Bluffton Sun • August 5, 2025 by The Bluffton Sun

The Bluffton Sun

Dolphin rescued from lagoon in coordinated multi-agency effort

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

In a dramatic rescue on Saturday, July 12th, a nearly 8-foot female bottlenose dolphin known as “Lucky” was freed from a shallow tidal lagoon in the Hampton Lake community and returned safely to the May River after becoming stranded following recent storms and high tides. The dolphin, estimated to weigh between 400 and 500 pounds, was first discovered by a resident who noticed it stuck in just 2 to 3 feet of water. Researchers at the University of South Carolina Beaufort, who track local dolphin populations, identified the animal as Lucky by her distinctive markings — a name that proved fitting given the outcome.

Authorities believe Lucky swam through a culvert connecting the lagoon to the May River during a period of heavy rainfall and elevated tides earlier in the week. When the tide receded, she became trapped in shallow waters surrounded by vegetation and debris.

At approximately 12:15 p.m., the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network — the only federally authorized responder for marine mammal strandings in South Carolina — received a call about the dolphin. The organization deployed a team from Charleston, including Executive Director Lauren Rust and responders Tracy Kowalczyk, John Kane, and Hilton Head Island-based volunteer Amber Kuehn.

After assessing the situation, the team requested additional assistance from the Bluffton Township Fire District around 3:45 p.m. Rescue 335, part of South Carolina Regional Response Team 4, arrived with personnel trained in technical water rescue.

With the support of residents Michael Smith and Thomas Layer, the combined team used a marine rescue tarp with stabilizing poles to corral the dolphin. Although Lucky initially swam farther

into the lagoon, the group eventually regrouped and safely guided her onto the tarp.

Carrying the dolphin approximately 75 yards through shallow water and up a steep embankment, the team loaded her onto a utility trailer provided by Kuehn. She was then transported roughly 2 to 3 miles under fire department escort to a private dock in May River Plantation. At just before 6 p.m., Lucky was released into deeper water and swam away.

The entire rescue was documented on video and in photos by the Bluffton Township Fire District and shared widely across social media platforms. Since the rescue, Lucky’s story has gone viral, reaching more than 53 million people across television, online, and social media platforms. The story was featured on ABC World News, CBS, Fox News, and hundreds of local news stations across major markets including New York, Los Angeles,

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On social media, the Bluffton Township Fire District released a four-minute video capturing the full rescue, drawing widespread attention and praise for the coordinated response.

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FROM PAGE 1A

The rescue highlighted the importance of proper protocol in responding to marine mammal strandings. Officials stressed that the public should never attempt to handle or rescue stranded animals without proper training and authorization. Only organizations like the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network, operating under federal guidelines, are legally allowed to respond.

People who encounter stranded or distressed marine mammals should call 911 or contact the S.C. Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Stranding Hotline at 1-800-922-5431. Attempting to help or harass a marine mammal without authorization can result in federal penalties of up to $100,000.

The rescue also underscores the role weather events can play in coastal wildlife emergencies. Culverts and other stormwater infrastructure, combined with high tides, can create dangerous conditions for animals like dolphins that may inadvertently enter restricted areas. As the tide recedes, these animals can become trapped with little chance of escape without human intervention.

Bluffton Township Fire District, which covers 246 square miles of southern

Beaufort County, responds to more than 9,000 calls each year and provides fire suppression, technical rescue, and EMS support. The district is a core participant in regional emergency response partnerships and played a critical role in Lucky’s safe return.

The Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, focuses on marine mammal protection through education, outreach, and response. In addition to responding to strandings, the group provides community training and citizen science opportunities along the South Carolina coast.

Members of the public are encouraged to support marine mammal protection by keeping a safe distance from wildlife, never feeding marine animals, properly disposing of trash, and reporting any strandings immediately. Individuals interested in volunteering with the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network can learn more at lowcountrymarinemammalnetwork.org.

The successful rescue of Lucky serves as a model for how trained responders, local volunteers, and emergency personnel can work together under pressure to protect coastal wildlife. While the story has

traveled across the globe, the effort behind the scenes reflects years of preparation, collaboration, and community awareness. In a region known for its scenic waterways and rich biodiversity, Lucky’s return to the May River is more than just a feel-good moment — it’s a testament to the power of shared responsibility and the importance of respecting and protecting South Carolina’s marine life.

LMMN is federally authorized to respond to marine mammals in South Carolina by NMFS and the Marine Mammal Health and Stranding and Response Program. It is otherwise illegal to handle marine mammals without authorization.

Members of the relocation team from left to right: Michael Smith, Tracy Kowalczyk, Aaron Angel, Tony Crosetto, John Kane, Jane Rust, Brandon Driscoll, Amber Kuehn, Thomas Layer.

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EDITORIAL

#KnowYourTown: Bluffton needs informed candidates and engaged voters

By Mayor Larry Toomer Contributor

Bluffton’s next municipal election is set for Tuesday, November 4th, 2025. Two Town Council seats will be on the ballot, and the filing period for candidates runs from August 8th at noon through September 8th at noon.

If you’re considering running for office—or casting your vote for someone who is—this is an opportunity to learn more about how your local government works and how you can be a part of shaping it.

Serving on Town Council is both an honor and a commitment. It requires time, preparation, and a willingness to learn how decisions are made within Bluffton’s legal and organizational framework. Candidates should take time to reflect on whether they’re ready to invest that energy, work collaboratively, and represent the entire community—not just their neighborhood or platform.

Bluffton operates under a council-manager form of government. That means Town Council sets the vision, adopts ordinances, and shapes policy, while the town manager and staff carry out those directives. This model depends on clarity of roles and strong partnerships.

In our recent community survey, residents expressed a high level of satisfaction with the Town’s services, events, and overall quality of life. At the same time, many shared concerns about the pace of growth and its impacts on infrastructure—and many were unsure about which government agency provides which services.

That feedback led to the creation of the Resident Resource Guide, a clear, fact-based reference mailed to all Town residents in June. It’s designed to answer common questions, clarify responsibilities, and help people feel more confident navigating local government. Whether

you’re new to Bluffton or have lived here for years, the guide is a helpful tool—and especially useful for anyone considering a run for office.

The truth is, talking points often sound good during campaigns but may not reflect what’s possible under state law, existing development agreements, the Town’s strategic plan/action agenda or the Town’s long-term commitments. That’s why being informed—both as a resident and as a candidate—helps build realistic expectations and stronger outcomes.

Bluffton’s future depends on thoughtful, informed leadership and engaged citizens. If you’re considering a run for office, I encourage you to take time to understand the responsibilities, the time commitment, and the resources available to help you

succeed. If you’re a voter, I hope you’ll seek out candidates who have done that work and are ready to serve with knowledge and intention.

To learn more, please read the Resident Resource Guide. You can find it online at www.townofbluffton.sc.gov, or pick up a copy at Town Hall (20 Bridge Street) during business hours: Monday–Thursday, 8 a.m.–5:30 p.m., and Fridays, 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Copies are available until supplies last.

An informed Bluffton is a stronger Bluffton. Let’s move forward together with intention, purpose, and realistic expectations. #KnowYourTown

Larry Toomer is the mayor of the Town of Bluffton. ltoomer@townofbluffton.com.

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SC remains among few states to ban red-light, speed cameras

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

New residents to South Carolina are often surprised to discover that the state prohibits the use of red-light and speed cameras for traffic enforcement. Unlike neighboring states, South Carolina law bans issuing citations based on photographic evidence.

State law (S.C. Code Ann. § 56735) explicitly prevents tickets from being issued “solely or as the result of photographic evidence,” a policy adopted in 2011 after backlash against a small town’s use of interstate speed cameras.

Ridgeland, located in Jasper County, had used officer-monitored speed cameras on I-95 to issue thousands of tickets, most to out-of-state drivers, leading to lawsuits and legislative scrutiny. Lawmakers responded by outlawing the practice statewide.

Cameras elsewhere, and the safety impact

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures and the Governors Highway Safety Association, six states—South Carolina, Texas, Mississippi, Maine, New Hampshire and West Virginia—have enacted laws that ban both red-light and speed enforcement cameras statewide. In addition, two states ban only red-light cameras: Montana and South Dakota, and two ban only speed cameras: New Jersey and Wisconsin. These bans reflect a combination of privacy concerns, legal challenges and opposition to automated enforcement without direct officer involvement.

A 2005 Federal Highway Administration study found that red-light cameras reduced right-angle crashes, often the most dangerous, by about 25 percent, although rear-end crashes increased slightly. The overall cost-benefit ratio remained positive.

A 2011 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) report linked red-light cameras in 14 major U.S. cities to a 24 percent drop in red-light running fatalities and a 17 percent reduction in all fatal crashes at signalized intersections. Speed cameras have shown even broader results. A Cochrane Review meta-analysis of 28 international studies found that speed cameras reduced crash-

es causing death or serious injury by 11 to 44 percent and lowered average speeds significantly near enforcement zones.

In Montgomery County, Md., speed enforcement in school zones cut the number of drivers exceeding the speed limit by more than 10 mph by 59 percent, and reduced severe crashes by 19 percent, according to a study from the IIHS.org.

Arguments in South Carolina

Despite the data, efforts to bring automated enforcement to South Carolina remain stalled. Lawmakers and law enforcement leaders say cameras remove necessary officer discretion and can ensnare innocent drivers, such as rental car users or those borrowing vehicles. But some safety advocates say the state is missing an opportunity, both in terms of public safety and fiscal return. Cameras, they argue, could free up officer time for more serious offenses while encouraging safer driving in highrisk areas like school zones and urban intersections.

In addition, revenue generated by fines, if directed to local infrastructure or safety programs, could support repairs, sidewalks or traffic-calming projects.

While legislative interest has resurfaced periodically, especially from cities like Columbia, the core ban remains unchanged. Prominent voices have cited concerns over privacy, revenue misuse and the need for direct law enforcement involvement.

In May 2025, Senate Bill 664, known as the “South Carolina Speed Safety Act of 2025,” was introduced. This legislation proposes narrowly permitting officer-monitored speed safety systems in larger jurisdictions (populations over 25,000). As of now, it remains in the Senate Transportation Committee and has not yet advanced.

What residents can do

For those interested in supporting the use of red-light or speed cameras, advocates recommend contacting state legislators and urging amendments to the current law.

Citizens can also voice support at city council or public safety meetings and encourage their municipalities to track traffic violations and crash data, which could help build the case for change.

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Bluffton residents ongoing struggle with discolored water

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

For years residents of Bluffton have raised concerns over discolored tap water, blaming yellow or brown coloration on inadequate infrastructure and treatment fluctuations. Many say the water’s appearance has worsened following heavy rainfall and system maintenance operations.

The BeaufortJasper Water & Sewer Authority (BJWSA), which serves Bluffton and surrounding Lowcountry communities, attributes the discoloration to mineral deposits—particularly manganese— and disturbances in water flow triggered by construction, hydrant testing and high usage periods.

Mineral buildup in older mains can become dislodged during pressure changes, producing a teacolored appearance. BJWSA emphasizes that discoloration does not necessarily mean water is unsafe, though it may stain laundry or fixtures.

Local residents have voiced frustration on community platforms, pointing to persistent brown water issues in developments across Bluffton. One resident noted complaints dating back years, with calls to BJWSA initially attributed to “old pipes” before shifting to manganese explanations.

BJWSA says it has implemented both short and longterm solutions. Shortterm measures include targeted flushing of mains and adjusting manganese dosing to reduce mineral build-up. Longer-term upgrades involve expanding capacity at the Purrysburg treatment plant and installing new water towers and mains to stabilize water flow and pressure and address increasing demands.

Customers experiencing discolored water are advised to run cold taps for several minutes until clarity returns. Persistent issues should be reported directly to BJWSA through their customer service line or online portal.

According to BJWSA’s 2025 Consumer Confidence Report, testing conducted throughout 2024 showed no violations of federal or state safety standards. Key indicators such as turbidity, total organic carbon, coliform bacteria, and disinfectant byproducts were all within allowable limits.

• Turbidity, a measure of cloudiness in water caused by particles, remained well below the EPA’s threshold, with 100% of samples meeting the treatment standard.

• Chlorine levels averaged 2.21 parts per million (ppm), below the EPA maximum of 4 ppm.

• Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs), a common byproduct of chlorine disinfection, had a locational running annual average of 52 ppb—within the 80 ppb maximum.

• Haloacetic acids (HAA5) were reported at 39 ppb, also within the 60 ppb EPA standard, though some sample locations reached as high as 73 ppb. The report also noted that BJWSA completed its full-service line inventory in 2024 and confirmed that no lead service lines are present in its system. Nonetheless, BJWSA advises consumers to flush taps for several minutes before drinking and encourages the use of certified filters if concerned about lead exposure from internal plumbing components.

The report also disclosed the presence of five PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in the water supply, part of the EPA’s ongoing Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 5). The substances were detected in low concentrations, with none exceeding proposed regulatory limits. PFOS and PFOA, both considered high-priority compounds due to potential links to cancer and reproductive harm, were detected at 1.7 ppt and 2.3 ppt, respectively—below the EPA’s proposed Maximum Contaminant Levels. Despite meeting regulatory standards, residents continue to report discolored or unappealing tap water, prompting many to seek alternatives such as whole-house filtration systems or bottled water for drinking.

As the utility works toward completing its longterm infrastructure improvements by mid2025 and beyond, residents continue to have water concerns and are asking what effect ongoing development will have.

For more information or to report water quality issues, visit the BJWSA website or contact their customer support line. BJWSA invites the public to attend its monthly board meetings, held at 9 a.m. on the fourth Thursday of each month at its Okatie headquarters.

United Way of the Lowcountry school supply drive

United Way of the Lowcountry’s Women United has launched its annual Operation Backpack and Mimi’s Closets campaign to support students in need ahead of the new school year. This year, the effort includes a renewed focus on providing school uniforms, in addition to essential supplies like backpacks and classroom materials.

“With the rising cost of living, more families are finding it difficult to afford uniforms – a basic yet essential requirement for school participation,” said Donna McKeown, chair of the Women United Steering Committee.

Organizers say the expansion reflects a growing need among working families who fall into the ALICE category — Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, and Employed. These households often earn too much to qualify for federal assistance but still struggle to meet basic needs such as housing, transportation, and child care.

The campaign runs through August 9th to ensure students receive items before the school year begins. Last year, the program provided backpacks and other supplies to more than 1,000 students in Beaufort and Jasper counties, working directly with school social workers to identify those who may not be served by

other assistance programs.

Community members can support the initiative in several ways. Secure online donations can be made at uwlowcountry. org/WUgift, and supplies can be shipped through an Amazon Wish List at uwlowcountry.org/WUAmazon. Donors are asked to send packages to the attention of Bethany Marcinkowski.

In-person donations will also be accepted during a School Supply Drive on Saturday, August 2nd, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Tanger Outlets Hilton Head Back to School Bash near Columbia Sportswear at Tanger 2 in Bluffton. The event will include music, crafts, food trucks, and giveaways and is timed to coincide with South Carolina’s Tax-Free Weekend.

Women United, a philanthropic group under United Way of the Lowcountry, was established locally in 2012 and focuses on breaking barriers to education in underserved parts of Beaufort and Jasper counties. More information is available at uwlowcountry.org/womenunited.

United Way of the Lowcountry is a nonprofit organization serving Beaufort and Jasper counties by supporting programs that promote education, economic mobility, and long-term self-sufficiency.

Memory Matters to launch new caregiver support group in Bluffton

Memory Matters, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families impacted by dementia and memory loss, is launching a new in-person caregiver support group later this month at Okatie Pines Retirement Community.

The free monthly sessions are open to all caregivers, spouses, adult children, friends, or neighbors who are helping care for someone experiencing memory challenges. The meetings are scheduled for the last Wednesday of each month from 11 a.m. to noon, at 142 Okatie Center Blvd N, Okatie. Organizers say the group will offer a welcoming and judgment-free space for individuals at any stage of the caregiving journey to share experiences, ask questions, and find encouragement from others who have faced similar challenges.

The meetings will focus on providing both emotional support and practical tools for navigating common challenges faced by caregivers. Topics may include managing stress, understanding dementia progression, and finding balance while supporting a loved one.

No registration is required to attend. The group is co-ed and open to the public. Memory Matters has been serving the Lowcountry for more than two decades through a range of programs, including caregiver education, memory care day programs, and community outreach. The new Bluffton group expands the organization’s efforts to make support more accessible to residents in southern Beaufort County. For more information, visit www. mymemorymatters.org or call 843-842-6688.

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THE OPEN

By Dr. Jean Harris Contributor

Once a year I love watching the Open. We in the United States call it the British Open. I lost a lot of sleep from July 17th – 20th. I set the alarm on Thursday and Friday for 4:00 a.m. and on Saturday and Sunday the alarm rang at 6:00 a.m. I know there were other golf fanatics that did the same thing while others streamed it on Peacock, NBC, or the Golf Channel. I even subscribed to Peacock so I could watch the early rounds. This year the Open was held in Northern Ireland at Royal Portrush. It is the only course outside of Scotland and England to host the Open. The Open courses are so different than the typical courses in the United States. They differ in course type, playing conditions and overall atmosphere.

• Course type – the traditional links courses are coastal, sandy terrains, gorse bushes, with undulating fairways and greens. Moat links courses have many “pot bunkers.” Water doesn’t come into play that often.

• Playing conditions – windy conditions can change several times during the round with rain coming in and out during play.

• Overall atmosphere – the crowds are

closer to the players and very loud.

The Open, which started in 1860, has a strong sense of history and tradition being the oldest Major golf tournament. It is usually played on links courses in Scotland and England. It is the only Major held outside the United States.

The winner is named “The Champion Golfer of the Year” and receives the Claret Jug. In 1922, Walter Hagen was the first American – born winner.

The biggest difference I saw this year was in the shot making. Players needed to “flight the ball” down. Many drives had an apex of 50 feet. They did this so the shots wouldn’t be impacted by the wind. Unlike the courses in the United States which are played more in the air, The Open is played more on the ground.

My favorite Open Course is St. Andrews and it is generally played there every five years. The Open tournament will be held again at St. Andrews in 2027. Many previous champions will choose St. Andrews as their final Open tournament. It has become a tradition to come down the fairway on hole #18 and pose on the Swilken Bridge. When I visited St. Andrews, I had to take pictures on the bridge.

Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional and teaches at local golf courses.

SEE THE ISLAND

Grant to provide 225 wills and heirs’ property education and prevention services

Lowcountry Legal Volunteers (LCLV) has received a $200,000 grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta (FHLBank Atlanta), administered through South Atlantic Bank, to deliver 225 wills and heirs’ property education and prevention services across Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton counties.

This funding, part of FHLBank Atlanta’s 2024 Heirs’ Property Family Wealth Protection Program, will support LCLV’s mission to help families protect and preserve generational wealth through estate planning, legal education, and documentation services such as wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives.

are partnering with LCLV to strengthen education, genealogical research, and legal advocacy around heirs’ property issues throughout the Lowcountry.

“We developed this heirs’ property grant program knowing that outstanding organizations like LCLV exist to help homeowners protect their assets and build generational wealth,” said Kirk Malmberg, President and CEO of FHLBank Atlanta. “It is always wonderful to see our members like South Atlantic Bank partner with local organizations to apply for funding and support critical efforts like heirs’ property. The range of services that LCLV is providing with this funding – free of charge to property owners – will change lives and strengthen communities.”

South Atlantic Bank, as the member institution of FHLBank Atlanta, played an instrumental role in securing the competitive grant.

Heirs’ property—land passed down without a legal will or clear title—is a widespread issue in the South that can prevent families from maintaining, improving, or passing down their property. This grant allows LCLV to directly address the root causes of property loss by offering proactive services that prevent heirs’ property complications before they begin.

“This funding allows us to meet people where they are—before a crisis—and provide the tools they need to protect their family’s land and legacy,” said Anne Caywood, Executive Director of Lowcountry Legal Volunteers. “Prevention is just as critical as resolution, and thanks to this grant, we can expand our reach and impact in the communities we serve.”

To further support families beyond basic estate planning, clients needing assistance with deeds, trusts, and other complex property protection mechanisms will be referred to local attorneys who have agreed to provide services at low or no cost. These collaborative referrals help ensure that families receive the full spectrum of legal protection necessary to secure their property for future generations.

The grant complements LCLV’s broader regional strategy, which includes partnerships with the Lowcountry Gullah Foundation, Penn Center, Beaufort County Black Chamber of Commerce, and the Hilton Head Island Gullah Geechee Land & Cultural Preservation Task Force. In addition, the Heritage Library and the Center for Heirs’ Property Preservation

“We are proud to support Lowcountry Legal Volunteers in their work to protect family land and help families plan for the future,” said Christian Kata, Market Executive at South Atlantic Bank. “This grant reinforces our shared commitment to preserving wealth and dignity in underserved communities.”

To ensure accessibility and community presence, LCLV operates from two regional offices: one in Okatie, inside the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office as part of the Victims Services Center, and one in Beaufort, located within the Lowcountry Outreach Center.

The project will continue through September 2026, with services delivered through estate planning clinics, one-on-one consultations, and outreach events that focus on legal education and prevention.

While LCLV will also assist in heirs’ property resolution efforts, when possible, the heart of the grant is focused on proactive, community-based solutions that prevent property loss before it starts.

“We’re building a future where families can pass down land, stories, and opportunity without legal uncertainty,” Caywood said. “This grant is a critical step toward that future.”

High school football media day

By Justin Jarrett Contributor

It has become an inside joke among the LowcoSports crew in recent years that we cover Lowco high school football like the soap opera it is, and every great soap opera starts with great characters.

They were on display last week for WHHI-TV’s annual High School Football Media Day, which brought a parade of football coaches and their team leaders strutting through USCB’s Sand Shark Recreation Center to mug for the cameras and talk with local media ahead of the 2025 season.

And we are blessed with an abundance of characters among the coaches in Region 6-4A, each of whom instills their own personality into their team.

Hilton Head High’s B.J. Payne was in top form, as the dean of Lowco high school football coaches noted in his deep, gravely voice, “I think a lot of people think we’re gonna be down this year … which is fine,” before the slightest twinge

of a grin pulled at the left side of his face. Conclusion: B.J. has the goods.

But the Bluffton Bobcats aren’t impressed, and coach Hayden Gregory isn’t afraid to let everyone know how confident he is in his team. Asked what the Bobcats have to do to advance deeper in the playoffs this season, Gregory didn’t hesitate.

“We just can’t hurt ourselves. That’s easy,” Gregory said. “It’s very rare that if we’re at our ‘A’ game that the other team’s gonna beat Bluffton. The No. 1 enemy we’re gonna have is Bluffton.”

The Bobcats don’t seem to have made many friends in the offseason, though, certainly not across the river. Star receiver Amare Patterson announced this summer he was transferring from Beaufort High to Bluffton, joining with North Carolina commit Carnell Warren to form a deadly one-two punch for standout quarterback Aedan McCarthy.

The potentially electric offense has the Bobcats and their fanbase posting confidently about lofty achievements that have rarely been seen from public school football teams in these parts, and that may

have put a target on their backs.

The Bobcats are surely eager to take everyone’s best shot and redeem themselves after a heartbreaking loss to rival

May River in the first round of last year’s playoffs. If they had nightmares about trying to stop the Sharks’ unique offense in that 46-45 instant classic, they better get ready for more of the same.

May River’s identity is clear under coach Richard Bonneville, who rolled into The Cove fully committed to the bit in a plain white t-shirt emblazoned in block letters with “SLOT-T MAFIA.” The Sharks bought into emulating Bonneville’s alma mater, The Citadel, and grinding you to a pulp in the trenches. You might beat them, but you won’t have fun doing it.

We sure have fun covering it, though. The season premiere of the best fall soap opera in the Lowco starts Aug. 15 with new episodes every Friday night until December, if all goes well. You won’t want to miss one.

Justin Jarrett is the sports editor of The Island News and is the founder of Lowco Sports. He has a passion for sports and community journalism and a questionable sense of humor.

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Post-Graduate Degree

Acute Care Nurse Practitioner University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh, Pa.

order to increase access to cardiovascular care for patients in the Lowcountry, Beaufort Memorial has added Nicole Gray, an experienced nurse practitioner, to its Heart Specialists practice.

The Navy veteran and Buffalo, N.Y. native has an extensive healthcare background, ranging from trauma care, forensic nursing to general cardiology. She has held roles not just in acute care, but administrative and director positions, too, and has experience as a clinical instructor for various graduate programs and as an educational speaker. She also established a heart failure clinic as a part of her work with the Department of Veterans Affairs in New York.

Board-certified as both a family nurse practitioner and adult gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, Gray will treat common cardiovascular conditions, including hypertension (high blood pressure), heart failure, cardiogenic shock, coronary artery disease, cardiac arrhythmias, as well as other cardiac conditions, at the practice.

Hurricane prep: what caregivers of people with dementia need to know

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

Caring for someone with dementia during hurricane evacuations requires careful planning, structure and patience. Caregivers should take extra steps to ensure the safety and wellbeing of those affected by cognitive impairment.

Disrupted routines, unfamiliar surroundings and separation from familiar caregivers can create confusion, anxiety and even agitation for people living with dementia. During hurricane evacuations, these effects are magnified, making advance preparation essential.

Plan ahead and involve local resources

Caregivers should create a detailed evacuation plan with clearly communicated protocols for separation and regrouping within families. Bluffton Township Fire District advises all families to share contact details, designate backup communication methods and ensure everyone understands where to go, and who to call, if separated.

Bluffton residents can join the Citizen Assistance Response Effort (CARE) program, run by the Bluffton Police Department entirely with volunteers, which provides regular checkin calls for elderly or disabled individuals.

Caregivers should identify ahead of time whether there are special medical needs shelters nearby that allow caregivers to accompany the person with dementia. These facilities offer calmer environments more suitable for cognitive impairment compared with crowded general shelters.

Choose the right evacuation location

When evacuation is ordered, do not delay. The University of South Carolina’s Health Watch recommends heading immediately to a predetermined safe location—such as a trusted relative or

friend’s home, hotel, or medical needs shelter—rather than waiting. If going to a shelter, medical shelters are preferable for individuals with dementia, provided caregivers are permitted entry. Whenever possible caregivers should avoid large general shelters, which may heighten confusion and distress.

Preserve routine and bring comfort items

Maintaining familiar routines can reduce agitation. Caregivers should create a portable emergency kit including medications, comfort items, orientation tools (like clocks and calendars) and personal documents. Bluffton’s official checklist recommends keeping essentials in an easytocarry bag such as a backpack or duffle.

During evacuation, caregivers should move calmly, speak gently and reassure the person frequently. Experts warn that minimal stimulation environments and stable support from caregivers can help reduce anxiety.

Return home with caution

Re-entering a damaged home can trigger confusion or emotional distress. Dementia care educators advise checking for safety issues before returning and reintroducing routines slowly once back in familiar surroundings.

Share this plan with others

Ensure your evacuation plan is known not only to household members but also to caregivers, local friends or outoftown relatives. Bluffton’s emergency guidance encourages sharing detailed instructions and contacts broadly. By planning carefully, using available local resources and maintaining routine and reassurance, caregivers can reduce trauma and support the safety of individuals with dementia during hurricane evacuations in Bluffton and Hilton Head Island.

Gray joins Drs. Stuart Smalheiser, Stephen G. Fedec and Frank O’Neill, as well as physician assistant Tara Kay at the practice.

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Tuesday, October 21

Tuesday, November 11

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Hair loss and replacement questions and answers

By Dr. Ronald Finger Contributor

1. What causes hair loss? The most common cause is genetics. Other causes are hormonal, such as thyroid imbalances, stress, or excess testosterone causing an increase in DHT (dihydrotestosterone). Many men taking steroids have increases in DHT causing permanent hair loss. In men genetic hair loss is called Male Pattern Baldness (MPB) and in women Female Pattern Baldness (FPB). Common causes in women are braids or tight hair pulled back causing Traction Alopecia.

2. Non-surgical treatments are minoxidil 5% (Rogaine) foam or solution, and in men Finasteride, a prescription medication, which prevents conversion of testosterone to DHT. Often both are used together to reduce hair loss. Another

excellent product is Spectral-DNC spray, which reduces DHT topically in nanoparticles that to absorb better. PRP (platelet-rich plasma) scalp injections can also be successful. Blood is drawn from the patient and processed to isolate the platelets, which contain multiple growth factors, and then micro-needled into the scalp. We now use Exosomes instead of PRP, as it has many more growth factors, and there is no blood draw from the patient. Often Exosome treatments are used with hair transplants to prevent further hair-loss in the balding areas.

3. For women, hormones should be checked. If normal, they can try minoxidil and/or Spectral sprays and/or exosomes, but for men and women, hair transplants are often the best and longest lasting results.

4. Hair transplants: Hair grafts are removed from the back of the scalp, where they are not destined to fall out, and micro-grafted to the balding areas. In their new location, they will usually grow permanently.

5. What are the current hair transplant techniques? FUE (follicular unit ex-

traction) involves removing 1-millimeter micro-grafts containing from 1 to 4 hair follicles (thus hairs) with a “punch.” FUE grafts require no sutures and leave no visible scars in the back of the scalp. FUT (follicular unit transplant) removes the grafts by removing a hair-bearing strip of scalp, closing the defect with sutures, and dissecting the strip into the same 1mm grafts as with the FUE. FUT is faster and only a strip of scalp needs to be shaved, but it does leave a minimal scar hidden by hair. Usually, woman have the strip because of the limited cutting of hair in the back of the scalp. Also, more grafts

can be taken using the strip if the donor site is small.

6. What is NeoGraft? An automated FUE technique allowing a greater number of grafts to be taken than manual FUE.

7. The most important factors for successful and natural appearance? Skill and experience of those performing the grafts. The hairline must be designed naturally, the grafts must be placed in the proper direction, and the grafts must be single hair follicle grafts for a totally natural hairline. Behind the hairline, grafts with 2 to 4 follicles are used for more density.

8. What are the expectations? Grafted hair starts growing at 3 months. With the solution we soak grafts in between taking and inserting the grafts, growth often starts immediately. Full density is 1 1/2 years.

9. Is anesthesia involved? Local anesthesia is used to numb the scalp, and if the patients prefer, also, oral sedation.

Dr. Ronald Finger, MD, FACS is a board-certified plastic surgeon with offices in Savannah and Bluffton. fingerandassociates.com

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Housing options and challenges for residents with disabilities

By Channing Heiss Contributor

Housing accommodating people with disabilities is a multi-faceted issue with both barriers and opportunities. Accessibility, availability, affordability, and an alphabet soup of agencies, initials, and acronyms are among the obstacles that face anyone trying to navigate the system, with the public and private options each having their unique challenges and benefits.

On the government side, The Beaufort County Department of Disabilities and Special Needs has had among its duties the responsibility for assisting people with disabilities to gain life skills and work skills toward reaching potential, reaching goals, and pmaximizing independence. They provide Medicaid eligible clients with housing options such as apartments with clients agreeing to their own roommates. These options can include a Community Training Home (CTH) or a Supported Living Program (SLP). Organizers emphasize treating adult clients as adults and allowing everyone adult choices. Prospective clients may apply for and receive Medicaid benefits in one of multiple programs that allow the recipient to work and earn at various levels. Several types of Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) waivers are also available to provide resources to enable people to live more independently in the community

For those who are already in a position to pursue home ownership, there are homebuyer education programs in the area teaching home ownership skills and arranging affordable mortgages. Programs are not all specifically targeted to people with disabilities, but the education and the favorable financial terms that may come with joining these programs have helped people with disabilities to afford home ownership.

Habitat for Humanity states that a qualifying factor for a Habitat home is lack of accessibility in the current living arrangement. Some home buyer programs particularly designed to assist people with disabilities can have restric-

tions, so it is a good idea to look carefully at the details of these programs.

When looking at all of the interconnected elements that go into living a life of maximum freedom, it is difficult to address one element such as housing without it spilling over into other areas.

A crusade that has been growing for decades and which brings living options and other elements together is the demand that services be available in a community-based setting and in the least restrictive environment possible. This movement, spearheaded by advocates with disabilities alongside nondisabled allies, was affirmed with the 1999 Supreme Court decision in Olmstead v. L.C. In response to a complaint by two women in Georgia who were being forcibly institutionalized despite community-based resources being recommended and desired, the Court ruled that institutionalizing a person with a disability when there are feasible community-based resources the individual wants and could benefit from is a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

For years, South Carolina has been one of just a handful of states without a formal plan for implementing the requirements of Olmstead. The state took a step toward changing that in April when Governor Henry McMaster signed S.2 into law, as heralded by the advocacy group Able SC on their website. This legislation creates the SC Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, merging the Department of Mental Health, the Department of Disabilities and Special Needs, and the Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services. The law also establishes the role of Director of Community Integration. According to information from the State of South Carolina website, the new cabinet level department will be tasked with ADA compliance and with creating a plan to implement the requirements of Olmstead.

Channing Heiss is a freelance writer and a member of the Beaufort County disAbilities Coalition.

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Beach renourishment to begin Aug. 6th

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

The Town of Hilton Head Island will launch its beach renourishment project on Aug. 6th at Fish Haul Beach, marking the start of a multi-phase effort to replenish sand and protect the island’s shoreline.

The $47.5 million initiative, carried out every eight to 10 years, aims to restore areas of beach impacted by erosion and storm damage. Work will begin on the island’s north end at Fish Haul Beach Park, which will be closed to the public for approximately five days starting Aug. 6th, weather permitting.

“It’s a priority to preserve, protect and cherish our beaches — one of our greatest assets,” Mayor Alan Perry said in a statement. “Our island depends on their ongoing vitality.”

The project will unfold in three phases through May 2026, according to the town:

Phase I

• Aug. 6th–15th: Fish Haul area

• Aug. 15th–Sept. 11th: Pine Island

• Se pt. 15th–Nov. 13th: Port Royal (The Heel)

Phase II

• Nov. 13th–Feb. 14th: Central Island, including Palmetto Dunes

• Feb. 14th–May 8th: South Island and South Beach

Phase III

• Construction of Pine Island breakwater structures (schedule pending) Crews from Marinex Construction, Inc., the contractor for the project, have begun mobilizing equipment, including offshore barges and steel pipes that will be used to pump sand from ocean shoals back onto the beach. Work will continue around the clock, with the active work zone moving about 1,000 feet at a time. On average, 300 feet of beach will be under construction each day.

To limit disruptions, the town will provide temporary access ramps and clear signage to help beachgoers safely navigate around work zones. Completed sections will reopen immediately once work is finished.

Environmental safeguards are in place to monitor and protect wildlife, including sea turtles and migratory shorebirds. Consultant teams will oversee operations, and the town has amended its municipal code to restrict dog access near Fish Haul Creek to comply with permit conditions from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The restriction applies only to a small section of the beach adjacent to the creek and does not affect other beach areas.

According to the town, the project supports environmental preservation, storm protection for coastal infrastructure, and improved recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

More information, including schedules, maps, and real-time updates, is available at hiltonheadislandsc.gov/beachrenourish2025.

Bluffton,

Ask the expert:

“Do I need an incapacity plan?”

By Lisa Hostetler Brown Contributor

Ask the expert:

“Could I end up like Bruce Willis? Do I need an incapacity plan?”

Expert Answer: In 2022, the world learned that actor Bruce Willis had been diagnosed with aphasia, a condition that affects speech and language. A year later, his family shared that his condition had progressed to frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a rare brain disorder that impacts behavior, communication, and decision-making. Willis’ diagnosis was heartbreaking— but it also serves as a powerful reminder that incapacity can strike anyone at any time. Planning for it isn’t just smart—it’s

one of the most compassionate things you can do for your loved ones.

What Is Incapacity Planning?

Bruce Willis’ diagnosis highlights the importance of planning for the possibility of incapacity. No one expects to lose the ability to make their own decisions, but conditions like dementia, strokes, or traumatic brain injuries can strip people of that ability. Incapacity planning ensures that if you become unable to make financial or medical decisions for yourself due to illness or injury, your wishes are honored and your loved ones aren’t left overwhelmed or conflicted.

It includes legal documents that fall into two main categories: financial and medical.

Financial Documents

Durable Financial Power of Attorney: Appoints someone to handle your financial matters if you become incapacitated. Revocable Living Trust: Helps manage

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your assets and avoid court involvement if you can no longer do so yourself.

Medical Documents

Living Will: States your preferences for medical treatment in situations like terminal illness or permanent unconsciousness.

Health Care Power of Attorney: Appoints someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf.

Do Not Resuscitate (DNR)/Do Not Intubate (DNI): Specifies your preferences for emergency interventions like CPR or ventilator use.

HIPAA Release: Gives chosen individuals access to your medical information when needed.

Having these documents in place reduces uncertainty during emotional moments and prevents confusion, guilt, or disagreements among family members.

A Lesson in Preparedness

While Bruce Willis’ family hasn’t

shared his planning details, their unified response suggests they were prepared. Their example shows the importance of making these decisions ahead of time— when you still can.

Estate planning is more than a legal task—it’s a way to show love and respect for your family. Talk with your loved ones about your wishes, and then work with your elder law attorney to put those wishes in writing.

Because when the unexpected happens, the greatest gift you can give your family isn’t just your guidance—it’s a plan that speaks for you when you no longer can.

For educational purposes only. This is not legal advice. Lisa Hostetler Brown is a Certified Elder Law Attorney certified by the National Elder Law Foundation. 10 Pinckney Colony Rd, Ste 400, Bluffton, SC 29909 | 843-757-5294 | HiltonHeadElderLaw.com.

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BUSINESS BRIEFS

Collins Group Realty expands team, remains top-ranked in S.C.

Collins Group Realty was recognized as the No. 1 Large Real Estate Team in South Carolina for 2024 by RealTrends Verified. The firm also ranked No. 92 among large teams nationwide, up from No. 132 the year prior. It marks the fifth consecutive year Collins Group Realty has earned top honors in the state.

The company also promoted Martha (Collins) Powell to director of marketing and community relations. Powell, a Hilton Head Island native, previously served as the firm’s client care coordinator.

“This transition comes at a time of exciting growth…and we’re excited about how Martha will continue to elevate our client and community service model in the years to come.” Chip Collins, Broker-inCharge/Owner.

Dr. Spenser Staub joins Beaufort Memorial Pulmonary Specialists

Board-certified pulmonologist Spenser Staub, M.D., has joined Beaufort Memorial Pulmonary Specialists, expanding access to pulmonary and critical care services in the Lowcountry. He will see patients in Okatie and Beaufort.

“Dr. Staub’s patient-centered philosophy and commitment to service will make him an exceptional addition to the team at the Pulmonary Specialists practice,” said Russell Baxley, Beaufort Memorial President and CEO.

Dr. Staubis a graduate of the Medical University of South Carolina and has experience in both domestic and global clinical settings. His areas of focus include COPD, asthma and ICU care.

Savannah Stone Source announces expansion near airport

Savannah Stone Source will relocate to a new 100,000-square-foot facility at 194 Gulfstream Road, near Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. The move, effective Sept. 1, will support continued growth and streamline distribution nationwide.

“The added space and strategic location will allow us to better serve our distribution partners across the country with faster fulfillment, broader inventory, and even more exclusive product lines.” said Jonathan Rhangos, Founder of Savannah Stone Source.

Novant Health appoints regional leaders in Hardeeville and Hilton Head

Novant Health has named Matt Conrad president of Coastal Carolina Medical Center and Heather King-Semple chief nursing officer for both Coastal Carolina

and Hilton Head Medical Center. The leadership changes are part of ongoing efforts to expand health care access in the region, including construction of the upcoming Novant Health Bluffton Medical Center.

Conrad, a South Carolina native, previously led medical centers in New Mexico and Florida. He is excited to return to South Carolina and advance Novant Health’s commitment to providing high-quality, compassionate care.

King-Semple most recently served as president of Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center in North Carolina. During her tenure at Brunswick Medical Center, King-Semple oversaw significant advancements, including the opening of a new medical plaza, expanded emergency and cardiac services and the addition of new MRI capabilities.

LawyerLisa names new CEO LawyerLisa, LLC has appointed Jeanean Petoskey as its new chief executive officer. A recognized leader in legal operations and strategy, Petoskey will oversee the firm’s business and practice support functions, focusing on strategic growth, efficiency, and client service.

She joins the South Carolina-based firm with multiple honors, including SC Lawyers Weekly’s Unsung Legal Heroes and SC Biz News’ 50 Most Influential Leaders for 2025.

Founded by managing attorney Lisa Hostetler Brown, LawyerLisa specializes in estate planning, elder law, and life care planning.

Shelter Cove Harbour earns top Southeast harbor honors

Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina on Hilton Head Island has been named “Best Harbor in the Southeast” for the fourth time in five years by US Harbors. The 178slip marina also climbed to No. 4 on the national list of America’s Top 10 Harbors, up from fifth place in 2024.

Operated by Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, Shelter Cove was selected from among 230 harbors nationwide in the annual crowd-sourced voting contest. The marina earned praise for recent upgrades and guest amenities, including renovated facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi and cable, and a seasonal shuttle.

The harbor also serves as a community hub, with shops, restaurants, and activities such as fishing charters, dolphin cruises, and the long-running HarbourFest summer event.

If you have business news to submit for consideration, please email it to editor@ blufftonsun.com.

Bluffton, SC real estate market update August 2025

By Dan Prud’homme Contributor

The Bluffton real estate market continues to offer a unique set of signals this summer—some expected, others surprising. While many anticipated a seasonal slowdown, July’s numbers revealed a market in flux, with shifting indicators worth watching closely.

The most notable change this month is the sharp drop in inventory. Bluffton currently has 893 homes for sale, down from 948 last month—a 5.8% decrease and the largest single-month decline in available homes in 2025. For comparison, there were 830 homes on the market this time last year, and inventory had been

steadily rising until now. This reversal may indicate a pause in seller activity as they wait for improved market conditions later this year.

Buyers, however, seem to be responding. The average days on market fell significantly from 84 to 67 days—a 20% decrease in just 30 days. That’s also faster than the 75-day average reported this time last year, suggesting that well-presented and well-priced homes are still moving quickly despite broader market hesitations.

That said, pending sales have dropped dramatically. Only 72 homes are currently under contract in Bluffton, down from 136 last month—a 47% decrease. This is not only the lowest pending figure for 2025, but the lowest recorded in over a decade. One year ago, pending sales were nearly triple this number, highlighting just how quiet buyer activity has become in recent weeks.

Closed sales year-to-date have reached 988, up from 894 last month, which represents a healthy 10.5% increase month

over month. However, that number still trails last year’s pace, when 1,097 homes had closed by the same time.

The absorption rate jumped to 12.4 months, compared to 7 months last month—an increase of 77%. This shift positions Bluffton firmly in a buyer’s market for the moment.

The median sale price for 2025 is currently $549,995, which is down slightly from $560,000 in 2024, but still ahead of where we were in 2023 and prior years. Price stability continues, even as demand slows.

What’s behind this unusual mix of

market signals? It could be lingering tariff concerns, typical summer distractions, or broader uncertainty—but most likely, it’s the result of buyers holding back in hopes of a mortgage rate pullback. I don’t think I can remember the housing market ever being this confused.

Dan Prud’homme is the Visionary & Success Coach of The Prudhomme Team at William Raveis Real Estate. dan@danprudhomme.com, www.theprudhommeteam. com

DAN PRUD’HOMME

EDUCATION NEWS

VIRTUAL WORKSHOP

August 12th, 2025

12:00-1:00pm

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TCL receives continued federal funding worth more than $1.7 million for student success program

The Technical College of the Lowcountry’s Student Support Services program (SSS) has been awarded a five-year grant worth over $1.7 million dollars from the U.S. Department of Education.

Part of “TRIO” – a group of federally funded programs designed to increase the retention and completion rates of first-generation, income-eligible and differently-abled college students –TCL’s SSS program commits to serving 160 students annually.

“The Technical College of the Lowcountry is pleased to continue to receive this funding since TRIO programs have been shown to directly impact the overall success and retention rates of eligible students,” said TCL President Dr. Richard Gough. “Many of our students are first-generation and through SSS have gone on to achieve their academic goals and start successful careers.”

Lowcountry is the region’s primary provider of higher education and workforce training. The public, twoyear, multi-campus community college serves approximately 5,000 students annually. TCL has campuses in Beaufort, Bluffton and Hampton and serves Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper Counties. For more information visit www.tcl.edu.

Hilton Head High mourns passing of longtime athletic director

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The grant operates on a five-year award cycle and was last awarded in 2020. The first installment of $348,537 will go toward SSS’s 2025-2026 program year with additional funding expected to total approximately $1,742,685 over the life of the grant.

TCL has participated in the federal program for over a decade, with a strong record of student-centered impact and institutional commitment, said Starr Hayes, TCL’s TRIO SSS program director.

“This funding reaffirms the vital work we are doing to help students overcome barriers and achieve their educational goals,” she said.

Through SSS, students have access to academic and personal coaching, college transfer assistance and critical economic and financial literacy skills.

Hilton Head Island High School is mourning the loss of longtime Athletic Director Joe Monmonier, who passed away earlier this month. Monmonier served the school for more than 20 years, first as a special education teacher and lacrosse coach, and later as athletic director for the past 13 years. In a message to families, Principal Steve Schidrich described Monmonier as “a true champion for our Seahawk community” and “a mentor and role model for athletic directors across the state of South Carolina.” School officials credited his leadership with helping to shape the school’s athletic culture and build a legacy of excellence.

End of Summer

to support Heritage Academy scholarship

Runners and walkers of all ages are invited to take part in the Hilton Head End of Summer 5K on Saturday, Aug. 30th. The race begins at 8 a.m. at the Sea Pines Beach Club and winds through scenic beachfront on the island’s south end.

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“TCL’s program has consistently exceeded federal expectations in persistence, good academic standing and graduation/transfer rates,” Hayes said. “By participating in the program, students are not only increasing their chances of success here at TCL or elsewhere, they are also adding to the local economy and that’s a win-win for everyone.”

To learn more about TRIO SSS at TCL, visit www.tcl.edu/sss.

The Technical College of the

The event is open to families and individuals of all fitness levels. Proceeds will benefit the Heritage Academy College Scholarship, helping support local students pursuing higher education. For more information or to register, visit runsignup.com/Race/SC/HiltonHeadIsland/HiltonHeadBIGFish5K

If you have education news to submit for consideration, please email it to editor@blufftonsun.com.

USCB says goodbye to Provost Skipper

The University of South Carolina Beaufort is saying goodbye to its Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Dr. Eric Skipper. Skipper is leaving for Southeastern Louisiana University, where he will again pick up the mantle of provost. Skipper came to USCB in 2016 from the University of North Georgia.

“Chancellor Panu and I saw tons of potential at USCB. That’s what sold me on the opportunity to come here,” said Skipper.

Chancellor Al M. Panu expressed his appreciation for Skipper’s leadership skills and dedication to USCB.

“Dr. Skipper is one of the very best academic leaders I know! In his role as Provost here at USCB, he has made an enduring and deep impact on students and faculty successes and other aspects of our institution,” Panu said.

During Skipper’s tenure, USCB has seen significant progress in the academic realm, including gains in student success, research, external funding and community impact. Skipper and Panu have championed the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) ideal of “Stewards of Place,” which calls on public universities to deeply engage with and contribute to the well-being of the communities and regions where they are located.

With a focus on experiential learning, USCB has significantly increased student participation in study abroad, internships, and undergraduate research.

“Through our faculty-selected QEP Students Connected initiative, we have channeled students’ curiosity and desire to create change through community partnerships,” Skipper said.

USCB students conduct undergraduate research alongside faculty mentors, preparing them for acceptance into top graduate and professional schools.

Skipper led the focus on cross-disciplinary collaborations, and faculty responded by developing interdisciplinary courses and programs spanning health and the humanities, biology and communication studies, computer science and media arts and many other pairings. Skipper’s nine-year tenure at USCB saw a 127 percent increase in students completing a minor in addition to their major and spearheaded the

university’s “Library of the Future” visioning process.

“We combined a transdisciplinary (outside the university) focus with use-inspired research and found there were no limits,” Skipper said.

During Skipper’s time at USCB, the university has quadrupled external funding, with faculty securing grants from DOD, NSF, NEH, NIH, USDA, HRSA, NOAA, and ED, as well as regional and private sources. Other collaborative efforts have led to shared Nursing simulation facilities with Beaufort Memorial Hospital, robust research on Pritchards Island, and the transformation of space in the former Bridges Prep school building into a state-of-theart Cybersecurity Lab.

USCB also elevated its focus on international initiatives during Skipper’s tenure. This year, USCB had its highest ever participation in summer study abroad, with students studying in France, Poland, and the Bahamas.

Skipper’s appreciation for the important role of USCB in Northern Beaufort County — where the university was founded — led him to hone in on the university’s historic Beaufort campus. There, he led the creation of Beaufort College Honors (BCH)—a residential, cohort-based learning community that has played a key role in revitalizing the university’s presence north of the Broad River.

“We needed to have a plan for the Beaufort Campus to complement the Studio Arts program, which was already there,” said Skipper. “Through our Academic Master Planning process, we determined which programs should go where. In Beaufort, those were Marine Biology, History, Cybersecurity, and Honors.”

Adding to the academic programs located in Beaufort, USCB will launch its first Nursing cohort at Beaufort Memorial Hospital in the fall.

“I’ll miss USCB,” said Skipper. “It’s been a tremendous run. I thank Chancellor Panu for a shared vision and for giving us lots of berth to try new things. I thank the faculty and staff for being relentlessly student-focused and for continually challenging the status quo. The community support has been tremendous.”

Stroke indicators and the race against time

By Glenda Harris Contributor

Ever since I read Dr. Jill Boldt Taylors’s book “My Stroke of Insight,” I’ve become more interested, fascinated even, about strokes. Mainly because this is often an event that gives us several clues before it happens.

Dr. Taylor, a Harvard-trained neuroanatomist, also wrote a second book, “Whole Brain Living” which contains first-person experience and expertise.

It is essential to know what signs of stroke to look for to get help as soon as possible.

A stroke can be ischemic or hemorrhagic. Ischemic strokes, which account for more than 75% of all cases, are caused by a blockage in a blood vessel supplying the brain, typically due to a blood clot or a buildup of fatty deposits. These can be further classified as thrombotic strokes

originating from clots forming within brain arteries, or embolic strokes, which occur when clots travel from elsewhere in the body, often the heart.

Hemorrhagic strokes, though less common, are often more severe. They result from a ruptured blood vessel that causes bleeding either directly into brain tissue or in the space around the brain, frequently due to an aneurysm.

The good news is that in recent years,

stats show fewer Americans dying of stroke. This is likely due to a combination of more information getting out to the public and new technologies in brain surgery.

According to Dr. James McKenney of New Hanover Regional Medical Center, the key indicators of stroke are best remembered using the acronym F.A.S.T.: F=Facial droop. Ask person to smile, check for asymmetry

A=Arms. Ask person to hold out their arms, look for asymmetry).

S=Speech. Ask person to speak and look for slurring or inability to speak.

T=Time. Time to call 911 if ANY stroke signs are present.

There may also be visual problems in one or both eyes, difficulty walking as well as severe headache that could be signaling a stroke.

Strokes are a race against time. There is general agreement among specialists that getting medical treatment within a 3-4 hour window after first symptoms is best. A longer length of time will result in higher percentage of brain damage. It is a race against time but it can be done. If you notice any of the above symptoms, call 911. You, and the medical team, would rather be safe and find nothing wrong than sorry you didn’t act in time and suffer disability and possibly death. If you’re with someone you suspect is having a stroke, watch the person carefully while waiting for emergency assistance.

A former Bluffton resident, Glenda finds stories everywhere and writes about nature, travel, healthy living and books.

GLENDA HARRIS

The importance of a good estate plan …your peace of mind

By Mark Winn Contributor

What will a good estate plan do for you and your family? It will protect you and defend against: (1) unnecessary probate court costs and fees, (2) acceleration or avoidance of income taxes – in the form of maximum deferral of taxes on retirement assets or in maximizing the step up in basis at death, (3) loss of assets to federal estate taxes, (4) loss of assets from lawsuits (legal claims and divorces) (5) loss of assets from wasteful spending. Also, it will or can guarantee your assets will stay in your blood family. Perhaps the greatest benefit of a good estate plan is the peace of mind you will have knowing that you

have put these affairs in order. If you want the protection a good estate plan will do for you, it must be done before you need it. If you have moved from another state, your legal documents should be reviewed and probably updated. At our office, we usually meet with clients 3 to 4 times during a representation. The first meeting is complimentary. The second meeting is to review a draft of the papers. Then, the third meeting is usually via telephone conference or zoom call to answer any questions or make any

changes…Then, the final meeting is to get the papers signed.

Let’s say Jake and Emily have a son named Frederick who is married to Sue. Frederick and Sue have a daughter named Amy who get government benefit due to her disability. Jake and Emily want to make sure Sue will not get their assets. The solution is to leave their assets into a trust for Frederick’s benefit, with the remainder to Amy. Doing this will guarantee that (1) Jake and Emily’s assets will not get lost in a divorce if Frederick

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divorces Sue, (2) when Frederick passes, the assets he inherited from Jake and Emily will go to Amy and not Sue. Jake and Emily can make sure that when Amy inherits what is left over she inherits in a special needs trust so she will not lose her government benefits. If not planned for in advance, Frederick could inherit the assets and lose them to Sue in a divorce or other lawsuit. On Frederick’s death, Sue could get half, if not all, of those assets. In addition, whatever Amy inherits could jeopardize her government benefits. The bottom line is that if you want to keep your assets in your family, and you want the peace of mind that comes from it, you must plan in advance. You will get peace of mind and your family will thank you for it. Remember . . . a little bit of planning can make a BIG difference.

Mark F. Winn, J.D., Master of Laws, LL.M. in Estate Planning, is a local tax, asset protection and estate planning attorney. mwinnesq.com

MARK WINN

It’s so hot - I don’t want to write this article

By Ryan Chowansky Contributor

It’s so hot I don’t even want to write this. But here we are. That pretty much sums up life this time of year. The heat’s oppressive, the inbox keeps refilling, the text messages stack up, the calendar keeps booking itself, and honestly, people generally get stupider and crazier. As you will see, I just checked all of those boxes. The heat as me feeling cooked…mentally, emotionally, and physically. So, what did I do, exhausted, run down, and over stimulated on Friday afternoon? After checking on the new F45 Fitness we are building out over in New Riverside Village, I went to the New York Butcher Shop a few units over. I said I was going to get a big fat steak and just eat the whole thing. Plenty of protein and fats for energy. An

end of week indulgence. 15 minutes later, I walk out with prepared white lasagna, chicken parm, bacon cheddar dip, and a heath bar brownie. All which by the way, are very, very delicious.

Where did the steak go? I was so exhausted I talked myself into a “Just take a rest and reset,” “Get back to it on Monday,” “Maybe you need more carbs” approach. We convince ourselves the best course of action is to check out completely. Sleep in, skip the workouts, binge a little, scroll a lot, and avoid everything we’re supposed to face. In a moment of exhausted weakness, it’s a pretty amazing game plan.

So, after the incredible meal, after the left overs, after I forced myself to sleep (an extra 20 minutes because I just can’t sleep in anymore) and after I forced myself to ignore anything that represents what work looks and feels like, came Monday. All those problems I was pre-exhausted just thinking about, are still there waiting for me. Now I look back, 8 lbs heavier (that happened quickly), still feeling exhausted, even more stressed, and I did nothing to prepare myself for Monday.

The hard reality is, what I needed

wasn’t a reset. What I needed was relief. And those are two different things. A reset assumes, “I’ll stop everything and everything will go away when I get back.” Relief says, “Let me knock out just one thing that will move the needle and lighten the load.” What I needed was a break from the noise and clarity on what to do next.

If I could rewind, I wouldn’t take the whole weekend off. I would have got the steak, gotten to bed sooner, woke up earlier and set my focus before my workout, to figure out “What it is I need clarity on to take the edge off?”

What is the one thing I could have done that would make my Monday lighter and my mind calmer? Maybe it’s having the

hard conversation with someone. Maybe it’s getting the last round of revisions out. Maybe it’s planning the week so it’s not a surprise attack on Monday.

Burnout isn’t solved by quitting temporarily. It’s solved by giving yourself clarity, and the space to have it. That’s where I failed on Friday. You don’t need a vacation to feel better, you need a victory. Sometimes that victory is just 20 more minutes of dedicated focus and silence to make everything after that, make way more sense. Remember, it’s not too late. You still have now. That’s exactly what I did. Gave myself the time to get clarity on how exactly I need this week to go.

If you’re reading this, cooked by the heat and mentally fried by others, don’t trick yourself into believing the lie I told myself. That doing nothing will make everything better. Instead, slow down and give yourself the space to look at your entire playing field. Pick the one thing that will take the heat off, then go do it. Even if it’s writing the article.

Ryan Chowansky is the owner of Bluffton Builders, LLC, www.bluffton.builders.

RYAN CHOWANSKY

Arts & Entertainment Calendar

Bluffton Farmers Market

Thursdays • 10 a.m.–2 p.m. (June–August) | 12–5 p.m. (September–May)

68 Boundary Street, Bluffton

Located one block off Calhoun Street at Martin Family Park, the Bluffton Farmers Market is held weekly in the heart of Old Town. Since 2006, it has offered fresh produce, fruits, local honey, baked goods, kettle corn, crab soup, flowers, and more. Local artists and craftspeople also display their work.

More information: blufftonfarmersmarket.com

Summer: The Donna Summer Musical

Now through August 17th Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island

This musical tribute to the Queen of Disco features more than 20 hits, including “Hot Stuff” and “Last Dance.” Directed by Patdro Harris. Tickets: artshhi.org or (843) 842-2787.

Farmers & Makers Market

Tuesdays • 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

The Shops at Sea Pines Center, 71 Lighthouse Road, Hilton Head Island

Weekly market offering fresh produce, baked goods, artisan items and crafts. The market is a popular stop for locals and visitors alike.

Details: theshopsatseapinescenter.com or (843) 363-5699.

Nancy Huson: “Everyday Life on Hilton Head”

Exhibit: August 3rd–30th • Reception: Thursday, August 7th • 3–5 p.m.

SOBA Gallery, 6 Church Street, Bluffton Hilton Head-inspired landscapes and

nature scenes in oil and pastel from local artist Nancy Huson. Information: sobagallery.com or (843) 757-6586.

Gregg Russell Summer Concerts

Liberty Oak Tree, Harbour Town, Sea Pines

• Aug. 4–7 (Monday through Thursday)

• 8–9:30 p.m.

• Aug. 11–22 (Monday, Wednesday and Friday) • 8–9:30 p.m.

• Aug. 28–30 (Thursday through Saturday) • 8–9:30 p.m.

A long-running local favorite, Gregg Russell’s concerts entertain families under the iconic Liberty Oak. Information: seapines.com or (843) 7853333.

HarbourFest Fireworks

Tuesdays, August 5th, 12th and 19th • 8:30–10 p.m.

Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina, 1 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island

Weekly fireworks shows continue as part of the popular HarbourFest series, with live performances by Shannon Tanner and Cappy the Clown. More information: sheltercoveharbourfest.com or (843) 842-7001.

Meet the New Artists at Maye River Gallery

Opening Monday, August 5th

Maye River Gallery, 37 Calhoun Street, Bluffton

Four new artists—Lauren Arsenault, Carol Iglesias, Terry Jacklin and Carolyn Shultz—join the gallery with works ranging from water media and oil landscapes to sculptural glass and

multimedia collage.

Contact: mayrivergallery.com or (843) 757-2633.

Jazz in the Park

Mondays, August 5th, 19th • 7:30 p.m.

Lowcountry Celebration Park, 94 Pope Avenue, Hilton Head Island

Free outdoor jazz concerts open to the public. Lawn seating only; attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs.

Aug. 5: Martin Lesch Band

Aug. 19: Charlton Singleton Quartet Details: hhjazzcamp.com

Palm Trees & Pistons Car Show Saturday, August 9th • 9–11 a.m.

Nala’s Beach Bar & Grill, 21 Office Park Road, Hilton Head Island

Monthly community car show featuring vintage, muscle, exotic and collector vehicles. The event is free and open to the public. Breakfast is available starting at 7 a.m. at Nala’s. Weather dependent.

Library Plant Swap

Tuesday, August 12th • 1 p.m.

Hilton Head Branch Library, 11 Beach City Road, Hilton Head Island

Bring a healthy plant or cutting to exchange with fellow plant enthusiasts.

A casual opportunity to swap greenery and share gardening tips. Information: beaufortcountylibrary.org or (843) 255-6525

Valerie Kramer: Icons and Tidal Pools

Exhibit: August 26th through September 26th

Art League Gallery, Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, Hilton Head Island

• Artist Reception: Wednesday, August 27th • 5–7 p.m.

• Gallery Talk: Tuesday, September 9th

• 2:30 p.m.

Free exhibit open daily. Gallery is located inside the Arts Center. More information: artleaguehhi.org or (843) 681-5060.

Ink Marbling Workshop

Thursday, August 21st • 11 a.m.

Hilton Head Branch Library, 11 Beach City Road, Hilton Head Island

Learn the Japanese technique of suminagashi, or “floating ink,” and create colorful marbled paper. Free class. All materials provided. Registration required.

Information: beaufortcountylibrary.org or (843) 255-6525

Breeze Trolley ROCKS! Ride and Find Adventure!

Friday, August 22 – Sunday, August 24, 2025 (until noon)

Various Breeze Trolley stops, Hilton Head Island

Join the fun during this fourth annual community tradition! More than 20 painted rocks—featuring cheerful Hilton Head Island or Breeze Trolley designs— will be hidden near trolley stop signs along Breeze routes. Locals and visitors are invited to paint, hide, and hunt for kindness rocks now through August 24.

Information: breezetrolley.com or visit Facebook @BreezeTrolley

Please note: Events are subject to change. For the most current details, contact event organizers directly.

To submit events for consideration in future listings, email editor@blufftonsun. com.

Maye River Gallery welcomes four new artists in upcoming exhibit

Maye River Gallery, a mainstay of Old Town Bluffton’s art scene, will debut a group exhibition featuring four newly joined artists from Aug. 5 through Oct. 5 at its location at 16 Church Street. The show marks the first major exhibit for these artists since the gallery’s relocation to the corner of Church and Boundary streets last year.

Founded in 2007 by a collective of area artists, Maye River Gallery began as a collaborative space in historic Bluffton and has since evolved into a vibrant venue showcasing fine art created by about 18 regional artists working in a wide range of media. This autumn’s exhibit highlights four diverse talents joining the gallery’s collective for the first time.

Lauren Arsenault, known for her expressive water-media compositions, focuses on capturing emotion and movement through layered washes and dynamic brushwork. Her pieces often evoke a strong sense of atmosphere, bridging abstraction and suggestion.

Carol Iglesias, who works in oil and pastel, explores light and atmosphere through luminous landscapes and softly rendered compositions. Her technique emphasizes subtle transitions of color and tonality, often with serene, open locales illuminated by diffuse light.

Terry Jacklin brings framed fused-glass sculpture to the gallery. Her work combines form, texture and color in three-dimensional panels and freestand-

ing pieces imbued with luminosity. The gallery will give visitors a chance to meet Jacklin at a “Sip and Stroll” event planned later in July.

Carolyn Shultz presents large-scale mixedmedia still-life collages. Drawing on materials such as textiles, paper, paint and found objects, the works layer textures and shapes into bold compositions that defy traditional format. Her pieces often reference domestic and botanical themes with modern graphic energy.

The gallery routinely rotates exhibits, offering an eclectic selection that reflects the diversity of Lowcountry artists in disciplines from photography and mixed media to painting and sculpture. It has earned a reputation as an art destination offering both fine art and accessible work in varied styles and price points, with positive reviews from local interior designers and collectors.

In addition to the exhibit itself, Maye River Gallery hosts occasional receptions and artist meetandgreets through the season. The gallery’s Summer “Sip and Stroll” event drew attention in July, introducing Jacklin and her glass pieces in an informal setting of beverages and conversation.

While the opening of the fall exhibit is Monday, Aug. 5, students and visitors are welcome anytime during normal hours: daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Last year’s relocation into an updated modern space on Church Street offers more wall and display area than the original venue, allowing for ambitious installations and larger formats.

Maye River Gallery remains deeply embedded in the Bluffton community after 17 years of operation, committed to supporting local and regional artists and offering art workshops, special shows and community engagement. Its current roster includes a mix of established and emerging talents working in landscapes, abstraction, collage, fine craft and mixed media.

For more information about the new exhibit or the gallery’s roster and events, call 8437572633 or visit mayerivergallery.com.

Kramer’s solo show explores womanhood, memory and identity

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

Art League Gallery will present Icons and Tidal Pools, a solo exhibition by award-winning artist Valerie Kramer, from August 26th through September 26th.

Kramer’s latest work blends stained-glass motifs with modern portraiture, featuring female figures framed in luminous halos and layered symbolism. The mixed-media series explores themes of womanhood, memory and identity, offering a reflective look at life transitions and the spiritual resonance of middle age.

“I’ve always asked the question, who am I and what do I represent?” Kramer said. “If it draws the viewer in to stop and think, that is the

greatest compliment.”

A lifelong artist and educator, Kramer holds a BFA and MFA from the University of Cincinnati. She spent 17 years as a professor of fine arts at Defiance College in Ohio and has exhibited widely across the Midwest and Southeast. Her work has been featured in juried shows at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, Sarasota Art Center and ArtSpace in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Kramer cites Wayne Thiebaud, Richard Diebenkorn and Edward Hopper among her influences, shaping a a body of work that is both visually arresting and deeply personal.

An opening reception will be held Wednesday, August 27th, from 5 to 7 p.m., and a gallery talk is scheduled for Tuesday, September 9th, at 2:30

p.m. Both events are free and open to the public.

Art League Gallery is located inside the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina at 14 Shelter Cove Lane. Gallery hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.

Art League of Hilton Head is the island’s only nonprofit visual arts organization with both a gallery and teaching academy. The gallery showcases work by more than 250 local member artists, with new exhibits each month. The Art League Academy, located at 106 Cordillo Parkway, offers classes and workshops in various media for artists of all skill levels.

For more information, visit ArtLeagueHHI.org or call 843-6815060.

the

Hilton Head Choral Society announces

50th anniversary season

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

The Hilton Head Choral Society will launch its 50th anniversary season this fall with a lineup of four concerts and a special appearance by the Vienna Boys Choir, commemorating five decades of musical performances on Hilton Head Island.

The 2025–26 season opens with Celebrate Unity on Friday, Sept. 26th, at 7 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church. The concert will feature a newly commissioned work by American composer Z. Randall Stroope, known for his international conducting and more than 200 published musical works. A reception will follow the performance in honor of the anniversary.

The society’s holiday program, Celebrate the Holidays, will take place Friday, Dec. 5th, at 7 p.m. The concert brings together cherished seasonal traditions and beloved contemporary holiday classics.It will include selections from Handel’s Messiah and other seasonal favorites, with guest performers joining the chorus.

In the spring, Celebrate Renewal is scheduled for Friday, March 27th, 2026, at 7 p.m. The program will reflect themes of renewal, growth and transformation and will feature both returning performers and new seasonal selections.

The season will close with Celebrate America! on Sunday, May 24th, 2026, at 7 p.m. The Memorial Day weekend event will recognize U.S. military service

BRINGING THE PAST TO LIFE

members and coincide with the America 250 initiative marking the nation’s 250th anniversary. Guest musicians and speakers will take part in the program.

In addition to the regular concert series, the Hilton Head Choral Society will present the Vienna Boys Choir in a two-night engagement on Monday, Feb. 23rd, and Tuesday, Feb. 24th, 2026, at Lowcountry Community Church in Bluffton. The internationally renowned ensemble is known for its centuries-old choral tradition and diverse repertoire.

Founded in 1976 by Martha Gregory, the Hilton Head Choral Society began with a performance of Messiah supported by a $500 grant. It has since grown into the island’s oldest performing arts organization, expanding under a series of directors including John Gosling, Mary Green, and Tim Reynolds. Under the current leadership of Artistic Director Dr. Dustin C. Ousley, the group continues to build on its tradition of musical excellence and community engagement.

“As the oldest performing arts organization on Hilton Head Island, the Choral Society has a rich legacy of musical excellence and community connection,” Ousley said in a statement.

“I’m honored to lead this remarkable group into its 50th anniversary season — a milestone that not only celebrates our past, but also sets the stage for an exciting future.”

Tickets go on sale August 4th at www. hiltonheadchoralsociety.org. For more information, call 843-341-3818 or email tickets@hiltonheadchoralsociety.org.

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LEARN ABOUT LOCAL HISTORY

We preserve and share the rich history of Hilton Head Island, stewarding two historic sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Throughout the year, we offer engaging classes, tours, and events, with sessions available in the spring and fall. For full details and registration, visit HeritageLib.org.

EDUCATE & CELEBRATE –

250TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

Join us as we celebrate 250 years of American independence and honor the fight for freedom! Discover Hilton Head Island’s vital role in shaping our nation’s history at HeritageLib.org – your local resource for all things related to the American Revolution

The Heritage Library is the heart of Hilton Head Island’s history and genealogy. Visit us soon!

Coastal Discovery Museum to host ‘Deliberately Unpredictable’ exhibit

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

The Coastal Discovery Museum will open a new exhibition titled Deliberately Unpredictable on August 25th, showcasing the work of 12 Lowcountry abstract artists from the Art Beyond Tradition Group. The exhibit will run through November 4th, with admission free to the public.

The biennial exhibition features a range of media, including painting, collage, encaustic, sculpture, mixed media, and ink.

The public is invited to an opening reception scheduled for Thursday, September 11th, from 5 to 7 p.m. Visitors will also have the opportunity to meet and hear from participating artists during a gallery walk on Thursday, September 25th, at 11 a.m.

“This show brings together artists who work independently yet share a commitment

to experimenting to push the boundaries of the ordinary,” said Elizabeth Greenberg, director of exhibitions at the Coastal Discovery Museum, in a statement.

Participating artists include Cindy Chiappetta, Arla Wible, Vickie Jourdan, Sharon Licata, Mark Larkin, Margaret Crawford, Jo Dye, Earline Allen, Donna Varner, Joanna Chalson, John Crum, and Linda Tully.

The museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate, has hosted several exhibitions by the Art Beyond Tradition Group, including the 2022 show Interpretations. The group was founded in 2006 by local artists aiming to elevate awareness and appreciation of abstract art in the region.

The Coastal Discovery Museum is located on the historic Honey Horn grounds on Hilton Head Island. Gallery hours are Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.coastaldiscovery.org.

We’ve gone bananas (and coconut)

By Leslie Rohland Contributor

Sometimes, the simplest desserts are the ones that steal the show— and this Easy Banana and Coconut Cream Pie is proof that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to whip up something downright irresistible. With just ten minutes of prep and a little chill time, this no-bake beauty comes together like a breeze on a Bluffton porch swing. It’s the kind of recipe your grandmother might’ve clipped from a magazine and passed down—only we’ve added a tropical twist with toasted coconut flakes to bring a little island flair to your slice.

Creamy banana pudding meets fresh slices of banana and a dreamy cloud of whipped topping, all nestled into a buttery crust (graham cracker or traditional—your call). It’s cool, creamy, and the perfect make-ahead dessert for summer suppers, potlucks, or just because you bought one too many bananas again.

Dress it up with caramel drizzle, extra coconut, or a few more banana slices if you’re feeling fancy. Just don’t be surprised if there aren’t any leftovers.

Easy Banana and Coconut Cream Pie

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Chill: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Servings: 8 slices

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk , cold

• ½ teaspoon cornstarch

• 1 (5.1-ounce) box instant banana cream pudding mix

• 2 medium bananas , sliced into 1/4inch slices

• 8 ounces Cool Whip , thawed, or whipped cream, divided

• 1 baked pie crust, premade or homemade graham cracker crust

Optional toppings: Cool Whip or whipped cream, sliced bananas, caramel sauce or toasted coconut flakes

Instructions

• Whisk milk with cor nstarch: In small bowl, whisk together 2 cups milk and 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch until dissolved.

• Make filling: In a large bowl, whisk the pudding mix and milk mixture for 2 to 3 minutes, or until it has thickened. Fold in 2 medium bananas and 4 ounces Cool Whip. Add more Cool Whip until there is enough filling to fill the crust. Save the remaining 4 ounces for topping.

• Spread filling: Spread the filling evenly into the baked pie crust.- Add Coconut Flakes

• Chill: Chill at least 2 to 3 hours before serving. Top with any remaining Cool Whip (or whipped cream) and fresh bananas. Slice and serve chilled.

Leslie Rohland is the owner of The Cottage Café and Bakery, The Juice Hive and the Bluffton Pasta Shoppe. Leslie was named one of the South Carolina Chef Ambassadors for 2024.

& Fun for Ages 3-4 Tuesdays 9am-10am

LESLIE ROHLAND

SOBA awards 2025 Naomi McCracken Scholarships

The Society of Bluffton Artists has awarded its 2025 SOBA and Naomi McCracken Scholarship to Katherine Donahue and Ke’yari Kelly, honoring the two graduating seniors for their artistic achievement and dedication to careers in the arts.

The scholarship, established in 2007 to commemorate SOBA founding member Naomi McCracken, supports local high school students pursuing degrees in the visual arts. This year’s recipients were recognized during a special presentation at the SOBA gallery by Emmett and Teddy McCracken and SOBA President Karen Richards.

Donahue, a graduate of May River High School, will enter Clemson University’s architecture program in the fall. She was active in AP Studio Art and the National Art Honor Society, earning praise for her focus on architectural conservation and design.

Kelly, a Bluffton High School graduate, plans to major in art education at Winthrop University. As president of her school’s National Art Honor Society and a top AP Drawing student, she has shown strong leadership and a passion for teaching.

The scholarship was created after Naomi McCracken’s death in 2006, when her family requested donations be made to SOBA in her memory. Her son, Emmett McCracken, and then-president Dave Dickson later established the fund to continue her legacy of supporting emerging artists.

The Society of Bluffton Artists is a nonprofit organization that promotes visual arts in the Lowcountry. Its gallery features work from local artists and offers exhibitions, workshops, and events to foster artistic growth in the community.

August & September Grand Giveaway at La Petite Gallerie

By Murray Sease Contributor

La Petite Gallerie, the charming little art gallery on Calhoun Street in Bluffton, SC, is continuing its 10th anniversary celebration with a year-long Grand Giveaway. As a thank-you to the community and customers for making the little gallery a grand success, the gallery’s artists are giving away a piece of art every other month throughout the year.

The featured piece for August and September is ‘Gentle Breeze,’ a 12” x 16” acrylic on canvas by Jane Capraro. This work showcases Jane’s vibrant color palette and energetic brushstrokes. The beauty of her abstract style lies in its invitation for each viewer to see something uniquely their own. ‘Gentle Breeze’ might evoke the image of a flowing brook with sunlit, colorful stones and cheerful wildflowers along the

banks—or, with another glance, perhaps flamboyant clouds drifting through a brilliant blue sky. Jane’s art is all about evoking emotion and encouraging personal interpretation.

To enter the giveaway, visit the gallery and sign up anytime in August or September.

This ongoing event is a joyful way for the gallery’s artists to share their work and build deeper connections with the community and visitors. Participating artists include Wally Palmer, Sue Grilli, Mary Burrell, Jane Capraro, Murray Sease, and Bill Winn. Please note: a new entry is required for each artist’s giveaway.

For more information, visit the gallery in person at 56 Calhoun Street, Bluffton, SC or online lapetitegallerie.com

Murray Sease is a fellow artist at LaPetite Gallerie, 56 Calhoun Street, Bluffton, SC. lapetitegallerie.com

Art of the Heart

By Danie Connolly Contributor

I believe we all think we know everything about something if we’ve been doing it most of our life, but it’s such a delight when you suddenly see a different perspective. I’ve been working on a large art installation to celebrate people that work in the food industry that are usually the unsung heroes. It was a huge exhibition and participated by a dozen artists, each one using their own style to celebrate some of the hard-working restaurant crews that toil for the meal that’s placed in front of you.

I owned restaurants and a catering company for many years and I never saw it from any other perspective but my own. It’s a family you get hired into. They’ll never let you fail or get into the weeds because you’re part of the team and if you do poorly, it reflects on everyone else. So, they want you to be the best you can be for the good of everyone.

Art is so subjective. Sometimes people love a piece that’s just a pencil sketch, but it reminds them of the way that their grandfather drew. Other times, it’s a moment in their lives that makes them remember a time that made them smile. I knew that the artists that were participating would do a superb job, but I did not know who the people that came to look at the art would think. It’s the ones that people bought for reasons I never would have fathom that made us tear up.

One of the owners of the business hosting the event brought a gentleman over to me to meet. I assumed he was probably a reporter, but I was wrong and as we stood around and it seems like a large circle, we heard the reason why he was there.

“I came from Roanoke, Virginia, because I read about this exhibit. My son loved the food business. He was a chef and died unexpectedly. I could never understand what was so captivating for him. It wasn’t my world, and I couldn’t comprehend what made him so happy being in his.”

Then he pointed to some of the 100

paintings that hung on the wall, and he said rather surprisingly he wasn’t expecting it to look like everybody loved what they were doing. I think that gave him a lot of comfort to know that his son was doing what he loved the most and surrounded by people that appreciated him.

Several pieces of art were purchased by mothers because they knew firsthand how much hard work was involved in their children’s career as a chef or any of the positions in the kitchen. One father wanted to buy a specific painting of his son, and his son was so embarrassed that he would want a picture of him glorifying what he loved to do.

A gentleman called me during the show to tell me that his first boss wanted to purchase his painting so he could hang it up in his restaurant. That’s quite an honor to celebrate the people that got him where he is today and that Chef couldn’t have been prouder.

Another gentleman told me that when I had come out to do a few photos of his restaurant one of the dishwashers did not want to participate. I understand that and always respect their wishes, but when I asked his boss earlier on the phone if there was anybody in particular that I shouldn’t miss, he brought up that individual‘s name and told me what a great worker he was and then he proceeded to tell me about every person in that kitchen and how lucky he was to have such a great crew working there.

Now I’m mounting the show and bringing it on the road. I flew up north a few weeks ago so I could take some photographs of the back of the house kitchens in the town I’ll be displaying in. Most kitchen crews are very humble and they’re happy to have a job so they can give their family a good life. It doesn’t matter if you’re 16 years old or 60 years old. Some jobs are harder than others and when you do well, working hard and doing a good job makes for the best self-worth pride in the world.

While I was up north, I met the littlest, youngest, sweetest dishwasher and I swear that some of those pans weighed more than he did. He had full command of the dishwashing section, and I don’t think he would change it for anything in the world.

It’s the Art of The Heart and we’re lucky if we can capture it.

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Ballroom dancing is great for social interaction

By Sandro Virag Contributor

Looking to increase your social life? Consider ballroom dancing or any dancing for that matter.

Most ballrooms have a structured format which helps to alleviate the anxiety of socializing. People know what to expect, which makes it easier to engage with others. Most dance studios provide a welcoming and supportive atmosphere and people find it easy to make new friends.

If you attend classes regularly, you will see some of the same people and that makes it easier to build a rapport with people. You are sharing a common goal – learning a new dance or preparing for a performance. This kind of work strengthens relationships and encourages teamwork.

Dancing naturally serves as an

icebreaker. An invitation to dance can start a conversation and create a connection that might not have happened in another social setting. If you aren’t up for conversation right away, there is no pressure to talk while dancing since you are already engaged in an activity.

Ballroom dance also offers a variety of events so people can choose the setting they prefer and are comfortable in. They may prefer a formal affair or maybe something more casual.

Since dance involves physically touching, it can create a sense of closeness and intimacy. Connections can become deeper. Emotional expression can create strong bonds between partners and other dances. When someone engages in a new skill like ballroom dancing, it helps

with personal growth. Sharing the learning process with others leads to mutual support and encouragement.

Different ballroom dances often have elements from different cultures so participants can discuss the various traditions and backgrounds. This can also help to increase social interaction.

Gaining confidence in ballroom dancing can also lead to confidence in other social situations. The combination of physical activity and social interaction makes it a unique and rewarding way to connect with others. And what a great way to expand your social circle!

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

Palmetto Bluff arts scholarship honors three local students

The Arts Initiative at Palmetto Bluff has announced the first recipients of its Inspiring the Arts Scholarship, recognizing three local students for their dedication to artistic pursuits in higher education.

Katherine Donahue, Emma Peeples, and Ryleigh Severide were honored June 20th during a Rising Artists Celebration at FLOW Gallery + Workshop in Wilson Village. The scholarship awards $5,000 to the top recipient, with two honorable mentions receiving $3,000 each.

Donahue, who was named the top scholarship recipient, plans to study architecture at Clemson University. Her goal is to pursue a career in historic architectural restoration, with a focus on reviving old buildings in towns and cities. In addition to appreciating the art and beauty of the structures themselves, she believes that restoring them allows for communities to see first-hand how far they have come.

Peeples, an honorable mention, has always been eager to use her knowledge to help those around her experience and express themselves through art. She will attend Western Carolina University’s Honors College to study studio art. She hopes to eventually teach art at the college level and help students express themselves across various mediums. Severide, also an honorable mention, plans to major in illustration and cartooning at Savannah College of Art and Design as both mediums were formative as she grew up, helping her navigate

difficult personal events. During this time, her interest in art and storytelling evolved and she found comfort in the many panels and pages that make up a comic, eventually drafting her own comics, taking her own stories and making them into something new. She believes the impact that art has on people’s experiences is substantial and she wants to contribute to that, to be an eye opener for people across the world to show them what art is really about.

“The Arts Initiative draws upon Palmetto Bluff’s unique environment and community to guide the artistic experience and foster lasting connections with this place and its people,” said Maggie Hackett, director of marketing at Palmetto Bluff, in a statement. “We are very excited to be able to integrate this unique program into our local community in such a tangible way.”

The scholarship is part of The Arts Initiative at Palmetto Bluff, which launched in 2022 to offer hands-on art experiences for residents and neighbors in Bluffton, Hilton Head Island, and Savannah. The program hosts workshops and events designed to engage audiences and highlight the area’s natural setting and creative culture.

Palmetto Bluff is a 20,000-acre community in Bluffton, located between Charleston and Savannah, Georgia. The development features 32 miles of riverfront and is guided by a land conservancy focused on environmental preservation.

ENTER TO WIN

A Stitch in Time

Created by Art Quilters of the Low Country

Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution, support The Heritage Library, and enter to win a one of kind art piece.

A Stitch in Time is a visual timeline of history that starts with The Battle of Sullivan’s Island and moves through glimpses of the changing decades that are Hilton Head Island and Lowcountry history.

This unique piece showcases the artistry of the Art Quilters of the Low Country – Ron Hodge, Ro Morrissey, Peg Weschke and Jody Wigton.

Scan the QR Code to purchase a ticket and a chance to win “A Stitch in Time”. Tickets are $10 each or 3 for $25. Tickets can also be purchased at the Heritage Library or online at HeritageLib.org.

The Heritage Library Foundation proudly sponsors the raffle of this quilt. All proceeds from this raffle will be used for educational programming on local and regional history.

(L to R)_Ryleigh Severide, Emma Peeples, Katherine Donahue

FISH FRY TUESDAY

Shockwave vs SoftWave

By Dr. Ken Horup Contributor

One question my patients ask every day is, what’s the difference between Shockwave and SoftWave? I’d like to dissect this now.

In today’s evolving world of non-invasive therapies, both Shockwave and SoftWave technologies are gaining attention for how they help manage pain, improve circulation, and support tissue healing. Though these two methods may sound similar, they are quite different in how they work and in what types of conditions they are best suited for.

Both options offer real value to patients and providers alike. However, understanding the difference can lead to better results, better conversations, and ultimately, better care.

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave Therapy (often called Radial or Focused Shockwave) uses mechanical pressure waves to create a deep tissue response. These waves can be either concentrated in a small area (focused) or spread out over a broader surface (radial). The pressure stimulates the body’s natural healing response, promoting blood flow and helping to reduce chronic inflammation.

It is commonly used for joint and tendon pain, especially when symptoms have been persistent over time. The sensation can feel like a series of quick mechanical taps and may cause some mild discomfort, especially when targeting deeper or more inflamed areas.

What Is SoftWave Therapy?

SoftWave Therapy, sometimes called acoustic wave therapy, uses a wider, unfocused wave of energy that gently spreads through the tissues. It’s designed to activate healing at the cellular level,

encourage new blood vessel growth, and reduce inflammation — without the sharper pressure of traditional shockwave treatments. This makes SoftWave a great choice for more sensitive cases, especially where comfort is a top priority. The sensation is typically more tolerable, often described as a soft “thump” or vibration.

When to Use Which?

Both therapies are FDA-cleared and supported by clinical research, but they serve different purposes. Shockwave is often selected for pinpoint chronic conditions, such as longstanding tendon or joint pain. SoftWave tends to be used more for broader-area discomfort, inflammation, and general healing support.

Each therapy has its strengths—one is not universally better than the other. In fact, many clinics use both, depending on the patient’s condition, pain level, and sensitivity.

Why Definitions Matter

As new treatment options emerge, clear education is key. Patients and staff can be-

come confused if terms like “Shockwave” and “SoftWave” are used interchangeably. In reality, they are distinct tools with different energy signatures, effects, and outcomes. Defining them properly helps everyone, from front desk to back office, speak the same language.

The Big Picture

There’s no competition here, just different approaches with the same goal: helping people feel better and function better. Whether you’re working with a sore shoulder, stiff knees, or lingering foot discomfort, both shockwave and SoftWave can play a role in a successful treatment plan.

In the hands of a skilled provider, the right therapy can make a big difference. And that’s something everyone in the healthcare community can smile about.

Dr. Kenneth Horup, DC is a Chiropractic Physician at Discover Specific Chiropractic, Board Certified in Neuropathy.

DR. KEN HORUP

By Rhoda Gordon Contributor

Travel tips for preserving your best vacation memories

Summer is in full swing: the days are long, kids are out of school, and families everywhere are on the move. Whether your plans include a big vacation, a family reunion, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, or simple day trips close to home, capturing your moments matters. In the next few paragraphs, you’ll find practical tips to help you enjoy your experiences and return with meaningful, well-organized photo memories. When traveling, it’s easy to get caught up in documenting each and every moment, but the most memorable experiences come when you’re fully present. Try to strike a healthy balance between living

in the moment and capturing it. A simple strategy is to designate a specific “photo moment” each day: take a few intentional shots, then put your phone or camera away and immerse yourself in the experience. Later, jot down a few quick notes or memories about the day alongside your photos. The photo caption feature of your photo app is great for this. These small journal entries can help tell a richer, more personal story when revisiting your memories.

You don’t need a fancy camera to take great travel photos, just a few simple techniques can make a big difference. Pay attention to natural lighting, frame your subjects thoughtfully, and try using the “rule of thirds” by placing points of interest slightly off-center for a more dynamic shot. Don’t focus only on posed pictures; candid moments often tell the best stories. Also, try to capture the small details like a shared meal, a bustling market, or a quiet sunrise, things that make your trip unique. And to protect those memories,

make it a habit to back up your photos daily while you travel, either to the cloud or an external device.

Organizing your photos while you travel can save you hours of frustration when you return home. Create folders or albums on your phone by trip, event, or outing to keep everything sorted as you go, and place only your favorite shots in those albums to avoid digital clutter. Many photo apps also allow you to add keywords or notes, making it easier to search for specific memories later.

If your summer plans include printed photos, like bringing along old family snapshots for a reunion, consider using a photo organizing tool that helps you organize printed photos before or during your trip. A little effort along the way can turn photo chaos into a meaningful, easy-to-navigate collection.

Make your photos matter. Don’t let your photos disappear into the digital ethers after your trip ends. Print your favorite images or create a photo book that

captures the story and highlights hidden gems of your journey or your summer. You can also host a slideshow night or share stories with family and friends to relive the experience together. Your summer experiences are more than just snapshots, they’re part of your story. With a few thoughtful habits, you can both enjoy the moment and preserve it for years to come.

Rhoda Gordon, a local Certified Photo Manager, is the owner of Sunflower Photo Solutions and the creator of DIG YOUR PHOTOS!™, a DIY photo organizing kit. For nearly a decade, she has been helping families and businesses sort, organize, digitize, and back up their print and digital photo collections. Discover more tips, tricks, and how-tos on her YouTube channel: youtube.com/@digyourphotos, and visit sunflowerphotosolutions.com or digyourphotos.com for expert guidance and support with your media collection and organizing projects.

RHODA GORDON

By Chip Collins Contributor

Setting the stage: preparing your home for market

One of the most common questions we hear from sellers in the South Carolina Lowcountry is: “What do I need to do to get my home ready to sell?” While pricing, marketing, and timing all matter, one of the most impactful levers is often overlookedthe condition of the property.

In today’s competitive market, first impressions are everything. That’s why one of the five core strategies we focus on at Collins Group Realty is what we call the Condition Strategy - ensuring that a property is presented in its best possible light before the first showing ever takes place.

Why condition matters more than you think

Buyers are increasingly discerning, and the condition of a home can significantly influence how they perceive value. While a full-scale renovation isn’t typically necessary, homes that are clean, well-maintained, and free from obvious issues tend to sell faster - and for more money.

Yet it’s easy for homeowners to become “home-blind.” When you’ve lived in a property for years, that ceiling stain from an old leak or the squeaky door hinge in the guest room tends to fade into the background. But to a buyer seeing your home for the first time, those small imperfections can raise big concerns.

That’s where a thoughtful Condition Strategy comes in.

The little things add up

During our consultations, we often walk through homes with fresh eyes, looking at things the way a buyer - or a home

inspector - might. That means noting the dusty ceiling fan or the faded paint in the bathroom. It’s not always about major upgrades. Often, it’s the small, cumulative details that signal to buyers whether a home has been cared for.

Focus areas typically include:

• Walls and ceilings: Stains, cracks, or discoloration - especially in kitchens and baths - can be interpreted as moisture problems.

• Crawl spaces and attics: These less-visited areas can harbor issues like pests, insulation damage, or HVAC inefficiencies.

• General maintenance: From tightening loose door handles to replacing worn weatherstripping, subtle fixes can go a long way.

Partnering

for preparation

An onsite consultation is an excellent first step. We walk through the home with the sellers, making notes and offering suggestions tailored to both the property and the market. Sellers often receive a

clear, prioritized action list - items like repainting a room or addressing a minor repair before it becomes a sticking point in negotiations.

And for those looking to take preparation a step further, we may recommend a pre-listing home inspection. While not always necessary, it can be a proactive way to uncover issues that a buyer’s inspector might otherwise flag.

Bottom line: create confidence

Buyers today are looking not just for homes they love - but homes they can trust. A property that appears well-maintained builds that confidence and often results in stronger offers.

Selling a home is a significant transition. With the right strategy in place, you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and better outcomes.

Chip Collins is the Broker-Owner of Collins Group Realty founded in 2002. Find Chip at chip@collinsgrouprealty.com or collinsgrouprealty.com

CHIP COLLINS

FBI warns South Carolina residents of phone scams

The FBI is alerting South Carolina residents about a recent spike in government impersonation scams involving callers who falsely claim to represent federal law enforcement and use spoofed FBI phone numbers, including the official line for the FBI’s Columbia Field Office.

In the latest scheme, scammers impersonate government officials and use caller ID spoofing technology to display a legitimate FBI number, giving the illusion of authenticity. Victims are typically told they have missed jury duty or are facing arrest due to a warrant, and are warned to expect a follow-up call from an FBI agent.

During the second call, the impersonator instructs the victim to withdraw large amounts of cash and convert the money into cryptocurrency at a local kiosk—claiming it is the only way to avoid arrest or steep fines. Some victims have also reported receiving fraudulent documents via text message that feature fake government seals and letterhead to further legitimize the scam.

Several South Carolina residents have already lost thousands of dollars in these schemes, according to the FBI. While

impersonation fraud is not new, law enforcement officials say this latest version is particularly deceptive due to the use of spoofed phone numbers and official-sounding threats.

Authorities emphasize that the FBI will never ask for or accept payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers or cash deposits at kiosks. In addition, agents will not call individuals to threaten arrest or demand payment to avoid legal action.

The FBI urges the public to take the following steps to avoid falling victim:

• Do not provide personal or financial information to unknown callers.

• If a caller claims to be from the FBI and makes threats or demands, hang up immediately.

• Inde pendently verify the phone number of your nearest FBI field office and contact it directly if in doubt.

Anyone who believes they have been targeted or defrauded is encouraged to report the incident by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI or submitting a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.

For more information about common scams and how to protect yourself, visit fbi. gov/scams.

USCB achieves full NCAA Division II membership

The University of South Carolina Beaufort (USCB) is now a full member of NCAA Division II, marking a major milestone in the university’s athletic and institutional growth.

Chancellor Al M. Panu shared the announcement on July 10 with the campus community, calling the achievement “a defining moment” and a reflection of the university’s ongoing commitment to excellence.

“This is a testament to the leadership of our Athletics division and dedicated teamwork from all corners within the university community, and support from the larger community and region we serve,” he said.

The NCAA Membership Committee granted USCB full membership in Division II beginning in the 2025-26 academic year. This allows the university’s student-athletes to compete in postseason opportunities and provides

them with enhanced national visibility. USCB and its athletics programs have been growing steadily since the school’s intercollegiate athletics program launched in 2007.

“Achieving full NCAA Division II membership is the culmination of years of hard work and vision from so many people—our coaches, staff, university leadership, and especially our amazing student-athletes,” said USCB Director of Athletics Quin Monahan.

The good news for USCB marked the completion of a rigorous three-year transition period that required meeting specific benchmarks in compliance, staffing, scholarships, academic support, and institutional commitment.

USCB fields 11 varsity teams, including baseball, softball, women’s soccer, men’s and women’s golf, men’s and women’s cross country, men’s and women’s track & field, and men’s and women’s basketball.

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An advanced retirement strategy every high-earning business owner should know about

By Thomas Dowling Contributor

Most of us grew up thinking retirement planning begins and ends with a 401(k) or IRA. Contribute regularly, invest wisely, and over time you’ll have the means to retire comfortably. It’s a sound strategy and for many, it works. But for high-earning business owners and professionals, it’s only part of the story.

There’s another, often-overlooked strategy that can be a game-changer, especially for those who are entering their peak earning years or looking to accelerate their savings after years of reinvesting in a business. It’s called a Cash Balance Plan, and while it’s not right for everyone, this Advanced Planning Strategy deserves serious consideration.

Cash Balance Plans fall under the category of defined benefit retirement plans, similar in structure to traditional pensions. But unlike traditional pensions that are rigid and employer-driven, Cash Balance Plans offer more flexibility and are particularly well-suited for owners of successful businesses, medical and legal professionals, consultants, and others with high or variable income.

Here’s the appeal: a typical 401(k), even with profit sharing contributions, limits your annual contribution to around $70,000. A Cash Balance Plan, by contrast, can allow tax-deductible contributions in excess of $200,000 per year, depending on your age, compensation, and business structure. That’s a major opportunity not just for building retirement savings, but also for managing taxable income at the highest income brackets.

This is where Advanced Planning comes into play. These plans require coordination with your wealth and tax advisors. But when integrated into a broader wealth plan, alongside tools like defined contribution plans, estate strategies, and entity structuring, they can become a cornerstone strategy for wealth accumulation and tax mitigation. For many successful business owners, the early years are focused on reinvesting in the business. Retirement savings often take a backseat. But once the business becomes profitable, it’s essential to convert earned income into long-term wealth intentionally and efficiently. A Cash Balance Plan can be the bridge between strong earnings and lasting security.

So why haven’t more people heard of this? Because it’s not widely understood by financial and tax advisors but just because it’s advanced doesn’t mean it’s out of reach. With the right team guiding the process, it can be implemented effectively and yield significant benefits.

We often speak about the importance of Advanced Planning. It must include strategic tools that allow successful individuals to take full advantage of the tax code and financial architecture available to them.

Cash Balance Plans won’t be the right fit for everyone. But for business owners and professionals with strong cash flow and a desire to aggressively save while reducing taxes, they represent one of the most powerful, but underutilized, tools in the retirement planning toolbox. At the very least, it’s worth knowing this exists. Because when it comes to Advanced Planning, knowledge isn’t just power, it’s the key to turning financial success into lasting financial impact.

Thomas M. Dowling, CFA, CFP®, CIMA® is the Head of Wealth Management at Alliance Global Partners of the Lowcountry on Hilton Head. He can be reached at infohh@allianceg.com or (843) 420-1993.

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Bluffton Sun recognized at 2025 PALMY Advertising Awards

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

The Bluffton Sun earned top recognition at the 2025 PALMY Advertising Awards, bringing home two first-place and two second-place honors for excellence in advertising design and execution.

Presented by the South Carolina Press Association, the annual PALMY Awards celebrate outstanding work by the state’s advertising professionals and publications. The Bluffton Sun was among this year’s standout performers, recognized

for its creativity, local focus, and impact.

The winning ads were designed by Melissa McCullough in collaboration with the Bluffton Sun staff. Their efforts were honored for excellence in both visual presentation and effective messaging tailored to the Lowcountry audience.

The PALMY Awards are designed to spotlight the role of advertising in local journalism and honor those who shape how messages reach and resonate with readers across South Carolina.

A full list of winners is available on the South Carolina Press Association website.

Reinventing yourself: discovering new passions

By Matt Uppenbrink Contributor

For many approaching or in retirement, the belief is that your adventurous days are behind you. But through many programs offered through Lowcountry resources and independent living communities, new adventures can be found.

This highlights a growing trend among seniors who are redefining what it means to age gracefully. Research from the National Institute on Aging suggests that participating in certain activities, such as those that are mentally stimulating or involve physical activity, may have a positive effect on memory.

Dr. Laura Carstensen, founding director of the Stanford Center on Longevity and a leading expert on aging research notes, “as people get older, they usually become less stressed and more content.” Her

work on socioemotional selectivity theory demonstrates that older adults naturally shift their focus toward emotionally meaningful experiences and relationships.

A comprehensive study found that engaging in hobbies is universally associated with better mental well-being among adults over 65.

The natural beauty and cultural richness of the Lowcountry provide an ideal backdrop for senior reinvention.

Nature-loving seniors can stay active by strolling through the Audubon Newhall Preserve, Jarvis Creek, or a walk or swim at Coligny Beach. Many communities have exercise classes that then expand into group trips to locales far and near or other retreat experiences.

Creative expression opportunities include community theater productions, art classes with local artists, choral and music ensembles, or writing workshops where residents share life stories. Some communities facilitate programs where residents mentor young people or share their professional expertise.

Also, volunteer programs that connect residents with local charities, such as food banks and beach turtle patrols can be excellent ways to give back to the commu-

LAST CHANCE !

nity while enjoying social relationships.

Experts recommend several strategies for seniors looking to discover new passions:

Start small, think big: Begin with accessible hobbies that can grow over time. Book clubs are among the best hobbies for seniors and the perfect hobby for avid readers who love the company.

Embrace technology: Modern tools make learning more accessible than ever. Apps like Duolingo or Babbel allow seniors to learn new languages without formal instruction, while online platforms offer everything from virtual museum tours to cooking classes.

Consider physical capabilities: Choose activities that match your current abilities while potentially improving them. Gentle yoga, water aerobics, or gardening can provide physical and mental benefits without overexertion.

Seek community: Independent living communities excel at fostering connections. Group activities not only make hobbies more enjoyable but also create the social bonds that research shows are crucial for healthy aging.

The impact of seniors pursuing new passions extends beyond individual

fulfillment. Communities benefit from the wisdom, creativity, and volunteer efforts of engaged older adults. Many Lowcountry nonprofit organizations now rely on senior volunteers who bring decades of experience combined with newfound enthusiasm for their chosen activities.

Despite the proven benefits, some seniors still hesitate to try new things. Common concerns include physical limitations, financial constraints, and the fear of looking foolish while learning. However, experts emphasize that these barriers are often more perceived than real.

Independent living communities in Beaufort County have recognized this need and increasingly offer a variety of programs designed to help residents explore new interests safely and affordably. The key is simply to begin. In the words of one satisfied resident, “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.”

Matt Uppenbrink, MS, is the Executive Director of The Seabrook of Hilton Head. Interested in learning more about The Seabrook of Hilton Head or if you would like to schedule a tour: https://www.theseabrook.com/ or call 843-842-3747.

MATT UPPENBRINK

By Paul Tollefson Contributor

Spillin’ the Tea

Car surfing in Pville

The year was 1983, and as you can imagine, there was not a lot for teenagers to do around Bluffton and Prichardville. Of course, there were no outlet malls or Walmart’s, no Putt Putt or bowling alley. But what they did have was woods and land.

High school teenagers have always been into cars, especially boys, and this story is no exception. When you get bored teens, ample land, and cars, you can only imagine what types of fun and amusement can be thought up.

Off Gibbet Road in Pritchardville, there used to be a lot of open fields. And as we all see now, when there are open areas of land, that usually means development is coming. There was a handmade lake being dug with the plan for houses to be built around the lake. Houses on the water always go for more money, everyone knows that! Mr. George Dixon grew up in that area and knows that old “pit” all too well!

“I’ve always loved cars and my family owned a mechanic shop on Montgomery Street in Savannah from 1973-1984 called Dixons Amoco. We were always getting cars that would come in and out of the shop, so I grew up enjoying them.

“In 1983 we were seniors at McCracken High in Bluffton and a few of my buddies would go out to this pit that they were digging that would later become a freshwater

lake. Well, as you can imagine when you had a huge sandy mud pit and teenagers with cars, we had to go in!” Dixon continues.

“Surprisingly we never got stuck or hurt, but we’d drive to into this pit, and we’d have a great old time! Kids would “car surf” or get on top of the hoods and roofs while the driver would be doing donuts or figure 8s all around the mud and sand!”

“I had a 1964 Chevy Biscayne, and my buddy Roger Ward had a F150. I can’t remember some of the other cars that we had down there, but what a fun time! It made for some great memories.

So if your ever out by Thomas Lake in Pritchardville, just remember that the developments and the lakes

were not always there, and the song lyrics “They paved paradise and put up a parking lot” may just come to your head.

Paul Tollefson is the Director of Tennis at the Hampton Hall Club in Bluffton. He found his love for the Lowcountry in early 2002 after graduating high school and unsure of what career path he was destined towards. After moving from Hilton Head to Bluffton he became enthralled with the history of the town and the people and cultures that called it home for many generations. He has found a passion in writing and enjoys being able to share the stories and pictures of long-time locals. He is the co-creator of the Facebook page “Bluffton Then and Now.”

Friends of the Hunley launches story-sharing campaign

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

Friends of the Hunley has launched a global story-sharing initiative to mark the 25th anniversary of one of maritime archaeology’s most high-profile recoveries: the raising of the H.L. Hunley submarine from Charleston Harbor.

The “Share Your Story” campaign invites individuals to submit personal memories, reflections or photographs tied to the historic event of Aug. 8, 2000, when the Civil War-era vessel was recovered from the harbor after being lost for more

than 130 years.

“This 25th anniversary is more than a commemoration — it’s a celebration of discovery and collaboration,” said Kellen Butler, executive director of Friends of the Hunley. “Raising the Hunley wasn’t the end of the story. It was the beginning of a remarkable journey of research and innovation.”

People who witnessed the event in person, watched the televised recovery or participated in the operation are encouraged to share their perspectives. Submissions will be accepted online at www.hunley.org, and selected entries may

be featured during upcoming anniversary events and shared on the group’s digital platforms.

The H.L. Hunley was the world’s first successful combat submarine, credited with sinking the USS Housatonic in 1864 before disappearing with its eight-man crew. Rediscovered in 1995 and raised five years later, the submarine drew international attention and helped establish South Carolina as a leader in maritime conservation and underwater archaeology.

Since its recovery, nearly one million visitors have traveled to see the Hunley

and learn about its restoration and historical significance. The project has been highlighted in numerous documentaries and continues to be a popular attraction in Charleston.

“The story of the Hunley is truly extraordinary and continues to inspire interest from around the world,” Butler said. “Every shared memory brings us closer to the people and events behind this remarkable chapter in history.”

More information about the campaign and anniversary events is available on the organization’s website.

PAUL TOLLEFSON

Adopted Dog: Lower Expectations and Increase Patience

By Abby Bird AKA Alphadog Contributor

Everyone has a different series of thoughts when they adopt an adult or older dog. Puppies are one thing, basically everything you work on doesn’t change from dog to dog. You begin with potty training and nipping then move on to not jumping, sit, come and leash walking. Skills for public and private manners follow later.

But what about a dog that you have no background or history on? Where do you begin when you have no idea what they may know or don’t know? You may not know whether they previously lived in a home, a yard or lived on the street. The most common assumption is that if they are an adult then they have been potty trained well enough to live in a home. Very often this is simply not true. Even if they are adult, rescues recommend you begin with crate training. It is so important to not let the new dog have free run of the house. If they aren’t used to being inside and, on a schedule, they do not understand that it is not ok to potty inside. A crate can help to set up schedules but also the enclosed area will not be a conducive space for them to relieve themselves. This gives you time to figure out the new dog’s schedule without allowing the dog to imprint undesirable habits.

Another benefit of a crate, even with an adult, is to monitor any potentially destructive behavior. If the dog is stressed in the new environment, they might take it out by actively destroying things. Walls, furniture, rugs, clothing etc. are fair game of the dog is nervous. By confining them when they are not supervised you increase the chances of keeping the dog. We all know that if the dog is destructive, you may not want to give them the chance they need to adjust. Patience is so important for a successful outcome.

Potty training and chewing are two of the most common issues but there are more. Adjustments to other family pets, children, men vs. women, noises, leash walking and oh so much more. We wish we could read their minds or ask them questions about their past but alas no. There is an often talked about rule in

rescue referred to as 3 Days, 3 Weeks, 3 Months. This rule may offer a better understanding as to what your dog is going through and what you can provide to assure the most successful transition. Keep your expectations realistic and your patience high and you will have a loving forever four legged friend.

First 3 Days:

The initial period is often characterized by stress, anxiety, and fear as the dog adjusts to a new environment and routines. They may be overwhelmed, shy, or shut down. The focus should be on providing a safe space, minimizing stress, and establishing basic routines.

Next 3 Weeks:

During this phase, the dog begins to settle in and acclimate to the new home. They may start to show more of their personality and engage with their new family. It’s a good time to start introducing basic training and building a bond.

First 3 Months:

This is when the dog starts to truly feel at home and relaxed in their new environment. They should be more confident and trusting, and the focus can shift to continued socialization and training.

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

Brand building: beyond the money

By Wendy Kushel Contributor

Building a brand is not simply a financial pursuit—it’s a long game defined by vision, grit, and strategic choices that often have little to do with immediate profit. While money is a necessary part of the equation, true brand builders understand that the most important returns aren’t always measured in dollars.

Unlike working a steady job with the promise of a pension or Roth IRA, brand building offers no guaranteed paycheck. It’s a high-stakes gamble where every decision—from sourcing packaging to marketing—can tip the scale toward growth or stagnation. Yet for brand builders, success isn’t solely about revenue. It’s about reach, reputation, and resonance.

Consider a small sugar scrub business

as an example. Early on, the founder may face a choice: spend $200 on jars and labels for small batches, or invest in bulk—5,000 jars and 1,000 labels—to prepare for greater demand and lower unit costs. That decision isn’t about today’s profit. It’s about the future. The same goes for deciding whether to fly cross-country to appear on TV for 10 minutes. The ROI might not be immediate, but the long-term brand exposure can be priceless.

For entrepreneurs with a brand-builder mindset, decisions are made with a broad-

error, and no blueprint guarantees success. Yet, for brand builders, each fulfilled order is a victory, each store placement a milestone, and each social media mention a step forward.

Ultimately, the reward for brand builders is different. Yes, they hope for financial return. But what fuels them is watching their vision come to life, seeing their products on shelves, and knowing they’ve built something from scratch that others believe in.

Brand building isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s for those willing to chase a dream without a finish line, where the true payoff is not just the money, but the meaning behind every hard-earned win

er lens. Instead of asking, “Will this make me money tomorrow?” they ask, “Will this expand the visibility and credibility of my brand?” That means accepting temporary losses, making uncomfortable investments, and choosing opportunities based on alignment with the brand’s long-term identity—not just short-term gain. The process is layered and demanding. Beyond product development, there’s packaging, labeling, logistics, compliance, marketing, and relationship-building. There are countless hours of trial and

Wendy Kushel is the owner of Wendala’s LowCountry Sugar Scrub, LLC based in Bluffton, SC. Drawn to the Beauty & Personal Care Industry Wendy founded her company in 2020. Her background includes stand-up comedy, film, TV and a lot of sales and marketing. For more information about Wendala’s® LowCountry Sugar Scrub visit www.lowcountrysugarscrub. com or call/text 843-949-8933.

WENDY KUSHEL

Dental care tips for a confident retirement

By Dr. Mastrorocco Contributor

Retirement is a season of life meant for joy, freedom, and connection. But for many people over 50, there’s one thing quietly standing in the way of fully enjoying this new chapter: their smile.

I have met countless patients who tell me the same thing: “I just want to feel good about smiling again.” The truth is, a healthy smile doesn’t just improve how you look, it shapes how you feel, how you engage with others, and how confidently you show up in the world. If you’re entering retirement or already living it, now is the perfect time to invest in your oral health.

Here are the most important dental care tips to help you smile strong in every stage of life.

Don’t accept dental decline as “normal”

Aging may come with changes, but it should never mean losing your smile. Receding gums, worn enamel, missing teeth, or loose dentures are common, but they’re not inevitable, and they’re certainly not untreatable. Many of these issues are preventable or reversible with proper care.

Common dental issues after 50

Receding Gums: Over time, gums can pull away from the teeth, making them appear longer and exposing sensitive roots. This increases the risk of decay and can impact the look of your smile. Tip: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, brush gently, and don’t skip your regular cleanings. Your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing if recession is already occurring.

Bone Loss: Tooth loss or untreated gum disease can lead to bone loss in the jaw, which not only affects your bite and comfort, but can sub-

tly change your facial appearance, making the cheeks look sunken. Tip: Dental implants or bone grafting can prevent or reverse this loss, restoring your smile’s foundation.

Dry Mouth: Reduced saliva is common with age, especially for those taking certain medications. A dry mouth increases your risk for cavities and discomfort. Tip: Stay hydrated, use sugar-free gum or lozenges to stimulate saliva, and ask your dentist about products designed for dry mouth relief.

Discoloration or Wear: Years of coffee, wine, or acidic foods can dull or damage enamel. This may make you feel self-conscious, but modern options can bring back your sparkle. Tip: Whitening, veneers, or ceramic bonding can brighten and restore your teeth safely and beautifully.

Keep daily habits simple but consistent

You don’t need fancy tools or endless routines to take care of your teeth in retirement. Focus on these simple steps: brush gently for two minutes, twice a day; Use fluoride toothpaste, Floss or use a water flosser daily, schedule cleanings and exams every 6 months and replace your toothbrush every 3 - 4 months (or sooner if bristles are worn)

If you’ve had dental work like crowns, implants, or dentures, your dentist can give you customized tips to protect your investment and keep everything functioning at its best.

Travel confidently without worrying about your teeth

One of the biggest joys in retirement is travel, but dental discomfort on the road can quickly spoil a trip. Whether you’re boarding a plane to visit grandchildren or heading out on a well-earned cruise, a healthy smile gives you peace of mind.

Travel-Ready Tips:

• See your dentist before extended trips for a quick checkup

• Pack dental essentials, including any night guards or appliance cleaners

• If you wear dentures, bring a backup set or adhesive

• Car ry a small dental emergency kit (pain reliever, floss, mirror) Most importantly, never put off

dental work you know you need. Delaying a crown, filling, or implant may seem easier short-term, but it can create more stress later, especially when you’re away from home.

Restore what you’ve lost and get back to living

We meet patients every day in their 60s through 90s who believe it’s “too late” to fix their smile. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Modern dentistry offers solutions that are effective, comfortable, and life-enhancing. You deserve to laugh fully, eat comfortably, and enjoy photos with your loved ones without hiding behind your hand. Retirement is a time to shine, not shrink!

Be kind to yourself — and don’t be embarrassed

Maybe you haven’t seen a dentist in a few years. Maybe your teeth aren’t where you want them to be. That’s okay. It can feel intimidating to take that first step. Your smile is not something you have to “earn” back. You deserve good care now.

Matthew Mastrorocco is a dentist and the owner of ROC Dental Group in Bluffton and Hilton Head. Learn more at ROCDentalGroup.com.

DR. MATTHEW MASTROROCCO

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Pedestrian safety

By Cinda Seamon Contributor

wear reflective clothing.

Encompass Health is the largest system of rehabilitation hospitals, trusted by patients, caregivers and medical professionals.

We are proud to support the American Heart Association’s Heart Ball.

Walking is a great form of exercise, but unfortunately pedestrian injuries and fatalities remain high. All ages are vulnerable, but the largest number of pedestrian deaths occur among 35–44-year-olds according to the National Safety Council injury facts.

It is important to pay attention to the rules of the road and obey all traffic signs and signals. Walk on sidewalks or multi-use pathways when possible. If there are no sidewalks, walk on the left side of the road facing oncoming traffic. This will increase your visibility.

Stay off your phone. Talking and texting distracts you from paying attention to your surroundings. Look before you step.

Cross the street at crosswalks or intersections and always make eye contact with drivers before crossing. Another thing to watch for at intersections is vehicles turning right or left. Never assume that traffic will stop for you. Be aware of cars entering and exiting driveways and parking lots. Parked cars and other obstacles can block your view of oncoming traffic. Keep your eyes up and your phone down.

If you are out at night, get into the habit of walking with a flashlight or

As adults age, there can be a gradual loss of hearing, vision, reflexes and flexibility.

It’s important to start teaching our children how to be safe pedestrians as well. Children have a hard time scanning for traffic, judging car speeds, and anticipating driver behaviors. They lack exposure to traffic. They should always use sidewalks or muti-use paths when they can.

What can drivers do to keep pedestrians safe?

Pay attention to speed limits, especially in school zones. Always stop for pedestrians.

Slow down when approaching crosswalks and give pedestrians the rightof-way.

Yield to pedestrians when turning. Make eye contact to ensure they see you. Avoid distractions while driving. Stay off your phone and stay alert. Never pass vehicles stopped at crosswalks. This can be a dangerous situation for pedestrians. Be cautious when backing up – pedestrians can be hidden from view.

Cinda Seamon is the Community Risk Reduction & Outreach Program Coordinator for Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue.

Beneath so kind a sky:

Edith Inglesby’s summer in the Lowcountry

By Patricia Kappmeyer Contributor

Imagine the hush of dawn over the Lowcountry — the silhouettes of herons perched in the early light and the first notes of a Carolina Wren drifting through the air. Edith Inglesby’s words invite readers into these moments, capturing the gentle beauty and quiet drama of summer mornings in Bluffton, Hilton Head and Beaufort.

Edith Inglesby wrote, A Corner of Carolina: The Four Seasons in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort and Bluffton in 1968. Illustrated by painter, Jim Palmer, the book chronicles the wonders of the South Carolina Lowcountry through the changing seasons.

In the chapter titled “Summer: Beneath So Kind a Sky, “Inglesby’s prose and observations allow readers to experience the region’s birds, landscapes, and transformations. Her blend of natural history and reflection offers an authentic window

into Bluffton and Hilton Head of the past. This article revisits her summer chapter, emphasizes her favorite birds, and reflects on the enduring charm of a Lowcountry.

Edith Inglesby was born in Savannah in 1898. After a career working in journalism and libraries, Edith settled in Beaufort County in the 1950s with her sister Charlotte, along the May River. Their cottage became a gathering place for artists, naturalists, and neighbors, and they are remembered as “emblematic of the way Bluffton used to be.”

As Babbie Guscio wrote in the Hilton Head Island Packet, “The Inglesby sisters were like characters in a book — the kind of book you should have read in high school. They were not bizarre in any sense, but they had quite a bit of charm.”

The sisters never married and fascinated many, like “characters who’d stepped out of a Charlotte Brontë novel.”

Edith’s curiosity and reverence for nature come through clearly in her writing. Her style is marked by both precision and

lyricism; she begins sentences with simple invitations and observations that capture the rhythms of daily life, while Jim Palmer’s illustrations complement her words to create an immersive sense of place.

The chapter on Lowcountry summers is a love letter to the season’s birds and landscapes. Inglesby’s keen eye and lyrical touch bring each moment to life; her quotes below illuminate the presence of some of our local birds:

“We welcome summer birds. At twilight the Yellow-crowned Night Heron is colorless as he feeds in the dusk; but touched by morning’s sun his head plumes are a gleam of gold.”

“Late afternoons in summer bring a special delight… the flight of the White Ibis when, after a day at their feeding ground, they return to nightly haunts.”

“Very often at this time we see the Osprey. Dark on top, we see only the white flash of neck and undersurface as from high above he hovers on heavily beating wings, then plunges into the water,

throwing up a cloud of spray as he seizes his fish. He keeps the same nest making yearly additions until it reaches considerable size. Each summer we watch it grow.”

Edith Inglesby’s work endures because she marries clear-eyed observation with respect for the land. Her writing is more than a record of species—it’s an invitation to see the world as she did — alive, interconnected and quietly miraculous.

For those who love the Lowcountry, her words are a touchstone that remind us its beauty lies as much in quiet moments — a heron’s plumes at sunrise or a wren’s song at dusk—as in its grand vistas. Her legacy is found in every dawn chorus and evening return of the ibis—a reminder that the heart of summer is alive and well “beneath so kind a sky.”

You can read about the Inglesby sisters in “A Corner of Carolina: the four seasons in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort and Bluffton.” Though currently out of print, copies are available online.

Wee-oo, Wee-oo. The fun police have arrived.

By Tracy Winslow Contributor

“The bag opens up more? Oh, no. That’s not allowed.”

It’s summer in Charleston, SC, and my friend and I are in line to go see one of my favorite comedians. We have been waiting in 100° heat and 1000% humidity for so long that my hair should be condemned.

I don’t want to miss one second of the show, so I read the convention center’s rules beforehand. According to their webpage, I am allowed to bring a small purse/clutch no larger than 9”x 5”. The one I brought is my go-to event bag. It meets all of the regulations and even has a section that unzips for more space to fit $350 worth of crap I don’t need but purchase because - event fever! At every security checkpoint, I put the bag into the box, we share a chuckle at the awesomeness of it, and I sashay in. At least, until today.

As an avid rule follower, I assume that I am in the wrong when called out, and would usually slink back to the car to hide the anathema. But the woman checking bags had just allowed a much larger bag through, so I push back a little. “This is small enough - it fits in the box.” She puffs out her chest - as if to intimidate me with polyester - and announces she knows the bag can unzip to be a little bit bigger, and she “can’t just unsee it”. I’m waiting for a “just kidding!” that never comes.

I open my verboten clutch to show her that I have nothing banned or dangerous in it - which seems to inflame her. “Ma’am, you’re going to need to get rid of that bag if you want to come in” as if I’m attempting to smuggle a mongoose and a case of 4 Loko instead of a wallet and lipstick. Isn’t her job to ensure I’m not bringing something dangerous INTO the show?

I wanted to ask if she was part of the opening act - but there was something about the way she wore her fanny pack

that told me I should keep my smart remarks to myself. My clutch is purse non grata, yet Brenda the bag whisperer just waltzes through security with a tote big enough to smuggle in a toddler?

What is it with people who have a little bit of “authority” that makes them act as if they’re auditioning to be a bounty hunter? To be clear, I’m not talking about actual authority figures and the rules they are hired to enforce. They should be respected. I’m talking about the ones that volunteer for jobs that require zero qualifications or training. Armed with an orange vest and the Mission Impossible theme song playing on repeat in their head, they shut down any activity they consider wrong, as they believe themselves to be the last line of defense between you and total anarchy.

And because I’m me, I responded with “Thank you for shutting that down. As we all know, singing leads to a life of crime. Clearly, she has terrible parents.” Fun police are everywhere. A neighbor once called security on me because my daughters were swimming with a rock on a paddle board, pretending it was a turtle that they were trying to “help it find its mommy”. She complained that I was “allowing my children to destroy the habitat”. The security guards were shocked the woman raised such a stink about a rock that was having what was likely the best time of its sedimentary life. All the while she’s entering in her latest spiral Community Vigilance notebook “Intercepted another potential wildlife trafficker today. Petrified nature is safer now because of me.”

BPD and LCC provide free school supplies to educators

For example, the stay-at-home mom who takes volunteering for playground duty way too seriously. One such Quantico-wannabe marched my daughter up to me at the kindergarten pick-up line. She waved her laminated badge in my face like she was Secret Service, and loudly announced that my 5-year-old was “busted” for “throwing rocks”. Upon further interrogation by the Rent-A-Bitter-Mom, my cherub confessed that she was throwing “dirt bombs” at trees in the back of the playground because “they explode all awesome”. A simple “please don’t throw things, you could hurt people” would have ended that behavior. And, admittedly, watching dirt bombs explode is pretty cool. Plus, isn’t her job to help if a kid falls and scrapes a knee - not to shine a light in their tiny faces to see if they crack under the pressure of questioning?

As a side note, later that school year, the same recess authoritarian pulled me into a “conference” at the picnic table to tell me my daughter was disturbing the peace by singing outside at recess.

My friend and I hike the walk of shame back to some random grassy knoll they must lease from the city for the delinquents like me to park in, so I don’t tag a Ferrari or deal drugs or something equally deleterious after the 3pm show. We make it into the show without missing much of the opening act - which turns out not to be the security/covert CIA spook (good thing I didn’t ask). Perhaps something told her I might try to smuggle Nate Bargatze home with me? And, she is correct. I would have, had I been able to take that bag in - after I unzipped the sides, of course.

Tracy Winslow is the owner of the winner of the 2025 Best of Bluffton Community Choice awards for the BEST YARN STORE IN THE LOW COUNTRY - LOW COUNTRY SHRIMP AND KNITS! When Tracy isn’t plotting to smuggle famous comedians home in a purse, she is a professor at Montclair State University, humor writer, and typically found cleaning up after her ridiculous dogs. See more of her personality on Low Country Shrimp and Knits’ webpage: shrimpandknits.com

Lowcountry Community Church (LCC) welcomed more than 250 teachers and school staff from across the Lowcountry to its annual School Staff Appreciation Brunch on Saturday, July 26th. The event celebrated the unwavering dedication educators show to students, families, and our community. Educators began their morning with a brunch and the chance to get creative by customizing their own tote bags with fun personal patches. Then, those very totes were put to good use, filled to the brim with brand-new school supplies. Most importantly, these supplies were made possible through the generosity of the people of LCC and the entire Bluffton community. Thanks to the partnership of the Bluffton Police Department (BPD), donation drop-off stations were placed at every BPD location. An overwhelming outpouring of support ensured that each educator left celebrated, equipped, and encouraged for the year ahead.

The atmosphere was filled with joy, connection, and appreciation as the church community came together to recognize the vital role educators play in shaping the next generation.

“We know that teachers pour their hearts into their classrooms every single day, often spending their own money to support the essential needs of their students,” said Liz Lucarini, Outreach Director at LCC. “This brunch is one small way to say, ‘We see you. We value you. And we’re so thankful for the difference you’re making.’”

“To know that we have the support of our community means so much,” one Beaufort County educator noted, “We care deeply about our students’ success, and it’s easy to feel like we’re doing it alone. But today reminded us we’re not.”

LCC is committed to honoring and serving local heroes throughout the community, and this brunch continues to be a highlight of their summer outreach efforts.

TRACY WINSLOW

The deep planefacelift: a cutting-edge procedure requiring specialized expertise

By Dr. Mathew T. Epps Contributor

The deep plane facelift, a revolutionary advancement in facial rejuvenation surgery, has gained significant traction for its ability to lift the smile lines, deliver natural-looking, long-lasting results, without the “over-pulled” look. Unlike traditional facelifts that primarily tighten the skin, this technique targets the deeper layers of facial tissue, including muscles and ligaments, to address the root causes of aging. The procedure not only smooths wrinkles but also restores youthful contours by repositioning sagging tissues vertically, creating a balanced and refreshed appearance. The complexity of the deep plane facelift underscores the critical need for specialized surgical training. This advanced technique involves intricate dissection beneath the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) and requires precise manipulation of vital facial structures. Surgeons must release and reposition key ligaments

while avoiding damage to delicate nerves and blood vessels. As such, only a small percentage of plastic surgeon specialists worldwide are qualified to perform this procedure.

Dissection beneath the SMAS helps to redefine the jawline without the “pulled” appearance of older techniques. Yet, the procedure’s intricacy requires surgeons to navigate delicate facial nerves and vascular networks, demanding precision honed through rigorous fellowships and hands-on experience

To master this demanding technique, surgeons often

undergo extensive fellowships and hands-on training with global experts. They must possess a thorough understanding of facial anatomy and demonstrate exceptional technical skills. Experts emphasize that achieving optimal results requires not only surgical expertise but also an artistic eye to ensure natural outcomes tailored to each patient’s unique features.

Patients considering a deep plane facelift are advised to carefully vet their surgeon’s credentials, looking for evidence of specialized training, professional memberships, and experience in performing this procedure. Choosing an inadequately trained surgeon can result in suboptimal outcomes or complications.

Dr. J. Kevin Duplechain, a leader in the field, emphasizes that “true expertise comes from years of focused practice and mentorship under seasoned specialists.”

While the deep plane facelift offers unparalleled benefits in reversing signs of aging, its success hinges on the expertise of a highly trained surgeon.

Mathew T. Epps MD, MS, DABS is Triple Fellowship Trained Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon Specializing in Facial, Eyelid, and Breast Surgery. Visit Matheweppsmd.com or email at info@dreppsmd.com

DR. MATHEW T. EPPS

By Amy Campanini Contributor

It’s raining kittens at Palmetto Animal League

As an animal rescue professional, I have held thousands of kittens in my arms, all of them adorable, innocent, sweet – and all of them homeless.

Spring and summer are incredibly busy at the Palmetto Animal League Adoption Center, first with mothers giving birth in large numbers and then with dozens of litters of kittens reaching the age for adoption. Kittens born at PAL are some of the lucky ones. As a private, non-profit, no kill animal rescue organization, we are dedicated to saving every life possible. These precious bundles of joy are costly and require around-the-clock care. With your help, we can provide a haven for the abandoned kittens the rest of the world has forgotten. Help us provide every kitten with all the love and care they need as they wait to be adopted. Here are a few great ways you can make a difference. Bring kitten supplies to the PAL Adop-

tion Center located at 56 Riverwalk Blvd in Okatie. Our kittens could really use the following items: Purina Fancy Feast Kitten Classic Pate wet kitten food, Purina Kitten Chow Nurturing Formula dry kitten food, cat house cubes, and kitten toys. Or support one kitten, or a whole litter, by making a heartfelt donation on our website. Visit PalmettoAnimalLeague.

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org and click on the “Donate” tab at the top of the page. Make a one-time gift or a recurring gift to help PAL save lives for months to come.

Become a foster parent and help us save precious pets from dire situations before it’s too late. PAL provides all the veterinary care, food, and other supplies. You provide the love! Apply to become a

PAL foster at PalmettoAnimalLeague.org/ foster.

Above all, if you have been considering adopting, now is the time! With well over 100 adoptable kittens at PAL right now, we’d love to see them all go to loving homes before fall because no kitten should have to grow up at a shelter. Also, please remember the adult cats as they need homes too!

PAL is discounting all feline adoption fees to just $25 for 25 days. Our goal is to place 150 cats and kittens in loving, life-long homes, so we can open space at our adoption center to save more lives. If you’re not able to adopt, you can still help! Spread the word that feline adoption fees are discounted through August 21. All adoptions include spay/neuter, microchip, and vaccinations. Visit the PAL Adoption Center Monday through Saturday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. to meet our adoptable cats.

Amy Campanini is the Palmetto Animal League President

Sheri Kroupa, L.E.

By Collins Doughtie Contributor

Practice makes perfect Nature’s Way

Unless I am heading offshore fishing, I rarely ever fish on the weekends. Back in the day I used to fish on Saturdays and Sundays, but as more and more people started getting boats, I simply couldn’t take what was obviously a lack of knowledge (and courtesy) by many of these new boat owners. It was like watching a 14-year-old trying to learn how to parallel park for the first time. On one hand it’s quite humorous but on the other hand, it’s darn right spooky.

So, what brought this subject matter to my shallow frontal lobe? A new boat owner and transplant from Pennsylvania called me and right up front told me that he needed help with boating, boat maintenance and all the other things needed to be a safe, informed and courteous boat owner. How refreshing! If only more folks did this maybe I wouldn’t have such a low regard for many of the boaters I now see daily.

I realize that like most things practice makes perfect but when it comes to boating you at least need to know the basics first and then go from there. But when someone that has never set foot on a boat in their life goes out and buys a boat, that person can be dangerous not only to themselves but to all those other boaters around them.

A perfect example of this occurred a month ago when I was with a friend of mine and we were attempting to catch bait off the beach on Hilton Head. As we were slowly cruising toward a pod of bait, another boat came flying in and right then I knew that I should keep a close eye on that boat.

Sure enough, as my buddy was standing on the bow with a cast net, that same boat came straight toward us and I could see that the gentleman at the wheel wasn’t even looking in our direction. When it looked like a collision was imminent, I yelled to him and instead of putting his boat in reverse he panicked and floored it. I had seconds to avert a mid boat collision so with no other choice at hand I too had to jam the throttles forward throwing my buddy to the floor and though I almost made

it, he plowed into one of our 300hp engines doing over $3,000 in damage.

Sadly, I see things like this happen all the time so when I met up with my Pennsylvania friend, I really put him through the paces. One of the hardest aspects of boating around here is docking due to our huge tides and strong currents. Rule number one in docking is to never go faster than you want to hit something. For new boaters, I tell them that whenever possible, dock going into the current and not with the current behind you.

Secondly, never, and I mean never, have someone standing up on the bow with the bow line like they are ready to do the long jump. All it takes is one slip of the throttle and that person goes flying and the boat runs over them. Come in slowly and using the throttle, bump

it gently in and out of gear and I guarantee your docking prowess will improve ten-fold in no time. The biggest threat is people panic when they see they are getting ready to smash into the dock or the tide catches them and they ram the throttles home. That just makes matters worse. In and out of gear is the ticket and even if you do get in trouble, the impact will be minor. I will say this about my friend, he caught on like a pro and even when I had him try backing into a slip with the tide ripping he did it well. Once he got past the panic instinct, it all went smooth as silk.

Another mistake I see all the time is what appears to be a complete misunderstanding of what denotes a “no wake” speed. Having a bunch of docks along my section of the May River, particularly on weekends boats plow past these docks at half throttle throwing up wakes large enough to surf on. I can’t even leave my boat tied to my dock because it would get destroyed in no time. With courtesy in mind, stay at least a hundred yards away from docks. In no wake zones, look behind your boat and if you see white water you are going too fast. Also, if you see small boats anchored along the shoreline and people are fishing, be courteous and slow down to a crawl as you pass by them. The saying “what goes around comes around” applies to this simple act of courtesy.

I debated mentioning the horrible night time accident recently that took the lives of two people, two dogs and injured two more passengers. Here is my tip if running in the dark. Try finding a distant bright light and head for it. If you see that light blink that tells you something is in your way. Running at night is scary if you are not familiar with our waters so take it nice and slow. It might take longer to get there but at least you’ll get there safely. I plan on writing more tips on safe boating and until I do, use some common sense and if you don’t know the basic rules of boating, take the time to either take a safety course or hire someone to show you the ropes. It may just save your life one day.

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

Q & A With Master Storyteller

By Tamela Maxim Contributor

Jerry B. Jenkins’ professional writing career spans over 50 years. He has authored over 200 books, including the Left Behind series and The Chosen novels, which have collectively sold over 73 million copies. Jenkins Entertainment, a filmmaking company, is owned by Jerry and run by his son Dallas. He publishes The Christian Writer’s Market Guide and teaches writing to aspiring authors through blogs, webinars, self-study courses, and podcasts at www.JerryJenkins.com. He also offers a contest for previously unpublished authors, known as Operation First Novel.

To sum it all up, he is one of the most successful and prolific writers of all time.

Q: Did you have a childhood hero?

A: My late father was a man’s man, a former Marine and a career law enforcement officer (who went from walking a beat to becoming a police chief). He was a model of consistency and discipline, selflessness and chivalry.

He was an outspoken Christian, a churchman, a romantic, a poet, unabashedly in love with my mother, whom he referred to as his “lifetime valentine,” and he was a convicting example of one who was never too macho to scrub a floor, change a diaper, or do the dishes.

He and Mom raised four sons, of whom I was the third, and not one of us rebelled. All of us became active churchgoing Christians, the first two career cops, I a writer, and the youngest a missionary.

Q: How did your growing-up years influence your writing?

A: Besides Dad being a poet and crossword puzzle worker, Mom was a brilliant linguist and lover of words and word games like anagrams and Scrabble. She taught me to read before I went to kindergarten, and I immediately began reading the sports pages every day.

Q: How do you prioritize writing with your other responsibilities?

A: God’s a given, naturally, and permeates everything. Then family is first. I’ve always considered myself mono-gifted. I don’t sing or dance or preach; writing is what I do. And writing is not my calling; full-time Christian work is what I have been called to, so the point has never been sales or reviews or royalties. Success to

Jerry B. Jenkins

me is defined as obedience to that call. The rest I have no control over anyway, and it has all been icing on the cake.

Dianna and I established a policy even before we had children that once they came along, I would do no work from the office and no writing from the time I got home from work till the time the kids went to bed. (Of course, sometimes we put them to bed at 4:30 p.m.)

I maintained that policy religiously from the time our three sons were infants until they left home. I never wrote while they were at home and awake, so when I did write, it was always without guilt, which I believe made me much more productive. It also proved to the boys that I meant it when I said they came first. Kids hear what you say, but they believe what you do. I refused to sacrifice my family on the altar of my work.

Q: You’ve written a lot of biographies of famous people, and you’ve been quoted, “I’ve written enough books about real celebrities, such as Walter Payton, Hank Aaron, and Billy Graham, to know that fame only looks good to those who don’t have it.” Tell us more about fame and what it means to be a celebrity.

A: I get recognized just enough to make it fun and not so much that it becomes a nuisance. But anyone who has ever felt invisible (read unpublished) knows the feeling of wondering what it would be like to be a household name or widely admired. I was exposed to it by working with truly famous people like those mentioned above, and many others. You recognize quickly that fame is a prison. Along with whatever gratification comes from feeling loved is the knowledge that your time and privacy will no longer ever again be your own. You can’t throw on a pair of sweats and a ball cap and run unshaven or un-showered to the grocer’s for a gallon of milk. Everyone will recognize you and want just a few seconds for a greeting, a smile, an acknowledgment, an autograph, or a selfie. And the last thing you want is their being able to say, “He didn’t have 20 seconds for me,” or “He clearly hadn’t bathed,” or “He was unshaven.”

Q: Do you have another project ready to start?

A: Always. My wife says she’s going to have engraved on my tombstone, Never an Unpublished Thought.

Q: Why do you write? Are there different reasons for different kinds of writing?

A: I turned to sportswritng when I was injured playing sports as a freshman in high school and realized immediately I had found my niche. I wasn’t good at it at first (I had a quarter million clichés to get out of my system), but I had a knack for it after having read the sports pages all my life. I talked my way into a job stringing for the local daily paper two years before I was old enough to drive (my parents had to cart me around), and I covered high school sports. So, I’ve been a professional writer for more than 50 years.

I felt a call to full-time Christian work a couple of years later and assumed I would have to give up the writing and train for the pastorate or missionary work. But a wise counselor told me that sometimes God equips a person before he calls them, and that writing may be the vehicle I could use to answer the call.

Q: What do you read? How much time do you have for reading? Favorite authors?

A: I read widely, fiction and nonfiction, at least an hour a day, believing that writers must be readers. I believe the greatest living writer in America is Rick Bragg whose masterpiece is his memoir, All Over but the Shoutin’. I’m currently reading his The Prince of Frogtown.

Q: Do you have a dream cast for a film for any of your books?

A: I fantasized about Harrison Ford playing Rayford Steele in Left Behind, and while I didn’t think of it, I was thrilled to see Nicolas Cage get the role and thought he did a great job.

Q: Tell us about how you have helped (and continue to help) other writers. Where should writers go for more information?

A: An author I admired was kind to me as a teenager, and I vowed that if I ever succeeded as a writer, I would pay that forward. When I succeeded beyond my wildest dreams, I was thrilled to be able to do that in spades. I’ve been doing that since 2001 when I bought the Christian Writers Guild. The current iteration is the Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild at www. JerryJenkins.com

Q: Have you ever been to the South Carolina Lowcountry and, if so, what

do remember about it?

A: The closest I got was when I wrote Commitment to Love, the story of Deanna McClary, who loved her husband, Clebe McClary, back to health when he returned after having been nearly blown to bits in Viet Nam. They live in Pawley’s Island SC. My favorite novel is Pat Conroy’s The Prince of Tides, set in the South Carolina Lowcountry.

Q: I like the way you respond to criticism. Have you always been so calm and sensible?

A: I think I got that from my father, who said, “Remember who you are and who you’re not.” Also, Billy Graham said he had learned to respond to critics by not defending himself but merely thanking them for being forthright and asking them to pray for him.

Q: Are there any topics you don’t like to discuss?

A: No, I don’t think any subjects should be off limits to a writer.

Q: When you procrastinate about writing, does that mean you are still working on your story while you do other things? How does that work?

A: You must trust that your subconscious is working.

Q: How does your faith of today compare with your faith walk as a young man?

A: More urgent, less strident. More compassionate, less opinionated. More inclusive and understanding, less rigid and judgmental. I quit drawing lines in the sand when I realized how few of us were left on the beach. But I do still believe in John 14:6.

Tamela Maxim is thrilled to write for the Bluffton Sun and Hilton Head Sun. She was previously the assistant publisher of Realtor Listings magazine, editor of Bluffton Breeze and Premier Lowcountry magazines, and occasional contributor to local newspapers and magazine. She plays the role of the assistant art instructor on the YouTube channel Art Posse, a local reality TV show that has just completed its 2nd season. www.artposseproductions.com She recently edited and published two books, Et Cetera Y’all, Volume 1 by Annelore Harrell, and From Jellybeans to a Nobel Prize Nomination by Arthur V. Martin, Ph.D.

Beaufort Memorial awarded two national distinctions for orthopedic programs

By Emma June Grosskopf Contributor

Beaufort Memorial has earned two prestigious national designations for excellence in orthopedic care: Blue Distinction Center for spine surgery and Blue Distinction Center+ for knee and hip replacement. These honors spotlight the hospital’s commitment to delivering high-quality, cost-effective treatment across its orthopedic specialties.

Selected by Blue Cross Blue Shield, these designations are awarded through a rigorous evaluation process that considers provider expertise, patient outcomes and overall value. Hospitals must apply and meet strict, evidence-based criteria to achieve this level of recognition.

“We are honored to receive these prestigious, national recognitions,” said Beaufort Memorial Chief Medical Officer Dr. Kurt Gambla. “We are a center of excellence, and we have a top-of-the-line crew in our orthopedic department.”

The Beaufort Memorial spine surgery program’s designation as a Blue Distinction Center means that the facility demonstrates quality care, treatment expertise and better overall patient results. A Blue Distinction Center+ designation, awarded to the organization’s program for knee and hip replacement, means that Beaufort Memorial demonstrates that same high-quality care, expertise and better patient results, but also with more affordable care.

“For patients, it can be hard to know

how to measure quality in healthcare, but this designation is a widely recognized stamp of approval,” Gambla said.

Criteria weighed for these two distinctions include surgery volume and performance measures such as postoperative readmission and surgery complication rates.

For patients, these designations for two areas of Beaufort Memorial’s orthopedic program mean that procedures performed by orthopedic surgeons at Beaufort Memorial Hospital result in fewer patient complications and readmissions following their procedures, which can offer patients peace of mind knowing that they are in expert hands.

The organization’s orthopedic program is regularly recognized for its high-quality care; the Beaufort Memorial Joint Replacement Center is one of only four in the state of South Carolina to achieve Advanced Certification in Total Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery from The Joint Commission, a national healthcare accrediting body.

“Beaufort Memorial has shown that it is a center for excellence, especially in the area of orthopedics, time and time again,” Dr. Gambla said. “The Blue Distinction Center and Blue Distinction Center+ designations are milestones for this organization as we continue on our mission to expand the highest quality, affordable and accessible care to our patients in the Lowcountry.”

To learn more about the orthopedic, spine and sports medicine specialists with Beaufort Memorial, visit BeaufortMemorial.org/Ortho.

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Consider a “Digital Detox” this summer

By Alex Barry Contributor

and physical health.

A “digital detox,” or intentional break from electronic devices, offers an effective way to restore balance and improve overall well-being.

Mental Health Benefits

One of the most immediate effects of a digital detox is reduced stress. Constant notifications, emails, and social media updates can create a sense of urgency and overwhelm. Disconnecting allows the brain to rest, promoting a calmer state of mind. Digital detoxes also improve focus and

cognitive clarity. Multitasking across apps and platforms fragments attention, making it harder to concentrate. Stepping away from screens helps reset the brain’s ability to engage deeply with tasks, enhancing productivity and creativity.

Moreover, limiting screen time—especially social media—can boost mood and self-esteem. Studies have linked excessive social media use to anxiety, depression, and negative body image. A detox encourages more authentic, in-person interactions and reduces the comparison trap that often fuels emotional distress.

Physical Health Benefits

Digital overuse can disrupt sleep patterns, particularly due to blue light exposure from screens. Blue light suppresses melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep. A digital detox, especially in the evening, helps restore natural circadian rhythms, leading to deeper, more restorative sleep. Physically, unplugging encourages movement. Hours spent sitting with devices contribute to sedentary lifestyles, which are associated with obesity, cardiovascular issues, and musculoskeletal problems. A digital detox often inspires outdoor activities, exercise, and

leads to better posture—all of which support physical health.

Additionally, reducing screen time can alleviate eye strain and headaches. “Computer vision syndrome,” marked by dry eyes, blurred vision, and discomfort, is common among heavy screen users. Taking regular breaks or committing to a detox allows the eyes to recover and reduces related symptoms.

A digital detox isn’t about rejecting technology—it’s about reclaiming control over how we use it, and its power over us. Whether it’s a weekend offline or daily screen-free hours, intentional disconnection can lead to profound improvements in mental clarity, emotional resilience, and physical vitality. In a world that rarely pauses, choosing to unplug may be one of the most powerful health decisions we make. Notice how most of us feel stressed and restless when the internet is “down” for whatever reason – take some of that control back.

Alex Barry, MA, LPC-A. is the acting Executive Director of Mental Health America of the Lowcountry, providing daily adult group mental health counseling programs in Bluffton and Beaufort for clients with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD and more.

ALEX BARRY

Some of my favorite things

By Annelore Harrell Contributor

I like the constancy of tidal waters coming and going, the neap tide deceptively still, the power rush of the river Maye emptying into Calibogue Sound and beyond.

I like the pungent rank of pluff mud and the warm feel of it squishing between my toes.

I like stomping my feet and watching fiddler crabs scrabble back into their mudflat holes.

I like the subtle determined change in the marsh grasses, the timid push of fresh grass in spring, the sway of summer’s fullness, the goldenness of fall, and the reeds, the broken, dead reeds gathered in rafts, full of sea life as they wash away on a spring tide that comes with the full moon.

I like the stinging burn of beach sand in July’s heat and the aggravation of sand spurs that make me appreciate even more the soothing ocean water.

I like the rustle of breeze-shaken palmetto branches, a sound reminding of gentle rain.

I like soft voices from a screened porch, the rhythmic creak of rocking chairs, and the call of a whippoorwill on a summer night.

I like watermelon so cold it makes my teeth ache, and ice cream made in a handcranked churn.

I like the smell of baby powder on little children being put down for a nap after a morning on the beach.

I like the chartreuse glow of marshland against a gray thunderstorm sky, an orange moon rising over the river from behind the tree line, and the many colors of sunset.

I like oyster roasts in weather nice or nasty, hot crab, cold beer, and shrimp any way they come.

I like the shag, South Carolina’s state dance, and it’s easy to hum music.

I like the anticipation of daffodils in February, azaleas in March, and camellias in time for Christmas.

I like looking to see if the resurrection fern on oak trees really has turned from dead to fresh green after a rain.

I like being able to identify neighbors on the river by their boat, the color, the size, the type, the outboard motor, whether Mercury or Johnson.

I like banana popsicles, sugary sweet, dripping in the heat of a summer day, my tongue frozen, sticky juice running down my elbow.

I like riding in a convertible with the top down on a full moon night.

I like music that makes me move, brings tears to the eye and smiles to the heart, reminds me of dear ones, happenings, has me remembering.

I like books that teach me, taunt me, take me elsewhere.

I like the challenge of a back road, where does it go, what is there, who lives there, and why.

I like people who smile, who stop on the street to visit, who wave as they pass by and toot their horn, who say, “please,” and “thank you,” “yes ma’am,” and “no sir,” who know how to flirt and have fun as best friends.

I like asking people what time they go to church, knowing that they do.

Above all.

I like living in the Lowcountry, being a small part of this wonderful, marvelous, fantastic place we call Bluffton.

Annelore Harrell’s journey is a tapestry woven with fascinating experiences and extraordinary accomplishments. Even at 92 in 2025, Annelore’s energy and zest for life continue to inspire. Annelore Harrell’s story is a testament to living with passion, resilience, and an unquenchable thirst for adventure.

ANNELORE HARRELL

Gator reckoning

By Luke Frazier Contributor

I really don’t like alligators, even a little bit. They are primordially unattractive and overtly sneaky. If I’m being honest, there’s also a good dose of fear mixed in to my visceral reaction in mind, body, and spirit. So, when my PR friend Carole at Hilton Head’s Coastal Discovery Museum sent me an email with the question When’s the last time you held a baby alligator? in the subject line, forgive me if I shuddered and ignored it.

Eventually, being the polite person of Connecticut upbringing I am, I went back and read it. As I suspected, Carole was enthusiastically pitching a story involving the museum, this time for something called “Critter Meet & Greet,” which takes place on the grounds there Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings through August 13.

As good PR people do, she worked some angles: its public popularity (don’t miss out!), educational excitement (safely see, touch, and learn!) and personal connection (seems like the perfect story for you!). I never got around to asking her why she thought that, she must have missed the big THIS CAR DOESN’T BRAKE FOR ALLIGATORS bumper sticker on my vehicle. The angle she didn’t work was just how lovely it is to walk around the museum’s Honey Horn campus any time of year, and since I hadn’t been there in awhile that made the difference.

I arrived on a brilliantly swampy morning of 500% or so humidity and after scanning the parking lot for stray gators headed over to the amphitheater populated by a half-dozen bright pink-shirted interns getting ready to educate and amaze the gathering crowd. If I told you that I was glad the interns were so easy to spot (and therefore potentially more attractive to rogue gators who conceivably could run amuck) would you think less of my upbringing?

Carole connected me with Rex Garniewicz, the President and CEO of the museum and I proceeded to ask him the usual questions. We covered the importance of environmental stewardship, caring for our natural ecosystems, responsible animal education and the fact that people shouldn’t kill non-venomous corn snakes, since they are not only great for rodent control but doing so opens the habitat for their venomous cousins. I seized the opportunity to lump gators into a similar-

ly nasty category with poisonous snakes but Rex wasn’t having it, opting instead for understanding, “I think alligators are fascinating because for me they’re like this ancient creature that was alive at the time of dinosaurs and so there’s something in the back of our brains that includes both terror and fascination.” In my head I conceded he was right, but only if fascination included revulsion and a desire to have them go the way of those dinosaurs and disappear.

Soon it was time to join the festive crowd gathering around various critter stations, including the tub of allegedly cute baby alligators. I side-eyed the squealing-in-delight kids seemingly having fun over there and pretended to be fascinated by the misting station set up for visitors to cool off. Carole wasn’t fooled and loudly asked if I was going to hold a baby alligator. Well Carole, I thought as

I wandered over to the tub, I guess if you think it is the perfect story to have me attacked by a gator I will have to!

I put my trust in intern Zoe Diaz, who is studying Environmental Geology and Information Systems at SUNY Stoney Brook. She made a fair point, “Unless you see the animals up close, you’re not going to get a sense of appreciation. I think this is a really great way to get people to care about the environment we’re in.” Okay, but can’t I care without holding this throw back to the Mesozoic Era??

Of course it turned out okay, and I won’t even insert a quip here about learning to type with less fingers. The baby alligator was smooth underneath and scaley on top. Calm to the touch and cool to look at closely. Yes, fascinating. But what really sealed the bond was learning from another intern that these little ones are sometimes eaten by adult male alligators

in the wild.

Sydney DeVan, an Environmental Studies student at the University of Oregon with roots in Hilton Head, told me that alligators are very predatory animals that eat anything in their sight that can fit in their mouth. That momentarily cracked my alligator hardened heart and made me feel for the little ones out there just trying to make it to adulthood. Sydney’s remark about what she gets out of interning also hit home, “It’s really amazing being able to help inspire young people to care about the animals.” Of course, I was still glad the baby I held had its mouth taped shut. In the end, I was glad to take part in the well organized and run Critter Meet & Greet. The interns were all engaging and knowledgeable, and Zoe made sure nothing bad happened in my encounter with the massive eight inch baby gator weighing in at less than a pound.

For museum President Garniewicz, it all comes down to being a well-rounded resident of the Lowcountry, “It’s a way of life to live in harmony with nature, let’s not just come down here for the beaches and golf, let’s also come down here for the beauty of the environment and nature.” And, yes, that includes alligators.

Luke Frazier is a writer and award-winning media producer who recently transplanted to the Lowcountry. He runs NOW Communications, which focuses on the needs of mission-driven organizations.

Kids learn that words have power

By Edwina Hoyle

Contributor

Children in the summer program offered by Neighborhood Outreach Connection (NOC) participated in a writing program presented by the Island Writers’ Network of Hilton Head (IWN). The 27 children who participated ranged from 4th to 9th graders with various levels of writing proficiency.

“The collaboration between IWN and NOC has truly inspired our students to become more creative and confident in their writing. They’ve come to understand that writing is so much more than answering questions. It’s a powerful form of self-expression. This experience has opened their eyes to the many ways words can tell stories, share emotions, and make an impact,” said Julie Palma, executive director of NOC.

NOC’s mission is to enhance the quality of life of those living in poverty by empowering them to achieve economic independence, personal fulfillment, and self-reliance. IWN’s mission statement is “We Champion Writers.”

The IWN volunteers’ goals for this program were to build confidence, encourage engagement, to teach them that words have power, and to make it fun. Through writing prompts, collaborative poetry writing, and writing their own stories, the children were taught how to ‘paint pictures with their words’ through description and powerful verbs that show rather than tell. In one example, the students had to come up with alternatives to the word ‘walk.’ Using their imagination to create a picture,

they listed words like skip, jog, hop, scramble, and even teleport.

Ky Zubatsky, IWN volunteer, explained that IWN is an organization of writers who support one another with their writing goals, but they also do outreach in the form of readings at nursing homes, an open mic, and the Hilton Head Island Poetry Trail.

“This project at NOC was a wonderful experience for me,” Zubatsky said. “As a former teacher, I recognize how students who may underperform are often left behind. This was a great opportunity for me to plant the seeds of confidence and success. For me, teaching creative writing begins by believing each child has an inner storyteller, a unique perspective of the world that magically comes alive when given the opportunity to put thoughts on paper. These imaginings can often be delightfully unexpected and speak volumes about the importance of this engagement with writing.”

Palma said that volunteers are always welcome to help tutor children one-on-one to help them with English and math throughout the school year.

For more information about these two non-profit organizations visit: https://noc-sc.org and https://islandwritersnetworkhhi.org.

Color Sense

A Collaborative Poem by Bella, Brooke, Calet, Gaby, Jasleyb, Kaniel, Khalil, Leroy, Shayna, Vicente, Victor and Yohan

The color purple is the sound of pages flipping in a book

The color of pink is the sound of a bubble popping

The color green is the sound of leaves blowing in the wind

The color white smells like fresh paper

The color blue is the sound of a bird on a rainy day

The color white smells like my pillow

The color pink is the sound of happiness

The color blue smells like the ocean

The color orange is the sound of a siren

The color black smells like dark night

The color white is the sound of the universe

The color blue smells like sweat

The color red is the sound of a loving heart pumping

The color pink smells like sugar

The color blue is the sound of something interesting

The color green smells like wet grass

The color orange is the sound of an orange falling from a tree

The color blue smells like nature at night

The color yellow is the sound of a snake hissing at a cat

The color orange smells like my sister

The color red smells like love

The color green is the sound of a plastic bag zipping up

The color yellow smells like the hot blazing sun

The color purple sounds like thunder

The color blue is the sound of the Milky Way

The color purple smells like a new book

The color green is the sound of money

Edwina Hoyle is a freelance writer in Bluffton.

By Jason Smith Contributor

Dear Jason,

Dear Jason – I feel invisible

I feel invisible in my own town—how do I find community here?

Dear Reader,

You’re not alone in feeling alone. In fact, you’ve given voice to something many people quietly carry.

The irony is that we’re more “connected” than ever—pinging notifications, group texts, social media likes—but loneliness has become a quiet epidemic. And that’s not because something is wrong with you. It’s because something’s off in how we’re living. We were made for connection. It’s hardwired into us—this need to be seen, known, and cared for. But those kinds of relationships don’t show up on your screen. They show up over time, in real spaces, through shared experiences.

That means you’ll need to get out there. Yes, actually out there. And not just once or twice. Real connection takes consistency. If you try something one time and it feels awkward, that doesn’t mean you failed—it means you’re human. Try it again. Three times, minimum, before deciding if it’s a

dead end or a doorway.

So, where do you begin?

Start with a local church. Churches aren’t perfect, but at their best, they’re more than Sunday services—they’re people helping people grow, heal, and walk through life together. You don’t have to believe everything to belong somewhere. Many churches offer groups or volunteer teams that are designed for connection. Show up. Say hello. Stay after.

Check out fitness groups. CrossFit gyms are famously community-driven, and you

don’t need to be an athlete to start. You’ll meet people cheering each other on—literally. The same goes for adult rec leagues at places like the Buckwalter Rec Center in Bluffton or the Hardeeville Rec Center. Pickleball, basketball, co-ed soccer—it’s less about winning and more about showing up with people you might never meet otherwise. Look into volunteer opportunities. Places like Bluffton Self Help or Habitat for Humanity are always looking for hands and hearts. Serving alongside others tends to create bonds that go deeper than small talk.

When you give time to something meaningful, you find others doing the same—and those relationships tend to stick.

Don’t forget about common interests. Neighborhood garden clubs, book clubs, even crafting groups or car meetups—these are great places to connect around something you already enjoy. If your neighborhood doesn’t have one, you might be the one to get it started. Put out a call in a local Facebook group or community board. You’ll be surprised who’s looking for the same thing you are.

I’ll leave you with this: community is less about where you are and more about how often—and how intentionally—you show up. Give something (or someone) three chances. Be the kind of friend you’re hoping to find. And remember, your need to connect isn’t weakness—it’s part of what makes us human.

You’re not invisible. You’re just early in the story. Keep showing up.

—Jason

Lowcountry native, husband, and dad to two teenage daughters. Jason Smith is Pastor of NewSpring Church’s Bluffton campus, passionate about faith, family, and connection.

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Based on Hebrews 2:14–18

In the richness of God’s divine plan, there lies a truth both humbling and deeply comforting: Jesus had to be made like us. Not just in spirit, but in flesh and blood—fully human, fully vulnerable, yet fully divine. Hebrews 2:14-18 reveals the breathtaking reason why: “So that by His death He might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil.”

In other words, Christ’s humanity was not incidental—it was essential.

God didn’t save us from afar. He didn’t rescue us through a distant decree or send an angelic warrior to do the job. No, He stepped into the story Himself. Jesus, the Son of God, was born into human frailty. He wept. He hungered. He suffered pain, rejection, and temptation — just as we do. Why? So that He could be our merciful and faithful high priest — an advocate who not only speaks on our behalf, but deeply understands the depths of our struggles.

The incarnation is not just a Christmas story; it’s the cornerstone of salvation. In

becoming like us, Jesus experienced the full weight of human life and bore the full punishment of human sin. Because He lived as we live and died as we deserve, He

can now stand between us and the wrath of sin — not as a distant judge, but as our compassionate intercessor. Jesus did what no angel could do. He

9/22 – 9/24/2025 YOM KIPPUR 10/1 – 10/2/2025

CONGREGATION BETH YAM HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC

Serving Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Southern Beaufort County. Affiliated with Union for Reform Judaism. An inclusive, egalitarian, interfaith, multigenerational congregation.

FOR TICKET INQUIRIES:

Submit name, residential address, email, and cell number for each attendee to: communications@bethyam.org

came for Abraham’s descendants — for the broken, the bound, the weary, and the lost. Through His sacrifice, He shattered the grip of death and fear, offering us freedom and eternal life.

So how should we respond?

We respond with gratitude — not just in words, but in lifestyle. We live changed. We no longer walk in bondage to sin or fear of death, because the One who defeated death walks with us. We pursue holiness not to earn salvation, but to honor the One who made salvation possible.

Let us be a people who recognize the weight of this mercy. Jesus came low so that we could rise high. He suffered so we could be healed. He became like us so we could become more like Him.

As we reflect on this powerful truth, may we set aside every excuse and every sin that holds us back. Let us live with boldness, humility, and reverence—knowing that our Savior didn’t just save us… He stood in our place.

And because of that, we are free.

Rev. Dr. Christopher L. Thompson is pastor of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Okatie, S.C.

1425 Okatie Hwy. (170) Hwy 170 between River’s End & Oldfield 843-379-1888 | www.palmsumc.org

August 10th

"The Great Reviver" Luke 24:1-8, 13-16

Rev. Randall Haase

August 17th

"The Time Has Come” John 17:1-5

Rev. Randall Haase

Sunday Services: 10am live streamed on palmsumc.org

Rev. Dr. Lee van Rensburg (Interim)

Anna Marie Kuether Director of Music & Worship Arts

A leap of faith

By Kevin Fitzpatrick

Contributor

I’m writing this exactly one year since my first piece in the Bluffton Sun was printed. I’ve always enjoyed writing and putting thoughts down “on paper.” I started teaching mathematics at the high school and college level in 1975, and with the exception of a two year stop over as an operations analyst for a Wall Street firm in the late 70s, I continued doing that as my main occupation until my very soft landing from 2013 until 2021 as a part time middle school teacher.

Full retirement, coupled with a variety of different thoughts brought us to Bluffton in August of ‘21. Anyone who has taken the quantum leap from a profession they thoroughly enjoyed, that occupied 67% of their time on the planet, to having absolutely no structure or responsibilities knows that it can be a very interesting transition. Couple that with a move to a new area, where we knew absolutely no one, from an area where both of us had never lived more than 30 miles from where we both grew up, surrounded by family and decade long friendships, and “interesting” becomes an understatement. I did take a job teaching in the Berkshires for two years early on, but that was only

a short 120 miles from where I grew up as well as a move into another school and with that came immediate responsibilities and connections.

The first year or so here was one of simple decompression from the high wire act without a net that is teaching. We explored new restaurants, beaches, local trails and took the occasional trip “home” as well as welcoming visitors. We both knew that having no direction was not sustainable and Sue found her way to Palmetto Animal League as a volunteer pretty quickly, something she thoroughly enjoys.

I was content walking Abbey THE dog, running, swimming laps while the pool was open, playing some mediocre golf, reading, listening to music and simply practicing “Il dolce far niente”. The sweetness of doing nothing is, in its best form, not about laziness, but rather about the pleasure and contentment found in idleness, appreciating simple moments. It embodies the idea of finding joy in relaxation and appreciating the present moment.

While I have added virtual golf, and a fascinating exercise program courtesy of my new toy, the Quest 3 headset, I was still missing some creative outlet to replace over four decades of preparation, and daily interaction with 120 kids and a myriad of colleagues “talking story” (a phrase I learned on my first trip to Hawaii). For a variety of reasons, mathematics is viewed by many as a rigid, rote process and honestly, for me, nothing could be further from the truth. It really is just another “world” language, though the phase I grew up with “foreign” language is likely more on point for a lot of folks. It possess-

es its own vocabulary, grammar and set of rules as does French, Spanish, Latin, German, Mandarin Chinese, ASL, Italian, and so on.

What I found missing, very early on in my time at the front of the classroom, were the stories it had to tell both from a historical perspective and current events. I discovered for the most part that success in the classroom had a lot to do with making it relatable and weaving stories personal as well as historical into each part of a new topic. The eternal question: “Why are we doing this” no longer needed to be answered, because the idea of using the language of mathematics to attack a problem as small as working on a vacation budget or saving money to buy a car is pretty much something everyone will run into at some point.

Introduce the long term plan to put funds away for the future as the basis for exponential compound growth and those necessary formulas along with logarithmic manipulations don’t seem as far fetched. Head to more specialized interests and use geometry and trigonometry to help explain whether it is more efficient to throw a ball through the cutoff position in baseball or softball, or directly home something that both boys and girls who play the game or just enjoy watching the game will become fascinated by. Use optimization problems in calculus to decide how to best use resources given certain conditions for operating a business or making a college decision and you have hit another segment of your population. When you consider that the rules of mathematics have not changed in centuries, it becomes the tales you weave that

make it either enthralling or hideous, compelling and interesting or dreadful and something to be endured or avoided. I have always been drawn to stories both short and long, I love music and the lyrics are just as important to me as the music so when I was given the opportunity by the Bluffton Sun to contribute a piece to each edition I jumped at the chance. Most of the time I have a germ of an idea for the next piece that grows while swimming, or walking, or just sitting and reading. These last few weeks though it was as if I had hit a full blown roadblock. I was struggling to come up with an idea and then it did hit me… what about the actual reason for writing, to share ideas, and to “talk story” and to interweave how our new location and home contribute to that very process.

I think the best way is to let Mr. Springsteen play us out of this with some words of his from 33 years back when he took his leap of faith, “relocated” his musial home, and tried some years of solo work (though he found his way “ back home” and still in his 70’s with the E-Street Band puts on a show not to be missed)

“It takes a leap of faith to get things going

It takes a leap of faith, you gotta show some guts

It takes a leap of faith to get things going

There in your heart, there you must trust”

Kevin Fitzpatrick is a retired teacher who, along with his wife Sue (also a retired teacher) is enjoying exploring life in the lowcountry and all it has to offer.

KEVIN FITZPATRICK

By Nick Martin Contributor

Comparing SBLs and student loans to cover tuition

You’ve likely heard of student loans and 529 plans to cover tuition costs. But there’s another innovative option worth considering.

Education is a worthwhile investment, one that appreciates over a lifetime. But it’s also a major expense, and that’s unlikely to change anytime soon.

According to the Education Data Initiative, the average cost of college has more than doubled in the 21st century. When you factor in books, supplies and daily living expenses, the average total cost for a full-time student to attend a four-year university is $153,080.

When it comes to funding a child’s education without breaking the bank, you’ve likely heard of 529 plans. These valuable education savings tools allow you to invest after-tax dollars in an account that will grow tax-deferred and can be distributed tax-free for qualified expenses.

But there’s another strategy you might not have considered: a securities based line of credit (SBL).

Tallying college costs in the United States

$27,146 - average annual cost of college for an in-state student

$56,628 - average cost of an academic year at a private traditional university

4.04% - annual growth rate of college costs

$500,000 - ultimate cost of a bachelor’s degree, factoring in student loan interest and loss of income

Source: educationdata.org

A savvy strategy

Most investors know they can borrow against the value of their home should they need fast and significant liquidity.

But many don’t know they can also borrow against the value of their investment account through an SBL.

A versatile alternative to traditional

financing, an SBL allows you to leverage non-retirement-invested assets to secure a flexible line of credit by pledging your investment portfolio as collateral. You can use this loan to pay for everything from a dream home to a child’s education.

Since an SBL is backed by your portfolio, you can access cash quickly without disrupting your asset allocation. The repayment process for an SBL is often flexible as well. Just make sure you maintain the required collateral amount in your account.

SBLs versus student loans

There are several reasons an SBL could be more suitable than other, more conventional methods of paying for an education, such as student loans:

• An SBL can help you potentially save on borrowing costs and fees compared to traditional student loans.

• Applying for an SBL is often easier than applying for a student loan. And once approved, you can access funds quickly through check, wire or online.

• An SBL has a more flexible repayment structure than most student loans, including the option to pay only the interest.

• You can set up an SBL in your child’s name.

Investing in your child’s future – and your own

Paying for a child’s college education is both a life-changing gift and a significant investment. That’s why it’s essential to examine your options and determine which best aligns with your needs and goals. And remember, you can always consult your advisor for guidance throughout this process. The goal is to invest in your child’s future while preserving yours.

For more information visit: www.blufftonfinancialplanning.com/resources

Nick Martin is a financial planner and the founder of Bluffton Financial Planning. Bluffton Financial Planning is not a registered broker/dealer, and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc.

NICK MARTIN

Goodbye Gumby. Hello axolotl.

By Sharon Baker Contributor

Age 18. My Northwestern University Theatre Prof cast me in the wacko musical, “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to The Forum.” My starring dance role? Standing on my right leg, I held my left leg next to my ear. Yes, ear. My best friend Peggy, an exquisite tiny dancer, twirled under my leg. For five excruciating minutes. Under blindingly bright, hot lights, we thrilled to thunderous applause by friends and family.

Peggy and I

ovations every night. Pictures of us in “The Daily Northwestern.” Fellow classmates begging for our autographs. Walking to classes, I loved the cat calls: “Hey Gumby. Way to go.” Ahhhhh, Fame, college style.

After graduation, the world and I forgot about my silly dance number. I said yes to journalism opportunities in TV, public relations and lucky me, became a globetrotting Travel Journalist for global magazines and newspapers. I wrote stage plays, painted whimsical artworks, and created a popular YouTube comedy video, “May I Call You Sister?” I kept pretty gumbyesque, with classes in Zumba, Pilates, Yoga, and daily stretching. Age 71. I celebrated with my beautiful life loving gal pals, including my NU Kappa friend/housemate Marcia Corenman, a true world traveler with her own success stories and adventure tales. But 24 hours after my happy birthday party, I was attacked.

Something terrible took over my body. I could barely walk, hardly sit, and getting out of bed was excruciating. I begged for an appointment with my local pain management doctor, who diagnosed me with sciatica. White lightning scorched down my leg, giving me tingling feet, as I became an old stiff tree.

“What did I do to myself, doc?” I moaned.

“You got older, Sharon,” he said. “Your back discs are pressing on nerves, creating the pain shooting down your leg.”

The same leg I’d held against my ear…. so many years ago. How could my once flexible, almost famous, leg betray me so cruelly?

“I’m putting you on steroids to reduce inflammation,” advised the good doc, “and prescribing six weeks of physical therapy with a sciatica specialist. And no yoga!” he commanded.

Everyone at the PT gym was on walkers, canes, and braces. Black tights, grey t shirts, white hair. Did these people ever exercise? Ever. My ego was slammed. What was I doing with all these damaged oldsters?

I was one of them. “YOU’RE a damaged oldster, Sharon,” I told myself. “And doomed, unless the physical therapy heals you back to Gumby.”

I took the steroids, dutifully obeyed my physical therapist’s painful exercise coaching, and tried not to be depressed. Without my cheerful yoga buddies, I had way too much time on my hands.

I read “West with Giraffes,” an incredible true story of two giraffes saved from drowning and their journey by truck from New York to California. And “Tom Lake,” about a woman who chooses farm life over theatre. I opened my heart to the sacred poet Rumi: “In the end it is not the things we did that we regret, but the things we left undone, the words left unspoken, the dreams left unfulfilled.”

Reading “World of Wonders” by Aimee Nezhukumatathil, I learned about a most astonishing creature, a salamander known as the axolotl, the “Mexican Walking Fish.” They live in lakes, sporting angelic smiles, and shimmering ivory, swampy brown, and rose gold bodies. They have comical feathery external gills on stalks,

grow a foot long, and here the Miracle: When an axolotl loses a body part such as a wrist, elbow, upper arm, even a spinal cord…the axolotl grows it back.

Yes, true. According to Scientific American, tests by lab technicians involving amputation of limbs, (and it hurts to think about this cruel testing), the axolotl grows back its limbs and keeps on smiling. No matter what.

This got my attention. During my sciatica trauma, I wondered…what could I grow back? Not my former leg to ear fame. But something spiritual? Could I grow more considerate? More kind? More courage to push my limits?

I decided to donate my new children’s book, “Where is the Magic?” to local non-profits. The Boys&Girls club. Our local Habitat for Humanity. Our no kill animal shelter, Palmetto Animal League. Breast cancer awareness. The Symphony fundraiser.

I decided to up my volunteer hours… at the library, the art gallery, our local theatre. I sent donations to victims of Helene and Milton hurricanes. We adopted a kitten from our shelter, so Ginger cat can have a baby sister.

I asked my husband if we could indulge in our two “Before We Die” trips to Alaska and Africa. Book em, he said. If not now, when? Age 72, we’ll be eye to eye with African lions and Alaskan bears.

And I realized at physical therapy, some of those old folks were once young and gumby too. Did any of them stand on one leg, holding the other leg against an ear, while a ballerina twirled round and round? I’m going to ask them, what’s your story folks? May I tell you about the incredible amazing axolotl?

Sharon Baker is Author of “Where is The Magic” available on Amazon, and at Low Country Fresh Market, Bluffton SC. Contact her sharonspencelieb@gmail.com.

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