The Bluffton Sun • June 3, 2025

The Bluffton Sun

Safety concerns persist on U.S. 278 following fatal Bluffton crash

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

A deadly six-vehicle crash on U.S. 278 has reignited public concern about safety along the heavily traveled corridor, which serves as the primary connection between the mainland and Hilton Head Island.

The collision occurred May 19th at the intersection of U.S. 278 and White Oak Circle. According to the Bluffton Police Department, a westbound Ford pickup truck struck two vehicles, crossed the center line, and collided with two more. One of those vehicles then hit a Chevrolet pickup driven by 43-year-old Juan Tahual-Lopez of Beaufort, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Three other individuals were injured.

Emergency responders arrived quickly and cleared the intersection, but the crash disrupted traffic for several hours and again brought attention to longstanding concerns about the safety of Bluffton’s busiest roadway.

U.S. 278 — known locally as Fording Island Road — carries some of the highest traffic volumes in the region. According to 2024 data from the South Carolina Department of Transportation, the route sees heavy daily traffic across all Bluffton segments.

The stretch from the Jasper County line to S.C. 170 (Okatie Highway) averages 38,800 vehicles per day. Between S.C. 170 and S.C. 46 (Bluffton Road), the average rises to 68,000 vehicles. From S.C. 46 to Fording Island Road Extension, the corridor continues to bear a significant load with 50,400 vehicles daily — underscoring the pressure placed on this vital Lowcountry route.

As Bluffton’s population grows, so does the number of traffic incidents. In 2017, the town’s population was approximately 20,625. By 2023, it had climbed to 35,243, according to U.S. Census Bureau esti-

mates. Projections for 2025 put the figure at 36,899, suggesting increased strain on U.S. 278 and adjacent roadways.

Crashes along the corridor occur with troubling frequency. In August 2023, a multi-vehicle accident at U.S. 278 and Buckwalter Parkway resulted in one fatality and multiple injuries. Just months later, in November 2024, a bicyclist was struck and killed near Gateway Village Road.

Local officials have acknowledged the corridor’s safety challenges. The Bluffton Police Department’s Traffic Unit, established in 2016, regularly monitors highrisk areas and conducts targeted enforcement along U.S. 278. Beaufort County also retimed several traffic signals in 2018 to improve traffic flow and reduce crash potential.

Despite these efforts, many residents remain frustrated. In the aftermath of the May 19 crash, social media posts and public comments reflected growing concern about speeding, aggressive driving, and limited visibility at several intersections. These complaints are not new, and community frustrations continue to

mount. While long-term infrastructure improvements remain under review, local authorities are emphasizing short-term strategies, including increased enforcement and public education. Safety campaigns and patrol presence are expected to ramp up during the summer, when traffic volumes typically surge.

As Bluffton continues to grow, addressing safety on U.S. 278 and nearby roads remains a pressing challenge. The recent tragedy has served as a somber reminder of what’s at stake — and of the urgent need for lasting solutions.

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State approves $576 Million for 2026 road projects; key routes in Beaufort County slated for repair

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) Commission has approved its 2026 Pavement Improvement Plan, allocating an additional $576 million toward the continued rehabilitation of roads across the state. As part of the initiative, eight roadway segments in Beaufort County — including stretches of Okatie Highway, Pope Avenue and Fish Haul Road — are scheduled for rehabilitation or reconstruction.

Now in its ninth year, the statewide pavement program has directed more than $5.3 billion in funding since the 2017 Roads Bill, which expanded SCDOT’s capacity to upgrade South Carolina’s aging infrastructure. The plan prioritizes safety,

durability and traffic flow on non-interstate systems.

Beaufort County Road Segments in the 2026 Plan

According to the SCDOT’s published 2026 project list, the following roads in Hilton Head Island, Bluffton and Okatie are scheduled for improvement:

Major Roads/Primary Routes

• SC 170 (Okatie Highway): From mile point 15.69 to 21.15 (5.46 miles) — Rehabilitation (Rank: 2026-1)

Farm to Market Secondary Roads

• Pope Avenue (Hilton Head Island): From mile point 1.05 to 1.31 (0.26 miles)

— Rehabilitation (Rank: 2026-1)

• South Forest Beach Drive (Hilton Head Island): From mile point 0.00 to 1.00 (1.00 mile) — Rehabilitation (Rank: 2026-3)

Neighborhood Streets

• Fish Haul Road (Hilton Head Island): From mile point 1.81 to 2.25 (0.44 miles) These projects were selected using pavement condition scores and other performance metrics. Roads with higher needs were prioritized for 2026 funding and treatment, which ranges from resurfacing to full reconstruction.

Ongoing Commitment to Infrastructure

“With the Commission’s approval of

Sea turtle patrol dedicates first nest of season to late island leader

The first sea turtle nest of the 2025 season has been laid on Hilton Head Island, and it comes with a special tribute to a well-known figure in the local community.

Sea Turtle Patrol Hilton Head Island announced the discovery of the nest on May 7th, marking the official start of the nesting season. In a gesture of remembrance, the nest has been dedicated to Jay Wiendl, a hospitality industry leader and longtime supporter of local conservation efforts, who died earlier this year at age 51.

Three golden poles and a commemorative plaque now mark the nest site. The dedication honors Wiendl’s commitment

to preserving the island’s natural beauty and his consistent support for sea turtle conservation.

“This first nest is more than just a beginning—it’s a legacy,” said Amber Kuehn, director of Sea Turtle Patrol Hilton Head Island. “Jay’s enduring impact on our mission and this island will live on with every hatchling that makes its way to the sea.”

Wiendl, remembered for his generosity and leadership, was known for his environmental stewardship and deep connection to Hilton Head Island. The Sea Turtle Patrol said his support helped further its

mission of protecting loggerhead turtles and educating the public about coastal conservation.

The nesting season on Hilton Head typically runs from May through October. Volunteers with Sea Turtle Patrol monitor the beaches daily at sunrise, tracking nesting activity and working to ensure a safe passage for hatchlings to reach the ocean.

Sea Turtle Patrol Hilton Head Island continues to encourage residents and visitors to respect marked nest areas and minimize beachfront lighting to protect sea turtles throughout the season.

the 2026 Pavement Improvement Plan, our team at SCDOT can continue to improve the condition of our roadways in order to keep people and goods moving through the state,” said SCDOT Secretary Justin Powell.

The pavement initiative is part of the state’s 10-Year Strategic Plan, which was launched following the passage of the 2017 Roads Bill. It focuses on four key areas: road resurfacing, safety improvements, bridge replacements and interstate capacity upgrades.

Note to Readers: Project schedules, locations and treatment plans are subject to change. For the most current information, visit SCDOT’s interactive map at https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/ 50055ca39899437e89e979dc04bafa82 or the SCDOT website at www.scdot.org.

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EDITORIAL

Mayor’s column: lessons learned and preparing for the 2025 hurricane season

By Mayor Larry Toomer Contributor

As hurricane season begins June 1st, I want to take a moment to reflect on what we’ve learned in Bluffton from past storms—and how those lessons are helping us prepare for whatever may come in 2025.

Since 2016, Bluffton has been tested by hurricanes including Matthew, Irma, Florence, Dorian and Michael. While we’ve been fortunate to avoid a direct hit, these events give us valuable experience and insight. We’ve strengthened our procedures, improved coordination, and created detailed checklists so we can respond more efficiently and recover faster.

One key lesson is the importance of preparation. As Town Manager Stephen Steese often says, “The key to a timely

recovery of any weather event is to prepare.” That means making your communication and evacuation plans now—not when a storm is approaching. Know where you’ll go, how you’ll get there, and how you’ll stay in touch with your loved ones.

We also learned how critical it is for residents to play an active role. For example, blocked storm drains and ditches—often on private property—can lead to avoidable flooding. We need every resident to be part of our stormwater protection team. If you see a drain or ditch near your property, please check it for blockages and clear any debris.

Another challenge we’ve faced is misinformation during emergencies. Please get your updates from official sources like the Town of Bluffton, Beaufort County Emergency Management and the South Carolina Emergency Management Division. Local television stations may focus on nearby areas like Savannah, but local government channels will give you the most relevant information.

We’ve also learned that storm deci-

sions—like evacuation orders or school closings—may feel inconvenient, but they’re made with one goal: public safety. Please be patient with the process and understanding of the people behind it.

The Town is doing its part too. Our staff inspects stormwater infrastructure, trims trees on Town property, maintains equipment, and coordinates with county and state agencies year-round. We also work with Property Owners Associations and contractors to ensure they’re storm ready.

As we move into another season, I urge each of you to review your personal hurricane plan. Make sure your family, pets, and property are prepared. Visit hurricane.sc and townofbluffton.sc.gov for guides and resources. Follow us on social media for timely updates.

Finally, please remember that preparation is a community effort. Bluffton is stronger when we work together. Stay, Safe, Bluffton!

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

LARRY TOOMER

Hilton Head parking debate continues as council delays vote on countywide permit plan

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

As tensions mount over beach parking fees on Hilton Head Island, a proposed plan to ease access for Beaufort County residents has stalled, leaving visitors and locals uncertain heading into peak beach season.

On May 19th, the town’s Community Services and Public Safety Committee formally reviewed a proposal introduced by Mayor Alan Perry to offer seasonal parking passes to Beaufort County residents for $100. The plan would exclude Islanders Beach Park — a site reserved exclusively for Hilton Head Island residents — but would apply to other public beach lots.

Nonresidents must pay using a mobile platform — with no cash option — at a rate of $3 per hour on weekdays (capped at $15) and a $20 flat rate on weekends. Enforcement is in place daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Sept. 7th.

The current system has drawn criticism from beach visitors who face long lines to park, then must scan QR codes and complete mobile transactions, often while managing children and beach gear. In addition to the county permit proposal, several other parking-related changes remain under discussion:

• Rate Increase: A proposal could raise the hourly rate to $5 and remove the daily cap.

Despite growing frustration from beachgoers over current rates and a mobile-only payment system, the committee voted against recommending the plan, forwarding it to the full Town Council without endorsement. At a recent meeting, the council chose to postpone a formal vote, citing the need for further analysis and community input. A new date for deliberation has not been set.

Council members expressed concern over the financial impact and the town’s capacity to manage potentially increased demand. “We need to take a look at that and say, ‘Is that the right thing, or do we need to go back to an hourly rate with a max cap on the day?’” Perry said in a previous interview with WJCL.

Currently, only Hilton Head Island residents with a primary address on the island are eligible for up to two free digital parking permits per household.

• Coligny Beach: Paid parking may be extended to Coligny Beach Park, currently free. Newly acquired lots nearby would remain exempt.

• Chaplin Park: Free parking could be approved for families attending youth recreational sports.

• Permit Restrictions: Residents with outstanding town fees may be denied a parking permit under a proposed administrative rule.

Beachgoers can still park for free after 5 p.m. and before 7 a.m., and at Coligny Beach Park, which remains one of the last town-managed lots not subject to paid parking.

With summer underway, the Town Council continues to face mounting pressure to resolve the growing controversy. Until a decision is made, the current fee structure and resident-only permit rules remain in place.

For updates and permit information, visit hiltonheadislandsc.gov.

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Boys and Girls Clubs offer activities old and new for summer

By Channing Heiss Contributor

With major fundraising events completed, organizers and the people they mentor are looking to longer summer hours filled with learning, discovery, and fun at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Bluffton and Hilton Head.

During the coming months, staff will offer access to opportunities from the recently developing hands-on programs of study in drone operation, robotics, and artificial intelligence to recreational summer camp activities such as tennis.

During the season of full day operations, members will be able to take scheduled 40-minute classes on a variety of topics. These classes are augmented by field trips out in the community that expose club members to experiences from outdoor activities to performing arts. Boys and Girls Clubs promote growth and opportunity in five core areas—education and career development, character and leadership, health and life skills, the arts, and fitness and recreation.

Director of the Bluffton club Molly Hornbeak and Ryan Wise, director of the Hilton Head club, share a passion and a sense of mission in what they do.

“It all starts with the mission,” says Wise, “to give everyone the opportunity to reach their full potential.”

“The more you’re here, the more you realize how much you can impact these kids,” he observes.

Hornbeak explains, “This is not a baby-sitting service. We are definitely molding the future.” Of those club members they mentor, she says “We are preparing them for the world.” In this endeavor, Wise and Hornbeak both give high praise and credit to their respective staffs.

Wise estimates the average member of the Boys and Girls Club stays in the program between four and five years. To prepare them for life after those years, both clubs focus heavily on workforce readiness.

“They develop real world skills that make them employable,” Wise explained. Club members can also learn a variety of trades during their class periods at the

club as a viable alternative to a traditional college path.

At the Bluffton club, they are also working to get participants ready for success. Hornbeak talks with pride and excitement about their job skills training and especially the Dwaine Willett career launch job fair event this month.

“I’ve seen people hired on the spot,” she said of the alumni of this program. In terms of their marketability, she adds “I have requests all the time.” She explains they learn skills such as interviewing and how to “dress for success.”

While Hornbeak relishes the chance to talk about the many successful programs at the Boys and Girls Club of Bluffton, she says a particular favorite is the Explorers L.E.A.D. program. In partnership with the Bluffton Police Department, this program introduces participants to all aspects of law enforcement, also teaching leadership and good citizenship, according to Hornbeak.

“Many of our graduates have joined police forces.”

Wise is quick to emphasize that the Boys and Girls Club is for every child and teen regardless of background.

“These programs are designed to appeal to all kids and to a range of ages. We want everyone.”

“I would have loved to have something like this available when I was a kid,” Wise says. “These are unbelievable opportunities that any kid would love to partake in.”

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

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Know the signs: how to recognize and respond to heat-related illnesses

By Cinda Seamon Contributor

Your body is a natural regulator of heat. It responds to high temperatures by circulating blood and increasing the temperature of your skin. Excess heat is released through the skin by sweating. Sweating helps maintain a stable body temperature, but only if the humidity is low enough for evaporation and if the fluids and salts lost are adequately replaced.

When the body can no longer release heat effectively, it stores it, raising your core temperature and putting your health at risk.

As temperatures rise, so does stress on the body. Several factors can help reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses, including proper acclimation, adequate hydration, and good nutrition.

Heat Stress (Heat Cramps)

When your core body temperature rises even slightly above normal, you may experience heat stress. Symptoms can include muscle cramps, weakness, disorientation and general discomfort.

Signs of heat stress (heat cramps):

• Tiredness

• Irritability

• Inattention

• Painful, intermittent muscle spasms in the abdomen or other voluntary muscles

Heat cramps usually occur after heavy sweating and tend to develop late in the day after physical exertion.

First aid for heat stress:

• Move to a cool environment

• Drink fluids such as water or electrolyte drinks like Gatorade. Avoid alcohol, caffeine or carbonated beverages.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion occurs when a person fails to replace fluids and salt lost through sweating. This condition can become serious if untreated.

Signs of heat exhaustion:

• Extreme weakness

• Fatigue

• Dizziness or giddiness

• Nausea

• Headache

First aid for heat exhaustion:

• Rest in a shaded or cool place

• Drink plenty of water or an electrolyte replacement like Gatorade

• Loosen clothing to help the body cool

• Apply cool, wet cloths to the body

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is a life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Sweating may stop entirely, leaving the skin hot and dry. Body temperature can exceed 105F degrees.

Signs of heat stroke:

• Mental confusion

• Delirium

• Chills

• Dizziness

• Loss of consciousness

• Convulsions or coma

• Hot, dry skin that may appear red, mottled or bluish

First aid for heat stroke:

• Call 911 immediately

• Move the person to a cooler location

• Do not wait—brain damage or death can occur if not treated urgently

Final Reminder:

Understanding the stages and recognizing the symptoms early and responding quickly can save lives.

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

United Way honors Hilton Head’s Mary Stuart Alderman with 2025 Peter Post Service Star Award

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

Mary Stuart Alderman, a longtime community volunteer and civic leader, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Peter Post Service Star Award by United Way of the Lowcountry, recognizing her decades of dedication to service in Beaufort and Jasper counties.

The award was presented during United Way’s Annual Meeting and is given annually to an individual who embodies the spirit of selfless service, humility, and lasting community impact. Alderman was nominated by The Deep Well Project, where she has held multiple leadership roles and continues to volunteer actively.

“Her service work in our community is nothing short of extraordinary,” said Dale Douthat, president and CEO of United Way of the Lowcountry. “She is, quite simply, the kind of leader every community needs — one who leads by example, not by title.”

Alderman’s community involvement

spans a wide range of local organizations. She served on the board of The Deep Well Project for six years, including two and a half years as chair, and now leads the nonprofit’s donor database team. She is also a member of the Rotary Club of Hilton Head Island, where she has chaired

numerous service committees and was named Rotarian of the Year. Through United Way, Alderman has served as a Read Indeed tutor and longtime campaign volunteer. She has also played key roles with Women in Philanthropy, the Junior League of the South

Carolina Lowcountry, and First Presbyterian Church of Hilton Head Island, where she serves as both a Deacon and an Elder.

Her volunteer efforts reflect a broad commitment to causes including social justice, environmental sustainability, education, and economic mobility.

Established in 2020, the Peter Post Service Star Award honors the legacy of Peter Post, a devoted United Way volunteer and Dataw Island resident. In addition to public recognition, each honoree receives a symbolic tribute — a star named in their honor, located in the constellation corresponding to their birth month.

Alderman now joins a distinguished group of past recipients, including Charlie Francis, Katie Phifer, Renarta Thompson, and Lisa Wilt.

“Mary Stuart is the very definition of a servant leader — someone whose faith, family, and community drive everything she does,” Douthat said.

For more information about United Way of the Lowcountry’s mission and volunteer opportunities, visit www.uwlowcountry.org.

United Way of the Lowcountry President and CEO Dale Douthat (left) presents Mary Stuart Alderman (right) with the 2025 Peter Post Service Star Award during the organization’s Annual Meeting.

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The boys of summer

By Justin Jarrett Contributor

On consecutive nights last week, middle-aged men became young again and teenagers reverted to boyhood, chasing one another around the outfield, arms in the air with half-filled water bottles or towels flailing in the night.

The boys of summer put the punctuation on spring with dueling dogpiles, as Hilton Head Christian Academy’s baseball team capped off an improbable run to a second consecutive state title, and Hilton Head Prep followed it up three days later with — inconceivably — the first state championship in a proud program’s history.

Each scene was the type young boys dream about in their idle time while tossing a ball in the air or against a wall, imagining they’re the one to make the play that sets off the celebration.

HHCA left fielder Eli Morgan’s heart must have stopped for just an instant when he saw the final out soaring his way, trying not to notice his teammates on the infield with their gloves already skyward in anticipation of the celebration to come. No pressure, kid.

Morgan wasn’t part of last year’s championship team. He’s one of several young players who were on the JV roster, waiting their turn while a senior-laden squad fulfilled its lofty expectations and delivered the Eagles’ first baseball crown in 14 years. Players like Morgan, Brody Mayles, and eighth-graders Stone Burd and Colt Spargur stepped right into key roles and rolled with the punches when first-year head coach Jay Scarbro constructed a challenging schedule aimed at preparing his team for the jump to SCISA Class 4A.

After waiting nearly a decade and a half for a second state championship, no one at HHCA expected the third to come so quickly.

But with only one senior on the roster — albeit Montreat College-bound ace Hayden Brooks, whose improbable walkoff home run sent the Eagles into the championship series — the expectations have been reframed for his program. If the drought between HHCA’s first two titles wasn’t enough to indicate the difficulty of running the gauntlet, Hilton Head Prep’s long search for a championship drives the point home. The Dolphins have had their share of dominant teams over the years, but a title evaded them time and time again. The closest call came in 2016, when Dobbie Green’s Dolphins took the opening game of the championship series against Calhoun Academy before losing two straight one-run games. HHP made deep runs each of the last four years under veteran coach Chris Wells, but each fell short of the championship series. Until this year.

Coincidentally, the Dolphins punched their ticket at the expense of Calhoun Academy on a walk-off hit–by-pitch to end an epic nine-inning battle, perhaps extinguishing any remaining demons, because even when two errors opened the door for Orangeburg Prep’s seventh-inning to force a decisive game 3, the Dolphins were undeterred. They fell behind 3-1 in the finale but pounced on the Indians’ miscues in the sixth to plate four runs, and sophomore Brandon Espinoza finished off a compete game in a 5-3 victory.

Espinoza wiped out the final hitter with a nasty breaker, and catcher Jackson Stanyard spiked his facemask and sprinted toward the mound to experience the purest form of catharsis. Hail to the champs.

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

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Bluffton, South Carolina real estate market update: June 2025

By Dan Prud’homme Contributor

The real estate market in Bluffton continues to evolve, with several indicators showing a distinct shift from the strong seller’s market of the past few years. As we settle into the summer months, the numbers paint a picture of a market in transition—more balanced, but still full of opportunity for informed buyers and sellers.

Let’s start with inventory. There are currently 992 homes for sale in Bluffton—a 5.6% increase from last month’s 939 homes and a staggering 17% rise from the 848 homes on the market this time last year. This is the highest number of active listings we’ve seen in Bluffton since well before the pandemic, giving buyers more choices than they’ve had in recent memory.

The average days on market has crept up again, now sitting at 76 days. That’s down slightly from 80 days last month but represents a significant 28% increase from the 59-day average one year ago. Sellers should take note—homes are taking longer to sell, which means pricing strategy and presentation are more important than ever.

Closed sales for year-to-date reached 537 as of early June. This marks a 35.3% increase from the 397 closed sales at this time last month, but a 20.5% decrease compared to the 675 closings reported by this point last year. The jump from last month shows continued buyer interest, but year-over-year softness suggests some buyers are still holding off—perhaps due to rate concerns or seasonal election-year caution.

Median sale prices are holding relatively steady. The median for 2025 so far is $540,000, which is down 3.6% from the $560,000 recorded in 2024, but matches the median in 2023. For historical context, median prices were $491,790 in 2022, $391,983 in 2021, and $346,555 in 2020. The broader trend remains one of solid longterm appreciation.

The story right now is all about shifting dynamics. Buyers have more choices, and the pace has slowed enough to allow for more deliberation. Yet inventory, while growing, is still not high by historical standards. With mortgage rates stabilizing, we may see renewed competition later in the summer. For now, Bluffton remains a market in transition—offering both challenges and opportunities depending on your perspective.

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

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ADES SUE/RUBINSTEIN PAT 2445 SELWYN AVE APT 302 CHARLOTTE NC 0282091668

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ALLISON BILLY (THERESA) 2701 MAGNOLIA SPRINGS DR APT 238 LEXINGTON KY 0405110000

ALTHOFF ANGELA M 190 WINFIELD RIDGE DR WINSTON SALEM NC 0271036943

AMEER ALEXANDER (DIANA Y) 15 MINUTEMAN DR BLUFFTON SC 0299107100

ANDES C S (RUTH G) 535 GRADYVILLE RD UNIT S18 NEWTOWN SQUARE PA 0190730000

ANELLO DALE L 1 TUPELO RD HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299285911

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TRAM COLKET 4 S CALIBOGUE CAY RD HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299282912

ATLANTIS CO INC PO BOX 23887 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299253887

ATWOOD DAVID (ANNE) 37 TOPPIN DR HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299261003

AUDUBON NATURE STORE 33 OFFICE PARK RD #4A 354 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299280000 AUTO EXPERTS IV

D/B/A MIDAS AUTO EXPERTS 4 PO BOX 14318 SAVANNAH GA 0314161318

BANKMERIDIAN NA 1320 MAIN ST STE 175 COLUMBIA SC 0292013267

BECK CHARLOTTE H (RAYMOND) 39 SANDFIDDLER RD HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299283149

BELL CRISTIAN CALDERAN 117 RIVANNA LN GREENVILLE SC 0296070000

BENTRUP R/JOHNSEN S/JOYCE P

ROBERT L BENTRUP JR PO BOX 391124 SOLON OH 0441398124

BENTRUP/JOYCE/COODE ROBERT L BENTRUP JR PO BOX 391124 SOLON OH 0441398124

BERUBE JANICE K PO BOX 21808 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299250000

BEVERLY BARBARA 3440 HILLCREST RD UNIT 33 MOBILE AL 0366953180

BEVERLY THOMAS (ANNE) 1305 MCCABE ST ROCK SPRINGS WY 0829010000

BLACKWELL COMPANY 23 SANDDOLLAR RD HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299285455

BLAIR CHRISTINA 3055 WILSHIRE BLVD STE 300 LOS ANGELES CA 0900101147

BLANCO DAVID (CECILIA) 6217 BEES CREEK RD RIDGELAND SC 0299364815

BLIND AMBITIONS WINDOW FASH 11 RUSTY RAIL LN HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299262560

BLUFFTON ELKS INC 2773 23 PLANTATION PARK DR STE 304 BLUFFTON SC 0299109012

BLUMBERG FREDERICK (GAIL) 24 RIBAUT DR HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299261986

BOOCKMEYER CARMEN LUCIA 125 SHIPYARD DR APT 190 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299287828

BOW CIRCLE STATION INC 180 S KNOWLES AVE STE 9 WINTER PARK FL 0327897009

BOYD JANET GAY 85 CYPRESS RUN BLUFFTON SC 0299095080

BRANSFIELD DELANO 181 COURTNEY LN RIDGELAND SC 0299364703

BRANSOME ED JR (JANET) 621 MAGNOLIA ST SE AIKEN SC 0298010000

BRAVO FOOD GROUP LLC

STORE #20468 2702 INTERNATIONAL LN STE 201 MADISON WI 0537043117

BRICKER BARBARA 63 STRATFORD DR OKATIE SC 0299094641

BRINKMAN CARL A (JACKIE) 26 ANSLEY PL BLUFFTON SC 0299093500

BROWN JUSTINE 3905 RICE SHIRE RD RIDGELAND SC 0299360000

BRZ INC 10 PINCKNEY COLONY RD STE 401 OKATIE SC 0299094149

BUIST CHARLES PO BOX 6657 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299386657

BURGESS JAMES A (MARILYN A) 3939 ERIE AVE APT 410 CINCINNATI OH 0452081915

BURHANS RONALD L (JUDITH) 4 INDIGO RUN DR APT 1422 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299264114

BURLESON MARDY A (MATTHEW) 6 EXECUTIVE PARK RD STE 6 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299284741

BURRISON DAISY P (DAVID)

JACOB PATTERSON 3876 BEES CREEK RD RIDGELAND SC 0299366538

BUSH JESSIE JR PO BOX 601 BLUFFTON SC 0299100601

C A C HOMES 327 KILLIAN PT CHAPIN SC 0290368226

CAMERON NATHAN (LINDSAY) 21 MIDDLETON GARDENS PL BLUFFTON SC 0299104908

CANDELARIO WILBER 220 SHADY GLEN CIR BLUFFTON SC 0299100000

CANFIELD JOHN J (MARGUERITE) 98 SUMMERTON DR BLUFFTON SC 0299104802

CAPSTONE FINANCIAL GROUP 104 PALMETTO PKWY HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299263761

CAROLINA CRYSTAL HH LLC PO BOX 16 SHELDON SC 0299410016

CARROLL DAVID N (BETH A) 81 MAIN ST STE 201 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299260000

CARROLL MARY T 9 PEEKS PIKE CHARLESTON SC 0294077237

CARSON WILLIAM S (EMMA J) 809 E ST LEXINGTON SC 0290720000

CARTWRIGHT JACK (MARY) 1040 CANTERING RD HIGH POINT NC 0272624506

Special Section

Palmetto Electric Cooperative is trying to locate former members with unclaimed Capital Credits.

Please refer to the following listing to see if the Cooperative has unclaimed Capital Credits for you. If your name is on the list, please call 1-800-922-5551 to find out how to claim your Capital Credits.

NAME ADDR1 CITY/STATE ZIP

CATRABONE DONALD R (LISA) 1881 SS RAILROAD BED RD APT 3101 STATESBORO GA 0304610000

CHESHIER HUGH A (MARLENE) 123 ROBERTS LN HARDEEVILLE SC 0299276159

CHILDERS JOHN JR 4801 GILLISON BRANCH RD PINELAND SC 0299345916

CIRCLE OF HEALTH LLC PO BOX 5370 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299385370

CKT INC 807 WILLIAM HILTON PKWY STE 1000 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299283487

CLOVER LEAF LLC

D/B/A MURPHY’S IRISH PUB 81 POPE AVE AVE STE 11 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299284785

CLUB TAN 38C NEW ORLEANS RD HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299280000

COLDWATER CREEK MALL @ SC 80263/MS #10 PO BOX 182308 COLUMBUS OH 0432182308

COLLINS MARVA N 71 WHEATFIELD CIR BLUFFTON SC 0299100000

CONLAN RICHARD J (JOANN) 26 OYSTER SHELL LN HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299262609

CONRAD GROUP OF HH LLC

D/B/A TJ’S TAKE & BAKE PIZZA 11 PALMETTO BAY RD STE 107B HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299287333

CONRAD STEVEN M (PAMELA J) 301 TINGEY ST SE APT PH32 WASHINGTON DC 0200034623

COON MARY T 110 GARDNER DR APT 120 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299260000

COX STEPHEN R/CAMERON MARY 10 S FOREST BEACH DR APT 122 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299287016

CPL PROPERTIES INC 8 SWING ABOUT HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299285276

CRADLE ‘N’ ALL 1000 E NORTH ST STE 200 GREENVILLE SC 0296013178

CRAIG’S FURNITURE 1 SPARROW HAWK CT HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299261947

CRAWFORD DENESE M (RANDALL) 118 HEADLANDS DR HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299260000

CRONKITE DONALD W 900 ABRUZZI DR APT 304 CHESTER MD 0216190000

DAVIDSON ALICE F 1000 PAVILLIONS CIR TRAVERSE CITY MI 0496840000

DAVIS HARRIETT P 37 WOOD DUCK CT HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299283010

DAWSON P A 31 CARROLL DR BLUFFTON SC 0299106311

DELANEY AMANDA E (DOUGLAS) 100 KENSINGTON BLVD APT 703 BLUFFTON SC 0299100000

DELGADO RAY 21 FARNSLEIGH AVE BLUFFTON SC 0299100000

DELONG ROBERT H JR (SHIRLEY) 10701 GULF SHORE DR APT 502 NAPLES FL 0341083020

DELOREY CLIFFORD (JILL)

CAITLIN DELOREY 9064 DOWDEN RD APT 203 ORLANDO FL 0328276833

DENNIS SEXTON HOME BLDRS 55 MATHEWS DR STE 220 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299263788

DENNIS SEXTON HOME BLDRS 16 SPANISH WELLS RD HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299261402

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DLG ENTERPRISES LLC

LISA MALONEY 107 BLACKFOX WAY SUNSET SC 0296850000

DON BRYANT INC D/B/A

W D BRYANT BIRKENSTOCK 36 JACK HARE RD BLUFFTON SC 0299100000

DONAGHEY ROBERT ADAMS CHARLE 6 REEF CLB HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299261223

DRAYTON JOHN W 6 HERON ST HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299286437

DRYCLEAN-USA COASTAL INC

DCI MANAGEMENT GROUP PO BOX 20587 PHOENIX AZ 0850360587

DUNNAGANS RESTAURANT INC 614 E HIGHWAY 50 STE 408 CLERMONT FL 0347113164

EATON MARGARET E

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ENGLAND KENT B MD 46 MANAGHAN DR DR APT 202 HARDEEVILLE SC 0299272616

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ERICKSON THEODORE W JR

JANET N ERICKSON 945 RIVERBEND PKWYHENS GA 0306052674

ERWIN M JOHNSTON (CHRISTINA) 1 BERTRAM PL HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299283936

ESTATE BUILDERS 36 PERSIMMONS ST STE 203 BLUFFTON SC 0299107661

FERGUSON BACKUS (MATTIE) 1169 OCEAN AVE APT 2C BROOKLYN NY 0112302000

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FIRST STATES INVESTORS

AVIDXCHANGE-149 PO BOX 30701 CHARLOTTE NC 0282300701

FIRTH THOMAS A (JERRI)

D/B/A HAIR & COMPANY 1 N FOREST BEACH

D/B/A

FRASER JOHN III (JOAN G) 194 SPRING ST CHARLESTON SC 0294030000

GALE

NAME ADDR1 CITY/STATE ZIP

JENKINS LILLIE M 2690 RICE SHIRE RD RIDGELAND SC 0299360000

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JOHNSON NORMAN J (BERNADETTE) PO BOX 305 WATKINSVILLE GA 0306770000

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JOHNSTON HARRY 246 FRIENDSHIP CIR BEAVER PA 0150090000

JONES N Y FACTORY STORES 1411 BROADWAY STE 15 NEW YORK NY 0100180000

JUDISCH REBEKAH K (JEFF) 7700 SUNWOOD DR NW APT 112 RAMSEY MN 0553035198

JUDY & MAC’S DELI INC 11 MATHEWS DR STE 6 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299263781

KASTEN ALEXANDER (BARBARA E) 14 GHOST PONY RD BLUFFTON SC 0299100000

KEISLER EMERSON 71 POPE AVE STE B HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299284771

KELLER C H (JOYCE) 501 TIDEPOINTE WAY APT 5302 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299283054

KELLER DEAN R (MARILYN) 3743 LAKE RD SHEFFIELD LAKE OH 0440540000

KELLY DAVID F 1717 HOMEWOOD BLVD APT 342 DELRAY BEACH FL 0334456804

KELLY JAMES J (ALICE) 2083 LAWSON BLVD GURNEE IL 0600311773

KENNEDY ROBERT M

SUNTRUST BANK,NASHVILLE N A 6315 VALLEY RD NASHVILLE TN 0372050000

KESLER SARA/LAWSON CHAD 3 SHELTER COVE LN APT 7487 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299281505

KING MONICA SUE 149 CHERRY POINT RD S BLDG B OKATIE SC 0299090000

LA GUADALUPANA INDIRA RUANO 76 PIN OAK ST BLUFFTON SC 0299107601

LARSEN EVERETT P (DOREEN) 4001 W SILVER SPRINGS BLVD LOT 601 OCALA FL 0344820000

LARSEN RICHARD H (FRANCES A) 66 HICKORY FOREST DR HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299262670

LASHER BEVERLY J 12 OUTERBRIDGE CIR HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299262916

LAYCOCK JEFFREY A (LEIGH)

D/B/A GARDEN SERVICES PO BOX 22952 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299252952

LEE ELIZABETH /MELINDA MITCHELL 6538 MARCEL WAY UNIT 101 SAN ANTONIO TX 0782330000

LEIHBACHER ROBERT R (PAMELA)

CHARLES WALKER GIBBES TRUST 20 PLANTERS ROW HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299285504

LENZ ROBERT (ERMA) 51 BIRDSONG WAY APT A210 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299261392

LILLAGORE CAROLYN 1105 HUDSON LN FRANKLIN TN 0370678604

LINCOLN ALLEN A (NORMA JEAN) 3844 HIGHGATE RD NORTON SHORES MI 0494410000

LINDGREN JOHN C (MARCY) PO BOX 23164 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299250000

LOCASCIO ANA MARIA 14 EDS LN LITTLE ROCK AR 0722233501

LOSINSKI FREDERICK A 604 FILMORE CT JACKSONVILLE NC 0285403099

LOVELESS JOSEPH A SR (LETHA) 31 BIRDSONG WAY HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299261362

LOW-COUNTRY FIRE & SAFTY LLC

D/B/A FIRE TECH SERVICES PO BOX 100596 NASHVILLE TN 0372240596

LYLE ROGER H (MURIEL) 126 HIGH BLUFF RD HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299261842

LYNCH STUART M PO BOX 483 AGUANGA CA 0925360483

MALLORY DOUGLAS R (KELLY) PO BOX 33 GARNETT SC 0299220000

MANCILLA JOSE LUIS 10 SOLOMON LN BLUFFTON SC 0299106606

MAR Y TIERRA 76 PIN OAK ST BLUFFTON SC 0299107601

MARKS NICK 4339 PEMBROKE RD HOLLYWOOD FL 0330230000

MARREN JAMES J (PATRICIA A) 1070 OLD SALEM RD APT 1405 GREENSBORO GA 0306426484

MARTEL BRANTLEY C (REBECCA) 130 HILLCREST DR APT 102 FORT MILL SC 0297150000

MARTEL LAURENCE D (MARY) 43 FAIRWAY WINDS PL HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299285547

MARTINEZ JULIO C 345 GARDNERS CIR BLUFFTON SC 0299105861

MC INDUSTRIES LLC 36 PERSIMMONS ST STE 203 BLUFFTON SC 0299107661

MCALHANEY HIRAM Q (CHRISTINE) 214 MCQUAIL DR EARLY BRANCH SC 0299163234

MCDANIEL GARY G (DEBBIE) PO BOX 54 BLUFFTON SC 0299100000

MCDONALD MONIKA M(STANLEY C) 76 POINT COMFORT RD HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299283004

MCGINTY RICHARD A PO BOX 1027 CLEMSON SC 0296331027

MCKENNA JAMES C (SARA JANE) 22 SPARWHEEL LN HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299261224

MCKENZIE LATRELLE 1810 RONDA ST SAVANNAH GA 0314040000

MCMANUS MARY C/LUCIA MCMANUS 617 ARGENT WAY BLUFFTON SC 0299090000

MCPHERSON MALCOLM T (SANSING S) 28 CHINA COCKLE WAY HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299261907

MELADON DEV GROUP VII LLC 200 MAIN ST STE 201B HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299261659

MELICK MARGARET L 2498 S GREEN ST SALT LAKE CITY UT 0841060000

MEUDERSCHEID DIETER (PAULA RITA) 15 FOXBRIAR CT HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299261925

MILLER MICHAEL (SUSAN) 38 SPANISH POINTE DR HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299261436

MMS INC/LONG BOAT INVESTMENT 19 SHELTER COVE LN STE 302 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299283549

MOLINARO PERRY J (DOLORES D) 1500 COCHRAN RD APT 602 PITTSBURGH PA 0152430000 MOORE WILLIS M III (GUNILLA G) 1618 OLD TRAIL DR CROZET VA 0229320000

Special Section

NAME ADDR1 CITY/STATE ZIP

MORGAN ALANA JEAN PO BOX 94318 LAS VEGAS NV 0891930000

MORGAN STANLEY ECOVA MS1571 PO BOX 2440 SPOKANE WA 0992102440

MORRIS WILLIAM L 4833 LINWOOD WEST BLOOMFIELD MI 0483240000

MOSELEY JAMES ARCHIE JR 348 MAIL CARRIAGE RD ESTILL SC 0299182659

MULL ROBERT 60 ASHTON COVE DR HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299280000

MURNANE JAMES (PATRICIA) 87 BIRDSONG WAY HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299260000

MYRTLE PARK ACQUISITION INC 4921 BLUFFTON PKWY BLUFFTON SC 0299104610

MYRTLE PARK ACQUISITION INC 4921 BLUFFTON PKWY BLUFFTON SC 0299104610

MYRTLE PLANTATION PRTRSP LLC 1010 HIGH HOUSE RD STE 300 CARY NC 0275133581

NARDONE ENTERPRISES INC PO BOX 21305 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299251305

NECKLES SUSIE W 7900 ALPHA WAY DOUGLASVILLE GA 0301345700

NIGRO CONSTANCE 402 FOULK RD APT 3C8 WILMINGTON DE 0198035806

NOBLE PETER A (CAROLINA) 313 MARSH POINT DR HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299260000

NTP ENTERPRISES INC 20 TOWNE DR BLUFFTON SC 0299104204

OCEANSIDE LLC MARK C MATHEWS 115 WOODBINE AVE

OCEANVIEW HOLDINGS LLC PO BOX 7873

WILMETTE IL 0600913329

HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299387873

OGREN JANET M 208 PINECREST CIR BLUFFTON SC 0299107935

OKATIE BUSINESS DEVELOPERS 750 HAMMOND DR BLDG 6 ATLANTA GA 0303280000

OKATIE HOTEL GROUP LLC

D/B/A FAIRFIELD INN 1074 PINNACLE POINT DR STE 200 COLUMBIA SC 0292235735

OLSEN MARY S 300 WOODHAVEN DR 5308 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299287511

OOLEY ROBERT G (JACQUELINE) 1702 STILLWOOD DR SAVANNAH GA 0314192428

OPTIMUM RESOURCES INC 1 MATHEWS DR STE 107 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299263765

ORR EARL L MD 826 BAKERS CT BLUFFTON SC 0299105885

OYSTER CATCHER INVESTORS LLC

ROBERT CESA 30 BARAUD RD S SCARSDALE NY 0105836805

OZLEY LEE M (THERESA D) 6 SPRUCE CT HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299287147

PALMER MARTHA L PO BOX 595 BLUFFTON SC 0299100595

PAPER & PARTY PLANTATION 430 WILLIAM HILTON PKWY APT 209A HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299262408

PARKER/SANDERS LLC

STEVE PARKER 55 W CHURCH ST APT 1704 ORLANDO FL 0328014917

PASAS NORMAN L (JUDITH C) 302 HADDON CT FRANKLIN TN 0370676242

PETERS BONNIE C (LARRY) 56 CROSSINGS BLVD BLUFFTON SC 0299100000

PETERS KENNETH R (JOANN)

CHRISTINE SMITH 13330 56TH AVE N MINNEAPOLIS MN 0554421723

PIER 1 IMPORTS #465 1313 N ATLANTIC ST STE 5000 SPOKANE WA 0992012330

PIGGLY WIGGLY CARO CO INC

DAVID SCHOOLS PO BOX 686 MT PLEASANT SC 0294650000

PIGGLY WIGGLY CAROLINA CO IN 176 CROGHAN SPUR STE 302 CHARLESTON SC 0294077556

PIROZZI DONALD (LOUISE) 2 MARSHLAND RD HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299262305

POLEY BROOKS J (NANCY) 15 MULBERRY RD BLUFFTON SC 0299104953

POPE AVE PARTNERS PO BOX 7049 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299387049

POPE THOMAS M (ELISA M TROEH) 10 10TH ST APT 33 ATLANTIC BEACH FL 0322330000

POWELL D FRED (PATRICIA)

HOOSIER VILLAGE 5292 SNOWBELL LN HICKORY HALL BLDG INDIANAPOLIS IN 0462680000

POWERS RICHARD (MARGARET)

GOLDEN OAKS 33398 OAK GLEN RD APT 325 YUCAIPA CA 0923992087

PRICE W GREGORY/HOGAN ALAN 7 DONCASTER LN OKATIE SC 0299096048

PRINCE A J (DOREEN) 111 BIRDSONG WAY APT 3311 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299261379

PRITCHARD DALTON H (CAROLINE) 9038 SHENENDOAH CIR NAPLES FL 0341131663

PUTNAM CAROL S (SIDNEY R) 77 WHEATFIELD CIR BLUFFTON SC 0299105890

QUAESTUS CORPORATION J

AVA JOE’S PO BOX 5942 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299385942

QUESINBERRY MICHAEL (JESSICA) 2909 CAT BRANCH RD EARLY BRANCH SC 0299167144

R & M PLANTATION 32 SUGAR MILL RD OKATIE SC 0299090000

RAFF MARION B

DOUGLAS P RAFF 665 SPRING LAKE DR MELBOURNE FL 0329400000

RAINTREE ENTERPRISES INC 21 LAGOON RD APT B2J HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299286479

RAMIREZ ALBEIRO 90 DILLON RD APT G4

RASCH WILLIAM G III (JOAN) 203 MARLBROCK RD SEVERNA

RAULAND & PASSE

MAIN STREET REALTY 200 MAIN ST STE 201 HILTON

SMITH

SMITH

SMITH THOMAS M (ELLEN K) 2300 HOSPITAL DR 450 BOSSIER CITY LA 0711110000

SOTO MARGARITO 129 PICKETT MILL BLVD OKATIE SC 0299090000

SOUTHERN HOMES CORP

WAYNE & SVETLANA FIRESTONE 1 GREENWOOD DR BLUFFTON SC 0299105708

NAME ADDR1 CITY/STATE ZIP

SWIM N SPORT RETAIL INC 2396 NW 96TH AVE MIAMI FL 0331722323

SYKES PETER (PENELOPE) 45 FOLLY FIELD RD APT 14H HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299285488

SZALEY CATHERINE D 46 E MORNINGSIDE DR BLUFFTON SC 0299100000

TAYLOR CLIFTON LEE 4 WINDTREE LN BLUFFTON SC 0299100000

THIELE ROBERT (EDELGARD)

JOHN L WILSON PO BOX 21668 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299251668

THIERRIN EDWARD V

D/B/A/ SEARS ROEBUCK & CO 1555 FORDING ISLAND RD STE F HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299261176

TILTON JOHN 728 COPE ISLAND DR RIDGELAND SC 0299364982

TINGLE ROBERT L/SPANN T 897 FORDING ISLAND RD APT 1410 BLUFFTON SC 0299100000

TORRENS JANIE (JOHN) 62 HARIDNG ST BEAUFORT SC 0299090000

TRAN JOHN NGOC 2315 BEACON BROOK LN KATY TX 0774490000

TURN KEY SERVICES INC 32 HUNTER RD STE B HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299265720

TUTTLE H RON 36 PURRY CIR BLUFFTON SC 0299094589

TWITCHELL THOMAS 11 CRAMER AVE BLUFFTON SC 0299106716

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VAN EPPS DALE L (RILLANN) 1 E SHORE PATH CAZENOVIA NY 0130350000

VAZQUEZ JULIO C (PATRICIA) 175 SOUTH ST BLUFFTON SC 0299100000

VELEZ RODOLFO 1100 REINLI ST APT 116 AUSTIN TX 0787230000

VERHEY BARBARA 888 BLVD OF THE ARTS APT 605 SARASOTA FL 0342360000

VERMILYEA JIM 1806 SILVER MAPLE DR NORTH AUGUSTA SC 0298608440

VICS ICE CREAM 430 WILLIAM HILTON PKWY STE 400 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299262424

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WAGNER ELOISE P

MARTHA STICHWEH 31 OYSTER LANDING LN HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299283045

WANDERER LANE LLC

JUNE & ASSOC PA 99 N MAIN ST HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299266613

WARREN HELEN (RICHARD) PO BOX 1011 BLUFFTON SC 0299100000

WEINSTEIN SHERMAN (BERNICE) 1900 TREE LN UNIT 371 SNELLVILLE GA 0300780000

WELBORN DANIEL J (KATHY) 1058A MAY RIVER RD BLUFFTON SC 0299105801

WENIG RAYMOND P (SANDRA) 411 WALNUT ST APT 14257 GREEN COVE SPRINGS FL 0320430000

WENNING WILLIAM F JR (JUDITH) 26 WOODLAND RD SEWICKLEY PA 0151430000

WESTLAKE SALLY JO 1017 GROVE AVE APT 2 RACINE WI 0534050000

WICKER MATTHEW R 406 7TH AVE N MYRTLE BEACH SC 0295770000

WIERINGA DARLENE L 216 WEYMOUTH DR LEBANON PA 0170424158

WILLIAMS BENJAMIN (DONNA) 261 SEABROOK DR HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299260000

WILLIAMSON BARBARA B 16 LAKE VIEW CT BLUFFTON SC 0299105318

WILLINGHAM RICHARD (KATHLEEN G) PO BOX 2448 BLUFFTON SC 0299102448

WISE ALAN HUGH/TAMARA WISE 1 CEDAR WAX WING RD HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299285616

WOODIES DARN GOOD BAGELS PO BOX 21761 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SC 0299251761

WORLEY RICHARD D (MARLENE T) PO BOX 447

WRIGHT ALFREDA/GORDON MELVIN 1691 TYE BRANCH RD

Palmetto Electric Cooperative is trying to locate former members with unclaimed Capital Credits.

Please refer to the following listing to see if the Cooperative has unclaimed Capital Credits for you. If your name is on the list, please call 1-800-922-5551 to find out how to claim your Capital Credits.

Discover

By Dr. Jean Harris Contributor

The great debate: who is better Rory or Scottie?

Both players have had a “great” year thus far. Rory has three wins and they are more impressive. (Pebble Beach, The Players, and the Masters). Two of the wins were in playoffs. The wins were against “loaded” fields. Scottie has two wins by five or more strokes, including the PGA Championship.

Rory joined the PGA Tour in 2010 and won four majors by the age of 25 but then had a dry spell of 11 years before he won another Major, the Masters this year. Rory is only the sixth player in the history of golf to win the “Grand Slam”. Rory, age 36, has been a player much longer than Scottie and has 45 wins all over the world. So far, Rory has more wins and awards. However, it seems unfair to compare the two since Rory has been a professional much longer.

Scottie, age 29, has had far less opportunities to win than Rory. Scottie joins Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods as the only players to win three majors and 15 PGA titles before the age of 29. In 2024 Scottie won 7 times, including the Masters, The Players championship, four Signature Events, the Fed Ex Cup and an Olympic Gold Medal. Scottie has been the number one player on the PGA Tour for 105 consecutive weeks.

Both pros have strengths and weaknesses.

Discover Your Dream Home

Rory is the best driver of the ball, possibly in the history of golf. He is a good iron player and putter. He tends to let his emotions get in the way at times. The politics of the PGA and LIV tour have distracted him. He doesn’t have a killer instinct and gets into too many playoffs. Scottie has the best “mind” in the game. He is pretty even-keeled. He seems focused only on God, family and golf. He doesn’t show a lot of emotion. He is the best iron player in the game and his distance control to the greens is amazing. At times his driver and putter can leave him. However, this year his putting has improved.

As of this writing deadline, May 26th, Scottie will be playing in the Memorial Tournament (May 29th-June 1st) and Rory is skipping it for the first time since 2017. I thought the Signature Events were required of the top players, but not anymore. We will see the two players playing against each other again at the U.S. Open.

My verdict in in Rory is having the better year but Scottie will eventually go down in history as the better player. My bet is that Scottie will surpass Rory on Major wins and total wins. Only time will tell and then we will be able to compare their careers once they retire from the game.

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

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At Beaufort Memorial, high school seniors complete first steps on ‘PATH’ to healthcare careers

By Emma June Grosskopf Contributor

Beaufort Memorial was the first step toward a career in healthcare for 13 Beaufort County high school seniors, as the first-ever high school cohort graduated from the hospital’s PATH program on May 13th.

At the beginning of 2025, Beaufort Memorial and the Beaufort County School District (BCSD) partnered to offer an opportunity for high school seniors countywide who are enrolled in a Health Sciences completer program to participate in the hospital’s PATH program (People Achieving Their Highest) tuition-free.

Thirteen Beaufort County students graduated on May 13, surrounded by their families, high school principals, health sciences teachers and officials from Beaufort Memorial and BCSD.

Graduating seniors at the May 13th ceremony included:

Patient Care Technicians (PCT)

Rihanna Cooler

Alani Crawford

Ja’Miah Fields

Luciana Garcia-Figueroa

Kalia Jenkins

Evelin Leija

Clinical Medical Assistants

(CMA)

Kayla Arias

Jasmyn Charles

Adeline Gibbons

Kayla Jones

Aysha Perez

Jasmyn Reames

Abigail Reynolds

“I hope, whether you are here for the summer and going on to school or whether you’re ready to start your career in healthcare, you trust Beaufort

Memorial and serve your community,” said Beaufort Memorial President and CEO Russell Baxley. “I can’t think of anything more special. This community is special, this hospital is special, and this school district is special.”

Dr. Frank Rodriguez, Beaufort County School District Superintendent, emphasized the impact of the partnership between the two organizations.

“When organizations come together to innovate, you can create some really great opportunities, and I think for our students, this is an innovation that will yield tremendous results – not only for the community, the hospital and the school district, but most importantly, for you, the graduates,” he said.

Students with perfect attendance were recognized at the ceremony, as well as five students who have accepted positions at Beaufort Memorial and will be joining the staff following their high school graduations. For these five students, Beaufort Memorial will be an integral part of their career journey right out of high school.

Other students, like Bluffton High School senior Aysha Perez, are planning to attend college and pursue that pathway to a career in the medical field. Perez said she hopes to one day become a doctor.

“It feels really good,” the Bluffton senior said. “This means a lot to me; it gives me an opportunity to go to college, be able to find a job and work in the medical field.”

Beaufort Memorial Chief Nursing Officer Karen Carroll, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, said that no matter the students’ next chapter, Beaufort Memorial is honored to be a part of their journey.

“The only person who can stop you from achieving your goals is you. You can be a great asset to this organization and to wherever you go to school,” Carroll told the graduates. “We are happy to help you on your journey and give you that starting point.”

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Advance planning is key to keeping it in your family

By Mark Winn Contributor

When your child or children inherit from you will they lose it if they get sued or when they get divorced? Will the inheritance you leave to them be taxed in their estate when they pass? Will they squander it? Will it disincentivize them to be productive, contributing member of society? Will the inheritance cause them to lose precious government benefits?

Let’s assume, hypothetically, Max and Florence are happily married retirees who moved here from Ohio two years ago. They have two children whose names are Joe and Emily. Joe is a successful surgeon. He is married to Madeline. They have two children whose names are Emily and Sue. Emily is an elementary school teacher who is married to Jack. He is a struggling artist. They have one child whose name is Franklin. Franklin is autistic.

Max and Florence have a simple will. An Ohio lawyer prepared it for them twenty years ago. It is “simple” because it basically says everything goes free of trust to their spouse if their beloved spouse survives them, and of not, it goes to the children free of trust in equal shares. Now, is this going to be good enough to fully protect them and their family? You decide.

If Joe and Emily inherit free of trust, then if they get sued or divorced, they can lose their inheritance. Since they will own the inheritance free of trust, there is nothing to protect the inherited funds from loss in a lawsuit, bankruptcy, or a divorce. If Joe gets sued for med-

ical malpractice, he could lose all his inheritance. If Joe does not get sued but successfully accumulates wealth, then what he inherits could be exposed to the federal estate tax when he passes. If Emily passes or predeceases, and her share goes to Franklin, this windfall could jeopardize Franklin’s ability to qualify for government benefits. All these things can and often do happen to families who fail to act, who fail to plan ahead to neutralize these threats.

If Joe and Emily each inherit their share pursuant to the terms of a trust for their benefit, then if it is drawn properly, the monies or assets can be available for their use and benefit during their life, but not subject to loss in divorce, not subject to loss in lawsuits, not subject to estate taxes in their estate (exceptions: if they owe the IRS money or they owe child support). Also, Max and Florence can ensure that the assets will stay in their family bloodline. Effectively, they can direct that when Joe and Emily pass, that their share (or what is left of it) goes to their children. They can provide that if this happens the share for Franklin will be held in a special needs trust which will preserve Franklin’s ability to qualify for government benefits. If they think Emily will waste the money by careless spending, they can have Joe serve as trustee, alone or with another, to administer the monies for the benefit of Emily.

When planning your estate, all these matters require attention. Professional guidance and counsel are imperative to success in this area. The moral of the story is that a little bit of planning can do wonders to keep your assets in your family.

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

MARK WINN

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Breaking the silence: Dr. Eric Gwynn encourages women to prioritize urological health

By Carter Mello Contributor

Urological health is often overlooked in conversations about women’s wellness, but according to Dr. Eric Gwynn, it shouldn’t be. As a board-certified urologist with New River Urology in Bluffton and Beaufort, South Carolina, and a surgeon at both Novant Health Hilton Head Medical Center and Novant Health Coastal Carolina Medical Center, Dr. Gwynn is using National Women’s Health Week to encourage women to speak up about their symptoms and seek care early.

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“One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is, ‘Well, I’m just getting older, so it’s normal to have leakage,’” said Dr. Gwynn. “That’s simply not true, and it’s very treatable. We just have to determine the cause.”

Common urological issues in women include urinary incontinence, overactive bladder and pelvic organ prolapse. While these conditions can have a significant impact on quality of life, many women delay seeking help, often out of embarrassment or a belief that symptoms are just a part of aging.

Dr. Gwynn stressed that early diagnosis is key. “If we can treat these conditions earlier, patients generally respond much better,” he said. “When symptoms are ignored, bladder dysfunction can progress, making treatment more complex. For example, if the bladder is prolapsing or there’s an issue with vaginal support, it can cause additional complications like incomplete drainage and more severe leakage.”

Hormonal changes throughout a woman’s life, such as pregnancy, menopause and aging, can also influence urological health. During pregnancy, women may experience increased pressure on the bladder, along with hormonal fluctuations that contribute to temporary leakage or discomfort. Fortunately, these symptoms often improve postpartum.

As women age, however, a drop in estrogen levels can affect the tissues that support the bladder and urethra. “Loss of estrogen is a big factor,” said

Dr. Gwynn. “It can lead to urinary tract infections, vaginal dryness, painful intercourse and weakening of the pelvic floor, all of which can be addressed with the right treatment.”

Available therapies range from lifestyle changes and physical therapy to medications and minimally invasive procedures. “Sometimes it’s as simple as using a local vaginal estrogen cream,” said Dr. Gwynn. “For stress incontinence - leaking when coughing, sneezing, or laughing - we may use slings or recommend pelvic floor exercises. For overactive bladder, we often start with behavioral changes and medication.”

In addition to treatment options, Dr. Gwynn emphasized the importance of preventative care. Staying well-hydrated, eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly are all crucial habits for supporting urological health.

“These are things we should all be doing,” he said. “They can help prevent issues like kidney stones, urinary tract infections and bladder dysfunction.”

Dr. Gwynn’s message to women is simple but powerful: Don’t ignore the signs. “You don’t know what’s treatable until you ask. Don’t wait for things to get worse. Get help early, and you’ll have better options and better outcomes.

Rescue cat fosters orphaned kittens at Palmetto Animal League

By Amy Campanini Contributor

“The heart of a father is the masterpiece of nature.” –

Abbé Prévost

With a name like BBQ, one particular rescue cat at Palmetto Animal League was destined for fatherly greatness! While many dads will be grilling out or eating out on Father’s Day, BBQ will be chilling out keeping watch over “his” kittens. A veritable couch potato, BBQ only leaves the comfort of his cozy cat bed to take care of a few important things.

“He is almost always napping,” says cat caregiver Ashley Norton. “The only time he gets up is to get love and attention or to

care for the kittens.”

Knowing what it’s like to be abandoned, BBQ takes his fatherly role very seriously. He’s always there to listen and lend a paw. BBQ’s dad duties have given him purpose while at the PAL Adoption Center, and he plans on fathering the fatherless with love, grace, and gentle discipline until either he or the kittens find homes.

“He is a firm yet loving mediator of all the kitten ruckus in Cat Room 8 at PAL,” continues Norton.

“He is the most tolerant father figure. All the kittens gravitate toward him. He grooms them, watches them play, and snuggles with them.”

PAL saved BBQ from an overcrowded shelter, and ever since he arrived at our no kill adoption center

on April 29, he has wanted nothing more than to love and be loved. When he’s not caring for homeless kittens, BBQ is seeking affection from our staff and volunteers.

“He doesn’t really meow,” says Norton. “His meows are more like hums, and he loves to have his belly rubbed.”

Cat Room 8 is now affectionately known as “BBQ’s Daycare.” While he seems quite content being a caregiver for now, we know BBQ’s ultimate Father’s Day wish would be to find a lifelong home of his very own.

“Because he is so patient and loving, we think he would do well in a house with children,” says Norton.

In honor of BBQ, and in loving memory of her dad, a faithful PAL supporter is matching all donations through Father’s Day, June 15th. Donate in honor of a special father in your life and every dollar will be doubled to rescue animals. Plus, PAL will send a Father’s Day eCard on your behalf. Visit PalmettoAnimalLeague. org and click on “Double the Love” to send a card. If you’d like to meet 2-year-old BBQ and visit his kitten daycare, the PAL Adoption Center is located at 56 Riverwalk Blvd in Okatie, Monday through Friday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m

Amy Campanini is the president of Palmetto Animal League. www.PalmettoAnimalLeague.org

Ask the expert: can annuities help with long-term care planning?

By Lisa Hostetler Brown Contributor

Expert Answer:

As an elder law attorney, one of the questions I often receive from clients planning for retirement or long-term care is about annuities—what they are, how they work, and whether they’re a good fit for their estate or Medicaid planning strategy.

An annuity is a financial product typically offered by insurance companies. In simple terms, you invest a lump sum or series of payments in exchange for regular income payments, either for a set period of years or for the rest of your life. There are different types of annuities: fixed, variable, and indexed. Each of these has

their own structure and risk level.

From an elder law standpoint, annuities can serve a couple purposes. Retirees can use them to create a predictable stream of income, especially when they’re concerned about outliving their savings. For Medicaid planning, a specific, Medicaid-compliant annuity can help a healthy spouse retain income while allowing the other spouse to qualify for Medicaid benefits for long-term care. However, a Medicaid-compliant annuity must be structured very carefully to comply with Medicaid requirements.

Like any financial tool, using an annuity as part of your financial plan has its pros and cons.

Pros:

• Guaranteed income: Annuities can provide financial stability for individuals who worry about market volatility or running out of money in retirement.

• Customizable: You can tailor an

annuity’s payout terms, whether you want income for life or over a specific number of years.

• Useful in Medicaid planning: When properly structured, annuities can help protect assets while helping an individual qualify for long-term care assistance.

Cons:

• Complexity: Many annuities have fine print, fees, and surrender charges that can be confusing or costly if not fully understood.

• Lack of liquidity: Once you invest in an annuity, accessing those funds early may come with penalties.

• Tax implications: Income from annuities is often taxable, and the growth is tax-deferred—not tax-free.

One often-overlooked aspect of annuities is how they fit into your overall estate plan. Annuities can avoid probate and pass directly to heirs when they are properly titled and designated to your

beneficiaries. However, if not carefully coordinated with your will or trust, they can cause unintended tax burdens or distribution issues. That’s why it’s essential to ensure your annuity strategy is aligned with the rest of your estate plan.

Before purchasing an annuity, it’s crucial to review the details with both your financial advisor and an elder law attorney. What works well for one individual may not suit another’s goals, health, or financial picture.

In the right circumstances, annuities can be a valuable part of a comprehensive elder law plan—but like all tools, they need to be used wisely and with proper guidance.

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

By Dr. Ronald Finger Contributor

Dental hygiene and facial aging

This discussion is about a subject that is beyond my specialty but how it affects plastic surgery and even health and longevity.

The rate of breast encapsulations (breast firmness and distortion) with breast augmentations varies from 2 to 20%, according to the surgical technique and post-operative care.

However, through the years I have noticed that breast implant encapsulations can occur because of poor dental hygiene in many cases. Why? Because gingivitis/ periodontal disease (inflamed, swollen, and/or bleeding gums) is a bacterial problem, and the most common cause of implant encapsulations is bacteria and without clinical infection. With gingivitis, bacteria invade the blood circulatory sys-

tem, which is bad for all types of implants from knees to hips to breasts. Other problems caused by gingivitis are loss and thinning of the facial bones that house your teeth, the maxilla and mandible. In severe cases of gingivitis teeth can be lost. When bone loss occurs in the mandible and maxilla, there is loss of facial volume causing a dramatic appearance of facial aging. Two of the main causes of the appearance of facial aging are volume loss of bone and fat, and the loss of skin elasticity. Poor dental hygiene causes loss of volume in the bones, and thus in the face.

Another result of volume loss is excessive hollowing of the cheeks creating shadows and depressions including wrinkling around the mouth. In fact, bone loss of the maxilla causes sagging, drooping, and turning down of the nose.

Nasolabial folds between the nose and corner of the mouth are caused by volume loss of the maxilla and cheeks. The mouth area can become very wrinkled, and the Marionette lines below the corners of the mouth can occur at a younger age with poor dental hygiene.

Unrelated to plastic surgery, but statis-

tics that are important to know are people with periodontal disease have 3 times the risk of dying from coronary disease prematurely. People with gingivitis have up to a 46% higher chance of dying prematurely. Men under 50 have 2.6 times more risk of dying prematurely and 3 times more likely to die from heart (coronary) disease. Gingivitis causes a compromised immune system and increases total body inflammation. This can be translated to dementia and other inflammatory diseases as well as heart disease. These are examples of the adverse effects of periodontal disease and poor dental hygiene. How do you avoid periodontal diseases

such as gingivitis? The first step is to visit a dentist twice a year for evaluation and professional cleaning. For home care, always floss 2 times a day with non-waxed floss. My favorite floss is POH®, which can be bought online. Waxed floss only glides over the teeth and does not cut the plaque off. Plaque is the sticky film of bacteria attached to the teeth, first white and then yellow. The answer: Brush with a SoniCare® toothbrush (my favorite) 2-3 times a day. The SoniCare® toothbrush has a 2-minute timer, and one should brush for two full minutes at a minimum. A regular toothbrush can be used after lunch at work. After flossing, use a good mouth wash designed to prevent gum disease and reduce plaque.

To be redundant, plaque is full of bacteria and contributes to breast encapsulations, inflammatory diseases, and reduced longevity. Get rid of it, and your face and health will age more slowly, and you will look younger.

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

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Fully Renovated March 2025

Property Details

Unit A is a 1,120 sq ft space with an open concept layout and direct front door access from the building’s facade. $24/SF (NNN)

Property Details

Both units have undergone complete renovations, including updated HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems, and LVL flooring throughout. These updates make either unit an ideal location for your business on Hilton Head Island, conveniently situated near the Squire Pope traffic circle.

Unit C offers 1,340 sq ft with an open-concept design and includes the added benefit of two roll-up garage doors providing access to a fenced rear area. $24/SF (NNN)

Property Details

Unit A is a 1,120 sq ft space with an open concept layout and direct front door access from the building's facade. $24/SF (NNN)

This commercial property is zoned RM-4, ideally suited for a specific type of business; Investment office, Insurance agency, Mortgage lender, Health & spa services, Cosmetic and esthetic, Nail salon, Cleaning services, Laundry services, or Fitness/ Personal training facility.

Unit A is a 1,120 sq ft space with an open concept layout and direct front door access from the building's facade. $24/SF (NNN)

Unit C offers 1,340 sq ft with an open-concept design and includes the added benefit of two roll-up garage doors providing access to a fenced rear area. $24/SF (NNN)

Both units have undergone complete renovations, including updated HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems, and LVL flooring throughout. These updates make either unit an ideal location for your business on Hilton Head Island, conveniently situated near the Squire Pope traffic circle. This commercial property is zoned RM-4, ideally suited for a specific type of

concept design and includes the added benefit of two roll garage doors providing access to a fenced rear area.

Both units have undergone complete renovations, including updated HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems, and LVL flooring throughout. These updates make either unit an ideal location for your business on Hilton Head Island, conveniently situated near the Squire Pope traffic circle.

Both units have undergone complete renovations, including updated HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems, and LVL flooring throughout. These updates make either unit an ideal location for your , conveniently situated near the Squire Pope traffic circle.

ideally suited for a specific type of ortgage lender, services, or

Arts & Entertainment Calendar

HarbourFest at Shelter Cove

Monday–Thursday,

June 3rd–August 21st

Evenings

Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina

Live music, kids’ activities, arts, and fireworks on Tuesdays. sheltercoveharbourfest.com

Historic Fort Mitchel Tours

Mondays, June 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th

10 a.m.

Fort Mitchel, Hilton Head Plantation

Guided Civil War history tours. Reservations recommended. heritagelib.org

Bluffton Farmers Market

June 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th

10 a.m.–2 p.m.

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

Turtle Trot 5K

Wednesdays, June 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th

8 a.m.

Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort

Weekly charity run/walk with beach and road options. palmettodunes.com

Historic Bike Tours

Wednesdays, June 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th

10 a.m.

Starting from Hilton Head Island

Community Park

Scenic guided rides to historic landmarks. heritagelib.org

Photography Walk and Talk

June 6th

9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Daufuskie Island (departing Bluffton dock)

A hands-on photography experience visitbluffton.org

Celebrating Bluffton 2025: Movie

Night – Garfield the Movie

June 6th

7:30 p.m.

Buckwalter Place Park, Bluffton

Free family-friendly outdoor screening. Bring chairs or blankets. townofbluffton.sc.gov

Party in the Park + Car Show

Thursdays, June 12th, 19th, 26th

5:30–8:30 p.m.

Lowcountry Celebration Park, 94 Pope Avenue

Live bands, food trucks, and classic cars. hiltonheadisland.org

Movie Night in the Park

Thursdays, June 12th, 19th, 26th

9 p.m.

Shelter Cove Community Park

Family-friendly outdoor films under the stars. hiltonheadisland.org

Bluffton Sunset Party: Beers, Burgers & BBQ

June 13th

5–9 p.m.

Oyster Factory Park, 63 Wharf Street,

Bluffton

Food trucks, beer garden, wine bar, and live music. blufftonsunsetparty.com

Sunset Celebrations

Fridays, June 13th, 20th, 27th

6–9 p.m.

Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina Family fun and music by the water. sheltercoveharbourfest.com

Shag & Drag

June 14th, Noon–4 p.m.

Historic Downtown Bluffton Classic car show and live entertainment. blufftonsc.gov

Eventsaresubjecttochange,please confirmwitheventorganizersprior toattending.Tosubmityoureventor forfutureconsideration,pleaseemail detailstoeditor@blufftonsun.com.

Mitchelville to host 11th annual Juneteenth celebration with weeklong events and headliner Leela James

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park will commemorate Juneteenth with a week of family-friendly programming culminating in a headline performance by acclaimed R&B artist Leela James on Saturday, June 14th. The celebration, running from June 12th to 19th, marks the 11th annual Juneteenth observance at the site of the first self-governed town of formerly enslaved people in the United States.

Organizers say the event honors the rich legacy of freedom and community embodied by Mitchelville, while also highlighting the ongoing importance of cultural reflection and celebration.

“Events like this bring our community—both near and far—together in powerful ways,” said Ahmad Ward, executive director of Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park. “They offer an opportunity to reflect on our shared history and celebrate the progress we’ve made.”

Festival in the Park highlights – Saturday, June 14th

The main event, Festival in the Park, will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and includes:

• Gospel music hosted by Marti Baker

• A special appearance by Marlena Smalls at the historic Praise House

• Family activities including a Kids’ Corner, karaoke, and an old-school dance contest

• Food trucks, local vendors, and community exhibitors

• A live performance by Leela James, known for hits such as “Fall For You” and “Complicated”

“Her soulful voice and dynamic performance will be the pinnacle of our weeklong Juneteenth celebration,” said Joyce Wright, program director at Mitchelville.

Weeklong schedule of events

Thursday, June 12th

• Naych and B’uhds | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

A collaboration with Hilton Head Audubon featuring birding and nature education under the oaks and along the marsh. Free with registration.

• Slee p Under the Stars: The Juneteenth Sleepover Experience | 6 p.m.

– 9 p.m. (Optional overnight stay until 6 a.m.) $20 per person | $10 tent rental A reflective overnight experience offering participants a unique connection to the historic grounds of Mitchelville.

Friday, June 13th

• Children’s Day: Dig Into History | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Children can step into the role of junior archaeologists in a hands-on, educational excavation. Free with RSVP.

• Feel the Beat: Juneteenth Drum Circle | 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. An interactive, high-energy community drum circle led by master drummers. Free with RSVP.

Saturday, June 14th

• Festival in the Park | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Admission: $10 The marquee celebration includes performances, vendors, food, children’s programming, and a headline concert by Leela James.

Wednesday, June 19th

• Juneteenth 5K | 8 a.m. – 10 a.m. Hosted by Palmetto Running Company. Registration available online. Event location and tickets

All events will be held at Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park, located at 40 Harriet Tubman Way, Hilton Head Island.

General admission for the Saturday festival is $10, with other events during the week either free or low-cost with registration. For tickets, registration, and event updates, visit exploremitchelville. org.

9 -

TRIBUTE TO THE QUEEN OF DISCO!

A Boston girl with a voice from heaven, Donna Summer soared to the stars from her beginnings in her church gospel choir to the pinnacle of fame as a dance floor diva. The Summer score features more than twenty classic hits including “Love to Love You Baby,” “Last Dance,” “MacArthur Park,” “Bad Girls,” “She Works Hard for the Money,” and “Hot Stuff.”

CHEF’S LUNCH SPOTLIGHTS

MEDITERRANEAN FLATBREAD $17

Fresh garlic, evoo, hot peppers, kalamata olives, feta cheese and tomatoes

HOUSE REUBEN $15

Sliced corn beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, thousand island dressing on marbled rye

BLACK AND BLUE BURGER $15

Chargrilled with blackened seasoning topped with blue cheese crumbles, lettuce, tomato, and onion on brioche bun

CHICKEN GYRO WRAP $16

White flour tortilla, grilled chicken, feta cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion and tzatziki sauce

CHICKEN PARMIGIANA $17

Breaded chicken breast topped with marinara and mozzarella cheese, served over spaghetti

CHEF’S DINNER SPOTLIGHTS

LAMB LOLLIPOP APPETIZER $19

Tender lamb chops char-dusted and grilled, served with homemade horseradish sauce (GF)

CALIFORNIA BURGER $16

Blend of certified angus beef, short rib and brisket, applewood bacon, avocado, provolone cheese, and tomato on a toasted brioche bun

CHICKEN KABOB $25

Marinated chicken, peppers, onions, and tomatoes served with jasmine rice

GROUPER FRANCAISE $25

Lightly egg battered grouper, lemon and white wine sauce over spaghetti

HONEY GARLIC SALMON $27

Wild caught salmon sauteed with a honey garlic sauce served with jasmine rice

Strawberry-basil sorbet:

sweet a taste of summer

By Leslie Rohland Contributor

There’s nothing better than a cool, refreshing treat on a warm Lowcountry day, and this strawberry-basil sorbet is just that—light, naturally sweet, and bursting with fresh flavor. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! With just five ingredients and a blender, you’ll have a silky, fruity sorbet that feels indulgent but is completely guilt-free. The combination of ripe strawberries and fragrant basil is what makes this recipe so special. The strawberries bring bright, juicy sweetness, while the basil adds a subtle herbal twist that elevates every bite. A touch of honey (or maple syrup) and fresh lemon juice balance the flavors perfectly, creating a refreshing, sophisticated

good for you as it tastes.

And let’s talk convenience—no ice cream maker required! Just blend, freeze (if you can wait that long), and enjoy. Whether you’re serving this as a healthy dessert, a midday pick-me-up, or a fun way to impress guests, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season’s flavors.

At The Juice Hive, we love simple, wholesome recipes that make eating well both delicious and effortless. Try this sorbet, and you’ll see exactly what we mean!

Enjoy every spoonful!

Strawberry-Basil

Sorbet

(A refreshing & guilt-free dessert!)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and frozen

• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 3-4 fresh basil leaves

• 1/4 cup water (as needed)

• Sprinkle of dried cranberries and honey

Instructions:

Blend all ing redients in a food processor or blender until smooth.

2. Add a little water if needed to reach a creamy consistency.

3. Serve immediately ( drizzled with more honey on top) for a soft sorbet or freeze for 1 hour for a firmer texture.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Naturally sweet with no refined sugar!

• Bursting with fresh spring flavors.

• Just 5 ingredients and no ice cream maker needed!

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

Grand happenings continue at La Petite Gallerie

By Murray Sease Contributor

La Petite Gallerie, the intimate little art gallery on Calhoun Street in Bluffton SC, continues celebrating its 10th year anniversary with a year-long Grand Giveaway!

As a thank you to their community and customers for making the little gallery a grand success, the artists are giving away a piece of art every other month for a year.

The third piece featured in the Grand Giveaway is Mary Burrell’s ‘Seeking.’ It is 15 1/2 x 12 1/2 graphite pencil on Bristol smooth paper, matted and framed. The Great Blue Heron featured in this piece highlights Mary’s uncanny ability to capture the essence of any creature she draws.

With the precise strokes of her pencil showing the texture and detail of this majestic bird – its piercing eye takes in the scene and the viewer feels an incredible connection. ‘Lunch anyone?’ he seems to be asking. Sign up in the gallery – anytime in June and July – for the chance to win this stunning drawing.

This is a fun way for the gallery artists to share their art and create new connections with the community and visitors. The artists involved are Wally Palmer, Sue Grilli, Mary Burrell, Murray Sease, Bill Winn and Jane Capraro. You will need to re-enter to be in the drawing for each different artist’s work.

Exciting times in the Buffton Art World!

It’s been an exciting Spring on Calhoun Street. On April 6th, Babbie Guscio of The Store held the unveiling party for ‘Buttercup,’ a surprise sculpture by gallery artist Wally Palmer. This amazing flying pig has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike, providing a fun photo op for all.

Following was Old Town Bluffton’s Spring Fling Weekend with a fun Art Walk on Saturday April 12 with refreshments, artist demos and music. On that Sunday was a Bluffton Paint Out with local and visitor artists invited to paint ‘en plein air.’

From the Promenade to the May River to the Old Oyster Factory, artists set up easels and brought the town to life through their work. There was a reception at La Petite Gallerie at the end of the day with the public invited to gather. It was an afternoon of art, community, and creativity – hopefully the first of many.

Visit La Petite Gallerie anytime during this busy season. Along with the variety of work inside, it includes a lovely garden space showcasing unique outdoor art. The gallery artists work together in harmony to offer a variety of styles and mediums, with friendly and knowledgable service. Come celebrate our anniversary with us this month – and all year long!

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

“Seeking” by Mary Burrell

Where Kids Learn to Play & Play to Learn!

Comedian Paul Reiser set to perform two shows at Arts Center

Emmy-nominated actor and comedian Paul Reiser will bring his signature humor to the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina for two performances on Sunday, July 21st, with shows scheduled at 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Known for his quick wit and wide-ranging career in film, television, and publishing, Reiser is expected to deliver an evening of smart, relatable comedy. The performances are part of the Arts Center’s 2025 Presenting Series. Reiser, a household name since the 1990s for his role on the hit sitcom Mad About You, has enjoyed continued success with roles in Stranger Things, The Kominsky Method, and classic films like Aliens and Bever-

ly Hills Cop. In addition to his work on screen, he is a bestselling author of three humor books, including Couplehood, which topped The New York Times bestsellers list.

Named one of Comedy Central’s “Top 100 Comedians of All Time,” Reiser continues to perform at sold-out venues nationwide, entertaining audiences with observations on life, family, and aging. The show is recommended for ages 13 and up. Tickets can be purchased through the Arts Center’s website at artshhi.com. For locals and visitors looking for standout summer entertainment, Reiser’s one-day appearance offers a rare chance to see a seasoned performer live on stage.

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Talent headlines SSTI’s summer kickoff with Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

The Southeastern Summer Theatre Institute (SSTI) opens its 18th season this June with 9 to 5: The Musical, the high-energy stage adaptation of the classic 1980 film featuring music and lyrics by Dolly Parton and a book by Patricia Resnick.

The production, which celebrates friendship, resilience and fighting back with humor, will be directed and choreographed by Broadway veteran Jelani Remy. Known for roles in The Lion King, Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations, and Back to the Future, Remy makes his SSTI directorial debut after previously working with students on technique and audition coaching.

“We’re thrilled to have Jelani back with us in a new capacity this summer,” said SSTI founder Ben Wolfe. “His passion for storytelling and talent for connecting with our actors elevates the process on every level—and the joy he

BRINGING 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

brings is contagious.”

Performances will take place at the Seahawk Cultural Center at Hilton Head Island High School, located at 26 School Road. Evening shows are scheduled for June 20th, 21st, 27th and 28th at 7:30 p.m.

Matinee performances will be held on June 22nd and 29th at 1 p.m.

Tickets are available online at www. hhisummermusicals.com or by calling 866-749-2228.

SSTI, founded in 2008, is recognized as one of the country’s most immersive and challenging summer training programs for high school performers and theatre technicians. The institute earned seven 2023 BroadwayWorld awards and was recently named “Lowcountry’s Best Live Theatre” by The Island Packet for the second consecutive year.

With alumni performing on Broadway, national tours and at major universities, SSTI continues to shape the next generation of performing arts talent. For more information about this season’s productions and training programs, visit www.summertheatreinstitute.com.

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!

More than movement: the health and social benefits of dance

By Sandro Virag Contributor

Dancing is more than just fun—it’s an instinctive part of human expression with benefits that stretch far beyond entertainment. People have been dancing for millennia, and for good reason. Dance supports both physical and mental health, offering a way to connect with the body, process emotions and engage in joyful movement.

At its core, dance combines several powerful activities: physical exercise, music and social interaction. After a dance class or even a few songs in your living room, you may feel more energized and uplifted.

Many people notice they simply feel better while dancing. Watch any dance floor, and it’s likely filled with smiling faces. Dance is known to reduce stress and combat symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma and even chronic pain— whether you’re dancing at an event or moving freely at home in your living room.

Some find their way to dance during difficult times in life. On a night when you feel isolated or overwhelmed, letting go to music can be comforting. Dance can also lead to meaningful social connections, helping you meet new people and build confidence. Engaging in cre-

ative movement can offer a much-needed distraction and restore a sense of control and self-expression.

Dance is also a window into global cultures. From Argentine tango to salsa and cha-cha, each style carries its own history and tradition. Exploring the cultural roots of these dances can add depth and appreciation to the experience.

Whether dancing solo or with a partner, the social aspects of dance are undeniable. At group classes or social events, people often mingle before stepping onto the floor. These interactions help foster community and connection, even among strangers.

As we age, dance can also offer important physical and cognitive benefits. Regular dancing has been shown to improve balance, coordination and flexibility. For older adults, especially those managing conditions like Parkinson’s disease or dementia, dance may enhance mood, focus, mobility and overall energy levels.

In short, dancing is good for the body, mind and spirit. So whether you’re taking a class, joining a social dance or simply moving to music in your living room—keep dancing, and keep smiling.

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

Locally produced movie was represented at Cannes Film Festival

By Edward Thomas Contributor

Hilton Head Island filmmaker Walter Czura’s motion picture “The Final Run” was represented in May at the 78th Cannes Film Festival on the French Riviera.

The Cannes Film Festival is internationally recognized as one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals, if not the most prestigious. Each May, it hosts thousands of leading business figures and luminaries in the motion film industry, as well as other celebrities.

Walter Czura, who is also the founder and CEO of Marlin Outdoor Advertising, said, “I was very honored to have our film represented at the international Cannes Festival by Level 33 Entertainment, a Los Angeles-based film distribution company, and Sublimity Entertainment, a firm that specializes in licensing global media rights.”

“The Final Run” was filmed locally in and around the city of Beaufort. It’s inspired by actual events that unfolded both in Beaufort and Hilton Head Island almost 50 years ago that triggered “Operation Jackpot,” America’s first major marijuana smuggling crackdown in the 1980s initiated by President Ronald Reagan’s “War on Drugs.” Czura’s film delivers an emotionally charged crime drama in today’s setting where the fictionalized main

Scan the QR Code or visit www.savannahwindsymphony.com to purchase tickets.

character, Pierce Butler, a college-educated, former U.S. Marine and reformed smuggler from that earlier era, finds himself forced to organize one last run, not for greed, but to pay for his wife’s life-saving, advanced experimental cancer treatment.

The full-length movie explores themes of redemption, love, and family loyalty. It also echoes the real-life exploits of those young and daring smugglers who lived life on the edge during that period, turning Lowcountry inlets into marijuana-running goldmines – until Operation Jackpot brought them down.

Standout performances by award-winning film industry veterans Jeff Fahey, Judd Nelson, and Drew Waters, plus breakthrough actress Maddie Henderson, make “The Final Run” appeal to fans who enjoy tense, character-driven drama, true crime, and Southern noir.

It is storytelling born from facts, but elevated from the heart by Czura, a former attorney, who was caught, tried, and imprisoned as part of the Operation Jackpot smuggling ring.

“I’ve been deeply touched by the positive reception and interest in our film and the events of that era it portrays,” said Czura, who is hopeful that North American streaming distribution rights will soon be secured because he is currently working on writing the script for a sequel.

Czura said Sublimity has secured distribution licenses for “The Final Run” to appear in theatres, streaming services, pay-per-view, cable, and other formats in more than 120 nations and territories in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, South America, Central America, and the Caribbean Islands.

Actor Jeff Fahey with Walter Czura

Art League of Hilton Head awards over $5,000

prizes at 2025 Biennale National Juried Exhibition

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

The Art League of Hilton Head celebrated artistic excellence during the 2025 Biennale, its 29th National Juried Art Exhibition, awarding over $5,000 in cash prizes to artists from across the country. The awards were presented at a reception held Friday, May 16th, at the Art League Gallery, located inside the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina.

Selected from more than 1,000 entries submitted by artists representing 41 states, the final exhibition features works by 100 artists from 25 states. The juried show, considered a significant event in the Southeast arts calendar, remains open through June 13th.

Tony Armendariz, this year’s exhibition judge, returned to the gallery on Saturday, May 17th, to host a “Critic’s Coffee” session, offering insights into his judging process and commentary on several of the winning pieces. Armendariz, a nation-

ally recognized artist and juror, focused on originality, technique, and emotional impact when evaluating the works.

The top prize of $1,500 was awarded to Alberto Barbusano Perez of New Caney, Texas, for his oil painting “Osorbo’s Resistance.” Second place, with a $1,000 award, went to Hilton Head’s own Ellen DiFazio for her mixed media work “Marsh Reflections,” while third place and a $750 prize were awarded to Laurel Lake McGuire of Morris, Illinois, for her watercolor “Boneyard Beach.”

In addition to the top three prizes, 8 artists received Honorable Mention awards of $250 each for works spanning photography, oil, encaustic mixed media, watercolor, and mixed media assemblage. Local artist Pearl Mintzer of Hilton Head Island was among the honorees, recognized for her oil painting “Bathing Beauties.”

The Art League Gallery, which hosts the Biennale, is open daily and welcomes visitors Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. The gallery also opens 90 minutes be-

fore every performance at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, located at 14 Shelter Cove Lane.

For more information about the exhibi-

tion, upcoming programs, or to view the featured artwork, visit www.artleaguehhi. org or call 843-681-5060.

HarbourFest returns to Hilton Head for 36th Summer Season with fireworks, live music, and family fun

By Sasha Sweeney Editor

One of Hilton Head Island’s most popular summer traditions is back. Now in its 36th year, HarbourFest at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina will once again bring live music, family entertainment and fireworks to the waterfront from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

The 2025 season features a full lineup of weekly events for both residents and visitors, including longtime favorites such as Cappy the Clown, singer-songwriter Shannon Tanner and Parrot Palooza, a high-energy Jimmy Buffett tribute concert.

Fireworks return on Tuesday nights

HarbourFest’s hallmark fireworks shows will be held most Tuesday nights throughout the summer, launching at dusk over Broad Creek. The 2025 schedule includes:

• Tuesdays: June 3rd, 10th, 17th and 24th

• Friday, July 4th (Independence Day)

• Tuesdays: July 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th

• Tuesdays: Aug. 5th, 12th and 19th

There will be no fireworks on Tuesday, July 1. Organizers note that drones are not permitted during fireworks displays.

Live music and family entertainment

Shannon Tanner, a HarbourFest staple, will perform two shows nightly at 6:30 and 8 p.m. His summer schedule includes:

• Monday through Thursday, June 2nd–5th

• Monday through Wednesday, June 9th–Aug. 20th

• Friday, July 4nd

There are no performances scheduled for Aug. 22nd–29th.

Cappy the Clown will provide children’s entertainment — including face painting and balloon animals — from 6 to 9 p.m., Monday through Friday from May 26th to Aug. 29th, as well as on Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.

On Thursday nights from June 12th

Egg

Curried

Seafood

through Aug. 21th, Tanner will join The Oyster Reefers for Parrot Palooza, a live tropical music performance celebrating the spirit of Jimmy Buffett. The group will also perform during Labor Day weekend on Saturday, Aug. 30th, and Sunday, Aug. 31st.

A signature Lowcountry experience HarbourFest is held at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina, located mid-island across from Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. The marina features year-round waterfront dining, shopping and recreation, as well as a variety of water activities including fishing charters, sailing, dolphin tours and nature excursions.

Admission to HarbourFest is free. Event schedules are subject to change due to weather or other conditions. For the latest updates and information, visit sheltercovehiltonhead.com.

Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor, HarbourFest continues to offer a memorable blend of coastal charm and family-friendly entertainment under the stars.

Marine Corps and the island’s history dating back to the first European settlement in the US! Walk through training history and the beginnings of the recruit depot to present day. HOURS

Monday-Saturday 10 am - 4:30 pm

Five in-retirement money mistakes—and how to avoid them

By Thomas Dowling Contributor

Avoiding costly retirement mistakes

Planning for retirement is one of life’s most crucial undertakings. But many people fail to put equal care into managing their finances once retirement begins. Whether you’re already retired or preparing for it, being aware of common post-retirement financial pitfalls can help you stay on track. Here are some of the biggest mistakes—and how to avoid them.

1. Overspending in retirement

Even wealthy retirees can overspend, often because they’ve grown accustomed to spending freely during their working years. Without income or with reduced

income, a lack of budgeting can quickly create problems.

Additionally, the excitement of retirement can lead to excessive spending early on. To avoid this, it’s essential to assess your income needs accurately and revisit them regularly. Make cash flow analysis a key part of your financial plan to ensure long-term sustainability.

2. Avoiding financial conversations with family

Many retirees hesitate to discuss finances with family, which can lead to confusion or even conflict when wealth is eventually transferred. In extreme cases, this silence can erode family relationships and financial legacies.

One solution: Work with your heirs and financial advisors to develop a family mission statement. This can clarify your values and explain how your wealth supports those values, helping everyone understand your decisions.

3. Missteps with social security

Social Security often plays a vital role in retirement income—even for the affluent. Common mistakes include:

• Claiming too early can reduce lifetime benefits.

• Waiting too long might not be wise for those in poor health or with shorter life expectancies.

• Avoiding work due to income limits isn’t always necessary. While early earnings can reduce benefits temporarily, the government recalculates your payments once you reach full retirement age, potentially making up for any losses.

Smart Social Security planning requires a personal, strategic approach.

4. Poor withdrawal strategy

How you draw down retirement funds matters. A one-size-fits-all approach—like the 4% rule—might not suit everyone. Your withdrawal plan should consider your health, life expectancy, income needs, and tax implications of various accounts.

Instead of defaulting to a simple formula or discarding it as too basic, work with professionals to test and tailor different strategies to your specific situation.

5. Treating investing as a hobby

With newfound time, some retirees dive into investing, thinking they can apply their business success to the markets. This confidence can lead to mistakes such as overtrading, investing too aggressively, chasing hot tips, or concentrating assets in risky areas.

Rather than treating investing as a game, surround yourself with trusted financial experts who can help you make informed, balanced decisions.

Conclusion

Retirement should be a time to enjoy the fruits of your labor—not worry about money. But missteps can have lasting consequences, especially with limited time to recover. By avoiding these common mistakes and proactively managing your finances, you can better safeguard your future and fully enjoy your golden years.

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

THOMAS DOWLING

Supporting children’s mental health during summer break

By Alex Barry Contributor

Summer vacation is a time for children to relax, explore new activities, and enjoy family time. However, the lack of structure, social shifts, and increased screen time can sometimes contribute to emotional challenges. Parents and grandparents both play a crucial role in fostering stability and supporting their children’s mental health during these months. Here are key strategies to create a positive and nurturing summer environment.

1. Maintain a Balanced Routine

While summer break offers a break from school, structure is still beneficial for children’s emotional well-being. Parents can set consistent wake-up times, mealtimes, and bedtime routines to provide stability. Grandparents can contribute by establishing weekly traditions, such as weekend outings, reading sessions, and cooking together - offering children a sense of both predictability and connection.

2. Encourage Meaningful Conversations

Children thrive in environments where they feel safe expressing their thoughts and feelings. Parents and grandparents should make time for open-ended discussions, listening without judgment. Asking questions like, “What’s something you’re excited about this summer?” or “Is anything worrying you?” allows kids to process their emotions and feel supported and heard.

3. Foster Social Interaction

Friendships play a key role in a child’s mental health. Parents can help by arranging playdates, summer camps, or community activities that encourage socialization. Grandparents can strengthen connections by organizing visits, virtual chats, or storytelling sessions, ensuring

children feel emotionally engaged when apart from school friends.

4. Promote Emotional Resilience

Teaching coping mechanisms for stress and disappointment is essential. Parents can model self-care behaviors, such as mindfulness, exercise, or deep breathing exercises. Grandparents can share wisdom from personal experiences, teaching children how to overcome challenges with patience and perseverance, instilling confidence and resilience.

5. Encourage Physical and Creative Activities

Physical activity supports mental wellness, reducing anxiety and boosting mood. Outdoor activities like swimming, biking, and beach or nature walks provide positive stimulation. Parents and grandparents can also encourage creativity through painting, music, or other DIY projects, helping children express themselves and build emotional confidence.

6. Support Smooth Transitions

For children transitioning between households due to family dynamics, consistency and reassurance are key. Parents should communicate expectations and routines clearly, while grandparents can offer emotional comfort through conversations and reminders of love and support.

Final Thoughts

Summer break is an opportunity for parents and grandparents to nurture their children’s mental health through routine, meaningful conversations, social connection, resilience-building, and engaging activities. With thoughtful support, summer can become a season of growth, joy, and emotional well-being. By creating a stable and encouraging environment, families can ensure that children feel confident, connected, and happy throughout their break.

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

Volunteers needed to advocate for abused, neglected children in Beaufort and Jasper Counties

The Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem Program is calling on compassionate community members in Beaufort and Jasper counties to step forward and help represent the interests of local children facing abuse and neglect.

The state-run program, part of the South Carolina Department of Children’s Advocacy, is currently offering free virtual training for those interested in serving as volunteer Guardians ad Litem (GAL). Volunteers act as court-appointed advocates for children involved in Department of Social Services (DSS) Family Court proceedings.

The need is especially critical in the Lowcountry. While the Beaufort and Jasper counties’ program is serving approximately 144 children, there are only 12 active volunteer advocates. GAL staff have stepped in to bridge the gap, but the shortage underscores the urgency of recruiting more volunteers.

“Our volunteers serve as strong advocates, upholding children’s best interests and prioritizing their well-being. With every child served needing a voice, the call to action grows for dedicated volunteers to step forward,” said Jennifer Burch,

director of the Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem Program.

The next virtual training session begins June 30th, with additional opportunities scheduled for August 5th and September 2nd. Volunteers must be at least 21 years old, have no criminal record or DSS history, and be able to commit four to five hours a month to the child or children they are assigned.

Training is conducted entirely online and is provided at no cost. Upon completion, volunteers are sworn in by a Family Court judge and begin working under the supervision of local GAL staff.

To learn more or apply, visit gal.sc.gov. For direct inquiries, contact regional recruiter and trainer David McAlhaney at (843) 277-5849 or David.McAlhaney@ childadvocate.sc.gov. You can also follow the Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem Program on Facebook or sign up for updates via communications@childadvocate.sc.gov.

Volunteering as a Guardian ad Litem is one way to ensure the most vulnerable children in the judicial system are heard — and protected.

TCL president earns top statewide CEO honor

Dr. Richard Gough, president of the Technical College of the Lowcountry, has been named CEO of the Year by the South Carolina Association of Technical College Commissioners (SCATCC). The honor recognizes exceptional service and contributions by a technical college leader. Gough, who has led TCL for 11 years, will be recognized at a joint meeting of SCATCC, the State Board for Technical and Comprehensive Education, and the Technical College Presidents Council on Sept. 23th in Columbia.

Bluffton High student wins

National Merit Scholarship

Bluffton High School senior Ava Elizabeth Rios is among 2,500 students nationwide to receive a $2,500 National Merit Scholarship. Rios, who plans to study neuroscience at Yale University with aspirations of becoming a physician, was selected based on academic excellence and leadership potential. She is active in conservation efforts and volunteering. Superintendent Frank Rodriguez praised Rios for her achievement, saying it reflects

Education briefs

the district’s commitment to academic rigor.

Rotary Club honors Students of the Year

The Rotary Club of Hilton Head Island has recognized seven local students as its 2024–25 Students of the Year. Selected by school administrators for their academic excellence, leadership, and community service. Honorees included:

• Janeal Stevens, Hilton Head Island High School

• Lu Yi, Hilton Head Island Middle School

• Har per Kelly Hodsdon, Hilton Head Preparatory Middle School

• Cade Lucas Kriscunas, Hilton Head Preparatory Upper School

• Joey Richard Bailey, Heritage Academy Middle School

• Mason Petty, Heritage Academy High School

• Cadence Smith, St. Francis Catholic School

District announces new principals and executive director

The Beaufort County School District has named four administrators to key roles for the 2025–26 school year:

• Melissa Pender, principal of Coosa Elementary, has been promoted to executive director, supervising multiple schools with a focus on instructional leadership.

• Michelle de Bruin will become principal at Beaufort Elementary, where she currently serves as assistant principal.

• Dr. Brandi Bullock will lead Bluffton Elementary, replacing retiring principal Paula Brown. Bullock is currently the district’s director of teaching and learning.

• Kelly Goudy will take over as principal at Coosa Elementary. She is currently assistant principal at Lady’s Island

Elementary and a doctoral student at Purdue Global University.

Superintendent Frank Rodriguez commended the selections, noting each brings valuable experience and a strong commitment to student success.

Three JPII students selected for youth leadership program

Three sophomores from John Paul II Catholic School—Marie Sophia Alvarez, Alexandra Crocker, and Leonardo Iskandar—have been selected to attend the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Workshop. The program empowers students through leadership seminars, team-building, and service challenges. Participants are expected to complete 100 hours of community service following the event. JPII guidance counselor Sr. Mary Beth Kubera said the school is proud of the students and their potential as community leaders.

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

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Unlocking life and health after 40

By Chad Cannon Contributor

Turning 40 or 50 is often seen as a milestone - a checkpoint in life where reflection, self-examination and soul-searching meets reality. For many adults, it’s a wake-up call. Energy levels shift, the body becomes more sensitive to stress, and health can no longer be taken for granted. But what if 40 isn’t the beginning of the end, as many think, but the launchpad for a fuller, healthier, and more evolving life?

The shift after 40: a new opportunity

By age 40, most people have accumulated experience, knowledge, and responsibilities - but often at the cost of self-care. But good news! The body and mind are still incredibly adaptive. This stage of life offers the perfect opportunity to reset, realign and re-energize with purpose.

Health after 40 is less about extreme diets or workouts, but should be more about sustainable, intentional living. With the right mindset and habits, you can elevate your energy, expand your abilities, and live a richer life than ever before.

Elevating your health with foundations that matter

1. Start with recovery first

At 40 and beyond, recovery becomes the gateway to performance. Prioritizing sleep, hydration, mobility, and stress reduction is no longer optional—it’s essential. Incorporating tools like infrared saunas, cold plunges, and leg compression can speed up recovery, reduce inflammation, and enhance energy levels.

2. Train smarter, not just harder

Functional strength training, cardiovascular conditioning, and flexibility/ mobility work should be the backbone of your routine. This keeps your body capable—not just strong, but agile, pain-free, and resilient.

3. Eat to live

Nutrition is about fuel, not fads. Focusing on protein-rich meals, colorful produce, healthy fats, and smart carbs keeps your metabolism firing and supports hormone balance, energy, and mental clarity.

4. Master your mindset

After 40, mental clarity and emotional resilience are just as important as physical health. Regularly practicing gratitude, journaling, meditation, or prayer can keep stress in check and foster a more purpose-driven mindset.

Expand your life with purpose, community and vision

Elevating your health creates the momentum to expand your life:

• Rediscover your “Why” What lights you up? Reconnecting with your deeper purpose can bring fresh energy into your work, relationships, and goals.

• Sur round yourself with growth-minded people

The people in your circle can lift you higher or hold you back. Find a tribe that inspires action, discipline, and belief.

• Set big goals again

Don’t shrink your dreams. After 40, you have the clarity to set goals that actually matter - and the wisdom to follow through. Whether it’s running your first race, writing a book, building a business, or getting in the best shape of your life— this is your moment.

Your best years can start now

Life after 40 isn’t about decline - it’s about design. By elevating your health and expanding your mindset, you create a new standard for yourself and those around you. The energy, strength, and clarity you need are already within you. Now is the time to unlock it.

You’re not getting older - you’re getting started.

Chad Cannon is a Health/Life Coach, Fitness Coach and Owner of the the CannonFit Transformation Center in Bluffton. He can be reached at www. cannonfit.com

CHAD CANNON

What is infrared light therapy and how does it support nerve repair?

By Dr. Kenneth Horup Contributor

When you think about healing damaged nerves, light probably is not the first thing that comes to mind. Yet infrared light therapy is a promising tool we must support the body’s natural repair processes—especially for neuropathy patients. Infrared therapy works with something the body already understands energy. Infrared light is invisible to the naked eye but powerful enough to reach deep into tissues, delivering gentle stimulation that en-courages healing where it is needed most.

The science behind infrared therapy is fascinating. Operating at wavelengths between 700 and 1000 nanometers, these light waves penetrate several centimeters

below the skin’s surface. At this depth, they interact directly with the mitochondria—often called the powerhouses of our cells—stimulating them to produce more ATP, the essential energy currency that fuels cellular repair and regeneration. This boost in cellular metabolism is par-ticularly valuable for nerve cells, which have extraordinary energy demands compared to other cells in the body.

For some people with neuropathy, a significant component of their nerve recovery is circulation. Without enough blood flow to the nerves, nerves struggle to get the oxygen and nutrients they need. Infrared therapy may help by prompting the body to grow tiny new blood vessels, known as capillaries, around damaged areas.

This process, called angiogenesis, doesn’t happen overnight but develops gradually with consistent treatment. Over time, this expanded network can improve the delivery of critical nutrients to the nerves, setting the stage for better function and less discomfort. Patients often

describe feeling a difference in symptoms like numbness and tingling as their circulation improves.

Another major benefit of infrared ther-

DR. KEN HORUP

INFRARED

FROM PAGE 58A

swollen, irritated tissues that only make the problem worse. Infrared light may reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines while in-creasing anti-inflammatory mediators. It also can help normalize the activity of the immune cells in the affected area. By reducing inflammation, infrared light has shown to create a healthier environment for the nerves to recover—quietly removing one of the biggest obstacles to healing.

Beyond circulation and inflammation, infrared therapy frequently appears to directly support nerve cells themselves with consistent treatments. Research indicates it can help preserve the myelin sheath—the protective coating around nerve fibers that’s essential for proper signal transmission. It may also promote the expression of growth factors that encourage nerve regeneration and guide the direction of new nerve growth. These effects are particularly promising for conditions like diabetic neuropathy, where nerve degeneration progresses over time.

One of the things patients appreciate most is how easy and comfortable the process is. There are no needles, no downtime, and no pain. Modern infrared devices come in various forms—from professional panels used in clinical settings to convenient home devices like handheld units. During the session, you might feel a gentle warming sensation as the light penetrates the tissues.

It is important your physician prescribes the

proper wavelength for your condition. The duration will vary depending on what wavelength is needed for your condition. Many people find these sessions relaxing, a welcome contrast to the more invasive treatments they may have tried. Each session simply gives the body a little extra support, helping it do what it was designed to do: heal.

It’s important to note that infrared therapy works best as part of a comprehensive approach to nerve health. While it supports healing at the cellular level, it complements rather than replaces other important factors like additional treatments, proper nutrition, regular gentle movement, and avoiding further nerve compression or injury.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of nerve damage—like numbness in your feet, unexplained pain, or difficulty with balance—consider exploring infrared light therapy as a treatment option. Ask a doctor or professional to see if you qualify for a light therapy protocol. Don’t wait for these symptoms to become debilitating before seeking help.

Small steps now can make a big difference in how well your body heals over time. Supporting nerve health is about giving the body the right conditions to succeed. Infrared therapy may be one way to do that, and it fits into a broader plan to help you stay active, independent, and live the life you want. Contact a healthcare provider you trust to discuss your options today.

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

South Carolina’s hands-free law set to take effect in September 2025

South Carolina drivers will soon face new restrictions behind the wheel as the state prepares to implement a hands-free driving law aimed at reducing distracted driving accidents. Set to take effect in September 1st, 2025, the new legislation prohibits the use of handheld electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle. Drivers will still be allowed to use voice-activated and hands-free technology, but holding a phone, texting, or manually dialing while driving will be subject to penalties.

Supporters of the law say it’s a necessary step to address the rising number of crashes linked to phone use. According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, distracted driving contributed to over 20,000 collisions in the state last year. First-time violators can expect fines and repeat offenses may carry increased penalties. Specific enforcement guidelines and public education efforts are expected to roll out in the coming months as officials prepare for full implementation.

South Carolina joins a growing list of states adopting handsfree policies to improve roadway safety and encourage responsible driving behavior.

SUMMER DOGS

By Abby Bird aka Alphadog Contributor

Summer in the Lowcountry isn’t just for fun activities for you and your two-legged family members but it is also a fun time for active dogs. It is a chance for you to share your outdoor lifestyle.

Depending on your lifestyle, living with a dog in the Lowcountry can present opportunities to engage in outdoor activities. For water friendly dogs and people: swimming, boating, kayaking, beach running, hiking are all favorite ways to spend time with your dogs. Tossing water retrieval toys in a pool or use a backyard splash pad specifically made for dogs. (I love these.) For swimming and boating be sure to invest in doggie life jackets and floating water fetching toys like bumpers, balls and frisbees. Brands Kong and Chuck It offer summer lines. Don’t forget to trim/Dremel their nails to avoid looking like a tiger with bloody stripes should they need an assist from you in the water.

Beach rules for dogs change with the seasons so be sure to check the permitted hours where you are. These can change, but on Hilton Head it is generally before 10am and after 5pm for the summer, and they must be under voice control or on a leash. If Fish Haul Beach is your destination, please check the new rules as there are new restrictions and you can’t bring your dogs.

Bring plenty of water for your pooch, cleanup bags, a towel and, if it is possible, a source of shade for them. Dogs do get affected by too much sun and heat! If you run with your dog, schedule your run for

early in the morning or late in the evening to prevent overheating. A cool dog jacket that you soak in water is lightweight and will make them feel comfy. It is available online and at pet supply stores. Bring plenty of water and do not run them too long without breaks. Find the shade when you can. Use Doggles or a cap to protect their eyes and don’t forget the doggie sunscreen if they have light or sensitive skin is a good bet.

Camping and hiking is a family adventure that includes kids and dogs. While there are not abundant hiking opportunities here in the Lowcountry, Georgia and South Carolina that have parks that allow dogs are found within a few hours drive. Pack a doggie first aid kit which you will need which includes: tweezers, antibiotic ointment, Benadryl, Benadryl spray, gauze, self wrap tape, aspirin, towel, portable water bowl and bottled water.

If your dog is healthy and a good size let them carry some of their supplies in their own backpack. Include a brush and a small scissor to get out burrs. If they get really messy or stinky then a deodorizing shampoo would be nice to have.

I believe in an inclusive summer fun plan. Stay wet and happy and healthy and safe!

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

Alzheimer’s and

By Dr. Matthew Mastrorocco Contributor

What if taking care of your teeth and gums did more than prevent cavities and bad breath? What if it could protect your brain? At our recent charity pickleball tournament to benefit the local nonprofit, Memory Matters, their team was very excited to talk about the new research that is pointing to a connection between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease. While that might sound unsettling, it’s leading to promising new ways to prevent cognitive decline.

What’s the link between your gums and your brain?

The idea that your mouth could affect

your brain isn’t as far-fetched as it might seem; dentists have known that everything in the body is connected, and that untreated gum disease can trigger chronic inflammation in the body. But a new study from Columbia University’s College of Dental Medicine has found a compelling link between periodontal (gum) disease and brain changes that are characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive aging. The study looked at brain scans from hundreds of participants and found that people with signs of gum disease showed unfavorable changes on brain MRIs. These changes are commonly seen in people at risk for Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

The researchers didn’t find definitive proof that gum disease causes Alzheimer’s, but the connection is hard to ignore.

Here’s why:

• Knowing that inflammation from untreated gum disease may contribute to neuroinflammation, a known factor in Alzheimer’s disease, is fascinating.

• Even more intriguing: certain bacteria

under the gums were associated with either better or worse brain MRI results, suggesting your oral microbiome may influence brain health.

What Can You Do Now?

The science is still developing, and cause and effect have not been proven, but one takeaway is already clear: good oral health isn’t just about aesthetics or avoiding trips to the dentist. It could play a role in protecting your brain health, especially over the long term.

This doesn’t mean brushing, flossing, regular oral hygiene visits and dental checkups are a guaranteed way to avoid memory loss, but it does indicate that a good oral care routine could be a simple way to support your overall health, including your cognitive well-being. Here is what you can do right now:

• Brush twice a day

• Floss daily

• Visit your dentist regularly

• Address signs of gum disease - redness, bleeding, receding gums - early

Hope for Alzheimer’s Prevention

For a long time, Alzheimer’s research focused on what happens in the brain alone. But the discovery of this mouthbrain connection is shifting that thinking. It suggests that conditions like Alzheimer’s may be influenced by infections and inflammation that start elsewhere in the body.

That’s interesting and hopeful. While we can’t control every factor involved in brain health, we can control how we care for our bodies, including our oral health.

Taking good care of your teeth won’t cure Alzheimer’s. But it might just be one more smart, simple way to invest in your long-term health. As science continues to uncover the surprising links between oral and cognitive health, taking care of your mouth might turn out to be one of the most brain-friendly things you can do.

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

DR. MATTHEW MASTROROCCO

Understanding memory care: a guide for families navigating dementia

By Paul Billianti Contributor

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia is a journey marked by love, concern, and, often, uncertainty. As the condition progresses, families are faced with decisions that can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to choosing the right kind of support. One of the most important options to understand is memory care.

What Is memory care?

Memory care is a specialized form of longterm care designed specifically for individuals living with dementia. It goes beyond basic assistance with daily tasks, offering an environment and staff tailored to the cognitive, emotional, and physical needs of people experiencing memory loss. These settings are secure, structured, and focused on maintaining dignity, fostering independence where possible, and reducing anxiety and confusion. When to consider memory care

Families often struggle with the timing of this transition. While every situation is unique,

here are some signs that memory care might be appropriate:

• Safety concer ns: Wandering, forgetting to turn off the stove, or frequent falls may put a loved one at risk.

• Increased confusion or agitation: As dementia progresses, behaviors can become more unpredictable or distressing.

• Caregiver burnout: Caring for someone with dementia is demanding. When a caregiver’s health or quality of life is impacted, it may be time to consider additional help.

• Isolation: If a loved one is withdrawing or struggling socially, memory care can offer structured engagement and companionship.

What makes memory care different?

In addition to trained staff, memory care environments are thoughtfully designed to support cognitive function and reduce stress. Features often include:

• Secure but home-like surroundings to prevent wandering while preserving a sense of comfort.

• Consistent routines to help residents feel oriented and calm.

• Specialized programming, such as music therapy, reminiscence activities, or sensory stimulation.

• Individualized care plans based on each person’s history, preferences, and needs. A core principle in memory care is person-centered care—an approach that sees beyond the diagnosis to honor the individual. This includes understanding a resident’s life story, what brings them joy, and how they prefer to communicate. This human connection is often what brings the most comfort and meaning to those living with dementia.

What to ask when touring a memory care community

When visiting a memory care community, consider asking the following questions to help guide your decision:

• How are the staff trained in dementia care?

• What is the staff-to-resident ratio?

• How are care plans developed and updated?

• What safety measures are in place to prevent wandering?

• How is communication handled with families?

• What kinds of daily activities or therapies are offered?

• How do you get to know each resident’s personal story or preferences?

• Are meals customized to meet dietary or cognitive needs?

• What support do you offer to families (e.g., education, support groups)?

• Can I visit at any time, and are there policies about family involvement?

Supporting the whole family

Memory care doesn’t just support the individual, it offers relief and reassurance to families. Many communities provide caregiver education, support groups, and regular updates. Knowing your loved one is safe, engaged, and treated with compassion allows you to focus on being a son, daughter, spouse, or friend again.

Moving a loved one into memory care is never an easy decision—but it can be a transformative one. With the right support, those living with memory loss can still experience joy, connection, and dignity. For families, memory care can offer peace of mind and the comfort of knowing you’re not walking this path alone.

Simple and Elegant Financial Freedom

Daniel Guerrini, CFP® Wealth Manager

Thomas M. Dowling, CFA, CFP®, CIMA® Head of Wealth Management Amy Allen, Client Relationship Coordinator

Avian influenza in wild birds and poultry: what you need to know

By Hilton Klein, VMD, MS Contributor

Avian influenza A (H5N1), commonly known as bird flu, has recently become a significant concern in the United States, including South Carolina and Georgia. This highly pathogenic virus has affected commercial poultry, ducks, and even dairy cattle, causing substantial economic losses and the deaths of hundreds of thousands of chickens. While human infections are rare, some cases have been reported, along with infections in domestic cats and zoo animals.

Understanding avian influenza

Avian influenza (AI) is a type of influenza virus that infects nearly all bird species, from wild and agricultural flocks to zoo and pet birds. Most AI viruses are of low pathogenicity (LPAI), causing mild or no symptoms, especially in wild birds. However, certain strains, like H5N1, are highly pathogenic (HPAI) and cause severe disease and high mortality rates in birds.

Wild birds, particularly shorebirds and waterfowl, often carry LPAI viruses without appearing ill. These birds act as natural reservoirs, allowing the virus to mutate over time. Through processes called antigenic shift and drift, these viruses can become more dangerous, as seen with the emergence of HPAI H5N1. This strain has led to significant die-offs among wild waterfowl, vultures, pelicans, terns, and cranes.

Symptoms and disease in birds

LPAI infections in wild birds are typically subclinical, but stress or secondary infections can worsen the disease. In contrast, HPAI infections are much more severe. Infected birds may exhibit weakness, swelling around the head or feet, hemorrhages, red discoloration of the feet, blood-tinged discharge, or greenish diarrhea. Often, birds succumb

to the disease before these signs are even noticeable. It’s important to remember that these symptoms are not unique to avian influenza and can be caused by other diseases.

Transmission to other species

AI viruses can mutate and infect other species, including humans, though this is rare. Recent cases have involved farm workers and domestic animals such as cats. Transmission typically occurs through close contact with infected birds or their secretions, including saliva, mucous, and feces. The virus can also spread via aerosols or contaminated surfaces.

Protecting yourself and your community

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that the best way to prevent H5N1 infection is to avoid exposure. This means:

• Avoid direct contact with sick or dead wild birds, poultry, or other animals.

• Observe wildlife from a distance.

• Wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, masks, and eye protection, if you must handle birds or clean feeders and water features.

• Do not touch surfaces contaminated with bird secretions or feces. Human infections usually require prolonged, unprotected contact with infected animals or contaminated environments. The seasonal flu vaccine does not protect against H5N1, though experimen-

tal vaccines are in development for both humans and poultry.

Cleaning bird feeders and water features

Because avian influenza can be spread by feces and airborne particles, it’s possible for backyard feeders and water features to become contaminated, especially during bird migration. To minimize risk:

• Clean feeders and water features every two weeks (or more often during migration) using warm, soapy water.

• Rinse thoroughly with fresh water.

• Disinfect with a virucidal product like Lysol® or a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) after cleaning.

• Always wear gloves, a mask, and eye protection, and clean outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.

What to do if you find a sick or dead bird

Avoid direct contact with sick or dead birds. Report unusual bird deaths, especially large numbers, to local or state wildlife authorities. If instructed to dispose of a carcass, use gloves or an inverted plastic bag to handle it, and place it in the trash.

Stay informed and follow local guidelines to help protect both wild and domestic birds, as well as your own health.

Hilton Klein is a former Hilton Head Audubon Board member and a retired board certified veterinarian.

HILTON KLEIN

Avian influenza may impact bird populations in our region.

The

Golf Club

at Indigo Run launches major renovation project

The Golf Club at Indigo Run is undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation, marking a significant investment by Invited, one of the nation’s leading private club operators. The extensive project will bring major upgrades to the clubhouse, dining spaces, Technogym fitness center, and racquet sports amenities. Dining areas will be expanded and redesigned with a relaxed coastal aesthetic to reflect the Lowcountry lifestyle.

Business briefs

Golf course renovations will include a full restoration of the greens, honoring the original design by Jack Nicklaus and his son, Jack Nicklaus II. Built in 1995, the Indigo Run course is the first father-son signature design and the last golf course constructed on Hilton Head Island. The project is part of Invited’s long-term reinvestment strategy to enhance member experience at its more than 160 properties. During summer renovations, members will have reciprocal access to play at the Country Club of Hilton Head and Golden Bear Golf Club. Work is expected to be completed by early October.

Kilpatrick joins BJWSA board of directors

The Beaufort-Jasper Water & Sewer Authority (BJWSA) has announced the appointment of Carl Kilpatrick to its 11-member Board of Directors. Kilpatrick, chief banking officer at Bank of the Lowcountry, was appointed by S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster and attended his first meeting as a voting member in May. With three decades of experience in banking, customer service, and organizational

DON’T MISS OUT!

leadership, Kilpatrick is expected to bring valuable insight as the utility continues to serve a growing customer base in the Lowcountry.

Board Chair Greg Padgett praised the appointment, citing Kilpatrick’s experience and commitment to community development. A Beaufort native, Kilpatrick is active with the United Way of the Lowcountry and the Southern Carolina Regional Development Alliance and volunteers at the Good Neighbor Free Medical Clinic. He succeeds Gerald Schulze, who retired from the board earlier this year and was honored for his service. BJWSA provides water and wastewater services to approximately 200,000 residents in Beaufort and Jasper counties.

Fraum Health honors Dr. Brian McGinnis for 25 years of care

Fraum Health recently recognized Dr. Brian McGinnis for 25 years of dedicated service as a chiropractor on Hilton Head Island. Known for his clinical expertise and compassionate care, Dr. McGinnis

has been a cornerstone of the practice, specializing in sports injuries and rehabilitation. His path to chiropractic care was shaped by his own struggles with asthma and sports injuries, which led him to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology and a Doctor of Chiropractic degree.

McGinnis has earned several accolades, including being named Readers’ Choice Chiropractor of the Year by Hilton Head Monthly for multiple years. Colleagues and patients describe him as a knowledgeable, empathetic provider who prioritizes individualized, natural healing. CEO Henry Criss noted that McGinnis exemplifies Fraum Health’s mission of compassionate, integrative care. In addition to his professional achievements, McGinnis is active in the South Carolina Chiropractic Association and the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce.

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

How to defer real estate taxes with a 1031 exchange

By Chip Collins Contributor

For property owners considering the sale of an investment property, the 1031 Exchange, named after Section 1031 of the IRS tax code, offers a powerful way to defer capital gains taxes and preserve investment momentum. While it’s often misunderstood, this strategy can be a valuable financial tool, particularly in a real estate market like the Lowcountry’s, where property values have seen significant appreciation in recent years. At its core, a 1031 Exchange allows an investor to sell one investment property and reinvest the proceeds into another, deferring the capital gains taxes they would normally owe on the sale. The term “like-kind” is often used to describe the transaction, but it’s more flexible than many assume.

According to Michael Fleenor, CPA at Robinson Grant, “It’s not just a swap of a similar type of real estate (i.e. a short term rental villa for another short term rental villa). It’s about exchanging real estate that serves a similar investment intent.” Investors can exchange a longterm rental home for a vacation rental, a condo for vacant land, or even commercial property, as long as the replacement asset is also held for investment or business use.

One of the more common questions in our market involves second homes and vacation rentals. Fleenor clarifies that vacation properties can qualify for a 1031 exchange, but owners must be mindful of personal use limitations. “Generally, the owner cannot use the property for more than 14 days a year or 10% of the time it’s rented out,” he says. “Exceeding that could disqualify the property.”

There are two key deadlines every 1031 investor needs to track. Once the sale of the original (or “relinquished”) property closes, the clock starts ticking. Within 45 days, the seller must identify a replacement property. Then, they have 180 days total from the date of recording on the relinquished property to close on the new property.

Another essential rule is that the seller cannot take possession of the proceeds from the sale. Those funds must be held by a Qualified Intermediary (QI), a neutral third party that ensures compliance with IRS rules.

“If you touch the money, you’re taxed,” says Fleenor. “It has to go straight from the sale to the QI and then into the new property. That’s a critical step in preserving the tax-deferred status.”

There are also more advanced strategies, such as reverse 1031 exchanges, where the investor purchases the replacement property before selling the original. “Though more complex and costly, a reverse exchange allows for flexibility in hot markets when timing doesn’t line up,” Fleenor explains. In this case, a temporary LLC may be used to hold the new property until the original is sold.

One long-term benefit of 1031 exchanges is the ability to defer taxes repeatedly, by continually rolling investments into new properties. In some cases, Fleenor notes, “That property can eventually be passed to your heirs with a step-up in basis, potentially eliminating the capital gains tax

liability altogether.”

This strategy is ideal for landlords, business owners, and real estate investors who want to grow their portfolios without triggering a taxable event. Whether you’re trading up to a larger asset or repositioning your holdings, a 1031 exchange gives you more control over timing and tax outcomes.

Of course, this is not a DIY endeavor. Anyone considering a 1031 exchange should work with both a CPA and a Real Estate Specialist who understand the process, the rules, and the local market. When executed properly, a 1031 exchange is one of the most powerful tools available to investors in real estate.

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

Michael E. Fleenor, CPA, ABV, at Robinson Grant & Co., specializes in tax strategy and business valuation. He is licensed in South Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee.

CHIP COLLINS

Rejuvenating the neck with non-surgical and surgical options

By Mathew T. Epps Contributor

Restoring a youthful neck is often part of facial rejuvenation where signs of aging lead to a loss in the tight contours of the neck and jaw line. Loss of elasticity in the skin and deposition of fat with aging contribute to sagging skin in this area and interrupt a crisp jaw line. Non-surgical technologies and surgical techniques offer effective interventions to improve signs of aging in the neck.

Modern advancements in non-surgical technologies offer effective interventions to improve mild to moderate skin laxity. Various non-surgical technologies incorporate the delivery of radiofrequency

energy to the skin.

Radiofrequency energy temporarily heats the skin, boosting the production of collagen, elastin, and new skin cells for an overall improvement in the tone, texture, and quality of the skin. Radiofrequency treatments are often performed in successive treatments for optimal improvements in skin tightening to reduce wrinkles and sagging skin. Radiofrequency skin treatments have become an increasing popular treatment as it offers minimal down time and is a less invasive alternative.

The most effective way to restore a youthful neck and reverse the anatomic changes of aging is through neck lift surgery. Neck lift surgery improves neck architecture for a tight contour in the neck and jawline. It is important to be accustomed to the anatomy of the neck to understand how a neck lift works. Immediately under the skin of the neck is a fatty layer of tissue which varies with the individual in thickness. Deep to this layer of tissue is a thin muscle called the platysma that extends from the collar bone to the jaw. More fat, important nerves, blood

vessels and glands lie underneath the platysma muscle.

Correcting and tightening the platysma muscle is essential in effective neck lift surgery. Incisions underneath the chin and in front and behind the ears allow the skin to be elevated from the platysma and offer an opportunity for removal of excess fatty tissue in these areas, including under the chin. The platysma is tightened much like a corset with stitches along the

length of it. Additionally, “lifting” stitches in the muscle below the ear enhances results. Skin is redraped with the removal of excess skin. Advanced surgical techniques aim to conceal the closure along and around the ear where the scars are minimal and well concealed.

Recovery from neck lift is well tolerated. Neck lift surgery often requires the placement of a temporary drain and a dressing to the head and neck. Patients are closely monitored with follow up visits to ensure optimal care and recovery.

Modern advanced non-surgical technologies utilizing radiofrequency energy offer skin tightening to the lower face and neck. The most effective strategy to restore a youthful contour to the neck and jaw line is through neck lift surgery with a skilled aesthetic plastic surgeon.

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

DR. MATHEW T. EPPS

Financial planning for independent Lowcountry living: smart strategies and considerations

By Matt Uppenbrink Contributor

As the baby boomer generation reaches retirement age, more adults are considering the transition to 55+ communities for their independent living years. While these communities offer lifestyle benefits, understanding the financial implications is crucial for making informed, long-term decisions.

Understanding the True Costs

The financial landscape of 55+ communities extends beyond the initial purchase price or rent. According to the National Investment Center for Seniors Housing & Care, the median monthly cost for independent living ranges from $1,500 to $4,000, with regional variations (NIC, 2024). In the Lowcountry, costs can be higher based on location and services. Additional expenses may include HOA fees, maintenance, utilities, and healthcare.

Compared to traditional homeownership, these communities can offer financial advantages. “The elimination of exterior maintenance, property taxes in some cases, and access to amenities that would otherwise require separate memberships can create substantial savings,” notes financial planner Sarah Mitchell of the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards (CFP Board, 2024).

Budgeting Strategies for Community Living

Effective budgeting requires accounting for both fixed and variable expenses. Experts recommend the 80% rule, where retirement income should replace about 80% of pre-retirement earnings (Social Security Administration, 2024). Housing costs should ideally not exceed 30% of monthly income.

Budgets should include entrance fees, service charges, meal plans, transportation, and emergency reserves. AARP recommends maintaining an emergency fund

equal to six to twelve months of living expenses to cover unforeseen healthcare needs (AARP, 2024).

Long-term Financial Planning Considerations

Planning for 55+ living means projecting expenses over potentially decades. With healthcare costs rising, tiered care options in many communities may come with added fees. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that 70% of people over 65 will need some form of long-term care (HHS, 2024).

Long-term care insurance can help, though premiums rise with age and health issues. It’s important to understand a community’s policies on fee increases, entrance fee refunds, and coverage limits if care needs exceed community capabilities. Investment strategies should balance growth with capital preservation. A common rule suggests the bond portion of a portfolio equal one’s age (Investment Company Institute, 2024).

Making Informed Decisions

Before committing, prospective residents should review the community’s financials, tax filings, and contract terms. Consulting elder law attorneys and certified financial planners is strongly advised. Many communities offer varied financial options and benefits, so take time to find the one that fits your needs.

The move to a 55+ community is both a lifestyle and financial choice—one that requires careful planning to ensure lasting stability and peace of mind.

Matt Uppenbrink, MS, is the Executive Director of The Seabrook of Hilton Head. Interested in learning more about The Seabrook of Hilton Head. theseabrook.com

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional financial advice. Consult qualified financial planners, tax professionals, and elder law attorneys before making major financial decisions about retirement living.

The Beaufort County School District (BCSD) has announced its participation in the 2025 Seamless Summer Option Program, offering free meals to children across the county during the summer months. This initiative aims to combat food insecurity, a pressing issue in South Carolina, where approximately 14.4% of households struggle to provide adequate food due to limited resources . Under the program, all children aged 18 and under, as well as individuals over 18 who are determined by the state to be mentally or physically disabled and participate in school-year programs for such individuals, are eligible for free meals. The program ensures equal access to meals regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.

Meals will be available at various locations throughout Beaufort County from June through July, excluding holidays on June 19 and July 4 including public libraries, parks and recreation centers, Boys and Girls Clubs, YMCA locations, and other community centers.

Bluffton and Hilton Head Island sites:

The following sites will be open to the public, except during the June 19th and July 4th holidays:

Beaufort County Libraries June 2nd-July 31st

• Bluf fton Branch (11:00am - 12:00pm)

120 Palmetto Way, Bluffton

Lunch First Come First Serve

Monday - Friday

• Hilton Head Branch (10:00am - 11:00am)

11 Beach City Road, Hilton Head Island

Lunch First Come First Serve

Monday – Friday

Meals will be provided at the following sites and times, families interested in enrolling must reach out to the program site directly.

Beaufort County Parks & Recreation

June 2nd–July 30th

Please contact your local Beaufort County Parks & Recreation office.

• Bluf fton Center

61-B Ulmer Road, Bluffton, SC 29910

Breakfast (8:00am - 9:30am) Lunch (11:00am - 1:30pm)

Monday - Friday

Boys and Girls Clubs of the Lowcountry

Please contact your local Boys and Girls Club Office.

• Bluf fton Club June 9th-July 25th

100 H.E. McCracken Circle, Bluffton, Breakfast (8:00am - 10:30am) Lunch (11:30am - 2:00pm)

Monday – Friday

• The Batten Family Unit (Hilton Head Club) June 16th-July 25th

151 Gumtree Rd., Hilton Head Breakfast (7:30am - 9:00am) Lunch

(11:30am - 1:00pm)

Monday – Friday

Wright Directions June 9thJuly 24th

Please contact Wright Directions Family Services office at (843)645-7700

• WD @ Bluf fton Middle School

30 New Mustang Drive, Bluffton

Breakfast (8:00am - 9:00am) Lunch (11:00am - 11:45am)

Monday – Thursday

Neighborhood Outreach Center:

Please contact the Neighborhood Outreach Center office at (843)681-4100

• NOC Cordillo @ Providence Presbyterian Church

171 Cordillo Parkway, Hilton Head

MEALS CONT. ON PAGE 69A

MEALS

June 9-July 3

FROM PAGE 68A

Lunch (11:30am - 1:00pm) Monday -

Thursday

• NOC New Oaks

4 Southwood Park Drive, Hilton Head

June 2nd-June 27th

Lunch (11:30am - 1:00pm)

Monday - Thursday

• NOC Lowcountry Learning Center @ Lowcountry Presbyterian Church

10 Simmonsville Rd., Bluffton

June 9-July 3

Lunch (11:30am - 1:00pm)

Monday - Thursday

Soup Kitchen at (248)390-1798

• Bluf fton Community Soup Kitchen

21 Boundary St., Bluffton

June 10-July 10

Breakfast (9:00am - 11:00am)

Lunch (11:30am - 1:00pm)

Tuesday – Thursday

Beaufort County School

District’s Summer Programs:

Breakfast and Lunch will be served to students attending the following Beaufort County School District’s Summer Programs:

Summer Reading Program

June 9th-June 28th

(Monday – Friday)

• Bluffton Elementary

• Pritchardville Elementary

• Red Cedar Elementary @ Michael C. Riley Elementary

• River Ridge Academy (Elementary) @ Bluffton Elementary

Summer School Program

June 9th-June 28th

(Monday – Friday)

• Bluffton Middle

• H.E. McCracken Middle

• Hilton Head Middle

• River Ridge Academy (Middle) @ H.E. McCracken Middle

• River Ridge Academy (SISA)

• Bluffton High

• Hilton Head High @ Hilton Head Middle

• May River High

• Bluffton Middle

Athletic Summer Programs

June 2nd – June 30th

Monday-Thursday

• Bluffton High

AFJROTC Summer Camp

June 2 – June 6 (Monday-Friday)

• May River High

Families interested in participating should contact the specific sites directly to verify meal times and enrollment details. A comprehensive list of meal sites and schedules is available through the USDA’s Summer Meals Site Finder at https:// www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sunmeals. This summer meal program is a vital resource for the community, addressing

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From Philly to Bluffton to Beth Yam

By Scott Selkowitz Contributor

Last June, my wife and I made “Aliyah” (migration) from the Philadelphia area to our new home in Bluffton. Having spent the past 25 years transitioning from tourists to timeshare residents on the Island, we finally made the decision to call the Lowcountry our home.

In preparation for our move, we navigated and dealt with obtaining new physicians, property taxes applied to our vehicles, traffic jams on 278, and not having a Trader Joe’s. However, one critical unchecked box was finding a new synagogue and Jewish commu nity with whom we could connect.

In searching for a synagogue, and given our experiences with attending services in rented or shared facility space, we wanted to be in a house of worship designed to provide for and immerse us in our cultural and spiritual environ ment. We wanted to belong to a synagogue with a full time Rabbi committed solely to the congregants and who was deeply involved with the local communities. At this stage of our lives, we also wanted the comfort of knowing that our pastoral care and life cycle needs would be met by a Rabbi who would come to know us personally.

As retirees migrating to a new area, in addition to meeting our spiritual needs, opportunities to establish a social life and form new relationships were equally as important. We wanted a congregation that was inclusive, accepting, egalitarian and welcoming to all—regardless of one’s level of observance or background. After we explored our options, we found that Congregation Beth Yam, located on Hilton Head Island, checked all the boxes.

From its inception in 1981, followed by the construction of its own facilities, Congregation Beth Yam has evolved to become the only synagogue in the Greater Bluffton and Hilton Head Areas,

Reform or Conservative, with a full-time spiritual leader. Rabbi Brad Bloom, now entering his 16th year of leading and guiding this congregation, is well respected and well known throughout our local civic and faith-based communities. Upon entering the main foyer and sanctuary, one is deeply spiritually moved by the Judaica artwork, congregational acknowledgements and tributes, religious and symbolic artifacts, the beautiful stonework, and the ark housing the Torahs. Aside from the sanctuary, the facility has several multi-purpose rooms for special events, a full-service caterer-accommodating kitchen, and classrooms for its youth programs and religious school. Its location off Business 278 on Hilton Head’s North end, provides for an easy convenient, accessible commute from Bluffton and Southern Beaufort

With an active men’s club, sisterhood, “chavurah” social groups and many celebratory events and special services scheduled throughout the year, there are numerous opportunities to meet new friends and form new relationships.

From men’s club monthly luncheons, congregational dine arounds, sisterhood events, book club, golf and pickleball groups, adult education seminars, and so much more, you can easily meet other congregants who also made “Aliyah” from somewhere else.

Services are scheduled most Friday evenings throughout the year, including occasional traditional Saturday services. Check out their calendar posted on the website: www.bethyam.org. Whether you are full or part time residents, visitors or guests, all are welcome to Congregation Beth Yam.

Scott Selkowitz is the Communications Chair and Board Member of Congregation Beth Yam, Hilton Head Island, communications@bethyam.org

Summer’s here but giving doesn’t take a break

By Rev. Dr. Christopher L. Thompson Contributor

Now that the school year has wrapped up, some of our kids are going without. For many, those school meals were the only solid food they could count on—and now, it’s just not there.

And it’s not just the children. All across our communities, folks are quietly struggling during these summer months. Empty refrigerators. Bare cabinets. Silent cries for help.

There’s an alarm sounding at the gates—and if we’re able, we need to answer it.

You might be thinking, “How can I help someone else when I’m just trying to keep my own head above water?” Or, “They made their choices… that’s their problem.”

But let’s be real—most of us are just one paycheck away from being in that same situation.

One unexpected bill. One bad break. One layoff.

But here’s the truth: if we take what

little we have and pour it into someone else’s cup, God will pour back into ours— pressed down, shaken together, and running over.

There are just a couple of rules we’ve got to follow. And they’re not complicated—just kingdom building; John 13:34-35 & Matthew 6:1-4.

Giving in Silence: The Real Reward

“Watch yourself when you’re doing good—don’t turn it into a performance just to impress people. If applause is what you’re after, that’s all you’ll get. Don’t expect anything more from your Father in heaven.

When you give to those in need, skip the spotlight. Don’t blast it like a trumpet or post it just to rack up likes, like those who crave attention in public spaces. They’ve already gotten their reward—the recognition. And that’s where it ends. Instead, give quietly. Give in such a way that your left hand doesn’t even know what your right hand is doing. Keep it between you and God. He sees the hidden things. And trust me—He’s the One who truly knows how to reward you.”

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And then there’s this—Jesus’ mic-drop moment that still echoes with power today:

The New Rule That Changes Everything

“I’m giving you something brand new: Love each other. The same way I’ve loved you— deep, sacrificial, nostrings-attached—that’s how you need to love one another.

This is how the world will recognize you as mine—not by your words, titles, or posts—but by your love. Real love. Con sistent, selfless, undeniable love.”

Let that sink in.

Giving without show. Loving without condition.

These aren’t just good ideas— they’re commands. They’re how heaven works, and they’re how we make heaven visible right here, right now.

June 8th

June 15th "Beyond, Beside and Before” John 16: 7-16

Rev. Dr. Lee van Rensburg

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

Declutter your photos before summer memories begin

By Rhoda Gordon Contributor

Make room, physically and emotionally, for new adventures

Do you have a phone full of screenshots and duplicates or boxes of printed photos stuffed in closets? As summer approaches, now is the perfect time to declutter your photo collection and make space for the memories you are about to create.

Organizing your photos isn’t just about tidying up—it’s a way to reconnect with your favorite moments, prepare for new ones, and lighten the emotional load of years of disorganized images.

Start with your digital photos. With thousands of images at our fingertips, it’s easy for the special ones to get lost in

the clutter. Begin by deleting duplicates, blurry shots, and anything unnecessary, like screenshots or random memes.

Next, create albums or folders by theme, such as vacations, holidays, or family milestones. Most photo apps include helpful tools that allow you to sort, tag, and even identify people.

If you use Apple Photos, Google Photos, or Mylio, take advantage of the built-in features designed to streamline this process. Learning how your app works and investing a little time now can save you hours when you’re searching for that perfect photo later.

healing.

Begin with just one box. Sort photos into broad categories, such as decade, event, or family member, and use labeled envelopes or index cards to stay organized. Consider removing photos from sticky or magnetic albums and placing them in archival-safe storage. Avoid attics and basements for longterm storage, since heat and humidity can permanently damage prints.

Printed photos deserve just as much attention. Many families still have albums or boxes filled with decades of memories. The idea of tackling them can feel overwhelming, like an albatross around your neck, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, the process can spark joy, reflection, and even

Once your photos are sorted, it’s a great time to digitize them. Organizing before scanning ensures you only preserve what matters most and makes the final digital collection much easier to manage and share.

You can use a photo scanner at home, or work with a Certified Photo Manager for help. Be sure to name files in a consistent way. I suggest: YYYY-MM-DD_WhoW-

hatWhere (such as “1985-08-15_SummerPicnic_Mom.jpg”) and save everything backed-up in more than one location.

Decluttering your photos clears more than just physical space, it creates room in your life and mind for new experiences. Whether you’re planning a summer road trip or simply spending more time with family, an organized photo collection helps you honor the past while fully embracing the present.

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

RHODA GORDON

Nature’s Way

The Hilton Head Harbor Toadfish Tournament

By Collins Doughtie Contributor

Have you ever participated in a fishing tournament? Freshwater bass tournaments are by far the biggest and most lucrative of tournaments simply because only a fraction of anglers in this country live along either the east or west coast. Since there are ponds, lakes and streams in virtually every state, it makes sense these freshwater tournaments would be the most popular.

For me personally, saltwater tournaments make up most of my attempts at catching the big one. This give me a chance, for a brief period at least, to strut around like a gobbler during mating season. From marlin to king mackerel to tarpon, redfish, wahoo, cobia and snapper, I have fished them all. But if you were to ask me which tournament I remember best, one tournament instantly rises to the top in my mind, the famous, or rather infamous, Hilton Head Harbor Toadfish Tournament.

If you are asking yourself what in the heck is a toadfish you can either Google one or I can summarize them by saying they are ugly, slimy, have a disproportionately large mouth, stubby teeth and if that were not enough, have no culinary value whatsoever. So why in the world would you have a fishing tournament for something like that? I guess the best answer to “why?” is that’s why it was held. Even now, no apparent reason comes to mind. If I remember correctly, the first toadfish tournament was in 1975 and was held at the Hilton Head Harbor (now called the Outdoor Resorts Marina) just as you come on to Hilton Head. This is when my

memory, or lack of, gets the best of me but if I to guess who started the toadfish tournament, I’ll blame it on three individuals, Capt. Fuzzy Davis, Capt. Randy Osterstock and Capt. Miles Altman.

For the first two or three years it was a small event that was, more or less, a fun get together for locals to break the boredom. There just wasn’t much to do in those days, especially for all us young ins. There was nothing serious about any of it except possibly a libation or two or three or whatever.

We actually did fish for toadfish with prizes given out for the ugliest toadfish, the smallest, the largest toadfish and even one for the toadfish that looked most like Capt. Miles Altman.

But as the years passed, the word got

out and the Toadfish Tournament got larger and larger. About that same time, some whacked out graphic designer with a name exactly like mine, got involved. To this day, if you had enough brain cells left to actually store away one of these prized shirts, you are held in high esteem by those that attended those last two years. It was Hilton Head’s own little Woodstock. “You were at THE Toadfish Tournament? I am not worthy.”

In a nutshell, the t-shirts reflected the times. The one with Jesus holding a toadfish with copy saying “Holy Mackerel It’s a Toadfish” along with “Lord It’s Beautiful” caused quite an uproar with angry letters to the editor at the Island Packet.

The next year the “Ayatoada” told the story of the American hostages being held

in Iran after the Shah was run out of town by the Ayatollah.

It was what happened that last fateful year that doomed this great event from ever happening again. I can’t tell you the whole story but just enough where you might be able to fill in the blanks.

You would have thought the Beatles were in town; there were that many people. Some even say it was largest fishing tournament in South Carolina’s history. Even with the occasional beer or better-put keg or even better, a beer tanker truck, it was always a family affair.

There were kids and moms and dads, that is until the ever-popular beauty contest became a wet t-shirt contest, which in turn turned into a no t-shirt contest. I know for a fact a lot of children learned more about certain things that day than they ever learned in a classroom. If that wasn’t enough, a biker gang shows up out of nowhere. That started hair pulling between girls, teeth a-flying this way and that with the boys, and it all went way downhill from there. Heck, they even tried to roll over the beer tanker truck and those things are dang heavy. Every now and again someone blurts out “Hey, let’s bring back the Toadfish Tournament!” But you know what? According to Beaufort County’s 1980 Ordinance TFT-B-GONE, it states no toadfish may be caught for entertainment purposes under any circumstances whatsoever with all (and any) violators will be jailed and quite possibly, beaten. Ah, the good ol days!

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

By Edwina Hoyle Contributor

Holistic healing is for everyone

If your first impulse is to pop a pill for pain, hold on. Many are now turning to holistic healing, either alone or in conjunction with their doctor to improve healing. Holistic modalities are available that can fix or improve your muscle injuries, improve your lymphatic system, alleviate chronic pain and slowdown that hamster in your head with stress relief.

“We should always try to let the body heal naturally and let the body tell us what it needs,” said Heidi Johnson, owner of Inner Peace Massage and Spa in Bluffton.

Her mother was a massage therapist and is Heidi’s kindred spirit. “It was incredible to grow up in a lifestyle of healing holistically. It lit a little fire inside me to do this work and send me on this trajectory.”

With decades of experience as both a massage therapist and esthetician, Johnson integrates traditional wellness with targeted therapeutic care.

Techniques for Natural Recovery

Orthopedic massage is a targeted approach to pain relief and tissue injury rehabilitation. It’s often used for injuries related to repetitive strain—like those from sports or poor posture—and can serve as an early intervention before surgery or long-term medication use is considered.

“It’s a popular modality for people with injuries from tennis, golf, even just bending down,” Johnson said. “It targets a specific problem and it’s simple to try first, before surgery. We can address chronic pain relief in a holistic way or in conjunction with a doctor.”

Lymphatic drainage massage is another growing area of interest. The lymph system plays a crucial role in filtering toxins, managing inflammation and supporting immune health. Gentle, rhythmic strokes encourage the flow of lymph fluid, which can be especially beneficial for people recovering from surgery, dealing with chronic fatigue or feeling generally sluggish.

“A lymphatic massage is popular, but

there aren’t a lot of providers,” Johnson said. “The lymph system is like your trash can for toxins and can help with a tired, sluggish body. It’s great for pre- and post-surgery to help swelling go down and reduce inflammation.”

Pregnant women can also benefit from holistic care through pre-natal massage, which Johnson said is among their most sought-after services.

Pre-natal massages for pregnant women address stiff necks, leg cramps, hip and low back pain, and to help keep sciatica at bay.

Today’s screen-heavy lifestyle has also led to new issues like “tech neck”, a form of chronic neck and shoulder tension caused by frequent downward gazing at phones and tablets. For this, cupping therapy is gaining popularity. This ancient method uses suction to lift muscle

and connective tissue, improving range of motion and reducing stiffness. Cupping pulls muscles off stuck tissue and helps with range of motion.

“Your head is heavy, like a bowling ball hanging forward. Cupping helps stretch the muscle to realign,” Johnson explained.

A Shift in Mindset

As more people explore holistic approaches, the appeal lies in the personalized, low-impact nature of these therapies. They often complement traditional medicine and physical therapy, and many people report noticeable improvements in sleep, mobility and mood after just a few sessions.

Johnson said, “People are so happy to try holistic modalities because they are more gentle and work symbiotically with the body.”

For individuals navigating chronic pain or post-surgical recovery, or those simply seeking stress relief, holistic therapies offer a complementary path that works in alignment with the body—one session at a time.

Edwina Hoyle is a freelance writer in Bluffton.

By Glenda Harris Contributor

Since my father left this earth in 1999, I have often thought about his life as a young boy. I wish I had known or realized sooner as I was growing up, more about what he, his mom and two siblings went through and how very sad and tough it must have been.

My father, Bob, a handsome, quiet, intelligent and hard-working man was the youngest of 3 children born to Jacob and Julia Stange in the early 1900s. The family of 5 lived in a large home in the suburbs of Virginia where Jacob was a highly-respected man who excelled at his job as a fine furniture salesman, winning numerous best salesman awards.

In 1925, their world was upended. Bob was 7 years old, when his father suddenly became ill and was diagnosed with tuberculosis. At that time, there was no cure or treatment other than relocation to a dry climate, so Jacob was sent to Denver, where hopefully he would improve. This meant he had no way to provide for himself or family.

His wife, Julia, sold their furniture to raise some money, sending portions to her husband as needed. Although he attempted to work, his health worsened each time and the doctors stopped him from working. Ultimately, he had to travel to Arizona and shortly afterward, at age 38, he passed away from advanced tuberculosis. The family had been separated for 6 years with no opportunities to travel to where he was. All of this occurred during the Great Depression and times were tough.

It is hard to imagine their sadness, longing and grief after the long separation and then to never see him again. My dad was 13 years old when his father passed.

The children had to be placed in a children’s home and Julia took a job at a department store, so she could save her earnings and one day reunite her family.

A bright spot was a surprise benefactor who was instrumental in reuniting the family sooner than thought possible. A life insurance salesman came forward. Upon hearing of Jacob’s illness, he had continued to pay the monthly premium for their policy and it was still active. It was like a gift from an angel above. The proceeds

A life well lived

covered most basic living expenses and with Julia working, the children were soon reunited with their mother.

Incredibly, at just 13 years old, Bob chose to take inspiration from his father’s 6-year-long fight to get better. He set goals for his life, rejecting smoking, alcohol and other teen shenanigans, and dedicated himself to living a purposeful and clean life, eating healthy food and working hard to build a strong and able body.

And did he ever - after finishing high school, where he played football, he developed exercise and weightlifting routines. He entered body-building and weight-lifting competitions, continuing to compete into his 30s. He loved it and even became a bit of a local sensation with his skills and powerful physique.

His titles included the “Washington Middleweight Weight-Lifting” title for 7 years straight, the title of “Mr. District of Columbia Physique” in 1941, the title of “Mr. Arizona” x2 and “Mr. YMCA”. He was a runner-up in the “Mr. Universe” competition in the 1940s as well. I have some of his trophies in my home and cherish them.

Some time later, after my dad passed at age 80 years and 5 months, we found some short snippets he had written (as an adult) recalling the emotions and memories of his early life. Especially heartbreaking were these words “Father became ill. Left for Denver.  Mother with 3 children, ages 5, 7 and 10 with a 3rd grade education. Tried to support us. Friend, then children’s home in D.C.  I thought end of world.”

His devotion to healthy living was admired by all who knew him. I know he positively influenced the next generation,

our two boys as they up. My dad returned to competition in his 70s, once all his girls were grown. He won several “Over-60 Masters” events. Amazingly, he was still lifting barbells and playing tennis regularly up until a few days before a sudden illness struck and within a few days he was gone.

Thanks, Daddy and Happy Father’s Day in heaven. Although you are not here to hug, I hold you closely in my heart every day for evermore.

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

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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 Captain Woody Rehab

By Paul Tollefson Contributor

If you grew up in Hilton Head — or this area, for that matter — then I’m sure you have at least one good partying story from your youth, though most people have many more than that. This particular story is one of the craziest, and not only did it change this young man’s life, it all happened within a 72-hour window.

It was the summer of 1986, and Wally Palmer had just graduated from Hilton Head Prep. He was living in a small apartment in Queens Grant, inside Palmetto Dunes. In typical Hilton Head beach bum fashion, there were probably about 11 guys living in that place that summer. Wally was doing tennis court maintenance during the day and working at the Old Post Office Emporium in the evenings.

One night, all the boys in the house were home, and an intense game of quarters broke out. The drinks were flowing heavily. Soon enough, the beer was gone, and it was time for a quick run up to “The Pig” for some replenishments.

“Me and my buddy Scott drove across to the new Shelter Cove Mall to the Piggly Wiggly, where they had cases of Busch on sale for $7.99. We got a few cases and loaded up the car to head back.”

“As we got into our little apartment area and out of sight from any PD security guards, Scott had this bright idea that he was going to floor it. I remember screaming at him to SLOW DOWN, but the boy just didn’t seem to listen.”

“Before I knew what was happening, we

bounced off a Palmetto tree like a pinball and barely squeezed between two more. After the first bounce off the tree, I looked up only to see us speeding out of control toward the lagoon behind the apartments,” Wally said.

“Now, if bouncing off the trees wasn’t bad enough, we were heading straight for the lagoon — and the only spot in the whole area that had a berm. Sure enough, we hit it at full speed and it was liftoff.”

“I managed to somehow open the door midair, but as soon as we hit the lagoon, my head hit the windshield. I wasn’t knocked unconscious but was bleeding pretty badly from my forehead. As we swam to the lagoon’s edge, the car quickly became submerged and sank about 15 feet to the bottom.”

Wally and Scott headed back to their apartment, scared and unsure what to do. It became clear that the police were surely on their way. Sure enough, there was a knock at the door before too long.

“The security guard knew us by name, and we had to go with him. Being a small town, I knew one of the firemen, and he was laughing pretty good when he realized it was me. He quickly bandaged my head from where I hit the windshield.”

“The funny thing is, when I was talking to the police and they were trying to figure out how to get the sunken car out, tourists started crowding around the lagoon — even sitting in beach chairs watching what was going on. But the real kicker is that folks were wading into the water because 48 beers were now floating everywhere, free to anyone willing to get wet,” Wally continued.

“Well, of course one of the police officers knew my father, and soon enough he had him on the line. Dad was headed down to the scene.”

“Dad comes whistling in, convertible top down, and I was quickly handed off to him by the authorities.”

“‘Son, I’ve heard through the grapevine that you’re living pretty loose over here, riding a little too close to the sun,’” Walter Sr. said. “‘I’m taking you to the hospital to get checked out, make sure you don’t have a concussion.’”

“After we left the hospital, instead of taking me to his house, Dad dropped me back off at the apartment with my friends. Little did I know what was going to happen the next morning that would change my whole summer — and my life.”

The next morning, Palmer awoke to not only a pounding head but also a pounding knock at the front door of their Palmetto Dunes apartment. As he got up to answer, he saw the familiar face of his father, who he’d just seen six hours earlier.

“‘Get your stuff and get in the car,’” Wally’s dad said sternly.

Still foggy from the night before, Wally brushed his teeth, grabbed his things, and climbed into the waiting convertible.

“As we pulled out of Palmetto Dunes, my dad began telling me he’d heard I’d been hitting it a little too hard lately and that he was taking me to rehab. As I tried to argue and explain that I was fine and had everything under control, I noticed something. We took a left out of Palmetto Dunes, heading to the south end. There’s no rehab on the south end, and I wondered what the heck was going on.”

“Sure enough, my dad had this snarky kind of smile on his face. I kept asking where we were going, but he just turned the music up louder and said, ‘You’ll see.’”

“We ended up at Palmetto Bay Marina, and that’s when I knew this wasn’t going to be the rehab I had in mind. The first thing I saw was this small man, with a beard and shrimp boots, leaning against an old, beat-up white truck. I immediately recognized him — ole Captain Woody, legendary waterman.”

“‘Well if it isn’t little Walter,’ Captain Woody said with a smirk. ‘You’re mine

now!’”

“My dad was laughing hysterically. ‘Welcome to Captain Woody rehab!’”

“They explained I was now in the captain’s care and would be the deckhand

PAUL TOLLEFSON

aboard the Lynn-Sea.”

Wally loaded his small bag of clothes onto the old trawler and they shoved off almost immediately.

“I give 10% to my strikers for the haul,” Woody explained. “If you want to do it all yourself, you keep it all. But I highly suggest we get another guy.”

“No,” said Wally, slightly arrogant. “I can do it myself. I don’t need anyone else’s help.”

After the first haul, it was clear that wasn’t going to work.

“I was covered in jellyfish stings, trying to sort shrimp as fast as I could and weed out bait fish and sharks caught in the nets,” Wally said, laughing. “The worst part was that Captain Woody always headed his shrimp!”

“I finally caved and told the captain I needed help. He whipped the boat around and headed for Thunderbolt, Georgia, where he sold most of his catch.”

They picked up a new hand from the docks — a big red-haired, freckled kid from Texas who called himself “Red.”

“We headed back out, and before

long, Red was just blabbering away.

‘These shrimps are tiny compared to Texas shrimp,’ he said. ‘And these trawlers? Pfft, they’re like dinghies compared to what we have in Texas.’”

Captain Woody, clearly annoyed, was plotting his response. But then Red said, “Dag-gum, these guys around here can’t drink for shit!”

“Well, that was it,” Wally said. “Woody whipped the boat around so fast.”

“‘Wait, where are we going?’ Red asked.

“‘You’ll see,’ Woody replied.”

They returned to Palmetto Bay Marina. Woody anchored, got in his dinghy, and brought Red ashore. As they approached, Red saw the sign: Captain Woody’s.

“‘Your damn right it does,’ Woody said. ‘Now let’s see you come tell us we don’t know how to drink around here!’”

Woody bought shot after shot, going round for round with Red until the Texan was a wobbly mess.

“‘Now let’s go shrimping!’” Woody said.

Red thought he was joking. But Woody, an experienced drinker, showed no signs of slowing down.

They loaded back onto the Lynn-Sea.

“‘Captain, I don’t think I can work,’” Red gurgled as he threw up off the stern.

“Captain just laughed and yelled back, ‘Oh, we can’t drink, huh!’”

Wally and Red spent the next few weeks working the boat and finished out the summer with Captain Woody. Red never again claimed Texas did anything better than the Lowcountry, and Wally laid low on the drinking.

By fall of ’86, a freshly rehabbed Wally headed off to art school — and surprisingly, Red stayed on with Captain Woody.

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.”

Inconveniencing for your convenience: a modern courtesy check

By Wendy Kushel Contributor

There’s a curious tendency people have—choosing to inconvenience others for their own minor convenience. It’s subtle, often brushed off, but it speaks volumes about how self-awareness and empathy have taken a back seat in day-to-day interactions.

Picture this: you’ve just finished packing up a booth after a long day at a festival—tent, tables, merchandise, and four 50-pound weights. Exhausted, you finally sit in your car with the air conditioning on, letting your muscles decompress. Then comes a knock on your window. “Can you move forward?” someone asks, even though there are five empty spots in front of you and five behind. They want your exact spot. Why? Because it’s a step more convenient for them—never mind that it means making you move after hours of labor. That’s not just inconsiderate. It’s rude.

It’s this kind of behavior that makes you wonder: are

people just wired to see obstacles instead of options? A single cone becomes a barrier. A person standing in one spot becomes a blockade—even when there are 12 different paths around them. Is it really easier to make someone move than to shift your own direction slightly? This isn’t just about cars and cones. It’s about mindset. Consider how often people say things that push buttons just to stir the pot or involve themselves in things that are none of their business. That’s another form of put-

DOUBLE

ting their own comfort or entertainment above someone else’s peace.

But, there’s a solution, and it’s simple: choose empathy. Remember the golden rule—not just “treat others how you want to be treated,” but better yet, “treat others how you’d want your mother to be treated.” Be aware of what you’re asking of people. Is it necessary? Or are you just choosing the easiest route at their expense?

And here’s the flip side: when you see someone whose shoes you love or who just looks like they’re having a good day—say something kind. It costs nothing and it uplifts. We’re so quick to ask others to make space for us, yet hesitant to share a compliment that could brighten their entire day.

Next time, before you ask someone to shift, speak, or move—ask yourself if there’s another way. There usually is.

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

WENDY KUSHEL

Things they don’t tell you to expect when expecting - the teenage years

By Tracy Winslow Contributor

Congratulations! You have survived the toddler years - not an easy feat. Years 4-11 are the parenting calm before the storm. By now, you have earned a false sense of security and believe you have a pretty solid grasp at this whole parenting thing. You have heard horror stories about the dreaded tween/teen years, but you foolishly believe, not my baby, they’re so sweet! And then one day, your child stomps in as if they have been replaced with something hateful and mean. (Googles: “has my child been demonically possessed?)

They hiss at you when you ask them a question. They argue with you about stealing their sister’s mascara- while holding their sister’s stolen mascara. They skulk from the dark recesses of their bedroom at odd hours to pilfer snacks and hoard water bottles. You love them ridiculously - yet there are times you wonder if you will survive until they leave for college. (Googles: “just how expensive is boarding school?”) And pray they will use this new found attitude for good instead of leading a prison riot.

You are soooo dumb: It doesn’t matter if you have a Ph.D. and are an expert in the subject or have been performing whatever task since you were a fetus. You are so wrong with everything, that you are practically a burden to society. Even when she announces she “loves the chicken” at Thanks giving dinner - she will argue when corrected. “Whatever, Mom. Turkey is a type of chicken. Like, you know how ducks, turkeys, and chickens quack?” And defending yourself is futile. I could have called the CEO of Perdue to get a definition for types of poultry - and my offspring would

still be convinced I am wrong because I am a complete and utter moron. (Googles “recipes for a Xanax-tini.”)

You are little more than an ATM: “I need $20.” “I just gave you money this morning!” “That was for Moe’s. And I needed to get the new Nyx eyeliner before they are sold out.” Where’s your money from work? “Didn’t I show you the outfit I got at Aerie? I am soooo fire in it! Go like my Instagram post!”

Where are the spoons?: Remember that set of dishes and silverware that you got in your 20’s and managed not to lose for decades? Yeah. They somehow “disappear” and nobody knows how. When you ask them to bring missing items from their rooms, you are met with “STOP ACCUSING ME MOM! YOU BLAME ME FOR EVERYTHING! WHY DON’T YOU ASK MY SISTER TO BRING DOWN HER DISHES? SEE WHY I HATE LIVING HERE?” Yet the missing utensils mysteriously appear in the sink when your angel is told they cannot go to the football game until their room is clean. (Googles: “am I having a nervous breakdown or is this a heart

Imma crash out, if you keep asking me about my grades. ICL, I’m locked in, so I don’t get cooked for real. Aight?” (Googles: “teenager to English translation”) They have developed hearing issues: You can kindly call up the stairs to get them to come down. Nothing. You yell their name, which you KNOW they can hear because you don’t live at the Biltmore. Crickets. You call them on their phone - goes unanswered. When you finally stomp to their room and angrily inform them that you have been trying to get their attention, their response is “OMG Stop yelling! What is your problem?”

Sibling rivalry becomes epic: Remember those brawls about Barbie shoes? Yeah, they’re just the appetizers of arguments to come. Now they fight about everything you can imagine - and some things you cannot. It’s never anyone’s “turn” to do anything. Nothing is ever fair. Everything is the other sibling’s fault. And the other one is always “the favorite”. Did I mention the door slamming?

CHILD 1:“That is MY bikini top! I don’t care that I gave it to you last week. And stop stealing my pants!”

tion stupid?). But it’s hard not to laugh - especially when you hear exchanges like this:

FRIEND: I need to get spelling good. I mean, good at spelling.”

DAUGHTER: And apparently grammar. (proud Mom moment)

But, you will fall apart when you miss out on big things in their life because they are spreading their wings. Senior year is a blur of hormones, college applications, and difficult goodbyes.

Your heart will shatter when theirs does. You will cry when you see pictures/ videos of them when they were little. And wish you could hang out with their toddler version just one more time, because the years keep flying by. And as they approach the time to leave the nest - you will mourn the loss of the tiny person they were, as well as the person they have become. And while the idea of my baby not waking me up at 11pm to “dish about the latest tea” is heartbreaking, I know that she is ready for her next exciting chapter in life, and that I am sending a smart, kind and hilarious woman into the world.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025, and to all the people who stood behind these babies to make this monumental milestone possible. It truly takes a village, a strong sense of self, and Google to help get your littles to this important accom-

Tracy Winslow is a mom who is trying to hold it all together while her baby graduates high school with top honors in all of her classes - except for Spanish. Which she almost failed. If only she knew one person… just one…that could have helped her in her time of need. I mean, apparently other than her MOTHER WHO IS A SPANISH PROFESSOR AND HAS BEEN TEACHING SPANISH GRAMMAR SINCE SHE WAS BORN. God help her and save her. Oh, and come buy gorgeous yarn at Low Country Shrimp and Knits. Which is Tracy’s clubhouse when she is not a college professor or arguing with her daughter about the fact that she should not be failing Spanish. www. shrimpandknits.com

TRACY WINSLOW

Graduation Day

By Kevin Fitzpatrick Contributor

I began my teaching career in 1975, and with a short break from Sept ‘76 until Jan ‘78 to test out the waters as an operations analyst on Wall Street, it is the only main job I have held post college graduation until I fully walked out the door for the last time in June of 2021. My first job was a fill-in beginning in Jan ‘75 for a 6th grade class, and subsequent to that I was at the high school level.

I did some adjunct teaching over the years at a couple of colleges to supplement the income needed to raise two kids, I never had the desire to leave the classroom and move to administration for the higher salary, as the joy of the job was the daily interactions in the classroom and the relationships forged with the kids and parents.

After “retiring” in 2012, I went back part time to teach middle school math until 2021, my wife was the motivator there, she was still teaching and after a few months “off” threatened, figuratively I think, to hit me with a cast iron pan if I was still asleep when she was up and getting ready to go.

My last class of middle school graduates from June 2021 is graduating high school today and over the next few weeks as I write this and some of them have sent me links to watch from afar. This started me thinking about the significance of graduation day and why it always tugs at the heart.

Graduations, alongside births and weddings, are, perhaps, the three most significant positive lifetime events, however, it is the only one where both the graduate and their “team” have worked to get there. It represents a door both opening and closing. It is almost always accompanied by

tears of joy that represent the accomplishments that have made the day happen and the anticipation of the universe opening with even wider possibilities to come. Mixed in with the tears of joy are the tears of sadness representing the end of a very fixed amount of time where connections have been made and obstacles overcome. It is a very specific cycle of time, 8 years where that graduate is beginning to feel their wings just starting to grow (I know there are more and more “moving up” days prior to grade 8, but I still see that as the first real significant one).

ken by and by, as the parent(s) now watch their graduate, become the parent(s) of the next group to go through that cycle. With a smattering of luck and a dash of good fortune, those lines remain connected and some of the new tears are those of pride.

When my own children went through their cycles I was able to sit back and admire their accomplishments while at the same time being just a little proud of what I tried to do in support without being intrusive and controlling. When the last graduation happened, the “empty

Then 4 years where that graduate has either reached, or will soon reach, the age of legal “majority” and usually one of two paths will present itself. That graduation excitement is also accompanied for most, by a mixture of anxiety and anticipation. Adulthood is calling, it’s time to start on a path that, with luck, will be joyful, ever changing and expanding for the next 50-80 years. College and Postgraduate graduations can delay that jump in some ways, yet in other ways it, too, is beginning to mold the adult to be.

That circle remains, for many, unbro-

nest” became a reality and that, too, is an adjustment.

Sitting in the faculty section at graduations brings along the same emotions, joy for what they have done, pride for what small part you may have played in their journey and sadness that those who added so many smiles to your face will no longer be part of your days on a regular basis. If you are lucky enough to teach in the same place for enough time, you also become part of that extended cycle where you watch them watch their new graduates. While I have very mixed feelings about

social media and electronic “connections,” one of the true benefits is being able to stay connected with so many former students and colleagues this way. I continue to exchange greetings, thoughts and ideas with and follow along in their continuing journeys, just like the link that motivated these thoughts as I watched from afar today.

That all brings me to the local flavor. Bluffton does a great job of hanging multiple banners on the road into Old Town each HS graduation season, it may seem like a small thing but it always makes me smile when I see them go up and it means another season is about to change (and here, where the Four Seasons is only a Vivaldi opus you look forward to whatever seasonal changes there are).

This particular season had an extra personal flavor. When we moved here we made a very close connection with the person who originally, we highered as our house sitter and pet sitter. She is a remarkably hard-working young woman who with grit and determination while working for untold amounts of hours, running her own pet sitting business put herself through four years of intense schooling and just graduated with a BSN from UCSB.

As far away as we are from our family, she became a member of our chosen family, and Abbey THE dog’s third favorite person as she cared for her as we did right up until she crossed the rainbow bridge. I sort of envision her opening her new door as did Dorothy when she landed OZ and the change from black and white was now brilliant colors of what is to come.

Perhaps the Four Freshman said it best, though if you are of a particular age, you may know the Beach Boys version, and in both cases said it much better and in far fewer words:

“No matter where our paths may wind We’ll remember always Graduation day”

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

KEVIN FITZPATRICK

By Dr. Cassandra Beard Contributor

As our bodies age fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots and sometimes hollowed areas around the eyes and cheeks begin to appear. You may also experience a noticeable loss of firmness on the hands and neck. And while you cannot stop or even slow down the aging process, there are some things you can do to help prevent signs of premature aging. Good skin care — including sun protection, gentle cleansing, and quitting smoking can keep your skin healthy and glowing for years to come.

Q. What causes the skin to age?

A. Over time, the skin loses its underlying layers of fat, and the production of collagen and elastin fibers slows. As a result, the skin loses its fullness. There are two distinct types of aging — aging caused by the genes we inherit, and aging caused by

Aging skin

environmental factors, such as exposure to the sun’s rays or smoking.

Q: How much damage does sun exposure cause?

A. Just a few minutes of sun exposure each day can cause noticeable changes to the skin over time. The term “photoaging” is used to describe this sun-related skin damage. Photoaging occurs over a period of years. With repeated exposure to the sun, the skin loses the ability to repair itself, and the damage accumulates.

Q. What are liver spots?

A. Liver spots — also called age spots

and solar lentigines — actually have nothing at all to do with the liver, and they are not an indication of liver disease. They are flat gray, brown or black spots that usually appear on the face, hands, shoulders and arms — those areas most exposed to the sun. For cosmetic reasons, age spots can be lightened with skin-bleaching products or removed. However, avoiding the sun and using sunscreen can help avoid these dark skin spots.

Q. Older people often complain of itching skin. What causes this?

A. Aging and sun damage reduce the

capacity of the skin to moisturize itself — so the skin becomes dry. Dry skin is one of the major causes of itchiness in aging skin. Severe itching as well as itching that does not respond to moisturizing should be evaluated by a dermatologist.

Q. What treatments are available to rejuvenate aging skin?

A: There are a variety of treatments available to improve damaged skin. Injectable fillers, Botox, and Fraxel are suitable for people with busy lifestyles who do not want the inconvenience of downtime. Dermabrasion, laser resurfacing, chemical peeling, microdermabrasion, and some topical treatments can restore skin, giving it a smoother and refreshed appearance.

If you want to diminish the signs of aging or have developed a condition that does not go away, call Dermatology Associates of the Lowcountry (843) 689-5259 (Hilton Head) or (843) 705-0840 (Bluffton/Okatie) to schedule a consultation. Remember, any abnormality of the skin should be looked at by a dermatologist.

Dr. Cassandra Beard, DO, MPH • American Board of Dermatology • Dermatology Associates of the Lowcountry

Pets of the week

Agatha Sheka

This 3-month-old beauty has watched as other puppies have come and gone. As Agatha waits for someone to choose her, PAL staff and volunteers give her all the love and care she needs. But she knows a shelter is not a real home. If you have been thinking about adopting a puppy, please consider this lovely lady. Cute as a button, with an adorable personality and impeccable manners, Agatha is ready to live life in a loving home like yours. She is up to date on vaccinations, microchipped, and scheduled to be spayed.

Sheka is a king-size guy looking for a king bed in a calm, loving home. At nearly 20 pounds, he takes life at a snail’s pace. No crazy kitten energy here! This 8-year-old appreciates the quieter things in life like bird watching from a cozy window seat. If you’ve been looking for a cat with a little something extra, Sheka is extra-large, extra sweet, and extra friendly. He is neutered, up to date on vaccinations, and microchipped.

Cassandra Beard, DO, MPH American Board of

CASSANDRA BEARD

By Annelore Harrell Contributor

Camping tales

Aha.

Camping at Hunting Island didn’t turn out exactly as planned.

Tamela, Nicholas, and I had reserved Sites 111 and 114 ages ago. They had all the desired amenities, like elec-

It was on the other side of a shoulder-high embankment, a miniature maritime forest impregnable to anything other than something furry or slithery.

Yes, Site 114 had an electric outlet, and water, and a level space for one small tent.We had two tents. Theirs and mine. Neither was small.

Tamela went off on a mission.

Finally, at long last, after I thought she had run away home, she came back. We had new camp sites, primitive camp sites, no electricity, no water, Sites 11 and 12.

house, was within a stone’s throw. My tent had two compartments, one for sleeping and a screened one for dining. We dragged the picnic table inside that one. Even the choicest of camp sites has flying critters.

Tents were up; chairs were out; the campsite was ready.

Steak for dinner, a shower with limitless hot water - such a blessing, and it was lights out. Nighty nighttime to the rustle of wind in the palmetto trees, the murmur of surf.

Bliss.

They had a frantic time pulling the tarp over their tent, getting sopping wet, wiping down their mattress, wringing out clothes and finally, absolutely exhausted, crawled under the one dry bed sheet to catch a few zzzs.

I had no idea all of this was going on. I was too worried about the tall pine next to my tent that any minute would be struck by lightning. I lay there counting between each crack and sizzle. One thousand and one, one thousand and two. At least our picnic table had been spared the downpour.

By Nick Martin Contributor

A mid-retirement check-in

Evaluate your retirement beyond health and wealth. As you move through retirement, it’s important to set time aside to reflect on how you’re doing. While most people often focus on their health and finances, it’s equally as important to think about other areas of your life as you approach the midpoint of your retirement, which could be between the ages of 70 and 80, depending on your longevity. This is the time to ask yourself some broader questions to ensure you’re making the most of the years you’ve worked so hard to enjoy.

A holistic retirement check at the halfway point can make sure you stay on track. To get a better understanding of what you should take into consideration, observe the lives of retirees around you and think about the choices they’ve made. Then, reflect on these questions.

Does my home still work for me?

According to a study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, retirees spend an average of 1.77 hours per day on housework, like cleaning and laundry. This can vary greatly depending on the size of the house, the number of rooms and the amount of outside maintenance required, like shoveling snow or mowing the lawn. If you find yourself wanting to ease up on household chores, downsizing might be a good solution. Besides less upkeep, it provides an opportunity to declutter and simplify your life, which can be quite satisfying, even liberating.

On the other hand, you may not want to reduce your square footage. If you frequently have your children or grandchildren over for extended stays, you might need a place with an additional bedroom. If hosting holidays and other gatherings brings you joy, having enough space to create cherished memories may be important to you. Everyone’s situation is different, but you should ask yourself how the space is working for you.

If you’re someone who can’t quite tackle stairs lately or requires other accommodations, then accessibility may be top of mind. A single-story home could make

it easier to move around. Alternatively, a new condominium may be a good choice. Many modern condos come equipped with features that help ensure you can move about comfortably without any difficulties.

Let’s not forget about location. And we don’t mean the beach or the mountains. Do you have family members spread across the country? Moving closer to children or grandchildren who can help you with caregiving or errands as you age may be attractive. Even if you’d always dreamed of retirement in Arizona and have enjoyed it, companionship from family may top your priority list and lead you to evaluate where you have more connections.

Do I have any health concerns cropping up?

As you hit the midpoint of your retirement, it’s natural to experience some changes in your health. If you’re fit as a fiddle, then congratulations! However, it’s still important to think about the availability and proximity of your doctors, as well as any insurance changes that may be necessary. If you know you’ll need a knee replacement soon, examine your health plan and consider what this upcoming surgery might cost under different options. During Medicare’s annual open enrollment from October 15 to December 7, you can make any changes necessary to your insurance coverage.

Some Medicare Advantage Plans even give access to gym memberships and fitness classes. The SilverSneakers program, which is widely known and accepted at facilities like the YMCA, is just one of them. Joining a gym will not only give you the opportunity to commit to regular physical activity, which can prevent health problems that come with age, but it can also give you a sense of community that benefits your mental health.

Am I spending time in a fulfilling way?

If you’ve always enjoyed your solo hobbies but are finding them a little lonely these days, consider joining a book club at the library or a walking group to help forge new connections.

The idea is to not be married to the hobbies you’ve always enjoyed. As life goes on and things change, so might your interests or needs. What once provided solace and relaxation might become stressful or feel like a chore. It may be time to add something new to the mix, to try something you’ve never done before or revive a

pastime from decades ago.

How retirees spend the day

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, average daily activities include:

• Volunteering – 2.47 hours

• Educational classes – 2.43 hours

• Playing games – 2.08 hours

• Gardening and lawn care – 2.07 hours

• Reading – 1.98 hours

• Socializing – 1.96 hours

• Religious services – 1.85 hours

Do

I need to make any adjustments to my finances or estate

planning documents?

When it comes to managing your finances, start by examining your budget and determine if your income still aligns with your spending needs. The last thing you’d want to do is miss out on experiences like travel to avoid overspending. (In the same breath, you don’t want to sacrifice financial stability.)

That’s where advisors can help make adjustments, confirm whether your current asset allocation is still appropriate, and simulate portfolio response to life changes*. Remember to lean on them for advice when your financial needs or wishes change. Express your expectations for the second half of your retirement and include those aspirations in your budget to make sure they happen.

If you’ve experienced any major life changes (such as marriages, divorces,

births or deaths) in the first half of retirement, ensure that any changes in your intentions are reflected in your estate planning documents and beneficiary designations.

The longer we live in retirement, the more challenging it is to course correct if need be. One way to ensure that you’re on track for a fulfilling retirement is to conduct a mid-retirement review. With the right adjustments, you can ensure your financial, health and overall well-being goals are all being met.

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.

*IMPORTANT: The projections or other information generated regarding the likelihood of various investment outcomes are hypothetical in nature, do not reflect actual investment results and are not guarantees of future results. Results may vary with each use and over time. Asset allocation does not guarantee a profit nor protect against loss.

Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.

Sources: usatoday.com; nerdwallet.com; moneytalksnews.com; money.com; investopedia.com

NICK MARTIN

East Africa and Qatar Travel Tips

By Tamela Maxim Contributor

Part 1

In the summer of 2023, I spent a month in Kenya and Tanzania with a long layover in Qatar. Preparing for a one-month trip to experience safari adventures and cultural visits requires lots of extras—extra sense of humor, extra research, extra time, and above all, extra patience.

Passports

Passports for overseas travel must expire no less than six months past the last day of travel and contain at least one blank page. The number of blank pages required depends on the country: one for Tanzania or Qatar, and two for Kenya. You don’t want to be the unlucky traveler who gets left behind because it was discovered just as you were ready to board your flight, cruise ship, or train that you didn’t have enough validity on your passport. It happens. So sad.

Vaccinations

I visited many websites for help, including CDC.gov (the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), WHO.int (the World Health Organization), and several companies offering passport and vaccine services. The CDC list of recommended vaccinations: typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A and B, polio, yellow fever, chikungunya, rabies (yes rabies), meningitis, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis), and MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) Whew!

In the past, we could get travel vaccinations at the Bluffton health clinic, but it no longer offers travel vaccinations. Thank goodness Georgians don’t mind us South Carolinians coming over to get our shots. It took so long to get an appointment at the Chatham County Health Department at 1395 Eisenhower Drive in Savannah that I almost didn’t finish the series of shots in time for my trip.

They told me that for-profit clinics often scare people into getting rabies shots.

I was asked if I had plans to pet dogs or wild animals while in Africa.

I said, “No, of course not.”

“Then don’t get the rabies shots.”

They said that many people who’ve been to private clinics were talked into paying for a painful series of unnecessary and pricey rabies shots. I ended up

getting every required and recommended preventative except rabies and chikungunya. They will evaluate your health history, travel needs, and country requirements to help you make the best decisions about what’s right for you.

Research

I check reviews for just about every website I visit. The reviews for a large, private travel service company with hundreds of locations in the United States were a dismal 2.9/10.

Buyer beware.

The yellow fever vaccine is live and can have dangerous side effects for folks over 60, especially anyone with serious health issues. If a health professional determines the risk is too great, you can get a Medical Letter of Exemption. However, the risk of yellow fever in certain countries exceeds the vaccine’s risk of serious side effects. I was 68 in 2023 when I had the vaccine, and it did cause a bad stomachache, but I think having protection was worth it. The typhoid shot made my arm hurt for almost a week. Hated that one, but East Africa is a hotspot for typhoid. I didn’t have any outof-pocket cost for the vaccines, but I had to cough up $200 for the anti-malaria pills prescribed by my doctor. I chose the more expensive, but with fewer side effects, Malarone (Atavaquone Proguanil) over Doxycycline.

Check prices at various pharmacies, and don’t forget about GoodRx. Consider prioritizing less side effects over cost when comparing options.

Visas

I needed three visas—for Qatar, Kenya, and Tanzania. There are official government websites for visa applications. Like the expensive private companies offering travel services, there are companies with slick websites intended to lure you into

paying for the convenience of having them fill in forms you can complete yourself. I’m not saying you should never take advantage of paying for convenience, or that it was all easy-peasy. The online visa applications were more than a pain and a bother, but I’m a DIY girl who is careful with her pocketbook.

Uploading an acceptable headshot should have been simple, but it took hours. I repeatedly got an error message that my photo’s resolution was too high. Thankfully, when I couldn’t figure out how to do it, a photographer friend lowered the resolution to the required size. I also received other aggravating error messages: your eyes are closed (they were open), your head is tilted, your facial expression is unacceptable, and your background isn’t plain enough.

The Kenyan government website acknowledges that more than a few people have reported frustration with uploading their headshots.

You’ll need to upload a copy of your itinerary and proof of lodging. Unless you plan an extended stay, you don’t need a traditional visa for Kenya. An e-visa, also called an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization), is sufficient for short durations.

For the Tanzania visa, I needed to choose between single entry or multi-entry, and I mistakenly chose multi-entry. The only difference it made was that I paid more for the visa. I also needed to know the name of our port of exit from the country, something I had to ask our tour director about before being able to finish the form.

For Qatar, if you want to leave the airport before returning to catch a flight, you’ll need a transit visa (called the Hayya e-visa). The requirements for US travelers: a minimum layover of 5 hours. You can apply online or at the Discover Qatar Transit desk at the airport, and it’s valid for up to 96 hours. If you plan to spend at least one night in a hotel, you can

apply for a visa waiver with the following requirements: a return ticket and proof of accommodation.

Packing

We were only allowed to pack a rolling duffle weighing no more than 33 lbs. Really? 33 lbs. for a month? Yes, really. We would travel in a jeep with other passengers from town to town. Luggage for six people needs to fit in the back of the vehicle. Our bags also had to fit in small airplanes for our two in-country flights. We would have laundry services along the way. FYI – even the 5-star resorts washed our clothes in hot water – all colors mixed together – do NOT bring anything white or light that you don’t mind turning greyish. Recommended colors for safari clothing: neutral, khaki, tan, olive green, gray, brown. Whites, brights, blues, and blacks are not recommended. Reasons given for non-recommended colors: White shows dust and dirt, and could make you more visible to wildlife. Blue and black attract tsetse flies. Brights make you more visible to wildlife. Camouflage clothing is reserved for military personnel, is considered disrespectful, and can even be illegal.

To be continued…

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

By Danie Connolly Contributor

Many years ago, and before my sainted mother moved on to heaven, I would trek up 500 miles to New England to visit her and the relatives.

I think everyone’s ultimate goal is to make your parents proud, and as my mother was a Marine, I had no choice.

I was always hoping she’d be satisfied with what I did, who my friends were (she wasn’t crazy about many of them) and my respect for others and authority.

I remember one visit home distinctly. Each visit I would stop at the Century House meat market to shop for food to bring to her for the refrigerator. Honestly, it was more for me to feel less guilty than that she’d be eating healthy.

I packed the cart with pre-packaged steak tips, pork chops, marinated chicken and some hamburger for her to make meatballs. After I arrived, and the hug fest finished, we unpacked the meats and crammed them into the freezer. Then, we sat down and played canasta while chatting (most of our conversations were spent around the card table)

As was our custom, I took her to bingo around 5 o’clock to ensure she’d get a good seat with enough room for her 100 bingo cards to spread out, and then I headed off to a friend’s house to spend the night catching up. She’d get a ride home from a fellow bingo mate - heaven forbid I ever had to stay and play. (A major regret I live with.)

The following day I’d take her out to lunch at the local Greek restaurant. It wasn’t much of a ritual, but it was our ritual.

Back at home I was grabbing a few ice cubes for the wicked hot coffee she’d made for me when I discovered that the freezer was empty. I was shocked!

“Mom, where’s all the food I brought you yesterday?” I asked, more puzzled than accusatory.

“Oh, I gave it to some people that needed it.”

My first emotion was anger. That meat had cost a pretty penny - let’s just say they weren’t giving it away.

MATTERING

I sat down at her little table and waited for the ridiculous explanation. She had lived in an elderly high-rise in the middle of Peabody Square for over 20 years and her vertical neighborhood was a nice place. People couldn’t possibly be hungry.

She started, “Mrs. So & So ran out of food a few days ago, and I’ve been making her spaghetti…Mr. So&so’s check is long spent but he’s gotta eat you know, so I gave him some of the chicken and Mrs. blah…blah… blah…”

The story went on and on. She’d been doing this for as long as I’ve been lugging all the food to the elevator and stacking it in the freezer.

“But mom, I bought that food for you.” I said.

I didn’t mention that it was my hardearned money.

“I know you did, but I’m OK.” She replied. That much I knew was true. She ate like a bird.

Usually it takes me a while to arrive at my epiphanies, but not this time. Her ability to share is what filled my mother up. It was the medicine she needed the most

without realizing it. I was giving her the opportunity to share what she had, and in return, she mattered.

My mother made their lives less stressful. Hunger is a huge concern to the elderly, as well as a large segment of the population. People don’t want to admit they’re starving and it’s worse if it involves their children.

I owned a few restaurants in my early days. There were so many regulations about how you had to have a ridiculous amount of food before you could donate. I understand about regulations but there are far too many hungry mouths that outweigh them. Sometimes people are too embarrassed to get in a food line. Whenever we did a fundraiser, I’d make sure that meals on wheels got a percent of the proceeds or that people could donate to a giant jar of money for them.

This is what upsets me the most. Nowadays we have three cable TVs or more, cell phones and people are still not admitting to hunger issues in surrounding towns. Great organizations have food boxes stocked with food that anyone can help

themselves to thanks to terrific caring people.

Recently, the Meals on Wheels program was cut. This upsets me more that I can write about. They not only feed the shut ins and elderly, but they check in on them and have simple conversations to let them know they matter. That’s what a container of warm beans and hotdogs does. Isn’t that what community is all about?

If you know how to read - teach someone who doesn’t. If you grow out of good clothes - donate them to a place that freely gives to clothe others. We can raise the compassion level by being an example. Empathy is in dire need in all of us - whether we write a check for an organization you trust, or spend time licking stamps for envelopes to educate the public about a charity that helps one another. Isn’t that what would make your parents most proud of you? Our family believed “What you do with what you have is who you are.” They knew you became a better person when you understood that everyone mattered.

Everyone Matters.

DANIE CONNOLLY

Can’t stop, won’t stop

By Ryan Chowansky Contributor

stops moving? It stagnates and starts to smell. It collects bugs. Moving water stays fresh, self filtering, ever moving.

“No person ever steps in the same river twice, for it is not the same river and they are not the same person.” -

Heraclitus

I read that this week flipping through Instagram. I love the super basic, aha moments. First it made me think deeply, then it made me think that this is a great quote and a quick reason to give people as to why I go to the same place three times a year with my young family. “We’re always changing, right?”

I am a sucker for Walt Disney World and will use any reason I can to go. Thanks Heraclitus!

The river changes because the current keeps moving, with or without you, as does life. The water that touched your feet yesterday is gone today.

You change, too. At least, you should. You should grow, evolve, face new challenges, new people and new battles. And, if you’re not changing like the current, you’re getting swept away by it.

You aren’t meant to stay the same. Life demands new versions of you repeatedly. If you don’t keep showing up as someone sharper, stronger and more grounded, you’ll find yourself stuck. Stuck in old patterns, old results and a life that quietly shrinks around you. I am not trying to sound like a fortune cookie, but you need to be like the water, ever changing, always moving, in the direction God and nature intended.

Because what happens when the water

There’s a quote I live by, “If you’re not growing, you’re dying.” Not sure who to attribute that to, but it’s one I do think about often. This world doesn’t wait for you to catch up. You must decide to evolve every single day, physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

Physically, your body is the foundation. A study published in the Journal of Gerontology found that greater leg muscle strength is directly linked to longer life expectancy.

Our DNA is basically that of cave people and we have our bodies living in this insanely comfortable, complacency driven, world of ease. Our bodies are craving movement. Workout! Sweat! Eat foods that

comes where everybody wins. (For more on this, read my last article in The Bluffton Sun.) Surround your eyes and your brain with healthy input. Step into nature. Breathe. Read a book about something that makes you better. Growth starts with where your attention goes.

Socially, get rid of the toxic people. You’re better off with a few healthy relationships than a room full of draining ones. Take one step toward connection with people who lift you up.

When I joined Winrate Consulting for my business, I surrounded myself with a large group of entrepreneurs who are building amazing things. For the first time in a long time, I said to myself “I found my people.” I have people who will keep people accountable and we raise each other up. Go, find your people.

else changed. Reflect on your values. Live by them. Serve someone who can never repay you. You’ll feel more alive than ever. If you stop growing, you start dying. Slowly and quietly, over time, and then one day you realize you’re still in the river, but you haven’t moved in years. The water has just been rushing by. You got older and never changed. So, keep evolving. Because the river’s not going to wait. You are here in this place and this time for a reason. You were built for more. You were Built With Integrity in your DNA.

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

RYAN CHOWANSKY

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