April 13 edition

To be, or not to be Hilton Head Island — That is the question

Hmmmm. Interesting argument laid out by County Councilman Logan Cunningham, R-District 7 Bluffton, in his lone vote against making any changes to the St. Helena Cultural Protection Overlay District which might, or might not lead the way to the development of Pine Island.

As much as County Administrator Eric Greenway tried to distance the two issues at Monday’s meeting — changes to the overlay district and Pine Island development — it was pretty obvious from the get-go that the crowd of residents who oppose plans for an exclusive gated golf resort weren’t buying it.

First there was Community Services and Land Use committee’s

SEE LOWDOWN PAGE A3

St. Helena defenders claim early win

Revised amendment to strengthen CPO passes committee, 1st Council reading

By Mike McCombs

The Island News

For those in opposition to a planned gated community and golf course (or three six-hole golf courses) on Pine Island and St. Helenaville on St. Helena Island, Monday was a good day.

In front of a packed County Council Chambers, a full hallway, dozens of people in the courtyard and two overflow viewing rooms, the Beaufort County Community Services and Land-Use Committee, with a 10-1 vote, approved a recommendation for changes in the language that would

strengthen the Cultural Protection Overlay (CPO), which is meant to guard against over-development on St. Helena Island and protect a way of life for what remain of the Gullah/ Geechee people.

SEE WIN PAGE A5

St. Helena Island resident Carolyn Jebaily, left, chats with Grant McClure of the Coastal Conservation League and his fiancé, Emma Barnes, prior the start of Monday night’s Beaufort County Council meeting regarding the proposed development of Pine Island. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

The Easter Bunny made a special stop at the Beaufort Memorial Collins Birthing Center to deliver this sweet little treat to Umeka Polite and JaQuaun Rhodan of Beaufort. JaQuaun Rhodan Jr., arrived at 11:58 a.m., Easter Sunday, weighing in at 7 pounds, 12 ounces. As Beaufort Memorial’s only Easter baby this year, he was gifted a lovely handmade spring-themed quilt from the Sea Island Quilters (seen peeking out from beneath his fuzzy blanket). Congratulations to mom and dad and welcome JaQuaun. Photo courtesy of Beaufort Memorial Hospital. To submit a Lowcountry Life photo, you must be the photographer or have permission to submit the photo to be published in The Island News. Please submit high-resolution photos and include a description and/or names of the people in the picture and the name of the photographer. Email your photos to theislandnews@gmail.com

VETERAN OF THE WEEK DONNIE LASSEY

Beaufort’s Donnie Lassey, 72, joined the Unites States Marine Corps in Pensacola, Fla., in 1968. After boot camp at Parris Island and infantry training at Camp Lejeune, he was stationed in Vietnam right along the DMZ where he regularly engaged in combat. His follow-on assignments took him to Okinawa; Little Creek, Va., training Reservists; to MCAS Cherry Point; to Charleston Weapon Station,

NEWS BRIEFS

City to begin removal of diseased palms in Waterfront Park

The City of Beaufort is removing diseased and damaged Washingtonia palm trees from the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park this week. The work is being done at the Circle of Palms, where five trees are being removed; the west entrance of the park, where two trees are being removed, and the amphitheater, where 10 trees are being removed.

These trees have been impaired by a combination of fungal infection and freeze damage and either cannot be saved or are in severe decline, according to board-certified arborist Michael Murphy, who is contracted by the City to advise on tree issues.

“As the crown jewel of our public amenities, we always want Waterfront Park looking its best. The current Washingtonia palms will be replaced by Sabal palms, which are indigenous to South Carolina and should flourish in our park,” Marshall said.

Prep began on Monday, with tree removal actually starting Tuesday. The project should be completed by Monday, April 17.

The replacement trees are expected to be planted by May 1,

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to Twentynine Palms; and then MCAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. While there he participated in

evacuating the last Americans from Saigon in 1975.

He finally returned to Parris Island as a Marksmanship instructor before an assignment at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba as part of the defense force. He returned again to Parris Island to serve as NCOIC of the rifle range and later at Headquarters and Support. While serving with reconnaissance forces stationed at Camp Lejeune,

he retired in 1989 as a Master Sergeant with 21 years of active service. He then worked providing security for five years at Gulf Stream Aerospace in Savannah and then for 23 years on Hilton Head Island.

– Compiled by John Chubb, American Legion Post 9. For Veteran Of The Week nominations, contact jechubb1@gmail.com

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Tyler and Lawson Metts and 17-month-old son “Bitt” make their way through the Lowcountry Jaycees’ Beaufort Food Truck Festival on Saturday along Paris Avenue in Port Royal. Though the crowd was considerably smaller than usual, there was myriad hot food available for those who braved the cold, wet weather. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

pending the availability of the Sabal palms.

Municipal Court to close

Thursday, Friday Beaufort Municipal Court will close at 3 p.m. on Thursday, April 13, and all day on Friday, April 14,

ON THIS DATE

April 15

2019: More than 450 people pack Whale Branch Middle School to hear U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) speak as part of her 2020 campaign for President.

April 16

for staff training. For assistance during this time, please email courtcontacts@cityofbeaufort.org

Beaufort Tea Party meeting

The next meeting of the Beaufort Tea Party will be Monday,

2019: Frank Rodriguez, a 26-year veteran school administrator is selected by the Beaufort County Board of Education to be the district’s next superintendent, pending the negotiation of a contract.

PAL PETS OF THE WEEK

Cat of the Week: Roller is a big boy who needs someone to help him work on his summer body. He is a quiet love bug who would enjoy a low energy home with or without other animals. Roller is 4 years old, neutered, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped.

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DEADLINE

April 17 at AMVETS Post 70 at 1831 Ribaut Road in Port Royal. The special guest speaker will be conservative comedian, author and national speaker Eric Golub, and the invited speaker is County Councilman David Bartholomew (District 2).

– From staff reports

April 17

2008: The first edition of the Lady’s Island News – now called The Island News –is published.

– Compiled by Mike McCombs

Dog of the Week: Pop is a goofball who just wants friends. Pop is new to us and loves to meet new people when he is playing outside. He is working hard on his leash skills and perfecting his puppy dog eyes to find his family. Pop is a year old, neutered, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped.

If you are interested in adopting Roller, Pop, or any of our other pets, call our adoption center at 843-645-1725 or email us at info@ palmettoanimalleague. org to set up an appointment.

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All content of The Island News, including articles, photos, editorial content, letters, art and advertisements, are copyrighted by The Island News and Island News Publishing, LLC, 2022, all rights reserved. The Island News encourages reader submissions via email to theislandnews@gmail.com. All content submitted is considered approved for publication by the owner unless otherwise stated. The Island News is designed to inform and entertain readers and all efforts for accuracy are made. Guest columns do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The Island News, its publisher or editors. Content published from Care Magazine® is intended as a reference and options source only, not as a guide to self-treatment or substitute for profession medical advice. It is provided for educational purpose only. Readers assume full responsibility for how this information is used. The Island News reserves the right to refuse to sell advertising space, or to publish information, for any business or activity the newspaper deems inappropriate for the publication.

Donnie Lassey

Committees return 10 more books to BCSD shelves

By Mike McCombs

The Island News

Ten more books were reviewed and voted on by Beaufort County School District (BCSD) book review committees last week with all 10 being returned to district shelves in some fashion.

Committees met at 5:45 p.m., Wednesday, April 5, at Okatie Elementary School.

Here are the 10 books voted on and the results of those votes:

No. 37: The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta – Returned to library circulation.

No. 38: Burned by Ellen Hopkins – Returned to library circulation for Grades 9-12 only.

No. 39: Clockwork Prin-

cess by Cassandra Clare –Returned to library circulation for Grades 9-12 only.

No. 40: Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer – Returned to library circulation for Grades 9-12 only.

No. 41: Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Melinda Lo – Returned to library circulation for Grades 9-12 only.

No. 42: Out of Darkness by Ashley Hope Perez – Returned to library circulation.

No. 43: Rumble by Ellen Hopkins – Returned to library circulation for Grades 9-12 only.

No. 44: Smoke by Ellen Hopkins – Returned to library circulation for Grades 9-12 only.

No. 45: The Truth About Alice by Jennifer Mathieu – Returned to library circulation for Grades 9-12 only.

No. 46: Water for Elephants by Sarah Gruen – Returned to library circulation.

According to the Beaufort County School District’s website, the original complainants, Mike Covert and Ivie Szalai, were notified of the results of the committee votes that night, Wednesday, April 7.

As of press time, according to the District’s website, neither Covert nor Szalai had filed appeals to the Board of Education. However, District policy (Regulation IS 38.1 Procedures for Handling Questioned or Challenged Library Materi-

als) states, “Complainants wishing to appeal the decision of the Materials Reconsideration Committee must do so in writing, to the Board of Education within (7) business days of receipt of the committee’s decision.”

Tuesday, April 18, would be the seventh business day following the committee’s votes. Once an appeal is received, the school board would have 15 days to rule on it. A recap

Ninety-seven books were removed from the shelves of libraries and classrooms in the BCSD in October and are to be reviewed for their appropriateness by the book review commit-

tees. The reviews were triggered by complaints that the books were obscene and inappropriate.

The original lists of books, submitted by former Beaufort County Councilman and GOP politician Mike Covert and Beaufort’s Ivie Szalai, are identical to each other with Covert challenging one additional book.

The book review committees must consist, per state guidelines, of a school librarian, a district teacher, a parent (other than the complainant), a school administrator, a district-level administrator, and a member of a School Improvement Council in the district. The BCSD added a seventh member to the committees – a commu-

Happy Birthday, Robert Smalls

nity member. So far, 46 of the 97 books have been reviewed by the committees, though 10 of those can still be appealed. Of the 36 books of which reviews and appeals have been completed, 33 have been returned to district shelves in some fashion, while three books — The Haters by Jesse Andrews, Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult, and It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover — have been removed from shelves and will be kept out of the Beaufort County School District for at least the next five years.

Mike McCombs is the Editor of The Island News and can be reached at TheIslandNews@gmail.com

Lowdown from page A1

retreat behind closed doors into executive session for legal advice — supposedly to outline whether the county could be sued, or not sued if they endorsed a change which would restrict what Elvio Tropeano and his backers want to build on Pine Island.

Then there was Greenway’s not so subtle reminder that even with changes to the overlay district, Tropeano could, by right, develop up to 143 homes and 75-95 docks on the 500 acres.

Cunningham urged his fellow council members to consider individual property rights and how that belief had lead to Hilton Head’s status as the breadwinner for Beaufort County’s economy. Emotions aside, what is best for the county was his refrain.

It’s a refrain we can guarantee will be heard again as the County Council considers two additional readings of the ordinance changes and as the developer considers what to do next with his property. Lest we forget he’s already discussed plans with the county

Soft Shell Crab Festival returns to Port Royal

From staff reports The 18th annual Soft Shell Crab Festival, sponsored by the Town of Port Royal and Luke Paulick – Attorney at Law, will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, April 15 in downtown Port Royal. The festival features a variety of soft shell crab dishes prepared by local chefs as well as an assortment of traditional festival foods. There will also be live entertainment, craft vendors, and a kid zone with rides and a face painter. The live musical performances will come from the Chris Gladson Band of Spartanburg and the Even Pete Band from Savannah, Ga. The Beaufort Classic Car and Truck Show will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and there will be a Bikers Against Bullies activity area for kids. Two ATM’S will be on site, and no pets are permitted.

The event is organized by The Old Village Association of Port Royal. More information is available at www.portroyalova.com

Kukulich at The Post and Courier

planning staff for three separate developments, each with 6-hole golf courses … and a gate.

Dare we say, Port Royal trees get more protection PORT ROYAL – By the time you read this, there’s a very strong likelihood this cool, coastal and far-from-ordinary community will have a new, stronger ordinance to protect its trees.

After more than six months of discussion, the Town Council was scheduled to meet Wednesday night and give the second and final vote to a revised ordinance which makes it tougher and more expensive to remove trees.

The council began the process with stated intentions of making it more expensive for developers to remove trees, to “put some teeth” in the ordinance, as the elected officials said over and over again. The “teeth” happen to be mitigation fees of $750 or $500 per caliper inch, depending on the specimen and size of tree to be removed.

Trees that are illegally removed, aka without permit, will have to be replanted and mitigation fees paid. Plus the developer, or property owner, could be

prevented for getting a building permit for two years.

One of the last changes to the ordinance was an exemption added for commercial development (as compared to residential development) where the fees could be reduced, reflecting the Council’s desires to increase businesses within the town.

The Council members wanted to make a statement about protecting trees and the natural beauty of their town. And they’re hoping the other municipalities and county will follow their lead.

New Robert Smalls school latest denuded tract on SC 170

BEAUFORT – Speaking of trees, the Beaufort County school district is responsible for a pretty significant removal on the Robert Smalls Parkway. It took passing motorists a day or two to realize the loss since the newly denuded tract is across the parkway from the future Beaufort Station, where trees were removed months ago in preparation for a shopping center. Passersby have monitored that “progress” as mountains of fill dirt have been trucked in to raise the land enough to build the future

Hobby Lobby, Aldi discount grocery, TJ Maxx, HomeGoods and other retail opportunities.

But after tree-lovers got over that shock, almost as disturbing was the deforestation across the street for the new Robert Smalls International Academy. The preKindergarten-through-8th-grade facility will replace the existing campus which now supports roughly 800 students.

The new school, with an estimated cost of $71 million, is the largest construction project included in the 2019 school bond referendum package approved by 70 percent of the voters.

The school board is already talking about another bond referendum, possibly next year to accommodate the rapid growth in the 21,200-student public school district.

In the meantime, construction at the Robert Small academy has been delayed by … of course … Covid 19 and a shortage of materials with the latest competition estimate the beginning of 2024.

Port Royal Sound watershed gets more preservation protection

RIDGELAND – Thanks to Tony

we’ve learned of a most recent land acquisition which means good news for those concerned about the Port Royal Sound watershed and the environment surrounding it.

In a collaborative effort between the S.C. Department of Natural Resources, the Open Space Institute and the Nature Conservancy, a 3,500-acre parcel is in the process of being purchased to expand a protected conservation district which will be managed by the state.

This most recent purchase, called the Slater tract, is north of Ridgeland and will eventually be joined with 7,000 adjacent acres of Buckfield Plantation in Hampton County and owned by the Nature Conservancy.

Lolita Huckaby Watson is a community volunteer and newspaper columnist. In her former role as a reporter with The Beaufort Gazette, The Savannah Morning News, Bluffton Today and Beaufort Today, she prided herself in trying to stay neutral and unbiased. As a columnist, these are her opinions. Her goal is to be factual but opinionated, based on her own observations. Feel free to contact her at bftbay@gmail.com

Michael Moore, great-great grandson of Civil War hero Robert Smalls, makes his remarks during the celebration of Smalls’ birthday Wednesday, April 6, at Tabernacle Baptist Church, of which

Smalls was a member following emancipation. Moore said, “You hear about Smalls being the general or the captain, even the congressman and senator.

I think of him as my great-great grandpa.” Moore was the keynote speaker during the celebration sponsored by the Beaufort Republican Women’s Club.

Photos by Bob Sofaly/The Island News

from page A1

the Broad River.

Meanwhile, the small communities dotted across the colonial land grant known as Chelsea — especially Tickton Hall, Rose Hill, Cherry Hill, and Strawberry Hill — would be swallowed whole.

As the project has not yet been approved, the developer, Hilton Head-based Robert Graves, declined to provide a comment to The Post and Courier.

But half a dozen Chelsea residents spoke at the length to reporters to publicize their concerns.

At the center of their efforts is a question: What can stop development?

Practicalities? Nature? Public opposition?

Nothing?

Tickton Hall

Despite its proximity to golf courses and resorts, the neighborhood called Tickton Hall remains mostly wild.

Behind a wall of trees and at the end of a dirt road, 60 or so Craftsman, Mediterranean, trailer, ranch and coastal homes sit haphazardly on half-acre to 3-acre lots, their yards strewn with wind chimes and bird feeders. Compared to the planned communities down the road, Tickton Hall looks like it blew in on a storm.

“It’s a secret place,” said Ann Caruso, a teacher who has lived there almost 20 years.

David and Diane Sesler happened on it in 2020. They’d been looking for decades around Nashville, Tenn., for a place on the water. Then, over a weekend visiting relatives, they discovered the perfect thing in Tickton Hall: a one-story ranch with popcorn ceilings and dull paint that nevertheless looked out on the golden marsh grass and sparkling water of Euhaw Creek.

They made an offer so fast the house didn’t even go on the market.

For David Sesler, a silver-haired tech guy, the neighborhood’s well and septic system was a feature, not a bug. It made the community self-sufficient. If the development plan goes through, he pointed out, the town of Ridgeland will somehow have to extend water and sewer 7 to 10 miles to reach the new buildings.

In addition, he and his neighbors doubt Highway 462, the main artery through Chelsea, can handle more traffic. The road is a designated scenic highway. Its current congestion makes a mockery of any suggestion that the 4,800 new homes would be convenient for working families, said retired paralegal Cathy DeCourcy.

For Diane Sesler, an artist with a French-Canadian accent, Tickton Hall is all about nature. “I just want the land and the animals to stay pristine,” she said.

From the center of the creek, the only visible structures are a bridge, a communications tower and a white plantation house.

The rest is hardwood and loblolly forest, home to seaside sparrows, bobwhite quail, wild turkeys and endangered redcockaded woodpeckers.

From time to time, bald eagles swoop down to fish, and dolphins slide behind the residents’ boats.

Right now, only a couple crafts are ever in the water a time. But with more people potentially coming in, current residents fear the waterway will need traffic lights.

What’s more, all the new rooftops, pavements and docks will add impervious surfaces. Runoff from pesticides could affect the water quality, a particular threat to those who coax their lunch or their livelihood from the creek. Parts of the nearby May River and all of Hazzard Creek are already closed to shell fishing.

To Milton Woods, a white-haired gentleman in an L.L. Bean vest, Chelsea’s wilderness is a different world.

To help lawmakers appreciate it, he and some other residents took Jasper County Council officials on a tour. He hoped they would stop, close their eyes and allow the land to speak to them.

Woods looked imploringly at the reporters. “It’s not for me and David, ya’ll,” he said. “It’s for the

future generations.”

Developers come knocking Ridgeland doesn’t go looking for annexation opportunities, Town Manager Dennis Averkin said. But, once such a request is received, the town is obligated to investigate it thoroughly.

“I can’t turn this guy away,” Averkin said.

Graves has been a developer in the Hilton Head area since the 1950s. He has not announced why he wants to build out Chelsea. But the listing for the property in question, identified as under contract, notes that its location “is one of its most notable assets.”

The land sits alongside Beaufort County, a fast-growing area where housing inventory remains low and expensive. It’s also about 25 miles from Hardeeville, where an industrial park is being developed to support a planned new marine container terminal.

It also is about 35 miles from the Port of Savannah, which announced in February 2021 it’s expanding its capacity and increasing its workforce.

Seven months later in September, two entities Graves leads — Tickton Hall Investments, LLC, and Pepper Hall, LLC — submitted an annexation request, development plan and zoning classification. Ridgeland’s planning commission approved and advanced the requests to the town council, which held two public hearings about them in October.

But the full scale of the proposal didn’t come to light until a Nov. 7 town hall, an event that was not recorded. Since then, public discussion of the project has all but ceased.

People are still talking about it, though.

Officials have been engaged in contractual negotiations with the developer, said Heather Spade, Ridgeland’s director of Planning and Development.

Spade said she couldn’t comment on those conversations. “Town policy is that whenever we have negotiations going on, it’s kind of a behind-the-scenes thing,” she said.

Barry Johnson, a Bluffton-based attorney who is representing both entities in the annexation request, was similarly tight-lipped, though he did confirm that negotiations between the developers and the town are ongoing.

Averkin characterized those negotiations as a “protracted discussion with a potential developer,” emphasizing that the process was still in the very early stages.

From his perspective, the issue is how much control and influence the town can exert. But the notion that Tickton Hall won’t be developed at all, he believes, is naïve.

A wake-up call The Seslers and their crew would beg to differ. As evidence for their confidence, they point to Chelsea South.

Around here, the words connote something more than their literal meaning: Chelsea South is technically the name for a proposed building project at the intersection of Highway 170 and Snake Road.

But among some residents, “Chelsea South” is shorthand for the first time they realized development was coming, and that citizens could do something about it.

Before then, residents were under the impression the area would stay pretty much the same. Their expectations seemed to be confirmed in 2019, when brothers Bryan and Blaine McClure partnered with Missouri-based Legacy Land Holdings to buy the 6,000-acre former Chelsea Plantation for $30 million. The McClures announced then that the property would be maintained as a family compound and hunting preserve.

But a few years later, in the spring of 2022, an entity called Chelsea Plantation, LLC, petitioned Jasper County to revise the rural conservation zoning on 300 undeveloped acres of Chelsea Plantation. A developer wanted to build hundreds of single-family homes, multi-family units and nearly 400,000 square feet of commercial development.

Kate Schaefer, director of land protection for the Open Land Trust, called the rezoning request a wake-up call for the region. It indicated the owners of Chelsea Plantation were looking to divide and sell parcels for development.

That vision contradicted Jasper County’s comprehensive plan to have the whole area be rural preservation, Schaefer said. “Typically, the county is not in the business of upzoning properties. That’s the role they’ve given the municipalities.”

Nevertheless, the petition initially sailed through county’s process. On its first reading on May 2, the County Council unanimously approved the request without public comment or council discussion.

Opposition quickly coalesced. More than 20 residents signed up to make a public comment on the first public hearing on May 16. Most, if not all, voiced their opposition to the rezoning request.

Community involvement appeared to have an impact, as the pace of progress on Chelsea South slowed considerably. Since the first reading of the rezoning application nearly a year ago, the County Council has not yet put the matter up for another vote.

County Attorney David Tedder said the applications are being held while staff and officials continue negotiating with the developers. For now, he said, the proposal has been tabled.

Sticks in the wheels

Ever since Chelsea South slipped quietly into the public realm, residents have learned how much more of Chelsea Plantation has already been sold.

According to county records, the McClure brothers own only about 215 acres of the original 6,000. A company called Chelsea Plantation, LLC, which is organized in Dexter, Mo., appears to be the current owner of a bulk of the plantation — but not all of it.

Graves purchased 425 acres of the Tickton Hall property from Chelsea Plantation, LLC, in August 2022 for $6 million, county records indicate. That parcel is included in the annexation request

‘Keep Chelsea rural’

As towns and unincorporated areas in the Lowcountry have grown since the 1990s, citizen groups opposing development have also grown.

They offer slightly different defenses. The Jonesville Preservation Society on Hilton Head points to the island’s history of building in harmony with nature. Opponents of a golf resort on St. Helena Island cite the area’s Gullah/Geechee culture.

The folks in Chelsea can’t make either of these arguments, although they are working with the Coastal Conservation League to craft an environmental case. DeCourcy also is researching the area’s colonial history in case its connection to Thomas Heyward, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, can influence its future.

But in informal conversations, the residents mostly find themselves defending something they already have.

For Diane Sesler, it’s the critters outside her back door.

that was presented to Ridgeland officials last fall.

Further, Johnson, who was representing Graves during a Sept. 1 Ridgeland Town Council meeting, stated that Tickton Hall Investments, LLC, has a contract to purchase the remaining Tickton Hall property subject of annexation from Chelsea, LLC.

To Diane Sesler, the whole situation feels very opaque.

“I don’t understand what’s going on,” she said. Her eyes widened behind a pair of cat-eye glasses. “It may be clear to other people, but they’re not telling us.”

The uncertainty makes her simultaneously stand back and reach out. She shares information on an email list with about 300 names, and every couple weeks sub-committees — signs, outreach, research — get together over meals to talk strategy.

While the group can’t point to a specific win, the Seslers said chatter about developing Tickton Hall has slowed down. Like Chelsea South, it has stopped appearing on county agendas.

“We’ve put sticks in their

For Patricia Hicks DuPont, who lives in a Chelsea neighborhood called Old House, it’s the tranquility of her family’s homestead. On a nice day, she can pack a lunch and go fishing on land her greatgreat grandfather settled after he gained his freedom. The quiet, easy pace of Old House allows Hick DuPont a peace of mind that’s every bit as important as health and money, she said.

In another Chelsea neighborhood called Cherry Hill, Reginald White leases hunting rights on the land his family has owned since the 1880s. White estimated that hundreds of family members may have a claim to the property as heirs, but he’s one of the few who still lives there and pays taxes on it.

With more development nearby, White fears property taxes will go up and the deer and quail populations will go down.

For Woods, who lived on Chelsea Plantation when it still belonged to Marshall Fields’ family, it’s the memory of a magical childhood.

“Indescribable,” he said, a soft look passing over his face more

wheels,” Diane Sesler said.

The pause has allowed Chelsea residents to identify what they do want: officials to put a moratorium on new building permits until Jasper County has the public infrastructure to support new homes and businesses. They also want to add amendments to the county’s comprehensive plan, specifically designed to control growth.

These are planning tools the state of South Carolina offers, but it’s up to municipalities whether or not to use them.

“I don’t mind more houses,” Diane Sesler said. “I just want smart development, smart plans.”

In that way, the Seslers and Ridgeland officials are not so far apart.

“At least if [Tickton Hall] came into the town, we can potentially negotiate a deal that strikes an acceptable balance between all of these competing interests,” Averkin said. “If they don’t, you could be looking at something you really don’t want.”

Given the work remaining, Averkin estimated that it could be six to nine months, maybe longer, before the town council considers the request to annex Tickton Hall.

than seven decades later. “We’d bathe in the river and go home and rinse the salt off of us and go to bed.”

David Sesler struggled to say what exactly it was that drew him to Chelsea, and why he’s willing to invest so much energy to fight for it now. Something about the area reminds him of the farm in Tennessee where he grew up. There were chickens in the yards there, too, and people who knew how to fix things and grow their own food.

The word he’s circling around — the word they’re all circling around — is the one scrawled on their signs along the highway: rural. They want to keep feeling like they’re in the country, even though at least six other development projects along Highway 170 have already been proposed.

In a way, the effort itself is part of what they’re fighting to hold onto.

David Sesler finally landed on, “Good neighbors.” People who keep to themselves, but who are always ready to help.

From

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A fisherman spends a cold, clear morning in January working on Euhaw Creek in Jasper County. Residents of the nearby Tickton Hall development worry that a proposed development project that could bring nearly 5,000 homes and commercial development to rural Jasper County would degrade water quality in the creek. Tony Kukulich/The Post And Courier

Patricia Hicks DuPont lives on her family’s homestead, a portion of which has been in her family for generations. She worries about the impact that proposed residential and commercial development could bring to her rural Jasper County neighborhood. Tony Kukulich/The Post And Courier

Beaufort police seeking tips in Easter homicide

By Mike McCombs

The Island News City of Beaufort Police are investigating a homicide after a 21-year-old man was shot and killed Easter Sunday at the Cross Creek Apartments.

According to a news release from the City of Beaufort, at approximate-

ly 8:43 p.m., Beaufort police officers were dispatched to 325 Ambrose Run, Cross Creek Apartments, for a report of a gunshot victim.

Upon arrival, officers located one victim, who was later identified as 21-year-old Daveion Reed. Officers immediately started to render

aid to Reed, who was still showing signs of life. Reed was transported by Beaufort County EMS to Beaufort Memorial Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

According to City of Beaufort Police spokesperson Stephenie Price, three black males were seen leaving

the area in a dark sedan.

“They are persons of interest at this time,” Price said Monday.

The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or may have information about it is encouraged to contact Investigator Stephanie Fritz at

FIRST FRIDAY

843-322-7913. Those wishing to stay anonymous are encouraged to call the Beaufort Police’s Anonymous Tip Line at 843-322-7938.

Mike McCombs is the Editor of The Island News and can be reached at TheIslandNews@gmail.com

Sidewalk this way

Rotary

Beaufort, SC

Annual Vidalia Onion Sale

Last Day to Order: May 5, 2023

Winfrom page A1

Immediately following that meeting, the full County Council voted, by an identical 10-1 tally, on first reading to adopt those changes.

How we got here

While communications between Beaufort County and developer Elvio Tropeano have been active for more than a year, the plans for the development of Pine Island only made their way to the public sphere late in 2022.

On January 9, county planners brought changes to the CPO that County Administrator Eric Greenway said would strengthen the zoning policy. Greenway and county attorneys claimed that without the changes, the County would be left open to lawsuits from developers (So far, in more than a quarter century with the CPO, those lawsuits have not materialized).

Greenway also worked hard to separate these changes specifically from the Pine Island issue.

“While everyone thinks this is related to the Pine Island issue, this is not being driven by the Pine Island request,” Greenway told the committee, though at least two representatives of the potential developer were present.

Many observers present at

the meeting felt the changes would only weaken the CPO. Critics at the meeting accused Greenway and the County of negotiating with the developers behind closed doors and softening the CPO to guarantee a deal. The CPO forbids Restricted Access (Gated) Communities, Resorts and Golf Courses consisting of 9 holes or more (The language here is murky). The text amendment proposed January 9 allowed for exceptions to these restrictions if 1) the land contains 50 or more acres of “highland,” which is not defined, 2) there is a negotiated Development Agreement with the Beaufort County Council, which takes the community out of the equation, or 3) there are

limitations for use that protect the CPO.

The amendment, which the CPO Committee had not seen prior to that meeting, had already been heard by the Planning Commission days earlier. It recommended denial.

The Community Services and Land Use Committee then kicked the amendment back to the Cultural Protection Overlay District Committee: “Postpone this matter until April 10 and refer the matter to the Cultural Protection Overlay District Committee to study the existing ordinance with (the County’s) legal department and with other outside entities of the Committee’s choosing to suggest revisions that can be added to reinforce the Over-

Rotary Club of Beaufort holding annual Vidalia Onion Fundraiser

From staff reports

Scan me to order Onions

Everyone loves the mild sweet taste of a Vidalia onion, and thanks to the Rotary Club of Beaufort, there will be onions and more onions in May as the local Rotary Club continues its tradition of selling freshfrom-the-farm Vidalia onions as its major fundraiser.

Rotarians will pick-up palettes of Vidalia onions on May 3 and again on May 10 directly from an onion farm in Georgia and have them available in 10- and 25-pound bags for pick-up in the parking lot of Sea Island Presbyterian Church on Lady’s Island from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on those dates.

Alternative method - Enter this address in your mobile browser: https://Registrations.DACdb.com/Register/index.cfm?EventID=77652484&NoCaptcha

The cost for a 10-pound

TO ORDER Use the digital link above or go to www. beaufortrotaryclub.org and click on the Vidalia onion sale link.

bag is $12 and the cost for the 25-pound bag is $25, which is less than what they cost at Beaufort’s local supermarkets. But the onions must be pre-ordered and paid for prior to pick-up. Final date for orders is May 5.

Ordering is easy. Just go to www.beaufortrotaryclub. org and click on the Vidalia onion sale link. As a bonus, the Rotary Club of Beaufort has compiled a Vidalia onion recipe book that will be free with each onion purchase. The recipe book features personal recipes of Pat Conroy, as well as recipes from Rotarians and their families and friends. The booklet also includes hints for storage of your Vidalia onions.

The proceeds from the Vidalia onion sale supports the Rotary Club of Beaufort’s many charitable programs and community service projects. For further information, contact Graham Holcombe at gwh76@icloud.com

lay’s purpose and to improve the protection it provides to St. Helena and the surrounding islands.”

A new amendment

The CPO Committee met 4 times (January 17, January 31, February 21, and March 21). And representatives from the Planning and Zoning Department and the Legal Departments worked closely with the CPO Committee to prepare the proposed amendments brought forward Monday night.

There were several changes, the most obvious the language surrounding golf courses. This time, the amendment leaves no doubt — they aren’t wanted.

The CPO prohibits golf courses with no murky lan-

guage about how many holes they can have.

A golf course is defined as: “An area of land with improvements to the grounds on which the sport of golf is played. It typically consists of a series of holes, each consisting of a tee box, a fairway, the rough and other hazards, and/or a green with a cylindrical hole in the ground, known as a cup. Golf course accessory uses may include a clubhouse, restrooms, driving range, and shelters.”

Greenway pointed out that whether the golf course and gated community are built or not, the Pine Island property can still be developed according to current zoning which would allow for 143 homes, 70 to 95 docks, 143 wells and 143 septic systems, a causeway

and an updated road.

County Councilman Logan Cunningham (District 7) was the lone dissenting vote against the amendment on both the Community Services and Land Use Committee and the full Council.

Cunningham opposed telling someone who bought and paid for their land how they could develop it. He also got a rise from those in attendance when he said, “no development at all is not an option” for Pine Island.

Second and third readings, along with a public meeting, will be required for the amendment to the CPO to pass.

Mike McCombs is the Editor of The Island News and can be reached at TheIslandNews@gmail.com

Eric Claussen, center, an engineer with the Beaufort County Engineering Department, answers questions from a Stuart Point resident regarding the upcoming construction of sidewalks in the Stuart Point area during an informal drop-in Tuesday, April 4, in the Whale Branch Middle School gym. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

Beaufort County Councilman Logan Cunningham stunned the public when he said, “no development at all is not an option” on Pine Island during Monday night’s council meeting. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

Developer Elvio Tropeano, who owns Pine Island, discusses why he thinks developing the island with a gated community and building an 18-hole golf course (or three six-hole golf courses) on the island would be a good thing for the area. Bob Sofaly/ The Island News

Nancy Rhett, left, of Rhett Gallery, answers questions from Lisa and Jeff Scherer of Jonesboro, Ill., during the First Friday celebration April 7, along Bay Street in Beaufort.

The Sweetgrass Angels, from left, Penny Smith, Velma Polk and Elaine Lake sing for the crowd during the First Friday celebration, April 7, on Bay Street. Photos by Bob Sofaly/The Island News

Babesiosis and what you need to know about the 2023 tick season

By Deb Balzer newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org

Tick season is underway in much of the U.S. This season, another tick-borne disease is on the list of concerns. That’s because the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has found a significant increase in reported cases of babesiosis(bah-bee-see-oh-sis) infection in eastern parts of the U.S.

“Babesiosis is another tick-borne disease that we hear about, in addition to Lyme disease, anaplasmosis and others,” says Dr. Bobbi Pritt, director of the Clinical Parasitology Laboratory at Mayo Clinic. “Babesiosis is a parasitic disease transmitted by ticks. It’s caused primarily by Babesia microti in the U.S., and that’s transmitted by the same tick that transmits Lyme disease. The tick is called Ixodes scapularis, and it’s commonly known as the blacklegged tick, sometimes called the deer tick.”

Dr. Pritt says most of the cases of babesiosis are reported in the Northeast and the upper Midwestern states of the U.S.

Symptoms

Symptoms of babesiosis infection may range from people not knowing they are infected to feeling like they have mild flu to life-threatening. Symptoms, if any, can start within a week after a bite

How weak grip strength plays a role in aging

Having a strong grip isn’t just important for getting the lid off a stubborn jar.

Grip strength can also provide crucial insight into your health.

“People with better grip strength age more slowly. Having a good grip strength can slow the process of immunosenescence, or the decline in your immune defense associated with aging,” explained Ardeshir Hashmi, MD, a geriatric medicine specialist with Cleveland Clinic. “It can also improve your ability to bounce back from diseases, or homeostenosis. Finally, it can prevent frailty.”

According to Dr. Hashmi, a weak grip strength can indicate faster aging.

It can also be a warning sign for having a higher risk of chronic diseases – even a shorter life expectancy. Grip strength can tell you so much because it’s a good marker of a person’s overall body strength and ability to fight off infection. It can start declining around age 50, and people should start exercises before then to maintain it.

Dr. Hashmi recommends squeezing a racquetball or squash ball for

from an infected tick.

Flu-like symptoms may include:

Fever

Chills

Sweats

Loss of appetite

Nausea

• Fatigue “They have a fever, chills, body aches and headache; however, some patients may experience more severe symptoms. And babesiosis can even be life-threatening,” says Dr. Pritt. If you feel you have been infected, seek medical care.

at least 10 minutes twice a day. He stresses people must remember to exercise their entire body as well but don’t overdo it.

“With any weight-bearing exercise, you have to be careful not to tax your spine or knees. You don’t have to exercise for two hours every day,” Dr. Hashmi said. “The research tells us 10 minutes of exercise per day can make a difference. Doing something every day is the most important thing.”

Dr. Hashmi adds following a healthy diet and getting enough sleep are also needed to maintain good health as you age.

High blood pressure disorders in pregnancy rising

Nearly half of American adults have high blood pressure. Even more concerning, hypertensive disorders in pregnancy are on the rise.

According to the CDC, high blood pressure is seen in one in every 12 to 17 pregnancies among women ages 20 to 44 in the United States. Preeclampsia occurs in around one in 25 pregnancies.

When it comes to high blood pressure disorders during pregnancy, there are three that are most common.

Compared to Lyme disease

Babesiosis and Lyme disease— the most common tick-borne disease—can be serious, says Dr. Pritt, but they have different manifestations.

“Lyme disease, if untreated, will disseminate throughout the body to the joints, and to the nervous system in the brain. Whereas babesiosis doesn’t have that same pattern of dissemination. However, it can be life-threatening, particularly in patients that are immunocompromised or patients that don’t have a functioning spleen. It can be fatal

care TALK ©

“First is chronic hypertension, which is when a woman is diagnosed with hypertension before pregnancy or early in pregnancy – before 20 weeks,” said Oluwatosin Goje, MD, an obstetrician and gynecologist for Cleveland Clinic. “Then there is gestational hypertension, which is hypertension after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Those with gestational hypertension can eventually develop what we call preeclampsia.”

Preeclampsia is the more severe type of hypertension in pregnancy and can potentially impact organ function and the placenta. To avoid complications, women must be screened for high blood pressure before, during and after pregnancy.

Dr. Goje explained those over the age of 40 have an increased risk of developing hypertensive disorders during pregnancy as well as those with diabetes, immune system disorders like lupus or women who went through in vitro fertilization.

She noted Black women are also at an increased risk.

So how can a woman lower her risk for high blood pressure?

“You can control your blood pressure by staying active, exercising and eating a healthy diet. When it comes to diet, I tell patients you’re not fasting or starving – but you’re

in those individuals,” she says.

Reported cases of Lyme disease in the U.S. have continued to increase, says Dr. Pritt.

“We continue to see cases expand into other states along with the tick that spreads it, which is primarily Ixodes scapularis, the blacklegged tick or otherwise known as deer tick. And with that tick is the diseases it carries, Lyme disease, as well as things such as the babesiosis, anaplasmosis and numerous other tick-borne diseases as well.”

Lyme disease is perhaps one of the most well-known tick-borne illnesses. It is caused by bacteria transmitted through the bite of an infected black-legged tick. In the U.S., two types of tick-transmitted bacteria cause the illness: Borrelia burgdorferi and Borrelia mayonii

Lyme disease can be a serious, life-threatening disease, affecting many people.

Only a minority of tick bites lead to Lyme disease. The longer a tick remains attached to your skin, the greater the risk of infection. Infection is less likely if the tick is attached for less than 36 to 48 hours.

Prevention is the best medicine

Dr. Pritt says the best way to avoid getting sick with babesiosis, Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections during tick season is to

eating more fruits and vegetables and drinking more water,” Dr. Goje said. “It’s also crucial to reduce stress. Stress has been known to complicate a lot of maternal morbidity conditions, especially in Black women.”

Dr. Goje said it’s important to take measures before pregnancy to control blood pressure levels and decrease the risk of complications.

Finding the right relief for Spring allergies

Spring is officially here, and that means we can enjoy more sunlight and warmer weather. However, it can also cause those with seasonal allergies to reach for the tissue box.

“You may start to see your seasonal allergies worsen in April or May because that’s when tree and grass pollens often overlap,” explained DeVon Preston, MD, allergist for Cleveland Clinic. “That’s also when we tend to have our drier, windier weather – which means pollen can travel in the air more easily.”

Spring allergy season starts in February and can last until early summer in many parts of the United States.

During this time, those with tree pollen allergies can experience symptoms like itchy or watery eyes,

avoid getting tick bites.

She recommends the ABCs of tick bite prevention:

• “A” stands for avoid. You want to avoid the areas where ticks are found and in the upper Midwest and Northeastern states where babesiosis is found. That means areas in the woods where there’s brush, leaf litter and tall grasses.

“B” stands for bug spray. Use it when you’re outdoors and you think you’re going to be exposed to tick bites or mosquito bites.

• “C” stands for cover up. Wear protective clothing. If you have clothing over your skin, then the ticks won’t be able to bite your skin.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using a bug spray that either contains DEET 30% or picaridin. You also could use a bug spray that has oil of lemon eucalyptus in it. Those are all effective.

Related posts:

BEAT the bite: Arm yourself against an emerging threat Mayo Clinic Minute: How to avoid ticks Mayo Clinic Minute: What to do if you are exposed to Lyme disease

sneezing and a stuffy nose.

He suggests trying a nasal steroid or nasal antihistamine for congestion relief, sneezing or a runny nose.

An oral antihistamine can help relieve itching symptoms.

Along with medicine, Dr. Preston urges people to try and stay inside on dry, windy days to decrease their exposure to allergens.

People can also take some simple steps at home to keep their spring allergies in check.

“We all love to open our windows and let the fresh air in, but keeping your windows closed can help prevent pollen from entering your home. I recommend people use their HVAC system, if they have one, to help filter the air in the home,” he said. “If you have pets that go outside, brush them off before they come back inside because pollens can collect on their fur. It’s also a good idea to keep pets out of your bedroom.”

If your symptoms aren’t improving, Dr. Preston recommends seeing an allergist.

They can help you find out what you’re allergic to and develop a treatment plan.

Source: ccnewsservice@ccf.org March 27, 28, 29, 2023

Common artificial sweetener linked to risk for heart attack and stroke

New research from Cleveland Clinic found a commonly used artificial sweetener is associated with an increased risk for heart attack and stroke. The sweetener is called erythritol.

“It is used almost on a one-to-one basis as a replacement for sugar in many of the processed food,” explained Stanley Hazen, MD, PhD, physician scientist for Cleveland

Clinic. “Because its flavor is very similar to sugar, it is used in combination with other artificial sweeteners since it gives a more natural flavor and what they call mouth feel.”

Dr. Hazen is the lead researcher for this study, which involved 4,000 people from the United States and Europe.

He said erythritol is made both inside the cells of our

bodies and can be consumed as part of processed artificially sweetened foods.

His team discovered that those who have higher blood levels of erythritol are at higher risk for major adverse cardiac events over three years of follow up.

They also learned from a separate study, where healthy volunteers were given a single serving of the artificial sweetener,

that blood levels remained elevated above thresholds associated with risk for clotting for several days.

Dr. Hazen said this is cause for concern, especially since erythritol is typically used in foods targeting people who want to lose weight or who have diabetes.

And those same individuals are already at risk for cardiac events.

He said another issue is this ingredient isn’t always included on the label.

“Many times you find it on labeling, but there is no mandatory labeling re-

quirement for erythritol.

That’s because it has what we call ‘GRAS status’ or generally regarded as ‘safe status’ simply because it’s found in nature, but the amounts it’s found in nature are thousands of fold lower than what are being consumed currently,” said Dr. Hazen.

So, what does this mean for the general public?

Dr. Hazen said if you have obesity, diabetes, heart disease or are otherwise at risk for it, you should avoid foods with this artificial sweetener in them.

Source: https://newsroom. clevelandclinic.org/2023/03/21/ common-artificial-sweetenerlinked-to-risk-for-heart-attackand-stroke/

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month

Surveys show that as many as 1 in 4 children have suffered some sort of sexual abuse by the time they reach 18. Statistics show that child sexual abuse crosses boundaries of race, class, culture, ethnicity, gender, and sexuality, affecting all types of communities. What can you do as a parent to help protect your child?

Children today are around more adults on a daily basis than ever before. From childcare to sports practices to dance classes, not to mention camps and after-school programs, children are meeting and interacting with many adults on a daily basis.

That’s why it is so important for parents to talk with their children — as early as age 4 — about inappropriate touching. And children even younger can begin to learn about their bodies.

Joining me today to discuss talking to your kids about inappropriate touching is Steffi Benjamin of the National Center for Children and Families. Inappropriate touching may seem like an uncomfortable or difficult discussion to have, but we’ll give you helpful steps that can make the experience more effective and comfortable for you and your child.

What is “inappropriate touching”?

The clinical definition of child sexual abuse is inappropriately exposing or subjecting a child to sexual contact, activity or behavior.

An easier way to think of it – and to teach children about it – is by contrasting “good touches” and “bad touches.”

A good touch can be explained as a way for people to show they care for each other and help each other. Examples you can give include hugging, holding hands, or a parent changing a baby’s diaper.

A bad touch can be explained as the kind you don’t like and would want to stop right away, such as hitting, kicking or touching private parts.

Before you talk with your child, it’s important that you understand just what “inappropriate touching” means and are comfortable speaking about it. Quite often, the subject of sexual abuse can make parents immediately think, “It’s too awful to think about,” or “That would never happen in our neighborhood/family/school.”

The truth is, sexual abuse cuts across all cultural, racial and economic lines and in most cases

the molester is someone the child knows. EVERY parent should be having this discussion with his or her children. Children are not usually threatened by this information; they embrace it!

How can you approach the subject with your child?

1. When you are ready to sit down and talk with your child, take the time to do it right. Talk to your child in a quiet place, away from distractions. Try to maintain physical contact during the discussion, either by holding hands or sitting together on the floor or the couch. This makes them feel safe and reinforces the concept of “good touch” with an adult they can trust. Don’t force an end to the conversation-a child may have ongoing questions and concerns. Keep in mind that you will probably have to have this discussion a number of times as your child gets older. Repeating your discussions every year will reinforce what they have learned and reintroduces points they may have forgotten.

2. Teach the “Safe Body Rule.” Rather than expect your children to judge a touch only by how it makes them feel (“good” or “bad”), give them a solid rule that they can follow. Using the “Safe Body Rule”, teach them it is NOT okay for anyone to touch their private parts, or what is covered by their swimsuits. It is easier for a child to follow a rule and they will more immediately recognize a “bad touch” if they have this guideline in

mind.

3. Use proper body names. Sexual predators often take advantage of the fact that we don’t speak freely with our children about sex and our bodies. By talking about genitals and age-appropriate sexual matters to children in a respectful manner, we stop teaching by exclusion that all these things are secret and not to be talked about. One of the most important goals of having this conversation with your child is to let them know that they SHOULD speak up if something happens and should not be embarrassed or scared to talk about their own bodies or of your reaction.

4. Ask them to talk about the subject. Research shows that children are much more likely to learn prevention skills when they actively participate in activities or role-play. Be sure to engage your child during your discussion. Ask them to give an example of a “good touch” (hug from mom) and a “bad touch” (a kick on the playground.) Do a role-play by asking questions such as, “What would you do if.”

5. Explain your child’s right to say NO. Inappropriate touching-especially by a trusted adult-can be very confusing to a child. They are taught to trust adults, and can feel conflicted, scared and confused when this trust is breached. Because in about 89% of sexual abuse cases the abuser is someone the child knows, you need to tell your child that he or she has the right to

say NO to ANY “bad touching” by an adult. Constantly reinforce the idea that their body is their own and they can protect it and take care of it. This concept can come up in a number of different circumstances (when a child has a “boo-boo” or is getting a bath).

6. Prepare them to react to a “secret.” Explain that if an adult does something your child thinks is wrong and then tells them to keep it a secret, they should tell you immediately. Giving children specific examples like this will help them feel more empowered to act if necessary. Role-play can be a valuable tool in this step as well.

What can you do to protect your child?

1. Be aware of WHO is around your children. It is very important to know who is around your children on a daily basis at things like a playdate or a soccer practice, and for special occasions such as neighborhood parties or family gatherings. If a child’s behavior changes after being around specific adults, take note.

2. Always check references of babysitters, counselors, etc. Many states have public registries that allow parents to screen individuals for prior criminal records and sex offenses. Once you have chosen the caregiver, drop in unexpectedly to see how your children are doing.

3. Pay attention to patterns you see in adults. Is an adult

paying special attention to your child or taking an uncomfortable interest in what your child is doing? Take the time to talk to your children about this person and find out why the person is acting in this way.

4. Create circles of protection. Involve other parents or family members who are at after-school events or gatherings. Discuss the subject with them, creating circles of safe adults who will also watch out for children. You may also want to Invite your local law enforcement or child abuse prevention organization to a neighborhood discussion group to learn about the issue and to process people’s emotions.

5. Be approachable. The best protection you can give your child is a sense of safety and openness with you. If your child feels it is okay to talk about his body, feelings and “bad touches” with you, he or she will be more likely to alert you of uncomfortable situations. If your children do confide problems to you, strive to remain calm, non-critical, and nonjudgmental. Listen compassionately to their concern and work with them to get the help they need to resolve the problem.

Should you discover that your child has been inappropriately touched, as a parent it is the most important that you be an emotional support. In order to support your child, it is important that you stay calm, listen and reassure your child, make sure your child is safe, and get help.

Conclusion

There are several measures you can take to help both you and your child prevent it from happening. Make a choice today to sit down with your child and start a discussion. Remain open to their thoughts, questions and concern, and tell them that they should always speak up, ask questions and keep on talking until someone listens. The key to prevention is knowledge. Talk to your kids today and ensure a safe tomorrow!

Sources: https://scanfamilies.org/resource/ inappropriate-touching/; https://www.kidsfirstinc.org/how-to-talkto-young-children-about-body-safety/

Submitted photo.

New exhibit of costumes coming to

USCB CFA

From staff reports

Dragons and zebras and spiders, Oh My! During April and May, USCB’s Center for the Arts will showcase “Fantastic Beasts: a retrospective of whimsy,” an exhibit of fabulous costumes and props from its theatrical archives.

Most theatre attendees only see the wonderful costume and prop creations that support the magic happening on stage from 40 feet or more, missing out on appreciating skills that are a bit MacGyver-like.

This exhibit will showcase up-close the artistry and craftsmanship by some uber-talented “behind the scenes” individuals. From bits of Styrofoam, cardboard, glass eyes and fabric, the Beast from “Beauty and Beast” takes form, the crocodile from “Peter Pan” emerges life-size, and the man-eating plant from “Little Shop of Horrors” grows ... and grows ... and grows.

Collectively, the exhibit represents hundreds of hours by Pat Wilcox, Greg Rawls and Mary Ann Browning Ford, dedicated to providing audiences with stellar entertainment. Be it scary, enchanting, or funny, their work is fantastic.

“Fantastic Beasts: a retrospective of whimsy” will be on display from April 5 - May 23 at USCB Center for the Arts,

WANT TO GO?

What: “Fantastic Beasts: a retrospective of whimsy”

Where: USCB Center for the Arts (Small Gallery), 801 Carteret Street, Beaufort

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, April 5 to May 23. Weekends depending on performance schedule.

Tickets: Free and open to the public.

More information: Visit USCBCenterForTheArts. com

Center For The Arts hosting Broadway Bound camp

From staff reports USCB Center For The Arts, in association with the Beaufort Children’s Theatre, is hosting the Broadway Bound summer camp for children ages 7 to 11 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, June 19 through June 30 at the USCB Center For The Arts.

Campers will engage in all aspects of musical theater while gaining the self-confidence and the ability to express themselves as they learn basic acting skills, vocal instruction and choreography. The highlight of camp will be the children’s creation of their own show. The camp is directed by Madeline Helser, Alex Clark and Valencia King. Tuition is $300 for the two weeks, and a camp T-shirt is included. Limited scholarships are available.

Registration deadline is June 1. To register, go to USCBCenterForTheArts.com

Board of Education approves 2023-24 academic calendar

From staff reports BEAUFORT – The Beaufort County Board of Education has approved the district’s academic calendar for the 2023-24 school year.

The first day for students will be Monday, Aug. 21, 2023, and the final day of classes will be a half-day on Wednesday, June 5, 2024.

Current state law mandates that no South Carolina public school may begin classes prior to the third Monday in August, which this year is August 21.

Dates schools will be closed for students are Sept. 4 (Labor Day); Nov. 7 (Election Day); Nov. 22-24 (Thanksgiving); Dec. 22-Jan. 5, 2023 (winter break); Jan. 15, 2024 (Martin Luther King Jr. Day); February 19, 2024 (President’s Day); Friday, March 29, 2024 (Good Friday); April 8 (vacation day); April 15-19, 2024 (spring break); May 27, 2024 (Memorial Day); June 19 (Juneteenth); and July 4 (Independence Day).

Three potential virtual weather make-up days are included: Jan. 3, March 28, and April 8.

Summer Institute for employees will be held on Wednesday and Thursday, Aug. 9-10. Teacher professional development days are Monday-Friday, Aug. 14-18; Thursday and Friday, Jan. 4-5; Friday, Feb. 16; and Thursday and Friday, June 6-7. (As per state law, schools should use no more than two days to prepare for the opening of school with three days for professional development, and the remaining five days to be used for teacher planning, academic plans, and parent conferences, for a total of 10 professional development days.)

High school graduation dates for 2024 are June 3 (May River), June 4 (Beaufort), June 5 (Bluffton), June 6 (Battery Creek and Hilton Head Island), and June 7 (Whale Branch Early College). June 7 is also a graduation make-up day in the event of inclement weather.

Youth In Aviation Program expanded to Bridges Preparatory

From staff reports With the financial support of the Lockheed Martin Corporation, the Beaufort Youth in Aviation Program, which has provided free flights since 2021 to students at Battery Creek High, Beaufort High and The Altitude Academy, has now expanded to Bridges Prep.

“Since Beaufort Aviation Association created the program in Nov. 2021, Lockheed Martin grants have funded free flights to 89 Beaufort youth,” President Jean Sulc explained in a news release.

“The founding plan was to expand to other Beaufort schools when possible.”

Lockheed Martin’s Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort F-35 site manager, Nicholas Mesenberg, recommended the grants to Beaufort Aviation Association for the Youth in Aviation Program.

“The objective is to introduce aviation and its many opportunities to elementary

and secondary youth who might never have considered it as a rewarding profession,” Mesenberg said.

The expansion to Bridges,

which has many students interested in aviation and aviation engineering, is likely to produce immediate success, explained Bridges Prepara-

tory School High Principal Daniel Tooman.

“We are excited to be able to share this opportunity with our students as our

counselors work diligently to ensure our students have access and exposure to a variety of career interests that will drive their academic pathways,” Tooman said. Beaufort Aviation Association founder James Atkins added, “The school’s leaders appreciate aerospace and its many opportunities. We will provide the free flights to any of the students who wish to experience the Magic of Flight.”

Twenty-four students a month from the four schools will be flown beginning in April and additional grants will be sought to increase that number.

“There is no cost to the schools, the parents, or the youth,” Atkins said, “The parents must only agree to a liability waiver for the schools, the program, and the pilots.”

Scheduling of the flights for Bridges students is through Counselor Robin Fogg.

Lynyrd Skynyrd alum Pyle’s band to play Fillin’ Station

By Mike McCombs The Island News

Somewhere between 125 and 150 people will see a rock-and-roll legend perform Friday, April 14, at the Fillin’ Station on Lady’s Island when the Artimus Pyle Band performs a sold-out show.

Pyle was the drummer for Lynyrd Skynyrd during the band’s prime in the mid 1970s, appearing initially alongside and then replacing original drummer Bob Burns.

He appeared on the Lynyrd Skynyrd albums Nuthin’ Fancy, Gimme Back My Bullets, One More from the Road, Street Survivors, Legend, Southern by the Grace of God and Lynyrd Skynyrd 1991.

He survived the 1977 plane crash that killed band

members Ronnie Van Zant, Steve Gaines, backup singer Cassie Gaines, road manager Dean Kilpatrick and the two pilots. Pyle was injured, but able to go for help and lead rescuers to the site of the crash and other survivors.

In 2006, Pyle was inducted with the band into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. Prior to his music career, Pyle was an avionics mechanic in the U.S. Marines and, according to Wikipedia, was briefly

stationed in Beaufort.

Pyle and his band — featuring Brad Durden on vocals and keyboards, Scott Raines on guitar, Jerry Lyda on guitar and Dave Fowler on bass — will perform the best of Lynyrd Skynyrd.

“This is definitely epic for me,” Fillin’ Station owner Ron Boyd said. “I grew up (listening to Skynyrd). It’s just very special to me.”

Since purchasing the Fillin’ Station just over three

years ago from Mark and Rita Wolfe, Boyd and his wife Stephanie have emphasized live music, focusing on bands on Fridays and often acoustic acts on Saturdays. The appearance of the Artimus Pyle Band is the high point, so far. “To be honest,” Ron Boyd said, “this probably exceeds my expectations.”

The Beaufort Youth in Aviation Program, which has provided free flights since 2021 to students at Battery Creek High School, Beaufort High School and The Altitude Academy, has now expanded to Bridges Prep. Submitted photo.

Mike McCombs is the Editor of The Island News and can be reached at

Artimus Pyle

A dampening of spirits

A burden for souls is the heart of evangelism

Everyone has their thoughts and interpretations when it comes to sharing the gospel, but there’s not a more terrifying word among the average Christian than evangelism. Just ask a believer when was the last time they verbally shared the love of Jesus with an unbeliever and the answer will probably be a moment of silence.

Evangelical Christianity is widely known, but maybe we should briefly explain what it means. This sect believes the world is separated into two groups, those who are lost and those who are saved. They believe that Christ died and was resurrected so that all who believe can be spiritually born again and dedicate their lives to following Him. This is summed up in John 3:16. They also have the highest regard for and obedience to the Bible as the ultimate standard and authority.

Thirdly, they are called to express and demonstrate God’s love at all times which makes them, “In season and out of season” certified, and bona fide missionaries to proclaim God’s message whenever they hear His directions.

And lastly, they develop an awareness of God’s presence and are focused on this “good news” and how to explain the sacrifice of Christ is the only way anyone can be redeemed and made righteous. These distinctions and theological convictions for the most part define the movement. It’s also noted they are not controlled or influenced by political, social, or cultural trends.

Many evangelicals rarely use the term evangelical to describe themselves, focusing simply on listening and obeying the instructions of the Holy Spirit. Though it varies, most devout

BILLY HOLLAND

evangelicals believe in the Armenian doctrinal system that emphasizes personal choice as the means to salvation, while reformed theology or Christian Calvinists are convinced that Jesus came to earth to pay the debt of sin for those who are referred to as God’s elect.

A story was told of two men waiting in line at a coffee shop. One was a pastor, and he began a conversation with a young man. After they received their order, they sat at a table and the pastor told him a story about a lonely boy who was afraid, but one day someone told him that Jesus was always with him even when he could not see him.

The young man became a little fidgety but finally gathered the courage to admit that he could relate to this story. He said the world was becoming a scary place and that often his anxiety made him uncomfortable.

This allowed the pastor to share the gospel with what is commonly referred to as a divine appointment.

This means that God knows everyone who has come to a point in their journey where they are open and receptive to knowing more about God’s love and mercy.

What a great example of how every Christian can make a difference in the world just by being spiritually discerning. If this Christian had not been sensitive to the Holy Spirit, this young man would have walked out the door and the opportunity would have

been lost. However, because of spiritual awareness, a brief connection was made, and the perfect moment for a simple chat was accomplished.

Did this young man accept God’s invitation for eternal salvation?

According to the story, he did not receive Christ at that moment, but the seeds were planted, and hopefully, the life-changing words of truth were watered by other mysterious occurrences that the young man would eventually realize were not coincidences.

When one considers why it’s so difficult to share the gospel with others, many answers are given, but the common excuse is usually being afraid of looking weird, awkward, and a religious extremist. In our celebrity-obsessed culture, looking uninformed, nonintellectual, and unattractive is the highest social humiliation.

However, since Jesus was not afraid of the shame or persecution that came with dying for us, His followers should lose their pride, and not ignore their responsibility or be intimidated to suffer being uncomfortable for Him.

Christians are not called as Christ’s church to proclaim our integrity or lofty reputations as we have none, but rather to “proclaim the excellencies of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light” 1 Peter 2:19. The bottom line to being a bold witness for the Lord’s amazing grace of salvation is having such love and overwhelming burden for souls, that you would rather risk being made to look like a fool than to live with the guilt of being ashamed of God.

Read more about the Christian life at billyhollandministries.com

The annual Easter Extravaganza at Community Bible Church was rained out after only an hour and half on Saturday. Seen here are deflated inflatables ready to be taken away as one family makes its way back to the parking lot. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

In great company

Today, I afforded myself the time to sit down with my copy of the latest The Island News and read all of the contributions to the Voices section. I even reread my own submission, hoping I wouldn’t find any errors, despite proof reading several times before hitting send. I must say that I was truly gratified to be among so many thoughtful, articulate people with cogent approaches to their varied topics. Perhaps this is one of the things that makes The Island News as successful as it is.

When I finished the remaining five articles, I came away with the notion that maybe I should express my appreciation to those writers by addressing each piece.

First, there is that of Richard Geier who is a member of the Beaufort Board of Education. He offers a rational response to a controversy that has confronted Beaufort County schools over the past few months; sadly, it is a problem that isn’t limited to Beaufort, however. Schools across the nation are being confronted with book banning, and those who are or were involved in education, of which I am one, find themselves appalled by what is happening to some of the finest literature published.

Mr. Geier’s solution is so obviously simple that one has to wonder who could possibly take offense. He states, “Parents have the freedom to choose one of many options to ensure their younger children are not exposed to con-

tent they find objectionable; but they should not have the freedom to eliminate other parents’ freedom to allow their children access to those same books.” So rational, so straight up obvious. The will of the few should never override that of the majority. Hats off to Richard Geier for his clear thinking.

The second article was submitted by Jim Dickson who served in the U.S. Navy Reserve during the Vietnam War. Sir, I want to publicly thank you for your service during a time when tensions were high, much like those that confront us now. It was “my war” as well, so to speak. I was in my 20s and vividly remember being horrified by the response of some to those who returned from that war. I also recall the tears I shed when I visited the wall for the first time, and discovered the name of a former student.

Mr. Dickson addresses the generalities that so many fall back on in their attempts to vilify those whose politics are different. The main thrust of this piece is exemplified by a college professor’s comment in a class

Mr. Dickson had his sophomore

year: “All general statements are untrue.” He then goes on to substantiate that assertion and points out the extreme rhetoric put forth by so many.

Furthermore, he states that as a Conservative, he is displeased with the current administration’s spending, considers them misguided (not evil) and would be pleased to see them replaced. I believe from the tone of his writing that Mr. Dickson will appreciate a ‘factual, not general’ rebuttal, so, with all due respect, I will simply say this: between 1981 and 1992, the national debt quadrupled. The budget deficit grew to $290 billion by 1992, the largest ever. And yes, sir, I admit to my mostly moderate, sometimes liberal leanings. That said, I admire your piece that strives to bring both sides together.

Tim Joy and Madeleine Pars submitted what I see as a plea to our community and beyond to come together in an effort to preserve healthy forests. They logically lay out not only the direct value of tree conservation, but also the beauty of the various trees we enjoy here. This is most appropriate, given that Earth Day will be coming up shortly. These writers stress the correlation between trees and a livable climate, something that impacts all of us right now, and even more so our children and grandchildren in the future. When I drive past the clear cut that took place where the former Lady’s Island Publix was

located, and know this was done for yet another grocery store, I’ll be reminded of this piece.

Just as important, Joy and Pars provide information I had not previously known, that we have a chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby right here in Beaufort. Furthermore, I was unaware of the FOREST Act in Congress, apparently languishing now but expected to be reintroduced. They mention our representatives in Congress, Lindsey Graham, Tim Scott, and Nancy Mace; let’s remember to write to those representatives regarding this crucial concern.

The issue of preserving what is surely one of our most precious institutions here in the Lowcountry, that of Gullah Geechee culture, is the subject of Jane McCauley’s article. Her well-documented piece put squarely into the spotlight the less-than-transparent actions of those driven by greed to exploit St. Helena Island. Her arguments against the development of one more high end, gated community on what she correctly calls sacred ground (for so many reasons) should signal a wake-up call to stand against those who keep pushing to make our small, quaint, and exquisite piece of paradise a knock-off of every other run-ofthe-mill vacation spot. Make no mistake, if this goes through, there will be more to come. Thanks, Jane; may we be smart enough to heed the clarion call.

And last, but certainly not least is Scott Graber’s heart-warming

When will they ever learn?

There is one thing I will never forget about the 2020 Covid Pandemic: The Earth actually had measurably less vibration as it rotated and all of nature made quick and measurable comebacks, everywhere. It’s basically because humans had to involuntarily slow down to a crawl and that resulted in a huge drop in the generation of pollution along with everything else we do that harms our planet.

As I remember back to the pandemic years, it seems that the world is now back in its old mode, busily vibrating the hell out of our earth and poisoning our air and water, and I find myself turning my attention to our budget.

It is much easier for me to conceptualize those huge amounts by converting budget dollars into minutes, such as: $500,000 = 347 days in minutes. So going on: $1,000,000 would equal 694 days of minutes; $1,000,000,000 = 1,902 years (so one billion minutes would take us back to around 121 A.D.); $1,000,000,000,000 (that’s one trillion) = 1,000,900,000 (billion) years in one trillion minutes.

Biden’s 2023 U.S. budget is $5.8 trillion. If that were minutes it would be 5,805,220,000 years ago in minutes.

Earth itself was just forming less than five billion years ago. This helps me appreciate just how much money 5.8 trillion dollars actually is. The Council of

Economic Advisers reports that the average billionaire pays around 8.2 percent in federal taxes per year.

The average tax rate folks pay on a $175,000 yearly income is around 34.3% and somewhere between 24% and 36% if your income is $60,000 per year.

The 2023 EPA budget allowance is 11.881 billion. This budget includes funds for natural disasters in addition to environmental protections in the U.S. So, what our government thinks is doable for protecting our environment and helping during natural disasters is approximately 0.17 % of our tax dollars. That’s less than a quarter of one percent.

Our present military budget is around $278 billion or 4.6%. It doesn’t sound like much but that would be 528,756 years in minutes.

The ironic kicker is that that actual cash does not exist; the billions and trillions that politicians, accountants and economists bounce around are simply numbers that represent dollars as in the number 1 = $1 as in $1 = 1 minute. One trillion minutes will eventually exist, one trillion in cash will not, and it makes me chuckle to

remember Walter trying to find ways to store his cash in later episodes of “Breaking Bad.”

My long-winded point is simply that our governmental priorities with our tax dollars is completely cattywampus; screwed up. We’re not alone. If you look at other governmental budgets you see the same topical issues for budget allowances, except for the fact many other countries are doing more to protect and restore their environment (per capita percentage wise) than the U.S. Our country has introduced the most CO2 into the world’s atmosphere since the industrial revolution. This country is simply blessed with enough resources and technologies to offset and feed our ecological footprint.

In 2023, China has taken the lead with their ecological footprint simply because of their population and technical advancements. China, the U.S. and India are the Nos. 1, 2 and 3 countries with the highest ecological deficits. This, simply explained, means they cannot sustain their populations indefinitely without modifying their consumption with renewable resources. This means reinventing their consumption culture, not just exploiting other countries like Africa by buying and taking their resources. This is why you see so much attention given over to Africa by industrialized nations; Russia, China, India and the USA need and want Africa’s resources.

Unfortunately, solar panels

and electric cars won’t solve on going ecological problems because, so far, we can’t recycle and reuse old batteries and solar panels economically and they are all toxic. It’s easier (and cheaper) to simply mine more lithium, manganese, graphite, nickel and cobalt, and guess where these materials can be cheaply (through exploitation) mined? Africa and other poorer nations. So our systems are in a Catch-22 with other wealthy nations getting their industrial products from poorer nations willing to ignore the harmful effects of mining their own resources.

A frightening example is the small, poor Pacific island of Nauru. This small island nation wants to allow other industrial countries to come in and mine Naura’s territorial ocean bottom. Mining the ocean bottom would threaten the remaining stability of the ocean itself with even more ecological damage (that is already ongoing) if that disastrous undertaking actually happens.

The truth seems to be that the entire world wants and depends on all the luxuries that modern America and

piece about the song “Try to Remember.” Mr. Graber shares the recollection of his time at The Citadel and the music of the glee club. Then he moves to the poignant memories of General Mark Clark and his wife, providing what should have been a trip down memory lane for many, something we all need in this time of harsh reality.

I have appreciated Mr. Graber’s writing for the 25 years I have lived here, and this piece is equally worthy of admiration. Of course, he had me by the second paragraph with his nod to Josh Groban, one of my favorite singers. It was this young musician whose song, “To Where You Are”, helped me emerge from the grief of losing my husband 22 years ago. I address Mr. Groban’s talent in the book I published last year, and I join Mr. Graber in hoping that Josh eventually gets around to “Try to Remember.”

And so, I conclude with ‘kudos’ and ‘bravos’ for my fellow-writers in this issue. I am humbled to be included with such a fine group of concerned citizenry; they all underscore Mr. Dickson’s assertion that we have more that unites us than divides us. Finally, I thank those at The Island News for their continued focus upon and publication of diverse and pertinent news.

Carol Lucas is a retired high school teacher and a Lady’s Island resident. She is the author of the recently published “A Breath Away: One Woman’s Journey Through Widowhood.”

the European Union have enjoyed for decades, even centuries. The sad truth is wealthy countries are not presently spending enough on research and development for safe, renewable resources. As for the recent U.N. Report for world environmental health goes, we are now running out of time to simply survive, as Bill McKibben and others have been warning for decades.

It seems the world is too entrenched in entertainments, war and fighting about being “woke” to prioritize reversing climate change.

For the life of me, I cannot wrap my head around the fact that world governments have yet to come together and work as a world team with the goal to stabilize the world climate and purify our environments. I simply cannot think of anything that is more important than that necessary effort, right here, right now. It’s no surprise that the continuing pessimistic frustrations of Greta Thunberg become her frank honesty about the lack of action and commitment from the governments of the world. I know how she feels, I’ve been following environ-

mental issues since 1970. I use to compare the need and dependence upon gasoline by saying “Wait until we start fighting each other over fresh water!” And it’s sad knowing we are now on that threshold. As wealthy nations witness the slow death of poorer countries without clean water, we may pretend we are immune from that fate but then we turn our gaze to L.A. and our own depleted western water reservoirs and we know we are not. If you need a real wake up call, do some Google research on the threat of phosphorus to our own fresh water systems. Start with “Lake Okeechobee” and “red tide” and journey down that rabbit hole. When you understand the complexity of this present crisis you just might demand our congress put a lot more funding and effort into mending our environments.

Approximately

$202,293,600 of our tax dollars goes annually to our congressmen and women and their staffs (this number does not include their benefits). I certainly wish their priorities would shift from partisan ideological rhetoric and instead start working with helping save humanity.

Tim and Kristy Wood moved to Beaufort in 1974. He worked as a carpenter in both restoration and new home construction, as well as operating a shop specializing in custom woodwork, Wood on Wood Specs. He is semiretired, involved with fine woodworking and formerly sat on the City of Beaufort Zoning Board of Appeals.

CAROL LUCAS

The truth seems to be that the entire world wants and depends on all the luxuries that modern America and the European Union have enjoyed for decades, even centuries.”

One must take note of our British cousins

It is Friday, and we’re in Savannah. Right at the moment I’m sitting on a marble love seat with the inscription, “This is the spot where James Oglethorpe pitched his first tent.”

It’s early, pleasantly cool, and I’m on a mission to find out about the cotton factors who gave this lovely, well-maintained park its name. I’ve been reading various monuments dedicated to Joel Chandler Harris, Phosphate, Vietnam, the Chatham Artillery and the Irish. But I can’t seem to find any metal plaques describing the merchants who once did business on Factor’s Walk.

There are a series of three-story buildings that hug the bluff, and this is where the factors did their factoring. Two hundred years ago, these buildings were occupied by merchants who represented cotton growers located in Georgia and South Carolina. These men gave market advice about when

SCOTT GRABER

to sell, negotiated a price for the raw cotton, arranged the shipment of the cotton, bought slaves and supplies for the plantation owners and, of course, took a commission for these services. A great deal of this cotton went across the Atlantic to Britain.

In the mid 1800s, 20 million people were involved in the cultivation of cotton or the production of cotton cloth. One fifth of Britain’s population was involved in textile making. One tenth of its capital was tied up in this trade. One half of its exports were yarn, cloth or finished clothing.

Growing cotton was a tricky business for the

plantation owners, but fortunes were made and those fortunes were transmuted into commodious, columned, high-ceilinged houses in Mobile, New Orleans, Savannah and Beaufort. Long staple cotton paid for Wedgwood china, Sheraton furniture and educations at Cambridge.

But, of course, there were the planting, chopping and marsh mud hauling parts that trade. There was the importation of people; the selling of the shackled survivors; the short, miserable life of those souls who made it into the fertile, long-staple fields bordering our endless marsh.

In recent days the Manchester Guardian newspaper has made an effort to determine if that newspaper had ties to cotton. It determined that the founder of their newspaper, John Edward Taylor, “had multiple links through partnerships in the cotton manufacturing firm Oakden & Taylor, and

the cotton merchant company Shuttleworth, Taylor and Co., which imported vast amounts of raw cotton produced by enslaved people in the Americas.”

The Guardian was able to connect John Edward Taylor with specific plantations in the Sea Islands by looking at an invoice book revealing that Shuttleworth, Taylor and Co., received cotton shipments that “included the initials and names of plantation owners and enslavers.”

They also found the names of slaves.

They included Toby, 90, Clarinda, 50, Billy, 36 and seven-year-old Nancy, who were enslaved on the Spanish Wells plantation on Hilton Head Island in the U.S.

“Researchers found the names of people forced to work on a plantation in the Charleston district in South Carolina, who included Billy, Simon, Amy and Polly. As was common, only their first name was recorded, and in

this case there was no date on how old they were or any other information.”

As a result of its investigation, the Guardian issued an apology for the role of its founders in the transatlantic trade and formed The Scott Trust which it will endow with more than $12.3 million dollars.

The $12.3 million dollars will be spent on “projects in the Gullah Geechee region and Jamaica over the next decade after consultation with reparations experts and community groups.”

There will also be efforts “to raise the awareness of transatlantic slavery and it’s legacies through partnerships in Manchester and globally …”

This could be good news for Penn Center — an institution that has been struggling for a meaningful mission in recent years. Perhaps Penn could host forums centered on lynching; migration; segregation;

integration of the armed forces; public accommodations, affirmative action, voting rights and hate crime laws. But these discussions would inevitably bump up against reparations.

(The City of San Francisco recently voiced support for a plan awarding $5 million to each of its African Americans residents with a connection to slavery.)

Most Americans remain unconvinced about cash payments to individuals — 68% believing those guilty of this crime are dead; or the statute of limitations has run; or that guilt does not descend to the heirs of the long gone enslavers.

But one must take note our British cousins — and their willingness to pony-up $12.3 million in an effort to expiate their complicity.

Scott Graber is a lawyer, novelist, veteran columnist and longtime resident of Port Royal. He can be reached at cscottgraber@gmail.com

Poor character puts spotlight on weak laws

Our laws are based on certain assumptions about who we are in terms of our character as a nation and as citizens of this nation.

They are based on customs, agreements, norms and historical documents, including a Constitution written more than 200 years ago — and they are proving incapable of protecting us from modern-day advancements in greed and corruption.

My instinct is to resist hyperbole — no, really — but have we ever been subject to as many lowlifes, grifters, and crooks as we currently have in positions of power across the nation? And many of these people are in elected positions, which means somebody somewhere had other choices but decided these were the right ones. Yeesh.

Let’s start at the top.

Donald Trump was a con man, is a con man, and will be one as long as he can. And he’s a con with means that have allowed him to escape justice for far too long.

He uses the deliberative nature of the legal system against his accusers, wearing them down financially as they struggle to hold on to adequate representation (he skips on his legal bills, so it’s not an issue for him). And he uses his presidency to say he should have a “get out of jail free” card for anything he did in office and even immediately after his tenure. Which of our Founding Fathers, though, would have contemplated a fast-talking swindler of his magnitude running for President of the United States? Or winning?!?

If you ignore everything else that was bad about his presidency, and there was a lot, Trump’s

violation of emoluments clauses should have be enough to place him in legal jeopardy and disqualify him from office. Trump kept up his family businesses while in office and we are finding out more every day about foreign influence on his finances, and yet there is no real mechanism for holding him — or anyone else in his circle — accountable.

The few applicable laws are toothless provisions that rely on the officeholder’s doing the right thing, and when it comes to Don the Con, good luck with that.

Trump’s reign of error was aided and abetted by Republicans like those who defend him against any accountability, like the 34 felonies he was charged with last week in New York. Before the charges were even released, his self-appointed attack dogs claimed the charges were pure politics, proof the nation’s legal system was broken. After his arraignment Trump even claimed, “Our country is going to hell,” and warned his supporters, “You’re next.”

Well, if you don’t break the law, you won’t be next. That’s how laws work, generally. Innocent people don’t get indicted. Trump’s arrest poses no danger to anyone else, unless you count District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who was bombarded with threats of violence after the grand jury indictment was announced. Don. Jr. even posted information on Twitter about the daughter of the judge in the case.

But what is there to do? Supporters laugh, critics cry foul, and the Trumps keep on harassing legal officials. The MAGA crowd is happy to “Back the Blue,” unless the blue is Black or brown.

Later last week we learned that for decades Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas was feted by a conservative billionaire via luxury cruises, vacations, yachts. But Thomas never disclosed any of it, as he is “required” to by ethics rules. And what price will he pay? Nothing, so far. The court’s great stone face has kept mum about that travesty and his wife Ginni’s helping organize the Jan. 6 assault

on the U.S. Capitol. He refuses to recuse himself from cases that might affect her, and … there’s nothing anyone can do about it. House Republican George Santos, who never met a lie he didn’t like, admits he lied to his constituents and fabricated major portions of his background before getting elected, and yet he refuses to step down, even as he is drawing scrutiny for alleged campaign finance violations. He could be impeached, but the GOP-led House isn’t going to weaken an already slim majority.

I wrote a while back that due reckoning will go a long way toward restoring people’s faith in the country, but it is coming like Christmas morning.

In the meantime, the corrupt keep a toe wedged under the scales of justice while the rest of us look on in shock and anger, watching them get away with it.

Terry E. Manning is a Clemson graduate and worked for 20 years as a journalist. He can be reached at teemanning@gmail.com

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TERRY MANNING

You Are Invited to Our Healing Prayer Mission

Good news: Jesus is still healing today! As God in our midst, Jesus healed many people during his ministry on earth, often with a simple touch or a word. He still loves us and desires to heal us, both spiritually and physically, and even in our own day he continues to offer freedom and healing to those who ask! The problem is, we often assume he doesn’t do things like this anymore, so we don’t bother to ask. Or we have faith, but we don’t know how to ask for healing.

Last spring, we hosted several evenings of prayer for healing, led by a special speaker, Reverend Greg Bramlage. He travels across the country helping people to ask Jesus for the healing that they need. He and his prayer team will be returning April 17-19 to help us grow deeper in our love for Jesus and our experience of his healing.

Last year, we witnessed many healings from Jesus! There were many spiritual healings, such as people finally able to forgive someone who has done them tremendous harm. There were also many physical healings, including sight and hearing being restored, serious back or shoulder problems healed, and a woman regaining her ability to move freely without a walker! We can’t wait to see what Jesus does this time! Why not join us for this year’s mission? We all need healing in one way or another. All of us have room to grow in our love for Jesus and our experience of his mercy. There is no cost, and all are welcome to attend, whatever your faith background might be. Please join us and bring a friend!

SPORTS&RECREATION

Damude named to SC Wrestling HOF

LowcoSports.com

If you’ve spent any time around a wrestling mat in northern Beaufort County in the past four decades, you’ve seen — and certainly heard — Bill Damude, and now the longtime coach has his rightful place in the South Carolina chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.

Damude was officially inducted into the hall on April 2, and

the S.C. House of Representatives honored him two weeks earlier with a resolution stating in part, “Damude has received numerous accolades during his coaching career, but his most outstanding accomplishment is the exceptional impact he has had on young

people in the Palmetto State.”

And the depth and breadth of that impact can’t be overstated.

Damude worked as a high school wrestling official in Ohio from 1980 to 1983 before transitioning to coaching when he moved to the Lowcountry. He served as an assistant coach at Battery Creek in 1983 and started a wrestling club at Robert Smalls Middle School, then took over as the head coach

at Beaufort High a year later. He coached the Eagles from 1984-95 before stepping away but returned to the role in 1999 and held it until his retirement from the public school system in 2015.

Since then, Damude has built a program from the ground up at John Paul II, turning the Golden Warriors into perennial contenders in SCISA.

Damude has coached 62 state

SOCCER ROUNDUP

qualifiers, 39 state placers, 10 state champions, and three high school All-Americans. He was named region Coach of the Year in 1987, 1989 and 1992, and he was named Man of the Year for South Carolina in 1991 by Amateur Wrestling News. In 1992, he was named South Carolina Coach of the Year, and in 1993 and in 2011, he served as the coach for the South squad in the North-South All-Star event.

Beaufort High School’s Eduardo

Loza Jaramillo goes head and shoulders above the North Charleston defense Tuesday, April 4, at BHS. The Eagles cruised to an 8-1 win over the Cougars and improved their record to 5-2. Bob

Island News

Sofaly/The

Beaufort boys surging in region race

LowcoSports.com

After a four-game winning streak — and with a little bit of help — the Beaufort High boys soccer team is in control of its own destiny in the Region 8-3A title race.

The Eagles coasted to two dominant wins over North Charleston last week, winning 8-1 at home on Tuesday and blanking the Cougars 6-0 on the road Thursday to run their streak to four games. Beaufort has outscored its opponents 28-3 over that stretch.

After a respite for spring break, the Eagles (6-2, 5-1) play their biggest match of the season Tuesday at Hanahan — then host the Hawks for an equally momentous rematch Friday. If either team sweeps the series, they will claim the crown, but if they split it will likely create a three-way tie with Philip Simmons and invoke the tiebreaker procedure. Both the Eagles and Hawks split with the Iron Horses.

Savannah Christian 7, Beaufort

BFT

SCPS

BFT (10-7-1): Chase McKelvey 2-4, 3B, 3RBI;

Mason Connelly 2-4, RBI; Davis Woods 1-3, 3B, BB, 2R, RBI

WP: James Crosby 6IP, 2H, 0R, 0BB, 7K

HHCA (11-6, 2-2): Slaide Burd 1-3, BB, 2R; Keene

Reese III 1-3, BB, 2R, RBI; Matt Scarpa 2-2, 2BB, R, RBI; Chip Hetzel 2-3, BB, R, 2RBI; Crosby 1-3, 2RBI

0-4)

WP: Carter Bowersox 2IP, 2H,

BFT (11-7-1): Chase McKelvey 2-4, 2B, BB, 2R, RBI;

Jadyn Andrews 1-1, 3B, 3BB, 2R, 3RBI; Bowersox

3BB, 2R, RBI; Dom Camaco 3-3, 3B, HR, BB, 4R,

Beaufort Academy’s Gavin Midyette, center, works his way through the Patrick Henry Academy defense Monday night at BA’s Merritt Field. The Eagles’ defense allowed only one goal on the night while their relentless offense outscored the visiting Patriots 5-1 and improved to 9-3-2. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

Bucs remain unbeaten

LowcoSports.com

Bridges Prep’s boys survived a penalty shootout with visiting Bamberg-Ehrhardt on Tuesday to maintain their unbeaten record.

Clay Sanders finished an assist from Til Bienek in regulation, but the Bucs and Red Raiders were tied at 1 after 10 minutes of extra time, sending the match to penalties.

Darick Fisher stopped three shots in the shootout along with four saves in

6RBI; Mason Connelly 2-3, 2R SOFTBALL

John Paul II 12, HHIHS

regulation and overtime to help Bridges (11-0-1, 8-0) earn the victory. The Bucs host Branchville on Wednesday and Whale Branch on Monday, April 24.

BOYS SOCCER

Beaufort 8, North Charleston 1

John Paul II 2, Battery Creek 1

JPII (8-1-1): Finn Mahoney 2G

Bamberg-Ehrhardt 1, Bridges Prep 1 (BP wins PKs) BP (11-0-1, 8-0): Clay Sanders 1G, Til Bienek 1A, Darick Fisher 4svs (+3 PK saves)

John Paul II 5, Beaufort Academy 3

JPII (9-1-1): William Rooney 2G, Anthony Hill 1G, Finn

HIGH SCHOOL ROUNDUP

4.

5. Thomas Dowle (HHP) def. Grisham Stone 6-0, 6–1 Doubles

Philip

4,

Mahoney 1G, Brennan McDermott 1G BA (9-4-2): Grady Lamm 2G, Andrew Butterfield 1G Beaufort Academy 10, SJCA 0 BA (10-4-2)

Beaufort 6, North Charleston 0

BFT (6-2, 5-1)

GIRLS SOCCER

John Paul II 5, Battery Creek 1 JPII (7-1-2): Hollis Melnick 3G, Ayla Reynolds 1G, Arden

Lister 1G, Emma Sauls 1A, Lauren Weniger 1A, Julia Delgado 1A, TrinityGrace Maxwell 9svs

BCHS (10-4-1): Sophia Felix 1G

Battery Creek 2, Patrick Henry 1

BCHS (11-4-1): Josie Fent 1G/1A, Sophia Felix 1G

WP: Tevi Mullen 7IP, 6H, 6R, 0ER, 0BB, 13K

JPII (7-1): Rachael Brenneman 3-4, 2B, R; Shelby Pinski 2-3, BB, 2R; Cayce Graves 3-4, 2B, 3B, 2R, 4RBI; Samantha Reilly 2-3, R, RBI; Lauren Majorkiewicz 2-4, 2R; Maison Zeroll 1-3, R, RBI; Hannah Ketchledge 1-3, R, RBI Chapin 10, Beaufort 0 BFT (12-4): Adalyn Johnson 1-3, SB; Arianna Smith 1-2

BOYS TENNIS

Hilton Head Prep 5, Beaufort 1

Singles

1. Graeme Angus (B) def. Drew Rukavina 6-0, 3-6, 10-6

2. Evan Phillips (HHP) def. Diego Alvarez 6-3 6-2

3. Foster Edwards (HHP) def. Casey Hoogenboom 6-3, 6-1

2 Graeme

undefeated in

6-2, 6-0

7-3A

play. BOYS GOLF Oyster Reef HHIHS (161): Santino Bambeck 38, Jackson Crouch 40, Brody Doyle 41, Logan Kriney 42, Thomas Ford 47 MRHS (166): Landry Williams 39, Conner Ouellette 41, Carson Flanagan 42, Trevor Horn 44, Bode Pearson 50 BFT (166): Jack Sumner 38, Jerry Bruns 42, Jack Lubkin 42, Simon McAlister 44, James Denton 46 BLUF (169): Jones Saylor 35, Lawson Rively 40, Brady Sacha 46, Dane Scott 48, Pierce Rushin 62 JI (172) LB (175)

Bill Damude

Alex Zhu (HHP) def. James Simmons 6-0, 6-1

2. Hilton Head Prep (HHP) won by forfeit

Simmons

Beaufort

Angus earned Region

title by defeating Zade Hyatt

to remain

region

Beaufort High School’s Casey Hoogenboom returns the ball to Hilton Head Prep’s Foster Edwards during the second game of their No. 3 singles match Tuesday, April 4, at Beaufot High School. Edwards went on to win over Hoogenboom 6-3, 6-1. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

ARTS

Lowcountry Glass Mosaics Workshop

10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, April 22, Morris Center For Lowcountry Heritage, 10782 S Jacob Smart Blvd, Ridgeland. Ages 16 and up. $55 registration fee. Create a luminous mosaic suncatcher in this 4-hour workshop led by glass artist Pat Stone. You’ll also learn how to safely cut glass, follow mosaic patterns, and grout pieces. Purchases are non-refundable. Register at https://www. morrisheritagecenter.org/event-5047016.

CALENDAR

Karaoke with Melissa

8 p.m. to midnight, Tuesdays, Highway 21 Bar, 3436 Trask Pkwy, Beaufort. Enjoy food and drinks during Karaoke with Melissa.

Sharing Hearts Support Group

5:30 to 7 p.m., second Tuesday of every month, 2201 Boundary Street, Suite 208, Beaufort. Free. Come tell your 10-minute story of a life lesson or healing message using your own creative expression through a song, poetry, reading, art or verbal storytelling. Come away with an uplifting sense of support and connections or to just listen. Register by leaving a voicemail with name, phone and number of attendees at 843-525-6115 or send email to reneesutton@healthierhealing. com. Notification will be done of any location change due to seat requirements. Next event is on Tuesday, April 11.

Karaoke with Melissa

7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., Wednesdays, Beaufort Moose Lodge, 350 Broad River Blvd, Beaufort. Enjoy food and drinks during Karaoke with Melissa.

Trivia with Tom – Fat Patties

7:30 p.m., Every Wednesday, Fat Patties, 831 Parris Island Gateway, Beaufort. Free. Team trivia event, win house cash prizes! For more information, visit https://rb.gy/o9nhwe.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

9:30 p.m., Wednesdays, Rosie O’Grady’s, 2127 Boundary Street, Suite 2, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy karaoke with either Parker or Eric.

Trivia with Tom – Bricks On Boundary

7:30 p.m., Every Thursday, Fat Patties, 1422 Boundary St, Beaufort. Free. Team trivia event, win house cash and Beer Bucket prizes! For more information, visit https://rb.gy/o9nhwe.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

7 p.m., Thursdays, Amvets Post 70, 1831 Ribaut Road, Port Royal. Free. Public is welcome. Enjoy Karaoke. Dinner will be available.

Bluffton Night Bazaar —

a Lowcountry Made Market

5 to 8 p.m., first Thursday of each month, Burnt Church Distillery, 120 Bluffton Road. A highly curated selection of accessories, clothing, home goods, custom gifts and more by local artists and makers.

Rooted Beaufort Yoga classes

5:30 to 6:45 p.m., Thursdays, Cypress Wetlands, Port Royal; 9 to 10:15 a.m., Whitehall Park or Pigeon Point Park. Rooted Beaufort is a collective of local Yoga teachers who host outdoor yoga classes and donation-based events with proceeds being donated locally on a rotating basis.

Wet Willie’s Trivia Night

7 to 10 p.m., every Thursday, Wet Willie’s, Beaufort Town Center. Win awesome prizes while you sip the worlds greatest daiquiris and munch on delicious bites.

Wet Willie’s Bingo Night

7 to 10 p.m., every Friday, Wet Willie’s, Beaufort Town Center. Win free giveaways, merchandise, and more cool prizes.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

9 p.m., Fridays, Highway 21 Bar, 3436 Trask Pkwy, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy Karaoke with Lt. Dan.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

9:30 p.m., Fridays, Rosie O’Grady’s, 2127 Boundary Street, Suite 2, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy Karaoke with Parker.

Karaoke with Melissa

7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., Fridays, R Bar & Grill, 70 Pennington Dr, Bluffton. Enjoy food and drinks during Karaoke with Melissa.

Drum Circle

6:30 to 8 p.m., 2nd Friday of every month, Gazeebo, Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Beaufort. Free. Anyone welcome, no experience necessary. Eric Roy, a recent transplant from Connecticut with successful experience in leading drum circles, is our new facilitator. He will start sessions off with 1520 minutes of instruction on djembe playing and teach a selected traditional rhythm & accompaniment for participants to play. In addition, there will be time allotted for spontaneous group drumming. Bring a drum, if you have one, a chair and a desire to have fun. The Drum Circle has several extra drums and many other percussion instruments that anyone can use. To receive updates on future events, send your email to lannyk13@gmail. com. This session will be on Friday, April 14.

Highway 21 Flea Market

9 a.m. to 4 p.m., every Saturday and Sunday, Highway 21 Drive-In. Sellers, vendors, handmade items, unique products and yard sale items. For information, email lowcountryfleamarket@gmail.com.

Port Royal Farmers Market

9 a.m. to noon, Saturdays, year round, Naval Heritage Park, 1615 Ribaut Road, Port Royal. Rain or shine. You will find fresh, local, seasonal produce, shrimp, oysters, poultry, beef, pork, eggs, bread and cheese, as well as plants, ferns, camellias, azaleas, citrus trees and beautiful, fresh cut flower bouquets. There are prepared food vendors

WHAT’S HAPPENING

HIGHWAY 21 DRIVE-IN

The movies scheduled for this week (Wednesday, April 12 through Sunday, April 16) at the Highway 21 Drive-In are The Super Mario Bros. Movie (PG, 8 p.m.) and Champions (PG-13, 9:30 p.m.) on Screen 1; Dungeons & Dragons (PG-13, 8:15 p.m.) and Scream VI (R, 10:45 p.m.) on Screen 2; and John Wick, Chapter 4 (R, 8 p.m.) and Plane (R, 10:45 p.m.) on Screen 3 (Friday and Saturday).

Online ticketing is available at hwy21drivein. com on the Now Playing page. Patrons are asked to arrive early on Friday and Saturday nights. Gates open at 6:30 p.m.

“Our family at the Hwy. 21 drive in feel a responsibility to our community,” a statement from Highway 21 Drive-In management reads. “We are concerned about many things in these trying times and in making the right decisions. We are concerned with our employees, our patrons, our business, our community’s businesses, and the health and well-being of all.”

A reminder: no outside food or beverages can be brought into the drive-in.

Upcoming movies include Gardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 3 (May 5) and among air (April 21).

serving barbecue, dumplings, she crab soup, crab cakes, paella, coffee, baked goods, bagels and breakfast sandwiches. No pets allowed. For more information, visit http:// www.portroyalfarmersmarket.com/, visit @ portroyalfarmersmarket on Facebook or call 843-295-0058.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

7 p.m., Saturdays, The Beaufort Moose Lodge, 350 Broad River Blvd., Beaufort. Free. Enjoy karaoke with Lt. Dan. Come early at 6 p.m. for Steak Night.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

9:30 p.m., Saturdays, Rosie O’Grady’s, 2127 Boundary Street, Suite 2, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy karaoke with Eric.

Karaoke with Melissa

8 p.m. to 12 a.m., 2nd and 4th Saturdays of every month, Peaceful Henry’s Cigar Bar, 181 Bluffton Rd, Bluffton. Enjoy food and drinks during Karaoke with Melissa.

Play & Eat – Dinner Theater

6 to 8:30 p.m., Saturdays, April 15, April 29, May 13, May 20, June 3, June 17, and July

1, Hilton Garden Inn, 1500 Queen Street, Beaufort. Solve a murder mystery while you feast on a fantastic dinner. Just to let you know the murderer is hiding somewhere in the room, and you may find yourself as one of the suspects if you don’t watch it. This is a prize-winning competition and everyone is a participant. For more information, contact 843-592-6209 or playandeatdinnertheater@ gmail.com, or visit the website at www. playandeatdinnertheater.com.

Lowcountry Christian

Women’s Connection

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 pm., Wednesday, April 19, Hampton Hall Clubhouse, 170 Hampton Hall Blvd., Bluffton. “The Fabric of Friendship” features speaker Norma McMurry. Cost is $28 and must be prepaid by April 1. Make checks payable to CWC Bluffton and send to Carol Mock, 607 Argent Way, Bluffton SC 29909. For information contact Carol Mock at 843705-7604 or Julie Ott at 602-750-5465 Julie. ott.az@gmail.com.

MCAS Beaufort Airshow

Saturday-Sunday, April 22-23, 2023, MCAS Beaufort. Visit BeaufortAirShow.com. General admission is free.

Wild Women’s Tea Party

2 to 4 p.m., Saturday, April 29, Indigo Hall at Indigo Run, 103 Berwick Drive, Hilton Head Island. Join us for a madcap afternoon of whimsy and elegance at the Lowcountry Legal Volunteers 11th Annual Wild Women’s Tea Party. Our Emcee is the beautiful and talented Riley Miller of WJCL. Wear your finest jewelry and that perfect little black dress and enjoy some decadent food, desserts and drinks. A perfect afternoon for you and your friends! Our Afternoon Highlights Include: A Fashion Show with all the latest styles from J. McLaughlin, Exciting Raffle Prizes, and a Silent Auction with luxury items and local experiences. Plus, fabulous prizes for best hat, best dressed, best dressed table and as always, wildest hat! For tickets, visit https:// rb.gy/2ar8. For more information, call 843815-1570 or email executivedirector@lclv.org.

Memory Matters Brain Booster Class

1 to 3 p.m., Monday, May 8, 15, & 22, First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. 99$ fee. A threeweek brain wellness course for active adults that promotes positive lifestyle strategies for improved brain health. Instructed by Memory Matters’ Community Education Director Debbie Anderson.

Lowcountry Christian Women’s Connection Luncheon

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, May 17, Hampton Hall Clubhouse, 170 Hampton Hall Blvd., Bluffton. Derby Days: Feature-Heroes on Horseback. Invited Speaker: Rose Lewis. Cost $28, must be prepaid. Please make checks payable to CWC Bluffton and send to Carol Mock, 607 Argent Way, Bluffton S.C. 29909. For more information call Julie Ott at 602-705-5465.

Memory Matters: Ask a Neurologist

10 a.m., Saturday, May 20, Memory Matters, 117 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. $20 for this session, or $40 for all Memory Matters sessions. Speaker: Dr. Jill Trumble, St. Joseph’s Candler Neurology.

Memory Matters: Preparing for the Unexpected

10 a.m., Wednesday, June 7, St. Gregory the Great Catholic School, 38 St Gregory Drive, Bluffton. $20 for this session, or $40 for all Memory Matters sessions. Speakers:

Lowcountry Council of Governments, Geriatric Care Manager, Elder Law Attorney, Bluffton Fire Department.

Memory Matters: Simple Suppers –Healthy Eating for Two

10 a.m., Wednesday, June 21, First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. $20 for this session, or $40 for all Memory Matters sessions. Speaker: Chef Kim Baretta.

67th annual Beaufort Water Festival

Friday, July 14 through Sunday, July 23, Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Beaufort.

HISTORY Beaufort History Museum at the Arsenal

10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturdays, 713 Craven St, Beaufort. General Admission for Adults $8, Seniors $7, Active Duty Military and College Students with ID $5. Children/Teens younger than 18 Free. Explore and experience more than 500 years of Beaufort History with knowledgeable docent guided tours.

The Historic Port Royal Museum

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or upon request, Thursdays through Sundays, The Historic Port Royal Museum, 1634 Paris Ave. The museum features the turn-of-the-century businesses and industries of Port Royal: Shrimping, crabbing, oystering, the railroad, the school and the mercantile. Great gifts featuring local artists are available. For more information. visit www.portroyalhistory.org, email historicportroyalfoundation@gmail. com or call 843-524-4333.

Tour Historic Fort Fremont

Dawn to dusk, Monday through Sunday, The Fort Fremont Preserve, 1124 Land’s End Road, St. Helena Island. Free and open to the public. The History Center is open Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. Visitors can learn about the fort’s history during the Spanish-American War through interpretive signs, self-guided walking tours with a smart phone, exhibits in the history center, and docent-led tours. For more information visit www.fortfremont.org or contact Passive Parks Manager Stefanie Nagid at snagid@bcgov.net.

LIBRARY ACTIVITIES

Law Talk Select times and days, Lobeco Branch Library, 1862 Trask Parkway, Seabrook. To register, call 843-255-6479. Free. Brief topic overview with Question & Answer with volunteer attorney. Tuesday, Feb. 28, 5 to 6 p.m., Landlord Tenant Law; Tuesday, March 18, 5 to 6 p.m., Wills, Estates, and Probate; Saturday, April 29, 11 a.m. to noon, Heirs Property; Saturday, May 20, 11 a.m. to noon, Starting a Business or Nonprofit.

Dungeons & Dragons

4 p.m., Mondays, Beaufort Downtown Branch Library, 311 Scott Street, Beaufort, 843-255-6441. Ages 12 to 18.

Lego Club

4:30 to 5:30 p.m., Mondays, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St. Helena Island, 843-255-6540. All ages welcome.

Law Talk

5:30 to 6:30 p.m., select Tuesdays, Beaufort Branch Library, 311 Scott Street, Beaufort. To register, call 843-255-6481. Free. Brief topic overview with Question & Answer with volunteer attorney. Jan. 24, Wills, Estates, and Probate; Feb. 28, Estate Planning; March 28, Advanced Health Care Directives; April 18, Starting a Business.

Teen Art Club

4 p.m., 1st & 3rd Tuesdays of each month, Beaufort Downtown Branch Library, 311 Scott Street, Beaufort, 843-255-6441. Ages 12-18.

Teen Anime Club 4 p.m., 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of each month, Beaufort Downtown Branch Library, 311 Scott Street, Beaufort, 843-255-6456.

Law Talk

5:30 to 6:30 p.m., select Tuesdays, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Sr. Road, St. Helena Island. To register, call 843-255-6540. Free. Brief topic overview with Question & Answer with volunteer attorney. Tuesday, Jan. 17, Starting a Business; Tuesday, Feb. 7, Expungement; Tuesday, March 7, Credit Card Debt; Tuesday, April 4, Social Security Disability; Tuesday, May 2, Getting Arrested.

Teen Video Game Club

4 p.m., 1st & 3rd Wednesdays of each month, Beaufort Downtown Branch Library, 311 Scott Street, Beaufort, 843-255-6441. Ages 12 to 18.

Law Talk Noon to 1 p.m., select Wednesdays, Hilton Head Branch Library, 11 Beach City Rd, Hilton Head Island. To register, call 843-255-6525. Free. Brief topic overview with Question & Answer with volunteer attorney. Wednesday, Feb. 15, Cyber Security and Data Privacy; Wednesday, March 15, Wills, Estates, and Probate; Wednesday, April 19, Advance Health Care Directives; Wednesday, May 17, Real Estate and Foreclosure.

S.C. Works Job Coaching

2 to 4 p.m., Thursdays, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St. Helena Island, 843-255-6540. Free help with job searches, interviews.

Chess Club 1 to 2 p.m., Saturdays, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St. Helena Island, 843-255-6540. Ages 5 and older.

Chess Meet Up

11 a.m., 2nd Saturday of each month, Beaufort Downtown Branch Library, 311 Scott Street, Beaufort, 843-255-6456. Instructor Henry Otto Seim will show beginners the basics or play a friendly game with more experienced players. All skill levels welcome. Extra boards will be set up.

Chess Meet Up

11 a.m., 3rd Saturday of each month, Lobeco Branch Library, 1862 Trask Parkway, 843-2556479. Instructor Henry Otto Seim will show beginners the basics or play a friendly game with more experienced players. All skill levels welcome. Extra boards will be set up.

MEETINGS

The Beaufort Trailblazers –A Volunteer Group

8 a.m., first Thursday each month, Herban Marketplace, Beaufort. Anyone interested in supporting or building off-road/dirt/ wilderness mountain biking/jogging/walking trails near is encouraged to attend. For more information, call 843-575-0021 or email universitybicycles@hotmail.com.

League of Women Voters

6 to 7:30 p.m., second Thursday of every month, Meeting Room, Sea Island Presbyterian Church, 81 Ladys Island Drive, Beaufort. Free. The Public as well as LWVB members are encouraged to attend. The meeting will be about the topics members have suggested as projects for 2023. Zonta Club of Beaufort

6 p.m., 4th Tuesday of each month, Smokehouse, Port Royal. Until November 22, we are participating in a service project with a global organization called Free the Girls. We are currently collecting new and gently used bras to help women rescued from trafficking start their own businesses selling the bras. Last year our club collected more than 600 bras and we are hoping to beat that number this year. Our collection sites are Amy Bowman State Farm Agency, 1284 Ribaut Rd., Myrna B. Breland, CPA, 1 Professional Drive, Port Royal, and Nourishing Health Acupuncture and Herbs, 34A Savannah Hwy. Maye River Quilters

9:30 a.m., Monday, May 6, Palmetto Electric Cooperative, 1 Cooperative Way, Hardeeville. To attend the meeting as a guest, send an RSVP email to mayeriverquilters@gmail.com. For more information and for membership forms to join the group, call 843-705-9590.

OUTDOORS

S.C. Bluebird Society Presentation

11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Friday, April 21, Downton Beaufort Library, 311 Scott Street, Beaufort. Free. Glen Hendry is the Trail Director for the SCBS and will provide a presentation on local cavity nesting birds to include the Eastern Bluebird. Glen has a wealth of knowledge and expertise regarding cavity nesters. Please RSVP to Becky McCollam at chopperjoe1616@ gmail.com or if you have any questions.

Fripp Island Audubon Club April Program

7 p.m., Thursday, April 27, Fripp Island Community Center, 205 Tarpon Blvd, Fripp Island. Roseate Spoonbills, Woodstorks and Limpkins: Craig Watson’s talk will center around three relative newcomers to South Carolina, the Roseate Spoonbill, the Wood Stork and the Limpkin. These birds were seldom seen in South Carolina until fairly recently and are now here year-round. Craig will explore the reasons behind this move north. Meet and Greet begins at 6 p.m., bring something to share at the snack table and meet your fellow birders. For more information visit www.islc.net/audubon.

Port Royal Cypress Wetlands tours

9 a.m. Friday, April 28; 9 to 11 a.m., Saturday, April 29, Birthday For The Birds; 9 a.m., Saturday, May 13; 9 a.m. Friday, May 26; Port Royal Cypress Wetlands. Bring your friends and visitors to a free guided tour of the wetlands sponsored by Friends of Port Royal Cypress Wetlands and led by Master Naturalist Jill Moore. The egrets, snowy egrets and woodstorks are all nesting and the rookery is an exciting place! Alligators and turtles are basking in the sun and spring is in the air. This is a great time to learn about this magical place. Tours are limited in size. T0 sign up at www.foprcw.org and register on line.

RUNNING

67th Beaufort Water Festival 5K/10K

8 to 10:30 a.m., Saturday, April 22, 904 14th Street, Port Royal. $20. The 67th Annual Beaufort Water Festival welcomes you to the Festival’s second event of the year. The races will start at 8 a.m. in beautiful Port Royal at Live Oak Park. This is a wonderful flat course that takes you along the mossdraped giant live oaks with beautiful views of the Intracoastal waterway. The course is USATF Certified #SC18011DW. 5k is a run or walk. Walk up registration will be available the day of the race for $25. Packet pick-up and Walk up registration at Live Oak Park on April 22 begins at 7 a.m. Awards to overall Male and Female and top 3 in each age division. Timing is provided by Grounded Running. Participants pre-registered by April 10 will receive a 67th Annual Beaufort Water Festival 5K/10K T-shirt. Registration after April 10, 2023, and Walk up registration cannot be guaranteed a T-shirt. Packet Pick-up will take place at Grounded Running, located at 2139 Boundary Street, Suite 108 on Friday, April 21 from 12 to 5 p.m., and at Live Oaks Park in Port Royal on Saturday morning from 7 to 7:40 a.m. Race day registration will take place on Saturday morning from 7 to 7:40 a.m. to ensure an on-time start at 8 a.m. To register visit https://rb.gy/euwp.

SPORTS Beaufort Masters Swim Team 6 to 7 a.m., Monday through Friday, Wardle Family Port Royal YMCA. Coached practices. Ages 18 & older, all skill & speed levels, no prior swim team experience needed. Visit lowcountryswimming.com for more information.

A tie to the past, a road to the future

By Chief Warrant Officer Bobby Yarnrough, USMC

MCRD PARRIS ISLAND, S.C.

The violence in Iraq was reaching its pinnacle in April 2004 as Marines bloodied their way through the first Battle of Fallujah. Sectarian clashes divided the nation as Marines with 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment worked desperately to curtail the insurgency.

Lt. Col. Babu Kaza, who was a first lieutenant at the time, was stationed at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune serving as a prosecutor in the base’s legal office. According to Kaza, it was a high-volume trial office and the hardest he has ever worked in his career.

With the ongoing war in Iraq, Camp Lejeune was the heartbeat of the Corps with Marine units constantly training in preparation for deployments to the Middle East. Kaza, like most Marines, hoped he would soon be on the front lines of combat. However, Kaza’s wife Tabitha was pregnant so he knew it would be some time before he found his way there.

Every day, Kaza read newspapers and watched nightly news broadcasts for any updates on the war in Iraq. It was a habit that carried over from the previous year when he was at The Basic School, the initial training school where all Marine Corps officers are taught.

“The war started in 2003,” said Kaza. “While in officer training, we would turn on the television and watch the war as it progressed. The concern for us as second lieutenants was the war was going to be over before we had the opportunity to be part of it.”

Despite the concerns, the war in Iraq intensified from 2003 to 2004. Insurgency grew throughout the country and the Marine Corps was

Burial in a VA Cemetery

ordered to support offensive operations in Anbar Province.

Kaza watched from Camp Lejeune as I Marine Expeditionary Force began Operation Vigilant Resolve in early April. Although Kaza always had an intellectual inquiry about combat, he was particularly interested in the Battle of Fallujah because one of his best friends, 1st Lt. Joshua Palmer, was on the ground fighting there.

Palmer had been one of Kaza’s roommates at The Basic School.

For more than six months they lived together, worked together, and grew to be great friends.

According to Kaza, the friendship grew easily because the two shared many similarities such as they had both been prior enlisted Marines in the Marine Corps Reserves and they shared the same moral value system.

“He was brilliant and inno-

vative,” said Kaza. “He was an outside the box thinker who was always making tactical decisions in training based on doing the right thing, what made sense, and what was best for Marines. As you might imagine, he graduated as one of the top 10 Marines in the class.”

In mid-April 2004, Kaza was in his office exchanging emails with another Marine who he was roommates with, asking “Can you believe Palmer is in Iraq leading Marines in combat now? The email he got in return was gut-wrenching — it stated Palmer had died on April 8, a few days earlier from hostile fire.

“It was devastating,” said Kaza. “I sat starring at my computer in silence. I thought there is no way this could be true.”

Kaza said he went home that night and told his wife, which he admits was pretty emotional.

“For me personally, I hadn’t had anyone close to me die, so there was that aspect of me having someone I know and am close with be killed,” said Kaza. “What was going through my head at the time was accepting the reality of dying in combat operations. I think as Marines we all understand that theoretically, but to have it be visceral and real in that respect, is something entirely different.”

Namesake

In January 2004, Babu’s wife Tabitha learned she was pregnant. It was a renewed joy for the family, who only months earlier was dealing with the loss of a miscarriage.

In April, when Palmer passed away, the Kaza’s knew they were having a boy. Together, they decided to name their son Joshua in honor of Palmer.

“Joshua in the Old Testament was a warrior, a fighter,” Kaza said. “It was a fitting name and fitting tribute to honor Palmer.”

Six months after Joshua was born, Kaza deployed to Anbar Province. Working with Civil Affairs, Kaza ended up in Fallujah and drove around the city seeing the leftover devastation from the previous campaigns. But according to Kaza, he also saw how the heroism and sacrifice of Marines there had pacified the city.

“Kids would come up and approach us and were happy to see us as Americans,’ said Kaza. “I credit that to the sacrifice and heroism of Palmer and Marines like him that gave that city a chance at democracy.”

When Kaza returned from Iraq, Joshua had changed. What was once a peaceful baby had become a “death defying daredevil who was hell on wheels going 100 miles an hour at all times.”

From an early age, Joshua said

he wanted to be a Marine. He grew up athletic and was physically tough, attributes Kaza believed aligned well with military service. When Joshua got to high school, Kaza said he went through a rebellious phase telling his dad he was going to college or joining the Army or Air Force.

“I think it was his way of being difficult,” said Kaza. “And then one day it just clicked. He came to me and said can you take me to a recruiter? I do want to join the Marines and be in the infantry like I always said I wanted to be.”

As a father, Kaza said he was overjoyed.

Earning the title Marine

The recruiting process was faster than Kaza expected and soon Joshua was on his way to Parris Island.

After Joshua left for recruit training, Kaza realized something unexpectedly. If Joshua completed training without any failures or setbacks he would receive his Eagle, Globe and Anchor on April 8 — the anniversary of Palmer’s passing.

According to Kaza, the timing is providential.

Kaza believes that his son receiving his Eagle, Globe and Anchor on April 8 is a representation of him carrying on Palmer’s legacy and that Palmer will continue to live through his son within the Marine Corps.

“The significance of him receiving his Eagle, Globe and Anchor on the day of Palmer’s death, who he was named after, is proof that my son is where he is meant to be,” said Kaza. “Every decision he has ever made in his life has brought him here to this moment, to this day, to this exact time. It is not a coincidence. It is meant to be this way for him to carry on that legacy and to carry on that namesake.”

VA benefits for spouses, dependents, survivors, and family caregivers

This week’s article and next week’s article will answer many of your questions on veterans, spouses, dependents, and survivors’ VA burial benefits. However, there is too much on this subject to put in two short newspaper articles. You should use a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) to help you understand and apply for VA burial benefits.

The first three articles in this series of five were published on March 16, March 30, and April 6, 2023. You can read those articles at:

Part 1 at https://bit. ly/3TOYiSE;

Part 2 at http://bit. ly/3MxaQwz; and Part 3 at http://bit. ly/3o3WhpV

The two best ways to find out what a veteran’s, or veteran’s spouse, dependent, survivor, and family caregiver VA benefits are and how to apply for those benefits include:

1. Reading the VA’s webpage titled VA Benefits for Spouses, Dependents, Survivors, and Family Caregivers at https:// bit.ly/3ZsrvET and …

2. Asking a VA-accredited VSO. Read about VA Accredited Representatives at https://bit.ly/3rNLdvy, https://bit.ly/41PPiQM, and https://bit. ly/3qbLVSL.

Pre-need eligibility for burial in a VA cemetery

According to the VA webpage, http://bit.ly/3KoGeul, you can apply to find out in advance if you can be buried

in a VA national cemetery. This is called a pre-need determination of eligibility — and it can help make the burial planning process easier. By carefully reading the VA’s webpage, https:// bit.ly/3KoGeul, veterans, spouses, and dependent children will get the answers to the following 12 questions and more:

1. How do I prepare before starting my application for a VA Pre-need Eligibility Determination?

(Short answer – read everything at http://bit. ly/3mhoBop).

2. How do I find out if I am eligible for a VA burial? (Short answer –read the information at https://bit.ly/3mhoBop and this complete article).

3. How do I find a VA National Cemetery? (Short answer – Go to https://www.va.gov/ find-locations/).

4. How do I find a State Veterans Cemetery? (Short answer – go to http://bit.ly/43lxHkw).

5. Is the Pre-need application only for VA national cemeteries?

(Short answer YES)

6. Does the Pre-need application apply to Arlington National Cemetery? (Short answer NO).

7. Does getting a VA Preneed determination of eligibility guarantee

you will be buried in a specific VA National Cemetery? (Short Answer NO).

8. What information and documents do I need to apply for a Pre-need determination? (Short answer – SSAN, date of birth, place of birth, military service history from the DD214, and if you are a spouse, surviving spouse, or an unmarried adult child you will need your personal information and Social Security Number, see the complete list at https://bit.ly/3KoGeul).

9. If both the veteran and the veteran’s spouse are requesting a Pre-need eligibility determination, will both need to fill out their own application?

(Short answer – YES).

10. Who can help me fill out a VA Pre-need determination of eligibility application?

(Short answer – a VSO).

11. How do I apply for a VA Pre-need determination of eligibility?

(Short answer – You can apply online at https:// bit.ly/3KoGeul, or by mail using VA Form 40-10007, which can be downloaded at http:// bit.ly/41fsdWK, or by FAX 855-840-8299).

12. What happens after I apply for a VA Preneed determination of eligibility? (Short answer – The VA will let you know when they have received your application and how long it will take to make a decision. Expect

delays due to the large number of applications. Wait to hear back about your application rather than applying again. Read the information at http://bit.ly/3MysT5w).

Who is eligible for burial in a VA National Cemetery?

Learn about eligibility at https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/eligibility/. Veterans, service members, spouses, and dependents may be eligible for burial in a VA national cemetery, as well as other benefits, if they meet one of the following requirements.

The person qualifying for burial benefits is a veteran who did not receive a dishonorable discharge, or

The person qualifying for burial benefits is a service member who died while on active duty, active-duty training, or inactive duty for training, or

The person qualifying for burial benefits is the spouse or minor child of a veteran, even if the veteran died first, or

The person qualifying for burial benefits is in some cases, the unmarried adult dependent of a veteran. Read about eligibility for specific groups including (1) U.S. citizens who served in the armed forces of any government allied with the U.S. during war, (2) Commissioned officers of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Commissioned Officers of the Public Health Service, WWII Merchant Mariners, Philippine Armed Forces Veterans, and Hmong veterans at https:// www.va.gov/burials-memorials/eligibility/.

Who is not eligible for burial in a VA National Cemetery?

1. The following family members are not eligible: (1) A former spouse who is not also a veteran whose marriage to an eligible veteran or service member ended by annulment or divorce.

(2) Family members of a veteran convicted of subversive activities (unless the veteran receives a pardon from the President). (3) Other family members who do not meet the eligibility requirements.

2. People are not eligible if they were ordered to report (drafted) to an induction station, but were discharged at that point and never actually entered military service.

3. Veterans are not eligible if they are separated from the Armed Forces under dishonorable conditions, or have a character of service that disqualifies them.

A VA Regional Office determines eligibility in cases where the veteran has undesirable, bad conduct, and any other type of discharge other than honorable, or multiple discharges of varying character.

Veterans can find out how to apply for a discharge upgrade at http://bit.ly/3MAjBG8. Veterans can also learn about the VA Character of Discharge review at http://bit.ly/43kNq3f.

4. Veterans are not eligible if they have been convicted of a federal or state capital crime and may

receive a sentence of imprisonment for life or the death penalty — and the conviction is final, or clear and convincing evidence shows that they have committed a federal or state capital crime, but they could not have a trial due to flight to avoid prosecution or death. These veterans also don’t qualify for a Presidential Memorial Certificate, a burial flag, a headstone, or a marker.

5. Veterans are not eligible if they were convicted of a Tier III sex offense and sentenced to a minimum of life imprisonment — and the conviction is final. These Veterans also don’t qualify for a Presidential Memorial Certificate, a burial flag, a headstone, or a marker.

6. Veterans are not eligible if they were convicted of subversive activities after Sept. 1, 1959, unless they’ve received a pardon from the President of the United States.

Continued next week.

Larry Dandridge is a Vietnam War wounded warrior, disabled veteran, ex-Enlisted Infantryman, ex-Warrant Officer Pilot, and retired Lt. Colonel. He is a past Veterans Service Officer, a Patient Adviser at the RHJ VA Hospital, the Fisher House Charleston Good Will Ambassador, and the VP for Veteran Affairs for the local Army Association Chapter. Larry is the author of the award-winning book Blades of Thunder and a contributing freelance writer with The Island News. Contact him at LDandridge@earthlink.net or 843-276-7164.

Pvt. Joshua Kaza, a Marine with Hotel Comapny, was awarded his Eagle, Globe and Anchor by his father, Lt. Col. Babu Kaza, on April 8 at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. The date of April 8 is providential to the family. Babu’s friend, 1st Lt. Joshua Palmer, was killed in Al Anbar, Iraq on this day in 2004 and is the very person for whom he named his son after.

CWO3 Bobby Yarbrough/USMC

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