May 25 edition

Developer seeks to have Pine Island rezoned

By Mike McCombs The

Island News

If the prevailing question is what’s next for Pine Island and St. Helenaville, developer Elvio Tropeano has an idea.

Less than two weeks after a 9-2 decision by Beaufort County Council to adopt a strengthened Cultural Protection Overlay (CPO) for St. Helena Island, Tropeano has filed an application with the County’s Planning Department to change the zoning on Pine Island.

zoning for Pine Island to T2R. For property zoned T2R, golf courses are permitted use.

The developer is also appealing the rejection of plans for three separate, six-hole golf courses.

The County Planning Commission is slated to consider the application at its 6 p.m., Monday, June 5 meeting in County Council Chambers. The meeting is open to the public.

this move shows just how inter-related the two are.

“These revisions are so important because they make it very clear what the people of St. Helena want,” Councilman York Glover of St. Helena Island said after the May 8 County Council meeting. “It’s not about keeping development out, it’s about what these things represent. They don’t want to become another Hilton Head Island and lose their Gullah Geechee identity.”

LOWCOUNTRY LOWDOWN

LOLITA

Approval would change the T2R CPO

Though strengthening the CPO and the potential development of the Pine Island/ Helenaville land are not the same issue,

SEE REZONED PAGE A2

Gullah Festival highlights holiday weekend

From staff reports

Master Arborist Michael Murphy, who participated on a technical team that drafted a new tree ordinance for the Town of Port Royal, is pictured in Port Royal on Feb. 8, 2023. Tony Kukulich/The Post And Courier

BEAUFORT

As the Greek philosopher Heraclitus noted centuries ago, we must accept change. And as much as the Lowcountry is changing, why should we be surprised when a couple of community leaders change.

Take the Beaufort city attorney Bill Harvey for example.

A city-issued press release two weeks ago announced Harvey was “stepping down” to do other things. Most citizens probably couldn’t care less that Harvey, after 36 years, was “stepping down.” The somewhat surprising element, besides the fact that Harvey doesn’t usually come across as someone who would “step down” from a job he confesses he loves, but that the announcement was made with only seven months remaining on his contract.

And that it came while the ongoing legal battle between 303 Associates, the city and Graham Trask continues ... and is likely to keep on continuing

SEE LOWDOWN PAGE A6

They speak for the trees

Will Port Royal’s new approach to protecting its trees discourage growth?

By Tony Kukulich The Post And Courier PORT ROYAL

On an otherwise quiet morning in August 2022, residents in the center of town awoke to the sound of chainsaws buzzing through the hot, still air.

As temperatures were rising, crews were preparing to take down a landmark live oak that occupied a lot on the north side of 12th

Lawn

Plants

WANT

com/IslandNews.

Street between Paris and Madrid avenues.

The Town of Port Royal had issued a construction permit to the developer

of the 12th Street property, CHS Coastal Homes and Sunrooms, and the removal of the live oak was proceeding in accordance with the town’s regulations.

But one resident rushed to the town hall to appeal the issuance of the construction permit.

Later, the South Coast Director for the Coastal Conservation League,

Developer Elvio Tropeano has filed an application with the County’s Planning Department to change the zoning on Pine Island. Submitted photo SEE

The Original Gullah Festival returns to Beaufort this Friday, May 26 through Sunday, May 28, at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

According to the festival’s website, storytelling, dancing, the sounds of jazz, blues, reggae and African drums are some of the things you’ll see and hear. And the Vendor Market will be filled with arts and crafts, while the Food Court will be filled with local cuisine and traditional Gullah favorites.

The Gullah Festival has been celebrating the Gullah Geechee heritage of the Sea Islands of the Lowcountry and honoring the preservation of the Gullah culture and the descendants who lived in the region for 37 years.

The festival was established in 1986 to honor and recreate the atmosphere of a celebration called Decoration Day, now named Memorial Day. As a result, every year during the festival weekend, there is a Decoration Day Play to commemorate the historic event.

The Festival provides a unique

SEE TREES PAGE A5

‘There is nothing permanent except change’

HUCKABY

Allan Lassiter of Lady’s Island snapped this photo of the “boneyard” trees in Whale Branch Creek near the intersection of U.S. 17 and U.S. 21 Gardens Corner. To submit a Lowcountry Life photo, you must be the photographer or have permission to submit the photo to be published in The Island News. Please submit high-resolution photos and include a description and/or names of the people in the picture and the name of the photographer. Email your photos to theislandnews@gmail.com

VETERAN OF THE WEEK MERLE MULVANEY

Beaufort’s Merle Mulvaney, 87, joined the United States Army in Edinburg, Ill., in 1954 through the ROTC at the University of Illinois, graduating in 1958. He trained in artillery at Fort Sill, Okla., then as a Ranger at Fort Benning, and finally attended flight school at Fort Rucker, Ala. He was assigned to fly Chinook helicopters (CH-47) in support of Air Defense units in the East while stationed in Conn. He then transferred to the Regular Army and served at Fort Hood, Texas including deployments to Germany.

Merle Mulvaney

His first of three tours in Vietnam saw him near Saigon flying and maintaining CH-47 helos, including when under direct enemy fire. He returned to Fort Sill, then duty at Fort Wolters, Texas and Fort Campbell, Ky., from which he deployed to Vietnam

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Gov. McMaster’s language reckless

While speaking at the South Carolina Republican convention on May 20, Governor Henry McMaster said, “I look forward to the day that Democrats are so rare, we have to hunt them with dogs.” Regardless of our political affiliation, we should all be appalled and disgusted by this statement. This is the kind of reckless, dehumanizing language we would expect from a pre-Civil War

Rezoned from page A1

The approved revisions to the CPO make it clear that there shall be no gated communities or golf courses built on St. Helena Island.

The decades-old CPO was originally written in the late 1990s and was intended to uphold the wishes of the residents of St. Helena Island to keep their island mostly rural and to

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SALES/BUSINESS

near Da Nang and Phu Bai supporting the Marines during the Tet offensive. He next attended the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth before an assignment at Fort Belvoir, Va. From there he returned to Vietnam in the delta near Can Tho as Commander of the Aviation Group. He returned to Washington to earn a Masters Degree from George Washington University before being assigned to the Pentagon on the Army Staff. Next he transferred to Fort Campbell to command the

Army First Combat Helicopter Battalion. His final assignment was back in the Pentagon on the Joint staff. He retired in 1980 as a Lieutenant Colonel with 22 years of service. Thereafter he worked recruiting senior staff for corporations and in finance for a software development company. He now enjoys his life in old Beaufort.

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

slave owner or a Nazi official in WWII Germany. This is not how decent people talk about other human beings and this is not how an elected official should talk about 40% of his constituents. We have a message for Henry McMaster: The Democrats in South Carolina are not going away. However, you can be assured that we will be going to the polls in 2024.

– Peter Birschbach, Port Royal

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preserve the deeply rooted Gullah Geechee culture that exists there.

The revisions to the ordinance came after Tropeano purchased the Pine Island property on St. Helena Island and proposed building an 18-hole golf course on the 450 acre property along with 65 homes.

The project also proposed preserving a historic area known as St. Helenaville, which is connected to Pine Island by a causeway.

Tropeano sought an exemption to the CPO to build the

ON THIS DATE

May 26

1925: In the early hours, according to the Beaufort Gazette, on the river side of Bay Street, a fire ravages the blocks between West and Scott streets. Numerous businesses, including the River View Hotel, the Austin Grocery Company and the E.E. Lengnick department store, are destroyed.

gated community or homes and 18-hole golf course, later changing his proposal to three six-hole golf courses instead.

The revisions to the CPO have altered the language to close any potential loopholes that developers might try and exploit.

The two dissenting votes were from council members Paula Brown and Logan Cunningham. Cunningham and fellow Councilman Tom Reitz both recommended to the St. Helena Island leaders who were present at the meeting, that they should meet

2021: Beaufort attorney Mary Sharp is sworn in as the President of the South Carolina Bar.

May 27

2019: Beaufort High School varsity boys basketball coach Will Lowther is dismissed from his coaching position and placed on administrative leave from his teaching position after his arrest for allegedly

PAL PETS OF THE WEEK

Cat of the Week: Squeakie lives up to her name when she wants to speak her mind. She enjoys a quiet spot to curl up and nap. She would make a wonderful companion for someone who likes a laid back cat with their own agenda. Squeakie is 2 years old, spayed, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped.

with Tropeano and try to come to a mutually beneficial agreement to preserve the integrity of the island, but also allows him to develop his purchased property.

“We know it is going to change.

Everybody on St. Helena knows that it will change, but it’s a gradual change that we can live with,” Councilman Glover said during the discussion before the vote.

“That’s what we want.”

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

transferring alcohol to a minor in an April 6 incident in which he met with a minor on a dating app.

May 29

2020: Capt. Raymond Batz takes over command of Naval Hospital Beaufort from Capt. Rob Jackson.

– Compiled by Mike McCombs.

Dog of the Week: Dobby wins the award for class clown! Dobby loves to spend his days outside or playing with his people. Dobby was adopted from PAL as a puppy and found his way back to us years later. Dobby would make a great addition to any family. Dobby is 4.5 years old, neutered, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped.

CONTACT US PO Box 550 Beaufort, SC 29901 TheIslandNews@gmail.com

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

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

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

DISCLAIMER

If you are interested in adopting Squeakie, Dobby, or any of our other pets, call our adoption center at 843-645-1725 or email us at info@ palmettoanimalleague. org to set up an appointment.

CORRECTION: A Marine was misidentified as a soldier in the April 27 edition of The Island News

All content of The Island News, including articles, photos, editorial content, letters, art and advertisements, are copyrighted by The Island News and Island News Publishing, LLC, 2022, all rights reserved. The Island News encourages reader submissions via email to theislandnews@gmail.com. All content submitted is considered approved for publication by the owner unless otherwise stated. The Island News is designed to inform and entertain readers and all efforts for accuracy are made. Guest columns do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The Island News, its publisher or editors. Content published from Care Magazine® is intended as a reference and options source only, not as a guide to self-treatment or substitute for profession medical advice. It is provided for educational purpose only. Readers assume full responsibility for how this information is used. The Island News reserves the right to refuse to sell advertising space, or to publish information, for any business or activity the newspaper deems inappropriate for the publication.

Memorial Day parade set for 10 a.m. Monday

military bases. Veterans’ organizations will also be marching. The parade will begin on Boundary Street and take the traditional route through downtown Beaufort –Boundary Street, Carteret Street, Bay Street, Charles Street – ending

at the Beaufort National Cemetery.

At noon, the Beaufort National Cemetery will hold a ceremony in honor of Memorial Day.

Sarah Kindschuh, Ph.D., a forensic anthropologist with the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency,

will be the speaker. The commemoration will include a wreath-laying ceremony, a moment of silence, and the playing of Taps. The public is invited to attend.

City of Beaufort offices will be closed on Monday, May 29, in hon-

or of Memorial Day.

Capital Waste Services will also be off on that day. All waste and recycling services are pushed back a day, so that Monday trash pickups will take place on Tuesday, and so on.

Tickets for tour of Wright’s Auldbrass available now

From staff reports

Although Frank Lloyd Wright designed more than 1,000 projects during his long and prolific career, Auldbrass, in Yemassee, is one of the largest and most complex projects he ever undertook.

Every other year the Open Land Trust is graciously permitted to host tours as a fundraiser.

The Open Land Trust’s 2023 Auldbrass Tours will be held Thursday, Nov. 2; Friday, Nov. 3; and Saturday, Nov. 4. Daily tours run from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. New this year, on Sunday, Nov. 4, frm 6 to 9 p.m., a special ticket for “Auldbrass

After Dark” will be offered.

This is a special cocktail party plus a tour. Tickets are limited and include food, beverage, live entertainment

and tours of the grounds and main house after dark. For the daytime tours, there will be Morning and Afternoon Tickets. The division of tickets is to assist with the flow of the Main

House portion of the tour.

A buyer of a Morning ticket has the ability to tour the Main House from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. You may stay on property longer but your ticket restricts you to the

Main House portion of the tour to the morning session. A buyer of an Afternoon ticket has the ability to tour the Main House from 12:31 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. You may come earlier or stay on

property longer but your ticket restricts you to the Main House portion of the tour to the afternoon session. The only exception is on Saturday Afternoon. Saturday Afternoon tickets will end at 4 pm.

All tickets are permitted to 1 tour through the Main House. All other areas of the property are open and may be toured at your leisure.

All proceeds benefit the work of the Open Land Trust.

Tickets are sold on a firstcome, first-served basis.

The tour is mostly self guided, thought the Main House tour is guided with groups of 12. And all tours are walking.

The events are rain or shine. No refunds.

Children under the age of 12, strollers, coolers, pets, smoking and interior photos

are all prohibited.

There is no lunch on the property. However, Lowcountry Produce is offering a 10% discount with proof of ticket or event brochure on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

Tickets cost $175 and can be purchased at https://bit. ly/3OC5uAP

Auldbrass After Dark

This year there will be a ticketed cocktail party from 6 to 9 p.m., behind the main house at Auldbrass on Saturday, Nov. 4.

Tickets cost $250 and can be purchased at https://bit. ly/3OC5uAP

The ticket includes an after hours tour of the property with access to the main home, live entertainment, open bar and food. The event is limited to 150 people.

Burton Fire and EMS attend two crashes, yards and hours apart

From staff reports

On Thursday afternoon, May 18, the Burton Fire District and Beaufort County EMS responded to two separate three-vehicle collisions with injuries within yards of each other in less than two hours.

Burton firefighters and

county EMS responded to the first vehicle collision at 4:41 p.m. on Trask Parkway and Self-Storage Road. Emergency crews arrived on scene to a three-vehicle collision between two SUVs and a pickup truck, all with minor damages. All occupants appeared to have sus-

tained minor injuries.

Just yards away, at 6:36 p.m., Burton firefighters and EMS, along with the MCAS Fire Department, responded to another three-vehicle collision, this time yards away at the intersection of Trask Parkway and Laurel Bay Road.

Initial reports were that one vehicle was on fire.

Emergency crews arrived on scene to three-vehicles, a pickup truck and two passenger vehicles. One passenger vehicle had sustained heavy damages and had fire coming from the engine compartment.

An off-duty Burton firefighter who witnessed the collision and began providing aid was able to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher.

Occupants from the vehicles were treated with what appeared to be nonlife threatening injuries.

The intersection was closed while emergency crews operated delaying traffic for approximately 45 minutes.

This is the fifth vehicle collision this year at the Trask Parkway and Laurel Bay Road intersection, two of which resulted in injuries.

there

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Auldbrass. Photo courtesy of the Open Land Trust

St. Helena woman charged with murder, attempted murder after drowning of 6-year-old daughter

From staff reports

A St. Helena Island woman remains in the Beaufort County Detention Center after the drowning death of her 6-year-old daughter in the early morning hours of Friday, May 19.

At approximately 1:25 a.m., the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office responded to an ad-

dress on Sam Doyle Drive, Saint Helena Island after receiving a 911 emergency call where it was reported that there was a woman who was trying to drown her child.

Deputies arrived and immediately detained

37-year-old Jamie Bradley Brun based on information received by the emergency

services dispatcher. Deputies discovered 6-year-old Mackaya Bradley-Brun, who was deceased.

The early morning investigation revealed that Jamie Michele Bradley Brun most likely drowned the 6-yearold. Following that Bradley-Brun then attempted to drown an 8-year-old child.

Cries from the 8-yearold woke her 16-year-old sister, who freed her from her mother, escaped from the home and called 911 for help. According to Sheriff P.J. Tanner, the girls were likely unaware of the death of their 6-year-old sister.

Beaufort County Coroner David Ott performed an au-

topsy and confirmed Mackaya’s cause of death was drowning.

Jamie Bradley-Brun was arrested, and at this time she is charged with murder and attempted murder.

The investigation is ongoing. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division’s Special Victim’s

Unit-Department of Child Fatalities is working alongside the Sheriff’s Office in this investigation.

Tanner said some details of the crime were being withheld for the time being, including a possible motive. He confirmed Bradley Brun did speak to investigators after being taken into custody.

100 Women Who Care give big gift to Beaufort Lions

From staff reports

The Beaufort Lion’s Club is again a winner, and so are all the people in Beaufort.

100 Women Who Care recently presented a check for $13,800 to Dr. Carol Luetzow, president of the local Lions chapter.

At their April meeting, 100 Women Who Care voted to allocate their Spring funding, $13,800 – $100 each from 138 women – to help the Beaufort Lions Club. Submitted photo.

Beaufort Memorial

Primary Care adds nurse practitioner

From staff reports Beaufort Memorial has added a board-certified nurse practitioner to its Beaufort Memorial Primary Care practice on the main hospital campus in Beaufort.

Joining the internal medicine practice is Katie Hall, MSN, AGPCNP-BC.

Three years ago, 100 Women Who Care chose to support the Lions of Beaufort. It was the largest gift, by far, that the Beaufort Lions had ever received. They used $8,000 to buy a new vision screening scanner for local students who had vision problems. This sped up and expanded their

ability to help our youth, and now they visit day care and preschools as well.

More than 6,000 students were screened so far this school year. The monies also helped to pay for pediatric cataract surgeries and glasses for people who needed them.

This year the Lions asked 100 Women Who Care for more funding. They want to become proactive and lead the cause against diabetes. They want to start with young children and focus on preventing blindness that results from diabetes.

At their April meeting, 100 Women Who Care voted to allo-

cate their Spring funding, $13,800, $100 each from 138 women, to help the Lions achieve this goal. The Beaufort Lions can make a difference and that’s what 100 Women Who Care, is all about.

To date 100 WWC has donated over $440,000 to Beaufort County nonprofit organizations north of the Broad. They meet the second Tuesday of January, April, July, and October at the First Presbyterian Church in Downtown Beaufort.

If you are interested in more information, visit www.100wwcbeaufort.org or www.beaufortlionsclub.org

REPTILE RETIREMENT

Fripp Island Resort recently retired six animals from interpretation and display at the Activity and Nature Center. On Saturday, April 8, the Resort hosted a farewell party complete with party hats. The animals were adopted by previous naturalist staff, so every reptile will be cared for and loved. Staff and visitors said goodbye to Bocephus and Jimbo (ball pythons), Levi (leopard gecko), Gregg (ball python), Ms. Nubz (bearded dragon), and Sh akira (red-tailed boa). This transition will allow for the Resort to have more local, native species at the Activity Center for educational purposes an d programming. Photos courtesy of Fripp Island Resort

Katie Hall

Hall had since 2020 been a nurse practitioner with MUSC Health Surgical Oncology at its Bluffton Medical Campus, where she coordinated surveillance and treatment regimens for patients at high risk for breast cancer and those recently diagnosed with the disease. Previously she served as a nurse practitioner at S.C. House Calls in Beaufort and, earlier, at Lexington Medical Associates in West Columbia, an affiliate of Lexington Medical Center that provides primary care services to low-income patients.

Among her top clinical interests are preventive care, chronic disease management, geriatric medicine, breast health and wellness.

The Gilbert, S.C., native holds a Master of Science with an adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner specialty from the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Bachelor of Science in biology, both earned summa cum laude, from the University of South Carolina Aiken.

LowCountry Habitat hosting Housing Symposium

From staff reports LowCountry Habitat for Humanity will host the inaugural Beaufort Housing Symposium on Saturday, June 3, in Building 12 at the Technical College of the Lowcountry.

The all-day event will begin with a morning panel discussion from 9 to 10

a.m. that will feature local and state housing officials from the nonprofit, government and private sectors. A variety of home buying and home ownership workshop sessions will follow, to include an heirs property clinic from the Heirs’ Property Preservation and a wills clinic presented by Lowcountry

NEWS BRIEFS

Beaufort/Port Royal’s Phelps graduates from Fire Academy

Casey Phelps of the City of Beaufort/Town of Port Royal Fire Department was among the 18 recruits who gradated Friday, May 12 from the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation’s South Carolina Fire Academy’s eight-week firefighter candidate school in Columbia.

Why do Catholics do that?

If you have ever attended a Catholic Mass, it can be a confus -

Legal Volunteers. Beaufort County residents have a number of available resources to assist current and future homeowners to save for a down payment, build good credit and find an affordable home and mortgage. Purchasing and maintaining a home can be challenging for

those seeking the American Dream of home ownership. This informational Symposium will connect Beaufort County residents with housing officials, who will lead workshops on all the necessary components of purchasing and maintaining a home. Seating is limited. Sign up

in advance at www.lowcountryhabitat.org. Lunch will be provided at no charge to the first 100 attendees, courtesy of The United Way of the Lowcountry. For more information, contact Susan Madison, Family Services Coordinator, at susan@lowcountryhabitat.org or 843-522-3500.

ing time, but the Columbiettes of St. Peter’s Catholic Church on Lady’s Island are here to help.

On Saturday, May 27, join Sally Moona in the sound-proof room near the handicap entrance at St. Peter’s for a “Why Do Catholics Do That?” experience. The Columbiettes will be hosting a retreat on May 27 culminating with attending 5 p.m. Mass together.

If you are curious about Mass or if you need a refresher, please make plans to join us. The actual retreat is open to all women and will begin at 1:30 p.m. For more information, contact Angel Flewelling at 843271-3368.

McShane elected as Chair of County Green Space Advisory Committee

Beaufort County is proud to announce the election of Michael McShane as Chairman of the newly established Green Space Advisory Committee. This committee was formed after the adoption of the Green Space Penny, a tax designed to fund conservation and protection of natural resources. Beaufort County is the first in the state to adopt such a tax and establish an advisory board in accordance with state requirements. The newly established Green

Space Advisory Committee will work with county officials and community stakeholders to develop strategies and policies to promote the conservation of the county’s natural resources.

“Beaufort County is proud to be the first in the state to adopt the Green Space Penny and establish an advisory board to oversee its implementation,” County Administrator, Eric Greenway said in a news release. “We recognize the importance of preserving our natural resources, not only for the benefit of our residents, but also for future generations.”

– From staff reports

Council passes 2 ordinances for funds from SC Opioid Recovery Fund

From staff reports Beaufort County Council passed two ordinances Monday, May 8, at the County Council meeting, to accept and appropriate funds received from the South Carolina Opioid Recovery Fund. The funds in the amounts of $299,376 and $612,733 respectively, and will be used to combat the opioid epidemic in Beaufort County. County Administrator Eric Gre-

enway spoke about the importance of these funds, saying, “The opioid epidemic has affected countless families and communities across the state, and Beaufort County is no exception. These funds will help us to expand our efforts in addressing the issue and supporting those affected by it.”

Assistant County Administrator of Community Services Audra Antonacci-Ogden, added, “Beaufort

County’s successful application for these funds is a significant step towards building a healthier and more resilient community. We will work closely with local organizations to ensure that these resources are used effectively to make a positive impact on those who need it most.”

The South Carolina Opioid Recovery Fund was established in 2019 by the state legislature to provide financial resources to

combat the opioid epidemic in the state. The funds are distributed to counties based on the number of opioid-related overdose deaths and the number of opioid prescriptions per capita.

The funds received by Beaufort County will be used for several purposes, including: Expanding access to medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for individuals with

opioid use disorder; Providing training for healthcare providers on opioid prescribing practices and addiction treatment; Increasing public awareness and education on the dangers of opioid misuse and addiction; and Supporting the development of recovery support services and peer support programs.

Beaufort seeks proposals for City attorney services

From staff reports

The City of Beaufort is inviting proposals from local attorneys and law firms to serve as attorney for the City.

The attorney or law firm selected will be expected to provide a wide range of legal services required by a municipality, and must be a member of the South Carolina Bar Association. Beaufort City Council will select the attorney. The attorney

will work closely with City Council, the city manager, and other Beaufort City staff.

Law firms or individuals interested in submitting proposals must submit eight complete copies of the proposal, along with a proposed contractual agreement, in a sealed envelope with the title “City Attorney Proposal” on or before 4 p.m. Friday, June 9. If interested parties are

mailing the proposal, they must address the packet to 1911 Boundary St., Beaufort

SC 29902, and mark the envelope: CITY ATTORNEY PROPOSAL – ATTN: KAY MCINTYRE.

Once all proposals that meet the deadline are received, they will be screened, and the proposals will be provided to City Council for consideration. Candidate interviews are expected to be held the week of June 19-23. City Council will appoint a new city attorney on or

Beaufort man arrested in connection with stabbing

From staff reports

about June 27.

To find out more about the procurement process, visit the Procurement page of the City website at https://www. cityofbeaufort.org/165/Procurement. For more information, contact Procurement Administrator Kay McIntyre at kmcintyre@cityofbeaufort.org or 843-525-7079.

More details on the Request for Proposals can be found at bit.ly/41Xi5Sm

Development stops in northern corner of Jasper Co.

County Council gives initial OK to temporary halt

From staff reports Jasper County leaders last week gave preliminary approval to a 270-day halt to large residential subdivisions, commercial development, and signage within the Euhaw Broad River Area of northern Jasper County.

“We have seen tremendous development growth over the past decade, and Council wants to step back, let our planners do their work to update the Comprehensive Plan, and come back with recommenda-

Trees

from page A1

Jessie White, said, “It’s the tree canopy that defines Port Royal. So many residents expressed that these trees are part of the town’s identity.”

Work on the tree was halted. The tree’s branches had mostly been removed by that time, but its canopy remained, leaving it looking like a 60-foot-tall asparagus stalk.

Although the town’s 2018 tree ordinance was designed to preserve and protect the trees, on that day in August, neighbors and others recognized that the ordinance wasn’t working as well as intended.

“It seemed like the previous ordinance was strong, but in application, it wasn’t as strong as we thought,” White said.

Over the next eight months, town staff members, along with a newly formed technical committee, convened to revisit the tree ordinance. As a result, the “Trees” chapter in the town’s Code of Ordinances was almost completely rewritten.

That process ended on April 12 with the Town Council unanimously adopting some of the most stringent tree-protection guidelines in the state.

Under the old ordinance, the fee to remove the 43-inch live oak on 12th Street would have been $4,300. Under the new ordinance, that fee increases to $32,500.

Throughout the public meetings, which began in November, residential

tions on smart growth and where that should best occur,” County Administrator Andrew Fulghum said.

County Council voiced its concern over the impact of new subdivisions and commercial development on roads, evacuation routes, streetscapes, overall traffic congestion, stormwater management and how to protect open space and natural habitats in the northern part of the county.

“As a county, we understand we are in a critical location between Beaufort, Bluffton, Hilton Head Island and Savannah,” Jasper County Council Chair Martin Sauls IV said. “More and

more people are making the good choice to live in Jasper County, but we want to be sure we put protections in place to protect our heritage and natural resources.

“This moratorium will allow the county time to assess current zoning ordinances, preserve critical environmentally sensitive land, but also determine what areas may be suitable for development as well,” Sauls said.

The temporary moratorium ordinance requires two additional votes by Jasper County Council and a public hearing June 5. The 270-day countdown begins when the ordinance

receives final approval. The pending ordinance doctrine took effect in first reading. The South Carolina Supreme Court has approved the “pending ordinance doctrine” as a basis for a local government to refuse to issue a building permit when such proposed use is repugnant to a pending and later enacted zoning ordinance.

The temporary growth hold applies to new commercial and residential development in the areas along the Broad River, Highways 170, 462, Bees Creek Road, and the area known as the Okeetee Club.

The pending ordinance

received permits to begin construction on three of those homes. The appeal, which was filed by Port Royal resident Elizabeth Bergmann, applied only to Lot B on which the tree grew.

However, a larger, and arguably more grand, live oak grew on the two lots for which construction permits had not been issued. Its diameter measured 60 inches at the tree’s base. There was concern that it would suffer the same fate as its smaller neighbor. Negotiations between the developer and the town allowed it to avoid the chainsaws.

“There was an agreement in place to allow the smaller tree to be removed, and the homes would be redesigned to save the big tree,” Port Royal Mayor Joe DeVito told The Post and Courier.

A new ordinance and new reservations

The incident with the 12th Street trees served as the impetus to revise the town’s ordinance.

“We thought we were going to knock it out in a few meetings,” said Master Arborist Michael Murphy, who served on the technical committee. “It took the better part of a year.”

affects new residential subdivisions of four or more lots, or four or more multi-family units, commercial development and signage in the Euhaw Broad River Planning Area, including the SC Highway 170 corridor to the municipal boundaries of Hardeeville.

The South Carolina Coastal Conservation League stood in support of the moratorium, saying it “greatly appreciates the council, staff, and Broad River Task Force for their leadership in this endeavor to retain the sense of place and community quality of life that defines Northern Jasper County.”

Murphy added that many developers prefer to work with a “clean palette.” The new ordinance will, he said, impress upon developers the value that the town places on trees and provide an incentive to seek design alternatives that preserve trees in the environment.

Much of that incentive will come through a dramatic increase in mitigation fees if a developer determines that the best available option is to remove a tree. The 2018 ordinance fee schedule called for a fee equal to $100 per caliper inch of the tree’s diameter for a landmark tree, and $50 per caliper inch of a specimen tree.

The new ordinance increases those fees to $750 and $500, respectively.

While he voted with the Town Council to approve the adoption of the ordinance, DeVito still has reservations.

“I believe it’s too high,” he said. “I believe we’ve swung the pendulum too far.”

A 42-year-old Beaufort man remains in custody in the Beaufort County Detention Center, charged with Attempted Murder, after a stabbing late Monday night, May 22, at the Goodwill store on Parris Island Gateway.

At 11:39 pm, Beaufort City Police officers responded to 137 Parris Island Gateway for a report of a stabbing. Upon arrival, officers encountered a male victim that was bleeding from multiple lacerations and puncture wounds. The officers secured the area, rendered aid, and initiated an investigation into the incident. The victim’s injuries appeared to be significant, but not life-threatening and they were promptly transported by EMS to a local hospital.

According to a release by the City of Beaufort Police Department, a suspect was identified and apprehended. The suspect was transported to Beaufort County Detention Center. The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone who may have information about this incident is encouraged to contact Investigator Andersen at 843-322-7941. If you wish to stay anonymous, please call our Anonymous Tip Line at 843-322-7938.

Speaking during the April 12 council meeting, Ian Scott, president of the Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce, worried that the increased fees would also suppress the development of affordable housing, which is perpetually in short supply in the county.

He concluded his comments by asking the Town Council to review the impact of the new ordinance on housing and development within six months.

“Make sure we’re not adding undue burden to the cost of delivering new housing into the market with the fees that are currently set,” Scott said.

DeVito concurred with Scott’s concerns and said he has directed the town’s staff to prepare an analysis of the ordinance’s impact after six months.

developers have expressed their own concerns about the impact the revised tree ordinance will have on residential development in the town.

A tale of two trees

It was the size of the tree at the center of the burgeoning controversy that earned it a landmark tree

A selection of area home listings.

designation. Its 43-inch diameter easily exceeded the 24-inch standard for such as moniker. The oak was estimated to be between 150 and 200 years old.

The property on which the tree stood had previously been subdivided into five lots, and a home was planned for each lot. CHS Coastal Homes had

White said the new language is intended to motivate developers to seriously explore all options before simply clearing a lot prior to construction.

“The new language is designed to say, ‘Do everything you can, and as a last result, you can pay a fee,’” White said. “It’s a steep fee in order to incentivize more effort to be made to retain trees.”

In addition to the increased mitigation fees, the new ordinance expanded the list of protected tree varieties to include pines and water oaks, a tree that has a reputation for falling suddenly and causing damage.

“They can be extremely dangerous trees when they get very large,” DeVito added. “Nobody knows they’re rotting, and all of the sudden they crack and fall.”

DeVito noted that the fees paid by commercial developers will not increase, stating that attracting commercial endeavors to the town is critical to its growth.

Upon its passage, White said the committee aimed to create as strong an ordinance as possible. She feels they met that objective and hopes that the municipalities in the county will look to the new ordinance as a model.

Councilman Kevin Phillips said the reaction from his constituents has been universally positive.

“I was proud of Port Royal for coming up, doing something bold and putting our name on it,” Phillips said. “We’ll see how it plays out. We live in very interesting and fast-moving times. Sometimes you’ve got to take bold measures.”

From Beaufort to Bluffton and Hilton Head, The Post and Courier covers news impacting your community. Subscribe for more local coverage at postandcourier.com/IslandNews

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An appeal of a construction permit halted efforts by developers to take down this landmark live oak on 12th Street in Port Royal, as pictured on Aug. 11, 2022. The tree eventually came down, but a larger live oak on the property was saved through an agreement between the developer and the town. Tony Kukulich/ The Post And Courier

Beaufort Memorial recognizes top employees with Bemmy Awards

From staff reports

To celebrate National Hospital Week 2023 and honor Beaufort Memorial’s finest, the nonprofit hospital leadership two weeks ago presented its second annual Bemmy Awards for exemplary performance over the past year. The awards were designed to specifically recognize employees, providers and departments that go above and beyond their job duties to carry out the organization’s mission, vision and values.

“We want to show our employees how much we value them and their service to our patients and our hospital,” Beaufort Memorial President and CEO Russell Baxley said in a news release. “The people at Beaufort Memorial make a difference every day in patients’ lives and we want to thank them – on behalf of the community, on behalf of our patients, on behalf of everyone here at Beaufort Memorial. “ Awards were presented in 10 categories.

Among the top awards was Innovator of the Year, presented to Joy Solomon, MSN, RN, NPD-BC, for her leadership of PATH (People Achieving Their Highest), the hospital’s groundbreaking career development program. The South Carolina Hospital Association (SCHA) has showcased the PATH program as an outstanding example of healthcare workforce development. The program, which welcomed its inaugural cohort in May 2022, is designed to help staff learn new skills, earn advanced certifications and grow their careers at the hospital, thus supporting a stronger healthcare network within the community.

The top honor for Department of the Year was awarded to the Pharmacy Department.

“During this time of unprecedented shortages and supply chain issues, the Pharmacy team

consistently looked for alternatives to keep our frontline staff able to provide the needed medications to treat our patients,” Baxley said in presenting the award.

Bridget Blythe, central sterile processing specialist, was named the Vaux Clinical Employee of the Year.

“Bridget runs the Central Sterile Department with the utmost dedication and care, and never asks more from her employees than she is willing to do herself.” said Baxley, “Her attitude of caring and constant giving is at the root of the department’s success.”

The Nonclinical Employee of the Year Award went to Dean Adams, transportation specialist, cited by Baxley for his huge heart.

“He considers going above and beyond for patients to be just part of the job,” said Baxley, pointing out an example of Adams’ kindness.

“He purchased a cake and card to celebrate the end of treatments for a cancer patient,” said Baxley. “While taking her to and from her oncology appointments, he had learned

the patient didn’t have family in the area. His actions had the patient smiling from ear to ear and made that memorable day even more special for her.”

Runners-up for the hospital’s top awards were Michael Bowers Jr., IT senior programmer analyst (Innovator of the Year); the Emergency Department (Department of the Year); Walter McLeod, CST, operating room surgical technologist (Clinical Employee of the Year); and Kelly Harrell, medical records clerk for the Health Information Services Department (Nonclinical Employee of the Year).

Other awardees were:

Provider of the Year: Nikki

Newman, PA-C, Express Care & Occupational Health (Runner-up: Tiffany Bersani, MD, FACOG, Obstetrics & Gynecology Specialists)

Leader of the Year: Lisa Kramer, revenue cycle director (Runner-up: Megan Mack, OTR/L, MSHA, FACHE, rehabilitation services director)

Rookie of the Year: Lauren

Rauscher, BSN, RN, CNOR, RNFA, assistant director, Peri-Operative Department

(Runner-up: Keia McWilliams, imaging services coordinator)

• Community Champion of the Year: Lisa Terwilliger, BSN, RN, CMSRN, CNML, Medical/ Surgical and Orthopedics Unit clinical coordinator. (Coincidentally, the runner-up, Kianna Brown, LMSW, oncology social worker, actually nominated Terwilliger for the award.)

Zero Harm Patient Safety Champion: Abby Lynch, RD, clinical dietitian (Runner-up: Lauren Norris, BSN, RN, surgical recovery room)

Patient Experience Champions (these awards are selected based on exceptional patient survey scores). Inpatient: Medical/Surgical and Orthopedics Unit (4T); Out-

patient: Outpatient Lab and Registration, Beaufort Medical Plaza; Physician Practices: Bluffton Express Care & Occupational Health

Bemmy Award winners were picked from You Shine Through employee award recipients who are selected each month based on nominations from patients, their families and coworkers. In addition, staff members were invited to nominate their colleagues for a Bemmy. Requesting employee nominations in 10 categories, the Employee Engagement Awards Committee members were delighted by the large number they received, as staffers appeared eager to recognize their colleagues for work that had gone, by any standard, above and beyond. The awards committee reviewed all nominations and submitted the top candidates from which senior leadership selected the winners.

“Each one of these employees really embodies our core values,” said Baxley. “They truly are the best of the best and have gone above and beyond – recognized by patients, by their peers, by leadership. We are incredibly proud of these employees for what they’ve done this year.”

The Sands beach in Port Royal gets outdoor volleyball court

By Delayna Earley

The Island News

Port Royal now has a public volleyball court just in time for summer.

The new outdoor court was built at The Sands beach in Port Royal by Paul Smith with help from Steve McHugh, both of Beaufort.

Smith was wanting an outdoor place to play volleyball and hatched up the idea with help from Wesley Millard, a lifeguard whom he would often see while swimming at the Beaufort YMCA in Port Royal.

Milliard, who works at the YMCA, lives in Port Royal and suggested The Sands beach as the perfect location.

During their short planning period for the court, Smith and Milliard connected with Port Royal Town Councilman Kevin Phillips

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one day while he was swimming at the YMCA, and he set up a meeting in March for Smith to present their idea to the Town of Port Royal’s Town Manager Van Willis and the town’s planning director Noah Krepps.

“Noah had already selected the best location for the volleyball court so that it wouldn’t be affected by the tides,” Smith said about their meeting. “I couldn’t believe how fast all of this happened.”

The volleyball net and materials to install it were provided by Smith, who said he wanted to get a top-ofthe-line net that would last. The court is roughly 30 feet by 60 feet.

Once he got permission from the town of Port Royal to install the court and they helped him to select a location, Smith enlisted the help

with appeals until one day that hotel and parking garage get built or the Beaufort River covers all of downtown and a new hotel or parking garage will not be needed.

Maybe not as surprising was the announcement coming out of city hall earlier this month about the department of Deputy City Manager Reece Bertholf.

Bertholf, who spent 23 years in the Beaufort ranks, initially as fire chief then assistant city manager, is heading to his home state of Minnesota to become city manager in New Hope. There was a lot of speculation that Bertholf would replace former City Manager Bill Prokop when he retired at the end of 2022 but the City Council,

of his friend and neighbor Steve McHugh, who works in construction. The instillation went quickly, and they were fin-

after a nationwide search, chose former Beaufort County Human Resources Director Scott Marshall for the job.

Over in the world of housing where the call for more attainable housing has been an increasing campaign pledge of the politicians, Angela Childers, director of that agency for the past 12½ years, handed in her notice to the Board of Commissioners and headed north to Charleston.

She’s the new executive director of the Charleston County Housing and Redevelopment Authority.

In the world of water … and sewer, the Beaufort-Jasper Water and Sewer Authority has a new face at the helm, the authority’s first female General Manager.

Verna Arnette from the Greater Cincinnati Water Works began work earlier this month, replacing Joe Mantua who

ished on May 9.

Originally, Smith thought that they would only have the net up on Saturdays and that members of the public

retired from the authority after four years.

Arnette follows in the footsteps of community notables such as Dean Moss, who served as BJWSA General Manager for 25 years and Ed Saxton, who served 30 years with the authority.

But again, should we be surprised at these comings and goings, even if there is “more to the story?.” To quote Heraclitus again, no man steps in the same river twice and that Beaufort River is definitely running fast.

How ‘bout these ‘king tides?’

BEAUFORT – Speaking of water, it is good news that the city of Beaufort keeps getting grants to help deal with existing drainage problems in the downtown and Point neighborhoods, a prelude to dealing with the inevitable rising sea levels. Whether you agree to call

would have to reserve the court to use it, but he quickly abandoned that idea and decided to leave the net up for use throughout the week.

it “global warming” or just “Mother Nature,” there’s plenty of evidence to indicate communities built close to water are seeing changes.

A study last week that garnered its moment of media attention stated New York City is slowly sinking due to the weight of its buildings. The study, which we can bet will quickly by discredited by other researchers, could be used to support those who oppose Beaufort’s proposed four-story hotel and parking garage because of its impact on the downtown area, partially surrounded as it is by water.

City Council continues work on development code amid budget talks BEAUFORT – The City Council continues to work on the proposed $30 million FY 2024 budget which includes an onstaff architect at the same time

“All you need to do in order to enjoy the volleyball court is bring your own volleyball,” Smith said about the court.

He hopes that as word spreads about the volleyball court, locals may become interested in creating a Port Royal Volleyball League in the future.

“Port Royal is a very outdoor community,” Councilman Phillips said about the court. “This volleyball court is a great addition.”

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

review continues of the 2017 Redevelopment Code.

The elected folks continued their third session with more discussion about creating a city planning board in lieu of the Design Review Board.

The on-staff architect is also being recommended in the budget. Currently architectural review is provided by Charlestonbased consultants.

As Mayor Stephen Murray described the process at one point, “it’s sausage- making at its finest.”

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

Department of the Year - Pharmacy. Photos courtesy of Beaufort Memorial Hospital Provider of the YearNikki Newman, PA-C.

Rookie of the YearLauren Rauscher.

From left, Paul Smith, Steve McHugh and Port Royal Councilman Kevin Phillips stand with the new outdoor volleyball court at The Sands beach in Port Royal. Photo submitted by Kevin Phillips

Beaufort Charities to hold free golf clinic for Beaufort area children

By Delayna Earley The Island News

The 8th annual Clubs for Kids program will be held on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at Pleasant Point Golf Course on Lady’s Island.

The free event, which is open to Beaufort area children, ages 5-12, is held to provide local kids of all backgrounds with the tools to play golf, to teach them how to use the tools of golf and offer them access to play.

Every child that signs up and attends the program will receive a free set of golf clubs as well as golf instruction focusing on golf etiquette and sportsmanship, basics of the golf swing and understanding how to score and play the game.

Children ages 5 to 8

should arrive at 8 a.m. to warm-up with the clinic beginning at 8:30 a.m.

For children between the ages of 9-12, the arrival time is 9:30 a.m., with their clinic beginning at 10 a.m.

Hot dogs will be provided for all participating children.

The event is hosted by The Beaufort Charities, which is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization which focuses on generating funds to be used for local organizations that help fulfill the needs of Beaufort County.

In the 8 years that The Beaufort Charities has held the event, more than 750 sets of Wilson golf clubs have been distributed to Beaufort County kids.

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

Home Depot Foundation builds for LowCountry Habitat for Humanity

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family friendly cultural experience for more than 35,000 local, national and international attendees during the three-day event.

Schedules and ticket information for events and entertainment, along with a complete list of sponsors and vendors, can be found at www. originalgullahfestival.org/

Decoration Day Play

Join Aunt Pearlie Sue and The Gullah Kinfolk as they celebrate Decoration Day. Step back in time and experience Memorial Day like it used to be.

This is a very entertaining, informative and historical re-enactment of the City of Beaufort and describes some of the culture of the peoples on the sea islands.

The play is scheduled for 3 p.m., Saturday, May 27, at the USCB Center for the Arts at 805 Carteret Street in Beaufort. Tickets are $45 online, $50 at the door. Children 12 and younger are $15. Purchase tickets at https:// rb.gy/p3puu

Reconstruction Era National Historical Park to commemorate 160th Anniversary of Combahee Raid

From staff reports

On the night of June

1, 1863, Harriet Tubman and soldiers of the United States Army — including members of the 2 nd South Carolina Volunteers — slipped away from the docks in Beaufort County and sailed up the Combahee River.

When they returned the next day, they brought with them more than 750 people experiencing their first taste of freedom. One hundred sixty years later, between June 1 and 3, 2023, Reconstruction Era National Historical Park will be just one of several organizations marking the anniversary with special programs and tours in Beaufort County.

“We’re excited to provide opportunities for visitors to learn more about the events of June 1 and 2, 1863 ” said Chris Barr, who is the Chief of Interpretation for the park. “The Combahee Raid marked the beginnings of freedom for hundreds of people,

and their story here at the dawn of Reconstruction is important for not only their descendants, but for the community at large.” Reconstruction Era National Historical Park will conduct a series of special tours exploring sites associated with Harriet Tubman and those liberated on the raid in downtown Beaufort, the Smith Plantation in Port Royal, and at the Combahee Ferry site. In addition to working with the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor, Park rangers are working closely with Edda Fields-Black, the author of the forthcoming book, Combee’: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom during the Civil War, to create tour opportunities for visitors and community members to learn more. For a schedule of park programs, visit https://go.nps.gov/Combahee 160

These tours by Reconstruction Era National

Beauty in remembrance

Historical Park are only one part of a broader series of community-focused commemorations occurring during this time. In addition to the park programs, the Slave Dwelling Project is conducting activities along the Combahee River around the ACE Basin. And in downtown Beaufort, the Black Moses Freedom Festival will take place June 2 through 4 at the Beaufort County Black Chamber of Commerce, and features a wide variety of community events, tours, and wellness activities celebrating the legacy of Harriet Tubman in the Lowcountry.

For more information about Reconstruction Era National Historical Park, visit www.nps.gov/reer Information about the Slave Dwelling Project can be found at https:// slavedwellingproject.org/

And for a complete schedule for the Black Moses Freedom Festival, visit https://www.blackmosesfreedomfestival.com/

Descendants of those buried in the Eustis Community Cemetery organized a beautification day in celebration of Mother’s Day Weekend. More than 30 community members volunteered to clear debris and make the sacred Gullah burial site beautiful again. Photos courtesy of Tendaji Bailey

The Home Depot Foundation teamed up with LowCountry Habitat for Humanity and other regional organizations to serve local families through a large community service day Thursday, April 25 at Hilton Head Island’s Coastal Discovery Museum. More than 300 volunteers led by Team Depot framed the interior and exterior walls of Habitat’s next three homes for Northern Beaufort County, which will allow these deserving families to move into their homes sooner than originally planned. Within four hours, C-suite Executives from Home Depot’s major suppliers built 67 walls, two sheds and five picnic tables. The groups were led by LowCountry Habitat volunteers, Sophie Ashley, Jim Burden, Tim Holt, Sally Mayse, and Peter Pearks. Photo courtesy of LowCountry Habitat for Humanity

Three Ways to Simplify Retirement Income Planning

Presented by Hampton Long

Living in the Lowcountry provides our many retirees and soon-to-be retirees ample opportunities to relax, recreate, and gather with family and friends in beautiful environs. It does not however, insulate them from concerns about the economy, inflation, geopolitics, and most especially whether they have or will have enough income in retirement. As with most important issues in life, it is always best to face the “enough income in retirement” question head on with a sound and oftentimes surprisingly simple plan. Retirement means different things to different people — it can be a time to travel, spend more time with family, or pursue a personal passion. But while we look forward with anticipation to finally reaching that goal, flipping the switch from working and having a steady stream of income to tapping into decades’ worth of hardearned savings can be very overwhelming, confusing and let’s face it — scary.

According to a recent survey* from the investment firm Charles Schwab, 52 percent of Americans within five years of retirement feel overwhelmed by how they will manage different income sourc-

es once they make the transition into retirement. With 10,000 Baby Boomers turning 65 every day**, people need help turning their savings into steady income and making their money last in retirement.

Schwab’s survey also found that nearly three-quarters of pre-retirees are worried about running out of money in retirement, so if that idea scares you, you’re not alone.

Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to better manage your income needs in retirement:

1. Have a plan about how much you can spend in retirement. Schwab’s survey found that retirement income planning is more overwhelming than other financial topics often considered stressful including the financial impact of losing a job, buying a home, or paying for college. Mapping out a plan for how much money you’ll need, how to strategically withdraw money along the way, and how to manage your investment portfolio will give you more confidence that you’re on the right path. You wouldn’t go on a

long road trip without mapping out your journey – approach your retirement the same way.

2. Think about how to invest. Just because you’ve hit retirement and are starting to draw down from your savings doesn’t mean you should stop investing. A portion of your assets should remain invested to help contend with inflation and make your money last in retirement. Half of the pre-retirees surveyed by Schwab admit they find it difficult to know how to invest, so for some people it might help to get investing guidance from a professional.

3. Don’t forget about taxes. According to Schwab’s survey, 70 percent of pre-retirees are unfamiliar with the tax implications of withdrawing money from their retirement accounts. How you manage tax obligations will depend on your specific situation, but it can be important to think about diversifying your account types, including tax-deferred, taxable, and tax-free Roth IRA accounts. And don’t forget about required minimum

distributions from retirement accounts.

Schwab Intelligent Income™, an automated income solution available with Schwab Intelligent Portfolios, helps answer critical and often complex income-related questions about how much to withdraw, how to invest based on individual goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon, and how to withdraw from a combination of taxable, tax-deferred, and Roth enrolled accounts in a tax-smart and efficient way. So much of the focus is on savings and investing for the future, and rightfully so, but having a plan in place to manage your savings once you hit your golden years is equally important.

Ultimately, finding the courage to solve the “enough income in retirement” question, especially in times like these, is a bit like completing that final extra credit project before school is dismissed for summer. Retirement, like summer vacation, has every possibility of being enjoyable, especially in the Lowcountry, and a lot more so when you know you didn’t leave any points on the table.

More information about Schwab Intelligent Income is available at: www.schwab.com/automated-investing/retirement-income

HAMPTON LONG is a FINANCIAL CONSULTANT at the Charles Schwab Independent Branch in BLUFFTON, SOUTH CAROLINA. He has over 13 years of experience helping clients achieve their financial goals. Some content provided here has been compiled from previously published articles authored by various parties at Schwab. Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., Member SIPC.

*Online survey of 1,000 Americans aged 55 and older with $100,000 or more in investable assets. Respondents self-defined as within five years of retirement.

**Pew Research survey

Please read the Schwab Intelligent Portfolios Solutions™ disclosure brochures for important information, pricing, and disclosures related to the Schwab Intelligent Portfolios and Schwab Intelligent Portfolios Premium programs. Schwab Intelligent Portfolios® and Schwab Intelligent Portfolios Premium™ are made available through Charles Schwab & Co. Inc. (“Schwab”), a dually registered investment advisor and broker dealer. Portfolio management services are provided by Charles Schwab Investment Advisory, Inc. (“CSIA”). Schwab and CSIA are subsidiaries of The Charles Schwab Corporation. Schwab Intelligent Income® is an optional feature for clients to receive recurring automated withdrawals from their accounts. Schwab does not guarantee the amount or duration of Schwab Intelligent Income withdrawals nor does it guarantee any specific tax results such as meeting Required Minimum Distributions. You may incur IRS penalties for early withdrawal of funds depending on what type of account you have. (0523-3P62)

New Lowcountry Urgent Care location opens

From staff reports

Lowcountry Urgent Care is now open in Beaufort, providing walk-in medical care at 21 Robert Smalls Parkway in the Publix shopping center, next to the new Chipotle. The state-of-the-art urgent care center features an onsite

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

honors Kim Lyle

lab and X-ray and offers rapid and affordable alternatives to emergency room services.

The location is open seven days a week during evenings and weekends to fit the busy schedules of Beaufort residents including 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices recently recognized Kim Lyle of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Bay Street Realty Group as the No. 6 overall Residential and Commercial Broker throughout the global Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network. This impressive acknowledgement was made during a special awards ceremony at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices’ annual Sales Convention in Las Vegas.

Lyle is an Industrial Real Estate Expert throughout the Savannah Region, selling more than $250,000,000 in 2022. Her accomplishments have garnered the attention of many including CoStar Group, Inc., a leading pro-

through Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday.

No appointment is necessary at Lowcountry Urgent Care, but patients at the new Beaufort facility will be able to check in online and pre-register for their visit if that option is preferred.

vider of commercial real estate information, analytics and online marketplaces which recognizes professionals and firms who closed the highest transaction volume in commercial real estate deals in their respective markets. Lyle was also recently named CoStar’s Top Sales Broker of 2022 as well as the winner of their Q4 2022 Power Broker Quarterly Deals Award.

Edward Jones’ Cox named to Forbes’

Best-in-State list

Edward Jones financial advisor Brandon Cox of Port Royal has been named to the 2023 list of “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” in South Carolina by Forbes and SHOOK Research.

To compile the 2023 list of financial advisors named to “Best-

The new Beaufort Urgent Care location accepts all major insurance, including Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE, and is a VA-approved urgent care center. The Beaufort location also offers $99 self-pay pricing and a variety of services,

such as COVID testing and treatment; jellyfish and bee stings; wound care; $89 DOT physicals; allergy care; burns; fish hook removal; sprains and strains; upper respiratory and sinus infections; rashes; STD testing and treatment; stitches; TB

testing; occupational medicine; ear infections; cold and flu care; insect bites; headaches and more.

Residents are welcome to tour the new facility at 21 Robert Smalls Parkway, Beaufort, SC, 29906, during business hours.

in-State Wealth Advisors” ranking, SHOOK Research analysts conducted more than 17,500 interviews with nominees. Criteria included revenue trends, assets under management, compliance records, industry experience, use of best practices and approach to working with clients.

Bay Street Realty Group honored

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices recently recognized Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Bay Street Realty Group with the Elite Circle Award, No. 41 overall. The Elite Circle Award is given to the top 50 companies with the highest GCI – Gross Commission Income – within the global Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network in 2022.

Bay Street Realty Group hires Austin

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Bay Street Realty Group recently welcomed Realtor Nick Austin to the team as a new agent and Military Relocation Specialist.

Having served in the United States Marine Corps for eight years, Austin is eager to use this foundation of discipline and leadership to represent his clients in a unique manner. With an award-winning military career, Austin earned several Marine Corps Good Conduct Medals, a National Defense Service Medal, an Afghanistan campaign medal with 1 star, a Global War on Terrorism ser-

vice medal, a Combat Action Ribbon, a NATO Medal-ISAF Afghanistan, and a Sea Service Deployment Ribbon just to name a few.

In addition to his military background, Austin also served as Project Manager for a commercial construction company where he oversaw more than 300 commercial projects to completion; handling all things from contracts and billing to scheduling and site supervision. He has a distinct advantage with this construction background. Nick is able to help his clients determine the potential in a home.

He received his associate’s degree in Applied Sciences for Construction Management from Ivy Tech University; and his Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Indiana State University.

– From staff reports

Nick Austin

SCDNR to conduct courtesy boat inspections during Memorial Day weekend

South Carolina Department of Natural Resources

In an effort to keep people and waterways safe during the Memorial Day weekend, the S.C. Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) Law Enforcement Division will be conducting courtesy boat inspections at public boat landings around the state, including two in Beaufort County.

SCDNR will be present to conduct boat inspections from 10 a.m. to noon, Sunday, May 27 at Broad River Landing and then from 10 a.m. to noon, Monday, May 28 at the Lemon Island Boat Ramp.

The Memorial Day holiday kicks off the summer boating season and is one of the busiest times of the year for South Carolina lakes and waterways, and officers want to do everything possible to keep everyone’s weekend fun and safe.

SCDNR boating safety and enforcement officers will perform quick but thorough inspections for required safety equipment and proper boat and motor registrations. Those who are not in compliance with safety regulations or registration requirements will not be ticketed during the complimentary inspections. Instead, they will be given an opportunity to correct the problem before they launch their boat. SCDNR officers will also be available to answer questions and give boaters tips on how to stay safe on the water.

To report boating violations such as reckless operation or an intoxicated boat operator, call the SCDNR toll-free, 24-hour hotline at 1-800-922-5431 or dial #DNR on your cellular phone.

For a copy of South Carolina’s boating regulations, to find out about local boating safety courses, or to obtain a free float plan form, contact the SCDNR boating safety office at 1-800-277-4301 or visit http://www. dnr.sc.gov/education/boated.html

BOAT INSPECTIONS

Memorial Day weekend boat inspection locations (all inspections are from 10 a.m. to Noon):

Saturday, May 27

• Anderson County: Twin Lakes Landing, Lake Hartwell: 10 a.m. to Noon

Charleston County: Wapoo Cut Landing, Intracoastal Waterway (ICW): 10 a.m. to Noon

• Greenwood County: SC Highway 72 Landing at Break on the Lake, Lake

Greenwood: 10 a.m. to Noon

• Horry County: Little River Landing: 10 a.m. to Noon

• Lexington County: Lake Murray Dam Landing: 10 a.m. to Noon

York County: Ebenezer Park Landing, Lake Wylie: 10 a.m. to Noon

Sunday, May 28

• Beaufort County: Broad River Landing: 10 a.m. to Noon

Clarendon County: Alex Harvin Landing, Lake Marion: 10 a.m. to Noon

• Kershaw County: Clearwater Cove Landing, Lake Wateree: 10 a.m. to Noon

• McCormick County: Dorn Landing, Lake Thurmond: 10 a.m. to Noon

Pickens County: South Cove Landing, Lake Keowee: 10 a.m. to Noon

Monday, May 29

• Anderson County: Twelve Mile Landing, Lake Hartwell: 10 a.m. to Noon

Beaufort County: Lemon Island Boat

Ramp: 10 a.m. to Noon

• York County: Ebenezer Park Landing, Lake Wylie: 10 a.m. to Noon

• Lexington County: Lake Murray Dam: 10 a.m. to Noon

Shellfish harvesting season closes May 27

South Carolina

Department of Natural Resources

The 2022-2023 season for harvest of oysters, mussels, clams and all other bivalves from South Carolina’s

State Shellfish Grounds and Public Shellfish Grounds will close on Saturday, May 27 at one half hour after official sunset, according to South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) officials.

Because higher bacterial levels occur when water temperatures exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit, shellfish harvesting during the summer months is limited to certain oyster farms who meet rigorous handling and operations requirements.

Coastal waters will remain closed to recreational shellfish harvesting until the fall, when water temperatures begin to cool and ensure that shellfish are once again safe for harvesting and consumption. Shellfish harvesting is ex-

pected to reopen October 1, 2023. Find out more about, visit https://bit.ly/3WlJSuF

Although shellfish harvesting is closed to the public during the summer, the South Carolina Oyster Recycling and Enhancement (SCORE) program accepts recycled oyster shells yearround. Shell recycling dropoff locations are located throughout coastal counties and at a few inland locations. Collection sites can be found online at https:// bit.ly/3q0zPz0, or by calling SCDNR at 843-953-9397. Other types of shell, such as clams and whelks, are also accepted.

During the summer months, SCDNR biologists return the recycled shell to shorelines, where it provides an ideal base for juvenile oysters to attach and grow, thereby replenishing harvested beds. When the quantity of shell needed to replant shellfish grounds exceeds that which is recycled,

SCDNR must purchase shell at increasing cost. Even a modest increase in recycled shell can save a significant amount of money. SCDNR’s shellfish recycling, restoration and enhancement efforts are funded in part by saltwater recreational fishing license sales.

Although oyster harvesting slows down in the summer, oyster reef construction heats up. Late spring and early summer are busy months for SCORE’s community-based oyster restoration work, in which the public is invited to work with SCDNR staff and other volunteers to create oyster habitat using recycled shell. The resulting oyster reefs provide a host of ecological services, including water filtration, nutrient cycling, and habitat for fish and invertebrates. Check the SCORE webpage at https://bit.ly/45naUFP for a calendar of events or email the community restoration staff at score@dnr.sc.gov.

SCDNR to work at boat ramps

From staff reports

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) will be conducting its annual shellfish ground management efforts (oyster shell reseeding) at several Beaufort County boat landings next week.

The boat landings will remain open to the public, however there will be increased truck and barge activity throughout each day while SCDNR reseeds the oyster beds at each location.

The schedule is as follows:

Through Friday, May 26 & Tuesday, May 30 – Station Creek Landing

Friday, May 26 & Tuesday, May 30 Russ Point Landing, Beaufort

Monday, June 5 -Friday, June 9 & Monday, June 12 – The Sands, Port Royal The barge will occupy one ramp while it is being loaded. Loading will take approximately two hours. At least one ramp will be available for public use while the barge is being loaded.

BATTLE OF BELLY FAT

There are many reasons why people gain belly fat, including poor diet, lack of exercise, and stress.

Improving nutrition, increasing activity, and making other lifestyle changes can help people lose belly fat.

Belly fat refers to fat around the abdomen. There are two types of belly fat:

Visceral: This fat surrounds a person’s organs.

• Subcutaneous: This is fat that sits under the skin.

Health complications from visceral fat are more harmful than having subcutaneous fat. People can make many lifestyle and dietary changes to lose belly fat.

Why is belly fat dangerous?

Being overweight is one of the leading causes of major diseases.

Excess belly fat can increase the risk of heart disease, heart attacks, high blood pressure, stroke, type 2 diabetes, asthma, breast cancer, colon cancer and dementia.

Causes of belly fat

Common causes of excess belly fat include:

1. Poor diet – Sugary food such as cakes and candy, and drinks such as soda and fruit juice, can: cause weight gain, slow a person’s metabolism, reduce a person’s ability to burn fat.

Low-protein, high-carb diets may also affect weight. Protein helps a person feel fuller for longer, and people who do not include lean protein in their diet may eat more food overall.

Trans fats, in particular, can cause inflammation and may lead to obesity.

Trans fats are in many foods, including fast food and baked goods like muffins

Sunlight, specifically ultraviolet (UV) radiation, has been linked to several eye conditions, including cataracts and early onset age-related macular degeneration. It’s hard to avoid the sun, but it is easy to protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses. Sunglasses need not bear a designer label or cost hundreds of dollars to do their job properly.

and crackers.

The American Heart Association recommends that people replace trans fats with healthy whole-grain foods, monounsaturated fats, and polyunsaturated fats.

Reading food labels can help a person determine whether their food contains trans fats.

2. Too much alcohol – Consuming excess alcohol can cause a variety of health problems, including liver disease and inflammation.

A 2015 report on alcohol consumption and obesity found that drinking excess alcohol causes males to gain weight around their bellies, though study results in females are inconsistent.

3. Lack of exercise – If a person consumes more calories than they burn off, they will put on weight. An inactive lifestyle makes it hard for a person to get rid of excess fat, particularly around the abdomen.

4. Stress – A steroid hormone known as cortisol helps the body control and deal with stress. When a person is in a dangerous or high-pressure situation, their body releases cortisol, and this can impact their metabolism. People often reach for

food for comfort when they feel stressed. Cortisol causes those excess calories to remain around the belly and other areas of the body for later use.

5. Genetics – There is some evidence that a person’s genes can play a part in whether they become obese. Scientists think genes can influence behavior, metabolism, and the risk of developing obesity-related diseases. Environmental factors and behavior also play a role in the likelihood of people becoming obese.

6. Poor sleep – A 2013 study links weight gain to short sleep duration, which could lead to an excess of belly fat. However, causality cannot be inferred from this study. Short duration of sleep is linked to an increase in food intake, which may play a part in the development of abdominal fat. Not getting enough good sleep also may, potentially, lead to unhealthy eating behaviors, such as emotional eating.

7. Smoking – Researchers may not consider smoking to be a direct cause of belly fat, but they do believe it to be a risk factor.

A 2012 study published in

the journal PloS one showed that, although obesity was the same between smokers and nonsmokers, smokers had more belly and visceral fat than nonsmokers.

How to lose belly fat

The following steps may help people lose unwanted belly fat:

1. Improving their diet. A healthy, balanced diet can help a person lose weight, and is also likely to have a positive effect on their overall health. People may want to avoid sugar, fatty foods, and refined carbohydrates that have low nutritional content. Instead, they can eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates.

2. Reducing alcohol consumption. A person trying to lose excess abdominal fat can monitor their alcohol intake. Alcoholic drinks often contain additional sugar, which can contribute to weight gain.

3. Increasing exercise. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to many serious health problems, including weight gain. People trying to lose weight should include a good amount of exercise in their daily routine. Undertaking both aerobic exercise and strength training can help people tackle their belly fat.

4. Getting more sunlight.

A 2016 review indicates that exposure to sunlight in animals could lead to a reduction in weight gain and metabolic dysfunction. The review notes that few studies have looked at the effects of sunlight on humans with respect to weight gain, and that more research is required.

5. Reducing stress. Stress can cause a person to gain weight. The release of the

stress hormone cortisol influences a person’s appetite and could cause them to eat more. Stress-relieving tactics include mindfulness and meditation, and gentle exercise like yoga.

6. Improving sleep patterns. Sleep is vital to people’s overall health. Sleep’s primary purpose is to allow the body to rest, heal, and recover, but it can also affect a person’s weight. Getting enough quality sleep is essential when a person is trying to shed weight, including belly fat.

7. Quitting smoking. Smoking is a risk factor for increased belly fat, as well as many other serious health concerns. Quitting can significantly reduce the risk from excess belly fat, as well as improve overall health.

In summary

A person has a higher risk of various health issues if they have excess belly fat. Causes include poor diet, lack of exercise, and short or low-quality sleep. A healthy diet and active lifestyle can help people lose excess belly fat and lower the risk of problems associated with it.

Source: https://www.medicalnewstoday. com/articles/323309

Reviewed by Daniel Bubnis, M.S., NASMCPT, NASE Level II-CSS, Fitness—by Bethany Cadman—updated on February 9, 2023

Additional sources: Abdominal obesity and your health. (2017); https://www.health.harvard.edu/ staying-healthy/abdominal-obesity-andyour-health Behavior, environment, and genetic factors all have a role in causing people to be overweight and obese. (2018); https://www. cdc.gov/genomics/resources/diseases/obesity/ index.htm Fats. (2021); https://www.heart.org/en/ healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/fats

Choosing the right sunglasses

Sunglasses are labeled according to guidelines for UV protection established by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The two forms of UV light that affect health include:

UVA, which is responsible for skin tanning and aging.

UVB, which is linked to sunburn and skin cancer; a large portion is

absorbed by the atmosphere’s ozone layer.

Before buying sunglasses, look at the ANSI label; even inexpensive sunglasses can be effective.

Cosmetic: Lightly tinted lenses, good for daily wear. Blocks 70% of UVB rays, 20% of UVA, and 60% of visible light.

General purpose: Medium to dark lenses, fine for

most outdoor recreation. Blocks 95% of UVB, 60% of UVA, and 60% to 90% of visible light. Most sunglasses fall into this category.

Special purpose: Extremely dark lenses with UV blockers, recommended for places with very bright conditions such as beaches and ski slopes. Blocks 99% of UVB, 60% of UVA, and 97% of visible light. A darker looking lens may not provide better UV protection than a lighter lens.

If you aren’t sure what kind of sunglasses to buy or think you may be at high

risk for eye disease, check with your eye doctor.

For more information on the prevention and treatment of diseases in your eyes, consider buying “the Aging Eye”, a special health report from

Harvard Medical School at http://www.health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/ the-aging-eye-preventingand-treating-eye-disease

Source: www.health.harvard.edu

Speech and voice cues may signal earliest stages of dementia

MCI can develop for multiple reasons, and individuals living with MCI may go on to develop dementia; others will not. For neurodegenerative diseases, MCI can be an early stage of the disease continuum including for Alzheimer’s, if the hallmark changes in the brain are present.

The causes of MCI are not yet completely understood. Experts believe that many cases—but not all—result from brain changes occurring in the very early stages of Alzheimer’s or other neurodegenerative diseases that cause dementia.

In some individuals, MCI reverts to normal cognition or remains stable. In other cases, such as when a medication causes cognitive impairment, MCI is mistakenly diagnosed. It is important that people experiencing cognitive changes seek help as soon as possible for diagnosis and possible treatment.

The risk factors most strongly linked to MCI when the underlying cause is neurodegenerative disease and not another cause are advancing age, family history of Alzheimer’s or another dementia, and conditions that raise risk for cardiovascular disease.

Symptoms

Experts classify mild cognitive impairment based on the thinking skills affected:

Amnestic MCI: MCI that primarily affects memory. A person may start to forget important information that he or she would previous-

ly have recalled easily, such as appointments, conversations, or recent events.

• Nonamnestic MCI: MCI that affects thinking skills other than memory, including the ability to make sound decisions, judge the time or sequence of steps needed to complete a complex task, or visual perception.

Artificial intelligence (AI) analysis of voice recordings could offer a quick, inexpensive way to screen home care patients for mild cognitive impairment and early dementia (MCI-ED), new research from Columbia Nursing shows.

Postdoctoral researcher

Maryam Zolnoori, PhD, has received National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding to develop a speech processing algorithm, MCI-ED Screen, to identify the earliest signs of mild cognitive impairment and early demen-

tia in home care patients. MCI-ED builds upon AD Screen, a speech processing algorithm Zolnoori developed to detect Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRDs) by analyzing voice recordings.

The Alzheimer’s Association estimates that nearly one in five people 60 and older in the U.S. are living with MCI, and that 10 to 15 percent of people with MCI will develop ADRD within the year. Identifying people with MCI-ED, who often don’t recognize their cognitive function loss, is important because interventions are available to help slow dementia progression and keep patients safe, Zolnoori explains.

While the NIH, the National Science Foundation, and others have prioritized the development of MCIED screening tools, available methods—such as brain scans or cerebrospinal fluid analysis--are too costly, in-

vasive, or resource-intensive for practical use. Current cognitive assessment tools (e.g., The Mini-Mental State Examination) require clinicians to receive additional training to use in clinical settings, and can take 10 to 20 minutes to complete, Zolnoori notes.

MCI-ED Screen would avoid these concerns by using recordings made in the normal course of care. “We don’t interrupt you; we don’t ask you to use any specific tool that takes your time,” Zolnoori says. “We just record your conversation and then we will tell you whether this patient has cognitive impairment or not.”

MCI-ED Screen and AD Screen both work by rapidly recognizing multiple parameters in a patient’s speech, voice, and language that act as biomarkers for cognitive function. These parameters can include differences in tone of voice (the voices of people with

Can diet play a role when it comes dementia risk?

A recent study found you may be increasing your risk of cognitive decline if more than 20 percent of your daily calories come from ultra-processed foods.

“These foods have been processed many times and often contain a lot of added ingredients and sugar—foods like soda, chips, fast food and frozen dinners,” explained Charles Bernick, MD, a neurologist at Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health. “Diets heavily weighted toward these types of foods seem to be associated with a higher risk of dementia.”

Dr. Bernick, who did not take part in the study, said the most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease. And while age and genetics are the biggest risk factors for Alzheimer’s, Dr. Bernick stresses diet is something you have control over. Eating plenty of vegetables, fruits and whole grains can be beneficial for brain health.

Dr. Bernick said people who follow the Mediterranean Diet generally have a lower risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

However, focusing on a good diet is just one of the healthy lifestyle choices you can make.

“Exercise, proper sleep, engagement as far as staying mentally active – I think having a combination of these healthy lifestyle factors is going to have the most impact rather than each one separately,” Dr. Bernick said. He adds the best time to incorporate these healthy habits is today.

Source: https://newsroom.clevelandclinic.org/

MCI have less “brightness,” or clarity, because they are losing control of their vocal cords), explains Zolnoori, or features like long silent pauses in conversation that can indicate memory loss.

“AD Screen has already demonstrated excellent performance on a publicly

available dataset using a picture description task,” she adds.

Sources: https://www.alz.org/ alzheimers-dementia/what-isdementia/related_conditions/mildcognitive-impairment; https://www. nursing.columbia.edu/news/mciscreening-ai-assist

Staring at screens can cause migraines

If you’ve ever found yourself getting a migraine from staring at a screen too long, you’re not alone.

“For a lot of migraine sufferers or patients who have migraines in general, screen time plays a very important role in being a common trigger, among many other triggers that these patients are aware of,” explained Emad Estemalik, MD, headache specialist for Cleveland Clinic.

Dr. Estemalik said part of the reason why is many migraine sufferers have photosensitivity to light. The combination of staring at a bright screen plus the over-

head lights in a room can become a trigger. He said staring at screens, especially for long periods of time, can also cause headaches, which are much less debilitating than migraines but of course are just as uncomfortable to deal with.

So, what can someone do to help prevent these kinds of issues?

He recommends adjusting the lights in the room you’re in, if possible, and also taking frequent breaks. And, that doesn’t mean getting off your computer and then switching to your phone. You should be taking a complete break from screens. That same advice applies in the

evenings after work too.

“I really think if we can moderate that amount as well and really minimize screen time, phone time, especially in the 1-2 hours before someone goes to sleep, I think that’ll make a tremendous difference,” said Dr. Estemalik.

Another tip to consider is getting your eyesight checked to make sure you are wearing the right lenses and don’t have any other eye issues that could be contributing to migraines.

Source: Cleveland Clinic, ccnewsservice@ccf.org

SPORTS&RECREATION

Whale Branch girls claim second straight 1A title

LowcoSports.com

They had to wait a few extra days to get it in, but the Whale Branch girls track and field team ended this season right where they ended up last year — on top.

The Warriors collected 78 points to outpace St. Joseph’s by 18 with Christ Church another half-point behind. Destiny Pryor was the star of the meet for Whale Branch, winning the 100 meters (12.50 seconds), taking bronze in the 200 meters (26.73 seconds), and placing fifth in the long jump (16 feet). She also anchored the Warriors’ winning 4x100-meter relay team.

Talaijah Bartley also claimed gold in the 100-meter hurdles (15.65 seconds) and the Warriors won the 4x400 relay in 4:13.30

Imani Blackwell (16.95) and Grace Bing (17.30) finished off a podium sweep for the Warriors in the 100 hurdles. Bradford Thompson won the discus ( 147-4 ) and was runner-up in the shot put ( 46-9 ) and Jesse Richardson made the podium three times — taking silver in the 1600 meters ( 4:35.46 ) and 3200 meters ( 10:24.63 ) and third in the 800 (2:06.21) — to lead the Whale Branch boys to a fourth-

place finish.

The Warriors’ 4x100-meter relay team finished second, Keith Chisholm placed fourth in the 110-meter hurdles (15.65) and eighth in the long jump (1911.25) and triple jump (40-8.5); Jonas Foskey scored in the 1600 (4:55.28) and the 800 (2:11.85); Laron Wright was fourth in the triple jump (41-3.5); and Jonathan Kelley was fifth in the 110-meter hurdles (15.65).

SCHSL 1A CHAMPIONSHIPS

GIRLS

Team: Whale Branch 78, St. Joseph’s 60, Christ

1st: Bradford Thompson, WB

Church 59.5, Hannah-Pamplico 59, Bamberg-

Ehrhardt 57, Dixie 54.5

1st: Destiny Pryor, WB (100m, 12.50); Talaijah

Bartley, WB (100H, 15.65); WB 4x100 (48.98); WB

4x400 (4:13.30)

2nd: Imani Blackwell, WB (100H, 16.95)

3rd: Destiny Pryor, WB (200m, 26.73); Grace

Bing, WB (100H, 17.30)

4th: Larmore Pryor, WB (400m, 1:03.14)

5th: Destiny Pryor, WB (LJ, 16-0)

6th: Larmore Pryor, WB (LJ, 15-3)

7th: Tamari Black, WB (200m, 27.65)

8th: Natalia Aburto, WB (100m, 13.24); Faith

Eugene, WB (400m, 1:04.30); Alani Crawford, WB (3200m, 13:27.68); WB 4x800 (11:39.75)

9th: Grace Bing, WB (400H, 1:15.44)

BOYS

Team: Southside Christian 126.5, Christ Church

90, Calhoun County 86, Whale Branch 78

Rollin’ on the river

Bruner, Edl winners of YMCA’s 17th annual Beaufort River Swim

By Delayna Earley The

Island News

BEAUFORT – Skylar Bruner, of Hilton Head Island, won her fifth consecutive Beaufort River Swim on Saturday. Bruner came in first among females and second overall, and Dominic Edl, of Bluffton, came in first overall and for the men.

The 17th annual Beaufort River Swim was held on Saturday, May 20, 2023, in Downtown Beaufort and proceeds from the event go to benefit the Lowcountry YMCA.

The event is the primary fundraiser for the Lowcountry YMCA’s Learn to swim program, which helps to teach children how to swim.

Bruner finished with a time of 50:00.00 and Edl finished just before her with a time of 49:08.17.

“It feels so great to compete and get another bobble head,” Bruner said about the event.

Edl, who just finished his first year of college at Barton College, where he is on the swim team, said that he came back to participate in the River Swim because it is a tradition. This is his third year participating in the race, but his first year winning.

More than 100 swimmers participated in the 3.2-mile swim that be-

first for the Female 30-34 group with a time of 59:18.45. Delayna Earley/The Island News

gan at the Safe Harbor Port Royal Marina in Port Royal.

There was also a 1-mile fun swim that began at the Beaufort Memorial Hospital dock. The fun swim was not timed.

Both swims ended at the Downtown Marina near Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

The swims were followed immediately by a 5K run for those who chose to participate.

All participants in the 5K race also had to participate in one of the swims,

but those who were just interested in running could participate in the 8K Competitive Run through Port Royal on Friday, May 19, 2023.

The 8K began at the Sands Beach in Port Royal and the event included live music and food trucks.

John Duberley, of Bluffton, placed first for men and overall, in the 8K race with a time of 27:20 and Mary Pickens, of Lady’s Island, placed first for females with a time of 55:05.

ONLINE EXTRA

For results from the 17 annual Beaufort River Swim, visit www. yourislandnews. com.

“About 80% of our participants only do the swim,” said Denice Davis, event director with the Lowcountry YMCA.

Davis said that the participants ranged in age from 13 to 78 years old.

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

Garrett, WB (LJ, 19-10.25); Dorien Alston, WB (Shot, 41-7)

Beaufort girls 6th, boys 10th at 3A state meet

LowcoSports.com

Beaufort High’s girls finished sixth with 35.5 points and the boys tied for 10th with 25 points at the SCHSL 3A Track & Field Championships on Saturday at Lower Richland High School.

The Beaufort girls had several strong performances, led by eighth-grader Yzeult Antia, who placed second in the 1600 meters with a time of 5:23.17, sixth in the 3200 (12:03.29), and helped the Eagles finish fourth in the 4x800 relay.

Anaiya Houseal placed third in the 100-meter hurdles (15.76) and fifth in the high jump (5-0), and Charlize Antia was fourth in the 800 (2:25.64).

Eric Smart led the Beaufort boys, scoring in three events with a fifthplace finish in the 400-meter hurdles (58.16), sixth in the pole vault (12-6), and eighth in the 110-meter hurdles (15.88). Trae Campbell placed fifth in the 800 (2:01.98) and Kacy Fields was sixth in the shot put (47-7.5).

Battery Creek’s Tanner McCracken finished seventh in the boys discus (144-10) with teammate Anthony Phelan in ninth (139-0), and classmate Kiara Wilson was seventh in the girls discus (110-3).

SCHSL 3A CHAMPIONSHIPS

GIRLS

Team: Seneca 95.5, Philip Simmons 62, Powdersville 56 ... Beaufort (6th, 35.5)

Battery Creek (29th, 2)

2nd: Yzeult Antia, BFT (1600m, 5:23.17)

3rd: Anaiya Houseal, BFT (100H, 15.76)

4th: Charlize Antia, Yzeult Antia, Christine Conte, Alleyah Echols, BFT (4x800, 10:11.10); Charlize Antia, BFT (800m, 2:25.64)

5th: Anaiya Houseal, BFT (HJ,

Battery Creek (T-32nd, 2)

25)

4th: Beaufort 4x800 (8:21.53); Beaufort 4x400 (3:25.04)

5th: Eric Smart, BFT (400H, 58.16); Trae Campbell, BFT (800m, 2:01.98)

6th: Kacy Fields, BFT (Shot, 47-7.5); Eric Smart, BFT (PV, 12-6)

7th: Tanner McCracken, BCHS (Discus, 144-10)

8th: Eric Smart, BFT (110H, 15.88)

9th: Anthony Phelan, BCHS (Discus, 139-0)

Woodruff edges Eagles in sudden-death playoff

LowcoSports.com

Despite a runner-up finish from Jack Lubkin and a birdie from Jerry Bruns on the extra hole, Beaufort High’s boys golf team came up one stroke short of capturing the SCHSL 3A state title on May 16 at Three Pines

Country Club in Woodruff.

The Eagles took a four-shot lead into Tuesday’s final round after firing an opening 299, but Woodruff carded a 304 in round

2 to make up the ground and force a sudden-death playoff with Beaufort for the team title.

Bruns chipped in for birdie on the extra hole, but Woodruff’s team total in the playoff bettered the Eagles by one.

Woodruff’s Gage Howard was the individual champion, shooting 143 over two rounds to edge Lubkin and teammate Ben McKinney

by four shots. Bruns (148) tied with Wren’s Garrett Gillespie for fourth.

SCHSL 3A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

Woodruff 305-304—609 *won playoff Beaufort 299-310—609 Wren 303-308—611

Individuals

1. Gage Howard, WDRF 71-71—143

T2. Jack Lubkin, BFT 72-75—147

T2. Ben McKinney, WDRF 73-74—147

T4. Garrett Gillespie, WREN 74-74—148

T4. Jerry Bruns, BFT 73-75—148

10. Simon McAlister, BFT 73-80—153

T46. Jack Sumner, BFT 93-80—173; James Denton, BFT 81-NC; Gus Christian, BFT NC-88

Dominic Edl (left), 18, of Bluffton, finishes first and Skylar Bruner (right), 18, of Bluffton, finishes first female overall in the 3.2-mile Beaufort River Swim on Saturday, May 20, 2023, in Downtown Marina in Beaufort. Photos by Delayna Earley/The Island News

Stephanie Waninger, of Beaufort, holds her son, Mark Waninger III, 1 year old, after completing the 3.2mile Beaufort River Swim. Waninger finished

USCB wins $1 million award for Maritime Cybersecurity

From staff reports

The University of South Carolina Beaufort has been awarded $1 million from the U.S. National Science Foundation’s Regional Innovation Engines, or NSF Engines, program.

USCB is among more than 40 teams across the U.S. to receive one of the first NSF Engines Development Awards, which will help partners collaborate to create economic, societal and technological opportunities for their regions.

USCB, together with 12

partners, will use the grant funds to plan for the South Coast Regional Innovation Engine, which will conduct research to understand vulnerabilities, interdependencies, and risks in the regional maritime ecosystem and develop technologies to enhance safety and security. Enhanced cybersecurity education and workforce development programs, experimentation, investment, and commercialization of products with regional and national impacts are the ultimate goals.

“The real strength of the proposal is in its partnerships spanning industry, higher education, and government agencies. The transformational power and scope of the NSF Engines grant is immense,” USC Beaufort Chancellor Al M. Panu said in a news release.

Collectively, South Carolina’s port and maritime transportation system represents 10% of the state’s economy and includes ports, ships, shipping lines, cargo, people, inland waterways, intermodal transfers

and other elements.

The NSF Regional Innovation Engines program is a new initiative and USCB is the lead agency for this grant. Its partners are: University of South Carolina (Columbia); Clemson University; South Coast Cyber Center; The Citadel; South Carolina State University; S.C. Research Authority; S.C. Ports Authority; Palmetto Tech Bridge/Naval Information Warfare Center, Atlantic; S.C. Council on Competitiveness; SCCyber; Technical College of the Lowcountry; Savannah River Na-

tional Laboratory; American Bureau of Shipping; Fathom5 LLC; Alerion Capital; and Material Capital Ventures.

“Intense collaboration and interdisciplinarity are needed to solve our most complex problems. The NSF Engines grant addresses head-on critical needs in maritime cybersecurity facing the state and beyond,” said USCB Provost Eric Skipper, who is heading the grant.

Information security expert Rick Siebenaler of Hilton Head Island is the project’s CEO. COO is War-

Beaufort Academy Graduation

ren Parker, Chairman of the South Coast Cyber Center. The NSF Engines Developmental Awards are planning awards. They help organizations create connections for regional research partnerships and within two years prepare strong proposals for becoming future NSF Engines. These Engines can receive up to $160 million to positively impact regional economies, accelerate technology development, advance national competitiveness, and create local, high-wage jobs.

Above left: Beaufort Academy had 31 seniors graduate on Saturday, May 20, 2023, in a commencement ceremony at Sea Island Presbyterian Church on Lady’s Island. All 31 graduates have committed to colleges and collectively they earned more than $6.8 million in scholarships and grants. ••• Above right: From left, Salutatorian Benjamin Elliot Steen, Valedictorian Elizabeth Estes Foster and Third Honor Graduate Ansh Hiren Patel stand for a portrait in their caps and gowns. Foster had the highest GPA in the history of the school. Beaufort Academy had 31 seniors graduate on Saturday, May 20, 2023, in a commencement ceremony at Sea Island Presbyterian Church on Lady’s Island. All 31 graduates have committed to colleges and collectively they earned more than $6.8 million in scholarships and grants. Photos courtesy of SK Signs, Designs & Marketing, submitted by Beaufort Academy

Pinckney awarded TCL’s Presidential Medallion

From staff reports

The Technical College of the Lowcountry awarded its Presidential Medallion to Rufus Pinckney at its annual commencement ceremony held Friday, May 12, at Beaufort’s Waterfront Park.

St. Helena opera singer Rivers set for Carnegie Hall solo debut

Vocal Institute.

From staff reports St. Helena island native Zabriel Rivers will make his solo debut at at 7 p.m., Friday, May 26 at New York City’s Carnegie Hall.

School and is a member of Bethesda Christian Fellowship. His parents are Deacon Anthony Rivers, Sr., and Lorine Rivers of St. Helena Island.

Pinckney is President of the Mather School Coastal/ Lowcountry & Alumni Chapter. A Sheldon native, Pinckney also serves as Board Chairman for the Mather Interpretive Center in Beaufort, and serves on the Board of Directors for the TCL Foundation.

A Gullah-Geechee singer, Rivers will debut as the counter-tenor soloist in Mid America Productions’ performance of Pergolesi’s Stabat Mater.

Rivers grew up in the Lowcountry, graduated from Beaufort High

Rufus Pinckney

Given each year, the Presidential Medallion recognizes a distinguished community leader who exhibits enthusiasm, integrity and perseverance beyond the ordinary to help build a better and stronger community.

Pinckney graduated from Robert Smalls High School in 1967 and attended Mather Jr. College, which was located on what is now TCL’s Beaufort Mather Campus. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from Savannah State University in 1972 and went on to work at the International Paper Corporation in Savannah, retiring in 2015 after 46 years on the job.

Pinckney has a passion for working with community leaders and organizations that have a mission to enhance and enrich the lives of those around them.

A classically trained singer, Rivers is the first-place winner of the Charleston International Music Competition. He also won the Metropolitan Opera Laffont District Competition and received a Career Development Grant from the Vann

Rivers was a Young Artist at the Opera Viva in Vienna. He was invited to perform for former President, Bill Clinton, and he has toured alongside Common, Tasha Cobbs, and William Murphy. He is a member of Phi Mu Alpha Frater -

nity of America. Rivers currently serves as the District Advocate for the Atlanta Chapter of the Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences, the organization that presents the Grammy Awards. He earned his Master of Music degree from the New England Conservatory of Music, and his Bachelor of Music degree in vocal performance from Alabama State University.

CALL TO ARTISTS: Design a bike rack, win cash

From staff reports The Freedman Arts District is inviting artists from all backgrounds to submit their unique designs in its Bike Rack Design Contest for a chance to win one of four cash prizes worth $500 each. This competition aims to bring together creativity, functionality, and public art to enhance the community.

The Bike Rack Design Contest encourages artists, art students, art classes, design professionals, and individuals with a passion for art and design to unleash their imagination and create stunning bicycle racks that will add an element of beauty and functionality to our city streets.

BIKE RACKdesign contest design contest

encouraged to think outside the box and infuse their designs with creativity and a sense of fun functionality. Whether they’re an experienced designer or a budding artist, their unique perspective is highly valued.

delightful and convenient experience,” Applegate said.

Winners of the Bike Rack Design Contest will not only receive a cash prize of $500 but will also have the opportunity to be publicly recognized for their artistic contribution. The winning designs will be fabricated and installed at various locations around the Beaufort/ Port Royal areas, showcasing the talent and vision of the artists.

For detailed guidelines, criteria, and submission instructions, interested participants are encouraged to visit the official contest website at www.freedmanartsdistrict.org/bike-rack-contest

Multiple Cash Prizes!

Submit online by July 30 at FreedmanArtsDistrict com

Thank you to our partners:

“We believe that public art has the power to transform spaces and enrich the lives of our community. With this contest, we aim to promote artistic expression while providing a practical solution to enhance our bicycling infrastructure,” Executive Director for the Freedman Arts District Stacy Applegate said in a news release. The contest welcomes submissions from all artists, regardless of their level of expertise. Participants are

Submissions will be accepted until July 30. The judging panel, made up of USC Beaufort staff, Friends of the Spanish Moss Trail, Beaufort Memorial Hospital, City of Beaufort Representative(s), Freedman Arts District Board Member(s), Beaufort/Port Royal/Sea Islands CVB and other partner representatives, will review each design for creativity, aesthetics, and feasibility for fabrication and installation. Each rack should exhibit original creative intent, while also considering the practical aspects of construction and durability.

“We are looking for designs that push the boundaries of traditional bicycle rack aesthetics. We want to see designs that inspire and engage the community, making bicycling a more

About the Freedman Arts District

The Freedman Arts District is dedicated to promoting and celebrating the arts. The District aims to foster creativity, support local artists, and engage the public in unique cultural experiences. For more information, visit www.freedmanartsdistrict.org

Zabriel Rivers

Lowcountry Montessori Graduation

Helicopter landing a teaching moment at JPII

From staff reports

The sight of a helicopter landing at school most certainly would garner lots of reactions followed by many questions, and for John Paul II Catholic School middle school science teacher Rebekah Kane, that is exactly what she was hoping for when she asked Col. Neil Baxley to speak to her students about his career as a pilot last week.

Colonel Baxley is the aviation unit commander for the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office.

“He gave me the option between just visiting for a talk with the students or

bringing the helicopter with him,” said Kane, who noted Colonel Baxley met her for a brief safety inspection and discussed some of the logistics, which included circling the JPII campus and rotating and hovering the helicopter. “He has spoken about his career as a pilot at schools all over Beaufort County and it was time for him to come see us at JPII.”

Although the entire middle school was invited, the perfect time for the visit was after the 8th grade students had completed the Flight and Space unit as part of the Project Lead The Way (PLTW) curriculum.

JPII named PLTW Distinguished School for STEM curriculum, career readiness

From staff reports John Paul II Catholic School has been recognized as a 2022-23 Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Distinguished School in both its high school and middle school programs. The PLTW Distinguished School recognition honors schools committed to increasing student access, engagement, and achievement in their PLTW programs.

“We are proud to recognize John Paul II Catholic School for its commitment to providing students with

exceptional educational experiences while ensuring equitable access to PLTW programs,” PLTW President and CEO David Dimmett said in a news release.

“We congratulate JPII on this achievement and celebrate the important work empowering students with the knowledge and skills to succeed, not only in STEM subjects, but also more generally in life and career.”

The JPII high school program is one of only 262 high schools across the U.S. to receive this honor by providing broad access to

transformative learning experiences for students through PLTW’s pathways in computer science, engineering, and biomedical.

Ten schools were awarded in SC, JPII being the only school in Jasper, Beaufort, and surrounding counties. The school’s PLTW Gateway program is one of 212 middle schools nationwide to receive this honor by providing extensive learning experiences for students through PLTW Gateway. Only nine schools in South Carolina were awarded.

“Our students learned about forces of flight, different types of aircraft, aviation travel time, and the specific training involved in being a pilot or working aboard any aeronautical or space vehicle,” said Kane. “Having any opportunity to apply knowledge from the classroom to ‘real life’ is extremely valuable, and for most of them, this was probably the closest they’ve physically been to a helicopter. The 8th graders were happy when they were allowed to snap some pictures and videos on their phones as the helicopter was landing and taking off.”

Free summer lunches available for kids, teens at library branches

From staff reports

Through a partnership with the Beaufort County School District, the Beaufort County Library has announced the return of free lunches at all library locations this summer. Lunches will be served weekly during the summer, beginning Wednesday, June 7, and ending Friday, August 4. Beaufort County residents through the age of 18 can receive a free daily lunch at the following Beaufort County Library locations:

Hilton Head Branch Library, 10 to 11:30 a.m.

St. Helena Branch Library, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Bluffton Branch Library, 11 a.m. to noon

Beaufort Branch Library, noon to 12:45 p.m.

Lobeco Branch Library, 1:15 to 2:15 p.m.

All children and teens must be present to receive lunch. Lunches are dine-in only and must be consumed at the library. “Hot lunches” will be available at the St. Helena Branch Library. All other branches will serve “cold lunches.”

No library card or registration is required to participate. No lunches will be served Tuesday, July 4.

Beaufort County Summer Reading Program returns June 1

From staff reports

The Beaufort County Library System and the Beaufort County School District are ready to dive into another exciting Summer Reading Program.

The fun and innovative program is a collaboration between the schools and the library that encourages all ages (adults too!) to read and turns summer reading into a game that rewards participants for achieving their reading goals.

This year’s program, themed “All Together Now,” accommodates summer schedules with minimal

deadlines and flexible time frames to complete goals. Plus, participants can choose what, how much, and how often they read. Printed game boards serve as the centerpiece of the program and, along with something to read, are the only necessary components of participation.

The program does not include required digital components such as registration or online tracking, and that is by design. By contrast, the all-ages game board allows participants to write in the books they read, activities they complete, and other fun literacy-based prompts.

The schools and the library work together to ensure all students continue to read during the summer. Studies show that reading for at least 20 minutes a day can help mitigate the effects of the “summer slide,” when children can lose valuable reading skills when they aren’t in school.

Each Beaufort County School District student will be provided with a printed summer reading game board before the school year ends, and students attending summer schools will participate in the program. In an incredible display of

community support, dozens of local businesses and organizations have provided generous prizes, donations, and incentives allowing lucky readers who finish the program a chance to win a dolphin cruise, kayak tour, tablet, children’s museum membership, restaurant or retail gift card, escape room experience, and so much more. In addition, children and teens will receive a book to add to their home libraries and adults will receive a coupon to the various Friends of the Library book sales across the library system.

This summer features exciting events hosted at the libraries, including visits from a story artist magician, a juggler, and family-friendly kindie rock band, as well as educational events, crafts and storytimes, movies, teen hangouts, and more. The program begins on June 1 and ends July 31.

To participate, individuals only need the game board and things to read. Game boards will be available at all Beaufort County Library locations and online June

1. Registration is not required, nor is a library card

– although the library encourages all residents ages 4 and older to obtain their very own library card.

The program is designed for all ages, from babies to senior citizens. All Beaufort County residents are encouraged to pick up a reading log and join the fun.

For questions regarding the summer reading program or other library events, contact Theresa Furbish, Beaufort County Library’s Programs and Events Librarian at theresa.furbish@ bcgov.net or (843)255-6442. Or visit www.beaufortcountylibrary.org/summer

Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Col. Neil Baxley flew a helicopter to John Paul II Catholic School to talk to students about his career as a pilot. Photo courtesy of JPII

The graduating class of Lowcountry Montessori School sits for a portrait on graduation day at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park in Beaufort. Lowcountry Montessori School held its graduation on Saturday, May 20, 2023 and 14 seniors graduated during the commencement ceremony. Of the 14 graduates, 12 have committed to their next steps following graduation, and collectively, the students have received more than $450,000 in academic scholarships. Photo submitted by Lowcountry Montessori School.

ARTS

“Colors of the World” photography exhibition

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

(Re)create Assemblage Workshop

11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, June 10, Morris Center, 10782 S. Jacob Smart Blvd, Ridgeland. $55. The art of assemblage is the subject of this workshop that focuses on how to repurpose disposable items (aka trash) into artistic creations. Led by Kirkland Smith, you’ll learn what types of materials work best for this type of assemblage and use templates to design your own piece on 12x12 Masonite.

CALENDAR

Karaoke with Melissa

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

Sharing Hearts Support Group

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

Karaoke with Melissa

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

Trivia with Mike – Fat Patties

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

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

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

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

Bluffton Night Bazaar — a Lowcountry Made Market

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

Rooted Beaufort Yoga classes

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

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

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

WHAT’S HAPPENING

HIGHWAY 21 DRIVE-IN

The movies scheduled for this week (Thursday, May 25 through Wednesday, May 31) at the Highway 21 Drive-In are The Little Mermaid (PG-13, 8:45 p.m.) and Guardians

Of The Galaxy Vol. 2 (PG-13, 11 p.m.) on Screen 1; The Super Mario Bros. Movie (PG, 8:45 p.m.) and Fast X (PG-13, 10:20 p.m.) on Screen 2; and Fast X (PG-13, 8:45 p.m.) and The Wrath of Becky (R, 11:05 p.m.) on Screen 3 (Friday and Saturday).

Online ticketing is available at hwy21drivein. com on the Now Playing page. Patrons are asked to arrive early on Friday and Saturday nights. Gates open at 6:30 p.m.

“Our family at the Hwy. 21 drive in feel a responsibility to our community,” a statement from Highway 21 Drive-In management reads. “We are concerned about many things in these trying times and in making the right decisions. We are concerned with our employees, our patrons, our business, our community’s businesses, and the health and well-being of all.”

A reminder: no outside food or beverages can be brought into the drive-in.

Upcoming movies include Transformers Rise Of The Beasts (June) & Spider-man Across The Spider-verse (June).

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

9 p.m., Fridays, Highway 21 Bar, 3436 Trask Pkwy, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy Karaoke with Lt. Dan.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

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

Karaoke with Melissa

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

Drum Circle

6:30 to 8 p.m., 2nd Friday of every month, Gazeebo, Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Beaufort. Free. Anyone welcome, no experience necessary. Eric Roy, a recent transplant from Connecticut with successful experience in leading drum circles, is our new facilitator. He will start sessions off with 15-20 minutes of instruction on djembe playing and teach a selected traditional rhythm & accompaniment for participants to play. In addition, there will be time allotted for spontaneous group drumming. Bring a drum, if you have one, a chair and a desire to have fun. The Drum Circle has several extra drums and many other percussion instruments that anyone can use. To receive updates on future events, send your email to lannyk13@gmail.com. Next meeting will be June

9.

Highway 21 Flea Market

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

Port Royal Farmers Market

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

Slip and Splash Saturdays

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

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

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

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

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

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

Play & Eat – Dinner Theater

6 to 8:30 p.m., Saturdays, June 3, June 17, and July 1, Hilton Garden Inn, 1500 Queen Street, Beaufort. Solve a murder mystery while you feast on a fantastic dinner. Just to let you know the murderer is hiding somewhere in the room, and you may find yourself as one of the suspects if you don’t watch it. This is a prize-winning competition and everyone is a participant. For more information, contact 843592-6209 or playandeatdinnertheater@ gmail.com, or visit the website at www. playandeatdinnertheater.com.

The Original Gullah Festival Friday through Sunday, May 26 to 28, Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. Decoration Day Play

3 p.m., Saturday, May 27, USCB Center for the Arts, 805 Carteret Street, Beaufort. $45 Online – $50 at the Door/Gate. Children

12 & younger $15. Join Aunt Pearlie Sue & The Gullah Kinfolk as they celebrate Decoration Day. Step back in time and experience Memorial Day like it used to be. This is a very entertaining, informative and historical re-enactment of the City of

Beaufort and describes some of the culture of the peoples in the sea island. Register at https://rb.gy/p3puu.

Memory Matters:

Preparing for the Unexpected

10 a.m., Wednesday, June 7, St. Gregory the Great Catholic School, 38 St Gregory Drive, Bluffton. $20 for this session, or $40 for all Memory Matters sessions. Speakers: Lowcountry Council of Governments, Geriatric Care Manager, Elder Law Attorney, Bluffton Fire Department.

You’re A Star Saturday, June 17, Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Beaufort. The Petals & Stars nonprofit presents “You’re A Star,” the community event that combines the popular Entrepreneur Day 4 Kids popup market and the lively Wacky Competition Scenes contest to create a fun-filled day. Expect children of all ages to be onsite selling impressive crafts, jewelry, artwork, baked goods, home decor, and other products. At the same time, first responders will be competing against businesses and community members in zany challenges. We are still accepting “small” business vendor applications for the market. The fee is $15 per booth. For more info, please check out our Facebook page @petalsandstars or send an email to hope@petalsandstars.org.

Memory Matters: Simple Suppers –

Healthy Eating for Two

10 a.m., Wednesday, June 21, First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. $20 for this session, or $40 for all Memory Matters sessions. Speaker: Chef Kim Baretta. 67th annual Beaufort Water Festival

Friday, July 14 through Sunday, July 23, Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Beaufort.

CAMPS

Summer Sailing Camp 2023

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

Junior Building Detectives

Summer Camp

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

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

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

Tour Historic Fort Fremont Dawn to dusk, Monday through Sunday, The Fort Fremont Preserve, 1124 Land’s End Road, St. Helena Island. Free and open to the public. The History Center is open Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. Visitors can learn about the fort’s history during the Spanish-American War through interpretive signs, 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.

Port Royal Lecture Series: Early Maritime History Through the Civil War – 1514-1868

6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Thursday, June 8, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 1004 11th Street, Port Royal. $25 per person – Seating is limited. Lecturers are Lawrence S. Rowland and Stephen Wise, Authors, Historians. Buy tickets at https://historic-port-royalfoundation.square.site/.

Port Royal Lecture Series: The 20th Century. The Railroad, Naval Station and Modern Times – 1870-2006

6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Friday, June 9, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 1004 11th Street, Port Royal. $25 per person – Seating is limited. Lecturers are Lawrence S. Rowland and Stephen Wise, Authors, Historians. Buy tickets at https:// historic-port-royal-foundation.square.site/.

A Monumental Occasion: 250 Years in the Making

1 p.m., Tuesday, June 20, Morris Center, 10782 S. Jacob Smart Blvd, Ridgeland. Free. What is the South Carolina American Revolution Sestercentennial Commission? Come learn about this organization and what they are doing to celebrate the 250th anniversary of this revolutionary time in history. The speaker is Bill Davies, Vice Chairman of the Commission.

Port Royal Lecture Series: Who Was Here? Native Americans Before and During European Settlements

6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 26, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 1004 11th Street, Port Royal. $25 per person – Seating is limited. Lecturers are Stephen Criswell, Professor Chris Judge, and Evan Nooe, University of South Carolina Native American Studies Center. Buy tickets at https://historic-portroyal-foundation.square.site/.

LIBRARY ACTIVITIES

Cirque Du Todd – St. Helena

10 a.m., Saturday, June 3, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St Helena Island. Free; all ages are welcome. No need to register. Cirque du Todd combines juggling, circus skills, a little magic, and just the right mix of comedy and reading encouragement for kids of all ages!

King for a Day

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Saturday, June 10, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St Helena Island. All ages welcome- no registration required. Come celebrate dads and their kids! Join us for a fun-filled afternoon of crafts and games. Photographer Trey Nelson will be on hand to capture the fun and share pics with families.

Japanese Magical Journey with Yasu Ishida – Beaufort

4 p.m., Wednesday, June 14, Beaufort Branch Library, 311 Scott Street, Beaufort. Free; no registration required. Prepare to be amazed and dazzled by an exciting storytelling show that incorporates Japanese folktales with origami, Japanese music, and magic tricks. Families and kids of all ages are welcome.

Japanese Magical Journey with Yasu Ishida – St. Helena

12:30 p.m., Thursday, June 15, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St Helena Island. Free; no registration required. Prepare to be amazed and dazzled by an exciting storytelling show that incorporates Japanese folktales with origami, Japanese music, and magic tricks. Families and kids of all ages are welcome.

MEETINGS

The Beaufort Trailblazers –

A Volunteer Group

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

Zonta Club of Beaufort

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

Maye River Quilters

10 a.m., Saturday, June 3, Palmetto Electric Cooperative, 1 Cooperative Way, Hardeeville. Social time will begin at 9:30 a.m. To attend the meeting as a guest, send an RSVP email to mayeriverquilters@gmail.com. For more information and for membership forms to join the group, call 843-705-9590.

Friends of the Beaufort Library

10 a.m., Saturday, June 10, Beaufort Branch Library. 2023 Annual Meeting. In addition to Board elections, this is an opportunity to learn more about our plans for the coming year, volunteer opportunities and meet other members. This event is open to the public. For more information visit friendsofthebeaufortlibrary.com.

OUTDOORS

The Beaufort Tree Walk

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

Port Royal Cypress Wetlands tours

9 a.m. Friday, May 26; Port Royal Cypress Wetlands. Bring your friends and visitors to a free guided tour of the wetlands sponsored by Friends of Port Royal Cypress Wetlands and led by Master Naturalist Jill Moore. The egrets, snowy egrets and woodstorks are all nesting and the rookery is an exciting place! Alligators and turtles are basking in the sun and spring is in the air. This is a great time to learn about this magical place. Tours are limited in size. T0 sign up at www.foprcw.org and register on line.

SPORTS 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.

Chairman Joe Passiment

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Councilwoman Alice Howard

Vice Chair Larry McElynn

Councilwoman “Tab” Tabernik

‘Don’t be afraid to fail’ often means ‘do the right thing’

It is Saturday, overcast and wet. This morning I have my coffee and a view of the monochromatic marsh.

This morning I’ve been reading a novel titled “No Highway,” written by Nevil Shute. Shute was famous for writing about airplanes in a precise, technical way that required concentration and, sometimes, re-reading to understand the mechanics of flight.

But this was a small price to pay. Shute was an aeronautical engineer by profession and could transfer his professional fascination to the reader making the technology a part of his story-telling.

Shute would usually paint his protagonists as ordinary. In the case of “No Highway,” we get Theo Honey — an obscure, disheveled, slightly eccentric engineer working in a “shabby little shed in the Structural Department of the UK’s Royal Aircraft Establishment.” In our story,

SCOTT GRABER

Honey is quietly working on “structural metal fatigue” as relates to passenger (jet) airplanes.

He is largely ignored.

The newly hired director (who narrates the story) happens upon Honey asking him what he is does. He learns that the engineer is testing the durability of the stabilizers on the tail of Britain’s newest airliner. This airplane, called the Reindeer, has just been put into transatlantic service and is the pride of the United Kingdom’s worldwide air fleet. Honey calmly says that his preliminary calculations indicate the stabilizers will

fail after 1,400 hours of service.

The impending failure of this airplane brings a host of high status characters into the story including ministers, designers and business moguls who downplay the metal fatigue problem wanting to keep Britain’s flagship airline flying and profitable.

Nevil Shute describes the designer, E.P. Pendergast as follows:

“He was deeply religious in a narrow Calvinistic way. He could be in turn a most courteous and charming host, sympathetic and an understanding employer, and a hot tempered fiend capable of making himself physically sick, so that he would stalk out of a conference of bitter, angry words, and retire to the toilet and vomit, and go home to bed, and return to the office three days later, white and shaken with the violence of his illness. He was about the greatest engineer in England at the time. And

he produced the most lovely and successful aeroplanes. But he was not an easy man to deal with, E.P. Pendergast.”

Five years after “No Highway” was published there was the first of three crashes of Britain’s de Havilland Comet — a passenger jet put into service by the BOAC after World War II. The most famous crash was just off the coast of Italy on January 10, 1954, when all 35 passengers were killed.

The Comet featured sweptback wings and four jet engines that were concealed inside the wings. It was beautiful to look at and, because there was an emphasis on comfort in those long gone days of extended travel, plenty of leg and head room. But the Comet was put into service with defects.

After the crash, a similar fuselage was submerged into a swimming pool where pressures were increased and decreased. Ultimately BOAC discovered that the

riveting around the window frames caused cracks and those cracks probably failed after multiple pressurizations and depressurizations. Future windows would have rounded corners and would be glued into place.

In 1978, Citicorp had just completed its flagship headquarters in Manhattan when a Princeton undergraduate, Diane Hartley, wrote her thesis saying the potential wind loads on this building were incorrectly calculated.

It was estimated that a 70 mph wind would topple the skyscraper.

William LeMessurier, one of the original engineers, decided to recalculate the wind loads. When LeMessurier finished his reassessment (at his summer home in Maine) he decided that if there was a power outage together with a strong wind, the Citicorp building would fail once every 16 years.

LeMessurier contemplated suicide knowing that making

these new calculations public would ruin his professional reputation. But in the end he contacted Citicorp’s lawyers and the building was reinforced.

May is the month of college commencement speeches and “don’t be afraid to fail” is often a theme.

However good this sounds to the restless grads, professional failure now comes attached to “accountability” which sometimes means resignation and ruin.

Anyone considering fessing-up (to failure) faces the likelihood of lawyers. All of which makes the “fake it until you make it” Silicon Valley mantra appealing to some.

“No Highway” tells the fictional story of an ordinary, underpaid, under appreciated man who tried to do the right thing.

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

When to agree and when to disagree

It recently came to my attention that there is someone who disapproved of my article dealing with Clarence Thomas, and what continues to be an expanding list of some rather egregious actions on his part. Now this is perfectly fine. I’m not so naive as to think everyone is going to agree with what I write, and this is even more probable, given today’s environment of disagreement as a matter of course. There is one aspect of that disagreement with which I took umbrage, but I will address that later.

I put forth the notion that Justice Thomas’ failure to report monetary acquisitions constitutes a very lengthy list, and I provided as proof the many vacations underwritten by billionaire, Harlan Crow. I also noted that Crow had purchased a home in Savannah for Thomas’ mother and made quite a few upgrades to the property. In fact, since my article was published, it has been reported that Harlan Crow paid tuition to a private school for Thomas’ great nephew. The figure stated was $6,000 per month. All of this begs the question “what is expected in return?”

Most recently, Judge Thomas was flown to the home of his benefactor to swear in a far right

CAROL LUCAS

judge; obviously the revelation of his close attachment to Crow and the resulting “gifts” have caused little impetus for a change of behavior on Thomas’ part.

The individual who felt that I, as a former teacher have no right to criticize a man “of the law,” included reference to an article that appeared in the Wall Street Journal, written by conservative British journalist, Melanie Phillips. The article is entitled “What the left means by democracy.” I suggest that you access her article and read her bio. Determine for yourself the lack of bias (or not) on the part of this woman.

Of course, once I saw the source of the article and read the background of the author, I knew the bias would lean toward the conservative viewpoint. And again, I stress that this is fine. I will also repeat that I don’t see myself as a liberal but rather a moderate

Independent who is registered Democrat, adding that I have voted for many Republicans in my lifetime.

Phillips’ article offered several examples of what she deemed equivalent trespasses on the part of liberal Supreme Court Justices. Most of these had to do with the change of tax filings on singular occasions. She then asserts that Democrats didn’t mind when they agreed with the Court’s opinions on gay marriage or abortion. Frankly, she lost me on that one because legality seems to be the missing component in those decisions. Furthermore, given the Court’s decision to overturn Roe vs Wade, I would suggest the country, as a whole, minds very much; even close to 80% of Republicans support the right of women to control their own bodies.

One point made in the Phillips article with which I agree emphatically deals with people gathering outside of the homes of the Justices in question. I would not take away the right to protest, but I feel it is never appropriate to do so at the homes of these individuals, even when they render questionable decisions.

I would like to remind Phillips, as well as my critic, of a few areas where there is no comparison be-

tween the conservative and liberal members of the Court. First, to my knowledge, no other Judge’s spouse or close family member had any ties with the January 6 insurrection. The same cannot be said of Thomas whose wife, Ginni advocated the overturn of the election; this is well-documented, if we are looking for facts.

Secondly, numbers do count. When someone has made a mistake regarding taxes and moves to correct it, we view it for what it is. To have made this ‘mistake’ multitudinous times, to have partaken of expanded gifting to family members over a period of years, is not a mistake but rather a habit, and, in my view, is a weak comparison on Phillips’ part.

Facts are true. I say this to my critic as well as to Phillips, and the facts are there should either of you care to view them.

And finally I address my critic, and what she felt compelled to assert over and above her disagreement with my take on Clarence Thomas. Here, I am quoting: “It’s no wonder schools are in horrible condition when teachers decide to proclaim judgement (by the way, my choice is to spell judgment correctly) on legal issues of which they know nothing.”

You need to know that I will

defend my professionalism to the death, so to speak. I have a citation of excellence from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives that states, “Ms. Lucas has been an exceptionally dedicated, knowledgeable, and skilled educator.”

This doesn’t qualify me to render a legal opinion; however, I believe I am quite capable of evaluating repetitious corruption. If you believe teachers have no right to their opinions on what takes place outside of the classroom, then I must respectfully disagree. Furthermore, if you believe schools are in a horrible condition, I also disagree and would ask whether or not you have been to a school to make that observation personally? If not, perhaps you should consider volunteering in some capacity so that you might help to change those “horrible conditions.”

If expressing my opinion in an op-ed piece is offensive to you, why don’t you put your thoughts on paper and write a rebuttal. Put yourself out there, as I did, and let the chips fall where they may.

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.”

Life is an ongoing transformation process

Iwas at my daughter’s home a few years ago doing some painting, and yes, these are things that retired fathers are happy to do. She was in another room organizing a closet while listening to some music and the Michael Jackson song, “The Man in the Mirror” was playing. I listened intently. Certain songs occasionally stick in our heads and I sensed the Lord speaking to me about this profound message.

We all have mirrors in our homes and they are generally used to make sure our hair and clothes look presentable or if we have barbecue sauce on our face, but there is also a deeper thought about reflecting when we consider what type of person we are on the inside. Spiritual transformation comes when we are convicted to examine our

conscience which is exactly what God has been trying to communicate to us since the beginning. You see, we are born with a default spirit that must be changed.

The chorus of the song says, “I’m starting with the man in the mirror, I’m asking him to change his ways.” Actually, God is the one demanding for us to change, but a critical component within this process is that first, we must see our need to yield our will to Him. Until the desire to change becomes stronger

than our desire to remain the same, satisfaction with our default existence will continue.

Each week I encounter people that are in different stages of their journey and part of my mission as a minister and counselor is to help and encourage them however the Lord leads. One of the strongest obstacles when it comes to letting go of what we want and embracing what God wants is an aggressive passion to protect our position as the master of our own destiny. Individuals might listen to motivational messages to improve their lifestyles, but many modern churches are failing to explain God’s demand for sanctification. For Christ to be our Lord, our carnal nature must die.

Most people are familiar with the word covenant and realize that it is a binding

agreement between two parties. God made His blood covenant promise when He sent Jesus to die on the cross to pay for our sins. However, accepting this offer of forgiveness is not the complete idea of salvation. It is God’s side of the contract. Since Jesus gave Himself for us, our promise within this covenant is to give ourselves to Him. Without a complete transformation of our spirit and mind, we are playing religious games.

Colossians 2:20 talks about being crucified with Christ, yet abiding in Him and allowing Him to control our new life. In Chapter 3, Verse 3, God declares to those who are born again, “For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God.”

Romans 6:11 says, “Likewise In the same way, count

yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Therefore, do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires.”

Many will say I raised my hand when asked who wants to go to heaven, but it was not explained that I am to be possessed by Him. Grace is an opportunity to love and serve God, but was never intended to be a license to live however we want.

It seems the new comfortable way of celebrating salvation is being relieved that God rescued us from eternal death, while ignoring the need to examine our soul to see if He is pleased with our dedication and responsibility to this covenant.

A fundamental difference between many people and the story of the rich young ruler is that he truly believed what Jesus said

about the conditions to be a child of God. He walked away depressed because surrendering his will was just too painful. Today, many evidently do not believe God’s warnings and walk away content to follow their own opinions and philosophies.

God loves us and invites us to love Him, but He has no intention of allowing us to remain the same. The last few verses in Matthew Chapter 16 remind us about taking up our cross which is a symbol of a torturous death. Again, this is about sacrificing our depraved nature so that Christ can be our Master. “You mean believing there is a God is not enough to be saved?” No. “The demons also believe and tremble,” James 2:19.

Read more about the Christian life at billyhollandministries.com

BILLY HOLLAND

Representing the trees

2 The Citadel grads from Beaufort sworn in as officers

From staff reports

The United States Armed Forces now have more than 180 new officers after members of The Citadel’s Class of 2023 accepted commissions into the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Space Force.

Local members of the Class of 2023 who accepted commissions include:

Christopher Rohrer of Beaufort (U.S. Army)

Thomas Conrad of Beaufort (U.S. Marine Corps)

Held on Friday, May 5,

during a joint commissioning ceremony, approximately 30% of the Class of 2023 accepted commissions into the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Space Force. This year’s joint ceremony was held in McAlister Field House.

The ceremony included the now-officers reciting their oath, as well as having gold bars pinned on their uniforms by their sponsors. Following the ceremony, the graduates gathered on Summerall Field where they received their first salutes as officers.

The commencement ceremony for the Corps is held the day after the commissioning ceremonies.

The Citadel (Charleston) offers a classic military college education for young men and women focused on leadership excellence and ac-

ademic distinction. The approximately 2,300 members of the South Carolina Corps of Cadets are not required to serve in the military, but about one-third of each class earn commissions to become officers in every branch of U.S. military service.

How to get copies of a veteran’s military service records

The short answer to this question is to contact the National Archives or National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) and request a copy. For veterans and their family members, it is a good idea to have a local Veterans Service Officer (VSO) help you request copies of the records that you need.

Take the following six steps to understand how to order copies of your military service records.

STEP 1. Read the information at the VA’s Request Your Military Service Records webpage – https:// bit.ly/41ydmaU

STEP 2. Watch the VA SITREP YouTube video titled, How to Get a DD214 and Replacing Lost or Damaged Military Records, Military Funeral, the SITREP, which is found at https://bit.ly/3ortGeK.

STEP 3. Watch the VA SITREP YouTube video titled, National Personnel Records Center, How to Get Military Records, the SITREP, which is found at https://bit.ly/3MPlYEq.

STEP 4. Read the VA NEWS article titled, Accessing Veterans’ records from the National Archives or National Personnel Records Center (Everything you need to know about accessing Veterans’ records

from the National Archives or NPRC), dated May 9, 2023, by Theresa Fitzgerald, NPRC Employee, which is found at https:// bit.ly/3OyXtN7.

STEP 5. Go online to the NATIONAL ARCHIVES website https://www. archives.gov, click on Veterans’ Service Records, and follow the instructions on how to request military records and learn about other services for yourself or a family member.

STEP 6. Ask your local VA-accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) for help requesting your records. You can request military service records online, by mail, by FAX, by letter, by visiting NPRC in person, or by contacting a state or county veterans’ agency (VSO).

The above-referenced SITREP YOU TUBE videos, news article, and national archives website should answer all your questions about requesting your or a family member’s military service records.

The National Personnel Records Center (NPRC)

According to the above SITREPs and the Director of NPRC, NPRC is an office of the National Archives. NPRC is located in St. Louis in multiple buildings. One building is located underground in Illinois. NPRC is where the U.S. government stores all of the military and civilian personnel records of the federal government. NPRC records start around the Spanish American War (1898) and go through the late 1990s and early 2000s, which is when the US military departments each started converting military personnel records to digital records.

The parent organization of NPRC is the National Archives. The National Archives has offices all across the USA, but they centralize management of military personnel records in Saint Louis, MO under the NPRC. NPRC has two buildings in St. Louis. One building contains primarily military personnel records and the other building contains primarily civilian (civil service) records. The military records building is in North St. Louis County, Mo. The military records center is made up of 15 different and independently built warehouse spaces of 20,000 to 40,000 square feet.

The NPRC military records building holds 56 million paper and microfilm military

service records.

The US military departments began transitioning to digital (electronic --- no paper or microfilm) records in the late 1990s and all military personnel records were digitized by the early 2,000s. Modern veterans’ (those who served after the early 2,000s) military personnel records are digitized and maintained by the military departments’ personnel commands.

NPRC staff can reference and access military service department veterans’ personnel records systems to provide records to veterans who write, visit, or contact NPRC. Records that predate 2,000 depending on the branch of service, are still maintained in analog (paper and microfiche) formats at NPRC. The VA is trying to digitize the records of every living veteran.

How to get your military records?

NPRC does not take phone requests, because you have to sign under penalty of perjury that you are eligible to request records and you are who you say you are when you submit your request. The easiest way for most veterans and family members to request veterans’ service records (DD 214 and other records) is to go to www.archives.gov, click on the section for military service records, and then click

on the application eVetRecs, which enables you to submit your request electronically.

You can also sign your request electronically using eVetRecs. After submitting your request, you will receive a Service Request Number. Safeguard that number and use it to check later on the status of your request.

How long will it take to get your records?

That will depend on what you are requesting (just your DD-214, all of your records, etc.). The bad news is COVID caused a huge backlog of requests for records. A year ago, or so the backlog reached 600,000 requests, whereas the historical (before COVID) backlog had been running at about 56,000 requests (about 2.5 weeks of backlog).

The good news is NPRC has reduced the backlog by 30% and are working all requests for DD-214s first because NPRC knows that most requests for DD214 are mostly connected with veterans’ applications for VA benefits. So, if you need a DD-214 for a home loan or service-connected disability compensation application, or another benefit, you will get your DD-214 quickly. However, if you want a copy of your grandfather’s WWII records, you will have to wait a while.

The VA has now elimi-

nated 60% of the DD-214 backlog and that makes up about 60% of NPRC’s work. Currently, NPRC receives about 26,000 to 27,000 requests for records each week. NPRC is now able to service DD-214 requests in less than 10 days, with the average service taking just six days.

So, if you ask for your DD-214 you can expect to get it quickly. If you ask for a complete copy of your record or other things, it will take a lot longer. NPRC is aggressively hiring new staff and hiring contract labor to support them. NPRC expects to eliminate the backlog and restore service to 90 percent of its customers in 20 days or less by the end of 2023.

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.

Col. Karl Arbogast, commanding officer, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, Jad Daley, president and chief executive officer, American Forests, Karnig Ohannessian, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy of Environment and Mission Readiness, and Gary Herndon, natural and cultural resources manager, MCAS Beaufort, plant a tree during a commemorative tree planting ceremony April 19 in celebration of Earth Day at MCAS Beaufort. American Forests gifted six pecan trees to MCAS Beaufort to represent an estimated 1,008,625 pine tree seedlings that will be planted at Townsend Bombing Range, Georgia. This reforestation effort will cover more than 1,600 acres. Lance Cpl. Kyle Baskin/USMC

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A Marvelous Unity

The Catholic Church is One

300,000 people can gather in Saint Peter’s Square.

When there are large celebrations in Rome, the square is filled with Catholic faithful from around the world. Even though they come from different ethnic groups, social classes, and nations, there is a marvelous sense of unity as a single Church. They may not speak the same language, but they are bound closely as brothers and sisters in faith. It is a beautiful example of how the Catholic Church embraces all people and unites them as one family of faith.

Like the early Church, the Catholic Church is united by Jesus. In the New Testament, local churches were formed in each city or region. But Christians took for granted that they were part of a larger spiritual family, spread over many languages and lands. Jesus united them as his visible body on earth; his followers shared the same teachings, worship, and apostolic leadership. This is what one still finds today in the Catholic Church.

Catholics are united in the faith received from the apostles. Just as the apostles went and proclaimed one Gospel to all who would listen, the Catholic Church still proclaims that same message throughout the world. Catholic beliefs do not vary from place to place. The Nicene Creed is professed every Sunday, for example, in every Catholic parish in the world. There are no hidden teachings; all who desire can know the Catholic faith and ask God for his help to live in accord with these truths.

Catholics are united in worship.

Every Sunday throughout the world, Catholics unite in their local churches for the celebration of the Eucharist. The prayers and Scripture readings are the same across the world, but translated into the local language. By their baptism, Catholics are united as adopted sons and daughters of God the Father. By receiving Holy Communion, Catholics not only become intimately united with Jesus, but also united with one another as a spiritual family.

Catholics are united by apostolic leadership.

Most Christian communities are led by a pastor or another leader. The Catholic Church is also led by a pastor, whom we call the pope. As discussed in the previous message, Catholics recognize the pope as the successor to Peter and the bishops as successors to the apostles. Just as the early Christians remained united in the faith through the ministry of Peter and the apostles, Jesus still shepherds his flock today through the ministry of the pope and the bishops.

There are many beautiful ways of living the Catholic faith. One might imagine that this unity means that all Catholics are exactly the same, with a boring lack of individuality, but this is not the case. Different cultures bring their own unique ways of expressing the faith, and individuals find within the Church a great variety of prayer forms, spiritual practices, and callings. Helped by their spiritual family, each person is called on a unique journey, walking with Jesus to become the saint that he is calling them to be.