VOLUME 25, ISSUE 2 • JANUARY 19, 2022

Jan. 19, 2022 • Volume 25, Issue 2 • Complimentary • BlufftonSun.com

INSIDE • Community rallies to aid victim of Christmas fire 10A • Passion defines Black Excellence award winners 16A • Leadership class project to yield new Bluffton park 21A • Hot Spots for good coffee, treats 23A • Bluffton Self Help expands reach, service area 26A

Growing population is pushing county schools to near-capacity

By Gwyneth J. Saunders CONTRIBUTOR

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Beaufort County’s population has increased 18.4% in the past 10 years, growing from 162,233 to a total of 187,117. The growth has had a major impact on student capacity in the county’s education system, particularly in those schools south of the Broad River.

Bluffton area enrollments data from November 2021, part of a county-wide document that was presented to the Beaufort County Board of Education’s operations committee on Jan. 12, shows that both May River and Bluffton high schools are nearing maximum capacity. H.E. McCracken is 50 students above capacity, and Pritchardville

Elementary is more than 200 above.

“The district is seeing a return to pre-pandemic growth rates in southern Beaufort County,” said district Superintendent Frank Rodriguez. “Overall, the schools in Bluffton are at or over capacity.”

A new round of facilities inspections and needs assessments are currently underway, said Rodriguez.

“There continues to be a need for additional schools in Bluffton. Impact fees and a referendum bond are both options,” he added.

The subject of student numbers was under discussion during the Jan. 12 meeting of the district’s Operation Department when the

Please see SCHOOLS on page 8A

COURTESY BEAUFORT COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The addition to May River High School was completed in 2021 to provide space for increased numbers of students. The school is again nearing maximum capacity.

Registration now open for sheriff’s Citizens Police Academy Registration for the Spring 2022 Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Citizens Police Academy (CPA) is now open. Space is limited, and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Eight classroom sessions – one evening per week – will be held, in which participants will learn about the many services the Sheriff’s Office provides, including patrol

operations, emergency management, criminal and cold case investigations, SWAT and forensic sciences.

Also during the program, participants will take a Saturday field trip for demonstrations by the SWAT Team and K-9 Unit, and to see a static display of the Sheriff’s Office’s special operations equipment.

The program is being offered at locations

Visit the maritime center to check out our new exhibits !

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in both Northern and Southern Beaufort County.

The first class for those registered in the Northern Beaufort County CPA program is Feb. 1 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Technical College of Lowcountry, 921 Ribaut Road in Beaufort, Building 23.

The first class for those registered in the Southern Beaufort County CPA program

is Feb. 3 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Technical College of the Lowcountry, New River Campus, 100 Community College Drive in Bluffton, Room 126.

To learn more about the CPA program and to apply, visit bcso.net/community-programs-and-services/citizens-police-academy or call Staff Sergeant Daniel Allen at 843255-3293.

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The Bluffton Sun

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Jan. 19, 2022

Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

Page 3A

SUNNY SIDE UP

Driving life’s highways in community with trees and strangers

By Lynne Cope Hummell EDITOR

A few days ago, we took a daytrip to Florida. It wasn’t a vacation, although my husband, our son and I did have a lovely time on the way down and back.

It’s amazing the kinds of conversations one might have while confined for four hours at a stretch in a moving vehicle.

I was the driver and Chandler was my navigator in the front passenger seat. Amos reclined, half listening to us – and sometimes responding – in the back.

Driving through the lesser populated area south of Savannah, Chandler noticed stands of trees in swampy troughs. He commented about the way they looked, standing tall, with the morning sun shining on them from the east. “I’ve never really seen them this way,” he said. I wondered if he meant at this time of day, or if he referred to his improved vision with new glasses. Turns out, it was both.

We have had numerous conversations about trees and their underground networks. Chandler learned about this fascinating phenomenon through his study of and foraging for edible mushrooms.

Beneath a healthy forest floor is a microscopic network of fungus, or mycelium, the tiny threads that wrap around and through a tree’s roots. Mushrooms are the “fruit” of the fungus.

The trees that “live” together behave much like humans – communicating with one another, sharing nutrients when one of them is sick, and protecting the weaker among them.

They live in community.

(You can read more about this, and other tree mysteries, in “The Hidden Life of Trees,”

by German forester Peter Wohlleben.)

Not long after the tree observations, we were almost as mesmerized by watching vehicles moving around us, noting the style of the cars and trucks, their drivers and their actions and movements from one lane to

another, fast or slow.

As I often do, I wondered about the drivers – who are they, where are they going, why are they here in this spot at this particular time?

Chandler had a similar thought. “I’ve always thought of the cars around me on the highway as part of a community,” he said.

I appreciated his communal view, but I was not sure I share that perspective. The trees are a community. Where we live, alongside our neighbors, is a community.

Community means interaction, communication, sharing ideas, working together.

Cars, though (for now) driven by humans, are machines with no feelings. Any one of them could come careening toward me for no apparent reason. That doesn’t sound neighborly. We aren’t sharing anything but the road.

The next day, following up on our conversation, I asked Chandler to elaborate on his comment. After his explanation, I changed my mindset.

“Whenever I’m traveling, I’m thinking about my destination and why I’m going there,” he said. “I wonder if all these people are going to the same place.”

He talked about how drivers do indeed interact with one another, as we observe the speed and signals of each other, anticipating lane changes and the like. We might make up what we think their story might be.

Who knows? But we’re all here at the same spot at the same time, so we share part of their story, no matter how insignificant it might seem.

It made sense to me and I felt enlightened.

Hours later, on our return trip, we were lucky to see the most gorgeous sunset – a wide spread of purples, reds and oranges to go with the brilliant yellow of the sun as it disappeared over the horizon.

I knew other drivers must have experienced it too. And I wondered if that shared experience made them feel more a part of our community.

1/31/2022

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The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022

EDITORIAL

Current Circulation Via USPS is 24,720 Finalist: Small Business of the Year, HHI-Bluffton Chamber.

Winner of the SAPA General Excellence Award; 1st place, Front Page Design; 2nd place, Most Improved Publication; and 3rd place, Self-Promotion Advertising.

IFPA-SAPA 3rd Place, Business Coverage

PUBLISHER

Kevin Aylmer, kevina@blufftonsun.com

EDITOR

Lynne Hummell, editor@blufftonsun.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kim Perry Bowen

OFFICE MANAGER Melissa McCullough

CONTRIBUTORS Pete Berntson Abby Bird Joel Braun Amy Coyne Bredeson Bob Colyer Mark Deloach Collins Doughtie Jean Harris Tony Kukulich Matthew Masrorocco

Dave Miller Weston Newton Lindsay Perry Joy Ross Gwyneth J. Saunders Cinda Seamon Larry Stoller Mark Winn Tim Wood

ADVERTISING

B.J. Frazier, Sales Director, 843-422-2321 Mike Garza 804-928-2151 Claudia Chapman 814-434-3665 Stan Wade 843-338-1900

VISIT:

BlufftonSun.com For more information, contact: Kevin Aylmer PO Box 2056, Bluffton, SC 29910 843-757-9507, 843-757-9506 (fax) Physical address: 14D Johnston Way Bluffton, SC 29910 All contents are copyrighted by Lowcountry Local Media Inc. All rights reserved. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. All submissions must include name, address and phone number. The Editor reserves the right to edit or reject any material, including advertisements. The Bluffton Sun does not verify for licenses, endorse nor warrant any advertised businesses or services.

The opinions and views expressed in the editorials are not necessarily those of the Editor and Publisher. Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, Greater Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, Old Town Bluffton Merchants Society.

THE BLUFFTON SUN Issue 2, January 19, 2022 is published twice monthly by Lowcountry Local Media, Inc., 14D Johnston Way, Bluffton, SC 29910.

Periodicals Postage Paid at Bluffton, SC and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE BLUFFTON SUN, PO Box 2056, Bluffton, SC 29910-2056.

Redistricting plan approved by Judiciary Committee

By Weston Newton CONTRIBUTOR

The holidays are over and the New Year is in full swing. I trust you had a good holiday season and spent time with family and friends celebrating all the many blessings of our great nation.

My holiday was exceptionally special and I have made a full recovery.

2021 is in the rear- Weston Newton view mirror and the New Year offers the promise of abundant opportunities.

The General Assembly returned to Columbia to begin the 2022 session Jan. 11. Just prior to that, the House Judiciary Committee debated and approved a redistricting plan for the seven congressional districts in South Carolina. Different from the state House and Senate plans with “permissible deviations” in population of the districts, absolute equity in voting is required with congressional plans.

Essentially these districts can be only one person different in population based on the 2020 census numbers. While the House districts include approximately 41,000 residents, the Congressional

Districts are required to be 731,204 (+/- 1 person).

The explosive growth over the past 10 years in certain areas of our state, especially along the coast, makes this rebalancing of population challenging.

Prior to 2000, Beaufort County was in the First Congressional District, with most of Charleston County; from 2000 to 2010, we were in the Second District with most of Lexington County; and since 2010, we have been back in the First District.

As we try to rebalance the population, the simple fact is the Lowcountry is not big enough yet to have our own congressional seat, but our numbers make drawing a new plan that keeps our area intact and connected with areas with similar issues challenging. We have heard from a number of residents of this area that we have more in common (“community of interest”) with the Charleston coastal areas than with Lexington, which is at the center of the state.

In addition to testimony throughout the fall, the redistricting subcommittee took in person and virtual testimony on Dec. 16 and 29 and continued to accept written testimony specifically related to the congressional plan through Jan. 9.

Separate from finishing the remaining redistricting work, the legislature will be

busy early in the session deciding how to best spend the $2 billion from the federal government’s American Rescue Plan. As I have discussed previously in this space, the expansion of broadband, especially in rural South Carolina, is incredibly important and will have an enormous impact on educating students, creating jobs and luring business to industry to rural areas.

It is my hope that a sizeable portion of this one-time federal funding will be allocated to expanding this infrastructure.

Other legislative priorities will likely include election integrity, making it harder to cheat but making sure every legal vote is counted. I am proud to be a primary sponsor, along with the other members of the Beaufort Delegation, of a number of bills to accomplish these goals, including clarifying the circumstances under which a person is deemed to have changed domicile for voting purposes and to make mail-in absentee ballots more secure.

It is an honor and privilege to serve you in the S.C. House of Representatives. If I may be of service, please do not hesitate to contact me either in Bluffton or in Columbia.

Weston Newton is the representative for District 120 in the State House of Representatives. WestonNewton@schouse.gov

Letter to the Editor To the Editor: Over the years, I have enjoyed reading a number of inspiring articles in the “Faith” section of this newspaper. I wanted to try my hand at it once, but I did not have the “credentials” – no religious training.

But I have been fortunate enough to write letters in the past about a book that has been the greatest treasure in my life (“In the Light of Truth; The Grail Message” by Abd-ru-shin).

So today, during the close of the Christmas season, and beginning of a new year, I could not help but won-

der how the most important Visitor on earth was born in a stable and sent away on a cross. Some might say that if the people would have only recognized him at that time, they would have treated him with the utmost dignity and respect.

Guests at the inn would have gladly given up their rooms in a minute for him. And, if those who condemned him to death only knew what they were doing (“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do!”), surely they would have freed this Visitor instead of a known criminal. If they only

knew.

Before this undeserved execution took place, the Visitor promised another who “will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” It would be a last opportunity to make things right.

But would this second Visitor endure the same hostilities as the first?

Except this time, instead of a crucifixion, a character assassination takes place instead. If we only knew.

Gene Ceccarelli Bluffton

Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

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The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022

SUN ON THE STREET

Good things are already happening in this fresh new year With this feature, we seek to capture a glimpse of what you and your neighbors have to say about a variety of topics, issues, events – and just

John Smiljanic, Bluffton: “I brought in the New Year with my wife of 50 years, like we’ve done for the past 49.”

plain fun questions.

You might see us anywhere around town, with notepad and camera, randomly seeking out folks who are

Janet Smiljanic, Bluffton: “I met 10 of the most delightful college-age ladies at Corner Perk, all home for the holidays, and talked to every one of them.”

of Hilton Head

willing to participate. If we find you, we hope you will want to respond.

At the end of the first week in January, at Absolutely Perfect, a unique

Adelyne Simoneaux, Bluffton: “Getting some time off to appreciate nature, my family and friends.”

and fun store in the Promenade, we asked: “What’s the best thing that has happened to you so far this year?”

Wyatt Reiser, Bluffton: “Getting a greenhouse for all my plants. And it’s already full, so I need another one.”

Jacqueline Fitzgerald, Milton, Mass.: “Being able to come on this last-minute vacation to Bluffton to visit with the family.”

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Page 7A

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Page 8A

The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022

SCHOOLS from page 1A 2022 Facilities Master Plan was introduced.

This plan is one of two documents that replaces the previous planning process provided under a single document as a five- or 10-year plan. It was scheduled to be presented to the school board at its Jan. 18 meeting, although it may go into deeper discussion at a workshop or special session.

The second document is the Capital Improvement Plan, which covers the status of current projects. That will be presented to the board in March.

Operations Committee Planning Coordinator Carol Crutchfield gave a brief overview of the 165-page document, which is laid out under what the document defines as a three-pronged framework for comprehensive facilities planning that covers programs, student demographics and facilities.

When reviewing the issue1of demographics and school capacities, Crutchfield said the ideal scenario is to have the schools 2 Included in hovering around 85% capacity. the current student population section are three years of projections: 2019 pre-COVID projection, 2020 projection3showing where there was drop in enrollment, and then 2021 projections. Numbers show that the district 4

is almost at pre-COVID numbers.

“What we’re seeing in terms of trends are those areas that were declining pre-COVID, they are still declining,” said Crutchfield.

“District-wide we’re in great shape, but the projection model looks at bursts – who’s moving in – and those numbers coming in have gotten smaller every year.”

The decrease isn’t hitting the Bluffton Cluster, which includes Bluffton and May River high schools, Bluffton, Okatie, Pritchardville and Red Cedar elementary schools plus two Early Childhood Centers, H.E. McCracken and Bluffton Middle School plus River Ridge Academy.

Bluffton schools have a total capacity of 10,573 students. The current student population is 9,510, as of attendance data taken 45 days into the school year, and the report projects a 3.1% growth in the next five years.

At the moment there are no plans for any rezoning or changes in student assignment.

In 2018-19, Crutchfield reminded attendees, the school board gave the committee the ability to assign brand new neighborhoods that1didn’t have any students in them to schools that had the ability to expand or were capable of incorporating mobile class2

rooms into their campuses.

“Now houses are being sold, students are starting to move in, so we are going to continue to track those, and see what the effect is until we are able to build more schools, and make those changes in student assignment in the future,” Crutchfield added.

Both McCracken and Pritchardville are using mobile units, and Pritchardville, built in 2010 was not – according to the data report –designed for expansion. Eight additional mobile classrooms will be set up this summer at Pritchardville to supplement the 10 already in use.

The core facilities at both schools, the report notes, are inadequate. The district defines the core facility of a school as all of the non-classroom spaces. That means student growth is out-pacing school resources such as the cafeterias, auditoriums, physical education facilities and libraries.

One solution – for at least Pritchardville – was classroom expansion at the May River High School campus.

“We do foresee a need in the future for additional high school capacity in Bluffton.

Until a new facility is constructed, mobile units will be used to accommodate student

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growth. Both schools currently have mobile units in use. The district has plans to add to additional modular classrooms at Pritchardville this summer,” Rodriguez noted. “Inactive mobile units will be put back into active service at McCracken Middle School.”

County voters refused to pass two previous referendums, leaving a gap of 11 years when citizens approved a $162,735,000 bond in 2008. The initial needs assessment from the 2019 bond identified a total of $629 million in projects that would bring the system up to speed with, among other items, aging facilities, rapidly changing technology, and an increased requirement to improve school security.

The school system is currently midway through completion of the projects that were covered under the $345 million bond referendum county voters approved in 2019.

The current referendum projects include improvements district-wide in safety and security, and technology and infrastructure.

All county school projects are on track to be completed late 2023 or early 2024.

Gwyneth J. Saunders is a veteran reporter living in Bluffton.

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Tidewatch Freestanding Emergency Department 349 Tidewatch Dr. West Bluffton, SC 29910

Bluffton Okatie Outpatient Center 40 Okatie Center Blvd. South Okatie, SC 29909

Coastal Carolina Hospital 1000 Medical Center Dr. Hardeeville, SC 29927

Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

Page 9A

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COURTESY BLUFFTON TOWNSHIP FIRE DISTRICT

Firefighters work to put out a fire that destroyed a home off Goethe Road in Bluffton just before Christmas.

By Tim Wood CONTRIBUTOR

A fire off Goethe Road robbed a longtime Bluffton resident of her house and all her worldly possessions three days before Christmas. But it has not stolen her belief in the kindness of others, thanks to an outpouring of community support.

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age was extensive and made the dwelling unlivable. The woman, who is currently on dialysis and in the midst of a five-year wait for a kidney transplant, was not home at the time.

“That’s a blessing as well. I have no burns, I have no smoke damage in my lungs. I lost my worldly possessions, but I’m still here,” she said.

Community members immediately rallied in support of the woman, led by community activist Heather Price. The Ask and Answer Facebook group founder asked for donations the day of the fire and quickly received all the items on the wish list plus many more. Donations included furniture, home décor, appliances and an Amazon Kindle.

Angel donors such as Holly Loebs at Vintage Market and Janelle Nelems at JKN Design Services have helped in donating a lot of home furnishings for the victim’s potential new home.

In all, so much was donated that a storage unit was needed. Morningstar Storage of Bluffton quickly stepped up to house the donations at their facility.

Please see FIRE on page 12A

Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

Page 11A

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Page 12A

The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022

FIRE from page 10A

“The kindness of this community never ceases to amaze me, it’s just what we do here. We take care of our neighbors,” Price said. “And for this to happen three days before Christmas, I think that just hit people’s hearts even harder.”

The woman is staying with relatives on Hilton Head Island for now, and, while thankful to have a roof over her head, she misses the neighbors she has had in the Goethe Road corridor since moving there in 1975.

“Those are some good people. I definitely miss my privacy, my independence, but I’m fortunate to have family to lean on,” she said. “To know the friends you make, the way you try to live, that it had an impact on friends and strangers that would want to help me, it keeps me going.”

Insurance adjusters have said the home is totaled but have not given a timeline as to when she can expect a ruling on a settlement.

“It’s been a waiting game with this kidney, so I know ‘waiting’ well. You just got to keep on putting one foot in front of the other each day,” she said.

Two of her three siblings are already deceased. She said the fire was just another sign that she has more to do on Earth.

“Yes, I’ve dealt with a lot of loss. But I’m still here,” she said. “This kidney battle, losing my family, it’s been tough, but I’m a fighter.”

One of the possessions that is most difficult to replace are the dentures that were lost in the fire. A Bluffton dentist, Dr. Joseph

Miller, has donated his services to help fit the woman with new dentures, but the cost of the materials from the outside company needs to be covered.

A GoFundMe campaign has been started to help cover the denture materials costs and has raised more than $4,000 to date.

“The idea that I’m going to be able to get dentures back, I just can’t wait for that little bit of normal,” the woman said of the GoFundMe help. “To have Dr. Miller and folks donating money here, I just don’t have enough ways to say thank you.”

She dreams of the day that she can return to the site that has been her home for more than 45 years. She is very nervous about potentially living in another mobile home.

“I hope I can have a sturdier home with good bones when I finally can get back there,” she said. “I’m just saying my prayers and hoping for a good call from the insurance folks.”

In the meantime, she still has a few immediate needs. The GoFundMe monies raised to date will likely cover the denture costs, but the woman is still in need of a refrigerator for her temporary residence. Gift cards for day-to-day costs are still a pressing need.

Donations are being accepted on the GoFundMe page, gofund.me/ff4ef4eb, and by contacting Price via the Ask and Answer group or DM on Facebook or by emailing nightlight911@aol.com.

Tim Wood is a veteran journalist based in Bluffton. Contact him at timwood@blufftonsun. com.

Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

Page 13A

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Page 14A

The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022

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The Bluffton Sun

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The 2022 Black Excellence Ball, organized by the Bluffton Martin Luther King Observance Committee and held Jan. 14, was not only “A Midnight Masquerade,” but a night to honor three individuals whose passions have served the communities in which they live.

Honored for their community services were Laura Bush, Lifetime Achievement Award; Michael Lewis, Social Justice Award; and Chef BJ Dennis, Gullah-Geechee Gatekeeper Award.

Hosting the gala event were WSAV-TV news anchor Tina Tyus-Shaw, and KJ Kearney, founder and creator of Black Food Fridays – an Instagram account started to help people locate and support Blackowned restaurants during the pandemic.

Music was performed by The Promised Land Band.

The awardees traveled different paths in their passion to support their communities.

Laura Bush As one of 14 siblings, Bluffton native Laura Bush knew college was out of the question, so upon high school graduation in 1962 she headed north to live with an elder sister in New York, and then a brother in Washington, D.C. “In the ’60s there was a migration north for better jobs, and to get a career started. My aim was to go up north and make my fortune. I got to Brooklyn and realized I was country girl out of water. I stayed a couple months. It was a quite an eye-opener in the big cities,” said Bush.

“Then I moved to DC to stay with my brother. It was amazing. I was there for about a year and a half, and worked a couple of jobs. One in a day care center, and another was in an adult day care home, so I was always working around people.”

In 1963 Bush’s father had a stroke and she returned home to help her mother care for her father and younger siblings.

A few years later, Bush found herself as guide to former governor, then-Sen. Fritz

Laura Bush

Hollings, and others who were traveling around South Carolina on what he called “Hunger Tours.” Someone recommended her to guide the visitors to homes around Bluffton because she knew the area and the people, including those in need.

“They had no running water, no indoor bathrooms,” said Bush. “The point of it was there were complaints, and a group of individuals like Hazel Frazier and Tom Barnwell were bringing it to the attention of officials. A local doctor had also brought to the attention of the medical community that children were dying of stomach worms due to poor living conditions and lack of potable water.”

As a result of the tour, the Department of Nutrition from the University of South Carolina in Columbia and Horry Medical University received a grant to do a study in the Beaufort-Bluffton-Hilton Head Island community.

Soon after that, she was approached by USC for another related task.

“They wanted to study nutrition and deficiencies in those families’ food, and the lack of food. My job was to get fami-

Please see AWARDS on page 17A

Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

Page 17A

AWARDS from page 16A water projects for Beaufort-Jasper County Water and Sewer Authority, convincing people to give up their wells and hook into the water lines. She was hired by the Institute for Community Education and Training as a director for the women’s education program.

“My job was to organize a statewide program encouraging women to take on non-traditional jobs - painting, construction, welding. I had to identify one person from each county and organize conferences, talking to women telling them there was ‘no reason you couldn’t do these jobs’.”

As a result of this program Bush was one of 50 women nationally to be recognized as a pioneer, putting her in touch with notable women such as Gloria Steinem and Barbara Bush during a tour and program sponsored by Oprah Winfrey in Washington, D.C. Soon after that, she was recruited to work for the county’s social services, and in 1986 was approached to run for a county-wide seat on the Beaufort County School Board. Her initial foray resulted

in a loss, but she ran in the next election, won, and for 26 out of the next 28 years Bush served on the board as chair, vice chair or secretary.

“I’ve always pushed for the struggling students. I pushed for special education students, and the way they were being identified. And then there were the overage students, such as an eighth grader who is 16. They’re always going to have problems, so we pushed for an alternative school for them, and we finally got it,” said Bush. “My last battle was fighting to get the 2.0 average requirement for athletes. I realized our top athletes were being placed in sports and their grade was 1.2 or 1.3, so we had the best basketball players who scored 30 points but couldn’t get into colleges without a 2.0.”

Because of the work she did on the parasite studies, her connections resulted in quite a different experience than she envisioned for her future.

“What amazed me is that I graduated from high school, came back and got involved in two major studies. I realized then I’m an organizer. I process things. I

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lies involved,” said Bush. “I received a station wagon from the university. I brought the kids to then-Bluffton Health Center on May River Road, and they allowed us to use a section of the health department to do the intestinal parasite program.”

The 176 children who were tested were found to be infected with ascaris stomach worms and were becoming ill.

“One girl took the medicine and passed a lot of worms, and the scientists put them in a mason jar in formaldehyde,” she said. “I took them to the homes and showed them to the families. We used it as a tool, and we also taught the families how to prevent getting the worms.”

When the Beaufort-Jasper Comprehensive Health Center was opened in 1970, Executive Director Thomas Barnwell hired Bush and told her she needed to organize 24 target communities in Beaufort and Jasper counties to sell the program.

“It was brand new, so we organized,” she said. “I started with the churches. I spoke with the church rep and they identified local people.”

Bush worked as a consultant on special

Bluffton Parkway

sat there, figured out step by step. Where that came from I have no idea,” Bush said.

She said she had always expected to keep working at maid and waitress jobs.

“I was content to do that until this turn of events, and it propelled me into a 40-year career of public service.”

Her impact on the community brought the unexpected news that she was being awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award.

“I was surprised. It was a late evening so I wasn’t expecting anyone. When I got to the door, Bridgette (Frazier) was there with cameras and balloons. It’s great when your work is recognized,” Bush said. “I could not have done this without the help of God, and my husband.

It’s been a year since I lost him, but he supported me. There’s no way I could have accomplished that without God, and without the help and support of the community and family.”

Please see AWARDS on page 18A

Page 18A

The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022

AWARDS from page 17A Michael Lewis Philadelphia native Michael Lewis received the Social Justice Award. Known locally as a proponent for voter registration, he has always been involved with registering people to vote.

“I was always actively involved in the politics of Philadelphia. It’s hard to live there and not be involved in politics, particularly in the area we lived in which was going through the transition of gentrification,” Lewis said. “When I moved down here I got involved with the church, got involved with registering to vote. Social justice has always been part of my life.

You look at social justice and social work, it’s one and the same. It’s always advocating for what is right. It’s not a particular candidate or party but who is going to represent the best interest of the community.”

Lewis, who has a Master’s Degree in social work from Temple University, was a social worker with the Defender Association Child Advocacy Unit in Philadelphia. He supervised 40 other social workers who went to court to represent

Michael Lewis

the children.

“It’s a line of work that for 18 and a half years I loved. I loved the job but I don’t

miss it,” he said. “It was stressful work, but what made it even more stressful was if a child – for whatever reason – passed away on your watch because of an abusive parent, an abusive grandparent, someone else. That was very stressful no matter what kind of services were put in the home. That child’s life expires – it was just dreadful. What made it easy was every social worker was committed to advocating for children.”

Lewis retired in 2012 and still maintains those relationships with his co-workers because of that commitment.

“Whether it’s Thanksgiving or Christmas, we exchange messages. It’s that kind of continuing relationship,” he said.

After he moved to Bluffton, following a year in Aiken, Lewis became involved in voter registration and other community activities.

He and his wife Octavia moved to Aiken because both children went to Southern colleges. A year later, they moved to Bluffton.

“My oldest son went to Clark Atlanta University, and played football. My

youngest went to Payne College. They were determined to go to HBCUs – Historic Black Colleges and Universities,” Lewis said.

His oldest now lives in Savannah with his wife and daughter; the youngest and her family live in Philadelphia.

“In Bluffton, I initially got involved with the Bluffton Democratic Party. There was a candidate running who needed assistance in understanding the community, developing the skill of knocking on doors. It’s that grassroots skill of getting to know the people who were going to vote for him,” said Lewis. “I got involved with Kathleen Hughes, and we worked diligently to get people registered.”

Lewis said the down-ballot candidates – those who are running for community or county offices – control what happens in the community.

“I’m a big believer in down-ballot elections and candidates. When we talk about social justice, I wanted to see that when I got involved with those organizations

Please see AWARDS on page 19A

Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

Page 19A

AWARDS from page 18A

like the Bluffton Soup Kitchen, Habitat for Humanity, League of Women Voters, and the Campbell Chapel Christian Social Action Commission,” he said. “When you talk about social justice, I’m very proud of my volunteerism with the Bluffton Soup kitchen. They feed people. I volunteer every opportunity I can every Monday.”

The soup kitchen at Campbell A.M.E. Church in Bluffton provides hot meals for the community Monday through Thursday. There is also a pantry that provides an opportunity where people can buy food that will hold them through the weekend until the soup kitchen opens again.

– “I think that is the core of social justice: being able to feed people. If you can do that, I believe you can influence them to do the right thing in terms of voting,” Lewis said. t His volunteerism in many areas keeps him involved all over the county, but not for any accolades.

“Bridgette (Frazier) came to my home one evening right after my wife and I finished dinner. I was surprised, because

I don’t do what I do for recognition. I do what I do because I just believe that it’s the right thing to do,” he said. “I just encourage people to play their part in terms of activism, making sure that they know who the candidates are that are running for election. And passing that information on to their children.

“I strongly believe that the youth vote is important, and you have to start somewhere,” Lewis said. “You have to start with the adult in expressing to the children that voting is a part of living; a part of making sure that you are electing the people who are going to be responsible for what goes on in your community.”

BJ Dennis For the past year, Charleston native Chef Benjamin “BJ” Dennis was the culinary director of the new Lowcountry Fresh Market and Café, but he will soon heading the food program at the new International African American Museum in Charleston.

Recipient of the Gullah Geechee Gateway award, Dennis is inspired by the food

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of his heritage.

“It tells a story of us here in the Lowcountry. The story of a group of people

that were able to hold on to so much.

Obviously, they have expressed themselves in this New World,” said Dennis.

“It’s the history, the roots back to the lineages of western and central Africa.

I used to read old Charleston colonial cookbooks and receipts, and they start off with Gullah. That made me realize how much of an influence Gullah was, even though that influence was brought on because of what limited things they were able to express.”

Dennis attended the College of Charleston, but “it didn’t work out for me,” he said. That led to his seeking employment, and that began in the kitchens of Charleston’s restaurants. He said the culinary field found him.

“I started out as a dishwasher while I tried technical college, but I went from business to culinary arts because I started to get more intrigued. It kind of snowballed from there,” said Dennis. “It was probably something that was always in me, but I didn’t know it. I honestly

Please see AWARDS on page 20A

Page 20A

The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022

AWARDS from page 19A wanted to find a job and stay in Charleston, and it was really limited. Either you were in hospitality, business, nursing field or you had a lot of money and could buy real estate, so I went to work in the kitchens.”

Dennis soon took his curiosity to the Caribbean on the recommendation of a former neighbor whose sister had a restaurant on St. Thomas.

“Mr. Colon was a great cook. After I was working in kitchens a while, he said I should move down there and see his sister. I saw this was an opportunity, so I took it. It’s kind of where I really started to see how great our Gullah culture was here. People there know about us here.”

Not only was Dennis hearing and being told about his own culture, but he was learning that history in the West Indies highlighted African heritage and its unapologetic culture. When he returned to Charleston four years later, he brought a different perspective on the cuisine that has made the city a favorite tourist stop.

“When I came up to Charleston in 2008, I saw how the city had become this very cosmopolitan place, and people around the world were coming to this place for the food scene, but I always saw there wasn’t a lot of respect for the food culture that made this so popular,” he said. “The food from the slaves, the cooks, the caterers. I didn’t see that representation, that voice being heard, and the culture getting the accolades.”

Dennis draws his inspiration for raising Gullah Geechee foodways from those around him.

“I’m always inspired by those who have been doing the work before me. A lot of them are very proud of what I’m doing.

For me, I’ve been able to be a voice for them because they come from a generation without an access to the media, and they weren’t able to show pride in their traditions,” he said.

His research has put him in touch with not only his neighbors but with the direct sources of the Gullah Geechee culinary and historical traditions in Africa.

“I’ve been to a couple countries in Africa: Benin, Togo, Senegal, Gambia, Angola.

I brought back a lot of spices and dried ingredients, but mainly what I brought back was the spiritual connection that I was longing for. I think that was the big thing I brought back,” Dennis said.

As a former high school mentor chef, he plans to educate young people in underserved communities about more than the ingredients and how they are used.

“It’s not just about cooking, but history and what it means. It’s about the language, the music, the culture,” Dennis said. “Once you chase the cuisine, you start following the history, and it sends you down that rabbit hole for more knowledge.”

The Gullah Geechee Gatekeeper Award was not on Dennis’ radar when it came to foodways.

“When I found out about the award, I was initially shocked but very happy, very honored. I was proud. I’m proud just to be a vessel for my people, for the culture.

I’m just one person playing my part, there are so many other folks out here that are vessels for tour culture, through education, through language, through agriculture,” Dennis said. “I’m just one of many folks, so I’m honored.”

Gwyneth J. Saunders is a veteran journalist and freelance writer living in Bluffton.

Meet our Contributors GWYNETH J. SAUNDERS, JOURNALIST Lowcountry resident for 13.5 years

Gwyneth was born in Pennsylvania, raised in South Jersey, now living in Bluffton. She retired from the U.S. Navy after 26 years as a Navy journalist. She earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Norfolk State University (“Go Spartans”). Married 19.5 years to Tony, an adorable Welshman. They have two sweet rescue cats, Tigger the tripod and Benji (neither are spoiled). She is a member of Sun City Veterans Association; chorus, Sundancers, softball, art, and computer clubs. A Philadelphia Eagles fan, Gwyneth love pasta, sushi and great burgers. Love my family, friends. I have the best job.

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Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

Page 21A

Community leaders seek to make library park dream a reality

By Tim Wood

“I mean, go big or go home, right?” said 2022 class member Sally Zuniga, the co-owner of Tio’s Latin American Kitchen. “We know we’ve undertaken an ambitious project here but any chance we get to beautify the town we love, you got to go for it.”

The Leadership class has been cultivating future leaders for the past 35 years. Some of the more recent community projects completed include the creation of the Mitchelville Visitors Center, the DuBois Park playground in Bluffton, and fitness equipment installs at Jarvis Creek Park on Hilton Head Island and Oscar Frazier Park in Bluffton. An Imagination Train playground and sensory playground were also added to Oscar Frazier, thanks to the future leaders class, as well as wayfinding kayaks at the arrival point on Daufuskie Island and the Follow the Fiddlers sculpture along Calhoun Street

CONTRIBUTOR

It has been quite a month for the Bluffton Library. The community center fully reopened Jan. 3 after a 10-month-long renovation that created more open spaces, an updated design and a tech overhaul for the library.

But that’s not all, folks.

A group of community leaders has plans to transform a 1/3-acre greenspace in front of the library into the town’s newest pocket park.

Each year, as part of the curriculum for the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce Leadership program, a group of budding community leaders must pick a community enhancement project to tackle. The 20 leaders behind the 2022 Leadership class have taken on the planning and buildout of what they’re calling the Bluffton Library Park as their project.

Please see PARK on page 22A

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Page 22A

The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022

PARK from page 21A to educate about marine life and May River ecology.

The Bluffton Library Park involves many different tiers of community interaction to complete. The vision includes the installation of the county’s first StoryWalk program, a series of reading materials and interactive installations along a walking path meant to promote literacy, reading, health and movement that have been added to more than 300 libraries across the U.S. Plans also call for updated landscaping, new seating, an event stage and a new pathway for visitors coming to the Library from Bluffton Village.

“How cool would it be to hear some local music, a poetry slam or a reading from a local author out in a fresh-air setting? That’s the goal. I know I would love to see it for my family,” Zuniga said.

The mission of the class is to collaborate with municipal leaders to develop a master plan and execute

the planning, permitting and construction of the park before a May deadline. The Witner, Jones and Keefer architectural design firm has developed a conceptual plan and the group is working with Ward Edwards Engineering to move the planning process along in concert with town officials.

The biggest challenge is the price tag. The class estimates that they will need to raise $40,000 to complete the park and is now hard at work raising awareness of the project among their many circles of contacts.

The group is accepting tax deductible contributions through the Hilton Head Island Regional Partnership Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization. And it has created a number of opportunities for community members to leave a permanent mark on the park with their donation.

Donors who give $100 to $999 will have their name engraved on a paver along the new library walkway. Old Town tier donors ($1,000 to $2,499)

will get a plaque with their name along the StoryWalk installation. May River-level givers ($2,500 to $4,999) will get their name engraved on one of the new park benches. The most generous Oyster level donors ($5,000 or more) will get a name plaque installed on the new park stage.

The park group has also received marketing support in reaching donors from DX Print and Mail. Zuniga said the inclusiveness of the community is what will make achieving the creation of the park all the more sweeter.

“This is what it’s all about. We have leaders from all corners of the business and nonprofit community here,” she said. “We’re all engrained in Lowcountry life and part of what makes living here so special is the constant selfless displays of goodness in making this place even more special for generations to come. We’re all stewards and keepers of a way of life.”

Zuniga said that while the Leader-

ship class has been a huge time investment as she juggles running two restaurants and raising three kids, it is an investment in the community that she can’t recommend enough.

“The Chamber is investing in us as future leaders, and that’s such an honor. It has been a winning formula for three-plus decades,” she said.

“The privilege to be part of something bigger than yourself and to pay forward all the support we have been given by this community, it’s humbling. I know every single one of us are to that challenge. We all can’t wait to see this park become reality and just add another little slice of heaven to our town.”

For more information on the Bluffton Library Park project and donate to the cause, visit blufftonlibrarypark. com.

Tim Wood is a veteran journalist based in Bluffton. Contact him at timwood@blufftonsun.com.

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Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

Page 23A

HOT SPOTS

Coffee: The brewers with the most boast behind their roast

By Tim Wood

the frequency and intensity of my brain storms. And she was right.

Ever since then, I’ve kept it to that one cup per day. But it is the most glorious part of my entire 24-hour cycle – not the best part of waking up like the Folger’s slogan tells us, but pretty damn close.

Finding that perfect cup of coffee outside the house was an uneven and tumultuous experience at best even 10 years ago here in the Lowcountry. Squat N’ Gobble, Downtown Deli (back in the breakfast days) and Stooges (RIP) were the best and only options. And if you wanted freshly roasted beans, it was off to Savannah or Charleston.

Then an upstart dude with a passion for the bean opened at the corner of Burnt Church and Bruin. The Corner Perk was a revelation, and I discovered Java Joe’s on the island soon after (again, RIP).

CONTRIBUTOR

I have two huge regrets when it comes to a lifetime of eating and drinking. I didn’t have my first slice of pizza until I was 12.

What an absolute travesty, although saving the carbs probably kept me from a bunch of extra pounds sooner.

Second is my one-time disdain for coffee.

It’s not that I’m a tea guy, because I’m not (unless it’s iced and sweet). I just didn’t “get it.”

I think I had memories of going to work with my Dad and watching him drink what would generously be described as sludgy tar. Black. And he liked it. Still turns my stomach just thinking about it.

I was rehabbing an ankle injury in Bluffton in 2011 and told the physical therapist I was having a hard time with migraines. She said that one cup of coffee in the morning would drastically reduce

Please see HOT SPOTS on page 24A

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Mon - Sat 10 - 6 • Sun 1 - 5 1569 Fording Island Rd (HWY 278) • Bluffton • www.MCVFurniture.com

Page 24A

The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022

HOT SPOTS from page 23A

May River Roasters

I ventured back north for a bit in 2014.

When I returned in 2020, it was like a whole new world of bedazzling beanery here. Now, the options are plentiful and you have full blown allegiances to one brand or one spot over the other and for good reason.

We’re not here to pick one over the other, just to inform you of your choices and enlighten you with a bit of insight from various members of our Blue Ribbon Panel.

Corner Perk, 1297 May River Road, No. 101, Bluffton (flagship) and 1628 Paris Avenue, Port Royal, cornerperk.com: Josh and Kali Cooke believed in a better coffee experience here. If he had never left the original location, he would have still slayed it. But he dreamed bigger and leveraged every possible penny (and a bunk of bank pennies as well) to get the OG Promenade hot spot built. Today, the brews like the honey lavender latte and the take-home grounds are wowing all across the Lowcountry. The Cookes deliver on their promise of “exceptional experiences and artfully crafted goodness” in their coffee blends, their thoroughly yummy breakfast and lunch menu, their customer service and a constant commitment to giving back to the community that embraced them from the jump. Much love came in from our crew for the Port Royal locale as well and raves for the ambiance and the avocado toast.

The Cottage Café, 38 Calhoun Street, Bluffton, 843-757-0508, thecottagebluffton.com: Leslie Rohland is a world-class chef with an appreciation for small-town values. She also believes in the power of coffee to bring folks together. So it wasn’t a full-on shock when she launched May

River Roasters, a line of May River Coffee Roasters (mayrivercoffeeroasters.com). I love that she gives you adjectives to describe each blend. It’s clear each and every flavor is a prized child. That includes her three new Lowcountry collection blends, Bluffton State of Mind (dark roast), Pluff Mud (medium roast) and Lowcountry Blonde (light roast).

Purple Cow, 24G Palmetto Bay Road, Hilton Head Island, 843-681-2253, purplecowhhi.com: Most of you know Lisa “Bernie” Bernstein as the baker who works harder in one day before 10 a.m. than most of us work in a week. But she’s equally proud of her coffee blends from CupToCup Roasters out of Savannah. Bernstein began her small business journey right alongside Brewer James 13 years ago on the farmers market circuit and remains a diehard supporter and booster of his espresso, Vienna, Ethiopia and Brazil decaf.

Java Burrito, 1000 William Hilton Parkway, Suite J-6, Hilton Head Island, 843842-5282, javaburrito.com: Because, as one of our Blue Ribbon Panel put it, “Who doesn’t want a burrito with their coffee?”

This is a Miami thing brought north, and it’s striking a chord with many islanders curious to try the unlikely pair. On the java side, you’re getting locally-roasted beans, signature drinks like the cold brew that many say is tops in the area (or opt for a very cold brew with an ice cream scoop), and some curious not-coffee options like a beetroot latte blended in almond milk, honey and French vanilla.

Please see HOT SPOTS on page 25A

Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

Page 25A

HOT SPOTS from page 24A The Grind Roasters, 1 Sherington Drive, Suite J, Bluffton, 843-368-3348, thegrindroasters.com: Ian Duncan began his roasting journey under the tutelage of Corner Perk’s Cooke, then migrated across the street to run the coffee bar at Peaceful Henry’s. Duncan was passionate about opening his own roasting shop, which led him to open his own spot on Simmonsville Road in 2016. All the while, he built a cult following and won numerous awards for his craftsmanship. His flavors include a limited edition Burnt Church Distillery whiskey coffee along with Haitian, Columbian and Brazilian blends. The Americano blend makes me feel like one of the Three Bears with porridge: “Juuust right.” Their current home on the back side of British Open Pub is cozy with a bunch of nooks to work or chat with friends.

PJ’s Coffee, 8026 East Main St., Ridgeland, 843-726-8888, pjscoffee.com: Dr. Kirk Johnson and his wife Linda operate this chain coffee shop with a New Orleans flair where King Cake reigns supreme. The orthopedist grew up on Swedish coffee and

became somewhat of a coffee connoisseur as a resident, a way to caffeinate, gather to talk shop and unwind. The Zulu Coconut Iced Mocha is a current fave, a Viennese blend cold brew with milk, syrup and coconut concentrate over ice. While the brand and the grinds are not local pure se, the attention to detail from the Johnsons make this a down-home spot off I-95 exit 21.

Odd Birds, 1536 Fording Island Road Suite 107, Hilton Head, 843-707-9927: Yes, it’s technically HHI, but it’s before the bridge (and dang it, if it’s before the bridge, it’s not on the island). I digress. This newer spot has built a quick reputation for a variety of blends and lattes, a colorful selection of smoothies and a mouth-watering variety of crepes (the ultimate cinn with sugared cinnamon, maple cream cheese frosting and pecan crunch for us, please) and baked goods like pecan coffee cake.

And we love the names behind the panini lunch options like the Leu Vega and the Ham Jam.

Carolina Coffee and Crumbs, 101 Pope Ave., Hilton Head Island, 842-3424800, carolinacoffeehhi.com: This twoand-a-half-year-old shop owned by Erika Waronsky is using beans from The Grind in Bluffton and has an interesting combo of coffee, beer and wine for the chill island tourists. The S’Mores latte (toasted marshmallow, hazelnut and mocha) and candy flavors like Milky Way and Almond Joy are winning raves, as are the paninis and the primo location for people watching.

Watusi Café, 71 Pope Ave., Hilton Head Island, 843-686-5200, watusicafe. com: This 10-year-old spot, known for its “it is what it is” vibe, is more known for its ability to make healthy comfort food. The brews and espressos are all sourced from Batdorf & Bronson out of Atlanta, so while not a strictly local bean, it’s mighty smooth and palate-pleasing.

Honorable Mentions: In Bluffton, Joe’s Ice Cream and Beverage Co. (15 Bruin Road, joesicecreambeverage.com) offers drip, iced, cold and an affogato to die

for (two ounce espresso with vanilla ice cream). On the island, C’Est Bon in the Sea Pines Shoppes (71 Lighthouse Road, Suite 318, 843-671-2200) won praise for its nitro brews, Nutella lattes and what one of our panel described as the “best chicken salad ever.” And the GFree Spot in Main Street Village (1511 Main Street, Suite 1511) is largely known for its amazingly delicious gluten free desserts, but won high marks from our online crew for their brews.

If you’re heading toward Beaufort, Common Ground (102 W Street Ext., 843-5242326, commongroundbeaufort.com) won widespread praise for coffee quality, the atmosphere and the friendly staff. Urban Brew + Co. (2139 Boundary Street, Suite 104) wins love for their matcha latte and their customer service, and Lowcountry Cider Co. and Superior Coffee (507 Sea Island Parkway, St. Helena Island) is a must stop for a variety of brews, ciders and tomato pie.

Tim Wood is a veteran journalist based in Bluffton. Contact him at timwood@blufftonsun.com.

Leading Eye Doctors

in Three Lowcountry Locations.

If you’re looking for exceptional and compassionate eye care, you don’t have to look far. Bishop Eye Center now has six physicians in three Lowcountry locations to welcome you with an exceptional eye care environment and premier patient experience right where you live.

When it comes to caring for your vision, you deserve the very best.

The Leading Center for Cataract Surgery Hilton Head • New River/Sun City • Bluffton • 843-689-3937 • BishopEye.com

Page 26A

The Bluffton Sun

Exceptional Care. Trusted Quality.

Jan. 19, 2022

Esteemed social services nonprofit expands reach in community

ional Care. Trusted Exceptional Care.Quality.

Trusted Quality.

HOPKINS STUDIOS

Rose Gomez Benitz teaches an ESL class in Bluffton Self Help’s Learning & Literacy Center.

By Amy Coyne Bredeson

While expanding its reach beyond Bluffton, the local organization is also transformCONTRIBUTOR ing the way it helps people in need. Rather than just giving them food or helping with Bluffton Self Help has a new logo, a new website, new partners and a new vision. But a bill, BSH is now taking a more holistic the nonprofit organization has the same goal approach to get to the root of the problems causing situational and generational poverty. it has had since its inception in 1987 – to The organization will continue helping help the people of Bluffton.

Rehabilitation | Skilled Nursing | Assisted Living people with their basic needs, but it will For more than three decades, Bluffton Memory Care | HomeCare | Hospice Self Help (BSH) has provided food, clothing take an individualized, long-term approach to helping clients achieve self-sufficiency. and financial help to residents in need. As the community has grown, so has the need.

“When people are struggling every day for And as more people have moved to the out- childcare, for rent, for utilities, they’re less likely to thrive,” said Kimberly Hall, execskirts of Bluffton, the local organization has expanded its reach geographically to include utive director of BSH. “We’re taking people all of Beaufort and Jasper counties. from surviving to thriving.”

“Our heart is the footprint of Bluffton Client advocates will meet with indiand the families here,” said Constance viduals to figure out how the organization | Assisted | Memory | Hospice | Skilled | Assisted | Memory | Hospice led Nursing Living Care |Living HomeCare Rehabilitation Nursing Care | HomeCare Martin-Witter, BSH board member and can best help them succeed, whether it be daughter of the organization’ s founder, Ida mynhchomecare.com carishealthcare.comthrough adult education classes, job trainthepalmettosbluffton.com Martin. “That will never change, and that ing, mentorship, counseling or help finding will always be at the top of our list.

But the other resources. e | HomeCare | Hospice needs are greater now. … I think my moth“It’s really difficult to ask for help,” Hall said. “So, when we can create a dignified, er – and I know my father – is very pleased welcoming environment, that’s all the better and excited about these new opportunities for folks. Our goal is for them to come in that we have to empower families outside of mynhchomecare.com carishealthcare.com mynhchomecare.com carishealthcare.com thepalmettosbluffton.com thepalmettosbluffton.com nhcbluffton.com and really feel like they’re a part of their our core area.” own plan and their own process, and that With the help of the Joseph P. Riley Jr. dinary service andextraordinary compassionateservice care for seniors in South Carolina.

Offering and compassionate care for seniors in SouthCenter Carolina. they’re feeling supported.” for Livable Communities, based in For more information on Bluffton Self Charleston, BSH reassessed the community’s Help, visit blufftonselfhelp.org or call 843needs and found some startling statistics.

Almost 60% of Beaufort County households 757-8000. and 75% of Jasper County households are re.com carishealthcare.com Amy Coyne Bredeson of Bluffton is a freenot earning living wages, according to BSH’s marketing and communications manager, lance writer, a mother of two and a volunteer Offering extraordinary service and compassionate care for seniors in South Carolina.

Danielle Dekruif. with the Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance.

lled Nursing | Assisted Living | Memory Care | HomeCare | Hospice

rdinary service and compassionate care for seniors in South Carolina.

Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

Page 27A

Noteworthy • The League of Women Voters of Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Area will meet via Zoom from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Jan. 19.

This is a general member meeting to discuss legislative redistricting.

Speakers are Patsy Brison and Risa Sreden Prince. The session will include an opportunity to ask questions.

Registration is not required. To receive a link to the Zoom call, email thelighthouselwvhhiba@gmail.com.

• Fresh Start Clothing & Accessories will host its grand opening Jan. 25 at 10 a.m. at 680 Martin Luther King Blvd in Estill.

This event is to inform the community about human trafficking while bringing collaboration on the fight against human trafficking between the community and local partners.

Fresh Start Healing Heart is a nonprofit fighting human trafficking in the Lowcountry, by walking beside survivors during their healing process, providing shelter, basic needs and wrap-around services for success towards their goals.

To RSVP for the event, email healingheartstart@gmail.com or call 843-6441991. For more information about the organization, visit freshstarthealingheart. org.

• The Lowcountry Human Trafficking Task Force will meet from 10 a.m. to noon Jan. 26 at the Hardeeville Recreation Center, 258 John Smith Road in Hardeeville.

Registration for this event is strongly encouraged. Email Erinn McGuire at emcguire@scsolicitor14.org or call her at 843-790-6439.

• Beau Bauer will give a presentation on Wood Duck Recovery at 2 p.m. Jan. 24 at Coastal Discovery Museum as part of its Discovery Lecture series.

Wood duck recovery from near extinction in the early 20th century is largely due to the implementation of thousands of nest boxes throughout the species’ range. Despite thriving across their range, little is known about the current effectiveness of next boxes in regard to growing and sustaining these populations.

Participants can learn more about the history of wood duck nest boxes, multistate research efforts examining their contributions to population growth, and management tips.

Bauer is a Certified Wildlife Biologist for Nemours Wildlife Foundation, where he conducts a variety of wildlife and habitat research and coordinates collaborative research efforts across the Southeast.

The cost for this virtual program is $7 and reservations are required by calling 843-689-6767 ext. 223. The museum is located at 70 Honey Horn Drive on Hilton Head Island. Hours are Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• An Evening of Love, an elegant wine pairing dinner, will celebrate Valentine’s Day and the Children’s Relief Fund Feb. 12 at Venue 1223 on May River Road in Bluffton.

Chef Ryan McCarthy will create a multi-course dinner paired with fine wines in an exciting and glamorous venue.

Proceeds from the event will benefit several nonprofits that provide services and programs for special needs children and their families.

For more information and tickets, visit thechildrensrelieffund.org or email rfotia333@yahoo.com.

• Registration is now open for the Memory Matters Brain Health Summit, to be held March 11 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Hilton Head Beach and Tennis Resort.

Attendees will hear from two renowned speakers, Dr. Ali Rezai from the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute and Dr. Gary Small from the Hackensack Medical Center, who has written several books, including “The Memory Bible.”

Both will speak on brain health and discuss the latest research and interventions for those experiencing cognitive impairments such as Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

Registrants can attend in-person or virtually via Zoom. Tickets, for either option, are $40 and can be purchased online at mymemorymatters.org.

Jordan Haire, DMD University of Louisville

Sydney Caskey, DDS Indiana University

Matthew Mastrorocco, DMD University of Pittsburgh

Now Open in Bluffton ROC Dental Group has opened its Bluffton office in The Plaza at Belfair and is welcoming new patients.

We can’t wait to meet you!

Our private practice has provided the Lowcountry with the most advanced dental care in the country for over 20 years. Expanding our reach to Bluffton enables us to fulfill our mission to serve more of our neighbors while supporting local nonprofits that promote wellness.

SCHEDULE YOUR WINTER WHITENING APPOINTMENT BY FEB. 15 AND RECEIVE 20% OFF ANY WHITENING TREATMENT New patients must complete a New Patient Comprehensive Exam to be eligible

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Adva n c i n g Wel l n e s s ROCDENTALGROUP.COM 25 Clark Summit Drive, Bluffton | 843-706-3800 • 4101 Main Street, Hilton Head | 843-682-4601

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The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022

Local Home Builders Association Establishes New Community Building Honor During the Hilton Head Area Home Builders Association 2021 LightHouse Awards program Dec. 3, the 2021 Joseph C. Harden Community Excellence Award was presented to Allen Patterson of Allen Patterson Builders for continuing the work of Joseph C. Harden in creating new and better ways to make vibrant, adaptive spaces for all Lowcountry citizens.

The award was established in 2019 to recognize achievements in community building by a HBA member company.

Allen Patterson Builders’ most recent community project that has garnered national attention is known as the Adaptive Cottage to benefit the Parkinson’s Foundation. It is currently under construction and will finish in May. Patterson and a local team of partners have joined forces with the Parkinson’s Foundation to design, build and showcase a groundbreaking conceptual home in the award-winning coastal community of Habersham.

The home is creatively designed to work for any family with or without specific

challenges, but will serve as a model for adaptive design following the science of universal design.

The Adaptive Cottage will be outfitted with the latest in smart technology, plumbing, electrical design, fixtures, and innovation throughout the home to promote accessibility and to support the Parkinson Foundation’s vital mission of making life better for those living with Parkinson’s disease.

Over the course of his building career, Patterson has consistently donated generously of his time and resources, financially and otherwise, to a variety of charitable causes throughout our community.

In addition to his support of nonprofits, he serves on multiple boards and planning committees, including the Southern Living Board of Directors, and has been a vital

843-837-3041 Available 24/7

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HomeHelpersHomeCare.com/ lowcountry 14 Westbury Park Way, Suite 102 • Bluffton, SC 29910 Each office is independently owned and operated.

member of the Hilton Head Area HBA for over 25 years.

A third-generation custom home and commercial contractor, Allen Patterson Builders has more than 50 full time employees. As a leader, Patterson goes above and beyond to take care of “his people” and their families in many kind and generous ways.

Do you know anyone else who purchases and fries 200 turkeys at Thanksgiving and delivers them to his employees, subs and clients?

For more information about Allen Patterson Builders, visit allenpattersonbuilders. com or contact Jodie Miller at jodie@allenpattersonbuilders.com.

The Hilton Head Area Home Builders Association is affiliated with the Home Builders Association of South Carolina and the National Association of Home Builders.

Allen Patterson, along with his wife, Julie Patterson, accepts the 2021 Joseph C. Harden Community Excellence Award at the Hilton Head Area Home Builders Association 2021 LightHouse Awards program Dec. 3.

Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

30th annual clothing drive seeks gently used coats, jackets Outside Brands will host its 30th annual Recycle Your Jacket program through Jan. 30.

All are encouraged to bring in a donation of any coat, sweater or jacket in good condition to Outside’s Flagship Store, located at the Plaza at Shelter Cove on Hilton Head Island.

For those who donate, Outside will provide discounts on in-stock jackets, sweaters and coats. All collected jackets will be donated to Deep Well, who will distribute them to the those in need in the local community.

“The Recycle Your Jacket program has, over the years, highlighted the generous spirit of our community in helping out those in need,” said Mike Overton, Outside Brands CEO. “About 13% of Beaufort County residents live at or below the poverty line, and we at Outside feel it is our responsibility to aid these neighbors.”

A volunteer-based non-profit, Deep Well has been helping islanders since

1973. The organization helps people in emergency situations by giving them an immediate hand up, in the form of rent & utility payments, food, home repairs, transportation, clothing and support for children. For more information, visit deepwellproject.org or call 843-7852849.

The Outside Mission is to enrich lives by connecting people to exceptional places, products and experiences. Outside is a multi-division business specializing in retail, leisure recreation, team building, and destination management. The company has on-water operations and retail stores on Hilton Head Island, in Palmetto Bluff and in Savannah. In addition, Outside owns Page Island, a remote adventure destination and event venue in the back country marshes between Daufuskie Island and Savannah.

For more information visit outsidebrands.com or call 843-686-6996.

ROTTED DOORS ?

Why REplacE? REbuilD !

SavE TimE & $$$

Paul McGovern (formerly McTrim, inc)

Page 29A

LET’S TACKLE

FISHING!

SHOP, LEARN AND MORE AT SOUTHERNDRAWLOUTFITTERS.COM

HOW TO CLASSES JAN 25TH @ 6PM NEARSHORE $35

Nearshore Bottom Fishing 101. Learn the top spots for nearshore fishing, what rigs to use and much more! Includes a map and rigs!

FEB 1ST @ 6PM FLY TYING

$5

FEB 8TH @ 6PM Low Tide 101

$20

FEB 15TH @ 6M FLY TYING

$5

Tie one on Tuesday – Fly tying event. Local Baitfish pattern – Beginner’s welcome!

Focused on fishing low tide flats and creeks for redfish and flounder with artificial baits. Class includes a sample pack of baits and rigs!

Tie one on Tuesday – Fly tying event. “Big Boy Shrimp” Red’s cannot pass up a big boy shrimp

FEB 22nd @ 6PM Vertical Jigging $20 Presented by NLO Fishing! Learn thebest techniques to out fish your friends with one of the most effective lures out there! If you take the nearshore class, this is a great skill to have!

Please call the store to secure spots for the classes. 843-705-6010 Class size is limited.

trim42@aol.com 843.684.0266 38 Year Islander

We Service all brands but Specialize in Peachtree Sliders

Located in the Moss Creek shopping center on Rt. 278 before the HHI Bridge

Page 30A

The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022

ART

Enjoy art ‘beyond tradition’ in exhibit of abstract works “Art Beyond Tradition: Interpretations” is the title of the current exhibit in the gallery space at the Coastal Discovery Museum on Hilton Head Island.

A Meet & Greet with the artists will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Jan. 20. The exhibit will be on display through March 6. Artist Walks will be held every Thursday from noon to 2 p.m.

When the Art Beyond Tradition Group first started exhibiting together on Hilton Head in 2006, their goal was simple: To make abstract art approachable to those who find it hard to understand and to elicit a response from the viewer, whatever that response might be.

Founders Irene Williamson and Jo Dye believed that mounting regular local exhibitions of purely abstract work could promote an appreciation and understanding of this sometimes perplexing movement. The goal is to make abstract art approachable and fun.

This year’s show includes art by these

“wut-man-du” by Donna Varner

accomplished local artists: Earline Allen, Joanna Chalson, Cindy Chiappetta, Margaret Crawford, John Crum, Jo Dye, Vickie

Jourdan, Mark Larkin, Sharon Collings Licata, Donna Varner, Arla Crumlich Wible, and Irene K. Williamson.

YOUR CHOICE,

These artists work in a variety of media: oil, acrylic, graphite, ink, encaustic, collage, watercolor, and sculpture in metal and stone. What’s more, they offer the visitor their unique interpretations of the art form.

They are explorers and experimenters who will show viewers new ways of seeing and thinking about abstract art. Allow yourself to engage color, shape, line, surface and texture, and finally, formulate your own “interpretations.”

By focusing on how art’s formal elements can inform abstraction, they each allow line, color, form, texture, shape and value to drive their diverse production. Imagination and experimentation are the only other requirements.

Coastal Discovery Museum is located at 70 Honey Horn Drive on Hilton Head Island. Operating hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.

For more information visit coastaldiscovery.org.

OUR PRIVILEGE.

In 2022, give your loved ones the gift of their choice for their end-of-life care. www.hospicecarelc.org PO Box 3827, Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 474-5633

Warm up to our winter styles!

Shop our cold weather collections at PAL Thrift for cozy cardigans and chic shrugs at fabulous prices.

Proceeds Benefit No Kill Animal Rescue www.PalmettoAnimalLeague.org PAL Thrift | Sheridan Park, Bluffton | Monday – Saturday 10AM – 5PM | 843-837-MEOW

Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

Page 31A

Call for hosts for piano event F I V E T I M E TO N Y AWA R D -W I N N E R

The Hilton Head International Piano Competition is looking for a few more homes to host a competitor this March.

All the host needs is an extra bedroom and bath, a baby grand piano (or larger) and the wish to welcome a pianist into your home.

Being a host family for the Hilton Head International Piano Competition is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You will get to hear world-class piano music played in your home for over a week.Your baby grand piano will never sound better!

You will also get to experience the life of a young professional on the verge of meeting their career dreams. Many of our competitors are from outside the U.S., so hosting may also provide a wonderful

cross-cultural experience.

Yes, it involves some work on your part. You must provide a welcoming home, a baby grand piano, and feed, transport and support the competitor for the duration of the competition.

You will meet other host families in our community who repeatedly return to have this wonderful experience. Host families often keep in touch with their competitors for years – attend their weddings, visit them in their home countries and meet their families.

The 2022 HHIPC will happen in March. Competitors will arrive on March 3 or 4 and depart March 15. If you are interested, or need more information please call the HHIPC office at 843-842-5880.

A Great Dining Experience is at Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar

FEBRUARY 2–20

A UNIQUELY EXCITING THEATRICAL EXPERIENCE! Fifteen year-old Christopher, who falls somewhere on the autism spectrum, has an extraordinary brain but struggles with the sensory chaos of life.

He has never ventured beyond his street, but when the neighbor’s dog is mysteriously murdered, Christopher is galvanized to solve the crime, leading him on a thrilling journey.

Celebrating its 10-year anniversary since becoming a Broadway smash hit, this play is as important as ever.

This story of bravery against all odds shows how special life can be when you’re allowed to be your authentic self.

“MAGICAL AND MOVING” – DAILY MAIL

“SPECTACULAR AND TRIUMPHANT”

– VARIET Y

YOUR TABLE IS WAITING.

DAZZLING, INVENTIVE SHOW ABOUT THE WONDERS OF LIFE” “LIFE-AFFIRMING “A BEAUTIFULLY,

– EVENING STANDARD

AND UNMISSABLE”

– TIME

“BLAZINGLY EXPRESSIVE” – DEADLINE

BRUNCH, LUNCH & DINNER TUESDAY-SUNDAY SOUTH ISLAND SQUARE 841 WILLIAM HILTON PKWY • HILTON HEAD (843) 715-3215 • WWW.LUCKYROOSTERHHI.COM

Parental discretion advised: strong language/subject matter that at times may be difficult for younger viewers. Ages 12 & up.

Masks are REQUIRED for attendance (regardless of vaccination status)

Page 32A

The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022

Mother and son duo enjoy time together while dancing

By Sandro Virag CONTRIBUTOR

Susan Brock began dancing in 2008 at a ballroom in Charleston. As she became more involved, she enjoyed attending the dance parties but couldn’t always find a babysitter. So her son Mitchell would attend the dance parties from time to time, and eventually attended all of Susan’s performances over the next 13 years.

Mitchell was a shy kid, and didn’t have a lot of confidence, so when Susan offered him dance lessons he said “no.” He had other hobbies anyway – golf, computer programming, and even took karate at one point.

In 2019 they moved to Bluffton and Susan picked up ballroom dancing again after a few years off. When Mitchell finished college, he was back in Bluffton and looking for something else to do besides his own business – creating 3D digital models and game assets.

Susan invited him to attend one of her private lessons and that’s when Mitchell re-

CINDA SEAMON

Susan Brock and her son Mitchell take lessons and dance together regularly at Hilton Head Ballroom Studio.

alized this was something he now wanted to try. Mitchell always felt he could move well and picked up things easily, so they started attending the group dance class together.

Mitchell and Susan had always done a lot together and refer to each other as “best

Happy New Year From the Chick

friends,” so dancing together was comfortable right from the start and they continue to learn about each other in different ways.

They focus together on learning steps and patterns and work hard on creating signals with each other so Mitchell can become a

strong lead. Even though Susan has been dancing for years, Mitchell has wasted no time in catching up, as Susan will take the time to repeat steps until Mitchell has mastered them.

You never know at what point in your life something like dancing will take hold. And even if you don’t take it to a high level, the experience will create forever memories. It is such a different dynamic when family members dance together – for example, brother and sister, father and daughter, husband and wife.

Many of these partnerships go on to a higher level of dancing. Many national champions are family members.

Dancing is a great way to reconnect, especially after a time period of going different ways. Because you have to lead, follow, listen, learn, and memorize, it’s a unique way to come back together with loved ones.

Sandro Virag is a partner and instructor at Hilton Head Ballroom Dance Studio of Hilton Head, located in Bluffton at Seaquins Ballroom. hiltonheadballroom.com

Mexicali Fresh is now open in Bluffton!!

COME TASTE THE DIFFERENCE!!

WE ARE OPEN TO SERVE YOU Dine In, Carry Out & Drive Thru Delivery Available with Online Ordering

HAPPY HOUR 3 TO 6 MON TO FRI OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

TAKE OUT AVAILABLE DELIVERY BY UBER EATS AVAILABLE

Senior Chick Saturdays Half off Saturdays for our 55 and older chicks (and chick magnets)

Purchase a drink and get a Chick Special for 50% off DINE IN ONLY

One special per person per day. Must be 55 years old and up. Dine in only.

Cannot combine with any other offers. Offer valid through 2/26/22

Mon. thru Sat. 10:30 AM – 8:00PM, Closed Sunday 20 DISCOVERY DRIVE, BLUFFTON, SC 29910 • Off Buckwalter in front of Kroger 843.258.1780 • www.chickensaladchick.com

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10% OFF DINNERS ALCOHOL NOT INCLUDED EXPIRES 1/31/2022

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www.mexicalifresh.net

Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

Page 33A

Business Briefs • Steven A. Caywood has been named executive director of Mental Health America of Beaufort/Jasper counties. Caywood replaces Steve Maglione, who retired at the end of December 2021.

Caywood has more than 30 years of health care experience at the executive level prior to establishing an active health care consulting practice. He previously served as CEO of two hospitals in Pennsylvania before serving as CEO of Hilton Head Hospital prior to its purchase by Tenet Health.

Mental Health America, and its Island House program, was founded as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization on Hilton Head in 1976. The program provides day treatment for people with mental illness, where clients learn new skills to help them maintain good mental health and work toward recovery.

Island House is located in Bluffton. For more information, call 843-757-3900.

• Be Prepared, a business continuity planning seminar, will be held from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 24 on the USCB Hilton Head Campus, 1 Sand Shark Drive. The event is

presented by the Hilton Head Island/Bluffton Chamber of Commerce.

No one expects a fire, natural disaster, or another emergency – but we can be prepared. MGT 381 is an 8-hour, DHS/FEMA certified tuition-free planning and management-level course.

Topics include continuity planning process, essential functions, business impact analysis, recovery strategies and plan development.

The workshop is suitable for government staff and elected officials, private sector security and safety personnel, public works staff, emergency management personnel, community stakeholders, retail representatives, and food production manager.

Registration is required. For more information, visit hiltonheadchamber.org/events/ community-events.

• The Sea Pines Resort is launching a recruitment drive to hire as many as 140 new employees in advance of the re-opening of The Quarterdeck restaurant in early April.

Newly redeveloped, the restaurant will

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have an expansive wrap around deck, indoor bar and dining area on the first floor, and a new rooftop oyster bar offering 270-degree views of the Harbour Town Yacht Basin and Calibogue Sound. A casual, walk-up market on the ground level will serve as a place to grab a quick bite to go or to stock up on provisions for the day. The addition of a boardwalk will direct pedestrian flow to the market and pier, creating a gathering spot in this prime waterfront setting.

For the next three months, the resort will be hiring managers, servers, bartenders, hosts and hostesses, sous chefs, line cooks, kitchen stewards, and bussers. Almost all food-and-beverage positions will include sign-on bonuses.

In addition to receiving applications online, the resort will be hosting job fairs in Sea Pines each of the next three months: • Jan. 27, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 to 7 p.m., Magnolia Room, 100 N. Sea Pines Drive • Feb. 21, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 to 7 p.m., Champions Ballroom, 11 Lighthouse

Lane • March 19, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Champions Ballroom, 11 Lighthouse Lane Applicants should visit careers.seapines. com to review available jobs, plus benefits and privileges. In addition to competitive wages, The Sea Pines Resort offers health, dental, vision, and other insurance options after a 60-day waiting period; free golf on two of the resort’s award-winning golf courses (cart fee applies); free tennis and recreation privileges; employee retail discounts; and a strong 401(k) with company match and profit sharing following one year of service.

To learn more about The Quarterdeck, visit quarterdeckhhi.com.

• La Isla Magazine is looking for a full-time graphic designer to help with the design of the magazine layout, social media graphics, and content creation.

Anyone interested in applying should email art director Jesse Aguirre at art@ laislamagazine.com.

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Page 34A

The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022

TECHNOLOGY

Easy to use, quick to learn: Smart devices that help at home

By Joel Braun CONTRIBUTOR

You don’t have to be a tech guru to upgrade your house to a smart home.

Whether you are looking to improve security, entertainment, or convenience, dabbling with connected devices can be easy and beneficial. Here are some smart amenities that can help you out at home.

Smart thermostats. Tired of heating and cooling an empty house? Control the temperature of your home from anywhere with a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats can help save money and energy and allow for a customized user experience.

Home security. Customize your smart home security with DIY options. Solutions from Nest, Ring and LifeShield allow you to protect your home based on your unique needs. Plus, you can opt into a monitoring service if you’d prefer to let someone else keep an eye on your home.

Smart lights and plugs. Did you know

that each smart light bulb can save homeowners an average of $11 per year?

Smart light bulbs connect to your home’s Wi-Fi and allow you to adjust brightness and color, as well as schedule when lighting is needed. The best part is that

smart lighting can be controlled from your mobile device anytime, anywhere.

Considering the number of light bulbs used throughout your home, the savings can really add up. That’s a bright idea we can all appreciate.

Entertainment and convenience. Gone are the days of wiring bulky speaker systems throughout the house. Anyone can create a seamless and wireless sound system with smart speakers like Alexa Echo, Google Nest devices and Apple HomePod. Even the way we watch TV has changed. Instead of recording shows to watch later, now you can have an archive of endless TV and movie options at your fingertips. Turn any TV into a smart TV with streaming devices such as Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku Express 4k and Amazon Fire.

Don’t be intimidated by smart home technology. Many modern connected devices are user friendly and designed to make your life easier and home more comfortable. If you are having trouble learning how to connect your home devices, reach out to your internet service provider for guidance.

Joel Braun is the general manager of Hargray.

Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

Page 35A

LEGAL

Preserve agent’s authority to handle your Medicaid planning

By Mark F. Winn CONTRIBUTOR

If you have created estate planning papers and they do not authorize your “agent” or “trustee” under limited circumstances and conditions to engage in planning to obtain government benefits for you, then you should probably re-visit your planning efforts.

It is estimated that 70% of Americans who reside in nursing homes are enrolled in Medicaid. There is nothing illegal or unethical for you to take steps to try and make yourself eligible for government benefits. It is not always easy, and professional guidance is crucial to success in this arena. However, let us imagine that we are unable to take these steps for ourself because, for instance, we become mentally disabled.

For instance, let us assume John and Judy do their planning with powers of attorney and revocable trusts in 2003 while they lived in New Jersey. They do not have long

term care insurance.

Now, let us assume they have moved to South Carolina and they plan on enjoying their retirement years in the warm glow of the Lowcountry sun. Let us further assume that many years later, John passes and leaves Judy as the survivor. She later becomes mentally disabled and in need of 24-hour care and supervision.

Judy’s adult child, Maxine, is concerned about the costs of the nursing home, which can easily begin to approach $100,000 per year. Maxine wants to know if her mother can do anything to qualify for Medicaid. So, Maxine consults with an attorney about her concerns.

The attorney reviews Judy’s estate plan and discovers to his dismay that the power of attorney and the trust does not specifically authorize her “agent” – Maxine in this case – to take steps for her mother to try to get her mother qualified for Medicaid.

Accordingly, the lawyer informs Maxine that the legal authority to take these kinds

of steps does not exist as the estate planning papers have been drawn up. Maxine is distraught because she now knows that whatever she might have inherited will be consumed by the cost of the long term care.

This is an unfortunate result that could

have been avoided with advance planning.

Now, Maxine will likely not inherit anything.

Aside from trying to avoid legal fees, court costs, judicial proceedings, taxes, loss to in-laws, etc., Judy’s papers probably should have provided Maxine with the specific authority to engage in asset protection strategies on behalf of her mother.

If that authority is not in the papers, then there might be nothing left for the children.

The moral of this legal tale is that if your papers do not specifically authorize your agent to engage in Medicaid planning for you, or do not authorize your agent to do a reverse mortgage for your benefit, then they will not be able to do it. These issues are very sensitive and, without proper planning, the results can be devastating.

Mark F. Winn, J.D., Master of Laws (LL.M.) in estate planning, is a local asset protection, estate and elder law planning attorney. mwinn esq.com

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Page 36A

The Bluffton Sun

Physician assistant Sarah Blau joins Beaufort Memorial Orthopaedic Specialists Certified physician assistant Sarah Blau has joined Beaufort Memorial Orthopaedic Specialists, where she will work with board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Leland Stoddard in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of and injuries to bones and joints. Sarah Blau Part of the Beaufort Memorial medical staff since November, 2010, Blau was a physician assistant at the hospital’s Express Care & Occupational Health Care clinic in Okatie prior to joining the orthopedic practice.

Blau, who holds a Master of Science in physician assistant studies and a Bachelor of Science in biology from Marietta College in Ohio, came to

Beaufort Memorial after three years at IHA Urgent Care in Ann Arbor, Mich.

There, her PA role comprised clinical evaluation and treatment of patients both in person and virtually as well as administrative and leadership responsibilities.

Earlier she worked as a PA in urgent care and occupational health settings in Metro Detroit and in a Parkersburg, W.Va., hospital emergency department with 45,000 patient visits yearly.

Located at 300 Midtown Drive, Beaufort Memorial Orthopaedic Specialists provides a full range of care for bones and joints, specializing in minimally invasive hip and knee replacement. Along with Dr. Stoddard, the practice includes Dr. Edward Blocker and certified physician assistant Paul Schaefer. To schedule an appointment with any of the practice’s health care providers, call 843-522-7100.

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BMH launches homebuyer assistance program for staff Beaufort Memorial Hospital (BMH) has launched a new program to help eligible BMH employees become homeowners or refinance existing mortgages.

The program is one of many new benefits the hospital is rolling out to help employees access affordable housing, childcare and more.

“We know that homeownership provides stability, security, and a means to building financial health and wealth for future generations,” said BMH President and CEO Russell Baxley. “We also recognize that a major obstacle can be coming up with the money needed for a down payment or closing costs. This assistance program will help our employees bridge that financial gap.”

The buyer-assistance program offers up to $10,000 to qualified applicants. Eligible team members must be full-time and have worked at Beaufort Memorial for a minimum of six months, attend a homebuyer education workshop, and meet household income

and other requirements. Eligible properties include those within a 15-mile radius of a designated Beaufort Memorial campus or provider practice.

The program was developed in partnership with CommunityWorks, a community development financial institution that supports economic growth in communities across South Carolina. The goal of these programs is to provide safe and comfortable housing at an affordable rate to community members, allowing them to build wealth through homeownership.

Last year the hospital partnered with Hobbit Hill Preschools to open The Learning Center, a subsidized childcare- and remote-learning center for children of Beaufort Memorial staff. Plans are underway to build a freestanding daycare within walking distance of the hospital’s main campus in 2022.

To learn more about Beaufort Memorial career opportunities and benefits, visit www. beaufortmemorial.org/careers.

Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

Page 37A

HEALTH

Dental hygienists do far more than just clean your teeth

By Matthew Mastrorocco CONTRIBUTOR

Every registered dental hygienist I’ve met during my career thinks of their work as a calling rather than just a job. They are caring, compassionate, highly educated professionals who absolutely love meeting people and guiding them to their best health.

Removing tartar and plaque buildup is an essential part of their work; however, hygienists are more than just teeth cleaners; they’re the first line of defense against serious health problems.

At your routine visits, they perform the following important tasks: • Screen for oral cancer and infection.

They check the floor of the mouth, soft tissue, and tongue for cancerous lesions as well as ulcers and sores that might eventually cause pain. Swelling can indicate infection, and treatment is key to preventing it from entering your bloodstream and causing more serious issues.

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• Take X-rays to detect decay, bone strength, cysts, and abscesses. While your hygienist and dentist are highly trained, the naked eye can’t see the entire picture. Low radiation, digital X-rays enable them to see cavities and abscesses that might lie under the bone. When left unchecked, decay begins to erode teeth, resulting in more involved problems, like cracks, tooth loss, and root canals.

• Check for tooth fractures, leaky

fillings, and loose and shifting teeth.

If fractures or leaks exist between your tooth and a filling, saliva, food, and bacteria can travel within the tooth, breeding bacteria that causes decay.

• Use special equipment to clean beneath the gumline. If plaque, the soft bacteria that can be brushed away with a toothbrush, hardens and mineralizes, it becomes tartar and causes gum inflammation. That swelling, often accompanied by bleeding, can develop into periodontal disease, which leads to bone and ligament loss and eventually the loss of teeth.

• Check bite function, including TMJ discomfort. Dental hygienists can deter-

mine if you might be clenching or grinding your teeth, often linked to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. They and your dentist have solutions to improve your bite and eliminate headaches or pain.

• Polish and remineralize the teeth.

This removes surface staining, leaving teeth shiny and smooth, while strengthening your enamel.

• Check for healthy gums. The condition of your teeth and gums offers significant insight into your overall health, including the presence of systemic disease. Studies show that elevated bacteria in your mouth can affect the progress of health problems like heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and bacterial pneumonia.

Remember, your hygienist is not just cleaning your teeth, they’re on a mission to keep you well and prevent costly and painful procedures in the future.

Matthew Mastrorocco, DMD is the owner and founder of ROC Dental Group, serving Bluffton and Hilton Head Island.

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Page 38A

The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022

HEALTH

We can’t ‘be discreet’ in advocating for better mental health

By Laura Kaponer CONTRIBUTOR

“I am close to autistic people and others with ailments similar to yours and none of them draw attention to themselves the way you do on a daily basis. 99% of the comments you get are positive but I can’t bite my tongue anymore. There are other/better ways to bring awareness. You Laura Kaponer can take action and change yourself but be a little more discreet.”

This is a comment in response to one of my advocacy posts – a comment made by someone I had considered a friend.

I used to be more discreet. Most people in recovery still practice discre-

tion. They privately share stories of their self-loathing, shame, and feelings of personal failure. Some seek treatment, but most never do. Many will never even step into an environment full of peers for fear of being “found out.”

My former friend’s words, while directed at my own public advocacy, could apply to any group of marginalized people.

Many in the LGBTQ+ community are living under a “Don’t ask, don’t tell” policy. They can take a bullet for their country as long as they stay discreet about who they are.

Discretion would mean hiding the partners of your choosing, staying compliant with traditional gender roles, and being quiet when you see injustice among your peers so no one finds out you’re like them. Discretions means living a life against your will, chosen for you by people who are not you.

Survivors of domestic violence and rape are always put on trial when they

do try to share their stories. It seems nobody wants to hear what they have to say because it’s ugly, painful, and “damages” the reputation of those who committed the acts of violence.

Discretion means not pursuing legal action when one’s rights are violated because unfortunately, when this is done, it’s always going to be public. Discretion means not leaving an abusive marriage or taking your children away from an unsafe home, because other people will find out.

Pre-Holocaust, the Jewish community was told to be more discreet. If they blended in, practiced their religion in private, and even changed their names, they were far less likely to be targeted.

Discretion meant they could survive, but never thrive within their communities.

Discretion stigmatizes. Discretion stifles. Discretion kills.

There are so many brave soldiers sharing the pain of their journey in hopes of

creating triumphs among their communities. Being discreet would have meant no Women’s Right Movement, no Civil Rights Movement, no LGBTQ+ movement, no Black Lives Matter movement, and countless others.

Discretion doesn’t ignite change. To be asked to be discreet is to be told you should be ashamed of who you are and what you are going through. Discretion isn’t for the person forced to practice it; it’s for making everyone else around them feel more comfortable.

I hope someday when the neurodiverse people in my former friend’s life decide they want to share their journey and join the movement, he doesn’t respond by telling them they should be more discreet.

Laura Kaponer is a mental health advocate and social media blogger, as well as a volunteer with the local chapter of NAMI. #LauraKaponeris1in5.

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Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

Page 39A

FAITH

Looking forward in faith to the gift of a new year

By Pete Berntson CONTRIBUTOR

How is your start of 2022 going? Have you, like me, posted a new calendar and are busy filling in all the squares with important events and reminders?

Like the past few years, I eagerly awaited the arrival of our “family” calendar. It is one of those where each monthly page is personal-ized with multiple photos. I look forward to seeing which pictures of my children and their children were selected for each month’s page.

Due to COVID, our 2022 family calendar was a little late getting to us. As such, I am already playing catch up, flipping from page to page, planning the year ahead.

Since each page contains photos of my family, the changes in my grandsons from the month of one year to the next are readily observable. These visual changes are key indicators of how quickly time is advancing, even when we might not want it to do so.

We can’t stop time.

We also know that none of us, not one, is promised an unlimited amount of

time. We’re not even promised tomorrow.

So a major challenge of starting a new entire year is recommitting to living each day as it comes, grateful for its arrival, and willing to savor all of its uniqueness.

Those of us who view all of life through the lens of faith readily acknowledge that every day is a true gift given to us by God. When viewed as a gift, each and every day becomes some-

thing to be opened and treasured, enjoyed, experienced, and appreciated to the fullest of our ability.

Filled with trust in a God who is ever at work for good in the world and in us and who delights in surprising and filling us with awe and wonder, we can look forward, not in fear of what might lie ahead, but in eager anticipation of the blessings that await us.

This does not mean that every day will be perfect, pleasant, or even easy. But even in those days, we hold to our belief that God will still be with us, close by, to guide and support us and to love us.

Whether we get to experience every day on our 2022 calendar or just one more, we can and will say “thanks” to God for all that has been, and will say “yes” to all that lies ahead.

May it be true for us all in 2022.

Pete Berntson is the pastor of Church of the Palms United Methodist Church in Okatie.

Connecting to God, Connecting to One Another Pastor Pete Berntson

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Page 40A

The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022

HEALTH

What to do if you notice changes in an aging parent

By Joy Nelson CONTRIBUTOR

Visiting family and loved ones can be a very joyous occasion. Having a cup of coffee on the porch, shopping for the next hidden gem, or fishing off the pier. Most of us don’t slow down enough, for long enough to enjoy these moments, but we should.

When was the last time you visited Mom or Dad? Or took the time to give them a call and really listen to how they are doing? So many of us worry about what our children are doing and how their well-being is, but we also need to make sure our aging parents are OK too.

When you speak to them or visit, ask them if they are going to the store regularly.

Are they visiting friends? Are they talking to their neighbors? The reason for these questions is that self-isolation is a concern of aging adults who start to notice changes in their memory, but aren’t ready to admit it to friends – and least of all their children.

When they realize words or memories aren’t coming to the mind as easy as they once did, they tend to pull away. For someone whose memory is declining, self-isolation can make them decline even faster.

To avoid self-isolation, it’s important to keep the brain healthy. Here at Memory Matters, we practice the five brain healthy interventions – socializing, learning, eating along the Mediterranean diet, exercising, resting.

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The chances of having your parent practice all five interventions are not likely, but maybe they will start with the two most important socializing and learning.

Socializing is vital to keep the brain thriving. During a conversation, your brain is being activated, your senses are being awakened, and most likely while talking, you are learning something new. Lifelong learning is the ongoing, voluntary, and self-motivated pursuit of knowledge for either personal or professional reasons contribute to a healthy brain.

Even exploring new ways of doing routine tasks challenges and stimulates the brain.

The next time you are running errands,

drive a different way home. Try to work a new jigsaw puzzle, or do a word search instead of a crossword puzzle.

It’s imperative throughout life that we find ways to activate the brain. It is also important to activate the brain before a change in the brain is noticed.

Brain health is a vital part of living well, yet is often overlooked. We know diet and exercise will make your heart healthy, but those habits also serve the brain.

Good brain health begins at infancy and should be exercised throughout life, not just when something wrong is recognized.

Remember, the next time you visit or talk to Mom and Dad, remember to be there in the moment and really listen.

If you are noticing a change and aren’t sure how to approach the topic or what to say, we can also help guide you. Give us a call at 843-842-6688 or go to mymemorymatters.org.

Joy Nelson is an educational staff member at Memory Matters.

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Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

Page 41A

NATURE’S WAY

Judging by the first weeks, fishing should be good this year

By Collins Doughtie CONTRIBUTOR

I don’t know about the rest of you, but whenever a New Year rolls around it takes me a good month or so to correctly date a check I might write.

At the same time, I am very superstitious and tend to judge whether the coming year will be good or not so good by things that happen with me in that first week or so.

Silly? You bet it is, but if indeed this proves to be true, then 2022 will be wonderful, because it has been great for me thus far – especially when it comes to fishing.

The first significant event occurred the day after the calendar flipped as my best bud, Dan Cornell, and I ran his 60-foot Viking sportfish boat to Ft. Pierce, Fla., for some upgrades before we take it to the Bahamas the first part of March. We left Hilton Head Island at dawn and expected to reach Ft. Pierce late that day.

I was in the salon reading when I heard Dan yelling for me to come up on the bridge. We were in 90 feet of water off the coast of South Georgia. As I reached the bridge, I saw this monstrous black shape rise completely out of the water. When it hit the water, it was like a torpedo had exploded just under the surface.

A moment later, another monster launched itself a few hundred yards from the first one, followed closely by yet another. It was a pod of right whales all breaching one after another.

If you are not familiar with right whales,

I got some fair videos as they dove with gigantic tails slapping the water, but captured just one still photo of a breach. Those whales made that long run worth all the other rather boring hours on a relatively Watching an amazing show of right whales breaching off the coast of South lifeless winter Georgia, we got one photo of this huge creature before he disappeared back ocean. into the water.

As for fishing, 2022 has started out with a bang they can reach lengths near 60 feet and for me. I suspect the warmer than usual weigh up to 70 tons. temperatures of both the air and the water Pulling back the throttles, we eased might have contributed to my success but toward them. Though I have encountered whatever it is, I’ll take it. right whales before, those being generally Usually by this time of the year, flounder single whales with a calf in the spring of the year, never have I seen this many adult right have moved offshore, but I have been tearing them up recently. Not only have I been whales together. catching flounder, but the ones I have been Talk about awesome! As we got right in catching have been the largest in over a year. the middle of several whales, I grabbed my On top of that, the redfish bite has been camera. While I was on the starboard side, on fire, as have the sheepshead and black one would pop up on the port side, so I’d drum. At first I thought this great fishing run over. Then another would pop up on might last but a day or two, but every day I the starboard side. wet a line I came home with vittles for the It was actually funny, had someone been family. videoing me running from one side of the I love eating flounder but, believe it or bridge to the other as the whales seemed to not, I began to tire of dining on their tender, be playing with me, surfacing on the opposweet and flaky flesh. When I got to that site side where I was filming.

point, I changed gears by calling Chris Kehrer at the Port Royal Foundation’s Maritime Center.

I don’t think I have ever mentioned that I am a huge supporter of this marvelous facility located half way to Beaufort on Lemon Island. My support for the Maritime Center isn’t financial since I am just shy of being a legitimate pauper, my support is in the form of fish – live fish.

If you have never checked out the Maritime Center then you are really missing out. Not only is there a huge aquarium with a number of species found in Port Royal Sound, they also have touch tanks and topnotch historical displays.

I have been catching fish for their displays for years now and since Chris pretty much handles a lot of the daily chores there, I twisted his arm (not!) to join me catching fish for their tanks during this hot bite. In two days, we added two huge flounder, some redfish, black drum, pinfish and monster mullet to their collection.

Transporting them was the hard part, as salt water in huge live wells sloshed in the back of my car. But it was worth the sacrifice.

I encourage you to stop by and see this place – it is awesome! Admission is free to the public, while being financed by donations.

If 2022 keeps rolling like it has thus far I am going to be in some kind of fat city!

Collins Doughtie, a 60-year resident of the Lowcountry, is a sportsman, graphic artist, and lover of nature. collinsdoughtie@icloud.com

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Page 42A

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Jan. 19, 2022

BEAUTY

Keep your hair growth at a max, with loss at a minimum

By Joy Ross CONTRIBUTOR

Picture this: Your alarm rings in the morning and, after hitting snooze the maximum number of times, you drag yourself out of bed and head to the bathroom to get ready for your day.

While brushing your teeth, you look in the mirror and notice your hair isn’t as dense as it used to be. Can you see your scalp through your hair? When you get in the shower, you dread scrubbing your hair because your fear is that more hair will be in your fingers and in the drain.

Unfortunately, this is happening to a lot of us. Let me try to explain why and some things to do about it.

First of all, try not to stress. Stressing is the first reason we lose hair. Here’s an elementary explanation of the complex grown cycle of each hair on our head: At any given time, each of the 100,000 to 150,000 hairs that we have on our scalp

alone is in one of the three stages of growth.

Each hair follicle has its own lifecycle that can be influenced by our age, health or illness, stress, and a wide variety of other factors. The lifecycle is divided into three phases.

The anagen phase is the phase where hair is growing. This can last from two to eight years. Therefore, the longer the hair stays in this stage, the longer our hair can

grow. This is the very reason why someone can grow their hair especially long and someone else can not cut it for years and it won’t get any longer.

The catagen phase is the transitional stage when the hair moves from dormancy to actively growing. It lasts only two to three weeks.

Lastly, the telogen phase is the resting phase that can last up to three months.

At the end of this cycle the hair falls out and the growth cycle begins again.

The hair follicle is below your scalp and stays alive by the food that’s carried to the follicle by our blood. This keeps each hair strong and healthy. This is why giving your scalp a good scrub is so beneficial.

The stimulation helps the blood flow, and

therefore keeps your hair in place and rids the scalp of any old hair that is ready to fall out. Scrubbing also helps loosen the oils and any build up that can choke the follicle, resulting in its death. Once the follicle dies, no more hair will grow.

This is why it’s so important to maintain its life. Our diet, hormones, medication, thyroid and stress are the factors that govern the growth. Basic things like not wearing your hair pulled tightly, especially to bed, using good products to avoid build up, protein rich diet (hair is made of protein), taking B-12 (a great vitamin for stress), along with many other more involved remedies help keep the hair in the anagen phase.

The longer each hair stays in the anagen phase the longer your hair will grow and stay on your head.

I hope this helps you to keep every hair in place.

Joy Ross is owner of Style It Salon in Old Town Bluffton. styleitsalon.com

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Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

Page 43A

OUR SHOWROOM IS 100 days, 100 new experiences: STOCKED WITH NEW CARTS AND READY FOR YOU! A learning plan for puppies PETS

By Abby Bird CONTRIBUTOR

The concept of providing your new pup with 100 new experiences in 100 days is a favorite, and is derived from some of the best trainers and behaviorists in the world.

It implies that not only do you bring your puppy to training classes early, but other imprint experiences are important.

The first six to eight weeks of experiences are provided by your pup’s breeder or the shelter environment. But once the pup goes home with you, a whole new series of experiences need to be addressed.

Start by writing the numbers 1 through 100 on a notebook or calendar. For each day, write down a new experience your pup will have. The experience can be very basic, as long as it’s new and affects either sensory, brain or learning experiences. This teaches a pup to deal with new things and fears.

Here are some suggestions: Home: TV conversations, microwave beeping, movement and sound of vacuum cleaner, babies crying. Get the pup used to seeing people wearing caps and sunglasses and carrying objects such as mops or brooms.

Stairs are a challenge so start with just one or two. Crates, baby gates and being confined, so that they learn they cannot always be with you. Make sure there is exposure to types of toys for appropriate play; squeaky, tug, rubber balls, soft and hard bones, safe edible bones.

Start touching them very early on by handling the paws and face and ears. Brush them regularly to get used to it. The more you do this the better your dog will adjust to touch by others.

Outside: Lawn equipment, cars, bikes, trucks, school bus, horn blowing, drains on the street, trash cans. Introduce them to those wearing uniforms; all ages of children – including stationary, crawling and walking; and people of all races, sizes and gender.

The planet: Different textures; grass, sand, waves and water at the beach; garden mulch, the driveway and road, and walking

on wet textures, as well as walking in the rain. Teach your pup to walk on a leash in a variety of equipment such as harnesses or collars.

Have your pup play with other puppies, both large and small, on a one-on-one basis or in a class, but not in a dog park until they are older and have age-appropriate vaccines.

Safety and supervision is critical on this, as health and play styles differ. Bring your dog to a pet store and home improvement store so they can smell all the temptations and be around large noisy things.

Car rides: Very early, veterinarians and groomers are critical. Clippers, brushing, blow drying, bathing, and touching of face and paws by strangers is a serious need when they are young, as it may take time to work through their fears.

Go to outdoor restaurants or other businesses that allow pets. Have them meet people in wheelchairs, with walkers, canes and more. Have as many people pet them as possible, as long as your pup is not jumping!

Every day should be an adventure for you and your dog as you explore your world together. Puppies are less likely to develop fear or aggressive behavior to things they have seen, experienced and understand.

Abby Bird is owner of Alphadog Training Academy. AlphadogTrainingAcademy@gmail. com

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Page 44A

The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022

PETS

‘Specially abled’ rescue pup waiting to find forever home

By Lindsay Perry CONTRIBUTOR

Fred is on a roll! Just three months after the tragic accident that left his backend paralyzed, this 7-month-old puppy is happy, healthy, and enjoying his second chance at life. All he needs now is a loving home to call his own.

“Fred has grown into quite the handsome dog,” said his foster mom, Lori Roos. “He weighs 46 pounds now and all the ladies swoon over his good looks.”

Because of compassionate support from the Lowcountry community, Palmetto Animal League was able to raise the funds necessary to cover Fred’s costly medical care when he was hit by a car just a few weeks after being adopted.

Thanks to the kindness of so many, Fred was also fitted for essential mobility tools, his favorite being a special wheeled cart – complete with a custom license plate – that allows him to run and play.

Fred is ready for adventure, and his forever home.

“Fred has become quite the neighborhood celebrity, showing off his wheelchair and skills during his daily walks,” Roos said. “He is a true ambassador for what I like to call ‘specially abled’ dogs, showing everyone he meets just how happy he is!”

Fred has an endless amount of love to give and appreciates every ounce of love

he receives. He captured the hearts of PAL supporters in October, and now it’s time for his next steps in life.

“He is a very sweet dog and a joy to spend time with,” Roos said. Even better, Fred enjoys the company of other dogs as well as cats, and he absolutely loves children.

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lieve special needs pets are just as precious as able-bodied beauties, and Fred is the perfect example.

“Loving a special needs pet is one of the most rewarding experiences,” says PAL President Amy Campanini. “Give Fred a little extra care, the right mobility tools, and regular exercise, and he will return your goodness 10-fold in the form of unconditional love, loyalty, and complete devotion.”

When he’s not wowing people on his walks, Fred loves to chew bones and play with his stuffed toys. He’s happiest when he’s with people, but he is also great at keeping himself entertained.

For the special person that will welcome Fred into their home, PAL will take care of everything needed to get him settled as a part of the family. If you’d like to get to know Fred in person, call 843-645-1725.

Lindsay Perry is the marketing coordinator for Palmetto Animal League. PalmettoAnimalLeague.org

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Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

Page 45A

SAFETY

Learn how to use fire extinguisher before you need it

By Cinda Seamon CONTRIBUTOR

When used properly for home fires, a portable fire extinguisher can limit property damage and prevent injuries.

When should you use an extinguisher and attempt to fight the fire?

Only if: • The fire department has been called and the experts are on the way; • Everyone is evacuating the building; • The fire is contained to a small area and not spreading; • You are physically able to use a fire extinguisher; • You have an easy escape route and an opening to your back; and • You have the right fire extinguisher.

Every fire extinguisher is designed to fight a certain class or classes of fire.

Identifying these various classes will help you select the right fire extinguisher. Keep in mind that using the wrong type of fire

extinguisher can cause a fire to spread and place you in greater danger.

The classes are normally printed on the box of the extinguisher and the extinguisher itself. For home use, most people will need an ABC extinguisher. This type of device works on three common classes of fires: Class A: ordinary combustibles such as wood, cloth, paper, rubber upholstery, and many plastics. Often found in homes and businesses.

Class B: flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, grease, tar, oil-based paint, etc. (The best example is a grease fire on the stove.)

Class C: energized electrical equipment, including wiring, fuse boxes, circuit breakers, and appliances.

A home fire extinguisher is recommended for each floor level in the home or anywhere there is a risk. It should be placed near an exit in the event a fire breaks out. Keep extinguishers easy

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for adults to see but out of the reach of children.

Fire extinguishers don’t last forever – usually about 7 to 10 years – so look for that information on the box and then date your extinguisher with a permanent marker.

Most extinguishers have visual how-to instructions for use right on the extin-

guisher. Make sure you understand them before a fire breaks out. The time of the emergency is not the time to be figuring out how to use an extinguisher.

There is a simple reminder to help you remember how to use an extinguisher: PASS. This means: • Pull the pin to unlock the handle (the pin is located at the top of the unit) • Aim low at the base of the fire • Squeeze the handle which will release the extinguishing agent • Sweep from side to side at the base of the fire After using an extinguisher, either replace it or have it serviced. Most home extinguishers are for one-time use.

If at any time the fire spreads, smoke starts to fill the room, or you feel overwhelmed, stop what you’re doing and get out!

Cinda Seamon is the fire and life safety educator for Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue.

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Page 46A

The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022J

SPORTS

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The history of Tiger Woods’ effect on golf started about 25 years ago. In 1997, he was the first African-American to win the Masters. Woods occupied the No. 1 ranking in golf for 683 weeks, a feat that will never be accomplished again. Twenty- five years later he is still affecting the game in a big way.

In 1996, before the “Tiger Effect,” there were about 24.4 million golfers in America.

Now, 25 years later, that number has skyrocketed to 36.9 million, with many of these players being non-Caucasian.

Before Woods became a professional golfer, professionals made a good living.

He changed the landscape by negotiating five-year deals with Nike and Titleist for more than $60 million. He also had deals with American Express, General Motors and several other companies, making him the highest-paid athlete in the world and the first to make over $1 billion.

Now, 10 golf professionals have made more than $50 million. There are 39 pros who have surpassed the $30 million mark in on-course earnings. These golf professionals need to thank Tiger Woods for the bigger purses.

Woods also made golf a more athletic sport. I can remember when I was in high school and the boys on the golf team were non-athletes. Now, many young males are attracted to the sport because golfers are considered more athletic.

Many of the recent major winners, incuding Jordan Speith, Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka, and Bryson DeChambeau, are very athletic and train three hours a day when not playing in an event. Even Phil Mickelson, age 50, credits his conditioning for being able to win a major on the PGA tour again.

These days, most players have strength coaches who travel with them, and the PGA has fitness trailers at most events.

Is Woods going to win again? When asked in an interview in November, he said, “I don’t know when that’s going to happen.

Tiger Woods with his son, Charlie, at the recent PNC tournament.

That’s something that for a while there it didn’t look like I was going to. Now I’m able to participate, to what level I do not know.”

Woods has come back from several surgeries in the past on his back and knees.

However, he is now 46 years old and his injury to his leg has made it difficult to walk many of the hilly courses on tour, especially Augusta National, his favorite tournament.

Finally, his effect on golf was very evident last month when he played in the PNC tournament with his 12-year-old son, Charlie. This parent-offspring event had major tournament winners playing with their children or grandchildren.

More than 2.3 million viewers were glued to the Woods’ grouping where Charlie – “mini-me” – and his dad wore the red and black on the final day. Charlie’s mannerisms were so much like his dad’s. The elder Woods played well, but had to ride in a golf cart. Charlie stole the show with his skill, while his dad showed a lot of skill considering he hadn’t played in a tournament in the past 12 months.

Everyone could tell how proud Woods was of his son. There is a good chance that we will see another Woods on the tour in the future.

Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional and teaches at Pinecrest Golf Club. jean. golfdoctor.harris@gmail.com; golfdoctorjean. com

Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

Page 47A

SPORTS

Youth hoopsters compete in River Ridge Holiday tourney

By Tim Wood CONTRIBUTOR

River Ridge Academy hosted its second annual Holiday Hoops Classic Jan. 8 for middle school boys basketball teams from around the Lowcountry.

The tournament began in 2020 with a widespread field from Hilton Head to Robert Smalls. The field was a little slimmer this year due to last-minute COVID dropouts, but still featured a selection of Bluffton and Lowcountry rising hoops stars.

The Hardeeville-Ridgeland Hurricanes, coached by Bluffton hoops guru and Carolina Ballers leader Jake Morrow and Syracuse legend and native mentor Tony t Bruin, defeated the River Ridge Raiders in a tightly-contested final. The H.E. McCracken Bulldogs Black crew took third place, taking down the tourney’s Northof-the-Broad representatives from Lady’s Island Middle School.

PHOTOS COURTESY RIVER RIDGE HOLIDAY HOOPS

The All-Tournament Team includes, from left, Brian Polite from Lady’s Island, Javon Mitchell from Hardeeville-Ridgeland Hurricanes, Kordell Holley of McCracken, and Reid McCollum of River Ridge. Not pictured is Carnell Warren of McCracken.

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“It’s a great showcase for our rising youth boys basketball players and we have a lot of fun with these kids and try to build camaraderie among the teams from all around the Lowcountry,” said River Ridge boys basketball head coach Woodie Melton IV, who runs the tournament alongside Bluffton High School’s Kyle Cartledge.

HRMS defeated McCracken Black to begin the tourney, followed by the host Raiders taking down McCracken White, while the team mostly comprised of seventh graders put up a hearty fight.

River Ridge followed that up with a back-and-forth battle and victory over Lady’s Island. In an official version of most every practice scrimmage, the McCracken Black team took down their teammates from McCracken White and then followed by defeating Lady’s Island in the third-place game.

Please see HOOPS on page 48A

Page 48A

The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022

HOOPS from page 47A

Middle school players and coaches from around the Lowcountry participated in the River Ridge Academy Holiday Hoops Classic Jan. 8.

After the final, the coaches convened to pick their all-stars from the tournament.

Host River Ridge had four represen-

tatives, with Reid McCollum, Kiran Boggess, Chase Colella and Brendan O’Reilly earning the honors.

Landry Williams of McCracken won the ThreePoint shot contest.

Victor Jimenez and Joey Houpt from the Bulldogs, and Javon Mitchell, Devin Green, Quaron Mitchell, Amare Patterson and Killian Gibson from the Hurricanes.

McCollum, Warren, Holley, Brian Polite and Javon Mitchell were named the All-Tournament team, the best among the all-star crew.

The day finished with a pick-up allstar game, and giving the kids a middle-school taste of what they see during NBA All-Star Weekend, tournament organizers also held a layup skills, free throw and three-point shooting contest.

A crew of seventh graders took home the skills honors. River Ridge’s Grayden Arnold took home the layup contest title, teammate Aaden Ware outshot the competition for the free throw title, while McCracken’s Landry Williams’ sweet stroke scored him a victory in three-point contest.

McCracken and Hardeeville had five representatives apiece, with Carnell Warren, Kordell Holley, Jake Wood,

Tim Wood is a veteran journalist based in Bluffton. Contact him at timwood@blufftonsun.com.

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Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

SPORTS

To increase swimming efficiency, use diagonal strokes

By Bob Colyer CONTRIBUTOR

Newton’s Third Law of Motion tells us that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. Thus it would seem that to be propelled forward, a swimmer should pull and push the hand-arm lever straight back against the water. Alas, this is not so.

Water is not a solid, but a fluid that, once it is set in motion backward, cannot then be used for further propulsive traction. There are two ways to overcome this.

One way is to move the hand backward faster than the water is already moving.

An efficient competitive swimmer knows therefore to accelerate through the stroke.

But this comes at a price. For example, doubling one’s speed requires four times the force (squared) and eight times the energy (cubed). At some early point, this cost becomes inefficient.

The second way is for the hand-arm lever to move out and in and up and down just enough to constantly press against non-moving water. Ernie Maglishco, a coaching genius if there ever was one, who has written the (literally, 803 pages) magnum opus on swimming, advocates thus a “diagonal” stroke. As an English major, I prefer to use the term “curvilinear.” Modern swim coaches no longer use “pull” or “push” for the stroking action, but “outsweep” and “insweep.”

Regardless of how it’s labeled, this stroking motion might seem to imply that efficient stroking is maneuvering the hand (and arm) past the body when actually it’s the other way around. Stroking is levering the body past an anchored hand (and arm) that are pressed against non-moving water. This can be done only when that lever is constantly adjusted to maintain such pressure.

The early part of a stroke (or outsweep, pictured) enables a swimmer to maneuver the shoulder(s) past the hand. The remainder of the stroke (insweep) enables a swimmer’s hip(s) to get past the hand.

Efficient swimmers do this better than others, and it is often said they have a better “feel for the water.”

That’s the swimmer’s goal – being able to effectively use Newton’s Third Law for optimum propulsion. As a previous column indicated, this does not happen by repetitiously swimming laps. It takes some trial and error just to perform one good, effective stroke, which can be increased gradually to two, three, and beyond. But the eventual reward of more efficient swimming makes all the effort involved in the process worthwhile.

Dr. Bob Colyer of Bluffton is an actively retired college professor, coach and author of “Swim Better: A Guide to Greater Efficiency for Swimmers & Instructors,” directed primarily to non-competitors. bobcolyer@ yahoo.com

Page 49A

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The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022

SPORTS

Patience is a virtue, especially when added to tennis game

By Lou Marino CONTRIBUTOR

At this time of year can have rapidly changing weather conditions along with unpredictable wind. With the wind’s speed and direction all over the map, it becomes evident that players who display the most patience are more likely to win the day.

In many minds, patience, in its basic form, connotes waiting. But tennis adds another dimension to the mix. It’s a quality that allows you to be calm, confident and successfully execute your shots.

Good anticipation, seeing and taking action early enough, creates more time to be in control of balance and footwork.

Having these qualities at your disposal allows for fewer unforced errors and a less rushed feeling when making your shots. It will certainly make your tennis more fun and make outside factors, like Mother Nature, have a lessened effect.

Speaking of Mother Nature, when you’re playing in windy conditions, take note of wind direction. Look at the di-

rection the trees are swaying. Or, if there is a flag flying close by, it can help you know if you’re playing with or against

the wind, and how to gauge your hitting.

Having the patience to get yourself positioned to work with the wind is an advantage.

The same goes for playing in sunny conditions. Work with the sun to try and make it an advantage. Don’t think for a minute that your opponents wouldn’t do the same! Again, this takes patience, and a good lob, to make it work.

Overall, being patient and using good fundamentals when executing any shot will pay more dividends than trying to power through your opponents.

This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t put a ball away when the opportunity arises.

Rather, strive to achieve good placement through the virtue of patience. The results are worth the effort.

Lou Marino is a USPTA Cardio and youth tennis coach who lives, teaches and provides custom-hybrid racquet service in the Bluffton-Hilton Head Island area. lwmarino@hotmail.com OPEN MON. - FRI. • 9 AM TO 3 PM 2 Southwood Park Drive • Hilton Head, SC 29926 Next to Dunkin Donuts • 843.683.7770

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Page 51A

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Page 52A

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Jan. 19, 2022

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Today, getting fresh air into your home can be sourced from many options on the market – from consumer grade “air purifiers” that sit in the corner of your room to UV light powered systems to whole home fresh air exchange and purification. Many readily available (and some inexpensive) options though, do not always provide proper solutions.

Let’s talk about the pros and cons of the most common systems.

Opening your windows. The most basic of tactics – allowing for air flow through your home by opening windows – can certainly help to exchange fresh air into your home. This however, can bring the potential to openly and freely allow allergens and pollutants inside.

It’s a simple way to add air circulation, but it might cause your current systems to work overtime to make up the difference in hot or cold air temperature ranges.

At home “air purifier” towers and fans.

Sometimes also sold as “ionic air fans or purifiers,” most units don’t include any sort of filtration system whatsoever. That means any dust, pet dander and air contaminants that enter the back of your fan exit straight out of the front of the unit and are recirculated throughout your home.

These units can help with moving air but they don’t address air freshness or contaminant removal efforts.

Professionally installed “fresh air venti-

lation or air exchange” systems. Designed as a long-life, low-maintenance method for air movement, these exchange systems take in air from outside your home while expelling stale air from inside your home.

The end result is more appropriate levels of humidity and “fresh air” inside your home. This system also can work with your HVAC equipment in heating or cooling modes. They can help to reduce your energy costs, but offer more assistance with “fresh air” problems than they do with air purification.

Whole home air filtration systems. Integrated into your air handler and/or HVAC system as a whole, entire home air filtration systems often combine multiple types of air filtration. This usually includes: 1. a carbon-based filter system for filtering outdoor air sources; 2. HEPA air filters for removal of airborne particles; and 3. UV lights to assist in the near complete eradication of common microbial contaminants in your air.

These systems can be especially useful in making the air in your home safer and more breathable for pet dander, bacteria and/ or major allergy concerns. A whole home air filtration can be more costly than those mentioned above to initially implement – but these hybrid systems are the gold standard for fresh, clean and safe air inside your home and are worth the investment.

Dave Miller, owner of Superior Services, has been providing whole-home services for more than 20 years in the Lowcountry. gotosuperior. com

Jan. 19, 2022

The Bluffton Sun

GARDEN

Prepare beds, order seeds now for spring planting

Page 53A

NITE UTIRE & AUTOD WE ARE THE BEST RECREATIONAL VEHICLE REPAIR AND SERVICE CENTER IN THE LOWCOUNTRY!

A still photo from an instructional video by the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture shows proper pruning of smaller limbs of a crape myrtle. Watch the video at the link provided in this article.

By Mark Deloach CONTRIBUTOR

Let’s get your soil sample to the lab and get growing! This is an important step for a healthy lawn, landscape and vegetable gardening. Our growing season is just a few short months away – it will be here before we know it.

It is also time to plan seed production and order seeds. It’s a good idea to get your seeds ordered early due to potential seed shortage.

It is now time to prepare rose beds for later planting in January or February. Make sure this area receives proper sunlight and good drainage.

This is also a great time to check all your house plants for insects. We should rotate our house plants a half turn every month for plant health and proper growth.

We have a couple of other items that might need attention, given the high winds we recently encountered. Do a full assessment on all trees, and check for any damaged limbs that are partially detached from the tree.

It is also a good time to remove all low-hanging moss from the trees as well.

To minimize fungus issues on the lawn, keep all limbs, leaves, pine straw and debris removed weekly. Maximum airflow is needed for the lawn to prevent moisture

accumulation and fungus.

Note the required amount of sunlight that is required year-round to promote a healthy lawn: • Bermuda and Centipede both require 8 plus hours of direct full sunlight • St. Augustine requires 4 plus hours of direct sunlight • Zoysia requires 6 plus hours of direct sunlight If your lawn does not receive the required amount of sunlight, prune and limb up trees to allow the most sunlight for the lawn.

If you find that, even with pruning, you cannot receive the correct amount of sunlight for the lawn, maybe it’s a good time to consider an alternative landscape plan.

One big item on our chore list is the pruning of crape myrtles. So many gardeners, and even professional landscapers, new to the South do this incorrectly, which is not good for the tree.

For the health and longevity of this Southern-staple tree, check out the guide here for proper pruning techniques: and a video is included in this link: uaex.uada. edu/yard-garden/resource-library/crapemyrtle/pruning. There’s even a video to show you how to tackle this task.

Mark Deloach is the owner of Lawn Doctor of Beaufort County.

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Page 54A

The Bluffton Sun

Jan. 19, 2022

REAL ESTATE

Is it best to list with a large or small real estate company?

By Larry Stoller CONTRIBUTOR

If you are thinking about selling your home, the size of the real estate company does not matter. But choosing the right agent does. Real estate agents are independent contractors and each agent is responsible for how they market the homes that they list and sell.

There are great agents at large and small brokerages. These agents specialize in outstanding service and proven results.

They are local market experts who provide enhanced marketing designed to sell your home faster and for a higher price.

When your home is listed for sale (regardless of the size of the real estate company) a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) property listing is created. It includes a brief home description, home details and photos. If in a “delay” status, it is available for local area agents to view.

When it is made active, it will appear on

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Before your home is in active status,

outstanding innovative agents do their marketing magic to showcase your home listing so that it “Wow”s online and really stands out from the competition.

This takes more time and effort on behalf of your agent, but sellers should not settle for anything less.

Here is where the right agent matters, not the size of the real estate company!

Hard-working, smart-working agents offer enhanced services and marketing that include: • Professional photography for all property photos

• Both still and aerial photos and video to showcase the home • Compelling captions on every photo to highlight special features • Additional MLS document that describes all upgrades and updates • Specific MLS documentation that shows the real value of the home • Exclusive and attractive property websites that promote the home 24/7 • Single property websites that syndicate the home listing to 200-plus directories • A home warranty that cover all appliances and mechanicals for one full year after purchase • Provide a virtual property panorama so that prospective buyers can view your home from the comfort of their home and see and appreciate all that your home has to offer.

Larry Stoller is a broker and Realtor with Real Estate Five of the Lowcountry. Larry@ RealEstateFive.com, RealEstateFive.com, Sun CityOpenHouses247.com

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Jan. 19, 2022

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Page 55A

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Page 56A

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Jan. 19, 2022