March 20 edition

Lafayette returns

Beaufort celebrates 200th anniversary of the Marquis’ historic visit

Staff reports

The spring weather was perfect Tuesday, March 18, 2025, for the reenactment of the arrival of the Marquis de Lafayette in Beaufort 200 years ago to the day.

The Marquis, played by nationally known historical interpreter

Mark Schneider, arrived by boat to the day dock in Beaufort’s Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park at 10 a.m. accompanied by a cannon volley and 13-gun salute from the Sons of the American Revolution.

“It’s a glorious day and it’s amazing how many folks have come out from the community. It’s phenomenal,” said Lise Sundria, of the Historic Beaufort Foundation.

“We began a year ago engaging the City as a partner and had our first [planning] committee meeting in August of 2024.”

“I'm impressed. I'm overwhelmed at the crowd,” Beaufort mayor Phil Cromer said.

Caroline Coslick, one of the many attendees in the park said, “I have a French flag. I love the

French. How could we not come down here. It’s a beautiful day. All my life I’ve heard of Lafayette standing at the Verdier House and now I finally get a chance to see him.”

Following the arrival in Waterfront Park and short procession by horse-drawn carriage down Bay Street, Lafayette and dignitaries made brief speeches from the portico of the John Mark Verdier House before the unveiling of the historical marker celebrating the occasion.

Cromer said, “Here upon the shores of our beloved Carolina, where the spirit of independence first took root, we receive you not only as a hero of two worlds, but as a cherished friend and brother at arms.” Lt. Col. Chris Lyon, Commander of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort said, “Events like this remind us that history is not just something we study, it is something we live. Something we continue to write together.”

Mayor Phil Cromer gives a Key to The City to Lafayette (reenactor Mark Schneider) on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, during the Lafayette Bicentennial Celebration of the Marquis de Lafayette's visit to Beaufort during his Farewell Tour of the Nation in March 1825. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

When Mark Schneider spoke as Lafayette, he said, “My heart is filled with joy at my love for this great state of South Carolina and this noble city of Beaufort. God bless you all and this great nation of the United States of America.”

Events continued throughout the day on Scott Street with living history demonstrations and culminating with a period costume ball, “Dancing with Lafayette,” at the historic Beaufort Arsenal courtyard.

Dancing with Our Stars again a huge success for CAPA

Staff reports Another year, another successful Dancing with Our Stars.

The event, hosted by the Child Abuse Prevention Association (CAPA), in partnership with the Exchange Club of Beaufort, and held at the USCB Center for the Arts on Friday, March 14 and Saturday, March 15, 2025, raised $258,814 to support CAPA’s programs.

The event, presented by Hilton Head Cadillac, featured local “stars” paired with professional dance instructors, who captivated audiences with choreographed performances. The journey began with a kick-off dinner on November 21, 2024, where the teams were introduced and began their training.

The event featured a Preview Show on Friday, March 14, fol-

lowed by the main event on Saturday, March 15, where the winners were announced.

“We are overwhelmed by the incredible support from our community, year in and year out,” CAPA Executive Director Christina Wilson said in a news release. “The funds raised this

2025 Dancing With Our Stars contestants Nick Borreggine and Erin Demers. Photo courtesy of Andrea Labonte

Bluffton’s Robert Parsons, 10, on a homeschool field trip, is studying about the 13 colonies and made the trip to Beaufort on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 for the Lafayette Bicentennial Celebration of the Marquis de Lafayette's visit to Beaufort during his Farewell Tour of the Nation in March 1825. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

LOWCOUNTRY LIFE & NEWS

Allan Lassiter

be the photographer or have

submit

be

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.

American Legion Beaufort Post 207 brings you Dan Truckenbrod, 54, who joined the U.S. Navy when entering the U.S. Naval Academy in 1988, rising to Deputy Brigade Commander. Upon commissioning in 1992 he attended flight school at Pensacola, Fla., before assignment at NAS Kingsville to qualify as pilot in the F/A-18 Hornet. He was assigned to MCAS El Toro and later to Cecil Field, NAS Jacksonville, from which he

Dan Truckenbrod

deployed to the Mediterranean and Persian Gulf aboard USS George Washington (CVN-73). His next assignment was with the U.S. Air Force at Luke AFB training on the F-16 Fighting Falcon before being assigned at NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach, from which he

deployed again to the Mid-East aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He then spent three years at the European Command Headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany focused on Operation Enduring Freedom – Trans Sahara countering terrorism in nine African nations. He next attended the Naval Postgraduate School, earning an MBA before serving in the Pentagon budgeting for the war on ter-

ror on the Secretary of the Navy’s staff. His final assignment was on North Island, Coronado, San Diego as the comptroller for Naval Air Forces, Pacific. He retired in 2016 as a Commander with 24 years of service. Today he is a test pilot with Gulfstream Aerospace.

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

Beaufort County, Beaufort National Cemetery to host Vietnam War Veterans Day Ceremony

Staff reports

Beaufort County Veterans Affairs Department and Beaufort National Cemetery are partnering to host a Vietnam War Veterans Day Ceremony. The ceremony will be held from 10 to 11 a.m., Saturday, March 29 in Beaufort National Cemetery at 1601 Boundary Street in Beaufort.

The sister of Medal of Honor recipient Ralph Johnson, a Charles-

ton native, will be one of the guests of honor at the ceremony and will lay a remembrance wreath on her brother's grave.

Those interested can read about Pfc. Ralph Johnson's military service and honors at https://bit. ly/4idewAx. According to the Congressional Medal of Honor Society website: "For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of

duty while serving as a reconnaissance scout with Company A, in action against the North Vietnamese Army and Viet Cong forces. Pfc. Johnson's courage, inspiring valor, and selfless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country." The service and sacrifice of Vietnam War veterans will be

honored with a pinning ceremony. All Vietnam Var Veterans, the families and the general public are invited to this free event.

The Beaufort County Veterans Affairs Office assists veterans, their spouses and other dependents with access to government programs for which they are eligible. Veterans Affairs Counselors are available by appointment only by calling 843-255-6880

March 20

1565: Pedro Menendez de Aviles, eventual founder of Santa Elena, is named the first Governor of Florida by Spanish King Philip II.

1964: Robert Smalls High School graduate Kenny Washington scores 13 points and grabs 6 rebounds to help lead the UCLA Bruins (29-0) past Kansas State, 9084, in the NCAA men’s basketball national semifinal at Kansas City’s Municipal Auditorium. UCLA advanced to the national

championship game against Duke.

1965: Robert Smalls High School

graduate Kenny Washington scores 17 points and grabs 5 rebounds as the UCLA Bruins defeated Michigan, 91-80, in the NCAA men’s national championship game at Memorial Coliseum in Portland, Ore. The championship was the second straight for UCLA (28-2) and head coach John Wooden.

March 21

1964: Robert Smalls High School

PAL PETS OF THE WEEK

Dog of the Week Foxie is a sweet, affectionate, 1-year-old girl who has seen a lot with those amber eyes. When she first arrived at Palmetto Animal League, she was terrified of everything. But that all changed when she went into a foster home. Showered with patience and understanding, Foxie blossomed into a confident, happy dog who is full of life. Now, she's more than ready to share her heart with someone who will love her forever. She is spayed, up to date on vaccinations, and microchipped.

graduate Kenny Washington scores 26 points – on 11-for-16 shooting – and grabs 12 rebounds to lead the UCLA Bruins (30-0) to a 98-83 upset of Duke in the NCAA men’s basketball national championship game at Kansas City’s Municipal Auditorium. The National Championship was the first of a record 10 legendary UCLA coach John Wooden, and the 1964 team has been selected by Sports Illustrated as the most influential college basketball team of all-time.

– Compiled by Mike McCombs

Cat of the Week Jethro is a true gentleman with a heart of gold. This 4-year-old

as soft as silk. His blue eyes, undeniable good looks, and charming personality are sure to make you fall in love. Don't wait! If you think Jethro might be your soulmate, come meet him at Palmetto Animal League today before someone else snatches him up! He is neutered, up to date on vaccinations, and microchipped.

For more information on Foxie, Jethro or any of our other pets, call PAL at 843-645-1725 or email Info@PalmettoAnimalLeague.org.

– Compiled by Lindsay Perry

Do you value your free hometown newspaper – made by locals, for locals? Free news isn’t cheap. Please help support The Island News!

Donations gratefully accepted at www.yourislandnews.com or The Island News, PO Box 550, Beaufort, SC 29901

of Lady’s Island took this photo of the initial work on the new Sands Beach causeway in Port Royal. To submit a Lowcountry Life photo, you must

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published in The Island News. Please submit high-resolution photos

stunner was blessed with fur

BHM, Arsenal hosting Revolutionary War reenactment

Staff reports

Calling all of Beaufort’s Children!

It’s 1780 all over again at the Beaufort Arsenal on Children’s Day at the Museum on Saturday, March 22 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

There will be cannon firings at 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m., as the Beaufort History Museum is hosting a Revolutionary War Living History Reenactment on a closed down Craven Street in front of the Arsenal.

The public is invited to enjoy the reenactment, and children are needed to attend and participate in the re-creation of the Battle of Port Royal Island.

Children will be divided into Patriots and Loyalists to fight in this

re-creation of the Battle of Port Royal Island. At least 50 children are needed, per battle.

Authentic time period hats and child safe musket replicas will be provided. Three battles will be fought: 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m. starting with the firing of the cannon. Please make sure your children are on time in order to participate.

This day is funded through a grant from the 250th anniversary of the South Carolina American Revolution Sestercentennial Commission (SC250).

Children will learn drills; period medical practices and the fight against historical epidemics; how to carry and load a musket (using black sugar and gummy balls);

and a cannon and ballistics

in which Warrior Brigade Com-

rian Robert Ryals will lead an interactive session on Revolutionary War ballistics.

Soldiers can handle a real cannon and test their aim with a “hand cannon,” all child friendly and safe. No real ammo will be used.

The mission of Beaufort History Museum is to increase and diffuse knowledge by the maintenance of a museum that displays, educates and enlightens the public on the art, science, history and industry of this culturally rich area and by the preservation and protection of artifacts that document that heritage. The Beaufort Arsenal and Beaufort History Museum are located at 713 Craven

Friends of Fort Fremont Oyster Roast

Dr. Stephenson brings a wealth of experience in family practice, community health and holistic medicine to the primary care team. Originally from North Carolina, she joins Beaufort Memorial after several years in Northern California where she served as a family medicine physician for active-duty personnel and their families at the Travis Air Force Base, while later working as a physician serving a primarily Native American population in Central California. Varner brings a breadth of experience in both urgent and primary care to the practice. The Pennsylvania native joins Beaufort Memorial after serving as a physician assistant at urgent care and family practice clinics in San Antonio for several years, providing care for patients of all ages. Given that area’s high veteran, elderly, and obese populations, he gained specialized knowledge in the treatment of patients who have multiple conditions and complex health issues.

lesson

mander Tom Oblak (retired U.S. Army Infantry Officer) and histo-

Street in Beaufort.

Revolutionary War reenactors in British military uniforms. Photo courtesy of Beaufort History Museum Facebook page

Tom and Suzette Davis enjoys oysters during the Friends of Fort Fremont Oyster Roast on Friday, March 14, 2025. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

Attendees enjoy a fire, food, and friendship during the Friends of Fort Fremont Oyster Roast on Friday, March 14, 2025. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

Burton Fire promotes Fridley

Staff reports

In January, at a ceremony held at the Burton Fire District’s Pinewood fire station, the Burton Fire District promoted Engineer/EMT Josh Fridley to the rank of Lieutenant.

Josh Fridley

Lt. Fridley’s family was present and his son and daughter pinned on his new rank.

Lt. Fridley was recently selected as the Burton Fire District’s 2024 Firefighter of the Year. He was selected for this award by his peers who noted his continuous positive attitude, initiative in taking on new projects and training other firefighters, and his volunteer participation in several fire district committees on station and uniform improvements.

In addition, the district’s maintenance staff also noted his detailed vehicle inspections and constant preventive maintenance on the district’s emergency apparatus to ensure they are prepared to safely and efficiently respond to emergencies.

In addition to overseeing the day-to-day operations of the fire station to which he is assigned, and the supervision of the other firefighters assigned to that station, Lt. Fridley will also be in command of emergency scenes and responsible for the safety of the community and his firefighters.

We ‘really got a mess down there’

According to unidentified workers with the Beaufort/Jasper Water Authority at the scene, someone was doing work on an underground pipe using something called a “missile” along Shell Point Road on Monday, March 17, 2025, when it "got sideways" and took out the water main with it. According to a someone with Beaufort/Jasper Water and Sewer Authority’s Public Works office, a “contractor” accidentally hit the water main and broke it. The pressurized water was powerful enough to wash out Shell Point Road, the support gravel and a good bit of dirt causing the road to be blocked off until it could be repaired could be affected. Residents gathered at Broad River and Shell Point roads to watch the commotion. One remarked, we “really got mess down there” as cars and pickup trucks made their way through the water being released from a nearby fire hydrant. When one pickup driver was seen going through a second time, he said he was washing off the pollen and needed to rinse both sides off. Photo courtesy of Bob Sofaly

NEWS BRIEFS

Erickson to read to local families

On Thursday, March 20, the Military Child Education Coalition will host Tell Me A Story (TMAS), a family literacy event geared toward children ages 4 to 12, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Robert Smalls Leadership Academy.

The mission of the program is to empower military-connected children by using literature and their own stories in a way that fosters resilience, strong peer and parent connections, and a sense of pride and accomplishment. The event is free with dinner provided, and the guest reader will be S.C. Rep. Shannon Erickson.

Indivisible Beaufort meets March 22

Mac Deford will be the guest speaker at Indivisible Beaufort’s next meeting at 11 a.m., Saturday, March 22 at the St. Helena Island Library at 6355 Jonathon Francis Sr. Road on St. Helena Island.

Deford has a distinguished background that includes serving in the U.S. Coast Guard, graduating from The Citadel, and earning both a JD from Charleston School of Law and. MBA from the University of North Carolina. He has served as Associate Counsel for Mt. Pleasant and General Counsel for Hilton Head Island.

Deford was a candidate for the 1st Congressional District in 2024. He has a deep commitment to women’s health care rights, as well as social and economic justice issues. He will share an overview of the current political situation, discuss the key issues, and address questions about specific topics of concern.

The event is free and open to the public.

County’s plastic pollution surveys to remain open until April 1

In 2018, Beaufort County Council passed an ordinance that was intended to limit the number of plastic bags that end up in our fragile environment. The County is considering revisiting the ordinance to ensure that it is having the intended effect and is being fairly implemented.

Counties, municipalities, and countries around the world are at a pivotal point in the battle against plastic pollution. Global production and use of plastics has outpaced population growth, and 8 million pieces of plastic pollution make their way into the ocean every day. Beaufort County aims to create healthier, safer, and livable communities through the reduction of en-

At the Port Royal Town Council meeting on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, Police Chief Jeff Meyers presented Captain John Griffith with an award in recognition of his 35 years of dedicated service with the Port Royal Police Department as he prepares to begin his retirement. Amber Hewitt/The Island

vironmental pollutants.

The survey found at https://bit.ly/4jycSdV, has two options: one for consumers, the other, for business owners.

Both surveys are brief and there are also two fact sheets that can be downloaded for further information. One fact sheet involves plastic bag bans and the other is entitled Lowcountry Plastics Fact Sheet.

The survey has been extended and will be available until Tuesday, April 1

Poll workers needed; training available

The Board of Voter Registration and Elections of Beaufort County will be holding 10 new poll worker training classes.

All of the classes will be held at the main office, located at 15 John Galt Road, Beaufort, S.C. 29906. The classes will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., on the following dates: Saturday, March 22; Wednesday, April 23; Wednesday, May 14; Saturday, May 24; Wednesday, June 18; Wednesday, July 16; Saturday, July 26; Wednesday, Aug. 20; and Wednesday, Sept. 17

To sign up for a class, visit https://beaufortsc.easypollworker.com/home.

HELP of Beaufort hosting fundraiser

HELP of Beaufort is hosting a Smoked

Ham fundraiser. The northern Beaufort County food pantry is selling Smoked Hams for $45. Order and pay online at www.helpofbeaufort.org, or call 843-5241223

Pickup date is from 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, April 19 at the Piggly Wiggly Shopping Center at 1347 Ribaut Road in Port Royal.

Coastal Properties adds Jackson

Coastal Properties has announced the addition of Emily Brooke McIntyre Jackson to their real estate firm. Jackson will be working out of the Beaufort office. Jackson, a Beaufort native, began her educational journey at Honey Tree Preschool and continued through Beaufort High School. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from Hampton University in Hampton, Va. She then pursued her love for fashion and design at The Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, graduating with a degree in Textile Science and Design.

For over a decade, Brooke worked in the bustling New York fashion scene. She now excels in home staging and home design services. With her extensive background and authentic approach, she aims to empower first-time buyers and seasoned investors alike.

Tickets available for Community Foundation of the Lowcountry’s annual community meeting

Community Foundation of the Lowcountry (CFL) has announced that tickets are available for its Annual Community Meeting to be held from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, March 26 2025, at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina on Hilton Head Island. While the event is free, tickets are required. The only place to get tickets is by calling the Arts Center Box Office at 843842-2787 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

The Annual Community Meeting’s theme is “Local Impact, Lasting Change,” with special guest speakers representing local nonprofits and scholarship recipients, plus CFL staff and board of directors. CFL is extremely honored to have Carrie Cook, Vice-President and Community Affairs Officer for the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, as the Keynote Speaker. We are also very fortunate to have WSAV-TV Anchor Andrew Davis return for the third straight year as the Master of Ceremonies, and Novant Health on board as the Presenting Sponsor.

Please contact Rob Ennamorato with any questions at rennamorato@cf-lowcountry. or or 843-681-9100

County VA to offer End of Life Planning Seminars for veterans, families

Beaufort County Veterans Affairs is hosting End of Life Planning Seminars for veterans and their families. These seminars address things veterans and their families can do today to ensure their personal effects are in order. They also discuss Veterans Affairs benefits that surviving spouses may be entitled to receive. They will be offered at either 9 a.m. or 1 p.m., at convenient locations around Beaufort County: Tuesday, May 20: Hilton Head Branch Library, 11 Beach City Road. Tuesday, May 27: Beaufort Library, 311 Scott Street. RSVPs are required for space and resource purposes. Please contact Crystal at 843-255-6880 to reserve your seat. For questions and more information please contact Beaufort County Veterans Affairs at 843-255-6880

– Staff reports

News

Lessons learned: What would I tell my younger self about money and investing?

Provided by Wells Fargo Advisors

Wells Fargo Advisors asked colleagues and friends what they would tell someone who has just graduated and/or is starting a new phase in their lives. Here are some of the thoughts they shared.

As you enter a new stage of your life, it makes sense to give some thought to how your money factors into your routines and habits. Take a close look at your money attitudes and behaviors.

Maybe you have saved every dollar you ever received for every birthday and holiday since you were young. Or maybe you’ve spent every one of those dollars and do the same with every paycheck. This may be a good time to recognize and perhaps start to change any be-

haviors that may be contributing to a less-than-optimal outcome. It is never too late to start paying yourself first.

Be intentional in your money decisions.

It is tempting, if starting out with a new job with a steady income higher than you’ve ever had before, to want to go on a spending spree. Before you start spending, give careful thought to ALL the jobs that money can do for you. Money can buy things, but it can also, depending on how you use it, create stability or help you reach goals you set for yourself. Devote some time to think about the role money will play in your life. Your decisions about money can have very positive or very negative results. (Will money be your friend or your enemy?)

Have a plan.

Some people have a clear plan for their entire lives and start to work that plan upon graduation or at the beginning or completion of a life milestone. If you are not one of those people, at least create a one-year plan for your life activities and calculate the amount of money you will need to support that. Set that budget, and stay true to it for that first year. Commit to some amount of money to save that you will consider untouchable for this first year. At the end of that year, assess your progress, celebrate your successes, and learn from any setbacks. Adjust and implement your plan accordingly.

Pay yourself first. Create the “pay yourself” habit, and automatically increase contributions as your income rises. Sign up

Beaufort business owner hit by car in downtown Beaufort

By Delayna Earley The Island News

A Beaufort business own-

er was hit by a car in downtown Beaufort just hours before the grand opening of her new business in the historic district on Thursday, March 6

Just after 10 a.m. Carol Lynn Vrana was crossing Carteret Street when she was struck by a vehicle.

Vrana was just hours shy of opening the doors of her new downtown Beaufort business, the Beaufort Wine Bar, located in the historic Fordham building, for its grand opening, which has since been delayed while she recovers from her injuries suffered in the accident.

Vrana was in the crosswalk when she was hit by a vehicle that was waiting to drive across the Richard V. Woods Memorial Bridge heading onto Lady’s Island, according to the Beaufort Police Department.

Carol Lyn Vrana, owner of Beaufort Wine Bar in downtown Beaufort, was hit by a vehicle when crossing Carteret Street on Thursday, March 6 just hours before the grand opening of her new business. Facebook

After the light turned green, the car accelerated to head over the bridge, but the driver didn’t see Vrana in the crosswalk and struck her. There were no tickets issued against the driver and no charges have been filed, according to police. According to a Go Fund Me page created for the business owner, she was flown to the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston (MUSC)

where she was treated for a brain bleed in the intensive care unit (ICU). An update to the page on March 13, states that she has since been moved from the ICU and is now convalescing in a regular room at MUSC.

As of Tuesday, March 18 the Go Fund Me page has raised more than $7 500

The Beaufort Wine Bar is located at the corner of Bay and Carteret streets, and it shares a space with Fishburne Gallery. A soft opening was held on March 5 and the grand opening for both businesses was to be held at 3 p.m. on March 6

Currently the Fishburne Gallery is accepting private appointments to visit its collection and the wine bar’s opening has been postponed

Delayna Earley, who joined The Island News in 2022, formerly worked as a photojournalist for The Island Packet/The Beaufort Gazette, as well as newspapers in Indiana and Virginia. She can be reached at delayna.theislandnews@gmail.com.

for workplace savings and retirement accounts. If your employer offers a certain percentage match, at least participate to that level to receive the “free money” your employer provides. And with every increase in wages, increase your savings contributions as well.

Pay off your debt

AND start saving.

“OK,” you say, “I want to save but I have school loans or other debt.” Work to rebalance the scale — pay off your debt to stop your cash outflow and reroute that cash flow back to you. Everyone has a unique set of circumstances to consider in order to reduce debt and save more.

Manage your credit to your advantage. Resist the temptation to accept every credit offer you

get. It’s important to establish a credit history in order to build your credit rating, but the use of multiple credit options could lead to unwanted debt. If your money plan includes a credit component, have a clear understanding of how much that credit is costing you. Also keep track of your credit rating and understand actions you can take to improve it. Check your credit report on a regular basis to be sure that all the information that appears there is accurate. If it is not, report the discrepancy so that it can be corrected on your credit report.

Enjoy the rewards your hard work earns for you. It takes effort to earn money and to manage it to implement the plans you’ve made. Include in your plans rewards that are meaningful

Monday protest

evening will significantly impact our ability to provide essential services to children and families in the Lowcountry. Our Open Arms Children’s Home celebrated its 40th anniversary on March 9 2025. This event strongly reminds us that we wouldn’t be here without our community. We are grateful beyond measure.”

CAPA, the Exchange Club of Beaufort, and the USCB Center for the Arts extend their heartfelt gratitude to all the participants, sponsors, volunteers, and attendees who contributed to the success of this memorable event. Special thank you to the Beaufort County

Channel for live streaming the event. The winners of the 2025 Dancing with Our Stars are:

Team 1 – People’s Choice

Award: K Squared (star Kelly Collins and instructor Kimani Brown-Carpenter) Team 2 – Judges’ Choice

Award: Gunpowder And Lead (star Greg Godfrey and instructor Hannah Lienhop)

Team 3 – Kids’ Choice Award: Fire & Flow (star Casey Phelps and instructor Megan Clavijo)

Team 4 – Alumni Choice Award: Height And Hustle

(star Dee Simpson and instructor Shykeem Gardner) Team 5 – Best Choreography: The Belles (star Allison Summerall and instructor

2025 Dancing With Our Stars contestants Dee Simpson and Shykeem Gardner won the Alumni Choice Award. Photo courtesy of Andrea Labonte

2025 Dancing With Our Stars contestants Hannah Lienhop & Greg Godfrey won the Judges’ Choice Award. Photo courtesy of Andrea Labonte

Asa Aarons Smith/The Island News

Erickson left the child care business but hopes to keep others operating

By Jessica Holdman SCDailyGazette.com COLUMBIA

After nearly three decades in child care, a GOP leader in the South Carolina House has left the business.

But as co-chair of a special legislative committee formed in 2023 to address shortfalls in the state’s child care system, state Rep. Shannon Erickson has said she’ll continue to advocate for the industry and help other operators stay in business.

Erickson sold off her four Beaufort-area centers in late 2024 to Otter Learning, which has more than 50 locations across six eastern U.S. states. Rising costs and shrinking margins have made it harder for small companies like hers to operate, leaving only larger, national providers in the market, she said.

“What I’m seeing in our industry is the small mom-andpops like me can’t hang,” said Erickson, the chamber’s education committee chairwoman since December 2022. “We can’t afford to stay in the business.”

The study committee she coleads, which last met in January, hasn’t released any recommendations yet. But the state budget might start to help.

The House, in its budget proposal approved last week, set aside $4 million in child care-related funding, enough to cover a pair of programs that the Beaufort Republican told the S.C. Daily Gazette she considers a priority.

That includes money to give South Carolina access to additional federal funding and a pilot program that, if successful, could serve as a statewide model for funding child care into the future.

To start, the state Department of Social Services needs $3 1 million more annually to take full advantage of federal child care grants for low-income families. South Carolina became eligible this year for $10 6 million more in federal funding, as long as the state increases its own share.

“We need to make sure we’re drawing down as much federal money as possible,” agency spokeswoman Connelly-Anne Ragley said during a Statehouse hearing earlier this year.

The additional funds would be enough to offset the cost of care for 1 700 more children annually whose parents’ salaries fall below a certain income — for example, less than $83,446 for a family of four.

These so-called scholarships can be used at centers that have volunteered to be part of the state’s ABC Quality Program and meet health and safety standards beyond state minimum requirements.

As of late January, federal advocates did not expect proposed congressional budget cuts to impact this pool of funding.

A new model

Next, Erickson expressed hope for a cost-sharing model known as Tri-Share.

The proposal splits the cost of child care three ways — between

the parents, employers and the state government.

The program started in Michigan in 2021 and is aimed at families whose income is too high to qualify for federal aid yet too low to afford ever-increasing child care costs. Three years later, the Great Lakes State had 195 employers and 351 childcare providers participating, with about 700 children enrolled.

At least two other states, Kentucky and North Carolina, have started similar programs.

“Individuals need child care in order to get to work and in some cases raise their family out of poverty,” Department of Social Services’ acting director Tony Catone told House budget writers.

The push for a South Carolina pilot started in the Lowcountry, near Erickson’s district, with the Greater Island Council of Hilton Head Island and Bluffton.

Under the group’s proposal, participating parents pay 50% of their child’s tuition, or about $6,500 per year. Participating employers would pay 25%, and the state would pay 25%, about $3,250 each.

The council said the model is intended to help small and midsize businesses that can afford to add $1 50 in hourly benefits to their employees’ paychecks to help pay for child care.

“The problem, as is the case with so many things, is money and where to get it,” the council wrote on its website.

For infants, the most costly age for care, the price of daily care in South Carolina averaged $11 512 for calendar year 2023, according to an analysis released earlier this month by the Economic Policy Institute. For 4-year-olds, it was $10 481

“A typical family in South Carolina would have to spend

26 10% of its income on child care for an infant and a 4-year-old,” according to the report.

In places like Beaufort County, where the cost of living is greater, families pay more for care.

The state Department of Social Services asked budget writers for $1 million to start a pilot program in five counties: Cherokee, Greenville, Oconee, Sumter and Beaufort. (Those are the home counties of Statehouse GOP leaders, including the chief budget writers in each chamber, the Senate president, and the House speaker. Beaufort County is home to Erickson and four other committee leaders.)

Meanwhile, at least 42% of South Carolinians live in a childcare desert, defined as any area where there are more than three young children for every licensed childcare slot. While that’s the percentage often cited, the problem is likely worse, since that statistic is from 2018

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the problem, pushing that number, at least temporarily, to 67%, according to First Steps.

In response, the federal government came in with $955 million in pandemic relief money. Help from startup grants led to 52 more licensed child care centers opening in the state in the past year, said Michelle Bowers, director of early care and education for the state Department of Social Services.

But that funding has dried up, begging the question of what to do next as South Carolina’s population and workforce needs continue to grow.

Tough decisions

Even with $4 million that approved in its spending proposal for the fiscal year starting July 1, the state Department of

Social Services will be left with some tough decisions on how to allocate that money.

Last year, the Legislature granted the agency $2 5 million to continue with a COVID-era program to help cover child care costs for working families. That was enough to continue with scholarships for 750 children but left more than 2,000 previously enrolled kids without aid.

The Department of Social Services is seeking $1 9 million more annually in hopes of covering 250 additional children.

That won’t be possible unless senators fight for it. Their budget proposal is still weeks away.

“The other piece I think we have to look at is how do we lower costs,” Erickson told agency representatives earlier this year. “Because at the end of the day, we don’t have an unlimited supply of money, and parents certainly don’t.”

Bowers agreed that the cost to run facilities certainly is high, but she also had a question: “Where do you cut?”

Child care workers often make less than $11 an hour. Even so, salaries make up the bulk of providers’ costs, according to a study by DSS. Plus, federal funds used to give those workers a pay boost during the pandemic are gone, with little hope for the $25 million in annual state funding it would take to keep running.

Out of business

When it came to her own exit from the industry, Erickson said it’s not something she sought out.

For her, it began with the pandemic. Beaufort Memorial Hospital asked her to provide care to the school-age children of its employees who were virtual learning. She staffed a classroom with retired teachers, while

students did lessons over Zoom.

After the state rolled back COVID restrictions, the hospital asked her to keep the space operating as a traditional day care center.

When the hospital opted to move its child care to a new space, Otter bought the recently refurbished building and made plans to move in.

It was then that the company reached out to Erickson, asking her to keep the center operational as the move was made to make it easier for licensing purposes. The relationship grew from there.

“So, I wasn’t looking,” Erickson said. “It literally came to me. After six months of conversations and discussions, it made sense.”

The 61-year-old legislator and grandmother has growing commitments, both at the Statehouse and to her own family.

“It just it all kind of fell into place that it was probably the right choice,” said Erickson, first elected to the House in 2007

It will also be better for her directors and staff that helped her grow her business from one center to four. Otter, as a bigger company, can offer them health benefits, retirement, professional development and career growth.

“So, hopefully it’s given them more options than I could give them,” Erickson said. “They’re now in a bigger pond.”

The four centers she sold were licensed for 387 children total, according to DSS records.

Unlike small operators, larger chains like Otter can tap into savings and spread costs over a greater number of children. Otter has greater purchasing power for groceries and can afford better technology.

Erickson also gave the example of liability insurance, which for her tripled in price over the course of a year.

“Not many businesses can withstand that,” she said.

Jessica Holdman writes about the economy, workforce and higher education.

Before joining the S.C. Daily Gazette, she was a business reporter for The Post and Courier. S.C. Daily Gazette is part of States Newsroom, the nation’s largest state-focused nonprofit news organization.

The South Carolina House, in its budget proposal for 2025-26, set aside $4 million in child care-related funding. It’s enough to cover a pair of programs touted by legislative leaders but still leaves state regulators with some difficult funding decisions. Rebecca Rivas/Missouri Independent

God’s commandment is God’s enablement

Every Christian has been given a mission and some type of ministry. Gifts, talents, and special abilities are distributed from God within the personal blueprint of our calling. Yes, all of God’s people have the responsibility to pray and obey, but like our fingerprints, each mission is unique. Helen Keller is quoted as saying, “The only thing worse than being physically blind is not having spiritual vision.”

It’s imperative that we examine our hearts and become familiar with our destiny. When we speak of ministry, we often think of what type of special ability we have. However, the level of our skill is not our highest form of service. Demonstrating the character of Christ proves our love for Him and is more valuable than our talents.

Many times people will use and abuse their heavenly gifts to bring glory to themselves and this was not God’s intention. Paul writes in Colossians 3:17, “Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”

I believe humility is essential since most of what we do in public ministry is seen by others. Pride is a snare trap that loves to tempt and shift the attention from God’s omniscience to how smart and anointed we are. The awareness of our Creator who leads and empowers us to do His will is what allows us to remain in an attitude of reverence toward Him. Someone said, “When self is on the throne, Christ is on the cross, but when Christ is on the throne self is on the cross.” It’s clear that what we do is not as important as why we do it. Let’s look into this a little further.

The passage in Matthew 7:21-23 that talks about God rejecting certain religious individuals on judgment day causes us to scratch our heads because it seems that

God is not appreciating their service. So, what happened? I’ve had people tell me they are perplexed and even worried about this, but I believe Jesus is warning His children that simply claiming to be a follower or doing nice deeds cannot earn eternal salvation. We must be spiritually transformed through the blood of Christ and become His disciple that gives us the passion to only do His will – not ours. He isn’t ending a relationship with them, but rather is stating they never had a genuine relationship with Him. It seems we desire His power and praise but do not want Him to control us.

When we are learning how to use our gift from the Lord, we realize that spiritual visions will most likely require natural resources and more support than just a pat on the back. Indeed, His Kingdom is not dependent on money, but somewhere, somehow, finances are usually involved. Personally, I’m cautious about focusing too much on money and more on extending my faith that God is in charge.

I have a note posted on my desk that says, “Where God guides He provides.”

We know that He can open the windows of miracle blessings to make His plans a reality, so our job is to keep praying and preparing to move in His timing. After we know His plans, we must trust Him. If our dreams never come to pass, it was either because we misunderstood, disobeyed, or it was not His will.

The beauty of our redemption is not earned by our achievements, but

“We know that He can open the windows of miracle blessings to make His plans a reality, so our job is to keep praying and preparing to move in His timing.”

Struggling

WILLIAM F. HOLLAND JR., on trusting God's timing and provision.

rather is woven together with our covenant bond of accountability to manifest the image of Jesus at all times. The intentional act of the Son of God suffering on the cross for us is not only to pay for our sin but should be the center of our love and dedication to reflect His glory. When we understand we are no longer following our emotional desires and understand what God wants us to be and do in this life, we can then concentrate on interceding for His divine wisdom and direction.

May we acknowledge that God deserves all the glory, and as we become more mature we too will become more and more about His glory instead of our own. Let us heed the words of John the Baptist in John 3:30, “He must increase, but I must decrease.”

The message of Jesus strongly emphasizes the importance of personally knowing God and loving Him with one’s whole heart, not just going through the motions of performing religious endeavors.

William F. Holland Jr. is an ordained minister, chaplain, and author. Read more about the Christian life at billyhollandministries.com.

St. Helena Baptist hires pastor

Living & Growing the Jesus Way

Sunday Morning Worship at 8:30 & 10:30 81 Lady’s Island Drive

Pastor Steve Keeler • (843) 525-0696 seaislandpresbyterian.org

WILLIAM F. HOLLAND JR.

Staff reports

St. Helena Baptist Church has hired Pastor Jon Richardson. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Religion/Ministry from Luther Rice Baptist College & Seminary in Lithonia, Ga. Richardson and his wife Tori are from

ART

Watercolor workshop

11 a.m to 2 p.m., Saturday, March 22, Morris Center For Lowcountry Heritage, 10782 S. Jacob Smart Blvd., Ridgeland. General admission $70. Dive into the vibrant world of watercolors with Artist Ian Welch. This beginner-friendly workshop is perfect for those curious about painting or looking to rediscover their artistic side. Ian will guide you through the basic watercolor techniques -- no experience necessary. Please note that purchases are non-refundable and cannot be transferred to a later class date. Please register by March 20. Register at https://shorturl.at/rvfhJ.

Catawba Pottery demonstration

2 to 3 p.m., Saturday, March 29, Morris Center For Lowcountry Heritage, 10782 S. Jacob Smart Blvd., Ridgeland. Witness the art of Catawba pottery come alive as potter Nancy White shares her skills and knowledge at the Morris Center. This demonstration will showcase the intricate and rich cultural heritage behind this traditional folk art. Observe as she shapes clay into stunning vessels, applying techniques that have been passed down through generations of Catawba potters. Please register by March 27. Register at https://shorturl.at/txgL5.

Coastal Discovery Museum 24th annual Art Market

10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, April 26 & 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, April 27, Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. $5 Admission, free for children 12 and younger. Free parking. Visitors will find a diverse range of mediums, including ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, wood, metal, painting, drawing, photography, and sculpture. Beyond the art, visitors can enjoy live music and a variety of food and beverage vendors, with shaded seating under the Mary Ann Peeples Pavilion and throughout the scenic grounds. Proceeds from the Art Market support the Museum’s year-round programs, exhibitions, and events. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://www. coastaldiscovery.org/.

Budding Artist After-School Art Club

4 to 5 p.m., or 5:15 to 6:15 p.m., Mondays/Wednesdays or Tuesday/Thursdays, Happy Art Studio, 10 Sam’s Point Way, Beaufort. Ages 8 to 13. Painting, drawing, clay or crafts. Visit www.happyartstudio.net.

CALENDAR

Discovery Night At The Museum –Grow Your Own Edible Mushrooms

5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, March 20, Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. $40 per person. Ages 13 and up. Hilton Head Island and the Lowcountry are home to a variety of native mushrooms, particularly in wooded and humid areas. This hands-on workshop introduces you to the fascinating world of mushrooms and mushroom cultivation, focusing on techniques inspired by nature. Learn how to inoculate logs with mushroom spawn to grow your own delicious oyster and shiitake mushrooms. You'll leave with two prepared plug logs — one for each variety — so you can continue your mushroom-growing adventure at home. Register at https://bit.ly/41tDUMo.

Gullah/Geechee Indigo Ball

7:30 p.m., Friday, March 21, Frissell Hall, 16 Penn Center Circle East, St. Helena Island. $25 per person. Age 30 and older. Dress to impress in shades of blue. Come enjoy an evening of R&B music spun by DJ Kwame Sha & DJ Apollo and Gullah/Geechee cuisine. Tickets available at https://shorturl.at/gcZP5.

Lowcountry Food Truck Festival

11 a.m., Saturday, April 5, 1404 Paris Avenue, Port Royal.

Memories Do Matter 2025 Speaker Series – Lisa Hostetler Brown

10 a.m. to noon, Wednesday, April 9, 31 St. Gregory Drive, Bluffton. Free. Online registration required. Attorney Lisa Hostetler Brown will be the guest speaker, discussing “Elder Law & Estate Planning.” Register at https:// www.mymemorymatters.org/events.

MCAS Beaufort Airshow Saturday, April 12 & Sunday, April 13, MCAS Beaufort. Celebrate 250 years of the Marine Corps with us. From the U.S. Navy Blue Angels to unforgettable aerial thrills, it’s a weekend you don’t want to miss. Tickets are free for general admission but required! Reserve yours now to secure your spot. Go to beaufortairshow.com to reserve your tickets.

Karaoke with Melissa

7:30 p.m. to midnight, Mondays, Tomfoolery, 3436 17 Market, Habersham, Beaufort. Enjoy food and drinks during Karaoke with Melissa.

Karaoke

9 p.m. to midnight, Tuesdays, Luther’s Rare and Well Done, 910 Bay Street, downtown Beaufort. With DJ Ali.

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.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

9:30 p.m., Wednesdays, Rosie

O’Grady’s, 2127 Boundary Street, Suite 2, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy karaoke with either Parker or Eric.

Trivia with Tom –Bricks On Boundary

7 p.m., Every Thursday, Bricks on Boundary, 1422 Boundary St, Beaufort. Free. Team trivia event, win house cash and Beer Bucket

WHAT’S HAPPENING

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.

Karaoke at Willie’s 8 p.m., Thursdays, Willie's Bar and Grill, 7 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Saint Helena Island. Come and showcase your singing talents or just enjoy the performances. For more information, visit www.GullahLove.com.

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.

Habersham Farmers Market

3 to 6 p.m., Fridays, Habersham Marketplace. Vendor roster includes B&E Farm, Cottonwood Soap, Flower Power Treats, Hardee Greens, Megs Sweet Treats, Vitamin Bee, Lady’s Island Oyster Company, Pet Wants.

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 Drive, Bluffton. Enjoy food and drinks during Karaoke with Melissa.

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.

Teddy Bear Picnic Read-Aloud

9 a.m. to noon, 1st Saturday each month, Port Royal Farmer’s Market, Corner of Ribaut Road & Pinckney Blvd, Port Royal. Free. DAYLO Students and other volunteers will read to young children, who are encouraged to bring their favorite stuffed animals.

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

CLASS REUNION Beaufort High School Class of 1975 Oct. 17 through Oct. 19, 2025, Beaufort. 50th Class Reunion Celebration. Request that graduates of this class contact the class Community Outreach Representative Barbara Gardner Hunter at 347-497-9326 or email gardnerbarbara991@gmail.com to provide current contact information.

DANCE

The Beaufort Shag Club

6:30 to 9 p.m., Wednesdays, AmVets Club, 1831 Ribaut Road, Port Royal. Free lessons for members from 6 to 6:30 p.m. We also host a dance the second Saturday of each month from 7 to 10 p.m. Lessons will run September through May only. Visit our FaceBook page (beaufortshagclub) for current events.

DRAMA Lean Ensemble Theater –Skeleton Crew Thursday, March 20 through Sunday, March 30, HHPS Main Street Theater, 3000 Main Street, Hilton Head Island. At the start of the Great Recession, one of the last auto stamping plants in Detroit is on shaky ground. Each of the workers have to make choices on how to move forward if their plant goes under. Shanita has to decide how she'll support herself and her unborn child, Faye has to decide how and where she'll live, and Dez has to figure out how to make his ambitious dreams a reality. Power dynamics shift as everyone is torn between doing right by their family, and by the red tape in their office. Purchase tickets at https://www.leanensemble.org/.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

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 out-

door yoga classes and donation-based events with proceeds being donated locally on a rotating basis.

BEMER Circulation Therapy 10 to 11 a.m., Fridays via Zoom. Already own a BEMER? Never heard of it but curious? Join to ask any questions about this leading-edge German technology that enhances blood flow 30% in 8 minutes. Sessions are designed to support those who have their own unit but everyone is welcome. Brought to you by BEMER Specialist -- Human & Equine, Elizabeth Bergmann. Text 410212-1468 to get the Zoom link. Free.

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-ofthe-century businesses and industries of Port Royal: Shrimping, crabbing, oystering, the railroad, the school and the mercantile. Great gifts featuring local artists are available. For more information. visit www.portroyalhistory. org, email historicportroyalfoundation@gmail.com or call 843-524-4333.

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

LIBRARY ACTIVITIES

Watercolor Basics

11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, April 12, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St. Helena Island. Free. Ages 14 and older. Adults will be introduced to the basics of watercolor painting through various techniques. No registration required.

Intro To Art Media For Kids 3 to 4 p.m., Saturday, April 12, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St. Helena Island. Free. Ages 6 and older. Kids are invited to join us to “dabble” in art media. We’ll introduce different types of media from acrylic painting to sketching. Participants will leave with a fun multi-media art creation all their own. No registration required.

Toddler Storytime

11 a.m., Mondays through May 12, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Sr. Road, St. Helena Island. (Library will be closed Jan, 20 and Feb. 17.) Join us for a fun-filled time of stories. Books and activities will focus on toddlers/preschoolers, but siblings are welcome.

“Hidden Gems” Book Club

3 p.m., third Monday of each month, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St. Helena Island. Free. So many books, so little time. St. Helena staff have uncovered some great titles to get you started on your “hidden gem” journey. Join us for lively discussions and coffee or tea. No registration required.

Postpartum Support Group

11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesdays, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Sr. Road, St. Helena Island. Join us fr a postpartum and parenting support circle, a weekly gathering for parents and caregivers navigating the postpartum journey. Led by full-spectrum holistic doula Tameka Walker, the circle provides a warm supportive environment where families can connect, share and learn together. Registration is requested but not required. Call 843-255-6487 for more information.

“Lego” With Lego 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., every Tuesday, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Sr. Road, St. Helena Island. Free and open to the public. Ages 5 and up. No registration required. Come see our new and improved Lego Club. Choose one of our new Lego kits and get going. Call 843-255-6540 for more information.

Career Navigator 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., every Tuesday, Beaufort Branch Library, 311 Scott Street, Beaufort. Free one-on-one resume writing and job application assistance with a Career Navigator from Palmetto Goodwill. No appointments necessary. For more information call 843-255-6458.

Bridge Club 10 a.m. to noon, Wednesdays, Beaufort Branch Library, 311 Scott Street, Beaufort. Beginning September 18. The first session is for beginners new to the game, and following sessions will provide some instruction and we will learn as we play. Join us if you want to learn a new game, practice your skills, or need more players. Call the Beaufort Branch Library at 843255-6458 for more information.

Baby Time 10 a.m. Thursdays through May 15, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jon-

athan Francis Sr. Road, St. Helena Island. Join us for stimulating stories, activities, and more. Designed for babies, 0-18 months.

Mahjong Basics 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Thursday, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Sr. Road, St. Helena Island. Join us to learn the basics of this fun tile game.

Intructor Donna Misuraca will teach participants the structure and rules of the game and guide you through how to play. All game materials will be provided. Call 843-255-6540 for more information.

Mahjong Club 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Fridays, Beaufort Library, 311 Scott Street. All levels of players are welcome. Feel free to bring your own mahjong sets. Plan to meet every week. For more information, call the Beaufort Branch Library at 843-255-6458.

MEETINGS

PFLAG Savannah –

Beaufort Peer Group

6:30 p.m., first Tuesday of every month, Fellowship Hall, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Beaufort (UUFB), 178 Sams Point Road, Beaufort. Free. The group will be moderated by Rick Hamilton and Kay Carr. The provides advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community, family, peers, and allies in the Lowcountry. The peer group provides a safe and strictly confidential environment for LGBTQ+ individuals, their families, friends, and allies to discuss the challenges faced in coming out or being out in neighborhoods, the workplace, school, or church. The organization offers resources for counseling, educating, and advocating to achieve an equitable, inclusive community where every LGBTQ+ person is safe, celebrated, empowered, and loved. Minors under the age of 18 are required to come with an adult parent, guardian, or mentor. Additional information about peer groups, membership, donations, and volunteering is on the website www.PFLAGSavannah.org and on Facebook.

Zonta Club of Beaufort

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

Rotary Club of Sea Island lunch meeting

12:15 p.m., 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, Sea Island Presbyterian Church, 81 Lady’s Island Drive, Lady’s Island. Social gathering every 3rd Tuesday at 5:30 pm, locations vary and posted on our website. For more information, visit www.seaislandrotary.org.

Rotary Club of Sea Island social gathering 5:30 p.m., 3rd Tuesday of each month, locations vary and posted on our website. For more information, visit www.seaislandrotary.org.

Beaufort Rotary Club Noon, Wednesdays, Sea Island Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall, 81 Lady’s Island Drive, Lady’s Island. Catered buffet lunch, followed by a guest speaker. Prospective members welcome. For further information and upcoming speakers, please visit website www.beaufortrotaryclub.org.

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.

Emotions Anonymous International local group meeting 4 p.m, Thursdays, via Zoom. Emotions Anonymous International, (EAI), is a nonprofit program designed to help people with emotional difficulties. It has a chapter in the Lowcountry and members want others who feel the need to know they are welcome to participate. There is no charge to participate. They are based on the 12 steps and 12 traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous and follow a specific format designed to provide the support and tools for navigating life’s painful difficulties. All are welcome. Anyone interested in participating may contact the group via email at EALowcountry@gmail.com or call or text Laurie at 252- 917-7082. For more information on EAI visit www.emotionsanonymous.org.

Rotary Club of the Lowcountry 7:30 a.m., Fridays, Sea Island Presbyterian Church, 81 Lady's Island Dr., Ladys' Island. Catered breakfast from local chef. Speakers weekly. Occasional social events replace Friday mornings, but will be announced on our website, www.rotaryclubofthelowcountrybeaufort.org.

MUSIC

Music on Malphrus — Scott Ainslie 7 p.m., Saturday, April 11, Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Lowcountry, 110 Malphrus Road, Bluffton. $25. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. Tickets available at the door or at https:// www.uulowcountry.org. Schedule — April 11: Scott Ainslie. April 26: Karyn Oliver.

Live entertainment 7 to 11 p.m., Wednesdays, Luther’s Rare and Well Done, 910 Bay Street, downtown Beaufort.

Chris Jones 7 to 11 p.m., Thursdays, Luther’s Rare and Well Done, 910 Bay Street, downtown Beaufort.

Habersham Third Fridays

Music on Market 5 to 8 p.m., third Friday of the month, Habersham Marketplace.

Live entertainment 9 p.m. to midnight, Fridays & Saturdays, Luther’s Rare and Well Done, 910 Bay Street, downtown Beaufort.

OUTDOORS/NATURE

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

National Guard Armory, 1 Cavalry Lane, Beaufort. Featured at the show will be approximately 150 quilts of all sizes and styles from traditional to modern to contemporary art. A “Lowcountry Store” will sell used magazines, books, patterns, fabrics from “stashes”, and a few surprises. “Southern Elegance,” the Sea Island Quilters beautiful raffle quilt is in tribute to and in loving memory of its maker, Joanne Moss. A valued guild member for many years, Joanne passed away shortly before the 2023 Southern Comforts Quilt Show. The quilt was acquired from her husband. Tickets for the quilt are $1 each or six for $5. In addition to raffle, there will be an opportunity to purchase tickets for various themed gift baskets. A small Merchant’s Mall will be available for shopping. Items include fabric, threads, embroidery and wool supplies, long arm quilting demos, tools, templates, and more. Proceeds from the quilt show will be used to support guild activities such as making quilts for local children’s shelters and the Good Neighbor Clinic and making stockings for Christmas babies born at Beaufort Memorial Hospital. Ribbons will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, 3rd place in each of the 15 categories. Attendees also have the opportunity to vote for their favorite quilt to be awarded the “Viewer’s Choice” ribbon.

American Needlepoint Guild Meeting 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., 1st Tuesday each month. The Hilton Head Chapter of the American Needlepoint Guild welcomes anyone, beginner or experienced stitcher, who is interested in needlepoint to join us for stitching, learning and fellowship. For more information, please contact us at hiltonheadislandchapter@needlepoint.org. Embroidery Guild of America Meeting Second Tuesday of every month, Palmetto Electric Community Room, Hardeeville. The Lowcountry Chapter of the Embroidery Guild of America welcomes anyone, beginner or experienced stitcher, who is interested in any type of embroidery including needlepoint, cross-stitch, surface and beaded embroidery, hardanger, bargello, sashiko, etc., to join us for stitching, learning and fellowship. For more information, please contact us at lowcountrychapter@egacarolinas.org.

SPORTS/GAMES

ACBL Duplicate Bridge Club

9:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m., Tuesdays, Carteret St. Events will be held weekly. Contact Director and Club Manager Susan DeFoe at 843-597-2541 for location.

Bridge Club 11 a.m., Wednesdays, Beaufort Branch Library. The first session is for beginners new to the game, and following sessions will provide some instruction and we will learn as we play. Join us if you want to learn a new game, practice your skills, or need more players. Call the Beaufort Branch Library at 843-255-6458 for more information.

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.

Staff reports

The Beaufort Twilight Run returns for 15th year

The Beaufort Twilight Run (BTR), presented by Habersham Properties, will take place on Saturday, March 22 2025 at Beaufort’s Habersham Marketplace with packet pickup on Thursday, March 20 at Riverview Charter School.

As a fundraiser for Riverview Charter School, this year’s event is expected to support Capstone trips and local field trips, enriching students' educational journey and fostering a deeper understanding of various subjects through real-world experiences. Race and festivities take place from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m., Saturday, March 22

Known as “The Lowcountry’s Running Festival,” the BTR is a USA Track and Field (USATF) sanctioned event that is chip-timed by Grounded Running and offers more race options than any other event in the Lowcountry – drawing both competitive runners and rec-

reational participants.

The BTR offers six options for runners and walkers at all levels including a signature 13 1 Mile Beaufort Challenge (5K Run + 10 Mile), 10 Mile Run, 8K Run, 5K Run/ Walk, 1 Mile Youth Run, and Kids’ Fun Run. The BTR is one of two events in South Carolina offering a 10 mile run.

All courses are flat and spectator-friendly, offering beautiful marsh views under shaded live-oak canopies.

The BTR’s awards cash payouts in the 13 1 Mile Beaufort Challenge,

10 Mile Run, 8K Run and 5K Run.

Categories include the three overall male and female winners of each of those races, as well as for the top male and female, and Active Duty

Military. In addition to cash prizes, age group winners will receive BTR swag for their accomplishments.

For more information and to register, please visit www.BTR2025 com. Discounts are also available for students, groups of ten or more, and active-duty military.

The BTR’s mission is to host a fun, competitive and memorable annual event for Beaufort to benefit Riverview Charter School – a free public school open to Beaufort County kindergarten through eighth-grade students.

Events will be held rain or shine.

For more information, visit www. BeaufortTwilightRun.com.

Schedule (subject to change)

2 p.m. – Late registration opens at Habersham Fire Station. Cash and credit card payment only for onsite registration. T-shirt and swag not guaranteed.

3:30 p.m. – Youth 1 Mile run –

Beaufort High stops Bluffton, 17-6

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & SOFTBALL

Beaufort High’s Elias Stephan and Bluffton’s Beckett Keister battle for possession of the ball at the start of the match at Beaufort High on Thursday, March 13, 2025. Beaufort won, 17-6. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

Beaufort High’s Elias Stephan pursues the ball as Bluffton’s Beckett Keister takes a tumble during at Beaufort High on Thursday, March 13, 2025. Beaufort won, 17-6. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

Bridges Prep’s Conner Jones connects against Whale Branch at Bridges Prep on Tuesday, March 11, 2025. Bridges Prep took the win, 16-0. Amber Hewitt/The Island News.

Bridges Prep’s Amelia Howell slides into home during a game against Whale Branch on Tuesday, March 11, 2025. Bridges Prep went on to win the game, 25-10. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

EDUCATION

10 more books face statewide ban from public school libraries

By Delayna Earley The Island News

Ten more books may be removed from South Carolina public school libraries at the beginning of April following last week’s Instructional Materials Review Committee meeting.

The South Carolina Department of Education’s Instructional Materials Review Committee voted to remove 10 more books from all public-school libraries and classrooms during their meeting on March 13. The South Carolina Board of Education will decide the fate of these books with a final vote during their monthly meeting on April 1

What are the books?

The 10 books that were up for review on Thursday were: “Tricks” by Ellen Hopkins; “Collateral” by Ellen Hopkins; “Identical” by Ellen Hopkins; “Lucky” by Alice Sebold; “Living Dead Girl” by Elizabeth Scott; “Last night at Telegraph Club” by Malinda Lo; “Kingdom of Ash” by Sarah J. Maas; “Empire of Storms” by Sarah J. Maas; “Hopeless” by Colleen Hoover; and ... “Half of a Yellow Sun” by Chimananda Ngozi Adichie.

If the State Board of Education votes to ban the books on April 1, the books will be banned for all grade levels across the state.

The committee unanimously voted on Thursday to remove the 10 books solely off the “words on the page that have descriptions of sexual conduct.”

To date, the Board has reviewed

10 books are being recommended for removal from South Carolina public schools after the South Carolina Department of Education’s Instructional Materials Review Committee meeting on March 13 in Columbia. Photo Illustration by Delayna Earley/The Island News

17 books and has removed 11 of them: “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” by Stephen Chbosky; “Flamer” by Mike Curato; “Damsel” by Elana Arnold; “All Boys Aren’t Blue” by George M. Johnson; “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas; “A Court of Mist and Fury” by Sarah J. Maas; “A Court of Wings and Ruin” by Sarah J. Maas; “A Court of Frost and Starlight” by Sarah J. Maas; “Normal People” by Sally Rooney; and “Push” by Sapphire.

The book “Crank” by Ellen Hopkins was partially restricted as it can remain in high school libraries, but a parent or guardian must fill out an opt-in form for a student to check the book out.

Who is the complainant?

The 10 books in question are being removed for being in violation of Regulation 43-170, which states that any books that contain sexual

descriptions of visual depictions should be removed from public schools in South Carolina.

All the books were part of the list of 97 books that was originally submitted to the Beaufort County School District (BCSD) by Beaufort resident Elizabeth “Ivie” Szalai in 2022 and were subsequently reviewed by the district and community in a process that lasted just longer than a year.

Szalai was successful in having four books that she filed complaints about in January – “All Boys Aren’t Blue” by George M. Johnson, “Flamer” by Mike Curato, “Push” by Sapphire and “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” by Stephen Chbosky – removed from South Carolina schools.

As the books in question were not removed during the BCSD’s recent review process, when they were submitted to be reviewed again locally and were sent to the

state level to be reviewed there.

“My efforts suffered mostly losses until Regulation 43-170 was passed,” Szalai said during the meeting on March 13. “Many will say I play the victim, and I want the attention. Truthfully, it terrifies me to speak in front of people, but I will not let my fear overrule what I feel is right.”

Former Beaufort County Council member Mike Covert also spoke during the meeting on several occasions in support of removing the books based on their sexual content.

“If you can’t or aren’t allowed to read it in a church, why should the public tax dollars be allowed to put it in the public schools?” Covert said.

In the books’ defense

There were many who spoke against removing the books as well, including author Ellen Hopkins who had three books up for review during Thursday’s meeting.

While defending one of her novels, “Tricks,” she explained that her books were written to show teenagers what grooming practices of sexual traffickers look like and all her characters were based on real stories of children that she came across in her research.

“All five characters were inspired by real kids’ stories. My goal was to show other kids how they might be recruited – how easily it can happen,” Hopkins said. “My goal was to keep more kids off the streets and out of dangerous situations – to arm kids with knowledge. Yes, there is sex in the book, it’s about prostitution, but as with all my books it was written with my audience in mind.”

Hopkins said that if kids as young as 9 or 10 can be traf-

ficked for sex, then older teenagers should be capable of reading about it and removing books with sexual references and pretending that it does not happen does not change the fact that sexual activity is a “normal part of adolescent development.”

“Fear driven politics is at the heart of the current book banning fad,” Hopkins said. “It’s not about protecting our children, it’s about keeping them ignorant.”

Beth Young, also from Beaufort County, spoke during the meeting regarding the book “Collateral,” also by Hopkins. Young spoke to the importance of allowing access to books that discuss relationships with people who are in the military and dealing with PTSD.

“I think it is so important to have books like this available for mature high school students to discuss and explore the emotional and psychological effects of war, of being in a relationship with someone who is in the military and serves in a hostile environment,” Young said. “While it does contain mature themes, it presents it in a way that promotes empathy, critical thinking and a deeper understanding of what real world issues are.”

The State Board of Education meets for their next full board meeting on April 1 where they will take a final vote to on whether uphold the recommendations from the Instructional Materials Review Committee.

Delayna Earley, who joined The Island News in 2022, formerly worked as a photojournalist for The Island Packet/The Beaufort Gazette, as well as newspapers in Indiana and Virginia. She can be reached at delayna.theislandnews@gmail.com.

Rising of the ‘King Tide’

Golden Warriors participate in DECA Convention

Staff reports John Paul II student Michael Fitzgibbons finished in second place in the state for Apparel & Accessories Marketing Series in February at the South Carolina DECA Convention in North Charleston.

DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe. Fitzgibbons’s finish qualifies him to compete again at the International Career Development Conference (ICDC). He is the third student in the school’s five-year DECA history to qualify for

DECA's ICDC. Students complete the 100-question written test at JPII ahead of the State Conference. At the conference students competed in a role play -- where they take on a management role in their genre to solve a situation in an innovative way using 21st century skills. Some students qualified for the second round of role plays. These included Fitzgibbons and Lily Garrick (10th) in Apparel & Accessories Marketing Series; Trenton LaFountain in Principles of Finance; Ryan Bertagna in Sports and Entertainment Marketing Series; Aadi Patel and Daniel Snyder in

Marketing Team Decision Making; Finley Borgan and Leo Iskandar in Hospitality Services Team Decision Making; Blake Hubik and Alan Wolf along with Keira Doran and Aanya Patel in Entrepreneurship Team Decision Making; and Megan Fox in Automotive Services Marketing Series. At the awards banquet, the following JPII students were honored for their top 10 finishes: Lily Kate Garrick -- 10th place in AAM: Apparel and Accessories Marketing Series; Isabella Perez – fourth place in BFS: Business Finance Series Event;

Aanya Patel and Keira Doran -- sixth place in ETDM: Entrepreneurship Team Decision Making; Trice McClure – ninth place in FMS: Food Marketing Series; Leo Iskandar and Finley Borgan – fifth place in HTDM: Hospitality Services Team Decision Making; Aadi Patel and Daniel Snyder – seventh place in MTDM: Marketing Team Decision Making; and ... Ryan Bertagna – fourth place in SEM: Sports and Entertainment Marketing Series.

Technical College of the Lowcountry’s mascot, King Tide, makes his debut entrance into the lobby for a special photo opportunity during the “Meet the Mascot” event at TCL on March 17, 2025. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

Anglea Thomas, a Technical College of the Lowcountry’s student and Ambassador, poses for a photo with TCL’s Mascot, King Tide, during the “Meet the Mascot” event at TCL on March 17, 2025. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

More than a dozen John Paul II Catholic School students participated at the S.C. DECA Convention in North Charleston. Photo courtesy of John Paul II Catholic School

EDUCATION & ARTS

Beaufort County high school students earn recognition in regional arts, writing contest

Staff reports

Beaufort County School District students have won 56 Southeast regional recognitions in the 2025 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards competition.

For the first time, nearly every high school in the district was proudly represented. There were three winners at Battery Creek High, three winners at Beaufort High, four winners at Bluffton High, 28 winners at Hilton Head Island High, and 18 at May River High.

The prestigious Scholastic Art & Writing Awards describes itself as the nation’s longest-running recognition program for creative teens and the largest source of scholarships for young artists and writers. Students in Grades 7 through 12 typically submit more than 350,000 works of art and writing in 30 categories. Winning students earn opportunities for recognition, exhibition, publication, and scholarships.

The district’s 13 top award-winners – Gold Key recipients – advance to judging at the national level. Silver Key works are judged to demonstrate exceptional ability, and Honorable Mention works are judged to show great skill and potential.

“Let's take a moment to appreciate the incredible talent of our students, highlighted through platforms like the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Their creativity knows no bounds, and their hard work shines

through in every submission,” Superintendent Frank Rodriguez said in a news release. “It's inspiring to see them express themselves in such unique ways.”

Judges evaluate student artwork based on originality, technical skill, and the emergence of a personal vision or voice. Former winners of Scholastic Awards include Andy Warhol, Truman Capote, Richard Avedon, Sylvia Plath, and filmmaker Ken Burns.

The Silver Key winner

from Battery Creek High School was Ryleigh Severide for “Society of Volt” (Digital Art).

Honorable Mentions from Battery Creek High School were Angela Estrada for “Avatar” (Drawing and Illustration) and Michema Johnson for “Music is my way of therapy” (Drawing and Illustration).

Silver Key winners from Beaufort High School were Hannah Schranz for “A Haunting in 58” (Writing) and Sofia Steen for “Lost”

(Drawing and Illustration).

The Honorable Mention from Beaufort High School was Hannah Schranz for “Julia’s Debut” (Writing).

Gold Key winners from Bluffton High School were Alice Alexander for “Sculpting Girlhood” (Art Portfolio) and Kaia Duffy for “Spanish Moss Forest” (Drawing and Illustration).

The Silver Key winner from Bluffton High School was Ruby DuBose for “Alley Adventures” (Photography).

The Honorable Mention

from Bluffton High School was Kaia Duffy for “Reborn” (Drawing and Illustration).

Gold Key winners from Hilton Head High were Kelly Bolchoz for “Pain Tolerance” (Writing); Maeve Dolan for “Fading” (Drawing and Illustration); Charlotte Hussey for “The Look” (Photography); Abby Pratt for “Dancing Through Life” (Photography); Suleimy Santos for “Rosa Con Vida” (Fashion); Sienna Schutz for “Colors of Culture” (Mixed Media); Kaia Tolly for “Industry’s Steel Grasp” (Mixed Media) and “Soar” (Sculpture); and Kadence Wolfe for “Layers of Identity” (Digital Art).

Silver Key winners from Hilton Head High were Jayson Arrieta for “Leaf” (Photography); Christopher Garcia-Bruno for “Stranded boat” (Photography); Jasper Grassi for “Bridge” (Photography); Pippa Parsons for “Dancing in the Forest” (Photography); Ixel Pineda for “Life under a microscope” (Art Portfolio); Kaya Tolly for “Wings of Transformation” (Sculpture); and Angel Villeda for “Attraction” (Photography).

Honorable Mentions from Hilton Head High were Kelly Bolchoz for “I will not cross my thumbs when I pray for you,” “Out of all the months in the year,” and “The Tired Old Gnome” (Writing); Jamie Casillo for “The Lady With the Smoke” (Photography); Maeve Dolan for “Aging Gracefully” (Painting); Pippa Parsons for “Lilies” and “On

Chalk It Up! festival returns

Staff reports

Downtown Beaufort’s Tabby Place parking lot will awash with chalk on Saturday, March 29 and Sunday, March 30, as artists from around the country participate in the second annual Chalk It Up! festival. Several chalk art masters are coming from Utah, which boasts a vibrant chalk art community, as well as from Florida and Georgia.

This will be the first time many of the artists have ever visited Beaufort, and an Opening Reception from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Friday, March 28 will give them a warm welcome to our Lowcountry style. The event is open to the public. The evening’s entertainment features Beaufort’s acclaimed griot, Aunt Pearlie Sue, and Valinda Littlefield will present an engaging introduc-

tion to Beaufort’s Gullah history.

Organized by the Freedman Arts District, Chalk It Up! is a free weekend festival that celebrates the artistic process while drawing the community together. Artists will be creating from scratch to finish, large chalk artwork on the pavement while chatting with the public, explaining what they are doing and telling their story.

Tickets on sale for Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcowuntry’s Upcycled Art Auction

Staff reports

Tickets are on sale for the Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry at the Upcycled Art Auction, a creative fundraising event that features ordinary items transformed into stunning works of art—all in support of building a home for a deserving local family.

From 5 to 9 p.m., Saturday, March 29, the auction will offer more than 70 oneof-a-kind pieces crafted from repurposed materials, highlighting the beauty of sustainability and the power of community-driven impact. The venue is the Weezie Pavilion at the Port Royal Sound Foundation at 310 Okatie Highway in Okatie. Wine, beer, non-alcoholic beverages, and heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served.

“By combining creativity with purpose, putting art into action, the Upcycled Art

Auction not only promotes environmental responsibility but also helps us fund the construction of a safe, affordable home for a family in need,” Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry Development Director Jeb Bush said in a news release.

Tickets are $50 each in advance, $60 at the door, and can be purchased at https:// bit.ly/4ieC8EO. Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership.

There will also be musical entertainment all day Saturday and Sunday featuring local musicians, artisan demonstrations, and a kids-zone tent with hands-on art entertainment for youngsters. Plus, on Sunday, area school art classes will compete in a chalk art competition. Everyone can vote for their favorite chalk art and monetary prizes will be awarded.

Friday

Point” (Photography); Ixel Pineda for “Bloody drops” and “La Musa” (Photography); Chiara Solla for “Fox Eye” (Painting); Kaya Tolly for “Ascendency of Man” (Painting); and Angel Villeda for “Eye Beauty” (Photography).

Gold Key winners from May River High were Haley Mathis for “Serene” (Photography) and Hailey Shupard for “The Circle of Life” (Painting). Silver Key winners from May River High were Elliana Bowden for “Sugar and Spice” and “The Unseen Side” (Photography); Katherine Donahue for “Girl Reflected” (Painting); Savannah Johns for “Under the Crown” (Photography); Giancarlo Perez for “Bright Bloom” (Photography); Krystal Resendiz for “Portrait” (Photography); and Isabella Robertello for “Floating Bird” (Painting).

Honorable Mentions from May River High were Abigail Hirsch for “Sheep Show” (Mixed Media); Haley Mathis for “Down by the River” (Photography); Isabella Robertello for “Fish and a Boy” (Mixed Media) and “Hand in water” (Painting); Hailey Shupard for “The Pathway” (Painting); Hayden Smith for “Lily Teapot Set” (Ceramics and Glass); Emarie Toirkens for “Mini Dragon Vase” (Ceramics and Glass) and “Nature Enhanced with Glazing Techniques” (Art Portfolio); and Alena Williams for “The Complete Works of Mice” (Writing).

only: Celebrate music of Bobby Darin

USCB Center for the Arts holding 2 performances of ‘Splish Splash’

Staff reports The USCB Center for the Arts invites music lovers to experience “Splish Splash: The Music of Bobby Darin” with two performances only on Friday, March 21 at 3 and 7:30 p.m. This high-energy tribute show celebrates the legendary singer’s greatest hits, bringing his timeless music to life in a spectacular performance. Starring the talented Ron Gartner, Splish Splash takes audiences on a journey through the life and music of Bobby Darin, one of the most versatile and dynamic entertainers of his time. Featuring beloved hits such as “Mack the Knife,” “Be-

yond the Sea,” “Dream Lover,” and “Splish Splash,” the show captures the essence of Darin’s unique style, charisma, and showmanship.

Gartner’s dynamic stage presence, backed by a talented live band, ensures an unforgettable night of entertainment, nostalgia, and musical excellence. Through entertaining storytelling and spot-on renditions of Darin’s greatest hits, “Splish Splash” offers a heartfelt tribute to one of the most beloved entertainers in American music history.

When: 3 and 7:30 p.m., Friday, March 21 Where: USCB Center for the Arts Tickets: Adults $48, Seniors/Military $45, Children/Students $30 – available at uscbcenterforthearts.com

Don’t miss this classic performance at the USCB Center for the Arts. Tickets are Adults $48, Seniors/ Military $45, Children/ Students $30, and are on sale now at uscbcenterforthearts.com. For more information, visit uscbcenterforthearts. com or follow us on social media for updates.

Maeve Dolan was a Gold Key winner from Hilton Head High for her charcoal drawing “Fading” (Drawing and Illustration). Photo courtesy of Beaufort County School District

Charlie Company Rappel Tower

More on filing a service-connected disability claim with the VA

Last week’s article should have given military members, veterans, and their family members an idea of how complicated filing a claim with the VA for service-connected disability compensation can be. Hopefully, that article also convinced veterans to:

Use a VA-accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO), Attorney, or Claims Agent to help them understand their federal and state veterans’ benefits and apply for them.

VSO services are free. Do their homework and read as much as possible about filing for veterans’ benefits at www.va.gov, The Island News archives, and other trustworthy sites like www. Military.com and their state Department of Veteran Affairs web page.

• Understand how important it is to quickly seek medical care for any wound, injury, illness, Hazardous Material Contamination/Injury, scars, event, trauma, or condition experienced while serving in the military. It is more challenging (but not impossible) to prove service-connection without your condition being documented in your military medical records.

The VA, veterans, and their families are going to suffer from the 83 000 draconian cuts the administration is imposing on the Veterans Administration workforce – one quarter of which are veterans themselves.

How to file a service-connected disability claim

The VA’s “How to file a VA disability claim” web page (https:// bit.ly/3wYGMRJ) explains:

1 How to prepare before starting an application;

2 Eligibility – https://bit. ly/3GxrxTG;

3 Fully developed claims –

https://bit.ly/3CTtFV0;

4 Military sexual trauma –https://bit.ly/4hGn7KI;

5 When to file – https://bit. ly/3m6K3M9;

6 How to file – https://bit. ly/3wYGMRJ;

7 What evidence is needed –https://bit.ly/3w6YGAN;

8 When to submit an Intent to File – https://bit. ly/3Rzq8Qk;

9 Additional forms the veteran may need – https://bit.ly/3KPYQ7I;

10 What happens after a veteran files a claim – https://bit. ly/3H5ClKq; and …

11 Average number of days to VA decision.

That webpage (https://bit. ly/3wYGMRJ) has links to: Types of disability claims and when to file (https:// bit.ly/3m6K3M9). Types of claims include:

1 Original claim (the first claim filed for disability benefits);

2 Increased claim (a claim for more compensation for a disability that the VA already determined to be service-connected and has worsened);

3 New claim (a claim for added benefits or other benefit requests related to an existing service-connected disability);

4 Secondary service-connected claim (a claim for a new disability that is linked to service-connected disability the veteran already has);

5 Special claim (a claim for special needs linked to the disability); and …

6 Supplemental Claim (a claim to provide new evidence for a denied disability claim).

Two programs to help speed up a veteran claim decision. Learn about Pre-Discharge

Claim Program and Fully Developed Disability Claims at https://bit.ly/3m6K3M9 https://bit.ly/3CTtFV0, and https://bit.ly/3vmbvaa. Learn about Standard Disability Claims at https://bit. ly/3Z7UGNg.

*Evidence/documents needed for your claim (https://bit. ly/3w6YGAN). Evidence may include your DD214, military medical records, VA medical records, civilian medical records, military personnel records (efficiency reports, performance appraisals, line of duty investigations, etc.), doctor’s diagnoses, nexus letter connecting service event to causing the disability (from Physician, PA, NP Specialist, Therapist), accident reports, incident reports, awards (Purpleheart, etc.), Lay Witness Statements, OSHA reports, MP/Police reports, unit histories, newspaper articles, pictures, Hazardous Material Incidents reports, VA self-assessment, a statement in support of claim, Separation Health Assessment (DBQ-Disability Benefits Questionnaire), other DBQs, Counseling statements, Chaplain records, personal diaries, list of your current medications, and others.

*Note: Law requires the VA to tell veterans what evidence they must provide to support their disability claims. The VA rating system is based on the average impairment of earning capacity a disability would cause in civilian employment. The current compensation rate for a 100% service-connected disabled veteran with a spouse is $4 044 91

Disabilities that appear within 1 year after discharge (https:// bit.ly/3KPYQoe). If veterans have certain long-lasting conditions that started within one year after their discharge, they may be eligible for VA disability compensation.

Eligible conditions include high blood pressure, arthritis,

diabetes, or peptic ulcers.\ Get help from a VA-accredited representative (https://bit. ly/3WwDXmN). An accredited attorney, claims agent, or Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can help veterans file a claim or request a decision review. VSOs must pass a police background investigation, be trained by a Veterans Service Organization, the VA, and their state’s Department of Veterans Affairs, pass an exam, and take continuing education courses. VSO services are free. How to find a VSO. Each South Carolina county has a Veterans Affairs Office. Veterans can search for VSOs, Attorneys, and Claims Agents nationwide at https:// bit.ly/3QnCk5M). Veterans can search for VSOs at VBA Regional Offices at https:// bit.ly/3WQp0e3. Find S.C. County VSOs at https://bit. ly/3qbLVSL. Find Georgia VSOs at https://bit.ly/44KMVA7. Find N.C. VSOs at https://bit.ly/4ghZqHW. Veterans can find a (by state) Veterans Affairs office directory at https://bit.ly/4iVZIWC.

The bottom line Veterans should follow the following steps to file a service-connected claim with the VA.

1 Get treated for every medical problem (physical and mental) as soon as possible.

2 Get a copy of all your military medical and personnel records when you leave military service.

3 Read this series of two articles and the referenced VA, The Island News, and other websites and articles.

4 Determine if you are eligible to file a service-connected disability with the VA by asking your VSO and reading the information at https://www.va.gov/disability/eligibility/.

5 List your service-connected health conditions, with symptoms (frequency, dura-

EDITOR’S NOTE This article is the second in a series of two.

tion, pain level, and impact on your daily life). You can claim service connection for conditions caused by military service that showed up during service, conditions before service worsened by military service, and conditions caused by service that showed up after service.

6 Gather any evidence to submit when you file your claim.

7 Make an appointment with your local VSO to discuss your veterans' federal and state benefits.

8 Ask your VSO to represent you to the VA and help you file claims.

9 Be specific and honest in describing your condition’s symptoms, frequency, range of motion, and pain level.

10 Be your best advocate. If you cannot advocate for yourself, ask a family member or friend to help by attending your meetings with your VSO and the VA.

11 Do not miss your Compensation and Pension (C&P) Examinations and get a copy of the C&P Report. If the C&P is not favorable, submit rebuttal evidence from your doctors.

12 Many first-time applications are denied. If this happens, do not give up. Contact your VSO, or if the VSO recommends it, hire a VA-accredited attorney to help with your appeal.

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

Rct. Brandon S. Parker with Charlie Company, 1st Recruit Training Battalion prepares to descend the rappel tower March 17, 2025, on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. The 47-foot-tall rappel tower helps recruits overcome their fear of heights and to trust their gear. Pfc. Isaac De Leon/USMC

Options & References for a Healthier Life

Power of a positive attitude

A balanced diet, exercise, genetics, and even certain medications can work in concert to make a person healthy. But a person's demeanor also can factor into personal health.

The Mayo Clinic says that whether or not a person is an optimist, or a pessimist can affect many areas of his or her health and well-being, and those who see the glass as halffull may ultimately be healthier than those who see it as half-empty.

Positive thinking can make it easier to manage stress. The body responds differently based on an individual's mood, and it may produce stress hormones if a person's outlook is negative. Such stress hormones can compromise the immune system, increase blood pressure, and even reduce the body's ability to burn fat effectively. Thinking negatively and being on edge also can increase a person's risk for developing cardiovascular disease and aging prematurely.

Conversely, maintaining a positive attitude can be good for your health. Studies have shown that thinking positively can lower rates of depression and anxiety, increase life expectancy, and provide greater resistance to certain illnesses, such as the common cold.

Researchers are unsure why positive thinking has such profound effects. But in addition to limiting stress-releasing hormones, positive thinking may inspire people to live healthier lifestyles that make them more likely to get routine physical activity and eat a healthy diet. Happy people also may be less likely to use tobacco products or alcohol as a coping mechanism when dealing with elevated stress levels, and such people will not have to deal with the side effects that can come with these unhealthy behaviors.

Becoming a more positive thinker can take a little effort for those without a natural inclination for optimism. But because positive thinking boasts such significant health

“Laughter is good medicine — laughter combined with positive thinking is a prescription for good health. Research shows laughter relaxes the entire body, relieving physical tension and stress for up to 45 minutes. Laughter decreases stress hormones and increases infection-fighting antibodies. Endorphins that promote an overall sense of well-being and relieve pain can be released from a hearty bout of laughter. Furthermore, laughter can increase blood flow throughout the body, which protects against hypertension and heart attack.”

benefits, men and women might want to try the following methods to embrace their optimistic side. Exercise. Start an exercise regimen, as physical activity naturally reduces stress and can improve mood.

• Embrace humor. Identify areas that need change. Think about moments in life that may bring you down or inspire negative reactions. If work is problematic, figure out ways to make it better and work toward improving the situation.

• Be supportive of yourself. Consider what you would say to others and then treat yourself the same way. Would you be overly negative or deroga-

tory toward a complete stranger? Probably not, and there is no reason to be harsh with yourself, either. Push negative thoughts away. Volunteer.

• Think like a child. Take a cue from youngsters and find joy in the little things. Let children be the leaders in activities and mimic what they do. You just may find yourself laughing more and enjoying yourself. Being silly for a little while is one way to recapture the feelings of youth.

Positive thinking is more than the subject matter of self-help books. It's a viable way to improve personal health and live longer.

Four tips for a more enjoyable life

Life is short, so live it to its fullest potential. Live it optimally. This is your life, so don’t waste its most precious resource—time. No matter one’s spiritual leanings, economic and education status, health, intelligence level, etc., one thing is true for all: Our time on Earth is finite. There will be a time for most of us when, perhaps after a frightening diagnosis from a doctor, we reflect deeply upon our time and consider the most important moments, and all the time that may have been squandered.

• Balance is key. Too much or too little of something, no matter how good, is actually not good. Balance is one of the easiest tenets to understand, but arguably the most difficult to maintain. Obviously, too much alcohol is bad; then again, there are some health benefits to moderately imbibing red wine. What about too much of a good thing; can a mother love her children too much? Yes, if she is an overprotective “helicopter parent.” The best antidote to overkill of anything is awareness; try to be aware of all measures in your life.

• Learn to tap your strengths and improve upon your weaknesses. Engaging your strengths at work and in your personal life is important. When we do what we’re good at and what comes easily, we feel self-confident and satisfied. Some people, however, are not in jobs that utilize their strengths, or they don’t put their talents to work at home because they’re mired in the prosaic work of living. It’s important to identify your strengths and find ways to engage them. It’s equally important to recognize our weaknesses and work on improving them (because we can). This is essential for achieving balance.

Life is about making the right choices. Integrative decision-making makes this easier. There are many different types of decision-making, including systematic, hierarchal, impulsive, decisive, and flexible. Integrative decision-making can be used for problems large and small.

It includes the following process:

1. Define the problem.

2. Frame the problem.

3. Develop all your options.

4. Analyze your options.

5. Make the decision.

6. Execute your decision.

7. Debrief yourself.

While experts may be the best consultants for compartmentalized areas of your life, only you know the other aspects that affect your well-being and can determine how a decision in one area will affect another area.

Gardening for your health and enjoyment

Gardening is a healthy activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. An edible garden can be started in a small area or in pots. It's important that you learn which plants are edible and ensure that chemical sprays are not used on the plants that you are going to eat. Gardening provides exercise, relaxation, fresh food, and enjoyment. Wear sunscreen and protective clothing including a hat, correct footwear, and gloves. Take regular breaks and do stretches to avoid stiffness.

Gardening has many health and therapeutic benefits and can be very enjoyable. It’s an activity that everyone can enjoy. People with disabilities, seniors and children can find it especially rewarding to spend time in the garden tending plants and growing their own food.

With some planning and thought, you can create an interesting, productive, and pleasant space that can be used as an edible garden.

An edible garden does not have to be large. Your garden can start small with a few pots and containers or even just a window box

with a few suitable cuttings or herbs.

Benefits of growing an edible garden:

Research shows that gardening is a healthy activity. Working in the garden provides benefits that include:

• Enjoyment – from the

physical activity

Exercise – physical activity improves your endurance, strength, mobility, and flexibility

Relaxation – helps you relax and reduce stress levels

• Fresh food – provides you and your family with a healthy source of inexpensive fresh food.

• Appreciation of food growing – provides an appreciation of foods and their origin.

Grow things you can eat.

An edible garden is a garden that contains flowers, herbs, seeds, berries, and plants that you can eat.

Flowers and herbs can be used in salads, add flavor to cooked dishes, be made into teas, or used as a garnish. Plants, vegetables, and

fruits can be eaten raw or cooked.

Everything you pick to eat should be washed carefully.

Only eat flowers in salads if they are organically grown and free of pesticides and other garden sprays. Be aware that some flowers, seeds, and leaves can be toxic.

Protect yourself when you’re gardening.

When you’re gardening outdoors, there are a few safety tips that you should follow. These include: Wear sunscreen and protective clothing including a hat, correct footwear, and gloves. Warm up, bend and stretch before you start. Take regular breaks and don’t forget to stretch and change position often.

Bend at the knees and don’t strain when lifting heavy objects. Drink plenty of water especially in warm weather.

Store garden tools and equipment safely. Observe safety instructions when using potting mix, any sprays, or fertilizers.

Things to remember:

Gardening is a healthy activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

• An edible garden can be started in a very small area or in containers or pots. Make sure your plants are non-toxic varieties and are edible. Don’t use chemical sprays or fertilizers in your edible garden.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

How to fit a life jacket correctly

Our Lowcountry boating season has arrived with the warmer weather. Many people assume that simply wearing a life jacket or another personal flotation device (PFD) is enough to provide adequate safety while enjoying activities on the water. But just as important as wearing the PFD is that it fit properly.

Selecting a life jacket is not a one-size-fits-all scenario. Nor are all life jackets suitable for all types of water sports and other marine activities. The amount of buoyancy the jacket provides is relative to the activity and the size of the person wearing the jacket. Furthermore, it is unwise to think that children can simply wear an adult life jacket in a pinch.

A wearable life jacket for each person must be aboard.

These life jackets must be...

U.S. Coast Guard approved

• The proper size for the intended wearer

In good and serviceable condition

Properly stowed (readily accessible)

When a vessel is underway with children under 13 years old, they must be wearing a life jacket unless they are below deck or in an enclosed cabin.

Note: On some state waters this age requirement may vary. Boaters are encouraged to check with their respective state boating authority regarding these requirements.

Life jackets that are too small or too large can come off or ride up in the water. A jacket that rides up can end up rising over the mouth and nose, making breathing difficult. The proper fit of a life jacket is one where the jacket is snug, but not suffocating. All of the zippers, ties, straps, snaps, and other connection points should be correctly secured.

Those who have experience in the water can test out the fit of a life jacket by walking into the water up to the neck. After lifting up the legs and tilting the head back, the person should be able to float comfortably and not have to put any effort into staying above water. Furthermore, the life jacket shouldn't obstruct the mouth. The person should also be able to swim easily on the back or side without restriction of the arms.

In terms of children and life jackets or flotation vests, the Division of Boating and Oceanic Recreation of Hawaii says that fitting children with PDAs is one of the most frequently asked questions of boating

safety educators. Typically, children 12 years and younger are expected to wear a life jacket at all times when in a boat or around the water. This means kids will spend significant time wearing the life jacket, so it should be comfortable and fit properly.

Children's life jackets are typically designed around three sizes.

An infant device is for children under 30 pounds.

A small child jacket is appropriate for children 30 to 50 pounds.

A youth size is right for children 50 to 90 pounds.

Larger children may graduate to a small adult's size. Life jackets for young children may have a flotation collar that helps to keep the head upright, as a child's head tends to be his or her heaviest part of the body. In addition, there will likely be a strap that secures between the legs to prevent vest from riding up.

All life jackets should be replaced when they start to fade to the color of the inside label. This might be indicating that their safety protection may have started to deteriorate.

In addition to properly fitting a life jacket, it is important to practice being in one in the water. While life jackets may keep adults and children afloat, they may not keep a struggling person face up. Therefore, it is advisable to remain calm in the water while wearing the PFD. Life jackets can save lives when properly fitted and worn correctly. Also, many people prefer to purchase life jackets that are a Coast Guard approved device for added protection.

Source: https://uscgboating.org/images/

The next generation of caregivers

Beaufort Memorial unveils $17.5K sponsorship to support Beaufort County high schools

BEAUFORT, S.C. – As part of Beaufort Memorial’s commitment to educating local students about career opportunities in healthcare, the hospital has invested in a district-wide high school sponsorship with the Beaufort County School District.

Beaufort Memorial is giving $17 500 to the BCSD to support school activities and increase visibility for the one of the county’s largest employers at all six public high schools in the county. In addition to the funds being split between the district’s six high schools, Beaufort Memorial will provide career planning support and resources for high school classes, clubs and events. These resources include health topic experts, career information, behindthe-scenes tours and handson skills training.

“As the community’s hospital, we are tasked with meeting the ever-growing needs for high-quality healthcare. Now, more than ever, that also means finding innovative ways to grow and develop the necessary staff,” said Russell Baxley, MHA, Beaufort Memorial president and CEO. “We’re excited to introduce high school students to the career opportunities in healthcare and offer training to equip

them to be the next generation of caregivers.”

The hospital recently revamped its sponsorship program, focusing resources and support to strategically invest in the future of the community. Including the $17 500 sponsorship, Beaufort Memorial’s overall annual financial investment in the school district will be well over $25,000 including staff time, use of facilities and materials for both teachers and the students participating in Beaufort Memorial-sponsored programs (such as uniforms, certification exam fees, etc.).

We are excited to partner with Beaufort Memorial and appreciate their dedication to broadening our students’ horizons by introducing them to many meaningful healthcare careers and providing them with opportunities that will ultimately help them thrive,” said BCSD Career & Technical Education Director Karen Gilbert. “Not only is Beaufort Memorial innovative in their approach to workforce development, but it has also given our students the opportunity to get a jump-start on their healthcare careers, ultimately strengthening the healthcare pipeline in this community.” Beaufort Memorial and BCSD are also partnering for a dual enrollment program that kicked off in January, allowing seniors enrolled at a BCSD high school who are also participating in a health sciences completer program to participate in Beaufort Memorial’s PATH (People Achieving Their Highest)

program tuition-free. Students who complete this program in high school are certified in their pathway by the time they graduate and are ready to enter the workforce immediately. At Beaufort Memorial, graduates from this program would begin working at one to two pay grades higher than they would in an entry-level position. Alani Crawford, a senior at Whale Branch High School, is currently participating in the Patient Care Technician (PCT) pathway in the program, allowing her to get a head start on her goal of becoming a registered nurse. It has been my dream to be a part of this program,” Crawford said. “It’s a really good opportunity; you can skip the entry level and get certified while you’re in high school.”

To learn more about career development opportunities for high school students, visit BeaufortMemorial.org/ InvestingInYourFuture.

Beaufort Memorial president and CEO Russell Baxley presents Beaufort County School District director of Career & Technical Education Karen Gilbert with a sponsorship check for $17,500. The hospital's recently revamped sponsorship program is focusing on investing in the future of the community. Photo courtesy of Beaufort Memorial Hospital

Leija and Crawford demonstrate some of the skills they've learned in the program with one of the Beaufort Memorial Career Development Center's high-tech manikins. Photo courtesy of Beaufort Memorial Hospital

Four Beaufort County high school seniors participating in Beaufort Memorial's PATH program through dual enrollment at their schools: Aysha Perez (Bluffton High School), Evelin Leija and Alani Crawford (both Whale Branch High School) and Abigal Reynolds (Battery Creek High School). Photo courtesy of Beaufort Memorial Hospital

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

MISSING: true conservatives

Where have all the true conservatives gone?

The moment I asked myself that question, a song immediately popped into my head, “Where Have All the Flowers Gone?” the woeful folk-style song written by Pete Seeger in 1955 Just a little background for this.

In the most polarized, divisive and controversial of times (up until now), the McCarthy era, when artists were fearful for their careers and freedom, Seeger stood up for free-speech. In this case he refused to name his friends with communist associations or disavow his own political leanings.

As I read this, the irony was apparent, given today’s governmental posture with Putin; the message, however, is pretty much the same. Freedom of speech.

And so I began to research the basis of conservative ideology. I came across a list that billed itself as the “7 Core Principles of Conservatism,” and frankly, they sounded pretty reasonable, with some modifications, to this moderate/liberal thinker.

The first principle listed was that of individual freedom, and it went on to explain. “The birth of our great nation was inspired by the bold declaration that our individual, God-given liberties should be preserved against government intrusion.” I determined then to seek their definition of

CAROL LUCAS

“intrusion.”

Conservatives typically hold that the government should play a smaller role in regulating business and managing the economy. They typically support economic liberalization and oppose welfare programs to redistribute income to assist the poor.

Today’s Republican party, while still claiming to stand for limited government, is practicing just the opposite: government intrusion is everywhere. Let’s look at education, a topic near and dear to my heart.

Republicans (note I am not using the word Conservative, nor will I use it when referencing MAGA) throughout the country are determining what books your child can and cannot read. Additionally, they propose the barring of all curricula they perceive as evidence of committed racism. In many cases, this is already established.

Many Republican states, including our own, are banning masks

in school. With the onslaught of measles, this is certain to cause problems.

Another area of intrusions deals with abortions. SCOTUS, with its majority of Republicans overturned Roe v. Wade. When this occurred, red states couldn’t wait to follow suit, and they outlawed a woman’s right to control her own body, including those instances where the mother’s life is endangered. Republican states are also setting a cutoff of six weeks, when in fact many women don’t know they are pregnant by then. Pro-life or intrusion?

The second core principle is that of limited government. In simple terms, a limited government means the power of the government is restricted by laws and a constitution, ensuring it can't act arbitrarily and protects individual rights. I wish I had the space to provide a detailed explanation of this. However, I will try to encapsulate what I found.

Restricted Power: A limited government operates within defined boundaries, meaning the government's authority is not absolute.

Rule of Law: This type of government is carried forth by a system of laws, not the whims of rulers, and these laws are implemented fairly and impartially.

Constitution: A written consti-

tution often serves as a blueprint, outlining the powers of the government and the rights of citizens, acting as a check on government power.

Separation of Powers: Power is divided among different branches of government (legislative, executive, and judicial) to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

There was a time when Ronald Reagan thundered, “Government is not the solution to our problem, government is the problem.” Ask yourself right now if any of these is being adhered to by the Trump government. Those issues that used to come before Congress are now falling under the category “Presidential edict.”

Other core principles of Conservatism include “Peace through Strength.” I don’t believe that is supposed to embrace making Canada the 51st state or Greenland the 52nd. Just my opinion.

Then there is “Free Markets.” Hmmm. Tariffs on a one-upsmanship basis comes to mind.

Another is “Fiscal Responsibility.” Elon, obviously, has his own definition of this one. And the last on the list I accessed is “Human Dignity.”

Where do I even begin? So much of anything remotely dignified has been lost, and I can only pray that recovery of this loss is pos-

Time for Loftis to resign as state treasurer

If there’s one thing that’s bringing together Republicans and Democrats in Columbia, it’s the increasingly widely-held belief that it’s time for state Treasurer Curtis Loftis to step down.

The problem is that Loftis, one of three statewide officials ensnared in a multibillion dollar accounting errors and scandal that forced out the other two, doesn’t realize the clock is buzzing. He is, in fact, defiant, as he related in several direct questions from Statehouse Report.

‘Will you resign?’

“Absolutely not. The citizens of South Carolina have elected me four times to be their treasurer, and I am grateful for their continued support. My record of standing up to special interests and political insiders is well known, and the public is

aware of the many instances of retaliation I have had to endure for protecting their money.”

‘Why not, since you’re under enormous pressure to move on?’

“A small group of politically motivated legislators and their special interest friends does not constitute ‘enormous pressure.’ On the contrary, I have support of most of the legislature, the House leadership and the governor. Most importantly, the citizens of South

Carolina have continued to support me as they have for the last 15 years.”

‘But how can you lead responsibly in an environment where your reputation has incurred a lot of damage and lots of people have lost faith in you?’

“Most South Carolinians know this is simply dirty politics. An accounting entry does not worry the hard-working people of this state, as they understand that there was no mysterious bank account, no missing money and no misspent money. They know the state’s cash and investments are properly accounted for, and they repeatedly tell me to keep up the good work and continue to fight for them.”

Loftis maintains the whole mess is grandstanding, particularly by state

senators who want “their puppets … to control the accounting of funds and how they are banked and invested. In a democracy, there is supposed to be a system of checks and balances, and I believe that the voting public will not allow these politicians to hijack their money.”

But just this week in another Senate hearing looking into the huge error, the forensic auditing firm that investigated what happened challenged statements made earlier this year by Loftis. One senator described what was going as a cover-up. Loftis said it was a witch hunt and he testified honestly.

So what now happens?

The pressure will remain, but the Senate can’t throw out Loftis. If lawmakers want to get rid of him – and one Democratic insider

We the people

Our democracy is known as “government for the people, by the people.” The concept is established in the Preamble of the Constitution.

“We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.” Billionaires: donating to campaigns, inside the government directing this and that, threatening the People, and generally promoting anything other than Tranquility and Liberty is not consistent with our democracy.

Eric Swalwell spoke to the threats, as follows: “That is real, because when Musk tweets at somebody, or Trump tweets at somebody, or calls somebody out, their lives are turned upside down. When he tweets at you, people make threats, and you have to take people at their word. And so that is a real thing that my colleagues struggle with.”

Swalwell was speaking from experience and how it impacts Republican colleagues. Musk and Trump commonly make threats and direct the MAGA mob toward others. Musk has threatened to use his wealth to fund primary challenges against any House or Senate Republicans who vote against Trump’s agenda.

This is precisely the problem with the 2010 Supreme Court decision that the prohibition of

all independent expenditures by corporations and unions in the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act violated the First Amendment. Our government is no longer “We the People,” it has been taken over by billionaires. Where are the checks and balances?

– Gerald Blount, St. Helena Island

Thanks from Zonta

The Zonta Club of Beaufort wishes to express our heartfelt “Thank You” to everyone who dedicated their time, talent, resources and energy to make the 2025 Bands, Brews & BBQ event such a success. This event wouldn’t have been possible without their generosity and unwavering commitment.

Special thanks to the Town

sible. In a two-month period, we have squandered our position on the world stage.

As I said earlier, I am inclined to accept much of what this list of Conservative principles subscribes to, but then the question becomes, “by whose interpretation?”

And so back to my original query: where have all the true Conservatives gone? By that I mean those whose values reflect true conservative ideology which is a far cry from MAGA, the Orwellian thief of values.

I know who the genuine conservatives are, John McCain, Liz Cheney, Adam Kinzinger, and while I disagree with some of their ideology, I still respect these folks.

Please do not tell me you voted for 47 because he stands for conservative values. That’s pure BS; make no mistake he is not a real conservative. He is MAGA, and that is a zebra of a different stripe. Sadly, his cohorts and his supporters are of that same stripe, fascist and authoritarian.

As the sad folk song implores, “When will they ever learn?” Try explaining that to your grandchildren.

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.”

said he hadn’t heard of any Republicans in the Senate supporting Loftis – then an impeachment effort would have to start in the S.C. House. And that’s controlled by House Speaker Murrell Smith, who with Gov. Henry McMaster reportedly supports Loftis, just so the Republican Party doesn’t get dinged with another hit to its reputation. So Loftis remains in office. And regardless of whether you take his side or the Senate’s, the country’s major credit rating agencies, which assess creditworthiness of state governments and influence borrowing power and rates, are looking coolly at South Carolina these days. If they do anything to impede the state’s ability to operate or borrow, that will force higher rates, which isn’t good for state taxpayers.

So it’s time for Loftis to go

and make way for less drama and more stability.

But what’s the likelihood of that? Who knows. But get this: Loftis may run for reelection, just to prove that people are behind him. While he says he wants to get back to business as usual, he noted, “I continue to enjoy widespread public support as I have for the last four elections and money is not an object, so I have options. I have spoken to party and community leaders, and they have been uniformly positive about a possible reelection campaign.”

To read full remarks by Loftis, visit StatehouseReport.com.

Andy Brack is editor and publisher of the Charleston City Paper and Statehouse Report. Have a comment? Send it to feedback@statehousereport.com.

of Port Royal for providing the perfect stage for MC Brandy Gray and the bands, police services throughout the weekend including overnight security for food truck safety and for allowing us to block off four blocks of Paris Avenue to create a safe and welcoming location for the event.

Kudos to the awesome S.C. BBQ Association cook teams led by Keith Hilliard, SCBA District Marshal, who travel from across the state to compete and prepare their specialties for us to enjoy.

Praise also goes to the generous businesses who Sponsor and make this event possible.

What would we do without the awesome musicians from the Parris Island Dirty Boots Band led by Gy.Sgt. Michael Barnette or the local talents of Chris Jones, Peach Patrol, SoundHoundz & Rick Rudd bands.

Our gratitude to the dedicated volunteers, especially BHS USAFJROTC cadets led by Lt. Col. Eric Thompson, USAF (Retired), our families, friends and supporters. Special shoutout to Rick Larsen, Garvin Stone, Jim Kamppi, James Frasier, Dan Whitaker, John Hedden and Donn McDaniel-Woods for all the work behind the scenes. Our Hometown Heroes who offered to judge the Wing competition on Friday loved their assignment!

We especially thank the Port Royal citizens and businesses for their cooperation and patience, especially The Smokehouse, Safe Harbor & The Shed.

Lastly, to all the folks who came out and enjoyed the days with us, hope you had as much fun as we did, many thanks.

– Marie Larsen, President, Zonta Club of Beaufort

ANDY BRACK

Editor’s Note: The opinions of our columnists in the

It’s all music to the ears of the Chinese

It is Friday, early, and I’m in my dining room awaiting rain that has been promised by “weather radar” — a map on my computer showing a huge green and yellow blob coming out of south Georgia.

This morning we learn from NPR that talks are underway in Russia about a ceasefire in Ukraine. But at this point nobody knows what the over-arching, endof-war settlement will look like.

When I was 17, I was living in West Germany, where my father ran the laboratory that was attached to the U.S. Army Hospital at Landstuhl.

The town itself was medieval, cobbled-stoned and featured several small gasthauses where one might sample the locally-brewed beer and the bratwurst. The utilitarian hospital was a sprawling series of connected, single-storied wards, spread across the top of a nearby mountain, filled-up

with sick GIs. Landstuhl was surrounded by U.S. Army bases at Kaiserslautern, Sembach, Baumholder, Bad Kreuznach, Pirmasens and there was (and is) a massive U.S. airbase at Ramstein. Nearby there were “Kasernes” in Mannheim, Heidelberg and Stuttgart. It was probably the largest concentration of infantry, artillery and fighter jets in Europe.

USAEUR’s (US Army Europe) strategy was straight-forward — it would slow down the Soviet advance. The troops around Kaiserslautern would not prevail, or survive the sloped-armored T-34s coming through the Fulda

Gap; rather they would buy time to get reinforcements from the United States. We would, the theory went, fight this war in Westphalia or Saxony rather than in the United States.

That strategy remained in place for most of my adult life, although the U.S. Army began to close its German bases as our attention turned to Iraq and Afghanistan; away from a seriously diminished inventory of Soviet-era Russian tanks that were rusting away outside Moscow.

The notion that we should defend Europe against Russia — and fight a vast, Kursklike tank battle in Europe — took a hit in 2016 when then President Trump announced that we would leave NATO unless the Europeans paid a larger share of NATO’s tab — more recently he insisted that the European slackers pay at least of 5% of their GNP on fighter jets and anti-tank missiles.

The next shoes to drop

were Trump’s enduring bromance with Vladimir Putin; and, these days, his belief that Ukraine “started the war.”

And so we now come to Trump’s campaign promise to end the war in Ukraine.

It seems to me that Russia comes to this negotiation wanting two things — a chunk of eastern Ukraine that will serve as a buffer for it’s famously paranoid President. And they want a pledge (from the United States and Europe) that they won’t agree to take Ukraine under NATO’s protective umbrella. They recall and repeat James Baker’s (alleged) promise to Gorbachev not expand NATO “by one inch.”

Right now, a redrawing of boundary lines seems inevitable and some preliminary sketching of lines (on hotel cocktail napkins) is probably underway. What is harder is somehow “guaranteeing” Ukraine’s sovereignty in the future —

guaranteeing that Russia won’t invade again.

At this point only a few European countries will commit to future NATO membership for Ukraine. But while they can’t seem to agree to membership — and Trump will not agree — perhaps the beleaguered Europeans will agree to rotate some of their 5,000 tanks, 2 800 self propelled artillery and 2 000 aircraft into Ukraine for annual exercises. Or maybe each would agree to maintain permanent depots — much like Kaiserslautern, Sembach, Baumholder and Ramstein — at various points along the newly redrawn boundary.

Maybe Latvia. Estonia, Lithuania and Finland would also agree to forward-deploy their own troops (and others) along their borders with Russia — a sort of NATO-lite deal that would not include the United States. While the European

countries enjoy numerical superiority over the Russians in troops, tanks and jets, they lack reliable air defenses; and rely on the U.S. for their surveillance. Perhaps, as part of the deal, Trump will agree to continue providing what Europe does not now have.

Trump’s recent remarks — that Ukraine “started the war” — must be music to the Chinese. This is an unhappy wake-up call to the Philippines, Japan, Australia, Vietnam and South Korea who have come to believe the U.S. Navy will guarantee their territorial sovereignty indefinitely.

The next shoes to drop may be the complete removal of the Marine Corps from Okinawa; a stand-down of the U.S. Army in South Korea; the closing of the hospital in Landstuhl.

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

The new and improved radical, Part I

“Iusedto be a pacifist!”

That is a quote from a friend as we were speculating our end game plans for the Trump Administration. We saw no sensible, peaceful path; We just knew it would end bitterly, perhaps violently, with nobody really winning.

As we talked about political violence, (or the very least, anarchy) we recalled the Jan. 6 attack on our Capital. I guess what my friend and I were agreeing on is that we would fight in whatever form was needed to protect our Democracy, and that got me thinking …

I should have been a junior at Kent State when the demonstration of May 4 1970 happened; when our National Guard killed four Kent students. I had pretty much become a pacifist myself when I had first been accepted at Kent; I think mainly because I was so relieved at not being drafted into Vietnam because of my high lottery number.

By that time, I was very negative and fed up with all the 1960’s upheavals in this wonderful country. I dropped out and hit the road with my dog instead, working my way around the U.S. in my VW bug with Quin in tow. I never did find “The New Society,” even when living within a New Jersey commune. Then “Tricky Dick” happened followed by the smothering of Jimmy Carter. I had become solidly apolitical by then. By the time of the “Emancipation”… (I’m being sarcastic) … of

the Reagan years, I was embedded as apolitical …until the Obama campaigns: Finally, a ray of hope for our country. As I look back now, from 1974 until around 2015 I was simply focused on our family with my wife Kristy; no time or money for much else other than work, family and saving for some sort of retirement. After all these years, am I now being radicalized?

At 75!? I think maybe I am.

Part of my youth’s apoliticalness was due the fact that my mother went from being a decent liberal to an extreme, hard-line right-winger due to losing our family wealth in the Cuban revolution. We got thrown out of Cuba in early 1960 (under threat of prison) having lost mom’s complete inherited investments deposited into 1956 Cuba. That is a whole different saga: The point I want to make here is that no one that I’ve ever known has hated Socialism/Communism more than my mother (I’ll give you her book if you ask). She nursed her “Organization to Fight Communism/O.F.C.” for a number of years, exposing card-carrying “communists = socialists.” My eldest brother Chip joined in as

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Open letter to elected public servants

I am writing you to demand that you show some moral fiber, rather than kowtowing to Trump’s every whim, and I promise you that you will feel better about yourselves and can quit having to apologize for your every move.

I feel I can make a demand of you to perform your civic duties as they affect me.

I am a native of South Carolina, born at Davis station in Clarendon County where I lived until my family moved to Sumter in 1950 during my second grade.

In 1957, I became an Eagle Scout and earned the God and Country Award at Trinity Methodist Church and was elected to the Order of the Arrow. I used the $100

well … He became a high position executive with the John Birch Society around 1962 after abandoning his Ivy-league education.

I was 10 years old in 1960 … I came of age listening to Dylan and reading Hesse; I think my blue-blood-birth liberalism rose to the top. We ended up back in Cleveland, where my 1954 deceased father had made his wealth in precious metal and stocks which in turn went to Cuba with us. For rich, white Americans, it was paradise for awhile.

Chip died last year; I think he had become a cross between a Federalist and a Libertarian. He had become fairly wealthy publishing right-wing propaganda … Anyone remember “None Dare Call it Treason?” How about “Teddy Bare?”

Mom was intimately acquainted with folks like J.Edgar Hoover, Strom Thurmond, George Wallace, Barry Goldwater … basically, all of the top 10 neo-conservatives of the era … The C.I.A. even gave my mom a small mission back into Communist Cuba which became harrowing; she barely got back into the U.S.; I’ve had a complicated youth through exposure, from 1954 through 1968, when I turned 18

The collapse of the Soviet Union in late 1991 helped to confirm our country’s own united trust in conservative-capitalism-geopolitics. Then Reagan convinced the country that trickle down economics was exactly what America needed, as well as less government.

that Mr. Henry Shelor gave every boy who made Eagle Scout to attend Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico.

In the summer of ’58 I worked at Camp Coker Boy Scout Camp for $3 a week plus room and board. In the fall of that same year, I got a job with the Sumter City Recreations Department working at a center for young children every afternoon after school and Saturday mornings. I began paying into Social security and did so every year for the next 50 years. I worked for a construction company every summer during my four years at Clemson, and then when I went to law school I was appointed as a Page in the South Carolina senate where I served three years for Senator Edgar Brown. I continued to pay into Social Security.

Then something spectacular happened. The Russian power brokers and their like-minded cronies started lapping up and privatizing all the previously socialized, infrastructural products and services as well as the country’s resources. Russia, within a few years, became a weird mix of dictatorship, oligarchy, autocracy and finally plutocracy.

My research tells me that there are over 40 forms of government in this modern world and I’m personally convinced that Vladimir Putin is the bastard child from genes of the above mix. Is it any wonder that Trump admires this man and his ilk?

Putin and Xi Jinping have both finally figured out that they don’t need socialism nor communism any longer for wealth or power. Their countries presently have a distorted form of capitalism. Real, modern power lies in wealth … most importantly, personal wealth distributed within close power circles. Wealth primarily from infrastructure and rare earth resources … so one may now add kleptocracy to this witch’s brew. That’s what all the latest hoopla concerning Africa and Trump’s push on Zelensky’s rare minerals “deal.” The U.S., Russia and China seem to applying their efforts to milk Africa and other parts of the world of their resources for their own power circles; And now we would be remiss not to add technocracy into the broth, especially with the sophistication of AI generated propaganda.

This is my personal opinion

After graduation from law school, I was drafted into the U.S. Army and attended basic training at Fort Dix, where I was selected to be platoon guide. I was also selected as the most valuable trainee of the cycle and scored a near perfect score in the proficiency test we all had to take at the end of training. I continued to pay into Social Security. My first duty assignment was at Fort Sill, Okla., until Valentines Day when I received my order to Vietnam, and I had to leave quickly since my wife was six months pregnant. Forty-five days later I was in Vietnam attached to the 101st Airborne division at Camp Eagle about 25 miles from the DMZ. I was exposed to Agent Orange and rocketed on a regular basis until I returned home to see my 10-month-

following my logical interpretations from world events since the start of the Russia/Ukrainian war. What I’m asking of you, dear reader, is that you personally confirm the true meaning of all these “.cracy’s” and “.chy’s”; try and connect the dots of the logic for yourselves by learning about these forms of governing.

We are presently experiencing an unprecedented history since 1930. We are all now sitting around talking to each other, I’m sure, much like the Jewish, Christian and Secular citizens of Berlin in 1930. The huge difference being: We are dealing with a worldwide group of diverse, narcissistic ego-maniacs that happen to be billionaires. The 0 5% of the world’s wealthiest elitists, not any individual Hitler, even though the parallels of Hitler and Trump’s second presidency are unnerving.

Now, when you’ve caught up, add corpocracy to our poison, a growing problem in the United States of America. To use an old expression I heard shouted from the rooftops in the sixties: “Power to the People;” just in case we need the only antidote that may save us.

Part II in the works.

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

old son. I continued to pay Social Security. After my service was over in 1972, I moved to Beaufort where I practiced law until retirement in 2008 and was also active in community service, the schools, Boy Scouts, church, and Bar Association positions. I continued to pay Social Security.

I dare say you all owe me much more for my service to this country than you do Trump who was a draft dodger, a liar, a felon, and a traitor to this country with his buddies all of whome he has pardoned. What has he ever done for you?

I expect you to guard my Social Security payments, my Veterans Benefits, and my Medicare. This is a demand and not a request. You owe me.

– James S. Gibson, Jr., Beaufort

SCOTT GRABER

TIM WOOD

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What if Jesus knew that he wasn’t God, but said so anyway?

In the Gospels, Jesus clearly claims to be divine. In the previous article, we examined the possibility that Jesus was insane or delusional. Another possibility is that Jesus did not actually believe this about himself. In other words, he was lying and intentionally deceiving his followers about his identity. Similar to the theory of insanity, such an explanation does not fit the evidence found in the Gospels.

Jesus was a man of truth and integrity.

Even non-believers recognize that Jesus was a good man and one of the greatest teachers in history. His teachings have resounded through the centuries because of their truth, goodness, and profound insight into the human heart. He did not change his message to make himself more popular or acceptable. He taught the truth, even when it caused him persecution from the religious leaders of his day, and even when it caused his followers to leave him.

If Jesus was lying, he was actually an evil person.

He would be the worst identity thief of all time, falsely persuading others that he is God. He would be a con artist, living a lie and preying on the gullibility of his followers. He would actually be one of the worst teachers in history, because he led his followers away from the true God and presented himself as the way to have eternal life.

Such a lie could only end in his death.

Israel was the last place someone would want to falsely claim to be God. Unlike their pagan neighbors, the Jewish people believed that there was only one God and that he was completely separate from his creation. They were not in any way expecting God to become a human being. To claim equality with God was the sin of blasphemy, punishable by death. It would have been much safer for Jesus to claim to be another human teacher sent by God, like Moses or Elijah, as had happened many times in Israel’s history.

A liar would have come clean at the end.

People are willing to die when they believe something is true, but not for something they know to be a lie. If Jesus had been lying all along, he would have changed his story when he was arrested and faced with death by crucifixion. Instead, he clearly reaffirms his divine identity before the religious authorities. (Mark 14:62) As he dies on the Cross, he maintains his divine identity to his last breath.

Jesus truly believed himself to be God.

As one reads the Gospels, seeing the beautiful way that Jesus lived and taught, it is very hard to conclude that he was a man living a lie. His ministry did not bring him money, power, or other worldly rewards, but only persecution and death on the Cross. The best explanation is that Jesus was truly the good and truthful person he seems to be. He was not a liar, but truly believed himself to be God.

Who Is Jesus?