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FOR THE GREATER GOOD
While Madison Hicks, front and center, was a little disappointed her graduation ceremony at Parris Island was canceled, she and her family were still proud of her new Marine status. Photo by Mindy Lucas.
Making the best of things
Despite graduation ceremony’s cancelation, new Marine proud to be part of the corps
By Mindy Lucas
M
adison Hicks was a little disappointed that she didn’t get to walk across the parade deck at Parris Island for her graduation from the Marine Corps on Friday, March 13. After all, becoming a Marine is not an everyday thing. At least not for Hicks and her family. “We were planning on spending two nights, but we’ll probably turn around and go home in the morning,” said Hick’s aunt, Peggy Smith, who had driven 16 hours from Dallas on Thursday to see her niece graduate. Other members of the family flew in from Oregon. All found out the ceremony had been canceled shortly after arriving in town. The Marine Corps Recruit Depot announced on Thursday that it was canceling the remaining family day
activities, which started on Wednesday, and Friday’s graduation ceremony “out of an abundance of caution.” Though an announcement made on Facebook never mentioned the coronavirus, the statement said, “We understand the significance of this event to Marines and their families,
Hours after hearing about the cancellation they were resting under the Pavilion in Beaufort’s Waterfront Park and taking in the views. “It’s beautiful down here,” Smith said. “Just gorgeous.” Sporting a new scarlet and gold USMC sweatshirt, Hicks, while a bit disappointed, was still proud to be a newly minted Marine. “Getting to walk across the parade deck as a female Marine is kind of a big deal because we’re a small group that make up the Marine Corps.” As she noted, female Marines, as they are called in the corps, make up less than 10 percent of the Marine Corps and Parris Island is the only basic-training site in the country for women in the Corps. But Hicks also understood the decision to cancel Friday’s ceremony, she said.
Getting to walk across the parade deck as a female Marine is kind of a big deal because we’re a small group that make up the Marine Corps.” but we must remain cautious and focused on public safety.” While Hicks’ family members were also a bit disappointed, they still seemed to be enjoying their family reunion of sorts.
SEE MARINE PAGE A4
COVERING BEAUFORT COUNTY
Global pandemic hits home
Beaufort’s health officials, emergency managers brace for coronavirus, along with the rest of the country By Mindy Lucas Last week, just a week after the first few cases of novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, in South Carolina were announced, the number of confirmed cases of the virus suddenly doubled in the Palmetto State. A few days later, on March Kurt 13, the number Gambla doubled again. At press time, on Tuesday, March 17, there were a total of 47 cases in South Carolina, including four confirmed cases in Beaufort County. And while health officials have said to expect that number to continue to grow, especially now that testing is becoming more available, officials on the front lines say it’s more important than ever to practice those preventive measures – wash your hands, avoid crowds, practice social distancing – now so common in everyday vernacular that even young children can recite them. “All of these general measures are super important and they’re all we have right now,” said Beaufort Memorial Hospital’s Chief Medical Officer Kurt Gambla. Since last week, the hospital has tightened its visita-
FEELING SICK OR HAVING SYMPTOMS? If you’re feeling sick or are concerned you may have COVID-19, call your primary care physician or urgent care center, or use Beaufort Memorial Hospital’s telemedicine service, before showing up in person. BMH Care Anywhere is available in the App Store, on Google Play and at www. bmhcareanywhere.org. For more information about COVID-19 guidelines, testing criteria and self-isolation instructions visit www. scdhec.gov/health/ infectious-diseases or www.cdc.gov/coronavirus. Members of the public who would like information related to COVID-19 may also contact the DHEC Care Line at (855) 4723432. A triage nurse will be available to provide guidance.
tion policy allowing only one visitor per patient and has expanded that “one-visitor” policy to all of its outpatient sites as well. It has also separated the sick from others coming into its Emergency Room and is encouraging those who feel sick to use its telemedicine service, BMH Care Anywhere,
SEE PANDEMIC PAGE A4
Governor’s order closes SC schools Beaufort County Schools will feed children during shutdown
The sign at Port Royal Elementary is representative of all Beaufort County Schools. Photo by Bob Sofaly.
NOT ROLLING ON THE RIVER
From staff reports As expected, with the numbers of COVID-19 cases increasing, Gov. Henry McMaster on Sunday ordered all South Carolina schools to close until March 31. All school-related events, including after-school activities and spring sports, have been put on hold by the governor’s order. A news release from Beaufort
BACK WITH A BANG
Cruise line cancels weekend cruises to Beaufort.
Beaufort weightlifter, Dade Stanley, claims bronze at American Open.
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County School District said while schools are closed, students will be able to participate in online learning activities. The schools will communicate with parents on Monday about those procedures, and paper-based work packets will be prepared for students who don’t have Internet access at home. “This is an unprecedented situation, something that has never
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occurred in our lifetimes,” Superintendent Frank Rodriguez said in a release. “But our school teams have been preparing for this, and they’re moving forward with their plans.” Alleviating food concerns In addition to at-home lessons, the school district will offer free breakfasts and lunches on weekdays at
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LOWCOUNTRY LIFE & NEWS
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Ian DeWitt captured this photo of an egret at sunset. 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.
PAL PETS OF THE WEEK Cat of the Week: Maggie is one special guy. He loves all things catnip, feathers and his buddies in Room 3. He loves to greet new people that come into his room and he will also tell you all of the gossip. He is neutered, microchipped and up to date on vaccinations.
SALES/BUSINESS Marketing Director
Dog of the Week: Artica is one sweet girl with those baby blues. She loves to be outside in the sun and play with anything that squeaks. She would prefer to be the queen of her castle so she does not have to share the love. Those adorable ears certainly know the word treat and walk. She is spayed, microchipped, and up to date on vaccinations.
Amanda Hanna Meet these and other pets from noon to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday at the Palmetto Animal League Adoption Center. Email us at info@ palmettoanimalleague.org or call 843-645-1725 for more information.
GETTING THEIR GREEN ON
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Beaufort Town Center held its 3rd annual St. Patrick’s Day Fesitval on Saturday. Tracy O’Hanlon, right, lets Rachel Piazza, 3, pet her 13-year-old dog Paco.
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MARCH 19–25, 2020
Diane Ashdon, left, of Sassi Faces paints Spider Man’s web on Gavin Killebrew, 6. Face painting was just of many fun events at the 3rd annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival. The annual event is to benefit the Beaufort County Animal Services. Photos by Bob Sofaly.
Unless otherwise credited, all content of The Island News, including articles, photos, editorial content, letters, art and advertisements, is copyrighted by The Island News and Island News Publishing, LLC, 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; all efforts for accuracy are made. The Island News provides a community forum for news, events, straight talk opinions and advertisements. The Island News reserves the right to refuse to sell advertising space, or to publish information, for any business or activity the newspaper deems inappropriate for the publication.
NEWS
Union troops return to Beaufort
A Civil War re-enactor shows visitors how the cannon fired.
Pvt. Robert Wallace, left, describes what life was like for the private soldier during the Civil War.
By Bob Sofaly The Beaufort History Museum presented its fifth annual Living History Encampment on Saturday at the Arsenal
on Craven Street. Re-enactors with the 6th Connecticut Army, Company H portrayed Union Soldiers garrisoned in Beaufort during the Civil War.
Sgt. Lou Evans holds “Old Glory” as visitors enter the Arsenal during the annual Living History Encampment at the Arsenel on Craven Street. Photos by Bob Sofaly
Dancing With Our Stars for CAPA of Beaufort
Beaufort River Swim+5K run set Beaufort River Swim+5K Run will be Saturday, June 6, in downtown Beaufort. New this year is the addition of a 5K Run which will follow the 3.2-mile competitive open-water race and the 1-mile Fun Swim. The 5K Run, presented by Beaufort Memorial Hospital, means there will be multiple options for participants: Swim, swim and run, run, or team up for a relay. The 5K Run route starts on Bay Street, traverses the Woods Memorial Bridge, turns into Meridian Rd, turns around and returns along the same route back to Bay Street. Competitive swimmers, triathletes, high school, college and recreational fitness swimmers and runners will have a chance to challenge themselves beyond the pool. The BRS+5K Run benefits the YMCA Learn to Swim Program, which allows the Y to teach water safety and swimming lessons to children and adults in need in our community for little to no cost. Registration for all BRs+5K events is completed online. Visit beaufortriverswim. com. For more information including sponsorship opportunities contact Event Director Denice Fanning at d.fanning@wardlefamilyymca,org or 843-521-1904.
Pictured here are Kevin Green and Kathy Ingram wowing the crowd with their polished dance moves. Photos by Bob Sofaly.
Packet’s Farrell hired as PIO for Beaufort Co.
CAPA of Beaufort raised about $200,000 during it’s annual Dancing With Our Stars benefit held Saturday. This year’s winners included Douglas Massalon and Megan Howe — People’s Choice; Ginger Wareham and Ashtin Bellamy — Best Costume; Kimani Brown-Carpenter and Mona Lise Dickson — Judges’ Choice; and Sonya Reiselt and Michael Ulloa — Alumni Choice
Korey Bromery, left, and Erin Hancock got a little funky during Saturday night’s Dancing With Our Stars. The team performed a very physically challenging routine as can be seen in this photo.
Jessica Tomasoki, a Beaufort firefighter, reacts to the affection from a flame, Chris Crabb, that seems to have fallen in love with her during a dream for their interpretive dance performance during the annual Dancing With Our Stars benefit for CAPA of Beaufort.
Under New Ownership!
By Mike McCombs Liz Farrell, columnist and senior editor at The Island Packet and Beaufort Gazette, has been named Public Information Officer for Beaufort County, County Administrator Ashley Jacobs confirmed on Tuesday afternoon. Farrell has been instrumental in The Island Packet’s coverage of the controversy surrounding recently resigned Beaufort County Council chairman Stu Rodman. A 1997 graduate of Gettysburg (Pa.) College, Farrell has been at The Island Packet for more than 16 years, starting as a copy desk chief in 2003. She also served as Entertainment Editor and Features Editor before moving into her current position in February of 2015. Previously, she worked at the Frederick (Md.) News-Post and the Gettysburg (Pa.) Times.
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CORONAVIRUS UPDATE
2 Marines based at Parris Island self-quarantining; 10-day leave period for new Marines suspended By Mindy Lucas Two Marines based at Parris Island are in self-quarantine after traveling overseas, according to officials at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. The individuals – a chief warrant officer and a master gunnery sergeant – are “asymptomatic” in that they are
not showing or presenting any symptoms of the coronavirus, or COVID-19, said Captain Bryan McDonnell, director of communication strategy and operations at the Depot. The officers work at the base and were on leave when they elected to self-quarantine, McDonnell said. Currently, there are no cas-
es of COVID-19 at the base, he said. In addition, the Marine Corps announced on Monday, March 16, that it has temporarily suspended the standard 10-day leave period granted to new Marines following their graduation from recruit training. The move was made “in
accordance with the latest Department of Defense guidance regarding COVID-19” and was designed to preserve the readiness of the force, the statement said. The statement went on to say, “While we understand this is challenging for new Marines and their families, this policy protects Marines, their
families, Civilian Marines, and the community at-large from additional exposure.” The Depot has plans to live stream all graduations during this period, which will be available on the Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island’s official Facebook page. After graduation, all new Marines will report to the
corps’ School of Infantry, where the next phase of their entry-level training will begin. From there, they will continue on to their assigned unit or additional formal training as required, the statement said. The leave policy is effective through May 11 and will be reviewed based on conditions at the time.
Hargray launches free Internet service for students, discounted services for customers By Mindy Lucas For families, students, or those working from home during the coronavirus outbreak, a regional telecommunications company has stepped in to make things a little easier.
Pandemic from page A1
or its Call Ahead service, which can provide patients with medical attention before going into a healthcare center or opting for a higher level of care. But the biggest change in how health officials are proceeding since last week, Dr. Gambla said by phone on Friday, March 13, is that permission to go ahead with specimen collection has been lifted. “Before, in order for DHEC to process the specimen …we needed to present the case, get those permissions, collect the sample and send it to them,” he said. Now, all that is needed is a physician order to collect a specimen, though the hospital will still have to complete forms citing why the test is needed and will follow an “algorithm” in deciding who should get tested. That algorithm will include such symptoms as a fever, dry cough and shortness of breath. In addition, the patient will be asked about recent travel and close contact with anyone diagnosed with, or awaiting results for, COVID-19. Health officials are also expecting other labs, in addition to the state’s lab, to come online soon, to help process the tests. “Our hope and expectation is that as more labs become available and the testing process gets refined and better, the ultimate result that everybody is hoping for and expecting is the turn around time will be quicker,” he said. In the meantime, the hospital’s emergency management team is meeting two to three times a day to discuss or update planning as needed. “Everything that we do is driven off the latest and evolving CDC and DHEC guidance,” he said. Dr. Gambla, who lives in
Marine from page A1
“There are a lot of recruits who are just coming in to training, so they are their main priority. The priority is
Schools from page A1
regional pick-up locations across the county. The first availability was lunch on Monday. “Thousands of Beaufort County families depend on our schools to provide meals for kids, and we don’t want the current emergency to stop that,” Rodriguez said Sunday. “Our food service contractor,
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MARCH 19–25, 2020
Hargray will begin offering free Internet service for 60 days to households with K-12 or college students in its service area who do not already have a Hargray Internet subscription, according to a release issued by the Beaufort and has family himself, said that while he, personally, was concerned, he was not panicked. “The concern is how do we get ahead of this thing and how prepared are we in terms of our own training, our protocols and resources, so what makes me concerned but not panicked is we are very, very well prepared,” he said, adding that the hospital has a number of contingency plans in place, in response to an increase in cases.
company on Monday, March 16. To learn more about the program and to enroll, visit www.hargray.com/freeinternet. In addition, Hargray is offering discounted Internet
speed upgrades to existing customers who may need additional bandwidth to accommodate higher Internet usage in their homes during this time. Hargray will also offer discounted packages to new customers without K-12
CLOSINGS, CANCELLATIONS AND POSTPONEMENTS *As of press time, Tuesday, March 17 City, County and Federal Offices/ Departments The following is closed through March 31: • Beaufort County Alcohol and Drug Abuse Department • Beaufort County Animal Shelter • Beaufort County Assessor’s Office • Beaufort County Auditor • Beaufort County Business License Department • Beaufort County Detention Center (all visitations are suspended until further notice) • Beaufort County Disabilities and Special Needs Department (all nonessential programming) • Beaufort County Parks and Recreation (all facilities and pools) • Beaufort County Probate Court (closed to in-person access, except for filing of documents, making payments or emergency hearings not held by video or telephone conference) • Beaufort County Public Libraries • Beaufort County Records Management • Beaufort County Register of Deeds and Public Deed Room • Beaufort County Treasurer’s Office • Beaufort Magistrate Court • Beaufort Municipal Court (cases canceled through March 26) • Reconstruction Era National Historical Park Visitor Center
or college students. To learn more about these offers, call 877-427-4729. The company has also taken the “Keep Americans Connected” pledge launched by the Federal Communications Commission. As part of
and York Glover (postponed/ TBA) • Beaufort County’s Historic Preservation Review Board, Airports Board and Southern Beaufort County Corridor Beautification Board • Beaufort County School Board (all March meetings) • Cat Island Community Meeting (postponed/ TBA) • City of Beaufort (all public meetings except council meetings are cancelled; live city council meetings can be viewed on the city’s Facebook page) • City parks (closed to public events and programming; parks will be open for passive recreation, such as walking or jogging) • Mossy Oaks Task Force Meeting Schools and Universities The following is closed through March 31: • Beaufort County School District – all schools • Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools at Laurel Bay • Lowcountry Montessori School • St. Peter’s Catholic School • Technical College of the Lowcountry • University of South Carolina Beaufort classes will transition to online instruction starting March 23 and will run through April 5; residence halls closed through April 5
the pledge, the company will waive late fees and not terminate service to residential or small business customers that are unable to pay their bills due to economic circumstances related to coronavirus.
• USC Beaufort’s Center for the Arts (all events, author luncheons, Monday movie nights, Met Opera live in HD, Women’s Wellness Weekend, rehearsals, auditions and performances through April 5 are cancelled and will be rescheduled as soon as possible) Museums • Beaufort History Museum and Visitors Center at The Arsenal • John Mark Verdier House Museum Sporting Events/ Outdoor Recreation • Carolinas Classic All-Star Basketball games • First Tee of the Lowcountry (all lessons cancelled until further notice) • Hunting Island Lighthouse Tours (cancelled through March 31) • Palmetto Sportsmen’s Classic in Columbia
County and City Government The county officially enacted its Emergency Ordinance on Monday, March 16, in which members of Beaufort County Council met and declared a public health emergency. At the meeting, County Administrator Ashley Jacobs said that in a pandemic situation, the county follows the state’s protocols for responding. “S.C. DHEC is the lead agency for this,” she said. County council members at Monday’s meeting also encouraged residents to avoid crowds and practice social distancing. In addition, the county has enacted its own emergency plan closing some county buildings or offices through at least Tuesday, March 31. Some of those include library branches, recreational facilities and pools and such offices as the assessor’s office. It has also taken steps to limit staff availability or, in some cases, has encouraged staff to conduct business by telephone and electronically as much as possible. And residents can do their part, county officials say. For those offices that will remain open, the county has asked that residents limit their interactions with county staff as much as possible, to expect social distancing, and to do as much business they need to do with the county online.
Residents are also strongly encouraged to limit their visits to county buildings unless they have an urgent business matter that must be handled in person. Taking a similar course of action, the city of Beaufort has curtailed its activities in response to the outbreak. All public meetings, except council meetings, have been canceled, and city staffing has been reduced to minimal levels. Non-essential staff will work from home when possible. Residents can watch live council meetings on the city’s Facebook page and are also encouraged to call City Hall at 843-525-7070 before coming in for any service.
The shelves at the BiLo store on Parris Island Gateway are empty, a sign of the times due to the coronavirus scare. Photo by Bob Sofaly.
to keep their recruits safe so it does make sense to me,” she said. And it didn’t stop Hicks mother, Roxie Eslick, from beaming with pride. Eslick, who has a son in the army, said she was still getting used to the idea that her 19-year-
old daughter was now a Marine. “I mean my girl. She just graduated from high school,” she said. “She’s definitely matured.” Eslick said they were able to attend a practice graduation held at the base on
Wednesday. “So we got lucky,” she said. “It’s definitely not the same, but it was still special.” Hicks who was a little more stoic about the situation, said that finally being able to see her family – which kept her going through some of the
rougher times in training – was nice. And while a ceremony would have also been nice for all the families coming in, she said, for Hicks it was always about getting that Eagle, Globe and Anchor. The “EGA” emblem, as
it is sometimes referred to, is placed in the hands of recruits who have completed their training in a private ceremony which signifies they are now Marines. “The day we got our EGAs, that’s the day I knew I was a Marine,” she said.
Sodexo, has set up a distribution system we can fine-tune as needed in the days ahead.” Rodriguez said any child age 18 or younger can receive free breakfasts and lunches regardless of meal status during the school year. Meals will be prepared and transported to 12 sites across the county: Battery Creek High School, Beaufort High School, Beaufort Middle School, Bluffton High School, Hilton Head Island High School, James J. Davis Early Childhood Cen-
ter, Okatie Elementary School, Red Cedar Elementary School, St. Helena Elementary School, Whale Branch Early College High School, Whale Branch Middle School and the Port Royal YMCA. Students who can’t get to these 12 locations can get meals at stops along special school bus routes that will operate during the district school shutdown. Each stop for meal drop-offs will last for about 20 minutes. The breakfast and lunch routes can be
found at beaufortschools.net. Drive-through meal pickups will be available in the bus rider drop-offs at each location from 7:15-8:45 a.m. (breakfast) and 10:30 a.m.1:30 p.m. (lunch). Students must be present at the time of pick up. All food will be “grab-and-go,” with no food consumed on site. No one will be allowed in the school buildings. Breakfast items will vary and may include cereal with milk, fruit, Fruit Frudels, whole
grain Pop Tarts, cereal bars, milk and juice. Lunches will be sandwiches, fruit, fresh vegetables and milk. Other schools closed, as well Schools are closed for MCAS Beaufort as well, according to a statement on the MCAS Beaufort Facebook page: “In alignment with Governor McMaster’s announcement that all public schools will be closed and in cooperation with Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA), the commanding
officer of MCAS Beaufort authorizes the closure of all DoDEA schools on Laurel Bay. DoDEA will be sending out more information regarding the closure shortly.” Lowcountry Montessori School is closed for the next two weeks, as well. Parents were notified in an email that went out Sunday morning. Beaufort Academy, Holy Trinity Classic Christian School and St. Peter’s Catholic School are also through March 31.
Public Meetings The following has been cancelled unless otherwise noted by reschedule date: • Beaufort County Council Meetings will continue but residents are encouraged to watch online or via The County Channel • Beaufort County District Meetings for Council Members Chris Hervochon
Community Events and Performances The following has been cancelled unless otherwise noted by reschedule date: • Beaufort Twilight Run • Coastal Stage Productions’ “Why Do Fools Fall In Love” at AmVets • Coastal Stage Productions’ “Always A Bridesmaid” at AmVets (rescheduled for May 22-24) • Family Promise of Beaufort’s “A Night of Promise” (rescheduled for Oct. 29) • Great Helicopter Egg Drop at Beaufort Academy
Community Meetings/ Other Miscellaneous Events The following has been cancelled unless otherwise noted by reschedule date: • Beaufort County Democratic Party Convention • Beaufort Digital Corridor (all events until further notice) • Democratic Club-South of the Broad regularly scheduled meetings and precinct organizing meeting (conference call to be held at 10 a.m. on March 21) • Fripp Island Audubon Club’s March meeting • Greater Bluffton Republican Club’s Republican of the Year Dinner (Reschedule date TBA) Have a cancellation or closing? Please send those to theislandnews@gmail.com. Items are printed where space is available. The deadline for consideration is Friday by 5 p.m. before the next Thursday’s print date.
CORONAVIRUS UPDATE
Cruise line cancels weekend cruises to Beaufort By Mindy Lucas A cruise line company which specializes in small capacity passenger cruises with stops in Beaufort canceled its cruises to the city for the weekend. American Cruise Lines, which has two itineraries that includes Beaufort as a stop, has cancelled cruises that were to take place on Saturday, March 14, said Alexa Paolella, public relations manager for the company. When contacted earlier on Friday, March 13, Paolella said there were no plans “at the moment” to cancel cruises but contacted The Island News later to say the company had cancelled cruises for the weekend – an indication of just how quickly businesses and organizations are changing planned events and recreational activities in response to the coronavirus outbreak. A ship from the cruise line could be seen in Beaufort as recently as Thursday, March 12, despite earlier travel advisories from both the U.S.
Department of State and the Centers for Disease Control recommending that travelers, particularly those with underlying health issues, defer all cruise ship travel worldwide. “… Because of the unusual nature of the novel coronavirus outbreak, the US government is advising US travelers, particularly those with underlying health issues, to defer cruise ship travel,” the CDC stated. “Recent reports of COVID-19 on cruise ships highlight the risk of infection to cruise ship passengers and crew. Like many other viruses, COVID-19 appears to spread more easily between people in close quarters aboard ships.” Asked if Saturday’s cancellations were in response to the outbreak, Paolella stopped short saying that “in general yes,” but that the company had experienced cancellations by passengers which affected their decision. Those passengers were given the option to select another cruise or the same itinerary at a later date, she said.
A cruise ship from American Cruise Lines stopped as recently as Thursday, March 12, in Beaufort, and passengers could be seen disembarking. Photo by Mindy Lucas. One of the ships will still dock at Waterfront Park on Saturday but with only a minimal crew and will not have any passengers, said Kathleen Williams, communications/ marketing manager for the City of Beaufort. When asked earlier in the day about cruises to Beaufort, Williams said the city does not have the authority to prevent ships from the cruise line from stopping in Beaufort or disembarking passengers.
“That authority would come from the State of South Carolina, and/or DHEC,” she said. Safe Harbor Marinas, which manages the Beaufort Marina, gave permission for the ship to dock, in coordination with Beaufort City Manager Bill Prokop, she said, so while visitors will still see the ship in port, there will be no passengers onboard. Unlike larger cruise lines, which can carry thousands of passengers and visit foreign
ports, American Cruise Lines specializes in domestic river and coastal cruises, and operates ships that only have a capacity of 100-200 passengers. The company offers two cruises that feature stops in Beaufort. One, an 8-day trip called the “Historic South and Golden Isles Cruise,” stops in Charleston, Beaufort and Hilton Head before heading on to Georgia and Florida. Another, an 11-day “East Coast Inland Passage Cruise,” includes
stops in Beaufort and Hilton Head before departing the state. The company also sent a statement on Friday after being contacted earlier in the day: “American Cruise Lines has implemented the Coronavirus Prevention Measures from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and we are actively monitoring the situation.We have adopted all current pre-screening measures and rigorous shipboard sanitation techniques. American will continue to update procedures and take all appropriate steps to ensure the safety of our guests, crew, and the communities we visit,” the statement read. The next scheduled dates for cruises that include stops in Beaufort are March 22 and March 29, Paolella confirmed. As of Friday, those cruises were “still on” but added that additional changes to cruise schedules could be forthcoming “in light of circumstances.”
Roundup: Beaufort Twilight Run canceled; USC Beaufort, TCL going online From staff reports The Beaufort Twilight Run, presented by Habersham Properties, has announce this year’s race, scheduled for March 21, has been canceled, according to a Sunday release from organizers. “Like many of you, we were holding out hope that the event would have a chance to go on as planned,” the release said. “However, with the escalation of the coronavirus since last week, and especially with confirmed cases in Beaufort County as of (Saturday), we have determined the only clear path forward is to cancel the 12th annual Beaufort Twilight Run scheduled for March 21. We are heartbroken not to host this year’s
event, but the safety of our community, school and race participants is our top priority.” According to the release, race registrants and sponsors were to receive an email with instructions and details regarding refunds, picking up event merchandise, etc., later on Sunday.
This comes after USCB extended Spring Break for one week, March 1621, following extensive internal discussions and consults with state and local health officials/experts. Residence Halls were to close Tuesday, March 17, at 5 p.m. and will remain closed through Sunday, April 5.
USC Beaufort transitioning to online
TCL closing, shifting to online classes
In response to Governor Henry McMaster's State of Emergency declaration Sunday ordering the closure of all public education, USC Beaufort will transition from in-person instruction to online instruction March 23-April 5.
The Technical College of the Lowcountry is canceling in-person classes through March 31. For currently enrolled students: more information about course delivery will be forthcoming on Monday. TCL will provide additional information related to fac-
ulty, staff and employees as information becomes available later Sunday night. Over the next few days, TCL will be transitioning to all online course delivery. As the situation evolves, the school will post any pertinent information related to college plans at www.tcl.edu/emergency.
Historic Beaufort Foundation closes Verdier House, halts Lafayette Soiree ticket sales
The Historic Beaufort Foundation announced Sunday in a release the
temporarily closure of the John Mark Verdier House Museum to the public and the postponement the sale of tickets for the Lafayette Soiree. “Along with cultural organizations across the country, we are closely watching the spread and impact of COVID-19,” the release said. “Employing guidance from our state and local health departments, as well as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), we have provided ongoing updates to our visitors and staff about the best ways to protect themselves and limit the spread of the virus.” HBF will re-assess in two weeks. It will also make a decision this week regarding possible postponement of of the group’s annual meeting.
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A5
EDUCATION & SPORTS
Holmes deals, Winland goes deep as Eagles top Sharks By LowcoSports.com Oliver Holmes tossed a complete game and Paul Winland went deep to lead Beaufort High baseball to a 3-1 win at May River on Thursday. Holmes struck out seven, walked three, and allowed five hits, and he took a shutout into the seventh. May River’s Zach Murdaugh matched zeroes with Holmes for three innings, but Winland’s one-out bomb to center broke the scoreless tie in the fourth. The Eagles pushed across two more runs in the inning with the aid of a pair of walks, a passed ball that allowed a strikeout victim to reach, and a wild pitch that scored a run. Holmes made it hold up, but the Sharks made him work in the seventh. Bennett Roemers, Elijah Peter, and Darrin Horn all singled to load the bases for the Sharks, and Winland was unable to handle John Pesaturo’s sharp grounder to third, putting May River on the board and moving the tying run into scoring position with one out. But the Beaufort left-hander was up to the task, recording a strikeout and getting a ground ball to second to seal the win. Murdaugh struck out seven and walked two over five innings, allowing three runs (one earned) on four hits, and Peter struck out three over two perfect innings in relief. For daily coverage of local sports news, visit LowcoSports.com.
Sports world put on hold due to coronavirus pandemic By LowcoSports.com From youth sports to the pros, the sporting world has called a timeout in an effort to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus pandemic. The South Carolina Independent Schools Association (SCISA) announced last week it would suspend all athletics events until April 3, and the S.C. High School League (SCHSL) followed suit Monday and called for
the suspension of sport activities, including practices and workouts, through April 5. Local youth and recreational leagues also shut down their programs indefinitely and will reassess the status of their spring seasons at the end of the month. The Lowco Basketball Showcase, which had been scheduled for March 27-28 at Beaufort Academy, also will be postponed until a later date.
“With the health and safety of the participants and fans in mind, as well as the overall health of the community, we wanted to operate with an abundance of caution,” LowcoSports founder Justin Jarrett said. “We want the Lowco Basketball Showcase to be an inviting community event for all ages. Given that public health experts are discouraging large gatherings, we didn’t feel it
was wise to pack up to 500 Lowcountry basketball fans into the gym and potentially put one another at risk. We wouldn’t want anyone who is at-risk, such as the elderly, children, or people who are immunocompromised to feel discouraged from attending the event.” The pandemic has resulted in the postponement or cancellation of virtually every sporting event around
the globe. Public health experts recommend taking aggressive “social distancing” measures to prevent the spread of an epidemic or pandemic and “flatten the curve” to avoid overloading the healthcare system and overtaxing the supply chain. That includes avoiding large gatherings, physical contact, and confined spaces. “We don’t want to be part
of the problem,” Jarrett said. “The Showcase will go on. We will just have to find another date so we can provide a great, entertaining atmosphere where the entire community feels comfortable coming out to celebrate the local talent and support the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Lowcountry in a healthy environment.” For daily coverage of local sports news, visit LowcoSports.com.
BIATHLON AT HUNTING ISLAND
Brisk winds made for difficult paddling Saturday for the annual Adventure Biathlon sponsored by Sea Island Rotary Club. Pictured here are some of the kayakers making their way from the starting point at the Russ Point boat landing.
Kevin Green of Beaufort brings in his kayak after paddling 6 miles in a little more than 50 minutes. Green then had to run a 4.5 mile course through Hunting Island. Green completed the run in less than 42 minutes for an overall time of 1:22:18.7 seconds and came in second place overall. For a complete list of finishers, visit http://groundedrunning.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/ Adventure-Biathlon-Final-Results.pdf. Photos by Bob Sofaly.
Former BCSD interim superintendent Berg earns statewide honor Herbert Berg, former interim Superintendent for Beaufort County School District, was named S.C. Superintendent of the Year by the South Carolina Athletic Administrators Association during its
springtime conference March 11 in Charleston. Berg, a longtime educator in South Carolina and past superintendent in Lexington 5 and Kershaw County school districts, served as Interim
Superintendent in Beaufort County during 2018-2019 and helped transition to the permanent leader, Frank Rodriguez. The athletic administrators from across the state recog-
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STOP CRIMES AGAINST CHILDREN
nized Berg for the initiative he put in place in Beaufort County with stipends for coaches, as well as adding critical athletics facilities to the successful 2019 school bond referendum package. “I am very humbled to receive this award,” Berg said in a release. “I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Beaufort County School District, and
certainly it was a huge thrill to see voters overwhelmingly pass the $345 million referendum last NoHerbert vember. Berg “Passing that referendum is going to make a difference to the entire community for decades to come, start-
ing with classroom instruction but also including upgrades for student athlete facilities.” Berg’s honor was for 3A, 2A and 1A schools. He was nominated by Chad Cox, principal at Battery Creek High School; Carlos Cave, athletic director at Whale Branch Early College High School; and Jon Monmonier, athletic director at Hilton Head Island High School.
EDUCATION BRIEFS
Phi Kappa Phi inducts new members
Two Beaufort residents recently were initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation's oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines. Kimberly Islas (29907) and Nicole Bossak
(29906), both students at The Citadel, were honored. They are among approximately 30,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership.
SPORTS
Stanley back with a bang
By Mike McCombs If someone medals at a weightlifting competition and there is no one there to see it, did it happen? Thank goodness for Dade Stanley’s sake, the answer is yes. Stanley turned in second-place finishes in the snatch and clean and jerk to win the bronze medal in the 89 kg weight class at the American Open on March 7 in Columbus, Ohio. There were no spectators in attendance for the meet, Stanley’s first official meet as a junior, because of precautions taken in response to the COVID-19 navel coronavirus pandemic. “Truthfully, there is no difference between age groups for me,” Stanley said Monday night. “I approach every meet with the same goals and expectations of myself – to lift as
Beaufort weightlifter claims bronze at American Open much as I can. That’s as much as what anyone should expect out of the sport.” Stanley lifted 140 kg on his third attempt in the snatch, after successful lifts of 130 and 136, good for second. In the clean and jerk, he failed to lift 170 kg in his third attempt, which would have meant gold. His first two lifts were good for 155 and 163, also good for second. His total of 303 brought home the bronze medal. Stanley was the only teenager among the top 20 lifters. “Eventually a point will come where your (personal records) become enough to medal, but at that point you’re already doing it for yourself and that’s the most satisfaction one can get,” Stanley said. Stanley sprained his wrist in September, and it has taken a while to get back to the top of his game.
“I went through physical therapy for about three months to get it back to a level where I could put weight overhead,” he said. “Once everything was fully healed, the weights kept climbing because Coach Ray(Jones) had me strengthen my lower body the entire time I was recovering. I knew that some of my records had the potential to be broken at the next meet … but I never set a goal as to what I wanted to achieve at the meet specifically. I was glad to be back on the platform and had a pretty open mindset as to what weights I would attempt.” Stanley and Jones never go into a meet with a particular number in mind. “My coach always calls the weights based on what my warm-ups look like, not a preset number,” Stanley said. “I let him worry about my goals and logistics, while I just do
Photo by LiftingLife. the lifts.” Stanley said he is trying to make as many teams as possible, and that is my main focus, competition-wise. “I’m in the top-10 rankings
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to be selected for the 2020 Junior Pan American Championships,” he said. “If I make the team, that will be my next competition.” While Stanley seems to
have things under control in the weightlifting department, that doesn’t mean his hands aren’t full. The Beaufort High School student is in the process of deciding where he wants to go to college. “I am focused on school and my future. College admissions has definitely been more stressful than lifting because I enjoy what I do very much.” He has applied to and been accepted by Clemson University, the University of South Carolina and College of Charleston, so far. “I’ve been accepted into all three, but the issue is deciding where to go,” he said. “My family and I have always been Gamecock fans, but I’m favoring Clemson at this point. “Only thing left now is to find out which one I like more.” Mike McCombs is the editor of The Island News. He can be reached at TheIslandNews@gmail.com.
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A7
VOICES
Stand up, be heard – government belongs to you
H
ere’s a shout out to South Carolina’s 98 newspapers. It is Sunshine Week, an annual nationwide celebration of access to public information and what it means for you and your community. In these times when the media is increasingly accused of lying, it is appropriate to look at important stories S.C. readers would not likely have gotten recently if it weren’t for newspapers and their reporters: • A dogged weekly newspaper found that in Atlantic Beach general sessions court, 75 percent of the warrants were dismissed because police routinely didn’t show up for court. • Reporters at a daily newspaper exposed how sheriffs across the state lined their pockets on the public’s dime. The five-month investigation found that in the past decade, no fewer than 11 of South Carolina’s 46 counties have seen
BILL ROGERS
their sheriffs accused of breaking laws — nearly one in four. • A reporter combed through 7,000 pages of legal documents to find that more than 1,000 ethics complaints have been lodged against S.C. judges, including allegations of influence peddling and conflicts of interest. Zero judges were punished publicly as a result. • Two Upstate newspapers examined more than 3,200 civil forfeiture cases from across South Carolina. Their reporting showed that police are systematically seizing cash and property — many times from people
who aren’t guilty of a crime — netting millions of dollars each year. • A newspaper used the Freedom of Information Act to prove long-denied allegations that a deputy sheriff had sex with a high school principal in her office and drove her around in his patrol car while on duty. The principal was removed but got a sweetheart deal to go away. • A county magistrate, who had been suspended from the bench, was given a year’s back pay by a county administrator without approval of county council. There are dozens of additional Sunshine Week reporting examples from the past year. And the battle goes on. There has been an effort in the S.C. House of Representative to close public access to business license applications. If passed, this would mean the public could not find out if an objectionable business
is opening in their neighborhood. Who are they trying to protect and why? In the preface to “A Public Officials Guide to Compliance with South Carolina’s Freedom of Information Act,” Attorney General Alan Wilson recommends that, when in doubt, public
bodies should disclose public records, announce meetings correctly and keep meetings open to the public. In reality, public bodies are more likely to listen to their constituents about government transparency. So stand up and be heard when you see a problem.
Not just for Sunshine Week, but for every week of the year. Government belongs to you. Bill Rogers is executive director of the S.C. Press Association, which represents the state’s 15 daily and 83 weekly newspapers. The Press Association has been defending the public’s right to know since 1852.
Finding an opportunity missed in St. Augustine
I
n the 1970s, Beaufort was a small town. If one wanted weekend excitement one had to travel. There was Charleston (Henry’s or Marianne). And there was Atlanta (The Sun Dial or Manuel’s Tavern). But Susan and I often drove down to St. Augustine. In those days St Augustine — like Taos and Key West — was a destination for those of my generation seeking an alternative, off the grid life style. There was live music; candle and incense shops; and small, popup restaurants where one found interesting food and provocative conversation. After our son arrived in 1980, we found that St. Augustine was still a great place to visit. On Friday, we would leave Beaufort at 11 a.m., arriving in St. Augustine in time to deposit our son, Zach, at Castillo San Marcos. Susan and I would walk across the street to
SCOTT GRABER
the White Lion Tavern and drink Portuguese wine until we heard the cannon fire at 5 p.m. We would pay the tab and walk back to the fort where we would find our son waiting on the drawbridge. In those days, we would stay at the St. Francis Inn on St. George Street. This historic inn (1791) comes with courtyard and with guests who usually want to talk. When sitting in the courtyard (with a glass of Chardonnay) it was easy to find common ground. Several weeks ago we decided to make another run to St. Augustine and revisit the scenes of our youthful
indiscretion. Unfortunately there was no room at the St. Francis, so I made a reservation at the Casa de Solana — another stucco on coquina stone house. This one built by Don Manuel Solana in 1763. Casa de Solana also comes with a courtyard, and complimentary wine, and that’s where we found Bill and Lisa. “We’re from Cleveland,” they said. “We’re so very sorry about the Browns,” I said. “It was a disappointing season.” “You don’t know the half of it,” Bill said shaking his head in despair. I’m not good at “sportsspeak,” but every big screen-owning male knows that this was the year the Cleveland Browns were going to take their long-suffering fans to the playoffs. “What’s gets you excited?” I asked trying to change the subject.
“We’re moving to South Carolina,” they replied. “A place called Summerville. Do you know anything about South Carolina?” “No, we really know nothing about South Carolina”, I wanted to say. And, yes, there would have been some truth in that denial. But we told Lisa and Bill we lived in Beaufort. “You must love it,” Lisa said. “Tell us what you love the best.” “Well,” I said, “We don’t have an NFL team, and you won’t able to sit outdoors and watch the Browns.” “I don’t care if we ever sit in a stadium and watch the Browns,” she replied. “And we sure won’t miss the arctic wind that blows into the stadium from the lake,” Bill said. “But you’ve never lived in South Carolina in August,” I said. “There’s constant, corrosive, spirit-killing heat that sucks the energy and
ambition out of your body.” “But you do have air conditioning in South Carolina?” Lisa said. “We also have hurricanes,” I replied. My reluctance to encourage Lisa and Bill has everything to do with the fact that South Carolina is filling up with retirees and that ongoing tsunami has changed the topography. But in York County, S.C, the Republican-led County Council has said “Enough!” That council — trying to control the out-of-control growth at Lake Wylie — has put a 16-month moratorium on commercial and re-zoning requests. This “pause” has the backing of the South Carolina Municipal Association. The Wall Street Journal reports (Feb. 4, 2020) that “Booming towns across the Sunbelt are struggling with unintended consequences of growth. After years of taking
a hands-off approach, they now find themselves without the tax structure or the long term infrastructure plans needed to deal with the present growth …” But, of course, we in Beaufort County had our opportunity (in the 1990s) to put a “Comprehensive Plan” into place that would have controlled growth and, more importantly, designated areas of the County where there would be no serious residential or commercial growth. That plan was disemboweled. Let’s hope that the York County Council has the courage to stay the course and the will to save some of its character, part of its culture, some little thing to distinguish it from the suburbs of Charlotte. Scott Graber is a lawyer, novelist, veteran columnist and longtime resident of Port Royal. Email Scott at cscottgraber@gmail.com.
The best hostess gift I’ve ever given
M
y husband and I attended a dinner party the other night. It was one of those gatherings where one always brings some kind of hostess gift. Many times, we will bring a bottle of wine or maybe some flowers. It depends on the kind of get together. As we were driving over to our friends’ home, my husband said, “Oh, we forgot the wine.” “No,” I replied, “I have something else for them tonight.” As usual, the hostess met us at the door and put the
LEE SCOTT
Now what?
highlighting daily life observations
hostess gift aside as we greeted one another. And her husband tended to our drink requests. We stood chatting around with some of the other couples when we all heard the wife in the kitchen laughing hysterically.
I knew right away, she had opened our hostess gift. She walked into the living room with the bag in her hand and pulled out a roll of toilet paper. Everyone laughed because we all know how precious the gift is right now. After all, how many of us have gone into the stores and discovered empty shelves where once there was toilet paper. We started to discuss other “hostess gifts” that would be welcomed now. Naturally, Purell and other hand sanitizers were on the list, but so was soap and bleach. We also started to discuss the ways in
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which we have changed our own behavior. How long have those wipes at the grocery store been available to wipe the shopping cart? How many of us have regularly used them? How often have we washed our hands for the correct amount of recommended time? After a while, it seemed evident, that regardless of one’s current health, and regardless of a potential virus coming into the community, we believe that the steps being taken now are pretty much common sense. But for the most part, we
just have not been doing them. Little kids have been sneezing into their sleeves for years now, and adults have not. This has been an eye-opener. As we were having dinner, the topic turned to other creative gifts we might give. Our hostess suggested little timers next to the sink that beeped after 20 seconds to let the hand washer know they are finished. Imagine the shame coming back to the dinner table and hearing the beeper go off in the other room. At the end of the evening we started to say goodbye.
There was none of the usual hugging and kissing. We did our “air” kisses to one another and nodded appropriately. We of all people understand the seriousness of the situation. We are all older than 60. But we also acknowledged that good friends and laughter are always a key to good health. Lee Scott, a writer and recent retiree, shares her everyday observations about life after career. A former commercial banker responsible for helping her clients to reach their business objectives, Scott now translates those analytical skills to her writings. She lives on St. Helena Island and enjoys boating, traveling and reading.
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LOCAL ADVERTISING SALES POSITION Island News and Lowcountry Weekly are looking for a an Advertising Sales Rep. to join our growing team in the Beaufort County market. The ideal candidate should have experience in sales and the initiative and ability to develop new sales business for both digital and print ads for our multimedia channels. Our evolving organization is committed to supporting new sales growth by continuing to provide the extraordinary content and reader and client experience we’re known for. Job requirements are: Relevant sales experience; Proficiency with computer software and technology; Valid driver license with a good driving record; Excellent written and oral communications skills; Working knowledge of marketing research. This position can be either full or parttime. If you believe you can positively impact revenue in our company’s creative culture, please send your resume to: video@islc.net
THURSDAY’S CARTOON Read with caution; not necessarily the opinions of the editorial staff.
LAST WEEK'S CROSSWORD & SUDOKU SOLUTIONS
THEME: DRIVER'S ED ACROSS 1. Happen again 6. Promotions 9. Field mouse 13. UV absorber 14. Seek a seat 15. Eagle's nest 16. Jury ____ 17. Mad King George's number 18. Bad-tempered one 19. *Two or more people on the road 21. *Fines can do that? 23. Scot's woolen cap 24. Give an impression 25. Last month 28. Willy Wonka mastermind 30. Lay down to rest again 35. Container weight 37. Damaging precipitation 39. One born to Japanese immigrants 40. Windows alternative 41. Clown act 43. London subway 44. What Motion Picture Association of America does 46. Lentil soup 47. Pulitzer winner Bellow 48. Little Women to Aunt March 50. Victorian and Elizabethan
ones, e.g. 52. Dropped drug 53. Type of dam 55. Post Malone's genre 57. *Traffic separator 60. *Kind of lane 64. Tiger's and lioness' offspring 65. J. Edgar Hoover's org. 67. Capital of Vietnam 68. Between wash and dry 69. 1985 Kurosawa movie 70. Village V.I.P. 71. Brewer's kiln 72. Play part 73. Young salmon DOWN 1. Campus drilling grp. 2. Poet Pound 3. Coconut fiber 4. Not fitting 5. Add a new magazine 6. Seed cover 7. *Punishable driver offense, acr. 8. Like a hurtful remark 9. Action word 10. Like face-to-face exam 11. Don't cross it? 12. Comic cry 15. Keenness in a certain field 20. D-Day beach
22. Old-fashioned over 24. Move like a serpent 25. *Go back the way you came 26. Hawaiian veranda 27. Banal or commonplace 29. *"Raised ____, " or "Don't Walk" 31. Small fragments 32. Bar order, with the 33. Puzzle with pictures and letters 34. *Up-side-down triangle sign 36. Biz bigwig 38. Yarn spinner 42. "The Nutcracker" protagonist 45. Crafting with stitches 49. One of Sinbad's seven 51. Miss America's accessory, pl. 54. Prefix for below 56. Church song 57. Actress Sorvino 58. Shining armor 59. Negative contraction 60. Pub order 61. ____-China 62. Christmas season 63. Horizontal wall beam 64. *Keep your hands at ten and ____ 66. *Measurement of alcohol in body, acr.
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A9
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USED 2011 INFINITI QX56 BASE SUV
2017 NISSAN VERSA
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14,356
$
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11,983 STOCK# P1042
USED 2018 NISSAN MURANO SL SUV
26,055
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23,868
$
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2016 JEEP WRANGLER MARKET PRICE $
37,648
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20,174
USED 2014 NISSAN JUKE NISMO SUV
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22,794
13,686
11,960
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16,550
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2017 HONDA ACCORD
20,984
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2007 VW GTI
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USED 2020 NISSAN VERSA 1.6 SR SEDAN
16,975
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USED 2016 FORD EXPLORER LIMITED
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USED 2018 CHRYSLER 300 LIMITED SEDAN
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38,069 Valid on Nissan not valid with any other Must USED 2019 RAMvehicles 1500only.Coupon USED 2019offer. HYUNDAI $ present coupon at time of purchase. Limit one coupon per person. Coupon 34,494 REBEL PICKUP SANTA FE SE 2.4 SUV does not apply to prior purchases.Void where prohibit. Excludes Synthetic. stock # P1693
GRAINGER NISSAN OF BEAUFORT 219 ROBERT SMALLS PKWY, BEAUFORT, SC 29906 MON-FRI 9AM-7PM • SAT 9AM-6PM • SUN CLOSED
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stock # P1658