The
Hilton Head Sun
PRSRT STD ECRWSS US POSTAGE PAID BLUFFTON, SC PERMIT NO. 135 POSTAL CUSTOMER
May 7, 2025 • Volume 28, Issue 5 • Complimentary • HiltonHeadSun.com
Woodlake neighborhood fights county with $3.5 million lawsuit over airport disturbance By Kingston Rhoads Contributor Homeowners in the Woodlake neighborhood community on Hilton Head Island have sued Beaufort County for $3.5 million in damages for violations by county officials relating to expansion of the Hilton Head Island Airport which Beaufort County owns and operates. “Beaufort County officials are in clear violation of a written and recorded agreement and have blatantly misled our homeowners about the ramifications resulting from expansion of the airport,” states Bob Arundell, a member of the community’s board of directors. “The negative impact on our community by dangerously low-flying large aircraft with noise, vibrations and disturbances has become much more serious since the increased frequency of flights to our island following expansion of the runway and COVID in 2021,” said Arundell. “We have tried to come to settle with the County, but their leaders have simply not kept their promise to Woodlake homeowners who live in the 214 homes on our property,” said Arundell. “They simply blew us off thinking we didn’t have the will to fight back and would eventually go away.” Arundell points out when the initial easement was granted in 2014 the County agreed “noise shall not exceed the level of noise being generated by the operation of aircraft at the time of the granting of this easement. Moreover, the County further agreed owners of Woodlake reserved “any
right, claim, or equitable remedy to which it may be entitled if, as a result of the granting of the easement, there is a material decrease in the value of the property…due to an increase in noise levels” – noting that the easement was signed by the County and is recorded with the Register of Deeds. Woodlake property owner Peter Keber recently listed his unit for sale and after showing the unit the purchasers agreed to pay list price. “They seemed happy as we finalized the details,” said Keber, “but as we were walking out the front door a
Delta jetliner roared over the property at a low altitude. The couple thanked me for my time and withdrew their offer!” Despite several efforts to discuss a settlement with the County, Arundell says Couty officials have ceased cooperation toward a resolution. “We had two meetings at our location to discuss a settlement,” said Arundell. “But County Manager Eric Greenway would have nothing to do with negotiating. Amusingly when he tried to tell us why the County would not negotiate a commercial jet few overhead and drowned out his comments.” Woodlake is located due south of the runway, directly across from Highway 278. It is located at the opposite end of the runway from historic St. James Baptist Church which is in the process of being moved from its original location with significant funding from the County, Town, FAA and others. Woodlake has since hired sound and aeronautical engineers to build its case for its lawsuit. “We fully support the efforts of St. James Church, which is also affected like our neighborhood,” said Arundell, and news reports say they are receiving about $12 million to compensate them. It would seem that $3.5 million for the hundreds of residents here at Woodlake would seem fair.” As of press time, Beaufort County did not respond to our email inquiry for comment. Previously Beaufort County’s spokesperson Hannah Nichols had told another news organization that the county “cannot comment on pending litigation.”
REAL ID required for air travel, federal buildings 3A
Art League’s 2025 Biennale
32A
Bluffton’s 46th annual Mayfest returns May 10th
40A
11 Beaufort County fishing guides earn Angler’s 48A Choice Awards
2A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
INTRODUCING THE
Full Service Emergency Department: 2 Triage Rooms
B E AU F O R T M E M O R I A L
Acute Inpatient Care: 28-bed nursing unit
• 5 Fast Track Rooms • 13 Treatment Rooms • Trauma Room • Decontamination Room • 3 Ambulance Bays • Helipad
Imaging Services: X-ray • MRI • CT • Ultrasound
• Fluoroscopy • Nuclear Medicine
Surgery Center: 4 Surgical Suites
• 2 Endoscopy Procedure Rooms • 20 Pre-Operative/Recovery Rooms Laboratory F E AT U R I N G
Beaufort Memorial Specialists: Breast Surgery
CONSTRUCTION IS UNDERWAY OPENING 2027
• General Surgery • Gastroenterology • Gynecolgy • Orthopedics • Urology
1 0 I N N O VAT I O N D R I V E , B L U F F T O N
For more information, visit BeaufortMemorial.org/BlufftonHospital
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
3A
REAL ID required for air travel, federal buildings starting May 7th By Sasha Sweeney Editor As of May 7, 2025, South Carolina residents must have a REAL ID or another federally accepted form of identification to board domestic flights and access secure federal facilities. The REAL ID program, created by Congress in 2005 following the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations, sets federal security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards. Enforcement officially began Tuesday after multiple extensions by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. South Carolinians without a REAL ID-compliant license will no longer be allowed through Transportation Security Administration (TSA) airport checkpoints for domestic flights unless they present an alternative such as a valid U.S. passport or a Department of Defense ID. REAL ID is also required for entry into federal courthouses, military bases and other secure federal facilities. If you are unsure whether your SC driv-
0%
Off
TAG SALE
er’s license or ID is a REAL ID or not there is an easy way to check. South Carolina’s REAL ID cards feature a gold star in the upper right-hand corner. If a South Carolina driver’s license or ID card says “Not for Federal Identification” printed on the front of your card it is not a REAL ID. Residents can obtain a REAL ID at any South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) office. To obtain a REAL ID, residents must visit a South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) office and present: • Proof of identity, such as a valid U.S. passport or certified birth certificate • Proof of Social Security number, such as a Social Security card • Two proofs of current South Carolina residency, such as a utility bill, bank statement, pay stub, rental or lease agreement or mortgage document • Legal documents verifying any name changes, such as a marriage license or court order There is no additional cost to upgrade to
a REAL ID during a regular renewal. A replacement card issued outside the normal renewal period costs $25. Residents who already have a valid passport, military ID or another federally accepted form of identification are not required to obtain a REAL ID. However, many travelers opt for a REAL ID-compliant license for convenience. Travelers should note that expired passports are not valid substitutes. Children under age 18 are not required to present a REAL ID when flying domestically with an adult who has compliant identification, according to TSA guidelines.
Those who have not yet upgraded to a REAL ID can still do so. Applications and document checklists are available online at scdmvonline.com. State officials urge residents to complete the process soon to avoid disruptions to travel plans or access to federal facilities.
Your Lowcountry Real Estate Team CALL: 843-940-8007 VISIT: www.moulrealtors.com
UP TO $1,000 BACK ON SELECT STYLES
10-50% Off all in-stock rugs Largest Selection of Area Rugs Custom-Made Area Rugs & Stair Runners
Stylish floors for less, Now through June 2, 2025 SHOWROOM HOURS: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Sat 10am-2pm Closed Sun
VISIT OUR SHOWROOM TODAY: BRIDGE CENTER
1532 Fording Island Rd. Hilton Head, 29926 843.757.5800
23 23
YEARS OF SERVICE
Limited stock while supply lasts. Price good only on new orders. Sale ends 9/30/24.
4A
The Hilton Head Sun
EDITORIAL
Our Staff Current Circulation Via USPS is 26,276
General Manager
Melissa McCullough melissa@blufftonsun.com
Editor
Sasha Sweeney editor@blufftonsun.com
Page Designer
Cary Howard cary@blufftonsun.com
Graphic Designers Wendy Price Janelle Medeiros
Advertising
Mary Ann Kent, Sales & Marketing Manager, 843-575-4151 BJ Frazier, 843-422-2321 Claudia Chapman, 814-434-3665 Mary Pat Gifford, 912-414-7122
Contributors
Alex Barry Rep. Jeff Bradley Lisa Hostetler Brown Chad Cannon Ryan Chowansky Chip Collins Collins Doughtie Thomas Dowling Dr. Mathew Epps Dr. Ronald Finger Emma June Grosskopf Annelore Harrell Dr. Jean Harris Dr. Kenneth Horup Justin Jarrett Rabbi Ken Kanter
May 7, 2025
Rev. Therese Donlan Lee Dr. Matthew Mastrorocco Tamela Maxim Mayor Alan Perry Dan Prud’homme Kingston Rhodes Leslie Rohland Sophia Schade Cinda Seamon Rosemary Staples Matt Uppenbrink Sandro Virag Mark Winn Tracy Winslow
Contact us Melissa McCullough PO Box 2056, Bluffton, SC 29910 843-757-9507, 843-757-9506 (fax) Physical address: 181 Bluffton Rd., Ste F103-2 Bluffton, SC 29910 BlufftonSun.com All contents copyright protected 2024. All submissions must include name, address and phone number. The Editor reserves the right to edit or reject any material, including advertisements. The Hilton Head Sun does not verify for licenses, endorse nor warrant any advertised businesses or services. The opinions and views expressed in the editorials are not necessarily those of the Editor and Publisher. Member, Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce.
Circulation verification for each issue provided with USPS Form 3541 and/or USPS Form 8125. These forms are available for review during normal business hours at the offices of The Bluffton Sun, 181 Bluffton Rd.,Ste F103-2, Bluffton, SC 29910.
Know your flood zone and get covered now By Mayor Alan Perry Contributor Hurricane season begins again on June 1st and along with it a reminder about the importance of maintaining flood insurance separate from other types of insurance policies, particularALAN PERRY ly given our area’s susceptibility to stormwater surges. On Hilton Head Island, flooding may stem from different kinds of natural phenomena such as hurricanes, storm surges, high tides, and heavy rainfall. The only way to mitigate flood-related damage is to be prepared. As part of our Town’s flood program, we work to educate our residents on safeguarding their properties, regardless of where they live. Through our participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), we make certain that federal flood insurance remains accessible to all residents. This program mandates construction techniques to minimize flood damage in areas prone to periodic flooding, as outlined on Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs). Referred to as the 100-year floodplain, this designation encompasses more than 80% of the island. Please get to know your flood zone, potential risks, and associated hazards. So, let’s review: flood insurance is available to all residents and it is a separate policy. Unlike standard homeowner insurance policies, flood insurance provides critical coverage of damages resulting from flooding, flood-related erosion, and flood-caused mudslides. Make sure you review your policy thoroughly; separate coverage is available for building structures and contents. And you don’t need a mortgage to purchase flood insurance; renters can get coverage to safeguard personal belongings, regardless of whether
the property owner invests in structural coverage. In addition, any house within an NFIP-participating community is eligible for flood insurance coverage, even if it is located outside high-risk zones. Homes facing lower flood risks qualify for a Preferred Risk Policy. For further details on purchasing flood insurance, visit www. Floodsmart.gov or consult a local licensed insurance agent for optimal rates. Our community’s commitment to sound floodplain management practices has earned us a Class 5 rating from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Community Rating System (CRS). This rating not only reflects our effective flood management but also translates to a potential 25% discount on flood insurance premiums for Hilton Head Is-
land property owners. Since 1991, our Town has been actively involved in FEMA’s CRS Program, which evaluates communities based on their effectiveness in managing floodplains. This includes public information dissemination, mapping and regulatory standards, flood damage mitigation, and flood preparedness. Certified floodplain managers are on hand to provide information and address inquiries regarding local drainage issues, coastal erosion, flood map determinations, flood risk assessments, flood elevation certificates, FIRMs, and construction requirements in particular flood hazard areas. For more information, or to reach a floodplain administrator, please visit https://hiltonheadislandsc.gov/flood/insure.cfm.
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
5A
MARK F. MARK F.
INN INN
ATTORNEY AT LAW, PROFESSIONAL LLC
Diagram of a Typical Estate Plan For Husband & Wife Using Trusts To Avoid andPROFESSIONAL Keep Assets in Your Family ATTORNEYProblems AT LAW, LLC REVOCABLE
Your Peace of Mind • Masters in Estate Planning LL.M. • Five Star Wealth Manager, 2011 See, www.fivestarprofessional.com
See, www.Lawyers.com
Disclaimer: Platinum Client Champion Award is Based on Client Reviews, Results and Client Satisfaction May Vary.
bestofthebestattorneys.org
COMPLIMENTARY INITIAL CONSULTATION WE MAKE HOUSE CALLS Serving the Lowcountry Since 2003
109 Summerton Drive, Bluffton, SC 29910
• REVOCABLE • Diagram of TRUST a Typical Estate Plan TRUSTFor Husband & Wife Using Trusts To Avoid Problems and Keep Assets in Your Family
MARK F.
INN
FAMILY TRUST REVOCABLE • REVOCABLE • IS PROTECTED TRUST TRUST FROM MOST AVOID UNNECESSARY COSTS & FEES LAWSUITS, FAMILY TRUST SURVIVOR CAN REVOCABLE • IRREVOCABLE ATTORNEY AT LAW, PROFESSIONAL IS PROTECTED TRUST LLC HAVE TOTAL FAMILY TRUST FROM MOST CONTROL Plan For � LAWSUITS, Diagram of a Typical Estate AVOID UNNECESSARY COSTS & FEES SURVIVOR CAN Husband & Wife Using Trusts To Avoid HAVE TOTAL • FAMILY TRUST ProblemsIRREVOCABLE REVOCABLE Your Family and Keep Assets in CONTROL WHEN CHILDREN IS PROTECTED TRUST FAMILY TRUST FROM MOST INHERIT, ASSETS STA Y IN YOUR FAMILY REVOCABLE • REVOCABLE • � TRUST LAWSUITS, TRUST NO LOSS TO WHEN CHILDREN SURVIVOR IN-LAWS IN CAN INHERIT, HAVE TOTAL DIVORCE NO LOSS TO CONTROL IN-LAWS IN ASSETS STA Y IN YOUR FAMILY DIVORCE WHEN CHILDREN AVOID UNNECESSARY COSTS & FEES INHERIT, INITIAL CONSULTATION NOCOMPLIMENTARY LOSS TO FAMILY TRUST REVOCABLE • IRREVOCABLE IN-LAWS IN IS PROTECTED TRUST FAMILY TRUST DIVORCE FROM MOST � LAWSUITS, 400SURVIVOR Main Street,CAN Suite 100 A-5, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 ■ www.MWINNESQ.com COMPLIMENTARY INITIAL CONSULTATION HAVE TOTAL ■ PROUD SUPPORTER of Sun City Softball ■ Sun City Veterans 400 MainCONTROL Street, Suite 100 A-5, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 • www.MWINNESQ.com • PROUD SUPPORTER of Sun City Softball Sun City Veterans ASSETS STA Y IN• YOUR FAMILY
Isn't it About Time to Get a Good Estate Plan?
CALL FOR A MEETING CALL FOR227-0112 A MEETING (843) Isn't it About(843) Time to227-0112 Get a Good Estate Plan? We Make House Calls CALL FOR A MEETING See, Lawyers.com
(843) 227-0112
• WHEN Sun CityCHILDREN Theatre • Hospice Care of The Lowcountry • Breast Cancer Awareness INHERIT,
We Make House Calls
6A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
Alligator attack underscores need for safety awareness By Sasha Sweeney Editor
juries, including wounds to his leg and arm and abrasions to his head. He was airlifted to a local hospital for treatment. The alligator was later captured and euthanized by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) due to its aggressive behavior.
A morning of yard work turned into a harrowing ordeal for Marian and Joseph Roeser when an 8.5-foot alligator attacked Joseph in their backyard. Marian’s quick thinking and bravery are credited with saving her husband’s life. The incident occurred around 10 a.m. April 9th near the Roesers’ home in the Sun City Hilton Head community. Joseph, 84, was spreading mulch with his back to a nearby pond when the alligator lunged and bit his leg. Hearing his yells, Marian grabbed a tomato stake and struck the alligator repeatedly. “I just grabbed the closest thing I could find — a tomato stake — and started attacking the alligator’s eyes and head,” Marian said, according to a Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office report. Authorities were first notified when Marian called 911, urgently reporting, “My husband has just been attacked by an alligator.” She added, “The alligator had him by the arm. I poked him in the eye [with the tomato stake] and he finally let go.” Thanks to his wife’s rapid response, Joseph escaped with non-life-threatening in-
Alligator activity increases in spring
Wildlife officials warn that alligator activity rises during the spring months, particularly in April as courtship begins and into May and June during peak mating season. As residential development expands into natural habitats, human-alligator encounters are becoming more common. Alligators exposed to people — especially those fed or harassed — can lose their instinct to avoid humans, increasing the risk of dangerous interactions. The SCDNR advises residents to exercise caution near bodies of water. Safety tips include maintaining a safe distance from pond and lagoon edges, never feeding alligators, keeping pets on a leash and away from water, remaining vigilant during dawn and dusk, and, if attacked,
fighting back by targeting an alligator’s eyes and snout.
Proposed legislation focuses on public safety
In response to growing concerns, South Carolina lawmakers are considering new legislation to strengthen alligator management practices. On April 2nd, 2025, Sen. Greg Hembree, R-Horry, introduced a bill that would amend the state’s wildlife code by adding Sections 50-15-550 and 50-15-555. The measure aims to streamline the reporting and removal of nuisance alligators in populated areas. Under the proposal, SCDNR would be required to provide a standardized form for residents to report nuisance alligators, investigate all complaints using set criteria, and authorize licensed nuisance alligator hunters to remove aggressive animals when necessary. The bill defines a nuisance alligator as one posing a direct threat to human life or property, exhibiting behaviors such as aggression, refusal to retreat, or wandering far from water bodies. Relocation would be prioritized, but hu-
mane euthanasia would be permitted when necessary. All removals would require documentation and SCDNR oversight. The legislation also proposes expanding authority for hunting and removal year-round, including on private land, when public safety is at risk. “This legislation is about improving public response and ensuring safety without harming the species as a whole,” an SCDNR official said. The act would take effect upon approval by the governor. Read the full bill at https://www.scstatehouse.gov/ sess126_2025-2026/bills/532.htm.
Community awareness urged
The Roesers’ experience serves as a stark reminder of the importance of alligator safety in coastal South Carolina communities. Though attacks remain rare, of the six fatal alligator incidents reported in South Carolina over the past decade, three occurred in Beaufort County. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and to report aggressive alligator behavior to the SCDNR. For more information on alligator safety and to report sightings, visit https://www.dnr.sc.gov.
Call Andy Today For A FREE Market Analysis of Your Home In Today’s Market! Professional Real Estate Services Andy Twisdale
Cell: 843.384.7771 • andytwisdale@gmail.com 32 Years as a Full Time REALTOR ••50 Year Resident of 1998 Hilton Head Island 30 Realtor of the Year and 2013
Hee aa d I s l aa nndd SSaal lees s RRe es u b ra ur ac rhy 22002254 & & Y YTD HHi il lt toonn H s ul tlst sf of ro rF eM D
Hilton Head Island Totals
Hilton Head Island Totals
Detached Homes Only
Condos / Villas Only
March
Year to Date
March
Year to Date
Key Metrics
2024
2025
Percent Change
2024
2025
Percent Change
Key Metrics
2024
2025
Percent Change
2024
2025
New Listing
93
131
+40.9%
269
335
+ 24.5%
New Listing
123
140
+13.8%
336
389
+15.8%
102
78
-23.5%
229
197
- 14.0% + 7.8%
Percent Change
78
84
+7.7%
185
217
+ 17.3%
Closed Sales
$962,500
$1,250,000
+29.9%
$1,014,500
$1,250,000
+23.2%
Median Sales Price*
$525,000
$577,500
+10.0%
$510,000
$550.000
Percent of List Price Received*
97.1%
96.6%
-0.6%
96.6%
96.8%
+0.2%
Percent of List Price Received*
97.1%
96.1%
-1.0%
96.6%
96.3%
- 0.3%
Days on Market Until Sale
46
41
-11.8%
53
48
-9.6%
Days on Market Until Sale
75
78
+3.8%
63
81
+ 28.9%
Inventory of Homes for Sale
191
253
+32.5%
—
—
—
Inventory of Homes for Sale
303
391
+29.0%
—
—
—
Closed Sales Median Sales Price*
*Does not account for sale concessions and for down payment assistance. | Percent changes are calculated using rounded figures and can sometimes look extreme due to small sample size.
HH Sun -April 2024.indd 1
*Does not account for sale concessions and for down payment assistance. | Percent changes are calculated using rounded figures and can sometimes look extreme due to small sample size.
3/18/2024 8:36:46 AM
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
7A
TheSeabrook.com | 843.842.3747 Hilton Head’s
Best I ndependent LIvIng!
I lOVE YOU, BUT I CAN’T LIVE with YOU EITHER. At The Seabrook, Moms thrive independently — and you stay close. Just not that close.
Happy Mother’sDay
8A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
Tax reform bill sets South Carolina on bold new path By SC Representative Jeff Bradley Contributor Our SC House of Representatives passed a landmark income tax reform bill last month that would set our state on a bold new economic path. This proposed JEFF BRADLEY legislation, which must now get final Senate approval, will simplify our state tax code and lower the burden on hardworking South Carolinians, retirees, and investors. Starting in 2026, it replaces our current multi-bracket income tax system with a single flat rate of 3.99%. The legislation plans to reduce that rate even further, eventually reaching 2.49% as economic conditions are met, which would be the lowest rate in the USA. Already, it makes South Carolina more competitive than North Carolina (4.25%) and Georgia (5.39%). This historic reform represents more than just a policy change. It reflects our House Republican Caucus’s commitment to keeping South Carolina competitive, attractive, and financially sound for years to come. I believe this will be especially welcome news for the many residents of Southern Beaufort County who live on retirement income, investments, or managed financial assets. Also included in its key exemptions is retaining the $9,000 deduction for taxpayers who file as head of a household and a $12,000 deduction for those who file as married filing jointly or as a surviving spouse. A flat tax system brings clarity and predictability. Whether you are budgeting retirement withdrawals or managing capital gains, knowing that your income will be taxed at one low rate makes planning easier and more reliable. Unlike systems where success is penalized with higher rates, a flat tax system respects personal re-
sponsibility and rewards thoughtful financial planning.
Spurs Economic Growth
There are also positive implications for our statewide economy. It has been proven elsewhere that lowering a state’s income tax rate is an effective strategy for attracting business investment, new residents, and job creators. South Carolina is already admired for its climate, culture, and quality of life. With this proposed tax reform, we send a clear message to those wanting to invest here that we are likewise serious about economic growth and fiscal responsibility. Our Lowcountry region, in particular, stands to benefit from a more competitive statewide tax structure. I’m confident this tax structure will encourage entrepreneurs and companies to expand here. As we have already witnessed, recently arriving residents from high-tax states in the Northeast, Midwest, and California are bringing more revenue into our communities. This proposed tax reform will only strengthen that trend, but I’m confident it will help sustain property values and support local businesses.
Why the Reform Matters
This is a long-term investment in the kind of South Carolina our current state legislative leadership wants to leave to the next generation — a state where opportunity is rewarded, freedom is respected, and growth is fueled by sound policy, not bureaucracy. I believe this reform will improve the quality of life for current residents while opening the door to new opportunities for our children and grandchildren. Let’s continue working together to build a future where prosperity is shared, values are honored, and South Carolina leads by example. Jeff Bradley is the representative for District 123 in the State House of Representatives.
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
9A
The Century 21 A Low Country Realty HOME SELLING ADVANTAGES for you! Century 21 Office Location
34 years. Our Our Century 21 office has been serving the Hilton Head Area for 35 location at the Hilton Head Beach & Tennis Resort has 1000’s of visitors each week, many of whom see our listings and ask us about buying on Hilton Head Island.
38 Years Serving the Lowcountry.
Century 21 Real Estate Referral Network
Our national & world wide brokerage franchise provides our local office with an ongoing Robust Referral of potential home buyers who want to live here or invest in the Hilton Head Island area.
BUYING OR SELLING? WE CAN HELP! CALL DEE TODAY! 843-384-1525
MA
RS
IE HV
WS
31 HEARTHWOOD DRIVE MLS #452054 $2,375,000
Sweeping marsh views from the balconies out to the sound in the heart of Sea Pines. This beautiful home is light & bright throughout & has a beautiful heated pool and spa, large screen porch w/ pretty wood octagonal ceiling. Chefs’ kitchen w /dbl ovens, propane cook top, 2 dishwashers, wine cooler beautiful counters, wood floors. With 5 bedrooms and 5.5 baths, this home can accommodate all of your family & guests. Currently being used as a rental property so buy now and benefit from the income until you can occupy full time! Fresh paint & beautifully furnished not far from Harbour Town or a bike ride to the beach. Life is simply better here!
OC
99 RAINES WAY MLS #450982 $515,000
N EA
VIE
WS OC
N EA
VIE
WS OC
N EA
VIE
WS OC
N EA
VIE
WS OC
N EA
VIE
WS OC
N EA
VIE
WS
40 FOLLY FIELD ROAD #233 40 FOLLY FIELD ROAD #234 40 FOLLY FIELD ROAD #F22 40 FOLLY FIELD ROAD #B320 40 FOLLY FIELD ROAD #C353 40 FOLLY FIELD ROAD #A309 40 FOLLY FIELD ROAD #B202 MLS #448472 MLS #451914 MLS #446878 MLS #446698 MLS #448526 MLS #450302 MLS #449517 $475,000 $465,000 $349,000 $318,000 $310,000 $295,000 $263,900
3 bed 2.5 bath updated home This villa is freshly painted & all Lovely views & ocean breezes with a spacious layout. Open new appliances, dishes, pots from this 2nd floor villa. This eat-in kitchen with an added pans, lighting, some bedding, is a great location, convenient butlers’ pantry provides extra new coastal style living room to the elevator, laundry and storage along with walk-in pantry. furnishings, outdoor tables, & steps to the beach. The villa is All bedrooms and laundry room so much more, not to mention light & bright, has pretty LVP conveniently located together on already w/ $4390 on the books and tile floors, smooth ceilings the second floor with an open for 2025! King bed in the primary throughout, stylish decor & loft/flex space. and queen bed in the guest. furnishingsl.
Top floor unit with a great view Incredible rental opportunity Stunning renovation on this Beautiful tile throughout, The kitchen has newer white of the resort. Those amenities or pvt vacation villa for your Fabulous Ocean View 3rd floor contemporary and modern, the cabinets, full stove, white include large oceanfront pool own enjoyment, this villa has unit. Amazing bathroom with bath has floor to ceiling tile, subway tile backsplash, very and children’s pool along with amazing updated features. tiled walk in shower, wonderful glass tile accents and a fabulous clever drawer space under the tiki bar, 8 tennis courts 6 Kitchen is spectacular w/ fixtures and vanity. The master walk in shower. Unit has an the sink, tile floors in all areas pickle ball, fitness room, catch & generous, updated design w/ bedroom has been opened up open floor plan, modern kitchen & laminate in BR. Bath has a release lagoon. extra cabinet storage, pantry, allowing for a king bed, beautiful design w/granite tile counters & newer vanity & pretty glass tile built ins, cool banquette, granite designer furniture. Terrific rental glass tile accent walls. backsplash. Bedroom has it’s counters & glass tile backsplash. history. own TV and custom closet.
CALL DEE TO SELL YOUR HOME OR VILLA TODAY!
UNDER CONTRACT MARGARITAVILLE
HHBT OCEAN VILLAS
FOR SALE
HHBT TENNIS VILLAS
1107 TROPICS AVENUE 40 FOLLY FIELD ROAD #A147 40 FOLLY FIELD ROAD #C7 1 BR – 1 BA $265,000 2 BR – 2 BA $365,000 3 BR – 3 BA $579,695
MYRTLE BANK RAILS 21 YELLOW RAIL LANE 3 BR – 3 BA $779,000
HHBT/ADMIRALS ROW
40 FOLLY FIELD ROAD #119 2 BR – 2 BA $474,000
HHBT OCEAN VILLAS
40 FOLLY FIELD ROAD #B122 1 BR – 1 BA $279,000
HHBT/TENNIS VILLAS
40 FOLLY FIELD ROAD #F13 2 BR – 2 BA $85,000 1/5 SHARE
HHBT/OCEAN VILLAS
40 FOLLY FIELD ROAD #A227 1 BR – 1 BA
HHBT/TENNIS VILLAS 40 FOLLY FIELD ROAD #C14 2 BR – 2 BA
ESTUARY
SOLD
27 MANGROVE STREET 3 BR- 2BA
HHBT/ADMIRALS ROW
40 FOLLY FIELD ROAD #206 1 BR – 1 BA
HHBT/OCEAN VILLAS
40 FOLLY FIELD ROAD #A129 1 BR – 1 BA
HHBT/OCEAN VILLAS
40 FOLLY FIELD ROAD #A129 1 BR – 1 BA
HHBT/ADMIRALS ROW
40 FOLLY FIELD ROAD #237 2 BR – 2 BA
HHBT/TENNIS VILLAS
40 FOLLY FIELD ROAD #D2 2 BR – 2 BA
REAL RESULTS FROM SEA PINES TO SUN CITY Dee Gramoy
Broker in Charge, Realtor
Century 21 A Low Country Realty • 40 Folly Field, HHI, 29928 (843) 384-1525 or email dkgramoy@aol.com www.c21lowcountry.com
A Tradition Of Trust
10A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
Business Briefs Century 21’s Dee Gramoy honored with national awards Dee Gramoy, broker in charge and owner of Century 21 A Low Country Realty on Hilton Head Island, has earned the 2024 CENTURION® Producer Award and the CENTURION® Honor Society Producer designation. The CENTURION® Award recognizes exceptional annual sales production, while the Honor Society designation honors agents reaching that milestone over multiple years. For more information, visit c21lowcountry.com or call 843-384-1525.
"I have experienced positive physical and emotional changes; I have more confidence and self-esteem in my daily life." -Debbie, actual patient
Minto Communities earns 13 Eliant HomeBuyers’ choice awards
Stop waiting. Start smiling! We see it every day. Healthy, beautiful smiles improve our patients' selfesteem and overall health. Make 2025 the year you attain the smile you always wanted. Schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Callejo, Dr. Haire, or Dr. Mastrorocco so we can achieve your smile goals!
Minto Communities USA received 13 awards from the 2025 Eliant HomeBuyers’ Choice Awards, recognizing top homebuilders for customer satisfaction. Minto, based in Florida, builds master-planned communities including Latitude Margaritaville Hilton Head in Hardeeville. For more, visit mintousa. com.
Dill Dinkers hosts grand opening Dill Dinkers, Hilton Head’s new pickleball facility, celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday, May 2nd. The event will be held at 93 Mathews Drive and includes facility tours and community networking. RSVP by calling 843-507-DINK (3465).
Spirit Airlines launching new Savannah/Hilton Head routes
ROCDENTALGROUP.COM Main Street, Hilton Head Plaza at Belfair, Bluffton 843.948.1406
Spirit Airlines announced new service from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport beginning August 2025. Flights include daily service to Newark, and later, flights to Fort Lauderdale, Nashville, and Detroit. Booking information is available at spirit.com.
Emergency Care | Annual Membership Plans Our Insurance Experts File Your Claims ADVAN C I N G WE LLNE S S S I NC E 2 0 0 0
Bullies BBQ set to reopen Bullies BBQ, a Lowcountry staple, reopened May 1st at its original location at 3 Regency Parkway. The restaurant,
known for its slow-smoked meats and distinctive sauces, had closed temporarily following a change in ownership. Founder Bob Sutton is returning to lead the establishment, partnering with local businessman Jeff Haines.
Cyber Summit coming to Beaufort in May The South Coast Cyber Center will host its 4th Annual Cyber Summit May 13th–14th at Tabby Place in downtown Beaufort. Topics include cybersecurity, AI and emerging technologies. Registration details are available at southcoastcybersummit.com.
LUX Medical Spa now offering non-surgical hair restoration LUX ~ A Medical Spa in Bluffton and Hilton Head Island has partnered with GetHairMD™ to offer FDA-cleared non-surgical hair restoration treatments. Services include AI-powered diagnostics, personalized DNA-based treatment plans, and laser therapy. Learn more at luxhhi.com.
Travel + Leisure features Captain Pete Barbano Captain Pete Barbano of Outside Brands was featured in Travel + Leisure magazine’s latest feature on the Lowcountry. Barbano leads historical and ecological tours to Daufuskie Island. To book a tour, visit outsidepb.com.
Beaufort Memorial expands workforce and facilities Beaufort Memorial Hospital will host the groundbreaking for its new Bluffton Community Hospital on May 7th. In addition, the hospital celebrated its ninth People Achieving Their Highest (PATH) workforce development cohort and will honor 13 Beaufort County School District seniors completing healthcare training programs May 13th.
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
11A
NEUROPATHY SEMINAR
LUNCH & LEARN
LUNCH PROVIDED BY DISCOVER SPECIFIC CHIROPRACTIC & NEUROPATHY
Learn the latest about reversing NEUROPATHY without the use of drugs and surgery
HAVE YOU WONDERED... What is neuropathy? Why am I experiencing burning, tingling, and pain in my feet? Is my balance problem due to neuropathy? Should I sign up for a consultation? Could I qualify for your relief program?
ATTEND OUR SEMINAR AND GET ANSWERS FOR YOUR QUESTIONS
When?
Where?
Dr. Ken Horup
Discover Specific Chiropractic 4101 Main Street, Suite A Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Doctor of Chiropractic Board Certified in Neuropathy
Wednesday, May 14th 12:00PM Lunch will be catered by SERG Group
Here’s What Our Patients Have to Say... “I was only sleeping 2-3 hours a night. I knew I had to do something about it. I could not be more pleased with the results. The stinging in gone and I can sleep 6 hours! My only regret was not meeting Dr. Ken 12 years earlier. ” - Jim C.
CALL NOW TO RESERVE YOUR SEAT!
SEATING IS LIMITED. YOU MUST CALL AND CONFIRM TO ATTEND
843-895-2912
12A
The Hilton Head Sun
SEE THE ISLAND
May 7, 2025
Will the right equipment help your golf score?
IN A WHOLE NEW WAY
By Dr. Jean Harris Contributor
#beauty
#memories
#nature
The Island’s Best Boating Experience • Brand new luxury Aloha pontoon boat rentals • 150 horsepower Yamaha engine • Easy to operate with Garmin GPS navigation • Comfortable seating for up to 12 people • 9 ft Sunbrella for fun in the shade
ShelterCoveMarinaBoatRentals.com 866-922-6567 | 1 Shelter Cove Lane
PD-HHI:Bluffton-Sun-APR25.indd 1
4/29/25 1:03 PM
It is not unusual for golfers to come to my lesson tee with clubs that don’t fit them. Buying golf clubs from a friend, hand-me-downs or purchasing clubs online will get you clubs, but may not help your golf score. So often they tell me “I don’t want to buy golf equipment until I get better.” The problem is that they will not improve significantly if they are playing with clubs that don’t fit their height, hand size, strength and flexibility. I highly recommend to them to get a fitting. The local golf shops and fitters at golf courses will be glad to give you a fitting. They can put you on Trackman and discuss your results. Trackman is radar-based technology that captures precise data on ball flight, club movement, and impact points which Trackman provides club fitters to analyze performance, optimize equipment, and deliver a precision-driven fitting experience. The golf shops will take good care of you. This is the advantage of buying local and not over the internet (many of the golf clubs sold online may be counterfeit.) They can tell you what clubs and balls are best for your game. Trackman can measure all the following during a golf swing fitting: ball speed, club speed, smash factor, spin rate, dynamic loft, launch angle, club path and face angle If science isn’t your thing, then Trackman might not be for you.
Things to consider when purchasing golf clubs: Grip size – box sets may have clubs that don’t fit your hands Shaft Flex – if the shaft is too flexible, it will cause the ball to fly too high and left (if right-handed). If too stiff, the ball will fly low and to the right. Set make-up – For most amateurs I recommend a set that has a driver, 3 or 5 wood, 2 to 3 hybrids, 7 iron to 9 iron, and 2 to 3 wedges, and a putter Driver – Many new drivers are adjustable with different lofts. Beginners should look for a driver with at least 12 to 14 degrees loft. Putter – the putter is the most important club in your bag. Many of the box sets have putters with very small grips. I recommend a putter with a larger grip (Super Stroke is good). If you have the money, test several putters since there are so many types to pick from. Finally, your goal is to know how far you hit each of the clubs in your golf bag. It will take time and a lot of practice. Getting on a launch monitor can measure your distances once you are making solid, consistent swings. The right golf clubs can help your game tremendously. However, no clubs can fix a bad swing that lacks the proper fundamentals. That’s where you need proper instruction. Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional and teaches at local golf courses. jean.golfdoctor.harris@ gmail.com; golfdoctorjean.com
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
13A
“I want the best care in the game”
You want Novant Don’t let joint pain keep you from the life you want to live. Our award-winning orthopedic team combines renowned expertise with personalized care to help you move better, feel better, and get back to doing what you love. To learn more, go to NovantHealth.org/Orthopedics.
Best surgeons. Amazing nurses. Remarkable care. © Novant Health, Inc. 2025
4/25 • SCR-1000024b
14A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
Ask the expert: what is a universal HIPAA Form and when might I need one? By Lisa Hostetler Brown Contributor Expert Advice: As an elder law attorney, I often explain to clients how estate planning involves much more than just creating a will or trust. It’s also about making sure your loved ones can help you LISA HOSTETLER BROWN when you need it most—especially in a medical emergency. One of the most overlooked but essential documents in that regard is a universal HIPAA authorization form. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is a federal law that protects your private health information from being disclosed without your consent. While this privacy protection is
incredibly important, it can also create complications when family members or trusted individuals need to access your medical information to help you make informed decisions—or to advocate on your behalf. A universal HIPAA authorization form is a legal document that allows you to name specific individuals who are permitted to access your medical records and speak with your healthcare providers. Unlike a medical power of attorney, which gives someone the authority to make medical decisions for you, a HIPAA form simply allows access to information. It doesn’t authorize decision-making. Here are a few scenarios where having a universal HIPAA form can make a big difference: • Medical Emergencies: If you’re unconscious or otherwise unable to communicate, your spouse, adult children, or close friend may not be able to get updates about your condition unless they are named in a HIPAA release.
A BRAND NEW
A i r p or t e c n e i r e p Ex
ONLY ONE STEP AWAY
• Chronic Illness Management: If you’re dealing with a long-term condition, it’s often helpful for family members to coordinate with your doctors, especially when multiple specialists are involved. • Assisting Aging Parents: If you’re helping manage a parent’s care, having a HIPAA release ensures you can speak directly with their doctors and insurance providers. • College-Age Children: Parents are often surprised to learn that once a child turns 18, medical privacy laws apply. If a college student is hospitalized, par-
ents may not receive any information unless a HIPAA form is in place. A universal HIPAA form is particularly helpful because it can be used across different providers and institutions. Rather than filling out separate releases for every hospital or doctor’s office, this one form can serve as a consistent and accessible authorization. From an elder law perspective, this form is a critical part of your overall plan, especially when paired with powers of attorney and advance directives. In short, a universal HIPAA form is a simple but powerful step you can take to ensure your care is coordinated and your voice is heard—even when you can’t speak for yourself. For educational purposes only. This is not legal advice. Lisa Hostetler Brown is a Certified Elder Law Attorney certified by the National Elder Law Foundation. 10 Pinckney Colony Rd, Ste 400, Bluffton, SC 29909 | 843-757-5294 | HiltonHeadElderLaw.com
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
Visit one of our two boutique Garden Centers and experience Spring in full bloom!
RETAIL GARDEN CENTERS • GIFT SHOPS • LANDSCAPING • DESIGN MAINTENANCE • HARDSCAPING • DECKS • PERGOLAS • PATIOS HILTON HEAD: 35 Dillon Rd. | 843.715.2908
BLUFFTON: 172 Bluffton Rd. (Rt. 46) | 843.837.3111
15A
16A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
©2025 American Wood Reface. All rights reserved.
The role of antioxidants in nerve health By Dr. Kenneth Horup Contributor
GIVE US ONE WEEK, we’ll give you a
Gorgeous New Kitchen! Let A mericAn Wood r efAce create your new dream kitchen in less than a week with our premium 1/ 1 /4'' S olid Wood c Abinet r efAcing . Saves time and hassle, and saves up to half the cost of custom cabinet replacement. Our experienced carpenters painstakingly reface the cabinet boxes with premium furniture-grade 1⁄4” solid hardwood
We install brand new Amish-crafted solid wood doors and drawer fronts – cabinets look and perform JUST LIKE NEW AGAIN!
A superior refacing job starts with quality materials. Gorgeous solid hardwoods and custommade components enhance your kitchen’s beauty and value.
†
FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION!
3 YEARS IN A ROW VOTED HILTON HEAD’S FAVORITE CABINET COMPANY MORE THAN 300 5-STAR REVIEWS ONLINE!
Modify and customize cabinets: change function, extend, reduce or add new cabinets. Roll-outs† and drawer banks for accessibility and convenience.
Components are built using time-honored OURS craftsman methods, such as mortise-andTHEIRS tenon and dovetail joinery.
COM PARE OUR QUALITY
Super Service Award
Huge selection of styles, colors, and wood finishes in eight different domestic woods. Beautiful new stone countertops.
©2025 AWR
AND
Our 1/4" solid wood facing is far superior to thin laminates and veneers used by other refacers.
ROLLOUTS AVAILABLE WITH OR WITHOUT REFACING
FREE HARDWARE with full kitchen reface.
Call for details. Ad CODE HHS2505. Offer expires 6/3/25.
L OW C O U N T RY
LOWCOUNTRY SHOWROOM
Est.1979
16 YEAR SERVING THE LOWCOUNTRY TH
843.815.6700 wood reface .com
OPEN MON - FRI 9AM-4 PM SATURDAY - by Appointment
246-E Mead Rd, Hardeeville, SC LIFETIME WARRANTY FOUNDED BY A VIETNAM VETERAN
Nerves are delicate. They need constant protection to stay healthy, and one of the ways the body defends them is through antioxidants. Without enough support, small amounts of daily stress can DR. KEN HORUP quietly build into bigger problems that affect how well your nerves func-tion. Over time, that strain can show up as tingling, numbness, or burning—especially in the feet and hands where the circulation tends to be weaker. Inside your body, oxidative stress happens every day. It’s a natural process where unstable molecules, called free rad-icals, try to steal electrons from healthy cells. Left unchecked, they can damage nerve tis-sue and interfere with how signals move through the body. This damage doesn’t happen all at once. It builds slowly, often without any obvious signs in the beginning. By the time symptoms like numbness or instability appear, the nerves have already been under pressure for a while. The link between oxidative stress and nerve damage is especially important. Your periph-eral nerves use a lot of energy to function, which makes them more likely to be harmed by oxidative stress. The myelin sheath—a protective layer around nerves that helps them send signals quickly—is made up of fatty acids that can easily be damaged by free radicals (unstable molecules that cause damage in the body). When this layer is damaged, signals slow down, which can lead to symptoms like numbness, tingling, or pain. Antioxidants help protect your nerves by neutralizing those free radicals before they do too much damage. They do this by giving electrons to the free radicals, which stops them from stealing electrons from your healthy cells. This protects the nerves, reduces inflam-mation, and helps them function properly. Nutrients like vitamins C and E and certain plant compounds play a key role in this. They not only support general health, but also help your nerves stay sensitive and responsive. Your body makes some antioxidants on
its own, such as glutathione (often called “the mas-ter antioxidant”), but levels can drop as you age. That is why it becomes more important to get antioxidants from food or supplements. Each type has its own benefits—vitamin E pro-tects nerve cell membranes, vitamin C helps recharge other antioxidants, and alpha-lipoic acid may even help repair nerve damage while preventing more of it. If protecting your nerves sounds complicated, it doesn’t have to be. Adding more colorful fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds to your meals is a powerful way to build up your antiox-idant defenses. Berries, dark leafy greens, bright orange vegetables, and nuts like walnuts and pecans are particularly rich sources. These foods contain thousands of beneficial compounds that work together to help the body handle everyday stress more efficiently. It’s a simple shift that supports the health of the entire nervous system without extreme changes. The timing of antioxidant intake matters, too. Consistency is key—your body needs these protective compounds available regularly throughout the day. A breakfast with berries, lunch with colorful vegetables, and dinner with leafy greens ensures your system has a steady supply of these nerve-protecting nutrients. For those with early signs of neuropa-thy, research suggests that combining multiple antioxidant sources provides better protec-tion than relying on just one or two foods or supplements. When it comes to neuropathy, the small things you do everyday matter. Protecting your nerves is about giving your body the right tools now so you can keep feeling connected, steady, and strong. The cumulative effect of consistent antioxidant intake can help slow the progression of nerve damage and, in some cases, support the body’s natural healing processes. If you’ve been living with early signs of neuropathy—or even if you just want to stay ahead of it—paying attention to your nutrition is one of the most direct ways you can help. It’s not flashy and complicated, but over time, it can make a real difference in how well your body supports the nerves you rely on every day. Dr. Kenneth Horup, DC is a Chiropractic Physician at Discover Specific Chiropractic, Board Certi-fied in Neuropathy.
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
Don't let your
Don't let your
Don’t Let Your
TURKEY NECK
Get You Down! Don't let Get You yourExcision of Direct Skin onDown! Neck
Get You Down! Direct Excision of SkinLong-lasting on Neckresults Minimal invasion• Minimal downtime•
Direct Excision of Skin on Neck Minimal invasion• Minimal downtime• Long-lasting results My turl<ey nee/< was getting me And atdowntime 69, I (molly did about it. The downtime Minimal invasion ● down! Minimal ● something Long-lasting results You Down! was minimal, results were impressive. feeldid much younger. To it.oilThe the men out there: My turl<eythe nee/< was getting me down! AndI fool< at 69,and I Get (molly something about downtime I can'twas recommend this procedure highly enough! minimal, the results were impressive. I fool< and feel much younger. To oil the men out there: I can't recommend this procedure highly enough! -Charles M
Direct Excision of Skin on Neck -Charles M
Call 912.244.7939 to schedule an Long-lasting appointment today. Minimal invasion• Minimal downtime• results Call 912.244.7939 to schedule an appointment today. Mention this publication to get 10% off
todid getsomething 10% off about it. The downtime My turl<ey nee/< was gettingMention me down!this Andpublication at 69, I (molly was minimal, the results were impressive. I fool< and feel much younger. To oil the men out there: I can't recommend this procedure highly enough! -Charles M
Call 912.244.7939 to schedule an appointment today. Mention this publication to get 10% off
17A
18A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
Avoiding problems beats solving problems By Mark Winn Contributor Avoiding legal problems is better than solving legal problems. Taking steps now to avoid problems later can provide tremendous benefits for your family in terms of problems avoided. A good, updated MARK WINN trust-based estate plan will: 1. AVOID lack of privacy in the probate process, 2. AVOID unnecessary extra court cost in the probate process, 3. AVOID unnecessary extra legal fees in the probate process, 4. AVOID guardianship and conservatorship 5. AVOID unnecessary federal estate taxes, 6. AVOID loss of income tax deferral on
retirement account, 7. AVOID loss to creditors and loss to in laws if a child of yours gets divorced, 8. PRESERVE the ability for your loved ones to do benefits planning for you, and 9. PRESERVE your assets for your family. Let’s imagine Sam and Kathy Newcomer move to the Lowcountry from Ohio to retire and live out their retirement years playing golf in the sun. Sam and Kathy have two children: Amy and Jeff. Amy is married to David and they have one child: Nathan. Jeff is single and receiving government benefits because he is disabled mentally. With appropriate legal papers, Sam and Kathy can ensure that 1-9 will be accomplished in their case. By using a revocable trust to own their probate assets, Sam and Kathy will avoid the lack of privacy and unnecessary extra expense and cost of probate when a will alone is used. By leaving assets to their children “in trust” they can protect their assets from lawsuits and divorce. Amy’s share, left to her in a trust she controls for her own benefit, can be protected from
loss if she becomes divorced or gets sued. If Amy passes, Sam and Kathy can direct the share to go down to Nathan and not to David. Sam and Kathy will need to determine who the trustee of Nathan’s share will be if Nathan inherits when he is a minor (probably David). Most people
want their assets to stay in their family bloodline. Jeff’s share can be left to Amy, as Trustee, to manage for Jeff’s benefit to supplement benefits he may get from the government. If you do not have this kind of protection, it can be quite costly. Guardianship alone can cost $6,000 or more. Usually, for a husband and wife, we prepare a pour over will, a revocable living trust, a general power of attorney, a health care power of attorney and a HIPAA release. These papers, along with some advice and counsel, ensure that their affairs will be managed as they wish and for their benefit in a fashion that maximizes what the law can do for them. Just as in the field of medicine, preventing problems in the legal world is quite valuable. When it comes to your family and your property, a good plan will prevent many problems and provide you and your family with peace of mind. 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
Expert Cataract Surger y. E xe m p l a r y P a t i e n t C a re . Bishop Eye is the #1 choice for cataract eye care in the Lowcountry. We offer unparalleled surgical expertise, world-class technologies, and trained patient teams dedicated to delivering exceptional care from your first visit to your best personalized cataract lens outcome. When it comes to achieving your best vision, you can trust the cataract surgery experts at Bishop Eye to make you #1 as well.
We look forward to serving you.
The Leading Center for Cataract Surgery H i l t o n H e a d • N e w R i ve r / S u n C i t y • B l u f f t o n • 8 4 3 - 6 8 9 - 3 9 3 7 • B i s h o p Eye . c o m
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
THE E F I L GOOD IT A W T ’ N O W
19A
ASK ABOUT OUR LIMITED-TIME
$10,000
OPTION INCENTIVE!
Trade your alarm clock for steel drums and a long commute for a leisurely stroll. At Latitude Margaritaville, every day is a vacation where “wasting away” means soaking up the sun and every moment revolves around fun. MOVE-IN-SOON HOMES ARE AVAILABLE NOW. DON’T WAIT TO GET THE BEST VALUE IN 55+ ACTIVE LIVING!
NEW HOMES FROM THE $300s.
LOW HOA FEES. NO CDD FEES. | SALES CENTER & 13 MODELS OPEN DAILY.
Visit us at LatitudeMargaritaville.com or scan the QR code to view our move-in-soon homes!
LATITUDE MARGARITAVILLE HILTON HEAD | (843) 326-4562
SCAN TO VIEW HOMES
Obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. WARNING: THE CALIFORNIA BUREAU OF REAL ESTATE HAS NOT INSPECTED, EXAMINED, OR QUALIFIED THE OFFERINGS. Latitude Margaritaville Kentucky Registration Number R-201. For NY Residents: THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS FOR THE SALE OF LOTS IN LATITUDE MARGARITAVILLE AT DAYTONA BEACH ARE IN THE CPS-12 APPLICATION AVAILABLE FROM SPONSOR, MINTO COMMUNITIES, LLC. FILE NO. CP17-0092. THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS FOR THE SALE OF LOTS IN LATITUDE MARGARITAVILLE AT HILTON HEAD ARE IN THE CPS-12 APPLICATION AVAILABLE FROM SPONSOR, MINTO LATITUDE HH, LLC. FILE NO. CP18-0021. THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS FOR THE SALE OF LOTS IN LATITUDE MARGARITAVILLE WATERSOUND ARE IN THE CPS-12 APPLICATION AVAILABLE FROM SPONSOR, LMWS, LLC. FILE NO. CP20-0062. Pennsylvania Registration Numbers OL00169 (Latitude Margaritaville at Daytona Beach), OL001170 (Latitude Margaritaville at Hilton Head) and OL001182 (Latitude Margaritaville Watersound). Latitude Margaritaville at Daytona Beach, Latitude Margaritaville at Hilton Head and Latitude Margaritaville Watersound are registered with the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salesmen, 1000 Washington Street, Suite 710, Boston, MA 02118 and with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, 1700 G Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20552. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required and has not been completed. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only and are merely representative of current development plans. Development plans, amenities, facilities, dimensions, specifications, prices and features depicted by artists renderings or otherwise described herein are approximate and subject to change without notice. ©Minto Communities, LLC 2025. All rights reserved. Content may not be reproduced, copied, altered, distributed, stored, or transferred in any form or by any means without express written permission. Latitude Margaritaville and the Latitude Margaritaville logo are trademarks of Margaritaville Enterprises, LLC and are used under license. Minto and the Minto logo are trademarks of Minto Communities, LLC and/or its affiliates. CGC 1519880/CGC 120919. 2025
HOW OLD YOU ARE 20A IS YOUR BUSINESS. HOW YOUYOU ARE HOWOLD YOUNG ISLOOK YOUR ISBUSINESS. OUR
The Hilton Head Sun
HOW YOUNG YOU BUSINESS. LOOK OUR HOW IS OLD YOU ARE Pure Med Spa is here to BUSINESS. IS YOUR assist you in BUSINESS. achieving your HOW OLD YOU ARE skincare goals. HOW Pure MedYOUNG SpaBUSINESS. is hereYOU to IS YOUR assist youIS in achieving LOOK OUR your skincare goals. HOW YOUNG YOU BUSINESS. LOOK IS OUR Pure Med Spa is here to BUSINESS. assist youHydrafacial in achieving yourIs For Everyone
skincare goals. Pure Med Spa is here to Fine Lines | Wrinkles | Elasticity | Firmness assist you in achieving your Even ToneIs| For Vibrancy | Skin texture Everyone skincare Hydrafacial goals. Enlarged Pores | Oily or Congested skin Fine Lines | Wrinkles | Elasticity | Firmness Even Tone | Vibrancy | Skin texture D R . K LEnlarged E N Pores K E | ’Oily S or Congested A P P skin R OAC H
Hydrafacial“AtIsPinnacle, ForweEveryone want our patients to feel like they are
DR .
family and|weFirmness to treat them that way FineLLines | Wrinkles Elasticity K E N K part E of’|ourS A P strive P R OAC H from the first time they visit. We pride ourselves on the
Hydrafacial For Everyone Even Tonecustomer |IsVibrancy | Skin texture to always keep experience. It is important
“At Pinnacle, we want our patients to feel like they are up with the latest advances, but our practice uniquely Enlarged Pores | our Oily or Congested skin part of family and we strive to treat them that way separates the gimmicks from the options that produce from the first time they visit. We pride ourselves on the results. It is our philosophy to listen first to our patients’ It is important to always keep D R . K L E N K customer E ’andexperience. SthenA P PthemRto theOtreatments A C goals help guide and H up with the latest advances, but our practice uniquely procedures that will help us all work toward that shared “ At Pinnacle,separates we want our feel like they arethat partproduce of our family the patients gimmickstofrom the options goal. inner and outer you should be inthey harmony.” and we striveresults. to treatYour them that way from the first time visit. We It is our philosophy to listen first to our patients’ pride ourselves on the customer experience. It is important to always goals and then help guide them to the treatments and Dr. Audrey Klenke, MD, FACS, Board Certified keepup with procedures the latest advances, but our practice uniquely that will help us all work toward thatseparates shared the gimmicksgoal. fromYour the inner options produce results. our philosophy andthat outer you should be Itinisharmony.”
Call to schedule to listen first to ouryour patients’ goalsconsult and then help guidetoday! them to the treatments an MD, procedures that will help us all workCertified toward that shared Dr. Audrey Klenke, FACS, Board goal. Your inner and outer you should be in harmony.”
Call schedule your consult today! Dr. to Audrey Klenke, MD, FACS, Board Certified
Call to schedule your consult today!
843.815.6699 PinnaclePlasticSurgery.com 843.815.6699
May 7, 2025
Should you agree to be an executor? By Thomas Dowling Contributor At some point, you may be asked to serve as the executor of someone’s estate. If so, congratulations—someone clearly trusts you. But before you say yes, it’s important to understand what the role entails. THOMAS DOWLING Serving as an executor comes with significant responsibilities, time commitments, and potential legal risks. The duties of an executor can vary by state, but common responsibilities include:
1. Filing the will and securing legal authority
Your first task is to locate and file the will with the probate court. Once approved, you’ll receive documents that authorize you to act on behalf of the estate— essential for dealing with banks, insurance companies, and other institutions.
2. Opening an estate bank account
You’ll need to pay the deceased’s expenses from a dedicated estate bank account. To do this, you’ll transfer funds from the deceased’s accounts into the new account.
3. Identifying assets and debts
Executors must find all the deceased’s assets—sometimes a major undertaking. This could mean sifting through old papers, storage units, and safe deposit boxes. You must also locate physical items like jewelry or artwork, even if they’re with family or friends. Some assets will go through probate, while others will not.
4. Handling taxes
You’re responsible for valuing the assets for tax purposes and filing necessary returns, including estate and income taxes. This could involve both federal and state forms.
5. Distributing inheritances
After debts and taxes are settled, and beneficiaries have signed a release form, you’ll distribute the remaining assets ac-
cording to the will. You may also need to fund any trusts outlined in the estate plan. These tasks can take months—or even years—depending on the complexity of the estate.
Risks you should know
Even for financially savvy individuals, acting as an executor can be challenging. The position carries both fiduciary and legal obligations, and mistakes can have serious consequences.
1. Personal liability
You must pay off all debts and taxes before distributing inheritances. If you reverse the order, you could be held personally liable. It’s also essential to distribute assets fairly and at the same time. Missteps can lead to lawsuits or increased estate tax burdens. You’re also responsible for protecting the estate’s value. For instance, you need to manage stock portfolios, homes, or artwork carefully to avoid losses. Failure to do so could be considered a breach of fiduciary duty, opening you up to personal liability.
2. Major time commitments
Depending on how organized the deceased was—and your proximity to them— you could spend countless hours gathering documents, closing accounts, and meeting tax deadlines. Executors are often surprised by how demanding this role can be.
3. Dealing with difficult heirs
You must secure estate assets, which may delay beneficiaries from accessing them. This can lead to tension or even legal disputes. For example, if one heir takes property promised to another, you could be held accountable. Keeping detailed records and communicating clearly with all parties can help avoid conflicts.
The bottom line
Serving as an executor is an honor—but not one to accept lightly. Understand the responsibilities and evaluate whether you have the time, knowledge, and temperament to do the job effectively before agreeing to take it on. 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.
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
Burgess of Craig Burgess of
21A
Appointments are preferred but walk-ins are welcome!
Gold is near all time highs!
vent at
is having a buying event in his Bluffton Location: Wednesday, May 7th, Thursday, May 8th & Friday, May 9th 10-2
Craig Burgess of
Take advantage of the highest prices I’ve ever offered on Gold coins and gold estate jewelry, collectible coins and currency, and many other fine items
WANTED:
& Gold is holding •a Silver buying event at Jewelry • Coins
• Foreign Coins
WEDNESDAY, MAY 7TH 10 AM – 2 PM THURSDAY, MAY 8TH 10AM – 2PM FRIDAY, MAY 9TH 10AM – 2PM
• Sterling Silver • Paper Money
I have an extensive customer base looking for beautiful and unusual items!
Now buying costume jewelry!
SUN CITY SELECT WINNER
Before you buy or sell anything of value, come see me!
The area’s largest buyer and leading authority in gold, diamonds, coins, currency and other fine items.
Call now! 843-836-5566
Call today and visit me for this
BUYING EVENT! MAY 7TH, 8TH AND 9TH
17 Sherington Drive, Suite G., Bluffton, SC 29910 (In Sheridan Park, next to Island Bagel)
www.acgoldandsilver.com
22A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
Fluoride: the unsung hero of dental health By Dr. Matthew Mastrorocco Contributor Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that plays a critical role in protecting teeth. For decades, it has been added to public water supplies, toothpaste, and dental treatments to help prevent cavities and strengthen enamDR. MATTHEW MASTROROCCO el. Despite lingering misconceptions, extensive scientific research continues to support fluoride’s safety and effectiveness. Tooth decay remains one of the most common chronic diseases globally, affecting people of all ages. It is caused by acid-producing bacteria that feed on sugar and erode enamel, the protective outer layer of teeth. Fluoride helps counter this process in several key ways: • Remineralization: Fluoride attracts calcium and phosphate to weakened enamel, helping rebuild it. • Prevention: It makes enamel more resistant to acid attacks. • Bacteria control: Fluoride limits bacteria’s ability to produce harmful acid.
The role of water fluoridation
Water fluoridation—adjusting fluoride levels in public water—has been hailed as one of the top public health achievements of the 20th century. It benefits people of all ages and economic backgrounds, especially those with limited access to dental care, and saves millions in dental treatment costs annually. Studies show communities with fluoridated water experience significantly lower tooth decay rates than those without. The U.S. Public Health Service recommends an optimal fluoride level of 0.7 parts per million (ppm). On Hilton Head Island and in Bluffton, fluoride levels are reported near 0.38 ppm—below the federal limit but still providing protective benefits. Local water utilities—including Hilton Head Public Service District (PSD), Broad Creek PSD, and Beaufort-Jasper
Water and Sewer Authority (BJWSA)— monitor these levels closely. In fact, Hilton Head PSD does not add fluoride because small amounts naturally occur in its source water. All three utilities comply with EPA safety standards, which set a maximum fluoride level of 4.0 ppm.
Fluoride safety: what you need to know
Decades of data confirm that fluoride is safe when used at recommended levels: • Strict regulation: Fluoride levels in drinking water are carefully controlled. • No link to major illnesses: Claims that fluoride causes cancer or neurological harm have been thoroughly debunked. • Mild side effects: The most common is dental fluorosis—minor white spots on teeth from overexposure in early childhood, which are purely cosmetic.
Other sources of fluoride protection
Brushing with fluoride toothpaste is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent cavities. The American Dental Association recommends its use for both children and adults as part of daily oral care. In-office fluoride treatments—typically in the form of gels, foams, or varnishes—offer extra protection. These treatments are especially helpful for: • Individuals at high risk of tooth decay • Children developing permanent teeth • People with dry mouth or weak enamel Fluoride remains a cornerstone of modern dental care. With proven safety and effectiveness, it continues to protect millions of smiles through tap water, toothpaste, and professional treatments. Embracing fluoride today ensures better oral health for future generations. Matthew Mastrorocco is a dentist and the owner of ROC Dental Group in Bluffton and Hilton Head. Learn more at ROCDentalGroup.com.
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
23A
NEUROPATHY RELIEF
DO YOU STRUGGLE WITH... NUMBNESS COLD FEET TINGLING
BALANCE ISSUES ACHY FEET LEG CRAMPS
WE CAN HELP! NEUROPATHY CONSULTATION Includes... Thermal Image Scan Comprehensive Sensory Testing X-Ray Imaging (if necessary) Full Report of Findings Customized Treatment Plan
ONLY
$79
Dr. Ken Horup, D.C.
Board Certified in Neuropathy
Discover Specific Chiropractic
(843)689-2273
4101 Main St, Suite A Hilton Head Island, SC, 29926
CALL TO RESERVE YOUR APPOINTMENT
“IT’S LIKE GETTING A GOOD SHARE OF MY LIFE BACK.” -Cal B. (Patient) “I PLAYED GOLF AND MY BALANCE WAS SO MUCH BETTER”
-Judy F. (Patient)
“I DON’T EVEN THINK ABOUT MY FEET ANYMORE. I JUST ENJOY LIFE.”
-Mike K. (Patient)
24A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
Hilton Head Island real estate market update May is for Mothers, Memories… and Making a Plan
As we celebrate the love and legacy of mothers, it’s the perfect time to think about your own. A complete estate plan offers peace of mind, protects your loved ones, and ensures your wishes are honored.
LawyerLisa.com/events LISA HOSTETLER BROWN | CERTIFIED BY THE NATIONAL ELDER LAW FOUNDATION | 2 HAMPTON HALL BLVD, STE 100, BLUFFTON, SC 29910 WORKSHOPS ARE NOT INTENDED TO CONSTITUTE LEGAL ADVICE NOR DO THEY ESTABLISH AN ATTORNEY-CLIENT RELATIONSHIP.
By Dan Prud’homme Contributor Hilton Head Island’s real estate market continues to evolve as we head into May 2025. While the island’s lifestyle remains as attractive as ever, the market dynamics DAN PRUD’HOMME have shifted notably over the last month, offering fresh insights for both buyers and sellers. One of the most significant changes is the drop in average days on market. Properties are now selling in just 63 days, a sharp 22% decrease from 81 days last month and a notable improvement from 70 days at this time last year. This faster pace signals continued demand, even as broader market conditions shift. Meanwhile, sellers are achieving 95.4% of their original asking price on average, a slight dip from 96.1% a year ago but still a strong showing. Inventory on Hilton Head Island has expanded considerably. The number of available properties has jumped 25% year over year, from 721 listings in May 2024 to 901 today. New listing activity has picked up pace, giving buyers more choices than they’ve had in recent memory. At the same time, closed sales have slowed slightly. There were 164 closed transactions this past month, down 9.9% from 182 at this point last year. The supply of homes currently stands at six and a half months, unchanged from last month. This level of inventory marks a transition point — with anything above six months typically indicating a shift toward a buyer’s market. While the numbers suggest we’re right on the edge, individual property types and price points are starting to show more pronounced buyer-favorable trends.
One of the bright spots in the data is the increase in median sale price. Year to date, Hilton Head Island’s median home price has risen to $1,200,000, up 10.4% from $1,087,500 in 2024. Some of this gain can be attributed to renewed activity in the luxury segment. While a few highend sales don’t create a lasting trend on their own, the momentum is encouraging and could set the tone for the upcoming summer season. Wider economic conditions continue to play a role. Tariffs and persistently higher interest rates have led to some buyer hesitation, especially among those needing to stretch their budgets. The rapid growth in inventory over the past 60 days has accelerated the market’s slow drift toward buyer territory. How much further that shift goes may depend heavily on policy developments coming out of Washington, D.C., in the months ahead. Dan Prud’homme is the Visionary & Success Coach of The Prud’homme Team at William Raveis Real Estate. dan@danprudhomme.com theprudhommeteam.com
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
e h t s ' t a th
T E K TIC O N E SUE 5 T I M D IS A LUME 28,
25 • VO MAY 7, 20
25A
Art League of Hilton Head hosts the 2025 Biennale See page 32A
26A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
27A
28A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
Arts & Entertainment Calendar “Waitress” – Arts Center of Coastal Carolina Now through June 1, 2025 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island Tony-nominated Broadway musical with music by Sara Bareilles. artshhi.org “The 39 Steps” May 2–18, 2025 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday Sea Glass Stage at Coligny Theatre, 1 N. Forest Beach Drive, Hilton Head Island A fast-paced comedic thriller based on the Alfred Hitchcock classic. $35 adult; $20 student sgstage.org/tickets
Loggerhead Loop Kid’s Fun Run & Mom’s Day 5K Saturday, May 10, 2025 – 8 a.m. Coligny Beach, Hilton Head Island 5K and kids’ obstacle run hosted by Sea Turtle Patrol. $35 5K, $20 kids runsignup.com Hilton Head Library Plant Swap Tuesday, May 13, 2025 – 1 p.m. Hilton Head Library, 11 Beach City Road, Hilton Head Island Bring a plant, take a plant. Free. 843-255-6525
Bluffton Mayfest (Village Festival) Saturday, May 10, 2025 – 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Historic Downtown Bluffton (Calhoun Street and May River Road) Over 160 vendors, live music, food trucks, contests, and family fun.
2025 Biennale: 29th National Juried Art Exhibition May 13–June 13, 2025 Art League Gallery, Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, Hilton Head Awards Reception: May 16, 5–7 p.m. Critic’s Coffee: May 17, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. artleaguehhi.org
Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue: May Carnival Saturday, May 10, 2025 – 12–3 p.m. Fire Station 1, 70 Cordillo Parkway, Hilton Head Island Free entry. Food, games, prizes, fire trucks and more for the whole family.
Bluffton Youth Theatre: “Lowcountry’s Got Talent” Audition Deadline Wednesday, May 14, 2025 Submit 2-minute video showcasing your talent for a chance to perform live on June 6 and win $1,000. blufftonyouththeatre.org Lean Ensemble Theater: Master Class May 15–25, 2025
HH Prep Main Street Theater, 3000 Main Street, Hilton Head Island Drama centered around opera legend Maria Callas. Talkbacks after select shows. leanensemble.org Hilton Head Library Theme Book Club Thursday, May 15, 2025 – 4 p.m. Hilton Head Library, S.C. Room Theme: A Local Author – Discuss featured titles by Andrews, Jakes, and Conroy. Bluffton Sunset Party: Sunset Palooza Friday, May 16, 2025 – 5:30–9:30 p.m. Bluffton Oyster Factory Park, 55 Wharf Street, Bluffton Live music, food court, beer garden, and wine bar under the oaks. Palmetto Quilt Guild Meeting & Workshop May 15–16, 2025 Island Lutheran Church, Hilton Head May 15 – Meeting at 11:30 a.m. | May 16 – Thread painting workshop, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. palmettoquiltguild.org Author Talk: Estelle Ford-Williamson Monday, May 19, 2025 – 10:30–11:30 a.m. The Roasting Room, 1297 May River Road, Bluffton Free event with a $5 suggested donation. EstelleFord-Williamson.com Hilton Head Island Art Festival May 23–25, 2025
1200 Fording Island Rd., Bluffton, SC 29910 Hardwood, LVP, Carpet & Tile
843.815.5783
Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina, Hilton Head Fri–Sat: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sun: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Fine art, entertainment, food, and shopping. Presented by Nash Gallery. Hilton Head Choral Society: “America Sings!” Sunday, May 25, 2025 – 7 p.m. First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island Patriotic concert with special brass quintet and local tributes. hiltonheadchoralsociety.org Memorial Day Tribute at Veterans Park Monday, May 26, 2025 – 9:30–10:30 a.m. Veterans Park, 50 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island Morning concert in honor of our nation’s fallen heroes. Palmetto Dunes Turtle Trot 5K Wednesday, June 4, 2025 – 8 a.m. The Dunes House, 14 Dunes House Lane, Hilton Head $30 advance, $35 race day; $15 children under 12 palmettodunes.com
Events are subject to change, please confirm with event organizers prior to attending. To submit your event or student for future consideration, please email details to editor@ blufftonsun.com.
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
29A
THE ORIGINAL
FESTIVAL MAY 22-25 BEAUFORT WATERFRONT PARK
30A
The Hilton Head Sun
PROFESSIONAL THEATER IN THE HEART OF HILTON HEAD
IF ONLY LIFE WERE AS EASY AS PIE
NOW - JUNE 1 Waitress: The Musical is a Tony-nominated Broadway phenomenon. The story centers around Jenna Hunterson, a waitress and expert pie-maker stuck in a small town and a loveless marriage.
May 7, 2025
Call for artists: “The Back of the House” Artists are invited to participate in “The Back of the House,” a summer exhibit honoring the unsung heroes of the food industry. The exhibit will spotlight kitchen staff, including dishwashers, line cooks, fry cooks and breakfast chefs, with artists capturing their expertise and daily work through a variety of styles and mediums. Food expediters and runners, the workers who swiftly carry steaming trays to diners, will also be among the featured subjects. Artists are encouraged to interpret these vital roles in their own
style, working in mediums such as pastel, oil, acrylic and watercolor. Submitted pieces so far range from 12 by 18 inches to 36 by 48 inches, spanning genres including realism, Impressionism, abstract, pointillism and fine art. “The Back of the House” exhibit will be held Monday, July 14th, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Restaurant Equipment Company of Bluffton, located at 1 Sherington Drive. Artists interested in participating are asked to contact Danie Connolly at danie.connolly@ yahoo.com.
When a baking contest offers her a chance at escape, Jenna must weigh her commitments against a rare shot at freedom. Waitress celebrates dreams, the family we choose, and the beauty of a well-baked pie. DIRECTED BY TARA JEANNE VALLEE
“THE PERFECT RECIPE TO BE ENJOYED BY ALL.” MERYL R., BLUFFTON, SC
MAY 13–JUNE 13, 2025
“WONDERFUL!”
AWARDS RECEPTION Friday, May 16, 5-7pm
MARTIN L., HILTON HEAD IS., SC
Free and open to the public
CRITIC’S COFFEE
“HILARIOUS, HEARTWRENCHING, AND SIMPLY AMAZING SINGING!”
with Judge Tony Armendariz, Award-Winning Wastercolor Artist
Saturday, May 17, 10am $10 at the door; free for members RSVP gallery@artleaguehhi.org
NORMA T., BLUFFTON, SC
OUR SPONSORS
Publix Super Markets Charities CAV Integrated Home The Great Frame Up Ron & Tomma Rychener
THE CAST (TOP); VALERIE TORRES-ROSARIO AS JENNA (ABOVE) IN WAITRESS. PHOTOGRAPHY BY GUSTAVO RATTIA.
ART LEAGUE GALLERY at Arts Center of Coastal Carolina 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island www.ArtLeagueHHI.org | 843.681.5060
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
16th Hilton Head Island
31A
Coordinated by Nash Gallery
FRIDAY, MAY 23, 2025 • 10:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M. • SATURDAY, MAY 24, 2025 • 10:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M. & SUNDAY, MAY 25, 2025 • 10:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M.
Don’t miss the Hilton Head Island Art Festival at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina, featuring a selection of beautiful art including pottery, glass, wood, jewelry, photography, etc. —All made in the USA! Enjoy casual shopping & dining, plus local entertainment each day. TROTTER ARTS FINE ART ©
For more information: Scan QR code Call 843-785-6424 HiltonHeadArtFestival.com NashGallery.com
Follow us! @ShelterCoveHarbourMarina
ADMISSION IS FREE! RAIN OR SHINE EVENT
SHELTER COVE HARBOUR & MARINA IS LOCATED MID-ISLAND AT MILE MARKER 8, ACROSS FROM PALMETTO DUNES OCEANFRONT RESORT. When using a GPS, please use 13 Harbourside Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
32A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
Art League’s 2025 Biennale and portrait workshop By Sasha Sweeney Editor
The Heritage Library is celebrating local authors with two special afternoon events in May. Meet the authors, learn about their incredible journey as they wrote their books and learned about themselves – past, present and future and then join them for a light afternoon tea service.
Monday, May 12 2–4pm
Descended: Searching for My Gullah-Geechee Roots by Keith Rushing
Saturday, May 17 1–3pm The Adventures of Chocolate Drop
by Andraya Brabham & Angella Cohen $35/person, $5/children 12 & under, accompanied by a ticketed adult. Reserve your spot at HeritageLib.org
Top artists from across the country will be showcased on Hilton Head Island this May as the Art League of Hilton Head hosts the 2025 Biennale, a national juried exhibition featuring more than 100 works selected from over 1,000 entries submitted by artists in 41 states. The 29th edition of the Biennale opens May 13th at Art League Gallery, located inside the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. The exhibit includes a wide array of media, including oil, acrylic, pastel, watermedia, photography, mixed media, and three-dimensional artwork. The show runs through June 13th and is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sundays from noon to 4 p.m., and 90 minutes before Arts Center performances. Juror Tony Armendariz, an award-winning artist from Illinois, evaluated entries based on originality of concept, composition and execution. Armendariz, known for his evocative watercolor portraits, will award more than $5,000 in prizes during an opening reception Friday, May 16, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the gallery. The event is free and open to the public. A day later, on Saturday, May 17th, Armendariz will host “Critic’s Coffee,” a discussion of his jurying process and selected works, from 10 a.m. to noon. The event is free for Art League members and $10 for non-members. RSVPs are requested by emailing gallery@artleaguehhi.org. In addition to his jurying duties, Armendariz will lead a three-day portrait workshop titled “Portraits in Watercolor or the Medium of Your Choice,” May 13th–15th at Art League Academy. The class runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily and includes live demonstrations and personalized instruction. Designed for artists with a basic grasp of watercolor or another medium, the course focuses on expressive techniques that bring depth and emotion to portraiture. “My paintings concentrate on portraits and figurative work, often com-
Untitled Watercolor by Tony Armendariz bined with architectural elements,” Armendariz said. “I aim to reveal the authentic self of my subjects, a process that sometimes unfolds through subtle cues—eyes, hands, body language, or even props like clothing and everyday items.” Armendariz, a graduate of the American Academy of Art in Chicago, studied under renowned watercolorist Irving Shapiro. His work has appeared in Fine Art Connoisseur, American Art Collector, and Watercolor Artist, and has earned recognition from the American Watercolor Society, the Transparent Watercolor Society of America, and others. The Art League of Hilton Head is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting visual arts through exhibitions, education and community outreach. For more information on the Biennale, workshop registration or other upcoming events, visit www.artleaguehhi.org or call 843-681-5060.
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
33A
Top Brokerage in the U.S. by Inman1 Best Luxury Real Estate Brokerage for CT, FL, MA, NY & SC2 Top Luxury Broker in the World3 Top 100 Luxury Real Estate Brokers of the World4
Earning the confidence and trust of our customers every day. 99% Customer Satisfaction Rating5
843.341.5660 HILTON HEAD
|
843.341.5660 BLUFFTON
|
843.815.7500 HAMPTON HALL
1. Inman Innovators Award 2023. 2. Luxury Lifestyle Awards 2022-2025. 3. Luxury Lifestyle Awards 2022-2024. 4. Luxury Portfolio International 2018 5. Source: William Raveis customer surveys 2004-2024
34A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
Port Royal Plantation | Hilton Head Island
Port Royal Plantation | Hilton Head Island
3 Steam Gun Place | $3,995,000
98 S Port Royal Drive | $1,566,000
Gerry Prud’homme | 843.384.5436
Sulka Bogart Team | 843.338.7710
The Prud’homme Team
Old Town Bluffton
Belfair | Bluffton
7 Pearl Street | $1,474,000
41 Lexington Drive | $1,349,000
Sulka Bogart Team | 843.384.8462
Mike Broadhurst | 843.837.7773 The Broadhurst Group
Sea Pines | Hilton Head Island
Belfair | Bluffton
Berkeley Hall | Bluffton
18 Baynard Cove Road | $3,900,000
44 Richland Drive | $1,450,000
10 Rice Hope Court | $1,499,000
Gerry Prud’homme | 843.384.5436
Dick Datz | 843.384.7710
Greg John | 843.338.6843
The Prud’homme Team
The Prud’homme Team
The Prud’homme Team
#1 Independent Family-Owned Real Estate Comp Hilton Head 3 Executive Park Road | 843.341.5660 Bluffton 10 Westbury Park, Suite B | 843.341.5660 Hampton Hall 2 Hampton Hall Blvd., Suite 200 | 843.815.7500
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
35A
Hilton Head Island 3404 The Sea Crest Villas | $1,899,000 Dave Thornton | 843.384.1606 The Prud’homme Team
Olfield | Okatie
Berkeley Hall | Bluffton
2 Kestral Court | $2,249,000
85 Clifton Drive | $1,699,500
Craig Lehman | 843.592.4781
Dulaney and Gee Team | 843.540.1425
The Broadhurst Group
Explore Our World of Luxury Living
Jupiter, FL
New Canaan, CT
Amagansett, NY
3445 Harbor Road North | $10,950,000 Palm Beach Office | 561.655.6570
87 North Wilton Road | $4,995,000 New Canaan Office | 203.966.3555
8-10 Old Lazy Point Road | $7,775,000 East Hampton Office | 631.324.8080
pany in Florida, South Carolina and the Northeast 140+ Offices 4,500+ Sales Associates 9 States - CT, FL, MA, ME, NH, NY, RI, SC, VT
36A
The Hilton Head Sun
List and buy your house with the Top Brokerage in the U.S. 843.341.5660 HILTON HEAD | 843.341.5660 BLUFFTON 843.815.7500 HAMPTON HALL
May 7, 2025
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
37A
Arts & Crafts Food • Music
SATURDAY, MAY 10, 2025 10:00am-5:00pm
Pie-Eating Contest 11:30am DUBOIS PARK PAVILION
Ugly Dog Contest 1:00pm HEYWARD HOUSE
Featured Artist Karen Magill & Over 150 Artist and Food Vendors
For more information contact 843.540.7957 • Blufftonrotary.org
38A
The Hilton Head Sun
Upcoming Events Mr. Puppet
Wonders of Science
11:00am & 2:00pm May 26 & 28, June 2 & 16, July 28 & 30, August 27
EXPLORE, EXPERIMENT, & IGNITE CURIOSITY THROUGH HANDS-ON SCIENTIFIC DISCOVERY!
Interactive Storytime
Reptile Meet & Greet
Fridays 11:00am
May 12, June 19, July 17, August 11
Imagination Hour
Summer Camp
THEATRE-BASED STORYTIMES WHERE KIDS ACT, PLAY AND BRING STORIES TO LIFE
A NEW STORY AND A FUN HANDS ON ACTIVITY EACH WEEK
Thursdays 11:00am
Tuesdays 11:00am
11:00am
EXPLORE, CREATE, & PLAY THROUGH THEATRE & STEM ADVENTURES AT OUR FUN-FILLED SUMMER CAMP!
JUNE & JULY
Register early to secure a space for your kiddo for camp!
To register please email/call Alicia Powell apowell@thesandbox.org or call 843-842-7645 80 Nassau Street - Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
May 7, 2025
The story behind the dress By Sandro Virag Contributor Whenever audiences watch a ballroom dance competition or see a ballroom dance show, they are often in awe of the elaborate costumes. But, have you ever thought about what really goes into choosing a dress or having a costume custom-made? There is often a story behind the dress. It may reflect the dancer’s personality, performance style or even emotions. A dance dress is a collaborative and creative process that combines personal expression as well as functionality. A custom-made costume can inspire a “character” on the dance floor which can be shared with the audience. The first step is to understand the customer’s goal. Are they recreating a certain mood, a certain time or event in their life? What colors and textures are they drawn to? Dancing is an art – so what picture are they trying to paint or what story is the dancer trying to tell? The challenge will now be the shape and structure of the dress. Form fitting or flowing? Short or long? Lightweight material like chiffon or a sturdy fabric like spandex or velvet? Consider the movements the dancer will be doing. Lifts and tricks? Or more basic steps?
Megan Green working on a custom dress
Embellishments can also take the dress from simple to spectacular. Before a dress takes on embellishments, clients often begin to doubt their vision. Once the rhinestones, fringes, sequins, pearls, or lace all come together, they see the potential the dress now has and the vision starts to come together. Now the dress is beginning to shine and the dancer can take the stage with confidence. Meghan Green, co-owner and designer at Belle Ame Dresses (a bespoke dancewear local resource), said the very first dress she accomplished will always have a place in her heart – “The Louisiana Queen” is decadent and timeless in every sense of its 15 yards of Ostrich feather trim! The owner of this dress thrives on performing in full character with glitz and glam. Co-owner Rebecca Goodrich adds “designing a costume from scratch can really help develop what kind of performer you are on the dance floor – so go for it!” So next time you see a dance performance, remember there is probably a story behind the dress. Sandro Virag is a partner and instructor at Hilton Head Ballroom Dance Studio of Hilton Head, hiltonheadballroom.com
May 7, 2025
CelesteSun HHSun ad march-may '25.qxp_Layout 1 3/24/25 5:58 PM Page 2 The Hilton Head
join us for exceptional coastal cuisine with a new orleans influence,
Kitchens of Note fundraiser returns with record-breaking success After a five-year hiatus, the Kitchens of Note spring fundraiser made a successful return, setting a new fundraising record for the League of the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra’s spring events. The self-driving tour featured several homes in Port Royal on Hilton Head Island, with each kitchen offering small plates prepared by local chefs. Tablescaping and kitchen accessories were provided by presenting sponsor Le Cookery. More than 60 League volunteers contributed to making this year’s event the most successful spring fundraiser in the organization’s history. This year’s fundraising effort included a special Preview Party, hosted at the oceanfront home of Sherry and Andrew Hertneky. Nearly 50 donors attended the evening, which included jazz piano by Charlie Curtis, a live auction emceed by Bob Cherichella and wine expert Andy Heller, and exclusive offerings such as wine baskets and a Lowcountry Boil dinner for 10 guests prepared by Maestro John Morris Russell. The Preview Party alone raised more than $10,000 for the League. Tablescapes throughout the tour homes were curated by Rachel Lively, owner of Le Cookery, alongside representatives from Juliska and Vietri. Their
designs, installed in the days leading up to the event, added an elegant touch to the tour. Six local restaurants were selected to showcase their dishes during the event. Offerings included Bœuf Bourguignon from Chez Georges, shrimp ceviche from Cactus Street Cantina, pierogies and paprika chicken crepes from Chef Timi Szanto of Taste of Europe, deviled eggs with orange marmalade and dill from Nectar Farm Kitchen, panzanella con mozzarella from Michael Anthony’s, and sashimi tuna over Asian slaw and panseared diver scallops with crab risotto from Ela’s Blu Water Grille and Celeste Coastal Cuisine. The event relied heavily on volunteers, with House Captains Beatrice Buxton, Carol Gyllenhoff, Becky Hauk, Carol McCarthy, Joyce Prange, and Jane Waltz organizing logistics at each home. The Kitchens of Note committee managed all aspects of the event, from publicity and ticketing to chef coordination and financial tracking. Committee members included Mike Caporal, Bob Cherichella, Beth Curtis, Becky Hauk, Terry Hicks, Laura Kling, Nancy Millette, Bill Millhaem and Joyce Prange. The event was co-chaired by Linda Moloney and Anne Millhaem.
featuring an excellent wine selection, full bar, outdoor seating and entertainment open daily at 5pm sunday brunch 11-2 call for reservations 843-802-4744
20 hatton place | hilton head island 843.802.4744 | celestehhi.com
39A
40A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
Bluffton’s 46th annual Mayfest returns May 10th By Sasha Sweeney Editor Hosted by the Rotary Club of Bluffton the 46th annual Bluffton Village Festival, commonly known as Mayfest, takes over historic downtown on Saturday, May 10th, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering a full day of local art, food, live entertainment and family activities. The event will be held rain or shine, and organizers encourage attendees to plan for a busy day in the heart of Old Town. Free parking will be available at Red Cedar Elementary School, with a complimentary shuttle service running to and from downtown throughout the day. Additional parking options and directions are listed on the Rotary Club’s Mayfest website. Organizers also recommend wearing comfortable shoes, bringing sunscreen and staying hydrated throughout the day. Mayfest began as a community gathering to celebrate Bluffton’s charm and growing artistic spirit. In the decades since, it has evolved into one of the premier events in the Lowcountry, attracting thousands of visitors each year from
across the region. Today, Mayfest features more than 200 vendors offering an array of handcrafted goods, original artwork and culinary delights. From fine art paintings and handmade jewelry to classic Lowcountry favorites like shrimp and grits, the festival highlights the best of the area’s creativity and hospitality. Music lovers will enjoy live performances scheduled throughout the day on two stages. At Martin Family Park, Lyn Avenue will open the festivities with a set from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., followed by Peach Patrol from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Over on the Bridge Street Stage, Alan Price will perform from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with the String Surfers closing the afternoon from 2 to 4 p.m. Some of Mayfest’s most anticipated events are its good-natured contests, returning once again to entertain festivalgoers. The Pie-Eating Contest will be held at 11:30 a.m. at the DuBois Park Pavilion. Contestants of all ages will compete for the title, with plenty of laughter guaranteed. Later in the afternoon, the Ugly Dog Contest — one of Bluffton’s most unique
Oh, What a Night!
America – PRESENTS –
SINGS! — Memorial Sunday —
May 25, 2025 • 7:00 pm
Join the 75 voices of the Hilton Head Choral Society along with Category V Brass from Columbia, SC, in a tribute to the Armed Forces, honoring all who have fought for our freedom. First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Pkwy, HHI
RESERVE YOUR TICKETS TODAY! Scan the QR Code, Click “Tickets” at HiltonHeadChoralSociety.org or call 843-341-3818.
Photo: Mayfest Facebook Page traditions — will take place at 1 p.m. at The Heyward House. The contest offers a lighthearted showcase of the area’s most charmingly unconventional canines. Both
events are free to enter and are expected to draw large crowds, so participants are encouraged to arrive early. Each year, Mayfest selects a featured artist whose work captures the essence of Bluffton and the surrounding Lowcountry. The 2025 featured artist is Karen Magill, a resident known for her plein air paintings that reflect the natural beauty of the region. Magill’s body of work spans stained glass, pen and ink, mixed media, watercolor, gouache, acrylic and oil. However, her passion lies in painting outdoors, where she can best capture the ever-changing light and colors of the Lowcountry landscape. She often creates small studies in the field that serve as the basis for her larger studio paintings. While Mayfest is a celebration, it is also a major fundraiser for the Rotary Club of Bluffton. Proceeds from the event support a wide range of community initiatives, including local scholarships, nonprofit partnerships and service projects. For a full schedule of events, vendor information, parking details and volunteer opportunities, visit blufftonrotary.org/page/mayfest.
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
41A
BRINGING THE PAST TO LIFE
Southern hospitality on a plate: peach & honey ricotta toast By Leslie Rohland Contributor In the South, we know that the best moments happen on the front porch—with a glass of sweet tea in hand and good company by our side. And when unexpected guests LESLIE ROHLAND stop by, having a quick, elegant bite to serve makes all the difference. That’s where this peach & honey ricotta toast shines. This recipe brings together everything we love about Southern flavors— juicy, sun-ripened peaches, creamy ricotta, and a drizzle of golden honey, all layered on crisp, toasted bread. A sprinkle of cinnamon adds warmth, while almonds bring just the right amount of crunch. It’s sweet, savory, and effortlessly refined, making it the perfect appetizer to serve alongside a tall glass of iced tea. What I love most? It takes minutes to prepare, but tastes like something you’d find at a charming café. Whether you’re hosting a last-minute gathering or just treating yourself to a little Lowcountry luxury, this dish is a simple way to turn any porch sit into something special.
So go ahead, toast up some bread, slice a peach, and let Southern hospitality shine—one bite at a time. Bon appétit!
Peach & Honey Ricotta Toast (A Sweet & Savory Snack!) Ingredients: • 1 ripe peach, thinly sliced • 2 slices whole-grain or baguette bread • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese • 1 tbsp honey • 1/4 tsp cinnamon • 1 tbsp chopped almonds (optional) • Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions: 1. Toast the bread until golden. 2. Spread a thick layer of ricotta on each slice. 3. Arrange peach slices on top. 4. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with cinnamon. 5. Garnish with almonds and fresh mint. Why you’ll love it: • Creamy, crunchy, and naturally sweet! • A perfect balance of protein and fresh fruit. 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.
BUILD YOUR FAMILY TREE WITH US
Unlock your family history with the help of our volunteer genealogists! Whether you’re just getting started or facing a research roadblock, we’re here to guide you. Call 843.686.6560 to schedule your appointment today!
LEARN ABOUT LOCAL HISTORY
We preserve and share the rich history of Hilton Head Island, stewarding two historic sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Throughout the year, we offer engaging classes, tours, and events, with sessions available in the spring and fall. For full details and registration, visit HeritageLib.org.
EDUCATE & CELEBRATE – 250TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
Join us as we celebrate 250 years of American independence and honor the fight for freedom! Discover Hilton Head Island’s vital role in shaping our nation’s history at HeritageLib.org – your local resource for all things related to the American Revolution.
The Heritage Library is the heart of Hilton Head Island’s history and genealogy. Visit us soon! Scan to register for classes and tours at HeritageLib.org
Open Monday-Friday 10am -3pm The Professional Bldg | 2 Corpus Christi | Suite 100 Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 | 843.686.6560 | HeritageLib.org
42A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
Sea Glass Stage presents “The 39 Steps” Mix a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python, and you get The 39 Steps—a theatrical tour de force packed with laughs, suspense and more than 150 zany characters played by just a handful of actors. Adapted by Patrick Barlow from the novel by John Buchan, “The 39 Steps” will run May 2nd18th, Fridays through Sundays, at the historic Coligny Theatre in Coligny Plaza on Hilton Head Island. The comical take on 1930s-style whodunit spy thriller follows a boring, average man, Richard Hannay, through a series of wild events that resulted from a simple outing to a theatre show. The madcap fun begins with a beautiful woman who is a secret agent, and hurtles through a stage act featuring a couple of con artists, hilarious underwear salesmen on a rumbling steam train, bumbling policemen, an amazing escape, a fake campaign speech, two more beautiful women, a plane crash … and that’s just the first part! The local production runs May 2nd -18th on Fridays though Sundays at Sea Glass Stage at Coligny Theatre, 1 N. Forest Beach Drive on Hilton Head Island. Shows are 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $35 adult, $20 student. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit sgstage.org/tickets.
Dough Boys Pizza A Taste of the Old Country is at
A Taste of Europe on Hilton Head Island
1 New Orleans Rd 843-686-2697
May is for MOMS
$5
Off OFF
Lg Pizza
Is your Musical Theatre student craving something ‘more’?
Lunch Special Pasta with Your Choice of Sauce & Ceasar Salad
$12.99
Valid Mon-Fri 12 noon – 3pm, dine in only.
$5 Off Next Large Pizza. One Coupon per Guest. Must Meet Delivery Minimum. Up to 4 Pies.
Authentic Eastern European Cuisine
A Taste of Europe
Northridge Plaza (Near the Cinema) 435 William Hilton Pkwy Ste O, Hilton Head Island (843) 715-2691 • Tasteofeuropehhi.com
Closed Mon & Sun Lunch and Dinner Tue, Thu & Fri • Dinner Wed, Sat
Dine In, Take Out & Delivery DoughBoysHHI.com Expires 6/04/25
Must Present Coupon
1203B Main Street Hilton Head Island
(843) 342-3059
JUNIOR
July 1st - July 5th Rising Grades 5 - 7
10am to 6pm - Seahawk Cultural Center
Hit Middle School Intensive featuring award-winning guest staff from SSTI! Register Now for five days of song, dance, and memories, with the same professionals that produce SSTI’s HIT season!
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
43A
THURSDAYS ONLY • 12 - 4PM
Old Town Bluffton • Boundary Street www.farmersmarketbluffton.org
AT E HE OURS T TH H BEE MMER SU LY, NEW , JU
E JUN UGUST & A - 2PM 10AM
68 Boundary Street, Martin Family Park BEET THE HEAT NEW SUMMER HOURS JUNE, JULY, & AUGUST
ENJOY LIVE MUSIC & SEATING AT THE HEYWARD HOUSE A Nonprofit Organization Serving Our Community With Pride
•Food! •Gifts •Art! •Dine! •Shop! •Fun! •Galleries and More!
Register to win in our Grand Art Giveaway
Hide and Seek by Sue Grilli Sign up at La Petite Gallerie in April and May for the chance to win this charming painting!
Adjacent to “The Store” 56 Calhoun Street lapetitegallerie.com
6 CHURCH STREET • OLD TOWN BLUFFTON SOBAGALLERY.COM
Hours 10am-4pm Mon thru Sat
44A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
TRIPLE FELLOWSHIP TRAINED PLASTIC SURGEON SPECIALIZING IN EYELID SURGERY FACELIFT BREAST ENHANCEMENT
PEP celebrates 30 years
Mathew Epps MD, MS, DABS Jane Epps RN, BSN BOTOX XEOMIN DERMAL FILLERS ERBIUM SKIN RESURFACING RF MICRONEEDLING MEDICAL GRADE SKINCARE HYDRAFACIAL LASER HAIR REMOVAL PRP CHEMICAL SKIN PEELS IPL & MORE
MATHEW EPPS MD
FACE
PLASTIC SURGERY
MEDICAL SPA
AESTHETICS
BY APPOINTMENT (843) 707-7060 MATHEWEPPSMD.COM 29 PLANTATION PARK DR SUITE 302 BLUFFTON, SC 29910
In 1995, six local families gathered around a table in Hilton Head with a shared concern: what would the future hold for their adult children with intellectual and developmental disabilities? These young adults had completed their formal education, yet meaningful employment or community engagement seemed out of reach. There were no programs or services available in Bluffton or Hilton Head at the time to support them. What started as a conversation among concerned parents quickly grew into a movement. One of the founding members, Mary Greene, recalled driving back and forth to Columbia to meet with lawmakers, determined to spark change. Through passion, persistence, and grassroots organizing, the families formally established a nonprofit organization—Programs for Exceptional People, known today simply as PEP. With an initial grant from the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, PEP opened its doors and began offering day programming designed to support adults with intellectual disabilities. Over the years, the organization earned accreditation as a service provider and is now licensed by the South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs (DDSN). From those humble beginnings, PEP has grown into a thriving center of learning, creativity, and connection. Today, nearly 90 members participate in a wide array of enriching programs, including life skills, literacy, music, pottery, exercise, robotics, gardening, cooking, and more.
PEP also provides employment opportunities so members can earn a paycheck. Everyday a PEP van picks them up from home and drops them back in the afternoon, freeing up caregiver time and schedules. The organization’s focus remains on fostering independence, community inclusion, and personal growth for every individual it serves. “PEP has always been about recognizing the talents and potential of people with disabilities,” said Executive Director Nancy Sulek. “For 30 years, we’ve been providing a place where our members can grow, learn, and be celebrated for who they are.” To commemorate this milestone, PEP is hosting a 30th anniversary celebration—Big Band, Big Hearts—on Sunday, May 18th at The Jazz Corner on Hilton Head Island. This afternoon will feature a live performance by the beloved DeasGuyz band, whose high-energy mix of Motown, R&B, Pop and more is sure to bring the crowd to its feet. “It’s not just a celebration of PEP’s history,” said Sulek, “It’s a tribute to the families, staff, supporters, and—most of all—our amazing members who continue to shape this organization and our community.” Seating is limited for this special event, and tickets are available at pephhi.org. As PEP marks three decades of service, its mission remains as vital as ever: to empower adults with intellectual disabilities to lead meaningful, connected, and joyful lives.
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
45A
46A
The Hilton Head Sun
DON’T LET SNORING OR CPAP STRUGGLES KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT WE HAVE SOLUTIONS FOR YOU!
May 7, 2025
How to make skin tighter and more youthful in appearance By Dr. Ronald Finger Contributor
Struggling with your CPAP? We offer custom-fit oral appliances as a non-CPAP therapy for your snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. In Network with Medicare, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and TriCare Insurance.
CALL US TO LEARN MORE!
DANA BLALOCK, D.D.S. • JORDAN HENKE, D.D.S. NEW LOCATION 29 Plantation Park Drive, #117, Bluffton, SC 29910 • 843-494-5004 1022 Physicians Dr. #B, Charleston, SC 29414 Fax 866-462-0121 for Physician Referrals
843-494-5004 | www.sleepbettersc.com
What happens to make us look older? Age spots and fine lines begin to appear, the glow is lost, and the shape of the lower face changes. A youthful face is full and more DR. RONALD FINGER oval with no shadows under the eyes, no tear troughs, Marionette lines, hollow cheeks, etc. Faces change from a U-shape to a square because volume is reduced from both fat and bone loss. Aged skin becomes thinner as collagen and elastin diminish resulting in sagging. We end up with too much skin for the underlying volume. This is easily seen with the lines, hollowness under the eyes, jowls, and loose skin in the neck. Frown lines appear, smile lines get deeper from the sagging cheeks, the upper lip gets longer between the nose and the vermillion (the red part of the lips), and more. Getting older while eating cleaner, at least some exercising, and staying healthy is great, but age eventually shows. What can we do about aging skin and appearance? Certainly, surgery is one option. However, the non-surgical treatments have made tremendous advancements in the last few years. How do we tighten or remove skin without surgery? It requires either a specific amount of heat and/or removal of micro-columns of skin with devises designed to do just that: Lasers: The most advanced lasers that I am familiar with are the Helix and UltraClear lasers. The Helix is a CO2 laser which is both ablative (eliminates) and non-ablative, according to the power settings
chosen. With ablative lasers, micro-columns of skin go up in a plum, removed with a smoke evacuator. One setting is for the deep dermis (D wave) and another for the epidermis called “Cool peel.” The D wave will tighten skin more effectively, but recovery is longer. The 1570 wave is a non-ablative setting, which heats the skin in between the epidermis and deep dermis, shrinking the skin. Any one or all three waves can be used at the same time. The “Cool peel” recovery is very fast and is usually done in a series of 4-6. UltraClear is ablative and truly the latest concept in my opinion. It is a cool laser beam having less discomfort, but seems to do more with skin tightening, removing age spots, fine wrinkles, and certain capillaries. The most superficial setting is called “3D Miracle.” These lasers can be done using topical anesthesia. Another devise, the Ellacor, removes micro-cores mechanically and can remove up to 8% of the skin. Done twice, 16% of skin removed, etc. leaving no scars because of the small core size. Many patients choose to purchase a package of three, with each session tightening more skin. Recovery is 3-4 days before covering with special makeup. Finally, a VirtualRF (radiowave)--a micro-needling devise creates tighter skin with heat and diminishes localized areas of fat, such as the lower eyelid bags, cheek fat pads, and jowls, plus body parts such as arms, knees and abdomen. Recovery time is minimal, and it can be used simultaneously with the Helix or UltraClear lasers for fat reduction and skin tightening. Combinations are often the best way to reach one’s goals. Dr. Ronald Finger, MD, FACS is a board-certified plastic surgeon with offices in Savannah and Bluffton. fingerandassociates.com
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
47A
48A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
11 Beaufort County fishing guides earn high marks in Angler’s Choice Awards By Sasha Sweeney Editor 11 Beaufort County fishing guides are reeling in praise this spring, having earned the coveted Angler’s Choice Award from FishingBooker, the world’s largest platform for booking fishing trips. Beaufort County played a prominent role in SC’s strong showing, with 11 of the State’s 45 award-winning captains. Hilton Head Island alone is home to nine of the winners, with Bluffton and St. Helena Island contributing one each.
Local award recipients include:
• Bluffton: Bill Kendrick (Sonrise Fishing Charters) • Hilton Head Island: Buddy “Captain Buddy” Brinkley (Captain Buddy’s Outdoor Adventures), Jack Crouch (Reel Easy Charters – Get Hooked!), Allick Inglis (Captain Allick’s Fishing Charters), Jennifer Klippel (Drifter Excursions – Boomerang 2), David Peterson (Above & Below Charters), Andrew Roberson (Still Playin Char-
ters), Craig Ryan (Gone Fishing Charters), David Spahr (Carolina Rig), Rodney Summers (Southern Summers Charters) • St. Helena Island: Patrick Kelly (Boogie Man Fishing Charters LLC) To qualify for the Angler’s Choice Award, captains must meet rigorous standards over the course of a year, including maintaining a 4.8+ out of 5-star average from at least 10 verified reviews, a 98% reliability and response rate, and full business verification. Since 2015, FishingBooker has recognized outstanding fishing guides across the globe, with this year’s list spotlighting just 7.7% of the 8,732 captains on the platform. South Carolina, with 45 winners, ranked fifth nationwide by share of award-winning captains, with 16% of its 285 registered guides taking home the honor—more than double the national average. FishingBooker, founded in 2013, connects anglers to more than 50,000 fishing trips in over 2,370 destinations worldwide. For a full list of 2024 Angler’s Choice Award winners and state rankings, visit FishingBooker.com
Captain Buddy
---------------------
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
49A
HOME OFFICE SOFAS
SLEEPERS RECLINERS
Est.1996
WE HAVE IT ALL! CHAIRS • DINING TABLES ACCESSORIES • SECTIONALS
I@ Sofas I t -· i ,__ -J I I@ Bedroom Sets I i·-,;. I I@ TV Consoles
@ Custom Orders
II
@ Sectionals @ Recliners 1c-1
IJF-
@ Dining Sets
"'-
�
, � �fJ @ Sleeper - Sofas
Ii ,..�
I 'fr[--i l I�
WE ARE NOW OPEN Bring Comfort Outdoors
12 Sheridan Park Circle, Suite A, Bluffton SC 843-949-3132
@ Mattresses 12 SHERIDAN PARK, BLUFFTON
843-815-5080
FURNITUREOUTLETOFBLUFFTON.COM
50A
The Hilton Head Sun
LISTEN UP!
By Ryan Chowansky Contributor Everyone thinks success comes from being louder. From “convincing faster” to “talking people into things.” Slick talking and postured walking, that is not the way! From what I have seen, the people RYAN CHOWANSKY who win the most are the ones who listen better than anyone else. Early on in my radio career, I thought being the smartest person in the room meant having all the answers and being the first with ideas. I would walk into creative meetings ready to pitch big ideas. Ready to impress and ready to win the “big wacky idea of the day” contest (that didn’t even exist). What I did not realize was something so very simple. Every time I talked too much, I was just showing how
little I listened to what the assignment truly was. The real winners in life are the ones who ask the first questions. They seek to understand. They ask follow-up questions and listen to the answers and take in information. They are empathetic to another view. They digest it with the best information they have, then, only after that, do they start to speak. And when they speak, people actually cared about what was said. The moment I learned this, everything changed. It went from “The Ryan Show” to an interview about the other person. I stopped trying to win conversations. I started trying to learn everything I could about the person sitting across from me. I realized everyone has a story. I listened, not just to the words, but to the emotions underneath them. I listened for the problem they were afraid to say out loud. I listened for the thing that would never show up on a spreadsheet, but was driving every decision they were making. I became obsessed with the qualitative data over quantitative.
May 7, 2025
When you do that, people open up. They lead you to ask questions, so they can tell you what they really want to tell you, without having to flat out tell you. But you need to listen for that cue, or else you won’t find out the best part of the story they’re actually trying to tell you. They tell you what they fear. They tell you what they want. They tell you what they are willing to fight for. And when you understand that you can build relationships and solutions that matter. Not guesses. Not blanket statements. Not cookie-cutter offers. Real solutions. Real relationships. Real wins. If you stop trying to convince people and you start helping them, get what they want, they will trust you forever because of it. Even if they don’t tell you or admit it. Zig Ziglar said, “You can get everything in life you want, if you will just help enough other people get what they want.” As a former on-air radio morning show producer, emcee and guy who even talks to himself too much, I learned listening is the ultimate cheat code in effectively
New Furniture Arriving Weekly In-Stock Furniture Available For Delivery
talking with others. Even with yourself ! Listen to your mind chatter, listen to your heart (great song), listen to your emotions because they are telling you a story. Listening gives you clarity no one else can have if they just flap their gums and are only waiting for their turn to say what’s on their mind. Listening builds trust faster than any “sales trick” or “relationship hack” you could ever learn. It separates you from ninety-nine percent of the people out there running their mouths without a clue. Most people are so desperate to be heard they never realize the real power comes from hearing and listening others, first. You want to win more deals, have deeper relationships, and grow your network? Listen up. Understand first. Speak second. That is how real relationships are Built With Integrity. Ryan Chowansky is the owner of Bluffton Builders, LLC, www.bluffton.builders.
Visit Virtual Showroom
Visit Our Showroom Today And Experience The Quality Of Flexsteel. Recliners • Sofas • Sleepers • Sectionals Home Office • Bedroom • Dining
@
843.837.4000 Mon - Sat 10 - 6 • Sun 1 - 5 1569 Fording Island Rd (HWY 278) Bluffton • MCVFurniture.com
Locally Owned & d! Operate
The Henry Collection Is The Perfect Fit.
Visit Our Showroom Today.
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
51A
Maintaining mental health after big events By Alex Barry Contributor Life is full of significant moments that leave us exhilarated— celebrations, milestones, or achievements that feel larger than life. Yet, once the spotlights dim and the event concludes, ALEX BARRY many people experience a sudden emotional void, often referred to as the “post-event blues.” This transition can be challenging but understanding and addressing these feelings are essential steps in safeguarding your mental health. With the 2025 RBC Heritage behind us, and graduation and wedding season upon us, lets explore practical strategies to help you regain balance and navigate the aftermath of a big event. 1. Understanding the post-event blues Big events often come with a buildup
of excitement and focus. When they’re over, you might feel a sense of loss or emptiness, sometimes called the “postevent blues.” This happens because your brain has been flooded with dopamine—the “feel-good” hormone— during the preparation and execution of the event. Once the event ends, dopamine levels drop, and you might feel a void. Recognizing this as a normal emotional response is an essential first step. It’s okay to feel a little “off” and give yourself permission to process those feelings. 2. Refocusing goals and energy After the big moment passes, your sense of purpose might need a reboot. This is the perfect opportunity to set new goals. Start small—choose something you’ve always wanted to try but haven’t yet, like learning to play an instrument, volunteering, or embarking on a fitness journey. Long-term goals, such as career milestones or personal growth aspirations, can also provide direction. The key is to focus on meaningful activities that reignite your sense of motivation and
accomplishment. 3. Practicing gratitude Reflecting on the good moments of the event can shift your focus from “It’s over” to “What wonderful memories I made.” Use tools like journaling to write about the experience, what you enjoyed most, and what you learned. Even small gestures, like saying thank you to those who made the event special, can elevate your mood. Practicing gratitude not only helps preserve the joy of the event but also increases your overall sense of well-being. 4. Maintaining healthy routines Major events can sometimes disrupt your regular habits. Afterward, returning to stable routines—like consistent sleep, nutritious meals, and exercise— can help ground you. Physical activity is especially beneficial, as it boosts endorphins, another feel-good hormone. Even gentle forms of movement, like yoga or walking outdoors, can help restore a sense of balance. 5. Seeking connection It’s easy to feel isolated once the spotlight fades, but reaching out to friends,
Hilton Head’s Only Public Par 3 Golf Course & Nine Hole Disc Golf Course On-Site Full Practice Facility including Driving Range!
family, or support networks can bridge that gap. Share your thoughts and feelings with someone you trust; you might find that they’ve experienced similar emotions after their own major events. If the emptiness lingers, talking to a counselor or therapist can be a valuable way to process your emotions and develop coping strategies. 6. Creating joyful anticipation Planning small, enjoyable moments can help you reintroduce excitement into your life. These could be anything from organizing a movie night to planning a day trip or starting a new creative project. These don’t need to replicate the scale of the big event; they’re about creating little sparks of happiness to look forward to. 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.
Experience affordable golf on the Island with the only par-3 course – perfect for instruction, children, and senior play. Driving range, putting green, and disc golf course, open to everyone. $10 donation for adults, $5 donation for kids – all you can play. You don’t need to bring clubs – the pros at the First Tee will lend you a set at no charge!
OPEN TO EVERYONE 7 DAYS A WEEK
CLASSES OFFERED YEAR ROUND, AGES 7-17 9am-5pm Monday-Friday 10am-3pm Weekends 151 Gumtree Road Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 843.686.2680 FirstTeeLowcountry.org
52A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
Lowcountry Alliance for Healthy Youth try Alliance for Healthy Youth Lowcountry Alliance for Healthy YouthPositive "Uniting the Community to Promote Choices" Lowcountry Alliance for Healthy Youth the Community to Promote Positive Choices" Community to"Uniting Promote Positive Choices"
Health and wellness After 70: staying active, "Uniting the Community to for Promote Positive Choices" Lowcountry Alliance Healthy Youth Join usus as as a sponsor or or participant of the Annual Lowcountry Alliance for Healthy Youth Join a sponsor Community to Promote Positive Choices" TITLE SPONSOR May Day 5K—where every step supports youth Join"Uniting us asLowcountry a the sponsor or participant ofTITLE the Annual SPONSOR engaged, and vibrant participant of the Annual Alliance for Healthy Youth Lowcountry Alliance for Healthy Youth Join us as a sponsor or participant of the Annual and builds a healthier, stronger community! Join us as a sponsor or participant of the Annual May Day 5K—where every step supports youth "Uniting the Community to Promote Positive Choices" and builds a healthier, stronger community!
the to Promote Positive "Uniting theCommunity Community to Promote PositiveChoices" Choices" May Day"Uniting 5K—where every step supports youth By Matt Uppenbrink May Day 5K—where TITLE SPONSOR Joinevery us as aofsponsor or participant Join us Day as aTitle sponsor or participant the Annual May 5K—where every step supports youth of the Annual TITLE SPONSOR Sponsor: Contributor Lowcountry Alliance for Healthy Youth May Day 5K—where every step supports youth step supports youth and TITLE SPONSOR and builds a healthier, stronger community! Join us as aYouth or participant of May Day 5K—where every step supports youth Title Sponsor: Lowcountry Alliance for Healthy Youth TITLE SPONSOR Join usbuilds as asponsor sponsor or participant ofthe theAnnual Annual Lowcountry Alliance for Healthy Lowcountry Alliance for Healthy Youth and atohealthier, stronger community! As the Lowcountry’s population grows "Uniting the Community Promote Positive Choices" and builds a healthier, stronger community! builds ahealthier, healthier, stronger "Uniting the Community to Promote Positive Choices" May Day 5K—where every step supports youth "Uniting the Community Community to Promote Positive Choices" TITLE SPONSOR May Day 5K—where every step supports youth older, the focus on thriving—not just sur"Uniting the to Promote Positive Choices" SPONSOR and builds aTITLE stronger community! owcountry Alliance forTitle Healthy Youth viving—into our 70s and beyond is more and builds aahealthier, stronger community! and builds healthier, stronger community! Sponsor: Title Sponsor: Join us sponsor orcommunity! participant of the Annual Join us as a sponsor or participant ofas theaAnnual
24
Title Sponsor:
May 2025
In-Kind Sponsors: niting the Community to Promote Positive JoinChoices" usas asaasponsor sponsor orparticipant participantof ofthe theAnnual Annual relevant than ever. Research from the NaJoin us or May Day 5K—where every step supports May Day 5K—where every step supports youth TITLE SPONSOR tionalyouth Institute on Aging shows that stayTITLE SPONSOR Title Sponsor: MayDay Day 5K—where every stepsupports supportsyouth youth Title Sponsor: TITLE SPONSOR every step TITLE SPONSOR and builds aMay healthier,5K—where stronger community! ing active can significantly improve both and builds a healthier, stronger community! Join us as a sponsor or participant the Annual andbuilds buildsaof ahealthier, healthier, stronger community! In-Kind Sponsors: quality of life and independence (National and stronger community! Title Sponsor: May Day 5K—where every step supports youth Institute on Aging, 2023). TITLE SPONSOR 8am -10am Title Sponsor: In-Kind Sponsors: Title Sponsor: Sponsor: Title and builds a healthier, stronger community!
Title Sponsor:
May May 2025 Bluffton 24 Sponsors: In-Kind Sponsors: 2025 In-Kind Sponsors: Martin Family ParkIn-Kind May May Title Sponsor: May May 8am2025 -10am May 24 24 8am -10am 2025 Lowcountry Alliance for Healthy Youth 24 2025 2025 2025 May May Bluffton Bluffton 8am -10am 8am -10am
24 24 24
In-Kind Sponsors: In-Kind Sponsors: Gold Sponsors:
Movement Matters
“The biggest mistake I see is seniors believing it’s too late to start exercising,” 68 Boundary St. said Dr. Eleanor Richards, a geriatric Bluffton, SC 29910 In-Kind Sponsors: In-Kind Sponsors: Sponsors: In-Kind medicine specialist at Columbia Universi"Uniting the Community to Promote Positive Choices" ty Medical Center. “Beginning a gentle interested in 8amNot -10am butSponsors: consistent routine at any age yields Gold Gold Sponsors: Martin Family Park Sponsoring? Sign up to In-Kind Join Sponsors: us as a sponsor or participant of the Annual tremendous benefits” (Richards, 2024). Bluffton Bluffton Bluffton Silver Sponsors: run! May Day 5K—where every step supports youth Experts recommend focusing on four TITLE SPONSOR 68 Boundary St. Gold Sponsors: Gold Sponsors: 8am -10am Gold Sponsors: Andrew Rice Golf 68 Boundary St. Ocean Woods Landscaping Martin Family 8am -10am Martin Family Park Martin FamilyPark Park Bluffton, SC 29910 components of fitness for those over 70: and builds a healthier, stronger Harwal International Inc. RA Dextraze andcommunity! Associates Insurance Bluffton, SC 29910 Loretta C. Novince, PhD The Behavioral Wellness Group • Strength training preserves muscle SCAN TO PARTICIPATE 68 Boundary St. 68 Boundary St. Bluffton TobinSponsors: Bone & Joint Surgery 68 Boundary St. Bluffton Gold Bluffton Title Sponsor: mass, which naturally declines with Bluffton, SCIN 29910 Not interested in RACE! Gold Sponsors: Sponsors: Bluffton, SC Gold Gold Sponsors: Gold Bluffton, SC29910 29910 *sponsors not yet finalized Martin Family Park Gold Sponsors: Sponsors: Martin Family Park age. Light weights or resistance bands Martin Family Park Not interested in Sponsoring? Sign up to Not Boundary interested inSt. two to three times a week can be effec68 68 Boundary St. Scan to learn more about Silvertive Sponsors: 68Sign Boundary Not interested in run! Not interested in up to Sponsoring? Sign up to 68St. Boundary St. tonSponsoring? (Journal of Geriatric Physical 68 Boundary St. Bluffton, SC 29910 29910 Bluffton, SC 29910 Bluffton, SC Andrew Rice Golf Ocean Woods Landscaping how you can become a Silver Sponsors: Bluffton, SC 29910 Gold Sponsors: Therapy, 2024). Sponsoring? Sign up to run! Sponsoring? Sign up to mily Park Harwal International Inc. Silver Sponsors: RA Dextraze and Associates Insurance run! In-Kind Sponsors: Bluffton, SC 29910 Andrew Rice Golf Ocean Landscaping sponsor and theWoods different exercises help prevent falls, Loretta C. Novince, PhD • Balance The Behavioral Wellness Group SCAN TO PARTICIPATE Silver Sponsors: Silver Sponsors: run! Harwal International Inc. RA Dextraze and Associates Insurance Andrew Rice Golf Ocean Woods Landscaping run! in Not interested interested in Not Tobin Bone & Joint Surgery the leading cause of injury among Loretta C. Novince, PhD The Behavioral Wellness Group levels NotTO interested in SCAN PARTICIPATE ary St. Andrew Rice Golf Ocean Woods Landscaping Not interested in Andrew Rice Golf International Ocean Woods RA Landscaping Harwal Inc. Dextraze and Associates Insurance IN RACE! Tobin Bone & Joint Surgery Sponsoring? Sign up up to to *sponsors not yet finalized Harwal Inc. RARADextraze and Associates Insurance older adults, according to the Centers Sponsoring? Sign HarwalInternational International Inc. C 29910 SCAN Dextraze and Associates Insurance IN RACE!TO PARTICIPATE Loretta C. Novince, PhD The Behavioral Wellness Group not Sign yet finalizedup to Sponsoring? Not interested in *sponsors Loretta C.C.Novince, PhD Sponsoring? Sign up to The SCAN TO PARTICIPATE Loretta Novince, PhD TheBehavioral BehavioralWellness WellnessGroup Group For more information on sponsorships, email us at lcalliance4healthyyouth@gmail.com for Disease Control and Prevention SCAN TO PARTICIPATE Silver Sponsors: run! Silver Sponsors: Tobin Bone & Joint Surgery run! Tobin Bone & &Joint Tobin Bone JointSurgery 8am -10am Silver Sponsors: AndrewRice RiceGolf GolfSilverOcean Ocean Woods Landscaping IN RACE! 2023). Andrew Woods Landscaping Scan to Surgery learn more(CDC, about IN Sponsors: INRACE! RACE! run! ested in Scan to*Donations learn more about ponsoring? Sign up torun! Andrew Rice GolfGolf *sponsors not yet finalized are welcome. our *sponsors not yet finalized Harwal International Inc. Visit RA Dextraze andAssociates AssociatesInsurance Insurance *sponsors not yet finalized Harwal International Inc. RA Dextraze and Andrew Rice website. Ocean Woods Landscaping • F lexibility work, such as stretching or Scan here to learn Andrew RicePhD Golf Ocean Woods Landscaping how you can become a Loretta C. Novince, PhD TheBehavioral Behavioral Wellness Group SCANBluffton TO PARTICIPATE how you can become aNovince, Loretta C. The Group Harwal International Inc.Wellness RA Dextraze and Associates Insurance SCAN TO Sign up to Harwal International Inc. morePARTICIPATE about LCAHY chair yoga, maintains range of motion WWW.LCAHEALTHY YOUTH.COM Silver Sponsors: Tobin Bone & Joint Surgery Harwal International Inc. run! RA Dextraze and Associates Insurance Tobin Bone & Joint Surgery Gold Sponsors: Loretta C. Novince, PhD The and Behavioral Wellness Group TO PARTICIPATE sponsor and the different sponsor the different Family INSCAN RACE!Park Silver Sponsors: Scan to learn more about IN RACE! and reduces stiffness (National InstiSilver Sponsors: Scan to learn more n!SCANMartin C.PhD Novince, PhD Scan to learn more about Loretta C.Loretta Novince, The Behavioral Wellness *sponsorsnot notyet yet finalized Tobin Bone &Group Joint Surgery TO PARTICIPATE Andrew Rice Golfabout Ocean Woods Landscaping *sponsors finalized levels IN Rice RACE! levels tute on Aging, 2023). Rice Golf Golf Ocean Woods Landscaping Andrew Ocean Woods Landscaping how you can become Tobin Bone & Joint 68 Boundary St.Andrew howHarwal you can become International Inc.aabecome *sponsors notWoods yet finalized RA Dextraze and Associates Insurance Ocean Landscaping how you can a Surgery Harwal International Inc. RA Dextraze and Associates Insurance IN RACE! • Cardiovascular activity supports Bluffton, SC 29910 Harwal International Inc. RA Dextraze and Associates Insurance For more information on sponsorships, email us at lcalliance4healthyyouth@gmail.com Scan to learn more about Loretta C. Novince, PhD The Behavioral Wellness Group sponsor and the different *sponsors not yet finalized Loretta C. Novince, PhD Scan to learn more about The Behavioral Wellness Group CAN TO PARTICIPATE sponsor and the different RTICIPATE RA Dextraze and Associates Insurance heart and brain health. Walking is For more information on sponsorships, email us at lcalliance4healthyyouth@gmail.com sponsor the different Loretta C. Novince, PhD Behavioral Group TobinThe Bone & Joint SurgeryWellness Tobin Bone & Joint Surgery how you can become Scan toand learn about levels how you can become aa more simple and effective, water aerobics levels *Donations are welcome. Visit our website. CE! Not interested in The Behavioral Wellness Group IN RACE! Tobin Bone & Joint Surgery not yet finalized Scan here*sponsors to learn *Donations Visit our website. levels offers a low-impact option (CDC, 2023). sponsor and the different *sponsors notto yetand finalized how you can become aare welcome. sponsor the different Sponsoring? Sign up to more about LCAHY Scan learn more about In-Kind Sponsors:
24 24
Martin Family2025 Park 2025 8am -10am 8am -10am May
Bluffton 025Bluffton
8am -10am
Martin Family Park
0am Martin Family Park k
24 May 2025
o
WWW.LCAHEALTHY Tobin YOUTH.COM Bone & Joint Surgery levels sponsor and the WWW.LCAHEALTHY YOUTH.COM how you adifferent Scan to learn more about Andrew Rice Golfcan become Woods Landscaping Exercise for the Brain For more information on sponsorships, email usOcean at lcalliance4healthyyouth@gmail.com Harwal International Inc. RA Dextraze and Associates Insurance levels *Donations are welcome. Visit our website. *Donations are welcome. Visitabout our website. Scan to learn more how you on can become a C.us For more information onsponsorships, sponsorships, email us at lcalliance4healthyyouth@gmail.com Mental sharpness also benefits from information email at lcalliance4healthyyouth@gmail.com Loretta Novince, PhD the sponsor and Thedifferent Behavioral Wellness Group SCANFor TOmore PARTICIPATE Scan here toto learn Scan here learn Tobin Bone & Joint Surgery Scan to learn more about regular stimulation. “Novel learning cremore about LCAHY more about LCAHY WWW.LCAHEALTHY YOUTH.COM sponsor and the different *Donations welcome. WWW.LCAHEALTHY YOUTH.COM IN RACE! how you canare a Visit ourateswebsite. For more information sponsorships, email usbecome at lcalliance4healthyyouth@gmail.com levels *sponsors noton yet finalized *Donations are welcome. Visit our website. website. new neural pathways that offset *Donations are welcome. Visit our Scan here to learn levelsbecome a Scanhere here tolearn learn can how you Scan age-related brain changes,” said neuromoretoabout LCAHY
Scan here to learn more information us atatlcalliance4healthyyouth@gmail.com *sponsorsFor not yet finalized For more informationon onsponsorships, sponsorships,email email us lcalliance4healthyyouth@gmail.com Silver Sponsors: levels more about LCAHY run!
WWW.LCAHEALTHY YOUTH.COM
moreabout aboutLCAHY LCAHY sponsor and the different more WWW.LCAHEALTHY YOUTH.COM WWW.LCAHEALTHY areYOUTH.COM welcome. Visit our website. Scan to learn*Donations more about psychologist Dr. Martin Chen (NeurosciFor more information on sponsorships, email us at lcalliance4healthyyouth@gmail.com Scan here to learn different sponsor the formation on sponsorships, emailand us more at lcalliance4healthyyouth@gmail.com become a ence & Aging, 2024). levels about LCAHY how you can WWW.LCAHEALTHY YOUTH.COM Effective cognitive activities include sponsor and the different *Donations welcome. Visit our website. *Donations levels are welcome. Visit ourare website. learning new skills, playing strategy levels e to learn Scan here to learn For more information on sponsorships, email us at lcalliance4healthyyouth@gmail.com games, and participating in discussions or ut LCAHY more about LCAHY WWW.LCAHEALTHY YOUTH.COM creative arts. Social connection is also For more information on sponsorships, email us at lcalliance4healthyyouth@gmail.com sponsorships, email us at lcalliance4healthyyouth@gmail.com vital—Harvard’s long-running Study of *Donations are welcome. Visit our website. *Donations are welcome. Visit our website. Adult Development found strong social here to learn Scan hereScan to learn ties are key predictors of happiness and more about LCAHY are welcome. *Donations Visit our website. WWW.LCAHEALTHY YOUTH.COM more about LCAHY cognitive resilience.
WWW.LCAHEALTHY YOUTH.COM
WWW.LCAHEALTHY YOUTH.COM WWW.LCAHEALTHY YOUTH.COM
Building Emotional Resilience
“Emotional well-being after 70 often depends on adaptability,” said psychologist Dr. Amara Williams. “Those who can adjust expectations and find meaning amid life’s changes tend to fare better” (American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 2023). Helpful practices include: • Mindfulness meditation, which can reduce anxiety and improve sleep with just 15 minutes daily (University of Massachusetts Medical School, 2024). • Purpose-driven engagement, like mentoring or volunteering. • Staying connected to friends, family and community support networks.
Getting Started
“Start small and build gradually,” said physical therapist James Moreno. “Even five minutes of movement several times a day creates momentum” (Mayo Clinic, 2023). He recommends incorporating motion into daily tasks—standing while on the phone, taking the stairs, or parking farther from entrances.
Local Resources
The Lowcountry offers many tools for seniors looking to stay active: • Community and senior centers provide fitness classes like water aerobics and gentle strength training at reduced cost. • Libraries host discussion groups, book clubs and tech classes for older adults. • Senior living communities sometimes allow non-residents to attend events and classes. • Volunteer programs such as RSVP and Senior AmeriCorps offer purpose-filled opportunities for engagement. Thriving after 70 doesn’t mean turning back the clock. It’s about embracing a vibrant new chapter—physically, mentally and emotionally. Matt Uppenbrink, MS, is the Executive Director of The Seabrook of Hilton Head. Interested in learning more about The Seabrook of Hilton Head or if you would like to schedule a tour: https://www.theseabrook.com/ or call 843-842-3747.
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
53A
Alternatives to filling the nasolabial fold By Dr. Mathew T. Epps Contributor
As we age, we lose volume in our midface resulting in a deflation of the surrounding tissue. Volume loss leads to deflated skin that becomes prominent around tethered areas like the DR. MATHEW EPPS tear troughs, nasolabial fold, and marionette lines. Placement of dermal fillers injected into different areas of the face is a common strategy to restore volume and a youthful look. While it is common for individuals to seek filler injections to address the appearance of deep nasolabial folds, practitioners may opt for alternative methods to achieve more natural and harmonious results.
Choosing not to fill the nasolabial fold with dermal filler is a strategic approach taken by some practitioners, based on an understanding of facial anatomy and the potential risks with this practice. The nasolabial fold, a prominent facial feature that courses from the lip commissure to the nasal ala (piriform fossa), is formed by deep tightly bound fibrous tissue and muscular attachments and plays a crucial role in facial expressions. Injecting dermal filler directly into the nasolabial fold tends to create an unnatural contour to this area that has a “wormlike” appearance. Further, when dermal fillers are injected into this area, there is a risk of overcorrection or over-filling, leading to an unbalanced and distorted facial appearance. With time, the ligaments close to the filler create resistance and may cause the filler to migrate around the fold. This migration can result in visible irregularities and long-term dissatisfaction for the patient. A more sophisticated approach that
some practitioners adopt involves addressing the surrounding areas, such as the cheeks and the piriform fossa, to efface the nasolabial fold indirectly. By strategically volumizing these adjacent regions, the focus shifts from the fold itself to creating a harmonious facial balance. This technique aims to minimize the shadow created by the nostrils, which can accentuate the nasolabial fold’s appearance. Effacing the nasolabial fold by enhancing the cheeks and piriform fossa is often seen as a more balanced and nuanced strategy. It allows practitioners to restore volume and provide a lift to the mid-face, subtly reducing the prominence of the fold while maintaining a natural and attractive facial expression. This method also carries a lower risk of developing the unnatural, “overfilled” look and minimizes the likelihood of filler migration, thus offering a more sustainable and aesthetically pleasing result. If the fold remains prominent, then a pliable filler such as
Restylane Defyne and/or Refyne can be injected in a complex series of criss-crossing injections or fence-like pattern to soften the fold in a conservative manner where needed. While dermal fillers can be valuable tools in facial rejuvenation, understanding the intricacies of facial anatomy and taking a holistic approach to treatment is essential. Avoiding direct nasolabial fold filling in favor of addressing adjacent areas can yield more natural and long-lasting outcomes, ensuring patients maintain a youthful appearance without sacrificing facial balance and expression. By carefully considering the unique needs of each individual, practitioners can tailor their approach to achieve optimal results that stand the test of time. Mathew T. Epps MD, MS, DABS is Triple Fellowship Trained Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon Specializing in Facial, Eyelid, and Breast Surgery. Visit Matheweppsmd. com or contact info@dreppsmd.com
Take advantage of our FREE consultation to learn how 3M Window Films can increase the comfort and safety of your home.
12% OFF + 5% OFF Entire Purchase
3M WINDOW FILMS TM
INSTALLATIONS
843.341.6789
www.coastalinstallationsinc.com
Active Military + First Responders additional discount
Call us by June 11, 2025 to schedule to receive a $25 Frankie Bones Gift Card.
Now through June 27, 2025
Safety Films | Solar Films Privacy Films
Films for EVERY Budget 4 Reduce heat q 4 Eliminate glare q 4 Decrease fading q 4 Lower energy cost q
54A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
Real estate scams and how to protect yourself By Chip Collins Contributor The excitement of buying or selling a home can be quickly overshadowed by a growing threat— fraud. From fake property listings to sophisticated wire scams, fraudsters have found new ways to exploit the fastpaced nature of the CHIP COLLINS housing market. One of the most common issues encountered stems from inaccurate information or property details on major listing websites like Zillow. com and Realtor.com. While these platforms serve as a go-to resource for many buyers, they’re often lagging behind the primary source of information - the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Properties shown as for sale may already be under contract, or worse, sold and closed. In other instances, basic facts like square footage or bedroom
counts can be inaccurate. These sites aggregate data from thousands of MLS systems across the country in addition to other data sources. Due to their complexity, they can sometimes sacrifice precision due to demands on data-management. This can lead to buyers wasting valuable time as they rely on faulty or dated information. Beyond these data discrepancies lies a more insidious threat: fake listings. Scammers have increasingly targeted vacant land or undeveloped home sites. The scheme is simple but dangerous: a fraudster poses as the property owner, contacts an agent, and lists the land for sale. Because the property is vacant, there’s no need for an in-person meeting. The listing goes live, a buyer expresses interest, and sometimes, the deal goes as far as contract and closing proceeds before anyone realizes it’s a scam. In response, our local MLS has begun issuing fraud alerts to help agents spot suspicious listings—especially on vacant land. Beaufort County offers a free property monitoring service that alerts landowners to any changes or activity involving their parcels. If your county doesn’t
offer such a program, having a trusted local real estate professional keep tabs on your property can offer similar peace of mind. Then there’s wire fraud, a crime that hits hardest when emotions are high and buyers are most vulnerable. Scammers monitor public or social media posts that mention upcoming home purchases. They launch phishing attacks to infiltrate email accounts involved in the transaction. Once inside, they mimic communication
from attorneys or agents and send fake wiring instructions at the exact moment funds are due. The result? Buyers unwittingly transfer large sums of money, often their entire down payment, to fraudulent accounts. It’s a devastating loss, and one that’s difficult to recover. To prevent this, reputable agents and brokers follow strict protocols. For example, never send wiring instructions. Instead, clients should go directly to the closing attorney and it is strongly encouraged making the phone call to the attorney, ensuring it’s a verified phone number, to confirm any wire information before sending funds. The golden rule? Trust, but verify. Don’t rely solely on third-party websites. Don’t click on links or act on wiring instructions without confirmation. And don’t assume a professional-sounding voice on the phone or a logo on an email means it’s legitimate. Chip Collins is the Broker-Owner of Collins Group Realty founded in 2002. Find Chip at chip@collinsgrouprealty.com or collinsgrouprealty.com
Simple and Elegant Financial Freedom
Daniel Guerrini, CFP® Wealth Manager
Amy Allen, Client Relationship Coordinator
Thomas M. Dowling, CFA, CFP®, CIMA® Head of Wealth Management
We help successful business owners and affluent families make good decisions with their wealth:
INVESTMENT CONSULTING | WEALTH ENHANCEMENT | WEALTH PROTECTION WEALTH TRANSFER | CHARITABLE GIVING
The Village at Wexford Hilton Head Island 843.420.1993 infohh@allianceg.com agplowcountry.com
linmarconsultant@gmail.com • www.linmarconsultants.com linmarconsultant@gmail.com • www.linmarconsultants.com
linmarconsultant@gmail.com • www.linmarconsultants.com linmarconsultant@gmail.com • www.linmarconsultants.com linmarconsultant@gmail.com • www.linmarconsultants.com linmarconsultant@gmail.com • www.linmarconsultants.com
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
55A
Nature’s Way The more things change, the more they stay the same By Collins Doughtie Contributor I was at a friend’s house the other day and one of the old-timers from Hilton Head Island who was also there pulled me aside. In his hand was a copy of the “Sea Pines News” from July 1968. He said he had been cleaning up around his house when he came across a handful of these relics from the early days of Sea Pines. He had tabbed a page in the newsletter and told me I should read the story. Not thinking much about it, I took the booklet home. It wasn’t until the next day that I turned to the page he had marked and began reading. The story had a picture of this goofy-looking kid sitting on the edge of a lagoon with a bucket beside him and a fishing rod in his hand. At first it didn’t dawn on me who that kid was until I read the first sentence: “Fourteen-year-old Collins Doughtie was at his usual post with his usual equipment doing the same old usual thing.” All I could think at that point was that really me? Did I really look that goofy? And look at those skinny legs! The story continued: “There he sat, opposite the Lake House, with his feet dangling in the water. Two spectators – a well tanned Chris Depkin and a scaly-backed alligator – watched in silence as Collins did what he does best. And what, pray tell, is that? “Well, Collins is probably the Sea Pines champion when it comes to tossing out a string with a dead shrimp attached and reeling in prize-winning channel bass.” I’ll stop there for any of you who don’t
know what a channel bass is. A channel bass is what was later called a “spot-tail bass,” and then the name was changed to “redfish.” It’s sort of name evolution that changed as these great fighting fish became more popular over the past 50 years. Also, to clarify the “dead shrimp” part of the story – that wasn’t at all what I was using. Even way back then, I had a secret bait that I never, ever divulged to anyone. That bait was an entire blue crab with its shell and legs removed. The story went on: “ ‘No one else seems
to know how to catch them,’ Collins said rather lackadaisically. Then, as a second thought, he added, ‘That’s a good thing…’ “Several minutes before our conversation he had landed one that would have weighed, oh, probably 13 or 14 pounds. A little knot of golfers quickly gathered and were gesturing wildly to each other with disbelieving eyes and out-stretched hands. “Collins shrugged his shoulders, unhooking the squirming fish and calmly tossing him back into the deeps. ‘I like to hook ’em and let them fight awhile and
then put ’em back,’ he said with a matter-of-factly manner. “He did, however, keep one of his most recent catches. This was a 24 pounder which measured 43 inches. This one will be mounted and will grace the wall at the Sea Pines Ocean Course pro shop. “Ho-hum, Collins Doughtie has done it again. So what else is new?” Time has a way of dulling memories but as I read that story it all came back like it was last week. I remember sitting there, legs crossed, waiting for the slack in my fishing line to start straightening out as a big “channel bass” took the bait and started running off with it. I also remember the golfers stopping play and watching, no doubt tying up all those behind them waiting to tee off. It was also nice to know I practiced “catch and release” before the practice became popular. But the part that really got me was how little I have changed since I was 14. Why would I say something like that, considering I am covered with age spots and what little hair I have is now gray? It’s because I went fishing in Sea Pines just last week, used the same “secret bait” and hauled out a 45-inch-long channel bass. And yes, I had quite the gathering of golfers that stopped play to watch me catch that fish – much to the chagrin of those behind them! Collins Doughtie is a 60-year resident of the Lowcountry, is a sportsman, graphic artist, and lover of nature. collinsdoughtie@icloud.com. This column previously ran May, 2022.
56A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
Camping safety By Cinda Seamon Contributor Lots of families will be going camping this summer for their vacation. Here are a few tips to keep your trip fun and safe. Plan ahead for your park or camping visit. Many parks offer a lot to do, so when you plan your trip make sure they offer activities that are right for your family. Is your group one that likes to watch birds and enjoy easy hiking or is your group more adventurous and wants to go whitewater rafting or mountain climbing? Injuries occur when you push your group beyond their physical abilities. Consider your setting – is it a beach, a desert or a forest? What will the temperature be like? Is the campsite accessible or will you have to hike to get there? Do you know how much to pack based on the length of time you are planning on staying? Will you be staying in a cabin or a tent? Are their showers and restrooms easily accessible? One of the worst things is forgetting essentials like a raincoat or camp stove. Make a packing list and double check it to
see that nothing is left behind. Before your trip, look at the “plan your visit” section on the park’s website. This will include food storage and disposal requirements, fire regulations, pet rules, etc. Pack your food properly in tight, waterproof containers and store in an insulated cooler. The last thing you want is anyone getting sick from contaminated food. Keep an eye on the weather before your trip and don’t forget the sunscreen – remember you can burn on both sunny and cloudy days. Fires within your campground should be at least 15 feet from tents, shrubs and trees. Keep your fire small and contained in a designated area like a fire pit. Never leave a fire unattended and keep a water bucket nearby. Make sure the fire is out before going to sleep. Prepare for the unexpected. With children, emphasize staying together and carry a whistle. Use the buddy system and make sure everyone is physically capable of participating before setting out on an adventure. Write your campsite number on their hand, or on a sticker in-
The trusted choice for The trusted choice for The trusted choice The trusted choice for inpatient rehabilitation The trusted choice forfor inpatient rehabilitation inpatient rehabilitation inpatient Encompass Health isrehabilitation inpatient rehabilitation the largest system of Encompass Health is Encompass Health rehabilitation Encompass Health Encompass Health is isis the largest system of hospitals, trusted by the largest system the system of ofof rehabilitation thelargest largest system patients, caregivers and rehabilitation rehabilitation hospitals, trusted by rehabilitation medical professionals. hospitals, trusted hospitals, trusted byby patients, caregivers hospitals, trustedand by patients, caregivers and patients, caregivers and medical professionals. We are proud to patients, caregiverssupport and medical professionals. medical the professionals. American Heart We are proud to support medical professionals. Association’s Heart Ball. We are proud the American Heart We are proudtotosupport support the Heart Association’s Heart WeAmerican are proud to Ball. support the American Heart Association’s Heart Ball. the American Heart
Association’s Heart Ball.
Association’s Heart Ball.
©2025:Encompass Health Corporation:W203400_AHA
©2025:Encompass Health Corporation:W203400_AHA ©2025:Encompass Health Corporation:W203400_AHA
side their shirt sleeve. That way they can quickly find their campsite number. Kids should keep their shoes on at all times. They can slip, step on a poisonous spider or a sharp rock. Teach your kids about poisonous plants and what they look like. Review animal safety with them.
Safety should always come first because it only takes one mishap for your trip to be ruined. Cinda Seamon is the Community Risk Reduction & Outreach Program Coordinator for Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue.
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
Experience the thrill of falconry By Rosemary Staples Contributor
Clocked at 242 mph, the peregrine falcon is the fastest bird on earth. Famous for its high-altitude “stoop” attack, the falcon hurls itself ROSEMARY STAPLES headlong into unsuspecting prey, striking with razor-sharp talons. Pigeons, shorebirds, waterfowl and ducks are its preference, but peregrines will attack almost anything, including hawks and pelicans. Widespread, fearless and easily trained, peregrines are considered ideal hunting partners. Falconry, the ancient practice of training birds of prey to hunt alongside humans, likely originated in the Middle East 4,000 years ago to supplement sparse desert diets. Americans were late to the falconry tradition, which gained interest in the 1920s. Fueled more by a passion for conservation and nature than for hunting, these early falconers often selected the migrating peregrine as their bird of choice. In fact, the word peregrine means “wanderer.” Peregrines migrate through the Lowcountry coastline each year. Come winter,
birdwatchers search for their sleek profiles and explosive dives that distinguish them from other raptors. In recent years, a peregrine has been routinely sighted atop a tower near the Hilton Head bridge, striking unwary birds for its morning feed. Last seen in early spring, it is expected to return this winter. However, you will not have to wait until December to see a peregrine. Steve Hein, a master falconer from Statesboro, Georgia, will bring his falcon to a special Hilton Head Audubon presentation on May 10th. Visitors will have the opportunity for an up-close look at this mighty hunter. In addition to his peregrine, Hein will bring a Siberian goshawk and a Harris’s hawk, native to the Southwest. A master falconer for 40 years, Hein introduces birders and aspiring falconers to hunting trips in rural Georgia during the winter. As the longtime director of the Georgia Southern Wildlife Center in Statesboro, he had the opportunity to train Georgia Southern University’s mascot, a bald eagle named Freedom. The eaglet, kicked out of his nest 20 years ago, suffered a beak injury that prevented him from surviving in the wild. Although his beak was damaged, Freedom’s ability to fly remained strong. Hein spent three years training him to serve as the GSU mascot, always rewarding him with meaty treats for a job well done. Since 2010, Freedom flew at hundreds
of football games, attended college commencement ceremonies, participated in TED Talks, and even rode in Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Fans often claimed Freedom loved Hein, but the falconer insisted, “I’m a trusted food source.” Still, observing the two together revealed an exceptional bond between falconer and eagle. Sadly, Freedom died this spring. Modern life remains hard on birds of prey. Habitat loss, car collisions, pesticides and power poles are among the daily hazards they face. By many estimates, half of all raptors do not survive their first year. Predators, sibling rivalry, parental loss or falls from the nest are major causes of early mortality. Through the combined efforts of dedicated falconers, volunteers and rehabilitation centers, threatened raptors can sometimes get a second chance to live their best birding life. Learn more about raptors and falconry with Master Falconer Steve Hein on Saturday, May 10th, from 1 to 3 p.m. at TidePointe on Palmetto Bay Road, Hilton Head Island. Register online at HiltonHeadAudubon.org. Rosemary Staples is a member of Hilton Head Audubon, long time Lowcountry resident, writer, speaker, storyteller and Master Naturalist.
Bluffton to host 10th Annual Historic Preservation Symposium The Town of Bluffton will celebrate a decade of promoting local history with its 10th Annual Historic Preservation Symposium on May 15th. This year’s event, themed “Protecting Bluffton Through Historic Preservation Grants,” will begin with a reception at 5:30 p.m. in the Henry “Emmett” McCracken Jr. Council Chambers at Town Hall, located at 20 Bridge St. The symposium is free and open to the public. Glen Umberger, the town’s historic preservationist, will deliver an illustrated presentation on the town’s Historic Preserva-
tion Grant Program, which launched January 2022. Since its inception, the program has awarded more than $250,000 in grants aimed at preserving, protecting and rehabilitating Bluffton’s historic structures. “Bluffton’s main attraction is its sense of place,” Mayor Larry Toomer said in a statement. “That sense of place has been built through historic preservation. Our town’s ‘contributing structures’ tell the story of its past residents, events and community spirit. This year’s symposium highlights how the town can partner with private property owners to preserve Bluff-
ton’s contributing structures and protect the identity that makes our community so special as it continues to grow.” The event will include a Meet-and-Greet reception with representatives from the Heyward House Museum and Campbell Chapel A.M.E. Church, both past recipients of preservation grants. Umberger’s presentation will take place from 6 to 7 p.m., followed by a reception at The Heyward House, located at 70 Boundary St. For more information, visit the Town of Bluffton’s website at townofbluffton.sc.gov.
57A
58A
The Hilton Head Sun
Beaufort Memorial now offering virtual cancer support groups By Emma June Grosskopf Contributor For those living with cancer, building a support network just got a whole lot more convenient with a new virtual option to join Beaufort Memorial’s free support groups. Now, Beaufort Memorial will be offering a virtual option through Zoom for those affected by cancer to join these groups from the comfort of their home. “These support groups offer an opportunity to learn how to navigate a difficult diagnosis, use healthy coping skills and develop a support network.” said Kianna Brown, LMSW, Beaufort Memorial oncology social worker. “Now with a virtual option, this opportunity is even more convenient for those around the Lowcountry who may not be able to connect in person.”
Beaufort Memorial offers two different cancer support groups facilitated by a licensed social worker. One, dedicated to breast cancer, is held from 6 to 7 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month (with the next meeting scheduled for May 14th). A group for those dealing with any type of cancer meets every fourth Wednesday from 1 to 2 p.m. That group will meet next on May 28th. For those attending these groups in person, there is a new location: the Beaufort Memorial Medical and Administrative Center (BMAC), 990 Ribaut Road, in the thirdfloor boardroom, room 317. Support groups are free to attend, but registration is required. A Zoom meeting link will be provided following registration. For upcoming support group dates or to register, please visit BeaufortMemorial.org/SupportGroups.
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY
Up to $2,300 in Carrier Cool Cash Rebates on select Carrier products Call EAC for details. (888) 988-8126 Sales Valid 5/1/2025 to 5/31/25.
Special Rate 0% APR
Financing through Wells Fargo
with regular equal monthly payments
Subject to approval. Present Hilton Head Sun ad for savings. Expires 5/31/25
A lot can come from a short meeting. Call us today to set up an appointment.
888-830-8882 www.eacair.com
May 7, 2025
Hilton Head Choral Society to host patriotic “America Sings!” concert The Hilton Head Choral Society will present its annual America Sings! concert on Sunday, May 25th, at 7 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Parkway. The Memorial Day weekend tradition is expected to draw a community crowd for a moving musical tribute to the men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Now a hallmark event in the Lowcountry, the concert blends stirring patriotic music with solemn remembrance. This year’s performance features the return of the Columbia-based Category V Brass quintet, whose members perform with sym-
phonies across the Southeast. The ensemble will accompany the Choral Society throughout the evening. The program will begin with a presentation of colors by Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue, followed by the national anthem. Highlights include A Just and Lasting Peace, featuring text from President Abraham Lincoln’s second inaugural address, and After the War, a reflective piece honoring those impacted by conflict. The evening will conclude with Armed Forces Salute, a musical recognition of all U.S. military branches. Tickets are available at hiltonheadchoralsociety.org.
ELiTE SAVINGS! $ 1500 OFF 2025 RXV models with ELiTE lithium powertrain
of Hilton Head
25 Sherington Dr., Unit F Bluffton (843) 212-4195
ezgofactorydirect.com
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
59A
Whoever said “War is Hell” clearly didn’t move 15 times in 20 years.* By Tracy Winslow Contributor I just moved for the 15th time since the beginning of the new millennium. I’d love to claim that someone has figured out where I am and witness protection is moving me to protect my identity or something cool like that. TRACY WINSLOW Alas, no. Just life changes that keep me in and out of U-Haul boxes. At this point my girls will have to pack my rotting corpse alongside the crystal and Tupperware before I am finished unboxing all of my crap. Buying and selling a house is no joke. There’s so much time cleaning, prepping, and hiding those closet skeletons. Plus, you put copious amounts love into your home it’s insulting when people don’t appreciate it. (I spent months deciding the color paint for the hallway so it’s like a cozy hug entering my home - what do you mean you hate it?!?) Over the years I have walked through hundreds of houses and learned one thing people do some really weird things to their homes. Perhaps you are thinking of putting your house on the market? Here are a few things you may consider before showing it. Taxidermied pets: I know you love Fluffy, but for the love of GOD, let them move on after they pass away. I get it if I’m checking out Stephen King’s lair - but Aunt Tilly who
has attachment issues should tuck away any odd carcasses before the strangers show up. Carpet in odd places: I mean, who is getting up in the top of the closet to vacuum? And wall-to-wall carpeting in the bathroom - even on the walls! EW! No, no, extra McNo. Bizarre decorations that make you question exactly what happens behind closed doors: Is this Jeffrey Dahmers’ Lowcountry storage unit? Do I dare dig in the garden? We saw one house that had a secret room off of the garage that looked like someone had been held hostage there. Burn some sage. Perform a whole house exorcism. Rooms full of baby dolls: They will likely kill me in my sleep. Or while showering. Or just breathing the same air they do, because they are clearly alive and furious that I am in their dollhouse. The same goes for clowns. ((Shudder)) Creating a Scene: One house had every room decorated like he was living a pretend Stepford life, including pretend teenagers, a pretend wife, and pretend pets. The house was owned by a single man. EEK! (See aforementioned serial killer vibes) Overly intimate things: Did the Epsteins vacation in Bluffton? Perhaps Diddy hosted a white party here? What you do in the privacy of your home is your business - until you allow me in. Then all judgement is on. And wow. You people are into some freaky things. I’m gonna pray for you all. Walls painted really hideous and bold colors: One house had an entire wall with the Jamaican flag painted on it. Unless I am purchasing Willie Nelson or Snoop Dogg’s house, this would never work. The only thing that would cover up this amount of
paint would be a blowtorch to light a Molotov cocktail, delivered by a wrecking ball. Complete and utter disasters of houses: While I secretly hope I’m discovered and someone wants to pay me oodles of money to deliver more Tracy to the world - I don’t want to end up in an episode of Hoarders or Dateline. And, unless it is priced at the bargain of the millennium - I carry enough of my own baggage, I don’t have the time to sift through the ruins of your life. What is up with all the rooster love: Bawgawk! Home owners following me all over and talking to me about every nuance: We have an appointment to view your home. It’s not like I’m banging on the window while you’re eating dinner. So, for the 15 minutes we are there - could you please NOT? It’s very awkward to discuss what we like or dislike about your house in front of you. I have walked away from some gorgeous homes because the owner wouldn’t let us in without first jumping through a ring of fire and carrying enough gold in my purse to give as the down payment - while she babbled behind me about how she got the cabinet hardware from some guy in the back of a van. Pets: I have several and they are more loved than certain family members. But I don’t want to have to chase after Mr. Sparklepants because he likes to Houdini every chance he gets. Put them somewhere safe so nothing happens to them while people walk through. DIY home improvement projects: We were losing our minds during COVID and may have spent eleventy-million dollars to “upgrade” things in our home. However, unless you are da Vinci - the mosaic inter-
pretation of the Last Supper on your ceiling is just an extra expense for me to remove it. Anything your family and friends make fun of you for having: If your loved ones tease you about it, think about the unfiltered world of the general public who have nothing better to do than point out every little nuance of your private life and rip it to shreds. Do you want to end up on Instagram #CreepyHouseVibesJeffreyDahmerMeetsRoosterLove? Ask your real estate agent what people comment negatively on in their house tour. Tuck your feelings into a safe space next to Fido the Foot rest and your collection of China Dolls for you to unpack in your next cozy love shack. Then you can start your next project - trying to pack the giant box of cords/cables that you aren’t sure what they are for but don’t dare throw them away because you know you will need them the minute you do. *I know General Sherman said “War is Hell”. I just didn’t want to get anyone all fired up about the Civil War. I saw the billboard that used to be on 462. I know how y’all roll. Tracy Winslow is the owner of Low Country Shrimp and Knits - the PREMIER yarn store in the Low Country. When she is not playing with yarn, being a Spanish professor, or sharing humorous anecdotes, she also thinks her house should be full of colorful, handmade fun which may be a bit much for some but she is a honey badger. Come create your own yarn art with Tracy - no experience necessary! shrimpandknits.com
60A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
S.C. High School League (SCHSL) governance By Justin Jarrett Contributor By the time you read this, the South Carolina Legislature may have taken another step toward dismantling the S.C. High School League (SCHSL), the organization that has governed high school athletics since 1913. The proposal to replace the SCHSL with a state-appointed board is advancing quickly—and not everyone is celebrating. The legislation, introduced in 2023 by Rep. Shannon Erickson (R-Beaufort) and officially filed as House Bill 4163, passed through subcommittee last week. If approved by both chambers and signed by Gov. Henry McMaster, the bill would transfer control of high school and middle school athletics from member schools to an 11-member board appointed by lawmakers. Many coaches and administrators see the move as unnecessary and politically motivated. At the heart of the issue are disputes over how the league classifies charter and private schools, and how it handles player eligibility violations. This year, the SCHSL introduced a 3x enrollment multiplier for students who live outside a school’s desig-
nated attendance zone. The change bumped most non-traditional schools up at least one classification, prompting backlash from charter school advocates. Adding fuel to the fire, inconsistent rulings over eligibility violations have drawn criticism. Gray Collegiate Academy was banned from the playoffs after fielding ineligible players, while Irmo High School, in a similar situation, was not. “There is no accountability,” Erickson told The State. “Our schools and teachers have accountability, but the league doesn’t.” Those working in high school sports disagree. The SCHSL operates through a member-driven system with regular committee meetings and policy reviews. Critics argue that legislative control would remove representation from those most familiar with the challenges facing schools of all sizes. “Taking the representation away from the member schools and giving it to a committee that’s not versed in high school sports is a bad idea,” said May River boys soccer coach Misael Garzón. In response to ongoing transfer and eligibility concerns, the league recently adopted a one-time free transfer rule with standard-
Ski, Play,
Party! MONTHLY TGIF’S: Next one: June 13th at Street Meet
ized penalties for second transfers or those lacking a bona fide address change. While imperfect, the rule reflects the league’s willingness to adapt—something supporters say is best left to education professionals, not politicians. “State legislators have no idea the scope of what the league coordinates,” said Greg Elliott, a former coach at Hilton Head Island and Summerville. “If they did, they’d want no part of that beast. Work on roads and taxes—leave high school sports alone.” The push for state oversight is being driven in large part by charter school advocates, some of whom are lawmakers themselves. Critics argue the plan could tilt power in favor of non-traditional schools, which have already dominated state championships in the lower classifications over the past decade. To be clear, the SCHSL is not without flaws. Critics have valid concerns, and improvements are necessary. But removing decision-making from the educators and administrators who live this work daily—and handing it to political appointees—may be a costly mistake. “Like any organization, the league
doesn’t always get it right,” Elliott said. “But they manage more than 200 high schools fairly well.” It’s worth noting that most of the support for this drastic and short-sighted measure is coming from advocates for charter schools, many of whom are the very legislators who would appoint the officials who rule over high school sports. Such a move would dramatically swing the balance of power back in favor of the non-traditional schools who dominated the past decade, nearly sweeping the state championships in the Class 1A and 2A divisions once populated by small, rural schools. The SCHSL is always a work in progress, and many of its critics’ frustrations are valid. But taking the decision-making out of the hands of the people who have devoted their lives to high school athletics and consolidating even more power with our legislators and their cronies is not the move. Justin Jarrett is the sports editor of The Island News and is the founder of Lowco Sports.
NO MEDICAL CARD REQUIRED!
COASTAL CAROLINA HOT SPOT SMOKE SHOP
Stop by our Hilton Head store and receive a one-time 20% discount off your purchase! Must present coupon Exp 5/31/25
• THC PRODUCTS • DELTA 9 • PAIN CREAM • GUMMIES • EDIBLES • VAPES
• FLOWER
SEASONAL PARTIES: Octoberfest, Christmas Party, Annual Picnic, Kickoff Party
TRIPS: July 21-28, 2025, River Cruise: Budapest to Giurgiu on AMAWaterways January 9-18, 2026, Southern Caribbean Cruise February 1-8, 2026, Ski Trip-Palisades Tahoe (Squaw) For more information go to
www.hiltonheadskiclub.com or call 614-323-9614
24B Palmetto Bay Road, Hilton Head Island, SC
(843) 341-6030 • CBDstoreBluffton.com Mon – Sat 9:00AM to 7:00PM, Sun 10AM – 6:00PM All Major Credit Cards Accepted
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
61A
Get your mind right: be a Mindright Maniac By Chad Cannon Contributor If you’re over 40 and still chasing better health, strength and energy, there’s one thing you need to master before anything else: your mindset. Too many people hit their 40s and 50s thinking it’s time to coast, slow down or “accept” that CHAD CANNON their best days are behind them. But those who truly thrive—the ones who get stronger, leaner and more energetic with age—know a secret: it’s all about getting your mind right. Welcome to the world of the Mindright Maniac. A Mindright Maniac doesn’t let excuses run the show. They don’t talk themselves out of a workout because of a busy schedule or a few aches and pains. Instead, they attack each day with a simple attitude: “I’m just getting started.”
Building a better body after 40 starts with believing it’s possible. Then, it’s about making smart, sustainable moves: strength training to protect muscle, mobility work to stay agile, cardio to keep the heart strong, and eating to fuel performance—not just to survive. Mindright Maniacs also know the value of discipline over motivation. They don’t wait to “feel like it.” They show up. They do the work. And over time, the body transforms to match the mindset. When you get your mind right, your body follows. You’ve got to believe you can improve, act like it daily, and stay in the game long enough to see the results. If you’re ready to rise above the averages, ditch the doubts and redefine what’s possible after 40, it starts in those 8 inches between your ears. Get your mind right. Be relentless. Be unstoppable. Be a Mindright Maniac. Chad Cannon is a Life Coach, Fitness and Health Coach and the owner of CannonFit Transformation Center in Bluffton. He can be reached at www.cannonfit.com
Super Mirror Mate Sale...
BUY ONE MIRROR MATE GET SECOND ONE FOR 10% OFF!
GOOD THRU 5/29/25 See Store For Details.
• RETAIL SHOWROOM • GRANITE • MARBLE • TILE • CABINETS • BATHS • KITCHEN • DESIGN • FABRICATE • INSTALL
FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED LOCALLY FOR THE PAST 24 YEARS Visit Our Showroom:
232 Brown’s Cove Rd., Riverwalk • Open Mon-Fri Sheridan Park, 40 Pennington Dr., Unit C • OPEN MON. to THURS. 11:30 to 4:30 And Always By Appointment
www.prestigestoneinc.com • 843.815.5558
62A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
Education Briefs
115 Junior Scholars Recognized at BCSD Seeks Feedback on Future District Banquet Calendars The Beaufort County School District honored 115 eighth-grade students as 2025 South Carolina Junior Scholars. At a banquet held earlier this month, the district recognized these students’ academic achievements, with featured speaker Mary Ruff, a Beaufort High senior. The program, led by the S.C. Department of Education, identifies academically gifted students based on PSAT/NMSQT scores and promotes opportunities for further growth through merit awards and summer academic programs.
Hilton Head High Names Top Graduates for Class of 2025 Hilton Head Island High School has announced Henry Boatright as valedictorian and Caden Moore as salutatorian. The school also honored the remaining top ten seniors in April for their academic excellence.
The Beaufort County School District is asking parents and staff for input on proposed academic calendars for 2026–27 and 2027–28. The survey is open on the district’s website at beaufortschools.net.
Tassel Gala to Award Scholarships The Ella C. White Memorial Scholarship Fund will host its 2025 Tassel Scholarship Awards Gala on May 16th at the Hilton Beachfront Resort & Spa. With keynote speaker Rev. Dr. Gwendolyn Boyd, the gala will celebrate local high school seniors and award $22,500 in scholarships. Tickets are $100 and available at ecwscholarship. org. To submit your school event or student achievement for consideration in future education briefs, please email details to editor@blufftonsun.com.
YOUR GUIDE TO THRIFT AND CONSIGNMENT SHOPPING E HAVE TO DATE W OVER DONATED
N $16 MIOLCLAILO TO L ! CHARITIES
Thrills in the Sky Photo by Sophia Schade
By Sophia Schade Contributor The roar of jet engines and the cheers of thousands filled the air when the MCAS Beaufort hosted its highly anticipated Blue Angels Air Show, bringing aviation enthusiasts, families and photographers together for a breathtaking display of precision flying. The event featured more than just the headlining Blue Angels. Crowds were treated to a variety of military and civilian aircraft displays, including the
New Bikes In Stock
Cruisers Hybrids Trikes
Shopping with a Purpose
For a feel-good shopping experience head to The Bargain Box. Hilton Head Island’s original thrift store has been offering not-so-hidden treasures since 1965. Visitors and locals alike value the ever-changing selection of donated goods and cheery volunteers.
SHOP DONATE VOLUNTEER SHOP DONATE VOLUNTEER
HILTON HEAD
Special
F-35B Lightning II demo, heritage flights, and aerial stunts that showcased both raw power and aviation history. Static displays on the ground also gave attendees a close-up view of modern and vintage aircraft, offering a unique educational opportunity for all ages. The MCAS Beaufort Air Show isn’t just an aerial spectacle—it’s a celebration of the armed forces, the dedication of military personnel, and the enduring connection between the base and the surrounding community.
Community Engagement Builds Cohesive Communities The Bluffton Sun and Hilton Head Sun invite you to like and follow our socials, as we will be more active on our social media channels moving forward to keep an open dialogue with our community members. We will also be posting events, calls to action, and opportunities to get involved in the newspaper. Don’t miss the chance to get involved and/or get published! We look forward to your feedback, ideas, and ongoing communication.
TUNE UP
$49.99 REGULARLY $80 Must present coupon Exp 5/31
The Bargain Box 546 William Hilton Pkwy Hilton Head Bargainboxhiltonhead.org E}|
Bicycle Sales/ Repairs & More 28 Dr. Mellichamp Drive
The Promenade Old Town Bluffton The
(843) 837-BARN (2276)
facebook.com/blufftonsun instagram.com/the_real_blufftonsun
Thank you for supporting our local newspapers! The
The
Blufft n Sun Hilton The
Blufft n Sun Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
Summers past The Hilton Head Sun
By Tamela Maxim Contributor Growing up, I spent most summers with my parents and siblings in Bluffton at my grandparents' cottage at the end of Myrtle Island. My husband Nicholas, our dog Thunder, and I are very fortunate to live there now. During our Bluffton summers, we played cards, read books, went to the beach, and did a lot of nothing. We enjoyed visits with friends and family and drove to Savannah for necessities like groceries, movies, dry cleaners, and Gottlieb’s Bakery. In early summer, we declared the river not warm enough for swimming. By mid-summer, visiting friends from cooler climes questioned our sanity for swimming in waters where you can’t see the bottom. And, for goodness' sakes, how could we enjoy water warm enough for bathing? I would say, “If you live here for a while, your blood gets thinner, and you feel the cold more.” Not sure what sense it made trying to explain. I knew they’d have to live here a few years before they’d believe me. Sometimes I took the family bateau to the sandbar. The boat had oars in case its three-horsepower Johnson ran out of gas, or the linchpin broke. Rowing was fun unless you tried to row against a strong tide – that was nearly impossible. There was no floating dock for tying up a boat, so when returning home, if the tide was high enough, I could anchor close to the bluff near the dock steps, but I had to anchor on the beach if I came back at mid or low tide. When it was time to take the boat out again, depending on where the bateau was “parked,” from the last trip, I either swam to the boat because the tide came in and I had anchored away from shore, or I had to push the boat off the beach because the tide went out and left me high and dry, but if I timed it just right when the tide came in enough to put some river water under the bateau’s flat bottom, all I had to do was “hop” in the boat, pull up anchor, and shove off. Another way to get to the sandbar on the other side of Myrtle Island was to float in the middle of the river on the outgoing tide and then float back home as the tide came in. Usually, we wore orange life
preserver jackets or ski belts. I did it once without either and felt ever-so-brave. Just in case, we did have a boat following us. One time, we piled up a bunch of reeds (called wrack) and rode it downriver and back. Marsh grass (Sporobolus Alterniflorus) turns brown in the winter, and as it dies, the reeds break away, perfect for building an early-season raft. Once at the sandbar, we sat on beach chairs or brightly colored towels. Sometimes we walked to the creek side of the sandbar where the pluff mud was, and covered ourselves – Bluffton’s version of a spa treatment. Coppertone was for tanning pale skin, not for protection. Years later, as parents, we protected our little ones, slathering on sunscreen and tying cotton hats under their chins. There was no such thing as a cell phone. We used actual cameras to capture the memories. Our darlings made sandcastles, learned to swim, and played in the pluff mud. We ordered physical prints from real negatives to go in treasured photo albums – so different from how we take and save photos now. I remember silly songs with lyrics like, “mares eat oats and does eat oats and little lambs eat ivy,” Laughter, songs, storytelling, and silly jokes were a big part of summers in Bluffton. We enjoyed easy friendships with our few island neighbors. There were no fences. We could walk almost all the way around the outer edge of the half-mile-long island. Our two lots away, not-quite-next-door neighbors, the Cubbedges, took my sisters and me out on the river to aquaplane and waterski. Twins, Jackie and Kathy were prize-win-
ning competitive skiers. They built a slalom course and a ski jump across the river from us. I never got the nerve to try the jump, but the slalom course, which I think was made out of large floating milk jugs attached to anchors, was so much fun. I think it was Jackie who came to my rescue one day when she heard me yelling (thank goodness sound travels so well across water) because my boat motor wasn’t working, and there was no way I could row against the outgoing tide. I was convinced I was headed out to sea and grateful to be towed home. Like us, the Cubbedges were also Savannahians-come-to-Bluffton-summer-people. They laughed often, especially Mr. Cubbedge. His daughters, Jackie and Kathy, would later marry into the local Ulmer family, and daughter Sarah married Jim Snow. Hence, the grandchildren and great-grandchildren now spend their summers enjoying their family’s Myrtle Island paradise, and most or maybe all of them have become permanent Blufftonians. Like we do now, back in the old days, we watched thunderstorms and lit candles when the electricity went out. But we no longer count 1-2-3-4 …when we hear thunder to figure out how many miles away a storm is by timing how long it takes from thunder boom to lightning strike – 1 mile for every number counted. Now, we tune into the weather radar on our phones. It’s not the same. Not as exciting or nearly as mysterious. Thank goodness pluff mud still squishes and makes sucking sounds when you
63A
walk on it, but we no longer wear “jelly shoes” to protect our feet from buried oysters. We don’t need them because we no longer walk in the mud. Oysters still spit in tiny plops and hisses, schools of shrimp still softly make pop-pop-pop sounds as they skim over the top of the river, dolphins still arc in and out of the river, making an airy whoosh with each breach, and children still make loud, happy screams while jumping from docks, arms and legs flailing about until you hear the kersplash. And their bodies still disappear briefly into the dark wet only to pop up before swimming to the dock to jump again. When the sand gnats are swarming, we still plop ice into tall glasses of cool libations and sit outside in the shade of ancient trees. We still have family dinners and visit with friends and neighbors. But we don’t sit outside as much as we used to, family dinners are only once a month instead of every Friday, and we don’t visit anyone without making an appointment. Sigh. There are lots of things I miss. I miss having a screen porch. I miss hearing someone yell, before walking in my front door without knocking, “Yoohoo, anybody home?” I even miss the hypnotic drone of a lazy fan swooping hot, humid air around the room. I’m grateful for air conditioning, but for every modern convenience, it seems we gave up something precious from less complicated, less scientifically superior times gone by In the name of progress, we’ve given everyone an abundance of personal space. But I remember a time… Do you? 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.
64A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
Holy season By Rabbi Ken Kanter Contributor This past week, in the Jewish month of Nissan, the first month of the Hebrew calendar, we observed an ancient and yet very modern tradition, the sacred holiday of Pesach, or Passover. While it is most remembered as RABBI KANTER the time when we gather our families and friends for the festive ritual dinner of the Seder, with all its ritual symbols of Springtime and our Biblical history, like so many generations before us, we retell the story of the Jewish people’s rise against Pharaoh. Not only is it the first month of the Jewish calendar, but it is also the birth month of the Jewish people. Recently seventy-some members of the Temple Oseh Shalom gathered together to celebrate with familiar stories, liturgy, songs, and ritual foods. The seder drums up many potent images of our childhood—celebrating the Passover seder at our home when my family gathered together for that most important
event, the matzah ball soup, the chopped apples, nuts and honey called Charoset, the chopped fish and beef brisket. So delicious and such memories. One of my most amusing memories was my great grandmother’s matzah ball soup, with one huge matzah ball in the center of the soup bowl with liquid gold chicken soup all around it. These memories are precious to us as Jews, precious to us as members of a faith and tradition which have kept Passover for more than three thousand years, making it the oldest continuously practiced ritual of any western religion. This season, Passover was contiguous to another sacred time for our community, Holy Week and Easter. While Passover is similarly important to our friends in the Christian community, because of its importance to Jesus and the apostles, who were, after all believers in the Jewish faith, this year Passover and Easter overlapped, bringing these two primary holy days to two religions closely contiguous. We were very blessed to share our Sabbath Service with our friends at Low Country Presbyterian Church, with whom we share a building. For them it was Good Friday, for us it was the Sabbath of Passover, with their Pastor, Rev. David Johnson, leading us in our closing prayer. What a beautiful moment!
It is safe to say that whatever has been achieved in Jewish-Christian relations in our community, in our nation, or our world is not the result of theology. It is because of relationships. In Bluffton we need only look to the numerous interfaith efforts like supporting the Food Bank, collecting shoes and winter wear for those in need, and for Temple Oseh Shalom, sharing worship space with Low Country Presbyterian Church, as examples of faiths working together. In these last two years, we have seen the terribly difficult events in Israel and the Middle East. Israel is a good country in a very difficult neighborhood. Israel is fighting for her survival in a region more hostile than either you or I will ever know. These difficult days and months have made this a time of moral ambiguity where nothing is clear. We may love the state of Israel; while some may disagree with the actions of its government. How should Israel respond when Hamas terrorists are hiding in homes, health clinics, schools, and churches in Gaza? And yet, how do we understand the death of hundreds and thousands of innocent women and children on both sides? The delegitimization of Israel and the antisemitism faced by the Jewish people are now
We need Houses or Condos to sell to the many active buyers for this island! If you’re considering selling your home, let’s chat about how we can help you navigate this market successfully. Text me on my cell below and let’s have a conversation.
Pamela Marinello
Licensed Real Estate Sales Agent #106195 Luxuory Home Certified
JOIN US ON SUNDAY
8:30am Outdoor Worship 10:30am Traditional Worship in Sanctuary Both Services live-streamed at ProvidenceHHI.org Located on the south end of the Island on Cordillo Parkway (halfway between Pope Avenue and the Sea Pines Ocean Gate)
171 Cordillo Parkway Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
843-842-5673
PPC@ProvidenceHHI.org
a worldwide effort. But the confluence of Passover and Easter teaches us that religious differences will not be settled by one faith insisting that it has interpreted Scripture more accurately than another. Our many religions must respect each other’s faithfulness to their individual revelations and beliefs. Whether in Bluffton or the Middle East, our future together depends upon a mutual respect for pluralism, a willingness to admit that we can learn from each other just as much as we can teach each other. It is no accident that both the traditional greeting among Jews is “shalom aleichem, “ peace be with you. It is no coincidence that the last words of the Passover seder are “Peace! Peace for us, Peace for everyone.” For all people, this is our hope, next year in Jerusalem, next year may all be free. We hope you had a sweet and meaningful Easter and Ramadan, as I wish all of our Jewish community had a Chag Pesach Sameach, a sweet and meaningful Passover. My prayers for us all at this Holy Season. Rabbi Ken Kanter currently serves the local Jewish congregation at the Temple Oseh Shalom in Bluffton, SC.
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
65A
Jesus as the great example By Rev. Therese Donlan Lee Contributor The questions I am hearing a lot these days are, “What is mine to do?” “How shall I live?” This is not surprising, seeing that there is so much going on in our individual lives, in our United THERESE DONLAN LEE States and in every part of the world. I love and encourage questions! I suggest we question our thoughts and our thinking often. Living in the question keeps us present to this now moment, which is really all that you and I have. Today answers to our questions can be found in so many ways – reading books, blogs and newspapers, watching talk shows and YouTubes and participating in Zoom calls. I say, “Stop.” I highly recommend we stop looking outside of ourselves for what might be our answers. I affirm
for you and with you that all your answers are inside of you. Breathe with me; now, exhale. In Unity we teach and follow how Jesus lived his life. Unity sees Jesus as the great example, rather than him being the great exception. He was a master teacher, and he was always teaching with his words and his actions. This is what is so exciting about following how Jesus lived -- 2,000 years later, his teachings can answer our questions. The Bible tells us in the Book of Matthew, Chapter 6, Verse 33, “Seek ye first the kingdom, and God’s righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” In Unity we metaphysically interpret the Bible and unpack scripture so we can apply it to living our life this day. The kingdom is interpreted as Christ consciousness. God’s Righteousness is interpreted as Right Relation to God. Next, we take these interpretations and possibly read this scripture as, “I Seek first my Christ consciousness (within) in right relation to God; and engage my expectancy (with gratitude) to receive.” Scripture always leads us inside ourselves
lence to be in right relation to the God of our understanding – we allow ourselves to know the abundance of God. This clarity allows for focus and keeps us from being influenced by all the busyness outside of us. Unity believes Jesus lived, not to save us, rather Jesus lived to direct our attention back to the reality of who we are as divine expressions of God. Unity students follow how Jesus lived because his life was an example of practicing what he preached, his life demonstrated his teachings. He was 100% human and 100% divine just like each of us are. He encouraged us to exalt the cause. His life, as the great example, being the cause. So, I am wondering, how often are you making the time to go within to have your questions answered? Live your life, in these now moments, to emulate how Jesus lived. Your presence makes a difference. Many Blessings. and shows us (as we allow ourselves to have eyes to see) this is what is ours to do, this is how we can live. As we call forth our Christ consciousness and we make time for prayer and si-
Rev. Therese Donlan Lee is the senior minister of Unity Spiritual Center on Hilton Head Island. revthereseunityhiltonhead@gmail.com
CONGREGATION BETH YAM’S “Good Times on Hilton Head and Beyond”
ONLINE AUCTION
MAY 4 – MAY 11, 2025 Proceeds to benefit the
Programs and charitable events of
CONGREGATION BETH YAM
Located on Hilton Head Island serving South Carolina’s Low Country.Your participation will benefit the local businesses that unite our communities.
Go to: https://new.biddingowl.com/abcbethyam
A gallery of handcrafted gifts Hrs: Mon - Fri 10-6, Sat 10-5 1127 Fording Island Rd. ~ Ste. 103 (Hobby Lobby Plaza) Bluffton • 843.757.7300
To register, browse and bid on a vast assortment of exciting dining, food and wine, sporting, golfing, recreational, arts and entertainment, and much more.
Congregation Beth Yam and our local businesses thank you!
66A
The Hilton Head Sun
May 7, 2025
Bissell and moi By Annelore Harrell Contributor No two ways about it: vacuum cleaners hate me. I realized this long before artificial intelligence was recognized, way before weird alien computer ANNELORE HARRELL voices answered my phone inquiries and AI became anchored in our everyday lives. Even before I owned one and relied on a push-pull carpet cleaner straight out of Downton Abbey. There is something intimidating about a contraption whose main object in life is to suck up dirt howling and wailing like a banshee all the while. Truly, a broom and a mop are more my forte. Years and years ago, I went with my father, who was a watchmaker, on a house call to the home of antique dealer Alida Harper Fowlkes. Designed by architect Charles B. Cluskey for shipping magnate Stephen Gardner in 1842, her Greek Revival home sat on Orleans Square in downtown Savannah. It is a comfortable house, gracious-sized rooms that flow from one to the other, front parlor, back parlor, entrance hall, high ceilings, airy, lots of windows. I could move in tomorrow. Ms. Alida owned an antique store and every once in a while, she would cross the
Pond to England and buy this, that and the other, returning home to Savannah with all sorts of goodies destined to have customers drag out their checkbooks. Daddy was her fix-it man for any clocks she brought back. She would call his store over on Drayton Street, “Mr. Stelljes,” she would say, “This is Alida Harper,” and before you could say “pound cake and sherry wine,” which is what she always had for him, he was out the door. This time, I tagged along. It wasn’t a new acquisition that had problems; it was Ms. Alida’s grandfather clock, a stately, dignified, shrieking Lordships and Ladyships, an enormous clock in her front hallway. Daddy pulled one side of this magnificence away from the wall and climbed up on a step ladder brought out from the kitchen to open up the back and reach the clock works. Ms. Alida and I stood watching, prepared to fetch and carry anything he might need. All of a sudden, we heard the outrageous whine and wail droning of a vacuum cleaner coming from the parlor across the hallway. Ms. Alida sprang to action. Well, she did move fast. She hollered at her maid. “Don’t you know better? You never use a vacuum cleaner on my Oriental carpets. Get a broom.” Ms. Alida died in 1985 at the age of 77, leaving this marvelous house plus its contents to the Society of the Cincinnati. Was that infamous vacuum cleaner included? How ‘bout the broom? I thought about Ms. Alida last week when I broke down and bought a Bissell.
I used to have a vacuum cleaner. I did. Long time ago. It was red, one with a hard metal tank that had a twisty snake-like intake cord stuck in one end and a long electrical cord that was never quite long enough on the other. I pure hated it. It refused to suck up the way it was supposed to, banged me on the ankles if I turned too fast and in fits of pique split in half spewing dust and stuff all over the floor. Besides that, if I moved too far away from the electrical wall socket, the cord jerked out and slapped around the nearest chair. Enough was too much. For an insane moment, I had thought about offering it to a local thrift shop, but if I did that, I would have guilt feelings forever. I asked son Boo to take it to the dump. And I went shopping. My new cleaner-upper appliance is the Bissell Featherweight. It cost me thirty-six dollars and three cents. Brand new. I can whip that thing from here to there, scoot it under chairs, lean it against the wall. It has a long cord, plus an extra attachment that converts it to a hand vacuum. So far we have a loving relationship. And it works just fine on my
genuine imitation oriental carpet. My apologies to Ms. Alida. The broom has been retired from inside duties. Tile floors still get the mop, but from now on, it’s the Bissell. Thank you very much.
Annelore Harrell’s journey is a tapestry woven with fascinating experiences and extraordinary accomplishments. Even at 92 in 2025, Annelore’s energy and zest for life continue to inspire. Annelore Harrell’s story is a testament to living with passion, resilience, and an unquenchable thirst for adventure.
Palmetto Animal League
VETERINARY CLINIC Affordable loving care. Every pet. Every family.
Offering wellness exams, vaccines and other services at affordable prices. Proceeds help us rescue homeless animals.
SCHEDULE TODAY (843) 645-1727 56 Riverwalk Blvd. Okatie, SC 29936 | PalmettoAnimalLeague.org
May 7, 2025
The Hilton Head Sun
67A
CLASSIFIEDS PERMANENT HAIR REMOVAL: Zapped by Diane, Licensed Electrologist for over 20 years. Safe, sterile, permanent hair removal. Sheridan Park in Bluffton; close to Hilton Head, Okatie, Savannah, & Beaufort. Hours are M-F, 10 AM to 5:15 PM. Call 203-241-0553 for an appointment.
CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507. CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507. CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507. CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507. CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507
Isi Professional House Cleaning
Full chimney service inside and out! m 843.683.7881 k chimneydoctorhhi@gmail.com K www.chimneydoctorhhi.com
WIG ROOM at
843-681-2622
1101 Main St., Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 Home Medical Equipment ◆ Home Delivery
◆ Wigs ◆ Hairpieces ◆ Turbans ◆ Scarves By Appointment Only Debbie Price
843-505-6312 dkp398@aol.com
Mastectomy Products contact ALALA at 803-569-4373
YOUR AD HERE CAN REACH 25,000 households and businesses from Moss Creek to Sun City to Callawassie Island. Promote services, sell goods, announce a yard sale, buy a house, sell a house, find a job, find employees, ask for help, offer help! Ads starting at $28 for 40 words. 843-757-9507.
Residential Cleaning
AirBnb Cleaning
Apartment cleaning & construction houses
Moving in or out cleaning & many more!
Call Isi Chavez • References available upon request 843-540-6313 • 843-368-6303 • isidrachavez15@gmail.com
We Have Your House Sparkly Clean Upon Arrival 20 years on business in Hilton Head Island and Bluffton. Second Home Cleaning Residential. One time cleaning. Move in/ move out cleaning. Deep cleaning.
Call now 843- 980- 8220
www.worldchampioncleaners.com
S mith’s Music Studio Music is for all ages! Learn an instrument today!
• 25 +years of music experience • 10 + years of teaching experience • Traveling teacher, will come to you • Specializing in violin, viola, cello, bass or piano • Adult students only
smithsmusicstudio@gmail.com 843-834-0283
Nexx Faze Full Service Salon at Buckwalter Place
A curly hair salon Ouidad and Diva Certified
15% discount all services New clients only or walk-ins
7 Venture Dr. Ste 101, Bluffton 843-705-2050 Nexxfaze.com
68A
The Hilton Head Sun
613 LEGENDS ON THE GREEN
Mid-Island
7 LAVENDER CIRCLE
Silver Moss
Updated 2BD/2BA | Detached Garage $325,000 | MLS#450882
3,200 SqFt | High End Finishes | Private Pool $985,000 | MLS#451207
1 LONG BROW ROAD
21 OUTPOST LANE
May 7, 2025
Join Us for our Complimentary
HOME SELLING, PREP & STAGING WORKSHOP June 17th · 10am to 11:30am Hosted at Moss Creek Golf Club 100 Devils Elbow Lane, HHI
Attend to discover what today’s buyers are looking for in a resale home, how to set the right price, including a compensation strategy
Long Cove Club
Port Royal
Nicely Updated 4,400 SqFt | Lagoon View $1,495,000 | MLS#451215
Extensive Updates | Stunning 0.82 Acres $1,399,000 | MLS#451665
1G BEACHWOOD PLACE
3088 SEASCAPE VILLAS
as it relates to new real estate laws, and navigate the selling process for a smooth transition.
Come & Enjoy Continental Breakfast Reserve Your Seat
CollinsGroupRealty.com/Workshop Or Call (843) 341-6300
South Forest Beach
Oceanfront 2BD | Renovated | 5-Star Rental $795,000 Furnished | MLS#449467
South Forest Beach
3 BD/2BA | Ideal Forest Beach Location $545,000 Furnished | MLS#450888
Educational workshop, no products will be sold. No Agents/Brokers/Advisors permitted.
#1 Real Estate Team in the Lowcountry Since 2021 | (843) 341-6300 | CollinsGroupRealty.com