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Phillips’ meeting with Safe Harbor productive Port Royal mayor, town officials discuss concerns with port developer

By Scott Graber and Mike McCombs The Island News PORT ROYAL – A long-anticipated “sit-down” between Port Royal Mayor Kevin Phillips and officials from Safe Harbor Marinas finally happened Thursday, Feb. 1 at the Town Hall in Port Royal.

It appears the conversation was a productive one.

Vice President for Construction and Development Peter Clark and

attorneys John Ray and Nicole Scott were in attendance on behalf of Safe Harbor. Phillips was joined by Town Councilman Kevin Jerry Ashmore, Phillips Town Manager Van Willis, and his staff.

According to Phillips, Safe Harbor arrived with its own agenda — an agenda that did not include

the “build-to-rent” item that has become a flash point with town leadership, as well as its residents.

Phillips indicated to Safe Harbor that this item should be on the agenda and it should be dealt with first.

Phillips said Safe Harbor said it had no contract with The Beach Company — the Charleston construction firm that presented the “build-to-rent” concept to the town.

“Furthermore,” Phillips said, “Safe Harbor indicated to us that the ‘build-to-rent’ option was not a forgone conclusion.”

“John Ray (attorney for Safe Harbor) said that he would take the Town’s concerns back to Safe Harbor headquarters where they would discuss the Town’s position.

And I said, ‘You’ve got to figure out another way,’” Phillips said.

Town officials characterized the meeting as positive.

“I think it went well,” Willis said of the exchange. “There were a number of topics that we wanted discussed and they were. … Also, we got some sort of sense where they may be in the permitting process and the master planning efforts.”

According to Phillips, Safe Harbor said it was close to getting its permit to start with construction of

SEE MEETING PAGE A7

LOWCOUNTRY LOWDOWN

LOLITA HUCKABY

Democratic primary proves we’re off to the races

B

BEAUFORT y most accounts, Saturday’s Democratic presidential primary here in the Palmetto State was a success for President Joe Biden and his re-election bid.

He won 96 percent of the votes cast and will take the state’s 55 delegates to the national Democratic Convention when they get together in Chicago in mid-August.

But, as you may have already heard, only 4.27 percent of Beaufort County’s voters went to the polls Saturday (or voted early), about the same percentage of voters statewide.

What you also know is South Carolina’s one of 24 states that have “open” primaries; you don’t register by political party here so you can vote in either party’s primary … either … not both.

It’s a certain bet that the higher

Middle school students design the axles and wheels for a car made from a water bottle so that it will roll across the floor by placing a large straw through the bottle and then blowing up the balloon and releasing it during the engineering session at the American Association of University Women, Beaufort Chapter’s annual STEAM Day held at USC Beaufort on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

A new perspective

Event introduces Beaufort girls to STEAM careers

By Delayna Earley The Island News The American Association of University Women (AAUW), Beaufort Branch held their eighth annual STEAM Day on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024, at USC Beaufort.

The event catered to rough-

ly 80 middle school girls from schools in northern Beaufort County who came to learn about and attend interactive workshops featured around each of the areas that STEAM covers – science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.

“Our goal is to introduce those in this age group to careers within the five branches of STEAM,” Chapter President Janice Herbert said about the event. “Our objective is to provide opportunities

SEE LOWDOWN PAGE A5

SEE CAREERS PAGE A6

NEWS

HEALTH

EDUCATION

INSIDE

Fired Beaufort County rec director hired in Georgia.

Handling Valentine’s Day when you have diabetes, preventing heart disease and more.

Former Beaufort High principal sues school board, The Island Packet.

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LOWCOUNTRY LIFE & NEWS

ISLAND NEWS PUBLISHING, LLC PUBLISHERS

Jeff & Margaret Evans

FOUNDING PUBLISHERS Elizabeth Harding Newberry Kim Harding

EDITORIAL/DESIGN Editor-in-Chief

Mike McCombs theislandnews@ gmail.com

Tracy Lontz of Port Royal took a photo of the Beaufort Rowing Club keeping the Parris Island Boat Landing beautiful as part of Beaufort County’s “Adopt-A-Boat Landing” Program. 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: RALPH “GUNNY” YOUNG

Beaufort’s Bill Young, 83, joined the United States Marine Corps in South Bend, Ind., in 1960. After Boot Camp at Parris Island, he was assigned to infantry duty at Vietnam, including amphibious landings. In all, he served four tours in Vietnam, returning to Camp Pendleton between each.

He was also trained in Motor Transport for transporting VIPs including members of Congress, spending six years at Parris Island with Ralph driving assignments wherever needed. He retired Young in 1990 from Camp Pendleton as a Gunnery Sergeant with 30 years of service. He then moved back to Beaufort.

– Compiled by John Chubb, American Legion Post 207. For Veteran Of The Week nominations, contact jechubb1@gmail.com.

ON THIS DATE

February 11 1926: James Edwin McTeer is appointed sheriff of Beaufort County after the death of his father, also James Edwin McTeer, before his term in office expired. The younger McTeer would serve as sheriff until his retirement in 1963, McTeer was widely known as a root doctor and an expert on witchcraft, according to the Beaufort Gazette.

– Compiled by Mike McCombs

companies locate and expand into states where they can attract qualified employees.

States like California, Massachusetts, and I continue to appreciate the excellent local New York succeed while states like South and state news coverage provided by The Carolina get left behind. This exodus of Island News – thank you! young talent is one of the major reasons And for those of us who search beyond S.C. ranks so low in education (42), health social media for an understanding of national care (36), and opportunity (38) as reported and global events, we are blessed with FREE in U.S. News & World Report's 2023 annual access to national newspapers and magazines performance rankings. Our elected leaders through The Beaufort County Library system. in Columbia are driving away many of the A FREE library card is all we need to read young people who could make a real positive daily editions of The New York Times and difference here.

The Wall Street Journal, online from home It doesn't have to be this way. Please or phone, thanks to our library. It's FREE and research the candidates and vote wisely in easy! Details at beaufortcountylibrary.org/ 2024. Your vote matters. borrow.

– Peter Birschbach, Port Royal – Carol Brown, Beaufort

Our best, brightest are moving away We are constantly bombarded with stories about the crisis at the U.S. southern border.

However, there's another border crisis we seldom hear about, a crisis that should be very troubling if you are a South Carolina taxpayer.

A recent study by the South Carlina Department of Employment and Workforce shows that 37% of South Carolina college graduates take up employment outside the Palmetto State after graduation. The percentage is even higher for STEM graduates and medical professionals. If you're a S.C. taxpayer this means that your taxes are being spent to educate young people who will ultimately take their skills, their knowledge, and their earning power elsewhere.

This phenomenon is nothing new. College graduates have traditionally gone where their earning power is greatest. However, according to a study by the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committe, the rate of outward migration from states like South Carolina, Alabama, and Mississippi has increased significantly in the past 20 years.

Factors cited for this increase are largely political. It turns out many young professionals do not want to live in states that are openly hostile to reproductive choice, voting rights, education, health care, the environment, and LGBTQ rights. Over the past 20 years, South Carolina and the other states have all enacted regressive legislation that is highly unattractive to many young college graduates.

The exodus of college grads has a significant ripple effect. High-tech

Response to slander

From the mountaintop of himself, Mr. Lang is, of course, free to criticize all sorts of others as “degenerates.” From on high he can view peace degenerate into worldwide war, which once offered him a career.

He can see the vigor of youth slow and degenerate into age, which he will surely escape. And he can watch democracies degenerate into autocracies, which eliminate his “degenerates” quite handily, as history has demonstrated. But lest he forget, mountaintops also degenerate into the lower lands where most of us live.

Boundary there is a turning lane that could be traveled by an ambulance, police car or fire truck.

The most important difference between the two roads is that there is no alternative to Ribaut Road. Ribaut provides the only north/ south route between Beaufort and Port Royal, and it is the only route by which a vehicle can access Beaufort Memorial Hospital. If Boundary Street were to become impassable vehicles could be rerouted down any of a number of other east/west streets. There is no similar option for Ribaut Road.

So play with the re-striping of Boundary Street all you want. It’s cheap and it’s relatively harmless. Do some serious rethinking before you spend millions of taxpayer dollars to create a possibly impassable and dangerous bottleneck on Ribaut Road.

FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

Sports Editor

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April Ackerman april@ aandbbookkeeping. com Billing questions only.

– Beekman Webb, Beaufort

A little bothered

PAL PETS OF THE WEEK

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delayna. theislandnews@ gmail.com

Amanda Hanna

Thomas H. Long – Your comments greatly bothered me. Especially for a retired military officer.

1. Election interference by Russia was verified by the Congress, NSA, FBI, and CIA. 2. January 6 was no tourist visit. It was an insurrection caused by Trump.

Evangelicals – Trump was the most amoral president in history. Adultery, sexual assault, – Quitman Marshall, Beaufort stating he could grab any woman's !@#$% and get away with it. Sex with a porn star, Do some serious rethinking shoot and kill someone in Times Square and get away with it, etc., etc., etc.

The traffic situations on Boundary Street Border – Trump accomplished nothing, and Ribaut Road are not the same. Not Biden did. Crime was higher under Trump exactly “apples to oranges” – they're both than Biden. Trump did nothing for the roads after all – but they are not comparable. environment, Biden did. Biden's job creation, County staffer Brittanee Bishop was quoted GNP, and stock market are all higher than in a recent Island News article saying that Trump's. the Boundary Street re-striping effort was As a retired military man you especially partly to “validate assumptions made on the stun me being a Trump supporter. Trump Ribaut Road project.” The situations are very screwed our allies and praised our enemies different and the plan for Ribaut is not at all such as Russia, China, and North Korea. His similar to the Boundary Street re-striping cronies blocked military promotions and are idea. trying to block aid to Ukraine.

The proposal for Boundary includes a Book legislation – As President Reagan wide, center turn lane. On most of the Ribaut said, "Here we go again." Sexually explicit project there is no turn lane proposed, books? Republicans will have to start with only a single lane in each direction with a the most sexually explicit book in history, landscaped median.

The Bible. Instead of having legislation and Ribaut Road passes two hospitals and two groups such as Moms for Liberty, etc., how fire stations. If an emergency vehicle needs about we do something simple. You regulate to travel Ribaut, as they do every day, there is what your child can read and Americans can no place under the new proposal for cars to regulate what their child reads. get out of the way other than driving up on the sidewalk or into the shrubbery. At least on – Don Cass, Beaufort

Cat of the Week: Hawk is a lovely lady. She is a spry gal who loves to play with the other cats in her cat room, and greet every visitor with one of her many stories. Hawk is certainly an entertaining lady when she gets the zoomies. She will make a great addition to a family household who loves to have fun. Hawk is six months old, spayed, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped.

ads.theislandnews@ gmail.com

Delayna Earley

1863: In a letter bearing this date, President Abraham Lincoln authorizes that part of a 64-acre tract known as Polly’s Grove Plantation be used for Beaufort National Cemetery. The land had been acquired by U.S. Army Gen. David Hunter for $75 at an 1863 tax sale of properties confiscated by the federal government. After the Civil War, 29 acres of the parcel was retained for the cemetery.

We are blessed with a free library

Hope Falls

Assistant Editor

February 10

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Art Director

Dog of the Week: Flint is a laid back guy who wants to snuggle. He recently found his way back to our adoption center and is ready for his next home. Flint has one eye and needs someone who can help him navigate the world to his left. Once he gets to know someone, they are in his pack for life. Flint is 6 years old, neutered, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped.

If you are interested in adopting Hawk, Flint 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.

CONTACT US PO Box 550 Beaufort, SC 29901 TheIslandNews@gmail.com www.YourIslandNews.com facebook.com/TheIslandNews

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters to the Editor should consist of fewer than 275 words and be emailed with a name and contact information to TheIslandNews@gmail.com

DISCLAIMER 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.

NEWS

Haley stops for a chat with voters on Hilton Head before primary

By Delayna Earley and Amber Hewitt The Island News Former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley made a quick stop on Hilton Head Island on Thursday, Feb. 1, at Forrest Fire BBQ Restaurant to hold a meet and greet with her supporters.

Haley, who is currently trailing former President Donald Trump in the polls, has been traveling the state in hopes of amassing enough votes to beat Trump in the S.C. Republican Primary on Feb. 24, 2024.

A few hundred people showed up to the event and while a few Trump supporters came to protest, most came to listen to Haley speak about education, unemployment and her record as governor.

Robert and Gail Otoole, of Hilton Head Island, support Haley because “she is elo-

quent, smart, strong, quick witted, and definitely fresh,” adding “she will stand her ground and will bring everyone together without drama. She brings good old hard work and steadiness.

She will not be only the best first female president – but the best president.”

Haley told the crowd that before she became governor in 2011, South Carolina was laughed at.

“We had a state that had 11% unemployment and thousands of people on welfare and South Carolina was the butt of the jokes,” Haley said. “We rallied, we got together and by the time I left, we were building planes by Boeing, we were building more BMWs than any place in the world. We brought in Mercedes Benz. We brought in Volvo … We announced jobs in every county in the state.”

Former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley speaks to a room of supporters during her meetand-greet event at Forrest Fire BBQ on Hilton Head Island on Thursday, Feb. 1, 2023. Amber Hewitt/The Island News She also talked about enacting the voter ID law in 2011, Handling Hurricane Matthew in 2016 and requesting that the Con-

federate flag be removed from the S.C. government grounds in 2015.

Haley talked about Trump and Biden’s ages

and put herself forward as the better option due to the strain of being president.

Patty Pro, of Akron, Ohio, and her friend Linda Thom-

as, also of Akron, say that they believe Nikki Haley should be president because “she is a classy lady and is a decent individual.

We like her policy on the border.”

South Carolina political heavy-hitters Gov. Henry McMaster, Rep. Nancy Mace, and Sen. Tim Scott have given their support to Trump, but 14th Circuit Solicitor Duffie Stone and State Sen. Tom Davis were both attendees at the event.

The S.C. Republican primary is open to anyone who is registered to vote in South Carolina who did not participate in the Democratic primary on Feb. 3.

Delayna Earley formerly worked as a photojournalist for The Island Packet/The Beaufort Gazette, as well as newspapers in Indiana and Virginia. She can be reached at delayna.theislandnews@gmail.com.

History Museum holding Piece of Our Past auction From staff reports History lovers are being invited to step back in time and enjoy an exquisite evening filled with nostalgia and history at the "Piece of Our Past" Auction, organized by the will enhance any home or add to Beaufort History Museum. that special collection.

This remarkable event, which Highlights of the evening will takes place at 5 p.m., Thursday, include: March 14 at the home of Mayor Phil • Extraordinary Collection: Cromer (162 Spanish Point Drive), A diverse range of artifacts, memorabilia, and historical offers an exclusive opportunity to objects from the museum’s acquire artifacts and treasures that

archives. From vintage photoon memorable trips for four to graphs to framed Lowcountry Mexico and Havana. prints to a 1903 U.S. Cavalry • Networking Opportunities: saber, each carries a story waitParticipants can connect with ing to be told. fellow history enthusiasts, col• Live Auction: Engage in the lectors, and community memthrill of bidding for these bers who share a passion for remarkable artifacts as our preserving and appreciating knowledgeable auctioneer the past. guides attendees through the General admission tickets process, ensuring an exciting are $40 for members (registraexperience for all attendees. tion code required) and $55 for • Exotic Trips: Friends can bid non-members (includes one year

membership). Food and drinks will be served.

Tickets are available for purchase at https://bit.ly/3w84ZHE. As space is limited, those interested are encourages to secure a spot early.

Proceeds help the Beaufort History Museum in its mission to preserve and showcase the historical legacy of our community. For more information, please visit the museum or visit https://bit.ly/3Ov2Nk0.

ADVANCED ORTHOPEDIC OPTIONS TO RELIEVE BACK AND NECK PAIN

Whether you experienced a recent injury or have a chronic condition, Beaufort Memorial has your back. The Advanced Orthopedics and Spine Program at Beaufort Memorial brings together state-of-the-art technologies and top spine care experts to address a range of conditions that cause neck and back pain. Let our team create an individualized care plan, exploring both nonsurgical and surgical treatment options, so you can get back to life.

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At Beaufort Memorial you also find: • Innovative solutions that improve your mobility and allow for more natural movement • An Optimization Program that follows you through the process to ensure the best outcomes • Advanced procedures that spare healthy tissue and speed recovery • Outpatient surgeries that allow many patients to go home the same day Visit BeaufortMemorial.org/SpineCare

FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

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NEWS

Fired Beaufort County rec director hired in Georgia Loper broke procurement rules, subject of 2 ethics investigations

By Mike McCombs The Island News Shannon Loper, who was fired as Beaufort County’s Parks and Recreation Director in October 2023, has been hired as the interim Parks and Recreation Director in Rincon, Ga., according to a story published on the Effingham Herald’s website Jan. 25.

According to the story, Loper’s first day at her new job was Tuesday, Jan. 30. According to the city’s news release, Loper’s hiring follows the resignation of the previous director in October.

Loper was fired Monday, Oct. 9, 2023 by Beaufort County. Sources within the Beaufort County government told The Island News that Loper was terminated because of her treatment of an employee.

She had been employed by Beaufort County Parks and Recreation (formerly known as Parks and Leisure Services or PALS) since 1998. She was promoted to

the Director position in 2016.

"We are confident Ms. Loper is the right person to lead our Recreation Department Shannon into the future beLoper ginning with this interim period. Her proven track record and dedication to organizational values make her an excellent choice for this role," Rincon City Manager Jonathan Lynn said in a news release.

Lynn goes on to say, “We want to ensure the public that the City has done our due diligence in this hiring process and ensure the public that we have full faith in Ms. Loper’s ability to lead our Parks and Recreation Department. Due to awaiting resolution of some outstanding issues in South Carolina, we will begin Ms. Loper’s employment by having her serve as our Interim Director while awaiting

that resolution. We fully expect those matters to be resolved in a satisfactory manner and at which time, Ms. Loper would go through the appointment process for the role on a permanent basis. We are excited to move our Parks and Recreation Department forward and grow the services we provide to our community.”

Loper’s termination in October came just two weeks after Beaufort County Council approved the construction, after its completion, of an inclusive playground in Port Royal that Loper authorized, despite not following the proper procurement procedure for the nearly $800,000 purchase.

At the time, Loper’s disregard for procurement procedures were brought to light by The Island News, she was already the subject of a South Carolina Ethics Commission investigation, officially confirmed Aug. 2, 2023, into allegations she used Beaufort County Public Works

property – a Bobcat type vehicle and possibly an excavator – to make improvements upon her personal property in Bluffton in 2021.

After her firing, later in October 2023, a second S.C. Ethics Commission investigation into Loper was confirmed. The newest complaint regarding Loper alleged that she hired her sons to referee youth sports and to run a cheerleading camp at some point during her tenure as the Parks and Recreation Director.

In August 2022, Loper and the Parks and Recreation Department came under fire for their decision to make a summer camp using public facilities and funding available only to the children of county employees instead of opening it up to the public.

In a memo obtained by The Island News and written by Loper that was sent out to county employees, she said that the program was not open to the public and that the

Parks and Recreation Department was doing their “best to disguise it.”

Lynn reiterated to the Herald that the city had done its due diligence.

“She absolutely disclosed (that) information during every round of her interviews, as well as provided a supporting documentation as to the factual nature of what really happened,” Lynn told the newspaper. “And it gave us a comfort level that checking references and a general consensus that the credibility is not there for what was done.”

Assistant Editor Delayna Earley’s reporting contributing to this report.

Editor’s note: In the interest of full disclosure, Delayna Earley’s husband interviewed for the Beaufort County Parks And Recreation Director position in 2016.

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

Lions Club hosting Indivisible Beaufort Pancake Breakfast meeting set for Feb. 10

From staff reports The Beaufort Lions Club is hosting its Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, Feb. 17 from 8 to 11 a.m. at Sea Island Presbyterian Church at 81 Lady’s Island Drive.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for those younger than 12. The menu consists of pancakes, syrup, pork sausage, cheese grits, freshly scrambled eggs, Jim Palmer’s famous sausage gravy and biscuits, juice, coffee, and milk.

The Beaufort Lions Club has served residents with vision needs for more than 75 years. Funds raised from events like this one support Camp Leo, an annual, free, week-long camp on Hilton Head Island, serving blind children ranging in age from 7 to 17.

Three county Lions clubs – Beaufort, Hilton Head Noon, and Sun City/Okatie – rent vans to provide transportation for the visually impaired children from their homes throughout the state, provide various activities including miniature golf, and kayaking, and volunteer to assist the children.

Funds raised are also sent to Lions Vision Services (LVS) in Columbia to provide essential,

life-changing eye surgeries and eyeglasses to those in need across the state. Since the beginning of the fiscal year, July 1, LVS has completed 115 eye surgeries with 14 more scheduled before June 30.

LVS sponsors the annual fishing tournament for legally blind adults from across the state at Camp Woodie in Santee on April 26 and 27. The Beaufort Lions Club sends volunteers to assist with the two-day event and fish fry. The winners of the S.C. Blind Fishing will participate in the International Blind Fishing Event held in North Carolina in October.

Members of the Beaufort Lions Club, along with a retired ophthalmologist from the Hilton Head Noon club, volunteer monthly with Beaufort Jasper Volunteers in Medicine Vision Clinic in Ridgeland to offer free eye care to VIM clients. The Beaufort Lions Club has ensured Beaufort County residents with low vision can access magnifiers through the Beaufort County library to read the newspaper, books, and mail. They have also provided 13 residents with prescription eyewear during the past year.

In April, the 100 Women Who Care provided the

NEWS BRIEFS

Beaufort Sportfishing and Diving Club meeting February 8

The Beaufort Sportfishing and Diving Club’s February meeting will be held Thursday, Feb. 8, at the Beaufort Yacht and Sailing Club located on Lady’s Island off of Meridian Road. The social begins at 6:30 p.m. and the meeting will begin at 7 p.m.

Local guide, Captain Neil Kendrick of Carolina Tail Charters, will discuss Sheepshead. He will present rods and reels, various rigs and sure techniques for hooking. This will also include the proper use of mussels and frozen blue crab when fiddlers are not available.

Beaufort Boat & Dock Supply, Butler Marine, The Archurch Group and Danny Walsh again are our drawing sponsors. Congratulations to Debra Norwood

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FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

Beaufort Lions Club with a generous grant to provide Beaufort County School students with diabetes north of the Broad with healthy, high-protein snacks during the school day. Students will be selected and sent to a week-long camp for diabetic children.

Among other community services, members of the Beaufort Lions Club have donated more than 500 pounds of nonperishable food to both the Salvation Army Food Bank and HELP of Beaufort, as well as fans for seniors without air conditioning. Volunteers play bingo with residents at Oaks on Salem every other Monday. Members also provide Christmas and Valentine’s Day treats for the residents.

Annually, Lions volunteers organize the Water Festival Parade, the Veterans Day Parade, and the Christmas Parade in Beaufort. Since the beginning of the school year, members of the vision screening team have conducted more than 5,000 hearing and vision screenings for students from Pre-K through Grade 9 in public, charter, and private schools within the county.

for winning the last monthly $50 drawing. Winners must be present at the next month’s meeting to receive the cash award.

Guests are welcome. Reservations are not needed.

For additional information, please contact Captain Frank Gibson at 843-521-7340 or email fgibson@islc.net.

County offering free electronics recycling event Saturday

The Beaufort County Department of Solid Waste and Recycling will host two free electronics recycling events for County residents Saturday, Feb. 10. They will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the following locations: • River Ridge Academy 3050 Raider Drive, Bluffton • Beaufort County Public

From staff reports The next Indivisible Beaufort meeting will be Saturday, Feb. 10 at the Downtown Beaufort Library at 311 Scott Street. The event is free and open to the public.

The focus of the February meeting will be censorship efforts at the state level.

The group fears current regulations posed by the state Board of Education and legislation proposed by elected officials at the Statehouse could make book bans easier to initiate and much more prevalent.

The featured speakers will be Mary Foster and Carey Kerney.

Mary Foster is the Programs Director for FABB (Families Against Book Bans).

She has a B.S. in Elementary Education and more than 20 years of teaching experience in public and private schools. She currently runs a licensed preschool in her home.

Carey Kerney is the Secretary/Treasurer of FABB. She has practiced law for 25 years and currently specializes in healthcare law. She is a former President of the Beaufort County Bar Association and served for five years on its Board of Directors.

The pair will share ways citizens can get involved in fighting attacks on intellectual freedom locally, around South Carolina, and even nationally.

Kappa Delta Alumnae Beach Walk to benefit CAPA

From staff reports The Low Country Kappa Delta Alumnae Chapter will host the fourth annual Beach Walk to benefit CAPA of Beaufort County at 10 a.m., Saturday, March 2.

The walk will begin at Coligny Beach Park, 1 North Forest Beach on Hilton Head Island. The Rain Date is March 3. A minimum donation of $10 per person is suggested.

If you are unable to join the walk in person, make a donation and walk in your

Works, 140 Shanklin Road, Beaufort Items that will be accepted for recycling include personal computers, laptops, CRT monitors, LCD monitors, CRT televisions, non-CRT televisions, printers, hard drives, and miscellaneous electronics (cell phones, tablets, and fax machines).

Items not accepted at this event include microwaves,vacuums, stereos, speakers, tuners, VCRs, DVD players, lamps, etc.

These can be taken to the Convenience Centers for disposal and will not be unloaded at the event.

Citizens are asked to stay in their cars during the event. Staff will unload electronics. Residential only.

For questions about Beaufort County recycling events, please call the Solid Waste and Recycling Office at 843-255-2736 or visit https://bit.ly/3OrvP3O.

neighborhood.

Make checks payable to Low Country KD AC and send to Jennifer Kaple, 301 Central Avenue, Suite 122, Hilton Head Island, S.C. 29926. You may also donate via Venmo to Jennifer-Kaple-SC1.

CAPA(Child Abuse Prevention Association) is a local nonprofit organization that offers a variety of programs to the community to help raise awareness about child abuse and its effects on the community. CAPA of-

February LIBPA meeting

fers community and schoolbased outreach programs, safe sleep education, home visitation and foster care.

This year’s upcoming local fundraiser is part of National Kappa Delta’s Shamrock Project initiative in support of Prevent Child Abuse America. To date, Kappa Deltas have raised more than $26 million to prevent child abuse in our country.

For more information on the Beach Walk, call 843707-7899.

Board of Voter Registration and Elections of Beaufort County office, located at 15 John Galt Road, The Lady’s Island Business & Beaufort. For more information, Professional Association will meet call 843-255-6900. at 8 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 13, at the Beaufort Realtors’ Association Headquarters at 22 Kemmerlin Beaufort Twilight Run in search of sponsors Lane, Lady’s Island.

The Beaufort Twilight Run is a Brittanee Bishop, the Program and Finance Manager for the little less than two months away Beaufort County Engineering – March 23, 2024 – and is lookDepartment, will be the featured ing for sponsors. A sponsorship speaker. The public is welcome to is a wonderful opportunity to help stop by for coffee and conversa- support the students at Riverview Charter School and to promote a tion concerning the community. business or place of employment.

For more information, contact Public test of Ballot Christina Gecy, BTR Sponsorship Tabulating Machines Chair at christinagecy@gmail.

A public test of the Central com. Review the sponsorship Count Scanners (Ballot Tabulating packet at https://bit.ly/49fAygV Machines) for the Feb. 24, 2024 or complete the sponsorship form Republican Presidential Prefer- at https://bit.ly/48UqEBI. ence Primary (PPP) will begin on Friday, Feb. 23, at 10 a.m. at the – Compiled from staff reports

NEWS

No surprise: President Biden easily wins South Carolina’s Democratic primary

By Abraham Kenmore SCDailyGazette.com COLUMBIA — President Joe Biden cruised to an expected victory Saturday in Democrats’ first recognized contest of 2024, following a month-long push by the president and his proxies to drive up turnout after the party put South Carolina first on the official voting calendar.

After The Associated Press called the race at 7:23 p.m., less than a half-hour after polls closed, the roughly 100 party faithful gathered at the South Carolina Fairgrounds chanted “four more years!”

With less than 30,000 votes counted, Biden was winning with 97% of them.

“I want to let you guys know, South Carolina, tonight is our night,” state Democratic Party Chairwoman Christale Spain told the crowd. “For the first time, Southern voters, Black voters and rural voters have had the chance to have their voices heard first.”

Biden called in to his victory party from Los Angeles.

U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn, whose 2020 endorsement catapulted Biden to the White House, held his cellphone up to a microphone, but reporters stationed in the back couldn’t hear what the president said.

“In 2020, it was the voters of South Carolina who proved the pundits wrong, breathed new life into our campaign and set us on the path to winning the presidency,” Biden said in a statement.

“Now, in 2024, the people of South Carolina have spoken again, and I have no doubt that you have set us on the path to winning the presidency again and making Donald Trump a loser again.”

The result of Democrats’ “firstin-the-nation” presidential primary was never in doubt, with Biden running against two extreme-long-shot candidates: U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips and author Marianne Williamson.

Even when Phillips spoke to South Carolina Democrats, he said he fully expected 95% of the vote would go to Biden.

BIDEN CRUISES IN BEAUFORT COUNTY

Much like the rest of the state, President Joe Biden cruised to an easy win in Beaufort County, receiving 96.94% (5,665) of the 5,844 votes cast. Marianne Williamson claimed 97 votes, and Dean Phillips nabbed 82 votes. The county’s votes were all totaled when the final precinct’s (Daufuskie Island) votes were added to the tally at 10:49 p.m.

Statewide, according to the state of South Carolina’s election website SCVotes.gov, Biden won with 96.22% of the votes (126,321). Williamson had 2.08% (2,726) and Phillips had 1.71% (2,239).

Statewide voter turnout was at 4.09 percent. The turnout was 4.27% in Beaufort County.

Poll workers at Burton 2A and 2B sit patiently and wait for voters to cast their ballots during the Democratic Party Presidential Primary on Saturday at Community Bible Church. Bob Sofaly/The Island News Still, Democratic officials and the Biden campaign went all out with get-out-the-vote efforts that focused on energizing Black voters, who make up a large part of South Carolina’s Democratic base. The party touted that a “six-figure” investment in radio, digital and outdoor advertising in South Carolina represented its earliest ever spending during a presidential contest on outreach to young, rural and Black voters.

That outreach effort continued after polls opened Saturday, as Biden called in to four Black radio stations across the state, his campaign announced.

Civic duty Janae Epps, a 47-year-old University of South Carolina employee, said she was flooded with messages to vote.

“I got so many text messages that I’m kind of sick of them, and emails, that some of them I’ve opted out of,” she said, after voting at Irmo Elementary in suburban Co-

The Port Royal precincts 1 and 2 reported very slow voter participation for the Democratic Party Presidential Primary on Saturday at Port Royal Town Hall. As of noon only 31 voters had cast their ballots. One poll worker said, “I doubt we’ll get 60 today.” Bob Sofaly/The Island News

Lowdown

these democratic exercises that seem to draw more media attention than voters.

lumbia.

Biden visited twice himself, kicking off the campaign at the historic Black church in Charleston where a white supremacist gunned down nine worshipers in 2015. He returned last weekend to headline the Democrats’ “First-in-the-Nation Celebration” dinner. Other stops included a Black barber shop and, on Sunday, two Black churches.

Vice President Kamala Harris made three trips, the last on Friday at South Carolina State University, the state’s only public historically Black four-year college.

With Biden being the guaranteed winner, voters told the S.C. Daily Gazette a sense of civic duty is what brought them out to the polls.

“I try to vote every chance possible,” Robin Mays said after voting in rural Hopkins south of Columbia.

The 37-year-old nurse said she’s well aware that people who looked like her — being a “double whammy” of Black and female — were once kept from voting, so she regularly exercises her right.

Mays said she voted for Biden.

So did Sam Waters, a 79-year-old retiree who voted at Dreher High School in downtown Columbia.

“I’ve seen what he’s done for the nation in the last three years, and I can’t imagine jumping ship right now when he has a chance to continue the programs,” he said.

Perhaps surprisingly, Waters said he came out despite not seeing any of the get-out-the-vote messaging.

Besides Biden and Harris, others visiting the state as campaign surrogates included first lady Jill Biden; California Gov. Gavin Newsom; Harris’ husband, Doug Emhoff; former U.S. Sen. Doug Jones

retreats are used as a prelude for the coming budget discussions by from page A1 local government entities.

And during an election primary turnout will happen City Council retreat year – which this is for the in two weeks, on the 24th refocuses direction for County Council, school when the Republican future spending board and Beaufort City party has its primary.

BEAUFORT – Speaking Council – politicians Former Gov. Nikki Haley of tax dollars, Beaufort City generally shy away is counting on her fellow Manager Scott Marshall from any talk about tax South Carolinians to boost made an interesting increases. her campaign to challenge comment last week during Marshall didn’t say he former President Donald the city council’s two-day and the finance officers Trump for the party’s planning retreat. would be coming in with nomination.

Actually he made several a budget that depends on Again, the local polling interesting comments, but tax increases – most of places will be open and he pulled out the old cliché these local governments staffed from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. “expected to do more with are pretty good at finding At least the state is paying less” and put his twist on grants or increasing for the costs of running it “you only do less with “fees” – but his point was these special election less,” putting the council obvious after listening events, not the local on notice that approach to to the array of projects elections board. government services isn’t council members hope to But then again, those are realistic. implement. still our tax dollars funding These annual planning Improvements to

of Alabama, Housing and Urban Development Secretary Marcia Fudge and U.S. Rep Ro Khanna of California.

Keeping South Carolina first Democrats pushed South Carolina to the front of the 2024 nominating contest because of its diversity, saying Palmetto State voters better represent the party than Iowa and New Hampshire, whose voters traditionally went first and second.

National Chairman Jaime Harrison, who’s from Columbia, pitched it as an opportunity for Black voters, “the heart and the backbone of the Democratic Party,” to set the agenda for 2024 and beyond. Democrats needed a strong showing Saturday to keep South Carolina first in future presidential contests.

“I’m going to do everything in my power” to make that happen, Harrison told reporters at the fairgrounds.

“I am ecstatic at the turnout numbers I’ve seen so far,” he said.

This year’s calendar shift also was seen as Biden rewarding the state. It was South Carolina that catapulted Biden to a win in 2020 with a 30-point advantage here over second-place finisher Bernie Sanders, following fourth- and fifthplace finishes in Iowa and New Hampshire.

Voters in South Carolina do not register by party, allowing the state’s 3.2 million registered voters to vote in either the Democratic or Republican presidential primary.

They just can’t vote in both.

More than 48,000 people cast ballots in the two-week early voting window that ended Friday, according to the state Election Commission.

Although the Democratic National Committee put South Car-

the Pigeon Point Park playground equipment, the Pigeon Point boat ramp, the 1st S.C. Volunteers Park on Boundary, drainage work on Duke Street and at Battery Shores – the list coming from the retreat was extensive.

Mayor Phil Cromer had his own summation: “we got a lot of projects but not a lot of money.”

Marshall, who celebrated his first anniversary with the city last month, also made what he called a “radical” proposals to change the format of city council meetings. To start with, his suggestion to reduce formal council meetings from two to once a month, augmented by one council work session, was favorably received.

The Board of Voter Registration and Elections of Beaufort County will conduct a hand-count audit for the Democratic primary at 10 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 6, at the Board of Voter Registration and Elections of Beaufort County’s main office at 15 John Galt Road, Beaufort.

According to the Board of Voter Registration and Elections, “the purpose of a hand-count audit is to ensure the number of ballots cast was accurately recorded by the tabulation device. Additionally, the audit ensures that the number of votes cast for a particular candidate was accurately recorded by the tabulation device.”

Audited precincts and offices are selected by the Board of Voter Registration and Elections of Beaufort County and are published on www.

BeaufortCountySC.gov/vote.

The Board will conduct the canvass and certification hearings for the Beaufort County results of the Democratic Presidential Preference Primary (PPP) at 9 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 8 in the same location.

– Mike McCombs, The Island News

olina first on the voting calendar, New Hampshire leapfrogged South Carolina to go first anyway. Biden refused to register for that primary or campaign in the state but won as a write-in anyway with 64% of the vote.

Nearly 79,500 people wrote in Biden’s name in the Granite State.

Ahead of Biden being declared the South Carolina winner, Clyburn said he will ask Democrats’ rules committee to count New Hampshire’s delegates despite the state’s snub of the official calendar.

“That what Joe Biden has done for three years — making this country’s greatness accessible for everybody and affordable by everybody,” Clyburn said.

According to Biden’s schedule, he will spend Sunday and Monday in Nevada ahead of that state’s presidential primary Tuesday.

Abraham Kenmore is a reporter covering elections, health care and more. He joins the SC Daily Gazette from The Augusta Chronicle, where he reported on Georgia legislators, military and housing issues.

The Port Royal town council already has that schedule – a work session on the first Wednesday of the month, a council meeting on the second Wednesday. Special meetings as needed.

Marshall also suggested limiting the public comment periods during meetings to five minutes, something Beaufort County County already does although they have a 15-minute limit. Another suggestion was to create a special agenda section for consent items, a feature Beaufort County Council instituted two years ago to shorten the length of meetings.

A quarterly capital projects update work session was another

recommendation, designed to give the city elected officials progress reports on the multitude of projects going on.

The Council will have to vote on a resolution to accept these suggestions at some future meeting but if last week’s discussion was any reflection, we can expect to see shorter meetings.

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.

FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

A5

NEWS

New business soon to let the dogs out in downtown Beaufort

By Mike McCombs The Island News The empty building at 223 Scott Street is going to the dogs.

Hot dogs.

The downtown Beaufort building, home most recently to Amidst The Alders, which moved to Port Royal, is currently be remodeled and will be home to HopDog, a gourmet hot dog restaurant and beer garden.

Lost Local owner Alex Velasco and his wife, Alison Velasco, as well as his 2-year-old daughter, Winter, he joked,

are the owners of the new establishment expected to open sometime this spring, hopefully March. (But don’t hold him to it, he said.) Planning for the business to be located next to Rain -N- Bagels, began in November.

The work is already visible in front of the building, where a tree was recently removed and has been replaced by pea gravel and four-by-four posts where the beer garden will be. There will be seating, as well as a bartop, in the outdoor area. Inside, Velasco said, there will be seating

and counter service, as well.

Velasco said in addition to the food, there will be 20 beers on tap, as well as a full bar. He hopes to host live music, as well. But he said the establishment will remain family friendly.

“It’s just a cool outdoor space where you can bring your dog or bring your kids, enjoy a beer and have a good time downtown,” Velasco said.

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

Trees and grass were cleared, gravel was spread and posts were erected in front of 223 Scott Street in downtown Beaufort. The building is being repurposed for a gourmet hot dog restaurant and beer garden called HopDog, which should open sometime this spring. Mike McCombs/The Island News

Marsh Madness oyster roast set for March 9 Proceeds benefit Port Royal Sound Foundation’s research programs

Proceeds from Marsh Madness will support Port Royal Sound Foundation’s advancing research to ensure local marshes and the Port Royal Sound remain healthy for decades to come. Photo courtesy of Port Royal Sound Foundation

By Courtney McDermott Special to The Island News Turn off the game, put down your brackets and experience a different kind of spring celebration at the inaugural “Marsh Madness,” set for Saturday, March 9, from 4 to 7 p.m., in the Weezie Educational Pavilion at the Maritime Center and benefiting the Port Royal Sound Foundation’s (PRSF) expanding research programs.

Featuring oysters and barbeque from Sea Eagle Market, locally brewed beer from Shellring Ale Works, and live Bluegrass music with the Sea Island Ramblers, the event will serve as the kick-off to the spring rebirth of Lowcountry marsh grasses and will support important research programs

United Way of the Lowcountry hosting poverty simulation

From staff reports United Way of the Lowcountry, in collaboration with St. Andrew By-The-Sea United Methodist Church (SABTS) and Beaufort-Jasper Economic Opportunity Commission, is hosting a Lowcountry Poverty Simulation.

This free event offers a unique opportunity for participants to immerse themselves in the realities of poverty, gaining valuable insights into the challenges faced by many in our community.

Scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 24, from noon to 3 p.m., the Poverty Simulation will take place at St. Andrew By-The-Sea United Methodist Church located at 20 Pope Avenue, Hilton Head Island.

The Poverty Simulation will provide participants with a firsthand experience of life on the edge of poverty. Through role-playing and interactive scenarios, attendees will step into the shoes of simulated families, navigating challenges such as job searches, transportation issues, childcare, and unexpected expenses. They will also engage with various community resources including banks, grocery stores, social services, and healthcare providers, experiencing the

stress and uncertainty of living paycheck to paycheck.

By participating in the Poverty Simulation, attendees will gain valuable insights into the complex realities of poverty and its impact on individuals and families. They will also learn about the systemic barriers that hinder upward mobility and perpetuate poverty, as well as the crucial role of community resources and support systems.

Most importantly, participants will discover the transformative power of empathy and understanding in addressing poverty.

The event is free and open to everyone, including businesses, government agencies, faith communities, school groups, and individuals. It is ideal for those seeking a deeper understanding of poverty, empathy-building, advocacy, and community equity.

Space is limited. Please register at https://bit.ly/3Ow05L1 by Monday, Feb. 19.

that help us understand this critical ecosystem.

“Our saltmarshes are the foundation of the entire Port Royal Sound ecosystem, providing food and habitats for almost every living thing in our waters,” PRSF Executive Director Jody Hayward said. “Marsh Madness will be a fun, new tradition for the community that celebrates our saltmarsh with great food and bluegrass.”

Proceeds from Marsh Madness will support an important part of Port Royal Sound Foundation’s mission: advancing research to ensure local marshes and the Port Royal Sound remain healthy for decades to come. Funds will facilitate the expansion of the PRSF’s research programs, including the

GIVING BACK ‘ON THE GREEN’

Willie Walker of St. Helena Island prepares for community members to visit his business table at the Sea Islands Heritage Academy Community Give Back Event on the Green on Saturday, Jan. 20 at Martin Luther King Jr. Park on St. Helena Island. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

Careers from page A1

An instructor talks to the girls before they make terrariums during the science session at the American Association of University Women, Beaufort Chapter’s annual STEAM Day held at USC Beaufort on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024.

Amber Hewitt/The Island News A6

FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

Citizen Science Program, which currently boasts more than 100 local volunteers who routinely sample water at dozens of locations around the watershed to help researchers gain a better understanding of our Port Royal Sound.

Marsh Madness tickets are $45 per person and include oysters, barbeque, and non-alcoholic beverages. A cash bar will also be available at the event. Tickets can be purchased online at www.PortRoyalSoundFoundation.org. This event is open to the public, age 21 and older.

The Weezie Educational Pavilion is located on the campus of the PRSF Maritime Center at 310 Okatie Highway, Okatie.

that will propel them into career paths opened only recently to women.”

The daylong event, had students making terrariums, learning how to take and edit photographs on their phones and learning about coding.

“All of the girls enjoyed participating in the activities, but it was really interesting when something didn’t work how it was supposed to and the girls began to investigate to figure out why it wasn’t working and how to fix it,” Herbert said.

This year the event was only open to middle school-aged girls who attend public, charter and pri-

vate schools in northern Beaufort County, but Herbert said they have considered expanding the event to include students from all over Beaufort County in the future.

“This age group is important because it is when the students begin to choose courses that will lead them on the path to their future careers,” Herbert said. “We want them to look beyond what they know to that which will provide them opportunities that they don’t know.”

For more information about the AAUW Beaufort Chapter, email jherbertaauw@gmail.com.

Delayna Earley formerly worked as a photojournalist for The Island Packet/The Beaufort Gazette, as well as newspapers in Indiana and Virginia. She can be reached at delayna.theislandnews@gmail.com.

NEWS

Beaufort pilot said “engine failure” caused her January plane crash

By Delayna Earley The Island News The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) updated their preliminary investigation report about a plane crash involving a Beaufort woman in Colleton County in January with information submitted by the husband of the woman flying the plane.

The pilot, who also owned the Piper PA-28R-201 plane, was not available to be interviewed regarding the Jan. 2, 2024, plane crash due to her injuries, so her husband provided a written account of what happened for her.

The woman is not named in the report, but according to the Federal Aviation Association’s website, the plane is registered to Theresa McDonald of Beaufort.

Per the report, McDonald was communicating with Beaufort Marine Corps Air Station Radar Approach Control when she declared an emergency due to “engine failure.”

The controller she was communicating with offered her several landing options, but she was not able to comply due to time and end up crash landing on private property near Green Pond, S.C., in a pond.

The property owner told investigators that he was in his yard when he heard the plane hit several trees as it nose-dived into a small pond in his yard.

He said that the engine was no

Meeting from page A1

the docks and piers connected to the Marina. It was his impression that they would have their permit within two months, and that construction itself would take five to nine months.

But Willis agreed, clearly, the most important topic was where Safe Harbor stands on the Bluff neighborhood. They appear not to be married to the build-torent neighborhood.

“Obviously, the majority of people in town are opposed to it,” Willis said.

Safe Harbor purchased the 317-acre Port of Port Royal site along Battery Creek more than two years ago, in several transactions, for a total exceeding $20.5 million, according to county records, from Grey Ghost Properties, LLC. The overall development plan involves a residential component. The Beach Company was hired to complete this part of the development.

It was at an Aug. 9, 2023,

McDonald took off from Runway 7 at the Beaufort Executive Airport (ARW) in Beaufort at around 10:54 a.m.

At around 2,800 feet, the airplane leveled for a short time before beginning a descent and making a left turn to start heading toward a westbound track.

Track data was lost at about 11:07 a.m. following continued descent and a decrease in groundspeed.

“Examination of photographs revealed that the airplane sustained substantial damage to the engine compartment, firewall and cockpit areas,” the report said.

There was no evidence of fire.

The right wing was impact damaged and partially separated and the left wing was submerged and not visible.

The NTSB recovered the plane and has retained it for further examination.

McDonald held a private pilot certificate with a rating for airplane single-engine land.

According to the report, her A plane crashed in rural Colleton County just after taking off from the Beaufort Executive Airport on Tuesday, Jan. most recent FAA third-class med2, 2024. The pilot, who apparently experienced mechanical issues, suffered multiple injuries. Photo courtesy of ical certificate was issued to her on Colleton County Fire-Rescue Nov. 30, 2023, and she declared 300 total hours of flight experilonger running when the plane She was in critical condition management before flying her ence at that time. struck the tree. when paramedics arrived and with from the scene to the Medical UniFollowing the crash, he ran to help from bystanders, she was re- versity of South Carolina (MUSC) Delayna Earley formerly worked as a help the injured woman, who was moved from the plane, transported in Charleston. photojournalist for The Island Packet/The the sole occupant of the plane. to a CARE Flight medical heliAccording to preliminary AuBeaufort Gazette, as well as newspapers in The pilot was unconscious and copter nearby where they admin- tomatic Dependent Surveillance Indiana and Virginia. She can be reached at suffered multiple injuries. istered whole blood and airway – Broadcast (ADS-B) track data, delayna.theislandnews@gmail.com.

town projects planned in conjunction with those developments that town officials had no way of assessing, such as the commercial dock, a seafood processing plant and the extension of the Spanish Moss Trail through the Port property.

Phillips set deadlines for Safe Harbor’s responses to various part of the letter, and he said publicly and in the letter that despite the concerns outlined, his goal was a good relationship with Safe Harbor. The letter resulted in the Feb. 1 meeting.

While no distinct promises were made by Safe Harbor regarding the Neighborhood Bluff in the Feb. 1 meeting, Phillips said, A rendering completed by Allison Ramsey Architects of residential development proposed for the Safe Harbor project in Port Royal. “They clearly want a good Rendering courtesy of The Beach Company working relationship with the Town, and everyone in Town Council meeting that the plan is a good idea.” gally they might not have Phillips’ Dec. 14, 2023, the room felt good about The Beach Company first The concern over Safe the ability to later. letter was a lengthy one and what had been said during divulged plans for a build- Harbor’s development and Phillips was elected may- cited a long list of the Town’s the meeting.” to-rent neighborhood with the build-to-rent proposal or in November. concerns about the developScott Graber is a lawyer, novelist, 205 townhouses and 34 sin- by the Beach Company were After an executive session ment. But the “build-to-rent” veteran columnist and longtime gle-family homes. a major part in Phillips’ cam- at the Dec. 13, 2023, Town neighborhood was not the Phillips has said that pro- paign for Mayor in the fall. Council meeting, the Coun- only concern. resident of Port Royal. He can be posal took the Town Council Phillips, an attorney himself, cil announced that it had aureached at cscottgraber@gmail.com.

Willis emphasized that by surprise. He told the Post repeatedly made the asser- thorized a letter to Safe Har- only the development of And Courier in January that, tion that if Port Royal didn’t bor, but the contents of the the neighborhood and the Mike McCombs is the Editor of he hadn’t “met a single per- say no to the “build-to-rent” letter were not immediately marina had been discussed, The Island News and can be reached son in Port Royal that thinks neighborhood now, that le- made public. while there were numerous at TheIslandNews@gmail.com.

FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

A7

VOICES Editor’s Note: The opinions of our columnists in the Voices section are not necessarily the opinions of The Island News.

I

Sometimes it takes courage to be a ‘Chicken Little’

picked up my most recent edition of The Island News with great anticipation because I saw that many of my fellow columnists had contributed to this issue as well as others I hadn’t seen before. After reading each column, some more than once, I decided to back-burner a partially-written piece I had been working on, and instead go with a response to those that begged for my attention.

Terry Manning chose to address the idea that “who we choose to lead matters.” I might add that I believe who we choose also reflects who we are, or maybe better expressed with the old adage that “one is judged by the company he keeps.”

Terry references a podcast he heard while driving. This featured a conversation between Joe Biden and Conan O’Brien in which the subject of the President’s stutter came up. Biden was just a child, but with his mother’s guidance, he came to understand that an impediment didn’t define him.

But more importantly, the President said this: “In our family we weren’t allowed to make fun of anyone, regardless of how mean they were to us.”

Anyone reading this surely was reminded of the shot of Donald Trump mimicking a physically impaired reporter, early in his campaign. Apparently, the former President didn’t learn that lesson as a child.

Jimmy Carter was also a part of Mr. Manning’s column. I have always maintained that Carter was entirely too moral to occupy the Presidency. I can vividly remember the various comments, mostly condescending, when President Carter admitted that he had “lusted in his heart.” The man was simply being truthful, a lost art in politics, but that made him the

confronting our country may be naive.

First, the emphasis on your belief that ours is not a democracy but rather a Representative Constitutional Republic sent me to the Internet immediately. I admit that while my minor in colCAROL LUCAS lege was history, I knew I needed a refresher. And indeed, you are right on target as I discovered object of ridicule. the following: “By definition, a reTerry also referenced the incipublic is a representative form of dent between a woman and John government that is ruled accordMcCain where the former wanted ing to a charter, or constitution, to declare that Obama was an and a democracy is a government Arab. McCain shut her down that is ruled according to the will instantly with words that stated of the majority. Although these the decency of Obama, but even forms of government are often more so, emphasized the decency confused, they are quite different. of McCain. But then, we need to You went on to say that it irks remember that McCain was just you when people do not know one of those losers who let himthe difference, and that is underself be caught! standable. But more important Kudos, Mr. Manning, for reto my way of thinking isn’t the minding us that indeed, leading our country requires compassion, fine line between the two, but rather the single word, “dictatornot bullying; empathy, not disdain; scruples over self-adulation. ship.” I might point out it was Mr. The next article I read was that Trump’s threat of a dictatorship (remember it was he who used of Jim Dickson. Now if you, the that word – shouldn’t we ask ourreader, have read this newspaper selves why he would choose that over a period of time, you have particular word?) that generated probably determined somewhere our concern. Furthermore, his along the way that Mr. Dickson comments on the Constitution cry and I reflect opposite ends of the out for our attention. political spectrum. That is good, “A Massive Fraud of this type as it reflects a valuable source of and magnitude allows for the varying opinions, just as a great termination of all rules, regulanewspaper should.

Mr. Dickson declares in his title, tions, and articles, even those found in the Constitution,” Trump “The Sky is falling … don’t you wrote. “Our great ‘Founders’ did believe it.” Now what I am about not want, and would not condone, to say is in no way meant to be confrontational, nor is it put forth False & Fraudulent Elections!”

It was Liz Cheney, decidedly with anything other than respect conservative, who said, “Donfor the author, his opinion, and ald Trump believes we should certainly respect for his service terminate “all rules, regulations to our country. What I am going to begin with is this: Mr. Dickson, and articles, even those found in the Constitution” to overturn while the sky may not be falling, the 2020 election. That was his the clouds are certainly lowering, view on 1/6 and remains his view and I want to tell you why I think your attempt to minimize what is today. No honest person can now

deny that Trump is an enemy of the Constitution.”

Thus I humbly submit that Mr. Trump will attack a Representative Constitutional Republic or a democracy if it benefits him and leads the way to his dictatorship.

So, who are we to believe?

Donald? Liz? With the election mere months ahead, I respectfully suggest we pay attention to the stance of the apparent GOP candidate, and take him at his word.

There are those who want to compare the actions and rhetoric of Donald Trump to that of Adolf Hitler. In an effort to discover whether or not this is valid, again I hit the Internet to find fair coverage of Hitler’s rise. I will attempt to make the timeline as brief and succinct as possible.

Hitler’s entry into politics from the German Army occurred in 1920. In the German Workers Party he undertook responsibility for publicity and propaganda, and changed the party’s name to the National Socialist German Workers Party, (or Nazi for short).

In 1921, he became the new leader of the Nazis, and by 1923 he, along with other right-wing factions, attempted to overthrow the Bavarian government with an armed uprising. The following day, the Nazis marched in the streets, and the police opened fire.

Hitler escaped but was captured, tried for treason and served 9 months.

It was during his imprisonment that he began dictating his thoughts to Rudolf Hess, which emerged in the book Mein Kampf (my struggle). It is a mixture of autobiography, political ideology and an examination of the techniques of propaganda.

In 1925, Hitler reestablished the Nazi party, and by 1930 in the general election, the Nazi party increased its representation in

parliament from 14 to 107. He was leader of the second largest party in Germany. Two years later he became a German citizen, thus enabling him to run for President, and a year after that he became chancellor of a coalition government.

It was at this time Hitler sought enactment of The Enabling Act which gave the powers of legislation to Hitler’s cabinet for four years, making him a virtual dictator. He proclaimed the Nazi Party was the only political party permitted in Germany. All other parties and trade unions were disbanded. Individual German states lost any autonomous powers, while Nazi officials became state governors.

In October of 1933, Adolf Hitler withdrew from the League of Nations and tripled the size of the German Army.

I don’t feel it is necessary to go into details of the late 1930s and the emergence of World War II. It is my intent, however, to establish what I believe is a remarkable parallel between the actions of Donald Trump, and those of Adolf Hitler in his climb to a dictatorship.

One need only to look at key ideas like withdrawal from a world organization, propaganda, uprising and treason to gain a sense of purpose in both men.

And so, as the European folktale of “Chicken Little” implies, have the courage, even when it feels like the sky is falling, to do what must be done. This chick(en) intends to vote in the Republican primary for Nikki Haley in an effort to keep that sky intact.

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.”

A truly independent SC judiciary requires changing the panel that screens judges

B

oth our House and Senate are considering reform of South Carolina’s judicial selection process.

At present our Legislature elects all state judges other than magistrates and probate judges. Election follows evaluation by the Judicial Merit Selection Committee (JMSC), which is currently dominated by legislators. The JMSC forwards three qualified candidates to the General Assembly for a vote.

A House ad hoc committee has already heard many hours of testimony.

Solicitors spoke of perceived abuse of the courts by lawyer legislators. The League of Women Voters made recommendations from a very different perspective, that of underlying constitutional principles.

However, we reached similar conclusions.

Among those conclusions — the membership of the JMSC should exclude legislators, and the list of qualified candidates sent by the JMSC to legislators for a vote should be expanded.

The reasoning of the League of Women Voters is simple. When we reject public election of judges (as we believe we should), the responsibility for selection falls to the other branches of government.

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FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

LYNN TEAGUE

However, each branch must be sufficiently independent to provide checks and balances for the others.

Therefore, the role of the legislative and executive branches must be narrowly tailored to select well-qualified jurists without exerting excessive influence over the judicial branch.

Evaluating qualifications does not require legislative or executive branch membership on the JMSC. Instead, well-qualified independent experts in the law and ethics should serve in this role. They might be appointed by legislators and the governor, but they should not be actively serving in either branch of government.

Not everyone agrees.

Rep. Micah Caskey, chairman of the JMSC, read a memo at the last meeting of the House committee that said in part: “As envisioned by the Founders of this country, ... our branches of government must always be in a cooperative tension with

S.C. Supreme Court Justice John Kittredge is questioned by the Judicial Merit Selection Commission on Nov. 6, 2023, about becoming the next chief justice. The panel’s chairman (left) is Rep. Micah Caskey, R-West Columbia. The panel’s vice-chairman (right) is Senate Judiciary Chairman Luke Rankin, R-Myrtle Beach. Mary Ann Chastain/Special to the S.C. Daily Gazette each other. ... I believe that it is important that some majority of the seats on the JMSC be held by legislators or legislator-appointees.”

What we have now is not “cooperative tension.”

We note Chief Justice Don Beatty’s dissent last August in the case of Planned Parenthood South Atlantic, et al. v. State of South Carolina, et al.: [The majority opinion] has taken the extraordinary step of disregarding

this Court’s precedent as it struggles to justify its legally inconsistent result.

This not only weakens the stability and reliance value of the law in this state, but ultimately undermines judicial independence and the integrity of the Court as an institution. ... As previously noted, the fear of legislative reprisal is palpable.

The lack of judicial independence renders a court powerless and places it on the edge of a slippery slope to irrelevance.

Sadly, the House committee did not choose to recommend removal of legislators from membership in the JMSC. Some recommendations — for example, term limits for JMSC members — are useful but not sufficient to ensure independence.

The committee did recommend expanding the number of qualified candidates submitted to legislators for consideration. This could reduce the potential for manipula-

tion of the system and improve the chances that our judiciary will not be made up of a narrow segment of our society.

A judiciary that deserves the public trust should accurately reflect the perspectives and life experiences of a wide range of South Carolinians.

These JMSC reforms are not by themselves sufficient.

Other changes in both statute and General Assembly rules are badly needed.

The work of both House and Senate continues.

We hope that these mighty labors produce change worthy of the effort, but they will do so only if they are grounded in real respect for the independent role of the judiciary.

Lynn Shuler Teague was born in Orangeburg, grew up in Columbia, and moved to New Mexico in 1968.

She is a professional archaeologist and was on the faculty of the Arizona State Museum at the University of Arizona for many years. She and her husband returned to South Carolina when they retired. Since 2012, she has served as a vice president of the League of Women Voters of S.C. and volunteer League lobbyist at the Statehouse, working especially on the voting and election issues central for the League. She has directed the League’s work on redistricting since 2017.

VOICES Editor’s Note: The opinions of our columnists in the Voices section are not necessarily the opinions of The Island News.

I

Delivery is as big an issue as the content

t is Wednesday, wet, and I’m sitting in our dining room looking out into a fog hanging just above the marsh. I have my coffee — Black Dog Sumatra Mandheling — and the Wall Street Journal.

This morning the Journal tells us that Netflix added 13.3 million subscribers in the last quarter and now has a total of 260 million subscribers worldwide. Additionally Netflix announced it intends to spend $17 billion on “content” this coming year.

These astounding numbers sent their stock climbing and one would think these entertainment providers would be fat, happy, contented. But one would be wrong on that score.

Netflix knows that most viewers prefer live action programs like football and live competitions — think “American Idol” — instead of the ever-predictable romantic comedy. They know that a single football game, even if it’s the pitiful Jets versus the pathetic Panthers, can draw as many as 19 million viewers. They know a live event with some action, a little violence and a doubtful outcome is

W

of the legacy networks — NBC, CBS or ABC. But streamers like Netflix, Amazon and Peacock want into the “live action” vineyards that have long been the exclusive preserve of commercial supported conventional SCOTT GRABER television.

Commercial-interrupted television is being abanaddictive, essential. doned by millions who Take Sunday Night Foot- are running to the exits. ball. This weekly football Young people have forsakgame routinely draws in 20 en “Morning Joe” as well million viewers — one third as nightly newscasts — one of whom are Black, Latino can tell that is true from the or Asian, 36% are women.

Big Pharma advertising that While traditional television pervades these news shows. usage is in a ratings death Our cellphone toting kids spiral, NFL viewership is up have ended their subscripby 5 or 6 percent this year. tions to newspapers — printSo Netflix is getting into ed and digital — if they ever the live action business did subscribe. Now kids rely with international rights to on Spotify, YouTube and “Smackdown” and “WresTikTok to the extent that tleMania.” “Smackdown” they consume news at all. comes with its own theme The most fascinating song, augmented graphpart of this story is the fact ics and theatrical combat that YouTube and TikTok between good and evil. It is make very few of their own religiously watched — from videos. They rely on free Mexico to Pakistan — by “content” that is provided young men seeking a reby anyone with a cellphone lease in the same manner as and an imagination. In the Roman citizens sought their case of YouTube 2.5 billion release at the Coliseum. users around the world For most of my life I watch more than one billion watched my college and hours of video each day. professional football; my When these visual novbaseball and tennis on one elties go out in microburst

Young people have forsaken 'Morning Joe' as well as nightly newscasts — one can tell that is true from the Big Pharma advertising that pervades these news shows.

Our cellphone-toting kids have ended their subscriptions to newspapers — printed and digital — if they ever did subscribe. Now kids rely on Spotify, YouTube, and TikTok to the extent that they consume news at all.” format, YouTube monitors who is watching what — computers and algorithms make this possible — and then YouTube can target that same viewer with advertising that he or she is likely to watch.

This form of entertainment is so cheap (they hardly make anything much less a movie or a football game) and so profitable (they know what their watcher wants to buy) that Google has become a force majeure that has energized the American Stock Market.

It may be obvious that Americans don’t make toasters and televisions anymore; but we do make entertainment for the rest of the world. And those growth stocks have

propped-up our economy.

There is a cloud.

In addition to the Chinese-owned TikTok, American-owned Google (YouTube) is turning our book-reading, piano-playing, soccer ball-kicking, mountain bike-riding children into watchers — full time watchers of homemade videos that often involve cats — as well as podcasts, music and video games. Statistics reveal that American children watch some kind of screen (television, computer, cell phone) five to seven hours every day.

Much of this watching features videos and news in small, colorful microbursts of information. These come with a good bit of misinfor-

I gave it my best try, Dad

hen I was a young man starting out into the world my father gave me a piece of advice. “Most people are not nearly as dumb as you think they are, it’s wise to reserve judgment until you know all the reasons for their actions, because you may find out that you are the dumb one,” or something like that.

I am inclined to believe that he lifted that from Confucius or maybe Ben Franklin, even though he was a pretty wise man himself.

Wherever it came from, it’s still pretty good advice and has served me well over the years, when I wasn’t too dumb forget it.

This morning when I picked up my Wall Street Journal and read that the Biden administration had announced a pause on every new pending permit for liquefied natural gas export terminal in the United States, which usually means in bureaucratize, to delay until it dies. I immediately thought to myself, of all the dumb things they have done over the

JIM DICKSON

past three years of so, this races to the top of the dumb list.

Then I remembered my fathers wise words, and thought wait; there must be some good reasons for doing this. Although my intentions were pure, my first thoughts were of the reasons why we would want to produce and export more natural gas.

1. It provides millions of dollars in profits and taxes paid to both the federal and state governments.

2. It is part of energy independence which enhances our national defense posture and makes us stronger.

3. It provides thousands of

good high paying jobs for Americans.

4. The use of gas-powered electric generation has allowed Americans to lead the world in the reduction of carbon emissions.

5. Most of the electricity generated in America comes from natural gas, it is a backup to wind when the wind doesn't blow, and solar when the sun doesn't shine, so we don’t have massive blackouts ... yet. If there is any merit to the breakneck race to have most cars and trucks electric by 2035, we need more all-weather power generation, not less.

6. When Russia invaded Ukraine and most of western Europe was dependent on Russian natural gas for heat and industrial purposes, we assured our allies that we would replace Russia, and supply them with an ongoing, dependable supply of natural gas. To do this we must have

more export terminals to load the ships that carry the gas to our friends, and we would not alienate them by breaking our word.

7. By replacing Russia as the major supplier, we deny them billions of dollars in profits that they can use to carry on the war in Ukraine and perhaps invade more of Eastern Europe.

mation and hate-inspired conspiracy. But it’s the delivery vehicle we should worry about.

If these numbers are anywhere close to accurate, your average teenager doesn’t have any interest in a slow-going, multi-generational, character-rich novel. But what is now being asked is whether this new generation of watchers will sit and watch a whole football game? If they are now getting everything they need in a 30-second video blast, will they watch a game that takes 3 hours?

Stay tuned!

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

it would turn that business back over to them, it’s worth billions to countries who hate us. Why Mr. Biden would want that I am not sure, but who knows. At that point in spite of my best efforts I ran out of gas, which maybe that in itself may be another good reason, but hard as I tried for the sake of my dear old Dad and his friend Confucius, I came right back to my original premise, that it was a really dumb, and dangerous idea.

That all made good common sense, but to be fair, I needed to get back to the good reasons that Mr. Biden had for shutting the permitting process down. Those Sorry dad, but I gave it my best answers didn’t come as easily, but try. right or wrong here is what I came up with.

Born, raised and educated in the Southwest, Jim Dickson served in the U.S. Navy Reserve 1. It would make Elizabeth in Vietnam before a 35-year business career.

Warren, AOC, Bernie Sanders Retired to St. Helena Island, Dickson and his and all of the Green New wife are fiscally conservative, socially moderate Deal people very happy, and and active in Republican politics, though they Mr. Biden is going to need may not always agree with Republicans. Having their support if he is to be lived around the country and traveled around re-elected in 2024. the world, Dickson believes that the United 2. Russia, Iran and Venezuela would all be happy because States truly is the land of opportunity.

Helping our clients navigate to success with expertise and accuracy.

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FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

A9

HEALTH & WELLNESS Options & References for a Healthier Life

wiseWORDS©

Handling Valentine’s Day when you have diabetes Sweet treats pose a challenge to those with diabetes come Valentine’s Day Celebrating a holiday can be challenging for those with diabetes, as sweet treats are a part of many holiday celebrations. Come Valentine’s Day, chocolates, candy, and rich desserts can often be found on the menu, which can prove problematic for those who have to watch their blood-glucose levels.

Diabetics may be tempted to indulge in too many sugary foods on Valentine’s Day. Fortunately, individuals do not have to put their health in jeopardy while celebrating this sweet day, as there are many healthy ways to celebrate with some minor tweaks.

• Focus on fun, not food. Rather than making food the focus of the day, shift your attention to all the fun things you can do with your valentine.

Fill the day with activities such as visiting a museum, or sightseeing. Even though the weather may be cold, it’s possible to enjoy the great outdoors. Dress appropriately and enjoy a walk in the park.

If you must retreat indoors, watch a romantic movie.

• Plan ahead when changing your diet. It’s often possible to work small amounts of a particular dessert or food into your normal meal plan by adjusting what you eat for

the rest of the day. If you plan ahead for a bite of chocolate, you can balance out sugar levels by eliminating something else. Keep tabs on your sugar levels throughout the day, and always weigh the benefits and drawbacks of the foods you eat.

• Include smart substitutions. Many favorite foods are available in low-sugar or sugarless varieties that are diabetic-friendly. Lean toward low-carb offerings and foods that are relatively low in fat.

Baking your own treats or cooking your own meals will give you greater control over the ingredients used in your recipes, and that can pay big dividends in terms of health.

• Send nonfood items into the classroom. Diabetes affects people of all ages. When sending valentines into the class for children, do not accompany the cards with chocolate kisses or other candies.

Instead, choose toys or keepsakes, such as heart-shaped erasers or scented stickers.

Moderation is key when managing diabetes around Valentine’s Day. Place a greater emphasis on time spent together, entertainment and socialization rather than potentially unhealthy treats.

careTALK©

Take care of your teeth— help prevent heart disease

Poor oral health—not regularly brushing or flossing— is unlikely to be the primary cause of heart disease. But poor oral health, combined with other risk factors may contribute to heart disease.

Bacteria on your teeth and gums could travel through your bloodstream and attach to fatty plaques in your arteries (atherosclerosis), making the plaques become more

swollen (inflamed). If one gums. Steps to good oral hyof the plaques bursts and giene include: causes a blood clot to form, • Brushing your teeth at you can have a heart attack least twice daily or stroke.

• Flossing your teeth It's possible that swelling daily in gums leads to swelling • Replacing your toothin other parts of your body, brush at least every including your arteries. This three months swelling can also contribute • Getting regular dental to heart disease. Regardless checkups, as recomof whether you have heart mended by your dentist disease, it's important to take care of your teeth and Source: NIH.gov/Medline

Do you need to consult with a cardiologist?

As people age, many start to experience more aches and pains throughout their bodies. While many symptoms can be chalked up to the natural aging process, it's important to pay special attention to the cardiovascular system.

"Heart Month is a great time of year to remind people that not all symptoms are created equal when it comes to our cardiovascular health," says Vinayak Nagaraja, M.B.B.S., interventional cardiologist at Mayo Clinic Health System.

"If you have any concerns about symptoms you may be experiencing, it's always a good idea to meet with your

primary care provider to determine if you should be referred to a cardiologist."

What are some warning signs for underlying problems?

Symptoms that suggest you may need a referral to a cardiologist include: • Chest discomfort.

• Shortness of breath.

• Swelling in your legs.

• High blood pressure.

• Abnormally fast or slow heart rate.

• Dizziness or fainting.

• Strong family history of premature heart disease or cardiac death.

• Leg pain or ulcers re-

sulting from blood ves- surgery, you may be referred to a cardiovascular surgeon sel diseases. who specializes in operaA cardiologist will evalu- tions on the heart, lungs, ate your symptoms, review and blood vessels. After you your medical history and recover from the surgery, may recommend diagnos- you will be sent back to your tic tests to appropriately cardiologist for long-term diagnose the cause of your monitoring and care.

"It may seem daunting symptoms. The cardiologist also will help your health- to think about being diagcare team evaluate the best nosed with a cardiovascular condition that requires surform of treatment for you.

Your individualized treat- gical intervention, but discovering and treating the isment plan could include: • Advice on diet and ex- sue early can save your life," says Dr. Nagaraja. ercise changes • Medications Source: https://newsnetwork.

• A cardiac procedure mayoclinic.org/discussion/symptomsthat-may-require-a-consultationIf your cardiologist dewith-a-cardiologist/ cides that you need cardiac

The content offered in this Care magazine® supplement are here to educate consumers on health care, wellness, lifestyle, and medical issues that may affect their daily lives. Nothing in the content, products or services should be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The articles, references and options contained herein do not constitute the practice of any medical, nursing, or other professional health care advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always talk to your health care provider for diagnosis and treatment, including your specific medical needs. None of the products or services offered through this publication represents or warrants that any particular service or product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. We advise readers to always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions regarding personal health or medical conditions.

—Care magazine® editor, caremagazine@gmail.com

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FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

HEALTH & WELLNESS Options & References for a Healthier Life

LOVE your HEART

Because of the upcoming Valentine’s Day holiday, you might spend time this month thinking about those you love and how to show your care for them. But in order to give our hearts to our loved ones, you must remember to love your own heart first.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. One method to avoid a deteriorating heart is to maintain a healthy weight.

TOPS Club, Inc. (Take Off Pounds SensiblySM), the nonprofit weight-loss support organization, with a “Real People. Real Weight Loss.®” philosophy, joins the nation in celebrating American Heart Month this February. Established by former President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964, American Heart Month encourages people to adopt healthy lifestyles to prevent heart disease.

Obesity increases the risk of heart disease by 28 percent, according to the National Institute for Health and Care Research. TOPS and its members know that shedding pounds does not happen overnight.

Maintaining a healthy weight means making lifestyle changes that last far beyond this month.

These are the most important areas to focus on to reduce the risk of heart issues:

LOCAL AREA CHAPTER AND MEETINGS: Beaufort Baptist Church (TOPS SC 0109) 601 Charles St. Social Hall Beaufort, SC 29902-5008 Thurdays: 6:30 p.m. Weigh in; 7 p.m. Program start time Advocate: Debra L. Wright debrawright1953@gmail.com (843) 478-2620

and attend a meeting—you’ll meet others who will give you support and encouragement to help you love your heart.

About TOPS®

than staying idle. You do not have to work out for 150 minutes at one time to meet the recommendation.

Try doing 10 minutes of exercise three times a day, or 30-minute workouts five days a week. That sounds more do-able.

It may be easy for some to incorporate activity into their day-to-day by taking easy steps. If you find yourself sitting at a desk during your workday, raise your legs from the floor for 10 seconds and rest or squat before you sit down. While you’re watching TV at night, lift some light weights. When you’re Exercise running errands, park farther away Get on your feet! Those who re- from the store and walk the extra main inactive are twice as likely to distance. Check out your local gym develop heart disease than those and inquire about fitness classes. who follow the recommended activity guidelines.

Healthy Eating While two and half hours, or 150 If you’re not sure where to beminutes, is suggested per week, gin when it comes to eating better, any physical fitness effort is better take a page from TOPS and refer

to MyPlate at myplate.gov. MyPlate is a visual reminder to make smart choices and exercise portion control from each of the five food groups—fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy.

Remember to get your fair share of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Your protein should include lean meats, like fish, skinless chicken, or skinless turkey. Look for the labels “fat-free” or ‘low-fat” on your dairy products. Limit your sugar, sweetener, saturated fat, and sodium intake.

When eating out, consider splitting a meal with a partner or ask for a salad or fruit instead of fries.

Stress Control

You may not even realize it, but stress has a lot to do with your weight. When we are anxious, it’s easier for us to overeat or overdrink, which sets us back when trying to

lose weight in a healthy manner.

Eating right and physical activity help keep our stress levels manageable, but it’s okay to pause, close your eyes, and take a few deep breaths when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Think about three things you are grateful for or find an inspiring quote or song and write it down so you can look back on it.

Support from Others

Engaging in regular physical fitness, eating healthier foods, and lowering your stress are successful when you have the support of friends and family. Taking a walk or a fitness class with a friend helps keep you accountable. Eating healthy foods is easier when those around you eat well. Stress is much more manageable when you have someone listening.

Find a TOPS chapter in your area (see box for local area info)

TOPS Club Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) promotes successful weight management with a “Real People. Real Weight Loss.®” philosophy that combines support from others at weekly chapter meetings, healthy eating, regular exercise, and wellness information.

Today there are about 75,000 members, including men, women, and international members who join chapter meetings in-person or online, with thousands of chapters in all 50 states. Online resources include news and information from the health and inspirational community, meal planning ideas, workouts, chapter resources, and more.

Visitors are welcome to attend their first TOPS meeting free of charge. Membership and nominal chapter fee is affordable, starting at $49 per year and half-priced memberships are available for eligible people in the same physical household of a full-price member, and for those who are blind/visually impaired. To learn more about TOPS visit www.tops.org, or call 800-932-8677.

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A11

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The School shall admit students of any race or sex to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the School and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, sex or age in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and other school administered programs.

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For more information, visit friendsofthebeaufortlibrary.com

What If God Was One of Us? A radio hit sparks a conversation at the office A surprising topic for a pop song.

In the 90s, Joan Osborne released the hit song “One of Us,” in which she wondered, “What if God was one of us? Just a stranger on the bus, trying to make his way home? …If God had a name, what would it be and would you call it to his face? …What would you ask if you had just one question?”

God did become one of us!

Mark explained to his coworker that this has indeed already happened. Two thousand years ago, God did enter the world and became one of us. He did look just like one of us, no different from anyone else in the crowd. You could look into his eyes and ask him any question. He did have a name: his name was Jesus.

“Wouldn’t that be a great idea for a story?”

A Christian author, Mark Shea, shares how this song began playing on his coworker’s radio one day at the office. The coworker looked thoughtful for a moment and then said, “Wouldn’t that be a great idea for a story?” Mark said, “What?” She replied, “Suppose God became a human being.

Wouldn’t that be a great idea for a story?”

This changes everything.

Mark’s coworker correctly grasped that, if God actually became one of us, this would be the most wonderful event that had ever happened in human history. How could the infinite God, without beginning or end, become part of finite creation? How could God, who the entire universe cannot contain, become an infant growing in Mary’s womb? And wouldn’t we want to know everything he did and said while on earth?

This is the astonishing belief at the heart of Christianity.

A number of the major world religions hold that their founders were inspired by God or taught on his behalf. But only Christianity declares that God has actually chosen to become one of us, entering the world as a human being. (John 1:14) The man known by historians as Jesus of Nazareth was different from all others in history, because he was truly God in our midst.

How extravagant is God’s love!

Instead of communicating once more through human messengers, God came to earth himself!

Rather than giving a little of himself, he gave himself completely. This is how much he loves us. This is how important each of us is to him.

Looking into the face of Jesus, calling him by name as a close friend, we discover joy that the world cannot take away!

Next Week Portrait of the Father

Reasons for Joy Message 4 of 8 70 Lady’s Island Drive, Beaufort • 843-522-9555 • www.stpetersbeaufort.org • office@stpetersbeaufort.org

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SPORTS&RECREATION

FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

THE HARD WORK OF ALL ATHLETES DESERVES RECOGNITION

B1

BOYS HOOPS ROUNDUP

USC Beaufort’s Qurahn Anderson, right, is fouled by Columbus State’s Jehloni James Wednesday, Jan. 31, at the Cove in Bluffton. It took the Sand Sharks four overtime periods to defeat the stubborn Cougars, 123118. The Sand Sharks improved to 10-7, 3-6 in the Peach Belt.

Bob Sofaly/The Island News

Sand Shark men outlast Cougars in 4 OT

A top-10 battle in Class 1A is scheduled Wednesday when No. 7 Whale Branch hosts No. 8 Bridges Prep with the No. 2 seed from Region

By Brackin Lambert uscbathletics.com BLUFFTON — USC Beaufort’s men's basketball has made The Cove one of the most exciting places to play in the Peach Belt Conference of late, following up an overtime thriller with USC Aiken a week earlier with a four-overtime marathon, defeating Columbus State, 123-118, on Jan. 31.

Marcus Overstreet had a career day with 36 points and 25 rebounds — both season-highs in the Peach Belt — and Larry Bulluck played in 55 of the 60 minutes and scored 25 points to go along with eight boards to help secure the win.

Qurahn Anderson had a stellar night with 16 points — including several thunderous slam dunks — while collecting nine rebounds.

"That's what those men do, Sand Sharks fight," coach Ron Fudala said after the game. "We continue to fight, no matter the score, no matter the situation. I could not be prouder of those men out there with the learning and growth, the teamwork. This was a tremendous fight for our team and a great team win."

Overstreet was in foul trouble late in the second half, but the 6-foot-9 freshman from Chicago played the final 24 minutes of

SEE PLAYOFFS PAGE B2

SEE SHARKS PAGE B2

After grabbing the rebound, Beaufort High School’s Guerin Willis looks to pass the ball during the second quarter against North Charleston on Friday night at the Eagles’ Nest. The Cougars won the game, 6960. The Eagles dropped to 9-10, 3-4 in Region 8-3A play. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

Eagles, Dolphins set for playoffs

LowcoSports.com They’ll have to be road warriors, but Beaufort High and Battery Creek’s boys will get a chance to do battle in the postseason.

The Eagles locked up the No. 3 seed from Region 8-3A with a 4838 win over Hanahan on Tuesday, finishing with a 4-4 region mark, and they went toe-to-toe with region champion North Charleston in a 69-

60 loss Friday.

The outstanding recent play of big men A.J. Newton and Brandon Blackmon makes the Eagles a tough matchup in the playoffs, along with dependable guards Amani Cleckley and Naiim Pope and electric wing Samari Bonds, who can take over a game at any moment.

The Dolphins will be the No. 4 seed after a 57-38 home loss to Philip

Simmons in the season finale Tuesday, splitting the season series with the Iron Horses.

Warriors, Bucs in top 10

GIRLS HOOPS ROUNDUP

Young Eagles taking flight

Beaufort High School’s Carson Crosby, left, shakes off the North Charleston defense just long enough to pass the ball during the first half of their Region 8-3A game Friday at the Eagles’ Nest. The Eagles lost to the Cougars, 52-34, dropping their record to 7-13, 4-3 in region play. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

LowcoSports.com Despite ending the regular-season with a 29-17 loss to Hanahan on Tuesday, Beaufort High’s girls continue to show improvement and will enter the Class 3A playoffs as a No. 3 seed after splitting their region slate.

Sophomore Carson Crosby has emerged as a serious post presence, posting four double-doubles in region play, including a 16-point, 15-rebound effort in a 52-34 win over North Charleston on Friday.

Junior Aubree Levi also had a big game against the Cougars with 13 points, while Davariyah Smith added nine points and 13 rebounds, and seventh-grade sensation Da’leah Laboard contributed six points.

Regardless of what happens this postseason, the Eagles have a stable of talent to keep an eye on next season.

JPII’s Mahoney, Henderson setting records

Brady Mahoney has been a mainstay for John Paul II girls basketball for years, and she is putting an impressive final stamp on her career as it winds down, putting the Golden Warriors in position for a playoff run in SCISA 3A. Mahoney put up huge numbers in four wins over an eight-day span, averaging 26.3 points and 12 rebounds to lead JPII past Beaufort Academy, Hilton Head Prep, Andrew Jackson Academy, and Thomas Heyward.

After posting 30 points, 16 rebounds, and five steals in an 80-28 win over BA, Mahoney was limited by foul trouble in a 62-53 victory at Hilton Head Prep but still managed 16 points and eight rebounds.

She racked up 31 points and 11 rebounds in

a 63-17 rout of Andrew Jackson Academy, then collected 28 points and 13 rebounds in a 62-13 rout of Thomas Heyward on Tuesday for her 11th double-double of the season.

Teammate Gracie Henderson is also enjoying a stellar senior year, especially beyond the 3-point arc. Henderson is now the Golden Warriors’ all-time leader in 3-point baskets after breaking Tkai DeVore’s record against Andrew Jackson.

TUESDAY, JAN. 30

Hanahan 60, Battery Creek 32 John Paul II 80, Beaufort Academy 28

THURSDAY, FEB. 1

Bridges Prep 41, Branchville 15

SEE FLIGHT PAGE B2

SPORTS

Brody Bates youth fishing tournament looking for anglers LowcoSports.com The Brody Bates Youth Redfish Open fishing tournament, scheduled for March 16, at Buck Hall Recreational Boat Area And Boat Landing in Charleston is looking for young anglers interested in participating.

In 2021, 2022, and 2023, there was more that $25,000 in scholarship money awarded each year at the tournament.

There are two divisions for the tournament. The High School Division is for anglers in Grades 9 through 12. The Grade School Division is for anglers in Grades 1 through 8.

Space is limited to 50 boats. Anglers 21 and older can not fish.

Teams can be one or two anglers. Two anglers on the same boat split the winnings.

There will be a meeting for interested anglers (for the Brody Bates and other tournaments) from 2 to 4 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 18 at Sea Sea’s Honey Hole Bait And Tackle Shop in Port Royal.

The Brody Bates Redfish Open is part of SALTT (the Student Angler League Tournament Trail). The event is free to members of SALTT. For rules, registration details and more information, go to https://bit. ly/3SM0mfc.

USCB women trusting the process

By Brackin Lambert uscbathletics.com BLUFFTON — It was a two-point game with less than two minutes to play, and the Sand Sharks had all the momentum, but the visiting Columbus State Cougars went 7-for-8 from the free-throw line to ice the game and hand USCB a tough 73-66 loss on Jan. 31 in The Cove.

"We're competing in every game," USCB coach Sharon Versyp said. "We've got a lot of young kids who are continuing to get better in all aspects of the game.

We're right there, hanging with a good ball club, and to be there you want it more and it hurts a little more, but I'm proud of this group.

from page B1 FRIDAY, FEB. 2

Beaufort 52, North Charleston 34 Bridges Prep 52, Royal Live Oaks 4 John Paul II 62, Hilton Head Prep 53 Beaufort Academy 49, Holy Trinity 22

MONDAY, FEB. 5

Allendale-Fairfax 57, Bridges Prep 21 John Paul II 63, Andrew Jackson Academy 17

TUESDAY, FEB. 6

Philip Simmons 45, Battery Creek 32 Hanahan 29, Beaufort 17 Patrick Henry 58, Beaufort Academy 45 John Paul II 62, Thomas Heyward 13

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FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

USC Beaufort’s Ariea Garrette has her shot blocked by Columbus State’s Jasmine Rai Stevens during the second quarter of their Peach Belt Conference game Wednesday, Jan. 31, at The Cove in Bluffton. The Sand Sharks got to within two points of tying the game with only 1:29 remaining but lost to the Cougars, 73-66, dropping to 5-12, 1-8 in Peach Belt play. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

JPII’s run ends in state finals

LowcoSports.com With a thrilling win over host Hammond School in Friday’s semifinals, John Paul II wrestling made history with its first trip to the SCISA Duals final before falling to Cardinal Newman in the championship matchup.

Brandyn Horton’s first-period pin in the final bout of the night lifted the Golden Warriors to a 39-37 win over the Skyhawks and earn the team a reward of shaving coach Greg Lonz’s head — along with a berth in the final.

Lonz rocked a Mohawk for the finale, but it wasn’t enough mojo to overcome the Cardinals, who rolled to a 67-10 win for their first title since winning five straight from 2014-18.

The win over Hammond was monumental, though, and marks new

heights for the young JPII program started by S.C. Wrestling Hall of Fame coach Bill Damude, former longtime coach at Beaufort High.

Senior Chris Orta led off with a pin to give the Golden Warriors a jump on Hammond, and Jonathan Domiguez earned a huge pin in a momentum-shifting match at 285 to tie it at 12. A forfeit to Jase Reynolds at 106 and a thrilling last-second pin from 113-pounder Bailey Homer after fighting off his back three times gave JPII a 24-12 advantage, but the Skyhawks won the next three weights to regain the lead at 25-24.

Brian Orta responded with a first-period pin at 138, and 144-pounder Jack Hannagan followed with a 4-1 win over return-

ing state runner-up Blaze Barnes for an eight-point lead, but two pins from Hammond’s hammers, Luke Martin and Cobin Rabon, made it 37-33 with one bout left.

Horton delivered, scoring a quick takedown and near-fall before finishing off a first-period pin and flexing for his celebrating teammates.

JPII was no match for a juggernaut Cardinal Newman team, as only Daniel Snyder and Hannagan were able to secure wins in the final. Snyder earned a second-period pin over top-ranked Decha Dawson, avenging a loss earlier in the season.

The Golden Warriors are back in action Saturday at the SCISA individual state tournament at Cardinal Newman in Columbia.

Battery Creek 66, Hanahan 47 John Paul II 52, Beaufort Academy 47

THURSDAY, FEB. 1

Bridges Prep def.

Branchville (Forfeit)

Sharks

from page B1 the game with four fouls, willing the Sand Sharks to victory.

"I told him (Overstreet) he was going back in at the four-minute timeout and still want you to play your game because I trust you. I trust you won't back down and wall up, and that's exactly what he did."

The Sand Sharks kept a double-digit lead for most of the first half and extended it to 17 early in the second, but Columbus State picked up the pace and trimmed the lead to a single possession.

Getting out of the first weekend of the SCHSL dual playoffs is a task, especially on the road, and Battery Creek and Bridges Prep each advanced Saturday before falling in the second round, while Beaufort High and Whale Branch were bounced in the first round.

The Dolphins routed Georgetown, 53-18, in Class 3A before dropping a tough 43-33 bout to Dreher, which advanced to the Lower State final with a 45-30 win over Lake City on Monday.

The Bucs backed up last week’s big win over Bamberg-Ehrhardt with a 39-30 win in the first round in the Class 2A/1A bracket, but they couldn’t get by host Edisto, falling, 60-21.

SCISA DUAL PLAYOFFS 2ND ROUND John Paul II 48, Heathwood Hall 30 SEMIFINALS John Paul II 39, Hammond School 37 CHAMPIONSHIP Cardinal Newman 67, John Paul II 10 SCHSL 3A DUAL PLAYOFFS At Lake City Loris 52, Beaufort 24 At Dreher Battery Creek 53, Georgetown 18 Dreher 43, Battery Creek 33 SCHSL 2A/1A DUAL PLAYOFFS At Edisto Bridges Prep 39, Bamberg-Ehrhardt 30 Edisto 60, Bridges Prep 21 At Buford Bishop England def.

Whale Branch

FRIDAY, FEB. 2

7-1A on the line.

The Warriors escaped with a 60-59 win at Bridges on Jan. 22, needing a wild comeback to steal a victory, but Whale Branch’s slipup against Bamberg-Ehrhardt last week opened the door for the Bucs to claim the second seed with a split of MONDAY, FEB. 5 the season series with the Warriors. Bridges Prep def.

Both teams should be well-restAllendale-Fairfax (Forfeit) ed after receiving forfeits last week Whale Branch 69, when region rivals Branchville and Royal Live Oaks 30 Allendale-Fairfax had numerous John Paul II 69, players suspended for an on-court Andrew Jackson fight.

Academy 62

TUESDAY, JAN. 30

Dolphins, Bucs bow out in 2nd round

North Charleston 69, Beaufort 60 Bridges Prep 86, Royal Live Oaks 15 Whale Branch def.

Branchville (Forfeit) Hilton Head Prep 39, John Paul II 22 Beaufort Academy 74, Holy Trinity 36

from page B1

Flight

falling, 62-55, to Clayton State.

Taniyah Bowman led USCB in scoring with 14 points, while Madison Self continued her strong play as of late posting 12 points and eight rebounds. Mahkayla Premo added 10, rounding out the Sand Sharks offense.

It was a back-and-forth battle throughout the first three quarters but Clayton State took the lead with just more than five minutes to play, and the Lakers were able to knock down 9 of 12 from the free throw line to ice the game.

"The fans have been fantastic, the support, unmatched. It's just a process and we're moving in the right direction."

WRESTLING ROUNDUP

Playoffs Battery Creek’s Kiersten Boulden, right, gets pressured by the Philip Simmons defense during the first half of their Region 8-3A basketball game Tuesday night at The Palace.

The Dolphins lost, 45-32, dropping to 3-14, 1-5 in region play. The Iron Horses improved to 12-9, 7-0 in the region. Bob Sofaly/ The Island News

Every day we get closer to where we want to be."

Three Sand Sharks posted double-digit efforts, led by junior Brielle Bartelt's 16. Janiyah Heyward contributed 15 points and Shaniya Rose had 14 along with eight boards.

It remained a two-possession game for most of the final period.

Heyward made it four-point game getting three the old-fashioned way, and Taniyah Bowman's fourfoot floater followed to make it 6664. Columbus State took advantage of the clock and USCB's need to foul, icing the game, giving the Cougars a 73-66 victory.

The Sand Sharks put up another strong effort Saturday before

TUESDAY, FEB. 6

Philip Simmons 57, Battery Creek 38 Beaufort 48, Hanahan 38 Patrick Henry 67, Beaufort Academy 56 John Paul II 49, Thomas Heyward 36

Following a timeout, Beaufort's Tasso Sfanos drained a triple, but CSU countered with one of their own and a floater from Wisdom Uboh made it one-point game.

It remained scoreless for the next three minutes before USCB reclaimed its two-possession lead of six.

Bulluck connected on a 3-pointer and Beaufort led by eight with under nine to play.

CSU cut it back to a twopoint game, but Gaines drove to the basket and made the bucket to make it 74-70. It was tied at 80 with less than two minutes to play, and the Cougars took their first lead of the game at 82-80. Overstreet's put-

After recovering a rebound, Battery Creek’s Ethon Cox looks to pass the ball against a tough Philip Simmons Beaufort Academy’s Jace Paulk, right, defense during their basketball game denies Holy Trinity’s Gray Chumney Tuesday at The Palace. The Dolphins the basket during the fourth quarter of got within few points during the their SCISA Region II-2A basketball second half but couldn’t get through the Iron Horses’ defense and lost game Friday night at Holy Trinity. the contest, 57-38, dropping their The Eagles won the game, 74-36, improving their record to 8-11, 7-2 record to 9-10, 1-4 in Region 8-3A in region play. The Mighty Lions are play. The Iron Horses improved their record to 13-9, 4-2 in region play. still looking for their first win of the season. Bob Sofaly/The Island News Bob Sofaly/The Island News

back off the glass tied it as time expired and the Sand Sharks went to OT for the second straight home game.

The Cougars jumped out to a six-point lead midway through OT and the Sand Sharks battled back to send it to a second overtime, then a third, and finally a fourth.

Two Kenney Gaines free throws and Overstreet's layup made it 111-107, and USCB held a 114-111 lead with under two to play when Price made it a five-point lead and then picked up a steal that led to a huge Overstreet dunk to make it 118-111. After a steal by the Cougars made it a fivepoint game again, Overstreet was left unmanned

and threw down a monstrous dunk that sent another shockwave through the Cove. USCB was able to force a couple of turnovers as the clock wound down and walked away with the thrilling OT victory.

"I'm surprised everyone stayed," exclaimed Fudala.

"So thankful for our fans and community for staying out and seeing this great game."

Overstreet posted another 33 points and eight rebounds on Saturday, but the Sand Sharks let a second-half lead slip away as Clayton State swept the season series, defeating USCB, 88-84, in The Cove. Larry Bulluck was the other Sand

Shark with double-figures, as he posted 10.

USCB held a lead as large as 11 in the first half, but the Lakers continued to battle back, making it a one possession game before the break. The Lakers took a lead of seven into the final minute but neither team held a one score lead throughout the second half until the last 60 seconds.

Beaufort attempted three triples in the final 25 seconds but couldn't convert.

The Sand Sharks travel to No. 15 Lander on Wednesday and hit the road to Georgia Southwestern on Saturday before returning to The Cove to host Georgia College on Feb. 14.

STATE NEWS

Lawsuit seeks to set SC’s abortion ban at 9 weeks, not 6 Planned Parenthood suit comes after state Supreme Court refuses to directly answer when SC’s ban takes effect

By Skylar Laird SCDailyGazette.com COLUMBIA — The latest challenge to South Carolina’s so-called “fetal heartbeat” abortion ban asks the court to declare nine weeks as the cutoff, giving women three additional weeks to end a pregnancy.

The lawsuit filed Monday by Planned Parenthood in Richland County comes three months after the state Supreme Court refused to directly take abortion providers’ case questioning when in a pregnancy the ban takes effect.

It is filed on behalf of a South Carolina woman who was unable to schedule an abortion in her home state before her sixth week of pregnancy, causing her to make three trips to North Carolina to get an abortion there.

Officially, the law upheld by the state Supreme Court last year bans abortion once an ultrasound detects the sound of cardiac activity. Such a sound can be heard at roughly the sixth week of pregnancy, which is why the law has consistently been called a six-week ban. But abortion providers argue what’s heard at that point is not a heart in a fetus, but rather electrical impulses in a developing embryo.

Fearing the law’s threatened $10,000 fine and two years in prison to doctors who violate it, clinics in South Carolina do not provide abortions past six weeks. However, they argue the ban should apply at nine weeks, when the heart is actually formed. Planned Parenthood is asking the court to clear up the am-

biguity. Pending a final decision, Planned Parenthood seeks a preliminary ruling allowing abortions through nine weeks.

Shelton’s experience The lawsuit centers on the experience of South Carolina resident Taylor Shelton, who learned she was pregnant last September despite having an intrauterine device implant. Because of her IUD and regular menstrual cycles, she quickly realized she’d missed her period. Home pregnancy tests confirmed she was pregnant. Still, she could not get an appointment for an abortion at a clinic in South Carolina before the six-week cutoff.

“I found out that I was pregnant at four weeks with an IUD in place and knew immediately that an abortion was the right decision for me,” Shelton said in a statement.

Getting a legal abortion involved spending roughly 20 hours driving back and forth to clinics in North Carolina, which allows abortions through the first trimester but requires two visits at least 72 hours apart. She was misled by an anti-abortion center in Charlotte on her first trip. She then traveled to Chapel Hill and Wilmington to get an abortion, according to the lawsuit.

“This unwarranted hardship made me feel unbelievably frustrated and terribly confused,” Shelton said. “The entire experience left me angry and quite frankly, traumatized.

I want everyone to understand

the impact South Carolina’s abortion restrictions and unfair treatment are having on real people, and I hope my story shows how punitive and cruel these abortion bans actually are,” her statement continued.

When Shelton had her abortion, she was roughly 6 1/2 weeks pregnant. At that point, the heart is still not formed, according to the lawsuit.

“South Carolina’s ban on abortion is harming people like Taylor every day while also sowing chaos and confusion among health care providers across the state,” Planned Parenthood South Atlantic CEO Jenny Black said in a statement.

“No one should have to overcome barrier after barrier or travel across state lines for basic, essential health care,” she continued.

“We’re relieved Taylor was ultimately able to get the care she wanted and needed, but too many South Carolinians are unable to do so and must carry pregnancies against their will.”

Shelton realized she was pregnant shortly after the state Supreme Court upheld South Carolina’s abortion ban as constitutional, reversing its decision last January that declared a similar law an unreasonable invasion of privacy that violated the state constitution.

A lawsuit first It was the author of the 4-1 decision last August who opened the door for a challenge on the ban’s timing. In a footnote of his ruling, he said that would have to be

decided later.

“We leave for another day (in an as-applied constitutional challenge) the meaning of ‘fetal heartbeat’ and whether the statutory definition … refers to one period of time during a pregnancy or two separate periods of time,” wrote Justice John Kittredge, who will soon be chief justice.

The next day, abortion providers asked justices to reconsider their ruling, seeking clarity on whether the ban really applied at six weeks.

The court refused to reconsider its days-old ruling. But Chief Justice Don Beatty, the only dissenter, seemed to outright encourage a new lawsuit.

“Nothing prevents respondents from expeditiously filing a new complaint” he wrote.

Lawsuits across the country have challenged abortion restrictions since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in July 2022 and sent the legality of abortions back to state legislators.

In one notable case, a Texas woman sued to terminate her pregnancy under the state’s medical exceptions after learning her fetus had a lethal anomaly that could threaten her own health and fertility. The Texas Supreme Court ruled that her situation did not qualify under the state’s law.

Shelton is the first person named in a lawsuit not challenging medical exceptions to an abortion ban, according to Planned Parenthood.

“People are tired of being told they can’t make deeply personal

ABOUT THE SOUTH CAROLINA DAILY GAZETTE

The South Carolina Daily Gazette is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news site covering state government and officials and how their decisions affect people across the Palmetto State. The site offers a free newsletter delivered to your inbox every weekday morning. To subscribe, visit https://scdailygazette.com/ subscribe/. The content is free both to readers and to other outlets, which can republish its work under the Creative Commons license.

The South Carolina Daily Gazette is an affiliate of States Newsroom, a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit supported by grants and a coalition of donors and readers. The Gazette retains full editorial independence. Its name comes from the state’s first successful newspaper, the SouthCarolina Gazette, first printed in 1732. Seven years later, it also became the first newspaper in colonial America edited and published by a woman.

decisions about their own health and medical care,” Black said in a statement.

A spokesman for South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, who’s at the top of a list of officials being sued, said he will continue fighting to keep the ban in place.

“We’ve vigorously defended this law in the past and will continue to do so,” Robert Kittle said.

Skylar Laird covers the South Carolina Legislature and criminal justice issues. Originally from Missouri, she previously worked for The Post and Courier’s Columbia bureau.

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STATE NEWS

Thousands await trial in SC on years-old charges as AG proposes way to clear cases

By Skylar Laird SCDailyGazette.com COLUMBIA — The state’s top prosecutor wants a team of traveling attorneys and investigators to help end a backlog of criminal cases across the state.

At least 11,600 cases statewide involve suspects who were indicted at least three years ago and are still waiting for their day in court, House Speaker Murrell Smith, R-Sumter, told reporters Wednesday, Jan. 31.

To relieve some of that backlog, Attorney General Alan Wilson is seeking $1.5 million in the upcoming state budget to hire nine attorneys, investigators and paralegals.

The request would also cover their travel and living expenses as they worked with solicitor’s offices across the state.

Seven of the nine people would be split into two teams, each with two prosecutors, an investigator and a paralegal.

The teams would help bring older cases to trial while the local prosecutors handle new cases. A victim’s advocate and a technology expert would complete the traveling teams as needed.

The Attorney General’s Office already sends its prosecutors to help out when a court is particularly underwater, Wilson said.

But Wilson’s prosecutors have their own cases, so they typically stay long enough to bring only one or two cases to trial.

The roaming teams, on the other hand, would stay in one court circuit as long as it took to clear out the backlog. In some cases, that might mean working out of one county for a year or two, Wilson said.

The COVID-19 pandemic, when

WARRANTS PENDING Statewide, there were 86,338 warrants pending for more than a year as of Jan. 1, 2024. The following ranks the 10 counties with the highest number.

Warrants allow police to arrest a person suspected of a crime. The Attorney General’s Office does not have statistics on how many General Sessions indictments, which officially accuse someone of a criminal offense, are awaiting trial, a spokesperson said.

1.

Richland: 9,244

2.

Charleston: 7,644

3.

Greenville: 7,176

4. Lancaster: 4,076 5.

Spartanburg: 4,041

6.

Sumter: 3,951

7.

Beaufort: 3,541

8.

Berkeley: 3,504

9.

Florence: 3,449

10. Aiken: 3,385

Attorney General Alan Wilson talks about the state’s backlog of criminal cases during a news conference Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024. To his left is House Speaker Murrell Smith, R-Sumter. Wilson asked lawmakers for $1.5 million to create a team of attorneys who would travel the state and help clear case backlogs. Skylar Laird/S.C. Daily Gazette courthouses spent months closed, exacerbated the problem.

But the backlog dates back further, mostly because regional solicitors lack the prosecuting attorneys to bring the cases to trial, Wilson said.

They “don’t have the ability to meet the demands that some of these backlogs are presenting,” Wilson said.

That leaves defendants either languishing in overcrowded jails or out in public on bond, where they could potentially commit another crime, Smith said.

“Those backlogs are jeopardizing the safety of the citizens of South Carolina,” Smith said.

Meanwhile, witnesses’ memo-

ries get fuzzy and key investigators leave the departments where they were working, making it more and more difficult to prove what happened, said Rep. Phillip Lowe, R-Florence, chairman of the House budget-writing subcommittee for criminal justice.

And victims of violent crimes have to wait years as well to see justice, Wilson said.

“At the end of the day, this is really about getting justice to victims in South Carolina,” Wilson said.

Even with the proposed teams, it would still likely take years to get through the backlog of cases awaiting trial, especially as crimes continue to happen, Wilson and

other advocates of his plan agreed.

But if the initial two teams prove successful in getting cases to trial, lawmakers could expand the program with more money in future budgets for more prosecutors, Smith said.

The state budget passed last summer provided solicitors $15 million additional to hire and keep public defenders. That’s the other half of the solution for clearing backlogs, since courts need attorneys on both sides to bring cases to trial, Wilson said.

So far, solicitors have hired around 60 new public defenders, but some of those hires were to fill vacancies due to turnover, Wilson said.

Source: SC Commission on Prosecution Coordination, as of Jan. 1

“You’ve got to move both levels (prosecutors and defenders) to effectively move these cases,” Wilson said.

Solicitors received $9 million in 2022-23 specifically to modernize their case management systems, which in some offices consisted of legal pads or Excel spreadsheets, Wilson said.

The teams are the last step toward finally clearing out the backlog, Wilson said.

“This has been an ongoing problem, but this is an ongoing solution,” Wilson said.

Skylar Laird covers the South Carolina Legislature and criminal justice issues.

Originally from Missouri, she previously worked for The Post and Courier’s Columbia bureau.

Trump will address Black conservative group in Columbia ahead of SC primary

By Abraham Kenmore SCDailyGazette.com COLUMBIA — Former President Donald Trump will give the main speech at a gala of Black conservatives in Columbia the night before South Carolina’s presidential primary, the SC Daily Gazette has confirmed.

The former president’s address is the main event for a black-tie dinner Feb. 23 at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center themed “Recognizing the American Dream.”

Results of the first-in-the-

South GOP contest will come the next day.

Trump faces off at the ballot box Donald with former Trump South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, who placed third in Iowa and second in New Hampshire but refuses calls to bow out, saying she can still win.

Trump has the backing of a long list of South Carolina lawmakers past and present, including U.S. Sen. Tim

Scott, a former presidential contender who dropped out in November.

Tickets for the Black Conservative Federation Honors Gala range from $150 to $500 per person, with sponsorship packages costing $2,500 to $25,000, according to the federation’s website.

The federation “is a millennial-aligned Black conservative organization with a mission to promote economic stability, educational opportunity, and community empowerment,” according

to the event announcement.

“Trump is sure to energize the audience as we head into one of the most important election seasons in our nation’s history. We couldn’t be more excited to have him.”

Ben Carson, the U.S. Housing and Urban Development secretary in the Trump administration, will be receiving an award at the event.

U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, a Florida Republican, has also announced he will attend, according to the website.

Other honorees include conservative activist C.J.

Pearson, who is running for a seat in the Georgia House representing a district outside Augusta.

Trump last visited the state for the Palmetto Bowl — South Carolina’s biggest rivalry game of the year — between Clemson (Haley’s alma mater) and the University of South Carolina. He attended the game at Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia as the guest of Gov. Henry McMaster, who first endorsed Trump ahead of the state’s 2016 presidential primary. They walked on the

fieldat the start of halftime for an appearance lasting less than two minutes.

McMaster has said he looks forward to campaigning with Trump in South Carolina. He was among South Carolina lawmakers who flew to New Hampshire to be on stage with Trump ahead of that state’s primary.

Abraham Kenmore is a reporter covering elections, health care and more. He joins the S.C. Daily Gazette from The Augusta Chronicle, where he reported on Georgia legislators, military and housing

Federal court rejects long-shot attempt to remove Trump from SC’s primary ballots

By Abraham Kenmore SCDailyGazette.com COLUMBIA — A federal court has denied a would-be candidate’s request to remove former President Donald Trump from South Carolina’s GOP presidential primary ballot.

The legal challenge to Trump was brought by John Castro, a tax preparer from Texas who is running as a long-shot candidate in other states’ Republican primary.

Castro argued that Trump violated a 14th Amendment prohibition on insurrection, based on his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol.

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FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

Castro himself will not appear on South Carolina’s primary ballot, however, since he didn’t pay the $50,000 candidate registration fee. His lawsuit also challenged the constitutionality of that fee.

Last week, the U.S. District Court in South Carolina declined to either remove Trump or find the fee unconstitutional. It did not, however, rule on a motion to dismiss the case entirely. Castro has filed notice of an appeal.

Trump’s campaign accused Castro of working with Biden.

“The allies of Crooked Joe are desperately flailing in their attempts to deprive the voters of

their right to vote for the candidate of their choice, President Donald J. Trump,” his campaign spokesman Steven Cheung said Friday in a statement.

“We believe a fair ruling by the Supreme Court in the Colorado case will shut down these ‘14th Amendment’ hoaxes once and for all,” he continued.

The U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear arguments next week on whether Trump should appear on Colorado’s 2024 presidential primary ballot. Their decision will come in the wake of the Colorado Supreme Court’s ruling that the Republican frontrunner is ineli-

gible to hold office under a Civil War-era insurrection clause.

For his part, Castro shrugged off the ruling as an acknowledgement that he’d already missed the deadline to appear on the primary ballot.

The judge is avoiding a “ruling on the obvious: the $50,000 filing fee is an unconstitutional burden on ballot access,” he said in an email to the S.C. Daily Gazette.

Castro said he initially sent in a check for $50,000 and then canceled it when he realized it might not give him a clear right to continue the lawsuit. The South Carolina Republican Party said the check

was marked “insufficient funds” and they had to pay a $35 fee.

Castro has been charged with preparing false tax returns in a federal criminal case unrelated to his election lawsuits. He faces 33 felony counts for allegedly promising clients of his tax business that he would illegally help them get a higher tax refund than they were entitled to, according to a report in the New York Times.

Abraham Kenmore is a reporter covering elections, health care and more. He joins the S.C. Daily Gazette from The Augusta Chronicle, where he reported on Georgia legislators, military and housing

STATE NEWS

SC Senate approves permit-less carry with training incentive twist

Gun owners could take free training classes or face stiffer penalties if they break the law

By Seanna Adcox SCDailyGazette.com COLUMBIA — Legislation that lets South Carolinians carry a handgun without a permit while clamping down on felons caught toting illegally passed the Senate on Thursday, Feb. 1, after a years-long GOP stalemate.

The 28-15 vote, mostly along party lines, followed days of debate over eliminating all training requirements for walking around with a handgun readily available.

Advocates call it “constitutional carry” as a reference to the Second Amendment to the Constitution.

“That law-abiding citizen is now able to exercise their constitutional rights under the law without having to go to the government for permission,” Sen. Shane Martin, who’s been leading the effort in the Senate for a dozen years, told reporters after the vote.

“I got a little bit of cold chills in there when it actually happened,” said the Spartanburg County Republican.

The bill is a progression of a compromise law passed three years ago that allowed adults with a concealed weapon permit to carry visibly, negating the need to hide their gun under clothing.

That permit, along with the training to get it, would become unnecessary for anyone who can legally own a gun.

The twist But it would be highly encouraged by an amendment that paved the way for passage.

A carrot-and-stick approach offered by Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey makes the eighthour training class needed for a CWP free. The State Law Enforcement Division must provide the course at least twice a month in every county — more often if the demand is greater — in hopes of also making it more

GOP Sens. Chip Campsen, Majority Leader Shane Massey and Stephen Goldfinch chat in the Senate chamber during the first week of the 2024 session Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. Mary Ann Chastain/S.C. Daily Gazette convenient. And it lowered the age eligibility for a CWP to 18, down from 21.

If gun owners without a CWP commit a crime involving a gun, they’d face a stiffer penalty than someone with a permit. A conviction would bring up to three additional years in prison.

“Training and background checks are important,” Massey said about why he’s long opposed the no-permit-needed idea.

But the compromise crafted late Wednesday eased his concerns, said the Edgefield Republican.

“Responsible gun owners know training is important.

This will only help move more people into that responsible category,” he said.

“It’s great if we can allow law-abiding gun owners to carry but at the same time encourage training and background checks and at the same time punish the criminals.”

He estimated a $5 million total cost for the classes, which SLED could provide through contracting with private instructors, and the required statewide marketing campaign. But even if

the price tag is several times more, Massey said, he’s fine with that.

Senators noted the training course is important not only for gun safety but to know what’s legal and illegal when it comes to self-defense and how and where to carry a gun.

The no-permit-needed proposal wouldn’t change existing law on where weapons are banned for everyone not specifically exempted, such as judges and prosecutors. For anyone not on that selective list, places where guns would still be off limits include courthouses, jails, schools, day cares, hospitals and restaurants where signs prohibit them.

Nearly 527,000 South Carolinians held a CWP as of Dec. 31; nearly 93,000 permits were issued in 2023, though that includes renewals, according to SLED. The bill would make it easier to keep a CWP through an automatic renewal process, rather than requiring a new application every five years.

Democrats continued to blast permit-less carry as a horrible idea.

“This bill says we’re going to put guns on the street with no training at all,” said Senate Minority Leader Brad Hutto, D-Orangeburg.

“What you’re getting is enhanced penalties if you don’t get it right,” he said of Massey’s amendment. “This doesn’t satisfy anybody.”

It did satisfy people in the chamber. It flipped enough Republican votes to break a filibuster, allowing passage.

It did not, however, sit well with a far-right gun rights group that’s been pummeling GOP opponents of permit-less carry with phone calls and fliers.

After the vote, the National Association for Gun Rights sent out an email blasting Massey’s amendment as creating “discriminatory penalties for gun owners” and threatening to sue if the changed bill becomes law.

Felon-in-possession The lone Republican who ultimately voted no said he was undeterred by the group’s barrage of accusations.

“I rest easy. I rest comfortably, and I rest at night knowing I’m standing not

with the persuaders, not with the pushers, but I’m standing with the police officers of this state,” said Senate Judiciary Chairman Luke Rankin, R-Myrtle Beach, who put photos on the overhead screen of the chiefs who testified against the bill.

“Officers tell me they will suffer the loss of lives,” he said.

If the bill becomes law, South Carolina would join 27 other states that allow permit-less carry.

The proposal has divided Republicans in this gun-friendly state largely because of vocal opposition from local and state law enforcement.

But that opposition got quiet last year after “constitutional carry” advocates in the House married the idea to officers’ top priority — a law that enables them to charge more felons with illegal gun possession and enhances penalties for multiple convictions.

Gov. Henry McMaster has repeatedly called on legislators to send him the so-called felon-in-possession piece, most recently in his State of the State address last week.

But the staunch no-permit-needed supporters wouldn’t allow the two issues to be separated, knowing they had a better shot at passage by keeping them together.

Sen. Chip Campsen, R-Isle of Palms, argued the gun lobbying groups have misled South Carolinians on what “constitutional carry” really means and that the state’s existing CWP law “fits like a tailored suit” to actual constitutional law. He tried one last time to strike the permit-less carry sections. His attempt failed 24-19.

“How many people have been victims of gun crimes because we held felons-in-possession hostage?” asked the chairman of the Fish, Game and Forestry Committee, who left before the final vote.

“No one will ever know but I bet you South Carolinians became victims of gun crimes because we held this felons-in-possession hostage,” he said.

The president of the South Carolina Sheriffs’ Association said the group remained neutral on “constitutional carry” as long as it came with felon-in-possession penalties, and sheriffs are happy to see that move close to becoming law.

“South Carolina sheriffs have historically been among the most ardent supporters and defenders of the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens,” said Marion County Sheriff Brian Wallace. “We have also repeatedly expressed the need for tougher, more meaningful penalties on dangerous individual who unlawfully possess and/or carry firearms.”

Sheriffs also hoped legislators would add a “duty to notify” provision that required someone with a gun to notify an officer if asked during a traffic stop. But senators rejected that proposed amendment.

The Senate’s version returns to the House, which can either agree and send the bill on to McMaster’s desk or insist on its version and set up negotiations. McMaster urged the House to agree, “so we can begin saving lives.”

“The South Carolina Senate took a huge step toward closing the ‘revolving door’ on career repeat criminals,” the governor said in a statement. “Stricter increased penalties for repeat illegal gun use and possession will keep these criminals behind bars instead of shooting up our streets with impunity.”

Seanna Adcox is a South Carolina native with three decades of reporting experience. She joined States Newsroom in September 2023 after covering the S.C. Legislature and state politics for 18 years. Her previous employers include The Post and Courier and The Associated Press.

Former SC agency head Templeton gives US Rep. Nancy Mace GOP challenger in 1st District

By Jessica Holdman SCDailyGazette.com COLUMBIA — The former director of one of South Carolina’s largest state agencies is challenging U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace for the state’s 1st District.

Catherine Templeton announced her run for the coastal district at an event Monday in Mount Pleasant.

“We need a consistent conservative who doesn’t flip flop for fame,” Templeton said in a statement.

“An adult to fight for us in Washington who is more interested in policy than politics.”

Mace was not immediately available for comment.

Templeton, who started her career as an anti-union lawyer, touted her record as a “bureaucracy buster.”

In 2010, then-Gov. Nikki Haley appointed Templeton to lead South Carolina’s professional licensing agency. Templeton spent the first year of her appointment fighting the International Asso-

and Environmental Control — all Haley appointees — chose Templeton to lead that larger agency.

She resigned in January 2015.

Templeton laid off state workers to cut the size of both agencies during her tenures.

This is Templeton’s second run for office.

In 2018, she challenged Gov. Henry McMaster in a five-way GOP primary. Her campaign featured her pro-gun stance, which included a colorful TV ad in which she appeared to shoot at a rattlesnake with a revolver. Templeton came in third in the primary, not advancing to the runoff.

In her congressional bid, Templeton is billing herself as a DonFormer South Carolina agency head Catherine Templeton, announces she ald Trump supporter. Meanwhile, will challenge US Rep. Nancy Mace in 1st District at an event Monday, Mace has had a somewhat strained Feb. 5, 2024, in Mount Pleasant. Photo courtesy of Catherine Templeton relationship with the 45th presicampaign dent.

After Trump beat Haley in New ciation of Machinists and AFL- ground would help keep unions Hampshire’s GOP primary last CIO. The unions sued after Haley out of the state. month, Mace endorsed Trump. But said she nominated Templeton Then in 2012, the governing she also voted to impeach him folbecause her union-fighting back- board of the Department of Health lowing the Jan. 6, 2021, storming

of the U.S. Capitol.

Mace, who beat one-term Rep. Joe Cunningham to flip the seat back to red in 2020, also faced a primary challenge for her 2022 re-election. State Rep. Katie Arrington, R-Summerville, had Trump’s endorsement two years ago, while Mace received the backing of Haley in her home district.

Arrington kicked off Templeton announcement.

“I see the last failed Republican primary opponent against me just introduced the next one,” Mace wrote on X, previously known as Twitter.

Republican Austin Anderson has also announced a challenge to Mace. The winner of the June primary will face a Democrat in November. Democrats Michael Moore and Mac Deford are running for the seat.

Jessica Holdman writes about the economy, workforce and higher education. Before joining the SC Daily Gazette, she was a business reporter for The Post and Courier.

FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

B5

EDUCATION

Erickson appoints Baxley, Pender appointed to EOC

By Mike McCombs The Island News Rep. Shannon Erickson (R-124), the Chairman of the House Education and Public Works Committee, has appointed Beaufort Memorial Hospital (BMH) President and CEO Russell Baxley and Coosa Elementary Principal Melissa Pender to serve as members of the South Carolina Education Oversight Committee (EOC).

The EOC is an independent, non-partisan group consisting of 18 educators, business people, and elected officials appointed by the Governor and General Assembly and charged with encouraging continuous improvement in S.C. public schools, approving academic content standards and assessments, overseeing the implementation of the state’s educational accountability system, and documenting improvements in education.

“The Lowcountry is not appointed or represented as much as those

closer to Columbia, …” Erickson said. “One of the perks of being a chair of a committee is bringing people that will bring good things to the table for everybody.”

Under Baxley’s leadership over the past seven-plus years, BMH has increased healthcare access for its community through new urgent care clinics, cancer treatment centers, provider recruitment and the BMH Care Russell Anywhere teleBaxley health app.

He has also fostered partnerships with the county, city, school district and local educational institutions to make successful on-site clinical education and workforce development programs a reality.

“What Russell is doing with workforce and his innovations are something really important for our

education system to consider,” Erickson said. “Also, his perspective in healthcare is something important to bring to the table.”

Under his tenure, BMH has been recognized among the nation’s 150 “Great Community Hospitals”

by Becker’s Hospital Review and one of the top 30 general acute care hospitals in the country for patient safety and quality.

“I am excited to help ensure South Carolina’s students are set up for success and ready to excel in meaningful careers,” Baxley said in a news release. “We have the opportunity to not only make a difference in the lives of our school children, but the future of all South Carolinians.”

Baxley holds a Master of Healthcare Administration from the University of South Carolina, and a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from Clemson University. He and his wife Stephanie live with their young son in Beaufort.

Pender has 25 years of experience in public education. She served 18 years as a teacher at Beaufort Elementary, Davis Melissa Elementary and Pender Coosa Elementary before becoming assistant principal and then principal in 2019.

Coosa Elementary's overall school rating increased from Average in 2019 to Excellent under her leadership. Additionally, the overall percentage of students meeting and exceeding state standards increased, and Coosa Elementary was recognized as a 2023 National Blue Ribbon School.

“Melissa is a master educator and one of the state’s finest principals,” Erickson said. “I know her as a parent and a friend. I’ve been in the classroom and seen first-hand how good she is with policies and curriculum, something needed (on

the Committee), especially for how well her school is working.”

Pender earned her Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from the University of South Carolina, her Master of Arts in Integration of Technology into Education from Lesley University and her Master of Arts in Elementary Administration from the University of South Carolina.

“I am looking forward to collaborating with others who have a shared vision of setting our children on the path of excellence as they become active citizens of our state and global community,” Pender said in a news release.

Pender has two stepchildren and a son with her husband, Brian. She also teaches for VirtualSC and recently achieved her pilot’s license.

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

Beaufort-Jasper ACE selected as finalist for 2024 Palmetto’s Finest Award From staff reports Beaufort-Jasper Academy for Career Excellence (BJACE), also known as ACE, has been named a finalist for the prestigious 2024 Palmetto’s Finest Award. This recognition underscores the outstanding achievements of BJACE, its leaders, educators, students, and business partners.

This selection comes after extensive evaluations by a committee of educators and previous Palmetto’s Finest winners.

The application process included elements on student achievement, instructional programs, professional learning communities, and school culture.

BJACE is one of the six finalists selected from 19 South Carolina schools after a rigorous evaluation process. The finalists, including BJACE, will undergo a second onsite evaluation before the winners are announced this Spring. The Palmetto’s Finest Award, presented by the South Carolina Association of School Administrators (SCASA), is in its 44th year and is considered one of the most coveted and respected awards a school can receive, reflecting their innovative and effective educational programs.

BJACE offers numerous Career and Technical Education programs, serving high school students from both Beaufort and Jasper counties.

"It is such a great accomplishment for BJACE to be named a finalist for the 2024 Palmetto's Finest Award,” Jasper County Superintendent Rechel Anderson said in a news release. “Congratulations to all who work tirelessly to ensure that the scholars of Beaufort and Jasper are afforded an opportunity to embrace the many academic career pathways that lead to endless career opportunities. I look forward to watching BJACE continue to soar!"

BJACE Principal Michael Lovecchio ex-

Last year’s Joye Law Firm 2023 Scholarship winners at pose at a scholarship banquet.

Submitted photo

BJACE Principal Michael Lovecchio and BJACE Electrician Educator Jerry Ferguson accept the Palmetto’s Finest Finalist recognition plaque. Photo courtesy of Beaufort County School District pressed appreciation, saying, "I speak on behalf of the ACE students, faculty, and staff, expressing our gratitude and humility upon being selected as a finalist for Palmetto's Finest. This achievement not only highlights the excellence at ACE but also underscores the collaborative spirit shared

by Beaufort and Jasper Counties, our eight feeder high schools, and the unwavering support of two dedicated superintendents and school boards."

Beaufort County School District Superintendent Frank Rodriguez appreciates the dedicated focus BJACE students exhibit.

"Every semester I meet with students from ACE and am always so impressed with their maturity, future plans, and skills and talents,” he said in a news release.

“They are the best example of why ACE is so deserving of this recognition."

Joye Law Firm offers annual scholarship program From staff reports Joye Law Firm announced the start of its annual scholarship program on February 1. Since 2006, Joye Law Firm has been committed to supporting education in South Carolina, having awarded more than $300,000 in scholarships to deserving students.

This year, the firm will offer seven scholarships, each valued at $2,000, to graduating seniors in South Carolina who plan to pursue higher education at a four-year institution in the fall. The scholarship selection process emphasizes various criteria, including creative endeavors, school activities, leadership roles, special honors and awards, community involvement, academic performance, and

professional pursuits.

In a continuous effort to foster inclusivity and support historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), Joye Law Firm introduced a dedicated HBCU scholarship in 2021.

This initiative aimed to provide a deserving student attending an HBCU with the opportunity to receive financial assistance for their education. Building on the success of the program, the firm is excited to announce that applicants can now apply for both the general scholarship and the HBCU scholarship using a single, streamlined application process.

"We believe in the power of education to transform lives, and our annual scholarship program is a testa-

ment to our commitment to supporting the future leaders of South Carolina," Managing Partner Ken Harrell said in a news release. "We recognize the escalating cost for students to obtain a 4-year degree and our scholarship aims to help students pursue their dreams.”

Applicants for the Joye Law Firm scholarships can submit their applications online through the firm's website at https://bit. ly/3w2hNPH. The deadline for submissions is May 1.

Joye Law Firm has been providing legal services to the people of South Carolina for more than 50 years.

Founded in 1968, the law firm has offices in North Charleston, Columbia, Clinton, Myrtle Beach, and Summerville.

SC State Fair opens applications for college scholarships

From staff reports The South Carolina State Fair, a self-supporting 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, has opened applications for its 27th annual Ride of Your Life Scholarship program. Each year, this initiative allocates more than $500,000 in college scholarships to high school seniors across South Carolina.

Applications are open until March 15, 2024, and can be submitted online at scstatefair.org/scholarships.

“At the South Carolina State Fair, we are dedicated

B6

FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

to championing excellence within our state, beginning with the education of our young adults,” South Carolina State Fair General Manager Nancy Smith said in a news release about the organization’s unwavering commitment to education. “Our

mission is to play an active role in shaping the future of South Carolina through the invaluable gift of education.”

Since 1997, the S.C. State Fair has awarded more than $5 million to South Carolina students through the Ride of Your Life Scholarship program, reflecting the fair’s commitment to community-focused initiatives.

The S.C. State Fair scholarship program has expanded because of a generous collaboration with Circle K stores and EMC Tickets. Circle K presented a $34,000

donation to the South Carolina State Fair on January 22. This donation allows the S.C. State Fair to award an additional three scholarships — increasing the total to 53 total scholarships this year.

This year, $10,000 scholarships will be awarded to 53 high school seniors across South Carolina and will be paid out at $2,500 per year over four years. Students pursuing two-year degrees will receive $2,500 per year over two years. One of the 53 scholarships is exclusively designated for a Circle K em-

ployee or dependent.

The scholarship funds must be used at a South Carolina university, college, or institution and may cover tuition or other educational expenses such as on-campus housing, a computer, or textbooks. Scholarships are awarded based on academic and extracurricular achievement, communication skills, need and completeness of the application. Recipients must retain a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale and enroll in no less than 30 credit hours each academic year to receive fund-

ing for that year.

Prospective scholars and/ or parents can learn more at scstatefair.org/scholarships or by contacting Betsy Cooper at betsyc@scstatefair. org or 803-799-3387, ext.

110. Scholarship applications must be completed online at https://www.scstatefair.org/scholarships

by March 15, 2024. Scholarship award recipients will be notified in mid-May of their award status.

This year’s S.C. State Fair will take place October 9-20, 2024.

EDUCATION

Former Beaufort High principal sues school board, The Island Packet Shelton alleges that in Fall 2022 she had issues with “long-tenured teacher Carla Shelton who ran an academic program that was beneficial for college applicants” who had created “arbitrary prerequisite barriers.”

One of the “barriers” alleged in the suit was a pre-entry interview process that was not required by the College board and discouraged minority students from joining.

She allegedly ordered the teacher to stop requiring a pre-entry interview and to remove any other unnecessary barriers in the process.

The lawsuit alleges that the teacher retaliated against Shelton in Spring 2023 by becoming “insubordinate” with her and “filed frivolous complaints with the [BCSD] Office” about her while encouraging other educators to follow suit.

She says that despite meeting with the Beaufort

County School District (BCSD) on March 30, 2023, to tell her side of the story, she was informed that she would be receiving an “informal letter to counsel about her interactions with the teacher.”

Shelton alleges that she resigned effective the end of the school year at that time, and on April 24, 2023, the BCSD agreed to put her on Administrative Leave for the remainder of her contract year, until her resignation, but later that day an article ran in The Island Packet newspaper stating that she had been fired.

The article in question currently bears a correction stating that “an earlier version of this story said the principal was fired but was changed to reflect that she was put on leave, according to two board members,” but does not list the two board members.

The amended version of the article states that Board Members Richard Geier and Will Smith confirmed to The Island Packet that Superintendent Frank Rodri-

guez was the one who made the decision to put Shelton on leave.

Per the article, Geier would not state publicly why she was put on leave, but the article also states that she was put on leave for disciplinary reasons. “[Shelton’s] administrative leave was voluntary and mutually agreed to allow [her] to be removed from a mutually acknowledged toxic environment and to allow the district to try and remedy that environment with a fresh set of hands,” according to the lawsuit.

Additionally, the lawsuit alleges that Shelton was never contacted for comment by the paper before running either of the stories and the members of the Board of Education named in the suit “each deny having made the false statements at issue in this case to The Island Packet.”

The lawsuit states that Shelton has “suffered reputational harm, loss of good will, emotional pain and suffering and stress and anxiety” from both the al-

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF BEAUFORT

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS FOURTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT CASE NO.: 2021-CP-41-_______

Carla Shelton, Plaintiff,

SUMMONS

v.

Ingrid Boatright, Earl Campbell, Carlton Dallas, Richard Geier, Choloe Gordon, Christina Gwozdz, Elizabeth Hey, Angela Middleton, Victor Ney, William Smith, and Rachel Wisnefski, Members of the Beaufort County School District Board of Education as of April 2023; and The McClatchy Company, LLC d/b/a The Island Packet, Defendants.

TO THE DEFENDANTS ABOVE NAMED: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to answer the Complaint herein, a copy of which is served upon you, and to serve a copy of your answer to this Complaint upon the subscriber at the address shown below within thirty (30) days (thirty five (35) days if served by United States Mail) after service hereof, exclusive of the date of such service, and if you fail to answer the Complaint, judgment by default will be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

January 24, 2024 Columbia, South Carolina

ELECTRONICALLY FILED - 2024 Jan 24 3:47 PM - BEAUFORT - COMMON PLEAS - CASE#2024CP0700167

By Delayna Earley The Island News Former Beaufort High School principal Carla Shelton has filed a defamation lawsuit against members of Beaufort County Board of Education, local daily newspaper The Island Packet, and its parent company McClatchy Company, LLC. The suit names the Board of Education members who were on the board as of April 2023 – Ingrid Boatright, Earl Campbell, Carlton Dallas, Richard Geier, Chloe Gordon, Christina Gwozdz, Elizabeth Hey, Angela Middleton, Victor Ney, William Smith and Rachel Wisnefski.

Shelton began the 2022-2023 school year as the principal of Beaufort High School.

In the lawsuit, she alleges that the environment in the school was “turbulent” when she was hired due to a change to the school’s mascot that “had stoked community tensions due to a past merger of majority white and majority Black high schools.”

BY: s/J. Paul Porter J. Paul Porter (#100723) Jacob Modla (#63031) CROMER BABB & PORTER, LLC 1418 Laurel Street, Ste. A Post Office Box 11675 Columbia, South Carolina 29211 Phone: (803) 799-9530 paul@cromerbabb.com jake@cromerbabb.com Attorneys for Plaintiff

leged actions of the mem- Porter, LLC, a law firm locatbers of the Board of Educa- ed in Columbia. tion and The Island Packet and is seeking a jury trial Delayna Earley formerly worked and an undisclosed sum for as a photojournalist for The Island all damages, including Packet/The Beaufort Gazette, as well punitive damages. as newspapers in Indiana and Virginia.

Shelton is being repreShe can be reached at delayna. sented by Cromer Babb & theislandnews@gmail.com.

USDA 1890 Scholars Program accepting applications until March 1

From staff reports The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), along with S.C. State University Public Service & Agriculture (PSA), is now accepting applications (through March 1) for the 2024 USDA 1890 National Scholars Program. Selected scholars are awarded full tuition and fees. The scholarship also covers books, room and board.

Scholars are also provided summer internship opportunities with a USDA agency. After graduation the student is converted to a full-time employee if he or she successfully completes the required academic and summer work requirements of the program.

“USDA is looking for the next generation of ag leaders and employees,” USDA liaison Travis Johnson said in a news release. “As the agriculture industry continues to grow, more career opportunities will become available for students who successfully fulfill their requirements as scholars.”

High-school seniors entering their freshmen year of college, and rising college sophomores and juniors are

eligible for the scholarship.

To apply, the applicant must major in agriculture or an agriculture-related field, a GPA of 3.0 or higher, a minimum SAT score of 1080 or ACT score of 21 (for high school applicants) and have been accepted to or currently enrolled at an 1890 institution.

Selected students are required to intern with the sponsoring agency each summer, noted Johnson.

Students majoring in the following disciplines are eligible to apply: Accounting, Agribusiness, Biology, Business, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Economics, Family and Consumer Science, Marketing, Management, and Nutrition.

“The USDA 1890 national scholars program is a great opportunity for students to advance their careers in the agricultural fields,” said Louis Whitesides, Ph.D., vice president of SC State PSA and executive director of 1890 Research & Extension. “The agricultural industry plays a major role in the United States, as it accounts for nearly 22 million jobs. We

want to position our students to be in the forefront in their respective fields leading and taking agriculture to a new level.”

The partnership established between USDA and 1890 institutions aims to increase the number of agriculture, food, natural resource sciences and other ag-related disciplines among 1890 schools.

For more information on the 2024 USDA 1890 National Scholars Program and to apply online, visit www.usda.gov/partner ships/1890NationalScholars.

To apply, applicants must create an online user account at usda.gov. To view instructions for creating an online user account on usda.gov, visit 1890.info/ usda_account.

For more information or to receive help in applying to the UDSA 1890 National Scholarship Program, contact Travis Johnson, USDA liaison at 202-596-4442 or travis.johnson@usda.gov.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.

EDUCATION BRIEFS

Beaufort-Jasper Higher Education Commission meets Feb. 13

The next meeting of the Beaufort-Jasper Higher Education Commission (BJ-HEC) will be on Feb. 13, 2024, at 5 p.m. in Hargray 238 (PET conference room) on the Bluffton campus of USC Beaufort. This meeting is in place of the scheduled Jan. 9 meeting, which was canceled due to severe weather.

The final agenda will be posted at https://www.uscb.edu/about/bjhec/index.html at least 24 hours before the meeting.

Beaufort’s Field on Ole Miss’ Fall 2023 Chancellor's Honor Roll

Anna Field of Beaufort was named to the University of Mississippi's Fall 2023 Honor Roll lists.

Field, majoring in Pharm D – Pharm Prct Track, was named to the Chancellor's Honor Roll, which is reserved for students who earn a semester GPA of 3.75-4.00.

The University of Mississippi, affectionately known as Ole Miss, is the state's flagship university. Included in the elite group of R1: Doctoral Universities - Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification, it has a long history of producing leaders in public service, academics and business.

– Compiled from staff reports

State Education Superintendent Ellen Weaver addresses students Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023, at Allendale-Fairfax High School about college opportunities paid by the Meeting Street Scholarship Fund. Photo courtesy of the Meeting Street Scholarship Fund

SC superintendent seeks $10M for a rolling classroom

By Skylar Laird SCDailyGazette.com COLUMBIA — Students in rural South Carolina could learn practical skills from the back of a truck if the state Education Department gets its $10 million request.

State Superintendent Ellen Weaver asked legislators for the money to take instruction for career and technical classes on the road — bringing skill-building opportunities to sixththrough 12-graders in rural school districts that can’t afford to offer them.

Programs include training in agriculture, finance, and information technology, often through hands-on experience, according to the department’s website.

The proposal involves an 18-wheeler toting equipment from district to district, and Weaver’s agency partnering with the state’s technical colleges for instruction, she told a House budget-writing panel Tuesday, without giving specifics.

“If you can’t afford to build a state-of-the-art facility in a rural district, you have a mobile lab that can be moved around

in partnership with local industry,” Weaver said.

Providing students the opportunity to learn a skill can help them find jobs after high school, often in high-paying fields where workers are in high demand. In turn, that will help employers find workers for the more than 160,000 open jobs across the state, she told lawmakers.

“Obviously, we know that career and technical education is a vital component of ensuring that our high school students graduate with the skills that they need” to either go directly to work after graduation or go on to college, Weaver said.

In the coming year, that could include skills in computer science, artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing, as the department develops curriculums for classes on those topics, Weaver said.

Legislators are just starting the budget process for the fiscal year starting July 1.

Pay raise proposal Weaver called the rolling classroom her third priority request of the year.

At the top of her list is

$273 million to increase teacher salaries by $3,000 if school districts add five “professional learning days” to their calendar.

Weaver says that will allow for more high-quality professional development and planning time.

State law requires districts to designate three days annually for teacher training. Weaver’s proposal would increase minimum pay by $1,500 across the state salary schedule and provide a way to double that boost. But teachers oppose the idea of a $1,500 stipend for five more work days scheduled by their district.

The combined $3,000 increase would bring the starting minimum salary for first-year teachers to $45,500.

Gov. Henry McMaster has proposed a different plan for teacher salaries that would increase the floor to $45,000 and collectively cost $250 million.

Skylar Laird covers the South Carolina Legislature and criminal justice issues. Originally from Missouri, she previously worked for The Post and Courier’s Columbia bureau.

FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

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WHAT’S HAPPENING CALENDAR 9 annual Ole Fashioned Oyster Roast 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, March 9, The Gullah Museum, Hilton Head Island.

General admission ticket is $10. Ole Fashioned Oyster Roast is $50. There will be artisans, entertainment, and food vendors for non-seafood eaters.

Please visit www.gullahmuseumhhi.org to purchase tickets and for more information. Tickets can also be purchased at the event. th

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.

Teddy Bear Picnic Read-Aloud 9 a.m. to noon, 1st Saturday each month, Port Royal Farmer’s Market, Karaoke with Melissa Corner of Ribaut Road & Pinckney Blvd, 8 p.m. to midnight, Tuesdays, HighPort Royal. Free. DAYLO Students and way 21 Bar, 3436 Trask Pkwy, Beaufort. other volunteers will read to young chilEnjoy food and drinks during Karaoke dren, who are encouraged to bring their with Melissa. favorite stuffed animals.

The Beaufort Shag Club 7 to 9 p.m., Wednesdays, AmVets Club, 1831 Ribaut Road Port Royal. We also host a Saturday evening dance the second Saturday of each month from 7 to 10 p.m. Interested in learning the Shag dance? Free lessons for members beginning in September through June.

Visit our Facebook page; The Beaufort Shag Club.

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.

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.

Wellness Happy Hour with Well House Juice 5 to 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 15, Celadon Health & Wellness Club, 61 Celadon Drive, Beaufort. Complimentary event, open to all. Learn about the benefits of adding cold-pressed juice to your wellness routine with Beaufort’s local juicery, Well House Juice. Call 843-379-1088.

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 se- President’s Day Storytime lection of accessories, clothing, home & Craft with Sally Sue Lavigne goods, custom gifts and more by local of The Story Book Shoppe artists and makers.

10 to 11 a.m., Friday, Feb. 19, Celadon Health & Wellness Club, 61 Celadon TECHconnect Drive, Beaufort. Complimentary and 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., 3rd Thursday of open to all. One-hour story time and each month, Beaufort Digital Corridor, craft for children themed around Pres500 Carteret Street, Suite D, Beaufort. ident’s Day. Opportunity to purchase Free. The BDC's signature happy hour books from Bluffton Story Book Shoppe “meetup” networking event for tech at the event. Call 843-379-1088. professionals. Connect with like-minded people, fellow entrepreneurs, start- Celadon Supper Club ups and VCs over local food and cold 6 to 8 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 24, Celadon beverages. Call 843-470-3506 or visit Health & Wellness Club, 61 Celadon https://rb.gy/e7t2h for more informa- Drive, Beaufort. Cost is $100 per person. tion.

First monthly Celadon Supper Club with 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.

Chef Robert Singleton. Enjoy a memorable evening with a price fixed menu including 3 courses, wine and community.

February is Prime Rib. Open to all. This will be a monthly offering. Call 843-3791088.

Full Moon Sound Bath 5:30 to 6:45 p.m., Monday, Feb. 26, Celadon Health & Wellness Club, 61 Celadon Drive, Beaufort. Cost is $33. ChanKaraoke with Melissa dra Bergmann of Alchemy hosst month7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., Fridays, R ly Sound Baths at Celadon Club. Holistic Bar & Grill, 70 Pennington Dr, Bluffton. healing modality. Call 843-379-1088.

Enjoy food and drinks during Karaoke with Melissa.

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 Port Royal Farmers Market 9 a.m. to noon, Saturdays, year round, years of Beaufort History with knowlNaval Heritage Park, 1615 Ribaut Road, edgeable docent guided tours.

Port Royal. Rain or shine. You will find fresh, local, seasonal produce, shrimp, The Historic Port Royal Museum 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or upon request, oysters, poultry, beef, pork, eggs, bread and cheese, as well as plants, ferns, ca- Thursdays through Sundays, The Histormellias, azaleas, citrus trees and beau- ic Port Royal Museum, 1634 Paris Ave. tiful, fresh cut flower bouquets. There The museum features the turn-of-theare prepared food vendors serving bar- century businesses and industries of becue, dumplings, she crab soup, crab Port Royal: Shrimping, crabbing, oystercakes, paella, coffee, baked goods, ing, the railroad, the school and the merbagels and breakfast sandwiches. No cantile. Great gifts featuring local artists pets allowed. For more information, are available. For more information. visit visit http://www.portroyalfarmersmar- www.portroyalhistory.org, email hisket.com/, visit @portroyalfarmersmar- toricportroyalfoundation@gmail.com or ket on Facebook or call 843-295-0058. call 843-524-4333.

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.

Slip and Splash Saturdays 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturdays, Battery Creek Pool, 1 Blue Dolphin Drive, Beaufort, and Bluffton Pool, 55 Pritchard Street, Bluffton. $5 per person. Stay busy for hours climbing on our inflatable challenge track.

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FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

The movies scheduled for this week (Friday, Feb 9 through Sunday, Feb. 11) at the Highway 21 Drive-In are Anyone But You (R, 7:30 p.m.) and The Beekeeper (PG, 9:50 p.m.) on Screen 1; Argyle (PG-13, 7:30 p.m.) and Night Swim (R, 9:30 p.m.) on Screen 2; Migration (PG, 7 p.m.) and Wonka (PG, 8:40 p.m.) on Screen 3.

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 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 Madame Web 4 (Feb. 14) and One Love (Feb. 14).

to 4 p.m.; and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m.

Visitors can learn about the fort’s hisHEALTH AND WELLNESS tory during the Spanish-American War Yoga for Sleep Workshop through interpretive signs, self-guid5 to 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 8, Ce- ed walking tours with a smart phone, ladon Health & Wellness Club, 61 Ce- exhibits in the history center, and doladon Drive, Beaufort. Cost is $45 for cent-led tours. For more information members, $50 games for non-member. visit www.fortfremont.org or contact Join Celadon’s own Jo Heckert to learn Passive Parks Manager Stefanie Nagid how Yoga can support and improve our at snagid@bcgov.net. quality of sleep. Open to all levels. Call 843-379-1088.

LIBRARY ACTIVITIES

Trivia with Mike – Fat Patties 7:30 p.m., Every Wednesday, Fat Patties, 831 Parris Island Gateway, Beau- Rooted Beaufort Yoga classes fort. Free. Team trivia event, win house 5:30 to 6:45 p.m., Thursdays, Cypress cash prizes! For more information, visit Wetlands, Port Royal; 9 to 10:15 a.m., https://rb.gy/o9nhwe.

Whitehall Park or Pigeon Point Park.

Rooted Beaufort is a collective of local Eric’s Karaoke Krew Yoga teachers who host outdoor yoga 9:30 p.m., Wednesdays, Rosie classes and donation-based events with O’Grady’s, 2127 Boundary Street, Suite proceeds being donated locally on a ro2, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy karaoke with tating basis. either Parker or Eric.

New Moon Sound Bath Trivia with Mike – Bricks On Boundary 5:30 to 6:45 p.m., Friday, February 9, 7 p.m., Every Thursday, Bricks on Celadon Health & Wellness Club, 61 CelBoundary, 1422 Boundary St, Beaufort. adon Drive, Beaufort. Cost is $33 for all.

Free. Team trivia event, win house cash Chandra Bergmann of Alchemy hosts and Beer Bucket prizes! For more infor- monthly Sound Baths. Holistic healing mation, visit https://rb.gy/o9nhwe. modality. Call 843-379-1088.

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.

HIGHWAY 21 DRIVE-IN

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.

Basic Computer Skills Class 11:30 a.m., every other Friday, Feb. 9, Lobeco Branch Library, 1862 Trask Parkway. Personalized computer classes led

by SC Works for job seekers, beginners, or those looking to refresh their skills.

For more information, call 843-2556479 or stop by for more information.

MEETINGS Beaufort Sportfishing and Diving Club 7 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 8, Beaufort Yacht and Sailing Club, Meridian Road, Lady’s Island. The social begins at 6:30 p.m. Local guide Captain Neil Kendrick of Carolina Tail Charters, will discuss Sheepshead. He will present rods and reels, various rigs and sure techniques for hooking. This will also include the proper use of mussels and frozen blue crab when fiddlers are not available.

Beaufort Boat & Dock Supply, Butler Marine, The Archurch Group and Danny Walsh again are our drawing sponsors.

Congratulations to Debra Norwood for winning the last monthly $50 drawing.

Winners must be present at the next month’s meeting to receive the cash award. Guests are welcome. Reservations are not needed. For additional information, please contact Captain Frank Gibson at 843-521-7340 or email fgibson@islc.net.

call 843-575-0021 or email universitybicycles@hotmail.com.

Emotions Anonymous International local group meeting 4 p.m, Thursdays, via Zoom. Emotions Anonymous International, (EAI), is a nonprofit program designed to help people with emotional difficulties. It has a chapter in the Lowcountry and members want others who feel the need to know they are welcome to participate.

There is no charge to participate. They are based on the 12 steps and 12 traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous and follow a specific format designed to provide the support and tools for navigating life’s painful difficulties. All are welcome. Anyone interested in participating may contact the group via email at EALowcountry@gmail.com or call or text Laurie at 252- 917-7082. For more information on EAI visit www.emotionsanonymous.org.

Rotary Club of the Lowcountry 7:30 a.m., Fridays, Sea Island Presbyterian Church, Sea Island Parkway, Lady’s Island. A light breakfast is provided before the program. For further information and upcoming speakers, please visit our website at www.lowcountryrotary. org or contact our President, Bob Bible a reconmc@aol.com or 843-252-8535.

MUSIC Beaufort Drum Circle 6:30 p.m., Friday, Feb. 9, Susan Stone's Studio at "The Arts of Port Royal,” 1404 Paris Avenue, Port Royal. Enter and go upstairs to our venue. Bring your percussion instrument or borrow one of ours. No musical experience or training required as the rhythms we develop originate in the intrinsic rhythms in your soul and of life itself. Parking is free and ample and chairs are provided. We are a friendly and welcoming group that enjoys the sounds and benefits of community drumming. We all feel better when we leave.

OUTDOORS The Beaufort Tree Walk Lady’s Island Garden Club invites you to take a meandering walk through the Historic “Old Point” and enjoy some unique and noteworthy trees.

The “Walk” takes about an hour, is a little over a mile starting at the corner of Craven & Carteret streets in Morrall Park and concluding in Waterfront Park. Booklets with map and information about each tree are available free at the Visitors Center in the historic Arsenal on Craven Street.

Tours of Hunting Island Every Tuesday, Hunting Island State Park, 2555 Sea Island Pkwy. Free, park entry fees apply. Sponsored by Friends of Hunting Island Keeper Ted and his Beaufort Republican Women’s Club 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, Caroli- team. For more information call the na Room, Dataw Island Club, 121 Dataw Hunting Island Nature Center at 843Drive, St. Helena Island. The club will 838-7437. The next Tuesday is August 1. hold its annual membership drive lunSEWING/QUILTING cheon. The buffet luncheon is $40 per person. To reserve a seat or seats, please American Needlepoint Guild Meeting mail checks to BRWC, P. O. Box 1835, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., 1st Tuesday each Beaufort, S.C. 29901 by January 27. For month. The Hilton Head Chapter of the additional information, call Kathy Stan- American Needlepoint Guild welcomes ton at 843-838-4974. anyone, beginner or experienced stitcher, who is interested in needleIndivisible Beaufort point to join us for stitching, learning 11 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 10, Downtown and fellowship. For more information, Beaufort Library, 311 Scott Street. Free please contact us at hiltonheadislandand open to the public. The focus of the chapter@needlepoint.org.

February meeting will be censorship efforts at the state level. The group fears Embroidery Guild of America Meeting current regulations posed by the state Second Tuesday of every month, Board of Education and legislation pro- Palmetto Electric Community Room, posed by elected officials at the State- Hardeeville. The Lowcountry Chapter house could make book bans easier to of the Embroidery Guild of America initiate and much more prevalent. The welcomes anyone, beginner or experifeatured speakers will be Mary Foster enced stitcher, who is interested in any and Carey Kerney of FABB (Families type of embroidery including needleAgainst Book Bans). point, cross-stitch, surface and beaded Lady’s Island Business & Professional Association 8 a.m., Wednesday, Feb. 13, Beaufort Realtors’ Association Headquarters, 22 Kemmerlin Lane, Lady’s Island. Free and open to the public. Brittanee Bishop, the Program and Finance Manager for the Beaufort County Engineering Department, will be the featured speaker. Please stop by for coffee and conversation concerning our community.

embroidery, hardanger, bargello, sashiko, etc., to join us for stitching, learning and fellowship. For more information, please contact us at lowcountrychapter@egacarolinas.org.

Sea Island Quilters 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024, Carteret Street United Methodist Church, 408 Carteret Street, Beaufort.

Or by Zoom. Our Program this month is showing off our Block of the month Rainbow Challenge Quilts. Those who Zonta Club of Beaufort participated were to make a quilt block 6 p.m., 4th Tuesday of each month, using the colors of the rainbow. Each Smokehouse, Port Royal. month a block was to be made using a color given to us, of the rainbow. JudgBeaufort Rotary Club ing will be by the members.

Noon, Wednesdays, Sea Island Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall, 81 LaSPORTS/GAMES dy’s Island Drive, Lady’s Island. Catered buffet lunch, followed by a guest speak- ACBL Duplicate Bridge Club 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m., Tuesdays, er. Prospective members welcome.

For further information and upcoming Carteret St. United Methodist Church. speakers, please visit website www. Games and events will be held weekly. Director Gene Ogden. Contact Jane beaufortrotaryclub.org.

Simpson 803-226-3491.

The Beaufort Trailblazers – Beaufort Masters Swim Team A Volunteer Group 6 to 7 a.m., Monday through Fri8 a.m., first Thursday each month, Herban Marketplace, Beaufort. Anyone day, Wardle Family Port Royal YMCA. interested in supporting or building off- Coached practices. Ages 18 & older, all road/dirt/wilderness mountain biking/ skill & speed levels, no prior swim team jogging/walking trails near is encour- experience needed. Visit lowcountryaged to attend. For more information, swimming.com for more information.

LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND INTENT TO SELL Name and Address of Owner(s): KURT GRANBERG 4445 OLIVE ST LOUIS, MO 631008 Contract Number: 2478210 the following described property: An undivided 0.02 (TWO%) percent interest in that certain condominium unit, lying, situate and being in Sea Pines Plantation on Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, South Carolina, and being known as Unit No. 3113, Heritage Club Horizontal Property Regime, and being more particularly shown and described by reference to the Master Deed of Marriott Ownership Resorts, Inc., establishing the said Horizontal Property Regime, said Master Deed being dated September 26, 1988, and recorded in the Beaufort County Records, on September 26, 1988 in Deed Book 511 at Page 933, and by reference to that certain plat entitled "As-Built Plat of Heritage Club", a section of Harbour Town, Sea Pines Plantation said plat prepared by Surveying Consultants of Hilton Head Island, Inc., Terry G. Hatchell, S.C.R.L.S. # 11059 said plat being dated the 16th day of September, 1988, and recorded in the Beaufort County Records, in Plat Book 35 at Page 257 on September 26, 1988.

AND ALSO, all of the rights, privileges, easements, and common areas appertaining to the above-described condominium Unit as set forth in the Master Deed and By-Laws of Heritage Club Horizontal Property Regime.

AND ALSO, all right, title, interest and privileges extending to Owner Use Period 36, as contained in that certain Supplemental Declaration of Multiple Ownership Rights, Restrictions, Affirmative Obligations and Conditions for Floating Time for said foregoing Unit(s) in Heritage Club Horizontal Property Regime, said Supplemental Declaration being attached as Exhibit "H" to the aforementioned Master Deed Lien Book and Page 156/2116; Total Amount Presently Delinquent $2,975.22.

You are currently in default under certain provisions of the Master Deed Establishing Heritage Club Horizontal Property Regime, Beaufort County, South Carolina by MARRIOTT OWNERSHIP RESORTS INC. recorded in the Registrar of Deeds, Beaufort County, South Carolina on February 21, 1983 in Deed Book 364 at Page 869, the lienholder has chosen to proceed with a non-judicial foreclosure procedure in accordance with Article 3 of Chapter 32 of Title 27 of the Code of Laws of South Carolina.

If you fail to cure the default or take other appropriate action with regard to this matter within thirty calendar days after the date of this notice, you will risk losing your interest in this timeshare estate through a nonjudicial foreclosure procedure. However, under the nonjudicial procedure, you will not be subject to a deficiency judgment or personal liability for the lien being foreclosed even if the sale of your timeshare estate resulting from the nonjudicial foreclosure is insufficient to satisfy the amount of the lien being foreclosed. You may object to the sale of your timeshare estate through the nonjudicial foreclosure procedure and require foreclosure of your timeshare interest to proceed through the judicial process. An objection must be made in writing and received by the trustee before the end of the thirty-day time period. You must state the reason for your objection and include your address on the written objection. In a judicial foreclosure proceeding that results from your objection, you may be subject to a deficiency judgment and personal liability for the lien being foreclosed if the sale of your timeshare estate resulting from the judicial foreclosure is insufficient to satisfy the amount of the lien being foreclosed. Furthermore, you also may be subject to a personal money judgment for the costs and attorney’s fees incurred by the lien holder in the judicial foreclosure proceeding if the court finds that there is a complete absence of a justifiable issue of either law or fact raised by your objections or defenses.

You have the right to cure your default at any time before the sale of your timeshare estate by payment of all past due loan payments or assessments, accrued interest, late fees, taxes, and all fees and costs incurred by the lien holder and trustee, including attorney’s fees and costs, in connection with the default.

Any response or inquiry should be made in writing to Daniel C. Zickefoose, who is serving as trustee in this matter, at the following address: Eck, Collins & Richardson, P.L. 4000 Faber Place Drive, Suite 300 North Charleston, SC 29405 NOTICE OF APPLICATION Notice is hereby given that SliderBar intends to apply to the South Carolina Department of Revenue for a license and/or permit that will allow the sale and on premises consumption of beer, wine, and/or liquor at 13 State of Mind St., Bluffton, SC 29910. To object to the issuance of this license and/or permit, you must submit Form ABL-20, postmarked no later than February 29, 2024. Submit protests

online at MyDORWAY.dor.sc.gov, or email ABL@dor.sc.gov.

NOTICE OF APPLICATION Notice is hereby given that Sea Glass Stage Company intends to apply to the South Carolina Department of Revenue for a license and/ or permit that will allow the sale and on premises consumption of beer and wine at 1 North Forrest Beach Drive, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928. To object to the issuance of this license and/or permit, you must submit Form ABL-20, postmarked no later than February 29, 2024.

Submit protests online at MyDORWAY.dor. sc.gov, or email ABL@dor.sc.gov.

TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE Pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. § 27-32-300, et. seq., NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN of the intent of the undersigned Trustee to sell the below described Property at Public Auction on the 2/22/2024 beginning at 9:00 A.M..

The Public Auction shall occur at the Office of Bolchoz Law Firm, 6 Buckingham Plantation Rd, Ste B, Bluffton, SC 29910.

Property Description: Unit Number 444, Vacation Week 18, Designated Season GOLD Timeshare Interest consisting of 1 undivided 1/102 interest(s) in fee simple as tenants in common in and to the below described Condominium Unit, together with a corresponding undivided interest in the Common Furnishings which are appurtenant to such Condominium Unit, as well as the recurring (i) exclusive right every calendar year to reserve, use and occupy an Assigned Unit within Royal Dunes Beach Villa sat Port Royal Resort Horizontal Property Regime (the “Project”); (ii) exclusive Furnishings located within or otherwise appurtenant to such Assigned Unit; and (iii) non-exclusive right to use and enjoy the Common Elements of the Project, for their intended purpose, during the Vacation Week or one (1) or more Split Vacation Periods (up to maximum of seven (7) days and nights) in the Designated Season identified above as shall properly have been reserved in accordance with the provisions of the then-current Rule and Regulations promulgated by Royal Dunes Beach Villas at Port Royal Resort Owners Association, Inc., all pursuant to the Master Deed for Royal Dunes Beach Villas at Port Royal Resort Horizontal Property Regime, duly recorded in the RMC Office for Beaufort County, South Carolina, in Record Book 698 at Page 940, as amended from time to time (the “Master Deed”).

Name/Notice Address of Obligor; Record Owner, if different from the Obligor; and any Junior Lienholders is as follows: LARRY B. DENT & VEDA J. DENT , 906 LOWER MILL ROAD, HIXSON, TN 37343.

The sale of the Property is to satisfy the default in payment by the Obligor/Owner of the obligations secured by the CLAIM OF LIEN as recorded in Lien Book 157 at Page 2528, records of Beaufort County, SC. The amounts secured by the CLAIM OF LIEN, are Amount currently in default (including interest) $ 4,696.49 Costs $ 248.66 Attorney Fees $ 350.00 Total Amount Due $ 5,295.15 Together with any and all additional dues, assessments, costs, other fees, and interest coming due and payable hereafter.

The successful bidder, other than the Creditor, shall be required to pay in cash or certified funds at the time of the bid. If the Creditor is the successful bidder at the sale, it shall receive a credit against its bid for the Total Amount Due. The successful bidder shall also be required to pay for Deed Preparation, Documentary Stamps, or transfer fee, and Recording Costs. This sale is subject to all taxes, liens, easements, encumbrances, assessments, and/or senior mortgage liens of record and the undersigned Trustee gives no opinion thereto.

An Obligor has the right to cure the default, and a Junior Lienholder has the right to redeem its interest up to the date of that the Trustee issues the Certificate of Sale pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. § 27-32-345.

King Cunningham, LLC, Trustee, by Jeffrey W. King, SC Bar # 15840; or W. Joseph Cunningham, SC Bar # 72655 P.O. Box 4896, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29597 (843) 249-0777 TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE Pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. § 27-32-300, et. seq., NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN of the intent of the undersigned Trustee to sell the below described Property at Public Auction on the 2/22/2024 beginning at 9:00 A.M..

The Public Auction shall occur at the Office of Bolchoz Law Firm, 6 Buckingham Plantation Rd, Ste B, Bluffton, SC 29910.

Property Description: Unit Number 334, Vacation Week 3, Designated Season Bronze Timeshare Interest consisting of 1 undivided 1/51 interest(s) in fee simple as tenants in common in and to the below described Condominium Unit, together with a corresponding undivided interest in the Common Furnishings which are appurtenant to such Condominium Unit, as well as the recurring (i) exclusive right every calendar year to reserve, use and occupy an Assigned Unit within Royal Dunes Beach Villa sat Port Royal Resort Horizontal Property Regime (the “Project”); (ii) exclusive Furnishings located within or otherwise appurtenant to such Assigned Unit; and (iii) non-exclusive right to use and enjoy the Common Elements of the Project, for their intended purpose, during the Vacation Week or one (1) or more Split Vacation Periods (up to maximum of seven (7) days and nights) in the Designated Season identified above as shall properly have been reserved in accordance with the provisions of the then-current Rule and Regulations promulgated by Royal Dunes Beach Villas at Port Royal Resort Owners Association, Inc., all pursuant to the Master Deed for Royal Dunes Beach Villas at Port Royal Resort Horizontal Property Regime, duly recorded in the RMC Office for Beaufort County, South Carolina, in Record Book 698 at Page 940, as amended from time to time (the “Master Deed”).

Name/Notice Address of Obligor; Record Owner, if different from the Obligor; and any Junior Lienholders is as follows: JAMES C. SCHAEFER & E. ANNE SCHAEFER , 800 NATCHEZ TRACE, UNIT 27, LEXINGTON, TN 38351.

The sale of the Property is to satisfy the default in payment by the Obligor/Owner of the obligations secured by the CLAIM OF LIEN as recorded in Lien Book 158 at Page 395, records of Beaufort County, SC. The amounts secured by the CLAIM OF LIEN, are Amount currently in default (including interest) $ 3,751.02 Costs $ 248.66 Attorney Fees $ 350.00 Total Amount Due $ 4,349.68 Together with any and all additional dues, assessments, costs, other fees, and interest coming due and payable hereafter.

The successful bidder, other than the Creditor, shall be required to pay in cash or certified funds at the time of the bid. If the Creditor is the successful bidder at the sale, it shall receive a credit against its bid for the Total Amount Due. The successful bidder shall also be required to pay for Deed Preparation, Documentary Stamps, or transfer fee, and Recording Costs. This sale is subject to all taxes, liens, easements, encumbrances, assessments, and/or senior mortgage liens of record and the undersigned Trustee gives no opinion thereto.

An Obligor has the right to cure the default, and a Junior Lienholder has the right to redeem its interest up to the date of that the Trustee issues the Certificate of Sale pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. § 27-32-345.

King Cunningham, LLC, Trustee, by Jeffrey W. King, SC Bar # 15840; or W. Joseph Cunningham, SC Bar # 72655 P.O. Box 4896, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29597 (843) 249-0777 TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE Pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. § 27-32-300, et. seq., NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN of the intent of the undersigned Trustee to sell the below described Property at Public Auction on the 2/22/2024 beginning at 9:00 A.M..

The Public Auction shall occur at the Office of Bolchoz Law Firm, 6 Buckingham Plantation Rd, Ste B, Bluffton, SC 29910.

Property Description: Unit Number 131, Vacation Week 3, Designated Season Bronze Timeshare Interest consisting of 1 undivided 1/51 interest(s) in fee simple as tenants in common in and to the below described Condominium Unit, together with a corresponding undivided interest in the Common Furnishings which are appurtenant to such Condominium Unit, as well as the recurring (i) exclusive right every calendar year to reserve, use and occupy an Assigned Unit within Royal Dunes Beach Villa sat Port Royal Resort Horizontal Property Regime (the “Project”); (ii) exclusive Furnishings located within or otherwise appurtenant to such Assigned Unit; and (iii) non-exclusive right to use and enjoy the Common Elements of the Project, for their

intended purpose, during the Vacation Week or one (1) or more Split Vacation Periods (up to maximum of seven (7) days and nights) in the Designated Season identified above as shall properly have been reserved in accordance with the provisions of the then-current Rule and Regulations promulgated by Royal Dunes Beach Villas at Port Royal Resort Owners Association, Inc., all pursuant to the Master Deed for Royal Dunes Beach Villas at Port Royal Resort Horizontal Property Regime, duly recorded in the RMC Office for Beaufort County, South Carolina, in Record Book 698 at Page 940, as amended from time to time (the “Master Deed”).

Name/Notice Address of Obligor; Record Owner, if different from the Obligor; and any Junior Lienholders is as follows: RAY GORDON HODGES , PO BOX 6365, SEVIERVILLE, TN 37864.

The sale of the Property is to satisfy the default in payment by the Obligor/Owner of the obligations secured by the CLAIM OF LIEN as recorded in Lien Book 158 at Page 383, records of Beaufort County, SC. The amounts secured by the CLAIM OF LIEN, are Amount currently in default (including interest) $ 5,667.53 Costs $ 851.36 Attorney Fees $ 350.00 Total Amount Due $ 6,868.89 Together with any and all additional dues, assessments, costs, other fees, and interest coming due and payable hereafter.

The successful bidder, other than the Creditor, shall be required to pay in cash or certified funds at the time of the bid. If the Creditor is the successful bidder at the sale, it shall receive a credit against its bid for the Total Amount Due. The successful bidder shall also be required to pay for Deed Preparation, Documentary Stamps, or transfer fee, and Recording Costs. This sale is subject to all taxes, liens, easements, encumbrances, assessments, and/or senior mortgage liens of record and the undersigned Trustee gives no opinion thereto.

An Obligor has the right to cure the default, and a Junior Lienholder has the right to redeem its interest up to the date of that the Trustee issues the Certificate of Sale pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. § 27-32-345.

King Cunningham, LLC, Trustee, by Jeffrey W. King, SC Bar # 15840; or W. Joseph Cunningham, SC Bar # 72655 P.O. Box 4896, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29597 (843) 249-0777 TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE Pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. § 27-32-300, et. seq., NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN of the intent of the undersigned Trustee to sell the below described Property at Public Auction on the 2/22/2024 beginning at 9:00 A.M..

The Public Auction shall occur at the Office of Bolchoz Law Firm, 6 Buckingham Plantation Rd, Ste B, Bluffton, SC 29910.

Property Description: Unit Number 214, Vacation Week 7, Designated Season Bronze Timeshare Interest consisting of 1 undivided 1/51 interest(s) in fee simple as tenants in common in and to the below described Condominium Unit, together with a corresponding undivided interest in the Common Furnishings which are appurtenant to such Condominium Unit, as well as the recurring (i) exclusive right every calendar year to reserve, use and occupy an Assigned Unit within Royal Dunes Beach Villa sat Port Royal Resort Horizontal Property Regime (the “Project”); (ii) exclusive Furnishings located within or otherwise appurtenant to such Assigned Unit; and (iii) non-exclusive right to use and enjoy the Common Elements of the Project, for their intended purpose, during the Vacation Week or one (1) or more Split Vacation Periods (up to maximum of seven (7) days and nights) in the Designated Season identified above as shall properly have been reserved in accordance with the provisions of the then-current Rule and Regulations promulgated by Royal Dunes Beach Villas at Port Royal Resort Owners Association, Inc., all pursuant to the Master Deed for Royal Dunes Beach Villas at Port Royal Resort Horizontal Property Regime, duly recorded in the RMC Office for Beaufort County, South Carolina, in Record Book 698 at Page 940, as amended from time to time (the “Master Deed”).

Name/Notice Address of Obligor; Record Owner, if different from the Obligor; and any Junior Lienholders is as follows: WILLIAM A. BRADLEY JR. & SHIRLEY L. BRADLEY , 92 WEST STREET APT 323, WILMINGTON, MA 01887.

The sale of the Property is to satisfy the default in payment by the Obligor/Owner of the obligations secured by the CLAIM OF LIEN as recorded in Lien Book 158 at Page 391, records of Beaufort County, SC. The amounts secured by the CLAIM OF LIEN, are Amount currently in default (including interest) $ 7,887.29 Costs $ 855.46 Attorney Fees $ 350.00 Total Amount Due $ 9,092.75 Together with any and all additional dues, assessments, costs, other fees, and interest coming due and payable hereafter.

The successful bidder, other than the Creditor, shall be required to pay in cash or certified funds at the time of the bid. If the Creditor is the successful bidder at the sale, it shall receive a credit against its bid for the Total Amount Due. The successful bidder shall also be required to pay for Deed Preparation, Documentary Stamps, or transfer fee, and Recording Costs. This sale is subject to all taxes, liens, easements, encumbrances, assessments, and/or senior mortgage liens of record and the undersigned Trustee gives no opinion thereto.

An Obligor has the right to cure the default, and a Junior Lienholder has the right to redeem its interest up to the date of that the Trustee issues the Certificate of Sale pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. § 27-32-345.

King Cunningham, LLC, Trustee, by Jeffrey W. King, SC Bar # 15840; or W. Joseph Cunningham, SC Bar # 72655 P.O. Box 4896, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29597 (843) 249-0777 TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE Pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. § 27-32-300, et. seq., NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN of the intent of the undersigned Trustee to sell the below described Property at Public Auction on the 2/22/2024 beginning at 9:00 A.M..

The Public Auction shall occur at the Office of Bolchoz Law Firm, 6 Buckingham Plantation Rd, Ste B, Bluffton, SC 29910.

Property Description: Unit Number 234, Vacation Week 6, Designated Season Bronze Timeshare Interest consisting of 1 undivided 1/102 interest(s) in fee simple as tenants in common in and to the below described Condominium Unit, together with a corresponding undivided interest in the Common Furnishings which are appurtenant to such Condominium Unit, as well as the recurring (i) exclusive right every calendar year to reserve, use and occupy an Assigned Unit within Royal Dunes Beach Villa sat Port Royal Resort Horizontal Property Regime (the “Project”); (ii) exclusive Furnishings located within or otherwise appurtenant to such Assigned Unit; and (iii) non-exclusive right to use and enjoy the Common Elements of the Project, for their intended purpose, during the Vacation Week or one (1) or more Split Vacation Periods (up to maximum of seven (7) days and nights) in the Designated Season identified above as shall properly have been reserved in accordance with the provisions of the then-current Rule and Regulations promulgated by Royal Dunes Beach Villas at Port Royal Resort Owners Association, Inc., all pursuant to the Master Deed for Royal Dunes Beach Villas at Port Royal Resort Horizontal Property Regime, duly recorded in the RMC Office for Beaufort County, South Carolina, in Record Book 698 at Page 940, as amended from time to time (the “Master Deed”).

Name/Notice Address of Obligor; Record Owner, if different from the Obligor; and any Junior Lienholders is as follows: CHARLES W. BAVIS , 11656 LAKE WILLIS DRIVE, ORLANDO, FL 32821.

The sale of the Property is to satisfy the default in payment by the Obligor/Owner of the obligations secured by the CLAIM OF LIEN as recorded in Lien Book 158 at Page 387, records of Beaufort County, SC. The amounts secured by the CLAIM OF LIEN, are Amount currently in default (including interest) $ 3,750.82 Costs $ 851.36 Attorney Fees $ 350.00 Total Amount Due $ 4,952.18 Together with any and all additional dues, assessments, costs, other fees, and interest coming due and payable hereafter.

The successful bidder, other than the Creditor, shall be required to pay in cash or certified funds at the time of the bid. If the Creditor

is the successful bidder at the sale, it shall receive a credit against its bid for the Total Amount Due. The successful bidder shall also be required to pay for Deed Preparation, Documentary Stamps, or transfer fee, and Recording Costs. This sale is subject to all taxes, liens, easements, encumbrances, assessments, and/or senior mortgage liens of record and the undersigned Trustee gives no opinion thereto.

An Obligor has the right to cure the default, and a Junior Lienholder has the right to redeem its interest up to the date of that the Trustee issues the Certificate of Sale pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. § 27-32-345.

King Cunningham, LLC, Trustee, by Jeffrey W. King, SC Bar # 15840; or W. Joseph Cunningham, SC Bar # 72655 P.O. Box 4896, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29597 (843) 249-0777 TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE Pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. § 27-32-300, et. seq., NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN of the intent of the undersigned Trustee to sell the below described Property at Public Auction on the 2/22/2024 beginning at 9:00 A.M..

The Public Auction shall occur at the Office of Bolchoz Law Firm, 6 Buckingham Plantation Rd, Ste B, Bluffton, SC 29910.

Property Description: Unit Number 331, Vacation Week 4, Designated Season Bronze Timeshare Interest consisting of 1 undivided 1/51 interest(s) in fee simple as tenants in common in and to the below described Condominium Unit, together with a corresponding undivided interest in the Common Furnishings which are appurtenant to such Condominium Unit, as well as the recurring (i) exclusive right every calendar year to reserve, use and occupy an Assigned Unit within Royal Dunes Beach Villa sat Port Royal Resort Horizontal Property Regime (the “Project”); (ii) exclusive Furnishings located within or otherwise appurtenant to such Assigned Unit; and (iii) non-exclusive right to use and enjoy the Common Elements of the Project, for their intended purpose, during the Vacation Week or one (1) or more Split Vacation Periods (up to maximum of seven (7) days and nights) in the Designated Season identified above as shall properly have been reserved in accordance with the provisions of the then-current Rule and Regulations promulgated by Royal Dunes Beach Villas at Port Royal Resort Owners Association, Inc., all pursuant to the Master Deed for Royal Dunes Beach Villas at Port Royal Resort Horizontal Property Regime, duly recorded in the RMC Office for Beaufort County, South Carolina, in Record Book 698 at Page 940, as amended from time to time (the “Master Deed”).

Name/Notice Address of Obligor; Record Owner, if different from the Obligor; and any Junior Lienholders is as follows: TIMOTHY M. KOVALCIK & HELENE A. KOVALCIK , 18 EDGEWOOD CT, DECATUR, IL 62526.

The sale of the Property is to satisfy the default in payment by the Obligor/Owner of the obligations secured by the CLAIM OF LIEN as recorded in Lien Book 158 at Page 402, records of Beaufort County, SC. The amounts secured by the CLAIM OF LIEN, are Amount currently in default (including interest) $ 3,750.82 Costs $ 854.64 Attorney Fees $ 350.00 Total Amount Due $ 4,955.46 Together with any and all additional dues, assessments, costs, other fees, and interest coming due and payable hereafter.

The successful bidder, other than the Creditor, shall be required to pay in cash or certified funds at the time of the bid. If the Creditor is the successful bidder at the sale, it shall receive a credit against its bid for the Total Amount Due. The successful bidder shall also be required to pay for Deed Preparation, Documentary Stamps, or transfer fee, and Recording Costs. This sale is subject to all taxes, liens, easements, encumbrances, assessments, and/or senior mortgage liens of record and the undersigned Trustee gives no opinion thereto.

An Obligor has the right to cure the default, and a Junior Lienholder has the right to redeem its interest up to the date of that the Trustee issues the Certificate of Sale pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. § 27-32-345.

King Cunningham, LLC, Trustee, by Jeffrey W. King, SC Bar # 15840; or W. Joseph Cunningham, SC Bar # 72655 P.O. Box 4896, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29597 (843) 249-0777

Love God, Love Others, Reach Out Join Us for Worship & Fellowship Sunday Morning Worship at 8:30 & 10:30 81 Lady’s Island Drive

Pastor Steve Keeler • (843) 525-0696 • seaislandpresbyterian.org

Promote your

Church Services in The Island News!

Contact us today!

Amanda Hanna

amanda@lcweekly.com

Sandy Schepis

sandyschepis@gmail.com

FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

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ARTS

Svetlana Smolina provides pianistic treats on Fripp Island

By Margit Resch For The Island News Svetlana Smolina, a Russian classical pianist, is stunningly talented and stunningly beautiful. What more do you need to know to come to Fripp Island at 5 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 25, so you can hear and see this amazing lady play?

It shouldn’t surprise you, considering the above qualifications, that Smolina has been giving solo concerts all over the world; has played with hundreds of prestigious orchestras and famous musicians of all kinds; has been invited to scores of international festivals; has countless recordings, records, and broadcasts on her résumé; and, without exception, has received rave reviews, such as this one by Marcia Fulmer from Indiana, one of the first of Svetlana’s appraisals in this country.

“It was the artistry of the 20-year old pianist that brought the audience to its feet. ... Mrs. Smolina was in complete control of the emotionally lyrical, technically intimidating work ...

Mrs. Smolina’s incredibly fluid – and incredibly strong – fingers invested each change of mood and movement with exactly the right

Nakoa to perform at Music on Malphrus From staff reports If you attend just one Music on Malphrus event, reserve a seat for Matt Nakoa on Friday, Feb. 16 at 7 p.m. A charismatic award-winning songwriter and singer, Nakoa guarantees an incredible performance.

His remarkable piano skills transition from Chopin to beer-soaked honkytonk in one set. His heartfelt original compositions on the guitar are nothing short of awe-inspiring.

The modern-day troubadour's first solo albums, garnered multiple songwriting awards, including a win at the Kerrville Folk Festival.

His newest album, “Casting Shadows,” is a spellbinding blend of pop, soul, and classical influences and tells a story of childhood dreams crashing headlong into a grownup reality.

Music on Malphrus takes place at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Lowcountry at 110 Malphrus Road, Bluffton. The show starts at 7 p.m., and doors open at 6:15 p.m.

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at www.uulowcountry.org. For more information, call 843-8373330, visit www.uulowcountry.org or https://www. facebook.com/Musiconmalphrus/?ref=bookmarks, or email MusicOnMalphrus@ gmail.com or uucl.office@ gmail.com.

ON MALPHRUS SCHEDULE Shows at 7 p.m.; Doors open at 6:15 p.m.

Friday, March 15: David Jacob Strain and Bob Beach Friday, April 19: Jacob Johnson Saturday, May 4: The Levins Saturday, May 18: Shanna in a Dress Saturday, June 8: Rod MacDonald

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FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

Pianist Svetlana Smolina will perform on Fripp Island at 5 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 25. Photo provided texture, depth and sense of being. … In Svetlana Smolina, Rachmaninoff’s Third found a perfect match. She was phenomenal!”

According to the headline of a more recent review by The New York Times, Smolina is among “The Best Pianists of the 21st Century.”

It would be easier to enumerate where and what and with whom Svetlana has not performed. But let me give you an idea of the multitudes of her musical activities by looking at her schedule just for the year 2016-17: She opened the season with Orquesta Sinfonica Nacional Juvenil in Lima, Peru. She was chosen as the soloist on the New Year tour to seven cities in China with the Dub-

lin Philharmonic conducted

by Derek Gleeson, performing a Rachmaninoff Concerto. She went to the opening of the Tippet Rise Festival in Montana, just north of Yellowstone National Park.

She recorded and released a CD in July 2017. She had duo recitals with the famous violinist Vadim Repin at Cartagena Music Festival in Teatro Colón, Bogota, Colombia. She played in Bangalor and Mumbai, India, for the XXV Lakshminarayana Global Music Festival. She performed at the Teatro Lirico di Cagliari in Sardinia, Italy; at a Carnegie Hall recital in New York City; at a concert for International Women’s Day at the Sentosa World Theater in Singapore;

with the South Florida Symphony in Fort Lauderdale; and, last but not least, she competed in “The Best Pianists of the 21st Century” concert series, including a recital in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

I am breathless. How about you?

Smolina has played with major orchestras in musical hot spots like Berlin, Paris, New York, and Beijing, just to mention a few. She collaborated with many famous soloists to form quintets, quartets, trios, duos, even duos with another pianist.

One of her favorite musicians to work with seems to be another Russian, Vadim Repin. He and Smolina even entertained their countrymen at the residence of the Ambassador of Russia in Washington D.C., and they appeared together in London for Maestro Repin's Trans-Siberian Art Festival.

"Vadim is simply the best and most perfect violinist that I have ever had the chance to hear,” said Yehudi Menuhin; and who would argue with the praise of that world-famous violinist?

Needless to say, Vadim and Smolina make a fantastic duo, indeed. Check it out on music.youtube.com.

I don’t know all the piano competitions in which Smolina competed. But I do know that she garnered countless prizes, including the Grand Prix of the prestigious Citta Di Senigallia International Piano Competition, the Kingsville Piano Competition, and the William Byrd Young Artists Piano Competition.

Since 2011 Smolina has been directing the piano program at the Philadelphia International Music Festival. In 2014 Svetlana was appointed as Artist in Residence in Temple University's Esther Boyer College of Music & Dance, in the Department of Instrumental Studies.

Smolina’s repertoire, not surprisingly, is endless.

Think of a few composers you like, their piano work will be part of it. I don’t know what she has chosen to perform for us on Fripp, maybe Beethoven’s “Eroica Variations,” Bizet’s “Carmen Variations,” Debussy’s “Pour le Piano,” Chopin’s “Mazurkas,” Schumann’s “Ballades,” Gershwin’s “Three Preludes (1926),” Liszt’s “Hungarian Rhapsodies,” Mendelssohn’s “Songs Without Words,” Mozart’s “Sonatas,” Piazzolla’s “Tangos,” Schubert’s

WANT TO GO? Who: Pianist Svetlana Smolina What: Fripp Island Concert Series When: 5 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 25 Where: Fripp Island Community Centre, 205 Tarpon Boulevard, Fripp Island Tickets: Adults $30, students free.

“Drei Klavierstücke,” Ravel’s “Jeux d’eau.” Did I whet your appetite?

Svetlana Smolina will satisfy your pianistic appetite on Sunday, Feb. 25, at 5 p.m. at the Fripp Island Community Centre, 205 Tarpon Boulevard. Her concert is sponsored by Fripp Island Friends of Music and supported by the S.C. Arts Commission.

Attendees get a free pass at the Fripp gate. Tickets at the door are $30 for adulst, while students are free, thanks to the Peg Gorham Memorial Fund. You are invited to join the pianist at a complimentary reception after the performance, catered deliciously by Harold’s Chef Services. Questions? Email Vanessa Peñaherrera at vandy116@gmail.com or text her at 704-807-0255.

Society of Bluffton Artists taking entries for annual Judged Show From staff reports Lowcountry artists are invited to submit their works of art for The Society of Bluffton Artists’ (SOBA) 30th annual Judged Show.

Winners will be awarded first, second and third place cash awards in the following categories: oil, acrylic, watercolor, photography, drawing (includes pastel, pencil, ink), collage and 3-D (includes pottery, wood, stained glass, sculpture).

Murray Sease, who won “Best of Show” for her oil painting “Abandoned,” said the annual Judged Show attracts the best from local artists, making the competition fierce.

“Events like the Judged Show encourage artists to do our best, always learning and hopefully getting more proficient,” Sease said. “It brings new eyes to the

gallery and attention to the growing arts community in the area.

And, of course, it helps the winners gain new followers and customers!”

Registration is required by completing a registration form available at the gallery, located at 6 Church Street in Old Town Bluffton or by registering online at https://sobagallery.com/product/register-for-judged-show/.

The cost to register is $25 for SOBA members and $75 for non

SOBA members. The registration deadline is Friday, Feb. 23. The deadline for dropping off your art is from 9 to 11 a.m., Monday, March 4 at The SOBA Art School, 8 Church St., Bluffton. No entries will be accepted after 11 a.m.

Registration and a full list of rules are available online at https://sobagallery.com/2024judged-show/.

The Judged Show exhibit will be on display from March 4 to March 31 at the SOBA gallery. An

awards ceremony will take place from 4 to 6 p.m., Wednesday, March 6. These events are free to attend and open to the public.

Artists can pick up unsold artwork at the end of the show from 9 to 11 a.m., Monday, April 1 at The SOBA Art School.

SOBA is the heart of the flourishing art hub in Old Town Bluffton’s historic district at the corner of Church and Calhoun streets.

As a non-profit art organization, SOBA offers regular art classes, featured artist shows, exhibitions, scholarships, outreach programs and more.

The gallery is located at 6 Church Street and is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays. Please visit www.sobagallery.com for a complete calendar of events and other information or call 843-757-6586.

Ryan next in Lunch With Authors series

From staff reports Hank Phillippi Ryan is the next author in the USC Beaufort Center For The Arts’ Lunch With Authors series. He’ll discuss his newest work, One Wrong Word, at noon on Wednesday, Feb. 21, at the Belfair Clubhouse in Bluffton.

Tickets are $60. Make reservations at https://bit.ly/3urRwdl. Sunday, Feb. 11 is the final day to register.

Ryan is the USA Today bestselling author of 14 psychological thrillers, winning the most prestigious awards in the genre: five Agathas, five Anthonys, and the coveted Mary Higgins Clark Award. She is also on-air investigative reporter for Boston’s WHDH-TV, with 37 EMMY awards and dozens more journalism honors.

National book critics call her “a superb and gifted storyteller.” She’s the only author to win the Agatha in four categories: Best First, Best Novel, Best Short Story and Best Non-Fiction.

“Ryan is one of my favorite authors,” bestselling author Lisa Scottoline said.

About One Wrong Word Greed. Gossip. Revenge. Words have the power to change lives, and no one knows that better than crisis management expert Arden Ward.

But she’s in big trouble — she’s accused of having an affair with a client. It’s not true. She would never do such a thing. But she gets the blame — and now she’s about to be fired.

Ward is granted two weeks to save her career and her reputation.

And then she meets Cordelia Bannister.

Bannister needs help for her husband, Ned, a powerful Boston real estate mogul. Though he was recently acquitted in a fatal drunk driving accident, his reputation was utterly ruined, and the fallout is devastating not only to the Bannisters, but to their two pre-teen children.

Ward devotes her final days on the job to helping this shattered family, but soon, revelations about throws Ned back into the spotlight.

This case is Ward’s last chance what really happened the night of the accident begin to emerge. to protect her own future and clear And then another tragic car crash her name – and the Bannister kids

may be in danger. But as she tries to untangle the truth, a disturbing question haunts her — what if she’s protecting a murderer?

ARTS

Registration open for Conroy th Center’s 8 annual March Forth

From staff reports The Pat Conroy Center's eighth annual March Forth will be held on Saturday, March 2, and Sunday, March 3. This special event commemorates the anniversary of Pat Conroy's passing on March 4, 2016, with programs on major themes of his writing and teaching life, including social justice, inclusivity, conservation, education, and storytelling.

The 2024 March Forth will include appearances by novelist Jeffrey Dale Lofton, author of Red Clay Suzie (Longlisted for the Center for Fiction 2023 First Novel Prize); novelist, musician, and educator Brendan Slocumb, author of Symphony of Secrets and The Violin Conspiracy (A Good Morning America Book Club Selection); naturalist and biographer Patrick Dean, author of Nature's Messenger: Mark Catesby and His Adventures in a New World; award-winning nature photographer and educator Kelley Luikey; Spring Island Trust and Lowcountry Institute executive director Andy Jones; National Park Service Ranger Katherine Freeman; and the students of DAYLO. March Forth is hosted this year

by Conroy Center Executive Director Jonathan Haupt, Conroy Center board member Ginger Olszewski, and Lowcountry Weekly publisher and columnist Margaret Evans.

Free events will be held at the Port Royal Farmers Market and the Conroy Center on Saturday, March 2. A ticketed all-day event (including a catered lunch by award-winning caterer and cookbook author Debbi Covington) will be held at Penn Center on St. Helena Island on Sunday, March 3. Books by presenting authors will be available for sale and signing through NeverMore Books.

Registration is open through Monday, Feb. 26 at https://bit. ly/3StuvPg. March Forth is presented in collaboration between the nonprofit Pat Conroy Literary Center and Penn Center, NeverMore Books, Lowcountry Pride, the Port Royal Farmers Market, the Reconstruction Era National Historic Park, the Rhett House Inn, MarshSong Cottage, Catering by Debbi Covington, and DAYLO (Diversity Awareness Youth Literacy Organization), and sponsored in part by the Pulpwood Queens Book Club.

Schedule of Events

About the presenters • Patrick Dean writes on the outdoors and the environment. He has worked as a teacher, a political media director, and is presently the executive director of a rail-trail nonprofit. An avid trail-runner, paddler, and mountain-biker, he lives with his wife and dogs on the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee. Dean is the author of A Window to Heaven, about the summit of Denali, and Nature’s Messenger: Mark Catesby and His Adventures in a New World.

• Andy Jones, Ph.D., executive director of the Spring Island Trust and Lowcountry Institute, is a lifelong naturalist, with a passion for the biodiversity of the Southeast. He studied biological sciences at the University of Tennessee, and completed his doctorate on the evolutionary history of Philippine birds at the University of Minnesota. From 2006 until early 2022, he served curator of ornithology at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. He has also served as a board member and on the research committee of Black Swamp Bird Observatory, as a board member of Winous Point Marsh Conservancy, and as Secretary of the American Ornithological Society.

He has been recognized as a Fellow of the American Ornithological Society for his contributions to ornithology.

• Jeffrey Dale Lofton is a senior advisor at the Library

10:00 to 11:30 a.m., Penn Center: Birding and nature walk of Saturday, March 2 Penn Center led by naturalist and Teddy Bear Picnic Read-Aloud Spring Island Trust and Lowcounand Read With A Ranger try Institute executive director 9:30 a.m. to Noon, Port Royal Andy Jones.

Farmers Market: Student volun- 11:30 to Noon, Penn Center: Cateers from local chapters of DAY- tered lunch by Debbi Covington.

LO (Diversity Awareness Youth (Register in advance by Monday, Literacy Organization) will be Feb. 26 for lunch. Day-of regisreading children's picture books trations may be possible without to young readers and their fam- lunch.) ilies, with light snacks provided.

DAYLO students will be joined Noon to 1:00 p.m., Penn Center:

by National Park Service Ranger Novelist, musician, and educaKatherine Freeman from the Re- tor Brendan Slocumb, author of construction Era National Historic Symphony of Secrets and The ViPark for a special read-aloud, Read olin Conspiracy (A Good Morning with a Ranger. This free event will America Book Club Selection) in be held near the gazebo at the Port conversation with Conroy CenRoyal Farmers Market (1615 Rib- ter Executive Director Jonathan aut Road, Port Royal). No registra- Haupt, presented with the generous support of the Pulpwood tion needed.

Queens Book Club.

An Afternoon With Jeffrey Dale 1 to 1:20 p.m., Penn Center: Book Lofton, author of Red Clay Suzie signing break with NeverMore Books.

2 to 3:30 p.m., Pat Conroy Center: Award-winning novelist 1:20 to 2:20 p.m., Penn Center: Jeffrey Dale Lofton will discuss Naturalist and biographer Patrick his debut novel Red Clay Suzie Dean, author of Nature's Messen(Longlisted for the Center for Fic- ger: Mark Catesby and His Adtion 2023 First Novel Prize) at the ventures in a New World, in conConroy Center (601 Bladen Street, versation with Lowcountry Weekly Beaufort), presented in collabora- publisher, editor and columnist tion with Lowcountry Pride. Books Margaret Evans. will be available for sale and sign- 2:20 to 2:40 p.m., Penn Center: ing through NeverMore Books. Book signing break with NeverSeating is limited for this free More Books. event; please register in advance 2:40 to 3:40 p.m., Penn Center: at 843-379-7025.

A special slideshow presentation by award-winning nature photogSunday, March 3 rapher, naturalist, and educator Kelley Luikey.

Ticketed March Forth Events 9:30 to 10:00 a.m., Penn Center: 3:40 to 4 p.m., Penn Center: Attendee check-in.

Closing remarks.

of Congress in Washington, D.C. A veteran stage actor turned debut novelist, he is the author of Red Clay Suzie, written through his personal lens growing up an outsider figuring out life and love in a conservative family and community in the Deep South.

The novel was Longlisted for the Center for Fiction 2023 First Novel Prize).

• Kelley Luikey is an award-winning photographer, educator, and Master Naturalist. Her photography consistently ranks in the Top 100 Images for national and international competitions such as the National Audobon Society and North American Nature Photographers Association.

Her work hangs in private homes and offices across the country, has appeared in numerous publications, including National Audubon Society magazine and the cover of Garden and Gun magazine.

Through her work, she hopes to inspire others to appreciate and preserve the beauty of the Lowcountry. Luikey resides in Port Royal with her husband and two children. She currently exhibits at Pluff Mudd Art in Bluffton and MacDonald Marketplace in Beaufort.

• Brendan Slocumb is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro with a degree in music education, concentrations on Violin and Viola. For the past two decades, he has been a public and private school music educator from kindergarten through 12th Grade, teaching general music, orchestra, and guitar ensembles. His students were often chosen for district and regional orchestras. In 2005, Brendan was named Teacher of the Year for Robert E. Lee High School; he has been named to Who’s Who of American teachers, and is a Nobel Teacher of distinction. Brendan also serves as an educational consultant for the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. He is the author of two novels: The Violin Conspiracy (a selection of the Good Morning America Book Club) and the recently released Symphony of Secrets.

Whitehouse, Beasley BAA’s featured artists through April 28

From staff reports Beaufort Art Association has announced Penny Beesley and Amy Whitehouse as its newest Featured Artists for the exhibit “Art Beyond Boundaries,” which will run from February 25 through April 28.

The public is invited to join the artists for an opening night reception at BAA Gallery on from 5 to 8 p.m., Friday, March 1, at the Gallery of the Beaufort Art Association at 913 Bay Street, downtown Beaufort, under the black awning.

About Penny Beesley “I work mostly in mixed media, spontaneous and intuitively. I begin by gathering a selection of paint colors and papers often inspired by the environment, energizing

the surface without thought, and as shapes and design come together, I walk away for a while, then return.

When something Penny interesting hapBeesley pens, I work to bring cohesion and closure. Sometimes it takes a long time!”

Beesley was raised in an art-loving family; weekends were often spent at her father’s elbow in his studio. Art was a focal point during high school followed by Eastern Michigan University, attaining a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ceramics and Painting. Inspiration and motivation continue to come from nature’s stimulus of color, form and

light, a background presence of music, and the emotions brought on by them. She also finds a mix of media opens more opportunities for chance chemistry. The argument inside the skin has always been to be abstract and spontaneous, to follow the push-pull. Collage media and mono print papers bring chance juxtaposition and build up texture.

The exploration of techniques is a continuing learning experience.

is Beaufort-based, the surrounding area often informs Amy’s work, as in her series,“Coastal.”

These paintings express ocean waves, Amy Whitehouse shrimper boats, netting, rocks slashed with incoming tides. Other work may express a stage of life, such as in the “Passages” series. Amy was experiencing a new phase of life and preparing for a move at the time of these creations. Finally, as in most abstract work, Amy’s paintings express emotions, be they joyous ones or those of struggle. Always her hope is for the viewer to experience personal, individual responses to her artwork.

About Amy Whitehouse Amy Whitehouse has been painting full-time for 20 years, and has spent the last four years in the abstract world. Having worked in the representational field of art for many years, she was ready for a challenge – and found it. Since she

Singersongwriter to play at UUFB From staff reports Self-accompanied singer/ songwriter Lewis Franco, aka The ReJewvenator, will appear at 7 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 17 at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship (UUFB) at 178 Sams Point Road, Lady’s Island.

Special guests Mary & Eddie Lara will open the show. Admission is $15 per person. Venmo and PayPal are available.

Drinks will be available for a donation and advanced ticket purchase is recommended. Call 864-363-0743 for more information.

FREE in • Obituaries

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300 Words or Less are FREE (includes picture). Over 300 words billed at 0.25¢ per word.

Contact Island News at 843-233-9465 or Jeff.TheIslandNews@gmail.com FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

B11

LOCAL MILITARY

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

Recruit Training Regiment, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, 9 February 2024 Recruit Training Regiment • Commanding Officer, Colonel C. B. McArthur 3rd Recruit Training Battalion • Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel G. F. Curley Commander of Troops, Captain A. W. Smith • Parade Adjutant, Captain W. D. Schloo Company “I”, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion • Commanding Officer, Captain A. W. Smith Drill Masters • Gunnery Sergeant Owrey, Staff Sergeant O. Scott III PLATOON 3000

PLATOON 3001

Senior Drill Instructor SSgt J. E. Peralta

B12

PLATOON 3002

Senior Drill Instructor SSgt G. A. Schneider

PLATOON 3004

Senior Drill Instructor Sgt C. A. Standiford

PLATOON 3005

Senior Drill Instructor SSgt T. A. Perry

Senior Drill Instructor SSgt B. L. Doyle

Pvt

Allen, Brayden E.

Pvt

Adams, Jocelyn K.

Pvt

Adams, Ethan N.

Pvt

Abimana, Herve

Pvt

Alonzo, Eddie J.

Pvt

Anderson, Avery I.

Pvt

Alvarinomartinez, Cynthia M.

Pvt

Ahr, Caleb E.

PFC

Acosta Jr, Lem L.

Pvt

Argant, Lovensky

PFC

Banks Jr, Wendell D.

PFC

Ascarnieves, Neysha N.*

Pvt

Anderson, Epic D.

Pvt

Alvaradotorres, Keneth I.

Pvt

Bardalesperez, Josue A.

PFC

Baucom, Hayden C.

PFC

Avalos, Melosia E.

Pvt

Andreus, Mchenrie

Pvt

Angiletta, Tanner J.

Pvt

Basurco, Walker C.

Pvt

Call, Asa J.

PFC

Baez, Lizette M.

Pvt

Andrews, Ashton T.

Pvt

Anicette, Awingston

Pvt

Blunt, Aidan W.

PFC

Chanseri, Dylan M.

Pvt

Bouchard, Brynn L.

Pvt

Andrews, Tyquarion A.

Pvt

Atchariyakornchai, Anthony P.

Pvt

Bowie, Derrick O.

PFC

Clear, Steven A.

PFC

Camara, Fatou

PFC

Baker, Elijah L. *

Pvt

Bate, Praise N.

Pvt

Colonsoto, David

Pvt

Collins Jr, Lee F.

PFC

Deleon, Claudine J.

Pvt

Barnes, Gerald A.

Pvt

Boeve, Landon R.

Pvt

Coulter, Landon T.

PFC

Covel, Skyler W.

Pvt

Denson, Sharday R.

Pvt

Bell, Jonathan T.

Pvt

Brown, Alijah M.

Pvt

Derr, Brendan E.

Pvt

Brown, Casey P.

Pvt

Brown, Dalton S.

Pvt

Dominguezreyes, Joshua

Pvt

Brown, Joel L.

Pvt

Edwards, Billy R.

PFC

Bulloch, Sidney B.

PFC

Encarnacionmordan, Steven J.*

Pvt

Calk, Jeremy B.

Pvt

Espinosa, Daniel

Pvt

Casaol Iv, Herman I.

Pvt

Fernandezgomez, Juan C.

Pvt

Cespedesrivera, Freddy W.

Pvt

Franklivingston, Romello C.

PFC

Clark Iv, Dow J. *

Pvt

Glotfelty, Landon D.

PFC

Devera, Nathan K.

PFC

Dowell, Alexis D.

PFC

Blades Blake N.

Pvt

Dixon, Ethan J.

Pvt

Duncan, Samya

Pvt

Chamness, Adam R.

Pvt

Duguay, Jacob K.

Pvt

Dunn, Jayme G.

Pvt

Clark, Anthony C.

Pvt

Elder, Kavian

Pvt

Esquivelrodriguez, Mariana M.

Pvt

Clecker, Devon C.

Pvt

Frazee, Jesse P.

PFC

Fedosova, Viktoriia

Pvt

Curtis, Dalton K.

Pvt

Godfrey, Jayden S.

PFC

Finnegan, Emilia J.*

Pvt

Daley, Tedroy

Pvt

Goucher, Tate A.

Pvt

Fortunato, Angelina T.

PFC

Drossos, Agustin N.

Pvt

Harig, Caidon W.

Pvt

French, Jaime A.

Pvt

Harris, Clayton G.

PFC

Clary, Mitchell J. *

Pvt

Gomez, Kevin J.

PFC

Hergel, Owen R. *

Pvt

Fulton, Iyonna Z.

Pvt

Holley, Isaiah J.

PFC

Davis, Tyrese J.

Pvt

Granger, Eamon J.

Pvt

Hickes, Lucas A.

Pvt

Gambinolopez, Mitzy N.

Pvt

Hollinghead, Mythias L.

Pvt

Dean, Phoenix F.

Pvt

Guarinlozada, Daniel

Pvt

Johnsonstrong, Jalen J.

Pvt

Gonzalez, Mariannah G.

PFC

Johns Jr, Christopher J.

Pvt

Deville, Ethan G.

PFC

Guerin, Sean M.

Pvt

Korth, William J.

PFC

Gonzalezgonzalez, Rubeli*

PFC

Karolkwoski Jr, Christopher J.

Pvt

Drayton, Isaiah J.

Pvt

Gutierrezhernandez, Erik

Pvt

Lark Ii, Anthony D.

Pvt

Helmuth, Sienna R.

PFC

Kiessling, Jayden S. *

Pvt

Edmundson, Kegan J.

Pvt

Hutcheson, Joel A.

PFC

Lawrence, Jayden A.

Pvt

Johnson, Victoria A.

Pvt

Lamb, John A.

Pvt

Eiserloh, Connor A.

Pvt

Jackson, Nicholas B.

PFC

Leitner, Kaden A. *

Pvt

Layou, Mackenzie R.

Pvt

Lesler, Zachary L.

Pvt

Escusa, Cash M.

PFC

Jones, Peyton M.

PFC

Leonard, Andrew J.

Pvt

Mara, Manuti N.

Pvt

Lewis, Andre D.

PFC

Estrella, Eurilexy

Pvt

Kombo, Amiri

PFC

Luster, Rayshawn D.

Pvt

Mcgowen, Juluan

Pvt

Mathews, Daniel J.

Pvt

Gearhart, Brandon A.

PFC

Lin, Jiacong

PFC

Mackinnon, Kieran S.

Pvt

Meneses, Angelea A.

Pvt

Mcbride, Zachary T.

Pvt

Gore, Jonah I.

Pvt

Lopezangeles, Angel R.

Pvt

Maldonado, Bryan G.

PFC

Mirkovic, Laura L.

Pvt

Mccollum, Jacob P.

Pvt

Greason Jr, Martin M.

Pvt

Maganaponce, Angel G.

Pvt

Martin, Lance A.

Pvt

Monje, Amanda M.

PFC

Newman, Darion T.

Pvt

Gross, Kameron X.

Pvt

Martinez, Axel

Pvt

Hay, Liam D.

Pvt

Mendez, Daylen S.

Pvt

Holm, Keldan R.

PFC

Hoover, Christian D. *

PFC

Mendonca, Ernest M.*

Pvt

Jimenezgarcia, Gabriel

PFC

Menendez, Jahsan L.*

Pvt

Lopez, Christopher J..

Pvt

Nicholson, Kye T.

Pvt

Manguse, Samuel A.

Pvt

Noller, Jason M.

Pvt

Marcucci, Antonio J.

Pvt

Perez, Alex J.

Pvt

Matosgarcia, Whitney

Pvt

Quirogalluizapa, Ronaldo V.

Pvt

Mendezzeledon, Yader I.

Pvt

Rivera, Christopher H.

Pvt

Mccarson, Marcus L.

Pvt

Munizgarcia, Shanyck D.

PFC

Norton Jr, Hensley M.

PFC

Mcmillan, Blaine G.

PFC

Nutini, Mya J.

PFC

Nungester Jr, Michael A.

Pvt

Mendozamendoza, Darvin A.

Pvt

Otero, Yamna R.

PFC

Owens, Jamari N. *

Pvt

Narine, William A.

PFC

Perez, Itamarcamil A.

Pvt

Pace, Hagan C.

Pvt

Ordozgoittymunoz, Oscar A.

Pvt

Peyton, Genesis E.

Pvt

Paland, James E.

PFC

Oruma, Great O. *

Pvt

Restrepoecheverri, Mariana

Pvt

Pavonjimenez, Christian

PFC

Poirier, Logan M. *

Pvt

Rudolph, Kyra M.

Pvt

Perez, Ramiro

Pvt

Powell, Brandon T.

PFC

Sime, Gianna E.*

Pvt

Phillips, Brett A.

Pvt

Radford, Octavius K.

Pvt

Smallwood, Alana M.

Pvt

Pulido, Javier W.

Pvt

Michael Iii, Lewis C.

Pvt

Sarantevaldez, Anderson S.

Pvt

Ramsey, Landon E.

Pvt

Smith, Morgan D.

Pvt

Puppato, Alessandro

Pvt

Naquin, Leon P.

Pvt

Scalogna, Jose J.

Pvt

Robinson, Cole M.

PFC

Smith, Raven N.

Pvt

Robbins, Connor C.

PFC

Nava, Jeremy D.

Pvt

Schadle, Eric J.

Pvt

Rodriguezlopez, Gabriel D.

Pvt

Taylorherge, Heather M.

Pvt

Ruiz, Randy C.

Pvt

Nordvik, Sivert

Pvt

Silvasantamaria, Luis A.

PFC

Ruffin, Grason N.

Pvt

Vegaavila, Clarissa I.

Pvt

Santana, Alex M.

PFC

Page, Malic J. *

Pvt

Spears, Ayden J.

PFC

Russell, Jakon J.

Pvt

Williams, Alisha D.

PFC

Schepemaker, Matthew A. *

Pvt

Petit, Hunter J.

Pvt

Sternthal, Aaron C.

PFC

Sakalauskas, Kevin J.

PFC

Wilson, Kiana J.

Pvt

Shaw, Kaleb G.

Pvt

Postoe Jr, Joshua P

Pvt

Sununu, Calvin T.

PFC

Sandoval, Kaleb Y.

Pvt

Zambranocuellar, Michelle

Pvt

Smith, Aiden M.

Pvt

Saleh, Arafat

PFC

Urestibalderas, Leonardo*

PFC

Scott, Gavin M.

PFC

Suarez, Daniel

Pvt

Sheikh, Tabish R.

Pvt

Velasquez, Joshua E.

Pvt

Tipton, Caleb L.

Pvt

Vilchizbello, Elias

PFC

Telega, Nathaniel S.

Pvt

Wilmot, Austin T.

Pvt

Trueax, David A.

Pvt

Whyte, Danovan C.

Pvt

Thibodeaux, Aiden J.

PFC

Wilson, Preston C.

Pvt

Tyler, Kaden R.

Pvt

Wilson Jr, Terry L.

Pvt

Tompkins, Kameron P.

Pvt

Zhang, Oscar

PFC

Vain, Christopher E.

PFC

Young Jr, Creighton D.

Pvt

Tuesta, Jeffry W.

Pvt

Vandell, Avery B.

Pvt

Young, Jermiah A.

PFC

Vidal, Erick J.

PFC

Wagner, Liam

PFC

Walters, Terry I.

Pvt

Webb Jr, Lance R.

Pvt

Wilson, Jeremiah J.

PFC

Walker, Terrance J.

Pvt

Wolfe, Craig L.

FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

Pvt

Zavalavalencia, Jamie

*Denotes Meritorious Promotion

LOCAL MILITARY

Kilo Company gas chamber

Recruits with Kilo Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, complete the gas chamber Jan. 29, 2023, during chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear defense training on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. Recruits are exposed to CS gas in order to familiarize themselves with the use of their gas masks. Pfc. Mark Dvoskin/USMC

Fisher House Charleston Team earns award for the outstanding service O n January 19, 2024, the Coastal Carolina Chapter of the Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) Chapter presented its Outstanding Service Award to the Fisher House Charleston Team. The award was presented at the Fisher House Charleston (FHC) public viewing, which was sponsored by the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center and Healthcare System and the Friends of Fisher House Charleston, Inc. A contributing writer to The Island News on veterans’ benefits, I am also the AUSA Chapter's Vice President (since 2004) for Veterans Affairs. I presented the award plaque and letters of commendation to FHC Manager Erik Zielinski, Assistant Manager Charity Anderson, and Housekeeping Supervisor Percy Jones.

Beautiful, five-star, and free lodging The Ralph H Johnson Healthcare System’s Fisher House is the Lowcountry’s “home away from home” and “free lodging” for families of veterans and military members receiving care at the Ralph H. Johnson Medical Center. This beautiful facility supports Beaufort County and the other S.C. coastal counties north to the North Carolina border and south to Brunswick, Ga. FHC is, on a space-available basis, also available to veterans accompanied by family members while the veteran receives treatment at nearby hospitals through VA community care.

The five-star lodging accommodations include 16 lovely private suites, a common kitchen, a family room, a dining room, a library,

K&L Gates law Firm, The Charleston Police Department, Knights of Columbus No. 6629, Isle of Palms Exchange Club, the Ladies of Edisto, Grace Temple Fellowship Church, American Legion Post 69, REV FedLARRY DANDRIDGE eral Credit Union, the S.C. Aquarium, Roper Hospital 7 East Nursing Unit, MOPH a large rear veranda with Grand Strand, GSRI, Project outdoor cooking facilities, Outreach, Genentech, a large front porch, laundry Purpose & Destiny Family facilities, well-lighted park- School, MUSC Student ing, VA Police Protection, Government Association, and free transportation to Summerville Elks Lodge and from the VA Medical 2719, Grace Cathedral Center. FHC also provides Church, Seacoast Church groceries and amenity Small Group, VFW Auxilitems so that families can iary Eutawville, Innovative focus on their hero while Endodontics, the Boeing they receive treatment.

Corporation, East Cooper Outboard, Publix, Red & Adopt and support Fisher White Boom Fireworks, House Charleston CDS School, Eart Breeze, Volunteers, local busithe U.S. Army Corps of Ennesses, patriotic organizagineers, the Ronald McDontions, and others provide ald House, Sea Brook Island an almost endless supply of Club, Sun City Vet’s Assomonetary donations and do- ciation, NSDAR Ft. Sullivan nations of things the Fisher Vets, Isle of Palms Express House Charleston needs to Club, Girl Scout Troop 756, make it the Lowcountry’s Navy Wives Club, Swamp world-class and free lodge Fox Unit 17 DAV Auxiliary, for families of the veterans Women in Defense, Boy and military members who Scouts, SE Asia ASA Vets are inpatients in the RHJVA Association, Peter Horry Medical Center. Among DAR Chapter, JBCHS the many organizations First Sergeants Council, St. and businesses which have Mary and St. Agnes Church adopted and supported the Chapter, several American Fisher House Charleston Legion Chapters, the Elms are: Vets Association, Bethel Methodist Church, Treats 4 The Fisher Foundation, The Friends of Fisher House Troops, Rufin Foundation, Winkler Fund, Network for Charleston, Beaufort’s Good, KPMG Bergen City AUSA Subchapter, AUSA’s United Way, and more that Coastal S.C. Chapter, the 100 others (too many to Charleston Garden Club, mention here).

MOAA Charleston and other MOAA chapters, The award plaque and Mil Corp, Coastal Vascular commendations men& Vein Center, Palmettioned that the Fisher to Christian Academy, House Charleston Team Berkeley Electric Co-op, has provided outstanding Sugar Bake Shop, Sentar, J. service to the veterans and Henry Stur Funeral Home, veterans’ families staying

Checks can be made payable to Charleston Fisher House or Friends of Fisher House Charleston.

This author suggests you donate through the Friends of Fisher House Charleston, Inc., because the money can be used faster through this avenue and in some cases for families that government-appropriated funding does not cover.

AUSA’s Larry Dandridge, left, presents the Outstanding Service Award Plaque to Fisher House Manager and U.S. Marine veteran Erik Zielinski. Submitted photo at the Ralph H. Johnson VA Fisher House for the fourth quarter of 2023 and since opening in January 2018.

In 2023 the Lowcountry’s Fisher House maintained the third-highest occupancy in the VA system out of 45 other VA medical centers.

The FHC was also included in the top two VAs for total Veterans families accommodated and served – 1,246 Veterans families.

The dramatic increase in occupancy and referrals in 2023 was driven by several process improvements and increased community outreach, which was a testament to the dedication of the new manager, Erik Zielinski, and his amazing team of employees, housekeepers, and volunteers.

The FHC has also implemented a dashboard admissions report that was recently recognized as a National best practice. The report will be accessible to all VA sites and will save an estimated $5 million of annual out-of-pocket lodging expenses for veterans and families nationwide.

The AUSA Award not

only recognized the Fisher House Charleston's three leaders but also the other employees and hundreds of volunteers who have made Charleston’s Fisher House the great lodge that it is.

Friends of Fisher House Charleston When the Fisher House is full, the wonderful local 501c3 non-profit Friends of Fisher House Charleston Inc. provides free hotel nights and convenient transportation services making sure no veteran’s family goes unaccommodated. The Fisher House Charleston has been full for the past four months and the demand for free lodging has resulted in the need for a second Fisher House in Charleston.

How to donate Items like individually packaged food items/snacks and common household items such as toilet paper and cleaning supplies) are appreciated. Monetary donations can be made online at https://bit.ly/3UwnEXQ or at https://bit.ly/48c3BRE.

E-Edition

Digital Newspaper

How to volunteer Meal Train: The FHC is always looking for volunteers to cook at the Fisher House. Register online at https://bit.ly/42rUmM3.

If you have any questions, contact the Fisher House Managers at Erik.Zielinski@va.gov or Charity.

Anderson@va.gov or call 843-805-8200.

The bottom line Eligible veterans and their families from all over our nation can use Fisher Houses. Veterans and their families should work with the VA social worker to get referred to stay in a Fisher House. Please encourage your friends, clubs, businesses, houses of worship, and organizations to volunteer and donate money and needed items to Fisher House Charleston.

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.

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FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

B13

SERVICE DIRECTORY ACUPUNCTURE

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B14

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Connect with our dedicated marketing team: Amanda Hanna – amanda@lcweekly.com Sandy Schepis – sandyschepis@gmail.com

CLASSIFIEDS & GAMES

THURSDAY’S CARTOON Read with caution; not necessarily the opinions of the editorial staff.

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HELP WANTED – DRIVERS ADVERTISE YOUR DRIVER JOBS in 80 S.C. newspapers for only $375. Your 25-word classified ad will reach more than 1.5 million readers. Call Randall

THEME: LOVE ACROSS 1. Zagreb native 6. Not St. or Blvd.

9. Tucked in 13. Whatchamacallit 14. Robert Redford's Sundance ____ 15. In a cold manner 16. Tiny island 17. Mad King George's number 18. Hearing, e.g.

19. *Love's late Nirvana husband 21. *Star-____ 23. *Air Supply's "Making Love Out of Nothing at ____" 24. Elementary particle 25. Tire meas.

28. Land of Israel 30. *Joe Cocker and Jennifer Warnes: "Love lifts us up where we ____" 35. Ladder crosspiece 37. Frenzied 39. London's Thames, e.g.

40. ____-European language 41. Call it quits 43. Very bright star 44. What procedural and epidural have in common 46. Crosby's and Still's partner 47. Mountain valley 48. Final words

50. Future J.D.'s hurdle 52. Food scrap 53. Tax 55. Pen point 57. *"All You Need Is Love" band, with The 61. *Letters to Juliet destination 64. Habituate 65. NHL surface 67. Ancient marketplace 69. Like many bathroom floors?

70. Blunderbuss, e.g.

71. Entrenched (2 words) 72. Whirlpool 73. Volleyball court center 74. English homework assignment DOWN 1. Computer-related imaging acronym 2. CISC alternative 3. Capital of Norway 4. Single-cell protozoan 5. Bottom lines 6. Similar 7. One of the Tudors 8. Authoritative proclamation 9. Single pip cards 10. The Container Store purchase, pl.

11. "What ____ can I say?"

12. T-shirt, after tied

Savely at the S.C. Newspaper Network, 1-888-727-7377.

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YOUR AD HERE Email Amanda (amanda@lcweekly. com) or Sandy (sandyschepis@gmail. com) to place your classified ad here!

15. Chemical cousin 20. Homer's epic 22. Actor Lowe 24. Deviation from the norm 25. *U2's "In the Name of Love" song 26. First light of day 27. Lemur from Madagascar 29. Damien's prediction 31. Ding-a-____ 32. Convex molding 33. *"Love means ____ having to say you're sorry" 34. *"Love Actually" star 36. Hockey score 38. *True Love's ____ 42. Feudal lord 45. Loafed 49. "Holy moly!"

51. Rant 54. "Peace" with fingers (2 words) 56. Phony 57. Teeth mark 58. Children's writer Blyton 59. Old, in Scottish 60. Three pointer 61. Heater outlet 62. Wooden pegs 63. Rigoletto's "La donna mobile," e.g.

66. Pool tool 68. One or some

LAST WEEK’S CROSSWORD & SUDOKU SOLUTIONS

FEBRUARY 8–14, 2024

B15

820 Bay Street Beaufort, SC 29902

843.521.4200 $859,000

$3,500,000

$3,250,000

$565,000

CAT ISLAND | MLS 183493

FRIPP POINT | MLS 175916

FRIPP ISLAND | MLS 183430

ROYAL PINES | MLS 181466

$325,000

$965,000

$284,500

$649,000

NEWPOINT | MLS 182418

MARSH HARBOR | MLS 183486

MOSSY OAKS | MLS 182853

$685,000

$339,000

$575,000

DOWNTOWN BEAUFORT

FRIPP ISLAND | MLS 182726

TRADEWINDS PLANTATION

DOWNTOWN | MLS 182511

$995,000

$475,000

$990,000

$29,500

ST. HELENA | MLS 179571

NEWPOINT | MLS 183488

$699,000

$449,500

$172,000

CARRIAGE COURT | MLS 182664

MOSSY OAKS | MLS 182554

CAT ISLAND | MLS 167842

$119,000

$1,895,000

$349,900

$35,000

CAT ISLAND | MLS 175063

LUXURY NEW CONSTRUCTION

MOSSY OAKS | MLS 182798

DATAW ISLAND | MLS 181512

3BDRM | 2.5B | 2150sqft Bryan Gates 843.812.6494

COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITY MLS 174906 | 1700sqft | 3/4 Mile from I95 Wayne Webb 843.812.5203

$715,000

MLS 183277 | 3BDRM | 2B | 1692sqft Zoned T4-N Residential/Commercial Amy McNeal 843.521.7932

CAT ISLAND | MLS 182877 5BDRM | 5B | 3066sqft Julia O’Hara 1.201.456.8620

$37,000

ISLANDS OF BEAUFORT

MLS 180227 | .43 Acre Homesite | Corner Lot Waterfront Community Amy McNeal 843.521.7932

.38 Acre Homesite | Cul-de-sac Lot Sweeping Views Julia O’Hara 1.201.456.8620

12acre Private Island | Deepwater Utilities & Permits in Place Edward Dukes 843.812.5000 www.101Kingstonkey.com

4BDRM | 3.5B | 3434sqft | Community Dock Colleen Baisley 843.252.1066

3BDRM | 2B | 1342sqft Bryan Gates 843.812.6494

17.01 Acres | Marshfront | Incredible Views Scott Sanders 843.263.1284

2BDRM | 2.5B | 1679sqft | Waterview 3rd floor Bonus Room Trea Tucker 843.812.4852

MLS 174090 | 3BDRM | 3.5+B | Water Views Elevator | Secured Parking Edward Dukes 843.812.5000 www.1105baystreet.com

4BDRM | 4.5B | Heated Pool | Ocean View Edward Dukes 843.812.5000 Amy McNeal 843.521.7932

3BDRM | 3B | 1501sqft | Pond View Paige Walling 843.812.8470

MLS 183292 | 3BDRM | 2.5B | 1512sqft Wayne Webb 843.812.5203

4BDRM | 4B | 3470sqft Sara Miller 1.540.209.5434

3BDRM | 2B | 1664sqft Bryan Gates 843.812.6494

2BDRM | 2.5B | 1152sqft Amy McNeal 843.521.7932

2BDRM | 2.5B | 1745sqft | Inground Pool Amy McNeal 843.521.7932

.60acre Homesite | Deep Water Dock Permit in Hand Lloyd Williams 1.843.754.4735

.13 Acre Corner Lot | Zoned T4-N Prime Location Edward Dukes 843.812.5000

DATAW ISLAND | MLS 178193

.17 Acre Homesite | Cul-de-sac | Water & Golf View Trudy Arthur 843.812.0967 Nancy Butler 843.384.5445

.66acre Homesite | Cul-de-sac Marsh/Water View Donna Duncan 843.597.3464

.15 Acre Homesite | Golf Course View Nancy Butler 843.384.5445 Trudy Arthur 843.812.0967

If you are thinking about selling, now is the time to consider your options!

Call us today to learn what your home could sell for in today’s market. www.LowcountryRealEstate.com