June 22 edition

Seven books go back on BCSD shelves

Book review process attracts 60 Minutes coverage

By Delayna Earley

Ruth James, of Lady’s Island, is interviewed by 60 Minutes journalist Scott Pelley following the June book review committee on June 14, 2023, at Okatie Elementary School in Beaufort. Delayna Earley/The Island News

sengers by A.S. King, Collateral by Ellen Hopkins, A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas, Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott, More Happy Than Not by Adam Silva and Perfect by Ellen Hopkins.

Is Beaufort’s pace of development broken?

BEAUFORT

If it ain’t broke, why try to fix it?

That was the question raised more than once Tuesday night during the City Council’s review of the Development Code and the regulations that direct construction within the city. While the Council has been working through the Code review for the past four months, Tuesday night’s focus was on the five-member Historic Review Board and whether a specification that allows the Historic Beaufort Foundation to recommend an appointment to the board should be removed. Currently, HBF recommends to the Council appointments to the review board but new Planning Director Curt Freese, as part of the code review, recommended removal of that “privilege.”

To put even more pressure on the change, the Greater Beaufort Chamber of Commerce has asked the Council to make sure at least one HRB member represents the business community,

The Island News OKATIE – No additional books have been removed from the Beaufort County School District shelves following the June book review committee meeting at Okatie Elementary School on Wednesday, June 14, 2023.

Seven books were up for review during the meeting – Ask the Pas-

All were voted to be returned to library circulation for Grades 9 through 12 only except for Ask the Passengers, which will be returned to library circulation without any restriction.

Reviewing the 97 books that were originally removed from Beaufort County School District

(BCSD) libraries has, to date, taken nine months and will likely continue into the fall.

During this time, committees have reviewed 61 books and all except for four have been approved to return to library circulation.

It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover, Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult and The Haters by Jessie Andrews have all been removed from school district shelves, and Identical by Ellen Hopkins will be returning to the review pro-

SEE SHELVES PAGE A4

A bittersweet day

Marine Corps deactivates 4th Battalion in historic ceremony

By Delayna Earley

The Island News

PARRIS ISLAND – The last all-female training battalion was deactivated in a ceremony on Thursday, June 15, 2023, at the Marine Corp Recruit Depot Parris Island.

Parris Island has been the sole en-

trance point for women to enter the Marine Corps since 1949, according to a press release, and the Fourth Recruit Training Battalion has been the battalion training female recruits since 1986.

“This is a moment to celebrate the legacy of so many of our Marines who

made the transformation through Fourth Recruit Training Battalion,” Gen. David H. Berger, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, said in the press release. “It’s also a moment to celebrate progress. I’m proud to

Marine recruit found dead at Parris Island

Pvt. Marshall Hartman was pronounced dead at 7:18 a.m., Monday by Beaufort County Coroner David Ott.

According to the press release, Hartman died from a “non-training incident” and the cause of death is

16.

currently under investigation.

“It would be premature to speculate about individual details because the case is currently under investigation,” said Maj. Philip Kulczewski, Director of Public Affairs at MCRD Parris Island.

Hartman was on his sixth day of recruit training at the time of his death and had been assigned to Delta Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, Recruit Training Regiment.

SEE RECRUIT PAGE A5

Master Gunnery Sgt. Denise Shepherd sheds a tear as she stands for the deactivation of the Fourth Battalion flag during the ceremony held on Thursday, June 15, 2023, at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. The ceremony marked the official deactivation of the Fourth Battalion, which has been the singular battalion training female recruits since 1986. Delayna Earley/The Island News

VETERAN OF THE WEEK PHILIP HEIM

Beaufort’s Philip Heim, 59, joined the United States Marine Corps in Vienna, Va., in 1982. After boot camp at Parris Island, he trained in Supply Administration before assignment to MCAS Cherry Point, from which he deployed to Honduras with a radar unit. His next assignment was on Okinawa, from which he deployed to Korea and the Philippines. Next was his first assignment in Beaufort at the Air Station, again with a radar unit.

Philip Heim

He participated in recovery efforts after Hurricane Hugo, resulting in a Humanitarian Award. He then served at Fort Leavenworth, Kan., with the Marine Detachment at the U.S.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

A very important reality on Pine Island

After more than 40 years in the real estate industry in Northern Beaufort County, I guess I just don’t understand and would love to have an explanation.

In the mid 80s, Alcoa bought Dataw Island and proceeded to build one of the most attractive subdivisions we have on St. Helena.

This is a private, gated, golf course community that has hugely contributed to Beaufort County in more ways than one. Taxes alone are considerable; patronizing retail establishments, eateries and more importantly to St. Helena, alone their volunteers have picked up garbage on a 6-mile stretch of the Island for more than 30 years collecting more than 500 bags of trash and garbage plus larger items.

Can you imagine what U.S. 21 would look like without these dedicated volunteers?

So now the community wants to ban the possibility of having another equally important development. I just don’t understand. Over the years I have repeatedly heard that nobody wants us to be another Hilton Head. I think everyone feels

ON THIS DATE

June 22

ISLAND NEWS PUBLISHING,

LLC

PUBLISHERS

Jeff & Margaret Evans

FOUNDING PUBLISHERS

Elizabeth Harding Newberry

Kim Harding

EDITORIAL/DESIGN

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

Art Director Hope Falls ads.theislandnews@ gmail.com

Assistant Editor Delayna Earley delayna. theislandnews@ gmail.com

Sports Editor Justin Jarrett LowcoSports@ gmail.com

Disciplinary Barracks housing prisoners from all the armed services. He then was assigned to support a medical battalion at Camp Lejeune. Next he was the lone Marine recruiter in Waterville, Maine. Back to Camp Lejeune, where he was an instructor at the supply school. His final assignment was at Parris Island, where he was in charge of issuing uniforms to recruits.

Heim retired in 2005 as a Master Sergeant with 23 years

like gated communities and golf courses will make us another Hilton Head. It won’t happen. We don’t have the large parcels on Sea Island Parkway that could lend itself to this type of venture. So, are you all saying that Dataw was a mistake and never should have happened?

Pine Island will be developed one way or another. We just can’t stand in the way of progress. So, are 166 homes better than 65 homes? Are 100-plus deep-water docks better than eight? Please consider the traffic issue. With 166 homes we’ll have at least 500 new residents with 320 vehicles to add to the already unbearable traffic problem. The future residents, children and grandchildren need to be considered here. It’s not all about us! Has everyone given Elvio Tropeano the opportunity to talk to the community and help them understand what his plans are for the community and children of St. Helena? Will they listen with an open mind or is that not possible? Maybe a definite decision should be postponed before a mistake is made without full disclosure to all parties. I know everyone wants nothing to change, but change is inevitable. Please look at the changes with the City of Beaufort, Port

1917: The Marine post on Parris Island is officially renamed Marine Barracks, Paris Island. Note the misspelling of Parris Island with a single “r.”

2020: A ribbon cutting featuring State Sen. Chip Campsen, R-Charleston; and state representatives Shannon Erickson, R-Beaufort, and Michael Rivers, D-Beaufort, signals the completion of an extensive beach re-nourishment project at Hunting Island State Park.

June 24

1944: Dr. Herbert and Harriet Hirschfield Keyserling are married.

June 26

1891: The first detachment of U.S. Marines comes to Parris Island

PAL PETS OF THE WEEK

Cat of the Week: Mullet is a party all over. He is a hunk of love and wants to talk your ear off. He is enjoying his time at our adoption center, but would love a home to call his own. He would do well as a single cat or one other chill adult, kittens are not his favorite. Mullet is 5 years old, neutered, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped.

of active service. He then worked at Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation in Savannah for 14 years. He owned Beaufort Pics Gallery on Bay Street for 6 years. His wife, Susan, works with military families in early childhood development at Naval Hospital Beaufort.

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

Royal and Lady’s Island over the last 40 years. Something will happen. We need to make the best choice for the entire community and generations to come.

– Pat Harvey-Palmer, 35-year resident of St. Helena Island in Dulamo

This seems like a prudent step

I don’t think anyone is banning books when they are evaluated for age appropriateness with respect to availability in a school library. This seems like a prudent step to take to protect students from topics that are beyond their ability to comprehend and process at their age.

There are simple remedies to the situation. First, if a parent wants their child to read a certain book, they can easily purchase it for them. Second, the school could have these books available with parental consent.

Also, parents will have different opinions on what is appropriate for their child. These measures will ensure that all parents’ wishes are accommodated.

– David T. Barton, Beaufort

when the U.S. Navy begins construction of a dry dock facility. First Sgt. Richard Donovan and 10 privates are charged with keeping order among the construction crew.

2019: Republican Nancy Mace, the first female graduate of The Citadel, announced she was joining the race for the 1st Congressional District seat held by Joe Cunningham.

June 27

2019: Capt. Anneliese Satz, USMC, becomes the first female Marine to complete the F-35B training at MCAS Beaufort.

2019: Beaufort weightlifter C.J. Cummings, 19, sets 15 records in the 73kg weight class at the Junior Pan-Am Games in Havana, Cuba. Cummings won gold in the Clean and Jerk and Overall categories and silver in the Snatch.

– Compiled by Mike McCombs

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

DEADLINE

For press releases and advertising, please submit by noon on Friday for the following week’s paper.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

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

DISCLAIMER

Dog of the Week: Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, right? Diamond is anyone’s best friend. She survived being hit by a car and had her front leg amputated after raising her two puppies. Diamond has healed beautifully and is ready to find her home.

Diamond is 2 years old, spayed, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped.

If you are interested in adopting Mullet, Diamond, 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.

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.

Ali Muller of Lady’s Island found this frog in the stalk of a pitcher plant on her porch. The little guy got shy and retreated farther in after she took the photo. 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

St. Helena woman accused in drowning death of 6-year-old daughter waives bond hearing

By Delayna Earley

The Island News

The St. Helena Island woman accused in the drowning her 6-yearold daughter will remain in jail after she waived her right to a bond hearing that was originally scheduled for June 15, 2023, in Beaufort.

Jamie Bradley-Brun, 37, is currently being held at the Beaufort County Detention Center where she has been since she was arrested on May 19.

Bradley-Brun was charged with murder for the drowning of her 6-year-old daughter, Mackaya, and attempted murder in the near drowning of her 8-yearold daughter.

The 8-year-old was saved by her 16-year-old sister, who was awoken by sounds of the struggle coming from the bathroom, according to Beaufort County Sheriff P.J. Tanner in a press conference following her arrest.

The teenager allegedly stopped her mother from drowning her sister before the two girls fled their family home off Sam Doyle Drive

on St. Helena Island and went to a neighboring home before calling 911.

According to a press release from the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) on May 19

FOR MORE ON THIS STORY

BradleyBrun

Bradley-Brun was arrested after law enforcement arrived on the scene just before 1:30 a.m. and discovered the body of the 6-year-old.

The investigation is ongoing and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division’s Special Victim’s Unit – Department of Child Fatalities is working alongside the BCSO.

A vigil was held on May 31 on St. Helena Island to celebrate Mackaya’s life and to show the community’s support of her family during this difficult time.

A Go-Fund-Me page was also created to help the family cover memorial costs and the expenses of relocating the family to Port Royal.

According to Jeff Kidd, with the

14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office, it is not uncommon for someone to waive their bond hearing and she retains the right to request a bond hearing in the future.

“She waived her bond hearing, that was her decision,” Kidd said.

“It’s not all that unusual. Murder is one of those offenses that has the potential to carry a life sentence and the bond has to be set by a circuit court judge. When that happens, it’s about 50/50, sometimes the defendants will waive

St. Helena woman charged with murder, attempted murder after drowning of 6-year-old daughter https://yourislandnews.com/ st-helena-woman-chargedwith-murder-attemptedmurder-after-drowning-of-6year-old-daughter/ Vigil celebrates life of St. Helena girl https://yourislandnews.com/ vigil-celebrates-life-of-sthelena-girl/

it and sometimes they will try to get bond.”

Deputy Public Defender Courtney Gibbes is representing Bradley-Brun in this case.

Delayna Earley lives in Beaufort with her husband, two children and Jack Russell. She spent six years as a videographer and photographer for The Island Packet and The Beaufort Gazette before leaving the Lowcountry in 2018. After freelancing in Myrtle Beach and Virginia, she joined The Island News when she moved back to Beaufort in 2022. She can be reached at delayna.theislandnews@gmail.com

Second defendant convicted in St. Helena murder

From staff reports

A second defendant has been convicted of killing an unarmed man in a barrage of 9mm handgun fire, a crime captured in part on surveillance video.

Xavier Maoshi Polite, a 22-year-old Seabrook resident, was found guilty by a Beaufort County General Sessions Court jury of the 2020 murder of Steven Glover of St. Helena Island. He also was convicted of attempted murder and possession of a weapon during commission of a violent crime. Polite was sentenced Friday to 37 years in prison.

Polite’s co-defendant, Channon Talon Preston, was

found guilty of the same charges in a jury trial in October 2022 and also sentenced to 37 years in prison.

“These two defendants ambushed Mr. Glover with an overwhelming hail of gunfire – all for perhaps a couple hundred dollars in cash,” said Mary Jones of the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office, who prosecuted the case. “This attack was senseless and brutal. Now, the people responsible for it are going where they belong.”

At about 1 p.m. on Nov. 18,

2020, Preston and Polite drove a white Toyota van owned by Preston’s mother into the front yard of Corey Deion Singleton. The pair had arranged to purchase marijuana from Glover, who was Singleton’s cousin. Claiming they saw law enforcement in the area, Preston and Polite called off the deal and drove away. When they did, Glover remained in the driver’s seat of his Nissan Maxima, and Singleton went into his house.

Moments later, Singleton

CARTERET CRASH

heard Glover honk his car horn and thought his friend intended to leave. As he walked to his porch, however, he saw Preston and Polite returning in the van. They then stepped out of the vehicle and began firing at Glover in his car. Glover was shot seven times, and his car was struck by more than 30 bullets.

Singleton took cover behind Glover’s car, attempting to fend off the attackers by firing a 9mm pistol at their feet while lying on the ground. When his gun jammed and there was a brief pause in his assailants’ gunfire, Singleton ran to the house of a neighbor, who

called 9-1-1.

Both defendants were charged with Glover’s murder, as well as the attempted murder of Singleton. Although Singleton cooperated with investigators and identified Preston as one of his attackers, he died in July 2022, before he could testify in court.

“Fortunately, investigators did a thorough job,” Jones said. “We had ample evidence, and all of it pointed convincingly to the defendants’ guilt.”

Singleton’s surveillance cameras captured parts of the attack. Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office investigators also recovered the murder

weapons from Preston’s home, and analysts from the S.C. State Law Enforcement Division matched them to 9mm shell casings found at the scene.

In addition, the murder weapons were recovered from Preston’s home in the hours after the attack, and the defendants’ DNA was detected on the firearms and in the Toyota van. Jones called 20 witnesses during three days of testimony in Preston’s trial in October. She called 19 witnesses during three days of testimony in Polite’s trial. Circuit Court Judge Robert Bonds handed down Polite’s sentence.

Beaufort teens arrested on rare libel, slander charges

By Delayna Earley

The Island News

Two Beaufort County teens were arrested earlier this month for an unusual charge.

Raven Benjamin, 19, of Lady’s Island, and Zachary Chandler, 19, of Yemassee were arrested for two charges of libel and slander for allegedly creating an Instagram page impersonating a former teacher.

Benjamin was arrested on Wednesday, June 7, while Chandler was arrested on Friday, June 9

Beaufort/Port Royal Fire Department Battalion 1 and Engine Company 1 responded to a motor vehicle accident near the intersection of Carteret Street and Bay Street at approximately 6:25 a.m., Tuesday morning, June 20. A vehicle was coming from the Woods Memorial Bridge into Downtown Beaufort and struck two palm trees and a building. Because of damage to one of the palm trees, firefighters from Engine Company 1 cut it to prevent it from falling and hurting any pedestrians walking on the side walk. Photo courtesy of Beaufort/Port Royal Fire Department

Shelves

from page A1

cess due to a split vote during the May review committee meeting.

Ruth James, of Lady’s Island, who has participated in four book review committees, said that she continues to participate so that she can be a voice for those in the community who are mortified that there is a group of people that could potentially change the trajectory of the school district, yet due to their circumstances they cannot participate.

“The audacity of these people who say that you can just go to the library, well not everyone can just

go to the library,” James said. “The distance between someone’s home and the public library could be miles and there is no public transportation here.”

James continued to say that while she understands that everyone has different sensitives and what is vulgar to some may not be vulgar to others, but she would never think to tell a child what they can or cannot read, but would instead allow their parent to do that.

The Island News may have been the only local media who attended the book review committee meeting on June 14, but the meeting was also attended by 60 Minutes journalist Scott Pelley and a small production team from the

CBS news program.

Pelley, who also attended the BCSD school board meeting on Wednesday, June 13, was encouraged to cover the book banning process in Beaufort by his news producer, Henry Schuster, who lives on Lady’s Island.

Schuster had seen some of the coverage of the 97 books and the committees that were going to be reviewing the books, so he signed up to review a book.

In April 2023, he received an e-mail telling him that he had been assigned a book to read and review during the May book review committee meeting.

The book that he was assigned to read and review was called Fade by Lisa McMann, which was ultimate-

Both have since been released on $5,000 recognizance bonds.

The Instagram page was created on Jan. 21 and was only up for one day.

ly returned to library circulation for Grades 9 through 12 only.

“I joined the committee out of curiosity,” Schuster said. “I was surprised about the decision to ban the books to start with and surprised about the way that it unfolded, but I was also curious about it.”

Schuster said he didn’t sign up thinking he was going to get a story out of this.

“When I went on May 11, I went as a Beaufort County citizen, but that doesn’t mean that you check your journalist brain at the door,” said Schuster.

After participating in the book review committee meeting, Schuster said he went home and sent Pelley a message suggesting that

they do this story.

While active, Benjamin and Chandler allegedly made posts accusing a teacher and counselor from Lowcountry Montessori School of serious crimes that would impact their reputation as professionals who work with minors.

Benjamin and Chandler both graduated from Lowcountry Montessori School, a public charter school that models their curriculum after the Montessori method, in 2022.

The last time that someone in Beaufort County was arrested for libel and slander was 28 years ago in 1995.

Delayna Earley lives in Beaufort with her husband, two children and Jack Russell. She spent six years as a videographer and photographer for The Island Packet and The Beaufort Gazette before leaving the Lowcountry in 2018. After freelancing in Myrtle Beach and Virginia, she joined The Island News when she moved back to Beaufort in 2022. She can be reached at delayna.theislandnews@gmail.com

“One of the first things that struck me about the committee meeting was that there was a sheriff’s deputy there,” Schuster said. “The whole process was very orderly and eye-opening.”

Pelley agreed, they submitted a story proposal and a month later they were here covering the next round of books being reviewed.

Schuster said that right now, 60 Minutes is doing reruns, but he expects that this story will run sometime in the fall after they have completed their reporting and the new season of the show begins.

“I don’t think that we will be doing any more shooting in Beaufort, but we have more reporting to do

and more interviews to do,” Schuster said about the episode, “and those will take place over the course of the summer.”

According to a statement that BCSD spokesperson Candace Bruder made after the May book review committee, there should be one more review committee meeting during the school district’s summer break.

Delayna Earley lives in Beaufort with her husband, two children and Jack Russell. She spent six years as a videographer and photographer for The Island Packet and The Beaufort Gazette before leaving the Lowcountry in 2018. After freelancing in Myrtle Beach and Virginia, she joined The Island News when she moved back to Beaufort in 2022. She can be reached at delayna. theislandnews@gmail.com

Mackaya Bradley-Brun, 6, was found dead on May 19, 2023 at her family’s home on St. Helena Island. Her mother, Jamie Bradley-Brun has been arrested and charged with her drowning death. Submitted photo.

Benjamin Chandler

DragonBoat Race Day set for Saturday

By Mike McCombs The Island News

Twenty-eight boats will take to the water early Saturday morning, June 24, as DragonBoat Race Day returns to the Beaufort River.

The event, first held in Beaufort in 2013, runs from approximately 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the first race going off at about 8:15 a.m.

Spectators are advised to bring their own chairs. The course starts at the Woods Memorial Bridge and ends at the Downtown Marina. Any

place along the seawall is a great place to watch the race.

The event usually averages 31 or 32 teams, but DragonBoat Beaufort’s Greg Rawls says this year’s number of 28 is the “sweet spot.”

“It works out evenly,” he said, “so we capped it at 28. We actually had some teams we could not accommodate.”

Rawls said “two-thirds” of the teams are local, but “here are some club teams from out of town that are really, really good.” There are three heats – ev-

eryone races three times before seeding into divisions A, B, C, D, and E. There are medals for the winners, as well as other awards for boats, teams, even best T-shirts.

Rawls expects a good crowd of between 2,000 and 4,000 people.

“Each team has at least 20 people, so you’ll get 35 to 48 people with each team,” Rawls said, explaining again why 28 teams is a good cap.

Some of the teams are out to win it all, and all of the teams are out to have some

FOR COVERAGE

DragonBoat Beaufort looking hard for a home, Feb. 1, 2023 https://yourislandnews. com/dragonboatbeaufort-looking-hardfor-a-home/

fun. But of course, the goal of the event is also to raise money.

DragonBoat Beaufort supports a cancer outreach program. According to it’s website, the group helps “cancer

patients deal with the realistic monthly demands of keeping the lights on, keeping the fridge supplied with nutritious food, or keeping gas in the car to get to treatment.”

“We’re looking to raise $80,000,” Rawls said. “Right now, we’re at about $54,000 [as of Tuesday]. The money raised goes to our outreach program.”

As The Island News reported in February, DragonBoat Beaufort is still seeking a dock home for it’s boats

Flag Day Celebration

and equipment.

“It’s really been rough. I’ve had so many people in this county say no to me. It’s really been rough,” said Rawls, who said the group would be putting out a big appeal on race day. “Right now, we’re keeping one boat on a trailer and towing it to Whitehall everyday to practice. It’s not the best situation.”

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

Radio operators ready for Field Day 2023 in Beaufort

From staff reports Field Day is ham radio’s open house. Every June, more than 40,000 hams throughout North America set up temporary transmitting stations in public places to demonstrate ham radio’s science, skill and service to our communities and our nation. It combines public service, emergency preparedness, community outreach, and technical skills all in a single event.

Once again, the Beaufort Radio Amateur Group (BRAG) will operate an outdoor Field Day station Saturday, June 24 and Sunday, June 25, on Lady’s Island next to Huddle House (92 Sea Island Pkwy.).

The public is welcome to come out and see what it’s all about, BRAG member David Jennings said.

The Beaufort Republican Women’s Club gathered on Flag Day, June 14, 2023, with special guests, Senator Chip Campsen, and Beaufort City Councilman Phillip (Josh) Scallate. Between late afternoon rain showers, the group enjoyed a picnic at the home of BRWC President Jane Culley and her husband Hazen Culley. Councilman Scallate informed those gathered about work the Council has done on the city budget and police department, and on linking the City of Beaufort bomb and crime units with Beaufort County units to enable cooperation between the two. Senator Campsen spoke about the Second Amendment which gives every individual American citizen the right to keep and bear arms without the threat of government infringement. The Senator said he would not support Bill S.109 which would eliminate a law that already exists in South Carolina, the Concealed Weapon Permit (CWP) that is honored in 35 other states, and that requires the bearer to have a clean SLED criminal background check, to receive training in handling and firing a handgun on the range with an instructor, and to receiving training in the complex laws that govern carrying a concealed weapon. Flag Day is a nationwide day of observance celebrated by Americans to commemorate the adoption of the Stars and Stripes as the official flag of the United States. Submitted photo.

There will be info and demonstrations for those interested people. BRAG also offers licensing help, including administration of the license exam.

“Many of us look like your grandfather, but we have club members all the way down to high school,” Jennings said. “I was 14 when I got my first license. I’m now 75. Talk about a lifelong hobby [and] service.”

Historic Penn Center appoints next executive director

From staff reports

Following a one-year planning and executive search process, the Historic Penn Center, a multi-service 501c3 nonprofit organization in St. Helena Island, S.C., dedicated to promoting and preserving Gullah-Geechee history and culture, is pleased to announce the appointment of Robert L Adams Jr., Ph.D., as its next Executive Director.

“I am honored to be chosen by the Penn Center’s Board of Trustees to lead this hallowed institution. I humbly follow in the footsteps of a long line of distinguished leaders who have made impactful contributions to the history of Penn Center and our national history,” Adams said in a news release. “I look forward to working with the Board, community, and other stakeholders to continue the center’s position as a ‘living laboratory of Black freedom’ and guardian of Gullah-Geechee culture.”

Adams, whose hire is effective July 1, succeeds Interim Executive Director Bernie Wright.

Recruit

from page A1

He was 18 years old and originally from Prescott, Mich.

Pvt. Hartman is the fifth person to die at Parris Island since 2021 and his

“Dr. Adams’ career and exceptional leadership in areas of nonprofit management, philanthropy, fund development, global networking, and diverse connections makes him an ideal choice for serving Penn Center in the role as executive director,” said Deloris Pringle, Chair, of the Penn Center Board of Trustees, in a news release. “Robert’s impressive accomplishments reflect the values, strategic goals and mission that uphold those of [the] historic Penn Center. Dr. Adams will lead this historic organization through a very important time in its history: the historic preservation of its buildings, creating pathways for increased funding support, and serving as a driver for programmatic development.

“With this appointment, Penn Center will implement impactful initiatives that address community well-being, social, economic, and environmental

death comes almost two months after Pfc. Noah Evans died during a physical fitness test.

Pfc. Dalton Beals, 19, of Pennsville, N.J., died of hyperthermia in June 2021 while completing the Crucible, which is the final part of a recruit’s training at Parris Island.

challenges facing Gullah Geechee communities today.”

Adams was born in Bangor, Maine, and raised in military institutions across the South (Florida, Mississippi, North Carolina, and Texas). He earned an M.A. in sociology from the University of Florida and a Ph.D. in anthropology from the University of Texas at Austin. He has worked extensively in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, Latin America, and North America.

Previously, Adams served as the Senior Vice President of Programs at the NEA Foundation in Washington, D.C., overseeing the Foundation’s grant making programs. Adams has also worked as an Executive-on-Loan/Interim Chief Operating Officer at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change in Atlanta; a Program Officer at the Fetzer Institute in Kalamazoo, Mich.; and Associate Director of the Institute of African American Research at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill.

Adams recently served as

The Crucible is a physically taxing 54-hour exercise that recruits are required to complete before becoming Marines.

Beals’ drill instructor, Staff Sgt. Steven Smiley, was charged with negligent homicide in November 2022 after an investigation discovered that Smiley did

Co-Founder and Principal for Sargent Adams Consulting LLC. in Boston, Mass. He provided strategic guidance on change management and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) for Fortune 500, government, labor, and nonprofit clients.

Adams was a 2008 U.S. Fulbright Faculty Fellow at the Catholic University of São Paulo in Brazil, a 2016 Association of Black Foundation Executives (ABFE) Connecting Leaders Fellow, and a 2003 International Career Advancement Program (ICAP) Fellow. He is the author of more than 15 publications, including editor of Rewriting the African Diaspora in Latin America and the Caribbean: Beyond Disciplinary and National Boundaries (Routledge 2013)

About Penn Center

In the words of the late historian John Hope Franklin, “Penn Center is the most significant African American organization in the country.” It was established in 1862 by a group of churches

not follow protocols to stop training due to extreme heat on the day Beals died.

Smiley’s trial date in Beals’ death is currently set for July 17, 2023.

Pvt. Anthony Muñoz, 21, of Lawrence, Mass., died in September 2021 after falling from a balcony in an apparent suicide, ac-

and abolitionists from Pennsylvania as a school to educate newly freed slaves.

Laura M. Towne and Ellen Murry were founders and the first teachers at the school and named it Penn School after the great Quaker leader and founder of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, William Penn.

Charlotte Forten, who arrived a few months later, was the first black teacher at the school. Penn School taught literacy and vocational skills to newly freed slaves, and the extraordinary Penn School continued to educate children through 1953, continued to provide human services through the 1980s, and still exists today as a community-oriented nonprofit organization.

Although Penn School is no longer in operation, Penn Center Inc., a non-profit African American cultural and historical organization, occupies a 50-acre campus and owns an additional 500 acres on St. Helena Island, a sub-tropical barrier island well known for its intact Gullah communities.

cording to MCRD Parris Island officials.

Pfc. Brandon Barnish, 26, of Evans, Ga., was found dead in September 2021 at the training depot.

As of Tuesday, June 20, there have been no updates in the investigation, and The Island News has no details on services for Hartman.

Delayna Earley lives in Beaufort with her husband, two children and Jack Russell. She spent six years as a videographer and photographer for The Island Packet and The Beaufort Gazette before leaving the Lowcountry in 2018. After freelancing in Myrtle Beach and Virginia, she joined The Island News when she moved back to Beaufort in 2022. She can be reached at delayna. theislandnews@gmail.com

Robert L Adams Jr., Ph.D.

Walking the beach to benefit CAPA

8 sites added to

Reconstruction Era National Historic Network by Park Service

From staff reports

The National Park Service has announced the addition of eight new sites to the Reconstruction Era National Historic Network.

This national network connects sites across the country who provide education, interpretation and research related to the period of Reconstruction. The Reconstruction Era (1861-1900) is one of the most fascinating and misunderstood periods in American History and includes stories of freedom, education and self-determination.

These newest additions to the Reconstruction Era National Historic Network include: The Plessy v Ferguson Imitative, based in New Orleans, Louisiana, works with neighborhoods and community organizations to preserve and interpret the story of the Reconstruction Era, Homer Plessy and the Citizens’ Committee, and the Plessy v Ferguson “separate but equal” decision’s continued impact

on the community.

The Historic Hezikiah Haskell House was built by Peter Tucker, a formerly enslaved man, and his wife Betty, in about 1875. It is located in the community of Clarksville, Texas, one of the first Freedom Colonies established west of the Mississippi in Texas after the Civil War, and the house also served as the community’s first church.

• River View Farm in Charlottesville, Va., is an African American historic site that seeks to preserve the home, barn, and farm of the Carr, Hawkins, and Greer families. Originally established by Hugh Carr, a formerly enslaved man, in the 1870s, the farm remained operated by his descendants for a century. The site offers educational programs that examine the history of African American land ownership, farming, and the legacy of Black education

during Reconstruction.

The Garvin-Garvey House was constructed around 1870 by Cyrus Garvin (Garvey) in Bluffton, S.C. It is believed to be the oldest extant dwelling built by a freedman in Bluffton and remained in the possession of the Garvin family until the 1960s. In 2004, the Town of Bluffton entered a partnership with Beaufort County to maintain Oyster Factory Park, which includes the Garvin-Garvey House.

Historic Campbell Chapel AME was originally built by enslaved people in Bluffton, S.C., in 1853. In 1874, the chapel became part of the AME Church and served the community throughout the Reconstruction Era as a social, religious, and academic center of the community.

The Peabody Academy Museum and Cultural Heritage Site was founded in Troy, N.C., in 1880 by the American

Lowcountry Regatta returns to BYSC this weekend

From staff reports

For more than half a century there has been an “open” sailboat racing regatta held in Beaufort. That tradition will continue this weekend as the Lowcountry Regatta returns to the Beaufort Yacht & Sailing Club for it’s 56th running.

There will be a Welcome recption Friday night, with racing Saturday and Sunday.

An “open” sailboat racing regatta has been held yearly since the 1940s or before. This regatta was initially held downtown Beaufort until 1967 when many of the sailing member families founded Beaufort Yacht & Sailing Club (BYSC) on Lady’s Island, and BYSC became responsible for hosting the regatta. The Lowcountry Regatta is also supported by South Atlantic Yacht Racing Association (SAYRA).

The sailboats in the early days were usually Sunfish, E Scows, Force Fives and other popular classes of the times. Now, the event draws many of the newer classes as entries – Optimist prams, O’Pen Skiffs, Lasers, Sunfish, MC Scows, Lightnings, Sea Island One

Designs, Highlanders, Y Flyers, Snipes, 420’s, VXs and maybe new this year, Thistles and Flying Scots.

With entries usually near 100, it equates to several hundred people on the club grounds, enjoying the racing, viewing and attending the special Lowcountry Boil with a band that is held on Saturday nights.

Lowcountry Regatta

June 23-25, 2023, The Beaufort Yacht & Sailing Club

Welcome Reception on Friday; racing on Saturday and Sunday

Eligibility

The event is open to one-design dinghy sailboats.

Invited classes: Highlander, Melges 15, MC Scow, Lightning, Flying Scot, Thistle, SIOD, Y Flyer, Snipe, Laser ILCA (full rig, radial, 4.7), O’Pen Skiff, VX Evo, VX1, 420, Sunfish, JY15, and Optimists. Additional classes are welcome on a case-bycase basis. Three class boats are required to constitute a class and be eligible for awards.

Juniors and Seniors

are eligible to compete, using SAYRA age guidelines.

Registration, NOR and other documents will be available on Regatta Network no later than April 15.

Sailing area

Beaufort River between Mark G “41” and Mark G “241A”

There will be three race circles with classes assigned to circles based on their sailing characteristics.

Classes will race separately. PRO may combine class starts if circumstances dictate.

Social and Meals

Guests will become temporary members of BYSC upon registration

Commodores Reception on Friday night

Complimentary continental breakfast on Saturday and Sunday Box lunches available on Saturday and Sunday*

Saturday Social and Dinner featuring Famous Lowcountry Boil* with live entertainment

*Minimal Fee

Missionary Association for the education of freedmen.

Today, the museum houses the Peabody Legacy Project and the archives and promotes Reconstruction era interpretation and preservation in the community.

Fort Frederica National Monument on Saint Simons Island, Ga., was home to a thriving Black community during Reconstruction, including the family of journalist and religious leader Robert S. Abbott.

Recent archeological work by park staff has identified the location of Freedman cemetery, and the park includes a monument erected by Abbott in memory of his family who lived and died at the site during Reconstruction.

• The Coalition to Save Historic Thoroughfare was established in 2021 to preserve and interpret the location the community of formerly enslaved people and Native

Americans who settled in Historic Thoroughfare, Va., during Reconstruction.

“The upcoming Juneteenth holiday is a time to celebrate freedom and the legacy of Reconstruction,” Superintendent Scott Teodorski said in a news release. “Adding eight new sites to the Reconstruction Era National Historic Network during this time is an exciting way for the National Park Service to recognize that the story of Reconstruction remains relevant for us in the 21st century.”

With these recent inclusions, the Reconstruction Era National Historic Network now includes 97 sites around the country.

For more information about the Reconstruction Era National Historic Network, visit https://www. nps.gov/subjects/reconstruction/ network.htm

For more information about Reconstruction Era National Historical Park, visit www.nps.gov/reer or follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ReconstructionNPS

Confederate Memorial Day

In Beaufort’s National Cemetery on May 10, 2023, South Carolina’s Confederate Memorial Day, the Beaufort Stephen Elliott Chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy marked the graves with flags of those soldiers interred in the Confederate Section. This was the 114th consecutive year the Chapter had held a Memorial Service to honor these men, the exceptions being recent COVID years limited by the Veterans Administration to flag placement only on that day. Beaufort’s Gen. Richard H. Anderson Camp #47, Sons of Confederate Veterans, joined the ladies in holding an evening memorial service with period music, a guest speaker, laying of a wreath and the playing of Taps followed by light refreshments and food for the 50plus attendees. Originally 116 Confederate graves were marked, however, a number of years ago a review by the VA and National Cemetery Staff found a number of mismarked graves were found to hold Union Soldiers. New markers were ordered and placed by the VA, remaining in the same burial spot, and each year the guest speaker honors those brave soldiers as well. This years service was highlighted by period music provided by Elyse (left) and Kailyn Stromer of Ridgeland. Their soft and haunting fiddle and viola tunes included “Ashokan Farewell,” a beautiful song made popular by the Ken Burns’ The Civil War. Photo courtesy of Jody Henson.

On March 25, the third annual Beach Walk to benefit CAPA of Beaufort County was held at Coligny Beach on Hilton Head Island. Low Country Kappa Delta Alumnae Chapter was joined by the Hilton Head Sigma Chi Alumni Chapter in hosting the event. On April 11, a check was presented to CAPA representative Megan Buss in the amount of $3,392. Additional proceeds from the walk totaling $848 also benefited Kappa Delta Foundation for Children. CAPA (Child Abuse Prevention Program) is a local non-profit organization that offers a variety of programs to the community to help raise awareness about child abuse and its effects on the community. CAPA offers community and school-based outreach programs, safe sleep education, home visitation, and foster care. This local fundraiser is part of National Kappa Delta’s Shamrock Project initiative in support of Prevent Child Abuse America. To date, Kappa Delta’s nationwide have donated more than $26 million to prevent child abuse in our country. Submitted photos.

United Way honors USCB’s Tompkins with Peter Post Service Star

From staff reports United Way of the Lowcountry (UWLC) announced June 1 that Renarta Tompkins has been selected as the recipient of the prestigious Peter Post Service Star Award.

The award, which was created to recognize community members who have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to service and improving the lives of others, was announced during United Way’s Annual Meeting.

Tompkins, a distinguished professor at the University of South Carolina Beaufort, has devoted her life to promoting childhood literacy and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed. Through her work with United Way of the Lowcountry’s Early Grade Reading Program,

more than 7,500 students have been directly impacted, with an average of 97% of these students

increasing their reading scores.

In addition, every participating Pre-K and Kindergarten student re-

ceives a collection of books free of charge, which they can take home to create their own personal library. To date, more than 90,000 books have been given to students participating in these programs.

“Dr. Tompkins’ passion and dedication to education and community service is an inspiration to us all,” United Way President and CEO Dale Douthat said in a news release. “Her tireless efforts have made a profound impact on the lives of countless children in our community, and we are proud to honor her with this welldeserved award.”

In addition to her work with the Early Grade Reading Program, Tompkins has served on the board of United Way of the Lowcountry and created the Lowcountry

TOUCH-A-TRUCK

Read Across America event. She has also been a driving force behind the formation of Polaris Tech Charter School in Ridgeland and developed the after-school tutoring program at the Boys and Girls Club of the Lowcountry.

The Peter Post Service Star Award is a tribute to the outstanding contributions of longtime United Way volunteer Peter Post, who relocated to the northeast to be closer to family. As part of the award, a star will be named after Tompkins in the Virgo constellation for the month she was born. Virgos are known for their kindness, practicality, and dedication to hard work, making it a fitting tribute to a woman who has dedicated her life to improving the lives of others.

Passiment elected to Board of Directors of SC Association of Counties

Saturday at Southside

VITA program helps Lowcountry residents get more than $2.65 million in refunds

From staff reports

Thanks to the efforts of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA), 1,873 Lowcountry residents achieved more than $2.65 million in refunds this year, empowering them on the path to self-sufficiency.

The VITA Program is an impactful collaboration between the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Beaufort County Human Services Alliance, and United Way of the Lowcountry (UWLC), serving as a vital support system for individuals and families facing financial constraints, persons with disabilities, the elderly, and limited English speakers. By

Ceremony

from page A1

see our male and female recruits benefit from having access to the quality of all our leaders – at Parris Island and San Diego – through an unchanging, tough, and realistic recruit training curriculum.”

Male recruits began training with Fourth Battalion in 2020 and all recruits have been training in gender-integrated companies since 2022. The successful recruit training standardization has made an all-female training battalion unnecessary, according to the U.S. Marine Corps.

The deactivation ceremony drew active and retired female Marines from all over the United States who hoped to honor the legacy of the Fourth Battalion and the impact

providing free assistance to accurately complete tax returns, VITA makes sure that those in need receive their full refunds.

From February through April, a team of 64 volunteers invested more than 4,700 hours, resulting in eligible tax filers saving almost $468,000 in tax preparation fees. These savings have a direct impact on the financial well-being of the families served.

“When you’re walking a financial tightrope, getting a few hundred dollars back can make a big difference in preventing a financial crisis,” President and CEO of United Way of the Lowcountry (UWLC)

that it had on the history of the Marine Corps.

“We are now a chapter in a history book,” said Master Gunnery Sgt. Denise Shepherd through tears following Thursday’s ceremony.

Master Sgt. Katherine Miller said that it’s the ending of an era.

“I’m proud of the integration, but the Fourth Battalion always made Marines,” Master Sgt. Miller said, “and that’s all we ever did. It’s bittersweet to see it close, but now it’s time to move on.”

Samantha Swords, a medically retired Marine who served from 2004-2016 and currently lives in Quantico, Va., said that she has a lot of pride being a female Marine and is grateful for the training that she received with the Fourth Recruit Training Battalion while at MCRD Parris Island.

“I was molded and shaped on this island,” Swords said about her time training in the Fourth Battal-

Dale Douthat said in a news release. “We’re so thankful for our VITA volunteers who give their time and talent year-after-year to help Lowcountry families move towards self-sufficiency and a better quality of life.”

The VITA Program offers various opportunities for both non-tax certified and tax-certified volunteers. 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. Free IRS tax law training and testing is available to ensure

ion. “They made me a woman.” A portion of the personnel structure who previously served with the Fourth Recruit Training Battalion will be moving from Parris Island to San Diego to create a more similar organization at both depots while the Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego works to increase their integrated training companies to match MCRD Parris Island.

MCRD San Diego is on schedule to train approximately half of female Marines by the 2024 fiscal year.

Delayna Earley lives in Beaufort with her husband, two children and Jack Russell. She spent six years as a videographer and photographer for The Island Packet and The Beaufort Gazette before leaving the Lowcountry in 2018. After freelancing in Myrtle Beach and Virginia, she joined The Island News when she moved back to Beaufort in 2022. She can be reached at delayna.theislandnews@gmail.com

volunteers are equipped with the necessary skills. Bilingual Spanish speakers are especially encouraged to participate in all positions.

Volunteers have the flexibility to choose the dates, times and locations that are most convenient for them. This year, VITA volunteers assisted residents at 11 locations throughout the Lowcountry, including Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Colleton and Jasper counties.

To learn more about how you can make a difference by volunteering for the VITA Program during the upcoming 2024 tax season, email shalphen@uwlowcountry.org or call 843-379-3064.

Joseph Passiment

From staff reports Beaufort County Council Chairman Joseph Passiment was recently elected by his peers to serve on the South Carolina Association of Counties’ Board of Directors. His term lasts for one year. The S.C. Association of Counties (SCAC) is a statewide organization that provides resources, training, education and guidance for administrators, staff and elected officials in all of South Carolina’s 46 counties. The Board of Directors represents the state’s urban and rural counties and helps lead the association to ensure programs and services meet the diverse needs of all counties.

“Joining the Board of Directors is quite an honor,” Chairman Passiment said in a news release. “As the representative from Beaufort County, being able to take a more integral role in supporting all 46 counties through networking, training, education, and collaboration of resources that are meant to support each individual county, will assist me in serving not only the board effectively, but the citizens of Beaufort County.”

“I look forward to working with Chairman Passiment on the South Carolina Association of Counties Board of Directors,” SCAC President Debbie Summers said.

From left, Sgt. Maj. John H. Allen and Lt. Col. Aixa Dones fold the U.S. Marine Corps flag during the deactivation ceremony for the Fourth Recruit Training Battalion on Thursday, June 15, 2023, at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. Delayna Earley/The Island News

Renarta Tompkins is presented with United Way of the Lowcountry’s prestigious Peter Post Service Star Award by United Way President and CEO Dale Douthat. Submitted photo.

Above left: Taylor Durrance, a rising freshman at Beaufort High School, a Mixed Martial Art athlete, uses her feet at the dunking booth Saturday during the annual Touch-A-Truck event at Southside Park. Durrance was also a volunteer with City of Beaufort Public Works during the event. ••• Above right: Two-yearold Lucas Casellie makes it to the next hole ahead of his brother, Miller, 11, and mother Priscilla during the annual Touch-A-Truck event

Park. The Miller family, from Atlanta, Ga., were visiting for Father’s Day when both her husband and father-in-law decided to go play golf. So she brought the kids to the Touch-A-Truck event and got in a little golf of their own. Photos by Bob Sofaly/The Island News

Known gang member sent to federal prison on drug charges

From staff reports

A 30-year-old Hardeeville man with a lengthy criminal record has been sent to federal prison for drug charges.

The art of the web

Jamal Akeem Roberts was sentenced in U.S. District Court to 10 years imprisonment, followed by six years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute various controlled substances.

Roberts

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Carra Henderson prosecuted the case. She is an employee of the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office Career Criminal Unit and is embedded with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to prosecute offenders in federal court.

On Oct. 8, 2020, Roberts, who was wanted by the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office for drug-related charges, was identified as a passenger in a black Buick Enclave. The vehicle’s driver fled when authorities tried to conduct a traffic stop. Roberts was apprehended after a short foot chase. A small amount of marijuana was found in his pocket.

Investigators monitoring Roberts’ calls from the detention center learned during a conversation with a relative that while running from officers, he threw a black bag over a privacy fence. The bag was retrieved from the spot Roberts described, and it contained a .40-caliber pistol, crack cocaine and dozens of illicit pills.

Roberts’ criminal history includes convictions for trafficking methamphetamine, distributing cocaine, domestic violence, and driving under the influence. He is a member of the Outlaws street gang.

Henderson is a member of the Solicitor’s Office Career Criminal Unit, which prosecutes the circuit’s most violent and habitual offenders. That team has earned convictions against 451 of the 490 defendants it has prosecuted since its formation in 2009.

This busy little spider toiled all night Thursday, June 8, to spin a geometric marvel only to be weighed down by the night’s humidity early Friday morning. The water droplets on the web gleam and sparkle in the light being cast from a lone porch light in the back yard at the home of photographer Bob Sofaly. The energetic arachnid managed to keep the web up through Monday, June 12. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

County hosting survey for Ribaut Road Corridor Design Workshop

From staff reports Beaufort County, in collaboration with the City of Beaufort, the Town of Port Royal, and Stantec Consulting Services, Inc., is excited to announce the launch of the Visual Preference Survey (VPS) for the Ribaut Road Corridor design workshop.

The VPS will be held beginning Tuesday, June 27 through Thursday, June 29, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Technical College of the Lowcountry, 916 Ribaut Road, Building 12.

NEWS BRIEFS

Whitehall parking lot closed to public parking

The privately-owned Whitehall Development on Lady’s Island will be posting signage, and immediately enforcing a No Public Parking rule due to damage caused by illegal parking and boat trailer use of their private parking lot.

Parking is limited in the area, and with boating season upon us, please plan ahead when using the Whitehall Boat Landing on Hwy 21, Lady’s Island.

The County-owned Whitehall Park remains open from dawn to dusk for those looking to picnic, walk or watch wildlife. Parking remains available for normal use of the passive park for non-trailered vehicles.

Malkin featured speaker at June Indivisible Beaufort meeting

Josh Malkin, Legal Fellow and Legislative Advocate at the ACLU, will be the featured speaker when Indivisible Beaufort holds its June meeting at 11 a.m., Saturday, June 24 at the Downtown Beaufort Library at 311 Scott Street. The meeting is free and open to the public.

LWV hosting Medicaid help sessions

League of Women Voters Beaufort volunteers are hosting a drop-in Medicaid help session from 2 to 4 p.m., on Wednesday, June 28 at St. Helena Branch Library at 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St. Helena Island.

This survey aims to gather valuable community feedback and involve residents in shaping the aesthetic appearance of the proposed solution for the Ribaut Road Corridor. While the technical aspects of designing the corridor require expertise and input from professionals, we recognize that the visual appeal and ambiance of the corridor are crucial factors contributing to the project’s success. The VPS provides an opportunity for the citi-

Assistance is available with the Medicaid renewal and enrollment process. Help is free with no appointment necessary. Information is available on the end of automatic renewals (Medicaid unwinding) and on Medicaid expansion efforts in the state. St. Helena Branch Library.

Chill with a cop

The City of Beaufort Police Department is hosting a Chill With A Cop event from 5 to 7 p.m., Friday, June 30 in Pigeon Point Park.

Come hang out with your favorite officers. There will be outdoor games, food, prizes and a raffle.

Sponsored by City of Beaufort/Town of Port Royal Fire Department, Beaufort County Emergency Medical Services, Exchange Club of Beaufort, Kona Ice of Beaufort/Charleston Islands, Walmart Beaufort and Decibel Church.

Applications open for 2023 Shrimp Festival craft vendors

Those interested in being a craft vendor at the 2023 Beaufort Shrimp Festival, to be held Oct. 6 and 7 at the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, should fill out the application at https://bit.ly/3qTjPiK

Certified barbeque judging class in Greenville

The South Carolina Barbeque Association (SCBA) will hold a one-day seminar in Greenville to train new barbeque judges.

zens to share their opinions, as they possess an intimate knowledge of the area and understand what is best for their community.

The VPS employs a variety of images showcasing different streetscape treatments, roadway designs, and bicycle/pedestrian infrastructure. By presenting visual examples of land use types aligned with Beaufort County’s Comprehensive Plan and suitable for the Ribaut Road Corridor, the county aims to elicit valuable

input from the community.

The insights gained from this survey will help it better understand community preferences and inform our design efforts accordingly.

The information collected through the VPS will serve as valuable context leading into the upcoming design workshop. Staff and consultants will utilize the survey results to facilitate discussions and identify specific treatments that should be incorporated into the design plans. By involv-

The seminar is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, July 15, at Project Host, located at 525 Academy Street.

Registration for the seminar is open to SCBA members and costs $50 per person, which includes a catered barbeque lunch. Non-members must join SCBA prior to or while registering for the seminar to be eligible to attend. SCBA annual membership dues are $45 for an individual and $60 for a family.

The seminar is the first step in becoming a SCBA-certified barbeque judge. After completing the class, potential judges will continue their training with hands-on experience as novice judges at four SCBA-sanctioned barbeque competitions. Competitions are held around the state at festivals and fairs, as well as other community events or stand-alone BBQ contests.

Those interested in becoming SCBA-certified judges and attending the July 15 seminar should visit www.scbarbeque. com to register for the seminar and/or join the SCBA.

GOP Presidential Primary date set

The South Carolina Republican Party (SCGOP) State Executive Committee has voted unanimously to set February 24, 2024 as the Republican Presidential Primary date.

“We are excited to announce February 24, 2024 as the South Carolina Republican Party’s Presidential Preference Primary date. This will give our voters the chance to do what they do best – interact one-on-one with

ing the community from the outset, we can ensure that the Ribaut Road Corridor project truly reflects the desires and needs of the residents it serves.

All residents, business owners, and stakeholders in the Beaufort County community are encouraged to participate in the Visual Preference Survey.

The link to the survey can be found at https://bit. ly/3qUlfcM or by visiting www.reimagineribautroad. com

our candidates,” SCGOP Chairman Drew McKissick said in a news release. “This will provide a great economic boom to our state and I look forward to welcoming all of the candidates to the Palmetto State and participating in the historic First In The South Primary.”

The filing deadline for candidates will be on October 31, 2023 and the filing fee amount will be $50,000 per candidate.

President Trump to keynote SCGOP Silver Elephant Gala

Former President Donald Trump will be the keynote speaker Saturday, Aug. 5, when the South Carolina Republican Party holds its 56th annual Silver Elephant Gala, the longest standing Republican event in state history.

The Silver Elephant Gala is a tradition that began in 1967 with its inaugural speaker, future President Ronald Reagan. Since then it has featured former and future Presidents, Senators and Governors and rising stars within the party. This year’s event is anticipated to be the largest in SCGOP history.

This year’s Gala will be the first in a series of events the SCGOP will hold with presidential candidates all across South Carolina as it looks to raise funds for the 2024 election cycle.

– From staff reports

Have a brief to submit? Send it to theislandnews@gmail.com

City Council approves budget for 2024

From staff reports City Council approved at second reading, at the June 13 meeting, the City’s Fiscal Year 2024 Consolidated Budget of $57.6 million. The budget year begins on July 1, 2023 and ends on June 30, 2024.

For the first time, the annual consolidated budget includes a Capital Projects Fund, which accounts for $27.2 million and is comprised primarily of grants, committed fund balance, stormwater bonds, and TIF funds.

The budget includes an overall millage rate of 73.9, a reduction of 4.3 mills compared to FY2023, as the value of a mill is projected to increase from $108,764 to $128,731 due to Beaufort County’s real property reassessment expected to be completed by the fall of this year.

Among the highlights of the budget:

The addition of five new FTEs (full-time equivalent employees), including a GIS (Geographical Information Systems) manager and three school resource officers (two are state-funded). The Community Development Department plans to hire a staff architect, which is expected to reduce plan review outsourcing costs. The budget also includes a part-time records manager in the Police Department.

A cost-of-living pay increase for employees of 5% and a 2% merit pool to be used for those exceeding performance standards as reflected on their annual evaluation.

New software that will make it easier to submit building development plans; a new GIS system that will make it easy to get information on new projects and a host of other information relevant to the City of Beaufort; a mobile app to make it easier to submit issues to Public Works and Code Enforcement; and a print newsletter mailed twice a year to all residences and businesses in Beaufort.

Capital Projects

Previously, capital projects were tracked separately through individual project budgets. The City has budgeted $27.2 million for capital projects for FY2024

Among the highlights:

• Stormwater: Work will begin

When did you last check your beneficiary designations?

Provided by Wells Fargo

One of the easiest, yet often overlooked, components of an estate planning strategy is designating beneficiaries. Those whose estate plan includes a will or trust may wonder why this step is important. Transfer of some assets — such as life insurance policies, annuities, IRAs, retirement plans, and other employee benefit plans — can be based on beneficiary designations in place at your death. As your objectives for transfer may change over time, it is important to review those designations in context of your overall plan for asset transfer.

Confirm your designations align with your estate plan

Inventory your assets and determine which can have designated beneficiaries. Review the designations in place to make sure your preferred beneficiaries are listed for each asset. Consider choosing a successor in case your designated beneficiary does not survive you.

If changes are needed, be sure to complete each form as indicated. Requirements may vary from one financial institution to another. For example, the custodian of a retirement plan may require a spouse’s signature but a life insurance carrier may not. Similarly, some institutions may require a notarized original while others may allow you to complete the designation online.

As you acquire new assets, make sure to consider establishing beneficiary

Lowdown

from page A1

designations in alignment with your estate plan.

Identify any unintended implications to your overall estate plans

While creating designations may be a clear-cut process, identifying potential tax implications for your beneficiaries may not be so easy. Your tax and legal advisors can help you review your beneficiary designations to identify any unintended impacts to your beneficiaries.

Remember that your beneficiary designation forms are one piece in the larger estate-plan puzzle you have put together. It is important to consider how those designations — which operate outside your will or trust — may impact your overall strategy. For example, if your objective is to evenly divide all of your assets among your decedents, a designation could change that balance.

Your tax advisor also can help you weigh options for transferring taxable assets. If charitably inclined, you may consider naming a tax-exempt organization as a beneficiary of a taxable asset, such as a qualified retirement plan or nonqualified stock options.

Revisit your designations

As with all documents in your estate plan, it’s a good idea to review your beneficiary designations regularly. Not updating your forms to reflect life events such as a birth, death, marriage,

arguing “vibrant, successful businesses” are integral to historic preservation.

The audience of about 50 interested citizens who crammed into the Council’s smaller meeting room had been invigorated by the recent online comments made by downtown property owner Graham Trask, who speculated the city leaders’ efforts to decrease the impact of HBF on the review board was actually a political issue, a response to the non-profit entity’s opposition to the city’s approval of the large-scale three-story with a rooftop bar hotel and parking garage.

Mayor Stephen Murray disagreed with Trask’s comments and contended he was only looking for “fairness” in the review board’s make-up. His three fellow council

or divorce may mean that your wishes would not be reflected when your assets ultimately transfer.

Changes in the law may also create a need to revisit your beneficiary designations. Your tax advisor can help you understand how the latest changes may impact your objectives for transfer.

Key takeaways

Make sure you take the time to thoughtfully fill out beneficiary designations for eligible assets. Also, consider regularly discussing your plans with your tax and legal advisors and wealth planning specialists. Your advisors can help you avoid expensive mistakes and suggest opportunities to better reflect your ultimate wishes for your estate.

This article was written by/for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Whitney McDaniel, CFP®, AAMS®, Financial Advisor in Beaufort, SC at 843-524-1114.

Investment

members present were somewhat divided on the issue and agreed they would weigh in on a decision by the time the proposed code changes come to Council for a vote sometime in the fall.

In the meantime, if the argument sounds familiar – whether HBF should have a seat on the review board – it’s been going on for more than 20 years.

At one point, the Mayor asked for a show of hands from those who are unhappy with the development occurring in the city. Almost every hand shot up.

Hard to argue with that.

We are not alone

BEAUFORT – In case you thought for one minute Beaufort County public school district is the only district in South Carolina – or in the country – dealing with book bans, think again.

A recent Post And Courier story from Horry County pointed out that school district administration

on major stormwater drainage projects on Calhoun Street; Charles, Craven, Carteret and Port Republic streets; King Street, and Bayard Street, paid for by various grants and ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds.

• Parks: Major improvements to Southside and Washington Street parks, paid through grants and revenue bonds.

• Streetscapes: A streetscape/ stormwater project will be completed on Allison Road, which includes the undergrounding of utilities. This is being paid for through grants, ARPA funding, and other funds previously set aside for the project.

• Parallel Road: The process of

property and easement acquisition will begin in FY2024 to support the construction of a parallel road to help divert traffic from Boundary Street.

Details of the $57.6 million budget were presented at several City Council work sessions in April and May, where separate presentations were made on revenues, expenses, and capital projects. Public comment was invited at all these sessions.

The budget can be found online via the City’s OpenGov portal at https://bit.ly/3NClMJh

The City has also put together FAQs on the budget process and impact fees. They can be found at https://bit.ly/3NGyOph and https://bit.ly/448i67A, respectively.

These kids are all business

is using a different approach to requests for books to be restricted. Last fall they created a “restricted area” within each public school library where students have to have parental permission to check out those books.

The report went on to point out Horry County educators had only removed one book from student access in the past 20 years. Since 2022, they’ve removed 12 books and put seven more in the restricted area.

Beaufort County’s book review committees, as of last month’s meeting, have reviewed 61 of the 97 books challenged with only three of those 61 removed from shelves. The committees, made up of citizen volunteers and educators, will work through the summer to discuss the remaining 44.

The American Library Association reports the number of book titles challenged in for 2022 totaled 1,269, double the number from the year before.

Whitehall Park open to public … but not boaters LADY’S ISLAND – Leave it to some irresponsible boater to ruin it for the rest of us.

It was probably just a matter of time before the owners of the private part of Whitehall Development at the foot of the Woods Bridge on Lady’s Island got tired of boat trailers haphazardly parked about their recently landscaped property.

The county announced this past week that property is now off limits and will be marked as such following incidents of “damage caused by illegally parked trailers.”

For the past decade it’s been obvious the 16 -spaces at the public landing on Factory Creek, across Sea Island Parkway, was inadequate for the number of boaters who wanted to use the popular spot. For a long time boaters have parked their trailers along the roadside, down

Meridian Road and all over the parking lot of First Federal Bank, conveniently closed on the weekend, prime time for the boaters.

Face it boaters, everyone can’t use what’s called the Whitehall Landing. Before you head out, check the county’s website, under Public Works, for a list of the 16 public boat landings in northern Beaufort County. Yes, they’re not as close to the downtown Beaufort River sandbar but there’s a better chance you’ll find parking there, and if you’re really lucky, there might be some shade.

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

Maury Moody, left, waits as Luca Cuccaro (dressed as a pirate) of Luca’s Tiny Treasures, counts out change while his mom Lynn looks on from the background during the Entrepreneur Pop-Up on Saturday at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

Takin’ it to the street

Kenney featured artist for BAA through August

From staff reports

The Beaufort Art Association has announced that John Kenney is its featured artist from Sunday, July 2 through Saturday, Aug. 26.

The simple expression of day-to-day life in the Sea Islands is captured in vivid color by Kenney. His wide range of subject, expression and bold use of color are characteristics of his work. Paul Edwards, a friend to Andy Warhol, was his mentor, and Kenney’s vision was strongly influenced by pop culture and the industrial cityscape of his native Pittsburgh, Pa. Living in the Lowcountry has been transforming for Kenney as he works to capture the magic of this special place of the South. This show, entitled “Simply Sea Islands,” captures our life here – the water, the landscape, the people and the places of our Lowcountry home.

Join Kenney for an opening night reception from 5 to 8 p.m., Friday, July 7 at BAA Gallery. And continuing special opportunities allow for personals tour

and conversations on Kenney’s work on the following dates: Saturday, July 15 –noon to 2 p.m.; Saturday, July 22 – noon to 2 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 4 – 5 to 7 p.m.; and

History Museum brings Broadway to Beaufort June 24

From staff reports

As historian Lawrence Rowland says, “All American history actually begins in Beaufort,” so it is fitting that singer, director, and music coach Lenora Eve, a Pinckney descendant, and Beaufort History Museum President Kathryn Mixon, a great granddaughter of Niels Christensen, should collaborate to bring Broadway performers to Beaufort to sing our American music.

The program runs the gamut of uniquely

ARTS BRIEFS

Window Of Hope concert coming to Center For The Arts

Saturday, Aug. 12 – noon to 2 p.m., at the gallery

at

The Wedding Co. is hosting The Window Of Hope Concert, a live inspiration and jazz music event, from 5 to 7 p.m., Saturday, July 8 at the USC Beaufort Center For The Arts at 805 Carteret Street. The concert features performances by Bessie Bates, Terry Herron, Bountiful Word Choir, Mammies Band, Cool John Ferguson and Bam Bam. Tickets are $25 each or

American music, from spirituals to opera to boogie woogie, and includes selections from “Hamilton,” “Porgy and Bess,” “Ragtime,” and “1776,” and will be set against a backdrop of slides of Beaufort during the different eras depicted in the music.

There will be two performances on Saturday, June 24 – one at 2 p.m. and one at 7 p.m., at USCB Center for the Arts. Find out more and purchase tickets at www.beauforthistorymuseum.com – $35 for BHM members and $40 for non-members.

$15 each for parties of six or more, and they can be purchased by calling 843359-3407 or 843-476-2165. groups or organizations with six or more people should contact The Wedding Co., with organization information and the number of guests via email at the weddingco.beaufort@ gmail.com

Wet Willie’s hosting Paint & Sip party

Wet Willie’s Beaufort Location will host its first Paint & Sip Party featuring

local artist Kandace Joy of SouthernPalaceArtStudio. com in Beaufort Town Center. The event will run from 6 to 9 p.m., Thursday, June 22.

The cost is $60 per person and includes all supplies and instructions to paint a 20-inch-by-10-inch beach scene, as well as light snacks. Space is limited. Sign up at 315-409-5636 or 843-441-8338.

Full menu and daquiri bar/craft beers are available for separate purchase. Must be 21 to purchase alcohol.

– From staff reports

of the Beaufort Art Association

913 Bay Street, downtown Beaufort, under the black awning.

John Kenney’s work “rowboat.” Submitted photo.

Above left: The Jarekus Singleton Band from Jackson, Miss., featuring, from left, bassist Ben Sterling, percussionist John Blackmon, Sam Brady on keyboards, and frontman Jarekus Singleton on lead guitar – entertained a crowd of several hundred during the final offering of Port Royal’s Outdoor Spring Concert Series on Monday evening in Port Royal. ••• Above right: Annie McDonald, 6, left shows her younger sister Alyssa, 3, how it’s done as they dance to the music of the Jarekus Singleton Band during Port Royal’s Spring Concert Series finale on Saturday in Port Royal. Photos by Bob Sofaly/The Island News

Hit it on the nose: DEVIATED SEPTUM

By Mayo Clinic Staff

Your nose is front and center on your face. It serves many functions, including humidifying and cleaning the air you breathe; delivering tone to your voice; and providing a sense of smell, which is important for taste, identification, and memory. Love or loathe it, your nose is also a key part of your visual identity.

One of the most common nose deformities is a deviated septum. About 70% to 80% of people have a septal deviation noticeable to an examiner. In many cases, the deviation is minor and causes no symptoms. A deviated septum that is moderate to severe, however, can lead to nasal obstruction and require treatment.

What is a deviated septum?

A deviated septum occurs when your nasal septum—the thin wall between your nasal passages—is displaced to one or both sides. In some people, the nasal septum is off-center and can make one or both nasal passages smaller. Depending on the severity of the deviation, it can reduce airflow, causing difficulty breathing through one or both sides of your nose.

What causes a deviated septum? Some people are born with a deviated septum. This could be developed before birth, or it may occur during delivery. Sometimes the cartilage of the septum can bend and deform with age. For others, their deviated septum is the result of an injury, such as bumping their nose while a toddler, during contact sports, an auto accident or rough play.

Could I have a deviated septum but not know it? Yes, it’s possible not to know that you have a deviated septum or other septal issues, especially if you are not

experiencing any symptoms. Talk with your primary care provider if you are concerned about any nasal symptoms or the appearance of your nose. What are the symptoms of a deviated septum?

Signs and symptoms of septal issues, such as a deviated septum, include:

• Blockage of one or both nostrils. This blockage can make it difficult to breathe through the nostril or nostrils. You may notice this more when you have a cold or allergies that can cause your nasal passages to swell and narrow.

• Nosebleeds. The surface of your nasal septum may become dry, increasing your risk of nosebleeds.

• Facial pain. There is some debate about the possible nasal causes of facial pain. A possible cause of one-sided facial pain could be a severely deviated septum where surfaces within the nose touch and cause pressure. Noisy breathing during sleep. A deviated septum or swelling of the intranasal tissues can be one of the many reasons for noisy breathing during sleep.

Awareness of the nasal cycle. It’s normal for the nose to alternate being obstructed on one side and then change to being obstructed on the other. This is called the nasal cycle. This cycle is normal but being aware of the nasal cycle isn’t typical and can indicate nasal obstruction.

• Preference for sleeping on a particular side. Some people may prefer to sleep on a particular side to optimize breathing through the nose at night if one nasal passage is narrowed.

• Crooked or uneven nose.

In more severe cases, a deviated septum can change the external look of the nose, causing an uneven or crooked appearance.

Can deviated septums heal on their own? No. Deviated septums will not heal over time. While this shouldn’t be a concern if you are not experiencing symptoms, it’s important to talk with your primary care provider if you are having issues. Don’t wait for symptoms to resolve on their own.

Do deviated septums cause sinus infections? The most common cause of upper respiratory tract infections are viruses, such

as those that cause the common cold, whereas bacteria typically cause sinus infections. If you have a deviated septum, you may be more susceptible to nasal blockage, which could lead to developing nasal polyps. These are painless, noncancerous growths on the lining of your nasal passages or sinuses that make you more vulnerable to sinus infections in the future.

Do deviated septums cause headaches? A deviated septum can cause a headache in addition to a blocked nose. This may occur when the septum contacts sensitive nasal tissue and causes pain along the sensory nerve leading to your brain.

Can medications help a deviated septum? Often, the first treatment options for a deviated septum focus on managing symptoms with medication. You may be prescribed decongestants or nasal steroid sprays. These medications can reduce nasal tissue swelling to help with drainage and keep the airways on both sides of your nose open. It’s important to follow the directions carefully, decongestants can cause dependency, side effects, or worsen symptoms after you stop using them. Nasal steroid sprays can cause blood-tinged nasal mucus, which can be managed by applying petroleum jelly in the nostril before spraying.

If you have seasonal allergies, your health care team may prescribe antihistamines that can prevent or lessen allergy symptoms and help with drainage.

Can a nose job fix a deviated septum? You may read about celebrities saying the reason they had a nose job, also called rhinoplasty surgery, was to correct a breathing problem. While this

Common medication interactions wise WORDS ©

Avoid problems with these tips: There are lots of things you can do to take prescription or over-thecounter medications safely. Always read drug labels carefully and learn about the warnings for all the drugs you take.

Keep medications in their original containers so you can

easily identify them. Ask your doctor what you need to avoid when you are prescribed a new medication. Ask about food, beverages, dietary supplements, and other drugs. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking an OTC drug if you are taking

any prescription medications. Use one pharmacy for all your drug needs. • Keep all of your health care professionals informed about everything that you take. Keep a record of all prescription drugs, OTC drugs, and dietary supplements (including herbs) that you take.

Try to keep this list with you at all times, but especially when you go on any medical appointment. Before taking a drug, ask your doctor or pharmacist these questions: Can I take it with other drugs? Should I avoid certain foods, beverages or other products?

may be partially true, rhinoplasty alone does not correct a deviated septum.

The most common surgery to correct a deviated septum is called a septoplasty. During this procedure, your nasal septum is straightened and repositioned in the center of your nose. This may require your surgeon to cut and remove parts of your septum, which are sometimes reinserted in the proper position. Septoplasty does not significantly change the shape or size of your nose or correct other nasal or sinus conditions you may have, such as allergies.

If you are interested in reshaping your nose, a rhinoplasty can be performed at the same time as a septoplasty. This surgical procedure modifies the bone and cartilage of your nose to change its size, shape, or both.

Do deviated septums worsen with age? Like the rest of your body, your nasal structures change over time. This may or may not make your deviated septum worse. Your symptoms could become more intense or bothersome, and you could see changes to the appearance of your nose as well.

Talk with your primary care provider or an ear, nose and throat specialist if you are concerned about your nasal passages, or the shape or size of your nose.

Reviewed by Gregory Jones, M.D., an ear, nose and throat specialist in Owatonna, Minnesota.

This article originally appeared on the Mayo Clinic Health System blog.

Source: https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic. org/discussion/hit-it-on-the-nose-deviatedseptum/

What are possible drug interaction signs I should know about? How will the drug work in my body? Is there more information available about the drug or my condition?

Source: https://www.heart.org/

Hypertension (high blood pressure) and dehydration

Hydration status and cardiovascular health intertwine closely. Dehydration can lead to blood pressure changes, while some medications may cause dehydration.

Dehydration can cause the heart to work harder to pump blood throughout the body.

Taking medications for high blood pressure may lead to dehydration.

Water constitutes more than half of the adult body, and body fluid highly affects cardiovascular function.

Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than a person takes in. Chronic dehydration complicates many medical conditions and is a frequent cause of hospital admissions.

High blood pressure (hypertension) happens when the force of blood against the blood vessel walls is consistently too high. Nearly 50 in 100 American adults have hypertension.

Dehydration and hypertension are two conditions that can have profound health implications. Aside from this, the two conditions may directly affect one another.

Dehydration can lead to high blood pressure (hypertension) by constricting blood vessels, while many medications that doctors prescribe to treat hypertension may cause dehydration. Because of this, those with hypertension must stay hydrated and maintain a healthy lifestyle to man-

age their high blood pressure. Additionally, those taking medications for hypertension should drink plenty of fluids and regularly replenish their water intake to counter any potential dehydration side effects.

Medication and dehydration:

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) are drugs that doctors frequently prescribe for people with hypertension. One of the side effects of these drugs is dehydration.

Hypertension typically develops over time and shows no warn-

ing signs or symptoms. However, those with very high blood pressure—180/120 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or higher—can experience the following symptoms:

severe headaches

chest pain

difficulty breathing

nausea and vomiting

anxiety

confusion

vision changes, such as

blurred vision

dizziness

Symptoms of hypertension and dehydration: The following are the most common symptoms

Chilled veggie and shrimp noodle salad

This is a healthy and delicious chilled dish, perfect for Lowcountry picnics or a family meal.

Yield: Serves 10 | 1 serving = 1-3/4 cup

Ingredients

Use fresh Farmer’s

Market vegetables and local shrimp

1 pound linguini noodles cooked (don’t rinse) and chilled

4 cups cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, tailless

1 cup scallions, sliced on angle

2 cups broccoli florets

2 cups mushrooms (chantrelle or shitake)

Directions

1 cup shredded carrots

2 tablespoons sesame oil

2 teaspoons chili oil

½ cup rice wine vinegar

2 tablespoons chopped fresh garlic

1 tablespoon chopped fresh ginger ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce or soy sauce substitute (recipe to right)

¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes), and zest of 1 lime (1 tablespoon)

Mix first 6 ingredients together in large bowl and set aside. Blend remaining ingredients together in blender until well incorporated— about 1 minute.

Pour dressing mixture over pasta mixture and toss until well coated, then serve.

of dehydration:

fatigue

thirst

dry skin and lips

• dark urine

decreased urine output

headaches

lightheadedness

muscle cramps

fainting (syncope)

orthostatic hypotension

palpitations

Treatments for hypertension and dehydration: Doctors may ask people to replenish their fluids by drinking water. This does not raise blood pressure in younger

people with healthy kidneys. They may evaluate a person’s heart rate and blood pressure when lying, sitting, and standing (which health professionals call “orthostatic vital signs”). This is to assess dehydration requiring rapid fluid replacement through intravenous (IV) or oral fluids.

Treatment for high blood pressure involves adopting a hearthealthy lifestyle with or without medications. Doctors may recommend a person makes the following habit changes to control or lower high blood pressure: eat heart-healthy foods maintain regular physical activity keep a healthy weight avoid or limit alcohol quit smoking manage stress get enough good quality sleep

Source: https://www.medicalnewstoday. com/articles/hypertension-and-dehydration

Additional sources:

About high blood pressure. (2021). https://www.cdc.gov/bloodpressure/about. htm Hypertension. (2023). https://www.who.int/news-room/factsheets/detail/hypertension Taylor, K., et al. (2022). Adult dehydration. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/ NBK555956/

The importance of water. (2019). The importance of water. https://theheartfoundation. org/2019/03/08/the-importance-of-water/

parent PULSE © Bike helmet safety for kids

Before your kids hop on their bikes and ride off into the sunset, there’s something parents need to check their helmets!

“You want to see if there’s any cracks, any dents in your helmet. Because believe it or not, helmets are only good for one accident, because if they’re deformed then they’re not going to function right,” explained Richard So, MD, pediatrician for Cleveland Clinic Children’s.

Dr. So said a helmet is a must for any child riding a

bike. Data shows wearing a bike helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by as much as 85%

So, what’s the right way to wear one?

A helmet should be level on the head and fit snuggly. Straps should be even and tight when buckled. And there should only be enough room for one finger between the buckle and your child’s chin. It should not rock back and forth, or sideways.

Also, be sure the helmet covers your child’s forehead in case they fall forward.

“They should fit one inch above your eyebrows. The most common wrong thing I see driving down the street is that the helmet rides on the back and you can see the forehead. That’s not protecting your child,” said Dr. So.

Dr. So reminds parents that they should wear helmets too. He adds it’s important for them to model safe behaviors so their child follows suit.

Source: Cleveland Clinic News Service, May 10, 2023

Low-Sodium Soy Sauce Substitute (makes 1 cup)

2

4 teaspoons

“Better Than Bullion Reduced Sodium” paste

1 teaspoon reduced-sodium soy sauce

4 teaspoons balsamic vinegar

Combine ingredients for Soy Sauce Substitute in small saucepan. Stir on medium heat. Allow to reduce and thicken slightly to about 1 cup. Store remainder in refrigerator.

Alternative treatment options to relieve cancer symptoms

By Mayo Clinic Staff

Alternative cancer treatments can’t cure your cancer, but they may provide some relief from signs and symptoms.

Many people with cancer are interested in trying anything that may help them, including complementary and alternative cancer treatments. But many alternative cancer treatments are unproved, and some may even be dangerous.

To help you sort out the good from the bad, here are 11 alternative cancer treatments that are generally safe. Plus, there is growing evidence that these treatments may provide some benefit.

Alternative cancer treatments may not play a direct role in curing your cancer, but they may help you cope with signs and symptoms caused by cancer and cancer treatments, such as anxiety, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, pain, difficulty sleeping, and stress.

Alternative medicine is a term that’s commonly used to describe methods that aren’t usually offered by health care providers.

As researchers study these treatments and the evidence for these alternative methods grows, doctors and other providers are including them in treatment plans alongside the standard treatments. It’s an approach that providers sometimes call integrative medicine.

Using these evidence-based integrative medicine approaches along with standard treatments may help relieve many symptoms associated with cancer and its treatment. But alternative or integrative treatments generally aren’t powerful enough to replace standard treatments entirely. Discuss your options with your provider to find the right balance.

Talk to your provider if you’re interested in trying:

• Acupuncture. During acupuncture treatment, a practitioner inserts tiny needles into your skin at precise points. Studies show acupuncture may be helpful in relieving nausea caused by chemotherapy. Acupuncture may also help relieve certain types of pain in people with cancer.

Acupuncture is safe if it’s performed by a licensed practitioner using sterile needles. Ask your provider for names of trusted practitioners. Acupuncture isn’t safe if you’re taking blood thinners or if you have low

If you’re experiencing: Then consider trying:

Anxiety

Fatigue

Nausea and vomiting

Pain

Sleep problems

Stress

blood counts, so check with your provider first.

Acupressure is a related technique in which mild pressure is applied to certain areas, such as the wrist, to help relieve nausea.

Aromatherapy. Aromatherapy uses fragrant oils to provide a calming sensation. Oils, infused with scents such as lavender, can be applied to your skin during a massage, or the oils can be added to bath water. Fragrant oils also can be heated to release their scents into the air. Aromatherapy may be helpful in relieving nausea, pain and stress.

Aromatherapy can be performed by a practitioner, or you can use aromatherapy on your own. Aromatherapy is safe, though oils applied to your skin can cause allergic reactions. People with cancer that is estrogen sensitive, such as some breast cancers, should avoid applying large amounts of lavender oil and tea tree oil to the skin.

• Cognitive behavioral therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common type of talk therapy. During a CBT session, a mental health counselor, such as a psychotherapist or a therapist, works with you to view challenging situations more clearly and respond in a more effective way.

For people with cancer, CBT may help with sleep problems. A CBT counselor or therapist might help you identify and replace thoughts and behaviors that cause or worsen sleep problems with habits that promote sound sleep.

Ask your health care provider for a referral to a specialist if you’re interested in trying CBT.

• Exercise. Exercise may help you manage signs and symptoms during and after cancer treatment. Gentle exercise may help relieve fatigue and stress and help you

Hypnosis, massage, meditation, music therapy, relaxation techniques

Exercise, massage, relaxation techniques, yoga

Acupuncture, aromatherapy, hypnosis, music therapy

Acupuncture, aromatherapy, hypnosis, massage, music therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy, exercise, relaxation techniques, yoga

Aromatherapy, exercise, hypnosis, massage, meditation, music therapy, tai chi, yoga

sleep better. Many studies now show that an exercise program may help people with cancer live longer and improve their overall quality of life.

If you haven’t already been exercising regularly, check with your provider before you begin an exercise program. Start slowly, adding more exercise as you go. Aim to work your way up to at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week.

• Hypnosis. Hypnosis is a deep state of concentration. During a hypnotherapy session, a therapist may hypnotize you by talking in a gentle voice and helping you relax. The therapist will then help you focus on goals, such as controlling your pain and reducing your stress.

Hypnosis may be helpful for people with cancer who are experiencing anxiety, pain and stress. It may also help prevent anticipatory nausea and vomiting that can occur if chemotherapy has made you sick in the past. When performed by a certified therapist, hypnosis is safe. But tell your therapist if you have a history of mental illness.

• Massage. During a massage, your practitioner kneads your skin, muscles and tendons in an effort to relieve muscle tension and stress and promote relaxation. Several massage methods exist. Massage can be light and gentle, or it can be deep with more pressure. Studies have found that massage can be helpful in relieving pain in people with cancer. It may also help relieve anxiety, fatigue and stress.

Massage can be safe if you work with a knowledgeable massage therapist. Many cancer centers have massage therapists on staff, or your provider can refer you to a massage therapist who regularly works with people who have cancer.

Don’t have a massage if your blood counts are very low. Ask the massage therapist to avoid massaging near surgical scars, radiation treatment areas or tumors. If you have cancer in your bones or other bone diseases, such as osteoporosis, ask the massage therapist to use light pressure, rather than deep massage.

• Music therapy. During music therapy sessions, you might listen to music, play instruments, sing songs or write lyrics. A trained music therapist may lead you through activities designed to meet your specific needs, or you may participate in music therapy in a group setting. Music therapy may help relieve pain, control nausea and vomiting, and deal with anxiety and stress.

Music therapy is safe and doesn’t require any musical talent to participate. Many medical centers have certified music therapists on staff.

• Relaxation techniqus. Relaxation techniques are ways of focusing your attention on calming your mind and relaxing your muscles.

Relaxation techniques

tai chi on your own following books or videos. Practicing tai chi may help relieve stress.

Tai chi is generally safe. The slow movements of tai chi don’t require great physical strength, and the exercises can be easily adapted to your own abilities. Still, talk to your provider before beginning tai chi. Don’t do any tai chi moves that cause pain.

• Yoga. Yoga combines stretching exercises with deep breathing. During a yoga session, you position your body in various poses that require bending, twisting and stretching. There are many types of yoga, each with its own variations.

Yoga may provide some stress relief for people with cancer. Yoga has also

• Meditation. Meditation is a state of deep concentration when you focus your mind on one image, sound or idea, such as a positive thought. When meditating, you might also do deep-breathing or relaxation exercises. Meditation may help people with cancer by relieving anxiety and stress and improving mood.

Meditation is generally safe. You can meditate on your own for a few minutes once or twice a day or you can take a class with an instructor. There are also many online courses and apps available for guided meditations.

might include activities such as visualization exercises or progressive muscle relaxation.

Relaxation techniques may be helpful in relieving anxiety and fatigue. They may also help people with cancer sleep better.

Relaxation techniques are safe. Typically, a therapist leads you through these exercises and eventually you may be able to do them on your own or with the help of guided relaxation recordings.

Tai chi. Tai chi is a form of exercise that incorporates gentle movements and deep breathing. Tai chi can be led by an instructor, or you can learn

been shown to improve sleep and reduce fatigue.

Before beginning a yoga class, ask your provider to recommend an instructor who regularly works with people with health concerns, such as cancer. Avoid yoga poses that cause pain. A good instructor can give you alternative poses that are safe for you. You may find some treatments work well together. For instance, deep breathing during a massage may provide further stress relief.

Source: https://www.mayoclinic. org/tests-procedures/cancer-treatment/in-depth/cancer-treatment/ art-20047246

Why RDs may be your best bet for health coaching

1. Registered dietitians are clinical experts. In addition to their graduate coursework, RDs spend at least one year in a clinical setting providing nutritional therapy to people with chronic illnesses. They are absolutely qualified to address body composition, cholesterol, and glucose results from a clinical perspective.

2. Registered dietitians are nutrition experts. We all know that nutrition plays a vital role in managing the most com-

mon chronic health conditions. Who better to take on these issues than someone with advanced nutrition training?

3. Registered dietitians are health coaching experts. The RDs who perform health education for WCS have additional certifications in fitness, coaching, and the latest motivational interviewing techniques. They know how to talk to people about where they are, where they want to go, and how to get there—without judgment.

Here is some advice as you investigate coaching options: Nurses aren’t normally trained in lifestyle coaching. If you’re interested in lasting behavior change, insist on credentialed health coaches. Also beware of squishy terms like “wellness coach” or “nutritionist” that lack meaning. Instead, ask the hard questions about coaches’ qualifications and experience. For additional information, please visit http://www.corporatewellnessinsights.com

ADVANCED CANCER CARE CLOSE TO HOME

Beaufort Memorial, together with MUSC Health, is your connection to state-of-the-art cancer care.

At our Keyserling Cancer Center in Beaufort and New River Cancer Center in Okatie, our oncology team combines compassion and support with leading edge radiation oncology, chemotherapy and immunology services, targeted and hormone therapies, as well as surgical consultations—all delivered under one roof and close to the ones you love.

In addition, our Cancer Centers offer:

• A team of dedicated oncology nurse navigators who guide you through the journey—diagnosis through survivorship

• Core and ancillary services, like lab, imaging, and breast health, all in the same building

• Consultations with MUSC subspecialists experienced in treating treating rare or complex cancers

• Genetic counseling and high risk assessments

• Access to promising clinical trials

• A team approach to developing survivorship care plans

A CLOSER LOOK

Where do things stand?

What last week’s lawsuit dismissal means for downtown hotel, parking garage projects

By Tony Kukulich The Post and Courier

BEAUFORT — A lawsuit seeking to block construction of a 70-room downtown hotel and parking garage has been dismissed by a South Carolina court.

The ruling last week was a setback for developer Graham Trask in his efforts to keep the projects championed by the Beaufort-based 303 Associates from moving forward. Trask has filed two separate, but closely related, lawsuits contesting construction plans, which received final approval from the city’s Historic District Review Board in June 2021.

“In my opinion, these huge buildings, that either had been approved or were in the process of being approved, and were immediately adjacent to my property, had not followed the city’s laws,” Trask told The Post and Courier.

no such exception. The case was argued May 11 before Judge R. Scott Sprouse. The hearing ran for nearly three hours.

In his ruling issued June 8, Sprouse denied the request for an injunction on grounds related to another case that Trask has pending in the South Carolina Court of Appeals, writing that “the issues in that case are identical.”

Expanding on his reasoning, Sprouse said that, with a case still pending before the Court of Appeals, Trask had not exhausted his available remedies. And, he added, one judge of the same court cannot overrule another judge.

“It’s a confirmation and positive decision that supports our position and the city position, that we have followed the process,” said Dick Stewart, founder and chairman of 303 Associates. “We’re encouraged that the court has agreed that we followed the approval process.”

Trask said he was disappointed that Sprouse did not rule on the merits of the case and instead focused on procedural issues.

“At some point, somebody’s going to rule on the merits of the case,” Trask said. “Either it’s going to be the Court of Appeals or the South Carolina Supreme Court.”

Contrary to Trask’s opinion, Stewart believes that there’s already been a ruling on the merits of Trask’s case. He referred to a decision made by Judge Bentley Price last year.

A tale of two lawsuits, Part 2 303 Associates started the approval process for the hotel and parking garage in 2016, and the city’s Historic District Review Board issued those final approvals June 9, 2021.

A tale of two lawsuits, Part 1

In April 2021, Trask filed the first of his two lawsuits in the Court of Common Pleas naming the City of Beaufort, the Beaufort Inn, LLC and 303 Associates, LLC as respondents.

It asserted that the city’s Historic District Review Board erred in the process of approving the hotel and parking garage projects. Further, it requested that the court compel the city to require that the developer apply for a special exception related to the size and scale of the projects.

The city asserted that the development code in effect at the time the approval process was initiated required

Trask filed an administrative appeal of the board’s decision the following month. This second lawsuit made essentially the same arguments that were presented in his April 2021 filing.

The Historic Beaufort Foundation joined the administrative appeal but is not a party in the April 2021 lawsuit.

“The Historic Beaufort Foundation has always contended that the hotel and parking garage as currently designed will negatively and adversely affect the character of Beaufort’s National and Historic Landmark District,” said Cynthia Jenkins, executive director of the foundation.

The July 2021 appeal asked the court to vacate the Historic District Review Board’s hotel and parking garage approvals and require 303 Associates to

start the review process anew.

Judge Bentley Price heard arguments on that case in the Court of Common Pleas 14th Judicial Circuit on Jan. 6.

Price denied the appeal in a 19-page order, stating that the time to contest the review board’s decision had expired.

“However, to the extent the matters they attack were decided at (a Historic Review Board) meeting prior to the June 9, 2021, meeting, the time for appealing those decisions has expired and those decisions cannot be challenged now,” Price wrote.

A motion to reconsider the decision was also denied.

This matter now rests with the state Court of Appeals. A hearing date has not been set.

“The appellate court will just determine whether the lower court ruled correctly,” Stewart said. “I’m highly confident that the merits have already been decided and the appellate court will say that.”

A city divided Plans for the hotel and parking garage have had a polarizing effect in the city that sits wrapped in the bend of the Beaufort River.

A series of spats between city officials and the Historic Beaufort Foundation have played out in public meetings and newspaper opinion pages.

Beaufort Mayor Stephen Murray specifically referred to Jenkins during a March 14 City Council meeting, saying that an opinion piece she penned about the two projects was misleading and incendiary. Continuing, he referenced the appeal of Price’s ruling saying the city has been forced to spend more than $100,000 defending “frivolous” appeals.

“When is enough enough?” he asked.

Size and scale Beaufort issued building permits for both the hotel and garage in December.

According to the permits, the nearly 62,000-square foot hotel will be located at 800 Port Republic Street and

will feature a restaurant, bar, interior courtyard and rooftop bar. The building permit indicates the hotel will be four stories tall.

The four-story parking garage will be located at 918 Craven Street.

The size and scale of these building, which will be located within Beaufort’s National Historic Landmark District, have been at the center of debate.

“The Historic Beaufort Foundation has never opposed the proposed uses,” Jenkins said. “We believe, based on the preservation guidelines, that the height, mass and scale of these buildings are not appropriate for the surrounding blocks.”

That concern surfaced this year in a preliminary report by the National Park Service on the current state of the historic landmark district. The report, without pointing to any specific building or project, said that new buildings

that are substantially taller or wider than their surrounding neighbors are incompatible and a detriment to the overall integrity of the historic landmark district.

“While one intrusion may be damaging, multiple instances of weak standards, variances, and other inappropriate alterations can lead to cumulative damage and an irreparable loss of integrity,” reads a portion of the draft report.

A final report has not been released.

With one case already pending before the Court of Appeals, Trask indicated that he will also appeal Sprouse’s decision.

Fencing surrounds the planned site for a 70-room hotel lot at the corner of Scott and Port Republic streets in Beaufort, South Carolina, Thursday, June 15, 2023. A lawsuit seeking an injunction to stop construction was denied earlier in June. Tony Kukulich/The Post And Courier

Cynthia Jenkins, executive director of the Historic Beaufort Foundation, photographed in Beaufort, South Carolina, February 14, 2023. The foundation joined a lawsuit seeking to stop the construction of a 70-room hotel and parking garage in Beaufort’s historic district. Tony Kukulich/The Post And Courier

Dick Stewart, founder and chairman of 303 Associates, is photographed in his office on Boundary Street in Beaufort, South Carolina, Nov. 03, 2022. The construction of a hotel and parking garage by 303 Associates has been challenged in court twice, but both cases have been denied, though at least one appeal is pending. Tony Kukulich/The Post And Courier

BOE approves November bond referendum

Ballot question will focus on modernization of facilities, growth, and safety

From staff reports

The Beaufort County Board of Education voted at its June 13 meeting to hold a county-wide bond referendum in November aimed at improving school safety, rebuilding or replacing inadequate facilities, population growth, and adding Career and Technical Education space to address academic needs. The Nov. 5 referendum will ask county resi dents to vote on one question. The question will seek voter approval for $439 million in school safety and security enhancements; a rebuild of Hilton Head Island High School; replacement of Lady’s Island Middle School, a new Pre-K-5 elementary school in Bluffton, a gymnasium for Riverview Charter School, career and technical education renovations and additions, a technology warehouse imaging center, HVAC replacements, furniture, parking lots/drives/sidewalks, a new early childhood center, and a kitchen at Right Choices. All of the projects are included in a comprehensive list of $980 million in facilities needs identified earlier this year by an independent committee of county residents. Members of the Com-

EDUCATION BRIEFS

munity Project Review Committee (CPRC 2.0) devoted more than 900 hours – visiting nine schools and receiving presentations from outside experts – before producing the prioritized district-wide projects list that was sent to Superintendent Frank Rodriguez.

CPRC 2.0 members received information about early childhood, technology, career and technical education, energy management, Riverview Charter School, and Bluffton growth. They also reviewed information about projects not included in the 2019 referendum and the facility condition assessment for multiple buildings in BCSD.

Rodriguez went to the Board of Education on April 21 and recommended a November referendum that would fund a portion of the CPRC’s overall projects list.

Beaufort County voters overwhelmingly approved a $344 million school bond referendum in 2019. As a newly appointed superintendent, Rodriguez established a Citizen-Led Oversight Committee (CLOC), an independent group of volunteers, that monitors district referendum building projects, schedules, budgets, and expenditures.

Quarterly reports from the

Pair from Beaufort named to Alabama Dean’s List

A total of 12,791 students enrolled during Fall Semester 2022 at The University of Alabama, including two from Beaufort, were named to the Dean’s List with an academic record of 3.5 (or above).

The UA dean’s and president’s lists recognize full-time undergraduate students. The lists do not apply to graduate students or undergraduate students who take less than a full course load.

The 2022 fall Dean’s List includes Wylee Krasnigor and Lexi Sligh of Beaufort.

The University of Alabama provides an inclusive, forward-thinking environment and nearly 200 degree programs on a beautiful, student-centered campus. A leader in cutting-edge research, UA advances discovery, creative inquiry and knowledge through more than 30 research centers.

CLOC are presented to the Beaufort County Board of Education. CLOC members include CPAs, urban planners, civil engineers, and project managers. Rodriguez contends growing school districts generally need a bond referendum every four to five years to accommodate population growth and preserve existing facilities. He noted that the proposed $439 million referendum would not only continue the work made possible by the voter approved 2019 referendum, but that it would not raise the millage for taxpayers.

Board members reviewed Rodriguez’s April 21 recommendations and heard a final presentation before voting to proceed with a referendum on Nov. 7.

Cost estimates for the referendum projects were developed by two private-sector cost estimating firms contracted by the school district.

Prior to the November vote, the district will hold information sessions and share educative information about the proposed referendum projects.

Official Ballot Question

Shall the Board of Education of the School District of Beaufort County, South Carolina (the “School District”) be empowered to issue, at one time or from time to time, general obligation bonds

of the School District, in a principal amount of not exceeding $439,035,000, the proceeds of which shall be used to finance the costs (including architectural, engineering, legal and related fees) of the following:

Re-building and equipping Hilton Head Island High School including renovation, construction of additional space and demolition of a portion of existing facility;

Constructing and equipping a new replacement school for Lady’s Island Middle School on its current location including demolition of the existing facility;

Constructing and equipping a new PreK-5 elementary school in Bluffton;

• Constructing and equipping a new early childhood center in Bluffton, including space for support services;

Constructing and equipping additional space at the Riverview Charter School including a new gymnasium;

Constructing and equipping Career and Technology Education Renovations and Additions – Beaufort High School –Renovations and Addition

– Bluffton High School –Addition

– May River High School –Renovations and Addition;

Constructing and equipping a Technology and Warehouse Imaging Center;

Constructing and equipping a kitchen to be used for the Right Choices Alternative Program and the District Educational Services Center;

Constructing, acquiring and installing HVAC equipment at multiple school facilities; Acquiring and installing furniture at multiple school facilities; Constructing improvements to parking lots/driveways/sidewalks at multiple school facilities; and

Constructing, acquiring, and installing additional safety and security enhancements at multiple school facilities?

If the voter wishes to vote in favor of the question, fill in the oval next to “In favor of the question/ yes;” if the voter wishes to vote against the question, fill in the oval next to the words, “Opposed to the question/no.”

� In favor of the question/yes

� Opposed to the question/no

LMS bog garden displays unique plants

4

from Beaufort on Wofford College Dean’s List

Timothy Schmitz, provost of Wofford College has announced Dean’s List students for the spring 2023 semester, and four Beaufort students – Hayden Canaday, Caroline Fleming, Bailey Herron, and Paige Zeigler – made the list. Wofford College, established in 1854, is a four-year, residential liberal arts college located in Spartanburg, SC. It offers 27 major fields of study to a student body of 1,800 undergraduates.

– From staff reports

Olivia Kneebone, a recent honors graduate of Lowcountry Montessori School, is shown installing permanent outdoor signs she designed for the school’s new Educational Bog Garden. She worked with her Ecology teacher, Samantha Campbell, in her Independent Student class to give back to her school community. Campbell financed the project with the help of a mini-grant from the Lowcountry Master Naturalists and sales from the school’s native plant nursery. Wildlife friendly native plants are propagated by elementary students in a unique school garden program. Plants in the Bog Garden are themselves rare, endangered, and unique to our region. Kneebone will be attending Eckerd College in the fall, where she plans to study environmental science.

Photo courtesy of Lowcountry Montessori School

Being transformed by the renewing of our mind

When we think about the challenges and possibilities of our future, it’s easy to ignore our responsibilities while we imagine someone else stepping into our situation and helping us achieve our goals. Hoping that another person will provide what we need or figure out the solutions to our problems is not a substitute for perseverance.

It’s true, there are times when the generosity of others makes a huge difference, but God has given us a sound mind and unlimited potential to be successful if we can only learn how to develop faith in His plans for us. Along with His resources, a critical spiritual principle is to pray and wait until we know we have heard His voice.

However, I have also learned there is an important balance where often the Lord is actually waiting on us to believe and take the initiative to press forward.

When we place our trust in Him and allow Him to change our attitudes into a positive force, that which seems unattainable moves into the area of possibility.

Romans 12:2 reveals that we have a responsibility to be transformed by the renewing of our mind in order that we may prove and demonstrate God’s

BILLY HOLLAND

perfect will. We must allow the Lord to change our minds from fear and doubt as learning to believe and trust our Heavenly Father is a foundational pillar of the meaning of life. If we focus on being the best we can be for His glory, we will live in joy, but if we doubt and expect the worse, we release the powers of negativity that can stifle our hope. In every situation, we can either respond with a positive confidence or a negative skepticism and these choices determine whether we live in spiritual peace or emotional misery. I recently read a true story that was told by Hugh Fullerton, a famous sports writer, many years ago. His account involved a man named Josh O’Reilly, who managed the San Antonio baseball team that was a part of the Texas League. O’Reilly had an impressive roster of all-star players, including seven whose batting aver -

age was better than .300

Everyone thought this super team would easily win the championship, but mysteriously they began the season losing 17 of their first 20 games. The players could not hit the ball, and as time went by, frustration boiled over into angry accusations against each other.

Just when it seemed the situation could not be worse, a weak team humiliated them as they managed only one hit the entire game. In the clubhouse after the embarrassment, the players were confused and depressed. O’Reilly knew he had the most talented team in the league but also realized the trouble was in their mind.

These men were not expecting to get a hit or anticipating a victory because they were thinking wrongly. They had slowly allowed doubt and uncertainty to fill their conscience with discouragement and defeat.

We are what we think and when our mental focus is controlled by negativity; it prevents confidence and in this situation; it was causing a disruption with their timing, strength, and coordination. And yet, they were the only ones who could change the situation.

A certain minister named Rev. Schlater was holding special services in the area,

and he was drawing large crowds as his messages were filled with inspiration and encouragement. O’Reilly asked each player to lend him their favorite bat, which he loaded into a wheelbarrow and told the players to stay in the clubhouse as he had something very important to show them.

Soon he returned overflowing with excitement as he told the players this minister had anointed, prayed, and blessed the bats and they now contained a

spiritual power that could not be stopped. The players were astounded and jumping with enthusiasm.

The next day they confidently overwhelmed the best team in the league with 37 hits and 20 runs scored. They continued their way through the league schedule and convincingly won the championship.

Regardless of what we believe about praying over a baseball bat or positive decrees, we can agree that something very powerful

Heroes of Faith The Saints

What is a saint?

“Saint” comes from the biblical word meaning “holy.” A saint is someone who is holy, someone who is closely united with Jesus in love. Everyone in heaven is a saint, and so we should all hope to be saints one day. But each of us is also called to be a saint right now in our daily lives, becoming holy as God is holy (1 Peter 1:15-16). If we give ourselves wholeheartedly to Jesus in love, he can slowly transform us into the saints we are meant to be, intimately united with Jesus in this life and in eternal life.

Why are some people named saints, like Francis of Assisi?

These are Christians who lived such heroic lives of holiness that the Catholic Church holds them up as examples of faith to inspire the rest of us. Thousands of people have been officially recognized as saints in this way over the centuries, such as Saint Francis. We believe that they are with Jesus, and we want to follow their example and eventually join them in heaven, rejoicing in God’s presence.

Do Catholics worship the saints?

happened within the minds and attitudes of the players. The sports equipment did not change, but with a new way of thinking, the creative power of faith blossomed. Mark 9:23 declares this spiritual reality is available to all who place their trust in God’s divine truth instead of pessimism and despair.

Holland is an ordained minister, author, and community chaplain. Read more about the Christian life at: billyhollandministries.com

No, Catholics do not worship the saints. Catholics only worship the blessed Trinity: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. We see the saints as our brothers and sisters in Christ, much like our brothers and sisters in faith here on earth. We honor the saints and seek to follow their example of holiness, just as Jesus and the apostles would have honored Moses and other heroes of Scripture.

Why not focus only on Jesus?

The saints do not distract us from Jesus, but rather the opposite. They are ordinary people whose lives were transformed in amazing ways as they gave their hearts entirely to Jesus. Much as a young athlete might be inspired by a sports hero, the saints are our spiritual heroes who inspire us to give our hearts entirely to Jesus. Just as a beautiful mountain does not detract our focus from God, but leads us to praise his grandeur and power, the beautiful workings of divine grace in the saints move us to more heartfelt praise of God.

Do the saints in heaven care about us here on earth?

Of course they do! They are not dead; they are actually more alive than we are, and closer to God. Christians have always believed that those in heaven are aware of what is going on here on earth, and that we can still talk to them as our brothers and sisters in Christ. For example, recall how Jesus spoke with Moses and Elijah at the Transfiguration (Luke 9:30), or his words about the rejoicing in heaven when a soul repents (Luke 15:7), or how those in heaven are depicted lifting up prayers to God on our behalf (Rev. 5:8, 8:4).

Why do Catholics talk to saints?

We feel very comfortable asking them to pray for us, just as we ask each other here on earth to intercede on our behalf. For example, if your father is sick, you might ask a friend from church to pray for him. You are not worshipping your friend, but asking for her to pray to God on your father’s behalf. To Catholics, it makes perfect sense that we would similarly ask those in heaven to pray for us, too, before God.

Common Questions

Message 2 of 8

The other side of the world

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Stephen Cerrillo patrols June 12, during Exercise Shinka 23 at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan. Shinka is the largest forceon-force training between the U.S. Marine Corps and the JGSDF that reaffirms the shared commitment to realistic training producing ready and adaptable forces capable of decentralized operations across a wide range of missions. Cerrillo, a native of Beaufort, is a company level intelligence chief with 3rd Battalion, 6th Marines and is forward deployed in the Indo-Pacific under 4th Marines, 3rd Marine Division as part of the Unit Deployment Program. Cpl. Noah Masog/USMC

Beaufort native among 5 Soldiers honored in Army retirement ceremony

By Elizabeth Glenn

U.S. Army Sustainment Command Public Affairs

ROCK ISLAND ARSE-

NAL, Ill. – A retirement ceremony honoring five Soldiers with a combined 115 years of military service, including a Beaufort, S.C., native, was held June 9 at Heritage Hall.

First Sergeant Gregory Werthmann, Training and Doctrine Command, displays the Certificate of Retirement presented to him by Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Jurasek, deputy commanding general (Support), First U.S. Army, during the quarterly Rock Island Arsenal Retirement Ceremony held June 9 in Heritage Hall, Rock Island Arsenal, Illinois. Jon Micheal Connor/ U.S. Army Sustainment Command Public Affairs

Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Jurasek, deputy commanding general (Support), First U.S. Army, hosted the ceremony which recognized the service of Beaufort’s 1st Sgt. Gregory Werthmann, battery first sergeant, Delta 1st Battalion-40th Field Artillery Regiment (20 years), along with the service of Lt. Col. Anthony Stoeger, chief of Operations, G3 (Operations), U.S. Army Sustain-

ment Command (27 years); Sgt. 1 Class Corinna Baltos, ASC public affairs non-commissioned officer in charge (20 years); Sgt. 1st Class Joel Ramirez, Military Equal Opportunity (MEO) program manager and senior adviser, First U.S. Army, (28 years); and Staff Sgt. Anthony Clifford, senior quartermaster and chemical equipment repairer, 101st Airborne Division (20 years).

During his remarks, Jurasek addressed the military’s recruiting struggle and how the inspirational careers of the retirees are not only a testament to the service and sacrifices they and their families have made, but also serve as shining examples of what an

Army career can provide to individuals.

“I can’t help but think that if every high school or college-aged kid could see the incredible things these five retirees have gotten to do during their time in the Army, they might be moved to embark on their own Army career,” said Jurasek.

To Werthmann, Jurasek said, “No characteristic is more linked to the rank of a first sergeant and the job of drill sergeant than the task of holding people accountable to rigorous, exacting standards that carry life-anddeath consequences. This historically has come with some yelling and more than a little colorful language, much of which is utterly un-

quotable here today. But the truth is that leaders like you have literally shaped and influenced the troops who will follow you. Many people can spend entire careers not making even a fraction of the impact on an organization as you have had on our Total Force.”

Jurasek also thanked the spouses and children of the retirees during his remarks.

“The Army has an axiom that our Soldiers write the checks, but our families pay the bills,” said Jurasek. “I don’t have to tell that to any of you here today. You intimately know each birthday, anniversary, childbirth or holiday your retiree missed. You, too, served all these years.”

VA 50% service-connected disability a life changer

If my past two articles did not encourage you to file for service-connected disability, I am certain that this week’s article on which VA benefits come with a 50% service-connected disability rating will convince you to file for all service-connected health conditions you may have.

Watch the VA SITREP

If you do not have time to read this article, make sure you watch the VA YouTube video, titled “VA Benefits With 50% Service-Connected Disability” (VA Disability, theSITREP), by veteran Paul Corbett at https://bit.ly/3NhV2w3.

50% Service-connected disability benefits

The benefits package for a veteran who is receiving 50% service-connected disability is spelled out at the VA’s Service-Connected Matrix webpage at https:// bit.ly/3phkaer and includes the following VA top benefits offered to a veteran.

1. Free Healthcare and Medications: Going from 40% to 50% is a game changer for veterans when it comes to healthcare costs. At the 50% disability rating veterans are covered for just about everything the VA offers with no out-of-pocket expenses for VA healthcare and medication. Learn more at the VA Healthcare Copay Rates webpage https://bit.ly/3N9vBP8.

The VA can also assist with education, housing, nursing home care, and many other programs not found at a civilian hospital. Be sure to enroll in VA healthcare if you have not already done so. Read about how to enroll online, by phone, by mail, *in person (at your local VA Medical Center or Community Based Out Patient Clinic), or with the help of a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) at https://bit.

ly/3B7x5Dz.

*Note – The Beaufort VA Clinic phone is 843-7700444. Savannah, Ga., VA Clinic phone is 912-920-0214 Hinesville, Ga., VA Clinic phone is 912-408-2900. The Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center main phone is 843577-5011, and the Eligibility/ Enrollment Office phone is 843-789-7008. Call before going to the office.

2. Travel Allowance for scheduled appointments: The VA will cover travel costs such as mileage, cab fare, train fare, and other expenses associated with veterans getting to a VA facility or VA authorized healthcare facility for a medical appointment. Learn more at https://bit.ly/3PdC1h0.

3. Monetary compensation: Based on 2023 Veterans Disability Compensation Rates at https://bit.ly/3WQlPEm, a veteran rated at 50% can expect as a minimum $1,041.82 a month, tax-free. Learn how to apply for Disability Compensation at https://bit.ly/3wYGMRJ.

4. Additional monetary compensation for eligible dependents: The VA recognizes the fact that many veterans are on fixed incomes and that every dollar counts. The VA provides additional money to a veteran’s monthly disability compensation for the veteran’s spouse, qualified children, and, in some cases the veteran’s dependent par-

ents. Depending on the number and types of dependents a veteran has, the veteran’s monthly compensation can jump to as high as $1,303.82. Learn more at the VA’s webpage View Or Change Dependents On Your VA Disability Benefits at https:// bit.ly/43LjWuY. Read about Disability Compensation at https://bit.ly/3WQlPEm.

5. Waiver of Funding Fees for VA home loans: Normally there is a 1% to 4% fee associated with using a VA home loan. However, with a 50% service-connected rating, that fee is totally waived. Learn more at the webpage VA Funding Fee And Loan Closing Costs at https://bit.ly/3CgHg8a, and the three articles on this subject published in The Island News on May 11, 18, and 25 of 2021, found in the archives at www.yourislandnews.com.

6. Direct hire: A federal agency or organization could hire a veteran for a position without the veteran having to compete for the job. For example, if a VA Medical Center is looking for an electrician, and a veteran who was receiving 40% or more disability has submitted the necessary paperwork to the VA’s Human Resources (HR) Department and is qualified for the position, the VA has the option to hire the veteran on-the-spot. However, a federal agency is not required to use this option. Read at https://bit.ly/3qvIppP.

To find out if a federal agency uses the direct hire process, veterans should contact the organization’s HR department and read the job announcement at https:// www.usajobs.gov.

7. 10-point preference: At the 50% disability level, veterans qualify for a 10-point hiring preference when applying for

federal government jobs. Read about veterans hiring preferences (0-point Preference, 5-Point, 10-Point CP, 10-Point 30% CPS, 10-Point Disability XP, 10-Point Derived (XP), 10-Point Spouse, etc.) at the Office of Personnel Management webpage Vet Guide For HR Professionals at https:// bit.ly/3Njn1vB. Learn more at https://www.fedshirevets.gov, https://bit.ly/43hbhjX, and https://bit.ly/3OWCzrq.

8. Veterans Readiness and Employment (VR&E): The VR&E program helps veterans (who are a minimum of 30% service-connected) to find permanent employment and helps veterans in a job that aggravates one of the veteran’s current VA disabilities to find gainful employment that does not aggravate their disabilities. This program has been described as the GI Bill on steroids. This writer used this program in 2021 to improve his skills and credentials as a journalist. Not every veteran is going to qualify for VR&E, but it is well worth investigating. To learn more, call your VA Regional Office and schedule an appointment with a VR&E counselor and read the information at https://bit.ly/3Cl4Sbr and https://bit.ly/43r9wAJ.

9. Burial & plot allowance: According to the VA’s web site titled Burial Benefits (Compensation), found at https:// bit.ly/3Nib60P and the VA’s How To Apply For A Veteran’s Burial Allowance found at https://bit.ly/3dKZkyx, the VA will pay for eligible veterans, at a flat rate, burial and plot or interment allowances. The burial allowance for a non-service-connected death is $300, and $2,000 for a death connected to military service.

10. Commissary and Exchange Privileges: Read about these privileges at the VA webpage titled, Commissary And Exchange Privileges For Veterans webpage, https://bit. ly/3OY6BeA.

11. Use of morale, welfare, and recreation (MWR) facilities: According to the VA News article, dated January 1, 2020 and Military One Source, all service-connected veterans, Purple Heart recipients, POWs, and individuals approved as the primary family caregivers of eligible veterans (under the VA’s Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers) can use commissaries, exchanges, and MWR retail facilities, in-person and online. Learn more at https://bit.ly/3p4WU3v.

The Bottom Line Veterans should not procrastinate any longer. Veterans who have service-connected injuries, illnesses, wounds, scars, or health conditions should ask their local VSO to help them with service-connected disability compensation and enroll in VA healthcare. Find S.C. County VSOs at https://bit.ly/3qbLVSL. Find Ga. VSOs at https://bit. ly/44KMVA7. Search for VA-accredited representatives nationwide at https://bit.ly/3QnCk5M. Search for VA-accredited representatives at VA Regional Offices at https://bit. ly/3TahNn1.

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

LARRY DANDRIDGE

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

Recruit Training Regiment, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, 23 June 2023

Commanding Officer, Colonel B. W. Ward 1st Recruit Training Battalion

PLATOON 1040

Senior Drill Instructor

SSgt I. R. Gomes

Pvt Acres, Kenney B.

Pvt Beam, Joshua R.

Pvt Carini, Dennis J.

Pvt Diaz, Daniel A.

PFC DominguezEspinoza, Rene

Pvt Duncan, Forrest R.

Pvt Faglie, Jacob D.

Pvt Gilmore, Michael C.

Pvt Gray III, William J.

Pvt Hamilton, Keltin R.

PFC* Hernandezulloa, Luis A.

Pvt Highsmith, Marcus L.

Pvt Johnson, Jeff

PFC* Jones, Eric J.

Pvt Keasler, Bryan A.

PFC Keeney, Cody L.

Pvt Lipford, Brandon M.

Pvt Martinezpaniagua, Omar

Pvt Mather, Jackson D.

PFC Medina, Moises

Pvt Millan, Vivino R.

Pvt Mirandaesteban, Leonardo

Pvt Montillalazaro, Cristhian J.

Pvt Moore Jr, Dorian T.

PFC Moser, Joshua A.

PFC* Pettaway, Taskheer H.

Pvt Pierce, Jack A.

Pvt Quetzecua, Christian

Pvt Rogerson, Ricky W.

Pvt Salgado, Cristian

PFC Siegmann, Daniel L.

Pvt Smith, Eric C.

PFC Stahlkuppe, Dylan K.

Pvt Stewart, Melquan A.

Pvt Strachan, Theodore L.

Pvt Terry Jr, Jevaughn A.

Pvt Thornton, Jordan D.

Pvt Thrower, Carlzell R.

Recruit Training Regiment

PLATOON 1041

Senior Drill Instructor SSgt E. Tumashev

PFC Albertson, Aurora Z.

Pvt Barajasanguiano, Sylvia

Pvt Blanton, Harley M.

PFC Bynum, Christina M.

PFC Cervantesbautista, Maria S.

PFC Chairestrujillo, Karina

Pvt Clark, Meghan C.

PFC Deandasolis, Yaritza L.

Pvt Durannunez, Lorena D.

Pvt Ferra, Annjelina C.

Pvt Garcia, Anaya S.

Pvt Geralds, Mackayla M.

Pvt Gonzalez, Heidy

Pvt Guerrero, Adelina V.

Pvt Guinn, Erin L.

PFC Hanley, Vivian L.

Pvt Hayes, Kailey J.

PFC Hierwarter, Miah A.

Pvt Holder, Jayda T.

Pvt Jackson, Kinyeta H.

PFC Jerezanoperez, Brenda Y.

Pvt Johnson, Janya A.

PFC* Laguerre, Vanessa R.

Pvt Mbengue, Mbenda N.

Pvt Mendozatorres, Jeniffer

Pvt Ochoa, Mia V.

PFC* Ortizgonzalez, Mariselys

Pvt Parrott, Aniyah R.

PFC Philbeck, Jada K.

Pvt Renaud, Isabella L.

Pvt Sanchez, Trinity N.

Pvt Sanon, Kederche

PFC* Slinker, Cassidy N.

PFC Suarezmarrero, Darlene M.

Pvt Trent, Micayla L.

PFC Whittington, Catherine G.

Pvt Wilkerson, Kaley G.

Pvt Williams, Jacqueline C.

PLATOON 1042

Senior Drill Instructor

SSgt J. Muratalla

PFC Ahmed, Mohamed A.

Pvt Aviles, Joshua

Pvt Beaver, Ethan S.

Pvt Bittle, Caleb M.

Pvt Butts, Tylar D.

Pvt Canotorres, Ricardo J.

Pvt Clow, Samuel A.

PFC* Crane, Tenzin N.

Pvt Dennis, Dylan S.

Pvt Dillardschoggins, Hunter R.

Pvt Fine, Brandon L.

Pvt Glass, Jacob W.

Pvt Hafizi, Hamid

Pvt Hernberg, Kyle D.

PFC* Herrera, Bryan A.

Pvt Holtan, Alex M.

Pvt Kennedy, Kye A.

PFC Laychock, Andriy A.

Pvt Martinezcruz, Israel

Pvt Mcniece, Malcolm R.

PFC Medlin, Joel A.

Pvt Moralesleiva, Juan

Pvt Perezgarcia, Yusef A.

Pvt Perrigo, Levi K.

Pvt Rodriguez Jr, Fernando

Pvt Rose, Zachery A.

Pvt Sarsfield, Landyn M.

PFC* Saunders, Quinton K.

Pvt Sharp IV, David J.

Pvt Simmons, Ricky G.

Pvt Sweeny Jr, Michael J.

Pvt Taylor, Charlie R.

PFC Thomas, James D.

Pvt Tompkins, Brandon J.

Pvt Torres, Nestor D.

Pvt Tracey, Antonio V.

Pvt Usleaman, Jacob M.

Pvt Vargas, Steven J.

PFC Villarreal III, Victor M.

Pvt Weister, Taejon I.

PLATOON 1044

Senior Drill Instructor Sgt K. A. Lee

Pvt Aguilar, Francisco J.

PFC Brown, Kobe S.

Pvt Cabrera, Eliyon C.

Pvt Cihonski, Aiden N.

Pvt Colemantyler, Jaden M.

Pvt Colon, Matthew S.

Pvt Conde, Jordan L.

Pvt Davis, Ryan S.

PFC* Debter, Benjamin C.

Pvt Debter, Ethan B.

Pvt Defrancesco, Michael E.

Pvt Dejesus Jr, Ricardo

PFC Deleonlopez, Alvin S.

Pvt Diaz, Isaiah J.

Pvt Fredette, Nicolas H.

PFC* Garcia, Anthony M.

PFC Guevaracabezas, Juan

PFC Hensley, Bryce J.

Pvt Honeycutt, Solon J.

PFC* Jaimez, Jonathan A.

Pvt Jones, Gabriel T.

Pvt Kirby, Levi W.

Pvt Lopez, Andres

Pvt Maldonado, Xavier B.

Pvt Nieves, Alex

Pvt Noum, Damon K.

Pvt Ochoa, Daniel

Pvt Oo, War Z.

PFC* Oroak, Michael C.

Pvt Parker, Jaden L.

Pvt Sanchez, Leandro W.

PFC Sennhenn, Austin J.

Pvt Tchiogongueti, Christian L.

Pvt Terry, Patrick A.

Pvt Velasquez, Yordan V.

Pvt Verdery, Joshua J.

Pvt Wilkerson III, Henry D.

PLATOON 1045

Senior Drill Instructor SSgt M. Lopez

PFC Adjei, Kelvin A.

Pvt Adolph, Austin L.

Pvt Arguetajimenez, Bryan

Pvt Ariasgomez, Victor M.

Pvt Aviles Jr, Manuel D.

Pvt Bailey, Jake R.

Pvt Buchanan, Johnathan T.

Pvt Cartwright, Joshua

Pvt Celius, Maurice Q.

Pvt Collins, Billy L.

Pvt Falsetti, Peter M.

PFC Fareth, Andrew T.

Pvt Garver Jr, Kyle G.

Pvt Gonzalezcortez, Oscar

PFC Hicks, Lavon N.

Pvt Hirschey, Thomas R.

Pvt James, Jeremiah J.

PFC* Litus, Matthias R.

PFC* Magnus, Jacob M.

Pvt Marrone, Kelson K.

PFC Martinez, Lester J.

Pvt Martinezconcepcion, Alejandro J.

Pvt Mathis, Malachi J.

PFC* Mccrory, Lamar R.

Pvt Medina, Juan D.

Pvt Padilla, Jacob I.

PFC Peters, Zoe F.

Pvt Rivera, Edwin A.

PFC Salasjimenez, Kevin

Pvt Santos, Jared D.

Pvt Scarlett, Kurt A.

Pvt Sontos, Sean K.

PFC Tiller, Mason A.

PFC Velazquezbarrios, Ivan A.

Pvt White, Dominick C.

Pvt Woods, Reginald J.

Pvt Zapolski, Landen N.

PLATOON 1046

Senior Drill Instructor SSgt K. A. Strom

Pvt Austin, Brandon R.

Pvt Bah, Mamadou S.

Pvt Beach, Patrick K.

Pvt Blackard, Jason C.

Pvt Bowser, Brenton R.

Pvt Brady, Parks G.

PFC* Butler, Demetrius M.

Pvt Cazares, Angel F.

Pvt Clay, Juwan D.

Pvt Costanza, Sebastian M.

Pvt Cotto, Hezekai

Pvt Diel, Zackery T.

Pvt Dunbar, Alec J.

Pvt Fee Jr, Joseph W.

Pvt Foster, Nicholas L.

Pvt Fuselier, Matthew J.

Pvt Giannotti Jr, Anthony F.

PFC* Guernsey, Cody T.

PFC* Jordan, Samuel P.

Pvt Kallison, Ashton B.

Pvt Leonmunoz, Jostin J.

Pvt Myers, Jeylen S.

Pvt Olivierirosado, Juan S.

Pvt Page III, Willie C.

Pvt Payne, William K.

Pvt Petzold, Peyton A.

Pvt Pumarolgonzalez, Dwinght J.

Pvt Rivers, Dalyn P.

PFC Rizo, Ramiro E.

Pvt Rosalesaguilar, Jafet D.

PFC Skipper, Winter C.

PFC Sotoruiz, Alex N.

PFC Stewart Jr, Valin A.

Pvt Struck, Connor J.

Pvt Velasco, Landen T.

Pvt Walton III, Ira A.

Pvt Williams Jr, Travis A.

Pvt Zhang, Ben S.

*Denotes meritorious promotion to current rank

I believe the republic will go on

It is Saturday morning. This morning I have the New Yorker, which gives us a “Letter from Ukraine.”

In that letter we learn that the 28th Separate Mechanized Brigade has been fighting for more than a year; and somewhere along the line this depleted, beaten-up, hollowed-out unit found a fully operational Maxim machine gun.

Before we get too far into the weeds, let me say this Godforsaken brigade also has the more modern PKM machine gun as well as the ubiquitous Kalashnikov. But in their desperation to return Russian fire, the 28th found an iron wheeled, wooden gripped relic that dates back to World War II. It is important to know the first Maxim was put into service in 1884 and this one (circa 1945) is nearly identical to the 1884 model.

“The gun’s operator, a raw-boned soccer hooligan

SCOTT GRABER

with brass knuckles tattooed on his hand, spoke of the Maxim like a car enthusiast lauding the performance of a vintage Mustang.”

When first introduced the Maxim was capable of firing 600 rounds a minute with a range of farther than 80 yards. The first Maxim made its debut in 1884 — the same year Britain and 13 other countries met in Berlin to discuss the future of Africa.

For years French, English and Belgian explorers had been trekking through the African bush making deals with tribal leaders — deals that involved ivory, rubber or palm oil. Now the main

actors in this exploration and exploitation wanted to solidify their territorial claims.

The Brits had already planted the Union Jack in Egypt; they were interested in Kenya in the East; but were also worried about the French who seemed to have a grip on most of West Africa. Britain began its focus in West Africa on a vast, semi-arid region just South of the Sahara called the Caliphate of Sokoto.

Sokoto was Muslim, having been conquered by the Islamic cleric Usman dan Fodio in 1794. By 1900, Sokoto was a productive agricultural region protected by fierce, horse-riding warriors. But excepting for a few inaccurate, slow-firing muskets these horsemen had few firearms.

The Brits arrived with battle-hardened African infantry, disciplined sergeants and subalterns,

and tactical units with at least two Maxim guns and two 75mm cannon.

In a series of pitched battles, the Maxims decimated the hard-charging, poorly armed Muslim horsemen.

After the British won in northern Nigeria, they recruited these Hausa-speaking Muslims` into their army and the Hausa have remained the bedrock of the Nigerian military ever since. This, historians say, is the problem with Nigeria today.

It seems to be the historical consensus that the North of Nigeria — the Hausa peoples in particular — will never be reconciled with the Igbo and Yoruba-speaking peoples in the South. It seems to be geopolitical gospel that the seeds of conflict (in Nigeria) were planted when the north and south were amalgamated by Britain in 1900.

In 2006, my wife and I traveled to Sokoto to film

Attahiro Bafarawa — the then-Governor who now wanted to be President of Nigeria. We almost didn’t make it when Susan refused to board a vintage 727 that would fly our final leg from Abuja to Sokoto.

“For God’s sake, Susan, this dented, dusty, ducttaped jet makes two roundtrip flights every week!” The following week this same jet crashed killing everyone on board.

While in Sokoto we also filmed local people setting up our cameras on the Giginya Hotel’s non-alcoholic terrace overlooking the Sahara. I interviewed — while drinking a warm Fanta — an Igbo businessman from the South.

He was, indeed, critical of the Hausa people. As I think back on that Sahara-heated afternoon I remembered thinking, “To bad for these Nigerians — If they could just get past this north/

south contempt.”

But lately I’ve reconsidered that conversation as it relates to the United States. Is the ethnic contempt I heard in Nigeria as toxic as that of a Trump-besotted Alabamian for a Northeastern, ivy-educated Biden believer? Are the fault lines in our Republic as intractable as those in Nigeria?

My wife and I are newly minted grandparents. In our fourth-quarter dotage, I want to believe the fevers in the U.S. will diminish, the fault lines will fade, the center will hold.

We started off a squabbling polyglot and continue to shout and shove. When my grandson comes of age, I believe there will still be a Republic. We have our problems but we are not Nigeria.

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

SALT – Saving a Lowcountry treasure

Driving along the roadways traversing the Gullah/ Geechee Nation from Jacksonville, N.C., to Jacksonville, Fla., you can lower the windows and breathe in deeply what truly flavors the Lowcountry – salt.

Salt is in our cuisine, the air we breathe and the lands we cherish.

For generations the Gullah/ Geechee – ancestors of formerly enslaved Africans and indigenous Americans – have inhabited the salt marshes that grace our coastlines.

You’ll find us casting nets, going after blue crabs or picking oysters to feed our families while breathing in the very air that feeds our souls. These are our sacred burial grounds, places of baptism and where our ancestors and elders ring shouted in dance and song. The salt marsh served as places of safety and escape from chattel enslavement.

The Gullah/Geechee have held in place a cultural landscape

for multiple generations as our roots go deep into the soil, and we stand tall bringing healing to this land.

So when I was asked whether I would be willing to serve on a steering committee of a group working to protect 1 million acres of salt marsh on the Atlantic coast from North Carolina to Florida, I didn’t hesitate to say, “Yes.” I had no idea that by doing so, I would be joining a coalition of more than 300 collaborating partners that included the U.S. Department of Defense, local and state governments, scientists, conser-

vationists and others who wanted to ensure the salt marsh would be conserved and restored so it could continue to protect our coastlines from sea level rise, storms and floods. Working together would mean saving a Lowcountry treasure. Yes, S.A.L.T.!

The South Atlantic Salt Marsh Initiative has allowed the flavor of Gullah/Geechee culture to be stirred in with different perspectives on why the marsh is valuable. And after two years of collaboration, our SASMI plan to protect this habitat for future generations was released. It’s a voluntary blueprint that offers ways to conserve and restore marshes, ranging from elevating roads when necessary to conserving land near marshes so the grasslands can move as seas rise.

The salt marsh plan is one of several recent developments focused on preserving culture and community. Beaufort County recently moved toward strength-

ening the Cultural Protection Overlay District protecting Gullah/Geechee culture and environment on St. Helena Island, where you can view the salt marsh as you travel Highway 21/Sea Island Parkway Scenic Highway.

Everyone can appreciate the vistas of Beaufort Open Land Trust properties along the way. And we are celebrating the new Lowcountry Sentinel Landscape designation – a program run by a coalition of federal agencies, state and local governments, private landowners and others focused on advancing sustainable land management practices. Our designation includes vital areas of salt marsh.

These designations and initiatives are focused on a word my people know all too well – resilience. Coupling cultural heritage resilience with environmental resilience has been central to my contribution to the South Atlantic Salt Marsh Initiative. It has been

wonderful adding some Gullah/ Geechee flavor to what this multicultural and multidisciplinary collaborative team has cooked up to serve along the coast.

I’m looking forward to us gathering under the oak trees at the edge of the salt marsh to share this work the same way we get together for some Frogmore Stew after gathering the shrimps and blue crabs from amid the salt marsh and bringing them back to the family compounds to feed everyone for another day. I hope everyone who reads our salt marsh plan will find their souls fed and will join us in this effort to marsh forward together and be a part of saving this Lowcountry treasure.

Queen Quet, Marquetta L. Goodwine, was selected and elected to be the first Queen Mother and official spokesperson for the Gullah/Geechee Nation. She is respectfully referred to as “Queen Quet, Chieftess and Head-of-State for the Gullah/Geechee Nation.”

Understanding the place where Robert Smalls faced his trials

Juneteenth recognizes the agony of subjugation while celebrating growth and the yet-to-come brightness of the future.

The summer holiday officially marks the longtime-coming date of black Americans learning of their freedom to shed the shackles and horrors of slavery. And it promotes the sharing of the stories of local heroes who moved from slavery to impact their time and ours.

Every year, women from of the Hilton Head Stake from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in the Lowcountry choose a monthly book to help expand their horizons and foster open dialogue. For the month of May 2023, the group chose Rebecca Dwight Bruff’s historical fiction Trouble the Water

The story captures the history of Beaufort’s former slave Robert Smalls (18391915), from commandeering the CSS Planter during the Civil War through gaining his own freedom and then onto his incredible trajectory serving not only his hometown, but also his country.

Smalls served in the state legislature as a delegate in the 1868 and 1895 State Constitutional Conventions, the South Carolina House and Senate, and as a congressman for five terms. He

was instrumental in bringing the free education to all children, which occurred first in South Carolina. In 1870, Smalls wrote the legislation that yielded compulsory education in the state, impacting free schooling for the country.

Upon finishing the book discussion, the group of local women decided to explore Beaufort churches, graves, homes, and other landmarks of Robert Smalls and his family in June of 2023. They chose to immerse themselves in the tangible history of this American hero who impacted their own lives, uplifting others as he smashed cultural bans. Much like the author Rebecca Dwight Bruff relocated to Beaufort to research the complicated dynamics of Smalls’ preand post-war relationships. His associations were full of accurate twists coupled with fictionalized verbiage to fill historical gaps.

After visiting the graves of Smalls and his family members at Tabernacle

Baptist Church on Craven Street, Katie Stanley of Hilton Head Island said, “Being in the same locality as Robert Smalls and his family is a way to honor people you respect and help you to understand them further.” She explained to her children what a “great man” Smalls was as a human and leader of his community.

I sat at the lunch table at Market Café, Beaufort’s former City Hall building, to discuss the experience with these ladies.

Mackenzie Dallon offered, “Actually being at First African Baptist Church, where Robert Smalls was a member, gives the book so much more depth. Pausing at the church’s door where he stood and touching the same columns he did brings the man from the book to life. With my own eyes I’m seeing what he really saw with his own eyes. I came here to understand the place where Smalls and many people in this story experienced their trials.”

Adalie Call added, “There’s something that affects me emotionally when I’m here, feeling where the personal struggles and battles that we have been reading about in the book Trouble the Water actually happened.”

Katie Stanley led the discussion about how a

location can speak for itself: offering the rhetoric of being where, for example, Robert Smalls lived as both a slave and later as the home owner.

“When you are at a place like Robert Smalls [childhood and late adult] home, you can allow the location itself to speak: showing what happened then and what has occurred since,” Stanley explained. The participants remarked about how the land around the home has been built upon and pondered the location of Robert Smalls and his mother’s “backhouse,” which was also called the dependency, described like a shed in the book.

In the book Trouble the Water, Robert Smalls enters the tax office and hands $600 to the clerk. With intention, I am adding a long passage here, as it encompasses pivotal viewpoints.

“Good morning, sir. 5–1–1 Prince St.,” I told him.

I remembered him from my childhood; he ran the post office, and had a small printing business as well. The war had closed his business, and to be honest, I was surprised that he was back in town in any capacity. But here he was, working in the tax office, collecting property taxes from those of us who could

afford them, and for that price we took full title to the property.

“Name?” he asked, without looking up.

“Smalls,” I said. “Robert Smalls.”

His head popped up, and he fixed me with a scowl. “Smalls! You thief — first, the boat, and now the house, is it? Well, we’ll see how things work out.” He turned to the file box behind him, and taking his time, found the document, bludgeoned it with his ink stamp, and shoved it under the window at me.

“Thank you,” I said. The tax clerk’s response was not the only or worst, expression of resentment, but neither was it common, and for that I was grateful. I had known the people of Beaufort to be complex in many ways — proud of and entitled by their wealth, and also generous with it; stubborn and insistent on the right to hold slaves, and also, with a few exceptions, judicious to them as well; profoundly damaged in defeat, and also somehow gracious in pain. I knew that some of these people were proud to claim me as a citizen, even as they dealt with the wounds of war.

I walked the short distance

from the tax office to Prince Street, heart pounding. This house. My house. Our home now. I walked in, through the front door this time, remembering waiting for permission at the back door only a few years earlier.

Robert Smalls did indeed purchase the home he once was enslaved in. It was sitting on the front porch of that very home where “his extraordinary life came to an end at age seventysix,” the Beaufort Gazette reported 100 years after the event.

“These slave locations are the sites of such suffering that you feel compelled to pause. We want to honor not only this man and his rise, but share how he impacted the city and citizens today,” Dallon explained, “Looking out at the rivers [from] where he stood helps bring his legacy to life for me personally.”

Emily Michalak Loader enjoys writing and editing for Market4Profit in Charleston and serving as Stake Communication Director in Bluffton. She graduated from Texas Tech University with a PhD in English with an emphasis on Technical Communication. When she’s not looking into the nitty gritty of software and hardware manuals or the information of a press release, she loves spending time with her family on long bike rides.

QUEEN QUET

No one is above the law or so they say

Is there anyone who is foolish enough to refute the idea that, fundamentally, the most important job of a President is to protect the nation from attack by its adversaries? I cannot imagine that denial, especially in the halls of Congress, and even more importantly, by any of those within that same legislative body who have served in the military. No one should be more attuned to the ramifications of highly sensitive material falling into the wrong hands than the latter.

At this point in time, former President Donald Trump has been indicted on charges that he “purposely retained classified documents” upon leaving the Presidency. Furthermore, he refused to return these when asked to do so until a subpoena was finally issued and his home was searched. Even then, it was discovered that these papers were strewn about or were indiscriminately stashed in places of easy access by just about anyone, and that the President, himself, was tape recorded saying he had these documents, claiming they were his. While

CAROL LUCAS

all of this is old news, the whole notion needs further scrutiny, but from another perspective.

I am not here to argue what is secret, confidential, or classified. This is way above my pay grade, and I rely upon those in decision-making capacities to know well enough what qualifies and what doesn’t. The citizenry, on the whole, has to accept this as well.

It struck me a few days ago that we have heard little or nothing regarding this issue from those veterans who are in the House of Representatives and the Senate. My thoughts went something like this: Good heavens, they above all others should be enraged. After all, many put their lives on the line and have a greater sense of what this kind of betrayal could bring about.

Pew Research Center provides the following data, effective December of 2022: incoming to the House of Representatives were 80 veterans, or 18.4% of the total membership. This number was up from 75 in the outgoing Congressional group. Of the incoming figure, three quarters were Republican.

In the Senate the number incoming stayed the same at 17, with 10 of those being Republican. These figures cover all branches of the military, regular armed forces as well as Reserves and the National Guard.

Finding members in Congress who are willing to condemn Trump’s actions regarding military secrets has been a mixed bag. There are those who, come hell, high water or a hint of espionage will back Trump to the bitter end. Then there are those whose “guilty” opinion is equally adamant, their complaint being, “What’s taking Jack Smith so long?”

Those two camps are a given, and I admit to belonging to the latter. Despite this, I still wondered about those veterans in Congress who had faced war

directly, as well as those who know they are on call should their country need them for battle. What has to be going through their minds when they sit alone with their private thoughts?

If I could put them all in one room, I might ask the following questions: “Have you read the forty-plus pages of the indictment, that of the United States vs. Donald J. Trump and Waltine Nauta? Have you viewed photos of the strewn documents that may hold information that puts our troops or our undercover agents at risk? Have you considered the number of visitors to Mar-aLago, some foreign entities, who may well wish to get their hands upon these and perhaps did?

Can you, as someone in the military, sworn to protect our country, simply look the other way or worse yet, support the man whose wanton disregard for the job of protecting us comes close to treason? I would direct that last question to our own Senator, Lindsey Graham, who spent six and a half years in the Air Force, and was supposedly a close friend of veteran

John McCain, captured in Vietnam. What answers might I receive?

Of course I will never know. I have tried to find documentation regarding those who have spoken one way or the other, and it is sparse. Dan Crenshaw from Texas perhaps comes closest to putting his real feelings out there. He is the Navy Seal who lost an eye in battle. Remaining mute or coming forth with non-answers seems to be the most common response. Many choose to fall back on, “Let’s wait and see what happens.”

Do I think for one moment that Congressional veterans should not have the right to their own political opinion? Of course not! But it absolutely baffles me that those individuals who may have already engaged in battle, or may be called to do so, would not see this as the ultimate betrayal of all they have stood up for. Can it be that politics triumphs over national security? I simply refuse to accept that.

Coincidentally, a young Massachusetts National guardsman, Jack Teixeira, has been accused of sharing highly classified informa-

tion online with a group of his gaming buddies. The charge is “willful retention and transmission of classified information relating to the national defense.” The charge goes on to say, “he knew he was violating U.S. law and endangering national security.” Sounds very familiar.

So suddenly the chess board is full, with many plays to be executed. What will be the fate of Jack Teixeira, the 21 year old who played fast and loose with security information? What will happen to Walt Nauta, the Navy veteran from Guam who landed in the White House kitchen as a culinary specialist and later became valet to the former President, moving boxes as directed? And finally, what will happen to the President himself? Does lady justice really sport a blindfold in every case? Is it true the “no one is above the law?” Or is that just a well-worn idiom?

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

The developers are going to have to go someplace else

Iwas born and raised on St. Helena island as the fifth generation of a family that farmed the land and shrimped the waters. The majority of my life has been lived on the island. For a few years I have lived around the country, but the island always managed to stay near my heart; I made a point of returning whenever I possibly could.

I teach 7th Grade Social Studies at Lady’s Island Middle School while living in the house that I grew up in on St. Helena. This year I turned 34, but I already know that this is where I will spend the remainder of my life. There is a serenity to knowing that you are in the place you will spend the rest of your years, but also a great urgency to protect this home at all costs.

The potential development of Pine Island would forever alter the island I live on in a manner that is not sustainable for future generations.

I can imagine no other way of spending my youth than waking in the early hours of the morning to board my father’s shrimp boats, smelling salt and diesel on deck in the night air, running barefoot through aromatic, heat-baked tomato fields, and sinking up to my waist in pluff mud as I chased fiddler crabs. All of my best memories growing up are on this island and of its people.

My family wasn’t born to the Gullah culture, but we were surrounded by it and it shaped who we are. The people who worked with us on the boats and in the fields were from the island. In the classroom, I am Mr. Sanders. But at the Seaside Mini Mart, Chaps, or even at the CPO rally, I am introduced as Paul’s son. I have a tremendous amount of emotion while typing this because of the pride that swells within me at being a part of this community. Words are inadequate to describe these formative experiences, and I would see that future generations could grow up experiencing the same St. Helena.

My siblings and I own 400 acres of land, a large portion of which is under a conservation agreement with the Beaufort Open Land Trust. We are representatives of the younger generations in Beaufort and we would never willingly part with or develop our

land. There is no amount of money that could ever approach the value this land has or influence us to do harm to our neighbors by changing the island. We do not have that prerogative, nor the arrogance to even consider it.

The land and the people are already precariously perched on the brink of being swallowed up by development without their neighbors hastening it. I can assure you that we are not alone in these values.

Some of you may have been recently swayed by letters and voices claiming that the youngest generations are in favor of development. I am writing to tell you that if you wish to know the heart of the youth on St. Helena, then you must not listen to the advocates that would tell you that a golf course is the answer. On a daily basis I am in contact with the island’s younger generations and I can tell you, emphatically, that they do not wish to lose their homes, their culture, and their futures to unimaginative development.

It is irresponsible to let a small cadre, formulated by the opposition, sway public policy when they are not representative of the greater sentiment within Beaufort. Reject the fallacy they are pushing. For months the people of this town have heard a multitude of the voices in staunch opposition to this development. Voices that belong to young, old, black, white, and even indigenous peoples. For our representatives to consider vacillating it tells me that small interests with deep pockets have already swayed them against the good of the whole. Do not pin your reasoning on the words of a small handful.

Months ago, I posed the question to my class of 7th Graders: Should Pine Island Be Developed? For two weeks we strove to research and write on this topic relating to our regional geography while the greater community grappled with the same question.

I did nothing to sway the children to either side of the argument.

Now, more than ever, it is imperative to be able to parse out fact from fiction while recognizing the influence of bias.

More than 90% of my students argued against development for reasons ranging from the

environment, congestion, cultural erosion, and increased taxes. One of my students even volunteered to address a crowd of more than 400 people at St. Helena Elementary during the Pine Island community rally. There is no evidence that the youth of the sea islands suddenly formed a zeitgeist for development, which would run contradictory to how they have been raised for generations. What you must understand is that these children that I have the privilege of teaching, are from here and they already grasp the consequences of development in their backyards. They made these arguments not because they were pushed to make them but because they have a vested interest in the future of the island.

A developer from Boston cannot fathom the stewardship and community that has been fostered on this island since Reconstruction. His obligation to this area does not extend beyond profit margins. Do not fall for his reckless myopia. He has an opportunity to create a world-class eco-resort within the bounds established by the CPO but he refuses to consider this possibility. There is room within the language to create something that is truly extraordinary on St. Helena. Instead he refutes any alternative to his agenda and is adamant in his “mission” to construct a golf course. He has done so knowing that

rules very clearly state there are no allowances for any such development. Without exception, every time a developer comes to our area, they always come under the guise of knowing what’s best for our community and people. The reality is that our values almost always fall so far outside their wheelhouse that there is no opportunity for reconciliation. The people of the island are not driven by greed, and I can assure you that we know what is best to serve our people for the road forward. How many public hearings is it going to take for our elected officials to decide that we do not need arguments of neo-paternalism to decide our future? We already decided it 30 years ago with the CPO.

If this developer held honest intentions towards minimizing impact on our community he would not make threats to develop every parcel of his property. If the rules were ignored this one time it would spell the end of the island. There are still considerable large property owners on the island. If they ever decided to sell to developers they could probably leverage building Disneyland on St. Helena so long as they made the argument that they were minimizing density impacts. This is a slippery slope we must not go down. We have developed at breakneck speed for too long without considering what is both right and necessary.

For months our representatives

have remained staunchly in favor of our interests, the interests of their constituents. The people of not only St. Helena, but the surrounding Sea Islands, implore that you remain steadfast allies, that you stay true to the obligations of public office. Give us faith that electoral politics still work and that they are not corrupted by avarice. This is a community founded on the values of mutual support and solidarity. The days of old Beaufort may be gone, but we still know our neighbors and have each other’s backs. That is why we fight so hard together to see that this development does not come to pass.

I would like to leave you with an excerpt from a 1992 interview of my grandfather in the Savannah News

“Somebody laid down this land besides me,” Sanders said, “and we want to take care of it so it will be that way, or better, when we leave it. If my sons were interested in selling the land, I’d boot them the hell off.”

Real estate people occasionally do come sniffing around, and some have made enticing offers.

“We are not growing condominiums or golf courses.

“The developers are going to have to go someplace else. I like living here.”

ARTS

“Colors of the World” photography exhibition

Through Sunday, July 2, The Society of Bluffton Artists Gallery, 6 Church St, Bluffton. Free and open to the public. Savannah Kemper’s upcoming photography exhibit captures the unique colors and textures from her travels. An opening reception will take place from 5 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, June 7 at the gallery. For more information, visit http:// www.aproposllc.com or follow Savannah on Instagram at @apropos_photography.

Bookbinding Workshop

11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, July 29, Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage, 10782 South Jacob Smart Blvd, Ridgeland. $40. Explore the art of bookbinding with Director of Exhibitions & Programs Kayleigh Vaughn. Whether you want a journal, sketchbook, or scrapbook, you will learn the basics of Secret Belgian binding. All supplies are provided to create a 96-page blank book. Purchases are non-refundable. To register visit https://www.morrisheritagecenter.org/ event-5305006.

CALENDAR

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

Sharing Hearts Support Group

5:30 to 7 p.m., second Tuesday of every month, 2201 Boundary Street, Suite 208, Beaufort. Free. Come tell your 10-minute story of a life lesson or healing message using your own creative expression through a song, poetry, reading, art or verbal storytelling. Come away with an uplifting sense of support and connections or to just listen. Register by leaving a voicemail with name, phone and number of attendees at 843-525-6115 or send email to reneesutton@ healthierhealing.com. Notification will be done of any location change due to seat requirements. Next event is on Tuesday, June 13.

Karaoke with Melissa

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

Trivia with Mike – Fat Patties

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

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

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

Trivia with Mike – Bricks On Boundary

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

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

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

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

Rooted Beaufort Yoga classes

5:30 to 6:45 p.m., Thursdays, Cypress Wetlands, Port Royal; 9 to 10:15 a.m., Whitehall Park or Pigeon Point Park.

Rooted Beaufort is a collective of local Yoga teachers who host outdoor yoga classes and donation-based events with proceeds being donated locally on a rotating basis.

Wet Willie’s Trivia Night

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

Wet Willie’s Bingo Night

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

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

9 p.m., Fridays, Highway 21 Bar, 3436

Trask Pkwy, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy Karaoke with Lt. Dan.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

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

Karaoke with Melissa

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

Drum Circle

6:30 to 8 p.m., 2nd Friday of every month, Gazeebo, Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Beaufort. Free. Anyone welcome, no experience necessary. Eric Roy, a recent transplant from Connecticut with successful experience in leading drum circles, is our new facilitator. He will start sessions off with 15-20 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

WHAT’S HAPPENING

HIGHWAY 21 DRIVE-IN

The movies scheduled for this week (Thursday, June 15 through Wednesday, June 21) at the Highway 21 Drive-In are Transformers, Rise Of The Beasts (PG-13, 8:45 p.m.) and The Flash (PG-13, 11:20 p.m.) on Screen 1; Elemental (PG, 8:45 p.m.) and The Little Mermaid (PG, 10:30 p.m.) on Screen 2; and Transformers, Rise Of The Beasts (PG-13, 8:45 p.m.) and No Hard Feelings (R, 11:15 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 Indiana Jones and The Dial of Destiny (June 30) and Mission Impossible Dead Reckoning (July).

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. Next meeting will be June 9.

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.

Slip and Splash Saturdays

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

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

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

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

9:30 p.m., Saturdays, Rosie O’Grady’s,

2127 Boundary Street, Suite 2, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy karaoke with Eric.

Karaoke with Melissa

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

Play & Eat – Dinner Theater

6 to 8:30 p.m., Saturday, July 1, Hilton Garden Inn, 1500 Queen Street, Beaufort. Solve a murder mystery while you feast on a fantastic dinner. Just to let you know the murderer is hiding somewhere in the room, and you may find yourself as one of the suspects if you don’t watch it. This is a prize-winning competition and everyone is a participant. For more information, contact 843-5926209 or playandeatdinnertheater@ gmail.com, or visit the website at www. playandeatdinnertheater.com.

Memory Matters: Simple Suppers –

Healthy Eating for Two

10 a.m., Wednesday, June 21, First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. $20 for this session, or $40 for all Memory Matters sessions. Speaker: Chef Kim Baretta. 67th annual Beaufort Water Festival Friday, July 14 through Sunday, July 23, Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Beaufort.

Sips & Seafood Party

5 to 10 p.m., Friday, Oct 27, Hewitt Oaks, 205 Stillwell Road, Bluffton. $175. Bluffton

Self Help’s annual fundraiser. The funds raised provide education, basic needs, career development, and a sense of hope. Last year alone, this event helped 194 families to remain in their homes, keep the lights on, and to get through a difficult time. It supported 413 neighbors as they earned an education through English as a Second Language, Adult Basic Education, and GED Preparation classes. Our guests and sponsors provided 168 neighbors with the opportunity to meet one-on-one with client advocates through 672 meetings to connect to resources, develop goals and work toward reaching personal success.

Through The Market 858 households received 431,428 pounds of fresh produce, dairy, meat, eggs, non perishable groceries, hygiene items, diapers and more than 20,000 articles of clothing enabling them to stretch their budget and have better health. Purchase tickets at https://rb.gy/ kq7ef.

CAMPS

Summer Sailing Camp 2023

9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday, June 26 to Thursday, July 28, Beaufort Yacht & Sailing Club, 30 Yacht Club Drive, Beaufort. Camp is separated into weeks, Monday through Thursday. $335 per week for BYSC members, $375 per week for non-members, ages 8 through 16. Are you looking for an experience for your kid or grandkids this summer that will give them confidence and life long skills? Please consider Summer Sailing Camp at the Beaufort Sailing and Yacht Club. Register at https://rb.gy/zpfd0.

If you have questions, you can contact Noah Nipar directly at sailingdirector@ beaufortsailing.com.

Junior Building Detectives Summer Camp

9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Monday, June 26 through Wednesday, June 28, John Mark Verdier House, 801 Bay Street, Beaufort. Cost is $100 for Historic Beaufort Foundation members, $125 for non-members. Early registration is recommended because of space limitations. Historic Beaufort Foundation presents “Junior Building Detectives,” focusing on camp participants solving the mysteries of history by learning about local architecture. The summer camp, hosted in Bay Street’s historic John Mark Verdier House which dates to about 1804, will teach campers the basics of historic architecture and preservation. Campers will learn how buildings change over time, the meaning behind architectural features, and the connection of historic buildings to our community. They’ll do this through hands-on activities, walks around downtown Beaufort, arts-andcrafts projects, experiments in building science, and more. At the end of the program, campers will participate in creating a building and presenting their design to the class and parents/guardians. Registration may be completed by calling HBF at 843-379-3331 or going online to https://historicbeaufort.org.

GOLF

2nd annual Beaufort County Democratic Party Blues on the Greens

9:30 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 23, The Landings at Pleasant Point, Beaufort. Shotgun start. Teams of 4. $100 per player, $400 per team. Includes golf, cart and lunch. Registration link to come soon.

HISTORY

Beaufort History Museum at the Arsenal

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

The Historic Port Royal Museum

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

Tour Historic Fort Fremont

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

Cecil Williams & the Civil Rights Movement in South Carolina

2 to 4 p.m., Tuesday, July 11, Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage, 10782 South Jacob Smart Blvd, Ridgeland. Suggested $5 donation. Educators take note! In this professional development workshop, you’ll hear from civil rights photographer Cecil Williams as he shares his experiences and the educational posters he developed on South Carolina’s role in the movement. Learn some visual literacy strategies for talking about photography in the social studies classroom. Open to the public. For more information please visit https://www. morrisheritagecenter.org/event-5241011.

The American Revolution in Savannah 1 to 2 p.m., Tuesday, July 25, Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage, 10782 South Jacob Smart Blvd, Ridgeland. Suggested $5 donation. Author, historian, and photographer Daniel McDonald Johnson explores the people and places of the Savannah River region in the American Revolution. Mr. Johnson’s areas of research include emigration from the Scottish Highlands to America, the southern American colonial experience, and The American Revolution. For more information please visit https://www. morrisheritagecenter.org/event-5247038.

Port Royal Lecture Series: Who Was Here? Native Americans Before and During European Settlements 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 26, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 1004 11th Street, Port Royal. $25 per person – Seating is

limited. Lecturers are Stephen Criswell, Professor Chris Judge, and Evan Nooe, University of South Carolina Native American Studies Center. Buy tickets at https://historic-port-royal-foundation. square.site/.

LIBRARY ACTIVITIES

Dungeons & Dragons

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

Lego Club

4:30 to 5:30 p.m., Mondays, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St. Helena Island, 843-2556540. All ages welcome.

Teen Art Club

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

Teen Anime Club

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

2 to 4 p.m., Wednesdays, June 21, June 29, Computer Lab, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St. Helena Island. Assistance available with the Medicaid renewal and enrollment process. Help is free and provided by League of Women Voters volunteers, no appointment necessary. Information on the end of automatic renewals (aka Medicaid unwinding) and on Medicaid expansion efforts in the state.

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

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

Chess Club

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

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

Chess Meet Up 11 a.m., 3rd Saturday of each month, Lobeco Branch Library, 1862 Trask Parkway, 843-255-6479. Instructor Henry Otto Seim will show beginners the basics or play a friendly game with more experienced players. All skill levels welcome. Extra boards will be set up.

MEETINGS

The Beaufort Trailblazers –

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

Zonta Club of Beaufort 6 p.m., 4th Tuesday of each month, Smokehouse, Port Royal.

MUSIC

Harmony for Homes

7 to 9 p.m., Wednesday, June 28, First Presbyterian Church Hilton Head Island, 540 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. $30. Music enthusiasts and supporters of affordable housing will come together for an unforgettable evening of music, community, and philanthropy at the muchanticipated concert, “Harmony for Homes.” This charitable event is presented by SERG and headlined by Mac Powell, former frontman and lead singer of the legendary, fourtime, Grammy Award-winning band, “Third Day.” Tickets can be purchased at www. habitathhi.org/harmonyforhomes.

OUTDOORS

The Beaufort Tree Walk

Lady’s Island Garden Club invites you to take a meandering walk through the Historic “Old Point” and enjoy some unique and noteworthy trees. The “Walk” takes about an hour, is a little over a mile starting at the corner of Craven & Carteret streets in Morrall Park and concluding in Waterfront Park. Booklets with map and information about each tree are available free at the Visitors Center in the historic Arsenal on Craven Street.

SPORTS/GAMES

ACBL Duplicate Bridge Club

9:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m., Tuesdays, Carteret St. United Methodist Church. Games and events will be held weekly. Director Gene Ogden. Contact Jane Simpson 803-226-3491.

Beaufort Masters Swim Team

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

Christopher J. Geier Attorney at Law, LLC

Defense & Civil Litigation

Professional Village Circle, Lady's Island Office: 843-986-9449 • Fax: 843-986-9450 chris@bftsclaw.com • www.geierlaw.com

| 843-522-0655

THURSDAY’S CARTOON

Read

ANNOUNCEMENTS DONATE YOUR CAR TO KIDS. Your donation helps fund the search for missing children. Accepting Trucks, Motorcycles & RV’s , too! Fast Free Pickup – Running or Not – 24 Hour Response – Maximum Tax Donation – Call (888) 515-3810

BATHROOM RENOVATIONS. EASY, ONE DAY updates! We specialize in safe bathing. Grab bars, no slip flooring & seated showers. Call for a free in-home consultation: 844-524-2197

Tuesday, June 27, 2023 is the last day to redeem winning tickets in the following South Carolina Education Lottery Instant Games: (1448) CAROLINA SUPER CASH Caring for an aging loved one? Wondering about options like senior-living communities and in-home care? Caring.com’s Family Advisors are here to help take the guesswork out of senior care for you and your family. Call for your FREE, no-obligation consultation: 1-855-212-9230

Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 833-2308692 DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance – NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855397-7030 www.dental50plus.com/60 #6258 Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts. Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees cancelled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 833-638-3767

AUCTIONS

ESTATE AUCTION. Sat., June 24 at 9:30

AM. 1077 Shillings Bridge Road. Orangeburg, SC. 284 Intl. Tractor, 85 S10 Pickup (15k actual miles), zero turn mower, tons of tools, trailers, shop equip, coins, estate shotguns, nice furniture, antiques, glassware, country store collectibles, much more! Two auctioneers selling! Browse web at www.cogburnauction.com (803) 860-0712

ADVERTISE YOUR AUCTION in 99 S.C. newspapers for only $375. Your 25-word classified ad will reach more than 2.1 million readers. Call Randall Savely at the S.C. Newspaper Network, 1-888-727-7377.

HELP WANTED – DRIVERS

ADVERTISE YOUR DRIVER JOBS in 99 S.C. newspapers for only $375. Your 25word classified ad will reach more than 2.1 million readers. Call Randall Savely at the S.C. Newspaper Network, 1-888727-7377.

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE

Never clean your gutters again! Affordable, professionally installed gutter

guards protect your gutters and home from debris and leaves forever! For a FREE Quote call: 877-324-3132

NEED NEW FLOORING? Call Empire

Today to schedule a FREE in-home estimate on Carpeting & Flooring. Call Today! 844-254-3873

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator. $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment

Options. Request a FREE Quote. Call now before the next power outage: 1-844775-0366

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-875-2449.

Up to $15,000.00 of GUARANTEED Life Insurance! No medical exam or health questions. Cash to help pay funeral and other final expenses. Call Physicians Life Insurance Company – 855-837-7719 or visit www.Life55plus.info/scan

TELEVISION & INTERNET SERVICES

DIRECTV Stream – Carries the Most Local MLB Games! CHOICE Package, $89.99/mo for 12 months. Stream on 20 devices in your home at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/CHOICE Package or higher.) No annual contract, no hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-855-237-9741

DIRECTV. New 2-Year Price Guarantee. The most live MLB games this season, 200+ channels and over 45,000 on-demand titles. $84.99/mo for 24 months with CHOICE Package. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-844-6241107

Dish Network: Only from Dish- 3 year TV Price Guarantee! 99% Signal Reliability, backed by guarantee. Includes MultiSport with NFL Redzone. Switch and Get a FREE $100 Gift Card. Call today! 1-877542-0759

FREE high speed internet for those that qualify. Government program for recipients of select programs incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet service. Bonus offer: Android tablet FREE with one-time $20 copay. Free shipping & handling. Call Maxsip Telecom today! 1-855-851-8201

VACATION RENTALS

Short Term Rental

Go to, TideWatch Vacations, Menu Bars, Vacation Rentals, St. Helena Island, #64 ADVERTISE YOUR VACATION PROPERTY FOR RENT OR SALE to more than 2.1 million S.C. newspaper readers. Your 25-word classified ad will appear in 99 S.C. newspapers for only $375. Call Randall Savely at the South Carolina Newspaper Network, 1-888-727-7377.

YOUR AD HERE

Email Amanda (amanda@lcweekly.com) to place your classified ad here!