January 5 edition

A successful plunge

Once again,

By Mike McCombs

Friends of Hunting Island fundraiser a hit

Planning meeting tonight

Potential gated community, golf course on St. Helena likely subject at County Planning meeting

By Mike McCombs

Those interested in preserving Gullah culture on St. Helena Island will take particular interest in Thursday’s Beaufort County Planning Commission meeting.

On the agenda is a potential change in language to the Cultural Protection Overlay (CPO), a planning tool that prohibits such things as golf courses and gated communities on the island. A change in the language could open the door for the county to reach agreements that would allow such development on the island.

The potential for change in the CPO comes at a time when the county is being asked to allow for exceptions to the CPO.

Specifically, developer Elvio Tropeano, representing Pine Island GC, LLP, already asked for an exception to the CPO to build

By

all accounts, the 13th annual Pelican Plunge was again a success.

The weather was good, and several hundred plungers rumbled down the beach at Hunting Island State Park and into the cold surf, many wearing costumes ranging from shrimp to Winnie The Pooh to the pelican himself — or herself.

Friends of Hunting Island President Linda Miller said membership numbers continued to trend upward, as well.

“Our goals are always satisfied by sharing the joy of this event,” Miller said before the race.

All proceeds benefit Friends of Hunting Island in the group’s work to support Hunting Island State Park.

Membership, which costs $60 a

year, also offers people the opportunity to select a volunteer category at sign up. Core categories include Lighthouse, Environmental conservation care projects, construction crew projects, sand dune fencing and special building projects, events and the new Shorebird Stewardship Pro-

1st born in Beaufort

Warrants issued for 2 in Port Royal shooting

From staff reports

Port Royal Police Department detectives have identified and obtained warrants for two people in connection with a shooting that occurred on the afternoon of Friday, Dec. 29.

Detectives identified 27-year-old Jeffrey Keyontay Gadson of Pineland as the suspect in the shooting and obtained warrants for his arrest for Attempted Murder and Possession of a Weapon During a Violent Crime.

A female occupant was also identified as 26-yearold Neyauna Fields of Ridgeland, and detectives obtained a warrant for her arrest for Accessory After

Meet Beaufort’s newest resident and the first baby born in Beaufort in 2023. This handsome guy, Nolan Gray Swanson, was born at the Beaufort

Memorial Collins Birthing Center on Jan.

at

a.m. Nolan weighed

at 8 pounds, 13 ounces, and is the first child for Autumn Shea and James Patrick Swanson of Beaufort. Photos courtesy of Charlotte Berkeley.

Molly Dennis, left, and Tammy Johnson, right, take time out to pose with the Hunting Island Pelican (Laura Boozer) prior to the start of the 13th annual Pelican Plunge on Sunday at Hunting Island State Park. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

PUBLISHERS

Jeff & Margaret Evans

FOUNDING PUBLISHERS

Elizabeth Harding Newberry Kim Harding

EDITORIAL/DESIGN

Editor-in-Chief Mike McCombs theislandnews@ gmail.com

Art Director Hope Falls ads.theislandnews@ gmail.com

Sports Editor Justin Jarrett LowcoSports@ gmail.com

VETERAN OF THE WEEK RONALD PATTERSON

Beaufort’s Ronald Patterson, 80, joined the United States Marine Corps in Bridgeport, Conn., in 1959. After boot camp at Parris Island and Montford Point Stewards School in Jacksonville, N.C., he was assigned to MCAS Cherry Point. While there he transitioned to administrative duties. Follow-on tours took him to Okinawa and Quantico before duty at Da Nang, Vietnam. He

returned to Cherry Point before a second tour in Vietnam. He returned to Quantico providing

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

The wrong type of investment for St. Helena Island

Greetings! All too often, the exploitation of undeveloped land with historic and cultural significance to our Gullah Geechee community is “promoted” to the citizens as an economic benefit.

This is no longer acceptable. Leadership must stand and recognize the cultural, economic, and educational significance of our Gullah Geechee culture which is inherently tied to the land.

In the spirit of Beaufort’s native son, Robert Smalls, the Gullah Geechee Chamber of Commerce’s advocacy work is inspired by his leadership on May 12, 1862, when he commandeered The Planter, the ship he was

Meeting

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a private, gated community and an 18-hole golf course on nearly 500 acres in the culturally important areas of Pine Island and St. Helenaville on St Helena Island.

The potential project, likely to be highly controversial, has already drawn opposition from Penn Center and the Coastal Conservation League, among others, and at least two petitions are circulating opposing the project.

The Planning Commission will meet at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 5, in Council Chambers at the County Administration Building at 100 Ribaut Road.

military security for the general. In 1975, he served at MCAS Beaufort before returning to Okinawa and later to Recruiter duty in Buffalo, N.Y. His final assignment was back at Parris Island where he retired as a Master Sergeant in 1990 with 30 years active service. He later worked in security at Callawassie Island and for eight years at the Beaufort County Corrections Center. He next

enslaved on, and turned it over to the United States Navy.

Robert Smalls went on to purchase his former enslaver’s mansion in Beaufort and became a lobbyist for reform. He served five terms in the House of Representatives and was a community leader during the Reconstruction Era. Robert Smalls stood up for what was right and fought for his people — now, I am asking you to return the favor.

While not as harrowing as stealing The Planter, I am calling on you to fulfill your civic duty and serve your community by attending the Beaufort County Planning Commission meeting on January 5. We must speak out against plans to rezone Pine Island and St. Helenaville.

This pristine, undeveloped 498-acre property is too culturally and historically

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the Fact of a Felony.

Anyone who has any information on the whereabouts of either suspect are asked to call Beaufort County Communications at 843- 524-2777, their local Law Enforcement Agency or the Port Royal Police Department at 843-986-2220.

On Thursday, Dec. 29, at around 4 p.m., Port Royal Police officers responded to Beaufort Memorial Hospital for a report of a gunshot victim. Investigators learned that the victim, a 29-year-old Ridgeland man, was traveling on Ribaut Road between Pinckney Blvd. and Midtown Drive in Port Royal when he and the driver of another vehicle became involved in an altercation which resulted in the driver of the other

PAL PETS OF THE WEEK

Cat of the Week: Cashew is anything but salty, she is sweet as can be. Cashew loves to snuggle and give kisses to everyone she meets, human or feline. She is quite the purrbox who would be happy to join any home. Cashew is 2 years old, spayed, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped.

managed government housing in Ridgeland and worked with the security department at Naval Hospital Beaufort. Today he is the vice-president of the Beaufort chapter of the Montford Marine Association.

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

important for developers to convert into an exclusive golf resort and a millionaire’s playground. Instead, the land should be protected in its current state for future generations to protect Gullah culture and the environment on St. Helena Island.

While I grew up in Georgetown, my maternal family roots are deeply embedded in Beaufort and do not wish to see St. Helena Island gentrified. I am a successful businesswoman and community advocate. I believe the Gullah Geechee culture is an asset and investing in our communities benefits current and future generations. However, this is simply the wrong type of investment for St. Helena Island and must be stopped.

– Marilyn L. Hemingway, CEO/President, Gullah Geechee Chamber of Commerce

Videographer Delayna Earley delayna. theislandnews@ gmail.com

SALES/BUSINESS

Advertising Sales Director Amanda Hanna 843-343-8483 amanda@ lcweekly.com

Accounting April Ackerman april@ aandbbookkeeping. com Billing questions only.

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

The suspect’s vehicle was described as a 2008 BMW 335I, dark grey or blue in color with Georgia tag TEA2765.

vehicle firing at least one shot into his vehicle, striking him in the side.

The victim was able to drive himself to Beaufort Memorial where he is currently being treated for his injury.

Investigators believe that the victim knew the occupants of the other vehicle and this was an isolated incident.

The suspect’s vehicle, that was sought by investigators, was described as a 2008 BMW 335I, dark grey or blue in color with Georgia tag TEA2765.

On Saturday, Dec. 31, the vehicle used in the shooting was located by the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, and Port Royal Detectives impounded the car for processing.

DISCLAIMER

of the Week: Francesca is short and stout. She loves to play with her tennis ball and give hugs to everyone she meets. Francesca was a longterm resident at a local shelter and was always overlooked. She would love a home for the new year. Francesca is 4 years old, spayed, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped.

Dog

If you are interested in adopting Cashew, Francesca 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.

CORRECTION:

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.

Ronald Patterson

The Island News’ Lolita Huckaby captured this image of the boats in the fog on the Beaufort River on New Year’s Day. 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

In Lolita Huckaby’s Lowcountry Lowdown column in the December 29 edition of The Island News, the location of Pine Island, the potential site for a new residential and golf course development on St. Helena Island was misstated. It is located off Dulamo Road.

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

By Mike McCombs

New Year’s weekend was a deadly one on Beaufort’s roads as two pedestrians were struck and killed by vehicles.

The first incident occurred around 6:20 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 31 on U.S. 21 — the 3100 block of Trask Parkway — near Glass Road.

According to S.C. Highway Patrol Corporal David Jones, a pedestrian — Robert McCoy, 59, of Beaufort — was killed when he was struck by a 2006 Chevrolet van. McCoy and the van were traveling northbound on U.S. 21.

The Burton Fire District, Beaufort County EMS, The Beaufort County Sheriff’s

Office and the S.C. Highway Patrol (SCHP) all responded to the report of the collision.

U.S. 21 Northbound (toward Sheldon) was closed in this area for more than two hours while those involved were tended to and the scene was investigated.

The driver of the van was not injured.

The second incident happened early on New Year’s Day.

Around 12:30 a.m., Sunday, Jan. 1, on Broad River Blvd. near Parris Island Gateway, a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle that left the scene, then struck again by a second vehicle that remained on scene.

Burton Fire District and Beaufort County EMS responded. EMS pronounced him deceased at the scene and the SCHP took over the investigation.

The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office identified the deceased as Bruce Singleton, 58, of Beaufort.

According to Master

Trooper Brandon Bolt, the vehicle that struck Singleton was traveling west on Broad River Blvd.

Both collisions remain under investigation by the SCHP.

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

Deadline approaching for 2023 Valentine Ball reservations

From staff reports

Imagine dining in the home of someone you’ve likely never met and making memories you’ll never forget, all while raising money for the health of the entire community.

Having trouble picturing it? Then you’ve never experienced the Beaufort Memorial Hospital Foundation’s Valentine Ball.

The 34th annual event, set for Saturday, February 11, 2023, at Tabby Place, will feature the ever-popular preball dinner parties, live music performed by Charlotte, N.C.-based Diverse Groove, a silent auction, cocktails, and dessert.

First held in 1989, the Valentine Ball is a decades-long tradition as Beaufort’s premier black-tie affair, with its own unique twist.

Generous community members throughout the area open their homes, book upscale restaurants, or reserve private clubs to host guests for pre-ball dinner parties, often the highlight of the annual event. The dinners are included in the ticket price and provide guests the opportunity to bask in the hospitality of local hosts

while meeting new friends along the way.

“Hundreds of Beaufort-area families have hosted dinner parties for thousands of Valentine Ball guests over

the past 34 years,” BMH Foundation Executive Director and Associate Vice President Kim Yawn said. “Pre-ball dinner parties are by far the most popular as-

pect of this event.”

Attendees who purchase tickets by January 13 are guaranteed a seat at a private dinner party. Guests may choose to dine with friends by request, but it’s often the element of surprise and the opportunity to meet new people that makes these dinners so memorable.

“There is truly nothing like being welcomed into someone’s home and dining with a group of people you may have never met, and all for a great cause,” Yawn says.

From historic homes in Beaufort’s Old Point and waterfront homes on Lady’s Island, to downtown restaurants like Griffin Market and private venues like Dataw Island’s Clubhouse, dinner

parties are held throughout the Beaufort area and often feature cocktail receptions, passed hors d’oeuvres and multi-course meals prepared by the hosts, or by local chefs.

“The dinner parties are such a unique and fun tradition because you get to have a wonderful meal and great conversation before enjoying the party atmosphere at the ball,” said Mary Beth Donovan, who is chairing this year’s ball along with her husband William and John and Danielle Troutman. “I think the dinner parties have provided some of my best memories of the prior Valentine Balls!”

After dinner it’s off to the ball where guests enjoy desserts, drinks, and live music,

while browsing and bidding on trips, artwork, spa services and more at the silent auction.

Co-chaired by the Donovans and Troutmans, this year’s event will mark a new and critical focus of the hospital’s future: providing career paths and opportunities for current employees and training new generations of health care providers to meet the growing needs of the community.

Organizers hope to raise more than $200k to support the hospital’s workforce development initiatives, and a new daycare center within steps of the hospital to provide convenient, competent, and cost-effective care for employees’ children.

A new, pre-ball silent auction opened January 1, featuring items that include hotel stays, hair and makeup sessions, spray tan parties and more.

Valentine Ball ticket purchases must be made by January 13 to guarantee seating at a pre-ball dinner party. For more information about the Valentine Ball visit ValentineBall.org or call the Beaufort Memorial Hospital Foundation at 843-522-5774.

Mike

The tables are set for the 2023 Valentine Ball Dinner Parties. The dinners are included in the ticket price and provide guests the opportunity to bask in the hospitality of local hosts while meeting new friends along the way. RSVP by January 13 to be assured a seat!

Generous community members open their homes, book upscale restaurants, or reserve private clubs to host pre-ball dinner parties, like this one hosted by Vimal Desai. “The hosts work so hard to provide an amazing dinner experience,” said Valentine Ball co-chair Mary Beth Donovan, who attended Desai’s party.

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF BEAUFORT CASE 2022-ES-07-01393

ANY MINORS, PERSONS NON COMPOS MENTIS AND PERSONS UNDER DISABILITY OF ANY KIND OR NATURE WHO MIGHT CLAIM TO BE HEIRS-AT-LAW OF LOUISE LEVANT, RESPONDENTS.

SUMMONS

TO THE RESPONDENTS ABOVE-NAMED: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to answer the Petition in this action to determine the heirs-at-law of Louise Levant, which was filed in the office of the Probate Court for Beaufort County, South Carolina, and to serve a copy of your Answer to said Petition upon Petitioner’s Attorney, at their office at 8570 Rivers Ave, Suite 170, North Charleston, SC 29406, within thirty (30) days after the service hereof, exclusive of the day of such services, and if you fail to answer the Petition, judgment by default will be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the Petition.

North Charleston, South Carolina 3 November 2022

Aashini Shrivastav, Esquire Center for Heirs’ Property Preservation 8570 Rivers Ave, Suite 170. North Charleston, SC 29406 Phone: 843-745-7055 Fax: 843-745-7054

ashrivastav@heirsproperty.org

Attorney for Petitioner

NOTICE TO RESPONDENTS, INCLUDING PERSONS UNKNOWN, MINORS, INCOMPETENTS, AND UNDER ANY OTHER DISABILITY

TO THE RESPONDENTS ABOVE-NAMED: And to any thereof that may be residents or non-residents of South Carolina, and to the natural, general, testamentary or other guardians therefor, and to the persons with whom they reside or by whom they may be employed if any there be, and to all other Respondents whose whereabouts cannot be ascertained.

TAKE NOTICE, that the Summons, Petition, Order Appointing Guardian ad Litem, Order of Publication, and Notice to Respondents were filed in the Office of the Probate Court for Beaufort County, South Carolina on Nov 8, 2022, and Sarah L. Clingman, Esquire, 1813 Marion Street, Columbia SC 29201, was appointed Guardian ad Litem, her appointment to become absolute twenty (20) days after the service of the Summons.

NOTICE OF HEARING TO DETERMINE HEIRS-AT-LAW TO THE RESPONDENTS ABOVE-NAMED:

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a hearing has been scheduled for Feb 6, 2023 at 9:30 AM at Beaufort County Probate Court, Beaufort County Courthouse, 100 Ribaut Road, Beaufort, South Carolina, for the purpose of determining heirs-at-law of Louise Levant. This action was commenced by Petitioner on Nov 8, 2022 at the Beaufort County Probate Court to have the Probate Court declare that Karen Levant, Iris Levant, Zora Levant, and Maria Levant were the sole heirs-at-law of Louise Levant upon her death on April 3, 2006.

Any objections to the Petitioner’s right to commence this action, as the current owners of the real property that was owned by Louise Levant at the time of her death, or to Petitioner’s prayer for relief declaring the aforementioned persons to have been the sole heirs-at-law of Louise Levant must be filed with the Beaufort County Probate Court on or before Feb 6. 2023 or advanced in person at the scheduled hearing.

Get ready to get up and dance

From staff reports

The Northern Beaufort County Boys & Girls Clubs are hosting the Voices of Classic Soul Motown Dance Party from 7 to 9 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 12 at Tabby Place at 913 Port Republic Street.

Come celebrate the voic-

es of Motown with Joe Coleman, Joe Blunt, and Theo Peeples — singers from The Platters, The Temptations, The Four Tops, and The Drifters. There will also be a special guest appearance by Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr., a winner of America’s

Got Talent.

Space is limited. Reserve your spot on the dance floor with a $75 donation per person to Northern Beaufort County Boys & Girls Clubs at https://bit.ly/3GE8IQc

There will also be complimentary hors d’eourvres,

beer and wine.

Murphy and Voices of Classic Soul will be performing again on Friday, Jan. 13, during the sold-out annual “Notes” Gala, benefiting the Northern Beaufort County Boys & Girls Clubs. The addition of Thursday’s

dance party provides the Beaufort community an opportunity to hear about the mission of the organization, while enjoying an evening of music and dance.

For more information contact Kimberly Sullivan at 843-379-5430.

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gram in conjunction with Audubon South Carolina.

The Hunting Island Nature Center will be renovated in 2023, and this fundraiser will directly impact those efforts. And of course, members can volunteer for the sea turtle program, counting nests and hatchlings.

For those still interested in joining Friends of Hunting Island or learning about its sea turtle program, visit the website at https:// www.friendsofhuntingisland.org/.

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

Beaufort Memorial announces 2023 cancer support group meeting schedule

From staff reports

In order to provide support for area residents recently diagnosed with cancer, or in any stage of treatment, Beaufort Memorial will continue to offer two monthly cancer support groups in 2023.

Beginning this month, the breast cancer support group will meet on the second Wednesday of each month

NEWS BRIEFS

LWV meeting

set for Jan. 12

The League of Women Voters Beaufort will hold a General Meeting from 6 to 7:30 p.m., on Thursday, Jan. 12 at the Sea Island Presbyterian Church Meeting Room on Lady’s Island. The public as well as LWVB members are encouraged to attend.

The League is a non-partisan group whose mission is to identify and discuss relevant subjects and to educate ourselves about current topics affecting our lives in order to make our voices heard. The League meets every second Thursday of the month.

The January 12 meeting will be about the topics members have suggested as projects for 2023. We are looking forward to a lively discussion and timely contributions from attendees as to how we can best address and advance positions that are important to our community.

at 6 p.m., with the next meeting scheduled for January 11. A group for patients dealing with any type of cancer is scheduled to meet on the fourth Wednesdays at 1 p.m., with the next meeting planned for January 25.

“We encourage local patients to come join others who are on a similar journey,” said Oncology Social Worker Kianna Reese.

“They will find a place to share their concerns, ask questions and learn healthy coping skills, while creating a network of support and compassion.”

Both groups meet for about an hour and are facilitated by Reese, a licensed social worker. They meet in Room 350 of the Beaufort Medical Plaza on the hospital grounds at 989 Ribaut

Road. Participation is free and open to the public, but reservations are required.

“Hearing the word ‘cancer’ can be completely life altering and terrifying,” said Reese. “It is very common to feel lost and alone during this difficult journey. We hope that, in offering this group exploration of the emotional elements of a cancer diagnosis, we will

create a safe space to feel like you are able to be found again – to lift one another.

“Ultimately, this group is a pathway to finding meaning and purpose again beyond a cancer diagnosis.”

For more information – including a schedule of future meetings – or to register, visit BeaufortMemorial.org/ SupportGroups or call Kianna Reeseat 843-522-7328.

Prior to retiring from his 31-year career at the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Rugala was Unit Chief of Behavioral Analysis Unit 1, Threat Assessment and Counterterrorism. He now consults with many corporations and universities in developing and implementing procedures and protocols for the prevention of violence in the workplace and schools.

VITA volunteers needed

United Way of the Lowcountry (UWLC) is looking for volunteers who are interested in helping Lowcountry residents – who need extra support and guidance – file their tax returns for free.

placed more than $2.6 million in refunds back into residents’ pockets.

Non-tax certified volunteers can serve as greeters and screeners; interpreters; and computer specialists/troubleshooters. Tax certified volunteers are needed as site coordinators; tax preparers; and quality reviewers. There is also a special need for bilingual Spanish speakers for all positions.

Free training is offered both online and in the classroom. Tax sites are open the first week in February through mid-April during weekdays, weeknights and Saturdays. Hours are flexible, allowing volunteers to choose time slots that fit their schedules.

sionary leadership in a community activity or on behalf of a community organization. This is not a lifetime achievement award. The award winner will receive a $10,000 grant to bestow to a charitable organization based in the Foundation’s service territory, as well as a keepsake to memorialize the honor.

To learn more about volunteering for the VITA Program in 2023, email lowcountryvitacoalition@gmail.com or call 843-3793064.

Indivisible

Former FBI unit chief to speak at

Beaufort meeting

Indivisible Beaufort will hold its next meeting at 11 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 21 at the Beaufort Library at 311 Scott Street.

The meeting, entitled “The Nature of Violence in America: Current Trands, Myths and Realities,” will feature speaker Eugene Rugala, the principal of Eugene Rugala Associates, a behavioral science, consultation, training, and research firm located in Beaufort.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program — a collaboration between the IRS, Beaufort County Human Services Alliance and United Way of the Lowcountry — supports individuals and families with low-to-moderate incomes, persons with disabilities, the elderly and limited English speakers with free tax preparation.

VITA volunteers are community members trained to help their neighbors file their taxes for free and claim every tax credit available to them. Their service supports workers in caring for their families, withstanding unexpected economic challenges and bolstering their overall financial well-being.

Last tax season, a team of 49 volunteers saved 1,797 Lowcountry residents more than $450,000 in tax preparations fees alone and

Community Foundation of the Lowcountry accepting nominations for award

The Community Foundation of the Lowcountry has teamed up with one its most generous supporters to create the Joan and Wade Webster Community Impact Award. The award will recognize an individual within the Foundation’s four-county service territory (Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper) that has made a recent significant contribution to improving the quality of life in the Lowcountry, and has demonstrated vi-

Nomination forms are available to download on the Community Foundation website at https://cf-lowcountry.org/. The fillable PDF should be completed and emailed to info@cf-lowcountry.org. Answers to the three questions/statements should be included in the body of the email. You can also pick up a nomination form at the Community Foundation office located on 4 Northridge Dr., Suite A, Hilton Head Island. The deadline to submit your nomination is January 17, 2023.

The inaugural Joan and Wade Webster Community Impact Award will be presented at the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry’s Annual Community Meeting held from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, March 29, 2023 at Hilton Head’s Arts Center of Coastal Carolina.

The following are ineligible for the award: current board and staff of the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry; individuals currently serving in a public elected office; and individuals who are paid staff of a nonprofit. If you have questions, or need more information, please contact Rob Ennamorato at rennamorato@cf-lowcountry.org or 843-681-9100.

KAREN LEVANT, PETITIONER V. HEIRS-AT-LAW OF LOUISE LEVANT INCLUDING IRIS LEVANT, ZORA LEVANT, MARIA LEVANT, AND JOHN DOE AND MARY ROE FICTITIOUS NAMES REPRESENTING ANY UNKNOWN HEIRS AT LAW, INCLUDING UNKNOWN PERSONS IN THE ARMED FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,

Costume designs representing the most vivid of imaginations were on display during the 13th annual Pelican Plunge on Sunday at Hunting Island State Park.

Several hundred people braved the heavy fog and cold water to gather at the surf for the 13th annual Pelican Plunge on Sunday at Sunday at Hunting. Photos by Bob Sofaly/The Island News

the fog, several hundred people took the challenge and subjected themselves to the cold water during the 13th annual Pelican Plunge on Sunday at Hunting Island State Park. Many said the water wasn’t near as cold as in recent years but admitted to only wading out to their waist.

Beaufort Memorial earns 2022 Top Hospital Award for outstanding quality, safety

By Courtney McDermott

We all want access to Grade A healthcare. We know that achieving an “A” means a commitment to pursuing and achieving the best, which is especially important when you’re looking for medical services and care. And the best news: it’s right in our backyard.

Beaufort Memorial Hospital was recently named a Top General Hospital nationally by The Leapfrog Group, a national watchdog organization and is widely acknowledged as the toughest standard-setters for health care safety and quality. BMH is one of only three hospitals in South Carolina to earn the distinction.

The Leapfrog Top Hospital award is widely acknowledged as one of the most competitive awards American hospitals can receive. Granted to a select group of hospitals who have earned an “A” Hospital Safety Grade, only 5% of the nation’s hospitals were recognized as “Top” this year.

“To be recognized among the nation’s top 5 percent of hospitals for high quality and safe care is an honor and our entire staff deserves the thanks and congratulations,” Beaufort Memorial President and CEO Russell Baxley said. “This type of recognition can only be achieved with a hospital-wide commitment to safety, involving everyone from our housekeeping and food services staffs to the nurses, doctors, and technicians on our medical team. Their hard work and

vigilance to keep patients, visitors and each other safe is central to the values we hold as an organization. I am proud to work alongside this amazing team.”

Maternity and orthopedic care were among the top patient care areas for which Beaufort Memorial received recognition.

“The Birthing Center team’s consistent focus on and great pride in providing the best care to every mother and newborn is in part why Beaufort Memorial is being recognized,” said Dr. Gregory A. Miller, a board-certified OBGYN who delivers hundreds of babies at Beaufort Memorial each year. “We’re minimizing

the need for cesarean deliveries and all the risks they pose to mother and child. Potential health concerns for new mothers are actively addressed. And our highly skilled team of nurses and pediatricians in the Level 2 nursery screen and treat babies for conditions before they result in harm, ensuring both mother and baby are delivered home safely.”

The quality of patient care across many areas of hospital performance is considered in establishing the qualifications for the award, including infection rates, practices for safer surgery, maternity care, and the hospital’s capacity to prevent medication errors.

“When compared to the

rest of the nation, our team has a level of proficiency with all the aspects of patient care that are essential to a successful surgery,” said Dr. Edward Blocker, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and chair of orthopedics at Beaufort Memorial. “What that means for joint replacement patients is better outcomes and a shorter length of stay. It also means we see fewer complications and re-admissions after surgery.”

For the last 10 years, the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade has assigned letter grades to hospitals throughout the United States, based on a hospital’s ability to prevent medical errors and harm to patients. The grad-

ing system is peer-reviewed, fully transparent, and freely available to the public. Hospital Safety Grade results are based on more than 30 national performance measures and are updated each fall and spring. The most recent Hospital Safety Grades can be found at hospitalsafetygrade.org

“We are honored to recognize Beaufort Memorial as a Top Hospital this year,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “Beaufort Memorial Hospital has demonstrated that they truly put patients first. We congratulate the board, staff, and clinicians whose efforts made this honor possible.”

Beaufort Memorial has been advancing hospital-wide patient safety efforts for many years, the results of which have garnered the organization state and national recognition. Currently, Beaufort Memorial is one of only three South Carolina hospitals with advanced certification for hip and knee replacement from

The Joint Commission, the accrediting body for all hospitals in the nation.

This focus on safety continues to be especially important as the hospital embarks on a multi-milliondollar renovation and expansion of its Surgical Pavilion in Beaufort. The project will include the addition of two state-of-the-art surgical suites to accommodate the growing demand for advanced procedures, enlarge existing suites to optimize the surgical process, and attract top physicians.

“The caliber of staff at Beaufort Memorial Hospital is why we’ve been ranked in the top 5% across the nation for quality and safety,” Baxley said. “Everyone understands how important it is to provide safe, quality care to every one of our patients, and we allow safety to inform every intervention that occurs in our hospital.”

To learn more about Beaufort Memorial services and safety efforts, visit BeaufortMemorial.org

Two By Two Jesus Works Through the Apostles

Jesus is going to be visiting your village!

Imagine living in Israel two thousand years ago, during the ministry of Jesus. You have heard that this carpenter from Nazareth teaches like no one has ever taught before. He performs miracles, heals the sick, and casts out demons. Your neighbors say that he is nearby, and he will be passing through your village today!

About midday, two average-looking fishermen walk into town. After they introduce themselves as disciples of Jesus, you are greatly disappointed. Instead of coming to your village in person, Jesus has sent them in his place. To everyone’s surprise, the disciples begin to preach very powerfully about the kingdom of heaven. They also cure the sick and cast out demons, just like their master!

Jesus would often send out the twelve apostles in this way. He sent them to teach and perform miracles.  “As you go, proclaim this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons.” (Matthew 10:7; see also Mark 6:7 and Luke 9:1.) He gave them his power and authority, meaning that they were able to speak and act in his name. Through the apostles, Jesus would minister to many people in many different places.

Why would Jesus send his apostles, instead of going himself? Jesus was not a normal man, but God himself. He became one of us so that we can know him and have eternal life with him. Doesn’t it seem odd that Jesus would send weak, sinful human beings to do his work, when he was on earth and able to go personally?

Jesus was training the apostles for their future roles. He knew that his earthly ministry would last only a few years; after his death and Resurrection, he would return to his heavenly Father. But the human heart would continue to need Jesus and his teaching, his healing, his forgiveness. His plan was to prepare the apostles so that they could be sent out and continue his ministry when he was no longer on earth. Through the apostles, Jesus would continue to invite countless people to know him and share in his divine life.

Jesus continues his ministry through the apostles. As one reads the Acts of the Apostles, this plan of Jesus comes true. Sent out with his authority and power, the apostles begin to proclaim the kingdom of God and call their listeners to repentance. In his name, they heal the sick, cast out demons, and even raise the dead! (For example, Peter raises Tabitha from the dead in Acts 9.) The power is not their own, but Jesus working through them. Jesus forms a wonderful family of faith, the Church, through which he continues his ministry in amazing and unexpected ways.

Beaufort Memorial President and CEO Russell Baxley (left) joined Corporate Director of Quality/Patient Safety Officer Ashley Hildreth; Patient Safety and Quality Specialist Allison Hmurciak; Vice President of Quality, Risk & Patient Safety Shawna Doran; Chief Nursing Officer Karen Carroll; and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Kurt Gambla at last month’s Top Hospital awards ceremony. Only 5% of the hospitals in the nation were recognized as Top Hospitals for quality and safety for 2022. Submitted photo.

Beaufort Memorial Hospital was recently named a Top General Hospital nationally by The Leapfrog Group. Photo by Paul Nurnberg.

Is your job, computer use or car causing you back pain?

Whether we’re commuting to the office, working at a desk, or hunched over a computer or other device, these activities have one thing in common: We do them while sitting. But all of this sitting can take a huge toll on our spines, resulting in acute or chronic back pain, according to Dr. Kaliq Chang.

If you’re aware you spend many of your waking hours in a chair, you’re certainly not alone. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 25% of adults sit for more than eight hours a day. The problem is our bodies were made to move — not sit all day. When we do, it often leads to pain in various areas of our spine, including the neck, upper back, or lower back.

“There’s no escaping that modern life requires us to sit a lot, whether in a car, at the office, or even at home,” says Dr. Chang, an interventional pain management specialist. “But standing upright is the body’s natural position, helping bones stay stronger, exercising the muscles, and boosting circulation. On the other hand, sitting forces our spine into unnatural positions. It’s no wonder we end up with back pain from sitting too much — but there are ways we can fight back.”

How sitting hurts our back

According to Dr. Chang, several things happen to our spine, surrounding muscles and nerves, and our bodies overall when we sit for hours that can result in — or worsen — back pain. These include:

Poor posture: Hunched in a chair, we often form a slouch or C-curve in our spine. This can lead to a tense and tight neck and a strained trapezius muscle in the upper back and shoulder area.

“The longer you’re seated, the more you tend to slouch, which can increase muscle stiffness and pressure on spinal discs,” Dr. Chang says.

“It also overstretches ligaments, tiring them out.”

• Muscle weakness: Staying seated for prolonged periods sets off a chain reaction in muscles surrounding the spine that can prove very damaging.

By sitting, we stop using muscles that normally support our body when we’re standing upright. In turn, these muscles aren’t working to support the lower back, which causes an imbalance in the weight that’s pressing on spinal discs. This imbalance can lead to bulging discs, which can press on nerves in

the back and neck and cause pain.

Pinched nerves: Sitting for hours on end can cause spinal discs to compress, pinching nerves and triggering symptoms that include neck and back pain along with sciatica, which leads to radiating pain down the legs. “Spinal discs can only absorb nutrients from blood when we’re moving,” Dr. Chang explains. “Sitting actually deprives them of this nourishment, so they’re more easily damaged.”

• Weight gain: A downstream but very real effect of too much sitting is gaining extra pounds.

Since many people tend to gain weight around the belly and lower back, it makes sense that the spine would suffer from the extra pressure. “There are lots of great health reasons we should try to control our weight, but we shouldn’t forget that maintaining spine health is among them,” Dr. Chang says.

Try these tactics

How can we avoid back pain from sitting so much? With habits that better support the spine while in a chair, as well as by moving more. There are several ways to make this goal easier to achieve and to maximize the benefits to spine health, these include:

• Practicing better posture: Sitting is inevitable, so make sure your posture is impeccable while doing so. This means keeping your back straight, shoulders back, and having your buttocks positioned to meet the back of the chair. Ideally, this sitting position will replicate the spine’s natural curvature while also keeping your neck straight.

• Taking more breaks: Get up from your desk or chair at least every 20 to 30 minutes and walk around (say, to get

a cup of coffee, fetch the mail or talk to a colleague). Bonus points if you stretch your back out during these breaks, bending backward slightly to ease the pressure on spinal discs from extended sitting sessions.

• Exercising: Any form of movement is good for the spine, but exercises that strengthen the muscles, ligaments and tendons surrounding it can help forestall further back problems.

“Aim for exercise that strengthens your core, which includes not only the back, but abdominal, hip and buttock muscles,” Dr. Chang advises. “Strong core muscles do the best job of supporting the spine and keeping it in proper alignment.”

• Trying a standing desk or a treadmill desk: Either gets you on your feet, and one gets you moving at the same time. “The less time you spend sitting, the better,” Dr. Chang says. “Your spine can only benefit.”

Kaliq Chang, MD, is an interventional pain management specialist who’s board-certified in anesthesiology. He is in practice at Atlantic Spine Center (http://www. atlanticspinecenter.com).

Update adult vaccinations for a new year care TALK ©

Whether it’s the annual flu shot, latest COVID-19 booster, or milestone shots that cover pneumonia, shingles or tetanus, staying up to date on immunizations is just one way to protect your health.

“It’s worthwhile having that conversation with your primary care team because we might change depending on conditions that you have and potentially even the age at which you would receive that vaccine,” says Dr. Presutti.

Pneumonia can be life-threatening when fluid fills the lungs’ air sacs. In general, a vaccination is rec-

With a new year here, it might be time to reset when it comes to your mental health.

Stress is a normal physical and psychological response to the everyday demands of life. Small amounts of stress can motivate you to face daily challenges. But when stress becomes too much to manage, it can be unhealthy.

Everyone experiences stressful times, but can you tell when stress is becoming toxic?

“I think some key signs are when we’re not able to do our important life activities, like if we’re not able

ommended for all adults 65 and older.

Shingles, a reactivation of the virus that causes chickenpox, can cause a painful,

blistering rash. Vaccination is recommended in adults over 50.

Tetanus is caused by a bacterial infection, often

from a cut or wound. The Tdap vaccine is recommended every 10 years and also protects against diphtheria and pertussis — the latter known as whooping cough.

“If you’re a new parent or a new grandparent, then you should be getting the pertussis update vaccine to decrease the risk of you actually communicating, or giving, pertussis to the newborn baby,” says Dr. Presutti.

Sources: https://newsnetwork. mayoclinic.org/discussion/12-28mayo-clinic-minute-update-adultvaccinations-for-a-new-year/

Healthcare update for seniors

As of January 1, 2023, millions of seniors will save big on their health care costs thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act. Much of the coverage has been focused on reducing premium costs and empowering Medicare to negotiate drug prices, but two other key measures were also passed:

The shingles vaccine will be free for seniors Medicare recipients will pay no more than $35 on insulin per month These changes will be life-changing for many, par -

Signs that stress is becoming toxic

to remember our appointments or work, procrastinating on important things like paying our bills or buying groceries, or attending to our family matters,” says Dr. Beth Rush, a Mayo Clinic neuropsychologist.

When stress reaches a point where a person no longer can function in a meaningful way, it might be a sign of something more severe, says Dr. Rush. And you should see a health care provider.

“Something serious may be going on, like anxiety or depression, which needs to be treated and evaluated.”

She says stress can be unpredictable, and it’s important to take care of yourself.

“Sleep, eat well, make sure you’re exercising,” says Dr. Rush. “Look for signs of stress in yourself. Manage your emotions. Give yourself a timeout if you need to from activity or stimulation, or interaction.”

Managing stress

One of the first steps toward good stress management is understanding how you react to stress—and making changes if necessary. Take a look at how you react to stress, and then adopt or modify stress

Everywhere That People Care The trusted Care magazine is now back in print as a regular contributor to The Island News, with Karen Mozzo as editor. Together we’ll deliver information, references, and options for a healthier life.

management techniques to make sure the stress in your life doesn’t lead to health problems.

Here are two ways to help manage stress that are beneficial and free:

Relaxation techniques involve refocusing your attention on something calming and increasing awareness of your body. It doesn’t matter which relaxation technique you choose. What matters is that you try to practice relaxation regularly to reap its benefits.

Meditation is considered a type of mind-body complementary medicine. Meditation has been practiced for thousands of years, and it originally was meant to help deepen understanding of the sacred and mystical forces of life. These days,

meditation is commonly used for relaxation and stress reduction.

There are many forms of meditation, but most have in common a quiet setting, a comfortable position, focused attention and an open attitude.

Spending even a few minutes in meditation can give you a sense of calm, peace

ticularly seniors, people of color, rural Americans, and people with disabilities.

63,910 South Carolina insulin users will directly benefit from the insulin cap. 865,658 of South Carolina’s seniors will be able to get their shingles vaccine free of cost.

With these new provisions, millions of Americans on fixed incomes will no longer have to choose between life-saving medical care and paying for essentials like food and housing. Learn more at protectourcare.org

and balance that can benefit your emotional well-being and overall health.

Sources: https://newsnetwork. mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayoclinic-minute-signs-that-stress-isbecoming-toxic/; https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic. org/discussion/5-18-consumerhealth-mental-health-andmanaging-stress/

Bad breath? Fermented foods, probiotics may help fight halitosis

There are many possible causes of persistent bad breath, or halitosis, with poor dental hygiene as a main contributing factor. The oral cavity harbors diverse biofilms. Indeed, the oral cavity is unique in the level of microbial diversity, supporting up to 1000 different species of microorganisms. The natural dentition and dental prostheses, including dentures and implants, are substrates for biofilms.

cian Michelle Routhenstein, MS, RD, CDE, CDN, explained.

The new study identified four beneficial probiotics containing gram-positive bacteria, and found that the ingestion of four probiotics can reduce the compounds that cause bad breath, at least in the short term. The four beneficial probiotics are Lactobacillus salivarius Lactobacillus reuteri Streptococcus salivarius, and Weissella cibaria, all of which may benefit gut health. They are found in fermented foods.

The anti-bacterial effects of probiotics

Why oral hygiene matters

People may try various means of reducing bad breath, including teeth-scaling, tongue-scraping, and mouthwash. Others may try to improve their breath with gum chewing, which may not be the most effective option in the long term.

“Oral health, or lack thereof, has been linked to many diseases: rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, respiratory illness, and even heart disease. When you chew, you set your body up to trigger stomach acid and digestive enzymes. When there is no food coming in, you set yourself up for GERD [or] acid reflux and more dental problems,” Lyn-Genet Recitas, nutrition expert and bestselling author of “The Plan” and “The Metabolism Plan.”

The results of a recent meta-analysis study recently published in BMJ Open suggest that certain probiotics can address one of the main causes of bad breath. The findings show that probiotics help eliminate the buildup of foul-smelling volatile sulphuric compounds, or VSCs, in the mouth produced by anaerobic bacteria that feed on food left behind. Such bacteria alter “the oral microbiota to reduce the buildup of these volatile sulphuric compounds,” dieti-

The authors of the present study cite a growing body of evidence that probiotics can crowd out the bacteria responsible for decomposing amino acids and proteins. The findings show a significant decrease in halitosis according to both measurement methods they used.

According to the VSC scores, however, the positive effect of the probiotics did not last beyond 4 weeks. But the improvement in OLP scores remained beyond 4 weeks. The analysis also found that probiotics do not address the other two major sources of halitosis, plaque buildup, and tongue-coating. However, one of the studies showed some beneficial effects on plaque buildup at 12 weeks.

What foods contain probiotics?

Probiotics may improve oral hygiene by fighting bad breath. Probiotics are living organisms, beneficial bacteria and yeasts that occur naturally in the human body. They may be consumed as supplements or in foods. While both methods may deliver benefits, consuming probiotics found in food sources may be the optimal way to obtain them.

To benefit from the probiotics Lactobacillus salivarius Lactobacillus reuteri, and Streptococcus salivarius, Dieticians recommend fermented foods such as yogurt kefir kimchi, and pickled beetroot Having a variety of probiotic-rich foods can benefit not only the oral microbiota but also the gut micro-

biome, which is an important component to overall health and heart health, specifically. Miso and real sauerkraut, fermented cheeses, and sourdough bread are other great food sources of probiotics, The Weissella cibariais bacteria found in these foods allow them to ferment. What are the best fermented foods?

The fermentation process uses microbes, such as bacteria and yeast, to preserve foods. These beneficial microorganisms eat sugars and can support gut health. Proponents of fermentation argue that it is an easy way to add beneficial bacteria and other organisms to the gut to promote a healthy gut microbiome. Some research has linked a healthy gut to better overall health.

The fermented foods listed here are rich in healthful nutrients and easy to incorporate into a balanced diet.

Kombucha is a type of sweetened black tea that uses fermentation to promote the growth of good bacteria. The bacteria turn the sugar in the tea to alcohol. As a result, kombucha contains a low level of alcohol but not enough to cause intoxication. The chemicals that kombucha bacteria produce include antioxidants. Antioxidants counter the effects of free radicals, which experts believe play a role in a wide variety of illnesses, including cancer and chronic inflammation. Kombucha may promote immune system health and could also counter some metabolic disorders.

Kefir is a fermented dairy product that is similar to yogurt but has a thinner consistency. Some people

drink it, while others prefer to top cereal with it or mix it into other foods. Kefir is high in protein, making it a good option for vegetarians. Protein can also help people feel fuller for longer, which can help support weight loss efforts. Kefir offers probiotic benefits, such as improved digestive health. It may also help lower blood pressure and act as an anti-inflammatory agent, but more research is necessary to confirm these effects.

Miso and tempeh are soybean-based fermented foods that are popular in Japanese cooking. Miso is best known as the primary ingredient of miso soup, while tempeh is a popular meat substitute similar to tofu. Soybeans are rich in protein, so tempeh and miso are excellent choices for people who do not eat meat. The process of fermenting soybeans may release beneficial peptides, which are amino acids that help regulate the body’s functions. These bioactive peptides may reduce the risk of diabetes and cancer, fight infections, lower blood pressure.

Apple cider vinegar is a popular folk remedy with fermentation benefits that can also add flavor to salads, recipes, and some teas.

Pickles and sauerkraut are among the most popular fermented foods. These foods are easy to add to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes. Many vegetables are high in fiber and contain important vitamins and minerals. Vegetables that people commonly ferment include okra, broccoli, beets, ginger, mustard greens, eggplant.

All fermented foods contain potentially beneficial bacteria, and

some contain other organisms, such as yeast. These microbes act as probiotics, supporting gut health. As an imbalance in the gut microbiome can allow yeast to multiply, probiotics may reduce the risk of yeast infections and thrush, especially following treatment with antibiotics.

Any food made with beneficial bacteria potentially offers these benefits, so people who want to try probiotics can choose from among a wide variety of options.

As with many health foods, fermented foods are not suitable for everyone. People with weakened immune systems due to health conditions, such as HIV, or certain medications should avoid homemade fermented foods and check with a doctor whether it is safe to eat store-bought fermented foods.

Even good bacteria can affect some medications, so it is best to talk to a healthcare professional about specific health concerns before making any significant dietary changes.

For most people, however, fermented foods are a safe and healthful addition to a balanced diet. They may be the perfect antidote to gut bacteria problems.

Sources: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/ articles/bad-breath-how-fermented-foodsprobiotics-may-help-fight-halitosis#Analyzingthe-effects-of-probiotics-on-bad-breath; Nagpal, R., et al. (2012). Probiotics, their health benefits and applications for developing healthier foods: A review, https://academic.oup. com/ femsle/article/334/1/1/579191; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/ PMC4058509/; https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/ abs/10.1177/1756283X10373814

3 Dolphins, 1 Eagle place at Shark Invitational

LowcoSports.com

BLUFFTON — Battery Creek had three wrestlers place in the top six in their weight classes and finished 18th among 35 teams from five states at the Shark Invitational last week at May River High School.

Anthony Phelan placed third at 285 pounds, and 132-pounder Sam Degroat and 220-pounder Leroy Tyus each placed fifth to lead the Dolphins. Beaufort High fin-

ished 24th, with 120-pounder Tayriq Legree placing sixth.

South Effingham (Ga.) won the team title with 293 points, placing wrestlers in the top six in 13 of 14 weight classes to outpace runner-up Pottsville (Pa.), which had four champions.

Host May River placed fourth and had two champions, 138-pounder Isaiah Wysong and 170-pounder Gabe Juarez, to lead the Lowco contingent.

HHCA holds off BA boys

By Justin Jarrett LowcoSports.com

WALTERBORO — After breezing through to the finals of the War Hawk Invitational last week, Beaufort Academy’s boys blitzed Hilton Head Christian Academy for the first seven points of Friday’s championship game, but BA couldn’t keep HHCA’s multitude of weapons at bay in a 57-51 loss.

Te’Shaun Heyward scored 18 points to go with six steals and seven rebounds, while Zeke Gonzalez added 11 points and Timmy Horgan had 10, but Isaiah Anderson and tournament MVP Qayden Turner used their size advantage inside to combine for 24 points and 26 rebounds and Harry Skinner went 9-for-12 at the foul line for a team-high 14 points as HHCA held on for the title.

BA blew by host Colleton Prep 56-23 on Tuesday and plowed Patrick Henry 75-49 on Wednesday

to coast into the championship game, while HHCA had to win three straight to reach the final, including a hard-fought 49-44 win Thursday, when BA was resting.

The fresh legs combined with BA’s lightning-quick backcourt to spark a stunning start, as Braydon Dineen splashed a 3 from the corner before a Devin Fripp putback and a Horgan runner made it 7-0 and forced HHCA coach Jason Grunkemeyer to take a timeout.

HHCA found its rhythm after the break and surged ahead 13-9 after one quarter, and the lead grew to double digits in the second before Gonzalez hit a 3 and Heyward drove the lane to spark a rally and pull BA within 29-23 at halftime.

The lead again surged to double digits early in the third quarter, but BA had another rally at the ready, using pressure to create transition buckets and trim the margin to

five. Fripp had a chance to cut into the lead further, but HHCA’s Eli White stepped in to take a charge and change the momentum.

Turner then finished at the rim and Dorian Janvier banged a 3-pointer and hit a runner in transition, and HHCA kept BA at arm’s length the rest of the way.

Turner finished with 13 points and 11 rebounds and Anderson collected 11 points and 15 boards as BA had difficulty denying the big men on the boards or in the paint.

BA was back in action Tuesday, picking up a 51-26 win at Colleton Prep to open region play. Heyward and Eddie Gonzalez each scored 14 points.

Justin Jarrett is the sports editor of The Island News and the founder of LowcoSports. com. He was the sports editor of the Island Packet and the Beaufort Gazette for 6½ years. He has a passion for sports and community journalism and a questionable sense of humor.

Ashley Ridge, a 5A team, bested the 3A eagles 45-37 to improve its record to 12-3. Eagles dropped to 3-10. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

PREP HOOPS ROUNDUP

Swamp Foxes finish sweep of Eagles: Beaufort High’s boys made a second-half charge but couldn’t get enough shots to fall in a 45-37 home loss to Ashley Ridge on Tuesday. Michael Dennison collected 12 points and nine rebounds, and McLeod Reichel added nine points and three assists for the Eagles (3-10), but the Swamp Foxes limited Sully Gay to two points and hit 11 of 13 free throws to close out the season sweep. Ashley Ridge beat a short-handed Beaufort team 65-45 on Nov. 28 in Summerville. Quinn Wilson scored 13 points to lead Beaufort’s girls, but the Eagles came up short 41-27, falling to the Swamp Foxes for the third time this season. Beaufort opens region play at home against Philip Simmons on Friday.

Warriors split with Tigers: Laron Wright poured in 18 points and Keith Chisholm added 16 to lead Whale Branch’s boys to a 74-40 win at Allendale-Fairfax on Tuesday, avenging a 41-25 loss to the Tigers in the girls game. David Evans hit a trio of 3-pointers en route to 11 points, and Talon Lee added eight points for the Warriors (5-2, 1-0), who have won three straight and travel to BethuneBowman on Friday.

Dolphins pick up win in Orangeburg: Battery Creek’s boys went 1-2 at the

Orangburg County Holiday Tournament, picking up a 58-43 win over Lake Marion on the final day after falling 71-33 to tournament champion OrangeburgWilkinson and 47-31 to Edisto. Kanye Freeman scored 16 points, Savion Isom had 15, and Quintavious Williams added 10 in the win over Lake Marion. Isom averaged 11 points and Williams added 10.7 points per game to lead the Dolphins (3-10), who open region play at North Charleston on Friday.

TUESDAY’S HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL SCORES

GIRLS

Ashley Ridge 41, Beaufort 27

Allendale-Fairfax 41, Whale Branch 25 Bethune-Bowman 69, Bridges Prep 20 Holy Trinity 27, Thomas Heyward 21 Beaufort Academy 61, Colleton Prep 40 BOYS

Ashley Ridge 45, Beaufort 37 Whale Branch 74, Allendale-Fairfax 40 Bethune-Bowman at Bridges Prepsuspended Estill 64, Branchville 56

Thomas Heyward 57, Holy Trinity 16 Beaufort Academy 51, Colleton Prep 26

– LowcoSports.com

BA girls’ rally falls short vs. OP

By Justin Jarrett LowcoSports.com

Tahleea Heyward hit a career milestone in the midst of a fourth-quarter comeback, but Beaufort Academy’s girls came up short in a 40-36 loss to Orangeburg Prep on Friday in the finals of the War Hawk Holiday Tournament.

After knocking off host Colleton Prep 56-40 on Wednesday and rallying for a 33-31 win over Patrick Henry on Thursday, the Eagles found themselves in another tight game in the title tilt.

The Indians led 21-17 after a choppy first half and beat BA back in transition repeatedly to build a 30-20 lead midway through the third quarter and force Chip Dinkins to take a timeout.

Beaufort Academy’s Tahleea Heyward broke the 1,000-point mark for her career as the Eagles fell 40-36 to Orangeburg Prep on Friday in the final of

OP led 36-25 after three quarters, but the Eagles showed signs of life toward the end of the third, foretelling another fourth-quarter surge.

Heyward led the rally, slashing into the paint and fighting through a foul for the bucket that pushed her over 1,000 career points, and she hit another bucket while

being fouled to pull BA within 36-32 with 5:43 left.

The Eagles couldn’t maintain the momentum in their third game in three days, though, and OP’s stingy defense kept BA at bay.

Heyward and Mike’Ala Washington each scored 14 points and Kamirah Freeman added six for BA, which was back at Colleton Prep to open region play with a 61-40 win behind 20 points from Heyward, 12 from Freeman, and 11 from Claire Tumlin.

Justin Jarrett is the sports editor of The Island News and the founder of LowcoSports.com. He was the sports editor of the Island Packet and the Beaufort Gazette for 6½ years. He has a passion for sports and community journalism and a questionable sense of humor.

Applications open for Riverview Charter School

From staff reports

Riverview Charter School is now accepting Kindergarten through 6th grade applications for the 2023-2024 school year.

Riverview no longer enrolls new students for 7th and 8th grade. New student applications for these

grades are not available.

Open enrollment will run through Jan. 31, 2023. Applications must be received no later than 4:30 p.m. on Jan. 31, 2023, to be considered part of open enrollment and included in any ensuing lottery. Applications received after this day

and time will only be considered on a space-available basis and in the order upon which they are received, with those students’ names being added to the end of the wait-list.

Applications may be submitted online at www.RiverviewCharterSchool.org

Love God, Love Others, Reach Out All Are Welcome for Worship

Sunday 8:30 am, 10:30 am at 81 Lady’s Island Drive

Pastor Steve Keeler (843) 525-0696

seaislandpresbyterian.org

Anyone interested in learning more about Beaufort County’s first charter school can attend the Open House at 5:30 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 19. Details are available at www.RiverviewCharterSchool.org

As a public school in the Beaufort County School

District, Riverview is open to Beaufort County residents. There is no tuition and no selection process. Before and after care for students from 7:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. is available daily (scholarships available).

The school participates in the USDA Federal Free

and Reduced Price Lunch Program. Riverview does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin or ethnicity in admission. The school administers all required state tests in compliance with the South Carolina educational system.

Beaufort center Michael Dennison, center, gets twisted around and fouled by Ashley Ridge’s Jalil Hope, left and Jaylin Hatzog during the first half of their non-region basketball game Tuesday night at Beaufort High.

the War Hawk Holiday Tournament in Walterboro. Justin Jarrett/LowcoSports.com

Beaufort Academy’s boys fell to Hilton Head Christian Academy, 57-51, in Friday’s championship of the War Hawk Invitational in Walterboro. Photo courtesy of Layla Coleman.

Flight by Kirkland Smith.

Don’t throw away your chance to see this art exhibit

From staff reports

The (In)disposable Art of Kirkland Smith will be on view Jan. 14, 2023 through July 15, 2023 at The Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage in Ridgeland.

The art installation is a playful collection of assemblages. Drawing on her love of realism and portraiture, Smith creates 3-dimensional works that speak to environmental responsibility in a fresh, evocative way.

For example, to portray the problem of overconsumption and its effects on society, she uses everyday disposable objects as her medium rather than the subject of her work.

The artist hopes to spark

an awareness of consumer habits and attitudes, driving home the message that while what we throw away says much about who we are, what we choose to cherish and protect says more in the end.

“As people are thinking about resolutions and positive changes, the new year is an ideal time for us to bring this meaningful exhibit to our community. Although it’s fun and full of surprises, it will give visitors a lot to consider,” Morris Center Executive Director Tamara Herring said in a news release.

Smith is a classical painter who began creating collage-style pieces of post-consumer waste almost

by accident. She was searching for an innovative way to communicate the importance of reducing, reusing and recycling for her entry in an environmental landscape contest. Her solution was to use waste as her “paint.”

Born in Mt. Pleasant, her lifelong dream was to be an artist. She resides with her husband and four children in Columbia, where she takes commissions for assemblage pieces and teaches drawing and painting to children.

The Morris Center is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, please visit www. morrisheritagecenter.org

BlackHawk to perform at 2023 Beaufort Oyster Festival

By Mike McCombs

If you’re a fan of 1990s country music and you missed Suzy Bogguss’ “A Swingin’ Little Christmas” at the USC Beaufort Center For The Arts earlier this month, your craving might not go unfulfilled.

The Beaufort Area Hospitality Association announced Tuesday via a message on their Facebook page that BlackHawk would be the headlining entertainment at the 2023 Beaufort Oyster Festival.

The band will play Saturday, Jan. 21 at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. Admission is free.

A country threesome founded in 1992, BlackHawk features two of its three original members. Henry Paul handles lead vocals and plays mandolin and acoustic guitar, while Dave Robbins sings backgound vocals and plays keyboards. The band’s third original member, guitarist Van Stephenson, left the band in 2000 due to health concerns and died in 2001

The first single off the band’s self-titled 1994 debut album was the hit “Goodbye Says It All,” which peaked at No. 11. Four more Top-10 singles followed – “Every Once In A While,” “I Can Sure Smell The Rain,” Down In Flames,” and “That’s Just About Right.”

The band released three more hit albums and a Greatest Hits package in the 1990s.

Music fans may know Paul from his previous band. He was the vocalist for the 1970s southern rock outfit The Outlaws, whose 1975

debut album produced the popular songs “There Goes Another Love Song” and “Green Grass And High Tides.”

The Outlaws were recommended to Arista Records founder Clive Davis by Lynyrd Skynyrd front man Ronnie Van Zant, and they were the first band signed to his label. Paul left The Outlaws after three albums but later returned and is still active that band, as well.

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

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From staff reports

The USCB Sea Islands Center Gallery in Beaufort presents an exhibition of artworks by Jean McLaughlin and Tom Spleth titled “On the Edge of a Forest, A Conversation Begins.” On view from January 12 through February 27, the exhibition will feature woodcuts, digital works printed on metal and paper, and

analog paintings. The gallery is at 1106 Carteret Street and will host a public reception for the artists from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 12.

Spleth was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma and received his master’s degree from the State University of New York, College of Ceramics at Alfred University. He has exhibited his work at various locations,

including the Gregg Museum at N.C. State University. McLaughlin was born in Charlotte and has a master’s degree in liberal studies from N.C. State University. She has focused on printmaking and drawing, and her work can be found at Mica Gallery in Bakersville, N.C.. Both artists live and work in Little Switzerland, N.C.

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BlackHawk released five hit singles from their doubleplatinum debut album “BlackHawk” in 1994. Photo via BlackHawkLive.com.

Taking

USCB Sea Islands Center Gallery’s first 2023 exhibition is ‘On the Edge of a Forest, A Conversation Begins’

VOICES & FAITH

A decision that made all the difference

It is Saturday, and I’m in Port Royal. Today it is wet, cold, the kind of day made for reading a book — or tending a small, discreet fire in one’s hearth. Perhaps both.

I’ve just finished a collection of essays by Ann Patchett called “This is the Story of a Happy Marriage.” This is the first non-fiction I have read in a while, and I found myself pleasantly surprised by Patchett’s candor.

Patchett tells us about her first marriage that was an obvious, acknowledged mistake (known to her) well before the ceremony itself.

After that divorce, and a subsequent romance that also went sour, she decided that divorce was too painful, too destructive, and a second divorce was all too likely if she should remarry.

Patchett’s own parents were divorced, as was a grandmother, and she believed there was a

SCOTT GRABER

predisposition (in her gene pool) for divorce. Eventually Patchett would marry again but steadfastly resisted her husband’s annual proposals for 10 years.

When I graduated from Citadel in 1967, I did have a girlfriend, Carol, and chose my law school (George Washington) because it was within an hour’s drive of Carol who lived in Baltimore. Although romance was clearly on my mind, I thought the rigor associated with law school and the uncertainty of surviving Vietnam should foreclose any legally-binding contract

with Carol or anyone else.

After I had been on campus for a couple of months Carol came to me saying, “In the interest of candor I have to tell you something.”

“And what would that be?”

“I’m seeing another man,” she said. “I’m going through a kind of weighing between the two of you.”

“A weighing?”

“Yes. And I wouldn’t be completely honest if I said you were winning that contest.”

The other man was a West Point graduate who was going through Intelligence School at Fort Holabird in Baltimore. He was, Carol said, “handsome,” and I suspected the “weighing” was probably over.

It was time for a tactical retreat.

I wasn’t really angry, or particularly hurt, and was beginning to enjoy sitting around with my criminal law

professor in his home Warrenton, Va.; and spending time with a young professor, John Banzhaf, who would eventually draft regulations (for the FAA) banning cigarette smoking on airplanes. I was an average, ordinary, mostly happy law student when I first saw her legs.

The legs belonged to a coed named Susan who lived in the all-girl dorm, Crawford, just across the street from Madison Hall where we law students lived.

Using intelligence gathering techniques I had learned at The Citadel, I found out Susan’s name, phone number, blood type and if she was seeing anyone. Then I called admitting, “I’ve been admiring you from afar.” (If I had to do this again I probably would not use that particular phrase.)

I also asked for a date.

When the time came I borrowed a jacket and slacks from one of my wealthy

New York classmates, and walked across the street where I introduced myself to the house mother — something that now seems quaint — who said, “She’s not here, but left you this note.”

To whom it may concern: I don’t know your name and I’m sorry to leave you this note. But today is my birthday and my friends have arranged a party and I’m not going to be able to see you. …

Stunned, I shuffled back to Madison Hall where I showed my “To whom it may concern” note to my indignant classmates.

“Forget her, Scott,” they said, “You’re a law student for God’s sake!”

As I was slipping out of my jacket and getting on the elevator a friend, Lew Tesser, held the closing door and asked, “Do you like her?

“There is something … something about her,” I replied.

“Buy her a birthday present,” he said

“What are you talking about?”

“I said buy her a birthday present and deliver it. Tonight.”

And so I went back out into the night, found a gift, made a card and delivered it to the house mother.

That decision led me to a woman I married a year later. A marriage that has lasted 53 years. A marriage that profoundly altered the arc of our lives for the better.

That gift (hard candy from Walgreens) led to a son, who has been an unalloyed joy to both of us. The decision to put the jacket back on, swallow my pride, and walk back into the night has made all the difference.

At least I had a better year than Elon Musk

This past year was a doozy on many levels. Looking back at my columns gives me the opportunity to use where I was right, where I was wrong, and where I was so off-base it’s hard to measure.

From January: “Even state and national elected officials openly call for armed rebellion in service of supporting the defeated president and his return to power.”

Update: Politicians of character made a stand in 1861 against senators from Confederate states who “engaged in … conspiracy for the destruction of the Union and Government, or, with full knowledge of such conspiracy, have failed to advise the Government of its progress or aid in its suppression.”

Any member of the current Congress who supported the January 6 insurrection against the U.S. Capitol has earned expulsion. Any

TERRY MANNING

member who voted to reject the results of the November 2020 popular election has earned expulsion. Any incoming member who campaigned and was elected on a platform of rejecting those results does not deserve to be seated.

From February: “The ultra-conservative Federalist Society literally made a list of judicial nominees used by Republican leaders to stock the nation’s judicial system with right-wingers expected to roll back decades of advances in civil liberties.”

Update: Roll back they did. With Covid-era immigration policies; student loan forgiveness; tech companies’ liability for user content; and

state legislatures’ control of elections on the upcoming docket, I am certain they aren’t finished making a mockery of the law.

From April: “I don’t know if there will be a second season, but this season of “Watch Out for the Big Grrrls” was, as Lizzo would sing, ‘Good As Hell’.”

Update: In September, the singer told the world, “When I was a little girl, all I wanted to see was me in the media – someone fat like me, Black like me, beautiful like me” as she accepted the show’s Emmy award for Outstanding Competition Program.

From May: “We are stuck in a cycle of violence, followed by outrage, followed by inconsequential response, followed by more violence.”

Update: To quote the Bruce Hornsby song, “That’s just the way it is. Some things will never change.” He adds, “Don’t you believe them,” but I have my doubts.

From June: “Missteps by members of Democrats’ Squad show there is a learning curve for serving in public office, but the GOP is busy electing people for whom the curve is a vertical line.”

Update: Ladies and gentlemen, George Santos. The Republican congressman-elect from New York admits almost everything on his résumé is a lie, but he has no plans to step down. House Speaker hopeful Kevin McCarthy can’t afford to do or say anything because he needs Santos’ vote to help hold off right-wing nut jobs in his own party.

From July: “Accountability could restore hope. Despondency could yield to optimism. Folks will become more committed to making society work when they share in the rewards. Those who have felt empowered to act in bad faith will realize consequences are real and likely.”

Update: Sentences for the

ON PURPOSE

leaders of anti-government groups like the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys and the men who planned to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer have been heartening. Bigger fish are still out there flapping, making waves. Let’s go, DOJ!

From October: “The Brookings Institution tallies more than 300 Republican candidates who refuse to acknowledge the results of the last general election; most are expected to win next month, according to The Washington Post.”

Update: The Washington Post followed up by reporting 179 Republican candidates who denied the 2020 election results indeed won their midterm race. South Carolina’s Ralph Norman had better enjoy his seat while he can. His own party won’t do anything to him, but revelations he urged Trump White House Chief of State Mark Meadows to urge “marshall” law against the November 2020 election

should not — and likely will not — be ignored.

From November, on social media platforms: “They aren’t built for longevity. For the most part, they live fast, die young and leave behind a few good-looking bank accounts — and a lot of ugly empty ones, too.”

Update: After becoming the second person to amass a personal fortune of $200 billion (behind Amazon’s Jeff Bezos), late last year tech magnate Elon Musk became the first to lose $200 billion of personal wealth. His car company Tesla was last seen slowing production and offering discounts of $7,500 per purchase on its most popular cars. King Sadim strikes again.

Here’s hoping 2023 gives all of us less to worry about. More big grrrls and fewer big dummies.

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

As God continues to move upon the earth, He has never stopped calling His children to be truth seekers, to speak His words, and demonstrate His character. The painful fact is this does not happen automatically. There must be a passion to advance into God and this means the closer we come to Him the more we will become the best version of ourselves.

Most people have never really studied religious history and know very little about why we believe the way we do. The traditions the masses learn about God derive from what they have been told and very few have the desire to research on their own to see if the information is correct. I better stop there before I make too many waves, but one thing we can agree on is that personal transformation is one of the foundational pillars of the Christian faith.

When we watch a baby grow and progress in their learning, we celebrate and rejoice in their develop-

ment. Likewise, there is no reason to doubt that God feels the same way about our spiritual maturity.

Changes within our society and culture are inevitable and it’s easy to look back and remember how life used to be and how technology is always coming up with something new. Remember when we used to go to the movie rental store and used pay phones? When we look in the mirror, we can see that our bodies are slowly changing and unfortunately there is nothing we can do about it. However, there is an area in our lives where change will not happen unless we want it to. We are in control of our spiritual growth.

When we think about God and the spiritual life,

it’s relatively easy to construct ideas about the way we believe, and it seems that everyone has private interpretations. We have been given free will to make decisions and we are basically in control of what we think and do.

Very few comprehend what it means to surrender their will unto God. We can go to church, sing songs, and even give a few dollars in the offering plate, but no one including God is going to force us to develop an intimate relationship with Him. Christians have been given a new spiritual identity with the capacity to be convicted which is the abil-

ity to discern what is right and wrong. However, we can override our guilty conscience by ignoring God, and like a lawyer presenting a case in a courtroom, we can justify our thoughts and actions in the light of intentional self-deception.

There are numerous examples of characters in the Bible who have rebelled against God including His favorite people the Jews, as no human is a robot that He can control. One of the dangers that every child of God faces is compromising with the world’s system which by the way is the easy path and very common among the lukewarm

crowd. Only those who have developed an awareness of God’s presence will ever have the faith to stand for His truth. And what is this truth? Well, truth means a lot of different things to many people, but the truth I’m talking about is believing that God is who He says He is.

Remember Pilate said to Jesus, “what is truth?” At this hour, this question has never been more urgent. In the preceding verse, Jesus said that He was a king bearing witness to divine truth, and everyone that understands this truth can hear His voice.

I’ve mentioned the com-

fortable path where we just try to get along with the system without offending anyone, but this is not the way Jesus lived and neither is it the way He wants us to be. The desired path is a commitment to ignore our so-called dignified reputation and declare that obeying Him is our highest priority. When we make this choice, let us be prepared to experience a similar negative reaction that He faced.

Taking up our cross and following His demands is not for the faint of heart because it places us on the front line of spiritual warfare. Will we choose the broad or the narrow way? Could it be that our New Year’s resolutions are the result of spiritual conviction? Are we being reminded by the Lord about what He wants us to change? What a perfect time to examine our hearts and dedicate our lives to God more than ever before.

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

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

BILLY HOLLAND

WHAT’S HAPPENING

ARTS

Indelible Moments: 1970 Street Photographs from Two Cultures

5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Friday, Jan. 27, opening reception, USCB Center for the Arts, 801 Carteret Street. Photography show featuring the work of Jack Dempsey, a Beaufort resident. The USCB Center for the Arts will present an exhibit of more than 50 street photographs from the U.S. and South America during the early 1970s. Photographs in the front exhibit area were taken during two extended trips to Columbia, Ecuador, and Peru in 1971 and 1972. The interior exhibition area will present photographs taken in the central, eastern, and southern U.S., around the early 1970s as well. These photographs highlight the contrasts and similarities of the two cultures during that unique period in our history. The show will run through February 20. For more information, visit https://www.uscbcenterforthearts.com/ or jdempsey.net.

Gifts From the Boneyard

10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, March 1-31, 2023, Port Royal Sound foundation (PRSF) Museum, 310 Okatie Highway, Okatie. The Friends of Hunting Island (FOHI) and The Port Royal Sound Foundation (PRSF) are hosting an art exhibit called, “Gifts From the Boneyard, Art Inspired by Hunting Island’s Landscape.” The featured artist is Barbara James, a local fabric artist. Photographers Joan Eckhardt and Andy Stephens are also contributing pieces. Proceeds from sales will go to FOHI and PRSF. Opening gala from 4 to 6 p.m., March 2, 2023.

CALENDAR

Trivia with Tom –Agave Mexican Grill

7 p.m., Every other Tuesday, Agave Mexican Grill, 1430 Ribaut Rd, Port Royal. Free. Team trivia event, win house cash prizes! For more information, visit https://rb.gy/o9nhwe. The next Trivia Night will be Tuesday, Jan. 3.

Trivia with Tom – Fat Patties

7:30 p.m., Every Wednesday, Fat Patties, 831 Parris Island Gateway, Beaufort. Free. Team trivia event, win house cash prizes! For more information, visit https://rb.gy/o9nhwe. The next Trivia Night will be Wednesday, Jan. 4.

Trivia with Tom –Bricks On Boundary

7:30 p.m., Every Thursday, Fat Patties, 1422 Boundary St, Beaufort. Free. Team trivia event, win house cash and Beer Bucket prizes! For more information, visit https://rb.gy/o9nhwe. The next Trivia Night will be Thursday, Dec. 29.

Bluffton Night Bazaar — a Lowcountry Made Market

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

Rooted Beaufort Yoga classes

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

Wet Willie’s Trivia Night

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

Wet Willie’s Bingo Night

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

Drum Circle

6:30 to 8 p.m., 2nd Friday of every month, Gazebo, Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Bay Street, Beaufort. Free. Anyone welcome, no experience necessary. Eric Roy, a recent transplant from Connecticut with successful experience in leading drum circles, is our new facilitator. He will start sessions off with 1520 minutes of instruction on djembe playing and teach a selected traditional rhythm & accompaniment for participants to play.

In addition, there will be time allotted for spontaneous group drumming. Bring a drum, if you have one, a chair and a desire to have fun. The Drum Circle has several extra drums and many other percussion instruments that anyone can use. To receive updates on future events, send your email to lannyk13@gmail. com. The first session will be on Friday, Jan. 13.

Highway 21 Flea Market

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

Port Royal Farmers Market

9 a.m. to noon, Saturdays, year round, Naval Heritage Park, 1615 Ribaut Road, Port Royal. Rain or shine. You will find fresh, local, seasonal produce, shrimp, oysters, poultry, beef, pork, eggs, bread and cheese, as well as plants, ferns, camellias, azaleas, citrus trees and beautiful, fresh cut flower bouquets. There are prepared food vendors serving barbecue, dumplings, she crab soup, crab cakes, paella, coffee, baked goods, bagels and breakfast sandwiches. No pets allowed. For more information, visit http:// www.portroyalfarmersmarket.com/, visit @ portroyalfarmersmarket on Facebook or call 843-295-0058.

Brain Boosters Class

1 to 3 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 12, 19, & 26, Okatie Pines Retirement Community, 142 Okatie Center Blvd N, Bluffton. $99 Fee. Three week brain-wellness course for active adults that promotes positive lifestyle strategies for improved brain health. Instructed by Memory Matters’ Community Education Director Debbie Anderson.

Beaufort Oyster Festival

Saturday-Sunday, Jan. 21-22, 2023, Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Beaufort. www. BftOysterFestival.com.

Herbal Tea from Native Plants of the Sea Islands

5 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 24, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Sr. Road, St. Helena Island. Call 843-255-6487 to register. Free. Learn how to find and create teas from native plants with artist & environmentalist Monique deLaTour; history, origins, and uses of Yaupon, and more.

YMCA Puppy Plunge

9 to 11 a.m., Saturdays, Jan. 28, Feb. 25, March 25. Wardle Family YMCA, Outdoor pool, 1801 Richmond Ave., Port Royal. Well-behaved canines of all breeds and sizes are welcome. Cost is $10 per pup. All proceeds benefit the Y’s Learn to Swim program. Owners will be required to sign a waiver before entering the enclosed, exterior pool area (use the side entrance gate), must be present with their pups at all times, and humans are not permitted to swim in the Puppy Plunge. The YMCA asks that pets be up-to-date on all vaccinations. Event is weather dependent so check the YMCA social media or call the Y front desk at 843-522-9622 the morning of the Puppy Plunge to check any status update.

Lowcountry Christian Women’s Connection Luncheon and Program

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 15, 170 Hampton Hall Blvd., Bluffton. ‘Jazz it Up Feature/Speaker-Tempe Brown; Mini Jazz & Blues Concert. Prepaid Reservations: Luncheon is $28 Luncheon is $28 payable to CWC Bluffton and send to Carol Mock, 607 Argent Way, Bluffton SC. 29909 or email Julie. ott.az@gmail.com.

MCAS Beaufort Airshow

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

HISTORY

The Historic Port Royal Museum

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

HIGHWAY 21 DRIVE-IN

The movies scheduled for this week (Thursday, Jan. 5 through Sunday, Jan. 8) at the Highway 21 Drive-In are Avatar: The Way of Water (PG-13, 7 p.m.) on Screen 1; Meghan (PG-13, 7:30 p.m.) and Violent Night (R, 9:10 p.m.) on Screen 2; and Puss n Boots, Last Wish (PG-13, 7 p.m.) and How The Grinch Stole Christmas (PG-13, 8:45 p.m.) on Screen 3 (Friday and Saturday).

Online ticketing is available at hwy21drivein. com on the Now Playing page. Patrons are asked to arrive early on Friday and Saturday nights. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. “Our family at the Hwy. 21 drive in feel a responsibility to our community,” a statement from Highway 21 Drive-In management reads. “We are concerned about many things in these trying times and in making the right decisions. We are concerned with our employees, our patrons, our business, our community’s businesses, and the health and well-being of all.” A reminder: no outside food or beverages can be brought into the drive-in. Upcoming movies include A Man Called Otto (January) and The Amazing Maurice (February).

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., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors can learn about the fort’s history during the Spanish-American War through interpretive signs, self-guided walking tours with a smart phone, exhibits in the history center, and docent-led tours. For more information visit www.fortfremont.org or contact Passive Parks Manager Stefanie Nagid at snagid@bcgov.net.

Heritage Library Family Tree Maker Classes

10:30 a.m. to noon., select Mondays, Fourpart Zoom seminar. $50 for Heritage Library members, $55 for non-members. A series of 4 online classes to help you make the best of Family Tree Maker Software. To register, go to https://heritagelib.org/online-classes. Jan. 16, Session 1: Overview and the First Steps. Learn how the program is organized and the proper setup to get the most from the software. These classes assume you have basic computer skills. The software is available both for MAC and PC users. Jan. 23, Session 2: Getting Started: People and Media Tabs. Learn to add people, set relationships, add and categorize media, set profile pictures, link media to several people at once, backup your files, and more. This class gets you started on the process of documenting your family history with this software. You must have purchased Family Tree Make 2019, installed it on your computer, and done the preliminary required setup covered in Session 1. Jan. 30, Session 3: Introducing the Web Search. Learn to search websites through Family Tree Maker, add favorite search sites, and add information directly to your tree. Additional information on Media and maps will be included. Feb. 6, Session 4: Creating A Final Project: Find and Fix Errors, Get Started With The Publish Tab. Participants will learn how to find and fix duplicate information and errors; learn what reports can be created from the software; how participants can share work; and how to create a book.

Rediscovering the Discovery of America

10 to 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 17, Room 115, USCB Hilton Head Campus, 1 Sand Shark Drive, Hilton Head Island. $8 for Heritage Library members, $10 for non-members. To register, go to https://heritagelib.org/online-classes. This presentation explores the actual facts behind the myths that have framed American history for centuries.

Beaufort County Historical Society: Civil War Union Bands (St. Helena)

11 a.m. to 12 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 19, St Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Rd, St Helena Island. Limited seating, registration required. For registration, please go to https://www.beaufortcountyhistoricalsociety. com/events on or after Jan. 5. Presentation by Dr. Michael Johns, musician and music historian. Learn about the wartime sounds and instruments heard in camp, during battle and in social settings at the time of the Civil War.

The New York Campaigns

1:30 to 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 24, Room 213, USCB Hilton Head Campus, 1 Sand Shark Drive,

Hilton Head Island. $8 for Heritage Library members, $10 for non-members. To register, go to https://heritagelib.org/online-classes. Explore the history of the Revolutionary War in New York.

History & Happy Hour with Captain Jack Stoney

5 to 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 24, USCB Hilton Head Campus, 1 Sand Shark Drive, Hilton Head Island. $25 per person, with cash bar. To register, go to https://heritagelib.org/onlineclasses. Meet Captain Jack Stoney, privateer and wealthy landowner of early Hilton Head and enjoy the cocktail of your choice and hors d’oeuvres. Captain Jack will delight you with his descriptions of life on the island before, during and after the Revolutionary War. Cash bar with food provided by The Heritage Library.

Beaufort County Historical Society: Civil War Union Bands (Hilton Head)

11 a.m. to noon, Tuesday, Jan. 24, Hilton Head Branch Library, 11 Beach City Rd, Hilton Head Island. Limited seating, registration recommended. For registration, please go to https://www.beaufortcountyhistoricalsociety. com/events on or after Jan. 10. Presentation by Dr. Michael Johns, musician and music historian. Learn about the wartime sounds and instruments heard in camp, during battle and in social settings at the time of the Civil War.

MEETINGS

Maye River Quilters

9:30 a.m., Jan. 9, Palmetto Electric Cooperative, 1 Cooperative Way, Hardeeville. To attend as a guest, RSVP at mayeriverquilters@ gmail.com. For Information and membership forms, call 843-705-9590.

The Beaufort Trailblazers –A Volunteer Group

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

League of Women Voters

6 to 7:30 p.m., second Thursday of every month, Meeting Room, Sea Island Presbyterian Church, 81 Ladys Island Dr, Beaufort. Free. The Public as well as LWVB members are encouraged to attend. The next meeting is Thursday, Jan. 12. The meeting will be about the topics members have suggested as projects for 2023.

Zonta Club of Beaufort

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

MUSIC

Music on Malphrus –Kirsten Maxwell

7 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 7, The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Lowcountry, 110 Malphrus Road, Bluffton. General Admission $25. Doors open at 6:15 p.m.

Fripp Island Friends of Music Concert Series

5 p.m., specific Sundays, Fripp Island Community Centre, 205 Tarpon Blvd., Fripp Island. Individual shows are $30. Consider becoming a member of Fripp Island Friends of Music (FIFOM). Membership gives you access to all five concerts, including the post-performance reception where you meet the musicians while enjoying delicious hors d’oeuvres prepared fresh by Harold’s Chef Services. It also helps fund FIFOM’s Music-in-the-Schools program. The basic FIFOM membership, $100, has not changed. To become a member, text or call Vanessa Peñaherrera at 704-807-0255 or email vandy116@gmail.com. Go to frippfriendsofmusic. com for more information. Schedule: Jan. 8, Andrew Armstrong (piano); Feb. 26, The Tony Lee Group (jazz); March 26, Kim Richey (singersongwriter).

LOCAL MILITARY

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

Recruit Training Regiment, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, 6 January 2023

Recruit Training Regiment • Commanding Officer, Colonel B. W. Ward 1st Recruit Training Battalion • Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel M. C. Rock Commander of Troops, Captain A. J. Raguso • Parade Adjutant, First Lieutenant G. D. Wilson Company “A”, 1st Recruit Training Battalion • Commanding Officer, Captain A. J. Raguso Drill Masters • Gunnery Sergeant T. M. Moore, Staff Sergeant B. Guzman

PLATOON 1000

Senior Drill Instructor

Sgt T. I. Moore

Pvt Aleksiewicz, S. W.

Pvt Biggs, J. M.

Pvt Bustosrodriguez, E.

Pvt Catarroja, S. A.

PFC Causey, J. N.

PFC Chaney, M. J.

Pvt Conner, J. L.

PFC Daniels, J. A.

PFC Desantosgomez, O.

Pvt Devers, D. G.

PFC Diaz, C. D.

PFC Dodson, G. M.

PFC Faria, P. A.

Pvt Foster, Z. C.

PFC Gautiervarela, M. J.

PFC Greene, T. R.

PFC Harper, M. C.*

Pvt Hernandez Jr., V. T.

Pvt Hill, C. Q.

Pvt Holliman, D. J.

PFC Huendorosas, J.

PFC Jackson, N. B.*

Pvt Kelly Jr., D. T.

Pvt Liendovelasquez, D. A.

Pvt Liendovelasquez, J. F.

Pvt Mayer, R. W.

Pvt Mighell, C. J.

PFC Miles, T. D.*

Pvt Moore Jr., V. L.

PFC Morenoguarin, M.

PFC Moss, B. D.

Pvt Norris, J. R.

PFC Palacios Jr., R.

Pvt Perez, D. A.

Pvt Ramirez, A.

Pvt Silva, U.

Pvt Snyder, A. J.

Pvt Temabarrios, W. R.

PFC Thiltgen, B. K.

PFC Thomas, R. L.

PFC Webb, C. A.

PFC Wei, Z.

PLATOON 1001

Senior Drill Instructor

Sgt D. J. Meabon

Pvt Abar, J. M.

Pvt Archer, M. R.

Pvt Bartrum, K. P.

PFC Browne II, E. D.*

Pvt Brunner, M. A.

Pvt Cabrera, R. R.

Pvt Calderon, A.

PFC Clayton Jr., B. B.*

PFC Crowell, A. J.

Pvt Daniels, C. H.

PFC Desalguero, J. L.

Pvt Dove, G. C.

Pvt Ferguson, A. D.

PFC Fisher, J. S.

Pvt Griffin, T. G.

Pvt Hansen, P. D.

Pvt Hill, C. S.

Pvt Jaimesgarcia, J. D.

Pvt Jerome, E. E.

Pvt Jerome, M. L.

Pvt Kuangrong, Q.

PFC Lancaster, A. J.

Pvt Lundy, M.

PFC Magarino, N. E.

PFC Moton, G. C.

Pvt Munozjimenez, R.

Pvt Malasquez Jr., D.

Pvt Mckee, B. J.

Pvt Munroe, K. A.

Pvt Newby, G. W.

Pvt Patton, W. J.

Pvt Ramoslopez, B. I.

Pvt Richerson, J. R.

Pvt Shaver, J. J.

PFC Skaggs, K. R.

PFC Smith, M. B.*

Pvt Stalker, J. A.

Pvt Stout, J. R.

Pvt Trellescondo, M. S.

Pvt Wood, N. D.

Pvt Zauner, J. A.

PLATOON 1002

Senior Drill Instructor

SSgt P. C. Fredrick

PFC Alexander, K. D.*

Pvt Alford, R. M.

Pvt Alonso, C.

Pvt Anchundiaarias, A. A.

PFC Banger Jr., J. W.*

Pvt Banh, S.

Pvt Bennett, N. E.

LCpl Blake, D. C.

Pvt Charlton, E. S.

PFC Christy, M. J.*

Pvt Cobb, N. A.

PFC Dellane Jr., P. M.

Pvt Elg, A. R.

Pvt Etheridge, C. A.

Pvt Gancayco, K. G.

PFC Herard, J. G.

Pvt Insignares, D.

PFC Kline, A. D.

Pvt Konateh, M. M.

Pvt Lin, B.

Pvt Louisdhon, J. R.

Pvt Luna, I. R.

Pvt Mccarty Jr., T. O.

PFC Miele, V. P.

Pvt Mitchell, J. R.

Pvt Ortizmartinez, C.

PFC Parker, J. E.

Pvt Pellenz IV, E. J.

PFC Penaaguilar, A.

Pvt Raiola Jr., M. J.

Pvt Ready, B. C.

Pvt Reinhardt, T. M.

Pvt Rodriguezcolon, B.

Pvt Rodriguezduarte, W. J.

Pvt Roman, S. G.

Pvt Schulze, A. N.

Pvt Simpson, P. R.

Pvt Spillars, T. W.

PFC Suarez, A. G.

PFC Tinney, M. C.

PFC Tong, M. H.

Pvt Welsh, L. C

Pvt Wickett, S. D.

PLATOON 1004

Senior Drill Instructor

SSgt E. Cooper

Pvt Abreusantiago, J. A.

Pvt Asante, K. P.

Pvt Boykin, A. K.

Pvt Broussard, T. R.

Pvt Brumfield, J. J.

PFC Comacchio, J.

Pvt Cortes, J.

Pvt Cruztavarez, J. M.

Pvt Dalton, N. D.

Pvt Deng, D.

Pvt Diago, G. I.

Pvt Dilisioperez, D. G.

PFC Duhon, J. P.

PFC Elias, B. A.

Pvt Everett, S. A.

PFC Gayle, K. A.

Pvt Ge, A. Z.

Pvt Givens, F. W.

PFC Guillory, D. B.*

Pvt Hanafin, A. D.

Pvt Hartman, L. J.

PFC Joyner, D. W.

PFC Klapste, J. D.

Pvt Macaluso, J. C.

PFC Machlof, M. D.*

Pvt Morales, J. L.

PFC Ndione, A.

PFC Parent, B. R.

PFC Perez, M. R.

Pvt Priestap, N. A.

Pvt Quevedo, C. M.

Pvt Reitz, C. J.

Pvt Samuels, B. L.

PFC Sarango, J. S.*

Pvt Solis Jr., C.

Pvt Templin, S. R.

Pvt Tondreau, G. G.

Pvt Uitvlugt, D. A.

Pvt Vandeveer, E. L.

PFC Villanueva, S. E.

Pvt Wallace, J. S.

PLATOON 1005

Senior Drill Instructor

SSgt B. J. Pearson

Pvt Adedokun, A. O.

Pvt Aguilarmora, A. A.

PFC Bass, D. A.

Pvt Bracken, M. D.

Pvt Brandes, J. R.

Pvt Brown, C. J.

PFC Caranguilliguicota, B. S.

PFC Degan, J. M.*

Pvt Demaio, G. M.

PFC Englehart Jr., S. T.*

Pvt Fassl Jr., J. J.

PFC Frederique, M. J.

Pvt Garza, L. N.

Pvt Guaman, J. O.

Pvt Hidalgo, S. J.

Pvt Jimenezcaba, A. E.

Pvt Kelly, C. Q.

PFC Khalifa, I. H.

PFC Korattikarathomas, N.

PFC Lamantia, J. J.

Pvt Le, H. K.

PFC Lepcha, P.

Pvt Liburd, D. A. PFC Lombardo, F. L.

Pvt Lunaperalta, C. Pvt Manthei, J. M. Pvt Martinezrodriguez, E. B.

Pvt Mcdonald, L. M.

PFC Melo, P.

Pvt Miaczynski, D. J.

Pvt Miller, D. L.

Pvt Misasi, A. T.

Pvt Moralesperez, G. A.

PFC Perry, E. D.

Pvt Rodriguez, V. J.

Pvt Rodriguezvargas, J. S.

PFC Rowings, M. L.

Pvt Tillman, T. F. Pvt Watters, K. M.

Pvt Wilgis, B. T. PFC Yeager, A. J.*

SENIOR CITIZEN TEA

PLATOON 1006

Senior Drill Instructor

SSgt S. L. Williams Jr.

Pvt Acostagarduno, A. J.

Pvt Agosto, D. X.

PFC Aguilar, J. B.*

Pvt Awanto, C. A.

Pvt Barrett, J. A.

Pvt Dankyi, B. A.

Pvt Davidson, D. J.

PFC Diazcarranza, C. F.

Pvt French, J. T.

Pvt Frie, A. J.

Pvt Gilbert, J. L.

PFC Hanlon, N. A.

Pvt Hite, X. A.

Pvt Kanelos, D.

Pvt Kenney, K. S.

PFC Kerns, H. M.

Pvt Klein, H. D.

Pvt Lee, J. D.

Pvt Lindermuth, A. T.

Pvt Litchfield, D. W.

PFC Lynn, L. B.*

PFC Mcgawdoyle, N. J.

Pvt Mellor, N. E.

Pvt Montero, B. F.

Pvt Naugler IV, R. D.

Pvt Neashaminfinger, G. S.

Pvt Njenga, S. K.

Pvt Ortizguaraca, J. M.

Pvt Peusch, T. M.

PFC Porter III, C. E.

PFC Prenni, B. A.

Pvt Razo, G.

PFC Rivas Jr., M. A.*

Pvt Rivaschicas, H. I.

Pvt Rowlandespinoza, C. T. Pvt Sanchez, J. Pvt Somar, S.

Pvt Souders, P. W. PFC Swinney, J. S.

Pvt True, T. A.

Pvt Truett, R. L. PFC Wagner, T. R. Pvt Washko, J. D. *Denotes

The Beaufort High School band performs during the 51st Senior Citizen Tea at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort on Monday, Dec. 19, 2022. MCAS Beaufort partnered with the Beaufort Military Spouses’ Club to host the event allowing military families the opportunity to give back to the community for their continued support.

U.S. Navy Cmdr. Gary Heatherly, chaplain, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, greets with the guests Monday, Dec. 19, 2022, at the 51st Senior Citizen Tea at MCAS Beaufort.

Photos by Cpl. Hernan Rodriguez/USMC

Families bring their children to check out the new classroom for Play Morning during the New Parent Support Program’s opening Thursday, Dec. 8, at MCAS Beaufort. The new playroom is tailored to aid children in each stage of development up to age five in social and cognitive growth through play.

LOCAL MILITARY A NEW PLACE TO PLAY

Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) managed benefits, services

This article is the second part of a two-article series on VBA benefits and how to claim those benefits. Both articles offer only a summary of information veterans, service members, and their family members and survivors need to understand their VA benefits and how to file for those benefits.

Anyone filing a claim for VA benefits should use a VA-trained professional called an accredited representative, to help them understand and apply for VBA-managed benefits. VA-accredited representatives include VA-trained and certified Veterans Service Officers (VSOs), Lawyers, and Claims Agents.

How can a veteran’s survivor apply for Survivors Pension Benefits online, by mail, in person, and with help of a VA-trained and certified professional?

Survivors of a veteran should read the information at the VA Survivors Pension web page https:// www.va.gov/pension/survivors-pension/ and work with a trained professional (VSO, Lawyer, or Claims Agent) to get help applying for VA pension benefits.

Get more help by reading the information at https:// www.va.gov/disability/gethelp-filing-claim/. Survivors can file a claim in the following ways.

Online: Use the QuickSubmit tool through AccessVA at https://bit. ly/3Ie3bku to upload the claim form online.

By mail: Fill out an Application for DIC, Death Pension, and/or Accrued Benefits (VA Form 21P-534EZ, found at https:// bit.ly/3vwzkfF. Mail the completed application to the Department of Veterans Affairs, Pension Intake

LARRY DANDRIDGE

Center, PO Box 5365, Janesville, Wis. 53547-5365.

In-person: Go to a VA regional office and get help from a VA employee. Find a VA regional office near you at https://bit.ly/3BpjKET

What evidence will a veteran or family member need to support VA pension, DIC, or accrued benefits claims?

Go to the VA Evidence Explanation web page at https://bit.ly/3SAC1pH to find out what evidence is needed with each type of claim.

How can a veteran apply for VA Education & Training Benefits?

Veterans, military service members, and their qualified family members should go to https://www. va.gov/education/ and read about their VA education benefits and how to apply. Work with your school’s certifying official when applying for and attending school. The VA Certifying Official is usually in the Registrar or Financial Aid office. Applications can be submitted:

Online: The best way to apply is by going to www. va.gov/education/how-toapply/

By mail: Call 888-4424551, to request that the VA send the application to you. Fill it out and mail it to the VA regional claims processing office that’s in the same location as your school. Find VA regional claims offices a https://

www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/ regional_processing.asp

In-person: Go to a VA regional office and have a VA employee help you. Find a VA regional office at https://www.va.gov/find-locations/?facilityType=benefits

With the help of a trained professional: It is always smart to work with a trained and accredited professional (VSO, Attorney, or Agent) to get help applying for benefits. Read the information at https:// www.va.gov/disability/gethelp-filing-claim/

How can a veteran or military service member apply for VA Home Loan Benefits?

Read about VA Home Loans at https://benefits. va.gov/homeloans/index. asp. Veterans can apply for a home loan certificate of eligibility online using eBenefits at bit.ly/3VAGRVj. They may also apply for a home loan certificate of eligibility through their lender.

To apply by mail, download and complete VA Form 26-1880, “Request for Certificate of Eligibility,” which can be found at https://bit. ly/3jNFWDK. Send the form to the Regional Loan Center that serves the veteran’s or service member’s state which can be found at https://bit.ly/3GalowA

How can a veteran or military service member survivor apply for VA Home Loan Benefits?

Download and complete VA Form 26-1817, “Request for Determination of Loan Guaranty Eligibility - Unmarried Surviving Spouses, which is found at https:// bit.ly/3Z4V1Rg. Survivors can also call 1-877-827-3702 and follow the prompts for “Eligibility” and the VA will send the form to them.

Survivors should mail the

application to the Regional Loan Center that serves their state. Find the Regional Center that serves the survivor’s state at https:// bit.ly/3GalowA. Survivors should visit the VA Certificate of Eligibility web page https://bit.ly/3CkPxbr for information about home loan benefits for survivors.

Life Insurance benefits for service members, veterans and survivors claims Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI): SGLI coverage is automatic. You do not need to apply. To designate beneficiaries, or reduce, decline, or restore SGLI coverage, you must use either the SGLI Online Enrollment System (SOES) or form SGLV 8286, “Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Election and Certificate”.

To find out whether you should use SOES or to download the form visit https://bit.ly/3Ijqqtn Visit the VA SGLI web page, https://bit.ly/3Gxbsia for more information.

Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI): To file for VGLI, you can apply online at eBenefits, at https://bit.ly/3WWbmpG. Veterans may also download and complete SGLV 8714, “Application for Veterans’ Group Life Insurance”, found at https:// bit.ly/3VKaqDI

Veterans should mail their applications to OSGLI, PO Box 41618, Philadelphia, Pa. 19176-9913. Visit the VA VGLI web page, found at https://bit.ly/3IeOldv for more information.

Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI): To decline, reduce, or restore FSGLI coverage, complete and file form SGLV 8286A, “Spouse Coverage Election and Certificate” with your branch of

service. To find out whether you should use SOES or download the form visit https://bit.ly/3YZFpPb. Visit the VA FSGLI web page https://bit.ly/3WUMGOe for more information.

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection Program (TSGLI): To file a claim for TSGLI, complete and file SGLV 8600, “Application for TSGLI Benefits” found at https://bit.ly/3vzO9hu with your branch of service. Coverage for this benefit is automatic for all service members covered by SGLI. Visit the TSGLI web page found at https:// bit.ly/3WDXEYI for more information.

Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI): To file for VMLI, complete and submit VA Form 29-8636, “Application for Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance” found at https://bit.ly/3Q9qlu6 to your Specially Adapted Housing Agent. The agent will help you complete your application. Also, you must provide information about your current mortgage. Visit the VA Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance web page at

https://bit.ly/3X3f7tg for more information.

The bottom line Do not miss out on your hard-earned military and veteran benefits. Ask a VSO to help you understand your VA benefits and apply for all benefits that you are eligible for. After all, you and your family paid for your VA benefits through much hardship, separation, loneliness, sweat, cold, grief, anxiety, hazardous material exposure, and blood!

You can read all (more than 80) of The Island News’ articles on Veterans and Military Benefits at www.yourislandnews.com

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 free-lance writer with the Island News. Contact him at LDandridge@ earthlink.net or 843-276-7164.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Karl Arbogast, commanding officer, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, and Sgt. Maj. Jonathan Wyble, sergeant major, MCAS Beaufort, receive a tour Thursday, Dec. 8, of the New Parent Support Program’s playroom and baby bootcamp classroom at MCAS Beaufort from Glenda Mitchell, Family Advocacy Program, new parent support program acting supervisor. The New Parent Support Program hosts weekly play mornings, which allows children the opportunity to experience peer-to-peer interaction and allows parents to build social support with one another. Photos by Sgt. Cheyeanne Campbell/USMC

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