The Bluffton Sun • June 16, 2026

Blufft n Sun

Primary results set stage for November election

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

Beaufort County voters helped decide several closely watched races Tuesday as South Carolina’s primary elections produced local victories, an incumbent defeat and a high-profile gubernatorial runoff.

The most closely watched contest in Beaufort County was the Republican primary for sheriff, where Doug Seifert defeated JoJo Woodward with 57.8% of the vote, according to unofficial results. The victory positions Seifert as the Republican nominee to replace Sheriff P.J. Tanner, who is retiring after 28 years in office. The race marked the county’s first open sheriff’s contest in nearly three decades.

Seifert will face Democrat Alphonso Small Jr. in the November general election.

County Council races also drew significant attention.

In the Republican primary for District 4, Michael JD Andersen defeated Thomas Grygowski with 58.1% of the vote and advanced to the general election. In District 5, no candidate received a majority, sending the race to a runoff. Joshua Hower finished first with 40.5% of the vote, followed by Mary Jeans Otto with 33.4%. The two will face each other in a runoff

election later this month.

Another notable local result came in House District 121, where Shannon DeLoach defeated incumbent Democratic Rep. Michael Rivers Sr. DeLoach received 53.6% of the vote to Rivers’ 46.3%. Rivers had represented the district since 2017. DeLoach advances to the general election, where she is expected to face Republican Shelley Gay Yuhas.

Statewide, South Carolina Republicans failed to produce a nominee for governor, sending the race to a runoff between Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette and Attorney General Alan Wilson. Evette led the field with 29.1% of the vote, followed by Wilson with 26.4%. U.S. Reps. Ralph Norman and Nancy Mace finished behind the two runoff candidates.

On the Democratic side, state Rep. Jermaine Johnson won his party’s gubernatorial nomination, avoiding a runoff and securing a place on the November ballot.

Several other statewide races also remained unsettled Tuesday night. The Republican primary for attorney general advanced to a runoff after no candidate secured a majority. State Sen. Stephen Goldfinch led the field, followed by David Stumbo. Former prosecutor David Pascoe finished third.

The Republican primary for agriculture commissioner also appeared headed to a

runoff, with Cody Simpson narrowly led Danny Ford, the son of former Clemson football coach Danny Ford.

The June runoff election will determine nominees in several local and statewide contests that failed to produce majority winners. Those races will be followed by the November general election, when Beaufort County voters will select a new sheriff and decide several local and state offices.

For complete election results, visit the South Carolina Election Commission at scVOTES.gov.

Doug Seifert

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Bluffton Town Council adopts $113.9 million budget for fiscal year 2027

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

Bluffton Town Council approved a $113.9 million consolidated budget for fiscal year 2027 on second and final reading during its June 9 meeting, establishing spending plans for town operations, capital projects and public services beginning July 1.

State law requires municipalities to adopt balanced budgets before the start of the fiscal year.

The approved budget totals $113,913,988, a 4.4% increase from the revised fiscal year 2026 budget of $109,074,696. Town officials said the spending plan is designed to support municipal services, infrastructure projects and other long-term investments.

The budget is divided among six funds: the General Fund, Hospitality Tax Fund, Local Accommodations Tax Fund, Stormwater Utility Fund, Capital Improvements Program Fund and Debt Service Fund.

The town’s property tax millage rate

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will remain unchanged at 36 mills. According to the town, property taxes have remained steady since 2014, with Town Council reducing the millage rate in 2019 and again in 2023.

For a home appraised at approximately $452,092, the total tax bill is estimated at about $2,993, including taxes levied by Beaufort County, the Beaufort County School District, the Bluffton Township Fire District and related fees. The town’s portion is approximately $766, or 25.6% of the total bill, and includes municipal operations, debt obligations and stormwater fees.

The General Fund accounts for $43.1 million, or 37.8% of the consolidated budget. Town officials said the increase in that fund is largely tied to a larger transfer to the Capital Improvements Program Fund for land acquisition.

Revenue sources for the consolidated budget include property taxes, which account for 15.4% of revenue, and licenses and permits, which account for 17.7%.

The budget includes a cost-of-living adjustment for employees and a midyear

merit increase capped at $3,000. Town officials said the compensation measures are intended to help the town remain competitive as an employer.

General Fund expenditures also support waste management services, the town’s reforestation program, police recruitment and retention efforts, employee mental health and wellness programs, historic preservation initiatives and the Don Ryan Center for Innovation. The budget continues funding for the town’s K-9 unit, the “Stay Safe, Bluffton!” program, affordable housing efforts and beautification programs.

The Capital Improvements Program totals $39.2 million. Land acquisition represents 29.6% of that fund, while road projects account for 18.3%.

Projects scheduled for funding include the New River Linear Trail, Boundary Street Streetscape, Pritchard Street Drainage and Bridge Street Streetscape improvements. The upcoming fiscal year also includes completion of the Sarah Riley Hooks Cottage rehabilitation project, work on an affordable housing project at

115 Bluffton Road and improvements at several parks, including Buck Island Road Park, New Riverside Park and Buckwalter Place West Park.

Town Manager Stephen Steese said the budget supports projects intended to maintain Bluffton’s character while addressing community needs.

“This budget provides the resources needed to invest in Bluffton’s priorities and future while preserving the qualities that make this community special,” Steese said.

Mayor Larry Toomer said the town enters the new fiscal year in a strong financial position.

“One of Town Council’s most important responsibilities is making sure we invest in the things that matter most to our residents,” Toomer said. “This budget reflects our commitment to protecting Bluffton’s natural beauty, improving infrastructure, creating housing opportunities and maintaining the high quality of life that makes our community such a special place to call home.”

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Collins Doughtie

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Kenneth Horup

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THE BLUFFTON SUN Issue 12, June16, 2026, is published twice monthly by Beaufort Media Group, LLC, 181 Bluffton Rd Suite F103-2 Bluffton, SC 29910. Periodicals Postage paid at Bluffton, SC and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE BLUFFTON SUN, PO Box 2056, Bluffton, SC 29910-2056.

Legislative session ends with focus on public safety

By Rep. Weston Newton Contributor

As the regular legislative session drew to a close in Columbia, the House of Representatives worked at a rapid pace to advance a series of meaningful public safety measures for the people of South Carolina. These final days are always demanding, but they are also when we come together to deliver results that reflect both common sense and our shared commitment to protecting families across our state.

One of the key issues addressed this year is the growing problem of mail theft. With so many South Carolinians depending on the mail for prescriptions, financial documents and essential communications, theft is more than an inconvenience; it is a serious threat to personal security. Legislation passed this session strengthens penalties and enforcement mechanisms to deter these crimes and hold offenders accountable.

We also took important steps to support law enforcement by passing Fargo’s Law, which enhances penalties for individuals who harm or kill police dogs and horses in the line of duty. These animals are indispensable partners to our officers, often putting themselves in harm’s way to keep others safe. Fargo’s Law ensures

that those who attack these animals face serious consequences.

Another priority this session was protecting individuals, especially women and young people, from exploitation in the digital age. We advanced legislation to create a civil cause of action for victims harmed by the intentional or threatened release of private, intimate images. This gives victims a direct path to justice and sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated.

Just as critically, we strengthened our laws related to the sexual exploitation of minors. By expanding existing statutes to include morphed images of identifiable minors, we are closing a dangerous loophole that predators have begun to exploit using new technologies. This update ensures our laws keep pace with emerging threats and better protect vulnerable children.

We also passed reforms to prostitution laws aimed at combating human trafficking. By targeting those who profit from exploitation rather than those who are victimized by it, we are shifting our approach toward justice and rehabilitation. Human trafficking is a modern-day form of slavery, and South Carolina must remain vigilant in fighting it.

Public health and safety were also top priorities. Legislation to broadly prohibit the sale of nitrous oxide, commonly abused as an inhalant, represents a proactive step in preventing substance misuse, particularly among younger individuals. Additionally, the passage of the Stop Harm From Addictive Social Media Act reflects growing concern about the impact of social media platforms on mental health, especially for children and

Sun on the Street

teenagers. This legislation is designed to increase accountability and provide families with stronger protections.

While we accomplished a great deal, our work is not yet finished. The General Assembly will need to reconvene before July 1 to complete conference committee work on several important matters. Chief among these is finalizing the state budget for fiscal year 2026-27, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used responsibly while meeting the needs of our growing state. We will also continue discussions on meaningful DUI reform and the regulation of THC- and hemp-derived consumables, both complex issues that require thoughtful, balanced solutions to protect public safety.

Finally, as we look ahead, our nation approaches a remarkable milestone: the 250th anniversary of America’s founding. South Carolina played a pivotal role in the birth of our country, from the early actions at Fort Moultrie to the countless patriots who risked everything for liberty. As we prepare to commemorate this historic anniversary, we are reminded of the values that shaped our nation: freedom, responsibility and the rule of law. Those principles continue to guide our work today. It is an honor to serve you in the South Carolina House, and I remain committed to advancing policies that keep our communities safe, uphold our values and secure a stronger future for the next generation. Please do not hesitate to call on me if I may be of assistance.

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

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“Working out and spending time with family.”

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Business News

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

Minto Communities earns national homebuyer awards

Minto Communities USA has received two 2026 Eliant HomeBuyers’ Choice Awards recognizing customer satisfaction and homebuyer experience.

The company earned top honors for Overall Purchase & Ownership Experience in the Multi-Division Builders category and a first-place award for Sales from Referrals in the Large-Volume Builders category.

The awards are based on feedback from more than 210,000 homeowner surveys distributed to customers of more than 250 major homebuilders across the United States. The survey process was administered by TrustBuilder CX powered by Eliant.

“Minto has received many Eliant HomeBuyers’ Choice Awards over the years, and we are honored to be recognized for excellence by our homebuyers,” said Steve Svopa, division president of operations for Minto Communities.

Outside Brands launches summer happy hour cruises

Outside Brands is introducing a new adults-only summer excursion aboard the Ohana at Shelter Cove Harbour on Hilton Head Island.

board chairman and has represented Jasper County on the board since 2018.

Palmetto Breeze provides public transportation services across Beaufort, Jasper, Allendale, Colleton and Hampton counties. The agency reported providing more than 211,000 passenger trips in 2025 and carrying 16,484 passengers in April 2026.

“The future of public transportation in the Lowcountry should be shaped by the people who use it every day,” Mitchell said in a statement.

Local speaker receives national recognition

Dr. Jonas Gadson, known professionally as “Mr. Enthusiastic,” has been selected to receive a 2026 ICON Award in speaking from Global Speakers University.

Gadson will be recognized during an Aug. 22 ceremony in Maryland hosted by Dr. Cheryl Wood, founder of Global Speakers University.

The award recognizes speakers for professional achievement and impact through public speaking and communication.

Gadson recently released a new book, “Mastering Your Message: Pick Up Your Mic! We Need to Hear Your Voice!”

The book will be available for special bestseller campaign pricing of $2.99 from June 27-30, 2026, at www.amazon.com/ dp/B0GYC4XMDL

The Happy Hour Cruise will be offered Wednesdays and Thursdays from June 18 through Aug. 16, departing from Shelter Cove from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

The 90-minute cruise includes a complimentary welcome drink, charcuterie and opportunities to view local wildlife, including dolphins. Additional beverages will be available for purchase.

Tickets are $75 per person, and guests must be at least 21 years old.

Palmetto Breeze names new executive director

The Lowcountry Regional Transportation Authority has selected Charles Mitchell Jr. as executive director of Palmetto Breeze, effective June 1.

Mitchell, a Hilton Head Island native, previously served as the authority’s

LRT launches $21 million real estate investment offering

LRT Company has launched a $21 million Delaware statutory trust investment offering tied to a planned multifamily development in Hardeeville.

The offering involves approximately 17 acres of land near Coastal Carolina Hospital that are ground leased for a proposed 216-unit apartment community. According to LRT, the site is part of the larger Island Gateway master-planned development, which is expected to include multifamily housing, senior living facilities and commercial space.

The offering is available only to verified accredited investors under federal securities regulations.

Self Help opens doors to expanded services in Jasper County

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

Community leaders, partners, supporters and residents gathered June 4 to celebrate the ribbon cutting of Self Help’s new Hardeeville Education & Resource Center, a facility designed to provide education, workforce development and community support services in Jasper County

The center will offer GED preparation, English as a Second Language classes, workforce development programming, digital literacy instruction, financial education workshops and personalized resource navigation.

“This center represents far more than a building,” said Courtney Hampson, CEO of Self Help. “It represents access to opportunity, trusted relationships, and a deeper commitment to walking alongside our neighbors as they pursue their goals and create brighter futures for themselves and their families.”

According to Self Help, the opening

comes as Hardeeville and surrounding communities continue to experience significant growth. The organization said adult education, workforce development and individualized support services are important components needed to support that growth.

“On June 15, we’ll open our doors for our summer semester. As of today, we have three times as many students for our

summer classes as we did this time last year,” Hampson said. “That is progress, and we are grateful.”

Hardeeville Mayor Harry Williams also addressed attendees during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“This is a great example of an organization that was doing phenomenal work,” Williams said. “They could have stayed where they were and still done phenome-

nal work, but it wasn’t enough. They saw a need and they came to Jasper County. On behalf of all the people of Jasper County that you’re about to help, we can’t thank you enough.”

The facility will also serve as a collaborative space for community partners, including Lowcountry Legal Volunteers and Greater Bluffton Jasper County Volunteers in Medicine, according to Self Help.

The organization reported serving 2,331 households in 2025 and reaching more than 6,000 residents through its programs and services. Self Help said 70% of participants engaged in more than one program or service.

The organization also reported that volunteers contributed 32,376 hours in 2025. During the first quarter of 2026, Self Help made 313 referrals to partner organizations.

More information about Self Help and its programs is available at selfhelpservices.org.

ENDLESS WAYS TO PLAY

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Hardeeville

Local students selected for Palmetto Girls State program

By The Bluffton Sun Staff

through guest speakers, expert panels and program staff.

July 7, 2026

ASSISTANTS (CCA’s) Apply for all SC Post Offices

US Postal Service Postmasters will be on hand to answer your questions about careers with the USPS!

Visit www.usps.com/careers to complete an application.

Online assessments can now be completed from your electronic devices.

• Must have a valid SC Driver’s License

• Must be at least 18 years of age

The American Legion Auxiliary, Bluffton Unit 205, has selected a group of rising high school senior girls to attend the 2026 Palmetto Girls State Program, scheduled for June 7-18 at Presbyterian College in Clinton, S.C.

The program recognizes students for leadership and citizenship and provides a scholarship for participation.

Delegates will join students from across the state to take part in a handson experience focused on government procedures. Activities include simulated political campaigns, elections and the political process.

Participants will also receive instruction on citizenship and public service

The following students have been selected as delegates for 2026:

From Bluffton High School: Anabelle Reichert and Jaylene Gadson-Doe.

From May River High School: Madelyn Green and Landrum Barnes.

From Hilton Head High School: Sharlene Mosquera and Taylor Patterson.

From Hilton Head Christian Academy: Brinkley Smith.

From Cross Schools: Anna Reeves.

From Ridgeland-Hardeeville High School: Danielle King and Jacqueline Ortiz-Galdamez.

The American Legion Auxiliary said the students were chosen based on their demonstrated leadership and citizenship skills.

Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry expands home repair assistance

By Stacy Floyd Contributor

many homeowners, repair costs can become overwhelming financially, and this program helps provide support that can make a lasting difference.”

• PAY: $20.38 per hour paid Bi-Weekly; There is NEVER a charge for background checks, to apply or test. If you are ‘charged’ you have been re-directed to a third-party site. Visit usps.com/careers to apply for a career with the US Postal Service. Bluffton Post Office Job

• May be required to use your personal owned vehicle ($0.97 cents per mile)

As the cost of housing, insurance, and home maintenance continues to rise, many local families, veterans, seniors, and individuals living on limited incomes are struggling to keep up with critical home repairs. For some homeowners in Beaufort and Jasper Counties, repairs can create significant financial hardship, making it difficult to maintain safe and healthy living conditions. Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry is working to help address that need through its Home Repair Program, which assists qualifying low-income homeowners with critical exterior repairs and accessibility improvements.

The program is designed to help local families maintain safe living conditions while preserving affordable housing throughout the Lowcountry. Services may include wheelchair ramps, exterior repairs, siding, accessibility modifications, and other critical home repairs based on household need and available funding.

“Our goal is to help families remain in their homes and improve overall housing conditions within our community,” said Brenda Dooley, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry. “For

Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry serves qualifying low-income homeowners in Beaufort and Jasper Counties. Applicants must meet program income guidelines, demonstrate housing need, and own and occupy the home requiring repairs.

In addition to improving safety and accessibility, the Home Repair Program helps preserve housing stability for families facing financial hardship and supports stronger neighborhoods throughout the community.

Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry has served the region for nearly four decades and has helped build more than 200 homes across the Lowcountry through affordable homeownership and housing preservation programs.

Community members interested in learning more about the Home Repair Program, eligibility requirements, volunteer opportunities, or ways to support Habitat’s mission are encouraged to visit www.lowcountryhabitat.org or call the organization directly at (843) 681-5864.

Stacy Floyd is the development director of Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry.

A flight path to the future

By Edwina Hoyle Contributor

“Man must rise above the Earth – to the top of the atmosphere and beyond – for only thus will he fully understand the world in which he lives.” – Socrates

The world today is changing at speeds never experienced in history, largely due to technology but children’s dreams remain as bold as ever. Many children still dream of being astronauts, pilots of planes or helicopters, military officers, engineers and scientists. They watched in awe as the Artemis rocket circled the moon. The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) can prepare them to make their dreams come true.

Many of the nation’s astronauts, pilots, engineers, scientists, and business leaders first explored their careers through Civil Air Patrol, the volunteer, nonprofit auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. Its three missions are to develop its cadets, educate Americans on the importance of aviation and space, and perform life-saving, humanitarian missions.

1st Lt. Dave Allison has served in CAP for six years at the Hilton Head Composite Squadron, located in Bluffton. He said the cadet program is for local kids from 12-18 years of age, and offers expanded opportunities for careers in aviation, aerospace, STEM careers, or the military. Dues are only $35/year. Uniforms are required and scholarships are available to assist needy families. Gently used uniforms may be available.

“When the cadets first come, they are shy and lack confidence. The change is amazing in the cadets. There is significant development in confidence and it’s a great experience. They wear their uni-

forms, stand up straight, do lots of public speaking, and even mentor and teach new cadets,” Allison said. “The cadets progress with experience in activity and academics. As they move up in rank, they take responsibility for training others.”

Through their experiences as CAP cadets, young people develop into responsible citizens and become tomorrow’s aerospace leaders. The cadet program focuses on four elements: leadership, aerospace education, physical fitness, and character development. Civil Air Patrol follows Air Force values, customs, courtesies, and traditions, but there is no military obligation for either cadets or adult members.

Cadets learn about aviation and develop leadership and teamwork skills valuable in becoming responsible adults. The yearround program typically includes a two-tothree-hour squadron meeting each week, one Saturday event every four to eight weeks, and one seven-to-10-day encampment each year, usually in the summer.

“CAP is not a flight school, but cadets are eligible for five flights. Flights are done out of the Hilton Head Island Airport area, and the Air Force provides the planes and maintenance support,” Allison said.

In addition to the cadet program, Allison explained that CAP also offers STEM teacher programs for middle schools, career fairs, and presentations about careers in aviation for K-12 grades. An Air Expo is held in conjunction with the Beaufort County Sheriff and Beaufort County Fire and Rescue, both of which provide helicopters. Attendees can sit in a plane and get an overview of the craft.

CAP is an all-volunteer organization made up of people including retired military members, airline pilots and other community volunteers. Allison said there are 30 adults, ten of whom are pilots, and

30 cadets. Males and females are welcome, and those with special needs will be accommodated.

“Many of our CAP graduates are accepted into the Air Force Academy,” Allison said. “One is now a sophomore at the Air Force Academy and is certified as a glider pilot. Another kid who went through the program is now a pilot flying corporate and regional jets. CAP offers opportunity for everybody.”

Edwina Hoyle is a freelance writer in Bluffton.

Local students selected for Palmetto Girls

State program

By The Bluffton Sun Staff

The American Legion Auxiliary, Bluffton Unit 205, has selected a group of rising high school senior girls to attend the 2026 Palmetto Girls State Program, scheduled for June 7-18 at Presbyterian College in Clinton, S.C.

The program recognizes students for leadership and citizenship and provides a scholarship for participation.

Delegates will join students from across the state to take part in a hands-on experience focused on government procedures. Activities include simulated political campaigns, elections and the political process. Participants will also receive instruction on citizenship and public service

through guest speakers, expert panels and program staff.

The following students have been selected as delegates for 2026:

From Bluffton High School: Anabelle Reichert and Jaylene Gadson-Doe.

From May River High School: Madelyn Green and Landrum Barnes.

From Hilton Head High School: Sharlene Mosquera and Taylor Patterson.

From Hilton Head Christian Academy: Brinkley Smith.

From Cross Schools: Anna Reeves.

From Ridgeland-Hardeeville High School: Danielle King and Jacqueline Ortiz-Galdamez.

The American Legion Auxiliary said the students were chosen based on their demonstrated leadership and citizenship skills.

Updating your estate plan after moving to South Carolina is essential

By Mark F. Winn Contributor

Moving to a new state is an exciting milestone. Whether you’re relocating for retirement, family, employment opportunities, or a better quality of life, there is no shortage of tasks competing for your attention. Amid the hustle of changing addresses, transferring driver’s licenses, and settling into a new community, one critically important item is often overlooked: updating your estate plan.

As an estate planning attorney practicing in South Carolina for over 20 years, I frequently meet individuals who assume that wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives prepared in another state will continue to serve them perfectly after a move. While these documents may remain legally valid in many circumstances, failing to review and update them can create unintended consequences for your family and your legacy.

Every state has its own laws governing probate, trusts, powers of attorney, healthcare decision-making, and the

administration of estates. South Carolina’s legal requirements and procedures may differ significantly from those of the state where your documents were originally prepared. Provisions that worked well elsewhere may no longer be optimal, and in some cases they may create unnecessary complications, delays, or expenses for your loved ones. Maybe, you need to build in asset protection strategies, or strategies that will permit you to receive government benefits if needed.

Tax considerations also deserve careful attention. Federal tax laws change periodically, and state-specific tax rules can vary widely. A comprehensive review of your estate plan after a move can help ensure that your assets are structured efficiently and that your beneficiaries receive the maximum benefit from your hard-earned wealth.

Another important consideration involves protecting family assets across generations. Many parents and grandparents intend for inherited property to remain within the family bloodline. Unfortunately, assets left outright to children or other heirs can become vulnerable in the event of a divorce, lawsuit, creditor claim, or other unforeseen circumstance.

Properly designed trusts can provide a valuable layer of protection. By leaving assets in trust rather than distributing them outright, families may be able to shield inheritances from claims by former spouses and reduce

the risk that family wealth will be lost through divorce proceedings. Trust planning can also help ensure that assets are managed responsibly, preserved for future generations, and distributed according to your wishes. Additionally, life rarely stands still. Since creating your original estate plan, your family circumstances may have changed. Births, deaths, marriages, divorces, business interests, retirement accounts, and real estate holdings all warrant periodic review. An estate plan should reflect your current goals and relationships, not those that existed years ago in another state.

The bottom line is simple: moving to South Carolina is an excellent time to revisit your estate planning documents. A thorough review can confirm that your plan complies with current law, takes advantage of available tax strategies, protects your loved ones, and preserves your family’s legacy.

An estate plan is not a one-time transaction. It is a living framework designed to adapt as your life changes. After a move, taking the time to update your plan may be one of the most important gifts you can leave to those you care about most.

Mark F. Winn, Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Estate Planning, a local asset protection, estate planning and elder law attorney serving Bluffton and Hilton Head residents for more than 20 years. See, www.mwinnesq.com.

MARK F. WINN

Father’s Day reminder: When your feet talk, listen

By Dr. Kenneth Horup Contributor

On Hilton Head, sandal season is almost a sport.

The sun comes out, Harbour Town starts buzzing, the beach fills up, and suddenly everyone is strolling around in flip-flops like they are 25 again. It is a beautiful thing. Until your feet decide to file a complaint.

That is the problem with sandal season. It reveals things. Not just pale toes, questionable tan lines and the occasional overdue pedicure. It also reveals when your feet have not been entirely happy for quite some time.

All winter, people can hide a lot in socks and sneakers. But once the sandals come out, so do the symptoms.

“My feet burn at night.”

“My toes feel numb.”

“Why does it feel like I am walking on marshmallows?”

“I am not dizzy, but I do feel a little wobbly.”

And, of course, the Hilton Head classic: “I figured it was just getting older.”

Maybe. But maybe not.

Sometimes those symptoms may be related to peripheral neuropathy, a condition involving damage or irritation to the nerves that often begins in the feet. It can show up as numbness, tingling, burning, pins-and-needles sensations, unusual sensitivity or trouble with balance. Some people say it feels like their socks are bunched up under their toes even when they are barefoot. Others say it feels like they are walking on hot coals, wet sand or mashed potatoes. None of those are official medical terms, but you get the idea.

Peripheral neuropathy is often

associated with diabetes, blood sugar problems, circulation issues, certain medications, injuries and other underlying health concerns. The sneaky part is that it usually does not arrive with fireworks. It tends to creep in quietly, little by little, until one day you are walking through Harbour Town, stepping off a curb or heading down a beach boardwalk and thinking, “Why do I feel so off?”

That balance piece matters. Your feet are constantly sending signals to your brain about where your body is in space. When the nerves are not doing that job well, balance can suffer. That is why some people feel more unsteady in the dark or on uneven ground.

And let us be honest: most people are excellent at ignoring these things. They will play golf, walk the beach, shop all afternoon and smile through dinner while their feet are sending distress signals like tiny nervous smoke alarms.

But burning, tingling, numbness and balance problems are not things to casually blame on age, stress or “sleeping funny.” They are signs worth paying attention to.

The good news is that early action matters. Getting properly evaluated early can help identify what is going on and give you a better chance to respond before symptoms progress further.

So, as sandal season returns to the Lowcountry, listen to your feet. If you are noticing numbness, tingling, burning or balance issues, your feet may be trying to tell you something is not right. It may be time to get checked by a health care provider who can examine you for peripheral neuropathy so you can take action early instead of waiting for it to get worse.

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

DR. KEN HORUP

By James Hook Contributor

Independence Day festivities

As the United States marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, communities across Bluffton and Hilton Head Island are planning celebrations filled with races, concerts, family activities and fireworks displays.

July 2, 2026

The Town of Bluffton will begin its Independence Day festivities with its fifth annual Independence Day 5K on Thursday, July 2. The race at New Riverside Barn Park welcomes runners and walkers of all skill levels. There will be a children’s 5K and a free “Chase the Chief” fun run for children age 8 and younger. The fun run will take participants around the park as they attempt to catch Bluffton’s chief of police. After the race the fun continues with live music, food trucks, beer, and giveaways. The first 400 runners will receive a commemorative race T-shirt. The top overall male and female winners will have their names engraved on the Mayor’s Cup; a prestigious trophy displayed at Bluffton Town Hall. For more information or to register, visit runsignup.com/ Race/SC/Bluffton/BlufftonIndependenceDay5K.

July 3, 2026

The celebration continues July 3 with an Independence Day Pre-Party from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Martin Family Park. Activities will include carnival-style games,

sions and live entertainment.

The event will conclude with Rick Hubbard’s Bubble Stuff Show, followed by a performance of the national anthem by a local Bluffton student.

At 9 p.m., a 20-minute fireworks display is scheduled to launch from a barge on the May River. Recommended viewing locations include Oyster Factory Park, Wright Family Park, Martin Family Park and Dubois Park. Orga-

nizers note that the barge location may change depending on weather and water conditions, potentially affecting viewing angles.

Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as parking in historic Old Town Bluffton is expected to fill quickly. Shuttle service and temporary road closures are planned throughout the celebration area.

July 4, 2026

On Hilton Head Island, Independence Day activities begin with the Hilton Head Firecracker 5K Run and Family Walk at 8 a.m. on Saturday, July 4. One of the island’s longest-running holiday traditions, the event brings together runners, walkers and families for a morning of fitness and patriotic celebration.

Participants can enjoy a post-race celebration featuring music, food, children’s activities and prize giveaways. Proceeds from the event benefit organizations. A portion of proceeds and donations from the Hilton Head Firecracker 5K will benefit the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. For more information, visit hiltonheadfirecracker5000. com.

For those on the beach this Fourth of July, Salute From the Shore is expected to reach the Hilton Head area around 1:30 p.m. The military flyover begins farther north along the South Carolina coast and travels south toward the Beaufort-Bluffton area.

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

June 21 st

June 28 th

Anna Marie Kuether Director of Music & Worship Arts

bounce houses, a rock wall, food and beverage conces-

FESTIVITIES

FROM PAGE 14

Salute From the Shore, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to organize, promote and film a military flyover along the South Carolina coast on the Fourth of July. At 1 p.m., F-16s from Shaw Air Force Base will make their way down the coastline, beginning at Cherry Grove in North Myrtle Beach and ending in the Beaufort-Bluffton area. Following the active military aircraft will be an all-volunteer brigade of warbirds, a civilian-owned and operated vintage aircraft community that includes T-34s, T-6s and T-28s. For more information, visit salutefromtheshore.org.

Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina will host its annual HarbourFest Fourth of July celebration. The event is part of HarbourFest’s 37th season, which organizers describe as Hilton Head Island’s largest multiweek summer event and a centerpiece of the community’s America 250 celebrations.

HarbourFest features family entertainment throughout the summer, including performances by Shannon Tanner and appearances by Cappy the Clown. Fireworks are presented weekly during the summer season, with a special Independence Day show scheduled for July 4.

On Independence Day, Shannon Tanner will perform patriotic-themed shows at 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina.

Nearby, Super Summer Jams will take place from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Shelter Cove Community Park. The event will feature bounce houses, face painting and family-friendly activities. Guests are encouraged to bring

lawn chairs and enjoy food and refreshments available from nearby restaurants.

The HarbourFest celebration concludes with fireworks beginning at 9 p.m. over Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina.

Organizers remind guests that drones are prohibited during fireworks displays for safety reasons. All entertainment schedules and fireworks events are subject to change based on weather and operational conditions. For a complete schedule and additional information, visit sheltercoveharbourfest.com.

The Sea Pines Resort will host its annual Fourth of July Parade at Harbour Town beginning at 8:30 a.m. The parade will feature decorated bicycles, wagons, strollers and pets, along with patriotic displays and live music.

New this year, Woody the Clydesdale from Lawton Stables will lead the procession through Harbour Town. Parade participants will be judged on their patriotic spirit, and complimentary decorating supplies will be available for the first 100 registered participants.

Following the parade, families can enjoy the Fourth of July Carnival on the Harbour Town lawn from 10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Activities include carnival games, face painting, inflatable attractions, juggling performances and a bubble show. A watermelon-eating contest will be held beneath the Liberty Oak while DJ Alan provides music throughout the event.

Woody the Clydesdale will also be available for a meetand-greet following the parade.

As evening approaches, Harbour Town’s annual Gregg Russell Fourth of July concert beneath the Liberty Oak beginning at 8 p.m. Russell is celebrating his 49th season of performances in Harbour Town.

At approximately 8:15 p.m., Lincoln, a bald eagle ambassador with the American Eagle Foundation, is scheduled to launch from the top of the Harbour Town Lighthouse. Lincoln, who has appeared in Budweiser commercials and flown during Philadelphia Eagles games, will fly over Harbour Town before gliding toward the 18th green of Harbour Town Golf Links as part of the resort’s America 250 celebration.

The Sea Pines celebration will conclude with fireworks beginning at 9 p.m. over Harbour Town and Calibogue Sound.

Visitors arriving later in the day may use designated public parking areas along Greenwood Drive from 3 p.m. until 11 p.m. Complimentary shuttle service will transport guests between the parking lots and Harbour Town Yacht Club.

Additional Sea Pines holiday-week activities include Ben Franklin on Liberty Oak Stage, Patriotic Sidewalk Chalk and performances by The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra.

For more information, visit seapines.com.

From fireworks over the May River and Calibogue Sound to family festivals, races and concerts across Hilton Head Island, residents and visitors will have numerous opportunities to celebrate Independence Day and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence throughout the holiday weekend.

James Hook is a student-athlete at Converse University. He graduated from John Paul II Catholic School in 2025 and his interests include running, creative writing and true crime.

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USCB earns national innovation recognition

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

The University of South Carolina Beaufort has been named a recipient of the 2026 Top Colleges for Innovation Award from Insight Into Academia, a national recognition honoring colleges and universities that demonstrate innovation across their operations, academic programs and institutional culture.

The award recognizes institutions where innovation is integrated into strategy, student experiences, faculty engagement and administrative systems. According to the award description, recipients are selected for their commitment to forward-thinking leadership and continuous improvement.

“Receiving the Top Colleges for Innovation Award from Insight Into Academia is a tremendous honor for USCB and reflects the creative mindset of our entire university community,” Chancellor Al M. Panu said in a statement. “This recognition affirms our commitment to community partnerships, student opportunities, and forward-thinking leadership.”

University officials said USCB’s size and structure help support collaboration among faculty, staff and students. The institution, which began offering four-year degrees in 2004, cited its ability to move new ideas from planning to implementation as part of its innovation efforts.

Several programs and initiatives were highlighted in USCB’s recognition.

Among them was the university’s expansion of international and Asian Cultural Studies programming. The university said the expansion was developed in response to the growing presence of Korean and Japanese businesses in the Lowcountry. In 2025, USCB hosted its second

annual Asian Cultural Studies Conference through the Fulbright-Hays-funded South Korean and Asian Literacy Education initiative, known as SKALE.

The university also pointed to Shark School, an orientation program designed to help new students build connections and learn about campus resources before classes begin. A customized summer orientation program was also highlighted as part of efforts to support students entering during summer terms.

USCB’s application cited a grant from the American Association of State Colleges and Universities and Ithaka S+R aimed at improving student outcomes at rural-serving institutions.

Other initiatives included redesigned classrooms featuring flexible seating and mobile furniture intended to support collaborative and active learning.

The university also highlighted the Beaufort Memorial PATH Career Development Center, a partnership involving Beaufort Memorial Hospital and regional partners that focuses on expanding nursing education and health care workforce training opportunities.

Faculty research was among the innovations recognized. Biochemistry professor Dr. Ed D’Antonio received a patent for research advancing treatment possibilities for parasitic diseases affecting underserved populations. The university said D’Antonio is also pursuing a second patent related to laboratory arginase assay testing methods.

USCB’s Department of Public Safety was recognized for its use of drone technology to enhance safety monitoring and situational awareness during major campus events.

The 2026 Top Colleges for Innovation Award recipients are featured in the June issue of Insight Into Academia magazine.

Hybrids vs. Irons

By Dr. Jean Harris Contributor

This is the fourth of my series on golf instruction. I will be covering the full swing and the difference between hybrids and irons.

It all starts from the ground up. Your stance, posture and ball position are critical for a consistent full swing. You should play your irons and hybrids the same way:

• Stance: Your stance should be square, with your hips and shoulders aligned and your feet about shoulder-width apart. Your weight should be on the balls of your feet in a ready position.

• Posture: Bend at the hips, with your chin up and your eyes down, not your head down. If you keep your head down, you will not be able to make a full shoulder turn.

• Ball position: For most golfers, the ball should be positioned in the center of the stance. More advanced players may move the ball slightly forward.

• Takeaway: I don’t like the term “takeaway” because you take things away with your dominant hand. Instead, it should feel like a “push-away,” initiated by the shoulders, then the arms and finally the hands.

• Tempo: The club should move back low and slow.

Backswing thoughts:

• The target knee pivots inward toward a flexed back knee.

• The shoulders should turn more than the hips.

• The arm in front of your chest extends while the back elbow bends.

• The backswing should not go past parallel.

Forward swing thoughts:

• The forward swing is initiated by the lower body.

• Your target hip rotates while your shoulders and arms swing down the target line.

• It is important to keep your head behind the ball until your back shoulder comes under your chin.

• After impact, continue rotating so your arms, shoulders, shaft and clubhead finish behind your back.

Hybrids vs. Irons

Hybrids are generally easier to hit than irons. They provide a higher launch and are more forgiving. Hybrids have a larger sweet spot on the clubface, making them

less punishing on off-center hits. They are also easier to launch because of their lower center of gravity.

Hybrids are easier to hit from the rough and fairway bunkers. They can also be effective around the green when used with a chipping motion.

You should consider hybrids if you have a slower swing speed and need to hit higher shots into the green.

A hybrid generally flies 10 to 15 yards farther than an iron with the same number. The shaft is usually about an inch longer than its iron counterpart. Many hybrids also feature adjustable lofts, which are not available on most irons. Adjustable hybrids can typically be set up to 2 degrees stronger or weaker.

I will admit that I am an advocate for hybrids, especially for women. I carry a 3-hybrid, 5-hybrid and, most recently, a 7-hybrid. I have never been a strong longiron player, so hybrids have been a good solution for me.

Two weeks ago, I made a hole-in-one with my 7-hybrid. It had been 25 years since my previous hole-in-one.

Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional and teaches at local golf courses. jean.golfdoctor.harris@gmail.com; golfdoctorjean.com

Bluffton Rotary awards scholarships

The Bluffton Rotary Club has announced its 2026 scholarship winners: Peter Rein of Hilton Head Christian Academy and Natasha Diaz of Bluffton High School.

Each student received a $2,500 check from the club.

The Bluffton Rotary Club said it congratulates the recipients and wishes them continued success in their academic endeavors.

The club also hosts notable speakers and recognizes outstanding students in local schools. Chartered in 1988, the Rotary Club of Bluffton is one of more than 46,000 clubs worldwide.

Rotary says it has a network of more than 1.4 million individuals in more than 200 countries. Rotarians work on sustainable projects that improve the environment and communities. The organization’s motto is “Service Above Self.”

Tribute event planned for Mark Robertson

Friends, listeners and community members are invited to celebrate the life of longtime radio personality Mark Robertson during a public event June 28 in Bluffton.

The celebration of life is scheduled from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 28, at The Barn at New Riverside, 30 Red Barn Drive.

Robertson, a longtime voice of 98.7 The River, died April 25 after battling pancreatic cancer. He spent 48 years in radio and was widely known throughout the Savannah and Bluffton areas for his work on the air and in the community.

Among his contributions was the station’s annual Christmas Wish program, which organizers said helped families facing cancer during the holiday season for 25 years.

The event also will honor Robertson’s longtime support for animals. Attendees are encouraged to bring donations to support the organizations. QR codes will be available for monetary dona-

tions, with proceeds shared among participating animal welfare organizations.

The event is open to the public. Organizers encourage attendees to share memories and stories about Robertson, whose broadcasting career and community involvement spanned nearly five decades.

Additional information and donation opportunities are available at www. colrobertson.com.

The problem isn’t your age

It’s your recovery

By Chad Cannon Contributor

One thing I hear all the time from people over 40 is: “I’m just getting old.” This is usually after they tell me they’re tired all the time, sore for days after workouts, stiff when they get up in the morning, or frustrated that their body doesn’t respond like it used to.

And honestly, I get it. It happens to all of us. But most of the time, age isn’t the real problem. Recovery is.

A lot of people are actually doing some good things. They’re trying to work out more. They’re walking, and staying busy. But they never slow down long enough to recover from all the stress they’re putting on their body.

And that includes life stress too. Work stress. Financial stress. Family stress. Poor sleep. Eating on the go. Always feeling rushed. All this adds up.

When we were younger, we could get away with more. We could sleep four hours, eat terrible, train hard, and somehow still bounce back.

After 40, your body starts asking for a little more care. Not because you’re weak. Not because your best years are behind you.

Your body just needs balance now. That’s why I tell people all the time: Recovery is training. And honestly, we’re seeing this play out in professional sports right in front of us. Years ago, athletes competing at a high level into their late 30s and 40s was rare. Now it’s becoming normal.

Why? They aren’t just training harder. They’re recovering better. They’re eating more real, earthy foods, making sure their body has the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients it needs. Doing IV therapy. Cold plunges. Infrared sauna sessions. Deep tissue massage. Mobility work. Compression boots and sleeves. Tracking sleep and recovery.

They’ve realized something most peo-

ple miss: The body performs better when it’s taken care of. And no, most adults over 40 don’t need to live like a professional athlete. But we can learn from them. Train smarter like the pros do.

The healthiest people I know over 40 don’t just focus on workouts. They focus on recovering from the workouts too. That means: Getting enough sleep, drinking more water, strength training consistently without overdoing it, walking more, stretching, managing stress better, actually taking recovery days without feeling guilty. None of that sounds flashy, but it matters.

I’ve seen people improve their energy just from sleeping an extra hour consistently. I’ve seen people’s joints feel better from 10 minutes of mobility work a day. And honestly, some people don’t need harder workouts. They need better recovery habits.

We live in a culture that celebrates grinding all the time. But after 40, smarter usually beats harder. Sometimes three good workouts a week, better nutrition, more recovery, and less stress will do more for your body than training hard seven days a week.

The goal after 40 isn’t to prove how hard you can go. The goal is to stay strong, healthy, energized, and capable for the next 20 or 30 years. And that only happens when you stop treating recovery like it’s optional.

Chad Cannon is a health and fitness coach, success coach and the owner of the CannonFit Transformation Center. Chad can be reached at www.cannonfit. com

MARCH 28 - APRIL 4, 2027

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Enjoy exclusive Q&A sessions, snap personal photos with Michael and his family, win prizes in giveaways, receive copies of his books, and participate in lunch and dinner drawings— all while exploring stunning destinations. Feel the warm ocean breeze, indulge in world-class dining, and soak up the excitement of each day.

BONUS! The first 10 to register under Groups at www.vacationofdreamstravel.com receive $100 Onboard

Credit to use for shore excursions, spa treatments, or dining. Spots are disappearing fast—reserve your cabin now and step into the adventure of a lifetime!

CHAD CANNON

Ask the Expert: Why every business owner needs a succession plan

By Lisa Hostetler Brown Contributor

For many business owners, their company is much more than a source of income.

It represents years of hard work, personal sacrifice, and a vision for the future. Yet one of the most important questions often goes unanswered: What happens to your business if you become incapacitated or pass away unexpectedly? The answer lies in succession planning. This is a critical, but often overlooked, component of estate planning. Your business is part of your legacy

For many entrepreneurs, their business is one of their most valuable assets. Without a clear plan in place, your family,

employees, clients, and business partners may face uncertainty during an already difficult time.

In some cases, the lack of a succession plan can lead to disputes, operational disruptions, financial losses, or even the closure of a thriving business. Planning ahead helps ensure that the company you’ve worked so hard to build can continue to operate according to your vision.

Protecting the people who depend on you

Succession planning is about more than protecting a business. It is about protecting the people who depend on it.

If your business represents a significant portion of your estate, a smooth transition can help preserve its value and provide continued financial support for your loved ones. It can also provide stability for employees, customers, and vendors who rely on the business every day.

For family-owned businesses, succession planning can be especially important. While many owners intend for a child or family member to take over, assump-

tions often lead to confusion and conflict.

A written plan clearly identifies roles, responsibilities, and expectations, helping families avoid unnecessary disputes and preserve important relationships.

Planning for the unexpected

Many business owners think succession planning is something to address closer to retirement. In reality, it is equally important to prepare for unexpected events such as illness, disability, or sudden death.

An effective succession plan should identify future leadership, address ownership transfers, establish decision-making authority, and include contingency plans for emergencies. These strategies work hand-in-hand with your estate planning documents, including Wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives.

Start the conversation today

One of the biggest mistakes I see is waiting too long to start the conversation. The best succession plans are created thoughtfully and proactively, not during a crisis. The good news is that succession planning does not have to be overwhelming.

With the right guidance, you can create a plan that protects your family, supports your employees, and preserves the legacy you’ve built.

A final thought

Your business is more than an asset. It is a reflection of your life’s work. Taking steps today to prepare for tomorrow can provide invaluable peace of mind for you and those you care about most.

If you own a business and have questions about succession planning, consider speaking with a local, trusted estate planning attorney. A comprehensive plan can help ensure that your business, your family, and your legacy are protected for generations to come.

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. 2 Hampton Hall Blvd, Ste 100, Bluffton, SC 29910. | 843-757-5294 | LawyerLisa.com.

LISA HOSTETLER BROWN

A healthy lawn begins with the basics

By Zach Deloach Contributor

The year continues to move quickly, and we are already well into the summer growing season. Unlike last year, June has started on the drier side across much of the Lowcountry. Fortunately, many areas received significant rainfall throughout May, helping replenish soil moisture and giving lawns a solid foundation heading into the hotter months. While temperatures have continued to climb, grass growth has not been as aggressive as we would typically expect this time of year. Even so, lawns and landscapes remain in active growth, making this a good time to discuss several important considerations. Have you ever driven by a home and thought, “Wow, that lawn looks like a golf course?” Results like that rarely happen by accident. They are usually the product of homeowners who consistently pay attention to details and stay on top of routine maintenance. While not everyone has the time or desire to spend hours in the yard each week, following a few basic practices can go a long way toward maintaining a healthy lawn.

The first areas to focus on this time of year are lawn care practices, particularly mowing and watering. Knowing your grass type is the first step, as each warm-season grass has a preferred mowing height. Once you know the proper height for your turf, it is important to maintain it consistently throughout the growing season. Although growth rates vary depending on weather conditions, fertility and grass type, the general rule remains the same: Avoid removing more than one-third of the grass blade during a single mowing. Following this guideline helps reduce stress and promotes healthier turf.

With June bringing less rainfall than

many would like, irrigation is becoming increasingly important. The goal remains to provide lawns with slightly more than 1 inch of water per week through a combination of rainfall and irrigation. Watering deeply two to three times per week is generally preferable to daily watering, which can encourage shallow root systems and increase disease pressure.

Speaking of disease, we have seen a fair amount of fungal activity this season. The combination of heavy rainfall in May, warm temperatures and periods of high humidity has created favorable conditions for several turf diseases. In St. Augustine lawns, gray leaf spot remains one of the most common issues this time

of year. Homeowners may notice small dark spots on leaf blades that eventually lead to yellowing and thinning turf. Early treatment can help prevent the disease from spreading.

In addition to fungal activity, insect pressure is beginning to increase as temperatures rise. St. Augustine lawns should be monitored for chinch bugs, while centipede, bermuda and zoysia lawns may begin to show signs of mole cricket activity. We also recommend watching for grub damage and sod webworms as summer progresses.

By this point in the season, most lawns should have received their primary fertilizer applications and be actively growing. While growth may not be as vigorous as it was last year, lawns that receive proper mowing, watering and timely pest management should continue to perform well throughout the summer months. Paying attention to these fundamentals now will help keep lawns healthy, resilient and prepared for the heat still to come.

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

By Annelore Harrell Contributor

I looked across the room at Melanie, the baby of our family, celebrating her 50th birthday.

“Where did the years go?”

It was just a short time ago that I was the one lighting candles on a cake that was practically a bonfire.

The year she was born, George William was a young Army captain stationed at Fort Stewart. During that assignment, we spent just about every weekend in Savannah and all summer long in Bluffton.

When Melanie came into this world, the newborn and I spent the requisite three days being pampered at Telfair Hospital before joining her siblings and heading for Bluffton and the May River. It was the end of June, and it was hot.

Bluffton summers

Curtains hung straight and still while the afternoon sun baked the roof’s asphalt shingles.

It was cooler outside.

Melanie’s sisters, Tamela, who was 4, and Anne Elizabeth, who would be 2 in August, had chickenpox. Covered from head to toe in calamine lotion, they looked like refugees from a horror movie.

The river beckoned, but neither child could go swimming.

It was those summers of 1958, 1959 and 1960 that I thought about as we sang “Happy Birthday.”

I remember when the children were young, paddling in the shallows and making drip castles and frog houses on the beach in front of our house on Myrtle Island, a beach that no longer exists.

Alex Ulmer gave them rides on his horse, and Opa brought them candy when he came home at night from his store in Savannah. Two lots over, we could hear the Cubbedge family’s laughter as they ate supper on their screened porch. As night came, whippoorwills and crickets joined in a woodland chorus.

I remember how Omi taught them to

slowly, very slowly, pull in the crab lines, the excitement when they called for someone to bring the scoop net and the disappointment if the crab escaped.

I remember boiling water in an enormous pot on the kitchen stove and dumping the live, scrabbling crabs into the pot, pushing them down and cussing when one escaped and fell to the floor, seeking sanctuary under the icebox.

I remember hanging diapers on a clothesline strung between two trees and thinking we never had enough crib sheets. In those days of cloth diapers, disposables were not yet available.

I remember the ice-cold well water and lighting the propane heater in the kitchen so we would have hot water when we came in from swimming.

I remember how the children screamed when soap got in their eyes as the saltwater was washed out of their hair and how good a cold bottle of beer tasted on a hot summer day.

I remember walking down Myrtle Island’s oyster-shell road on a moonlit night, the glow of the shells, trees wrapped overhead, branches arching into a tunnel.

I remember the causeway through the marsh, two lanes of sand and oyster shell rising onto the bridge that crossed the creek, a fragile affair with weathered boards laid horizontally. Vehicles had to straddle two boards to drive across, bumping along as they passed over.

I remember watermelon, ice cold, rosy red and full of seeds, perfect for spitting contests on the bluff and short shorts for dancing at Bailey’s Pavilion on Friday nights and stiffly starched cotton dresses for Saturday nights.

I remember bateaux, speedboats and the May River as our playground.

’Tis true that time flies when you are having fun. And we did.

Annelore Harrell’s journey is a tapestry woven with fascinating experiences and extraordinary accomplishments. Even in her 90s, 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

Nature’s Way

When a kid’s world was really a kid’s world

By Collins Doughtie Contributor

Just back from visiting my sister Grace in Indian Harbour Beach, on the ocean side of Melbourne, Florida, we began reminiscing about our childhood days on Hilton Head before the majority of the country had ever heard of the island.

A bigwig in the advertising scene on Madison Avenue in New York City, he made a call for his family of five children that very few people in a similar situation would make. With only two children myself, I can’t imagine making such a radical move. I guess I am just too cautious, but if I were able to go back for a do-over, I believe I would throw that caution to the wind.

Don’t get me wrong because I had one of the most unique and exciting childhoods possible. Of course, we didn’t have cellphones or the internet, but finding things to do was easy as pie. With the fishing bug already ingrained in me by the time I was 5 or 6 years old, this new world around me was something to behold. Mostly dirt roads and but a handful of kids around my age, I pretty much had to create my own fun. Learning how to call gators to me, of which they were a dime a dozen, may seem a bit reckless, but, darn it, I had fun calling mama gators away from their young ’uns and then trying to catch one or two of her babies in a crab net before she would try to chase me down.

Other activities that would alarm today’s parents included catching rattlesnakes, riding bikes helmetless and catching huge sharks off the beach right in the midst of visiting tourists. I even had an ice sailboat that I replaced the blades with wheels, turning it into a sand sailor. Much larger than typical sand sailors, it could reach 50 to 60 mph on a windy day. Needless to say, it was banned from the beach when I took out a man and his dog. Horseback riding was another popular pastime for us kids thanks to the Depkin family, another early settler family with kids. Always bareback, we would race down the beach, ride into the surf and try to knock one another off. Once again, I was severely scolded by the golf pro for

galloping across the Sea Pines golf course. Not being a golfer, how was I supposed to know you were supposed to replace things called divots, and I mean lots and lots of divots?

With my two grandchildren, Ben, 10, and Alice, 12, living next door, I love telling them how different things were while I never really grew up. Ben especially sits there, eyes wide in awe, when I tell him the good and the bad Collins growing-up stories. To me, kids are the best. As you may know, I part-time guide newcomers with boats, whether it’s learning our waters or how and where to catch fish, but hands down, it’s the kids that I enjoy teaching the most.

I can’t count how many kids I have mentored over the years, but almost every single one of them has come back to me years later thanking me for putting the great outdoors at the top of their list of things to do. Some say it’s fishing, others say exploring, but whatever their outdoor passion is, it got them off staring blankly at a 3-by-6-inch screen all day, every day.

When I decided what to write about on my way home from Florida, it was the kid part that got me thinking. How can I get more kids outdoors and especially into fishing? I can’t think of one kid that I have taken fishing for the very first time who wasn’t totally hooked on angling after he or she caught a first fish.

Having helped with several kid fishing events, I want to devote my time, along with some of my connections, to create brackish lagoons for kids only. So many developments in the area have lagoons fed by saltwater, and through stocking and saltwater fish entering these waters on incoming tides, kids could catch just about anything. Set them up as catch-and-release, and fish like redfish, trout and flounder can reach mammoth sizes.

If you are with me, then contact me and let’s get this program rolling. Believe me when I say fishing can change your life. I am living proof of that.

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

Comic art brings Savannah’s maritime history to life

Arts and Events Calendar

Bluffton Library Summer

Reading Adult Programs

Bluffton Branch Library, Bluffton

June 17, 10–11:30 a.m.

Unearth a Story: Stories & Advice From a Former Editor and Journalist, plus a MiniWriting Workshop For information, call 843-2556503.

Celebration Park Turtle Talks

Mondays, June–August, 7:30–9 p.m.

Celebration Park, Hilton Head Island

Free family-friendly program featuring hands-on activities beginning at 7:30 p.m., followed by a Sea Turtle Talk presentation from 8–9 p.m. led by Amber Kuehn, marine biologist and director of Sea Turtle Patrol HHI. Program focuses on local nesting sea turtles and conservation efforts.

seaturtlepatrolhhi.org

“Put the Beach to Bed” with Sea Turtle Patrol HHI

June–August, 7–8 p.m.

Volunteer beach program focused on preparing shorelines for nesting sea turtles and educating participants about sea turtle conservation.

seaturtlepatrolhhi.org

Palmetto Quilt Guild

Meeting: June 21, 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m.

Island Lutheran Church, Hilton Head Island

Lydia Beason of Island Indigo will present a program on the “Low Country Roots of Indigo.” Workshop: June 22, 10 a.m.–

noon

Mean Girls

June 24-Aug. 9

Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, Hilton Head Island

The hit musical based on Tina Fey’s film follows Cady Heron as she navigates the social hierarchy of high school. Features a pop-inspired score, energetic choreography and themes of friendship, identity and belonging. Recommended for ages 13 and older due to language and mature themes. artshhi.com

Community Movie Night & Music Celebration

June 26, 4 p.m.

Celebration Park, Hilton Head Island

Free family-friendly event featuring an outdoor screening of The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra’s Hollywood Bowl benefit concert. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs.

Bluffton Independence Day 5K

July 2, 6:15 p.m. Kids Fun Run; 7 p.m. 5K start

New Riverside Barn Park, Bluffton

Evening run/walk featuring food trucks, beer and a patriotic costume contest. Children ages 8 and younger may participate in the “Chase Uncle Sam” fun run. www.townofbluffton.sc.gov

Independence Day Pre-Party & Fireworks

July 3, 5–9 p.m.; fireworks at 9 p.m.

Martin Family Park, 68 Boundary St., and DuBois Park, Bluffton

Family celebration featuring bounce houses, carnival games, food concessions and live music by the Parris Island “Dirty Boots” Brass Band. Fireworks launch from a barge on the May River with viewing available at Oyster Factory Park and Wright Family Park.

Harbour Town Fourth of July Parade

July 4, registration begins 8:30 a.m.; parade lineup at 9:30 a.m.

Harbour Town, The Sea Pines Resort, Hilton Head Island

Patriotic parade featuring decorated bikes, wagons and pets followed by carnival games and inflatables. seapines.com

Salute from the Shore

July 4, approximately 1:30 p.m.

Hilton Head Island beaches

Annual coastal flyover featuring military planes and vintage aircraft. salutefromtheshore.org

Harbour Town Fourth of July Concert & Fireworks

July 4, concert in the evening; fireworks approximately 9 p.m.

Harbour Town, Hilton Head

Features the Gregg Russell Fourth of July Concert under the Liberty Oak followed by fireworks over Calibogue Sound. seapines.com

Shelter Cove HarbourFest & Fireworks

July 4, after dusk

Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina, Hilton Head Island

Family celebration featuring entertainment, children’s activities and HarbourFest with singer Shannon Tanner followed by fireworks over Broad Creek. www. sheltercoveharbourfest.com

Tim Meadows Live

July 13, 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, Hilton Head Island

Former Saturday Night Live cast member Tim Meadows brings his signature humor and storytelling to the stage for an evening of stand-up comedy. artshhi.com

Exhibition pairs paintings and jewelry

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

Get up close with baby alligators, turtles, snakes, and other Lowcountry critters!

Drop in Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays between 9:30 am & 12:30 pm

FAMILY-FRIENDLY. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.

Scan for details & tickets!

The Society of Bluffton Artists will present a collaborative exhibition this summer that brings together painting and jewelry design through a shared artistic vision.

“Quiet Contemplation with Expressive Flair” will be on display July 5 through Aug. 1 at the SOBA Gallery in Old Town Bluffton. The exhibition features paintings by Bluffton artist Virginia Cassidy alongside handcrafted jewelry created by Doris Jones Vargas.

An artist reception is scheduled from 4 to 6 p.m. July 10. Visitors will have an opportunity to meet both artists while enjoying wine and light hors d’oeuvres.

At the center of the exhibition is “Quiet Contemplation,” a five-panel painting series by Cassidy. According to SOBA, the collection forms a unified scene featuring luminous color, peaceful imagery and whimsical elements.

Vargas created her “Expressive Flair” jewelry collection in response to Cassidy’s paintings. The collection incorporates images from the original artwork into handcrafted wearable pieces designed to reflect the themes and visual elements of the paintings.

Each jewelry piece includes a signed and numbered reference card identifying the painting that inspired the design. Organizers said the cards create a connection between the original artwork and the jewelry collection.

The original “Quiet Contemplation” paintings will be offered for sale during

the exhibition. Proceeds will benefit SOBA’s “forever home” capital campaign fund.

Cassidy works from her home studio in Bluffton and is a self-taught acrylic and mixed media artist. She began painting full time after retiring from a career in business consulting in 2019. Her work includes landscapes, florals and abstract compositions that emphasize color, texture and imagination.

She is an exhibiting member of both the Society of Bluffton Artists and the Art League of Hilton Head.

“For me, art is like magic,” Cassidy said. “Everything I create comes from imagination, intuition, and exploration. Every blank canvas holds the promise of a new adventure.”

Vargas earned an undergraduate degree in visual arts from Central Michigan University and a master’s degree in elementary education from Grand Canyon University. She teaches elementary school in the Jasper County School District. Her jewelry designs are inspired by Cassidy’s paintings and combine handcrafted earrings with artistic storytelling.

The Society of Bluffton Artists is a nonprofit organization that promotes visual arts through exhibitions, classes and community events. The organization said its programs are designed to provide opportunities for artists at all skill levels while supporting Bluffton’s arts community.

The SOBA Gallery is located at 7 Church St. in Old Town Bluffton. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.

Pluff Mudd Art Gallery to relocate to Church Street space

By The Bluffton Sun Staff

Pluff Mudd Art Gallery will close its location at 27 Calhoun St. on June 30 and reopen in August at 16 Church St., Suite 101.

The new site is a short distance from the current gallery, about a two-minute walk around the corner.

The gallery said the exact reopening date will be announced as the move progresses. An opening celebration is expected in September.

During the closure, updates will be

shared on the gallery’s website, www. pluffmuddart.com, and its Facebook page. Those interested in artwork can contact gallery artists through the website.

“We are thrilled to become part of the developing arts scene on Church St. Our new gallery will bring our customers the same great assortment of art in a beautiful new space,” said Donna Varner, a long-time Pluff Mudd artist.

Pluff Mudd Art Gallery has operated for 24 years in Bluffton. The co-op gallery features exclusively local art and is known for its mix of artwork and service provided by its member artists. For more information visit www.pluffmuddart.com

Bye Bye Birdie

Cast members rehearse for Main Stage Community Theatre’s upcoming production of the classic musical “Bye Bye Birdie,” coming to Hilton Head Island for two weekends in June. Performances are scheduled for June 18–21 and June 25–28, 2026, at Main Street Theatre, 3000 Main St. Evening performances begin at 7 p.m., with select matinee performances also planned. Reservations and ticket information are available through Main Stage Community Theatre’s online ticket portal at msctheatre.org.

LIBRARY SPRING HISTORIC TOURS

Visit the gravesites of four Revolutionary War heroes and find out about the bloody skirmish that was fought just steps away. Site on the SC Liberty Trail. Corner of Hwy. 278 & Mathews Dr.

TUESDAYS March 17 - June 9 10:00-11:00am

$10/LIBRARY MEMBERS

$12/NON-MEMBERS

CHILDREN 12 & UNDER FREE Registration required.

Fort Mitchel contains the remains of a coastal defense battery erected in 1862 to protect the Port Royal Sound by way of Skull Creek from incursions by Confederate gunboats. 65 Skull Creek Dr., Hilton Head Plantation

THURSDAYS March 19 - June 11 10:00-11:00am

$10/LIBRARY MEMBERS

$12/NON-MEMBERS CHILDREN 12 & UNDER FREE Registration required.

Comic art brings maritime history to life

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

Museums often rely on artifacts, paintings and exhibits to tell history’s stories. A new exhibition at Savannah’s Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is taking a different approach — comic books.

“Drawn to the Sea: Maritime Stories

From Savannah,” which opened May 1 and runs through Jan. 31, 2027, uses sequential art to explore four vessels that played significant roles in Savannah’s maritime history. The exhibition features original work by four contemporary artists who reinterpret historic voyages and events through comic-style storytelling.

The exhibit reflects a growing trend among museums seeking new ways to engage audiences, particularly younger visitors, by combining historical education with visual storytelling.

According to the museum, the exhibition focuses on four ships with deep ties to Savannah: the Anne, which brought James Edward Oglethorpe and Georgia’s first English colonists to the region in 1733; the S.S. Savannah, recognized as

the first steamship to cross the Atlantic Ocean; the Pulaski, a luxury steamship destroyed by a boiler explosion in 1838; and the Wanderer, one of the last vessels known to have illegally transported enslaved Africans to the United States.

Each story is told through the artistic lens of a different creator.

Adventure cartoonist Lucy Bellwood explores the voyage of the Anne, while SCAD graduate and comic editor Avery Hick focuses on the pioneering S.S. Savannah. Author and illustrator Rich King chronicles the tragic fate of the Pulaski, and Savannah-based artist Sharon Norwood examines the history of the Wanderer and its role in the illegal trans-Atlantic slave trade.

The exhibition is accompanied by a limited-edition comic book that allows visitors to take the stories home. Museum officials say the publication was developed as an extension of the exhibit and features original artwork from all four artists.

The comic-focused exhibit arrives as Savannah’s comic and sequential art community continues to grow. The museum also hosted Comic Currents, a free family-oriented convention that brought

together comic creators and fans from across the Southeast.

While the exhibition may appeal to comic book enthusiasts, museum leaders say its broader goal is to make maritime history more accessible.

The exhibition is housed within the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum, located in the historic William Scarbrough House. The museum is known for its collection of ship models, maritime artifacts and paintings documenting the Atlantic trade era, as well as the largest private gardens in Savannah’s historic district.

For families looking for summer activities beyond beaches and theme parks, “Drawn to the Sea” offers a blend of history, art and storytelling under one roof. The exhibition is included with regular museum admission, which is $17.50 for adults, $14.50 for students, seniors, active-duty military members and veterans, and free for children 5 and younger. Discounted family and group tickets are also available.

The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 41 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. in Savannah. www.shipsofthesea.org

CELEBRATE AMERICA 250

Entertaining with an Italian-inspired flatbread

By Leslie Rohland Contributor

Some of the best recipes are also the simplest. With just a handful of quality ingredients, a flatbread appetizer can become an impressive addition to a gathering, a casual dinner, or a summer evening spent with friends and family.

This Italian flatbread appetizer brings together classic Mediterranean flavors in a dish that acts as an elegant comfort food. Layers of sundried tomatoes, pesto, fresh mozzarella, and prosciutto are baked until warm and crisp, then finished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a balance of savory, herbaceous, and slightly sweet flavors.

One reason recipes like this remain popular is their versatility. They can be served as an appetizer before a meal, cut into smaller portions for entertaining, or paired with a fresh salad for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of creamy mozzarella, aromatic pesto, and rich Italian meats creates a flavor profile that feels elevated without requiring hours in the kitchen. Another advantage of this recipe is its adaptability.

Italian Flatbread Appetizer

• 1 Flatbread, roughly 6 x 12 inches

• Sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained

• Prepared pesto

• Fresh mozzarella, chopped

• Prosciutto or other sliced Italian meat

• Sprigs of thyme, basil or parsley, pulled off the stem

• Extra virgin olive oil

• Balsamic glaze

• Sea salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

2. Dot flatbread with dried tomatoes and small clumps of pesto.

3. Add chopped mozzarella then top with strips of prosciutto.

4. Add your preferred herb then drizzle with olive oil and add a sprinkle of salt.

5. Place flatbread on hot pizza stone or baking pan and bake for 8-10 minutes.

6. When the mozzarella is melted and prosciutto is just starting to crisp, remove from oven.

7. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top, cut into pieces.

Leslie Rohland, 2024 SC Chef Ambassador, Chef and Proprietor of The Cottage Cafe, The Bluffton Pasta Shoppe, the Juice Hive, and May River Coffee Roasters. (843) 757-0508, 38 Calhoun St, Bluffton, SC.

LESLIE ROHLAND

Hearing’s impact on brain health

By Ginny Underwood Contributor

Memory Matters will welcome Dr. Esther Vivas, MD, of Emory University School of Medicine for a special Speaker Series event on Friday, June 26, from 1–3 p.m. at St. Gregory the Great Gathering Room, bringing nationally recognized expertise in hearing and brain health to the Lowcountry community.

Dr. Vivas will present “Impact of Hearing Health on the Brain,” an evidence-based discussion exploring the powerful and often overlooked connection between hearing, cognition, memory, communication, and overall brain wellness.

As research continues to reveal deeper links between hearing health and cognitive function, this timely presentation will offer families, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and older adults valuable insight into how hearing influences the brain throughout the aging process.

“Brain health is about so much more than memory alone,” said Jill Horner, Executive Director of Memory Matters. “Emerging research continues to show that hearing plays a significant role in commu-

nication, confidence, social engagement, cognitive stimulation, and overall quality of life.”

Dr. Vivas serves on the faculty of Emory University School of Medicine, one of the nation’s leading academic medical institutions. Her work focuses on hearing and neurological health, and her presentation will translate complex medical research into meaningful, practical information families can understand and apply in everyday life.

The event reflects Memory Matters’ ongoing commitment to bringing nationally respected experts and leading-edge brain health education directly to the Lowcountry community.

“Our Speaker Series exists to empower people through knowledge,” Horner said. “Families navigating aging, caregiving, memory concerns, or neurological changes deserve access to the latest research and the best minds in medicine. These conversations help people feel informed, connected, and hopeful.”

The June 26 Speaker Series event is free and open to the public.

To register, visit https://www.mymemorymatters.org/events or call Memory Matters directly at (843) 842-6688.

Best birthday, ever

By Danie Connolly Contributor

As I merrily waltzed into the kitchen, there were a dozen long-stemmed roses welcoming me and my birthday. Later that morning, Beaufort was planning a huge parade. OK, maybe not for me personally, but I kind of like the sound of it.

For this particular birthday, it wasn’t a milestone, but who’s counting? He told me he was giving me a surprise that I’d always wanted. No hints. I’d get it when I got it.

No amount of begging or sleuthing would garner any information. This guy ought to be selling missiles to the Russians. Man, he can keep a secret. He could survive the Spanish Inquisition.

My birthday offerings continued. I wanted a landscape crew to capture every fallen leaf that wasn’t glued to a tree. Check that off my list.

After the crew completed a fine job

and departed, I went about the rest of my business of celebrating. I asked BBB if he wanted a sandwich or anything else. He was peering into the kitchen cabinet for a tall glass. He closed the cabinet door, answered me and reopened it.

Hey, something was different. Very different.

I had to unscramble my mind. Something was off-kilter. Then I discovered the best present I could ever ask for: He had shaved off his beard.

Shocker! He’d had a serious brain operation in 2020, and it was easier to grow a beard than to struggle through shaving. I might have asked him once or twice in the beginning, but I could certainly see his point. After accepting I was going to be forever married to a guy with a beard who looked like Sean Connery, he surprised me with something I’d given up begging for. Sure enough, there he was, that cute guy I met in 1967, with a lot more wrinkles and the same beautiful blue eyes.

Bluffton festival combines seafood, music and hawaiian shirt 5k

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

The 2026 May River Shrimp Festival will return July 24-25 with two days of events highlighting seafood, live music, health and fitness as part of the Bluffton Sunset Party Series.

The festival will begin Friday, July 24, with the May River Shrimp Festival and Sunset Party at Oyster Factory Park on the May River. The event is scheduled from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and will feature live performances by Mily Kinner and Rock Candy.

Organizers describe the festival as a celebration of Bluffton’s fishing heritage. Attendees can expect local seafood, food trucks, craft beers, boutique wines and family-oriented activities. Children and leashed pets are welcome.

Advance tickets are $14. Admission at the door is $20. Children younger than 12 will be admitted free. Group discounts are available online, with four entries offered for $38.

Organizers said all tips collected from beer and wine sales will support local charities.

The festival will continue Saturday morning with the May River Shrimp Fest Hawaiian Shirt Run, a 5-kilome-

ter event beginning at 9 a.m.

The race will start and finish at Oyster Factory Park and travel through the streets of historic Old Towne Bluffton. Organizers said the event is open to both runners and walkers.

Participants are encouraged to wear brightly colored Hawaiian shirts or shorts. Prizes will be awarded for the most colorful outfits.

All registered participants will receive a themed T-shirt, a lei and post-race refreshments during what organizers describe as a post-race celebration. Stroll ers and leashed pets are welcome.

Registration for the event is currently open.

The 2026 Bluffton Sunset Party Series is presented by Coastal States Bank, Kroger, Beachside Tire & Auto, Savannah Hilton Head International Airport, The Law Office of Healy & Foreit, Latitude Margaritaville, Old Town Bluffton Inn, Lowcountry Lifestyle Group, Schumacher Homes, Alliance Roofing, HHI Builders, Mountain High Outfitters, Southern Barrel Brewing Co. and Service Brewing Co. Tickets and race registration are available through the Bluffton Sunset Party Series website www.blufftonsunsetparty.com. Additional information is also available by calling Bear Foot Sports at 843-757-8520.

By Joy Ross Contributor

I tend to hear this a lot: “Every summer, it seems like my hair has a mind of its own.”

No matter how much time I spend styling it, the heat and humidity quickly turn it into a frizzy mess. While it can be frustrating, there are several reasons why hair tends to become frizzy during the summer months.

The biggest reason is humidity. Hair is naturally porous, which means it can absorb moisture from the air. During the summer, especially in areas with high humidity, there is a lot of moisture in the atmosphere. When dry or damaged hair absorbs this extra moisture, the hair shaft swells and the outer layer of the hair, called the cuticle, lifts up. This creates the rough, puffy appearance we know as frizz. Another reason hair becomes frizzy is exposure to the sun. Just like skin, hair can be damaged by ultraviolet, or UV, rays. Spending time outdoors without protecting the hair can dry it out and weaken the cuticle. When the hair becomes dry, it seeks moisture from the environment, making it even more susceptible to frizz.

Taming summer frizz

Summer activities can also contribute to the problem. Swimming in pools exposes hair to chlorine, while swimming in the ocean exposes it to salt water. Both

can strip the hair of its natural oils and leave it feeling dry and brittle. Hair that lacks moisture is more likely to react to humidity and become frizzy.

Frequent washing during the summer can make matters worse as well. Many people wash their hair more often because of sweat and outdoor activities. While keeping hair clean is important, overwashing can remove the natural oils that help keep hair smooth and protected. Without those oils, the hair becomes drier and more prone to frizz.

Hair texture also plays a role. Curly and wavy hair types tend to be more susceptible to frizz because their natural shape makes it harder for oils from the scalp to travel down the hair shaft. As a result, these hair types often need extra moisture and protection during humid weather.

Although summer frizz can be annoying, it is especially challenging here because of the salty air. Understanding its causes can help people manage it. Using moisturizing products, limiting heat styling, protecting hair from the sun and avoiding excessive washing can all help keep hair smoother throughout the season. While frizz may never disappear completely, a little extra care can make summer hair much easier to handle.

Joy Ross is the owner of Style It Salon. styleitsalon.com, 843-338-1530.

By Wendy Kushel Contributor

There’s a moment in business that almost nobody talks about: the moment right before things finally start working out. It usually doesn’t look inspiring. It looks like exhaustion. Like moving pennies from one bank account to another just to make payroll or cover a check.

It looks like staring at negative balances while pretending not to panic. It looks like working all day, then working all night, then waking up to do it again anyway.

Most days start the same way: head down, boots on, grinding forward. One step, then another. Not glamorous. Not

It can actually work out

pretty. Just work. The kind where the struggle isn’t a phase — it’s the entire season. Climbing up, slipping back. Climbing again, sliding down. Hands a little dirtier each time, knees a little more worn, but still, up we go.

Because what’s the alternative? Sitting still? Waiting for some magical moment when everything suddenly falls into place? That’s not how it works. Not in business. Not in life. Not in anything worth building.

And then something strange happens. Right when it feels like things cannot possibly get any worse, they suddenly get better.

One email comes through. One phone call. One “yes.”

And somehow, that single yes changes the trajectory of an entire week, maybe even an entire business.

What’s even stranger is how one yes tends to bring more yeses behind it. A buyer responds after months of silence. A meeting finally gets scheduled. Someone introduces someone else. Doors that

felt bolted shut start cracking open all at once.

Is it the universe finally cooperating? Is it momentum? Is it years of effort finally paying off?

Probably all of it.

The funny thing is, while all those hard days are happening, it feels like nothing is working. Like every ounce of effort is disappearing into thin air. But under the surface, things are shifting quietly. Conversations start sounding different. People begin taking calls they once ignored. Opportunities start appearing where there used to be dead ends.

And then one day, the road levels out just enough to notice.

Not forever — let’s stay realistic — but long enough to breathe. Long enough to realize the forward motion isn’t just struggle anymore. It’s progress.

That’s the part people don’t talk about enough: the middle. The messy, exhausting, doubt-filled middle where quitting starts sounding reasonable. The season

when getting out of bed feels like a negotiation.

But the work continues anyway. Show up. Make the call. Take the meeting. Fall down. Get back up. Repeat.

Because eventually, the no’s start turning into yeses.

Not because of luck alone. Not because somebody waved a magic wand. But because of all those unseen days when quitting would have been easier.

And maybe that’s the real lesson: Sometimes things are working out long before they look like they are.

Wendy Kushel is the owner of Wendala’s LowCountry Sugar Scrub, LLC based in Bluffton. Drawn to the beauty and 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

Beaufort Memorial expands cardiac care with new specialist

By Emma June Grosskopf Contributor

Beaufort Memorial is enhancing access to cardiac care throughout the Lowcountry with the addition of a board-certified, fellowship-trained interventional cardiologist serving patients in Beaufort and Okatie.

Beaufort Memorial Heart Specialists has welcomed Dr. Paul Slota, who brings with him more than three decades of experience in general and interventional cardiology, including more than 10 years practicing on Hilton Head Island and in Bluffton during his early career.

“Dr. Slota brings a wealth of experience caring for patients, and his expertise will further strengthen our ability to provide comprehensive cardiac care for our community,” said Beaufort Memorial President and CEO Russell Baxley. “His ties to this region and commitment to patient-centered care make him a valuable addition to our team of skilled specialists.”

After earning his medical degree from Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, Pa., Dr. Slota completed his residency in internal medicine and fellowships in cardiology and interventional cardiology at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, participating in initial coronary stent trials as well.

Early in his career, Dr. Slota was a founding physician of Hilton Head Heart, where he cared for patients on Hilton Head Island and in Bluffton and performed cardiac catheterization procedures at St. Joseph’s/Candler in Savannah for more than a decade.

“That was back when Bluffton was basically a single stoplight,” he recalled.

Dr. Slota and his wife Geralyn, an internist and geriatrician, decided to relocate their family to Rock Hill – then a bigger, more urban area – where he helped establish another cardiology practice as one of its founding interventional cardiologists. He saw patients there for nearly 20 years before he heard the call to return to the Lowcountry.

Dr. Slota will diagnose and treat

patients with acute and chronic heart conditions at the Heart Specialists practice locations in both Beaufort and Okatie, as well as perform cardiac catheterization procedures at Beaufort Memorial. He specializes in caring for patients with coronary artery disease and heart failure, as well as managing arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) and high cholesterol.

His approach to patient care has been honed over his 30-year career and is rooted in ensuring every patient feels as if they are heard and valued.

“I listen to patient concerns and take the time that is needed to address them,” he explained. “I’m analytical, decisive and I give everyone their time so that I can care for them.”

At the practice, Dr. Slota joins board-certified interventional cardiologists Drs. Stuart Smalheiser and Francis O’Neill, board-certified, fellowship-trained general cardiologist Dr. Terry Grainger and physician assistant Tara Kay, MMS, PA-C.

Beaufort Memorial Heart Specialists is located in Beaufort at 300 Midtown Drive and in Okatie at the Okatie Medical Pavilion (122 Okatie Center Blvd. North, Suite 300).

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Slota or another Beaufort Memorial heart care specialists, call (843) 770-4550.

Capture It: How to take a selfie you don’t hate

by Lucy Rosen Contributor

Let’s be honest: most people dislike photos of themselves. And yet, we keep taking selfies— sometimes because we have to, sometimes because we want to remember where we were, and sometimes because there’s no one else around to hold the camera.

The good news? A great selfie has very little to do with angles you learned on social media and everything to do with light and comfort. When people say they “aren’t photogenic,” what they usually mean is that they don’t feel relaxed. And discomfort shows up immediately on camera. First, find the light. Natural light is your best friend. Stand near a window or go outside and face the light—not directly

into harsh sun, but into soft, even illumination. Light coming from slightly above eye level is especially flattering and helps soften shadows naturally.

Next, step back—literally. Holding the camera too close distorts features and exaggerates angles. If you can, use the front-facing camera with a little distance, or prop your phone and use a timer. Giving yourself space not only improves the photo, it gives you a moment to breathe, which always helps.

Eye level matters. Shooting slightly above eye level tends to be more flattering than shooting from below. Keep your shoulders relaxed, shift your weight, and don’t overthink your expression. If you feel stiff, take a second, look away, then come back to the camera. Small resets make a big difference.

Backgrounds count, too. A clean, simple background keeps attention where it belongs—on you. Busy or distracting surroundings pull focus away and add visual noise, especially in a small frame. And here’s the most important tip of all: stop judging the photo while you’re taking

it. Take a few, choose the one that feels most like you, and move on. Selfies don’t need to be flawless. They just need to be honest.

A good selfie isn’t about looking younger, thinner, or more polished. It’s about capturing yourself as you are—in the light, in the moment, and in the story you’re living.

Rosen is a Lowcountry-based writer and bird photographer who observes the natural world through a patient, thoughtful lens. Follow her work on Instagram @ LucyGRosen or visit www.lucygrosenphotography.com.

Selfie TipS ThaT acTually

Work:

• Use natUral light whenever possible

• hold the camera slightly above eye level

• step back or Use a timer • simplify the backgroUnd • relax—comfort shows

Lucy

LUCY ROSEN

Kitchen Giveaway! Kitchen Giveaway!

StoneWorks is proud and thankful to be in business in the USA!!

We have successfully installed approximately 40,000 projects in our long history of being in business. To show gratitude we are offering one lucky customer FREE KITCHEN COUNTERTOPS!

3.

4. All clients who purchased kitchen countertops will be entered into a drawing to receive a refund for their kitchen countertop purchase. No transferring, or carry over situations will apply. (Taxes and credit card fees will not apply).

5.

Be it ever so humble

By Kevin Fitzpatrick Contributor

“And Home

Sings me of sweet things

My life there has its own wings

To fly over the mountains

Though I’m standing still”

So begins Karla Bonoff from her song ‘Home,’ and with it comes a multitude of thoughts. Home is a physical location, but it is also where the heart truly is. I called the Northeast home for 68 of my 73 (and counting) years. Recently, we returned from a quick trip back “up” to see a show and spend a bit of time revisiting the people, places and things that tug at the heartstrings.

The trip began with an easy drive to Savannah Airport, even easier parking and, after a short walk to the terminal, a very quick jaunt through TSA. Full disclosure: We do have TSA PreCheck, but even the regular line was moving quickly. The flight was on time and comfortable. Even the landing and taxiing at JFK were smooth.

Then the true adventure began:trying to get from Terminal 5, where ongoing road closures have eliminated rideshare and taxi pickup at the terminal, to our hotel in midtown Manhattan. A lengthy, though well-signed, walk led us to the taxi stand, and we were able to get a cab pretty easily. We had other options, but all of them involved multiple changes, and even with carry-on luggage only, it was not something we wanted to do.

Upon arrival, we sought out a bona fide Sicilian slice. We then checked into our hotel and went upstairs to find the tiniest room we have ever stayed in. We laughed heartily at how noisy it was on the 21st floor from the various city sounds. As we got ready to meet friends for dinner at Keens Steakhouse, the city was every bit as loud, crowded and energetic as I remembered. Yet despite the noise and the crowded streets, the heartbeat and lifeblood of the city brought back good memories.

The next day started with bagels and cream cheese that you can only get there. The day was then spent relaxing and getting ready to meet yet another friend

for an early dinner before heading off to the three-hour, soul-cleansing show we had made the trip to see.

Still enjoying the afterglow of the night before, breakfast was the classic bacon, egg and cheese with salt, pepper and ketchup on a hard roll, again something native to the locale and never to be missed. It was then off to a hotel closer to JFK since our flight out the following morning was at 7 a.m. and, unlike the trip from Bluffton to Savannah, traffic is always an issue.

Having been warned about timing at JFK, we had a cab pick us up at 5 a.m. This time, the joke was on us. Again, it took less than four minutes to get through TSA, only to leave us with almost two hours to sit in an incredibly loud, crowded and freezing-cold terminal. The good news was that the flight was atypically uncrowded, and all went well.

Spending time at “home” was filled with memories, nostalgia and joy. Yet the easy drive back from Savannah reminded me that home is not just where you’ve been. It is also where you choose to be. Let’s let Bruce play us out on this one: “Son, we’re lucky in this town, It’s a beautiful place to be born. It just wraps its arms around you, Nobody crowds you and nobody goes it alone

It’s gonna be a long walk home

It’s gonna be a long walk home…”

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

The communities we need cannot be built by strangers

By Dr. Brandon A. A. J. Davis Contributor

The current social conditions facing the United States, and specifically the Lowcountry, include political polarization, economic anxiety, housing affordability concerns, declining civic engagement, attacks on public trust, racial tension, loneliness, and the growing disconnect between neighbors. This uncomfortable social reality, I think, polemically contributes to the conditions that make life more complicated than it should be.

When we weigh the many possible solutions regarding our present situation in both the country and the Lowcountry, the answers often vary based upon one-sided views concerning who is at fault and who bears responsibility for fixing them. Yet, I believe what is needed more than anything else is an understanding that the communities we need cannot be built by strangers.

Growing up in North Carolina, I benefited greatly from PBS, which provided educational and socially nurturing television that helped children develop a sense of somebody-ness while cultivating moral and ethical responsibility toward others. One such program was Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, which modeled what it meant to care for people whose backgrounds and experiences differed from our own. The theme song spoke volumes:

“It’s a beautiful day in this neighborhood, a beautiful day for a neighbor; would you be mine? Could you be mine? Please won’t you be my neighbor?”

Objectively, and without the interference of warring or fragmented opinions, life has become increasingly difficult for many people. America is experiencing a crisis that is deeper than politics—we are witnessing the erosion of community. We have become increasingly connected digitally while simultaneously becoming disconnected relationally. The social divide continues to grow because of a communal lack of understanding—something that cannot be gained through text alone.

The truth is that the answers we are looking for are not found solely in Washington, D.C., Columbia, or local government. Rather, they are found when neighbors, congregations, civic organizations, and families rediscover their responsibility to one another. Communities flourish when people are willing to listen, share concerns, and work together toward solutions that benefit the common good

rather than a select few.

As a resident of Bluffton, housing affordability and development concerns remain pressing issues. The constant expansion of housing communities and resorts has, in some cases, infringed upon ancestral lands, depriving families of property bequeathed to them by their ancestors – and placing those lands at risk through eminent domain. One must honestly ask: do we really need another high-end and expensive community?

Still, there are other issues germane to this conversation, including isolation among seniors, young people searching for purpose, and Churches reclaiming their role as community anchors. Historically, the Church has served as an epicenter for education, advocacy, fellowship, and community transformation. Therefore, if communities are to heal, congregations must return to being active participants in the civic and social life of their neighborhoods.

I often wonder: what happens when people stop seeing each other as neighbors

and begin seeing each other only as opponents? As long as we continue down our current path, bridging the gap between our social, political, cultural, and spiritual divisions will become increasingly difficult. With the passage of time, social conditions that persist without meaningful intervention will become the sordid reality people simply accept, without remorse or any heartfelt desire to change them.

The temptation of every generation is to believe that louder voices produce better solutions. Yet Scripture teaches the opposite. In 1 Kings 19:11–12, the Prophet Elijah witnesses the power of God displayed throughout creation. Yet Elijah learns that amid the wind, the earthquake, and the fire, God was present in a still, small voice. What voice do we hear in the midst of our stormy present?

Beloved, being a neighbor requires more than living beside someone; it requires listening, empathy, accountability, and a willingness to invest in the well-being of others. The future of our communities will not be determined solely by the policies we pass, the elections we win, or the buildings we construct. The future of our communities will be determined by whether we are willing to see one another as neighbors again. Communities are not sustained by proximity. They are sustained by responsibility. And ministry, like community, happens when people choose to do it together.

Dr. Brandon A. A. J. Davis is the 30th Senior Pastor of Historic Campbell Chapel AME Church, Bluffton, and an adjunct professor in the Department of Religion at Simmons College, Louisville, KY. He is married, a lover of books, and enjoys a great conversation.

DR. BRANDON DAVIS

Goddard School plans first Bluffton location

Opening set for 2027

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

A new early childhood education center is planned for Bluffton, with The Goddard School set to open its first local campus in the spring of 2027.

The nationally known education franchise marked the project with a groundbreaking ceremony at the future school site at 4 Mott St. in the Washington Square development.

The school will be owned by Liz Scott, who operates five Goddard School locations in Florida. She is partnering with Melanie and Bill Hyatt, who own four Goddard schools in South Carolina, and Scott Sheldon, who owns four schools in Florida.

When completed, the more than 16,000-square-foot facility will include 13 classrooms and serve approximately 245 students ranging in age from 6 weeks to 6 years old. The project is also expected to create more than 40 teaching positions.

Scott said her introduction to The Goddard School came as a parent.

“I first discovered The Goddard School when I enrolled my infant son, and the experience was so meaningful that I was inspired to open my own school to make it available to more families in my community,” Scott said.

She said her experience over the past decade as a school owner has reinforced the value of early childhood education.

“Over the past decade as a Goddard School owner, I’ve seen firsthand how high-quality early childhood education builds a strong academic, social and emotional foundation,” Scott said. “All three of my children attended my school, and they continue to thrive both in the classroom and in extracurricular activities.”

Scott said she looks forward to welcoming Bluffton families when the school opens next year.

According to the company, the new campus will include an outdoor classroom, sports court, turf athletic

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field, putting green, rock climbing wall and a dedicated STEM room focused on science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Hospital-grade sanitization equipment is also planned for the facility.

Scott, who has a residence in Palmetto Bluff, said she recognized a need for additional early childhood education options in the area through conversations with local parents.

The school’s educational approach centers on Wonder of Learning, an inquiry-based curriculum developed for The Goddard School system. The program is designed around children’s curiosity and includes assessments of academic and social-emotional progress, along with family communication tools delivered through a proprietary app.

Inquiry-based learning encourages children to explore topics, investigate concepts and ask questions while learning about themselves and the world around them.

The groundbreaking ceremony included participation from Bluffton Mayor Larry Toomer, members of the Greater Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, business owners from the Washington Square development and the school’s ownership team. A coffee truck provided refreshments for attendees.

Families interested in learning more about The Goddard School or enrollment opportunities should visit GoddardSchool.com.

as we will be more active on our social media channels moving forward to keep an open dialogue with our community members. We will also be posting events, calls to action, and opportunities to get involved in the newspaper. Don’t miss the chance to get involved and/or get published! We look forward to your feedback, ideas, and ongoing communication.

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for supporting our local newspapers!

By Rich Bernstein Contributor

During a postround interview at the fun and family-oriented 2025 PNC Championship, 86-year-old golfing legend Lee Trevino expressed his absolute love for the game of golf. Although age has limited the number of full rounds Trevino is able to play, he still has limitless energy to hit balls at the driving range. Lee elaborated, “I would live on a driving range today. If you put a bed and a tent on a driving range, I would sleep there. And if I got up at midnight, I would put a candle on and hit low wedge shots somewhere.” Well, Lee, if you could squeeze another bed into that tent, I hope you don’t mind some driving-range company. After all, why battle the golf course with all its trickery, mystery and chaos when you can effortlessly stripe ball

after ball at the driving range — the Land of Make-Believe, the Cradle of Heightened Expectations, the Home of Second Chances and Overachievement? Unlimited buckets, perfect lies, no lost balls, no missed 3-footers, no penalties, no hazards, no pitches, no chips, no chili-dips and a 100-yard-wide hitting area — heck, they even have multiple target flags so you can convince yourself, as well as any curi-

ous bystanders, that you were aiming at whichever one was closest to where your last shot landed.

With the proper attitudinal adjustment, it is virtually impossible to hit a poor shot at the range — a misdirected shanked shot that rolls only 25 yards can be camouflaged as intentional practice for that recovery cut shot we occasionally need out on the course. There’s no doubt that a

golfer hitting balls at the driving range is like a kid at Walt Disney World — with a Lightning Lane Premier Pass included. What, you wonder, is the attraction? Why are all these players at the practice range? Most likely, many are trying to correct a swing fault that developed right after they fixed last week’s swing fault, which suddenly emerged right after they corrected the swing fault they had the previous week. The game of golf is a never-ending challenge, and even the very best are always searching for improvement.

There are certain inevitabilities in life — the sun will come out tomorrow, we have to pay taxes, and we’re going to hit the ball well at the driving range. With the physical benefit of a good golf workout, as well as the mental benefits of calming relaxation and a boost in confidence, there’s nothing like walking off the range knowing that, for at least a few minutes, you were “Busy Being Fabulous” (Eagles) and you were “Simply the Best” (Tina Turner). Hopefully, our well-spent time at the driving range will also result in the most cherished benefit of all — shaving a stroke or two off our next round.

RICH BERNSTEIN

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The Mental Minute Coming back from failure

By Tom Dorsel Contributor

“Tanking” is a term that has been around for a long time, likely originating in boxing and referring to throwing a fight, taking a dive and deliberately losing. In more recent times, however, the term has been used to refer to losing spectacularly, crashing down and falling apart in the face of one too many perceived failures.

Tanking

“Tanking” has been said by Dr. Jim Loehr to involve a massive chasm between where you are and where you want to get to, the last hurdle you need to cross. Pent-up fear or frustration drives you to tank, get down on yourself and fail again, when actually you are only one step away from the success you are longing for. That last step in crossing the chasm is acceptance, or letting go, allowing yourself the freedom to jump the chasm and finally succeed.

Tanking reminds me of the end stages of anticipatory grief, the grief that occurs when you see a loss coming and feel helpless and hopeless about doing anything about it. Obvious losses include the death of a loved one, the end of a job or career, the loss of a talent or skill, the loss of money and the end of love in a relationship.

In sports, a player works and works, achieves runner-up finishes and other minor successes, but just can’t seem to get into the winner’s circle. Ultimately, such players judge themselves to be failures and become completely discouraged.

The stages of anticipatory grief Elizabeth Kubler-Ross described five stages of anticipatory grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression

and acceptance. “Tanking” would be the depression stage, followed, hopefully, by acceptance.

However, on the way to that end, players will deny their problems, become angry at the situation and try to bargain their way out of it with rationalizations such as: “OK, I’m not good at some aspects of the game, but I’m good enough at everything else that I deserve to win despite a few shortcomings. If only all the unfair obstacles and bad luck would get out of my way, I’d be a star.”

Ultimately, none of these tactics work, and depression, or tanking, sets in, including equally extreme self-talk such as: “I’m not only bad at some aspects of the game, I’m a failure at the whole game. In fact, I’m just lousy as a player and as a person. I’m worthless, a loser, and I can’t do anything about it.”

Pulling yourself out of it

Once you hit bottom and wander around in a daze for a while, some caring person in your life, a friend, spouse, fellow player, coach or psychologist, will likely encourage or challenge you to step back and reassess, figure out what you have to do to perform better, make a realistic game plan and move forward with an attitude of gratitude and acceptance.

You come to recognize that it is not going to be easy, that the game is difficult and that you have to double down and work harder on all aspects of the game. You commit to allowing for both good and bad breaks, to being patient with gradual improvement and to accepting whatever the game gives you on its own timetable. Only then can you cross the chasm and avail yourself of a new life and game on the other side.

Dr. Tom Dorsel is Professor Emeritus of Psychology and a clinical/sport psychologist on Hilton Head Island. His best-selling book is “GOLF: The Mental Game.” Reach Dr. Tom on Facebook or at tom@dorsel.com.

TOM DORSEL

By Ryan Chowansky Contributor

The speed of trust

Six months into officially owning Bluffton Builders, one lesson has become increasingly clear: Homeowners value clarity as much as craftsmanship.

For years, conversations about remodeling have centered on design, materials and construction quality. Those things remain important, but I’ve come to believe that one of the biggest challenges homeowners face has less to do with what gets built and more to do with navigating the process itself.

A typical remodeling project involves a long list of moving parts. Designers, contractors, selections, budgets, schedules and permitting all have to come together at the right time. While each piece may function well on its own, the overall process can sometimes feel overwhelming for homeowners trying to navigate it.

The challenge is not usually a lack of expertise. More often, it is the complexity created when decisions, information and responsibilities are spread across multiple people and multiple stages of a project. Delays in communication can lead to uncertainty, and uncertainty often becomes the most frustrating part of the experience.

What many homeowners seem to value most is not more choices, but greater confidence in the choices they make. They want to understand the process, know what comes next and have realistic expectations about costs, timelines and outcomes.

The experience has reinforced something I’ve come to believe about the industry as a whole: Homeowners don’t hire contractors simply to build things. They hire professionals to help them navigate a complicated process, make informed decisions and reduce uncertainty along the way.

That expectation reflects a broader shift occurring across many industries. People increasingly expect responsiveness, transparency and a clear understanding of what comes next. Remodeling is no exception.

The projects themselves have not become simpler. Material lead times, labor availability, permitting requirements and rising costs continue to challenge both homeowners and construction professionals. Those realities make communication more important than ever.

One homeowner recently told us, “I feel like you guys are actually listening to me.” What stood out wasn’t the compliment itself but what it represented. More than anything, homeowners want to feel informed, understood and confident in the decisions they’re making.

In many ways, communication is not separate from the remodeling experience. It is the remodeling experience. That may be one of the most important lessons for the industry. Communication is not simply a customer service function that happens alongside the work. It is part of the work.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned over the past six months is that quality construction and quality communication go hand in hand. Great craftsmanship will always matter, but increasingly, so will the ability to create an experience that feels organized, transparent and trustworthy from beginning to end.

Those are lessons we’re continuing to learn every day, and they are shaping how we think about the future of remodeling.

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

RYAN CHOWANSKY

Dogs and southern summers

By Abby Bird aka Alphadog Contributor

If you have lived in the Lowcountry for a while and have had a dog, you are likely aware of the fun things to do, as well as the dangers to watch and prepare for. If you have recently gotten a dog or moved here, there are things to know to keep your dog safe while having as much fun as possible.

Summer brings an added concern for dog owners: snakes. Warm weather draws them out, and they are often hidden beneath low-lying bushes, tall grass and other vegetation where they can be difficult to spot. Unfortunately, those are exactly the places dogs love to investigate. Be mindful of where you walk, keep your yard well maintained and trim back overgrown vegetation whenever possible. Chances are good that snakes are present somewhere in your neighborhood, yard or along your favorite walking route, so a little caution can go a long way in keeping both you and your dog safe. Keeping yourself and your dog away from ponds and lagoons is critical. Just because you have never seen an alligator in a particular body of water doesn’t mean one isn’t there. This is not the time of year for scenic strolls along the edge of a pond or lagoon, especially if your dog is curious about movement in the water. A quick drink or an impulsive swim can turn dangerous in an instant. Give

the water’s edge a wide berth and play it safe. Hurricane season is also upon us, and that brings its own set of challenges for dog owners. Whether you plan to ride out a storm at home or evacuate, preparation is key. If your dog needs to go outside during heavy rain and high winds, consider setting up an indoor potty area in the garage using an artificial-grass system. Just be sure your dog is comfortable using it long before a storm arrives. If evacuation becomes necessary, locate pet-friendly accommodations ahead of time and have a go-bag ready with your dog’s crate, food, medications, calming chews if needed, and copies of vaccination and medical records. Travel can be stressful for dogs, and even the best-behaved pets may become anxious, destructive or revert to bad habits such as indoor accidents, chewing or excessive barking.

Of course, summer is also one of the best times to enjoy the beach with your dog. Be sure to check local regulations, as beach access for dogs varies by location and season. Some beaches prohibit dogs altogether, so always check before heading out. Early mornings and late evenings are usually the most enjoyable times to go, especially around high tide. I often recommend using a waterproof long line so your dog can run, play fetch and splash in the surf while remaining safely under your control.

If your dog wears a remote training collar off leash, make sure it is waterproof. Keep in mind that dogs can

overheat quickly, even during cooler parts of the day. The reflected heat from the sand, combined with excitement and exercise, can lead to dehydration before you realize it. Bring plenty of fresh water and consider adding a canine electrolyte supplement to help with hydration. Depending on your dog’s breed and sensitivity to the sun, you may also want to look into pet-safe sunscreen, cooling gear or protective eyewear. Don’t allow your dog to drink salt water, as it can quickly lead to illness. And if your dog enjoys swimming, a canine life vest is inexpensive insurance and can provide extra peace of mind. Floating toys are another great addition and can make beach time even more fun.

The beach is one of the Lowcountry’s greatest treasures, and sharing it with your dog can make the experience even better. Just remember to provide plenty of shade, fresh water and opportunities to cool down so your four-legged companion enjoys the outing as much as you do.

If you have a yard and a dog that loves the water, there’s another easy way to beat the heat. An oversized splash pad — the same type many families buy for their children — can provide hours of entertainment. Kids and dogs alike can cool off, burn energy and have a blast together without ever leaving home.

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

New animal rescue group plans Hilton Head grand opening

By Danie Connolly Contributor

Salty Paws of Lowcountry, a new cat and dog rescue organization, will celebrate its grand opening during a community event scheduled from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 20.

The family-friendly event will be held in the parking lot at 17 Hunter Road on Hilton Head Island. Pets are welcome. The grand opening is sponsored by Carolina Custom Solutions, according to organizers.

Salty Paws of Lowcountry provides support for cats and dogs through a variety of programs and services. The organization said its approach includes community-based pet pantries, adoptions, foster opportunities, assistance with trap, neuter, spay and release efforts, community education and animal welfare initiatives.

According to the organization, those efforts are designed to help animals find support and stability and ultimately permanent homes.

Organizers are inviting residents and visitors to attend the opening celebration and participate in the day’s activities.

Looking towards the future, Salty Paws is planning events, including an auction of pet artwork by renowned local artists and photographers and a fun photoshoot for you and your pet capturing the 1960s in the first ever “Lowcountry Woofstock.” The backbone of Salty Paws of the Lowcountry’s mission is to be community driven.

The organization said its mission is centered on a community-driven approach to animal welfare.

Additional information about Salty Paws of Lowcountry is available on the organization’s website, www.saltypaws-lowcountry.com

Residents invited to weigh in on long-range transportation planning

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

The Lowcountry Council of Governments will host two public information meetings this month as it seeks community input on transportation plans that will help guide future investments across the region.

The meetings will focus on the 2055 Long-Range Transportation Plans for both the Lowcountry Area Transportation Study, known as LATS, and the Lowcountry Council of Governments region.

Residents, business owners and other stakeholders are invited to attend the open-house events, which will be held June 23 in Yemassee and June 24 in Hardeeville. No formal presentations are planned, and officials said the same information will be available at both meetings.

According to the Lowcountry Council of Governments, the long-range plans are designed to guide transportation investments over a period of more than 20 years.

The plans cover both the LATS urban area and the council’s rural planning region, which includes Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper counties.

The planning process examines multiple forms of transportation, including driving, biking, walking, wheeling and transit. Officials said the plans evaluate

current transportation conditions and consider how residents live, work, travel and recreate throughout the region.

Using community feedback and data analysis, planners will identify and prioritize transportation projects intended to shape the region’s transportation network over the next three decades.

Representatives from the Lowcountry Council of Governments will be available at both meetings to answer questions and discuss the planning process.

The meeting for the council’s rural region is scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. June 23 in the board room at the Lowcountry Council of Governments office, 634 Campground Road in Yemassee.

The meeting for the LATS urban region will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. June 24 at Palmetto Electric Cooperative, 1 Cooperative Way in Hardeeville.

In addition to the meetings, the council has opened a public comment period for both transportation plans. Comments will be accepted from June 8 through July 8.

Meeting materials, a public survey and comment forms are available online for residents who wish to provide feedback on transportation priorities and future projects. To submit comments and share priorities for the plan, visit https:// sc-stateplanning.com/lowcountry-council-governments

Do I have Medicare’s “in-home” coverage?

By Nanette Makrauer Contributor

There are two distinct types of “In-Home” care for seniors in Medicare. They are Home Health and Home Care. They sound very similar, but they very different services — especially when it comes to what Medicare covers.

Home health

(Medical care at home)

Home Health is medical care provided in the home and is usually ordered by a doctor after an illness, surgery, hospitalization, or worsening condition. A nurse or therapist visits periodically — not fulltime. Home Health is generally short-term and medically necessary.

Typical services include: Skilled nursing care; Physical therapy; Occupational therapy; Speech therapy; Wound care;

Medication management; Monitoring chronic conditions

Under Original Medicare (Part A and/ or Part B), Medicare generally pays 100% for covered Home Health services if the person qualifies. To qualify, in general, the patient usually must: be under a doctor’s care, need intermittent skilled care, be considered “homebound” (leaving home is difficult), and use a Medicare-certified home health agency.

If these qualifications are met, you can expect Medicare to pay for: Skilled nursing visits; therapy visits; medical social services; some home health aide care only if tied to skilled care, and certain medical supplies. On some plans, you can expect to have some out-of-pocket expenses like 20% coinsurance for durable medical equipment (walker, wheelchair, etc), and any non-covered expenses.

It is important to understand the limitations, however, such as what Medicare does not pay for: 24-hour care; Meal preparation; Housekeeping; Long-term bathing/dressing help by itself.

Home care (Custodial or personalcCare)

In contrast, Home Care focuses on daily

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living assistance, not medical treatment. It is provided by a caregiver or aide and does not require a doctors order.

Examples of typical services include: bathing, dressing, toileting, meal preparation, light housekeeping, companionship, transportation and medication reminders (not administration).

Original Medicare generally does NOT pay for Home Care if it is only personal assistance. That means most families pay either out of pocket, through long-term care insurance, through Medicaid (if financially eligible), or through VA benefits (for qualifying veterans).

Costs vary by location and agency, but many areas average: $25–$40 per hour, or more for overnight or 24-hour care.

In Bluffton and nearby parts of South Carolina, rates are often somewhat lower than large metro areas, but still substantial for ongoing care.

Simple way to remember the difference:

Home health: Medical, nurse or therapist, short-term recovery/support, usually Medicare-covered if qualified, requires doctor order

Home care: Non-medical, caregiver or aide, long-term daily help, usually private

pay, no doctor-order usually needed

Occasionally there is confusion because many people assume Medicare covers bathing help, cooking, supervision for dementia, or full-time in-home caregiving. However, in most cases, it does not, unless those services are part of a short-term skilled Home Health episode.

For example:

• After a hip replacement, Medicare may cover a nurse and physical therapist visiting the home.

• But Medicare usually will not pay someone to stay all day helping with meals and bathing long term.

Some Medicare Advantage plans offer limited supplemental in-home support benefits, such as: a few hours of caregiver help, meal delivery, transportation, or post-hospital support. These benefits vary widely by plan and county.

Makrauer is an independent insurance broker and Certified Medicare Advisor living in Bluffton. nanette@ health-wealth-insurance.com www. health-wealth-insurance.com

NANETTE MAKRAUER

By Tamela Maxim Contributor

It was called the “Great Skedaddle.”

After the Union victory at the Battle of Port Royal in November 1861, a mass civilian flight swept across the South Carolina Lowcountry. Families and businesses left nearly everything behind, including thousands of enslaved people who immediately claimed their freedom.

It was an entire society emptying out, not slowly but in a panic that unfolded over hours and days.

Just 18 months later, on June 4, 1863, Union troops carried out orders under the campaign known as the Bluffton Expedition and burned most of Bluffton. The attack is now remembered as the Burning of Bluffton.

At the time, there were about 60 structures in the village, including homes, summer cottages, outbuildings, shops, churches and sheds. Approximately 40 buildings were destroyed. The Church of the Cross and Campbell Chapel AME Church were spared, along with about 15 private homes.

The Great Skedaddle

Some background:

Union troops were stationed on Hilton Head Island after its capture in 1861. It became the largest Union base in the South. Fort Walker housed more than 10,000 soldiers, and some estimates place the total military presence at twice that number. Hilton Head served as the staging point for Union expeditions along the coast and as headquarters for the South Atlantic Blockading Squadron. Supply depots, docks, hospitals and support facilities quickly transformed the island into a major military center.

On the morning of June 4, 1863, Bluffton was largely a ghost town. Most families had left during the Great Skedaddle. Only a handful of residents remained, along with Confederate pickets and scouts.

Union troops had reason to target Bluffton. Confederate forces frequently crossed the water from Bluffton to Hilton Head, slipping past Union patrols to gather intelligence, raid supplies and harass Union forces.

By midmorning on June 4, Confederates watching from the bluff along the May River would have seen dark smoke and heard the unmistakable sounds of

approaching Union steamers before the vessels came into view. They likely knew immediately what was coming.

About 1,000 Union infantrymen, Marines and sailors moved quickly through Bluffton. The order was given to burn the town. Confederate defenders offered little resistance before retreating inland.

One can imagine what followed. Sparks drifting across the river. The crackling of burning pine. The glow of flames consuming homes, businesses and outbuildings. For those who witnessed it, the scene must have been unforgettable.

Before sunset, Union troops left the charred remains and returned to Hilton Head.

To Union commanders, the attack was justified as a military operation against a community that had become a source of Confederate activity. To those who remained behind, the destruction of Bluffton was something else entirely.

In the years that followed, Bluffton rebuilt. Freedmen and formerly enslaved families acquired land and established new lives in the community.

Among them was Cyrus Garvin, one of Bluffton’s most prominent Black

landowners. By 1868, he was a registered voter. By 1870, he owned property. By 1878, his home, which still stands today as the Garvin-Garvey House, had been built.

Bluffton is also known as the birthplace of the Bluffton Movement, the fiery states’ rights protest of 1844. The town has long attracted people with an independent streak, individuals who think for themselves and resist tidy labels.

Newspaper publisher Graham Bullock even had a name for them. Through The Bluffton Eccentric, he celebrated the quirky, stubborn and unconventional people who made the town what it was.

Graham was one of my favorite curmudgeons. He was not born here, but he understood Bluffton. Maybe that’s the point. You do not have to be born in Bluffton to become a Bluffton eccentric. You simply have to appreciate the place, embrace its independent spirit and refuse to fit neatly into someone else’s box.

Tamela is a proofreader and book editor; she hosts paint parties for adults, art and drama camp for kids, and is the art teacher at May River Montessori. www.tamelamaxim.com

Someone is wishing

By Lucas Jofre Contributor

Lately, I found myself complaining about everything. The coffee was too strong. My truck was too old. The room where I write was too hot. The list seemed endless.

One day, in the middle of what had become my daily “poor little me” routine, I stopped and looked around. I laughed at myself. Here I was, complaining about complaining.

To give you a little perspective about my life, I emigrated from a third-world country located thousands of miles south of here. I walked pretty much everywhere we went, until I bought a used bicycle for twenty pesos. I didn’t have that money so I had to work two whole days from open to close, the total of thirty-two hours. We lived in a two-bedroom house with my grandmother, my dad’s sister with her family of five, and my family of eight. We all shared one bathroom, and the water heater was a five-gallon bucket that hung over

your head, plugged in the wall while you cleaned yourself up. The bedroom measured no more than a hundred square feet. My brother’s bed sat on top of mine, and I am sure my dad somehow bolted it to the wall to prevent it from collapsing on top of me while I slept. That same room also served as our living room, with a table with six chairs, so you can imagine that when everyone got ready to eat whatever my mother had figured out for breakfast, everyone had to be up and ready. Our temperature control system consisted in cracking open the window that led to the neighborhood’s public sidewalk, it gave us a view of the outside world but also gave everyone walking by, a front-row seat of our “private life.”

Today, I am fortunate to live in one of Bluffton’s beautiful communities. I have a great family of my own, two dogs and recently became a grandfather. We are all healthy, and enjoy some of the good things that life has to offer. So why, if all the things that really matter in my life were in a good place, did I find myself complaining? In that moment, I couldn’t really put a finger to it. I would love to tell you that a lightning struck and I had an answer right there, but that didn’t happen.

What did happen was that I took a pen and paper and started writing down all the things someone like me, back home in a little room would be praying about. Within a week, I had filled pages with things I complained about

that someone else might be praying for. These are just a few. If the coffee was too strong, it meant I had plenty of it, along with hot water, and sugar, and the machine to brew it. My truck is too old, but that probably means I’ve been driving a classic and without even knowing it. That old truck is my reliable transportation to work; it takes my son to school every day and lets me visit my grandson now. The room where I write is too hot. However, this room is almost twice the size of my old living room and bedroom combined. In addition, it has its own separate bathroom all for myself, If I open the windows, I hear dozens of birds singing at all times of the day just for me.

The conclusion I reached after I wrote those pages is this: We become so busy building the life we want that we forget to enjoy the life we already have.

As I finish typing these words, I am still sitting in that hot room. A cup of strong coffee is beside me, and in a few minutes I’ll climb into my “classic” truck and head downtown. Funny how some of life’s complaints can start to look a lot like blessings.

Lucas Jofre moved to the Lowcountry from Argentina twenty-six years ago. When he is not spending time with his wife, two sons, and new grandbaby, he enjoys nature, running, and coming up with new stories on paper.

LUCAS JOFRE

Five ways today’s market cycle differs from the dot-com era

By Nick Martin Contributor

With tech stocks pushing to new highs on enthusiasm around transformational technologies, the real question isn’t just momentum. It’s whether markets are becoming frothy, even bubble like, reminiscent of the dot com era.

We don’t think so. The momentum may rhyme, but the foundation is stronger. Today’s tech leaders, including those in our MAGMAN* composite, are highly profitable businesses. That’s a sharp contrast to the late 1990s darlings, which often had little to no earnings and, in some cases, no revenue at all. While the setup may feel familiar, the fundamentals

are very different. Below are five ways this cycle stands apart.

Fundamentals remain supportive

The tech sector has had a strong run – up ~24% year to date – backed by solid fundamentals. Earnings are on track to rise 47% year over year in 2026, following 20%+ growth in both 2024 and 2025. While tech earnings followed a similar path in 1999, jumping over 50%, they quickly faded as revenue growth slowed to just 8% in 2000 and turned negative in 2001. Today, the key difference is visibility. Ongoing demand for AI and the semiconductor investment cycle point to a more durable growth path, with consensus still expecting ~30% earnings-per-share growth next year. And with margins near all-time highs – about three times late-1990s levels – we expect earnings to remain a sustained tailwind for the sector. With earnings growth outpacing price performance year to date, valuations have become more attractive.

The US economy isn’t overheating

The US economy is tracking toward

2.4% growth in 2026, solid compared to other developed markets but far from “overheating.” With growth steady and the labor market stabilizing after a soft patch in late 2025, the Federal Reserve (Fed) has little urgency to tighten policy –we believe it is more likely on a prolonged pause – despite some near-term inflation pressure from tariffs and oil. That’s a sharp contrast to the late 1990s when growth ran above 4% from 1997 to 2000 and the Fed raised rates by 175 basis points between June 1999 and May 2000. That rapid tightening became a key catalyst in the unwind of the dot-com bubble.

Speculation is not rampant

With the tech heavy Nasdaq up ~40% over the past year, it’s natural to question whether momentum is getting stretched. But today’s environment still falls well short of the extremes seen in 1999. At the peak of the dot com bubble, the Nasdaq surged more than 114% year over year, with ~20% of its components rising more than 200%.

Today, that figure is just 6%. Just as

important, the nature of speculation is very different. In 1999, markets rewarded “clicks over profits,” with companies like Pets.com symbolizing a willingness to chase growth without a clear path to earnings. Valuations reflected that disconnect, with the NASDAQ trading above 100x trailing earnings. Today, valuations are closer to ~32x, much more in line with recent five-year averages. In other words, while momentum is strong, market conditions remain far more grounded than during the late 1990s cycle.

Upcoming IPOs are not a redux of 1999

The late 1990s saw a surge in IPOs, many from speculative companies with little to no revenue. Around 500 US companies went public in 1999, compared to just 90 in 2025. A new wave of tech IPOs – names like SpaceX, Anthropic and OpenAI – could rank among the largest ever, raising echoes of the dot com era. But the backdrop is very different.

NICK MARTIN

Even if total IPO proceeds top $250 billion this year – well above the $137 billion peak in 2021 – IPO activity as a share of market cap is roughly half of late 1990s levels (0.3% vs. 0.6%). At the same time, the market is better equipped to absorb new supply, supported by faster index inclusion – potentially within five days for Russell indices and 15 days for the Nasdaq – and the surge in passive investing, with AUM growing from $389 billion in 1999 to $19 trillion today. Just as importantly, companies are coming public at a more mature stage, with the average time to IPO extending to ~12 years from about four years in 1999.

AI is more of an evolution rather than a revolution Technology today is far more deeply embedded in both daily life and the broader economy than it was in the late 1990s. Back then, US computer penetration didn’t even exceed 50% until 2000, and many households still lacked internet access. Learning to use computers and then navigate the internet required a meaningful behavioral shift, and that took time.

By contrast, AI is being layered onto an already digital world. Using AI to access and analyze information is more incremental, closer to adding new functionality like a new app to enhance what you already do, rather than starting from scratch. And because these tools are being built directly into familiar platforms, adoption is happening more seamlessly and with broad business investment and support across a wide spectrum of industries. The result? A faster uptake and a smoother adoption curve, supporting a more durable growth path than the boom bust cycle of the late 1990s.

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.

Bluffton event to provide free school supplies to educators

Lowcountry Community Church is preparing to host its third annual School Staff Appreciation Brunch on Aug. 1, with organizers expecting as many as 350 teachers, administrators and school employees from across the Lowcountry.

The free event will be held at the church’s campus at 801 Buckwalter Parkway, across from Bluffton High School.

In partnership with Coastal Shores Landscaping, organizers plan to provide each attendee with a box of school supplies donated by members of the Bluffton community. Participants will also receive breakfast and hear a brief message of encouragement.

The event began in 2023 with 75 attendees and has grown steadily. According to the church, more than 250 educators attended last year’s brunch.

“This brunch is our way of saying: your work matters, your sacrifice doesn’t go

unnoticed, and you have a whole community standing behind you,” said Liz Lucarini, outreach director at Lowcountry Community Church.

Lucarini said teachers often invest significant amounts of their own time, energy and personal funds because they believe in their students.

Organizers are encouraging school staff to register by June 20 to assist with planning for supplies and event logistics. Registration is free and open to teachers, administrators and school staff throughout the Lowcountry.

The School Staff Appreciation Brunch is part of the church’s annual outreach efforts, which also include school supply drives and community projects.

To sign up or donate visit www.lowcountrycc.org/event-listings/2026/8/1/ school-staff-appreciation-brunch

NOW HIRING: AMAZING TEACHERS!

Love kids? Love making a difference? So do we.

The Children’s Center is growing, and looking for caring, dedicated teachers team. We’re looking for individuals with a genuine passion for early childhood education and child development, along with strong communication and collaboration skills. There is an especially high need for infant and toddler teachers.

By Paul Tollefson Contributor

When residents of Beaufort County opened their newspapers in August 1978, they were greeted by a headline that must have seemed almost impossible to believe.

A prisoner had escaped from the Beaufort County Jail.

That alone was newsworthy. What nobody knew at the time was that the escape was only the beginning of a story that would stretch from a small country store in Pritchardville to the rooftops of New York City, involve multiple manhunts, a hacksaw blade hidden inside a Bible, and even a connection to the Murdaugh family long before the name became known nationwide.

Like many of the best stories buried in old Lowcountry newspapers, it started in a place that no longer exists.

The Pritchardville Country Store was once a familiar sight along the road between Bluffton and Hardeeville. Long before the subdivisions, shopping centers and endless traffic of today, Pritchardville was little more than a crossroads community. The country store was where people bought groceries, picked up supplies and exchanged the latest local news. It was the sort of place where a stranger would be noticed and where everyone seemed to know everyone else’s business.

In late 1977, that quiet routine was shattered when armed men reportedly entered the store and robbed it. The crime quickly became a topic of conversation throughout the area. Before long, authorities arrested a Savannah man, whom we’ll call Erick Wilson, and charged him in connection with the robbery.

With Wilson locked away in the Beaufort County Jail awaiting trial, most people assumed the story was nearing its end. Instead, it was about to become far more interesting.

According to newspaper reports, Wilson somehow obtained a hacksaw blade while being held in jail. Investigators would later discover that the blade had reportedly been concealed inside a Bible. Exactly how it made its way into the jail remains one of

Tales from the Lowcountry Prison escape

the more intriguing details of the story.

What is known is that Wilson put the blade to work.

Day after day, while jailers went about their normal routines, he slowly cut through the steel bars of the jail bullpen. The work required patience. It required secrecy. Most of all, it required time. Yet somehow, he managed to complete the task without anyone realizing what was happening.

Then came the early morning hours of Aug. 20, 1978.

Sometime before dawn, Wilson squeezed through the opening he had cut into the bars and began making his escape. Getting out of the cell area was only the first obstacle. He still had to cross the jail grounds, make his way through the exercise yard and climb two barbedwire fences.

Standing between him and freedom were three German shepherd guard dogs. How he managed to avoid them remains unclear. Newspaper accounts offered few details, and perhaps no one ever truly knew. What is certain is that when deputies conducted their count later that morning, Wilson was gone. The realization set off immediate alarm.

Sheriff Morgan McCutcheon and his deputies launched a search. Law enforcement agencies throughout South Carolina and Georgia were alerted. Leads were investigated. Roadways were watched. Tips were followed.

Nothing. Days passed with no sign of the fugitive. Then weeks. Then months.

For residents around Bluffton, Beaufort and Hardeeville, the story became one of those mysteries that seemed to grow larger with every passing week. People discussed it at restaurants, barber shops, church gatherings and around kitchen tables. Everyone had a theory. Some believed Wilson had fled the state within hours of escaping. Others were convinced he was hiding much closer to home.

Meanwhile, newspaper reporters kept checking in with authorities, only to receive the same answer.

They still didn’t know where he was.

As one month turned into the next, the escape became less of a crime story and more of a legend. The fact that a man had managed to break out of the Beaufort County Jail and simply disappear seemed almost unbelievable.

Then, more than a year after the escape, authorities finally got their answer.

Wilson had not remained in South Carolina, nor had he remained in Georgia.

In fact, he had made his way all the way to Brooklyn, New York.

For many local readers, that revelation alone would have been shocking enough. Yet the story was about to take another unexpected turn.

When federal agents attempted to arrest Wilson in Brooklyn, newspaper reports stated that he fled across the rooftops of city buildings in an effort to escape capture. Imagine reading that in Beaufort County in 1979. The man who had escaped from a local jail cell was now running across New York rooftops like something out of a movie.

Eventually, authorities caught him and prepared to return him to South Carolina. At long last, it appeared the story was finally over.

It wasn’t.

After being returned to custody, Wilson was eventually taken to a Columbia hospital for medical treatment. According to newspaper accounts, he reportedly faked an illness and managed to escape once again.

A second escape.

By this point, one can only imagine the frustration felt by the officers responsible for keeping track of him. Every time authorities seemed to have the situation under control, Wilson found another opportunity to disappear.

Unlike the first escape, however, this chapter did not last nearly as long. Authorities eventually recaptured him and returned him to prison, where the long-running saga finally came to an end.

Eventually, Wilson’s luck ran out for good.

After his second escape and recapture, a judge sentenced him to two years in

prison for the escapes that had kept law enforcement officers chasing him across multiple states and fascinated newspaper readers throughout South Carolina. It was a fitting end to a saga that had begun with a robbery at a small country store in Pritchardville and somehow expanded into one of the most unusual criminal stories Beaufort County had ever seen. One interesting footnote to the story involves a name many readers will recognize today. During the effort to extradite Wilson from New York back to South Carolina, paperwork passed through the office of Solicitor Randolph “Buster” Murdaugh. Decades before the Murdaugh name would dominate national headlines, it was simply another familiar name appearing in the pages of Lowcountry newspapers.

Today, the Pritchardville Country Store is gone. The quiet crossroads community that surrounded it has largely disappeared beneath neighborhoods, shopping centers and busy roads. Thousands of people pass through the area every day without realizing that one of Beaufort County’s strangest stories began there. Yet hidden away in old newspaper archives is the tale of a robbery suspect who reportedly hid a hacksaw blade inside a Bible, cut his way through steel bars, slipped past guard dogs, vanished for more than a year, resurfaced in New York City, led authorities on a rooftop chase through Brooklyn, escaped custody a second time and somehow managed to stay one step ahead of the law longer than anyone thought possible.

When we look back at the history of Bluffton and the surrounding communities, we often focus on the people who built churches, ran stores, harvested oysters or helped shape the Lowcountry we know today. But every once in a while, an old newspaper reveals a different kind of story, one so unbelievable that it sounds more like fiction than fact.

This is one of those stories, and it all started at the Pritchardville Country Store.

Paul Tollefson is the Director of Tennis at the Hampton Hall Club. After moving from Hilton Head to Bluffton he became enthralled with the history of the town and the people and cultures that call it home. 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.”

PAUL TOLLEFSON

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