The Bluffton Sun • June 17, 2025

The Bluffton Sun

Local restaurateur Orchid Paulmeier returns to national spotlight on Food Network’s ‘BBQ Brawl’

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

Nearly two decades after first stepping onto a Food Network set, Orchid Paulmeier is back in the national spotlight. The longtime Bluffton and Hilton Head restaurateur and owner of One Hot Mama’s is among the dozen competitors on the latest season of BBQ Brawl: Flay v. Chauhan v. Lofaso, which premiered June 1st on Food Network.

Filmed in Austin, Texas, this season pits teams of barbecue pitmasters against each other under the mentorship of celebrity chefs Bobby Flay, Maneet Chauhan and Antonia Lofaso. For Paulmeier, the show marks a return not just to national television, but to the spirit of culinary competition that first introduced her to audiences on The Next Food Network Star in 2011.

“This was probably one of the best experiences I’ve ever had,” Paulmeier said in an interview. “It was truly a cooking competition — not just about personality or presentation. How I cook and who I cooked for has completely changed. I think I just approached it in a completely different way.”

Paulmeier, who has called the Lowcountry home since the early 2000s, opened One Hot Mama’s in Bluffton in 2003 and expanded to Hilton Head in 2007. The restaurant is known for its Southern barbecue staples, including brisket, pork, ribs and wings. While she’s spent most of the past 20 years behind the pass, she’s been named a 2016 South Carolina Chef Ambassador and one of the Featured Chefs at the James Beard House Dinner. Paulmeier said the show gave her a chance to rediscover her competitive edge and remind audiences of her culinary roots.

Dubbed the “Mama Bear” of the series, Paulmeier relishes this new phase of life.

“Back then, my kids were in elementary school,” she said of her first Food Network experience. “Now, they’re grown. I just moved my daughter to D.C. the same weekend the show premiered. I’m a full-fledged empty nester mom now so definitely that comes across.”

BBQ Brawl features 12 contestants competing over 10 weeks in grilling and smoking challenges that test their speed, creativity and endurance. Unlike traditional “low and slow” barbecue,

Orchid Paulmeier on the latest season of BBQ Brawl: Flay v. Chauhan v. Lofaso

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BBQ BRAWL FROM

many of the episodes demand quick turnarounds — dishes completed in 30 minutes or less using live fire techniques.

Paulmeier joined Team Bobby Flay, a choice that felt like a full-circle moment. The two had previously met on Food Network Star, and she said his guidance remains just as sharp.

This season includes unique challenges, including a global grilling episode, an Argentinian Asado Iron Cross cook, and even a “Brawlers vs. Captains” showdown. The winner will be crowned “Master of ‘Cue” and receive a dedicated platform across Food Network’s digital channels.

“This season has something for everyone,” Flay said in a press release. “Whether you are a professional grill master, a weekend warrior or simply love the smokey char of barbecue done right.”

Paulmeier is no stranger to any of those audiences. A longtime advocate for outdoor cooking, she said she hopes viewers feel encouraged to get outside and grill, no matter their experience level.

“People sometimes get intimidated by live fire cooking, but they shouldn’t be,” she said. “If you’ve been eyeing a grill or

smoker, go get it. The kiss of fire adds flavor you just can’t replicate in the kitchen. I’m hoping that people are inspired to grill all summer.”

While the show is clearly a competition, Paulmeier said it also became a journey centered around rediscovery.

“I’m taking the time to do this, and kind of reinvent myself and revisit the things that I haven’t done in the past. I think that’s my next journey: what’s going to happen in my second half? I hope that inspires other people to realize they don’t have to settle for what they’re doing right now.”

The experience also gave her a new sense of camaraderie. Unlike her appearance on Food Network Star, which was more individualistic, BBQ Brawl emphasizes team dynamics.

“I am a total team player. I love the camaraderie. You’re with these people, cooking side-by-side, and we all love to barbecue and grill. It doesn’t get better than that.” said Paulmierer “We have a great group chat going, so we’re all still in touch with each other”

The show’s challenges weren’t always

traditional barbecue. “This was not low and slow type of competition, it was hot and fast. We got 30 minutes to cook something, so it was different in that sense, but the different flavor profiles were indications of where people are from and what their influences were.”

She’s also got a few tips for home cooks trying to up their barbecue game.

“A lot of people make the mistake of putting sauce on too early,” she said. “I always suggest to wait. Don’t be tempted to put barbecue sauce on at the start and begin cooking with it. Especially with live fire, you have to wait for the last 4 to 5 minutes to put any sauce on otherwise it’s going to burn. You always want to add it and let it just caramelize at the end.”

While Paulmeier won’t share any spoilers — “never,” she said with a laugh — she is looking forward to the rest of the season and what comes next.

“I was watching it for the first time along with everyone else,” she said. “That’s the fun part — seeing how it all came together. I’m excited for all of y’all to stay tuned this summer.”

For now, fans can follow Paulmeier’s journey on BBQ Brawl every Sunday at 9 p.m. on Food Network or stream episodes the next day on Max. Updates are also available through the Food Network website and social platforms using the hashtag #BBQBrawl.

Whether she takes home the title or not, Paulmeier has our vote.

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Correction:

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An article about beach passes in the June 3 issue incorrectly referred to Hilton Head Island residents. It should have said Town of Hilton Head residents. We regret the error.

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EDITORIAL

Legislative recap

By Rep. Weston Newton Contributor

As a member of the SC House of Representatives for Beaufort and Jasper Counties, I take seriously the responsibility of keeping you informed about the work being done on your behalf in Columbia. It is an honor to represent our community in the South Carolina House and to serve as Chairman of the Judiciary Committee.

As I reported last month in this column, the House recently completed the first year of 2025-2026 legislative session. This month I want to share a breif summary of some of the other important work that I was involved in this year, including legislative efforts focused on tax relief, economic growth, infrastructure, education, public safety, and strengthening our communities.

This year’s state budget focused on conservative fiscal management while addressing real needs across South Carolina. It includes $1 billion in tax relief, $200 million in income tax cuts, and $800 million in property tax relief.

It also raises starting teacher salaries to $48,500 (significantly higher than the 2017 salary of $28,190), allocates $45 million to fund the school choice initiative for up to 10,000 eligible K-12 students of South Carolina’s 770,000 K-12 public school students and provides a School Resource Officer in

every public school across the state. SC DOT will receive $200 million to speed up the repair and replacement of aging bridges and $35 million to continue to clean up debris caused by Hurricane Helene.

The budget includes $500 million to renovate and build new university facilities (including nonrecurring dollars - $9,250,000 for the last installment of state funds to build the USCB Convocation Center) and nearly $85 million for maintenance, renovation, and repairs for the state’s technical colleges including $1,000,000 for facilities at TCL.

The budget increases pay across law enforcement agencies and invests in criminal justice initiatives, including the Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

One of the most exciting accomplishments this year in the House was the passage of H4216- a comprehensive income tax plan that puts our state on a responsible path to eliminate the income tax altogether. I was proud to support this legislation, which cuts government spending and devotes more than $400 million in immediate tax relief. It lowers the top marginal tax rate from 6.2% to 5.39% and charts a path toward a flat 1.99% rate -eventually reaching full elimination if economic conditions continue to improve. I also supported legislation cutting personal property tax rate for boat owners.

To help business and entrepreneurs, I voted for the Small Business Regulatory Freedom Act, which ends outdated regulations, prevents unelected bureaucrats from imposing new rules without oversight, and helps ensure entrepreneurs and job creators can grow without being

buried in red tape.

As discussed previously in detail, I was proud to lead in the passage of the sweeping liquor liability reform and long-overdue updates to our state’s joint and several liability laws which ensures business are only held responsible for their share of fault, not punished for the actions of others.

With fentanyl continuing to ravage communities across our state, I proudly supported the Fentanyl-Induced Homicide bill, which makes it a felony to unlawfully provide fentanyl that results in a death. Finally, I supported legislation to penalize high-speed chases, to make our roads safer ( South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act) and to create a new criminal offense for the disclosure of intimate images -including AI-generated “deepfakes” protecting victims from a growing form of online abuse in the digital age.

Although session in Columbia is over for the year, my work does not stop. This is the time of year that we have more time to meet with constituents in the district. Further, committee work continues yearround and I remain committed to staying engaged on the issues that matter most to our district.

I always welcome input from constituents- it helps me guide my work as a representative of the Beaufort and Jasper Counties. It is an honor and privilege to represent the citizens of the Lowcountry. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if I may be of assistance.

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

WESTON NEWTON

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Alljoy sidewalk gets state approval, receives project bids

By Channing Heiss Contributor

Beaufort County has been granted SCDOT approval for the proposed sidewalk in the Alljoy neighborhood, according to an update from the County’s Alljoy liaison Matt Krause.

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The approval, which was followed by a bid submission period that closed on June 6th, clears the way for the eventual construction of the path, which has been the subject of debate for several years between County officials and Alljoy neighborhood advocates.

Speaking about the project approval at the June 9th Beaufort County Council meeting, Councilman Mark Lawson expressed gratitude to those responsible and estimated the project would be completed in about six months.

Disagreements over the project have included the environmental impact of the planned concrete paving, especially with regard to potential runoff into the May River, as well as aesthetics and conflicts between development opportunities and resident rights.

One of the most discussed issues has been that of pervious versus impervious surfaces in the boat landing area and on the proposed sidewalk. Advocates have championed the use of natural materials for both neighborhood aesthetics

and environmental stewardship, saying that pervious materials allowing water and pollutants to flow through would alleviate flooding and river pollution. However, the project is being done under the authority of the SCDOT whose construction standard is to use concrete for sidewalks.

In response to an email inquiry about the environmental impact of the sidewalk project, officials at the Department of Environmental Services explained that they studied the proposal and the area before issuing the permit in December of 2023 and had determined the project complied with environmental regulations and would not degrade the local environment. They also stated that they may perform compliance inspections.

After having attended a County sponsored Alljoy issue meeting on June 5th, Laura Wilson of Preserve and Protect Alljoy said that, while they remain concerned and are disappointed by the process and the outcome, they do not have plans to contest the sidewalk issue any further but will continue to advocate for the concerns of Alljoy residents.

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

By Mark Winn Contributor

A good estate plan will avoid “The Last Minute Switcheroo”

If you want to structure your legal affairs so as to (1) make sure your assets will stay in your family for generations, (2) leave assets to loved ones protected from lawsuits including divorce (3) have your loved ones be able to take steps to qualify you for government benefits such as Medicaid, (4) avoid the acceleration of income taxes on retirement accounts, (5) avoid estate taxes, and (6) keep your affairs private and out of the view of the general public, then you need a good estate plan.

A good estate plan for you and your family will also avoid the last minute switcheroo?

Without careful guidance and representation from a qualified attorney, then you will not achieve the above benefits. After having represented more than 2,000 people over the course of more than one decade, I have seen many cases where the survivor altered the ultimate distribution of assets, sometimes disinheriting people that the first spouse did not want disinherited.

This is “the last minute switcheroo” most want to avoid. The solution to this is to leave assets “in trust” with vested remainder interests and to use an agreement not to alter the plan.

Let’s say, for example, Harold and Amelia (the clients) have two children: Hobbs and Elon. The clients are in their late 60’s and they want to make sure Hobbs and Elon will inherit what is left over in equal shares. They also want to make sure that it will not be subject to loss in divorce if either of their children get divorced. They also want to make sure their kids can try and qualify them for Medicaid should they become disabled. Okay, so what should they do?

They should each make sure their

papers direct their assets (upon survivor’s passing) go to their children in two separate trusts. Each child can be the trustee of their own trust. Each child will therefore have total control of the trust which is for their benefit. It will be protected from loss if they get sued (exceptions: IRS and child support). But, in all other cases, the creditors will be out of luck. This is like a built in prenuptial agreement for your assets. Harold and Amelia can also make sure when their kids pass that the

remaining funds will go to grandchildren and not in laws.

If Harold and Amelia do not sign an agreement not to alter the plan, then if Amelia survives, there is nothing preventing her from being taken advantage of by someone else in the future or from her getting remarried and her changing the disposition of her property. Under South Carolina law, an agreement not to alter the plan gives the children rights that are enforceable in court.

So, if Amelia survives and then redirects her property to a new love interest, or if she is unduly influenced to change her papers, the children (Hobbs and Elon) will be able to assert their rights in court and have Amelia’s new will or amendment to her trust set aside. This preserves their inheritance and avoids the last minute switcheroo.

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

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JustServe teams with Beta Club to support shoe drive

By Heather Chapman Contributor

“Shoe Us the Love!” “Shoe Us the Love!” That was the cheer at Bluffton Middle School as students rallied behind a heartwarming cause. Local members of the school’s Junior Beta Club and National Junior Honor Society launched a community-wide shoe drive aimed at making a global impact.

Dedicated 6th, 7th, and 8th graders united to support Microenterprise Collective initiatives, which empowers individuals in developing countries to rise out of poverty. Unlike traditional donation drives, these gently-used shoes aren’t simply given away. Instead, they become the seeds of small, sustainable businesses.

Dr. Linda Tuttle, a math teacher at Bluffton Middle School and mentor of both the Junior Beta Club and National Junior Honor Society, directed the project with a deeper educational purpose. This effort was about more than collecting shoes; it was about helping students understand the root causes of systemic poverty and how tangible resources—like footwear—can enable others to build commerce ecosystems in areas where jobs are scarce and entrepreneurship is essential. Elli Epps said, “Serving with my friends to help was fun, exciting, and interesting work.”

Shoes of all sizes, styles, and colors were collected as students encouraged family, friends, and neighbors to join the cause. Sixth grader Coleman Loader shared the project with his family, who then invited their neighborhood to sort through their closets. They also recommended the drive to JustServe, a free platform that connects volunteers with service opportunities. Once listed on JustServe’s website and app, the Bluffton shoe drive reached an even broader audience, helping the donations grow.

Fellow student Graham Jacobs reflected on how easy it was to join the initia-

tive: “It’s always good to donate your extras to people in need. It feels good to help without sacrificing anything.”

The idea behind the project is both simple and powerful: donated shoes are collected, cleaned, and repaired by Microenterprise partners. Entrepreneurs in struggling communities then sell the refurbished footwear, using the profits to support their families and reinvest in their businesses.

Take David, for example—a Haitian entrepreneur who received 24 pairs of “seed shoes” to launch his street-side shop. Starting with just a thin rug and hope, David sold out quickly and returned for more inventory with the profits from the first 24 shoes. Now a regular vendor at the Port-au-Prince Market, he and his wife are building a sustainable livelihood while uplifting other families in their community.

David’s story is one of more than 4,000 success stories worldwide, all sparked by donated shoes. Middle schooler Korben Chirinos explained, “I am happy that I helping people be successful by collecting shoes from our community.”

Beyond the economic benefits, the initiative helps the environment. In the United States alone, 16 million tons of textiles—including shoes—end up in landfills each year, making up nearly 66% of land-based waste. On average, each American generates about 4.5 pounds of trash daily. Repurposing shoes not only supports families in need but also helps reduce environmental waste.

Thanks to Bluffton Middle School’s Junior Beta Club and the community’s generosity, this “shoe-raiser” is stepping up to change lives—one pair at a time.

For more information about the economics of shoe drives, as well as how to post other events for volunteers, visit shoeswithheart.com and justserve.org.

A recent transplant to the Lowcountry, Heather Chapman is learning the ways of humidified hair and salted grits. She’s quickly fallen in love with the ocean and marshes. A writer, hairstylist, and PMU artist—Heather juggles her career with family life, as a wife and mother of four in a blended family of nine. She often daydreams about spare time and a full night’s sleep. Her books are available on Amazon.

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The role of circulation in nerve recovery: why blood flow matters (and why waiting doesn’t help)

By Dr. Kenneth Horup Contributor

Let us be honest—most people do not wake up one day and suddenly think, “Wow, I cannot feel my feet, I better call someone right now!” Nope. It usually creeps in like a sneaky raccoon; quiet, gradual, and easy to ignore.

Even patients in their 70s or 80s can turn things around when they catch it early. I have seen it. Real improvements. Real recovery. All because someone said, “You know what? This doesn’t feel right. I’m going to get it checked.”

Look for the clues: your body is talking

•  Your balance is off, and you start looking like you are dodging invisible puddles.

•  You need to touch furniture “just in case” more often than you used to.

•  Your feet feel numb, tingly, or like they are wearing fuzzy socks (when they are not).

•  You are not sure where the ground is anymore… but it used to be right there.

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You might think: “My legs feel heavier these days… probably just age.” Or “My balance is off… must be the new shoes.” Perhaps it’s “My feet are tingly… maybe I slept funny.” Next thing you know, you are tiptoeing around furniture like it is a minefield just to avoid falling over when the floor disappears under your feet.

But here is the deal: numbness, tingling, burning, or wobbliness aren’t “normal aging.” They are your nerves sending a smoke signal: “Hey! Something’s wrong down here!” Your nerves are not lazy. They want to do their job; feel, move, sense, stabilize. But like any hardworking crew, they need supplies: oxygen, nutrients, and blood flow.

These are not aging quirks. These are warning signs. And the earlier we respond, the better we can help your nerves bounce back.

Final thoughts from the front lines.

If you have been telling yourself, “It’s just part of getting older,” it is time to rewrite that story. Nerve problems are not part of aging. They are part of ignored circulation problems. And guess what? Circulation can be improved. Nerves can be supported. Outcomes can be better. The secret? Don’t wait. Take action. Your feet (and your independence) will thank you later.

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Think of circulation as Amazon Prime for your nervous system. Without it, the delivery gets delayed… and so does your healing. Poor blood flow means your nerves are running on empty. And nerves that do not get enough oxygen or nutrients slow down, glitch out, or just go offline altogether.

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

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Why early action wins the battle.

Here is what too many people get wrong: they wait until things get bad, like “my feet feel like they are wrapped in duct tape” bad, before doing anything. But the best time to act is when the symptoms are just whispering. That is when nerves respond the best. That is when the fire is still small enough to put out with a bucket of water instead of calling the fire department.

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By Dr. Jean Harris Contributor

Why do you slice your driver?

Many of the articles you read say that 90 percent of amateur golfers slice the ball. Thus, you aren’t alone if you slice your driver.

There are many reasons why you slice the ball. Here are some of the causes and the “cures” for the faults.

Since only 12 percent of golfers are left-handed, these suggestions for the right-handed golfer.

Grip – Make sure the grip on your club is the correct size for your hands. Too large a grip could cause you to hold on too tight and not be able to release the clubhead after impact.

Too small a grip could cause your right hand to be too much on top of the grip in a “weak” position. If this is the case, move both hands slightly to the right so the “V’s” formed by your thumb and index finger are pointing at your right armpit.

Equipment – The correct club is vital. If is very important to look at is the shaft flex of your driver. If the shaft is too stiff, you will tend to leave the ball to the right. Also look at the degrees loft of your

driver. Most amateurs need more loft on their drivers. Adjustable drivers can let you increase the loft and move more weight to club head’s heel. Most amateurs need at least 12 to 14 degrees loft.

Ball position - Start by getting the ball in the correct ball position in your stance at address. For a driver, you need to move the ball forward in your stance. It is also important that you have a slight tilt in

your shoulders with your left shoulder higher at address. This will enable you to contact the ball on the “upswing”.

Swing Path – Most slicers have an “outside in” swing path. This is caused by swinging from the top of your backswing to impact across the ball to your left. This feels very natural. A cure for this is keeping your right shoulder underneath your left and behind the ball at impact.

Open Clubface – One of the places in your swing that you could open the clubface is on your “takeaway.” Make sure that you take the club back with your arms and shoulders and not let your wrist take the club back too inside which opens the clubface. You can also open the clubface at impact when the left arm stays straight on the forward swing too long which delays the “release” of the clubface with your right forearm.

Work on one area of your swing at a time and see which suggestion helps you the most.

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

Softball

By Justin Jarrett Contributor

Move over, boys of summer, because these girls can ball.

Lowcountry summers have long led to intoxication with the prowess of area allstar baseball teams, many of whom have ventured from Hilton Head, Beaufort, or Bluffton to various DYB World Series in far-off locales like Hattiesburg or Shreveport to represent the Palmetto State, the Lowcountry, and their hometowns.

The state champs have hailed from the Lowcountry frequently enough over the years to consider it a hotbed for youth baseball talent, and that has been borne out in recent years with a rash of state championships and deep playoff runs from area high school teams, as well as a flood of area players advancing on to play at the next level, including a handful

who have climbed all the way to the big leagues.

Without doubt, the all-star teams from Hilton Head and Bluffton are set to field juggernaut squads again this summer, a product of strong rec leagues coupled with travel teams that allow the most talented and dedicated players to continue training and playing after the brief rec season is complete.

For the first time, we’re seeing the same energy from the local softball community. Sure, there have been pockets of success and plenty of outstanding players who found their way to regional travel teams and navigated a mostly uncharted path to playing in college, but the infrastructure to develop quality players on a larger scale is just now taking shape.

SOFTBALL

FROM PAGE 16A

Bluffton’s rec softball leagues have seen a massive boom in recent seasons, and Beaufort is blazing up the same path and trying to close the gap. Hilton Head is fighting to get its youth softball program off the ground at the same time Hilton Head Prep and Hilton Head Christian Academy launched high school programs. Travel teams are proliferating at an almost alarming rate as girls fall in love with the sport and families scramble to keep up with the Joneses.

All of this comes at a prime time for the sport of softball, which is kind of having a moment.

Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens stayed viral this spring by continuously breaking her own record for the fastest pitch ever — topping out at 79.4mph in the Women’s College World Series; the equivalent of 110mph from a regulation baseball mound — and that still wasn’t enough to get the Vols to the championship.

From Texas’ Mia Scott blasting home runs and taking away hits at third base with a torn ACL to Texas Tech’s NiJaree Canady carrying an upstart program on her shoulders all the way to the brink of a title to Nebraska’s Jordy Bahl dominating in the circle and at the plate, college softball

has become a sport in which every little girl can see someone who looks like her making spectacular plays and having a blast doing it.

And now, just as our girls are getting their chance in the spotlight, so to are their idols. With the launch of the Athletes Unlimited Softball League, today’s college stars are set to be tomorrow’s pros, and with the recent announcement that Major League Baseball will provide significant financial backing to support the league, our girls’ diamond dreams will know no bounds.

The 12-and-under softball all-stars are in action this week at Burton Wells Park in Beaufort, and the district champs will advance to the state tournament along with last weekend’s winning 8-and-under and 10-and-under teams from Bluffton.

How far they go from here is largely up to them, but they should have our support every step of the way. Because these girls can play.

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

Bluffton Ranked Among Safest Cities in South Carolina by SafeWise

Bluffton has been named the fifth safest city in South Carolina, according to the 2025 Safest Cities report released by SafeWise, a national home security and safety resource.

The ranking is based on the most recent FBI crime data and highlights Bluffton’s low rates of violent and property crime. The report credits the efforts of local leadership, first responders, and residents for creating a secure and connected community.

“At a time when safety is top of mind for many Americans, Bluffton is standing out as a place where people feel protected, neighbors look out for each

other, and community investments in safety are paying off,” the report stated.

The full report and list of ranked cities can be viewed at safewise.com.

SafeWise encourages local officials and residents to celebrate the recognition and continue sharing safety resources, including guides on fire safety, internet safety for children, home maintenance checklists, and senior home safety tips.

Bluffton’s recognition places it ahead of most municipalities in the state and underscores its commitment to public safety as a core community value.

Mathew Epps MD, MS, DABS Jane Epps RN, BSN

Experts urge early action, better hair habits to prevent hair loss

By Joy Ross Contributor

More than 80 percent of men and 50 percent of women will suffer from some sort of hair loss in their lifetime. The average person loses from 25 to 100 hairs a day, which is part of the normal growth cycle. But for some people hair loss goes beyond the average.

Men are easier to diagnose than women with hair loss. For men it’s often either a genetic problem or it’s a hormone issue. Both are correctable if the thinning has just started or you’re not completely bald.

The causes of hair loss in women are a little harder to diagnose. Stress may play a part of hair loss. Women seem to be more bogged down with stress (of course this is a generalization.) Additionally, women’s hormones typically are more temperamental than a man’s. Thyroid issues are more prevalent in women as well. There are plenty of medications that have hair loss as a side effect, so that

something for both men and women to be aware of.

In some men, testosterone levels play a large part in their hair loss.

If you wear baseball caps all the time it could be causing hair loss instead of hiding it. When covering your head with the cap, the oils get trapped in your hair and scalp, wreaking havoc on the health of your hair follicles.

It can be a double-edged sword though because the Lowcountry sun is so intense here it could also kill the hair follicle if it’s beating down on your head; especially if you work outside.

What should you do if you notice your hair begin to thin? There are many commercial remedies for hair loss on the market these days. Most of them are offer limited success, sorry to say. Minoxidil and Propecia are very popular. Minoxidil requires ongoing application—if you stop, hair growth is reversed and may return to pre-treatment levels. Human nature is such that when it starts working, we stop. It’s a remedy only if you use it for the rest

of your life.

Propecia is approved for use by men, It’s not FDA-approved for female use. Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive must avoid it. For men there may be hormonal side effects.

Despite being a tiny little strand (or many of them,) your hair can affect your overall feeling of self-confidence. And unfortunately, the follicle is the last thing to get the nutrients it needs if our bodies and lifestyles are lacking those nutrients. Taking care of the hair on your head starts before you experience hair loss. Chemicals and heat are also huge antagonists. Use a good shampoo and conditioner to clean the toxins off your scalp and out of your follicle. Fillers like oils and waxes in inexpensive shampoo and conditioner, will collect in your follicle and choke it off causing it to produce less hair or cause it to die.

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

BEAT THE SUMMER

Arts & Entertainment Calendar

Hilton Head Chamber Music Institute

June 18th, 20th–21st SoundWaves, 7 Lagoon Road, Hilton Head Island

Educational program showcasing top high school string quartets from across the country.

Quartet Master Class #2: Wednesday, June 18th, 6:30 p.m.

Featuring composer/violist Jessica Meyer

Quartet Concerts: Friday, June 20th, 7:00 p.m. Saturday, June 21st, 11:30 a.m. hhso.org

Bluffton Farmers Market

June 19th, 26th 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

68 Boundary Street, Bluffton Fresh produce, artisan goods, and local music. blufftonfarmersmarket.com

Jazz in the Park

Tuesdays, June 24th–September 2nd, 7:30 p.m.

Lowcountry Celebration Park, Hilton Head Island

Free outdoor concert series featuring top jazz performers.

June 24th: Tuffus Zimbabwe Quartet

July 8th: Junior Jazz Foundation All Stars

July 22nd: Tower of Funk and the Choosy Mothers Horns

August 5th: Martin Lesch Band

August 19th: Charlton Singleton Quartet

September 2nd: John Brackett Quintet

Free lawn seating. Bring a blanket, chair, and picnic.

Details: hhjazzcamp.com

Turtle Talks

Every Monday, June–August, 8–9 p.m.

Lowcountry Celebration Park, 94 Pope Ave, Hilton Head Island

Free public talks hosted by Amber Kuehn of Sea Turtle Patrol Hilton Head Island. Learn about sea turtle biology and conservation. Rain or shine. Bring a chair or blanket.

More info: seaturtlepatrolhhi.org/ eventcalendar

Oyster Reef Building Volunteer Events

Saturday, July 19, 7:30 a.m.

Shoreline near MCRD Parris Island

Join SCDNR and SCORE for one of the largest single-day oyster reef constructions in 25 years. Volunteers help move prepositioned oyster castles into place.

Contact: richtera@dnr.sc.gov

Jump Into Summer

Saturday, June 21st, 9 a.m.–noon

Oscar Frazier Park, Bluffton

Cool off with waterslides and family fun at this summer kick-off event hosted by the Town of Bluffton. townofbluffton.sc.gov

Ballet and Brunch in the Park

Saturday, June 28, 9 a.m.–noon

Buckwalter Place Park Amphitheater, Bluffton

Enjoy a graceful morning of ballet performances paired with brunch in the park. A community event for all ages.

townofbluffton.sc.gov

Mayor’s Cup 5K and Concert

Tuesday, July 2nd, 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Oyster Factory Park, Bluffton

Celebrate Independence Day early with a 5K run followed by live music in the park. townofbluffton.sc.gov

Independence Day Pre-Party & Fireworks

Wednesday, July 3rd, 5–9:30 p.m.

Martin Family Park, Bluffton

Join the Bluffton community for an evening of music, food, and fireworks.

(Fireworks viewable from Oyster Factory and Wright Family Parks.) townofbluffton.sc.gov

Spring Awakening

July 3rd–6th and July 10th–13th

May River Theatre, 20 Bridge St,

Bluffton, SC

A rock musical adaptation of the groundbreaking play exploring the challenges of adolescence and selfdiscovery.

Presented by May River Theatre. onthestage.tickets/may-rivertheatre

Summer: The Donna Summer Musical

July 9th – August 17th – Tickets on sale now

Directed by Patdro Harris

An electric tribute to the Queen of Disco, featuring more than 20 iconic hits including “Hot Stuff,” “Last Dance,” and “She Works Hard for the Money.”

Call (843) 842-2787 or visit artshhi. org for tickets.

Slide Out of July

Friday, July 19th, 9 a.m.–noon

Buckwalter Place Amphitheater, Bluffton

Enjoy a morning of waterslides and outdoor fun to wrap up the summer season.

townofbluffton.sc.gov

To submit your event for future consideration, please email details to editor@blufftonsun.com.

Urbanic’s “Flight-nFancy” to open July 6 at SOBA Gallery

Reception set for July 10th in Old Town Bluffton

The Society of Bluffton Artists will feature local painter Janet Urbanic in its July exhibit, titled “Flight-n-Fancy,” on display July 6th through Aug. 2nd at the SOBA Gallery in Old Town Bluffton.

A free public reception is scheduled for 3 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, July 10th, at the gallery, located at 6 Church St. Urbanic, a Sun City resident and Ohio native, draws much of her inspiration from the natural beauty of the Lowcountry — particularly its birds, marshes and wetlands. Her work often reflects a whimsical, emotive style and is created primarily in oil and watercolor batik.

“I try to capture the softer side of life through my brush,” Urbanic said. “Whether it’s the grace of a heron or the whimsy of a watercolor batik, I’m inspired daily by the beauty that surrounds us.”

Urbanic began painting in oils after

JUL 9 - AUG 17

taking a class at the Cleveland Museum of Art. She previously taught ceramics and china painting and holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from Hiram College, where she also pursued her interest in fine arts. Her artistic studies included a formative trip to Paris to explore the works of the masters. In addition to her work with SOBA, Urbanic also exhibits with the Art League of Hilton Head and in various Sun City venues.

SOBA is a nonprofit arts organization located in Bluffton’s historic district, offering classes, artist exhibits, and community outreach programs. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. More information is available at sobagallery.com or by calling 843-757-6586.

Summertime fun is ahead for ages 6+ with the Arts Center’s creative, action-packed summer camps! Register Online!

The “Summer” score features more than twenty classic hits including “Love to Love You Baby,” “She Works Hard for the Money,” and “Hot Stuff,” to name a few!

JUN 9 - JUL 25

Emmy-nominated comedian and actor Paul Reiser brings his hilarious stand-up to the Arts Center. Perfect for summertime entertainment! JUL 21 | 4 & 7:30 PM A MUSICAL ABOUT THE QUEEN OF DISCO

Prepare to dance and sing along to iconic anthems like “September,” “Boogie Wonderland,” “Shining Star,” and many more! AUG 29 & 30 | 7:30 PM SUPREMELY HILARIOUS FEEL THE GROOVE

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

A new exhibit at Art League Gallery will bring two artistic interpretations of the Lowcountry to life through the lenses of photography and painting.

Titled Two Points of View: A Visual Story of the Lowcountry, the exhibit will run from July 22 to Aug. 22 and features the work of photographer William Bosley and oil painter Murray Sease. The collaborative show presents side-by-side interpretations of the same Lowcountry scenes, highlighting the contrast and connection between the two mediums.

Bosley, a Hilton Head Island resident since 1982, is known for capturing the region’s wildlife and coastal landscapes. His work has been displayed in local venues such as the Art League of Hilton Head, Benny’s Coastal Kitchen, and the Harbour Town Yacht Club. His images reflect a deep familiarity with the area’s natural environment, from sweeping marshes to intimate portraits of birds and native

Art League Gallery to showcase dual perspectives in July exhibit

wildlife.

Sease, a painter and graphic designer, complements Bosley’s photographs with her vivid oil paintings. A South Carolina transplant who spent her early life traveling as part of an Air Force family, Sease brings a globally influenced perspective to her expressive, color-rich interpretations of Lowcountry life.

“Collaborating on this exhibit has been a unique opportunity to explore how two artists can interpret the same subjects differently,” Sease said. “I hope visitors appreciate the way each medium brings a new dimension to our shared vision.”

An opening reception is scheduled for Wednesday, July 23, from 5 to 7 p.m. A Gallery Talk and demonstration with both artists will take place Thursday, Aug. 14, from 1 to 3 p.m. Both events are free and open to the public.

Exhibit Details

What: Two Points of View: Photography by William Bosley, Paintings by

Grab and go dinners - made daily

Specialty foods direct from Italy

Fresh baked breads, spreads, cheeses and more

Enormous selection of Italian wines

Murray Sease

When: Exhibit: July 22–Aug. 22 Gallery hours: Monday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; Sunday, noon–4 p.m. Reception: July 23, 5–7 p.m.

Gallery Talk & Demo: Aug. 14, 1–3 p.m.

Where: Art League Gallery, located inside the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island, Phone: 843-681-5060

By Leslie Rohland Contributor

BlueberryScones

There’s something about a scone that just feels like a hug from an old friend. Maybe it’s the golden crust, the tender crumb, or the burst of fruit that makes you pause mid-bite and smile. At The Cottage, blueberry scones are one of our best-loved treats, whether paired with coffee on a lazy Bluffton morning or served warm for brunch with friends. The secret? Frozen butter, fresh blueberries, and a quick chill before baking to get that perfect rise and flake. This recipe is simple enough for a cozy morning in, yet elegant enough to serve at your next garden gathering (hats optional but encouraged).

Sprinkle a little coarse sugar on top for extra sparkle and crunch, and don’t be shy about serving with a smear of lemon curd or clotted cream. Trust me—this is one recipe you’ll come back to all summer long.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-pur pose flour, spooned and leveled

• ¼ cup cane sugar

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon sea salt

• ½ cup unsalted butter, 1 stick, frozen

• 1½ cups blueberries

• ½ cup cold buttermilk, plus more for brushing*

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Coarse sugar, for sprinkling, optional

Instructions

1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the

flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

3. On the large holes of a box grater, grate the frozen butter. Add to the flour mixture and toss to coat. Use your hands to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles a coarse meal. Add the blueberries and toss to incorporate.

4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and vanilla, if using. Pour over the flour mixture and use a spatula to mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead with your hands to incorporate any remaining dry flour.

The dough should feel soft but not sticky. If it’s sticky, work in a bit more flour. If it’s dry, drizzle in a little more buttermilk. Form the dough into a ball.

5. Transfer the dough ball to a lightly floured surface and form it into a 7to 8-inch disk about 1 inch thick. Slice into 8 equal wedges and transfer to the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space around each scone.

6. Freeze the scones for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 400°F.

7. Remove the scones from the freezer and brush with buttermilk. Sprinkle with coarse sugar, if using. Bake for 18 to 27 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

8. Transfer to a wire rack to cool.

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

LESLIE ROHLAND

Mustard sauce is SC BBQ survey favorite

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

Mustard-based barbecue sauce has taken the top spot in South Carolina, according to the newly released 2025 SC BBQ Survey. The study, conducted by Destination BBQ between May 2nd, 2024, and April 30th, 2025, captured insights from more than 1,350 residents statewide.

Sauce Stats

• Mustard-based sauce earned the highest statewide rank (average 2.2) with 43% of respondents placing it as their favorite.

• Vinegar-based sauce followed with an average rank of 2.5 and claimed the top spot for nearly one-third of participants.

• Light tomato sauce secured a 2.7 average ranking, coming in third among the seven options tested.

Regional Dynamics

• In the Lowcountry, 65% of residents selected mustard-based sauce as the style most associated with the region, though vinegar still maintains a solid

second at 18%.

• Pee Dee participants remain vinegar loyal, with 70% naming it their regional top choice.

Beaufort County & the Lowcountry

Respondents in Beaufort County reflected a blend of mustard and vinegar preferences. Local survey comments and discussions highlight mustard’s statewide rise, though vinegar sauce remains a coastal BBQ mainstay.

Meat & Side Trends

Pulled pork and whole-hog barbecue continue to dominate South Carolina plates. While brisket is gaining attention, pork retains its long-standing popularity. The classic BBQ staples—slaw, and mac and cheese—remain the preferred sides.

About the Survey

The online survey covered meat choices, cooking methods, restaurant habits, sauce preferences, side dishes, health concerns and regional trends, with responses

spanning all 46 counties.

Top Ten BBQ Restaurants & Consumer Habits

The survey also lists the state’s favorite BBQ restaurants, consumer spending habits, and health concerns—revealing no significant drop in BBQ enthusiasm despite greater awareness of diet and wellness.

Behind Destination BBQ

Founded in 2012 by former English and journalism teacher James Roller—at his wife Heather’s suggestion—the blog evolved into a prominent voice celebrating South Carolina’s culinary traditions.

“Destination BBQ began as a simple journal of our Summer BBQ Tour of 2012,” Roller said.

Raised in the Pee Dee, Roller remains a devoted fan of woodcooked, vinegarbased wholehog BBQ, but notes his palate has expanded to appreciate the diverse styles held across the state.

Why It Matters

These findings reflect South Carolina’s enduring regional identity, even as borders blur and palettes expand. For Lowcountry diners, embracing everything from peppery vinegar to bold mustard may offer both culinary delight and cultural insight.

The survey’s full report—including regional maps, county breakdowns and restaurant rankings—is available at Destination BBQ’s site: destination-bbq.com/ sc-bbq-survey-2025/

Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra looks ahead to a bold 44th season

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

The Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra has unveiled its 2025-2026 season lineup, marking its 44th year with the theme “Music for Everyone!” The upcoming season blends classical staples, jazz, pop culture tributes, and community-focused programming aimed at reaching broader audiences while honoring America’s 250th anniversary.

Music Director John Morris Russell, whose contract was recently extended through 2028, will lead many of the performances. Russell’s tenure has coincided with a notable rise in artistic reach and community impact.

Orchestra Series Highlights

The centerpiece of the season is the nine-concert Orchestra Series, which includes two performances of each program at First Presbyterian Church on Hilton Head Island.

The series opens Oct. 19-20 with cellist Christine Lamprea, a Sphinx Competition winner, performing Dvorák’s Cello Concerto. Other highlights include:

• A November program led by jazz pianist Marcus Roberts, who will reinterpret Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue and James P. Johnson’s Yamekraw, paired with two works by Carlos Simon.

• The return of the Holiday Pops concerts Nov. 30–Dec. 1, featuring baritone Michael Preacely and Youth Concerto Competition winner Brooklynn Thatcher.

• A February performance of Ellis Island – The Dream of America, with the Lean Ensemble Theater joining the orchestra for Peter Boyer’s dramatic tribute to immigrant stories.

• A March 8–9 concert celebrating The Music of Harry Potter, where audiences are encouraged to attend in costume for a family-friendly experience.

• The season closes April 26–27 with pianist Jonathan Mamora, recent

Hilton Head International Piano Competition winner, performing Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 2.

Subscription packages are available now, with single tickets going on sale Sept. 2.

Free Jazz and Outdoor Pops

The fifth season of Jazz in the Park kicks off June 24 with six free concerts scheduled biweekly through Sept. 2 at Lowcountry Celebration Park. Performers include Tuffus Zimbabwe, Charlton Singleton Quartet, and Junior Jazz Foundation All Stars.

Outdoor pops concerts return Oct. 16-17 for Symphony Under the Stars in Bluffton and Hilton Head. A spring edition of the event is also scheduled for April 7, 2026.

Competitions and Community Engagement

The Hilton Head International Piano Competition runs March 16–21, 2026, featuring 20 pianists ages 13–17. Finalists will perform concerto movements with the HHSO, with the first-place winner invited back for a full concerto performance in 2026-2027.

Additional community programming includes:

• The Hilton Head Chamber Music Institute (June 11–21, 2025)

• The HHSO Youth Concerto Competition (Jan. 31, 2026)

• The Gullah Geechee Cultural Series, returning in October for its fourth season, highlighting Lowcountry heritage through music, storytelling, and visual arts

At SoundWaves, the orchestra’s venue at Coligny, the Coastal Home Supper Club series offers monthly vocal performances paired with dinners from partner restaurants, featuring genres from Motown to country.

For tickets and a full schedule, visit hhso.org or call (843) 842-2055.

Steven Sater

Based on the play by Frank Wedekind

Book & Lyrics by Duncan Sheik Music by

Eastern European Cuisine

Taste of Europe

Northridge Plaza (Near the Cinema) 435 William Hilton Pkwy Ste O, Hilton Head Island (843) 715-2691 • Tasteofeuropehhi.com

Community Engagement Builds Cohesive Communities

The Bluffton Sun and Hilton Head Sun invite you to like and follow our socials, 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.

Lowcountry Legal Volunteers marks 25 years of justice work

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

As Lowcountry Legal Volunteers (LCLV) enters its 25th year of service, the nonprofit is marking the milestone with gratitude, reflection and the launch of several new programs aimed at expanding access to justice in Beaufort, Jasper and Hampton counties.

In 2024 alone, the Bluffton-based organization closed more than 150 legal cases, hosted 27 outreach clinics and secured over $178,000 in child support payments for local families. According to Executive Director Anne Caywood, the total value of legal services provided this year exceeded $2.95 million, reaching more than 2,200 individuals and families.

“With a staff of just five, and a powerhouse team of retired attorneys, paralegals, administrative professionals and volunteers, we’ve helped ensure access to justice for those who need it most,” Caywood said in a recent update to supporters. “This work is only possible through the generous support of our donors, partners and volunteers.”

New and Expanding Programs

LCLV’s work now extends beyond traditional legal aid, with initiatives designed to meet the evolving needs of underserved residents across the Lowcountry. Among the organization’s newest and most notable programs:

Lowcountry Medical-Legal Partnership (MLP)

Launched in collaboration with South Carolina Legal Services, the MLP program embeds legal services into medical care, targeting vulnerable residents in Hampton County and beyond. Partner clinics include Bluffton Jasper Volunteers in Medicine, VIM Hilton Head Island and the Good Neighbor Medical Clinic. Support for the program comes from the Sisters of Charity Foundation and a Catalyst Grant from the Coastal Community Foundation.

Pro Bono Protection Program

In coordination with the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office, Hopeful Horizons and SCCADVASA, this soon-to-launch initiative will assist survivors of domestic violence by connecting them quickly and safely with pro bono attorneys for protective orders. LCLV will manage intake and case support.

Justice Navigator Training

Through a partnership with Georgetown Law, LCLV is training trusted community leaders to recognize legal issues within their communities. The program emphasizes family law, immigration, heirs’ property and domestic violence.

Estate Planning for Veterans & Gullah Communities

Working alongside the Lowcountry Gullah Foundation, the Center for Heirs’ Property Preservation and the Beaufort County Department of Veterans Affairs, LCLV is expanding access to estate planning resources. The effort aims to assist low-income veterans and members of the Gullah Geechee community with wills and related services.

Protecting Family Land

Thanks to a new grant from the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry and the Federal Home Loan Bank—administered through South Atlantic Bank—LCLV is launching an education and legal assistance campaign to help families retain heirs’ property and preserve generational wealth.

Addressing Housing Instability

LCLV’s Housing Protection Program, first introduced in 2020, continues to assist families facing eviction or unsafe living conditions. As housing insecurity rises across the region, the program remains a cornerstone of the nonprofit’s mission. For more information or to support Lowcountry Legal Volunteers, visit lowcountrylegalvolunteers.org or contact the office directly.

Chamber celebrates leadership class of 2025 graduates

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

The Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce recognized 24 graduates of its Leadership Class of 2025 on June 4th, celebrating a year of professional development and community engagement.

As part of the program’s capstone requirement, this year’s class created Safe Shore, a public safety campaign aimed at educating residents and visitors about the dangers of rip currents. The project included the installation of educational signage at more than 50 public beach access points across Hilton Head Island.

The Leadership program, launched in 1985, is designed to develop civic and professional leaders by offering participants an in-depth look at the region’s history, government, economy, and culture. To date, more than 700 professionals have completed the program.

Graduates of the Class of 2025 include:

• Paul Arvantides, Don Ryan Center for Innovation

• Bethany Brown, Hilton Head Island Island Recreation Association

• Sarah Brown, Sea Love | A Candle Bar and Boutique

• Amy Conners, Hilton Head Regional Health System

• Madeline Cox, Outside Hilton Head

• Jim Damico, South Atlantic Bank

• Angela Douglas, Town of Bluffton

• Kathleen Duncan, J.K. Tiller Associates, Inc.

• Libby Gilden, Part of the Family, LLC

• Daniel Guer rini, Alliance Global Partners

• Hannah Har tberger, Town of Bluffton

• Ste phanie Jurczak, Encompass

Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Bluffton

• Kristen McIntosh, Art League of Hilton Head

• Mallory Munson, The Sea Pines Resort

• Sheila Paz, LOCAL Life Magazine

• Ryan Pye, Hospice Care of the Lowcountry

• Olivia Root, Taylor’s Quality Landscape Supply

• Dalton Shaw, The Fraum Center for Restorative Health

• Lindsay Taylor, Just Tri Performance

• Morg an Thompson, Town of Hilton Head Island

• Connie Turlington, Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort

• Jose Vargas, Sparklight

• Ryan Wise, Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island

“This program gives emerging leaders the tools and connections to make a meaningful impact,” said chamber officials. “The class projects are a lasting legacy in the community.”

Past projects include community improvements such as sunscreen dispensers in public parks, playground equipment, environmental initiatives, and public art installations. Over the past eight years, leadership classes have invested more than $189,000 into local efforts.

More information about the chamber’s leadership program is available at hiltonheadblufftonchamber.org.

THE PAST TO LIFE

BUILD YOUR FAMILY TREE WITH US

Unlock your family history with the help of our volunteer genealogists! Whether you’re just getting started or facing a research roadblock, we’re here to guide you. Call 843.686.6560 to schedule your appointment today!

LEARN ABOUT LOCAL HISTORY

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

EDUCATE & CELEBRATE –

250TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

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

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

Women in Philanthropy awards nearly $150K to Beaufort County nonprofits

Six Beaufort County nonprofits received a combined $148,700 in grant funding from Women in Philanthropy (WIP), a giving circle of the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, during the group’s annual awards luncheon held May 20 at the Country Club of Hilton Head.

The 2025 grant cycle focused on “Building Pathways to Long-Term Self-Sufficiency,” with selected organizations providing services that help individuals and families achieve lasting financial stability. This year’s grants bring WIP’s total giving to approximately $1.3 million since the group was founded in 2003.

With more than 180 active members, WIP harnesses the collective power of women in the Lowcountry to support community programs that make a measurable difference.

2025 Grant Recipients

Beaufort-Jasper YMCA of the Lowcountry received $30,000 to support childcare programs, including scholarships for 30 to 40 families. The funding will allow chil-

dren to access after-school and summer camp programs across multiple sites in Beaufort County.

Bluffton Self Help was awarded $22,000 to assist local families in crisis through its Case Management & Resource Coordination Program, which connects individuals with immediate financial assistance and long-term support.

The Children’s Center, one of only two childcare providers on Hilton Head Island serving infants and toddlers, received $30,000 for its sliding-scale infant and toddler care program. The center’s “Family Livelihood Depends on Childcare” initiative ensures that working families have reliable, affordable care options.

Deep Well Project was granted $20,000 to fund the third cohort of its Circles Program, which pairs low-income families with community mentors to help them reach 200% of the federal poverty level—a key benchmark for financial independence.

Lowcountry Gullah Foundation

received $21,700 for its Historic Gullah Land Preservation Program. The initiative offers short-term financial assistance for overdue property taxes and works with families to build long-term financial strategies to preserve generational land ownership.

Lowcountry Legal Volunteers (LLV) was awarded $25,000, funded through the Dr. Juliann Bluitt Foster Memorial Fund. The grant supports LLV’s Breaking the Cycle of Poverty Program, which provides free legal services in critical areas such as domestic violence, housing instability, and child support—legal challenges that often hinder long-term self-sufficiency.

The awards luncheon also featured presentations from the 2024 grant recipients, offering attendees a firsthand look at how previous funding has impacted the community. Several speakers shared stories of clients who gained financial stability, re-entered the workforce, or secured safe housing with support from WIP-funded programs.

Date Time

The event underscored WIP’s mission to foster resilience and opportunity by investing in proven solutions. “We look for organizations that are doing more than just helping someone get by,” one organizer said during the program. “We’re investing in programs that help people get ahead—and stay ahead.”

Women in Philanthropy was formed more than two decades ago, Women in Philanthropy brings together women across the Lowcountry to pool their resources and amplify their impact. Members collectively research, select, and vote on grant recipients each year. Funds are administered through the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, which manages over $90 million in charitable assets supporting nonprofit work in Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper counties.

Those interested in joining or learning more about Women in Philanthropy can visit cf-lowcountry.org or contact Lisa Hodge at 843-681-9100.

Thursday, June 26 | 5:30 p.m.

Event Location

The community is invited to learn more about the upcoming plan for USC Beaufort's Sand Shark 20/20 initiative to create a multi-purpose arena and sports complex on USCB’s campus.

The Heritage Classic Foundation Hall, Room 156 in the Hargray Building on USCB’s Bluffton campus

Education Briefs

USCB

receives Peach

Belt Conference Connecting Communities Award

The University of South Carolina Beaufort has been named the 2025 recipient of the Peach Belt Conference Connecting Communities Award. Presented during the conference’s annual banquet on Hilton Head Island, the award recognizes one institution each year for outstanding community engagement that reflects the NCAA Division II core value of building strong ties between campus and community.

USCB earned this year’s award for its leadership of the Flybrary Project, a children’s book-sharing program operated in partnership with Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. Led by the university’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), the initiative collected 556 children’s books through campus donation drives held at athletic events in February.

The effort was supported by students, faculty, staff and local sports fans. USCB student-athletes are also scheduled to volunteer at the airport Sept. 6–8 to distribute books directly to traveling families. This marks the first time USCB has received the Connecting Communities Award.

John Paul II Catholic School announces Class of

2025 scholarship totals

John Paul II Catholic School celebrated its graduating Class of 2025 with more than $8.4 million in awarded schol-

arships. Forty-six students received state scholarships totaling $917,600, including awards from the Palmetto Fellows, LIFE and HOPE programs. An additional $7.5 million in other scholarships brought the total value to $8,430,680.

TCL places in top 50 in national cybersecurity competition

The Technical College of the Lowcountry’s cybersecurity team, “Bit-R End,” placed 38th out of roughly 4,000 teams in the National Cyber League’s spring 2025 ethical hacking competition. This marks a significant improvement from last year’s 75th-place finish.

The competition tests skills in areas such as forensic analysis, vulnerability assessments and recovery from cyberattacks. TCL’s performance highlights the strength of its cybersecurity program and the collaborative efforts of students and faculty.

For more on TCL’s programs, visit www.tcl.edu.

Daniela Lopez named Ronald E. McNair Scholar

Daniela Lopez, a biology major at USCB, has been named a Ronald E. McNair Scholar. The McNair Scholars Program, administered by the University of South Carolina in Columbia, is part of the federally funded TRIO initiatives that aim to support first-generation, low-income and underrepresented students in their pursuit of doctoral degrees.

The program offers mentoring, academic enrichment and research opportunities. Lopez will present her research during the USC Summer Research Symposium on July 31.

To submit your education news for future consideration, please email details to editor@blufftonsun.com.

Where Kids Learn to Play & Play to Learn!

Dough Boys Pizza

Tips to have the greenest grass on the block

By Zach Deloach Contributor

The year has been quickly passing by, and we have already found ourselves in the early summer months. We have been greeted by a fair share of rain in the early parts of June, and our local landscapes have been thankful for it. Along with the additional rainfall our thermostats have slowly continued to climb as we get into the summer season. Grass has begun growing more aggressively along with our plants and we wanted to take a minute to talk about what to consider at this time. Have you ever passed by a home lawn and thought, “wow, this looks just like a golf course.” Those types of results do not come on their own, it takes an attentive home owner who spends hours in their lawn each week making sure every detail is pristine. Now not everyone has the time,

or desire, to spend hours in their yard each week but routine maintenance is essential to a nice lawn.

The first thing to consider this time of year are our cultural practices, most importantly mowing and watering schedules. Knowing what type of grass you have is the first step, as each of our warm season grasses have their own preferred mowing height. Once you know the height needed for your grass type it is important to maintain the lawn at that height throughout the entire growing season.

Different grass types and nutrient applications may cause the lawns to grow at different rates but the important thing to remember is you do not want to take more than 1/3 of the grass blade at a time, knowing that will help establish how frequently mowing is needed.

With the additional rainfall many homeowners have temporarily turned their irrigation off, which we recommend, but don’t

forget to switch it back. The goal is to get a little more than an inch of water per week this time of year. We recommend watering 2-3 times per week if we are not receiving heavy rainfall, any more frequent than that and you run the risk of shallow roots and fungal damage.

We have begun seeing grey leaf spot fungal activity in many St. Augustine lawns. This fungus usually appears around the summer time in only St. Augustine lawns. It begins by making small dark spots on the blade and eventually wilting and discoloring it. If you see the signs in your lawn we recommend treating with a fungicide.

In addition to fungal activity, we are seeing the presence of more and more insects. Many of the insects you come across are harmless to lawns but there are a few to be cautious of. In St. Augustine, you want to look out for chinch bugs, which usually hit the hottest parts of the lawn

and turn the blades yellow before killing them.

In Centipede and Bermuda, you want to keep an eye out for mole crickets, which attack from the root leaving the grass on the surface brown then bare. Lastly in all turf types you want to watch for grub damage and incoming sod webworms. Sod webworms typically start later in the summer and into the fall.

At this point in the season everything should be fertilized and growing nicely. If you have not fertilized yet, go ahead and put out a safe rate for your grass and soil type. As long as you stick to the proper cultural practice and keep an eye out for pest (treating accordingly) you should expect some good results in your lawn.

Deloach is the owner of Lawn Doctor of Beaufort County.

Zach

Town of Bluffton strengthens readiness as 2025 hurricane season begins

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

With hurricane season officially underway, the Town of Bluffton is urging residents, business owners, property managers, and developers to prepare early and remain vigilant through November 30th. Drawing from nearly a decade of storm experience—including Hurricanes Matthew, Irma, Florence, Dorian, and Michael—town officials are reinforcing their commitment to safety, preparedness, and community resilience.

“Bluffton is very fortunate to have not had a direct strike throughout the years, but it is important for residents to prepare for disasters—especially new residents who may be experiencing hurricane season for the first time,” said Town Manager Stephen Steese. “We learned just this past season that every storm is unique; one may bring primarily flooding while another brings damaging winds.”

Lessons Learned from Past Storms

Town officials stress that preparation—not panic—is the key to recovery. Steese and department leaders shared that past storms revealed both strengths and vulnerabilities in the town’s response systems. These experiences now inform townwide efforts.

Among the key takeaways:

• Stor mwater management is critical. Blocked ditches and storm drains can cause localized flooding that threatens homes, roads, and public infrastructure. While town crews inspect and clean public systems, residents are encouraged to check ditches and drains near their homes and remove debris.

• Reliable information is essential. During storms, the Town of Bluffton uses social media to communicate frequently with the public. However, with misinformation often circulating, officials advise verifying all storm-related updates through official town, county, or state sources.

• Employers must prepare too. Past storms highlighted challenges for residents working across state lines. During Hurricane Florence, for example, South Carolina issued evacuation orders while nearby Georgia did not, creating confusion. The town recommends that workers and employers discuss expectations ahead of time.

• Media confusion is common. Since

within the

dia market, local evacuation or storm orders may differ from those covered by regional news outlets. Residents are advised to rely on the Town of Bluffton and Beaufort County Emergency Management for the most accurate, local updates.

• Patience is crucial. Steese emphasized that emergency decisions—like evacuations and re-entry—are made with community-wide safety in mind. “There are multiple variables to each decision; however, the mission is always public safety,” he said.

Townwide Readiness Measures

The Town of Bluffton begins hurricane season with a full review of its emergency preparedness plans. Staff are required to attend annual training, equipment is serviced and staged, and contracts for debris removal are renewed. The town also coordinates closely with Beaufort County Emergency Management and local schools, utility providers, and nonprofit partners.

“We prepare as if each storm will be the big one,” Steese said. “From public works crews to emergency communications staff, our teams are committed to protecting this community.”

In addition, the town emails preparedness checklists to property owners’ associations and contractors, reminding them of their responsibilities for stormwater systems, landscaping, irrigation, and debris removal. Much of Bluffton’s stormwater infrastructure is privately owned and must be cleared of pine needles, sediment, or trash before a storm.

What Residents Can Do Now

Officials urge every Bluffton resident to begin preparations before a storm is named. Key steps include:

• Have an evacuation plan. Know where you will go, what route you’ll take, and where you’ll stay. If possible, leave before an official evacuation order is issued to avoid traffic and limited accommodations.

• Create a disaster kit. Include at least a week’s supply of food, water, medications, pet supplies, and essential documents. Secure valuables and photograph your home for insurance purposes.

• Check and clear gutters, drains, and yard debris. Remove items that can become flying projectiles, clog drainage systems, or collect standing water after a storm.

• Review your insurance coverage. Most homeowners’ policies do not include flood insurance, which must be purchased separately through the National Flood Insurance Program. It carries a 30-day waiting period. More than 75% of Beaufort County is at risk of flooding during even a Category 1 hurricane.

• Stay informed. Follow the Town of Bluffton and Bluffton Police Department on social media. Bookmark websites such as townofbluffton.sc.gov and hurricane.sc for updates.

• Be self-suf ficient. After a storm, power, medical services, and emergency response may be unavailable for at least 72 hours. Prepare to care for yourself and your family during that time.

Pets

Don’t forget pets when planning. The town recommends assembling a pet emergency kit with food, water, medicine, ID tags, vaccination records, and familiar items. Many hotels that allow pets fill up quickly, so early planning is critical.

Special Needs

Residents with special needs or those lacking transportation are encouraged to contact Palmetto Breeze, the Lowcountry’s public transportation provider, at 843-757-5782 for assistance ahead of an evacuation.

Contractors and Developers

Local developers and contractors are reminded to secure job sites, remove potential debris, and inspect erosion control systems. The town encourages them to maintain clear communication with the Town of Bluffton’s planning and public works departments in the event of an impending storm.

Coordinating with Regional and State Agencies

The Governor of South Carolina is the only authority who can issue a mandatory evacuation order. Once issued, Beaufort County Emergency Management becomes the lead agency for evacuation routes, closures, and re-entry procedures. Bluffton follows the county’s lead and will disseminate updates accordingly.

No emergency shelters are available in Beaufort County. The American Red Cross may open shelters in neighboring Jasper County, but space is limited and early planning is essential.

Final Word: Preparation Is a Community Responsibility

Town officials stress that hurricane safety is a shared responsibility. Director of Projects & Watershed Resilience Kim Jones said. “Any obstruction can cause a domino effect of flooding and that could result in damage to your house, your street or your property. Every resident is encouraged to help in this effort.”

For more information, including detailed checklists and storm resources, visit townofbluffton.sc.gov or the South Carolina Emergency Management Division’s website at hurricane.sc.

Bluffton falls

Savannah me-

By Dr. Mathew Epps Contributor

Breast augmentation surgery

Breast augmentation surgery is a highly sought after procedure as it can enhance the silhouette, boosting self confidence with a desired and natural look. Common questions and factors to consider in planning breast augmentation surgery with your plastic surgeon include the type and placement of the implant, as well and indications, timing and specifics of breast augmentation surgery.

1. Implant Material: Saline vs Silicone

Choosing between saline and silicone implants is a fundamental decision in breast augmentation. Saline implants provide a firmer feel, while silicone implants offer a more natural look and feel.

Understanding the pros and cons of each type is essential for achieving the desired outcome. For example, use of a saline implant may lend to a look of “ripling” within the lateral aspect of the breast. This may be mitigated with the placement of the implant.

2. Placement: Subglandular vs Submuscular

Determining the implant placement –whether subglandular (above the chest muscle) or submuscular (below the chest muscle) – impacts the final aesthetic result. Submuscular placement may provide a more natural appearance, while subglandular placement may be suitable for certain body types as well as breast shape. Additionally, it is important to consider activity level, highly athletic individuals may require subglandular placement as it leaves the pectoralis muscle uninterrupted.

3. Do You Need a Lift?

In some cases, a breast lift may be necessary in conjunction with augmentation to address sagging or asymmetry. A

thorough discussion with your surgeon will help determine if a lift is necessary to achieve the desired results.

4. Timing of Surgery

Consider the timing of your surgery, especially if you enjoy water activities. It is recommended to wait at least four weeks before exposing the incision sites to chlorinated pools. Additional caution is advised for swimming in lakes or oceans, requiring a few more weeks of healing.

5. Size Considerations

Avoiding the most common complication in breast augmentation – size mismatch – is crucial. This is where the patient’s ideal for breast size does not match the post-operative result. Bringing a photo

depicting the desired look. Utilizing Vector 3D Imaging during consultations can greatly assist in selecting the appropriate implant size for a satisfying outcome. Vectra simulation, a cutting-edge tool, allows for meticulous adjustments between specific sizes and shapes, tailored to the offerings of each implant manufacturer. The software can simulate a simultaneous lift as well. This advanced imaging technique ensures a personalized approach, guiding patients towards choices that align with their unique preferences and anatomical considerations.

Achieving successful breast augmentation involves a comprehensive understanding of these factors. By carefully navigating choices related to materials, placement, the need for a lift, surgery timing, and size considerations, individuals can make well-informed decisions to enhance both their physical appearance and overall well-being.

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

DR. MATHEW EPPS

By Abby Bird aka Alphadog Contributor

Over-the-counter supplements are commonly used by dog owners to support their pet’s health, often adding beneficial ingredients, vitamins, and nutrients to a dog’s diet.

One of the most common additives are probiotics. They help to regulate your dog’s digestive system, especially if there are other dietary changes. Probiotics come in various forms and brands, but the most important consideration is choosing products made specifically for dogs — not humans. Dosage and type are typically based on the dog’s weight.

The top recommended and used brands are: Proviable, which come in capsules that you can open and sprinkle or chewable tablets. Purina Fortiflora, which come in granule packets and tablets. Less expensive is Naturvet Powder Probiotics and Enzymes; they also come in a chewable form which is more expensive. If your dog is already experiencing digestive upset, having on hand Pro-Pectalin, which is a paste, can help.

Supplements for dogs

Another common category of supplements is for joint pain, arthritis, and stiffness. These often include ingredients such as collagen, MSM, glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, and curcumin (turmeric) combined with bioperine for absorption. Check ingredient labels carefully, as joint support research is continually evolving.

Top choices are Jope, Wuffes, Flexadin, Zesty Paws and Dasuquin. For recovery from injury or chronic conditions check out: Serraquin ES15 and Synovigy. Both are higher grade and more expensive but useful with for pups with chronic conditions.

Also commonly used are a variety of calming chews and drops. Whether it’s for vet and groomer visits, hyperactivity, separation anxiety, thunder and fireworks or other stressful situations. These may include Hemp seed, CBD, L-thianine, colostrum, valerian and other formulations. Different formulas work for each dog so you may have to try several over time. When you try these be prepared to use them for about a month before you know if they are suited to your dogs specific anxiety.

Zesty Paws Calming Bites, Charlie &

Buddy Hemp Oil, Bark and Spark Advanced Calming Hemp are popular brands to try.

Dry skin, fur loss, itching and scratching are conditions often seen in the Lowcountry. Skin and coat supplements can help with southern weather conditions, as well as what may be missing in diets. Most of these supplements have Omega 3 fish oils and Omega oils 6 and 9. Many are salmon oil based. When purchasing, look

for the most natural least processed ones. Options include Zesty Paws makes chews and oil in a variety of formulas. Vet IQ Skin and Coat chews. NaturVet Omega Gold chewables. Welactin Omega chews. As with all things they ingest it will take time before you see results so be patient.

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

ESTILL: Thursday & Friday 10 AM -6 PM, Saturday 10 AM -4 PM

RIDGELAND: Tuesday – Friday 10am – 6pm, Saturday 10 AM - 4 PM

LowCountry Alliance urges online safety for teens during summer break

By Sasha Sweeney Contributor

As teens spend more time online during summer break, the LowCountry Alliance for Healthy Youth is encouraging families to stay alert about the risks and consequences of digital activity. In a recent advisory, the group outlined essential cyber safety tips for both parents and teens, emphasizing how a digital footprint can have lasting effects on personal safety and future opportunities.

“Your digital footprint can affect your future,” the alliance noted, citing resources from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The group urged families to prioritize cyber awareness while browsing the web and using social media platforms.

What teens should never share

The advisory outlined key information that should never be posted or shared online:

• Full name

• Birthday and year

• Address

• Phone number

Keeping such details private is critical to protecting personal identity, especially as teens connect across a range of apps and platforms.

What you post can follow you

The alliance warned that posts, photos and videos can quickly be taken out of context or used in harmful ways, even if deleted later. “A post can never be permanently deleted,” the guidance stated. This can impact future job applications, college admissions and peer relationships. The advisory also pointed to the lasting effects of cyberbullying, encouraging families to learn more about prevention and response strategies. “What you post can affect others,” the organization reminded parents and students.

Limit online connections

The group emphasized the dangers of connecting with people teens don’t know in real life. “Predators and stalkers can easily create fake profiles to hide their identities,” the release stated, recommending regular checks of privacy settings on apps and social media accounts. Parents were also encouraged to help their teens review and update settings after app updates, which can reset them to less secure defaults.

Keep location and passwords private

Geo-tagging and location-sharing features on devices and apps can unknowingly share a teen’s exact whereabouts, the group warned. Parents should make sure these features are disabled and talk to teens about never sharing their passwords with anyone except a trusted adult.

New app warning: “Exposed”

The advisory also issued a warning

about a rising app among teens called “Exposed,” described as a party game where users answer provocative questions in group settings. According to the alliance, the app is being misused to bully, spread gossip and stir up peer conflict. Parents are advised to speak with their children about the risks and to monitor app usage closely.

Tips for parents

The alliance recommends limiting screen time, monitoring media access, and maintaining open communication with teens about online behavior. “It is important to know what your teen is doing online and how to protect them,” the group stated. Additional resources for parents and teens on cyber safety, cyberbullying and healthy media use are available through the LowCountry Alliance for Healthy Youth website and partner organizations. For more information, visit www.lcahealthyyouth.com or contact the alliance directly.

Caring for the caregiver: recognizing and addressing caregiver fatigue

By Rachel Cox Contributor

Caregiving is a profound expression of love and commitment, but it can also be physically and emotionally draining. Those caring for a loved one with a serious illness often find themselves juggling multiple responsibilities, neglecting their own well-being in the process. Over time, this can lead to caregiver fatigue—an overwhelming state of exhaustion that affects both mental and physical health.

Recognizing caregiver fatigue

Caregiver fatigue, also referred to as burnout, results from prolonged stress and emotional strain. Common symptoms include:

• Persistent physical exhaustion despite rest

• Emotional distress, anxiety, or hopelessness

• Increased irritability or frustration

• Dif ficulty concentrating or making decisions

• Sleep disturbances

• Withdrawal from social interactions

• Feelings of guilt or inadequacy

Left unchecked, these symptoms can impact not only the caregiver’s well-being but also their ability to provide quality care to their loved one. It is essential for caregivers to recognize these signs early and seek support before fatigue leads to more severe health complications.

The importance of respite care

Respite care is a crucial service that offers temporary relief to caregivers, allowing them time to rest and recharge while ensuring their loved one receives quality care. At Friends of Caroline, we recognize the immense dedication of caregivers and the importance of providing them with the support they need. Caroline’s Cottage, our inpatient hospice facility, offers respite care designed to give caregivers a well-deserved break without worry.

How Caroline’s Cottage supports caregivers

Caroline’s Cottage provides short-term stays for hospice patients, allowing their caregivers time to focus on their own well-being. These respite stays offer caregivers an opportunity to:

• Take a break from caregiving duties

• Attend to personal and professional commitments

• Eng age in self-care and relaxation

• Prevent burnout and maintain overall health

While at Caroline’s Cottage, patients receive round-the-clock compassionate care from our experienced team. Caregivers can step away with confidence, knowing their loved ones are in a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment.

Taking care of yourself

Caring for others begins with self-care. Taking breaks is not an act of selfishness; it is an essential part of sustaining the ability to provide loving and effective care. If you or someone you know is experiencing caregiver fatigue, consider exploring respite care options.

For more information on respite care at Caroline’s Cottage, contact Friends of Caroline today. Let us support you as you continue to provide the best possible care for your loved one.

Rachol Cox, MSW | Friends of Caroline. Shoranda Clark is the Director of Human Resources with Friends of Caroline.

By Collins Doughtie Contributor

If you read my columns with any regularity, you may have noticed recently the subject matter has left out my greatest passion, that being fishing. Hopefully I rectify that omission because a week or so ago I was invited on a somewhat inaugural offshore fishing trip aboard my Wexford friend Peter Carlson’s brand new 54’ Viking sportfishing boat. Along for the ride was a Wexford Plantation crew made up with Bill Busch, Jacob Eddy and Reynolds Ethridge. Peter, Bill and I were old schoolers while Reynolds and Jacob were the crew’s young guns.

Thanks to my dad I began blue water fishing very early in life and my love for this type of fishing has never wavered in all these years. Having caught my first billfish at 7 years old, that was all it took to hook me on trolling the Gulf Stream, Virgin Island, Bahamas, Mexican and Costa Rican waters for any and all pelagic species such as sailfish, marlin, wahoo, mahi, tuna.

No matter the species, seeing the raw power of any one of these fish racing toward our trolled baits in water that a stunningly clear cobalt blue still totally overloads every one of my senses. To this day my level of excitement hasn’t wavered one iota since that very first billfish dazzled me with its amazing speed and incredible aerial acrobatic antics.

Pulling away from the dock around 5 a.m., our plan was to load up on dolphin (otherwise called mahi mahi) that pass through our area in great numbers during the month of May. Targeting mahi is what I consider meat fishing since their flesh is a firm white color and no matter how it

Nature’s Way

When blue water calls

is cooked is absolutely delicious. On top of that they rank up there as one of most beautiful blue water fish out there.

Usually various shades of blue, once hooked they magically turn bright green and yellow with a pattern of blue and red spots along their entire length. To complete the picture they almost always jump, do somersaults and using their broad sides as leverage will give an angler quite the tussle.

Another habit of these fast-growing fish is they love any kind structure. Sargasso weed lines, a floating board or simply flotsam usually guarantees a mahi, or two or at times, even dozens.

But, one thing about fishing is no matter what the conditions are there are no guarantees and after trolling for nearly four hours we hadn’t caught a thing, not even a bite.

Deciding to reel in everything, we ran a dozen or so miles with hopes of finding a weed line or tidal rip that might hold this elusive quarry. Finally finding scattered weeds that appeared to be attempting to form into one solid line our hopes rose.

Trolling up and down that line for at least and hour we only saw one tiny mahi that expressed zero interest in any of our offerings. Things were not looking good for Peter’s boat the “Rhythm and Blues.”

Out of nowhere, one rod buckled, then another and another. Perplexed, none hooked up and looking at the hookless teaser of several rubber squid just feet behind the transom a huge shape with a dark back and blue stripes appeared right behind the last squid and just as quickly disappeared. Within three to four seconds the rod with the bait furthest from the boat doubled over.

Looking back there was explosion of white water and out of it came a nice blue marlin greyhounding across the surface at a staggering pace. In the time it took Jacob to grab the rod the marlin was at least one hundred yards off the left side of the boat. With no intention of slowing down it nearly dumped all the line off the reel twice as it bulleted right, left, forward keeping Peter busy at the wheel twisting and turning the boat to get it off the stern. Whipped, Jacob handed the rod off to Reynolds and for the next twenty minutes or so he finally got that crazy fish under control. Close now, I grabbed the leader and gently eased the fish boatside. Angrily, it made two lunging jumps before I had him in place for some photographs before popping him off and watching him swim away.

It was Jacob and Reynolds first blue marlin, and they were in hog heaven. It was also Peter’s first (of hopefully many) billfish to come aboard his new ride. Having caught every billfish there is except a black marlin, that fish made me feel like a seven-year-old again. Other than blackfin tuna that was our only fish that day but what a fish it was!

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

By Tracy Winslow Contributor

No price tag? Must be free!

Lately customer service feels like you’re waiting for someone to stop sending selfies on Snapchat before they’ll help you. Or you’re stuck in a line that takes forever at a not-so-fast-food location. What about the “add a tip” for a person that did nothing but take your money? What society expects, nay, demands has really shifted over the past few decades. The way people treat each other has become less polite and even cruel at times. Especially for the people who experience the unadulterated joy of working with the general public.

In customer service, your only job is to keep a group of people you don’t know happy and spending money. I mean, it says “serve us” right in the title. Which sometimes means you have to cater to individuals that feel they have the right to be demanding, condescending, or downright rude, simply because they are purchasing something and you are helping them execute this process. Or maybe you have a job that places you in front of people who then feel like they know you, and therefore feel they have carte blanche to say whatever they would like to you. When I was a radio morning show host right after college, complete strangers would say things like “You are a lot uglier than I thought you’d be.” Oh my goodness, thank you! That’s so flattering - please tell me you’re single because rawr…. And for many years I allowed the negativity to weigh heavily on my psyche. But I am now trying to view the interactions as comedic instead of sobbing in my iced coffee post-insult.

I am the owner of the yarn store, Low Country Shrimp and Knits, and most of my customers are amazing. However, there some that complain the moment they enter. And, yes, sometimes life is very life-y and they may be wearing their stress like a straight jacket. So they trauma dump on any poor fool (like me) that greets them.

I hear things like: “there’s nowhere to park,” “could you be any more difficult to find,” or my personal favorites “‘there’s not one thing that I like in here’, and ‘I can get this cheaper at Walmart.’” Wow - thank you and please come again soon!

You’ve been such a joy. Perhaps next time you can make triggering comments from high school that I mentally relive nightly?  I had one woman inform me she works at “the competition” and then asked me if I was intimidated. Why? Are you going to punch me or something - because this is yarn, not the Hunger Games. Let’s not forget about the individuals that usurp an inordinate amount of your time, energy and your will to live - then spend their money elsewhere.

As a small business owner, these are things that make you question all of your life choices. Then the condescending Mean Girl that lives in your head laughs and reminds you how stupid you were to follow your dreams. “Should have stayed in the corporate world, little Miss I Can Run My Own Business. Won’t this yarn taste delicious when you can’t pay your bills? Full of fiber!”

Recently I received a voicemail from a woman who was looking for project labels. A Google search brought her to my webpage. She left me the following message: “Hi, I was searching the web for knitting patches and your company popped up so I checked it out. I cannot believe your pric-

es. That’s ridiculous. There’s no way that I’m going to order from your site. Goodbye and have a good day.” Most people just keep searching, but not this woman. She went out of her way to look up my phone number just to tell me that I am dead to her. That’s some serious commitment to the burn.

I had a passive aggressive woman who kept trying to correct me by saying the word louder. Yarn comes in different weights and one is fingering. Now, I haven’t spent much time digging into the etymology but fingering weight is likely derived from the French “fin grin” which means fine grain. I mentioned that the lace, fingering, and DK weight yarn is kept in the front of the shop. “Um, fingerling. Could you please tell me where the FINGERLING yarn is?” Fingering weight is here (and I point to it). This is sock, I want FINGERLING!” I wanted to say, “You may want to check out Kroger for the fingerlings. They’re between the Yukon Golds and the Russets.” But, I can’t because, customer service.

One time a woman was all fired up because my daughter wouldn’t give her an employee discount. Girl, we don’t even

know you. You have two choices - you either have to pay full price for that cashmere or get a job here - and we are not hiring your brand of crazy.  While it does seem that getting good service is an exercise in futility some days - it may just be that the customer right before you stomped on the employee’s last nerve in soccer cleats. Or maybe their dreams of leaving that crappy job and becoming an Instagram influencer aren’t panning out. Since you cannot control their behavior, you might as well look at it comedically. Just don’t BE the reason that they go home and trauma dump on their ficus. That would be so awkward when it wilts and dies from the venting about your behavior - especially because it’s a silk plant.

Tracy Winslow is the owner of the Low Country’s PREMIER yarn store - Shrimp and Knits. Come in and have a laugh or two while you learn a new hobby or pick out your next obsession. Unless you’re crabby and need to get some catharsis. Go take a kick boxing class and then come hang out with our fiber family. www.shrimpandknits.com

TRACY WINSLOW

Ask the expert: What is the real cost of waiting to create an estate plan?

By Lisa Hostetler Brown Contributor

If you’ve been thinking about retirement, helping aging parents, or planning for the next phase of life, now is the time to make sure your own affairs are in order. One of the most overlooked— but most critical— steps is creating or updating your estate planning documents. It’s easy to put it off. Life is busy, and you may feel healthy and capable. But waiting to take action can carry real, lasting consequences for you and your family.

A Family Left Guessing

Mark passed away unexpectedly after a brief illness. He had always said he would

get a will and power of attorney “someday,” but never made it a priority. His loved ones were left scrambling to figure out what he would have wanted—without any legal authority to act on his behalf. It led to court delays, family conflict, and unnecessary stress during an already painful time.

Healthcare Decisions

Without a Voice

Susan suffered a sudden medical emergency that left her unable to communicate. Without a healthcare directive or appointed proxy, her family struggled to make decisions. Because she wasn’t legally prepared, the hospital had to follow default protocols that didn’t reflect her personal values. The emotional toll was enormous—and avoidable.

When the State Decides for You

Without a will or trust in place, your

estate is distributed according to state law—not your wishes. Long-term partners, stepchildren, or friends you consider family may not receive anything. We’ve seen people heartbroken to learn that their loved one’s assets were legally out of reach, all because the planning was never finalized.

Planning Ahead = Peace of Mind

Estate planning isn’t just about death— it’s about control, protection, and clarity during your lifetime and beyond. It allows you to:

• Choose who will make decisions if you can’t

• Avoid family disputes and legal delays

• Protect your assets and your legacy

• Ensure your healthcare and financial wishes are followed

The best time to plan is before a crisis, while you have the full ability to make thoughtful choices. Delaying only limits your options—and increases the risk

that important decisions will be made by others.

Take the time now to create a plan that protects you and the people you care about. It’s one of the most important gifts you can give your family—and yourself.

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

LISA HOSTETLER BROWN

Swimming without sharks

By Kevin Fitzpatrick Contributor

Hello again

constant reader (yes I stole that from Stephen King), if you are not new to these pieces you already know my love for swimming. If this is your first time reading my contribution then bear with me I’ll get to it.

One of the main motivations for moving to Bluffton was the mostly mild weather throughout the year and the desire to be able to get outside at will having left the world of alarm clocks, time sheets, time clocks, and contract hour responsibilities in the rear-view mirror. What may be the best feature of the community we bought our home in is the pool with 25-yard lap lanes available from April through October.

While the first and last month can be a bit bracing, there is great enjoyment that comes along with swimming laps outdoors and that mitigates any chill that might come along. The sun is shining most mornings and just watching it glisten over

the bottom of the pool makes it so much more relaxing, even on those days where it’s raining (no, I’m not careless enough to go in when there is thunder et al), the underwater view of the raindrops is equally enthralling and relaxing.

Once in the pool, the goggles go on, followed by one of the best inventions ever, bone conduction earphones that have their own memory so you can load up multiple playlists that actually sound better under the water than they do on the surface, then the last of the accouterments, a front facing snorkel so as not to require lifting out of the water to breathe and disturbing the music.

I find lap swimming very much like running and playing golf these days, very good for both the body and the soul. There is no competition, no stress, and in the pool I never set out with a particular goal in mind, only a bottom threshold of a few songs and some enjoyment. What happens almost always is that after the first few turns, I find myself suspended in the water, almost as if I was soaring and allow myself to let my mind wander, free of any kind of stress.

Today, as an example, I decided on a Dire Straits playlist that usually runs 35 or so minutes and I got so involved in letting one of the songs take me back about 30 years that I ended up listening to the playlist twice and finishing an unintended

mile swim.

Here’s how it played out: My daughter, Kate, attended the Juilliard Pre College Saturday program throughout her high school years, when she started out she was only 13 so not only did I drive her in each Saturday, but I spent the day hanging around and keeping an eye on her. I was born and raised in the Bronx, but she was a suburban CT kid so even crossing the street was worrisome if she were to do it alone, Juilliard is on 65th and Broadway so traffic is always fast and flowing.

One day, in her second year, she asked if she could go to lunch with some friends two blocks from the school without me escorting her. I said yes, swallowing my fear but determined to walk just far enough out of her view to keep an eye on her.

So, with her clarinet case in one hand and her music bag in the other, I watched as she started to cross Broadway, in true NY fashion, against the light seizing an opening and unlike a tourist, not queuing up to wait. As she walked between two cabs, I saw her casually hip check one just to make sure she had enough room. That single gesture resulted in a deep exhale on my part, something only someone who “gets it” would do. That was the day that I decided I no longer needed to watch her, that she was fine, understood her boundaries and it freed up both of us.

So, if you’ve followed to this point, how

does this tie into swimming and music?

Well, remember the Dire Straits playlist, one of the songs that came up was Skateaway and these are the lyrics that transported me back some 3 decades:

“She tortures taxi drivers just for fun

She likes to read their lips

Says, “Toro, toro, taxi, see ya tomorrow, my son”

I swear, she let a big truck grease her hip

Aw, she got her own world in the city, yeah

You can’t intrude on her, no, no, no, no” That, constant reader, is part of the joy of lap swimming with music. The silence of the outdoor pool and feeling as close to flying as one can while being close to the ground, creates its own atmosphere of serenity. I keep finding reasons why this particular area is so magical, this is yet another in a long line. I’d love to be able to do it in a heated pool 12 months of the year, but 7/12ths is not too shabby.

“Slippin’ and a-slidin’ Yeah, life’s a rollerball Slippin’ and a-slidin’ Skateaway, that’s all”

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

Beating the heat: strategies for maintaining mental health during the “dog days” of summer

By Alex Barry Contributor

The “dog days” of summer—marked by relentless heat, long daylight hours, and sometimes a sense of stagnation— can take a toll on mental health. The oppressive weather may lead to fatigue, irritability, and even seasonal depression. But with a few adjustments, you can protect your emotional well-being and stay energized throughout the long Lowcountry summer.

1. Stay Hydrated and Nourished Physical well-being directly impacts mental health, and dehydration and/or poor nutrition can heighten stress and fatigue. Keep a water bottle handy and aim to drink enough fluids throughout the

day. Choose for refreshing, nutrient-rich meals like fresh fruits, lean proteins, and leafy greens to support energy levels and mood stability. Take extra care to keep your blood sugar in a healthy range if that is a concern.

2. Manage Your Exposure to Heat and Sun

Excessive heat can drain energy and trigger discomfort, exacerbating feelings of irritability or exhaustion. To maintain balance, schedule outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day—early morning or evening. Sunscreen and protective clothing can prevent physical distress that may impact mood.

3. Prioritize Sleep Hygiene

Longer daylight hours may disrupt sleep schedules, making it harder to feel rested. Stick to a consistent sleep routine by maintaining a dark, cool sleeping environment and avoiding excessive screen time before bed. If necessary, use blackout curtains or a sleep mask to enhance restfulness.

4. Embrace Mindfulness and Relaxation

Techniques

Heat-related stress can contribute to anxiety and irritability. Incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help regulate emotions. Cooling activities like swimming or even placing a cold compress on pressure points can offer physical and emotional relief.

5. Stay Socially Engaged

Summer can sometimes feel isolating, particularly if routines change or social opportunities dwindle. Make a point to connect with friends and loved ones, whether through casual outings, virtual meetups, or community events. Maintaining social bonds helps combat feelings of

loneliness and boosts emotional resilience.

6. Adjust Expectations and Find Enjoyment

The season brings unique challenges, especially in an area that receives so many Summer visitors, but it also offers chances to slow down and embrace small joys. Instead of pressuring yourself to be excessively productive, focus on meaningful experiences—reading a book in the shade, trying a new summer recipe, or exploring creative hobbies.

By taking a few simple steps to prioritize well-being, the summer heat doesn’t have to dictate your mental state. With modest adjustments, you can stay cool, calm, and emotionally balanced, even during the dog days of summer.

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

ALEX BARRY

SThis story is from a collection of interviews from long time locals who have generously shared their lowcountry memories with me to be saved for historical purposes and future generations

pillin’ the Tea... Tales from the Lowcountry Diamond memories

By Paul Tollefson Contributor

For many of us, it’s hard to imagine summer without memories of Little League, attending a double-header, or spending an afternoon in front to the tube catching a game with your old man. It’s also a game that musters up tons of nostalgia. There is no denying that baseball in America is iconic, as American as apple pie.

Henry “Sabb” Green knows this all too well as he spent his life on the fields and ended up being one of the best baseball players to have ever came out of Bluffton. From his extremely humble upbringing on Bluffton’s Buck Island Road or to the beautifully manicured diamonds in Florida, the game of baseball runs through his blood. His father at one time helped to coach the Bluffton Eagles baseball team and a young Henry had fond memories of Eagles Field.

“I remember as a young kid, running around in the outfield, shagging fly balls for the older players of the Eagles team. Even at a young age, to be on that field meant something!”

Mr. Green grew up and attended Michael C. Riley on Goethe Rd and then onto McCracken High where he was a standout on the mound. “I had a 95-96 mph fastball in high school and around an 85-mph curve, and that was bringing the smoke” laughed Henry over the phone to me.

“We were a 1A school when I graduated in 1975 but we’d also play some of the bigger 3 A and 4 A schools back then when we could. I’d have 17-18 strike outs in a

7-inning game!”

One of the issues that haunt a lot of the good athletes from this area back then is the recruiting process for colleges.

“Bluffton was still so small, and we’d get overlooked a lot,” said Green. “Plus, I only had about a C average which didn’t help my cause a lot.”

“I had a guy form Newberry College come look at me once and talk to me, but unfortunately that fell through.”

Green got drafted in the 17th round by the Kansas City Royals organization and was sent to Florida to play rookie ball. He played for a few years with different teams in Sarasota as well as Daytona Beach. Unfortunately, a back injury began to sideline him and around 1979 he threw in the towel and headed back to Bluffton.

“It is one of my biggest regrets to this day, that I didn’t stick with it for longer. I know that I could have made it to the majors, God blessed me with such talent. At that time, I didn’t have a lot of support from my family. I was from a very poor family and being able to leave to see me play on the west coast of Florida was not very feasible,” said Henry.

“I was making $500 a month playing baseball, and if you can believe it, I could have made more just staying in Bluffton” chuckled Green.

In 1979 Green headed back to the familiar streets of Bluffton where he got a job working for Jerry Reeves at RSI. “I worked there for about a year, but I didn’t have a car and I’d have to try to get to and from Hilton Head,” said Green. “It just didn’t make sense.”

Waste Management was on Buck Island, so Henry went to fill out an application and ended up getting hired that day. “I ended up making a pretty good life for my self-driving a garbage truck, ended up doing it for 28 years!”

“I still got to play for the Eagles for about 8 more years or so after I came back home, so at least I still got to play in front

of the community that I love.”

Mr. Green also got to help a lot of the younger generation of Bluffton players as well such as Stevie Jenkins, Keith Hamilton, Larry Jenkins, and Bryant Kitty to only name a few. “It was nice to feel like those guys looked up to me, even if they never said it.”

Today Mr. Henry Green lives in Columbia SC but gets here at much as he can.

“I’m fighting a sickness right now but I’m winning” said Green happily. When I asked Henry what he thinks about Bluffton, he said sincerely, “Bluffton is home for me. There is nothing that compares to the community that is Bluffton and I have been graced by God to be able to have had such a rich life and grow up in such a special place!”

Paul Tollefson is the Director of Tennis at the Hampton Hall Club in Bluffton. He

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

PAUL TOLLEFSON

AI in digital advertising: the fine line between friend and foe

By Nick Martin Contributor

Imagine you’re browsing the web and see an ad for an espresso machine – the very one you just mentioned in an online conversation.

The thought can be unsettling…Are your devices really spying on you? Well...sort of.

Advertisers are skilled at figuring out who you are and what you might want. Sometimes, their accuracy can make it feel like they’re right there in the room with you. The truth is, they’re using sophisticated algorithms to analyze your online behavior and predict your interests.

It’s all thanks to advertising technology (adtech), which advertisers use to buy, sell and manage digital ads. When combined with artificial intelligence (AI), adtech becomes more efficient, accurate and even sometimes overly familiar.

The industry faces a crossroads: Will maximizing personalization enhance customers’ experiences, or risk losing their trust?

The average person sees thousands of ads daily. The more relevant those ads are, the more likely customers are to remember and be motivated by them. And relevancy requires data. The latest advancements in generative AI (genAI) expand adtech’s capabilities, using predictive analytics to target audiences and collecting data with every click to offer customers what they want.

Your personal data, from account signups to website visits, is a digital advertiser’s most valuable commodity. Advertisers use data management platforms (DMPs) to create segmented profiles, sorting you into specific audiences for targeted ads. The data used ranges from traditional demographics like age, gender and interests to more complex factors like online behavior.

AI transforms all this data into actionable insights, empowering advertisers to precisely target customers at the optimal time and place.

Thanks to adtech, advertisers have a

better chance of reaching their intended audience without wasting resources on uninterested leads. For customers, adtech means seeing more ads that are relevant to their interests and fewer that are not, which can greatly reduce ad fatigue.

Adtech creates a win-win: Businesses find more customers, and customers connect with what they want. But as businesses leverage advancements in data and AI to redefine customer engagement, they also generate growing concerns about security and customer trust.

People undoubtedly engage more often when ads align with their personal interests. But overly personalized ads can lead to customer wariness, resulting in increased use of ad blockers. With the rapid increase of ads and their pervasive nature, concerns about privacy and data security are also intensifying. As data becomes more valuable, its storage is more vulnerable to breaches, making protection of privacy and security ever more critical. Moreover, people aren’t always aware when their data is being collected and are even less aware of how it’s being used. Customers can unknowingly share information by accepting terms and conditions

or by clicking “accept” on cookie consent banners, unaware of what data is being collected, and how much. This lack of transparency can lead to a breakdown in trust, especially when advertisers use this data without customers’ explicit knowledge.

AI-enhanced adtech promises efficiency, personalization and many benefits for both advertisers and customers. To remain competitive and effectively reach their audiences, digital advertisers must stay ahead of emerging adtech while prioritizing the impacts of mass data collection on personal privacy and security. But if adtech becomes too invasive, customers may ultimately reject it with their wallets. Striking a balance between innovation and public perception will be key to its future success and acceptance.

Nick Martin is a financial planner and the founder of Bluffton Financial Planning. Bluffton Financial Planning is not a registered broker/dealer, and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc.

NICK MARTIN

A new space, a new mindset: embracing change in fitness and in life

By Chad Cannon Contributor

After 35 years as a personal trainer, I recently made one of the hardest moves of my professional life: I relocated my business to a new space in a new part of town. You’d think after decades in this industry I’d be used to change - but this one hit differently.

It wasn’t just about packing up equipment or learning a new commute route. It was mental. I had built a deep connection to my old space—its energy, the people, the comfort of the familiar. Moving meant letting go of that routine and stepping into something uncertain. And that kind of mental shift? It’s tough.

As my wife reminded me: this is the

same internal battle many of you are facing every day as you get older. You might be dealing with new aches and pains that weren’t there a few years ago. You’re trying to make sense of your body changing and your recovery slowing. Suddenly, what worked for you in your 20s, 30s, or even 40s doesn’t seem to cut it anymore.

It’s hard to wrap your mind around doing things differently - maybe slowing down, adding new recovery tools, or

rethinking how you approach strength training altogether.

These days, recovery isn’t just a bonus; it’s a necessity. Things like:

• Le g compression therapy to relieve tired, achy legs and improve circulation.

• Infrared sauna sessions to promote detox, reduce inflammation, and enhance relaxation.

• Cold water immersion (cold plunge) to reduce muscle soreness and boost your

immune system.

These tools aren’t “fads”, they’re effective methods that reflect a deeper truth that your body needs different care as you age, and your mindset must grow and evolve with it.

Change is uncomfortable. I felt it deeply in my own transition to a new location. But here’s the powerful part: growth and transformation live just beyond that discomfort.

So, whether you’re trying a new gym, a new stretch routine, or a new way of looking at your own aging process, know that you’re not alone. It’s okay to suffer in the old ways - but don’t stay stuck there.

Like I tell my clients (and had to remind myself): it’s not about giving up who you were. It’s about becoming who you need to be - right now.

Chad Cannon is a health & fitness Coach, a life coach, and the Owner of the CannonFit Transformation Center in Bluffton, near the back gate of Sun City. He can be reached at www.Cannonfit.com

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CHAD CANNON

Board-certified orthopedic surgeon joins Beaufort Memorial Orthopaedic Specialists

By Emma June Grosskopf Contributor

Beaufort Memorial has added an experienced surgeon and his training in sports medicine to the Orthopaedic Specialists team, further enhancing orthopedic care options for patients in the growing Lowcountry region.

Dr. Cory A. Messerschmidt will bring his expertise in joint preservation, replacement and robotic surgical techniques to the practice, seeing patients in both Okatie and Port Royal. Board-certified in orthopedic surgery and fellowship-trained in sports medicine, he also performs minimally invasive procedures such as ACL repairs, meniscus preservation and shoulder arthroscopy for both adult and pediatric patients.

“Dr. Messerschmidt’s diverse experience in orthopedics and specialized training in sports medicine will make him a valuable member of Beaufort Memorial’s surgical team,” said Beaufort Memorial President and CEO Russell Baxley. “His

focus on joint preservation, advanced surgical techniques and rehabilitative care will provide patients in the Lowcountry with even more options for compassionate, innovative orthopedic care.”

Dr. Messerschmidt joins the practice from his role as an orthopedic surgeon at Tallahassee Orthopedic Clinic in southern Georgia. His interest in medicine developed in high school, when he volunteered at a hometown emergency room in Virginia with his father.

In college, he knew he’d found his calling after shadowing an orthopedic surgeon at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., calling it an “experience he’ll never forget.” There, he learned the importance of developing a connection as a surgeon with patients.

“Building a physician-patient relationship means understanding their concerns and their goals, and helping patients get back to doing what they love,” he said. “If we work together, we can accomplish those goals.”

and NCAA collegiate teams including Georgia Tech. In recent years, he has worked closely with local high school athletes, helping them recover from sports-related injuries and make a confident return to activity

Dr. Messerschmidt joins board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeon Dr. Vandit Sardana at the Orthopaedic Specialists practice, as well as the Advanced Orthopedics & Spine Program team at Beaufort Memorial Hospital, which includes program coordinator Dana Aiken, RN, a dedicated and highly trained nursing and rehab team, spine specialists Drs. Andrew Castro and Scott Strohmeyer, and orthopedic surgeons Drs. Mark Dean, Dan Del Gaizo, Ralph Salzer and Douglas Scott.

He completed his residency at the

Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. During his sports medicine fellowship at Emory University, Dr. Messerschmidt worked alongside professional sports teams such as the Atlanta Falcons

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Messerschmidt in the Beaufort Memorial Orthopaedic Specialists location in Port Royal at 1680 Ribaut Road or in Okatie at the Okatie Medical Pavilion (122 Okatie Center Boulevard North, Suite 210), call 843-524-3015.

Dr. Cory A. Messerschmidt

Local graduates among 680 honored by South Carolina Connections Academy

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

More than 680 high school seniors from across the state were honored during in-person commencement ceremonies hosted by South Carolina Connections Academy on May 29th. The full-time, tuition-free virtual public school celebrated the Class of 2025 at events in Columbia, North Charleston and Spartanburg.

Among the graduates were several students from Beaufort County and surrounding Lowcountry communities. From South Carolina Connections Academy, the local graduates included Markus Beaulieu, Taniya Gray, Noah Schaeffer and Aiden Vass of Beaufort; Lillian Frenzel, Ashley Maldonado Lara, Isabella Reilly, Matthew Richmond and Leslie Schuelke of Bluffton; Abigail Jarrett of Hilton Head Island; Jonathan Cabrera of Okatie; and Mary-Margaret Stephens of Saint Helena Island.

Two additional Lowcountry students graduated from Lowcountry Connections Academy, a sister virtual school: Jose Andres Coto Marin of Seabrook and Ava Rogers of Bluffton.

“Today, we celebrate the incredible accomplishments of the Class of 2025 and look ahead to the opportunities that await them,” said Josh Kitchens, executive director of South Carolina Connections Academy. “Each student has come to South Carolina Connections Academy with unique needs and goals. This celebration marks a milestone in their journeys as they move forward with

the skills, knowledge and confidence to pursue their dreams.”

Graduates and guests heard from keynote speakers including Reggie Burgess, Mike Sinclair and Amanda Ebel.

The Class of 2025 represented cities and towns across South Carolina, including Columbia, Myrtle Beach, Newberry and Summerville.

Of this year’s graduates, 56% plan to attend two- or four-year colleges, 18% intend to enter the workforce and 5% will pursue vocational or technical training.

One of the featured student speakers, Emi Weaver of Darlington, praised the school’s flexible format for allowing her to advance her acting career while maintaining academic progress. “Choosing this school was such an incredible decision for me and my education,” Weaver said. She plans to attend the University of South Carolina to study broadcast journalism with a focus on sports media. Serving more than 6,250 students statewide in grades K–12, South Carolina Connections Academy offers advanced coursework, flexible scheduling and career-readiness programs. The school recently announced the expansion of its College and Career Readiness curriculum for the 2025–26 school year, including career exploration in IT, business, health sciences and marketing.

Enrollment for grades K–11 is now open for the upcoming academic year. More information is available at SouthCarolinaConnectionsAcademy.com or by calling 1-833-591-0251.

Alligator lottery applications open through July 15

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

Hunters interested in participating in South Carolina’s public alligator hunting season can now apply for the annual lottery, with applications accepted through 11:59 p.m. on July 15.

A $10 nonrefundable fee is required to enter the lottery, which uses a randomized computer drawing with a preference point system to select applicants. Selected hunters will be notified by email and can also check their application status online once the drawing is complete.

The 2025 public alligator season runs from noon on Sept. 13 to noon on Oct. 11.

New slot tag option introduced

New for 2025, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) has added a “Slot Tag” option to the lottery, allowing hunters to harvest one alligator between 4 and 8 feet in length. This new category is aimed at reducing pressure on larger trophy-size alligators, which can take more than 30 years to reach full size.

Slot Tag hunters are limited to using snatch hooks, handheld snares, and ropes. Devices that propel darts, arrows, spears, or any tool designed to embed into the alligator are prohibited for this hunt, as animals larger than 8 feet may need to be released.

The traditional “any size” tag remains

unchanged, permitting the harvest of any alligator over 4 feet in length.

Applicants can choose from the following hunt zones:

• Southern Coastal

• Middle Coastal

• Midlands

• Pee Dee

• Southern Coastal 4’-8’ Slot Tag

• Middle Coastal 4’-8’ Slot Tag

• Midlands 4’-8’ Slot Tag

• Pee Dee 4’-8’ Slot Tag

Each applicant may only receive one tag. If selected, all accumulated preference points will reset, whether chosen for a traditional tag or a size-restricted tag. Those not interested in the Slot Tag should ensure they do not select that option during the application process.

Application details

Applications and payments can be completed online or in person at SCDNR regional offices in Clemson, Florence, Columbia, Aynor, or Charleston. Hunters can edit their application, change hunt zone preferences, or switch to “points only” status until the application deadline.

Fees collected support the state’s Alligator Management Program, including research, habitat management, and conservation of the American alligator. More information and the application portal are available on the SCDNR website at www.dnr.sc.gov/wildlife/ alligator/drawhunt.html.

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