The Sun City • March 18, 2025 by The Bluffton Sun

BY ANDREA HOERNER Contributor

Enjoying the beauty and bounty of the Lowcountry

The 100+ member Kayak Club of Sun City, the majority of whom are women, is fortunate to have more than 30 public kayaking and boating access points within a 30-mile radius. They try to have club paddles each week. Some trips are short paddles suitable for all skill levels, with longer paddles planned for advanced paddlers. Their longest trip was 242 miles on the Suwanee River. Other trips have been to Belize, Mexico, Costa Rica, Florida and many areas in the Lowcountry.

All paddles are led by guides familiar with the route. Solo paddlers receive plenty of help loading and unloading kayaks. Kayaks are lightweight and can be made from plastic, wood, fiberglass or aircraft material, which is lighter and stronger.

Trips are timed to take advantage of tides, though weather is always a factor. Paddlers are required to wear life jackets and practice rescue techniques. Guides carry cell phones with GPS, and horns are used to alert paddlers to problems.

Club members have participated in Kids in Kayaks and made donations to the YMCA, Maritime Center and Outside Hilton Head, among other local charities. Monthly meetings include entertaining programs and beginner instruction.

Club member Bill Dickinson plans all kayaking trips. “This club provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy the nature and beauty of the Lowcountry and get some great exercise at the same time,” Dickinson said.

Meetings are held at 7 p.m. on the third Wednesday of the month at Hidden Cypress, and visitors are welcome. Club dues are $10. For more information, contact Ellen Bryan at ellenbryan7@gmail.com.

With over 300 members, the Sun City Fishing & Hunting Club promotes good

fellowship, enhances knowledge and enjoyment of fish and game activities and follows sound environmental practices. The club offers a variety of fishing opportunities.

Seminars cover all types of fishing, led by expert members. Sun City lagoons are catch and release using barbless and circle hooks. Gators are best avoided. Ocean fishing is a unique experience, and in South Carolina, a saltwater fishing license costs $9 for a lifetime for residents 65+.

The Sun City Riverbend dock offers saltwater fishing for redfish, trout and sharks. In warm months, shrimp can be caught with nets. Fly fishing lessons, in-

cluding lure tying, are also available.

Social activities include an oyster roast, shrimp boil and fish fry. Joe Albert, club president, said, “We are so fortunate to live in the Lowcountry with varieties of fishing year-round.”

Hunting is less popular due to lack of public lands, but the club plans to reintroduce this activity.

A new event, Discover the Lowcountry, is planned for June 14 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the pavilion. Groups representing outdoor activities, from SCDNR to golf, will attend, along with food trucks.

Chuck Volpe, club promotions director, said, “The club was losing members after

COVID, but a proactive effort to reach out to new residents has been successful.”

Meetings are held on the first Monday of the month at 7 p.m. in the Lakehouse Ballroom, and guests are welcome. Dues are $10 for the first person and $5 for the second. Contact Joe Albert at joehd942@ gmail.com.

The Sun City Bicycle Club has more than 200 members, ranging from beginners to hardcore cyclists. Their mission is to increase awareness of cycling opportunities suited to different skill levels. Rides include day trips in and out of Sun City and overnight trips to places such as Parris Island, Jekyll Island, Amelia Island, Spanish Moss Trail in Beaufort and Palmetto Bluff. Multiple difficulty levels ensure each rider has a good experience. Club membership includes access to the Ride with GPS app, which contains a library of mapped routes and instructions. Judi LePan, vice president, said, “Biking in the Lowcountry along oak-lined streets and surrounded by water is always a delight and makes every ride special.” Club meetings provide opportunities to socialize, share experiences and hear guest speakers on cycling-related topics. Social activities include parties and postride stops at local eateries.

Their most recent ride, benefiting the Boys & Girls Club of Bluffton, had 500 participants and raised $70,000. They also participate in Adopt-a-Highway, with several cleanups along Buckwalter Parkway scheduled each year.

In 2023, member Cheryl Ruff completed a cross-country ride with a group of women cyclists, riding from San Diego to St. Augustine in 58 days—17 days to cross Texas alone.

Club president Cliff Highland teaches a bike maintenance class covering flat tire repair and minor tune-ups. “Where else can we bike 365 days a year and enjoy our lifelong joy of cycling?” Highland said. Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of the month at 8:30 a.m. in Pinckney Hall. Dues are $15 per person. Contact Cliff Highland at doch49@gmail.com for more information.

Andrea Hoerrner

Fishermen enjoying a day on the water

BY CHRIS ROOSA Contributor

If you grew up in the fifties, and early sixties, you were one of the lucky kids to come from a very special generation. A time when life was pure, simple and wholesome. The years when children intermingled and played with one another.

Those were the days of Black Jack chewing gum and penny candy. On school days we’d pass a drug store on our walk home. Every Friday I’d buy Crows licorice or the white strip paper with tiny pink candies followed by the little wax bottles full of root beer.

I was hooked on music and loved to sing. A printed music sheet of the weekly top ten hits, was a must-buy for singers like myself. My friends and I would walk two miles home from school, singing popular songs by Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry or Dinah Shore.

My brother and I would ride our new Schwinn bicycles adorned with streamers blowing from the handlebars. We’d attach baseball cards to the spokes with cloths pins. During the day, a group of us would bike around the neighborhood en mass. The sounds coming from those baseball cards made it sound like an invasion of motorcycles in our normally quiet community.

THOSE WERE THE Days

monkey bars or swing as high as we could to “reach the sky.”

Each basement was equipped with a coal bin to hold coal for the furnace. I remember my father shoveling coal, early each morning - before he left for work - taking the city bus. Every home had a milk shoot for delivered milk. I also remember crawling through that milk shoot to unlock the back door, if we got locked out. And, of course, the ice man, with his tongs and his leather shoulder pad, who brought a block of ice and loaded it into our “icebox.” This was before refrigerators came onto the market.

It was also a time of dial-up phones with party lines. Our one phone hung on the hallway wall with a twenty-foot-cord, so it could stretch into the living room, the kitchen, and even my bedroom.

Hopscotch, hula hoop, pick-up sticks, and board games were some of our summer entertainment. Oftentimes, us girls enjoyed jump rope, while the boys played black Jax’s or marbles. Yo-yo’s were all the rage. Mastering the tricks was a real challenge. The boys would play war or Cowboys and Indians while shooting off cap guns. I still remember the smell of the red roll cap strips “gun smoke.”

We had a lovely little park on the next block. A counselor would entertain us with activities or teach us how to make colorful bracelets. We’d spin on

Our family listened to stories on the radio during the evening, like The Shadow with Orson Welles. We were one of the first families to get a 12” television and I remember inviting my friends over on Sunday evenings to watch Elvis Presley when he appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show. During the week, I would race home from school just to watch American Bandstand hosted by Dick Clark, and swoon over Justine and Bob. My brothers’ favorite program was Soupy Sales.

Summertime Sundays were spent with a group of friends going to the drag races. Saturday evenings were spent necking at the local drive-in movie or circling around the neighborhood drive-thru restaurant while the waitress served refreshments on roller skates. I ate my first slice of pizza in my late teens. I could go on and on. But to those of you who grew up in that era, I hope you too have your own fond memories of a wonderful youth.

Chris Roosa is a resident of Sun City Hilton Head.

5 Smart steps to prepare for buying a home this spring

BY GARY SMYTHE Contributor

Spring is one of the busiest times of the year for home buying, and with increased competition, it’s important to be financially prepared. Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading, or downsizing, taking the right steps early can make the process smoother and more affordable.

In the Bluffton area, we’ve already seen an increase in sellers listing their homes in anticipation of the spring market, giving buyers more options — but also more competition. Preparing your finances ahead of time can help you act quickly when the right home hits the market.

1. STRENGTHEN YOUR CREDIT SCORE

Your credit score heavily influences your mortgage rate. Before you start house hunting, check your credit report for errors at AnnualCreditReport.com. Pay down credit card balances, avoid taking on new debt, and make all payments on time. Even a small increase in your score can lead to better loan terms.

2. GET PREAPPROVED FOR A LOAN

In a competitive spring market, having a preapproval letter from a lender gives you an edge. It shows sellers you’re serious and financially ready. Reach out to multiple lenders to compare rates and terms, and submit your financial documents to secure a preapproval. This step also clarifies your budget and monthly payment expectations.

3. COMPARE LOAN RATES USING APR

Not all mortgage offers are created equal. When comparing loan options, look beyond the interest rate and focus on the Annual Percentage Rate (APR), which includes both

the interest rate and any lender fees. The APR gives you a clearer picture of the total cost of the loan over time. Shopping multiple lenders can save you thousands over the life of your mortgage. Your local real estate agent is a great resource for lender recommendations in your area.

4. PLAN FOR YOUR DOWN PAYMENT AND CLOSING COSTS

Spring buyers often face quick-moving markets, so it’s important to have funds ready for both a down payment and closing costs. Most conventional loans require 5-20% down, but FHA loans may require as little as 3.5%. Additionally, budget for closing costs, which typically range from 2-5% of the home’s purchase price. Many neighborhoods and gated communities have transfer fees when purchasing, your local real estate agent can help you identify these fees before shopping in an area to eliminate surprises.

5. AVOID MAJOR FINANCIAL CHANGES

Once you’re preapproved, avoid making large purchases, opening new credit lines, or changing jobs until after closing. Any change in your credit profile or income could impact your loan approval. Keeping your financial situation stable helps ensure a smooth closing.

FINAL THOUGHT

With more Bluffton homes hitting the market, buyers have a great opportunity this spring — but competition will also be high. By boosting your credit score, getting preapproved, and comparing loan terms, you’ll put yourself in the best position to secure your dream home before summer arrives.

Gary Smythe is a local Real Estate Agent with William Raveis Real Estate specializing in Bluffton and Hilton Head Island. Gary@GarySmythe. com, WilliamRaveis.com/ GarySmythe

Gary Smythe

Sun City 100+ Women who care donates to support veterans

A powerful act of generosity took center stage as members of the 100 + Sun City Women Who Care gathered to present a $18,400 donation to Operation Patriots Forward Operating Base (OPFOB), a nonprofit dedicated to supporting veterans, active-duty military, first responders, and their families.

The donation, presented during a special check ceremony, will help OPFOB continue its mission of fostering positive experiences through outdoor and recreational activities. By creating opportunities for connection, camaraderie, and healing; OPFOB plays a vital role in supporting those who have served and sacrificed for their communities and country.

Representing OPFOB at the event were Andy Hoerner, Jimmy

Banton, and Jon Shaver, who accepted the donation on behalf of the organization.

According to its mission statement, 100+ Sun City Women Who Care, a philanthropic group within the Sun City Hilton Head community, aims to harness the power of collective giving to support local nonprofit organizations that serve the community.

Some of the 100+ Sun City Women Who Care members in attendance were Judi Moseley, Cindy Phillip, Roberta TeBrake, Camille Richardson, Sharon Lang, Nancy Truman (nominator), Joan Kelly, Andy Hoerner, Jimmy Banton & Jon Shaver (OPFOB Representatives), Rosalie Simmons, Kate Mace, Judy Young, Jean Wehrung, & Diane Ehrmann.

Encompass Health is the largest system of rehabilitation hospitals, trusted by patients, caregivers and medical professionals.

We are proud to support the American Heart Association’s Heart Ball.

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

Thank you for supporting our local newspapers!

PHOTO BY ELIZABETH GAWRYSIAK

The Sun City Hilton Head

Monthly Market Report

March 2025 | SECTION B | Volume 14 I Issue 3

What a difference one month makes! Spring has arrived in the Lowcountry, and with it comes a surge of buyer interest. The 5% median home price decline observed last month has been completely erased. The 2025 year-over-year (YOY) median home price now matches the prior year exactly at $515,000. Inventory levels have tightened slightly, with the number of active listings dropping from a recent high of 212 to fewer th an 200. Meanwhile, closed sales saw a significant increase, rising 30% compared to February 2024. Notably, of the 56 homes sold last month, nearly half were new construction. The influx of higher-priced new homes has helped stabilize and boost the median home price. However, for sellers, these new builds present increased competition. What Does This Mean for Buyers and Sellers? For sellers, the market continues to hold onto gains realized in recent years. However, with a high volume of available homes, it is crucial to price competitively and ensure homes are presented in their best possible light. Buyers have more options than in the past, making it essential for sellers to stand o ut. For buyers, while borrowing costs remain a factor, the increased inventory provides more choices and greater negotiation opportunities. This shift allows buyers to take their time and find a home that meets their needs while potentially securing better terms. Get the Full Market Pictur e. Whether you’re planning to buy or sell in Sun City, understanding the market’s nuances is essential. Reach out for a personalized market analysis and guidance tailored to your real estate goals. Additionally, contact me for a complete Year-in-Review Report, including sales by model and a price-persquare-foot breakdown for 2024.

How Can I Assist You? If you’re considering selling your home, I invite you to take advantage of a FREE comprehensive Market Analysis and in-depth market review. Together, we can develop a strategy to ensure your home stands out and achieves the best possible value in this evolving market. Let’s navigate the market together —contact me today!

Sun City Real Estate February Market Snapshot

Active Homes and Villas

“Rainbow of Rhythm” – A Nostalgic Tribute to Classic Cinema

BY BARBARA LE MAY Contributor

Sun City’s vibrant dance community is preparing to take audiences on a dazzling journey through Hollywood’s golden era with this year’s Rainbow of Rhythm showcase. Themed “Songs from the Silver Screen,” the production promises an evening of music, movement and memories as dancers bring classic movie moments to life.

Set to an unforgettable soundtrack from beloved films like Footloose, Hairspray, Jersey Boys, Titanic, Victor Victoria and Rocky, this year’s show features performances from a variety of dance styles, including ballroom, tap, jazz, lyrical, ballet, clogging, line dancing, musical theater and square dancing.

One of the show’s highlights is a ballroom performance inspired by Dirty Dancing—a timeless favorite guaranteed to have audiences tapping their toes. The lyrical dancers will deliver a stunning interpretation of Titanic’s “My Heart Will Go On,” capturing the emotional depth of the film through graceful movement. Adding to the energy, the Cloggers will light up the stage with a lively number set to Saturday Night Fever, choreographed by Sun City’s own Norma Lavelle.

Comedy and nostalgia will take center stage with a crowd-pleasing tap number

choreographed by Pat Beers, while the finale promises to be a knockout—a rousing performance of Rocky’s iconic theme, featuring dancers in boxing attire who will have the audience cheering them on as they “go the distance.”

This production is more than just a dance recital; it is a celebration of storytelling through movement. From colorful costumes to sparkling stage lighting, each performance brings cinematic magic to life, proving that dance transcends generations.

The show is produced by Sharon Quinter, with Laurie Rotondo and Alice Dinolfi returning as Artistic Directors.

Whether you are a fan of classic movies or simply love a great performance, Rainbow of Rhythm promises an evening of nostalgia, energy, and entertainment. Don’t miss this chance to relive Hollywood’s greatest moments—live on stage in Sun City.

Performances will take place at Magnolia Hall on April 4 at 7 p.m. and April 5 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Tickets are $18 each or $15 for groups of 10 or more and can be purchased with cash or check at Magnolia Hall every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 to 11 a.m. throughout March. In April, ticket sales will be available Monday through Friday, 9 to 11 a.m., and one hour before each performance.

Sun City Hilton Head photographer wins prestigious international award

Sun City Hilton Head photographer Sophia Schade has received international recognition at the 3rd Photography Society of America (PSA) Photo Gathering in Sri Lanka, where her image, “The Ghosts of Sri Lanka,” was selected as one of only eight winning photographs out of 100 entries.

The prestigious event brought together 111 photographers from 21 countries, highlighting some of the world’s most compelling photographic artistry. Schade, who has been honing her craft for over seven years, is an active member of several Lowcountry photography clubs and is known for capturing the beauty, mystery, and emotion of the natural world.

This latest achievement reinforces her growing international reputation in the photography community.

For more information about Sophia Schade and her work, contact Lucy Rosen at (516) 410-0423.

Let’s Talk

About Home Care

(And More...)

Right: The Ghost of Sri Lanka Below: Sophi Schade

Service and skill spotlighted at photography

Service Award Winners

BY JOE TURINO Contributor

At a vibrant gathering this March, the Photography Club of Sun City held an awards ceremony that not only recognized outstanding service among its members but also revealed the winners of its thrilling first print competition of the year.

Stan Holz, club president, took to the podium to announce service award winners.In a heartfelt tribute to dedicated service, Freddi Hoffmann and Dale Methven were honored with the Richard de Asia Outstanding Contribution Award.

Sue Flynn received the John Burrack Award for Helping Friends. Bill McKinnery was awarded the Corky Burt Award for Leadership.

The competition, themed “Signs,” showcased an array of stunning photographs that captured the essence of the theme in various creative ways.

In the novice category, Diane Gray clinched first place with her captivating entry, followed by Robert Browning and Mike Wahl, who took second and third places respectively. Joan Whan was awarded an Honorable Mention.

The intermediate category was no less competitive, with Ralph Rooke securing the top spot. Sandy Holz and Bob Selzer followed closely, winning second and third places respectively. Jim Foote received an Honorable Mention.

In the advanced category, Gerry Fagan took home first place, while Rick VanDette and club president Stan Holz were awarded second and third places

respectively. Shashi Cooduvalli received an Honorable Mention.

The expert category saw Stan Lituchy leading with a first-place win. John Hock and Tom Lehrer were not far behind, securing second and third places respectively. John Burrack also received an Honorable Mention.

The March meeting left everyone invigorated, celebrating both the artistic achievements and communal spirit of the Photography Club of Sun City.

Competition Winners March Photography Club of Sun City’s March Print Competition winners with their prints on display following the competition winners being announced.

PHOTO BY DOUG SCOTT

Present to receive their Service Awards at the Photography Club of Sun City’s March meeting are Sue Flynn, left, and Dale Methven.

PHOTO BY DOUG SCOTT

BY TAMELA MAXIM Contributor

There’s no denying the challenges that come with aging. Everyone knows that getting older ain’t for sissies but there are some exciting “members only” advantages in the modern world of serious adulthood. Besides plenty of time for pickleball and recreational pursuits, shopping discounts and bragging rights about adorable grandchildren, how about going back to school to take classes in subjects you’re thrilled about with no tests or grades? Maybe you’d like to dust off your clarinet, saxophone or violin and join a community band. What about visiting a state park with a master naturalist to show you what a unique area we live in? Do you like true crime? Attend a Murder Mystery dinner event. If you are 50+, all of this awaits you at OLLI, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, where you can join over 1,700 members who take hundreds of classes every term.

BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP IN OLLI

Besides classes, tours and trips, you’ll receive discounted meals at the Sand Bar Dining Hall, use of the extensive academic library and parking privileges at the three USCB campuses. You’ll also receive discounted continuing education courses (for example, in conversational language) and discounted tickets to the Chamber Music Series and other events at the USCB Beaufort Performing Arts Center. There is an extra fee for classes during the fall and winter/spring terms but summer sessions are fee-free for members.

FYI: Instructors can take courses at no charge during their term. If you are an expert in a subject or have a passion for a particular topic you’d like to teach, contact OLLI to apply for a position as an OLLI presenter.

WHO, WHAT, WHEN AND HOW MUCH

OLLI is a member-run organization catering to the idea that we only get better with age if we don’t stop learning. Classes and lectures are offered in various categories including literature, science and technology, art, film, current events, politics, history and music.

All about OLLI

The cost: $45 per year for annual OLLI membership. Class fees range from $8 to $15 depending on the format. For many members who take 12+ courses a term, there is a $125 fee for the unlimited plan. Costs for tours, day trips or multi-day travel vary according to the itinerary offered.

The terms are fall (Sept-Dec), winter/ spring (Jan-May) and summer (June-July). Volunteer OLLI faculty presenters are mostly locals with special expertise and a passion for sharing. They include current or former USCB faculty, business and government leaders, scientists, teachers and the military, to name just a small sector of the hundreds of presenters.

VOLUNTEER AND GIVING OPPORTUNITIES

There are always openings for volunteers who would like to offer their skills as instructors or course facilitators (application deadline is September 18), administrative/classroom helpers, curriculum planners and marketing/membership helpers. Training is provided for some of these positions – just ask!

Volunteers who help with the curriculum are responsible for soliciting and reviewing proposals from prospective instructors and helping identify and develop courses that would benefit the members. Class assistants are needed at class locations both on and off campus. Administrative assistant volunteers handle inquiries, mailing and special projects as required. Hours are flexible and training is provided. Contact OLLI if you’d like to be on the team!

WHY LIFELONG LEARNING?

Learning is good for your health! Don’t we all want to slow down or even reverse cognitive decline once we’ve gone over that doggone hill? OLLI is all about serving the interests of those who remain actively engaged in learning. If you didn’t know that OLLI existed before now, you’ve just lost your only excuse for not signing up.

While young people usually go to school to prepare for a career or even because of social or parental pressure, older people can choose to continue their studies just because they enjoy it! No academic cre-

dentials are needed and the cost is very affordable.

All that is required is a desire to tickle your brain cells a bit and keep those creative juices sparked and flowing. As Dean Keith Simonton, a professor of psychology at the University of California, points out, even though creativity peaks early in fields such as pure mathematics and theoretical physics, other careers often peak much later. Historians, philosophers, artists, scholars and others in experience-based professions sometimes don’t reach their pinnacles until their 60s and beyond. Maybe you are a rock star just waiting for a little extra training and encouragement!

OLLI HISTORY

In July 2005, the Bernard Osher Foundation accepted USCB’s lifelong learning program into the OLLI network, which initially replaced the program formed in 1991 at USCB called the Creative Retirement Center. Bernard Osher is the founder and treasurer, his wife Barbara is chairman of the board and Mary G. F. Bitterman is president of the 48-year-old philanthropic organization founded in San Francisco in 1977 to support higher education and the arts by making significant grants and endowment gifts to colleges, universities and other nonprofit organizations.

The OLLI program for people over 50 interested in learning for the joy of learning is one of four programs supported by the Osher Foundation and is currently found at 125 institutions of higher education across the United States.

USCB OLLI CONCERT BAND

The USCB OLLI Concert Band is part of the OLLI program. Musicians of all ages come together every week for practice and then play together for concerts throughout the region. The band rehearses every Tuesday evening on the Bluffton campus, Campus Center 105. OLLI members are invited to attend rehearsals.

USCB DIRECTOR OF OLLI

Andréa Sisino has been director of OLLI at USCB since 2010 and serves as USCB’s associate vice chancellor of community outreach. With her enthusiasm

and keen interest in the community, she has contributed significantly to the program’s growth. Sisino received her undergraduate degree in sociology from the University of South Florida and a master’s in executive leadership. She spent 20 years in sports management and engaged in her love of local culture when she traveled internationally for the YMCA. She’s definitely a people person who is passionate about making a difference.

HOW TO REGISTER

In person:

• USCB Beaufort Campus, 801 Carteret St., Sandstone Bldg., Rm. 119

• USCB Bluffton Campus, One University Blvd., Hargray Bldg., Rm. 161

• Hilton Head Island, 1 Sandshark Lane, Hilton Head Island, Suite 126 By mail: USCB, OLLI Office, One University Blvd., Bluffton, SC 29910 Visit online: www.olli.uscb.edu By phone: USCB Bluffton 843-208-8247

HOW TO GET A CURRENT CURRICULUM GUIDE:

• Pick up at any USCB campus OLLI office

• Call and ask for one to be mailed.

• Download one online.

In a world where learning never stops, OLLI at USCB continues to inspire and cultivate a love for knowledge. Whether seeking intellectual growth, social connections or a new adventure, OLLI offers a welcoming and enriching environment. Every day is an opportunity to learn, make new friends, smile a little more and embrace your inner Renaissance persona.

Tamela Maxim is thrilled to write for the Bluffton Sun and Hilton Head Sun. She was previously the assistant publisher of Realtor Listings magazine, editor of Bluffton Breeze and Premier Lowcountry magazines, and occasional contributor to local newspapers and magazines. She plays the role of the assistant art instructor on the YouTube channel Art Posse, a local reality TV show that has just completed its 2nd season. www.artposseproductions.com She recently edited and published two books, Et Cetera Y’all, Volume 1 by Annelore Harrell, and From Jellybeans to a Nobel Prize Nomination by Arthur V. Martin, Ph.D.