisitive nature. For now she is content with developing peer opportunities for bible study and prayer amongst her friend group.

Pictured above, left to right: Elizabeth Duncan, David Ramirez, and Owen Hedges.

Pictured above, clockwise: Alondra VasquezReyes, Elizabeth Duncan, Jackson Melton, Yashira Albertson, Monroe Porter, Owen Hedges, and David Ramirez.

Pictured above, left to right: Alondra VasquezReyes, Yashira Albertson, and Monroe Porter.

Story by Jackson Melton in collaboration with Cross Schools Admissions, Kelly Kimball, k.kimball@ crossschools.org

Photos by Ms. B-C.

Junior Leaders Jump In

This year is a monumental year for Cross as six new students embark on the 2025 Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce’s Junior Leadership program. In August 2024 the six students selected for the 2025 graduating class were Maggie Drury, Blake Burke, Aya Banigbe, Elizabeth Von Maur, Ella Land, and Belle Carbone. Previous participants include Carrie Reeves (2024), and Alex Homann and Hana Nelson (2023).

Participation is limited to around 30 students from various lowcountry schools, but qualifying can be rigorous as students engage in a face-to-face interview narrowing applications down to the final 50. Blake Burke, a junior at Cross Schools, explains how he felt the interviewing process put him at ease, “it seemed more like a conversation than an interview.”

The 2025 group is enthusiastic about the team building experiences to date, and Maggie Drury explains she is “excited about

Team Building 2.0 because I really enjoy getting to know my peers from around Bluffton.”

Graduation requirements include successful completion of Community Enrichment Activities (CEAs) of which some are school-based and some are community based. This may include attending a sports game for different schools or volunteering at the Bluffton Seafood and Arts Festival. Belle Carbone is ready to learn this year by embracing “all that the Junior Leadership Program has to offer through the service projects and knowledgeable mentors,” as she develops a “new understanding of what it means to grow her abilities as a leader.”

Most excitingly, the entire 2025 cohort will self-select a project where outcomes contribute to the community. Past projects have included a community baby shower which brought in donations for babies and mothers in need, a book drive for the local Boys and Girls Club, and visiting nursing homes.

A Complete Circle

Continued from page 1

As a middle schooler, Autumn joined the startup volleyball team, formed in those days by student Lauren Madden’s passion for the game and with the help of Coach Bill Crumrine. Her love for the sport kept her engaged through high school and ultimately laid a foundation for her coaching career. The seed was sown during her time playing volleyball at Cross.

“I started coaching at Cross, in the JV program alongside my co-coach, Bethany Mullins. I coached club/travel volleyball with Seaside Volleyball Club, coaching several high performance teams aged 14-16 for about seven seasons,” she explains.

Autumn’s story demonstrates the impact a school and community can have on a young person’s life. Even as she departed from Cross in 2006, Autumn never fully separated, and through Cross’ closely knit community, she was able to return. It is a circular story of a life transformed through Christ.

About This Edition

Courtesy of Luis Barrero, this edition of Cross Talk’s cover features two members of the Cross Schools community, educator Autumn Waite and student Autumn Osher.

Editor: Autumn Osher

Design and layout: Autumn Osher

Advisor: Heather Brougham-Cook

Pictured above: Autumn Waite’s eighth-grade graduation picture.

Pictured below, clockwise: Ella Land, Maggie Drury, Elizabeth Von Maur, Blake Burke, Belle Carbone, and Aya Banigbe. Photo and research by Carrie Reeves.

BY TRACY WINSLOW Contributor

I can feel my pulse beating in the soles of my exhausted and sore feet. The pain is radiating up and settling into my lower back. I want to take my sassy heels off, but we are at a bar. I don’t want my French-manicured toes mingling with things I’d rather not think about con-

Tracy Winslow KEYS CONT. ON PAGE 34A

gealed on the floor. I am one of the few sober people remaining in the place. We had a wonderful day catching up with loved ones that we had moved away from in our search for warmer climates. However, it’s late, I am about five hours past overtired, and I am no longer enjoying the drunken shenanigans occurring around me.

I signal to my husband that I wish to head to the hotel. He yawns his agreement. I ask him for the keys to the rental car, as I am the designated driver. He informs me that I have the keys, which I do not.

Key Master: “Tracy, you had the keys when we arrived.”

Me: “No I didn’t. You locked the car and then we walked in, remember?”

Key Master: “You locked the car.”

Key-less Me: “No, you drove the rental car and had the keys.”

Belligerent Key Master: “I DON’T HAVE THEM, TRACY.”

Trying to Stay Calm Me: “Ok, maybe

they’re outside near the car?”

We walk out back and begin to comb the parking lot and the inside of the car for the missing keys. It is chilly out, and I am wishing I had my coat. But I didn’t bring it. I shiver and keep searching for the impediment that is cruelly hindering my sleep. The keys are nowhere to be found. We head back inside to continue looking.

Obstreperous Key Jerk: “You clearly have them. I unlocked the car and then put them in the pocket of your grey coat.”

Innocent Until Proven Guilty Me: “I’m not wearing a grey coat. I don’t even own a grey coat.”

Gave the Keys to a Stranger Him: “Well, that’s just freakin’ awesome, Tracy. Now we don’t have the keys. Now we are going to have to pay $7,000,000 to replace the keys to Hertz. I can’t believe you lost the keys. I put them in your grey coat on the bar.”

Super Angry Shouty Me: “I DON’T HAVE THE KEYS!! I AM WEARING A BLACK SWEATER WITH NO POCK-

ETS!! I DON’T HAVE A GREY COAT!!!!!”

Our friends are not-so-successfully stifling laughs and offer to drive us the few blocks to the hotel. I leave my number with the bartender in case the absconded with set of keys makes a reappearance.

Frustrated, tired and now wanting to stab my husband with the missing keys, we head to the hotel. During the entire 10-minute ride back to the hotel, Key Loser keeps blaming me for misplacing the keys and complaining how much money we are going to owe to the rental car agency. I try to refrain from pushing him out of the moving vehicle.

We get to the room, and I sequester myself in the bathroom to perform my nightly pre-sleep ritual and try to calm my anger so I can fall asleep sometime before dawn. I hear my husband collapse onto the bed, rolling my eyes at him behind the concealment of the bathroom door. The sink is running, and I hear something garbled coming from the other room. Begrudgingly, I

turn off the faucet so I can hear.

Overtired Me: “Sigh...I couldn’t hear you with the sink running. What did you say?”

Should Be Sleeping on the Couch: “I found the keys!”

Wrongfully Accused Me: “Excuse me?”

Too Narcissistic to be Contrite: “I found the keys! I put them in this little pocket in my jeans so I wouldn’t lose them. I told you we would find them!”

I Freakin’ Told You I Didn’t Have Them Me: “Is divorce court open at this hour?”

Tracy Winslow is a college professor and owner of Bluffton’s premier yarn store - Low Country Shrimp and Knits. In the 37 seconds a day she is not running around like a lunatic, Tracy can be found knitting furiously, Ouija-boarding her deceased metabolism, and attempting to write humorously about life’s antics and anecdotes in her humor column, Chaos on Fire.

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Built with integrity

BY RYAN CHOWANSKY Contributor

Back in 2019 when my father asked me to move to Bluffton to help him market his new construction company, we decided on the tagline “Built with Integrity.” Besides my love for double entendres, I knew my father truly was built with integrity. At the time, with over 40 years of construction under his belt, I watched him run his own company, from building homes to shopping centers to massive additions to epic face lifts, my father built strong. He built with integrity. He operated and lived with integrity. There wasn’t a time I haven’t watched my dad chose the less scrupulous way.

My dad should from here on out be known as Saint Gary the Patron Saint of Integrity. And Patience. The man has patience.

I, on the other hand, had a lot to learn from this man. When I was younger, I rebelled against this integrity lifestyle. I saw how hard it was. I watched my dad take licks from homeowners, subs, the government, you name it. Lick after lick, he did the right thing. So, at my young age I felt like that was a hard way to live, costly, and honestly, pretty lame. I want-

ed to be on the radio, be a goofball, make people laugh. Who wants all that stress?

Well, I did the radio thing and had a blast. I turned it into a marketing thing. Then the marketing thing comes full circle and here I am helping Saint Gary. Working hand in hand with my father, as I was now older, I saw what this integrity thing was all about. Sleeping well at night. No matter if you’re getting the raw end of a deal, you do the right thing and be proud of your work. If you under bid something, take your loss or have a conversation with the owner, but never just run away. If you could build something and cheap out on materials or cut corners, it will come back and haunt you, and that’ll show in your reputation. Build it with the right materials the first time. Don’t build buildings or relationships with a minimum investment, but instead, build them with the best you can bring.

When we chose “Built with Integrity,” it made absolute sense. Now, over five years later, it means even more. It is my ultimate core value in life and business. Every decision, hires, fires, projects and relationships, all get filtered through this one question, “Is this built with integrity?” Personally, I wish I understood this sooner; but I am so glad that it is part of my DNA now.

Ryan Chowansky is the owner of Bluffton Builders, LLC.

Ryan Chowansky

Gary and Ryan Chowansky

BY DR. RONALD FINGER Contributor

InstaLift is a registered name for a modified thread lift of the face. The positive results of an InstaLift are:

1. Lifting of the face and neck.

2. Stimulating production of more volume in the face, which is needed with aging.

The uniquely designed InstaLift threads are what makes the procedure work. They differ from standard or barbed threads in that they are absorbed over one and a half to two years, and more importantly, they actually stimulate the production of collagen and thus volume. The InstaLift threads have small uni-directional cones integrated into the threads going in opposite directions from the center of the thread, which both anchor and pull the

What is an InstaLift?

cheeks back up into the desired location. Who would benefit most from an InstaLift?

InstaLifts work best for patients who are just beginning to see some sagging of the cheeks, jowls and neck and those who have loss of volume in the cheek area. It also works well for those who have had face lifts and are beginning to see recurrence of sagging. In addition, it is often used for those people who do not want a

More

to Be Thankful For

face lift for their individual reasons (time restrains, financial issues, medical problems, etc.).

Would fillers work for these issues?

Yes, to an extent, certain fillers such as Juvéderm, Voluma, Restylane products, Sculptra and others could help correct these aging problems. Often times, it might be a recommendation to have both the InstaLift along with fillers if more volume is needed. In some cases, fillers alone

are effective. Each patient has unique needs depending on amount of volume loss, as well as one’s facial and bone structure.

What the InstaLift does best is to tighten and lift the skin with the addition of stimulating the production of collagen and thus volume.

How is the procedure performed?

The procedure is done under mild or no sedation and takes approximately 45 minutes to perform. There will be small needle marks on both cheeks where the threads are inserted. Bruising and swelling are minimal and usually gone in five days. Because the InstaLift threads stimulate collagen growth, the final result will not be seen for several months, but the patient’s appearance will be improved within a week. At that time, if the patient feels they would like more volume, fillers can then be utilized.

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

We offer more than just a place to retire. We offer a vibrant community where you can truly thrive. With our all-inclusive services and amenities— like engaging social events, weekly housekeeping, and our renowned Signature Freedom Dining Program—you’ll have more time to pursue your passions. Spend more time celebrating, connecting, and living—we’ll take care of the rest!

Come

Dr. Ronald Finger

Thread lift pre and 3-month post procedure.

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• Complimentary exams and x-rays

• Braces and aligners for all ages

• Flexible financing

• No referrals needed for consultations

AAO recommends the first orthodontic consultation should be performed at age 7

Bluffton

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For appointments or information, visit milerorthodontics.com or contact either office.

Formerly Bluffton Orthodontics, now under new ownership and name, Dr. Sherwood Miler will continue the 10-year legacy in the Lowcountry.

Our goal remains to provide high-quality, personalized orthodontic care in a welcoming environment, and we are excited to serve both our existing and new patients. We’re deeply committed to our Lowcountry community, actively supporting local organizations, and creating smiles in the area we call home.

Enjoy stress-free holidays

BY ROB PEARSON Contributor

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), almost half of all women and a third of all men report increased stress around the holidays. There are so many simple ways to reduce stress this time of year, especially here in the Lowcountry. It’s all up to you. Prioritize you. Take a walk on your favorite beach or the wharf and sidewalks of Old Town Bluffton. When’s the last time you visited Coligny Beach and its multitude of nearby shops and eateries? Stay active. If you drink alcohol, don’t over-do it. Eat healthy foods. Get enough sleep. Reduce your time on social media.

Hosting a get together for Family or Friends? Keep meals simple. Plan in advance. You don’t have to do everything. Have others bring something they enjoy preparing.

Responsible for buying gifts? Try simplifying. Visit some of our phenomenal local shops and restaurants to buy gift cards or certificates. Take a dear friend out for a meal and surprise them by picking up the tab, if that doesn’t evoke stress for you. To help ease financial stress, put a holiday budget together and stick to it.

Do you worry too much? Limit it by allowing yourself a set amount of time each day to worry for a short time. Write down (i.e. ‘Notes’ on your iPhone) any concerns that pop into your head during the day and save them for Worry Time. Choose something that relaxes you and make time in the day, every day, for it, even if it’s only for 15 minutes. Enjoy some time reading, a sip of chamomile tea, meditation, yoga, or listening to some tunes and step away from your electronic devices (except if one is playing relaxing music).

Planning ahead will relieve stress and give you more time to prepare for your activity. Begin early enough so you won’t have to worry about last minute shopping, meal prep or what to wear at social events. Find out if someone you know will be at the event which may help reduce your social anxiety.

You can handle the natural stress of the holidays. You may need to modify your routine somewhat, but it could help bring a higher level of enjoyment throughout the upcoming holiday season and beyond. Start planning early (like now) and have fun!

Rob Pearson, M.S. is Executive Director of Mental Health America of the Lowcountry, providing daily adult group mental health counseling programs in Bluffton and Beaufort for clients with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD and more. Contact: robp@mhalowcountry.org , 843-415-9110

Rob Pearson

The sweet science of goalsetting: how to start anything from scratch and sugar

BY WENDY KUSHEL Contributor

Starting something from scratch, whether it’s a business, a creative project, or learning a new skill, can feel a lot like trying to make a sugar scrub without sugar. It’s messy, confusing and sometimes overwhelming. But here’s the good news: the secret to getting started, and staying on track, isn’t some mysterious magic formula. It’s simple, practical, old-fashioned goalsetting.

The key to success? Setting goals— small ones, medium ones and goals that seem miles away. And yes, a little bit of sugar doesn’t hurt, either.

Let’s face it: most people have grand ideas but are often paralyzed by the fear of getting started. They wait for the perfect time, the right resources or for life to finally settle down. But that moment rarely arrives. Instead, what’s needed is a clear set of goals to get the wheels turning.

First, it’s essential to break things down into manageable steps. Think of it like this: set three small goals that can be achieved quickly. They should be practical and immediate, things that can be checked off in a week or two. Next, set five medium-sized goals that will take a little longer, anywhere from a few months to half a year. Finally, set 10 long-term goals, those big, audacious dreams that seem far off in the distance. These are the goals that will keep the momentum going when things get tough.

Let’s put this into practice with a random project. Take, for example, some-

one who wants to write a book. The first three goals might be as simple as outlining the plot, naming the main characters and writing the first chapter. These goals are achievable and ticking them off the list builds confidence.

Then, onto the medium goals, writing five more chapters, fleshing out the subplots and establishing a writing schedule. These take a little more time but are essential for moving the project forward. Finally, the big, long-term goals, finishing the first draft, editing and eventually submitting the manuscript to publishers.

And what about time? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by daily life, especially when juggling a full-time job, family responsibilities and everything in between. But here’s the trick: setting aside just 10 to 15 minutes a day can make a world of difference. It may seem like a small amount of time, but it adds up quickly. In a week, those 10-minute chunks become nearly two hours devoted to the project, time that would otherwise have been lost to procrastination.

Mistakes will be made, and adjustments will be necessary. But with a plan in place and some determination, anyone can turn a blank slate into something extraordinary. The sweetest reward? Looking back and realizing just how far those goals have taken you.

Wendy Kushel is the owner of Wendala’s LowCountry Sugar Scrub, LLC based in Bluffton, SC. Drawn to the Beauty & Personal Care Industry Wendy founded her company in 2020. Her background includes stand-up comedy, film, TV and a lot of sales and marketing. For more information about Wendala’s® LowCountry Sugar Scrub visit www.lowcountrysugarscrub.com or call/text 843949-8933.

Wendy Kushel

Anonymous crime tips program launches in Beaufort County

Crime Stoppers of Beaufort County, Inc. is pleased to announce its new program serving the residents and law enforcement agencies of Beaufort County. The program offers individuals a way to report tips anonymously and provides crime-solving assistance to law enforcement.

Crime Stoppers of Beaufort County, Inc. was formed in September 2024 following the announcement that the regional program, Crime Stoppers of the Lowcountry, was dissolving. To ensure both the public and area law enforcement agencies had all tools available to report and deter criminal activity in Beaufort County, several residents worked to form the new Crime Stoppers program.

Crime Stoppers of Beaufort County, Inc. operates as an independent non-profit 501(c)(3) organization operating in accordance with its own established bylaws. Ramona K. Townsend has been named as the

coordinator for the program, serving as the liaison between the board of directors and law enforcement agencies operating within Beaufort County.

How it Works:

Crime Stoppers of Beaufort County relies on cooperation from the community, the media and law enforcement to provide a flow of information as it relates to suspicious and criminal activity in Beaufort County. Those who submit tips are called “tipsters” and remain anonymous. Each tipster is given a unique computer-generated tip ID and password for tips submitted. These numbers are the only way to confirm tip submission and, if applicable, to receive a reward.

Submit Tips in 1 of 3 Ways:

• P3 Tips Mobile App

Submit anonymous tips via the free and

secure P3 Tips app. Available for Android and iOS platforms. Search your app store for “P3 Tips”

• Web Tip

Web tips can be submitted by visiting https://www.p3tips.com and search for Beaufort, South Carolina.

• Phone Tip

Tipsters still have the option to call the tip line by dialing 1-844-TIPSBFT (844- 8477238). This is a toll-free hotline number that connects the caller to a 24/7 call center.

Background

Crime Stoppers was the brainchild of a young Albuquerque detective who was concerned by the number of unsolved cases he and fellow detectives were working and was particularly frustrated that all possible leads had been exhausted regarding the murder of a young college student. He felt information that would solve the crime was available from someone other than the

criminal. That principal led to the major factors that needed to be addressed so individuals would come forward.

Members of the local community, media and law enforcement came together in partnership to begin the effort to provide crime-solving assistance to law enforcement, and the first Crime Stoppers program was born on September 8, 1976.

A cash reward was offered to individuals that provided anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers with information which would lead to the arrest of the person(s) responsible for the crime. The local media publicized the first “Crime of the Week” and the phone number to call with the information. A call received by the program within 72 hours of the broadcast resulted in the arrest of three men who had been involved in the homicide of the young college student that had occurred 4 months earlier.

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Spillin’ the Tea... Tales from the Lowcountry

This story is from a collection of interviews from long time locals who have generously shared their lowcountry memories with me to be saved for historical purposes and future generations

From Sprinkler Tech to Showstopper:

How Jay Doty made a grand entrance on a Harley at a Bankers’ Ballroom Bash

BY PAUL TOLLEFSON Contributor

We have all seen on the television, movies or in concerts where the performer or the “act” makes a grand appearance. Think about the Super Bowl performances where someone gets airlifted onto a stage or walks through what appears to be fireworks and smoke. Or boxing matches where this extravagant show is put on to welcome the boxer or wrestler to the ring. The lights dim, the crowd anticipates what is happening, and boom, there is the main act!

This story is similar to that type of lead up, but instead of the MGM Grand, it was The Country Club of Hilton Head, and instead of a concert, it was a simple bankers convention in the ballroom.

Jay Doty has lived in Bluffton and Hilton Head for over 40 years. He first came to the Island in the early 80s with nothing more than $40 in his pockets. He quickly went from working food and beverage at Giuseppe’s to working as a fire sprinkler technician and service manager. He has most likely been in every restaurant and big construction job that happened on HHI in the last 30+ years working on the sprinklers.

One hot summer’s day in 2002, Jay was working in the attic of The Country Club of

Hilton Head just minding his own business, getting a job done. As he recalled to me about that day, a lady came up to him in a frenzy.

“I was outside by my work truck and this lady noticed that I had a Harley Davidson license plate on the front. She was all in a tizzy and asked me if I had a motorcycle. I explained that I did, and she told me that she needed me to do a huge favor for her, and there wasn’t a lot of time. She asked if I could go home, measure my bike and make sure that it would fit in the elevator going up to the ballroom.”

“I really didn’t know what was going on or what exactly she needed my bike for, but it sounded like it might be cool, so I went home and put the Harley in my work trailer. I decided whatever was going to happen, I might as well look the part, so I threw on a black shirt with flames down the front and back and my dark sunglasses. I closed the door to my trailer and headed back up there. I knew that my bike would fit into the elevator she was speaking of as I had been in it enough times, and I knew my bike pretty well.”

“When I got back, the lady explained what was going on. She said that she was the personal assistant to the president of Sun Trust Bank, and that the guy that was originally supposed to ride the Harley had backed out, as his bike was too big to get in the elevator. Sun Trust was buying the local Lighthouse Bank and there was a convention/meeting going on with all the higher ups along with the employees of the

bank. She then told me that she needed me to get my bike up to the ball room, and she would give me more direction when I got there.”

“I finagled my bike up the loading dock in the back and finally got it into the staff elevator. I was to go up, and I would get off at the floor where the restaurant kitchen was. I remember that when I got there, everything was pitch black. There were other folks in there, but all had flashlights.

“I walked my bike past the large stainless steel food prep tables until I could see a set of double doors that led into the ball room. The lady, who’s name I still had not got, introduced me to a man who said he was the president of the bank. She explained that he was going to be riding on the back with me, and she handed him a brand-new leather red, white and blue leather coat to which he put on along with a set of shades.”

“Before I knew it, this guy was on the back, and both him and the lady told me to crank it up! So, I turned that key and fired it up. Now, that bike was not quiet, and when she told me to rev it, I REVED it! The gentleman on the back simply said, ‘Let’s do this.’”

“We bust through those double doors to a room that was dimly lit, but I could see round tables and folks everywhere! My bike is screaming, and folks in the room are doing the same thing! No one quite knew exactly what was happening! The guy that had been on the microphone had left the PA system on, so that was amplifying not only

the Harley but also the screams of the people in the room! You also have to remember that this was the Country Club. There were other members in the building trying to enjoy a drink and a bite to eat! People were coming from all directions to see what in the world was happening!”

“I walked that bike weaving through round tables, revving that accelerator as loud as I could! All of those people had no idea what was going on until we got to the stage, and the president hopped off to introduce himself to the nervous crowd. I had never been a part of anything like that before. Talk about making a grand entrance!

“When I walked the bike back into the elevator and finally got back down to the loading dock, the lady who ‘hired’ me said it was perfect and handed me a gift certificate to take my wife to eat at the Yacht Club and $100 bill! Little did she know, I would have done all that for free!”

Paul Tollefson is the Director of Tennis at the Hampton Hall Club in Bluffton. He found his love for the Lowcountry in early 2002 after graduating high school and unsure of what career path he was destined towards. After moving from Hilton Head to Bluffton he became enthralled with the history of the town and the people and cultures that called it home for many generations. He has found a passion in writing and enjoys being able to share the stories and pictures of long-time locals. He is the co-creator of the Facebook page “Bluffton Then and Now”.

Paul Tollefson

ACE Basin, our most valuable natural resource

BY GLENDA HARRIS Contributor

We are so fortunate to live in the Lowcountry of South Carolina, not too far from the confluence of the Ashepoo, Combahee and Edisto rivers, officially known as the ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge. In 1988, Ducks Unlimited, the Nature Conservancy, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources joined forces to create the ACE Basin Project to preserve the landscape and wildlife habitat.

A massive, 350,000-acre ecosystem, this undeveloped wilderness includes fresh water, salt water and brackish water, and provides habitat for a huge variety of wildlife in the rivers, wetlands and upland forests. It is also part of the 1.6-million-acre watershed serving 20% of the state of South Carolina.

To see for yourself some of the accessible areas within this huge nature scape, there are multiple access sites and ramps to get on the water. For details on access sites and ramps on the Edisto River, go to www.edistofriends.org. Boating or kayaking on the Edisto is the best way to view wildlife, whether birds or one of many species of wildlife along the shoreline forests. Local birders, take note. The basin is home to more than 260 permanent and seasonal bird species as well as seventeen rare/endangered species.

Visit the Botany Bay Heritage Preserve on Edisto Island, which is part of the ACE Basin. Plan to arrive at low tide so you can enjoy the beach because at high tide, the surf goes to the tree line. There are strict rules about removing anything from the beach. There’s a self-driving tour that is full of interesting structures and history. Also, the sea turtles love to come ashore here, and in May or June, you will likely see activity. The Grove Plantation House is worth a stop, and you will see signs for it on Highway 17. Built in 1828, it is one of only three plan-

tation homes not destroyed by Sherman during the Civil War. This beautiful home sits amidst numerous old live oaks that shade the front of the property. You can get information and maps here, and restrooms are available.

Managing the ACE Basin’s huge, sensitive habitat and resources is challenging, to put it mildly. According to SC DNR, “The goal of resource management is to provide public access to all elements of the Basin and expose visitors to representative aspects of the watershed with opportunities for environmental awareness and compatible recreation while protecting the natural integrity of the area.”

A tall order by any measure, but with the continued diligence of local communities and wildlife/habitat conservation organizations, the goals of public education and increased environmental awareness of our many treasures of nature can be met.

To see detailed maps of the ACE basin and info/location of boat ramps, public fishing

spots, artificial reefs and the Cowasee Basin Tour, go to the DNR website.

A former Bluffton resident, Glenda finds stories everywhere and writes about nature, travel, healthy living and books.

ESTILL: Thursday & Friday 10 AM -6 PM, Saturday 10 AM -4 PM

RIDGELAND: Tuesday – Friday 10am – 6pm, Saturday 10 AM - 4 PM

Glenda Harris

BY REV. THERESE DONLAN LEE Contributor

The great wisdom traditions of the world teach us that life is precious. In Unity we believe that what is happening today is part of our inimitable Divine plan unfolding for each of us. We have all heard the expression, “Carpe diem,” which prompts each of us to embrace, live and stay present to the wonder in this now moment.

Unity is a positive path for spiritual living. We honor the many religious and spiritual paths to the one God. As each of us lives from our truth, as spiritual beings having a human experience on this earth, we each are invited to engage in an intentional practice of beginning each day with thanksgiving. Daily thanksgiving is the

Daily Thanksgiving

most undeniable ingredient accessible to each of us for bringing about ideal conditions in our individual lives.

We know our individual lives impacts the lives around us. A grateful, open and receptive, loving heart makes possible the way of it. Unity believes Jesus lived, not to save us, but rather Jesus lived to direct our attention back to the reality of who each of us is as divine, unique, unrepeatable expressions of God. Unity students follow how Jesus lived His life because, He practiced giving thanks daily and His life demonstrated all that He taught. You might ask, “Can it be this simple?” Starting each day with gratitude so that we live a life of thanksgiving? I say, from my own experience, “Yes and, it may not always be easy.” Every day offers us, you and me, the opportunity to make a difference in our own lives and in the lives of others. We get to measure and give daily thanks for all of our goodness by what we embrace, what we create, and who it is we in-

LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS

Call for Information (843) 706-7090 Ext. 104

Orientation sessions held the 3rd Thursday each month • 3:00PM-4:00PM For Every 4 hours of donation time 20 people receive services. Bluffton Location: 29 Plantation Park Dr., Building 600 • Bluffton SC 29910

clude.

A Native American proverb reminds us, “Give thanks for unknown blessings already on their way.” You and I cannot

possibly know of all the infinite blessings on their way to us, so let us each have eyes wide open as we give thanks in advance. This daily thanksgiving allows our

many blessings to make manifest in, through and as our lives. I’m compelled to say, “Amen.” And I ask, “Are you willing?” Are you willing to nurture within you the gratefulness for the small everyday moments we call life? Are you willing to embrace the natural unfolding of life, regardless?

Living gratefully transforms us and how we live our lives. Wanting what we have is a noble place to start. Practicing generosity opens the way for continued abundance to flow to you and through you. Sharing yourself in sacred service is a blessing to the world. How will you practice daily thanksgiving?

Please start with yourself. All that you are, all that you have, all that you give and all that you receive. Grateful blessings for each of you. Namaste.

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

Therese Donlan Lee

BY CINDA SEAMON Contributor

INSIDE COOKING - IN THE KITCHEN:

With all the people and activity going on at Thanksgiving, it’s important to keep the kitchen safe. Did you know that, according to the National Fire Protection Association, Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment? It’s a good time to make sure your smoke alarms are working. When you are using the stovetop, stay in the kitchen to keep an eye on things. As far as the oven goes, start with a clean oven and make sure you stay in the house and check on it from time to time. Keep anything that can catch fire away from your stove – potholders, wooden utensils, food wrappers or paper towels. Make sure your sleeves are out of the way when cooking. Wear tighter fitting clothing with shorter sleeves.

Thanksgiving safety

Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over toys, bags or other items.

Make sure things like knives, electric cords from appliances, matches and lighters are out of a child’s reach.

Remember that steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee can cause serious burns. Keep those pot handles turned in!

Have activities that keep kids out of the kitchen during this busy time. Games,

We

Keeping fryers on a flat surface will help prevent accidental tipping.

Never leave a fryer unattended. Some units do not have thermostat controls, and the oil could end up heating until it catches fire.

Never let children or pets come near the fryer when it is in use. Even hours after use, the oil can remain dangerously hot. Use well insulated potholders or oven mitts when touching pot or lid handles or the side of the cooking pot.

puzzles or books can keep them busy. Let kids get involved in Thanksgiving with recipes that can be done outside the kitchen or without cooking.

OUTSIDE COOKING - TURKEY FRYERS:

Turkey fryers should always be used outdoors, a safe distance (10 ft.) from buildings or anything else that can burn. Never use on a wooden deck or in garages.

Be careful with marinades. Oil and water don’t mix, and water can cause oil to spill over, which can cause a fire or even an explosion hazard. That’s also why your turkey should be completely thawed before it goes into the fryer.

Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher nearby, and never use water to extinguish a grease fire.

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

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Thomas M. Dowling, CFA, CFP®, CIMA® Head of Wealth Management Amy Allen,

NATURE’S WAY

Time is short so make time with your kids!

BY COLLINS DOUGHTIE Contributor

This time around I think I want to switch things up by telling you about a bucket list destination I just returned from with my son Logan. As many of you with children can relate to, my daughter Camden and my grandchildren bought the house next door to me, but Logan and his wife Kali’s career paths took them to Los Angeles, so my time with them is far and between. With the clock ticking, I set up a father-son fishing trip to one of the most spectacular places I have ever seen. That place was La Paz, Mexico, on the Baja Peninsula which fronts up to the Sea of Cortez, often referred as being the aquarium of the world.

An avid angler and nature lover, Logan doesn’t have access to waters like ours that team with life, so when I told him about one solid week of fishing together each and every day, he was jacked to the max. Having researched the area, I found an outfit called Baja Rancheros with awesome reviews. Our package included a center console boat, captain, hotel accommodations and all transportation at an extremely affordable rate compared to any such trips in the U.S. Meeting up in Mexico City, we flew into La Paz, and from 30,000 feet, the scenery was spectacular with rolling hills, limestone cliffs that water and wind carved into works of art while the water was a mixture of deep cobalt blue water and vibrant blue green shallows along its rocky coastline. One

more notch on my bucket list was finally coming true.

With temperatures in the low to mid 90s it was rather toasty, but once we left the dock that first day, a steady sea breeze made the heat tolerable. The cliffs along the shoreline were carved into intricate patterns no matter where you looked. Having my boy with me kept a smile on my face the entire time. Logan is extremely smart, but paired with that is compassion that has no boundaries. We talked about our individual lives as well as razzing our captain Jesus that immediately bonded the three of us. I had told him that I too was a captain with years of experience, but knowing that he had heard that from many other groups he guided, I sensed he was thinking “here we go again, another know-it-all.”

The cool part about the Sea of Cortez is species available switch with the time of

year. In cooler water more yellowtail, grouper and large pargo, a member of the snapper family, are present. With the water warmer, mahi-mahi, striped and blue marlin and bottom fish like yellow snapper and triggerfish are more the target species. Our bait was live sardines that we would buy off bait boats early in the morning, and from there, we would go sight fishing. Slowly cruising on calm water in 200’-400’, we would look for the telltale “V” wake made by mahi and marlin cruising along the surface. Once sighted, we would try and get in front of the cruising fish, and using spinning tackle, pitch a live sardine where the fish might see it. It was an absolute hoot except for one snag. We have needle fish here that are at most a foot long, but down there the needlefish are 4’-5’ long, voracious and fast as greased lightning. With hundreds of needle-sharp teeth, it was challenging to keep the sardine away from them so the bright green and yellow mahi could have first shot at the bait. Other bandits included hundreds of skipjack tuna and bizarre looking trumpet fish with a snout easily three feet long.

Fishing every day, all day long was

probably not my best call. We would have some of our catch cooked for dinner, and then off to bed we went before getting up at 5:45 a.m. the next day for another eight or so hours on the water. I will say this, Jesus realized pretty quickly that we did actually know what we were doing, and on three out of four days, we were the high boat in their fleet. Catching mahi on light tackle in such clear water was so darn visual. Mahi have the ability to completely change colors when excited, and in water that clear a cruising vibrant blue mahi would instantly change to bright green, electric yellow and pectoral fins a neon blue once they caught sight of one of our struggling sardines. What a sight! Once hooked, they turn on the afterburners and more often than not do aerial acrobatics until they are literally spent. We never got greedy, releasing many fish, but the best part of this trip was spending time with my son. We are definitely cut from the same cloth, and as we departed La Paz, we both agreed to make one of these trips and annual affair. Life can change in a blink of an eye so make time for those kids that live far away. If this trip piqued your interest, check out Baja Rancheros in La Paz, Mexico. You can call them directly at +52 612 157 8977 and ask for Pedro. La Paz is safe, beautiful and the people there are warm and inviting.

Collins Doughtie is a 60-year resident of the Lowcountry, is a sportsman, graphic artist, and lover of nature. collinsdoughtie@icloud.com

Collins and his son Logan

Cliffs along the Sea of Cortez

Ian Kelly shines as Hilton Head Christian Academy’s star kicker

BY JUSTIN JARRETT Contributor

Ian Kelly was a freshman in high school when he began grappling with the unthinkable notion of losing his father, a reality he had to face just over a year later in November 2022, when the clock ran out on Scott Kelly’s battle with glioblastoma, a fast-growing brain tumor that ended his life at age 54. It was a difficult enough time for Ian — in perhaps the most emotionally complicated time in history to be a teenage boy — as he watched the man who had been his superhero and his biggest fan reduced to a shell of himself, eventually becoming bed-ridden and non-verbal as the cancer consumed him.

“Our mom was his full-time caretaker that entire time, and it was very hard on ev-

erybody,” says Ian’s brother, Shane Kelly. “Ian had to go through all of that mentally while also dealing with being a teenager. Ian became very stoic. He never really let anyone in. Only answered what was asked, and you never really knew how he was feeling. And that’s what he wants. He’s super funny and outgoing, so you would have no clue he’s even bothered by it.”

In the midst of the most challenging period of life, Ian found an outlet through sports, which had provided a strong fabric for the family throughout his childhood. His brothers, Shane and Brenden played high school soccer, and Brenden went on to play at Limestone and was recently inducted into the Bluffton High School Athletics Hall of

KICKER

FROM PAGE 46A

Fame, while Shane pursued a career in acting.

“But Ian is just the best of all of us,” Shane says. “Amazing athlete and amazing student. I don’t think there’s a sport we’ve found that Ian doesn’t instantly excel at.

“It’s very annoying,” he adds with a laugh.

It’s not so annoying to Hilton Head Christian Academy football coach Ron Peduzzi, who has learned in recent years the benefits of having a college-caliber kicker on the roster.

“The defense has to start on the 20-yard line every time,” Peduzzi says, noting Kelly’s 27 touchbacks on 36 kickoffs this season. “He’s come short a couple times, but not many. And the other thing is, he can make tackles. He’s athletic enough to throw the ball, catch the ball, run the ball, and make tackles, and that is a great weapon to have.”

Peduzzi and the Eagles have become spoiled by such luxuries after enjoying two seasons of punting specialist Tucker

Tevepaugh, who is now a backup punter for the Miami Hurricanes as a true freshman. Knowing Tevepaugh’s time at HHCA was short, Peduzzi began searching for his next big leg and found it on the soccer pitch.

“Coach saw me out on the soccer field one day hitting goal kicks, and he was like, ‘Dang, you got a leg,’” Kelly recalls. “It was kind of a thing where I decided to try it out, and I’ve been sticking with it ever since.”

Tevepaugh took Kelly under his wing last season and helped him make the transition from kicking a round soccer ball to sending an oblong football through the uprights, seeing him through adjustments to his plant foot placement and follow-through.

The work paid off, as Kelly found immediate success in his new environment, making 45 of 47 extra points and 6 of 8 field goals as a junior, including a 44-yard boot. He has continued to excel in his senior season, making all 26 of his PATs and going 7-for-11 on field goals with a long of

Ian Kelly

47.

“When my name’s called, I know I’ve got to do a job, and I’ve got one job to do,” Kelly said. “When I go out there for a kickoff, I’ve got to put it in the back of the end zone, and I’ve gotta get that thing

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tos/8740/1499371/636409f943ce9.jpg through the sticks when I get called out there to hit a field goal.”

And Peduzzi has seen him consistently send it through the uprights from even longer distances. That range allows for a wealth of possibilities when drives bog down or at the end of the half or the game.

“I’m literally thinking if we get past the 50-yard line we have a chance,” Peduzzi

said. “I have no problem letting him try a 57-to-60-yard field goal attempt if the wind is right, and he’s definitely solid between 40 and 50.”

At the same time he was watching his father slip away, Ian was dealing with his own physical ailment, recovering from a torn hamstring only to suffer a torn quadricep in his fourth practice upon returning. The back-to-back injuries left him frustrated and wondering whether he wanted to continue pursuing a college soccer career.

“After a lot of prayers and consideration, I decided that I wanted to pursue kicking and step away from soccer,” Ian said. “After my dad had passed, I wanted to do everything I could to make him proud and represent him and what he taught me through all that I do.”

Kelly’s final home game at HHCA — and his Senior Night — falls on Nov. 1, the two-year anniversary of his father’s death. It was his dad who always encouraged him to try kicking a football and assured him he would be great at whatever he chose to dedicate himself to, so Kelly will have additional motivation that night.

Like he does before every game, he will re-read the texts from his dad that he has saved, reminding him to give his all and give glory to God throughout the process,

and he will call his dad’s phone number and leave a voicemail letting Scott know who the Eagles are playing and how Ian plans to impact the game.

“Not a moment goes by where I’m not thinking about making him proud,” Ian said. “I’ll be playing to leave it all out on the field for him that night. He always pushed me to win and give my all, so every game I’m doing all that I can to help my team get the win.” The Eagles are headed to the playoffs, so Kelly’s whirlwind football journey won’t end there. And if Peduzzi can help it, it won’t end in high school.

“I am frustrated and disappointed, because he deserves a Division I scholarship,” Peduzzi said. “I know it’s gotten tougher as things have changed constantly in the college football recruiting scholarship realm, but he will be somewhere next year. If not, there’s a lot of stupid college football coaches.”

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.

Scott Moore Kelly

Celebrities’ most popular dental procedures

BY ANNETTE CALLEJO, DDS Contributor

Every Hollywood celebrity appears to have a perfect smile. While a handful are born with genetically flawless teeth at birth, it is not common. Those smiles don’t just happen; they are the result of cosmetic dentistry. The good news is that, if you want a 1000-watt smile of your own, you don’t have to bring in top dollars at the box office. The same dental procedures the stars undergo are available to everyone, and they’re a lot more affordable and less invasive than you might think.

NOTE: Ask about our roofing tune-up, Includes blowing off roof & gutters, applying sealant as needed to all exposed fasteners, flashing, pipe boots and vents. Includes a roof inspection.

These are the six most common dental procedures that celebrities get, and everything you need to know about their benefits.

TEETH WHITENING

All sorts of substances cause teeth staining. Coffee is one of the most common — and one of the hardest to give up — along with acidic foods, red wine, tobacco, and simple aging and genetics. Nobody can keep their teeth perfectly white forever without a little help.

Teeth whitening is, by far, the most common cosmetic dentistry procedure. It is a quick, simple, and affordable way to improve your smile and one of the least invasive dental treatments. For most patients, it takes just one session lasting less than an hour.

DENTAL CONT. ON PAGE 50A

Annette Callejo, DDS

DENTAL

FROM PAGE 49A

Concentrated, safe bleaching agents, often activated with LED lights, achieve fast and noticeable results. Despite the growing popularity of athome teeth whitening kits, in-office teeth whitening is much faster, more effective and safer because you are under a dental professional’s care.

DENTAL VENEERS

Veneers are easily one of the most popular celebrity dental procedures. They can instantly and completely transform a smile, hiding imperfections such as stained, chipped, cracked, misaligned, worn-down or crooked teeth.

Typically made of ceramic, porcelain, or a composite material, dental veneers are essentially a thin, tooth-colored shell that covers your teeth. They attach to your natural teeth using a bonding material. In most cases, your dentist will remove a small amount of tooth enamel first to make the bond stronger. Veneers can last 15 years or more and are made in all

shapes and sizes, allowing you to choose a smile that looks like a better, brighter version of your natural teeth. Hollywood is also full of bad veneers that look fake! So be sure to consult an experienced, talented and trusted dental team.

TEETH BONDING

This is a non-invasive form of cosmetic dentistry considered an alternative to veneers. While veneers typically cover an entire row of teeth, bonding is more often chosen when only one or two teeth require attention.

A tooth-colored resin material is used to fix chipped teeth or reshape teeth that are misaligned. Your dentist will mold the composite material into a shape that matches your natural teeth, restoring your smile quickly and in a single visit.

INVISALIGN

Clear teeth aligners like Invisalign™ have become incredibly popular because they straighten teeth gradually and discreetly and without requiring any kind of dental procedure or surgery. Unlike traditional braces, they are virtually invisible.

Invisalign corrects overcrowded teeth or those with large gaps and can straighten a severely crooked smile. It can also be used to treat an underbite, open bite or crossbite.

An impression of your teeth is used to create cus-

tom-made aligners that gradually shift your teeth into position. Made of clear, comfortable BPA-free plastic, the aligners are replaced each week with a new set and worn 24/7 to be most effective.

PORCELAIN CROWNS & BRIDGES

Dental crowns are similar to veneers but with a crucial difference. While veneers act something like a shield that covers only the front of a tooth, crowns cover the entire tooth like a cap. They are sometimes used to enlarge small teeth, fix teeth worn-down teeth or as an alternative to veneers if natural teeth aren’t strong enough to support them.

Bridges are essentially crowns that cover a series of multiple teeth side by side. Dental labs often design a custom bridge made of multiple crowns fused together to fit your teeth. Both are usually made of porcelain, but ceramic or a tooth-like composite material may also be used. An impression of

DENTAL CONT. ON PAGE 51A

DENTAL

FROM PAGE 50A

the tooth or teeth will be used to create a

DENTAL IMPLANTS

Celebrities may lose teeth due to accidents and aging just like the rest of us, and when that happens, they often rely on dental implants to fill the gap. Den- tal implants are also a go-to replacement option when a tooth must be extracted due to decay or damage. Although the process is more involved than most other cosmetic procedures, modern dental technology and techniques make it minimally invasive and significantly

reduce discomfort. A post is implanted into your jawbone where the new tooth will go. Once the post heals, it will serve as the root of your new dental implant. The whole procedure requires more than one visit, especially if you are replacing multiple teeth, but the result is a long-lasting smile that looks both natural and dazzling.

To learn more about attaining your own Hollywood smile, reach out to your dentist to discuss your options. There’s no reason to be self-conscious about your teeth. These days, cosmetic dental treatments are more affordable and accessible than ever, which means celebrities aren’t the only ones who can have a glamorous smile.

Annette Callejo, DDS is a dentist at ROC Dental Group in Hilton Head. Learn more at ROCDentalGroup.com.

The Church of the Cross Food Bank will be offering its guests a Thanksgiving Grocery bag for their holiday dinner. Volunteers hope to help at least 400 families. In addition to the list, the Food Bank will supply turkey breast, green beans, butter, milk, and eggs.

BY ABBY BIRD AKA ALPHADOG Contributor

A dog’s body language

Dogs have different physical habits that we may wonder about. Some are extremely important to know as they may indicate critical emotions pertaining to their immediate feelings in a situation. Knowing these may help an owner to diffuse a situation before it becomes uncontrollable.

Tail positions can tell us a lot about how a dog feels in a situation. A tail that is straight up (except for dogs that have tails always curled over their back) can indicate that they need to exhibit dominance or possibly aggressive behavior. They might even do it when they are unsure of another dog. They can indicate this behavior around people or objects to show their dislike or concern. Once comfortable, they may lower the tail into a more neutral position. If the tail remains upright and causes you concern, discuss this with a behaviorist who will ask about your dog’s specific triggers that may cause this. A neutral tail position is also a happy tail close to even with the dog’s body length while wagging. It is friendly and an indicator that they want to play with another dog. It also shows excitement around people that they love. It is also used by a dog when they want something special such as something they love to eat or do. A

low wagging tail generally indicates that the dog is uncomfortable, anxious, nervous or submissive. They may

actually be afraid of someone, something or another dog. Don’t ignore this behavior as it is telling you significant things about the extent of your dog’s discomfort. In some cases, we can desensitize a dog to their specific fear. In others, it is a good idea to remove your dog from the situation.

Lip licking can be a very confusing behavior signaling varied emotions. In some, it is referred to as a calming signal and is often used by a dog as a means to self calm in a stressful situation and is often followed by a yawn. The lick may be all the way up to their nose or just around their lips. A dog uses it when unsure of people or other dogs. However, it is also used as a warning when the dog is fearful and basically indicates “back off, I don’t know how I feel yet.” Other lip licking can be self calming when excited just prior to anticipating something that pleases them.

Knowing your dogs’ specific signals can help you to preempt behaviors that might cause trouble in your community and also to relax your dog so that situations do not escalate. If you are unsure, please rely on removal to keep dogs and people safe.

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

BY ROSEMARY STAPLES Contributor

Famed naturalist, Sir David Attenborough, once mused, “Everyone loves birds. What wild creature is more accessible to our eyes and ears, as close to us and everyone in the world, as universal as a bird?”

Almost as accessible as Lowcountry birds are the many Audubon volunteers — naturalists, scientists, photographers and writers — willing to share their avian knowledge. This November, Hilton Head Audubon (HHA) offers four trips hosted by these accomplished birders. Read their brief bios and tour descriptions here. Have you ever noticed that living in the Lowcountry brings out the “inner birder” of its residents? Thirty years ago, Patty Kappmeyer had no idea that her greatest joy would one day be photographing Hil-

Everyone loves birds

ton Head’s graceful shorebirds or that her photos would decorate website and magazine pages. “I am happiest taking photos, wandering through the marshes and forests, plodding through pluff mud,” says Patty. Browsing through her Facebook pages, Patty’s birds are identified, often accompanied by a story. An Audubon board member and editor for Ecoban newsletter, she also writes a monthly column, “Feathers Through our Lenses.”

Whether a new or seasoned birder, Patty’s tales and stunning photographs will deepen your appreciation of Lowcountry birds. Join this event at the HHI library November 2.

One foggy morning in Ashford, Conn., Jim Asmuth, a lifelong birder, thought he heard the back-and-forth call of two Hermit Thrushes. Turns out, he was listening to a single bird harmonizing with itself, performing its very own solo-duet. Jim was amazed by the thrush’s talent, abled by a two-sided voice box unique only to birds. “I was hooked and have been fascinated ever since by bird vocal virtuosity.”

He began recording birds on his walks, learned their vocal variations and developed a system to help remember sounds, songs and calls. Now a Bluffton resident, Jim is interested in helping birders tune in to Lowcountry birds. His presentation, Birding by Ear, is scheduled for November 5, followed by a Jarvis Creek Park field trip on November 9. Who knows — a Hermit Thrush might fly by and perform a solo duet.

Join this “Birds and Battle field” tour November 9, in Ridgeland, S.C. where eight colonies of endan gered Red-cockaded Woodpeckers were recently discov ered. Two of the colonies are holed up in longleaf pines on Honey Hill Battlefield, near Cooler Gro cery on Hwy. 462. Histori

an Rich Thomas will lead the charge where the Battle of Honey Hill was fought November 30, 1864. Rich is an author on Beaufort County history, President of the Friends of Honey Hill and an occasional thespian with Hilton Head’s Heritage Library. Heading the search for the wood-

Rosemary Staples

BIRDS

FROM PAGE 53A

ton Head.

Savannah native Diana Churchill is an acclaimed birder, writer, speaker and photographer. For almost two decades, the “Bird Lady” featured a twice-monthly bird column in the Savannah Morning News. She is the author of two books, Birder’s Eye View 1 and 11 that combine her articles, photographs and resources into convenient reference guides. Diana explains in a 2019 article, “You may wonder how I find something to write about every two weeks after more than 18 years. It is simple. I listen to the birds.”

Nature lovers will have the opportunity to listen to Diana talk on November 23 at Sterling Hill Park in Richmond Hill, Ga. Once a sewage treatment area, the park of forests, wetlands, ponds and grassland habitats were “left to the birds.” Expect Diana to point out migrating sparrows, warblers, four wren species and even a snipe on this gentle, three-mile walk. To learn more about these tours, please register at hiltonheadaudubon.org, because, as Sir Attenborough said, “Every-

one loves birds!”

Rosemary Staples is a board member of Hilton Head Audubon, long time Lowcountry resident, writer, speaker, storyteller and Master Naturalist.

PHOTOGRAPHER, MARY ALICE TARTLER Red-cockaded Woodpeckers at Donnelly WMA

Dr. Jacqueline Rosswurm named 2024 Peggy May Inspiration Award Recipient

BY MELISSA MCCULLOUGH

The Foundation for Educational Excellence has announced Dr. Jacqueline (Jackie) Rosswurm as the 2024 recipient of the prestigious Peggy May Inspiration Award. The award recognizes her exceptional leadership, commitment to education, and contributions to organizational development and community-building in Beaufort County.

Foundation Chair Linda Navorska, along with other board members, surprised Dr. Rosswurm during the annual Directors Council Meeting of the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry (CFL), where they honored her lifetime of service.

“Jackie has devoted over 50 years to education,” Navorska said. “She has not only been a significant contributor to our Foundation’s efforts but has also served Beau-

AWARD CONT. ON PAGE 56A

fort and surrounding counties through her executive leadership at the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry. She is an inspiration to us all.”

A first-generation college graduate, Rosswurm grew up in Monroe, Michigan, a small factory town in the Midwest. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Central Michigan University and a master’s from Long Island University. After relocating to the Lowcountry in 1984, she completed her PhD in Educational Leadership and Administration from the University of South Carolina. During her five-decade career in education, Rosswurm served in various capacities within the public school system. She began as a classroom teacher, later moving into school leadership as a principal. She also held roles in administration, including Chief Administrative and Human Resources Officer for Beaufort County Schools and Acting Superintendent in 2012 before her retirement. Additionally, Rosswurm played a pivotal role in founding several charter schools, including Oglethorpe Academy in

Savannah and Neighborhood Charter School and Atlanta Charter Middle School in Georgia. She also served as Chief of Staff for former South Carolina State Superintendent of Education, Barbara Nielson.

Although Rosswurm retired from her formal role in education in 2013, she made it clear that her work was far from finished. In a farewell letter to the Beaufort County Board of Education, she wrote, “I do not know what the future holds, but I do know that my life’s work is not yet complete and…that my belief in the value of education will lead me to my next challenge and opportunity.”

In 2020, Rosswurm stepped in as Interim President and CEO of the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, later serving as Chair of the Board of Directors. Under her leadership, the organization created the COVID-19 Response Fund, distributing over $300,000 in grants to organizations assisting those in need across Beaufort, Jasper, Colleton, and Hampton counties.

Beyond education, Rosswurm’s passion extends to wildlife conservation. She

played a critical role in organizing the Turtle Trackers of Hilton Head Island and helped establish the Sea Turtle Preservation Fund to promote awareness and education about local sea turtle preservation efforts.

Throughout her career, Rosswurm has continuously supported the Foundation for Educational Excellence, providing leadership, financial contributions, and strategic guidance. Lisa Carroll, Past Chair of the Foundation, remarked, “Our board unanimously voted for Jackie to receive the Peggy May Inspiration Award for her dedi-

cation to education and the community in Beaufort County. We look forward to her continued involvement and insight for our communities.”

The Peggy May Inspiration Award is presented to individuals who have either attended or supported Beaufort County public schools and whose achievements have distinguished them in their careers. Awardees have used their passion, skills, and success to positively influence others, particularly Beaufort County School District students, inspiring them to realize their potential and take advantage of future opportunities. The award is named in honor of the late Peggy May, a former director of adult literacy for Beaufort County and the state of South Carolina, and a past chair of the Foundation for Educational Excellence.

Previous recipients of the award include notable figures such as 2013 American Idol winner Candice Glover, Dr. Jane T. Upshaw, Dr. Emory Campbell, David Lauderdale, Dr. Wayne Carbiener, and Food Network contestant Orchid Paulmeier. The 2023 award was given to former Beaufort County School Board Member Laura Bush.

Dr. Jacqueline Rosswurm

BY LEE WILWERDING Contributor

No matter your party affiliation or candidate preferences there is one thing we can all agree on. Many of our roads and bridges are not capable of safely handling the volume of traffic on our roads. It is not just frustrating – it is downright dangerous. Our accident ratio compared to most other regions in the country is frightening. And the bumper-to-bumper traffic brought on by inadequate roads and bridges costs us all precious time and money. But worst of all, what will happen when we need to evacuate? Our transportation infrastructure cannot effectively support our residents and visitors getting to safety. The images of Hurricane Helene’s devastation were chilling.

How to tackle traffic now

This year we can tackle our transportation issues by approving the Beaufort County 1% Transportation Sales Tax Referendum on the November 5th ballot. Our county sales tax will remain 7% because this new sales tax will begin in 2025 after the current 1% Greenspace sales tax expires. As you know, sales taxes will be paid in part by non-residents allowing fair sharing between residents and visitors.

This Referendum contains $90 million in funding essential for the US 278 Corridor Project. Funds to widen SC 170. Improvements to the Argent Blvd, SC 170, and US 278 triangle, critical to relieving current workforce commuting problems, will be developed in collaboration with Jasper County. Municipality-directed road projects needed for Hilton Head Island and Bluffton will also be funded.

The Referendum addresses critical evacuation routes and strengthens the County’s transportation network against flooding and storm impacts. $80 million is allocated to mass transportation, and $100

million earmarked for safety projects to address the unacceptably high number of fatalities from vehicle accidents. Funding is added for Greenspace and Green Belt initiatives to protect our natural resources.

There will be a Citizen Oversight Committee to ensure transparency, accountability, and citizen input regarding the use of the tax revenue for the designated projects.

In addition to being a concerned citizen eager to cast my YES vote, I am also Board Chair of the Greater Island Council (GIC). Our all-volunteer membership is dedicated to GIC’s mission to preserve

and improve the quality of life for citizens of Hilton Head Island and Bluffton. The GIC Regional Committee analyzed the 1% Transportation Sales Tax Referendum, and our members unanimously support it.

The Referendum will appear at the end your ballot in the form of two ballot questions. The first asks us to vote on a 1% sales tax to begin on May 1, 2025, and to continue for 10 years or until $950 million is collected, whichever occurs first. The second asks permission for Beaufort County to issue bonds in anticipation of Sales Tax collections so that work may begin immediately.

The growth is already here. Let’s deal with the impact and vote YES for our roads, our bridges and our lives.

More details at: https://greaterislandcouncil.com/information/tax_referendum_2024/.

Lee Wilwerding is the Board Chair of the Greater Island Council of Hilton Head Island and Bluffton.

Lee Wilwerding

BY JEFF URELL Contibutor

About a decade ago, as part of an environmental restoration grant application, about 500 homes near the river were reported to have septic tanks. That number has not changed significantly in the last ten years, in part because most home construction since then have been connected to sewer systems rather than septic tanks.

Yet, we have an increasingly damaging problem with pollution entering the May River.

“The clearing of land for sprawling suburban development is directly linked to the impaired waterways because without enough natural land cover left intact to serve its filtering function, stormwater carries sediment and pollutants across impervious surfaces and directly into the rivers.” (Schueller & Holland, 2000).

While efforts to provide sanitary sewers as broadly as possible are encouraging, these efforts can also divert attention from the leading cause of polluted runoff – poor planning and inappropriate development patterns leading to sprawl.

Similarly, the limited focus of current testing is hindering our monitoring efforts. Testing that is infrequent or that is restricted to only fecal coliform provides

May River Science

little information about safety risks and long-term pollution trends. Because of these testing limits, we actually don’t know how safe it is to swim in the headwaters of the May River. Per the Coastal Conservation League, “if the greater Bluffton area is developed according to the approvals as they currently exist, impervious surface will exceed 20% in the May River watershed and edible May River oysters will be a thing of the past.”

So, while the removal of septic tanks is a small part of the solution, it is not, in and of itself, the total solution. We need to focus on smarter land use. Without correcting our problems with suburban sprawl, we will not succeed.

The science is easy to understand and long-proven.

“The clearing of land for sprawling suburban development is directly linked to the impaired waterways” (Schueller & Holland, 2000).

“With a few exceptions, the settlement pattern south of the Broad River has consisted of conventional suburban sprawl: single-use, single-family detached subdivisions, strip-commercial, and auto-dominated thoroughfares which brings with it a high percentage of impervious surface.”

(Schueller & Holland, 2000).

“If the greater Bluffton area is developed according to the approvals as they currently exist, impervious surface will exceed 20% in the May River watershed and edible May River oysters will be a thing of the past.”

(Coastal Conservation League).

We are already over 10% and we add to the problem nearly every day. We can continue to grow, but we must conform to the simple science above.

“Over the past (two) decade(s), various stormwater management techniques have been employed in an attempt to mitigate the impacts of stormwater runoff caused by impervious surface without altering the conventional suburban settlement pattern. These techniques include, but are not limited to stormwater management ordinances, Best Management Practices,

devices at the end of outfalls, and maintenance and repair of stormwater retention ponds.

However, the current inventory of on-site safeguards does not allow us to ignore the ten-percent rule. The only aquatic systems that will retain the full range of species and ecological functions will be those where less than ten percent of the watershed is impervious.” (Schueller & Holland, 2000)

Jeff Urell is the Owner of AEI Marketing and long-time Bluffton Resident.

CORRECTION

In the October 16th issue of The Bluffton Sun, in the article titled “Tax auction sees record low delinquent properties” by Channing Heiss, we misstated the average number of calls received daily by the Beaufort County Treasurer’s Office. The correct figure is 400 calls on average daily, not 40 as previously reported. We apologize for the error and any confusion it may have caused.

Jeff Urell

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Say hello to Sparklight, formerly Hargray! Same great team, new promise: “Always working for you.” We pioneered internet for small towns and cities. Now, with our new name, we’re all about advanced technology, top-notch customer service, and unbeatable connectivity.

We believe connection makes a house a home. As our network grows, we’re more dedicated than ever to delivering fast, reliable internet for years to come.

Arts & Entertainment Calendar

NOVEMBER 1 THROUGH DECEMBER 13

3rd Annual Beaufort County First Responder Food Drive to benefit Help of Beaufort and Bluffton Self Help - The food drive, which runs November 1, 2024, through December 13, 2024, is geared towards ensuring food bank shelves are restocked ahead of the Christmas holiday. Donations will be collected and distributed to Help of Beaufort and Bluffton Self Help on December 16, 2024.

NOVEMBER 1 THROUGH THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER

Thibault Gallery is proud to present Tatiana Tatum as the featured artist for the month of November. The exhibition opens on November 1st and will be on display throughout the month. The opening reception is held on First Friday, November 1st 5 to 8 pm, at 815 Bay Street.

NOVEMBER 2

The Rotary Club of Bluffton is pleased to announce that on Saturday, November 2nd, it will hold its annual “Happy Feet” event where the club purchases shoes for elementary students in the Bluffton community. A breakfast snack is also provided to the children who are participating. Funding for the project comes from money raised locally by the Rotary Club, which also receives a grant from the Rotary District. This year the following schools will participate: MC Riley, Red Cedar, Okatie, and Bluffton Elementary. There will be over 200 children who will be participating in the event on Saturday, November 2 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Rotary Community Center, 11 Recreation Court, Bluffton.

NOVEMBER

4

SOBA’s Annual Holiday Market - The Holiday Market opens on November 4 and will follow regular gallery hours:

Monday-Saturday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sunday: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Visitors can explore and purchase a wide array of artfully crafted items perfect for the holiday season, including wreaths, small paintings, holiday décor, and gift-worthy treasures. Each piece is thoughtfully created by talented Bluffton artists, making the Holiday Market an ideal stop for unique and personal holiday shopping. For more information, visit www.sobagallery.com or call 843-757-6586.

NOVEMBER 5

Survivor of Suicide Loss Support Group - beginning Tuesday October 8 there will be an in-person survivor or of suicide loss support group every other Tuesday. For more information email Vrileyhhi@gmail.com.

NOVEMBER 9

Artists of the Bluff Annual Fall Art

Show - will be held on November 9, 2024. These local artisans will be in Moreland Village starting at 11 AM - 3 PM to display and sell their original masterworks.

NOVEMBER 16 AND 17

Lowcountry Pickleball Leagues 2nd Annual “The League Gives Back” Charity Fundraiser Tournament – sponsored charity is Family Promise of Beaufort. Saturday, November 16th will feature: Men’s and Women’s Doubles, Sunday, November 17th will feature: Mixed Doubles. Division brackets will be split by age and determined after registration closes on October 31st. You will be responsible for finding a partner for the tournament. Should your partner drop out, it is your responsibility to secure a new partner. Registration fees; $60 for 1 event and $80 for 2 events. Click on the link to register today: https://forms.gle/ DLYPHduEZ1e1QXmTA

Dancing for your brain

BY SANDRO VIRAG Contributor

Did you know that dancing is good for the brain? There are actually mental health benefits from dancing. It can boost brain power and function since the body is moving in such a way to express feelings or ideas.

We’ve always known that dancing provided various physical benefits, but now research is showing promising results that it can also benefit the mind, which leads to better mental health.

One study looked at dancing as therapy for depression. Because of the emotional expression, it can alleviate symptoms of depression or at least reduce the levels of depression.

Dance Movement Therapy (DMT) is the use of body movements to maintain and improve intellectual, motor and emotional abilities of the body. Dance therapy is based on the idea that movement is a language and can be communicative and expressive so it can serve as an assessment tool. Dance movement therapists can look at a person’s movements to assess and intervene so it can contribute to the treatment of mental

health problems.

Dance therapy also shows a postive effect on children’s cognitive development. It shows spontaneity and discovery which is a form of art. It can create a good environment for cognitive development.

Synchronizing music and movement (dancing) has two benefits. Music stimulates the brain’s reward centers, while the actual movement in dance activates its sensory and motor circuits.

The combination of exercise and sensory improvement during a dance can improve functional changes to the brain. So dancing can be used as an intervention for things like stroke, Parkinson’s disease and cerebral palsy.

Dancing also boosts memory which shows it may be linked to a reduced risk of dementia.

Now you have even more reasons to start dancing! There is no age limit for starting to dance – it’s never too late. Doing some kind of dance at least once a week can maximize brain function.

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

Join us for a celebratory kick-off to the holiday season! Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Rudolph are part of the festivities! Lowcountry groups will perform, including the cast of 42nd Street. Get a jump on shopping at our Art Market featuring amazing local vendors. Refreshments include an array of food truck fare and more! TOWN'S OFFICIAL HOLIDAY KICKOFF

Three female singers with powerhouse voices sing the biggest hits of the greatest divas in music history! Experience hits by Aretha Franklin,

HILTON HEAD ISLAND.

KENNY B’S THANKSGIVING CARRY-OUT PACKAGE

PACKAGES AVAILABLE

Package 1: $199.00 serves 7-8

Whole 12-14 lb Turkey, Cajun or Traditional Roast

Package 2: $130.00 serves 3-4

Bone in Turkey Breast, Cajun or Traditional Roast

THE DINNER PACKAGES WILL INCLUDE:

Mash potatoes and gravy, candied yams, jambalaya, green beans, cranberry sauce, cornbread stuffing, cornbread, choice of gumbo or she crab, choice of pumpkin or apple pie.

TURKEY ONLY {no sides}

Whole Turkey $99.00 feeding 7-8

Cajun or Traditional Roast with stuffing

Bone in Turkey Breast $75.00 feeding 3-4

Cajun or Traditional Roast with stuffing

TAKING ORDERS UNTIL SOLD OUT. SO CALL EARLY!

PICK UP TIMES: Thanksgiving Day 9-5

NEW Location! “At the Hilton Head Bridge Center”

Fresh paint

BY MURRAY SEASE Contributor

The latest Studio Visit is a little tricky for me as I’m touring and writing about my own art-making space!

This place where I paint is my home which my husband Bill and I built ourselves almost 40 years ago. We were still kids in our early 20s back then. It sits on a quiet acre and a half, adjacent to the Victoria Bluff Heritage Preserve in between Hilton Head Island and Bluffton. It is as close to ‘country’ as you can get

so close to those bustling towns nearby. On the property is a large woodworking shop and a wonderful chicken coop, abandoned for now, but once occupied by several generations of lovely, egg-laying ladies. They were excellent models for my paintings as well. There is plenty of wildlife in my yard, and the remnants of one of the summer gardens make a nice backdrop. Only a few peppers remain of the vegetables, but the mari-

OLD TOWN BLUFFTON

ShopOldTownBluffton.com

HOLIDAY ART WALK

November 15th 3pm-6pm

Its the perfect time to start your Holiday gift shopping!

MALL-TERNATIVE PJ PARTY

November 29th 3pm-6pm

Wear your most comfortable PJs and relax while you find the BEST deals for all your gift giving this Holiday season!

2ND ANNUAL JINGLE STROLL

December 5th 3pm-6pm

Find treats for every age and a few just for yourself!

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

December 6th 5:30pm

Tree Lighting will be at Martin Family Park then visit Santa’s Workshop to watch “Polar Express” Train rides available 6-8pm!

CHRISTMAS PARADE

December 7th 10am

53rd annual parade through Historic Old Town Bluffton

MENORAH LIGHTING CEREMONY

December 29th 5:30-7:30 2nd annual ceremony at Martin Family Park

THANK YOU TO OUR ADVERTISERS

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British Open Pub

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Four Seasons Sun Rooms & Windows

Georgia Eye Institute Go Go Batteries

Hale & Hale, PA Half Day Café/Sunset Pizza Hamner Music

Harbor Point Dentistry

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Hughes Dental Group

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Lowcountry Dental Center

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Lowcountry Presbyterian Church

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golds are still blooming in full force, keeping the bees and butterflies busy. In pretty weather I like to paint on the patio overlooking this garden, sometimes setting up still lives on the white tile bar. These paintings most often depict fresh picked veggies and flowers or produce straight from the farmer’s market.

Moving inside to the actual studio / office space, I have about 240 square feet

split into two sections. One side features bookshelves, file cabinets, stacks of frames and some large paintings awaiting gallery space to be displayed. The other half is my workspace. My trusty Mac computer holds all the business side of selling art, 10,000 plus reference photos I’ve taken over the past 15 years, and is

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Smith Music Studio

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Terminix

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The UPS Store, Belfair

Vaux Marscher Berglind, PA

We Care Family Dentistry

Weichert Realtors

Wesley Commons Wooster Dental Care

PAINT

FROM PAGE 6B

where I did most of my work as a graphic designer. Working at ad agencies and design firms until my son was born, I was happy to be a freelance designer with the option to work from home for much of my career. Just a year ago, I completely retired from that job and am now happily a full-time painter. I have two desks, a drafting table and three easels, so there’s not a lot of floor space left.

I usually paint at my main easel with the natural light from the high windows behind me. My floor, rug and desks are dotted with gesso and paint. Even my computer screen is often splattered! My two dogs stay close by whenever I’m here at work. We have a kind of ballet of avoiding stepping on or tripping over each other in the small area. It’s a challenge, but I love their company.

I have big windows in the studio and a set of glass French doors leading out to a deck with pots of flowers, a hammock and sitting area. There is a picnic sized table on the adjacent front porch deck where I often will do big or smelly projects such as staining frames and gessoing large painting surfaces.

Varnishing, which is a protective clear layer that I paint onto dry, finished pieces, must be done indoors to keep dust to a minimum. When I prepare for a show or festival, I usually have every surface in my home covered with paintings in various stages of varnishing and framing.

So, you probably get the gist that my studio fills my entire living space inside and out. In all rooms and outside, I also enjoy art created by my friends, family, gallery mates, and especially my husband Bill – he was a creative soul and delighted everyone with his photography, woodworking and metal sculpture creations. I am incredibly lucky to have had him and all the other artistic inspirations in my life.

I’ve now visited all the studios of the six artist/owners of the cooperative La Petite Gallerie in Old Town Bluffton. If you’ve missed any of them, you may visit lapetitegallerie.com and visit the ‘gallery news’ page for the past articles. It is so interesting to me to see how artists are inspired by their surroundings and find comfort to create in their studio spaces.

Murray Sease is a fellow artist at LaPetite Gallerie, 56 Calhoun Street, Bluffton, SC. lapetitegallerie.com

25th anniversary of Annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner to be celebrated in Hilton Head

BY MELISSA MCCULLOUGH

The 25th Annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner is set to take place on Thursday, November 28, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks, located on Squire Pope Road in Hilton Head. The long-standing event is a collaborative effort between St. Andrew By-The-Sea United Methodist Church and Hudson’s Seafood House.

“This year’s 25th-anniversary event will celebrate our community by feed-

ing families and individuals from near and far,” said Gloria LaCoe, who, along with her husband Allan, has been at the helm of organizing the event for the past 25 years. “It’s been an honor and a privilege to meet and work with so many wonderful people and partner with Andrew Carmines and Hudson’s all these years.”

Gloria and Allan LaCoe will be step-

Happy Thanksgiving

The Heritage Library has had the privilege to be a part of our community for more than 27 years and our success is a direct result of the support provided by our donors, members and volunteers. We offer our heartfelt thanks for your past support and humbly ask for your continued support. As we close out this year, we ask that you once again support the work that we do and give generously. Thank you and best wishes for a holiday season filled with joy.

COMMUNITY

FROM PAGE 9B

ping down from their leadership roles after this year’s event but plan to attend future Thanksgiving Dinners. The beloved community tradition will continue in 2025 and beyond.

Each year, the event provides a free, family-style Thanksgiving meal to more than 1,500 Lowcountry residents and visitors. The Community Thanksgiving Dinner was founded in 1998 after an article in the newspaper highlighted local residents who had nowhere to spend the holiday. Brian Carmines, co-owner of Hudson’s, Allan LaCoe, and Betsy Doughtie, the former executive director of the Deep Well Project, quickly came together to plan the first community-wide event. St. Andrew By-The-Sea United Methodist Church took the lead in volunteer coordination, while Hudson’s hosted the inaugural event in 1999, serving 500 meals. The dinner became an annual tradition, only pausing in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, before resuming in 2021.

Volunteers play a vital role in the success of the event, with many coming from outside Hilton Head to help. Half of the volunteers return each year, and the roster is typically full by mid-October, with a waitlist in place. Attendees can look forward to the same tradition

of Southern hospitality, a delicious meal, and entertainment.

“The Hudson’s staff and I are excited for this year’s Community Thanksgiving Dinner,” said Andrew Carmines, co-owner of Hudson’s Seafood House.

“The LaCoes’ thoughtful and purpose-driven leadership over the past 25 years has turned the Community Thanksgiving Dinner into a legacy event for the Lowcountry.”

The event is not just a meal, but a time for the community to come together and give thanks.

Donations benefit local nonprofit organizations– Bluffton Self Help (https:// blufftonselfhelp.org), Deep Well Project (https://www.deepwellproject.org), and Second Helpings (https://www.secondhelpingslc.org), and contributions are gratefully accepted via the Community Thanksgiving website and during the Thanksgiving Day dinner itself. Complete information is available at https://communitythanksgiving.com or on the event’s Facebook page (https:// www.facebook.com/ThanksgivingDinnerHHI). Submit questions via email to info@communitythanksgiving.com or call 843-505-1370 or reach out to Gloria LaCoe at 843-422-0433 or glacoe624@ gmail.com.

Sun City Veterans Club hosts inspirational Veterans Day Event

BY JOE TURINO Contributor

Sun City’s Veterans Club is set to honor the nation’s heroes with a stirring Veterans Day event on Monday, November 11, at 10 a.m. in the Magnolia Hall parking lot. In case of inclement weather, the celebration will move inside Magnolia Hall. This event, featuring the May River Brass Ensemble and the Sun City Singers, promises to be a heartfelt tribute to all veterans.

Vice Commander Al Richter promises an uplifting and patriotic morning. “We have a full, inspirational program planned, and it’s all about paying tribute to the veterans who have served our country,” Richter said.

The ceremony will begin with a march by the Veterans Association Color Guard, accompanied by the Bluffton ROTC Color Guard, setting a powerful

tone for the event. The Sun City Singers will then lead attendees in singing the National Anthem, kicking off a morning of patriotic music and heartfelt moments.

Master of Ceremonies Carl Trovato will lead the program. One of the event’s highlights will be the introduction of the guest speaker, USMC Sergeant Major Rob Bechtold, by Commander Dale Dietz.

Prior to Bechtold’s address, the May River Brass Ensemble will perform a moving rendition of “Old Ragged Flag,” with Bob Adams narrating. The program will close with a community sing-along of “God Bless America,” led by the Sun City Singers.

This Veterans Day event is sure to be a meaningful and memorable experience for all who attend. Do not miss this opportunity to honor those who have served and sacrificed for our country.

Friday November 15 3-6 pm

Church of the Cross to host Christmas Market and Christmas Shoppe this November

BY MELISSA MCCULLOUGH

This November, the Church of the Cross Parish Hall will come alive with the festive spirit as it hosts the highly anticipated annual Christmas Market. For nearly a year, a dedicated group of creative women, along with a few men, have been working tirelessly to craft beautiful, handmade creations for the event, which will be held on November 23 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Visitors to the Christmas Market can expect an array of stunning holiday items, including handcrafted angels, in-

tricately decorated wreaths and trees, handmade cards, woodworking products, aprons, stuffed animals, jewelry, baked goods, and much more. Whether you’re looking for a unique Christmas gift or something to add to your own holiday décor, the market promises a delightful assortment of seasonal treasures. The ladies in The Daughters of the Holy Cross will be making baked goods which will be available and the young ladies in the Heritage Girls will be volunteering to serve. Adding to the festive atmosphere,

MARKET

FROM PAGE 12B

Christmas music will be playing throughout the event. Shoppers will also have the chance to purchase raffle tickets for a unique, handcrafted birdhouse modeled after the historic Church of the Cross, which overlooks the scenic May River. The birdhouse, created by Mr. Jim Sidon of Sparrow 1029, showcases his signature antique style and would make a charming addition to any garden or home.

For those who can’t get enough of holiday shopping, the Christmas Market isn’t the only opportunity to pick up festive finds. The God’s Goods Ministry, located at 15 Centre Drive in Bluffton, will be hosting “The Christmas Shoppe” over several dates: November 22, 23, 26,

29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and November 30 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

God’s Goods Ministry is a non-profit, Christ-centered thrift store run entirely by volunteers who are passionate about providing excellent customer service. The proceeds from the store support the Church of the Cross’s missionary activities both locally and globally. The Christmas Shoppe will feature a wide variety of items to help shoppers prepare for the holiday season while supporting a cause that gives back to the community.

Make sure to mark your calendars for these festive events and enjoy the spirit of Christmas while supporting local artisans and ministries!

Trying to reason with hurricane season

BY KEVIN FITZPATRICK Contributor

The title of a Jimmy Buffet song that begins:

“Squall’s out on the gulf stream Big storm’s comin’ soon…”

One of the things we were aware of when moving to the Lowcountry was that while we were giving up the worry about blizzards and ice, we were taking on the risk of tropical storms for about half of the year. This is not to say that the northeast is free from such worry. In fact, Superstorm Sandy back in 2012 was overwhelming to a region that was not accustomed to such events. It was the impetus for Sue finally agreeing to bite the bullet and put in the whole house generator I was longing for since we bought the home we were living in back in 2002.

While we were fully in sync with the “bread, milk and wine” forecasts that came with the winter snows, Sandy caught everyone by surprise for its dura-

tion and ferocity. We were in a home built in 1900 and surrounded by old growth trees. The winds quickly took down two major trees and both fell not only the power lines, but the phone and cable lines as well. We had a semi-circular driveway, and luckily, the trees only blocked one way out, so we were able to get in and out the other way. The power companies were not all that familiar with events like that, and as such, the restoration efforts took a relatively long time.

Schools were closed for over a week; I was set to retire from my 35 years of teaching the first of November, but unceremoniously, Sandy took care of that, and my “retirement” became effective a week earlier, weirdly anti climatic. The lack of being able to say a proper goodbye still nags at me to this day.

All of this is leading up to what we now think about our local storm season. First off, we did have a whole house generator installed almost as soon as we bought our new home and moved in. That does create a lot of peace (at no small cost), but it does not take away from the buildup and

anxiety of things that are so far out of our control.

There does not seem to be the same “bread, milk and wine” forecasts here, though having made a normal trip to the local grocery store while the Helene forecast was building, I did see the same type of panic buying that I was used to during blizzard season.

One of the things that first struck me when we bought our home was that during the final walk through, one of the things that was pointed out was where the hurricane shutters were and how they would go onto the channels put up by the windows and doors if it was necessary.

Talk about overwhelming! I am old, short and basically inept, so just trying to move them to another place in the garage was an event. I can’t imagine how I would ever put them up myself if necessary. There also is the issue of evacuation if necessary. We have no family or even friends anywhere closer than Conn., and we have a 14-year-old aging dog, so our only “plan” should it become necessary is to pack up the car and head somewhere in

the proper direction.

Granted, the generator does give me pause to even think about leaving as our new housing arrangement is in a planned community where we are not surrounded by old growth trees. The power lines are also below ground, so while lines connecting them might come down and cut power, the fear of downed lines and fires are a bit less of a concern.

Tornadoes are something I almost never worried about till we arrived. Now, the warnings are part of the plan (and contributing to the stress as well). Then, of course, there is the worry that with the gas lines feeding the generator, if flooding got to the point where that service was interrupted, then all that planning is out of luck. There is that oft used phrase, “Man plans, God laughs” that seems to always hang around.

By this time, you must think that my version of “trying to reason with hurricane season” amounts to 5-6 months of gloom and doom. That’s really not the full picture. It’s just my way of trying to explain what adjustments to thinking we had to make in trading one type of storm sets for another. We have been very lucky

in the three years we’ve been here. While there have been some storms each season, the worst we’ve been through was Helene, and even that was, given what others have gone through, relatively minor. Power was out for us for about two days, but our generator spared us any discomfort, we brought in anything that was in jeopardy, and within four days, life had returned to mostly normal.

I don’t know that I’ll ever fully adapt to the laissez-faire attitude many of those long and very long-time residents seem to have along with “prepare of the worst, hope for the best,” and I will keep trying to reason with it, but I do know that Jimmy does say it best:

“And now I must confess I could use some rest I can’t run at this pace very long Yes, it’s quite insane I think it hurts my brain But it cleans me out then I can go on”

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.

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

WEEK 8 (OCT. 17-18)

SCHSL

Hilton Head 23, May River 10

Bishop England 31, Beaufort 14

Bluffton 34, Colleton Co. 3

Oceanside Collegiate 49, Battery Creek 0

Whale Branch 14, Lake Marion 12 Barnwell 27, Hampton Co. 14

Bamberg-Ehrhardt 36, Ridgeland 0

SCISA

St. John’s Christian 35, Hilton Head Prep 27

Thomas Heyward 42, John Paul II 7 Colleton Prep 38, Lee Academy 14

WEEK 9 (OCT. 25)

SCHSL

Hilton Head at Beaufort, 7:30 p.m.

Bluffton at May River, 7:30 p.m.

Bishop England at Colleton Co., 7:30 p.m.

Battery Creek at Hanahan, 7:30 p.m.

Whale Branch at Barnwell, 7:30 p.m.

Allendale-Fairfax at Hardeeville, 7:30 p.m.

SCISA

Pinewood Prep at John Paul II, 7 p.m.

Hilton Head Prep at HHCA, 7:30 p.m.

Thomas Heyward at Beaufort Academy, 7:30 p.m.

Andrew Jackson Academy at Patrick Henry, 7:30 p.m.

Faith Christian at Colleton Prep, 7:30 p.m.

Cross Schools at Conway Christian, 7:30 p.m.

REGION STANDINGS

SCHSL 6-4A REGION OVERALL

Bluffton 2-0 5-2

May River 2-1 6-1

Bishop England 2-1 6-2

Hilton Head 1-1 5-2

Beaufort 1-2 2-6

Colleton Co. 0-3 1-7

SCHSL 6-3A REGION OVERALL

Oceanside Collegiate 3-0 4-3

Orangeburg-Wilkinson 2-0 6-2

Battery Creek 1-1 3-4

Hanahan 0-2 3-5

North Charleston 0-3 4-4

SCHSL 5-2A REGION OVERALL

Barnwell 2-0 7-1

Whale Branch 2-0 4-3

Hampton Co. 2-1 6-2

Edisto 0-2 2-5

Lake Marion 0-3 2-6

SCHSL 4-1A REGION OVERALL

Bamberg-Ehrhardt 2-0 4-2

Ridgeland 3-1 5-4

Denmark-Olar 2-1 3-5

Allendale-Fairfax 0-2 0-7

Hardeeville 0-3 1-7

SCISA 1-3A REGION OVERALL

Pinewood Prep 1-0 5-2

HHCA 1-1 4-3

First Baptist 1-1 2-5

John Paul II 0-1 1-6

SCISA 1-2A REGION OVERALL

Pee Dee Academy 3-0 7-0 Bethesda Academy 3-0 6-2 St. John’s Christian 3-1 4-5 Hilton Head Prep 1-3 2-5

Patrick Henry 1-3 3-5

Faith Christian 1-3 1-6

Andrew Jackson Acad. 0-3 1-7

SCISA 8-MAN II REGION OVERALL

Jefferson Davis 7-0 8-1

Holly Hill Academy 6-1 7-1