Lowcountry Weekly February 15 – February 28

cover notes

The image on our cover is the official logo of the 17th Annual Beaufort International Film Festival, running February 21-26 at USCB

Center for the Arts. See our special coverage beginning on page 12.

February 15 – February 28, 2023

Publisher: Jeff Evans — Jeff@LCWeekly.com

Editor: Margaret Evans — Editor@LCWeekly.com

Editor at Large: Mark Shaffer — BackyardTourist@gmail.com

Marketing Director: Amanda Hanna — 843-343-8483 or Amanda@LCWeekly.com

Advertising Sales: Hope Falls — 757-274-7184 or Ads.TheIslandNews@Gmail.com

Art Director: Lydia Inglett

Layout & Design: Amalgamated Sprinkleworks

Contributing Writers: Vivian Bikulege, Katherine Tandy Brown, Debbi Covington, Sandra Educate, Michael Johns, Margit Resch, Laura Lee Rose, Cele & Lynn Seldon, and Sutty Suddeth

What’s Happening Calendar: Staff – Editor@LCWeekly.com

Letters to the Editor, comments or suggestions can be addressed to: Lowcountry Weekly

106 West Street Extension, Beaufort, SC 29902 Call: 843-986-9059 or Email: editor@lcweekly.com

LLowcountry Weekly is published every other Wednesday and distributed throughout Beaufort County at various restaurants, retail locations, hotels and visitor’s centers. The entire contents of Lowcountry Weekly is copyrighted 2023 by P. Podd Press, LLC. No part may be reproduced without permission from the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material. A stamped, self-addressed envelope must accompany all submissions expected to be returned.

My Traditional Movie Column RANTS & RAVES

Jeff and I were chatting at Agave Thursday night, having just left the Chamber’s Business After Hours where I spent my time talking instead of eating, as usual.

As so often happens over dinner, the conversation turned to the “family business.” We’d both been working on this issue of Lowcountry Weekly, and I was in the midst of a First World Crisis.

“I’ve been trying to start my annual Movie Column all day, but I’m blocked,” I complained over my salsa, chips, and house chardonnay. (Trust me, the combo wasn’t as gross as it sounds.) “It’s just not coming.”

“Don’t write it, then,” says Jeff, in that irritating way he has of reminding me that my most pressing problems are actually quite trivial. “Write about something else.”

(That’s another aggravating thing my husband does; he refuses to let me off the hook where my column is concerned. “Don’t write it, then” is never followed by a period. It’s always followed by a semicolon, which is followed by a “Write about something else.” Sigh.)

“But I have to write it,” I fired back. “It’s the Film Festival issue! I always write about movies in the Film Festival issue. It’s my tradition.”

Me and my damn traditions. I create them out of whole cloth, then trap myself in them, as if they were sacred. And yes, I’m well-aware that nobody else gives a flying fig whether I write about movies in the Film Festival issue. I told you this was a First World Crisis.

“It would be easier – maybe – if I’d seen all the Oscar-nominated films this year, but I’ve still got, like, four to go,” I kvetched.

I don’t think Jeff and I have managed to watch all ten nominated films in a timely manner since . . . well, since the Academy started nominating ten films. Remember when there were only five? Those were the days.

“And the movies I have seen are all so different. I can’t seem to find a connecting thread for my piece.”

Jeff agreed. “How can you even begin to compare the six movies we’ve seen? You can’t! It’s impossible. Why don’t you write about that?”

Hmmmm . . . Seemed like thin gruel for a thesis, but now it’s Friday morning and deadline is upon me. Beggars can’t be choosers.

So let’s start with the movie I barely remember, because we saw it over a year ago, and even then it was more like a fever dream than a film. I went into Everything Everywhere All At Once completely cold, not having read a single review, and I walked out with only one word on my lips: Wow. It’s a dull, over-used word for one of the most mind-blowing, inventive movies I’ve ever seen, but it was all I had at the time – and it’s still all I have. I am not a film critic and simply don’t have the chops to describe this kaleidoscopic, time-traveling feature. I do recommend it, though, with one word of warning: Unless you’re much smarter than me, you will probably be confused throughout much of the film. But stick with it; it all comes together in the end and may even surprise you by making you cry.

The next movie we saw is a whole different animal. A sleek, muscular blockbuster

that hits every formulaic note with dazzling precision, it elicited no confusion nor lingering questions – just thrills, chills, and a soupçon of nostalgia. The only thing slightly perplexing about Top Gun: Maverick is the fact that the Academy actually saw fit to nominate this outrageously successful, deliciously sentimental, flagrantly patriotic, sweepingly panoramic toothpaste ad of a movie for Best Feature. I love it when Oscar surprises me!

Moving on. Jeff and I may be the only two people in Beaufort County to have seen The Fabelmans on the big screen. Box office numbers for Steven Spielberg’s autobiographical coming-of-age story are shockingly low. People love movies about aliens, but not necessarily movies about alienated boys who grow up to be filmmakers. It’s a shame, too, because this is a beautiful, poignant film about the complexities of family, the clash of the artistic spirit and the scientific mind, and the rude awakenings that often trip us up – and sometimes open us up –along the path to adulthood. It’s anchored by the tour-de-force performance of Michelle Williams as the Spielberg character’s mother. It will rip your heart out and educate you, make you think and feel. If you like that sort of thing, please stream this movie.

Okay, I gotta be honest. I dozed through parts of Avatar: The Way of Water. Don’t get me wrong – it’s a marvelous spectacle. James Cameron has created an entire world. But evidently, it’s a world that puts me to sleep. “Numbing, leisurely slowness” is the pull quote from the BBC film critic at Rotten Tomatoes, and it sums up my sentiments pretty well. Cameron’s technical artistry is undeniable, but I often had a hard time telling the characters apart and understanding their motivations. And caring about them. I think that might be because the story has some serious holes, but again, maybe I just slept through key scenes. The last hour of the three-plus hour movie – that length was a problem for me – woke me up and shook me up, so I ultimately left the theatre satisfied. But this one evaporated from my imagination almost immediately, like so much water.

Not so, The Banshees of Inisherin. I left the theater shaking my head in wonder –and no small amount of horror – asking, “What did I just see?” Jeff and I agreed the film was extraordinary, but we had so many

Margaret

Evans

questions. Or, I did, rather. My husband has an enviable knack for just accepting – and appreciating – a movie in its totality, without deconstructing it or obsessing over its “meaning.” Me? I couldn’t stop thinking about this odd, lyrical, gruesome, funny, heartbreaking poem of a film. In fact, I’m still thinking about it. Trying to solve it, as if it were a riddle. But here’s something strange: As moved as I was by Banshees , I can hardly think of a soul in my life to whom I’d recommend it.

I feel almost the same way about Tár, the Oscar-nominated film we streamed on Amazon Prime just last weekend. I found it absolutely riveting – maybe my favorite movie of the year – but it doesn’t strike me as a crowd pleaser. If you’re one of those (normal) people who just wants to be entertained – or swept away, or even inspired – by a movie, go with a third viewing of Top Gun: Maverick The Guardian says of Tár, “Field (the director) brings a slippery complexity to the proceedings. Is Tár the slow-motion car crash of a cancellation? The crash and burn of hubristic ambition? A supernatural thriller? A Shakespearean tragedy about a powerful individual driven to the brink of madness by the niggling attrition of guilt?” To which I would answer, “All of the above. Or not?” Those questions aside, Cate Blanchett’s performance as the magnificent maestro Lydia Tár is the reason to see this film. Blanchett is the finest actress of my generation, and I would pay to watch her sit on a park bench for 2.5 hours, but she is at the height of her powers here, and it’s something to behold.

So, that’s it for now. I’ve got four more films to knock out before the Academy Awards on March 12th. But first, we’re off to the 17th Annual Beaufort International Film Festival , starting next week. Don’t miss our special coverage, beginning on page 12. See you at the movies!

Margaret Evans is the editor of Lowcountry Weekly. She has been writing her award winning column, Rants & Raves, for over 20 years.

Rainy Days and More

Norma Beal featured at the Beaufort Art Association Gallery

orma Deal, BAA’s Featured Artist for February 26 through April 30, 2023, is self-taught with an eye for color and composition. She was born and raised in Hickory, North Carolina; started drawing and painting in grade school, and attended art classes at East TN University, as well as an apprenticeship with Roy Schallenberg, international artist published in PGM Art World.

Her involvement in the art world came after retirement and has since been a fulltime hobby/career. Although she relocated to South Carolina in 1990, Norma is still drawn to paint NC’s beautiful mountains and lakes; but she also began painting beautiful Lowcountry scenes. Her subject matter is extremely varied— from coast to mountains— and she’s now developed a deep interest in the unique Gullah tradition, inspiring her to paint a series of folk art. She specializes in oil and mixed media on canvas, panels and boards.

Norma has been showing in local and state galleries and works also on a commission basis. She has received numerous awards, including second place in her category in the prestigious Biennale Juried Exhibition held on Hilton Head. She is honored to have been a member and Gallery Manager at Society of Bluffton Artists for a number of years.

“It is extremely difficult for me to repeat a painting, to capture the original color and technique. This is a God-given talent with which I truly have been blessed. We, as artists, are always excited when a painting has been sold, and trust the buyer enjoys their new artwork as much as we enjoyed creating it.”

Come meet the artist at a reception on Friday, March 3 from 5-8pm at the Gallery of the Beaufort Art Association, 913 Bay Street, downtown Beaufort, under the black awning.

All Bad Things . . .

Iknow the saying goes, “All good things come to and end,” but why focus on the negative? I promise I’m not trying to drop the classic, albeit outdated, toxic positivity on you. The whole reward and punishment bit is sooo 2012. (Insert valley girl accent.)

All that said, since we can all agree that all good things come to an end, why can we not flip this axiom on its hip and be thankful for endings? That things cease, for whatever reason, means bad things end as well. What if I’m naughty and don’t feel as if I deserve bad things to end, you might ask? Good question, but can we at least consider the possibility? That’s all, just toy with the notion. Fondle it. Look at the granular details of what ozurie is all about. According to The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows (a Christmas gift from good friends) ozurie is feeling torn between the life you want and the life you have.

As we approach the final season of Star Trek: Picard, what are your expectations in life? Star Trek occurs to me here due to the excellent final, time jumping episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation, entitled, “All Good Things . . . ,” in which the tapestry of Picard’s life and the entire series is demonstratively tied together.

How did you arrive at said expectations of your life? Do they fit your unique situation, or is that someone else’s life? Never is it more fitting to say that expectations must be managed or they will manage you, the reader. At some point, we must be okay with Tom Brady not winning another Super Bowl. At some point, we have to be okay with Tiger not winning another major. Lebron . . . The list goes on.

Sometimes being right doesn’t feel so good. Sometimes all you’re left with is doubt because of right’s finality. Sometimes black and white don’t have gray to debate with.

Are you so consumed with the desire to do difficult things that you don’t think anything can stop you? In this case, thank God for endings. Perhaps this is your warning not to let the fire of desire burn the existing form. Don’t Martha Mitchell effect yourself. (For those that aren’t aware of this early 1970’s reference, Martha Mitchell, the wife of one of Nixon’s cabinet members, essentially called the demise of the Nixon administration before Watergate. She was labeled as crazy and tucked away.) You are not crazy. Not even close. Crazy people don’t ponder such things as we are pondering here.

Where are your empty calories? Empty calories can be contained in more than just cake and wine. Empty calories are consumed just for consumption’s sake. Consumption doesn’t have feelings, so don’t worry about consumption, but you have feelings.

When does being detail-oriented transition from your strength to the millstone around your neck? Time waits for no man—nope, not he, she, or they will time skip one beat for, nor should we want it to.

Another good friend of mine recently gave me Transitions, by Julia Cameron. In it, she writes about ambiguity.

The human heart craves certainty, yet life is sometimes uncertain. In times of ambiguity, doubt, and apprehension, I claim the certain safety of my spiritual connection. Reminding

WHOLLY HOLISTICS

by Sutty Suddeth

myself that even in the face of difficult change, my grounding in Spirit remains secure. I find ground on which to stand. Spirit connects me to all things. It is timeless and serene. Spirit is the bedrock beneath all experience. When I am threatened and adrift, I remind myself Spirit is an inner fortress, constant and serene. But what if I can’t feel any connection to Spirit, you may say? It’s not a thing for me and I don’t even call it that. Call it what you will. Labels make no difference here and only distract from the subtle, yet powerful nature of what we’re discussing. Change is the oneness that binds us all, so look for Spirit there. Is it always pleasant? No, but it’s always there. Understand that grayshift affects us all. Back to The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows, grayshift is defined as the tendency for future goals and benchmarks to feel huge when viewed in advance, only to fade into banality as soon as you’ve achieved them . . .

Use the above paragraph’s realization to your advantage however you see fit. Toughness looks different to us all. What’s tough for him, may not be tough for them. Halsey, the pop star, said it best: “Funny how the warning signs can feel like butterflies.” Let that sink in.

As an aside to this subject matter, when writing for Wholly Holistics, I feel in my being that certain words and phrases are meant for individuals who will become a reader, if only for just this once. I feel the potential anguish in the realizations that “my” words cause. It is not lost on me and I’m now sending love to said anguish.

The ending can harken the beginning of something truly spectacular. Allow yourself the time to grieve what was. Allow grief of even the awful things of life, that you would allow another, especially the youngsters among us. For it is in allowance that we find peace.

The year: 1987. The setting: The Rocks of Fripp Island, SC. Sutty first answers the siren call of writing. In the years and publications since, the destination has been Divinely timed, while being Divinely unknown. A reformed Reiki Master of more than a dozen years, an emotional energetic alchemist, as well as a student in various energetic modalities. My favorite Buddha quote is, “Everything in moderation, even moderation.” Visit Home / Chris Suddeth (journoportfolio.com) for more

Art Quilts on Exhibit

Art + Quilt = Art, an exhibit opening March 7 at Art League Gallery, showcases the work of the five award-winning members of the Art Quilters of the Lowcountry. Each artist has his or her own individual style and signature technique, making for an eclectic and inspiring show. From realistic to abstract, whimsical to majestic, and large to small, these quilts show textile art’s creativity and versatility. Techniques used include beading, improvisational piecing, and thread and fabric painting.

"The exhibit displays the incredible colorwork, inventiveness and craftsmanship of the Quilters' unique art form," says Kristen McIntosh, Art League General Manager. "These aren't traditional bed quilts. They're art quilts that are just as emotionally powerful as any painting or sculpture."

Art + Quilt = Art will be on exhibit March 7-April 8, 2023. An artist reception will be held on Wednesday, March 8, 5-7pm. Both the exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. Please RSVP for the reception at www.gallery@artleaguehhi.org.

Art League Gallery is located midisland inside Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island, 843-681-5060.

The Jade Bowl by Ron Hodge, above Golden Hour on the Creek by Peg Weschke, above right The Three Flamingos by Donna Stankiewicz, right Pristine by Ro Morrissey, below

LCCB Performs with Local High Schools

Music lovers can look forward to a real treat during February 21 and 23. On those dates, the Lowcountry Community Concert Band will share concert stages with several local high school bands who are preparing for their upcoming

Concert Performance Assessments (CPAs).

On Tuesday, February 21, at May River High School, the music starts at 6:30 pm, featuring the May River HS Band, directed by Deborah Hamner, and the H.E. McCracken Middle School Band, directed by Matthew Dickler.

At 7:00 pm, the LCCB presents its Valentine-themed program, “With Love,” featuring A Tribute to Marvin Hamlisch medley, arranged by Micheal Brown; The Beatles: Love, medley, arranged by Jay Bocock; Highlights from Porgy and Bess, arranged by Douglas Wagner; Nessun Dorma from Turandot by Giacomo Puccini, arranged by Merlin

Patterson; And May We Always Cherish, by Benjamin Dean Taylor; and The Bride Elect, march by John Philip Sousa. The LCCB is led by Conductor/Artistic Director David Carbone and Associate Conductor Debra Hamner.

On Thursday, February 24, at Bluffton High School, the music starts at 6:30 pm, featuring the Bluffton HS Jazz Band and Symphonic Band, directed by Anthony Grandquist. At 7:00 pm, the LCCB will repeat its Valentine-theme program as above.

LCCB Conductor David Carbone explains: “Our concert is entitled ‘With Love,’ as a complimentary closing of a love letter from the band to the members’ families, loved ones, and our LCCB supporters. The musical selections are in the spirit of the month of the Valentine, featuring themes associated with Love from past Broadway hits and major revues. We are honored to share concert stages with the town of Bluffton’s high school and middle school band programs as they prepare for their upcoming Concert Performance Assessments. We welcome this opportunity as a community

band that has ties to the University of South Carolina - Beaufort, and to our sponsors, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. It’s a great way to perform our music for one another and our shared community, while celebrating the student bands and encouraging a life-long participation in, and Love of, music.”

The LCCB is sponsored by the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of South Carolina - Beaufort. The LCCB provides an opportunity for musicians of all ages and abilities to play instrumental music together for enjoyment as well as to perform for the community. Students and adults of any age, as well as OLLI members, can join the band. The LCCB is 100% selfsustaining, and receives no state or local funding. Donations are welcome, and are used for buying new music and equipment, repairing instruments, and rental of venue space for performances where required. For further information, visit our LCCB website, at www.ollilccb.com, and click on the “Donate” tab. PLEASE NOTE: Donations will not be solicited at the above high school concerts.

Bestseller Winslow at NeverMore Books

As a free event of the nonprofit Pat Conroy Literary Center’s seventh annual March Forth, NeverMore Books will host an evening with New York Times bestselling novelist De'Shawn

Charles Winslow, author of the newly published Decent People, in conversation with Jonathan Haupt. Winslow’s debut novel, In West Mills, was awarded the Center for Fiction First Novel Prize and the Willie Morris Award for Southern Fiction. Decent People returns to West Mills with a social justice-themed murder mystery, which has already been recognized on the recommended reading lists of USA Today, Good Housekeeping, the American Booksellers Association’s Indie Next, and Apple Books. Free and open to the public, this book discussion and signing will be held at NeverMore Books (910 Port Republic St, Beaufort) on Friday, March 3, at 5:00 p.m. Seating is limited; please call 843-812-9460 to reserve in advance.

ABOUT DECENT PEOPLE

“De'Shawn Charles Winslow invites readers on a satisfying ride that, through his keen observations of human nature, leads to deeper considerations of the glacial progress of racial equality.”

– BookPage, starred review

“Winslow chronicles the aftermath of a triple homicide that rocks a segregated Southern community in his dynamic latest . . . There are a trove of surprises along the way to the well-earned resolution, and Winslow entrances readers with strong characters, impeccable prose, and brisk pacing. As a character-driven mystery, it delivers the goods.”

– Publishers Weekly

De'Shawn Charles Winslow is the author of In West Mills, a Center for Fiction First Novel Prize winner, an American Book Award recipient, a Willie Morris Award for Southern Fiction winner, and a Los Angeles Times Book Award, Lambda Literary Award, and Publishing Triangle Award finalist. His second novel, Decent People, was published in January 2023. He was born and raised in Elizabeth City,

North Carolina, and graduated from the Iowa Writers’ workshop.

Interviewer

Jonathan Haupt is executive director of the Pat Conroy Literary Center, a judge for the Willie Morris Award for Southern Fiction, and a guest book reviewer for the Pulitzer Prize-winning Charleston Post and Courier. March Forth continues on Saturday, 3/4, and Sunday, 3/5, with a free young readers read-aloud event at the Port Royal Farmers Market and special events at Penn Center featuring appearances by J. Drew Lanham, John Lane, Megan Miranda, and Marcus Amaker. Learn more and register in advance at https://marchforth2023.eventbrite.com

Author De'Shawn Charles Winslow

All Saints Garden Tour Art Show

Join us for the All Saints Garden Tour Art Show at the Hilton Head Branch of the Beaufort County Public Library (new location) running now - February 28, 2023. Annually the All Saints Garden Tour sponsors a poster contest for local artists and the work of the winning artist will appear on over 700 copies of the 2023 poster which will be displayed in businesses throughout Beaufort and Jasper County and on the cover of the ticket booklet. During normal library hours, the public is invited to visit the exhibit of 30 garden related artworks in various media. The contest winner will be announced on February 28.

All of the works are for sale and part of the proceeds will be contributed to the Garden Tour. The net proceeds from the Garden Tour are distributed to six local charities in Beaufort and Jasper counties.

For information about the Art Show and the Garden Tour which is May 20, 2023 please go to our website at www.allsaintsgardentour.com Tickets for the

Garden Tour which will feature six stunning gardens and a Boutique are now available on line and at local businesses in April.

‘AMERICA, COAST TO COAST’

A FREE CONCERT... DONATIONS ARE GRATEFULLY ACCEPTED

The program includes, ‘The Golden Age of Broadway,’ ‘Shenandoah,’ ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ ‘Selections from Chicago,’ ‘Gershwin by George,’ ‘America the Beautiful,’ and much more.

The fifty member concert band presents great American music by great American composers!

‘America, Coast to Coast’ takes a musical journey from Broadway to Hollywood with several stops in between.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24

Magnolia Hall, Sun City 7:00 PM

Bluffton, SC 29909

Residents and Guests Only

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26

St. John’s Lutheran Church 4:00 PM

157 Lady’s Island Drive

Beaufort, SC 29907

Open to the Public

Along The Path by Neil Clark

We Heard It Through The Grapevine

Beaufort International Film Festival Marks Big Chill 40th

By Mark Shaffer

Each year for the past 17 years, Ron and Rebecca Tucker manage to pull off the minor miracle that is the Beaufort International Film Festival. And each year after the last award’s been handed out, the applause fades into the night and the curtain comes down on another BIFF, they ask each other the same question: Why go on?

“Once we start planning it and put out the call for submissions, it’s kind of a snowball effect and we are absolutely spent during the process,” says Ron. “But it is kind of addictive, though every year it gets a little harder for a lot of different reasons.”

COVID posed a unique challenge, albeit one that affected the festival only minimally.

The 2020 festival was already in the books by the time the world went into lockdown, and though scaled down, the 2021 festival was conducted under strict protocols. Competition, however, doesn’t come with protocols.

“There are more [regional] film festivals now and we’re all competing for films and sponsorship,” says Ron. “But even though a lot of our filmmakers are screening at other festivals around the same time, I see them choose to come to us. They want to be here.”

“Filmmakers are a buzzy bunch,” says Producer Uyen Le. “Word of mouth means a lot.” Her partner and husband, Writer/Director VW Scheich agrees. “It’s how we first came to BIFF.”

That was a decade ago and in the years since the pair have been a near constant creative presence for BIFF and Beaufort (see the accompanying piece, Stars Keep Falling

This year they’ll generate big buzz of their own by opening the festival with a special first ever matinee screening of their latest film, Stars Fell Again, the brand-new sequel to the hit 2020 rom-com, Stars Fell on Alabama. In the original Beaufort doubled for Alabama and the Tuckers co-produced through the Beaufort Film Society.

A constant factor in the buzz that’s made Beaufort one of the top-rated festivals year after year is the intimate setting. All of the films screen under the big top of the USCB Center for the Arts. Attending filmmakers get a post screening Q & A with the audience while the audience has the opportunity to rub shoulders with the filmmakers. It’s up close and personal all day, every day. Trust me, you can run but you can’t hide at this film festival.

“We didn’t want to be like other festivals,” says Ron. “We wanted to stand out and really support the filmmakers. And the word gets out. It’s really evident this year. A couple of the veteran judges tell us this is the best overall selection of films we’ve ever had.”

The roster includes four full length features, three documentary features, seven short documentaries, four animation shorts, ten student films and a staggering twenty-nine short films. One of the last films to make the deadline - the short Ivalu from Denmark - is nominated for an Academy Award. Each year there seems to at least one film that gets the judges buzzing. This year it’s the short film, Ghosted.

“Every single judge described it as, “Wow!” says Ron.

I’ve long thought that if the Beaufort International Film Festival were to adopt a theme song, it should be Marvin Gaye’s Motown classic, “I Heard It Through the Grapevine.” There are two reasons. One: over the festival’s 17 seasons its popularity among filmmakers has been achieved almost entirely by word of mouth - a global grapevine, if you will. Two: Gaye’s iconic tune sets the narrative tone in the opening montage of the film

that put Beaufort squarely on Hollywood’s radar 40 years ago. Writer/Director

Lawrence Kasdan’s The Big Chill was nominated for three Oscars, including Best Picture. It helped launch the careers of Oscar winners and nominees like Glen Close, William Hurt, Jeff Goldblum and Tom Berenger, and it ushered in a golden age of filmmaking in Beaufort and South Carolina that included the likes of The Prince of Tides, Die Hard with a Vengeance, Forrest Gump, and many, many more.

And it made dancing around with leftovers in the kitchen look cool.

This year’s list of BIFF honorees includes the film’s Cinematographer and Editor. Co-recipients of the Pat Conroy Lifetime Achievement Award, John Bailey and Carol Littleton, also happen to be married. Both have amassed an astonishing list of honors during remarkable careers far too long to detail here.

“They’ve both worked on some of the biggest films ever,” says Ron Tucker. “A lot of Beaufort and BIFF connections are in there.”

In addition to The Big Chill Bailey’s lensed classic films like Silverado, In the Line of Fire, As Good as it Gets, and Groundhog Day Littleton’s edited most, if not all, of Kasdan’s directorial work including Body Heat, The Accidental Tourist, and Grand Canyon. She won an Emmy for the TV adaptation of Tuesdays with Morrie and was nominated for an Academy Award for her work on little film by Steven Spielberg called E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial.

“The Big Chill told the [film] industry that you could go to a small South Carolina town and make a quality film,” says Dan Rogers. The Senior Project Manager at the SC Film Commission has seen it all in his 35 years on the job. Rogers receives this year’s Behind the Scenes Award and according to Ron, nobody’s more deserving.

“Dan’s been charging the hill for a long time,” says Ron. “He can tell you how much

money the movies that were made here spent. And he can also tell you how much money the movies that didn’t get made here could’ve spent.”

“You build on every film,” says Rogers. “’A film as popular as The Big Chill became a calling card for South Carolina. It gave producers a comfort level and gave the Film Commission a voice to say, ‘Here’s how they did it and here’s how we can do it with your story.’”

The story Writer/Director David Kniess tells in his feature documentary, The Gift, is one worthy of only the fourth Santini Patriot Spirit Award ever presented.

“It is a very powerful film, a very emotional story” says Ron. “How he got some of the footage, I have no idea.”

“This story started many years ago on a random red eye flight and a seat next to a young Marine named Jason Dunham,” says Kniess.

On April 14, 2004, young Corporal Dunham was leading a patrol in western Al Anbar Province, when his convoy was ambushed. Dunham made the ultimate sacrifice to save his comrades and was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. Kniess calls his film an intimate look at the life of Corporal Dunham, his family, and Marines of Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines. “Intimate” is putting it mildly.

“People need to see The Gift to get a better understanding of what it’s like for men and women to go to war and the after-effects that linger for the rest of their lives,” says Kniess. “It’s for anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one. Loss is universal.”

Kniess is humbled to receive the Santini.

“The fact that it has only been given out a few times, makes me feel that I have accomplished what I set out to do and I feel The Gift is an important story that people need to see.”

Ron expects The Gift to be wellrepresented on awards night.

“Most of the production crew are coming, possibly Corporal Dunham’s family and about 25 members of his unit.”

Why go on? There’s your answer.

•••••

Get the complete schedule, check out previews and buy tickets at www.beaufortfilmfestival.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the Visitors Center located in The Arsenal at 713 Craven St.

Writer/Director Lawrence Kasdan & the boys of The Big Chill at Tidalholm in 1982.

Stars Keep Falling

or Lessons From the Longest Location Scout Ever

ALL IN THE FAMILY

This is a story about family. Not actual blood relations, but the kind that’s drawn together by fate or circumstance and then something like lightning strikes. That is the secret of the Beaufort International Film Festival. Throughout the years as the festival has grown and evolved, it’s felt like family, growing pains and all: the Beaufort International Film Family. Either way - it’s BIFF.

Uyen Le and VW Scheich joined this budding family in 2013, winning Best Short for Wallenda, a film about the circus. Specifically, a film about the great high wire artist, Karl Wallenda, grandfather of VW’s cousin Tino Wallenda. VW was also raised in a family of daredevil circus performers which explains his fearless showmanship. With a background in entertainment law, Uyen’s focus tends to be more grounded. Together they are a lethal creative tandem and a treasured part of the BIFF family. Think of it this way: VW’s the cousin most likely to get you locked up. Uyen’s the one with the bail money and the law degree.

This year they celebrate their 10th “BIFF-iversary” opening the festival with a matinee showing of their new feature film, Stars Fell Again, the follow-up to the 2020 smash Stars Fell on Alabama, shot in Beaufort. We caught up by phone shortly after the film’s red-carpet debut in Los Angeles.

Uyen Le: It was amazing! Most of the cast showed up.

VW Scheich: 99 percent. A couple couldn’t make it because they’re working, so not a bad reason.

Mark Shaffer: Did the first film get this kind of premier?

VW: It debuted during COVID and all the theaters were shut down, so we had to think outside of the box. We did a drive-in theater thing where people pulled up in their own cars with family and friends, got their popcorn, and we all hung out in the parking lot and watched the movie. I do like a nice applause after a film, but a hundred cars honking horns and flashing lights? (Uyen laughs) I’m just saying, it was kind of epic.

MS: When did the sequel talk begin?

VW: Leaving Beaufort after shooting the first one. That was hard, but [Producer] Doug

Vetter made it easier by offering up some seats on his private jet. We all piled in [Cinematographer Wey Wang & Writer/ Producer Robert Windom]. I think somewhere over the middle of Texas we’re half a bottle of bourbon in and we’re like, “You know what we should do? A sequel!” And we just kind of spit-balled [the storyline] halfway across the country until we had a rough outline. Then we reteamed with Robert and came up with this beautiful script that continues the story of Madison and Bryce’s relationship and also brings in her family. Because nothing makes things go smoothly during the holidays like family. (Laughter) Follow that rule, you’ll have your own rom-com.

Uyen: At this point the sequel was basically in our heads.

VW: Right. The first film hadn’t even been cut yet. We were just dreaming big. And in a wonderful surprise the first one was received really well.

Uyen: It found an audience and people really seemed to enjoy it.

VW: When that happened, we thought, maybe we can make that bourbon dream come true.

MS: You were still editing the first film when COVID hit and everything changed –particularly the movie business. Will it ever go back to the way it was or is this the new normal?

VW: No. I think this is the new “normal” and it’s going to continue to change and audiences will adapt. Nowadays we have giant tv screens and surround sound in our living room, so you don’t have to go to your local theater – although I love it – but as you know, they keep tearing theaters down.

MS: All too well. The first film became a streaming hit during COVID. Was that always the idea for the sequel?

VW: Yeah, I think nowadays trying to make a movie you have access to this wonderful world wide web where you just send stuff out through an aggregate and get it on iTunes and Amazon and maybe a subscription platform like HULU. And if that’s how the audience found the first film, you have to do it again.

THE LONGEST LOCATION SCOUT EVER

MS: This is also ten years since your first BIFF.

VW: Yeah, and when we were there the first time, we were hanging out on the porch of the Rhett House, thinking we’ve gotta come back. So, we [polished] a screenplay, submitted it and came back with “Pawn.” Won best screenplay with that. Then we started thinking about the next year, again sitting on the Rhett House porch, and actually started writing Interwoven right there, which also brought us back. And then we moved to Beaufort! We were like, what could be even more crazy? Let’s just do it! And we did.

MS: Ironically, you spent two years living in Beaufort trying to get a movie made that never happened and eventually made a different movie that becomes the first feature shot in the state in years.

Uyen: Yes, I like to think of it as the longest location scout ever . . .

(Laughter)

By Mark Shaffer, Editor at

VW: Uyen keeps me true to my word. If we say we’re gonna make a movie, we’re gonna make a movie. Sometimes we’re just a bit ahead of the curve. We really tried to will one (Basement Bob) into existence, but had to step back and return to L.A. And then [Writer/Producer Robert Windom] showed us a couple of scripts, and one could be re-tooled for a small town. And we said, “We know a small town.”

It’s all a matter of being patient with your work sometimes. Let it ferment. I’m so impatient and I want it all done yesterday. Luckily, Robert’s even more impatient (laughs). He wants it done the day before yesterday. He’s like, “Can we release it on DVD?” I go, “Robert, it hasn’t been shot yet.” “But can we still do that?”

(Laughter)

Uyen: Mark, you can imagine how much fun it was for me working with those two. (Laughs)

MS: Barely. (Laughter) What’s next for you two?

VW: We’re gonna go to BIFF!

(Laughter)

MS: I walked into that one (laughter). What are you looking forward to about that experience?

VW: We’re looking forward to seeing everyone and meeting the filmmakers and having a great screening. The audiences at BIFF are special. BIFF is one of those experiences as an independent filmmaker that you have to have. It’s a must on the list. If a BIFF audience hasn’t screened your movie, it hasn’t been seen by a great audience. It’s really amazing. And then there’s the gala, and I’m really looking forward to the Saturday Shorts –Uyen: We’re not going to be there Saturday – (Pause)

VW: But I am looking forward to it regardless . . .

(Laughter)

Stars Fell Again screens 4pm, February 21st at the USCB Center for the Arts, followed by the opening night gala at Tabby Place. Tickets are available at www.beaufortfilmfestival.com and the Visitors Center inside The Arsenal at 713 Craven St.

Large

Writer/Producer Robert Windom, Cinematographer Wey Wang and Director VW Scheich wrap a shot at NeverMore Books.

Silver Screen Snacks

It’s time to roll out the red carpet! The 17th annual Beaufort International Film Festival is almost here and the whole town is giddy with anticipation. Opening night festivities begin on Tuesday, February 21st. On Wednesday at 9:00 am, filmmakers, directors, screen writers, movie stars and lots of film-loving fans will begin viewing all of the nominated flicks for four action and drama-packed days and nights. Of course, we’ll all eat our weight in popcorn. That’s a movie-watching must. Still, some of us won’t want to miss a single film or to leave the theater long enough to go out for lunch, so I’ve created several BIFF-inspired offerings that can be made the night before and safely tucked into a small bag to take to the movies. If you’re so inclined, you can easily make extras to share with some of your movie-watching friends. BIFF Executive Directors, Ron and Rebecca Tucker joined me in my kitchen to test all of these delicious recipes. To watch the Tuckers in action, please visit my YouTube channel, Debbi Covington: My Fabulous Cooking Show. Official BIFF photographer Susan DeLoach caught all of our antics on film. If you love movies, you’ll love BIFF. Please join us. It’s going to be a great week! For more information about the Beaufort International Film Festival and to purchase movie and event tickets visit www.beaufortfilmfestival.com. I'll be catering Awards Ceremony Cocktail Hour on Sunday, February 26th. We hope to see you at the movies!

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate morsels

½ cup blue melting candies

½ cup red melting candies

½ cup yellow melting candies

2 tablespoons candy sprinkles

BIFF BOWL – CHICKEN AND ORZO SALAD WITH ARUGULA

1 cup plus 2 tablespoons dried orzo pasta

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

¼ cup red wine vinegar

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon honey

A delicious sweet and salty snack to munch on at the Beaufort International Film Festival. Be sure to take extra for your film-loving friends.

1 (3.28) ounce package microwave popcorn

2 cups pretzels

2 cup salted mixed nuts

2 cups M&M’s candies (peanut, plain, mini or a combination)

Pop popcorn according to package directions. Cover a large baking sheet with aluminum foil. Spread cooked popcorn on baking sheet. Remove and discard all unpopped kernels. Add pretzels, salted mixed nuts and M&M’s candies. Melt chocolate morsels in microwave and drizzle over popcorn mixture. Repeat with blue, red and yellow melting candies. Garnish with candy sprinkles. Let mixture dry for at least 3 hours or until set. Break into pieces and serve. Store leftovers in an air-tight container. Serves 10.

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 teaspoon salt

1 large red bell pepper, diced

1 cup sliced kalamata olives

1/3 cup chopped red onion

4 cups shredded cooked chicken

(I used deli chicken)

2 cups baby arugula

Cucumber, thinly sliced

Grape tomatoes, halved

Crumbled feta cheese

Pine nuts, toasted

Cook orzo to al dente, according to package directions. While pasta is cooking, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, honey,

By Debbi Covington

garlic powder, pepper and salt in a medium bowl. Add bell pepper, olives and red onion; toss lightly. Drain cooked pasta. Add pasta to the vegetable mixture and toss to coat. Fold in chicken and arugula.

To serve, place pasta salad in individual bowls; top with cucumber slices, tomato halves, crumbled feta and toasted pine nuts. Serves 6 to 8.

THE BIFFWICH LOWCOUNTRY SUB

Red onion, cut into thin slices

For the sandwich spread:

1 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup sweet pickle relish, drained

For the vinaigrette:

1 tablespoon dried oregano

1/3 cup red wine vinaigrette

1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

For the sandwich:

1 large loaf French bread

Green leaf lettuce

Cheddar-Jack cheese slices

Provolone cheese slices

Deli sliced ham

Deli sliced turkey

Bacon slices, cooked and drained

Salami, thinly sliced

Sliced tomatoes, seasoned with salt & pepper

Debbi with Rebecca and Ron Tucker

BIFF MUNCH

Sliced banana peppers

Sliced black olives

Soak red onion in cold water for several minutes to cut the bite of the onion and mellow the flavor. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with pickle relish. Set aside. In a bottle with a pour nozzle, mix oregano with red wine vinaigrette and extra-virgin olive oil. Shake well to combine. Slice French bread in half, lengthwise. Slather both sides of bread with mayo-pickle relish sandwich spread. Top with green leaf lettuce, cheeses, meats, drained red onions, tomatoes, banana peppers and black olives. Drizzle sandwich liberally with vinaigrette. Place remaining bread on top of the sandwich. For best results, wrap the sandwich tightly in saran wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight before slicing. Serves 6 to 8.

FILMMAKERS SALAD

The ingredients for the sandwich spread and vinaigrette are listed in the BIFFwich recipe.

Green leaf lettuce

Cheddar-Jack cheese slices

Provolone cheese slices

Deli sliced ham

Deli sliced turkey

Bacon slices, cooked and drained on paper towels

Salami, thinly sliced

Red onion, sliced

Sliced tomatoes, seasoned with salt and pepper

Sliced banana peppers

Sliced black olives

1 tablespoon sandwich spread

2 tablespoons vinaigrette

Cut lettuce, cheeses and meats into bite sized pieces. Place in a salad bowl. Top with red onion, tomatoes, banana peppers and sliced black olives. In a small bowl, combine sandwich spread with vinaigrette. Mix well and drizzle over salad before serving.

BUTTERED POPCORN CRÈME BRULEE

1 cup heavy cream

¾ cup milk

4 cups popped buttered popcorn

6 egg yolks

1/3 cup sugar

¼ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Extra sugar for caramelizing

Extra popcorn, to garnish

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Boil a kettle of water. Place heavy cream in a medium pot and

bring to a very low simmer. Turn heat off, add the buttered popcorn and stir to saturate the kernels. Allow the cream mixture to steep with the popcorn for 10 to 15 minutes; strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve into a small pitcher, pressing the solids with the back of a spoon to release as much of the liquid as possible. Place the egg yolks, sugar, salt and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl and whip with a whisk until the mixture is pale in color. Dribble in a little of the warm popcorn infused cream mixture into the egg mixture, whisking, to temper the egg yolks. Add egg yolks mixture to the hot cream mixture, slowly, while whisking, until completely incorporated. Place four 6-ounce ramekins in a baking dish and pour the custard mixture into the ramekins, dividing the mixture equally. Place the baking dish with the

An Evening of Art & Poetry

The nonprofit Pat Conroy Literary Center and Beaufort Arts Council will host art historian Midori Yamamura, speaking on Yoko Ono’s Painting to Hammer a Nail (1966), and poet Luis H. Francia, reading from his newest collection Thorn Grass (2021).

Free and open to the public, this partnership program will be held on Friday, February 17, from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Beaufort Arts Council, 921 Ribaut Road, Beaufort. Seating is limited; please call the Conroy Center in advance at 843-379-7025 to reserve your spot. Books will be available for sale and signing. There will be a brief intermission between the two presentations. Wine and refreshments will be provided.

Husband and wife, Luis H. Francia and Midori Yamamura live in Jackson Heights, Queens. Yamamura is an associate professor of art history at the CUNY Kingsborough Community College and the 2022-23 Alcaly/ Bodian Distinguished Scholar at the Advanced Research Collaborative at the CUNY Graduate Center. Luis H. Francia is a poet, playwright, nonfiction writer, and occasional filmmaker. He is an adjunct professor at New York University, where he teaches Filipino language and culture. Learn more about the Beaufort Arts Council at www.beaufortartscouncil.com. Learn more about the Pat Conroy Literary Center at www.patconroyliterarycenter.org.

ramekins in the preheated oven and carefully pour hot water into the baking dish, allowing it to come about an inch up the sides of the ramekins. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the custards are set around the edges but still jiggly in the centers. Cool completely in the refrigerator. To serve, sprinkle the tops with sugar and brulee with a torch or under the broiler until brown and caramelized. Top with a few pieces of buttered popcorn before serving. Serves 4.

The writer owns Catering by Debbi Covington and is the author of three cookbooks, Celebrate Beaufort, Celebrate Everything! and Dining Under the Carolina Moon. For more great recipes and to view her cooking demonstrations, visit and subscribe to Debbi’s YouTube channel. Debbi’s website address is www.cateringbydebbicovington.com. She may be reached at 843-525-0350 or by email at dbc@ cateringbydebbicovington.com

Luis Francia

Midori Yamamura

Maison Beaufort Returns for Sixth Year

The popular antiques, home and garden show will feature favorite vendors, both old and new.

Maison Beaufort announces the sixth Antiques, Home, and Garden Show to be held March 2-5, 2023 in Beaufort, SC at downtown’s Tabby Place. Right in the heart of downtown Beaufort, the event will feature over 20

vendors and dealers, including favorites such as Morning Glory Designs, Oakleaf, Savoir of Style, and Whitehall Antiques. New vendors this year include Sweetgrass Home, The Sassafras Shop, and Barley Twist Antiques.

Quality Care for All Your Dental

“Maison Beaufort has become one of the most anticipated home events in the Lowcountry,” said Lisa Costigan, co-founder of Maison Beaufort. “We hand-select each of our vendors and create a show that provides shoppers, designers, and those who simply enjoy beautiful decor, a magical weekend of shopping, ideas, and inspiration.”

Maison Beaufort is a four-day event featuring a curated mix of invited exhibitors who showcase the best in antiques, home & garden, and art. Find vintage, oneof-a-kinds, lighting, furniture, linens, garden accents, and creative moments for the home. Special events such as daily pop-ups are announced on the website as they’re scheduled. Learn more and purchase tickets at www.maisonbeaufort.org.

Want to Go

6th Annual Maison Beaufort

Preview Party: March 2 Show: March 3rd - 5th

Tabby Place: 913 Port Republic St., Beaufort Tickets: Preview Party $40 in Advance General Admission $6 in Advance $10 at the Door

Tickets available at: www.maisonbeaufort.org

Implants •

Fripp Welcomes The Tony Lee Group

By Margit Resch

You don’t have to go to Columbia to hear The Tony Lee Group. The band is coming here, to Fripp, to play for us. When I went to Columbia recently, I asked Tony Lee whether he was playing somewhere that coming weekend. I wanted to hear him. His answer: “I am playing, but not musically.” No wonder everyone loves Tony—he is funny. When I asked two friends I was “playing” with that weekend whether they knew Tony, they said: “Yes, oh, yes, he was in our Italian classes at USC, and he was an excellent student.” No wonder they remember him—he is smart. And when I asked Tony to tell me a bit about himself and his fellow musicians, he sent me a three-act bio of himself and a four-part epilogue about the other four musicians. No wonder I admire him—he is a wonderful writer; and, therefore, I quote his texts about his fellow musicians at length below. But most importantly, he is a musician, one of the most enterprising musicians you will ever meet, a drummer no less.

Tony studied English at USC, moved to LA and worked as an assistant film editor in major studios, even with Steven Spielberg, but couldn’t distance himself from playing music, and so he toured the country extensively with a nationally signed rock band, Treadmill Trackstar, until he finally settled in Columbia. There he gathers talented musicians to play jazz and all kinds of popular music in all sorts of venues, especially at Speakeasy in Five Points. They also help him teach people of all ages play instruments of any ilk through Freeway Music, a school he and fellow musician Don Russo co-founded twelve years ago, with six studios all over town and special programs like musical theater. An amazing range of entrepreneurship. No wonder Tony has no trouble attracting talented musicians, such as the four he is bringing to Fripp:

Catie (Cat) Galan had been a student at Freeway Music and has often been a featured musician in Tony’s gigs at Speakeasy. As Tony put it: “I became incredibly impressed with her talent . . . I had literally seen her grow up. Cat is diminutive, but her voice is anything but small. She was a frequent guest and was obviously growing into an exceptional musician. Precocious and fearless, she made a name for herself around Columbia as a first rate musician. She also plays violin on a virtuosic level.

She’s amazing.” Catie has performed all over the world and teaches both violin and voice.

Nicolas (Nick) Vlandis majored in music at USC. A trumpet player before he converted to piano, (and an elite chess player), Nick, in Tony’s words, “quickly became a first-call pianist for a multitude of gigs around Columbia and has only grown his reputation of indispensability, becoming a respected arranger and music director for several groups, as well. Nick’s talent is only rivaled by his engaging personality and sharp wit. It is an extreme pleasure to play music with him.”

Kyle Bryant, “with his lumberjack beard and quiet demeanor,” as Tony put it, “disarms everyone he meets before they hear him play. His prowess on the guitar, an acrobatic display of fearlessness and complete control, alternately comforts and shocks. I have never played with anyone like Kyle. He is as thoughtful during his improvising as he is when he writes his original music, often using

his little boy, Gibson, as his muse. Kyle is finishing a graduate degree in jazz performance at USC, while maintaining a professional career in graphic advertising, as well as being a husband and father. The man is impressive.” Kyle writes and records his work.

Travis Shaw lives in Augusta, but routinely commutes to Columbia to play bass. According to Tony, “Travis is committed to being the open, beating heart of any group that is lucky enough to have him. His technical ability means that he can play with anyone, but it’s his empathy and thoughtfulness that set him apart. He FEELS every note and those notes are split-second reactions

to his feeling the notes around him. I have never met a more unselfish, skilled musician.” Travis plays gigs all over South Carolina with his original band, The Brownstown Gritty.

“Like Kyle, Travis is both a father and husband, a role combination that I,” i.e. Tony, “share with both of these men, which certainly plays a part in our musical kinship, but we connect beyond these obvious similarities. I feel both lucky and blessed to know them.”

Tony believes that the joy everyone in the group feels when they make music together is on display when they perform, and the audience can sense and observe that joy. Come and sense and observe that joy when the Tony Lee Group performs on Sunday, February 26, 5:00 pm in the Fripp Island Community Centre, 205 Tarpon Blvd. Admission at the door is $30 for adults (credit cards accepted), students free thanks to the Peg Gorham Memorial Fund. You are invited to a meet-the-artist reception after the performance, catered, deliciously, by Harold’s Chef Services. This concert is presented by FIFOM and supported by the SC Arts Commission. It helps fund FIFOM’s Music-in-the-Schools program. See our website frippfriendsofmusic.com for more info or reservations, and call or text Vanessa Peñaherrera at (704) 807-0255.

Tony Lee

Students Win Big in Art & Writing

Beaufort County School District students have won 58 Southeast regional recognitions in the 2023 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards competition. (Please see attached for a sampling of the Gold Key award-winning artwork.)

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

“It’s great to see our students thrive through artistic expression,” said Superintendent Frank Rodriguez. “These 58 awards are a testament to our exceptionally gifted students and extraordinary art teachers who foster the students’ artistic talents every day.”

McDonnell

There were 32 winners at Hilton Head Island High, 17 at May River High, five at Beaufort High, and four at Bluffton High.

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

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

Gold Key winner from Beaufort High was Elizabeth Sherbert for Spoons (Painting).

Gold Key winners from Hilton Head High were Alondra Colula for Max and Toby (Painting); Addison Fisher for The Life of a Flower (Fashion); and Karen McDonnell for Lady of the Lake (Photography).

Gold Key winners from May River High were Olivia Buck for Evening Subway (Photography); Grace EnYart for SelfPortrait (Digital Art); Addison Gourley for Swimmers (Photography); and Robbin Zetrouer for Grit (Photography) and The Boy (Photography).

Silver Key winner from Beaufort High was Anna Lyles for Fish Camp (Painting).

Silver Key winner from Bluffton High School was Valerie Antonio-Frias for Feeling Blue (Drawing and Illustration).

Silver Key winners from Hilton Head High were Camden Bernstein for Naval Yard (Photography); Skylar Bruner for Shelter in Self-Image (Drawing and Illustration), Shelter in Substance (Mixed Media), and Twisted (Photography); Addison Fisher for The Memory Project, Mariama (Drawing and Illustration) and Silver Hour (Drawing and Illustration); Ashlyn Fleming for Diamond in the Sky (Photography); Zoey Forshee for Shell (Photography) and Young Girl

(Printmaking); Nathaniel Greenberg for Manhole (Photography) and Ravine (Photography); Karen McDonnell for Looking Out (Photography); Maritza Moreno-Tinoco for Relief Spot (Photography); and Leydi Salmeron for Portrait (Drawing and Illustration).

Silver Key winners from May River High were Addison Gourley for Shells (Photography); Emma Morgan for Sweet Treats (Ceramics and Glass); Hailey Shupard for Candelabra (Drawing and Illustration); and Robbin Zetrouer for Around the Fire (Photography).

Beaufort High School Honorable Mentions were Jamar Knight for Me With No Color (Drawing and Illustration); Anna Lemstrom for Morning Contemplation (printmaking); and Jasmine Peru for Transfixed (Drawing and Illustration).

Bluffton High Honorable Mentions were Arden Brown for Deep Sea Tea Party (Ceramics and Glass); Barbara Montelongo for Home (Drawing and Illustration); and Addison Snyder for Is this a Dream? (Design).

Hilton Head High Honorable Mentions were Emily Bocialetti for The Future of Politics (Digital Art); Izabella Delgado Munoz for Sense of Reflection (Digital Art); Maeve Dolan for Self-portrait (Drawing and Illustration); Addison Fisher for Details in Dramatic

Lighting (Photography); Emilie Fister for Reflection (Photography) and Columns (Photography); Ashlynn Fleming for Beams (Photography) and Game Day (Photography); Zoey Forshee for Red Light (Drawing and Illustration); Maya Gozlan for Jane (Photography); Nathaniel Greenberg for Pensive (Drawing and Illustration); Nathaniel Greenberg for Stairs (Photography); Sheila Hobler Ortega for Dock B&W (Photography); Karen McDonnell for Stretched Neck (Photography); and Ixel Pineda for Through an Opening (Photography).

May River High Honorable Mentions were Madison Dilbert for Skull Crusher (Ceramics and Glass); Kate Goldstein for Pressed Flower s (Ceramics and Glass);

Addison Gourley for Student (Photography) and Drift Wood (Photography); Megan Gourley for Archway at the Vatican (Photography) and Pasta Making (Photography); Megan Gourley for Man in the Museum Window (Photography); and Robbin Zetrouer for Banjo Bluegrass (Photography).

Lady of the Lake by Karen

Spoons by Elizabeth Sherbert

The Life of a Flower by Addison Fisher

Self Portrait by Grace EnYart

What Not to Do in Your Backyard

Well, the dearth of blooms in the garden right now is boring and there’s not too much to write about. So. I’ve decided to admit to something that happened to me that’s both funny and embarrassing.

Funny, too, isn’t it, that most humor is at the expense of someone or some thing. I guess we all have a little schadenfreude in us.

I have told y’all about some absolutely silly things I’ve done in pursuit of making my yard beautiful, but this one was really bigger than silly.

First, let me tell you about my back yard. For one thing, it’s big. And it’s fenced with a heavily wooded wild area all around it. So it’s very secluded. When I first bought the property, my niece and I dug a koi pond just behind the house. It’s pretty wide, but only

about two and a half feet deep, except the center. It’s now filled with really big koi and water plants. And really big koi make a really big mess in the water. If you know what I mean.

The only way to clean all the sludge out of the pond is to actually get into the pond and take it out by hand, and that’s really dirty work.

Since it’s so secluded and nothing in my yard is visible from the street, clad only in socks (because the bottom is slippery) and knickers (because I’m somewhat modest) that morning, I cleaned out the pond of several cart loads of crud, then went in to take a shower.

Remembering that the propane truck was coming that day to fill my tank, I called the company to find out what time I could expect it.

“Oh, Mrs. Educate, Dan was there already this morning and put 100 gallons in your tank.”

“Impossible!” I said. “I was in the backyard all morning and I saw no one. And besides, my tank is 250 gallons and it was empty. You must have the wrong address. Have Dan call me.”

Dan called me and explained that indeed he had filled the tank, but he was so addled when he saw me that he was afraid to call out and put the wrong number of gallons on the receipt.

There. Now I’ve admitted to the world in writing one of my most embarrassing faux pas.

By Sandra Educate

No doubt Dan dined out on this story for weeks. How was I to know that he could come in my back yard without me noticing? My dogs certainly didn’t earn their keep by barking. Anyway, I’ve learned my lesson. It’s better to end up with a wet and dirty tee-shirt than to startle any delivery driver who might come into my backyard unannounced.

I’m sure that you, too, have done some really dumb things so I hope this shows you you’re not alone.

Sandra Educate is active in the local Master Gardeners Association and the Beaufort Garden Club, and she produces the annual Lunch and Learn series at the Port Royal Farmers Market. She loves strange and unusual plants and hates weeds. Sandra won’t give away her age, but takes her inspiration from Thomas Jefferson, who said, "though an old man, I am but a young gardener."

Sandra's koi pond

Classifieds Classifieds

TO RENT or OWN

ITALY: Tuscany townhouse for rent by the week in historic UNESCO village. Sleeps 4, large furnished garden, easy walk to shops and excellent restaurants. www.cozyholidayrentals.com or 401-862-2377.

FURNISHED LUXURY APT Heart of downtown Beaufort. 2BR, 2BA, W/D, Housewares. $600/ wk. $2200/mo. 522-9003.

IN SEARCH OF

BUYING BASEBALL CARDS and all other sports cards Pre 1980. Looking for personal collections. Paying Top Dollar $. Beaufort County Resident Call Jim 215-266-2975 or jdvescisr@gmail.com

CLASSES & SEMINARS

BEAUFORT COUNTY LIBRARY ONGOING

PROGRAMS & CLASSES Knitting/Crochet Club 1st Tuesdays @ 2:30; Line Dance Class 1st & 3rd Thursdays @ 3:30; Basic Computer Skills Class Wednesdays @ 9; Hoopla Class 2nd Mondays @ 10 and 4th Wednesdays @ 4; Escape Quest Games daily during library hours; Dungeon & Dragons Teen Club Mondays @ 4; Teen Art Club 1st & 3rd Tuesdays @ 4; Teen Anime Club 2nd & 4th Tuesdays @ 4; Teen Gaming Club 1st & 3rd Wednesdays @ 4

FRIDAY SOCIAL DANCES

The Hilton Head

Carolina Shag Club hosts Friday dances from 6-9:30 pm at Dolphin Head Golf Club, 59 High Bluff Rd, Hilton Head Plantation. Open to the public. Shag, ballroom, swing, country, or line. Singles welcome. Cash bar and light dinners available. $5 floor fee. HHICSC also teaches beginner Shag lessons Tuesday nights. www. hiltonheadshagclub.com , or www.facebook. com/HHICSC

ART LEAGUE OF HH CLASSES & WORKSHOPS With over 25 local professional art educators, and guests from around the world, Art League of Hilton Head offers classes and workshops in all media for all levels of students. Visit www.artleaguehhi.org or email academy@artleaguehhi.org for more info.

POTTERY CLASSES IN BEAUFORT McSweeney Clay Studio is offering morning, afternoon and evening classes for children and adults. Pottery dates and parties available as well. Classes are on going. Beginner or advanced welcome. mcsweeneyclaystudio.com or call 843-694-2049.

LOWCOUNTRY SHAGGERS Mondays at the Moose Lodge, 350 Broad River Blvd. 6-9pm. Carolina Shag Lessons with Tommy & Sheri O'Brien and others. Occasional Ballroom Dance and once a month a Line Dance is taught. Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced lessons. Open dancing after lessons. Visit www.lowcountryshaggers.com or lowcountryshaggers@aol.com

WEDNESDAYS, BEAUFORT SHAG CLUB

founded '02, meets Wed evenings at AMVETS on Ribaut Rd., Port Royal. Free lessons to members. The club is an ACSC, SOS, and the National Fastdance Association member. For info visit www.beaufortshagclub.com

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

CARIS HEALTHCARE: WE HONOR VETERANS Hospice Program. You a Vet with a little time to share with other Vets with limited time? The We Honor Veterans program seeks volunteers who are Vets to offer a listening ear for our Veteran patients. Volunteers also participate in our Pinning Ceremonies for Veteran patients. Contact 843-473-3939 or smilliken@carishealthcare.com

WILDFLOWER FAMILY THERAPY CENTER offers individual, couple, and family therapy for children, teens, and adults. Visit us at www.wildflowercenter.org

HABITAT RESTORE NEEDS VOLUNTEERS

We're looking for volunteers for cashiers, sales floor associates, donation processing, donor data entry, and donor ambassadors. Interested? Go to lowcountryhabitat.org/volunteer or call 843-525-0055.

KARAOKE AT THE MOOSE Sing with us Thursday evenings at The Moose Lodge, 350 Broad River Blvd. 7:30-10:30pm. Brought to you by #top6entertainment Mardi & Dennis Topcik. The Moose is a family friendly place and Thursdays are also Pizza Night!

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for Calhoun Station Thrift Store in Bluffton. All funds generated are returned to other nonprofits in the community. Store is open Wed & Sat 10am to 1pm and located at 77 Pritchard St. Volunteers can stop by store or contact Cate Taylor, 843-310-0594 or catetaylor@frontier.com

MAYE RIVER QUILTERS meets 1st Saturday of Every Month, at Palmetto Electric Cooperative, 1 Cooperative Way, Hardeeville. Members meet at 9:30am for social exchange. The meeting starts at 10 am. We welcome new members. Please call 843-707-6034.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for HELP of Beaufort, 1810 Ribaut Road. Looking for committed volunteers for clothes sorting, pantry help, front desk help and Mobile Meals drivers. We are open M-F from 9:30-12:30, Mobile Meals delivers to home bound seniors 5 days/ week, routes takes about 30-45 mins. Email Lori at helpbeaufort@gmail.com, or call 843-524-1223, or stop in and fill out an application.

PORT ROYAL MUSEUM is open Thursday through Sunday at 1634 Paris Ave., from 10 - 3 or upon request. Free admission! Call 843-524-4333 or email historicportroyalfoundation@gmail.com to request a special opening.

PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP - First Thursday of the month at Beaufort Memorial LifeFit Wellness Center, from 1:30-2:45pm, 900 Ribaut Rd. Beaufort. We are individuals with Parkinson’s care partners of those with Parkinson’s, and individuals or companies providing products or services for Parkinson’s patients. For more info: Rick Ostrander at pdawaresc@ gmail.com or Facebook at Parkinson’s Support Group Of Beaufort SC Port Royal & Lady’s Island.

TOUR HISTORIC FORT FREMONT—-Travel to the 1800's and the Spanish American War. From 10:00 am until 2:00 pm every Friday and every Saturday from 10:00 until 4:00pm at the Fort Fremont History Center at the Fort Fremont Preserve, 1124 Land's End Road, St. Helena Island is open. Docent-led tours are every Saturday at 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. Visitors to Fort Fremont can learn about the fort's history by reading interpretive panels, taking a

Automobiles · Motorcycles

$25 Up to 25 Words

Boats

Pets

$35 Up to 25 Words with a Photo

self-guided tour with a smart phone, visiting the history center exhibit hall, or attending a docent-led tour of the property. The Preserve is open to the public Monday through Sunday from dawn to dusk. For more Information visit www.forttremont.org or contact Passive Parks manager Stefanie Nagid at snagid@bcgov.net

US COAST GUARD AUXILIARY, Flotilla 07-10-01, Port Royal Sound, a uniformed, all volunteer component of the U.S. Coast Guard. We conduct safety patrols, assist search & rescue, teach boat safety, conduct free vessel safety checks and other boating activities. Monthly meetings are open to all and held on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at the Port Royal Sound Foundation classroom at 7pm. For info call Flotilla Commander Pattie McGowan (706-6336192) and visit us on Facebook - USCGA Beaufort. BEAUFORT TOASTMASTERS CLUB meets from 5:30 pm - 6:45 pm the first & third Tuesday, in the Beaufort College Building, Rm. 103 (USC-Beaufort Campus), 801 Carteret Street, Beaufort. To learn more visit www.beauforttoastmastersclub.org

FREE ACUPUNCTURE FOR VETERANS – Veterans, Active Duty, Transition. Their Families and First Responders are Eligible. First & Third Wednesday 4 - 6pm. Walk In Clinic. No Need to Pre-Register or Call. Nourishing Health Acupuncture and Herbs Clinic. 1214 Prince Street, Downtown Beaufort

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for a few hours each week at St. Francis Thrift Shop. Open Tuesday thru Saturday. Call 843-689-6563 or come in to speak with Mr. Hal. Definitely shop.

COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE Safe & effective centuries old healing system treats and prevents a wide range of health-related conditions. Experience individualized treatment in a peaceful group setting. Sliding scale fee. Beaufort Acupuncture, 12 Fairfield Rd, 5B, Lady’s Island. For info and to schedule: (843) 694-0050 or www.BeaufortAcupuncture.com

SECOND HELPINGS seeking Day Captains and other volunteers to crew our trucks distributing food to local charities. Flexible schedule at your convenience. Email officeadmin@secondhelpingslc.org

AGAPE HOSPICE seeks volunteers to spend time bringing joy to our patients and families during a difficult time. Activities include playing music, baking, arts and crafts, pet therapy, manicures, listening to stories, holding hands, etc. Provide companionship to the elderly who often feel lonely and unappreciated. Contact Ashlee Powers at 843-592-8453 or apowers@agapehospice.com

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for HELP of Beaufort. Come join the team providing food, mobile meals, clothing and emergency financial assistance to those in need in our community. Open Mon-Fri 9:30-12:30. 2 Ice House Rd., Beaufort. Call or email Jennifer 843-524-1223 or info@helpofbeaufort.org

TIDEWATER HOSPICE SUPPORT GROUP: Last Wed. and Thurs. of the month. Weds. 10-11am at Sun City; Thurs. 12-1pm Brookdale Hilton Head Ct., Hilton Head; for those who provide physical, emotional or practical support to a family member or friend. Jodi Johnson, LMSW. Bereavement Group: 5-6 pm., Thursdays, 10 Buckingham Plantation Drive, Suite A, Bluffton; for those who have experienced a loss and would like support and info associated with grief and bereavement. Corrie VanDyke, LMSW or Marie James, MA. 843-757-9388

INTERESTED IN HEALTHY EATING? Second Helpings, of Beaufort, Hampton, and Jasper counties, seeks committee members and chairperson for

Healthy Food Program. Funding available to procure fresh produce and protein for the 60 food pantries and soup kitchens served by Second Helpings. Contact Exec. Dir. Lili Coleman, 843-689-3616 or execdirector@secondhelpingslc.org

BORN TO READ working for early childhood literacy, needs volunteers to deliver books and materials to new mothers at Coastal Community Hosp., HH Hosp., and BMH. Visits are from 10am – noon. More info at borntoread.org or call 843-379-3350.

ALZHEIMER’S FAMILY SERVICES OF GREATER BEAUFORT, Support Groups: Caregiver - Weds., 12:30pm, Senior Services of Beaufort, 1408 Paris Ave., Port Royal; Living with Alzheimer's - for those in very early stages - Mondays 1pm, Parsons Parlor, Carteret Street Methodist Church, 408 Carteret, Beaufort. Respite Programs: Social Day Program- 10am-1:45pm $40 Day Fee, Mon. at Cornerstone Christian Church, 2301 First Blvd., Beaufort, Weds. & Friday at Carteret Street Methodist Church, 408 Carteret St., Beaufort; In Home - Respite Aides available for 2 hr. minimum, $12$24. Early Memory Loss: Maintain Your Brain - 2nd & 4th Thursday, 10-11:30am, $10/person, $15 couple, Carteret Street Methodist Church, 408 Carteret St., Beaufort; Memory Screenings available call 843-5219190, free; Purple Haven Project - Educate local establishment staff to better interact with a person with Alzheimer's call 843-521-9190.

THRESHOLD SINGERS OF THE LOWCOUNTRY A choir to ease and comfort people at bedside by offering gentle voices and sacred songs, with sincere kindness. Two to four singers go to bedside when asked and sing a cappella and in harmony. Practice at St. John's Lutheran Church the 2nd & 4th Sundays of the month from 2:30-4:00 pm. Our songs are our gift of service for no charge. Call Pat Keown at 843-476-6073 to either join or ask us to sing for a loved one.

THE LITERACY CENTER is seeking volunteers to tutor adults in reading, writing, math and ESL. Students hope to acquire skills to pursue life goals, support families, and contribute to our community. Daytime and evenings in Bluffton and HHI. Call 843815-6616 (Bluffton); 843-681-6655 (HHI). No teaching, tutoring or other language knowledge necessary. www.theliteracycenter.org

THE SANDALWOOD COMMUNITY FOOD PANTRY. Volunteer-based, non-profit provides groceries, clothing and basic needs items to ANYONE in need. Open Tues & Fri 11:30am-1pm at 114 Beach City Rd., Hilton Head. Donations of food and funds needed. For info: Rev. Dr. Nannette Pierson at 843715-3583 or email sandalwoodpantry@gmail.com

PARRIS ISLAND MUSEUM. The legacy of the Marine Corps and the history of the Port Royal region. Thousands of artifacts, images, and other materials illustrate the stories in exhibit galleries from Native American to modern Marines. FREE admission. Mon-Sat 10am4:30pm and 8am on Family Graduation Days. Closed all Federal Holidays. Info at parrisislandmuseum.org or 843-228-2166.

MEDICAL SERVICES OF AMERICA SEEKS VOLUNTEERS - Volunteers needed for companionship or skills like yard work, music, and crafts to patients and their families or assist in the office with admin tasks. Volunteers needed in Beaufort, Hampton, and Jasper counties. For info contact 843-322-0063

CHRIST CENTERED RECOVERY MEETINGS Join Shell Point Baptist Church Saturdays for “Celebrate Recovery”, addressing life’s problems and looking to scripture for solutions. Meal at 6pm; Praise and Worship at 6:30pm followed by Small Groups at 7:15pm. 871 Parris Island Gateway, Beaufort. Info at 843-592-1046.

Gifts from the Boneyard

By Margit Resch

Boneyard? What is a boneyard, you ask?

Don’t feel bad that you don’t know. Most people I asked had no idea. No, no, don’t look up “boneyard” in the dictionary. Not only are the definitions depressing, they take you in the entirely wrong direction.

Instead, ask an old Beaufortonian, or a nature lover, or a beachcomber, or, even better, go to Hunting Island and actually experience a boneyard: walk along the beach to the southern end of the island and, there, ahead of you: a boneyard! A magical collection of expired trees. No leaves, no needles, no bark, some still standing, most of them totally uprooted, often intertwined in a close embrace, resting comfortably on the soft sand. Nature’s work of art, created by the encroaching ocean waters and winds, constantly changing. Gifts to those among the millions of visitors coming to Hunting Island every year, who can find beauty in this unusual display on our barrier islands, who can unhinge their imagination and imbue these intriguing arboreal exhibits with meaning. Some are even gifted with the ability to express their experience in works of art. Three of these artists will share their gorgeous renditions with you in the Maritime Center of the Port Royal Sound Foundation—an event called Gifts from the Boneyard, Art Inspired by the Landscapes of Hunting Island.

The exhibit is the brainchild of featured fiber artist Barbara James, President of Art Cloth Network, founded 25 years ago, whose members from the US and Canada are juried in. And she founded Fiber Artists of Beaufort. A fiber artist, you ask? Well, don’t feel bad. I had to ask, too. Basically, fiber art includes weaving, felting, basketry and surface design, among others. Fabric, so Barbara says in her Artist Statement, “is endlessly fascinating. It excites our senses as it moves and pushes the artist, and the collector, to fully embrace the sight, sound, touch and even smell of the cloth; it is not passive.” Barbara expresses her creative self on pure white silk. After clamping, stitching or folding the fabric, she immerses it in different colored dye baths to create, as she puts it, “depth and mystery. Then using any combinations of personally designed silk screens, rubber stamps, stencils, brushes, paint rollers… I press, paint or roll color onto

the fabric adding multiple patterns of interest. I often incorporate hand-stitching, transfer from original photos and beading. The result is a vivid original piece of art that combines representational and abstract imagery.”

Barbara’s passion for “cloth art” goes back to her childhood, when she designed and sewed her own clothes, and was scientifically substantiated when she studied textiles and earned a BA and MA. After her retirement from teaching at The Ohio State University, she succumbed to her passion and started to create fiber art. Her work is inspired by her travels, current events, and by “the lush and exotic landscapes“ of her home here in Beaufort. Nine of her unusual, gorgeous fiber art creations will be for sale at the exhibit.

The other two artists, also from the Lowcountry, are photographers Joan

Eckhardt and Andy Stephens. They share with Barbara their love for and support of Hunting Island. Both have helped illustrate Carol Corbin’s fabulous book on the history, ecology and physical beauty of Hunting Island State Park, Wild Island Nature. Their pictures (in the exhibit on canvas, needless to say) capture the magic of the boneyard in so many unexpected and intriguing ways.

Joan Eckardt’s magical photographs reflect her passion for nature and creative portraiture. Her work has been juried into regional and national exhibits, including the South Carolina chapter of the National Association of Women Artists. She joined the Photography Club of Beaufort in 2007, was elected its president, and became involved in the book Beauty of Beaufort, the proceeds of which were donated to the Friends of Hunting

Island, resulting in her intimate bond with the park. In her words: “I joyfully spend many hours every year exploring the ever changing, intriguing, mysterious boneyard on Hunting Island and walking the beaches looking for shorebirds. Additionally, I have recently contributed all the images for a book for new gardeners in the Lowcountry. I always seek to evoke an emotional response and connection with the viewer which will encourage them to linger a bit longer at the print or canvas.” So, when you come to see the exhibit, linger a while in front of Joan’s photographs and pay attention to your response.

Andy Stephens, after retiring to the Beaufort area twelve years ago from a career in financial services and technology, rekindled his interest in nature photography, which had begun in high school. He loves to travel with his wife and dog throughout the southeast, photographing the natural beauty of the region. His pictures have been displayed and sold in local art and craft shows. He is passionate about Hunting Island and serves on the Friends of Hunting Island Board.

“I guess my fascination with the boneyard is that it is ever changing,“ he says. “I have been visiting there since 2010 and have never found it to be the same.” To this day, he is wondering what it might become. “I like the fact that some trees are able to ‘hang on’ longer than others and remain standing even with the surf smashing around their trunk day in and day out. I remember my first visit. After crossing the bridge on the Nature Center Trail and walking a short distance through some trees, I reached the beach with maybe a 2-foot drop-off. Today the path stays flat to the waters edge with no elevation change. And the trees I previously walked through are now part of the boneyard.”

The Boneyard art exhibit will open March 2nd and run for a month at the Port Royal Sound Foundation’s Maritime Center, 310 Okatie Hwy, Okatie. It is open Tuesday –Friday from 10am - 5pm and on Saturday from 10am - 4pm. The opening reception is on Thursday, March 2nd from 4:00 - 6:00 pm. Both, the exhibit and the reception, are open to the public. Admission is free.

All exhibit pieces are for sale. Part of the proceeds will be donated to the Maritime Center and the Friends of Hunting Island.

Broken Heart, top, and Carried Away, below, by Barbara James

The 502s, 3/2 Mac Saturn; Billy Tibbals, 3/4 Iya Terra; Artikal Sound System; Sundub, 3/5 The Dip; Juice. (843) 408-1599 or www.musicfarm.com

The Pour House, 1977 Maybank Hwy, Charleston. Sundays - The Motown Throwdown, Mondays

- Slim & Friends; Tuesdays - Fusion Jonez, Wednesdays - Grateful Dead Wednesday with The Reckoning. 2/16 Jimbo Mathus; Schaefer Llana, 2/17 & 2/18 Doom Flamingo, 2/20 Clem Snide, 2/21 Fire on the Bayou, 2/23 Happy Landing; Sounds of Blackfox; Tree Limbs, 2/24 & 2/25 Grateful Shred, 2/26 Tommy Prine; Jordan Smart, 3/1 The Grass is Dead - bluegrass Dead, 3/3 & 3/4 Yonder Mountain String Band, 3/5 Marshgrass Mamas. (843) 5714343 or www.charlestonpourhouse.com

Windjammer, 1008 Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms. 2/17 Weird Science, 2/18 FlashMob, 2/24 Nighttrain

- Guns & Roses tribute, 2/25 The Puddleducks, 3/3 & 3/4 Midnight City. (843) 886-8596 or www.the-windjammer.com

BEAUFORT/PORT ROYAL

Foolish Frog, 846 Sea Island Pkwy, St. Helena Island. (843) 838-9300. thefoolishfrog.com

Luther’s Rare & Well Done, 910 Bay Street. (843) 521-1888 or www.luthersrareandwelldone.com

Q on Bay, 822 Bay St, Beaufort. (843) 524-7771 or www.qonbay.com

Rosie O’Gradys Irish Pub, in Beaufort Town Center. December! A Blessed Season! We're open thru the Holidays. C'mon down! Mondays & Tuesdays F&B Nights with Discounts; Wednesday, Friday & Saturday - Karaoke at 10pm. Open daily at 11:30am. 18 Years Now! Closed Christmas Day. (843) 379-7676 or Rosie's on Facebook.

Saltus River Grill, 802 Bay St, Beaufort. (843) 3793474 or www.saltusrivergrill.com

BLUFFTON/HILTON HEAD

Big Bamboo, Coligny Plaza. (843) 686-3443 or www.bigbamboocafe.com

Captain Woody’s, 6 Target Rd., Hilton Head or 17 State of Mind St., Bluffton. www.captainwoodys.com

The Jazz Corner, Village at Wexf1ord, Hilton Head. Sundays - Deas Guyz; Mondays - A Journey Through Jazz with The Martin Lesch Band; Tuesdays - Fat Tuesdays: A Swingin' Celebration of New Orleans and Beyond; Thursdays - Lavon Stevens with Louise Spencer. 2/15 Lavon Stevens with Quiana Parker, 2/17 & 2/18 Geoffrey Keezer Trio, 2/22 Bobby Ryder, 2/24 & 2/25 The Peter & Will Anderson Trio, 3/1 Lavon Stevens with Quiana Parker, 3/3 & 3/4 Joe Alterman Trio. (843) 842-8620 or www.TheJazzCorner.com

Omni Hilton Head Ocean Front in Palmetto Dunes. Buoy Bar - HH Prime - (843) 842-8000 or www.omnihotels.com

OUT OF TOWN

The Music Farm, 32 Ann Street, Charleston. 2/15 Comedians in Drag Doing Comedy with Dr. Anna Lepeley, Hagan Ragland, Shawana Jarrett, Rossi Brown, and Kaz Sortino, 2/16 Blade Rave - Vampire themed rave with Sam Wolfe; Nhexis; Xocar, 2/17 Charles Wesley Godwin; JR Carroll, 2/18 Mimosa Fest with DJ Cabanavibez - doors 11am, show at noon; Fatrat Da Czar; DJ Kingpin; VOV; Midimarc; Langston Hughes III; Tyrie, 2/19 Lotus, 2/21 Adam Melchor, 2/23 Chase Matthew, 2/24 Gimme Gimme Disco, 2/25 Best Night Ever, 2/26 Eric Bellinger, 3/1

Editors Note: Events listed here may be subject to postponement or cancellation. Please check for further information.

THEATER/FILM/DANCE

Now – 2/19, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head. For tickets visit www.artshhi.com or call 843-842-2787

GALLERIES/ART

Now – 2/20, Indelible Moments: 1970 Street Photographs from Two Cultures, Photographs by Jack Dempsey at USCB Center for the Arts. 801 Carteret Street, Beaufort. For more information, visit www.jdempsey.net

Now – 2/23, The Food We Celebrate. This traveling exhibit tells the story of selected foodways and how they are celebrated and shared. Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage in downtown Ridgeland. www.morrisheritagecenter.org

Now - 2/27, "On the Edge of a Forest, A Conversation Begins," an exhibit of artwork by Jean McLaughlin and Tom Spleth at USCB Sea Islands Center Gallery in Beaufort.

Now – 2/28, All Saints Garden Tour Art Show at the Hilton Head Branch of the Beaufort County Public Library.

Now - 2/28, Show Your Love, an exhibit of small, original art pieces and vintage valentine postcards at the Beaufort Art Association gallery. 913 Bay Street, Beaufort. www.beaufortartassociation.com

Now – 2/29, Reflections of Nature: Painting

with Glass. Featuring the work of Sharon Cooper. The Beaufort Art Association Gallery is at 913 Bay Street, Beaufort. www.beaufortartassociation.com

Now – 3/5, Annual High School Art Show hosted by the Society of Bluffton Artists. Located in Old Town Bluffton. www.sobagallery.com

2/26 – 4/30, Rainy Days and More, exhibit of artwork by Norma Beal at Beaufort Art Association Gallery. Artist reception Fri 3/3 from 5-8pm, 913 Bay Street, downtown Beaufort.

3/2 – 4/2, Gifts from the Boneyard, Art Inspired by the Landscapes of Hunting Island at the Port Royal Sound Foundation’s Maritime Center, 310 Okatie Hwy, Okatie. Opening reception Thur, 3/2 from 4 – 6 pm. Free and open to the public.

3/4 – 5/6, Binya: Faces ob de Gullah Geechee

Portrait Exhibition at the Coastal Discovery Museum on Hilton Head. For more info and a schedule of events, visit www.coastaldiscovery.org

3/7 – 4/8, Art + Quilt = Art, an exhibit of work by the Art Quilters of the Lowcountry at Art League Gallery, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head. Artist reception Wed 3/8 from 5-7pm. Free and open to the public. RSVP at www.gallery@artleaguehhi.org 843-681-5060

BOOKS & WRITERS

Mondays Now - 3/13, Books Sandwiched In hosted by The Friends of the Beaufort Library, Noon - 1pm at USCB Center for the Arts. For a full of books and presenters, visit www.friendsofthebeaufortlibrary.com/books-sandwiched-in

Fri 2/17, Evening of Art & Poetry with art historian Midori Yamamura and husband, poet Luis Francia at the Beaufort Arts Council, 921 Ribaut Rd., Beaufort, from 5-7:30 pm. Cohosted by the Pat Conroy Literary Center. Seating is limited. Call the Conroy Center to reserve your spot. 843-379-7025.

Sat 2/18, Lynn Seldon (Carolina’s Ring) in conversation with John Warley from 4-6pm at the Beaufort Bookstore, 2127 Boundary Street, Beaufort.

Tues 2/21 & 2/28, Lecture Series on C.S. Lewis’s Abolition of Man. Hosted by Holy Trinity Classical Christian School. Rev. Joe Lawrence will lead the two-night series from 6 to 7 p.m., on the main campus at 302 Burroughs Ave. For more information, please contact Celeste Pruit at cpruit@htccs.org or 843-379-9632.

Fri 3/3, Bestselling author De’Shawn Charles Winslow (Decent People) in conversation with Jonathan Haupt (Our Prince of Scribes: Writers Remember Pat Conroy). Free and open to the public, this book discussion and signing will be held at NeverMore Books (910 Port Republic St, Beaufort) at 5 pm. Seating is limited; please call 843-812-9460 to reserve in advance.

MUSIC

Sun 2/19, USCB Chamber Music Concert, featuring music by Brahms, Gershwin and Schumann. 5 pm at the USCB Center for the Arts, 801 Carteret Street, Beaufort. For concert/ ticket information, go to www.uscbchambermusic.com or call 843-208-8246.

Sun 2/26, The Tony Lee Group will perform at the Fripp Island Community Centre at 5pm. Admission at the door is $30 for adults, students free. Meet-the-artists reception following the performance. Visit www.frippfriendsofmusic. com or call 704-807-0255 for reservations.

OTHER EVENTS

Thur, 2/16, ‘Five Centuries of History’ Lecture Series sponsored by Historic Beaufort Foundation at USCB Center for the Arts. Featuring historians John McCardell, Larry Rowland, and Stephen Wise. $30 per lecture/$150 lecture package for HBF members. $35 per lecture/$175 lecture package for nonHBF members. $20 per lecture/$100 lecture package for full-time students. www.historicbeaufort.org

2/21 – 2/26, 17th Annual Beaufort International Film Festival at USCB Center for the Arts. For a full schedule of events and tickets info, visit www. beaufortfilmfestival.com

3/2 – 3/5, 6th Annual Maison Beaufort: Antiques, Home & Garden Show. Tabby Place, 913 Port Republic Street, Beaufort. Preview Party $40 (3/2) in advance. General admission $6 in advance, $10 at the door (3/3-3/5). www.maisonbeaufort.org

Thursdays and some Tuesdays, Tours of Hunting Island Lighthouse  sponsored by Friends of Hunting Island. Keeper Ted and his team will tell the history of the Lighthouse built in 1875. For info call the Nature Center at 843-838-7437. Tours are $2 a person and park entry fees apply.

Second Friday, Beaufort Drum Circle 2nd Friday of every month. 6:30 – 8 pm at the Gazebo in Waterfront Park. Eric Roy is the facilitator. Sessions with 15-20 minutes of instruction on djembe playing and a selected traditional rhythm & accompaniment for participants. Also, there will be time for spontaneous group drumming. All welcome. No experience necessary. Bring a drum, if you have one, a chair, and desire for fun. The Drum Circle has extra instruments anyone can use. For more info visit the BeaufortDrumCircle Facebook page.

Third Thursday, TECHconnect is a monthly networking event for professionals working in and around technology. Come and join on the for the conversation at BASEcamp 500 Carteret 5:307:30pm. 843-470-3506. www.beaufortdigital.com

Thursdays, History Tours of Fort Mitchell by the Heritage Library, 10am. $12/Adult $7/Child. 843-686-6560

Gilbert Law Firm llc

Alisha Doud alisha@dcgilbert.com

Daun Schouten daun@dcgilbert.com

Laure Gallagher laure@dcgilbert.com

Ashley Hart ashley@dcgilbert.com

Joy McConnell joy@dcgilbert.com

Dawn Shipsey dawn@dcgilbert.com

Johanna Graham johanna@dcgilbert.com

Kathy Crowley kathy@dcgilbert.com

Kaitlyn Kintz reception@dcgilbert.com

Derek C. Gilbert derek@dcgilbert.com

Melissa R. Wicker melissa@dcgilbert.com

Sam Bailey samuel@dcgilbert.com

Derek C. Gilbert Attorney at Law