July 30 edition

FINAL WEEKEND! FINAL WEEKEND!

july 30 july 30 -- Aug Aug 2 2 BOOK NOW

RESERVE YOUR SEATS! SSTI AT BEAUFORT HIGH SCHOOL 866.749.2228

SUMMERMUSICALS.COM

JULY 30-AUGUST 5, 2026

WWW.YOURISLANDNEWS.COM

COVERING BEAUFORT COUNTY

Bond hearings postponed for five defendants in Coligny Beach shooting Only one defendant appears in court; attorneys seek more time before bond considered

By Delayna Earley The Island News One of five suspects facing decades in prison in connection with the July 4 shooting at Coligny Beach appeared in a Beaufort County

courtroom Wednesday, but no bond was set for any of the defendants.

Andre Nyciere-Richard Greene Jr., 20, of Ridgeland, appeared before Circuit Court Judge Marvin Dukes III at the Beaufort County Courthouse. Greene waived his bond hearing while his attorney awaits additional information in the case.

He will remain in custody at the Jasper County Detention Center.

A new hearing date was not announced in court.

The other four defendants scheduled for Wednesday’s proceeding — Jayden Lorenzo Hawes, 18; Quazeir Rasheem Davis, 17; Marcello Lopez Royal, 17; and Jacob Malik Johnson, 22 — did not appear. Their attorneys waived their appearances and asked that bond be addressed later, after they receive more information.

Davis, Royal and Hawes were being held on bench warrants, according to statements made in court Wednesday. Johnson’s bond also

was not set.

The five defendants were among seven people indicted by a Beaufort County grand jury July 16 in connection with the shooting, which wounded eight people near the volleyball courts at the popular Hilton Head Island beach.

The indictments are formal charging documents. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

Charges carry decades in possible prison time Hawes, Davis, Royal, Greene and Johnson were each indicted on two counts of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature, four counts of second-degree assault and battery, breach of the peace of a high and aggravated nature and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.

SEE SHOOTING PAGE A4

Fanelli released on bond as felony case proceeds

WATER FESTIVAL A new watch begins

Records detail alleged $197,000 email scheme involving Beaufort County communications manager

After being named the 71st Commodore of the Beaufort Water Festival on Saturday, July 25, 2026, Cori Talbert and her husband share a dance on stage during the Commodore's Ball. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

Cori Talbert takes the helm for 2027; Dusty Vickers closes his tenure with a historic first

Participants race to the finish line in the Raft Race during the 70th annual Beaufort Water Festival on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at The Sands in Port Royal.

Amber Hewitt/The Island News

By Delayna Earley The Island News he Change of Watch took place Saturday, July 25, during the Commodore’s Ball at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. Cori Talbert, a festival volunteer for 17 years, was selected to lead the 71st Beaufort Water Festival in 2027.

Talbert celebrated the announcement by dancing with her husband, Pat, and their three sons. She served as program coordinator for the 2026 festival and has deep ties to the organization as the daughter of a past

T

SEE FESTIVAL PAGE A3

By Delayna Earley The Island News An incident report obtained directly from the Covington, Ga., Police Department provides new details about the felony case against Beaufort County Communications Manager Laura Fanelli, including allegations that she used a fraudulent email account to divert a $197,000 payment intended for a Louisiana company.

Fanelli, 62, is charged in Newton County, Ga., with one count of felony theft by deception and one count of computer theft. She has not been indicted, and the allegations have not been proven in court.

The Island News obtained the incident report from the Covington Police Department through a request made under the Georgia Open Records Act. Georgia’s Open Records Act serves generally the same purpose as the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act, commonly called FOIA – both state laws provide the public and news organizations with a process for obtaining records

SEE FANELLI PAGE A5

NEWS

NEWS

ARTS

INSIDE

Sheriff's Office seeks help to find missing Lady's Island woman.

Live oak tree's unexpected removal from Luther's prompted Beaufort officials to consider a new public-notification process.

Artist Bruce Ingram shares some of his favorite pieces.

PAGE A4

PAGES A5

PAGE A11

News Education Voices Arts Military Directory

A2–7 A7-8 A9-10 A11 A12-13 A15

ISLAND NEWS PUBLISHING, LLC

LOWCOUNTRY LIFE & NEWS

PUBLISHER Margaret Evans

EDITORIAL/DESIGN Editor-in-Chief

Mike McCombs theislandnews@ gmail.com

Assistant Editor Delayna Earley delayna. theislandnews@ gmail.com

Sports Editor

Justin Jarrett LowcoSports@ gmail.com

SALES/BUSINESS Advertising

Amanda Hanna 843-343-8483 amanda@ lcweekly.com

Advertising Jere Russo JereRusso@ gmail.com

Advertising and Digital Strategy Sasha Horne Hirshout

Pat Harvey-Palmer submitted this photo of some of the Lady's Island-St. Helena Fire District firefighters who have faithfully been taking care of the median at the base of the McTeer Bridge on the Lady’s Island side.

VETERAN OF THE WEEK American Legion Beaufort Post 207 brings you Ray Leek, 77, who joined the U.S. Marine Corps in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., in 1967. After Boot Camp at Parris Island, he trained at Naval Air Station Memphis as a Jet Engine Mechanic.

In 1969 he was sent to Okinawa on the way to duty at Chu Lai, Vietnam, where he was a Plane

RAY LEEK

Captain for the A6 Intruder. He MCAS Beaufort. next served at MCAS Iwakuni, In 1989 he was Japan before beginning an asassigned to the signment at MCAS Cherry Point, Weapons TrainN.C. ing Battalion at In 1982, he served at McDonParris Island as ald Douglas Aircraft Corpora- Ray the senior enlisttion in Lamore, Calif., training Leek ed on the rifle personnel to transition from the ranges.

F4 Phantom to the F18 Hornet In 1992 he retired as a Gunaircraft, In 1986, he transferred to nery Sergeant and immediately

sasha. theislandnews@ gmail.com

Accounting

April Ackerman april@ aandbbookkeeping. com Billing questions only.

began a 15-year career as a City of Beaufort Police Officer. He is a member of the DAV, AMVETS and Operation Patriots FOB, and has been married for 56 years.

– Compiled by John Chubb, American Legion Post 207.

For Veteran Of The Week nominations, contact jechubb1@gmail.com.

NEWS BRIEFS Beaufort County Community Services Grant Program accepting applications

Beaufort County is now accepting applications for the FY27 Community Services Grant Program.

Applications will be accepted until Friday, Aug. 28. Any applications received after that date will not be considered. Interested organizations may access the application at https://bit.ly/4wDFbwW.

Funds for this grant program are provided by County Council of Beaufort County. Established in 2013, the Beaufort County Community Services Grants Program supports local non-profit human service organizations in enhancing residents' quality of life.

All grant awards are contingent upon the availability of funding.

To be eligible for the Community Services Grant, organizations are required to meet specific criteria: • Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organiza-

THIS WEEK IN HISTORY

July 30

2020: City of Beaufort Deputy Police Chief Dale McDorman is named interim Police Chief after the death of longtime Chief Matt Clancy.

July 31 1844: At a dinner in Bluffton in St. Luke’s Parish, Robert Barnwell Rhett launches the Bluffton Movement for a state convention and separatist action in response to the Tariff of 1842 after John C. Calhoun’s failure to secure the presidential nomination.

August 1

tions whose mission aligns with the program's goal of improving quality of life for Beaufort County residents with an emphasis on enhancing the well-being and self-sufficiency of vulnerable or disadvantaged populations • Agencies must directly serve Beaufort County and use all awarded funds for the benefit of its residents • Only one application per organization (identified by EIN) will be accepted, and fiscal agents are not permitted Eligibility, criteria, application

timeline and the application itself are all outlined at https://bit.ly/4f3eSck for interested groups.

Funds may not be used for: • Fundraising or capital campaigns • Endowments or scholarships • To reduce debt of any kind • Religious or political activities • Legal services.

For questions or more information, please call Beaufort County Finance Director Sandra Novak at 843-255-2314.

— Staff reports

for Lebanon in the Women’s 76-kilogram weight class at the 2020 Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo. Fattouh completed five of her six lifts for a personal-record total of 217 kg. Fattouh, the first female weightlifter to represent Lebanon in the Olympic Games, finished ninth.

August 5 2021: Beaufort’s Kazoobie Kazoos, one of just two kazoo factories in the United States, holds a grand opening for its remodeled Kazoo Museum, which highlights the history of the kazoo and features, among other things, a U.S. flag made from 3,000 plastic kazoos.

– Compiled by Mike McCombs

CORRECTIONS

• Bluffton Police Chief Joseph Babkiewicz was incorrectly identified in the July 23, 2026, issue of The Island News.

• Fillin’ Station co-owner Heidi Love was misidentified in the July 23, 2026 issue of The Island News.

Do you value your free hometown newspaper – made by locals, for locals? Free news isn’t cheap. Please help support The Island News!

Donations gratefully accepted at www.yourislandnews.com or The Island News, PO Box 550, Beaufort, SC 29901 JULY 30-AUGUST 5, 2026

PO Box 550 Beaufort, SC 29901 TheIslandNews@gmail.com www.YourIslandNews.com facebook.com/TheIslandNews

DEADLINE For press releases and advertising, please submit by noon on Friday for the following week’s paper.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

2021: Beaufort-based weightlifter Mahassen Hala Fattouh competes

A2

CONTACT US

Scan Here to Donate

Letters to the Editor should consist of fewer than 275 words and be emailed with a name and contact information to TheIslandNews@gmail.com

LEGAL NOTICES Contact ads.theislandnews@gmail.com for more information on placing your legal notice in The Island News.

DISCLAIMER All content of The Island News, including articles, photos, editorial content, letters, art and advertisements, are copyrighted by The Island News and Island News Publishing, LLC, 2026, all rights reserved. The Island News encourages reader submissions via email to theislandnews@gmail.com. All content submitted is considered approved for publication by the owner unless otherwise stated. The Island News is designed to inform and entertain readers and all efforts for accuracy are made.

Guest columns do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The Island News, its publisher or editors. The Island News reserves the right to refuse to sell advertising space, or to publish information, for any business or activity the newspaper deems inappropriate for the publication.

NEWS

Bicyclist killed in Trask Parkway crash identified as Georgia man

Festival from page A1

commodore and a former Pirette.

Vickers made history the following day during the Blessing of the Fleet and Parade of Boats. He became the first commodore in the festival’s 70-year history to conclude his tenure by jumping from a moving shrimp boat.

Vickers climbed over the rail of the shrimp boat Gracie Belle, owned by Sea Eagle Market’s Craig Reaves, and jumped into the Beaufort River before swimming ashore to deliver his final remarks as commodore.

The jump concluded the festival, which was held July 17-26 under the theme “Sunny Days & Friendship Waves.”

The celebration opened with the Parris Island Marine Band and fireworks over the Beaufort River. Its first weekend included the raft race at The Sands in Port Royal, sports tournaments, Children’s Day, the River Rally, a ski show and Concert in the Park featuring Joe Nichols and Tyler Reese Tritt.

Vickers also joined the Gatorland Ski Show Team on the water during one of the festival’s daytime events.

Weeknight entertainment included Deas-Guyz for Motown Monday, Ragga Lox for Caribbean Night and local performers during the annual talent show. The Lowcountry Supper paired a traditional Lowcountry boil with comedy from Brian Moote and the Bored Teachers.

The final weekend brought the Bed Race to Bay Street, followed Saturday by the Grand Parade and the Commodore’s Ball with music from The Catalinas.

Weather disrupted two major attractions during the fi-

Crash occurred Friday, July 17

The 2026 Beaufort Water Festival Bed Race was held on Friday, July 24, 2026 on Bay Street in Beaufort. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

Clint Wright dances during Motown Monday at the 70th annual Beaufort Water Festival on Monday, July 20, 2026, at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park in Beaufort. Amber Hewitt/The Island News nal weekend. Friday’s Rockin’ the River concert, which was scheduled to feature the Hot Red Chili Peppers tribute band with Chris Jones opening, was canceled because of rain.

Saturday’s air show was also canceled. The U.S. Coast Guard demonstration was the only scheduled portion of

the air show that proceeded.

Sunday’s Blessing of the Fleet and Parade of Boats closed the public schedule before Vickers made his jump and delivered his final remarks.

Talbert will lead the planning and execution of the 71st Beaufort Water Festival in 2027. Additional informa-

tion about the next festival will be announced as plans are finalized.

Delayna Earley, who joined The Island News in 2022, formerly worked as a photojournalist for The Island Packet/The Beaufort Gazette, as well as newspapers in Indiana and Virginia. She can be reached at delayna.theislandnews@gmail.com.

area hospital following the collision. Authorities have not released the driver's identity or provided an update on the driver's condition.

The South Carolina Highway Patrol continues to investigate the crash.

No charges have been announced, and investigators have not released additional information about what may have led to the collision.

The crash temporarily affected traffic along Trask Parkway while emergency responders and investigators worked at the scene.

Anyone with information about the collision is encouraged to contact the South Carolina Highway Patrol.

By Delayna Earley The Island News A bicyclist killed in a collision Friday morning, July 17, 2026, on Trask Parkway has been identified as a 31-yearold Georgia man.

The Beaufort County Coroner's Office identified the victim as Christopher James of Wrens, Ga. James died from injuries sustained when the bicycle he was riding was struck by a 2011 Toyota SUV around 9:40 a.m.

According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, James was traveling north on Trask Parkway near Stroban Road when the northbound SUV struck him. He suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the Toyota SUV was transported to an

Delayna Earley, who joined The Island News in 2022, formerly worked as a photojournalist for The Island Packet/The Beaufort Gazette, as well as newspapers in Indiana and Virginia. She can be reached at delayna. theislandnews@gmail.com.

NEWS BRIEFS BCSO’s Baxley to meets at 8 a.m., Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2026, at the Beauspeak at August fort Realtors’ Association Headquarters at 22 KemLIBPA Meeting Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Col. Neil Baxley, who serves as Commander of the Emergency Management Division, will be the featured speaker when the Lady’s Island Business & Professional Association

merlin Lane on Lady’s Island.

Col. Baxley will discuss hurricane preparation.

The public is invited to stop by for coffee and conversation concerning the community.

– Staff reports

Saturdays ARE FOR

Screening Mammograms Appointment required • No physician order needed

Screenings available at the following dates and locations from

8a.m.-1p.m.

Aug. 15 – Beaufort Medical Plaza –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Sept. 19 – Beaufort Medical Plaza –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Oct. 10 – Okatie Medical Pavilion –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Oct. 17 – Beaufort Medical Plaza –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Nov. 14 – Beaufort Medical Plaza

Beaufort Medical Plaza 989 Ribaut Road, Beaufort

Okatie Medical Pavilion

122 Okatie Center Blvd., North, Okatie

TO S C H E D U L E YO U R S C R E E N I N G M A M M O G R A M CA L L

843-522-5015

VISIT

BeaufortMemorial.org/MammoAppointment

S CA N

JULY 30-AUGUST 5, 2026

A3

NEWS

Shooting from page A1

Sheriff ’s Office asks for public’s help to find missing woman

Staff reports The Beaufort County Sheriff's Office (BCSO) is asking for the public's help in locating a missing Lady's Island woman.

According to a release from the BCSO, Mary Julia Kemp, 61, was reported missing by her family late Thursday afternoon, July 23, 2026.

There is concern for her safety and well-being.

Kemp is described as ap-

proximately 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing about 120 pounds. She is believed to be driving a silver 2013 Kia Sorento displaying South Carolina license plate 6368PZ. Anyone with information regarding Kemp's whereabouts is urged to contact the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office non-emergency dispatch line at 843-524-2777.

Davis and Royal were also indicted on charges of possessing or acquiring a handgun while under 18.

Each of the five faces more than 60 years in prison if convicted on all charges.

Two other defendants were indicted in connection with the investigation but were not included in Wednesday’s proceeding.

Christopher Charles Capers II, 17, of St. Helena Island, was indicted on a charge of accessory after the fact.

Amarion Jameer Riley, 22, of Ridgeland, was indicted on charges of possessing a machine gun and breach of the peace of a high and aggravated nature.

Riley, who suffered a gunshot wound during the Coligny incident, was later identified as a suspect.

Sheriff P.J. Tanner said investigators found Riley with a modified handgun capable of automatic fire when he was arrested in Jasper County. That weapon was not connected to the July 4 shooting but resulted in the machine-gun charge against him.

Investigators recovered a different modified handgun on Coligny Beach.

Shooting follows dispute between two groups The shooting occurred shortly after 8:20 p.m., near the public beach access and volleyball courts as thousands of residents and visitors gathered on Hilton Head Island for Independence Day festivities.

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office received the first reports of gunfire at approximately 8:21 p.m. Because numerous law enforcement officers were already assigned to the island for the holiday, the first deputies reached the scene about 17 seconds later.

“It was one of the quickest responses you’re ever going to see,” Tanner said during a July 5 media briefing.

Investigators believe the violence began when two groups of young people, including men and women between the ages of 17 and 19, encountered one another near the beach access.

Tanner offered more detail about the confrontation during a July 17 press conference.

“This entire incident was a result of juvenile ego,” Tanner said. “It was a look. So one person got a look from another that he didn’t like. He felt it disrespected him. And then from there it turned into a fist fight. And from the fist fight it turned into gunplay.”

Eight adults suffered gunshot wounds or other gun-

shot-related injuries. Tanner previously said one person suffered a grazing wound to the head, another was shot in the neck and another was struck three times, including twice in the stomach. Other victims suffered wounds to the shoulder, arm, leg and foot.

The injuries were described as non-life-threatening.

erty Regime” said plat prepared by Terry G. Hatchell, S.C.R.L.S. #11059 of Surveying Consultants, said plat being dated May 27, 1993, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Mesne Conveyances for Beaufort County, South Carolina, in Plat Book 46 at Page 102, said plat bearing last revision date January 7, 1997 and recorded in said Office in Plat Book 59 at Page 58, ae may be further revised from time to time.

AND ALSO, all of the rights, privileges, easements, and common areas appertaining to the above-described property as set forth in the Master Deed and By-Laws of Grande Ocean Resort Horizontal Property Regime.

AND ALSO, all right, title, interest and privileges extending to Timesharing Interest Numbers(s) 8245S-45; in each of the respective aforedescribed Units, as contained in that certain Time Sharing Declaration dated May 25, 1993, recorded in the office of the Register of Mesne Conveyances for Beaufort County, South Carolina, on June 3, 1993, in Deed Book 626 at Page 2533, and amended by that certain Supplement to Time Sharing Declaration, dated December 12, 1995 and recorded in said Office on December 14, 1995 in Deed Book 822 at Page 1035, as may be further revised from time to time.

The sale of the Property is to satisfy the past due obligations of the Owner(s) as provided for by the Mortgage for Marriott Ownership Resorts, Inc. duly recorded in the Register of Deeds Office for Beaufort County, South Carolina, in Mortgage Book/Page 4321/ 2572, as amended.

(“Owner”) Contract number 0100417214.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that according to the Notice of Sale recorded in the Register of Deeds Office for Beaufort County, South Carolina, Daniel C. Zickefoose, as Trustee/Attorney and Eck, Conley & Richardson, P.L.L.C, 4000 Faber Place Drive, Suite 300, North Charleston, SC 29405 (“Creditor/Lienholder”), will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, outside the Beaufort County Government Center, 100 Ribaut Street, Beaufort, SC 29902 beginning at 10:00 a.m. on August 21st , 2026, the following described Property: AS TO: Kevin Tyrone Jackson Sr. and Patti S. Jackson An undivided one fifty-first (1/51) fractional interest in Unit No.8046 , respectively, Grande Ocean Resort Horizontal Property Regime, lying situate and being on Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, South Carolina, and being more particularly shown and described by reference to the Master Deed, establishing the said Horizontal Property Regime, being dated May 25, 1993, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Mesne Conveyances for Beaufort County, South Carolina, on June 3, 1993 in Deed Book 626 at Page 2446; as amended by the First, Second, Third, Fourth and Fifth Amendments to Master Deed recorded in said Office, on July 2, 1993 in Deed Book 635 at Page 39; on August 26, 1993 in Deed Book 647 at Page 651; on May 23, 1994 in Deed Book 706 at Page 639; on December 14, 1995 in Deed Book 822 at Page 1007, and on January 21, 1997 in Deed Book 916 at Page 603, respectively, as may be further amended from time to time, and by reference to that certain plat entitled “As­ Built Survey of Grande Ocean Resort Horizontal Property Regime” said plat prepared by Terry G. Hatchell, S.C.R.L.S. #11059 of Surveying Consultants, said plat being dated May 27, 1993, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Mesne Conveyances for Beaufort County, South Carolina, in Plat Book 46 at Page 102, said plat bearing last revision date January 7, 1997 and recorded in said Office in Plat Book 59 at Page 58, ae may be further revised from time to time.

AND ALSO, all of the rights, privileges, easements, and

Cameras help identify suspects A Sheriff’s Office mobile Verkada camera trailer stationed at Coligny Beach captured much of the incident. Investigators then entered information about a suspect vehicle into Hilton Head Island’s Flock license plate-reader system.

The system identified the vehicle on Pope Avenue at 9:02 p.m. Deputies stopped it on the Cross Island Parkway bridge five minutes later.

Six people in the vehicle were detained, and four were arrested that night.

Why attempted-murder charges were dropped Hawes, Davis and Royal were initially arrested on attempted-murder charges, but those charges were not included in the grand jury indictments.

Fourteenth Circuit Solicitor Duffie Stone said South Carolina’s attempted-murder

statute applies only to the intended targets of a shooting. Because investigators believe the alleged shooters were firing at one another, prosecutors had to decide whether to treat them as victims or defendants.

“We had a choice,” Stone said. “Call the other shooters victims or defendants, and we chose defendants.”

Prosecutors instead pursued assault and battery charges on behalf of the innocent bystanders caught in the gunfire.

The strategy dates to the 2012 killing of 8-year-old Khalil Singleton, who was struck during a gun battle on Hilton Head Island. Prosecutors sought to hold all participants responsible, not only the person who fired the fatal shot. The South Carolina Supreme Court upheld that approach in 2020.

“The way I’ve explained it to juries before is every shooter is responsible for every bullet,” Stone said.

The investigation remains active, and authorities have said additional charges or arrests remain possible.

Delayna Earley, who joined The Island News in 2022, formerly worked as a photojournalist for The Island Packet/The Beaufort Gazette, as well as newspapers in Indiana and Virginia. She can be reached at delayna. theislandnews@gmail.com.

LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF APPLICATION Notice is hereby given that The Kitchen intends to apply to the South Carolina Department of Revenue for a permit that will allow the sale and on-premises consumption of beer and wine at 136 Sea Island Parkway, Suite 5, Beaufort, SC 29907. To object to the issuance of this permit, submit an ABL-20 protest form by August 20, 2026. Submit the ABL-20 online at MyDORWAY.dor.sc.gov, or email ABL@dor.sc.gov.

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Grande Ocean Resort Owners’ Association, Inc. v.

Glenda S. Michio 61 OLD HICKORY LN POWDER SPRINGS GA 30127-4326 (“Owner”) Contract number 3082947.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that according to the Notice of Sale recorded in the Register of Deeds Office for Beaufort County, South Carolina, Daniel C. Zickefoose, as Trustee/Attorney and Eck, Conley & Richardson, P.L.L.C, 4000 Faber Place Drive, Suite 300, North Charleston, SC 29405 (“Creditor/Lienholder”), will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, outside the Beaufort County Government Center, 100 Ribaut Street, Beaufort, SC 29902 beginning at 10:00 a.m. on August 21st, 2026, the following described Property: AS TO: Glenda S. Michio An undivided one fifty-first (1/51) fractional interest in Unit No. 8051, respectively, Grande Ocean Resort Horizontal Property Regime, lying situate and being on Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, South Carolina, and being more particularly shown and described by reference to the Master Deed, establishing the said Horizontal Property Regime, being dated May 25, 1993, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Mesne Conveyances for Beaufort County, South Carolina, on June 3, 1993 in Deed Book 626 at Page 2446; as amended by the First, Second, Third, Fourth and Fifth Amendments to Master Deed recorded in said Office, on July 2, 1993 in Deed Book 635 at Page 39; on August 26, 1993 in Deed Book 647 at Page 651; on May 23, 1994 in Deed Book 706 at Page 639; on December 14, 1995 in Deed Book 822 at Page 1007, and on January 21, 1997 in Deed Book 916 at Page 603, respectively, as may be further amended from time to time, and by reference to that certain plat entitled “As­ Built Survey of Grande Ocean Resort Horizontal Property Regime” said plat prepared by Terry G. Hatchell, S.C.R.L.S. #11059 of Surveying Consultants, said plat being dated May 27, 1993, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Mesne Conveyances for Beaufort County, South Carolina, in Plat Book 46 at Page 102, said plat bearing last revision date January 7, 1997 and recorded in said Office in Plat Book 59 at Page 58, ae may be further revised from time to time.

AND ALSO, all of the rights, privileges, easements, and common areas appertaining to the above-described property as set forth in the Master Deed and By-Laws of Grande Ocean Resort Horizontal Property Regime.

AND ALSO, all right, title, interest and privileges extending to Timesharing Interest Numbers(s) 8051G-36; in each of the respective aforedescribed Units, as contained in that certain Time Sharing Declaration dated May 25, 1993, recorded in the office of the Register of Mesne Conveyances for Beaufort County, South Carolina, on June 3, 1993, in Deed Book 626 at Page 2533, and amended by that certain Supplement to Time Sharing Declaration, dated December 12, 1995 and recorded in said Office on December 14, 1995 in Deed Book 822 at Page 1035, as may be further revised from time to time.

The total amount due as of the date of the Foreclosure Sale is $3,737.70. If additional costs and/or fees associated with the foreclosure and sale are incurred, such additional costs and/or fees shall be added to this amount on the date of the Foreclosure Sale.

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Grande Ocean Resort Owners’ Association, Inc. v.

Elyse Rifkin 122 STERLING LANE WILMETTE IL 60091 (“Owner”) Contract number 13088501.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that according to the Notice of Sale recorded in the Register of Deeds Office for Beaufort County, South Carolina, Daniel C. Zickefoose, as Trustee/Attorney and Eck, Conley & Richardson, P.L.L.C, 4000 Faber Place Drive, Suite 300, North Charleston, SC 29405 (“Creditor/Lienholder”), will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, outside the Beaufort County Government Center, 100 Ribaut Street, Beaufort, SC 29902 beginning at 10:00 a.m. on August 21st, 2026, the following described Property: AS TO: Elyse Rifkin An undivided one fifty-first (1/51) fractional interest in Unit No. 8931, respectively, Grande Ocean Resort

A4

JULY 30-AUGUST 5, 2026

Horizontal Property Regime, lying situate and being on Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, South Carolina, and being more particularly shown and described by reference to the Master Deed, establishing the said Horizontal Property Regime, being dated May 25, 1993, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Mesne Conveyances for Beaufort County, South Carolina, on June 3, 1993 in Deed Book 626 at Page 2446; as amended by the First, Second, Third, Fourth and Fifth Amendments to Master Deed recorded in said Office, on July 2, 1993 in Deed Book 635 at Page 39; on August 26, 1993 in Deed Book 647 at Page 651; on May 23, 1994 in Deed Book 706 at Page 639; on December 14, 1995 in Deed Book 822 at Page 1007, and on January 21, 1997 in Deed Book 916 at Page 603, respectively, as may be further amended from time to time, and by reference to that certain plat entitled “As­ Built Survey of Grande Ocean Resort Horizontal Property Regime” said plat prepared by Terry G. Hatchell, S.C.R.L.S. #11059 of Surveying Consultants, said plat being dated May 27, 1993, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Mesne Conveyances for Beaufort County, South Carolina, in Plat Book 46 at Page 102, said plat bearing last revision date January 7, 1997 and recorded in said Office in Plat Book 59 at Page 58, ae may be further revised from time to time.

AND ALSO, all of the rights, privileges, easements, and common areas appertaining to the above-described property as set forth in the Master Deed and By-Laws of Grande Ocean Resort Horizontal Property Regime.

AND ALSO, all right, title, interest and privileges extending to Timesharing Interest Numbers(s) 8931P-29; in each of the respective aforedescribed Units, as contained in that certain Time Sharing Declaration dated May 25, 1993, recorded in the office of the Register of Mesne Conveyances for Beaufort County, South Carolina, on June 3, 1993, in Deed Book 626 at Page 2533, and amended by that certain Supplement to Time Sharing Declaration, dated December 12, 1995 and recorded in said Office on December 14, 1995 in Deed Book 822 at Page 1035, as may be further revised from time to time.

The total amount due as of the date of the Foreclosure Sale is $6,105.03. If additional costs and/or fees associated with the foreclosure and sale are incurred, such additional costs and/or fees shall be added to this amount on the date of the Foreclosure Sale.

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Monarch at Sea Pines Owners' Association, Inc. v.

Mary Ann Leseberg C/O KELLEY KELLEY & KELLEY ATTORNEY 1536 WEST SCHAUMBURG RD SCHAUMBURG IL 60194 (“Owner”) Contract number : 452 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that according to the Notice of Sale recorded in the Register of Deeds Office for Beaufort County, South Carolina, Daniel C. Zickefoose, as Trustee/Attorney and Eck, Conley & Richardson, P.L.L.C, 4000 Faber Place Drive, Suite 300, North Charleston, SC 29405 (“Creditor/Lienholder”), will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, outside of the Beaufort County Government Center Entrance, 100 Ribaut Rd, Beaufort, SC 29902, beginning at 10:00 a.m. on August 21st, 2026, the following described Property: AS TO: Mary Ann Leseberg Together with a remainder over in fee simple absolute as tenants in common with the other owners of all the unit weeks in the hereafter described Condominium Unit in that percentage interest determined and established by the aforesaid Declaration of Interval Ownership, Rights, Restrictions, Affirmative Obligations, Conditions, Etc. for the following described real estate located in the County of Beaufort, State of South Carolina as follows: UNIT WEEK 34 in UNIT NO 3844, in Monarch at Sea Pines, Horizontal Property Regime XXV, Phase XIX, according to the Master Deed of American Resort Properties, Inc., dated May 18, 1982, as recorded in the Beaufort County Records in Deed Book 347 at Page 346, et seq. and as amended by Annexation Declaration of Phase XIX, recorded in the Beaufort County Records, and all applicable amendments thereto. The sale of the Property is to satisfy the past due obligations of the Owner(s) as evidenced by the Claim(s) of Lien duly recorded in the following Official Records Lien Book/ Page: 4439/948 of the Public Records of Beaufort County, South Carolina.

Owner is currently in default under certain provisions of the Master Deed Establishing Monarch at Sea Pines, Horizontal Property Regime XXV, Beaufort County, South Carolina by MARRIOTT OWNERSHIP RESORTS INC. recorded in Deed Book 347 at Page 346, et seq. and as amended by Annexation Declaration of Phase XIX, recorded in the Beaufort County Records, and all applicable amendments thereto (the “Master Deed”).

As provided for in the Master Deed, as amended, the lienholder has chosen to proceed with a non-judicial foreclosure procedure in accordance with Article 3 of Chapter 32 of Title 27 of the Code of Laws of South Carolina.

The total amount due as of the date of the Foreclosure Sale is $5,760.45 If additional costs and/or fees associated with the foreclosure and sale are incurred, such additional costs and/or fees shall be added to this

amount on the date of the Foreclosure Sale.

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Grande Ocean Resort Owners’ Association, Inc. v.

Kevin Tyrone Jackson Sr. and Patti S. Jackson 50 KILBRIDE DR PINEHURST NC 28374-8832 (“Owner”) Contract number 0100417261.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that according to the Notice of Sale recorded in the Register of Deeds Office for Beaufort County, South Carolina, Daniel C. Zickefoose, as Trustee/Attorney and Eck, Conley & Richardson, P.L.L.C, 4000 Faber Place Drive, Suite 300, North Charleston, SC 29405 (“Creditor/Lienholder”), will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, outside the Beaufort County Government Center, 100 Ribaut Street, Beaufort, SC 29902 beginning at 10:00 a.m. on August 21st , 2026, the following described Property: AS TO: Kevin Tyrone Jackson Sr. and Patti S. Jackson An undivided one fifty-first (1/51) fractional interest in Unit No.8245 , respectively, Grande Ocean Resort Horizontal Property Regime, lying situate and being on Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, South Carolina, and being more particularly shown and described by reference to the Master Deed, establishing the said Horizontal Property Regime, being dated May 25, 1993, and recorded in the Office of the Register of Mesne Conveyances for Beaufort County, South Carolina, on June 3, 1993 in Deed Book 626 at Page 2446; as amended by the First, Second, Third, Fourth and Fifth Amendments to Master Deed recorded in said Office, on July 2, 1993 in Deed Book 635 at Page 39; on August 26, 1993 in Deed Book 647 at Page 651; on May 23, 1994 in Deed Book 706 at Page 639; on December 14, 1995 in Deed Book 822 at Page 1007, and on January 21, 1997 in Deed Book 916 at Page 603, respectively, as may be further amended from time to time, and by reference to that certain plat entitled “As­ Built Survey of Grande Ocean Resort Horizontal Prop-

The total amount due as of the date of the Foreclosure Sale is $2,104.62. If additional costs and/or fees associated with the foreclosure and sale are incurred, such additional costs and/or fees shall be added to this amount on the date of the Foreclosure Sale.

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Grande Ocean Resort Owners’ Association, Inc. v.

Kevin Tyrone Jackson Sr. and Patti S. Jackson 50 KILBRIDE DR PINEHURST NC 28374-8832

PLACE YOUR LEGAL NOTICE HERE Please contact ads. theislandnews@gmail.com for more information on placing your legal notice in The Island News.

common areas appertaining to the above-described property as set forth in the Master Deed and By-Laws of Grande Ocean Resort Horizontal Property Regime.

AND ALSO, all right, title, interest and privileges extending to Timesharing Interest Numbers(s) 8046S-10; in each of the respective aforedescribed Units, as contained in that certain Time Sharing Declaration dated May 25, 1993, recorded in the office of the Register of Mesne Conveyances for Beaufort County, South Carolina, on June 3, 1993, in Deed Book 626 at Page 2533, and amended by that certain Supplement to Time Sharing Declaration, dated December 12, 1995 and recorded in said Office on December 14, 1995 in Deed Book 822 at Page 1035, as may be further revised from time to time.

The sale of the Property is to satisfy the past due obligations of the Owner(s) as provided for by the Mortgage for Marriott Ownership Resorts, Inc. duly recorded in the Register of Deeds Office for Beaufort County, South Carolina, in Mortgage Book/Page 4321/ 2556, as amended.

The total amount due as of the date of the Foreclosure Sale is $2,104.62. If additional costs and/or fees associated with the foreclosure and sale are incurred, such additional costs and/or fees shall be added to this amount on the date of the Foreclosure Sale.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATES All persons having claims against the following estates, MUST file their claims on FORM #371 ES with the Probate court of Beaufort County, the address of which is 102 Ribaut Road, Beaufort, SC 29902, within eight (8) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice to Creditors or within one (1) year from date of death, whichever is earlier (SCPC 62-3-801, et seq.), or such persons shall be forever barred at to their claims. All claims are required to be presented in written statements on the prescribed form (FORM #371 ES) indicating the name and address of the claimant, the basis of the claim, the amount claimed, the date when the claim will become due, the nature of any uncertainty as to the claim, and a description of any security as to the claim.

DECEDENT

PERSONAL PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE REPRESENTATIVE

PUB. DATE PUB. DATE

PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

PUB. DATE

JosephS.Frank Ernest Ahr Anastasia 05/17/2025 Date of Death: 6/8/2026 2025ES0700899 Case Number: 2026ES0700735

Elisa O’Connor Theresa M. Ahr 16 William Pope Drive, C/O 3600 Main Street, #400Ste. 202 Bluffton, SC Island, 29909 SC 29926 Hilton Head

08/21/2025 07/16/2026

Frederick RayLigeikis Liles Barbara Ann Date of Death: 07/05/2025 5/10/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700943 2026ES0700774

Melaine S. Smith Eric Ligeikis PO Box 1107 1023 C/O P.O. DRAWER Beaufort, SC 29901

08/28/2025 07/23/2026

Jerry Joseph DittleCampbell Cassandra Elaine Date of Death: 6/7/2026 03/01/2025 2025ES0700903 Case Number: 2026ES0700727

Lori R. Cullen Juanita Campbell C/O 16Seneca WilliamAvenue Pope Drive, Ste. 202 3408 Bluffton, 29909 Aiken, SC SC 29801

08/21/2025 07/16/2026

Alan Michaelson; JudithJoel Carol Pedrotty AKA Alan J. Michaelson Date of Death: 06/29/2025 11/28/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700944 2025ES0701387

CatherineD.Grubell Stephen Pedrotty C/O Bosley 16 William 710 RoadPope Dr., Ste. 202 Bluffton, SC 29909 Hunt Valley, MD 21030

08/28/2025 07/23/2026

Marguerite Anne Ford Patricia Sommers Clarke AKA Patricia S. Clarke 07/01/2025 Date of Death: 5/23/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0700745 2025ES0700906

Ford Michael F.Ralph Clarke, Lisa C. Copeland PO Box 5098BOX 5098 C/O POST OFFICE Hilton Head Island, SC 29938

08/21/2025 07/16/2026

John LetitiaEdward NanetteMiracle; Ryan AKA John E. Miracle Date of Death: 04/05/2025 2/1/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700932 2026ES0700359

Geraldine G. Miracle Charles E. Ryan PO Street Box 5098 6C/O Dove Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 29938

08/28/2025 07/23/2026

Anna Maria Wilhelmina La Haije Helen Connors 07/21/2025 Date of Death: 4/1/2026 2025ES0700892 Case Number: 2026ES0700741

HelmaF. Franisca John Boorack Cap 17 Brams PointAndrews Rd. Road, Suite 3 C/O 7511 Saint HiltonSCHead Island, SC 29926 Irmo, 29063

08/21/2025 07/16/2026

Raymond Carl Pettersen Ramona Gloria Simmons Date of Death: 06/09/2025 7/31/2023 Case Number: 2025ES0700929 2026ES0700762

08/28/2025 07/23/2026

Rita Marie O’Brien Joseph Gerard Doherty, Jr. 07/25/2025 Date of Death: 3/30/2026 2025ES0700913 Case Number: 2026ES0700743

John M. O’Brien, Jr. Suzanne E. Jacobson PO Drawer 1107 C/O P.O. BOX 22512 Beaufort SC Island, 29901 SC 29925 Hilton Head

08/21/2025 07/16/2026

Marilyn J.Kolbe Audrey GlennOlsen 05/30/2025 Date of Death: 6/11/2026 2025ES0700733 Case Number: 2026ES0700740

08/21/2025 07/16/2026

Robert A. Parham, Shirley Rona CarlsonJr.Lambinon 07/09/2025 Date of Death: 8/7/2025 2025ES0700912 Case Number: 2026ES0700733

Connie O. L. Olsen Sharon Hooper 112 Executive C/O P.O. BOX 882 Center 1 Corpus Christi Place, #112 Bluffton, SC 29910 Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 V. AlexF.Dorobantu Yvette Lambinon 1110BOX Pick3435 Pocket Plantation Dr. Ste. A C/O P.O. Beaufort,SCSC29910 29902 Bluffton,

WilliamP.M.Matune Roberson, Jr. James 05/20/2025 Date of Death: 4/10/2026 2025ES0700645 Case Number: 2026ES0700737

Lacey Michelle Godec Charlene Matune PO Drawer 1023 C/O P.O. BOX 7906 Beaufort, 29901 SC 29938 Hilton HeadSCIsland,

08/21/2025 07/16/2026

AndrewDuncan Gerard O’Quinn, Schiavone, Robert Jr. III 06/09/2025 Date of Death: 5/21/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0700734 2025ES0700751

M. O’Quinn, SchiavoneIII R.Melissa Duncan PO Drawer C/O P.O. BOX 11071107 Beaufort, SC 29901

08/21/2025 07/16/2026

RonaldLynn Gene Tune Trudi Peevey 06/30/2025 Date of Death: 4/28/2026 2025ES0700914 Case Number: 2026ES0700631

RodneyHazelworth A. Schaake Wesley PO Box C/O P.O. BOX22230 2358 Hilton Head Beaufort, SC Island, 29901 SC 29925

08/21/2025 07/16/2026

Melva Jean Shelton Wheeler William Endicott Reed 07/16/2025 Date of Death: 7/1/2026 2025ES0700893 Case Number: 2026ES0700744

Teresa Lynn Anthony Jennifer C. Yeager C/OWater PO BoxStreet 7906 511 Hilton Head Beaufort, SC Island, 29902 SC 29938

08/21/2025 07/16/2026

Charles FainEvans Williams Mary Jane Trent AKA Mary Jane Trent 07/23/2025 Date of Death: 5/28/2026 2025ES0700889 Case Number: 2026ES0700738

LauraT.Ann Mitzi ReidRichardson 2662OldBroad 319 BaileyStreet Road Beaufort, 29902 Okatie, SC SC 29909

08/21/2025 07/16/2026

DonaldBenedict Simeon Zuidema; AKA Donald S. Zuidema Anita 04/29/2025 Date of Death: 4/4/2026 2025ES0700904 Case Number: 2026ES0700753

Marianne Susan FernZuidema Bender 3404Fording Salterbeck Street, 204294 C/O 1533 Island Road,Ste. Suite Mt. Pleasant, SC 29466 Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

08/21/2025 07/23/2026

PatriciaBenjamin Francis Crocco Daniel Bernblum 07/29/2025 Date of Death: 7/20/2025 2025ES0700931 Case Number: 2026ES0700768

JohnAlan F. Crocco Jack Bernblum PO Box C/O POST118OFFICE BOX 2473 Southport,SCCT29901 06890 Beaufort,

08/28/2025 07/23/2026

Charles Oliver III Halsey Alexander VanGolson Rensselaer 09/28/2024 Date of Death: 3/5/2026 2024ES0701357 Case Number: 2026ES0700752

NancyHalsey L. Golson David 16 William Pope Dr., Ste. 202 C/O P.O. BOX 3885 29909 Bluffton, SC 29910

08/28/2025 07/23/2026

Corinne Annette Baker Patricia Ann Wilson Date of Death: 5/4/2026 Date Death: 2026ES0700800 07/12/2025 Case of Number: Case Number: 2025ES0700916 June Ann Beck Mary Grey Boatwright Date of Death: 4/26/2026 Date Death: 2026ES0700813 08/04/2025 Case of Number: Case Number: 2025ES0700963 Robert C. Beck, III Francis Brien; AKA Francis C. Brien Date ofCharles Death: 6/26/2026 Date Death: 2026ES0700811 07/11/2025 Case of Number: Case Number: 2025ES0700946 James Langhorne Breen Arthur Emerson Date ofAndrew Death: 6/24/2026 Date Death: 2026ES0700796 07/27/2025 Case of Number: Case Number: 2025ES0700956 Kerri Ann Kolwicz Ervin Fitzgerald Date ofGene Death: 4/10/2026 Date Death: 2026ES0700814 12/24/2024 Case of Number: Case Number: 2025ES0700948 Frank Xavier Land Robin Date ofRaines Death:Hoffer 6/18/2026 Date Death: 2026ES0700784 04/27/2025 Case of Number: Case Number: 2025ES0700964 Anne Darby Mobley Stanley M. Lawson Date of Death: 6/5/2026 Date Death: 2026ES0700812 06/21/2025 Case of Number: Case Number: 2025ES0700961 Gary Jon Rielly Joe Lieser DateWilliam of Death: 6/2/2026 Date Death: 2026ES0700791 07/12/2025 Case of Number: Case Number: 2025ES0700857 Robin Little Satterwhite Date of Death: 5/13/2026 Larry Cecil Millender Case Number: 2026ES0700818 Date of Death: 02/19/2025 Case 2025ES0700974 MarkNumber: Stuart Vance, AKA Mark S.Vance Date of Death: 12/2/2025 Suzanne Rekate2026ES0700807 Post Case Number: Date of Death: 07/21/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700962

Cynthia K. Hutcheson Dana Michele Bloodworth Christina R. Lesher C/O P.O. BOX 8047 C/O 10 Head Hospital Center Commons, Ste. 400 Hilton Island, SC 29938 Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 Carrie L. Kleinjan Edward HarryDrive Tobergte 23 Stonegate C/O POHead Box 7906 Hilton Island, SC 29926 Hilton Head Island, SC 29938 Adele Marie Cooney Louise C/O P.O.Brunson BOX 7906 C/O POHead Drawer 1107 SC 29928 Hilton Island, Beaufort, SC 29901 Adele Marie Cooney Lisa P.O. BrienBOX 7906 C/O C/O POHead Drawer 1107 SC 29928 Hilton Island, Beaufort, SC 29901 Ann Elizabeth Harr ClaraP.O. Marie C/O BOXEmerson 5098 C/O POHead Box 3435 Hilton Island, SC 29938 Bluffton, SC 29910 Thaddeus Henry Kolwicz, Jr. Daniel Fitzgerald C/O P.O.Gene DRAWER 6067 27187 Chippendale Hilton Head Island, Ter. SC 29938 Salisbury, MD 21801 Michele Bridget Land-Hartman William Myers 1208 Verde FarmHoffer, RoadII C/O 2015 NC Boundary Raleigh, 27603 St., #227 Beaufort, SC 29902 James M. Mixson Melissa L. Davis 1310 Gatch Court C/O PO Drawer 1107 Milford, OH 45150 Beaufort, SC 29901 Jennifer Joan Rielly Matthew 1084 TrojanJ. Lieser Horse Circle C/O 112 Executive Center Fleetwood, NC 28626 1 Corpus Christi Place, #112 HiltonLandon Head Island, SC 29928 Trent Satterwhite 1209 S. Green River Road Janese W.SCDavis Gaffney, 29341 180 Pearl Davis Road Springfield, 31329 Jonathan D. GA Vance C/O 233 E. Graham Street R. WillisNCPost Shelby, 28150 C/O 17 Professional Village Beaufort, SC 29907

Kelly Lynn Sullivan

James F. Holland

09/04/2025

Gladys Kline Legare Date of Death: 04/27/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700933

Charisse Parker C/O PO Box 2478 Beaufort, SC 29901-2478

08/21/2025 07/16/2026

DECEDENT DECEDENT

07/30/2026 08/28/2025

07/30/2026 09/04/2025

07/30/2026 09/04/2025

07/30/2026 09/04/2025

07/30/2026 09/04/2025

07/30/2026 09/04/2025

07/30/2026 09/04/2025

07/30/2026 09/04/2025

07/30/2026

09/04/2025 07/30/2026

09/04/2025

Date of Death: 07/21/2025 PO Box 7906 Heather R. Galvin, 08/28/2025 Probate Judge, Beaufort County, SC C/O Case Number: 2025ES0700954 Hilton Head Island, SC 29938 James Franklin Willard Date of Death: 07/02/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700957

Heather R. Galvin, Probate Judge, Beaufort County, SC

Deborah F. Kopp C/O PO Drawer 1023 Beaufort, SC 29901

09/04/2025

NEWS

Felling of Luther’s tree spurs notice plan

Beaufort’s tree commission has advanced a proposal to notify the public before scheduled tree removals

By Delayna Earley The Island News The unexpected removal of a live oak from the patio at Luther’s Rare & Well Done has prompted Beaufort officials to consider a new public-notification process for tree removals.

City officials said the tree had been declining for years and was ultimately removed because it posed a safety hazard. The city intended to provide advance notice, but that did not happen before its contractor cut down the tree.

The Beaufort Park and Tree Advisory Commission voted July 23 to advance a proposal calling for signs to be posted on trees before scheduled removals. The city may test the process on trees affected by the North Street drainage project.

City Manager Scott Marshall said concerns about the Luther’s tree were first raised by a downtown resident who believed it was dead and hazardous. The city asked an arborist to inspect it.

The arborist determined that the tree was not yet dead and recommended pruning in an effort to revive it. The city’s landscaping contractor, The Greenery, completed the work according to the arbor-

Fanelli

from page A1 from state and local government agencies, subject to certain exemptions.

The federal Freedom of Information Act is a separate law that applies to records held by federal agencies.

According to the Covington Police Department report, investigators allege Fanelli gained access to the email account of an executive at U.S. Rotors and created a fraudulent account with a very similar email address.

Several messages were allegedly exchanged between the fraudulent account and Innovative Air Technologies before the company initiated a $197,000 Automated Clearing House transfer, commonly known as an ACH transfer, the report states.

The payment was intended for U.S. Rotors, described in the police report as an Innovative Air Technologies sister company that had recently begun operating in Louisiana.

Innovative Air Technologies is a Covington-based manufacturer of commercial dehumidification equipment. According to the company’s website, it was founded in 2001 and produces commercial desiccant dehumidification systems.

The alleged fraud occurred between April 20 and April 22 and was reported to Covington police April 30 after the money did not appear in the U.S. Rotors account, according to the incident report.

That timeline differs from the April 1 offense date listed in the Newton County Superior Court record. The records currently available to The Island News do not explain the discrepancy.

The Covington Police Department advised The Island News to direct requests for the arrest warrants, supporting affidavits, booking documents and other re-

The live oak was cut nearly level with the patio deck at Luther’s Rare & Well Done in downtown Beaufort on July 7, 2026. The photo was posted to social media that day by a Luther’s employee. Facebook ist’s recommendations, but the tree did not recover.

In March, The Greenery reported that sizable limbs had fallen from the tree and raised concerns about the danger it presented to people using the patio. A second assessment confirmed that the tree needed to be removed, Marshall said.

Michael Andersen, a member of the Park and Tree Advisory Commission, said city arborist Michael Murphy had been involved in evaluating the tree over several years.

Andersen said removing it became necessary after the pruning failed and additional limbs fell.

“We don’t want patrons sitting there under Luther’s when a big old bough comes down,” Andersen said.

Notice did not reach city After the city determined that the tree should be removed, downtown operations asked The Greenery to provide one or two weeks’ notice before beginning the work.

That would have given the city time to contact Luther’s, alert adjacent property owners, inform the Park and Tree Advisory Commission and issue a public announcement.

The requested notice did not reach the city.

“We expected advance notice from The Greenery when they were ready to take it down, and that notice didn’t reach us,” Marshall said.

Because the city did not know when the contractor planned to begin, neither Luther’s employees nor the public received the notification

cords to the Newton County Sheriff’s Office. Those records have been requested under the Georgia Open Records Act.

to leave Newton County except for scheduled meetings with her attorney and court appearances.

A Newton County Sheriff’s Office bond form lists a $25,000 bond, along with fees and assessments bringing the total obligation shown on the document to $27,700. The form was approved July 1.

Newton County jail officials previously confirmed to The Island News that Fanelli was released July 2.

The July 1 court order lists a committal hearing for July 29. However, the form also states that a committal hearing would not be held following a defendant’s release on bond unless the bond included special conditions and the defendant submitted a written request for a hearing.

The publicly available records do not indicate that such a request has been filed.

Attorney enters case New Superior Court filings show attorney Samuel M. Barth entered an appearance on Fanelli’s behalf July 22.

Barth also filed a demand for discovery notifying prosecutors that Fanelli had elected to participate in reciprocal discovery under Georgia law. A certificate of service states that the discovery demand, entry of appearance and an accompanying notice of counsel’s planned absences were served electronically on the Newton County District Attorney’s Office.

A demand for discovery is a routine pretrial filing through which the defense seeks evidence held by prosecutors and agrees to provide certain evidence to the state. It is not a plea or a determination of guilt.

The case remains listed in Newton County Superior Court as an unindicted felony matter.

Bond set at $25,000 The newly obtained court records also clarify the circumstances surrounding Fanelli’s release from the Newton County Detention Center.

A first-appearance form dated June 29 identifies the pending charges as theft by deception and computer theft. The form notes that Fanelli had hired an attorney and invoked her right to counsel, causing additional substantive proceedings to be suspended until counsel could be present.

A second first-appearance order dated July 1 set Fanelli’s bond at a total of $25,000; $10,000 on the theft-by-deception charge and $15,000 on the computer-theft charge.

The order required Fanelli to sign a waiver of extradition before leaving the jail. It also stated that she was not

Arrest, transfer to Georgia Fanelli was arrested by the Beaufort Police Department at approximately 3:55 p.m. June 22 on a fugitive-from-justice warrant issued from Georgia, according to Beaufort County Detention Center records.

She remained in custody in Beaufort County until June 27, when she was transferred to the Newton County Detention Center.

South Carolina Law Enforcement Division spokesperson Renée Wunderlich previously confirmed that SLED assisted the Covington Police Department in locating Fanelli in Beaufort County.

The Newton County Superior Court received the felony warrants June 29.

Beaufort County placed Fanelli on administrative leave without pay effective June 22, pending an investigation.

“We have complied with all law enforcement agencies involved in this investigation and will continue to do so,” Beaufort County

the city intended to provide.

Marshall said it was his understanding that the owner of Luther’s knew the tree would eventually need to be removed and left a voicemail thanking downtown operations after the work was completed. He declined to speculate about what may have been communicated internally at the business.

The condition of the patio immediately after the removal created additional concerns.

A hole remained in the deck, along with loose conduit and wiring that had been attached to the tree.

Marshall called the condition “completely unacceptable.” He said The Greenery later covered the opening and secured the loose wiring, eliminating the remaining hazard.

Although officials agreed that the live oak needed to be removed, the lack of advance notice became the focus of a broader discussion about how the city communicates with residents before visible changes are made to Beaufort’s tree canopy.

Andersen proposed posting a brightly colored sign directly on a tree before scheduled work begins, similar to the signs used to notify the public about zoning matters.

The notice could explain whether a tree is scheduled for removal, pruning or trimming and provide a way for residents to contact the city with questions. Andersen initially suggested that the requirement apply to trees on

public property and to work requiring a city permit on private property.

“People don’t want surprises,” Andersen said.

He said advance notice would also allow the Park and Tree Advisory Commission to respond when residents ask about tree work. Commission members often receive calls after people see crews or hear chainsaws, Andersen said, but may not have information if they were not notified beforehand.

Public Information Officer Hannah Nichols said in a previous statement to The Island News. “We trust the judicial process to take its course, but are unable to comment further.”

Fanelli joined Beaufort County in 2018 after previously working as communications manager for Newton County.

As Beaufort County’s communications manager, Fanelli works under the direction of Nichols, the county’s public information officer. Her responsibilities have included creating, writ-

ing and publishing information for the public and news media, promoting county services, programs and events, and assisting with crisis communications.

In 2020, Fanelli was placed on paid administrative leave after thousands of social-media posts attributed to her resurfaced publicly. Many of the posts predated her employment with Beaufort County and included profanity and commentary about politics, race, religion and the COVID-19 pandemic.

County officials ulti-

Commission advances proposal At the commission’s July 23 meeting, Andersen formally proposed that Beaufort require advance signs on trees scheduled to be affected by removal, pruning or trimming.

During the discussion, city staff recommended beginning with removals. Applying the requirement immediately to all pruning and trimming projects could create logistical difficulties before the city determines how the process will work.

Commission members discussed posting notices at least one week – and possibly two weeks –before scheduled removals when the city has sufficient advance notice.

The North Street drainage project could provide the first test of the process. City staff told the commission that a 41-inch sycamore and several smaller trees will need to be removed because they conflict with the installation of a

60-inch stormwater pipe.

Staff said there is not enough room on the narrow street to install the pipe and required excavation equipment without entering the sycamore’s structural root zone. The tree’s removal was included in the project plans, and the city has discussed the situation with the project engineer, the South Carolina Department of Transportation and a nearby church.

Officials suggested posting notices on the North Street trees before their removal and sending the proposed wording to commission members for review.

The commission voted to advance the notification proposal, beginning with tree removals. Details such as the wording of the signs, how far in advance they must be posted and how the process would apply to different types of property still must be developed.

The proposal would not prevent the city from removing a hazardous tree or responding to an emergency. It would establish a notification process for removals that are known and scheduled in advance.

City staff will now work on the proposed notice and the procedure for posting it before upcoming tree removals.

Delayna Earley, who joined The Island News in 2022, formerly worked as a photojournalist for The Island Packet/The Beaufort Gazette, as well as newspapers in Indiana and Virginia. She can be reached at delayna.theislandnews@gmail.com.

mately determined that the posts did not violate county policy because they were made before Fanelli began working for the county. She returned to work after the investigation.

Fanelli is presumed innocent unless and until she is proven guilty.

Delayna Earley, who joined The Island News in 2022, formerly worked as a photojournalist for The Island Packet/The Beaufort Gazette, as well as newspapers in Indiana and Virginia. She can be reached at delayna. theislandnews@gmail.com.

Experience the joy of worship with St. Mark’s Episcopal Church Sunday Services 9:00 AM | 11:00 AM *Nursery & Children’s Sunday School at 11:00 AM

Wednesday’s Service

Hope & Healing Service at 12:00 PM

FOR MORE DETAILS: VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.stmarksportroyal.org www.facebook.com/stmarksportroyal 1004 11th Street Port Royal, SC

Join Us for Sunday Morning Worship at 8:30 & 10:30 81 Lady’s Island Drive Pastor Steve Keeler (843) 525-0696 seaislandpresbyterian.org JULY 30-AUGUST 5, 2026

A5

NEWS

Andersen cleared to continue PTAC service

Attorney General’s Office finds no conflict with County Council role

By Delayna Earley The Island News Michael Andersen says he will be able to continue serving on the City of Beaufort’s Parks and Tree Advisory Committee if elected to Beaufort County Council in November.

Andersen, the Republican nominee for the District 4 County Council seat, is currently running unopposed after no Democratic candidate filed for the general election.

He won the Republican primary in June, defeating challenger Thomas Grygowski.

Andersen announced on Facebook that he had received written guidance from the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office addressing concerns about holding both positions simultaneously.

“There has been some concern that, if elected to Beau-

fort County Council, I would have to step away from my service on the City of Beaufort Parks and Tree Advisory Committee,” Andersen wrote.

“I am pleased to share that, after reviewing the matter, the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office has advised that my continued service on both bodies would not constitute dual office holding under the South Carolina Constitution, nor would it create a master-servant conflict.”

In a written response shared by Andersen, Assistant Attorney General Sabrina C. Todd said she reviewed the relevant City of Beaufort ordinances and the information Andersen provided about the committee.

“I do not believe your membership on that body constitutes an office,” Todd wrote. “For that reason, your simultaneous service on that body and on Beaufort County Council would not constitute dual office holding in violation of the South Carolina Constitution.”

Todd added that she did not believe Andersen’s service on both bodies would create a “master-servant conflict.”

The distinction rests on PTAC’s status as an advisory committee. Its members make recommendations on matters involving Beaufort’s parks, trees and public spaces but do not exercise the type of governmental authority associated with public office.

The five-member committee’s members are appointed

by Beaufort City Council for renewable three-year terms.

Andersen was appointed in 2025 and currently serves as one of its citizen representatives.

“That means I will be able to continue serving at the pleasure of City Council while also serving the residents of Beaufort County,” Andersen wrote on Facebook.

Andersen defeated Grygowski in the June 9 Republican primary. With no Democratic or third-party candidate in the race, Andersen is unop-

posed in the Nov. 3 general election, though voters may still cast write-in votes. He will not officially become a County Council member unless elected in November.

In an interview with The Island News, Andersen said he sought clarification because he wanted to ensure that simultaneously serving on the municipal committee and County Council would comply with the South Carolina Constitution.

“I’m not any kind of a legal scholar, so I’m not going to make up anything,” he said.

“I’m going to reach out and make sure.”

Andersen said he also notified Beaufort City Manager Scott Marshall of his intention to serve on PTAC and County Council concurrently.

According to Andersen, Marshall said there was nothing preventing him from doing so. Andersen acknowledged that he remains on PTAC at the pleasure of City Council.

Several City Council members had previously

expressed concern that Andersen’s County Council campaign might mean his departure from the committee, he said.

“A couple of them expressed that they really wanted me to stay on PTAC because they felt that I had brought renewed life to PTAC,” Andersen said.

Andersen said he intends to exercise caution if an issue involving both city and county governments comes before PTAC. He identified Whitehall Park, a joint city-county project, as an example of a matter from which he might recuse himself to avoid questions about his impartiality.

“I would rather err on the side of caution and just recuse myself so that way nobody could ever question any decision that I make,” he said.

Andersen said he has also discussed the arrangement with some current County Council members. None expressed opposition, he said, although they emphasized that his County Council du-

ties would need to receive his full attention.

PTAC generally meets for about an hour once a month, Andersen said, and he does not expect its workload to interfere with his responsibilities on County Council.

“I don’t really see it as conflicting with County Council duties,” he said.

In his Facebook announcement, Andersen described PTAC as one of the most rewarding ways he has been able to serve Beaufort.

“I look forward to seeing through the projects our committee has worked so hard to advance,” he wrote. “Protecting and enhancing Beaufort’s parks, trees, and public spaces is something I care deeply about, and I am grateful to be able to continue that work.”

Delayna Earley, who joined The Island News in 2022, formerly worked as a photojournalist for The Island Packet/The Beaufort Gazette, as well as newspapers in Indiana and Virginia. She can be reached at delayna. theislandnews@gmail.com.

National Day Of Action Sanford joins crowded

race for US Senate

Former governor, US representative sounds familiar warning on government overspending

Participants come together for a vigil held at the Boundary Street office of Rep. Nancy Mace to honor the lives of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo (52, killed in Houston on July 7) and Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero (26, killed in Biddeford, Maine on July 13) after both were shot and killed by ICE officers while commuting to work. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

Participants gather at the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office (1501 Bay St) headquarters to walk from Bay Street to U.S. Representative Nancy Mace’s Beaufort office (710 Boundary St.) on Saturday, July 25, 2026. The participants later held a vigil at the Boundary Street office of Rep. Nancy Mace to honor the lives of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo (52, killed in Houston on July 7) and Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero (26, killed in Biddeford, Maine on July 13) after both were shot and killed by ICE officers while commuting to work. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

OBGYN Nurse Practitioner joins Beaufort Memorial

Special to The Island News Beaufort Memorial is expanding women’s healthcare in the Lowcountry by adding a new nurse practitioner to its OBGYN team, according to a media release.

Lauren Nates, MSN, APRN, NP-C, IBCLC, is a board-certified nurse practitioner and lactation consultant who sees patients at Beaufort Memorial Obstetrics & Gynecology Specialists in Beaufort and Okatie.

She specializes in caring for women across their lifespan, including providing prenatal, maternity, postpartum and menopausal care.

At a young age, Nates was encouraged to pursue nursing by her mother, a teacher who thought her science-loving daughter would be a good fit for the career.

While in nursing school at Anderson University, she

A6

JULY 30-AUGUST 5, 2026

learned how impactful nursing can be for patients and their famLauren ilies. After Nates that, she couldn’t imagine doing anything else.

After earning a master’s degree in nursing at the University of South Carolina, she began her nursing career in an emergency department setting. There, caring for a patient who was experiencing an obstetric emergency helped Nates recognize her passion for women’s health.

She transitioned from being an ER nurse to serving patients in labor and delivery, and since then has cared for patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings across South Carolina and

Georgia. Passionate about the role of education in nursing, Nates has also served as a clinical instructor at the University of South Carolina and most recently provided prenatal, postpartum and gynecological care at Rural Health Services in Aiken.

Beaufort Memorial Obstetrics & Gynecology Specialists provides a full range of women's health services, including comprehensive obstetrical and gynecological care for patients at every stage of womanhood. The practice has two locations in Beaufort (Beaufort Medical Plaza, 989 Ribaut Road, Suite 210) and Okatie (Okatie Medical Pavilion, 122 Okatie Center Blvd. North, Suite 320).

To schedule an appointment with Nates or any of the practice’s providers, call 843-522-7820.

By Seanna Adcox SCDailyGazette.com Former Gov. Mark Sanford announced Thursday, July 23, 2026, he’s joining the race to replace U.S. Senate Lindsey Graham on a pledge to “get Washington’s finances back in order.”

It’s a familiar message for Sanford, who’s spent decades as a congressman, governor, and presidential candidate warning about the nation’s escalating debt.

According to the U.S. Treasury, that debt has climbed to nearly $39.7 trillion, up from $4.7 trillion when Sanford was first elected to the U.S. House in 1994.

“I’m worried for our children because for the first time, America’s borrowing from the future faster than we’re building it,” Sanford says in a video announcing his bid. “If left unaddressed, that debt will crush our economy. It will wipe out our savings, and it could even destroy our republic.”

Sanford is among a growing list of candidates seeking the GOP nomination in next month’s special primary following Graham’s death July 11 at age 71.

His death is a “reminder to all of us how short and precious life is,” Sanford, 66, says in the video’s opening, noting his father was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s disease when he was in high school. That diagnosis is what prompted Sanford’s family to move to the Beaufort County property where he spent summers growing up.

His entry into the U.S. Senate race follows announcements by U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman of the 5th District, U.S. Rep. Russell Fry of the 7th District, and Graham’s sister, Darline Graham, who was sworn in last week to fulfill the late senator’s term that ends in January.

Candidate filing for the Aug. 11 primary began Tuesday and ends Tuesday, July 28. Five other candidates have turned in their paperwork to be on the bal-

lot.

They include Upstate businessman Mark Lynch, who placed a distant second in the GOP primary Lindsey Graham won easily last month.

Others include Lexington businessman Sam Shepherd; former Myrtle Beach Mayor Mark McBride, who in 2022 placed sixth in the seven-way GOP race for U.S. House won by Fry; and Duke Bukner, a Walterboro attorney who’s twice unsuccessfully challenged U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn in the heavily Democratic 6th District.

One candidate doesn’t live in the state — yet. Clark Neilson filed Tuesday with a Charlotte address but plans to build a house on land he owns in Charleston County, The State newspaper reported.

Sanford, a two-term governor, not only has statewide name recognition, but he could also stand out from the crowd as a candidate not touting an alignment with President Donald Trump.

In 2019, Sanford launched a bid to challenge Trump’s bid for a second term, hoping to spark a national debate about the mounting debt. But his short-lived presidential campaign never got traction. Even the South Carolina GOP refused to hold a 2020 presidential primary, which Sanford protested by traveling the state with a cardboard cutout of Trump.

Trump endorsed Darline Graham last Friday in a post encouraging her to run.

Earlier this year, Sanford jumped into the open contest for the 1st Congressional District in an effort to win back the seat he’s held twice before. He ended that bid a month later, saying he planned to form a nonprofit focused on bringing the debt down.

Despite dropping out, he still beat out most of the competition, placing fourth last month among the 11 names on the GOP ballot.

A crowded GOP field is what aided Sanford’s return to Congress in 2013, when he won a 16-way Republican primary to fill the vacancy created when then-Gov. Nikki Haley appointed Tim Scott to the U.S. Senate. It was a remarkable comeback just four years after the governor infamously went

missing to visit his mistress in Argentina and reporters were incorrectly told he was “hiking the Appalachian Trail.” His political career was thought to be over when his tenure as governor ended in January 2011.

Sanford, whose frequent clashes with GOP legislative leaders included bringing piglets named “Pork” and “Barrell” into the Statehouse to criticize spending, asked voters Thursday to “look at my record in Congress and as governor in watching out for your family’s future.”

His last term in the coastal 1st Congressional District ended in January 2019 after then-state-Rep. Katie Arrington ousted him in the June 2018 GOP primary.

She then lost that November to Democrat Joe Cunningham, who flipped the seat for a single term before Nancy Mace flipped it back to red in 2020.

State GOP debate Also on Thursday, the South Carolina Republican Party announced it’s sponsoring a one-hour debate Aug. 3 with Gray Media, which will broadcast it statewide.

The party says candidates must agree to participate in a runoff debate, should they advance to the anticipated contest. If no candidate gets more than 50% of the votes Aug. 11, the top two vote-getters will face off Aug. 25. Final eligibility rules for the pre-primary debate are in the works, according to the party’s release.

“It’s critical that (voters) have an opportunity to compare the candidates on the issues and how they communicate their ideas to the public,” said state GOP Chairman Drew McKissick.

Early voting starts Aug. 5.

Seanna Adcox is a South Carolina native with three decades of reporting experience. After covering the S.C. Legislature and state politics for 18 years. she launched the S.C. Daily Gazette in November 2023 as the 37th state affiliate under the States Newsroom umbrella. Her previous employers include The Post and Courier and The Associated Press.

SC Daily Gazette is part of States Newsroom, the nation’s largest statefocused nonprofit news organization.

NEWS & EDUCATION

Freedman Arts District announces new Director of Development

Staff reports The Freedman Arts District has announced the appointment of Sara Miller as its new Director of Development, bringing nearly a decade of nonprofit leadership, fundraising, and event management experience to the organization's growing mission, according to a media release.

Miller joins the Freedman Arts District after eight years serving nonprofit organizations in higher education, conservation, and the arts,

where she led development initiatives, coordinated large-scale fundraising campaigns, and managed community events. Her professional experience includes the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, where she witnessed firsthand the transformative impact that occurs when engaged board members, dedicated staff, patrons, artists, and the broader community unite around a shared appreciation for the arts.

A graduate of Old Dominion University with a Bache-

lor of Science degree, Miller relocated to Beaufort to fulfill her longtime dream of living near the coast. Since making Beaufort home, she has been drawn to the community's creative spirit and rich cultural heritage.

"Throughout my life, I have naturally gravitated toward communities with a strong creative heartbeat," Miller said in a news release. "Creative people tend to value authenticity and meaningful relationships — qualities that have always been important

to me. While Beaufort's beauty first drew me here, it is the vision of the Freedman Arts District to cultivate authentic creative experiences and preserve the area's cultural heritage that truly inspired me to become part of this organization."

As Director of Development, Miller will lead fundraising initiatives, cultivate donor relationships, develop strategic partnerships, and help expand community engagement to support the organization's continued

growth.

"Sara brings a unique combination of development expertise, event management experience, and a genuine passion for building community through the arts," Freedman Arts District Executive Director Cherimie Weatherford said in the release. "As we continue to expand our impact throughout Beaufort, her leadership will be instrumental in helping us build meaningful relationships, strengthen philanthropic support, and bring our vision

for arts, culture, and community to life."

Miller said she is excited to help shape the organization's future as the Freedman Arts District transforms multiple historic downtown buildings into vibrant spaces for artists, education, exhibitions, and community engagement.

"I'm excited to bring my background in development and event management to the Freedman Arts District and help advance this incredible mission," Miller said.

SC back-to-school tax savings holiday set for Aug. 7-9

By Jessica Holdman SCDailyGazette.com South Carolina shoppers can again take advantage of 72 hours of savings on school supplies, clothing, computers and more during the state’s annual sales tax holiday next month.

Tax Free Weekend falls a little later this year: Aug. 7-9.

That’s just how days set by law fall on the calendar.

Per the law passed in 2000, the savings start at 12:01 a.m. the first Friday in August and continue until midnight Sunday.

Online sales of eligible

items are included.

“So, you don’t have to get out in the heat. You don’t have to brave the crowds to take advantage of tax-free weekend,” Rob Walden, a manager for the Department of Revenue, said in an online video. “If you want to stay home and you still want to save, all of your eligible purchases that are made online are also exempt from sales tax.”

The tax holiday waives the state’s 6% sales tax as well as applicable local taxes, according to the state’s tax collection agency.

Sales taxes are 6% in only three of South Carolina’s 46 counties: Beaufort, Greenville and Oconee. The other 43 counties charge their own additional sales taxes for local projects.

At 9% total, sales taxes are highest in Charleston, Berkeley and Jasper counties and the city of Myrtle Beach. Williamsburg County also added a 1% sales tax in May, taking its rate up to 8%, according to the tax collection agency.

“You really can save very quickly,” Walden said, especially on big-ticket items

such as computers.

The tax break applies to all shoppers, but the law was intended to help parents buy back-to-school items ahead of each new school year.

This year, all but seven of the state’s 72 public school districts will have already resumed classed before the tax holiday.

Non-taxable items include calculators, headphones, printers, computers and software and all types of clothing, as well as certain bed and bath items, including bed spreads, sheets, pillows, towels and shower cur-

tains, the department lists as examples on its website.

Items that are still taxed as normal include cellphones, digital cameras and video game consoles.

Walden also highlighted some tax-free items that may not immediately come to mind, such as sports uniforms and musical instruments.

“We know how much those can be sometimes,” he said.

And parents of infants can find savings stocking up on diapers, Walden added.

Last year, shoppers

bought more than $25 million in tax-free items and saved more than $1.5 million in taxes, according to the state tax agency.

“It’s a great opportunity for all South Carolinians,” Walden said.

Jessica Holdman writes about the economy, workforce and higher education. Before joining the S.C. Daily Gazette, she was a business reporter for The Post and Courier.

SC Daily Gazette is part of States Newsroom, the nation’s largest statefocused nonprofit news organization.

USCB collaborators featured in paper on coral conservation

University of South Carolina Beaufort A groundbreaking article on ocean conservation published in Science Advances, one of the world's premier peer-reviewed scientific journals, includes collaborators from the University of South Carolina Beaufort (USCB).

In the paper entitled "Communicating Coral: Art and Science for Global Reef Action," a coalition of leading coral reef scientists and artists inspired by the natural world advocates for a new approach to coral conservation. They examine how creative expression can inspire public engagement, influence policy and mobilize conservation efforts for coral reefs and argue that art and science must work together to protect coral reefs from accelerating decline.

This collation includes

This composite image includes (from left) Kim Ritchie, Eveline Kolijn, Joanna Angell, and April Flanders in front of a detail from Kolijn's "Tidalectics" exhibition. Photo courtesy of USC Beaufort USCB marine biologist Kim Ritchie, Ph.D., associate professor of art Joanna Angell, and artists Eveline Kolijn and April Flanders, all listed as contributing members of the Coral Art–Science Consortium, in collaboration

with lead authors Mónica Medina, Or Ben-Zvi and Oren Levy. The Coral Art– Science Consortium is an international nonprofit organization that unites scientists and artists to protect coral reefs through storytelling,

collaboration and environmental awareness.

Ritchie is Associate Professor of Genetics and Prokaryotic Cell Biology at USCB and director of Pritchards Island Research.

Angell teaches ceramics, drawing and printmaking and directs USCB's Sea Islands Center Gallery. During residencies in 2025 on the university's Beaufort campus and Pritchards Island, artists Kolijn and Flanders presented exhibitions entitled "Fragile Oceans," "Tidalectics" and "Altered Environments."

Coral reefs face growing threats from climate change, pollution, overfishing and coastal development.

Once-rare mass bleaching events now occur frequently worldwide, endangering ecosystems that provide food security, coastal protection, cultural identity and

livelihoods for hundreds of millions of people.

The publication argues that while science provides the data and strategies needed to conserve reefs, art has the unique ability to make those findings personal and emotionally compelling.

"Scientific research tells us what is happening to coral reefs worldwide and why it matters," Ritchie said. "Art helps people connect with those findings on a human level. When people feel connected to coral reefs, they're more likely to support actions needed to protect them."

The article highlights art projects that have raised environmental awareness and suggests similar approaches to bring the underwater world into public view through sculpture, photography, film, fashion, graphic design, music, dance and

immersive experiences.

Rather than simply documenting reef decline, the authors advocate artistic collaborations that make complex scientific concepts accessible to diverse audiences.

The publication also emphasizes including Indigenous communities and coastal populations whose cultures and livelihoods are deeply connected to coral reefs. By engaging local communities as collaborators rather than passive audiences, conservation efforts become more equitable, effective and sustainable.

Science Advances is a peer-reviewed, open-access scientific journal published by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). The full article is available at https:// www.science.org/journal/ sciadv.

Southeastern Louisiana hires USCB’s Caroline Sawyer

Southeastern Louisiana University Southeastern Louisiana University has appointed a new communication and media studies department head as Caroline E. Sawyer has joined join the Southeastern faculty from the University of South Carolina Beaufort, where she served as associate professor and director of the Sand Shark Center for Innovative Media.

An award-winning media producer, educator, and academic leader specializing in broadcast production, sports broadcasting, community storytelling, and experiential media pedagogy, Sawyer

holds a doctorate in communication from the University of Memphis.

“Dr. Caroline Sawyer brings a phenomenal wealth of experience to the Department of Communication and Media Studies and the Robin Roberts Center for Broadcast Media,” Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Eric Skipper said in a June news release.

“As an Emmy-nominated producer who has secured nearly $1 million in grant funding, she is a proven innovator in the media landscape. What sets Dr. Sawyer apart is her fiercely student-centric approach—

consistently bringing her students into the professional arena as co-producers on nationally syndicated television programs.”

Sawyer is the producer and director of “Books By the River,” a nationally distributed public television series by American Public Television in 43 states, reaching more than 259 million households. The series earned two Emmy nominations and multiple Telly Awards. She also contributed as digital content producer on After Action, a PBS national series.

Her scholarly and creative work includes the

“Voices of Mather” project, a grant-supported oral history multimedia initiative documenting the Mather School (1868-1968) in partnership with the Reconstruction Era National Historical Park.

Across her creative career at USCB, she secured nearly $1 million in grant funding and consistently integrated student collaborators into professional-level production work.

“An Emmy-nominated producer, Dr. Caroline Sawyer brings exceptional expertise in video production, sports communication, and media management, having served as Director of the

Sand Shark Center for Innovative Media at USCB,” said College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences Dean Jeff Wright. “Her leadership and experience will help take the department and the Robin Roberts Broadcast Media Center to the next level.”

A two-time regional teaching award recipient, including the Freshley Early Career Teaching Award from the Southern States Communication Association, and a South Carolina Humanities Governor’s Akers Award recipient, Sawyer is recognized for her commitment to hands-on, community-engaging learning.

Her scholarly work spans production pedagogy, sport communication, and gender studies, with presentations at the Broadcast Education Association, the National Communication Association, the International Communication Association, and the Southern States Communication Association.

Southeastern’s Department of Communication and Media Studies provides opportunities for focused study and research in television production, strategic communication, multi-platform journalism, and sports communication.

Salvation Army announces Back-to-School Supply Giveaway

Staff Reports The Salvation Army of the Lowcountry is hosting a Back-to-School Supply Giveaway from 3 to 5 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 6, at the Salvation Army located at 2505 North Street in Beaufort.

The event is designed to help local families prepare for the new school year by providing students with the supplies they need to start the year with confidence.

This community outreach is made possible through the generous support of local businesses, organizations, and individuals. The Salvation Army partnered with Walmart on Robert Smalls Parkway in Beaufort as part of the national Stuff the Bus campaign. Together, the community donated more than 300 pounds of school supplies to benefit local students.

The Salvation Army also extends its sincere appreciation to TLMODA (Toyota Lexus Minority Owners Dealership Association), whose generous donation of 100 backpacks filled with age-appropriate school supplies will directly impact children throughout the Lowcountry.

"No child should ever have to begin the school year without the tools they

need to succeed," said Lt. Sarah Andress, Commanding Officer of The Salvation Army of the Lowcountry.

"Back-to-school season can place a tremendous financial burden on families who are already struggling to make ends meet,” Lt. Glen Andress added. “Purchasing school supplies is often another difficult expense on top of food, housing, and utilities. Our hope is to re-

lieve some of that burden so students can walk into the classroom on the very first day feeling prepared, confident, and ready to learn."

The celebration will include free school supplies (while they last), snow cones, freshly grilled hot dogs, door prizes, brand new shoes, and family-friendly activities.

Community members are invited to come out, enjoy the festivities, and celebrate

the beginning of a new school year together.

"Meeting both the spiritual and physical needs of our neighbors in the name of Jesus Christ is at the heart of everything we do," Lt. Sarah Andress said.

Families interested in attending or learning more about the event are encouraged to contact Lt. Sarah Andress at 704-488-1665.

JULY 30-AUGUST 5, 2026

A7

EDUCATION & HEALTH

Ladies Auxiliary of AmVets Post 70 holding Back-to-School Bingo

Staff reports The Ladies Auxiliary of AmVets Post 70 invites the public to a Back-to-School Bingo on Saturday Aug. 1.

Doors open at 5 p.m.; the concession stand offers food at 5:30 p.m.; and the first bingo game starts at 6 p.m. AmVets Post 70 is located at 1831 Ribaut Road in Port Royal.

Admission is free with a donation to the school supply drive. Organizers are requesting the following

items: book bags, pencils, glue, markers, crayons, paper, folders etc. As there is no admission fee or cost for playing bingo, money is raised through the food concessions, bar, and purchase of 50/50 tickets. Prize baskets are won throughout the night for a variety of bingo games.

The Ladies Auxiliary proudly supports the veterans of AMVETS Post 70, their families, and our local community through volun-

teer service, fundraising, patriotic programs, and community outreach. Guided by the principles of patriotism, service, and Americanism, we are dedicated to honoring those who have served our nation while promoting fellowship, compassion, and community involvement.

For those unable to come to bingo, donations and cash are gladly accepted and can be dropped off at the post through Saturday, Aug. 1.

Old Fort Baptist Church’s Back-To-School event

Attendees select free items from tables during Old Fort Baptist Church's Back-to-School event on Sunday, July 26, 2026. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

Praise Assembly Back-To-School Bash

Eight-year-old Noah Hughes enjoys playing in a puddle left behind after the fire department sprayed water to help kids beat the heat during the Praise Assembly Back-to-School Bash on Saturday, July 25, 2026. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

Testicular cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer.

Testicular cancer can spread quickly – Know the signs

Special to The Island News You are more likely to develop cancer the older you get. But for reasons scientists still don’t understand, testicular cancer is most likely to affect men in their 20s and 30s. Although relatively rare, testicular cancer often progresses quickly.

This fast growth rate makes early detection and prompt treatment crucial.

“While testicular cancer can spread rapidly, it’s also one of the most treatable forms of cancer when caught early,” says Dr. Louis Plzak III at Beaufort Memorial Urology Specialists.

“The 5-year survival rate for all stages of testicular cancer is 95%.”

Testicular cancer is a type of cancer that is caused by abnormal cells in the testicles. Most often this cancer starts in the germ cells, which are the cells that produce sperm.

Around 1 in 250 men develop testicular cancer.

Around 8% will be older than 55, and around 6% will be children or teens, but most cases affect men between 20 to 34.

Signs and symptoms of testicular cancer The most common signs and symptoms of testicular cancer include: • A painless lump or swelling in one testicle • Changes in the size or shape of your testicles • Dull ache or pain in your groin or lower abdomen • Feeling like your scrotum is heavier than usual • Fluid buildup in your scrotum • Pain or discomfort in your testicle or scrotum • Tenderness in your chest tissue

“If you notice a lump or swelling that has not disappeared after two weeks, call your primary care provider,” Dr. Plzak says. “Any unusual changes should be evaluated by a healthcare professional promptly.”

Risk factors for testicular cancer While the exact cause of testicular cancer is unknown, certain factors may increase a person’s risk: • Age — Testicular cancer is most common in men between 15 and 35 years old.

• Family history — Having a close relative with testicular cancer increases your risk.

• Germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS) — Also known as carcinoma in situ, GCNIS is a precancerous condition sometimes detected during fertility testing. GCNIS can develop into testicular cancer but does not always do so.

• History of testicular cancer — Men who have had cancer in one testicle have an increased risk of developing cancer in the other testicle.

• HIV infection • Race — Testicular cancer is more common in white men than in men of other races.

• Undescended testicle — Men born with an undescended testicle, a condition called cryptorchidism, have a higher risk. Only around 3% of male babies experience this condition.

Regular self-exams are crucial for early detection of testicular cancer. A monthly self-exam may help identify any changes or abnormalities early on, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment.

“It is normal for each testicle to be slightly different in size, and they may feel slightly lumpy due to blood vessels and tissues inside them,” Dr. Plzak says. “The more you practice your self-exam, the more likely it is that you will notice if an abnormal mass appears.”

Diagnosing testicular cancer If your doctor thinks you could have testicular cancer is suspected, you will need a series of tests, including a blood test, a physical exam and an ultrasound.

If cancer is suspected, your provider may perform a procedure called orchiectomy, which surgically removes the entire affected testicle to examine and biopsy it. Unlike other types of tumors, your doctor cannot take a small tissue biopsy from your testicle without increasing the risk of cancer cells spreading elsewhere.

If cancer is confirmed, you will need additional imaging such as CT scanning and X-rays to see if your cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Some people may need lymph node biopsies or removal.

Treatments for testicular cancer Treatment for testicular cancer depends on the type and stage of the cancer, but all types of treatment are often highly effective. Depending on the type of cancer you have and whether it has spread, you may need chemotherapy, radiation, surgery or surveillance – or, in some cases, a combination of these treatments may be used.

Dermarolling: A safe, DIY version of microneedling?

By Dr. Heidi Harrington Beaufort Memorial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics If you have acne scars or wrinkles that you’d like to make less visible, you may have considered dermarolling.

Considered a type of microneedling, this skincare option may help improve your skin from the comfort of your home.

It’s an exciting time for skin care, as we have a growing number of options that allow you to manage your skin; as with any other home-based treatment, dermarolling can be helpful, but it comes with certain risks.

Microneedling is a medical treatment performed by medical experts. During the procedure, a specialist uses a pen-like device to repeatedly inject 9-36 fine needles into the facial skin at a 90-degree angle. Longer needles penetrate a deeper layer of skin, focusing on

A8

JULY 30-AUGUST 5, 2026

Dr. Heidi Harrington the second layer, the dermis. This is where collagen and elastin fibers are located. These needles create tiny injuries to the dermis, stimulating the formation of new collagen. Ultimately, the extra collagen growth tightens your skin and improves the skin's health.

Dermarolling, on the other hand, is not performed by professionals. You do it yourself at home. The technique uses a dermaroller, a special tool outfitted with rows of needles of the same length. As you roll the dermaroller across your face,

the needles push into your skin, creating small wounds that encourage new growth.

Some people also use dermarollers to help their skin better absorb skincare products, such as serums that contain growth factors or vitamins.

Microneedling and dermarolling are still fairly new offerings in skin care.

We’re still finding new uses of these approaches, and I suspect their uses will only continue to grow.

Currently, some of the conditions that microneedling or dermarolling may help address include: • Abdominal scars • Acne scars, including boxcar scars • Deep wrinkles • Hair loss • Stretch marks If you experience any of these issues, a plastic surgeon can help you understand how microneedling, medical aesthetics or cosmetic surgery could refine

your look.

Dermarolling safely Because you perform dermarolling at home instead of inside a medical facility, this DIY treatment comes with an increased risk of infection. You can reduce your risk by practicing dermaroller safety.

• Clean your face — Before every in-home treatment, wash your face with a pH-balanced cleanser. You should also wipe 70% isopropyl alcohol on your face if using needles that are longer than 0.5 mm. After treatment, rinse your face with clean water.

• Follow directions — Read the directions that come with your dermaroller and follow them exactly. Talk with a skin professional if you need help understanding the treatment process.

• Sanitize the equipment — “You put your skin at immediate risk if you insert dirty needles into it,” Dr.

Harrington says. “Soaking a dermaroller in 70% isopropyl alcohol for 10 minutes before and after use disinfects the equipment, cutting down your risk of infection.”

• Time your treatment — If you’re experiencing active eczema or acne or have an open wound or other skin issue, do not use a dermaroller. You should inspect your face for any open sores/wounds, like acne, and avoid dermarolling until the skin is fully intact in order to prevent infection.

• Use even pressure — Applying uneven pressure or pushing the dermaroller too hard can tear your skin. If this happens, you may worsen acne scarring or cause other permanent damage.

Along with these tips, don’t hide your dermaroller use. Instead, stay in touch with your plastic surgeon, dermatologist or other healthcare provider before

any problems arise.

We can take action if your skincare routine causes problems, but it’s best not to wait that long. We can guide you toward an appropriate skincare routine and pinpoint what products to try out and which ones to avoid for long-lasting results.

To ensure you don’t overuse or misuse your dermaroller, stay in touch with your healthcare provider.

Dermarollers are maintenance tools, and when used properly, they provide a cost-effective way to make the most of microneedling and other treatment options.

Heidi Harrington, M.D., is a board-certified and fellowshiptrained plastic surgeon with two decades of cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery experience. She sees patients at Beaufort Memorial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics in Okatie

VOICES Editor’s Note: The opinions of our columnists in the Voices section are not necessarily the opinions of The Island News.

After 1776, founders designed government that accounts for ‘degree of depravity in mankind’

T

he parades, reenactments and fireworks are over. And in the aftermath of Americans’ celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, it is important to recognize that the declaration was only the first step in making a unified country.

Many of the founders argued that the country needed a remodeled government.

They asked whether it was possible to design a government for the new country that ensured liberty in the face of the inherent flaws of human nature.

Revolution’s aftermath In the aftermath of the American Revolutionary War, the national government remained a loose confederation of state governments.

While effective in winning the war, the new government faced social and political fissures in the postwar period.

The war left the new republic with extensive debts shared unevenly between the states. Common farmers, including many Revolutionary War veterans, rebelled in opposition to postwar taxation policies.

Rather than a cohesive national unit, Americans faced a loose, tense and combative set of state and local interests.

The Second Continental Congress in 1777 produced the first constitution of the United States, the Articles of Confederation.

However, differing interests between state governments, including the management of western territory and public finance, slowed ratification.

Only in 1781, as the Revolutionary War was entering its final stage, did all of the states finally agree to ratify the articles.

DONOVAN FIFIELD

Both the terms of ratification and the text of the Articles of Confederation reflected a suspicion between the state governments, each of which wanted to protect their own local interests rather than cede authority to the national government.

Lumbering system The limited powers that the articles granted to the national government reflected the lack of consensus between states. The government designed in the articles lacked any strong executive authority and did not have a national judiciary.

Additionally, the national legislature, which the articles referred to as a “league of friendship,” functioned less like a representative organ of the people at large than a council of state governments.

The articles created a single-chamber Congress in which each state cast one vote. Major legislation required a supermajority, and amendments required unanimity.

To many, such a slow-moving, restrictive system was preferable, particularly with the memory of the abuses of the British government still in recent memory.

However, the 1780s saw a series of contentious events — a barely thwarted uprising of frustrated soldiers called the Newburgh Conspiracy, interstate trade disputes, an

economic depression and a rural tax rebellion that prompted many American leaders to reconceptualize the role and structure of American government around a more unified, national and interventionist model.

Competing visions The nationalists were members of the Constitutional Convention that met in Philadelphia in the Summer of 1787 to draft the successor to the articles, the United States Constitution.

This group included Alexander Hamilton, James Madison and John Jay. These three men sought to convey that the proper role of government is to protect people from themselves.

The nationalists believed in a more centralized national union that balanced competing interests in the new republic. They sought to eliminate friction between the states by eliminating interstate trade barriers, consolidating state debts and creating a stronger central administrative body under a strong executive.

Furthermore, they sought to create a balance of power by creating a three-part federal government consisting of a two-chamber legislature, an executive branch and a national judiciary. Each would have expanded powers.

In contrast to the articles, the proposed Constitution included uniform national commercial regulation, monetary controls such as the exclusive right of the national government to issue legal tender, augmented executive powers to determine foreign policy and an overarching federal court structure. It also included an explicit national power to suppress uprisings.

The representatives to the convention, which also included prominent figures such as George Washington and Benjamin Franklin, considered the federal government’s ability to deal with uprisings and fiscal policy to be particularly important.

It was also topical: A tax imposed on cash-poor farmers to pay down the public war debt had just prompted a rebellion in western Massachusetts led by Revolutionary veteran Daniel Shays.

Many rebels believed the burden of repaying the public debt fell disproportionately on common people while benefiting elites. Nationalist political theorists such as Hamilton, Madison and Jay saw such revolts against national authority as the product of demagogues instigating unrestrained urges into social movements they referred to as “factions.”

Initially, the terms of the new Constitution received substantial opposition from prominent political writers later known as the Anti-Federalists. These often anonymous authors began publishing criticisms of the yet unratified Constitution as an unwarranted accumulation of federal power that would endanger the hard-won liberties secured by the Revolutionary War. This is where the document that has become known as the Federalist Papers comes in.

‘If men were angels …’

Hamilton, Madison and Jay responded to these criticisms as a group.

Adopting the pen name Publius, they published 85 essays in New York newspapers supporting ratification.

In defense of the Constitution’s proposal to increase the powers of the proposed

national government, these authors turned to some of the most basic philosophical questions about humanity.

Each argued that the inherent flaws of human nature necessitated a strong government to check political abuse, self-interest and even violence that they saw as inherent in the fabric of human society.

They rallied around the position reflected in Madison’s famous statement in the essay known as Federalist 51 that “if men were angels, no government would be necessary.”

The Federalist Papers include proposals for institutional solutions that sought to redirect the destructive drives of individuals toward positive social ends. To the authors, a new constitutional government that controlled both the impulses of the masses and the abuses of their leaders would serve as the means through which the new United States government could accomplish this task.

Each saw human nature as susceptible to corruption by base impulses and self-interest.

In Federalist 10, Madison argued that faction is “sown in the nature of man.”

Similarly, in Federalist 6, Hamilton rejected the commonly held idea that republics were automatically peaceful.

Instead, he argued, political leaders and states were driven by ambitions and jealousies, which he saw as a characteristic shortcoming of the government under the Articles of Confederation as well as a law of nature governing relations between nations.

Hamilton wrote that if the states remained disunited, then “the subdivisions into

which they might be thrown would have frequent and violent contests with each other.”

To argue otherwise, he wrote, would be “to forget that men are ambitious, vindictive, and rapacious.”

Consequently, as Hamilton asserted in Federalist 15, governments must have effective coercive authority to enforce laws because they cannot rely solely on the goodwill and civic virtue of their citizens: “If there be no penalty annexed to disobedience, the resolutions or commands which pretend to be laws will, in fact, amount to nothing more than advice or recommendation.”

Ultimately, the defense of the Constitution provided by the Federalist Papers sought to frame the new government in terms of a skeptical view of humanity that recognized what Madison called “a degree of depravity in mankind.”

They also asserted that constitutional design and balanced government could control these dangerous impulses. As Madison added, “There are other qualities in human nature which justify a certain portion of esteem and confidence.”

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license.

Donovan Fifield is an instructor of history at the University of South Carolina.

His research focuses on the economic and social history of colonial North America, the 18th century Atlantic world, and the American Revolution. At USC, he teaches courses on America's founding documents and early American history. Fifield earned his doctorate degree in history from the University of Virginia in 2024. He also holds degrees from the University of Connecticut and Memorial University of Newfoundland.

The feeling that we’re passing through purgatory

I

t is Sunday, hot, and there is a heat advisory in place.

Here in Beaufort a “heat advisory” means the upper 90s and today’s Post and Courier promises 96 degrees Fahrenheit.

Sometimes — however — there is a late afternoon cloudburst.

That dousing of cold water is welcomed because it brings maybe an hour of slightly cooler temperatures — a golden moment when one might run into the yard, throw back one’s head, extend one’s arms, and gratefully endure a pelting by these little, heaven-sent bullets of relief.

When I was a boy we spent every summer at Ocean Drive Beach in a two storied cottage on the second row.

There was no air conditioning, but I can’t ever remember being innervated, sleep deprived or depressed.

I do remember being sun-burned and lying spread eagle on Noxema-scented

SCOTT GRABER

sheets.

My father told me that children have an excellent vascular system that cools the body as though there were millions of pipes that automatically widen and then transport the heat from the inner body to the surface of the skin.

When we age that vasco-enlargement cooling system falters and we remain hot instinctively seeking out the nearest mechanical compressor. We are urged to drink liquids and stay recumbent which, I must confess, was easier with the diversions of the World Cup. And how about those Cape

Society” that still survived in and around Sheldon, Coosawhatchie and throughout Jasper County. These old-monied folk packed up their horses, dogs and Wellies and headed for Boothbay, Castine or Yarmouth where they stayed put until October.

Actually they returned the second week in October when, parenthetically, the State Fair opened in Columbia.

The only consolation for the rest of us was the fact that the Maine-bred mosquito is larger and more aggressive than our own winged, blood-seeking variety.

Besides the Water Festival (in July) there wasn’t a whole lot to do if you did it out of doors. One could swim; but that required some time on the beach and almost any exposure (to the sun) was a prescription for melanoma, sun-stroke and the worship of Moloch. In olden days it was also the time of malaria and

yellow fever and the predictable, pathogen-promoted thinning-out during our “sickly season.”

Susan and I arrived in Beaufort in 1970 and lived on the first floor of the Cuthbert-Scheper antebellum house at 915 Port Republic Street. We rented from the venerable and wonderfully kind Margaret Scheper who came by with an air-conditioning unit one afternoon.

“This is for you and Susan,” she said. “It will help you sleep at night.”

“This is the Cuthbert House,” I replied. “When the Cuthberts built in 1820 they didn’t have air-conditioning and I think it will destroy the lines of the house. The architecture. …”

“Scott,” Susan interrupted.

“They aren’t going to take the house off the historic register if we put this thing in the window…I think we should take it and see if it helps.”

(This was early in our mar-

disparaging the memory of Sen. Lindsey Graham.

Shame on the editors for allowing it to be printed.

Shame on anyone delighting in the death of a good man.

For her to use God's name -- Jerry Floyd, St. Helena in vain by suggesting God Island brought Sen. Graham to heaven to please Democrats is not a statement influenced Shame, shame,

by God, but rather by Satan. I shame couldn't bring myself to read her commentary any further.

Shame on Carol Lucas for

I'm also appalled that editors allowed it to be titled "Remembering Sen. Graham" -- which implies a kind memorial. Carol always slams Republicans in a smarmy manner, so I thought she was finally going to be kind, especially as Sen. Graham was not even memorialized or laid to rest yet! He was beloved by many in South Carolina and was also a devoted veteran. Clearly Carol has no respect for the millions who

Verde boys!

This is not our first summer in Beaufort and we are not naive about the misery attached to our months-long season of discontent and despair. We know that once locals — especially the tattered, postbellum aristocracy — took refuge in the Blue Ridge.

When we first came to town we heard stories of folks who packed-up their family, their African American servants, and some of their silverware in June taking a train up to Saluda or Hendersonville or Asheville.

These folks had rambling, rustic, exposed-beam houses at an elevation of 3,000 feet and were eager for the cooler temperatures — maybe 70 degree at noon — and evenings that required a small fire in their flagstone hearths.

By the time Susan and I arrived in town that option — leaving town — was only available to the “Plantation

riage; and we were still getting to know and understand each other. Susan would move to New York City — but we would reconcile and I would learn to take Susan’s counsel in matters concerning HVAC and, also, in other matters.} These days we sit on the deck for no more than an hour each morning. During that temperate hour we drink our coffee, listen to NPR and watch our lawn struggle to survive the drought.

We do have a well — and we have had some redemptive rain — so our heat-stunted lawn may actually survive August and September.

But still there is the feeling that we’re passing through purgatory; and everything is in disarray; reminding us of Napoleon after Moscow.

Scott Graber is a lawyer, novelist, veteran columnist and longtime resident of Port Royal. He can be reached at cscottgraber@gmail.com.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Please thank Mr. Hyde

and advisor to Gov. Campbell when Lindsey came to our home to ask for dad’s The column by Paul Hyde advice and help with his first about the life and career of campaign for the House seat Sen. Lindsey Graham was a in Congress. He and dad sensitive, accurate, and well worked long hours meeting written piece capturing his and greeting to get out the hard-won personal and politi- votes in those days before cal accomplishments. campaigns were composed And his enduring love of of television commercials. this country.

And they became friends.

My dad was the 3rd ConLindsey’s contagious enthugressional District chairman siasm and small-town charm made him lots of friends, of the Republican Party

even in the political arena of Washington.

After dad read the column, he was emotional in saying “Please thank Mr. Hyde for the kind words upon Lindsey’s ‘passing.’”

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters to the Editor should consist of fewer than 275 words and be emailed with a name and contact information to TheIslandNews@gmail.com.

did appreciate his lifetime of service to family and country.

She should be fired for this, as this time she went too far.

Shame, shame, shame.

-- Mary Norek, Beaufort JULY 30-AUGUST 5, 2026

A9

VOICES Editor’s Note: The opinions of our columnists in the Voices section are not necessarily the opinions of The Island News.

Erasing the dead

I

t’s that time again when I am confronted with so many subjects about which to write. Believe it or not, it does become difficult to decide what is of immediate concern and what can be back-burnered for another week or two.

There is the most recent embarrassment, the journalists’ dinner at which 47 actually chose to speak and made a complete fool of himself. It was to be expected if you were even remotely aware of his relationship with the press.

I chose not to watch, knowing full well I would be angered, so I watched a special series dealing with places experiencing weird phenomena. You might justifiably ask, “So how was that any different?” But I digress.

Instead, I went back to something I saw earlier in the week, something that is always sobering to those of us with any sensitivity -- the dignified transfer of four young people who lost their lives during this untenable war of “choice.” The reverence that is always (or almost always) afforded this

CAROL LUCAS

kind of ceremony is usually palpable.

Beaufort, a town that supports our military wholeheartedly, need not be reminded of the significance of such. “There, but for the grace of God, go I,” should permeate every brain as you watch this somber transfer.

And yet, there stood the head of our country in a row of people at the entrance of the plane bearing the four bodies, the only one with head unbowed. That, in itself, would have been bad enough if for no other reason than optics. Given his history of comments such as “suckers and losers”, his disdain for John McCain, distinguished Vietnam war hero, and his own evasion of the draft, no one was particularly surprised.

That short “photo op” for the leader of our country, while embarrassing, is hardly worthy of a newsflash!

No indeed, dear reader.

While I may have been disgusted as I watched, even I would have chalked it up to business as usual.

It is, instead, the follow up report dealing with the deaths of these four young people whose lives were just beginning, and who chose to enter the armed forces for their own personal reasons.

The report of which I speak is the game of numbers, the game this administration is playing with those four lives and subsequent deaths of kids who came home in coffins!

If you aren’t aware, let me try to explain.

The Pentagon's official website suddenly showed fewer U.S. troop deaths from the Iran war than it had just days earlier. The numbers changed. The explanations changed.

This was the timeline as well as the explanation for the numbers drop. On Wednesday, the Pentagon reported on its casualties

website that a total of 18 American service members had been killed during the war in Iran.

By Thursday, the Defense Department had lowered that number, reporting that 14 American troops had been killed in the war.

Three military officials said that one reason behind the change was that the Trump administration decided to remove four service members killed this past weekend from the list — three in Jordan and one in northern Iraq — because their deaths occurred after President Trump declared a cease-fire in the war in April.

The officials described sensitive internal discussions on the condition of anonymity.

The acting press secretary for the Pentagon, Joel Valdez, attributed the change instead to “temporary data disruptions” on the website that he suggested would be quickly fixed.

How fast and loose we play with someone else’s death.

I want to interject something here, and you may or

may not agree. As I read about each of these twenty-somethings, it occurred to me that three of the four were people of color and two of the four were women. Was it some convoluted thinking that prompted the inhumane “erasure?” I was never a conspiracy believer till this administration came along, but now ...

As I sat writing this, I was jerked back in time to my first visit to the Vietnam Memorial. I remembered the scene vividly, my search for the name of a young man I had taught in class and finding that name. I know I touched the engraving and felt as though I were touching something holy.

At that point I broke down for the loss of someone so young. A vet, one of many who were often seen at the memorial, was at my side immediately, and he asked whether or not it was a relative. I explained my quest, and he took several minutes to talk to me, actually to momentarily talk me down from my grief.

I am far from an expert on the mechanics of the mili-

tary, but even I can recognize an attempt to cook the books on numbers to make the policies of this administration look less dangerous and evil. These four kids gave the last full measure and to treat their deaths as otherwise is unacceptable.

For those of you who want to view this as just another TDS rant, I suggest you ask yourself this question: “How would I react if it were my child?”

One veteran wrote the following: “As veterans, we learned something very early in military service. Accountability matters. Every soldier counts. Every Marine counts.

Every sailor counts. Every airman counts. Every Guardian counts. Nobody gets left behind.

“Not on the battlefield.

And not on a spreadsheet.”

I am enraged over the total disrespect of our military.

We all should be enraged!

Carol Lucas is a retired high school teacher and a Lady’s Island resident. She is the author of the recently published “A Breath Away: One Woman’s Journey Through Widowhood.”

Flying in America isn’t pleasant these days

P

erhaps the only industry with a bigger public relations problem than the Trump Administration is America’s airlines.

These days, the sound of fingernails on a chalkboard is a little better than flying.

Just about no one of late seems to have good flying experiences. A March poll, for example, showed twothirds of Americans thought their air travel experiences at airports and on flights were worse than the year before. Half who had flown within two months had experienced delays while 8% had to postpone and 10% had to cancel a trip.

But while 86% of American adults trusted flight teams to keep them safe, according to a 2024 poll, half of those who had flown

ANDY BRACK

within three months of the survey said they felt less comfortable.

So passengers frequently complain about cancellations, delays, snafus, errors, poor customer service, uncomfortable seats and more. Travelers understand trips that start with frustrating lines and security checks. But they don’t make many concessions when the experience of flying seems just plain incompetent.

Here’s a case in point for a recent two-flight trip to Charleston from California with a connecting flight in Dallas. American Airlines flight 2334 was to depart at 12:43 p.m. to arrive in Dallas at 5:50 p.m. with a connection to take off at 7:17 p.m., arriving in Charleston at 10:55 p.m. This didn’t happen: • Delayed to depart from California at 1:27 p.m. “due to air traffic control management in Dallas.”

New arrival time: 6:35 p.m.

– just in time to make the connection to Charleston.

After takeoff, however, a storm forced the jet to circle and eventually reroute to San Antonio for fuel, which caused more delays. Fortunately, other connections were delayed, meaning there

was a chance to connect for Charleston.

• Departure from San Antonio was 8:30 p.m, with arrival at 9:54 p.m., more than two hours after the original Charleston connection was to depart.

• Delayed in San Antonio to 8:45 p.m. The plane eventually got to Dallas around 10:45 p.m.

The Charleston connection was first put back to 9:30 p.m. due to “air traffic control management that affected a plane assigned to your flight.” But the comedy of errors continued: • Delayed to 10:08 p.m.

• Delayed to 11 p.m.

• Delayed to 11:45 p.m. At least there was a chance to make this connection.

• Delayed to 12:05 a.m.

About this time, we learned

the plane’s pilots weren’t yet on the jet.

• Delayed 1:30 a.m. The pilots were there, but the flight attendants weren’t.

• Delayed to 5 a.m. “as your flight crew needs more time to prepare for takeoff.”

Translation: the delay was due to the piloting team timing out on being able to fly. Next: a couple of catnaps on the floor of gate D40 in the Dallas airport. Spicy.

• Delayed to 5:30 a.m. due to weather conditions in Dallas.

• Delayed to 5:45 a.m.

Sometime after boarding, the pilot announced that fuel was unbalanced, forcing a delay while it got balanced.

• Delayed to 6 a.m. due to “ongoing weather conditions.”

• Delayed to 6:15 a.m.

• Delayed to 6:30 a.m.

About this time, another team had to be called to get the gate unstuck from the jet.

• Delayed to depart at 6:50 a.m. “as we need extra time to prepare your plane for takeoff.” To arrive at 10:44 a.m.

The jet finally arrived around 10:30 a.m. – almost 12 hours after it was supposed to get to Charleston.

Lessons learned: Don’t fly through Dallas again, particularly in the summer.

Leave earlier. But with the way things are, it’s unclear if that would even work.

Andy Brack is editor and publisher of the Charleston City Paper and Statehouse Report. Have a comment?

Send to: feedback@statehousereport. com.

‘E pluribus unum’ is not a slogan -- it’s a choice

L

ike two sides of a coin imprinted with the nation’s motto, “e pluribus unum” — out of many, one — America’s political factions are cast in opposition, but they are intrinsically bound together as parts of a larger whole.

From the beginning, the United States has aspired to build a more perfect union. When our founders convened the Constitutional Convention in 1787, they disagreed about the structure of government, the balance of power and the protection of individual versus collective rights. But when they debated — and they often did, with great conviction and intensity — they honed their arguments on what they thought was best for the entire country, guided by the shared vision of a new nation established on the ideals of individual freedom, equality and opportunity.

Today, that shared commitment to America’s founding creed is under strain.

Most Americans feel exhausted by politics, and a growing number are unhappy with the way the political system is working. Worse, this unhappiness is showing up in unhealthy ways, with

A10

TIM STOREY

SUE URAHN

low trust in government and each other — a sense that the other side is the problem.

We are painfully aware that partisanship and distrust have grown. We see this too often, when people are reduced to disparaging labels, states are cast as simply red or blue, and the hostility in our politics produces no progress, leaving us all no better off, or worse than before. Our political parties appear deadlocked in a struggle for power, forgetting that they are inseparable sides of the nation’s democratic system, which depends not on who wins but on a shared commitment to the common good. Central to that commitment is a willingness to listen to opposing views, not simply to respond but to understand.

Disagreeing is one thing — it is rooted in our pluralist republic. But when we can-

not find ways to work together, it becomes impossible to solve our problems. The founders understood this.

They argued passionately, but they shared a deeper allegiance to the nation’s success and its posterity, and they were partners in creating and safeguarding a system that we all continue to rely on.

Whether we choose to engage in political warfare or civil debate is up to each of us. That’s as true in statehouses and city councils as it is at the family dinner table, in the community center, on the debate stage, or standing on opposite sides of a free speech zone. In each of these venues, we can choose to practice democracy by engaging in debate that is spirited, healthy and rooted in strong arguments rather than name calling — or worse, heeding the impulse

JULY 30-AUGUST 5, 2026

to withdraw from political engagement altogether.

There are glimmers of hope.

Here in Chicago, as part of the nation’s largest public policy gathering of state legislators and staff from all 50 states and U.S. territories, our organizations, the National Conference of State Legislatures and The Pew Charitable Trusts, are working together to build connections across the political spectrum and share policy ideas and best practices that strengthen legislatures and serve communities nationwide. This follows a series of events held around the country, including a February “America at 250 Forum,” to bring people with opposing views together to discuss issues that matter to everyone. All of the events demonstrate a serious commitment to strengthening our democratic muscles at this historic moment for the country.

Legislators from different parties sitting together to discuss not only their politics but also their human connection and shared belief in the country demonstrates that, despite the spotlight on our divisions, the time is ripe

to unite for a common cause.

We need to see more unity from our leaders — and be willing to try it ourselves.

Today, Americans must recognize that our political differences are not inevitably divisive, because our futures are fundamentally connected. Politics are difficult, yes, but they do not need to be ugly. Finding common ground is welcome, but at a minimum, Americans need to find the space to connect with one another and the courage to engage in healthy and substantive discussion.

We can do that by building up state and local institutions where individuals get to know each other personally and by overcoming the silos and sides we’ve allowed to define us. A far better approach is to deal with people face-to-face and with respect, even when we profoundly disagree.

In a time when polarization and mistrust are treated as inevitable, we encourage all Americans to recommit to the principles and institutions that bind us together: a common belief in individual rights and equality, the rule of law, the legitimacy of representative democracy and our shared pursuit of

national prosperity.

As America honors its 250th anniversary, it’s important to say, unequivocally and collectively, that we’re grateful to our country’s founders for starting this great experiment. We care about each other, and we want our fellow citizens to be successful. And we are proud to be part of this diverse, complicated and hopeful country.

Shared beliefs like these are central to the American experiment. E pluribus unum — out of many, one — if we so choose.

Tim Storey is CEO of the National Conference of State Legislatures, a bipartisan organization representing state lawmakers and legislative staffs.

Storey joined NCSL in the 1980s, holding nine different positions before he was appointed chief executive officer in 2019. He lives with his family in Wheat Ridge, Colorado.

Sue Urahn is president and CEO of The Pew Charitable Trusts. She has served at Pew for more than 30 years, working in multiple areas including planning, evaluation, and state policy.

Before joining Pew, Urahn worked in policy research with the Minnesota House of Representatives and at the University of Minnesota.

ARTS AND COMMUNITY

In My Blood: The art of Bruce Ingram

By Luke Frazier Visiting the current exhibition of work by South Carolina folk artist Bruce Ingram at the Penn Center’s York W. Bailey Museum is like watching a wonderful short story collection unfold while listening to a playlist of exquisitely reflective songs.

The show is called Manifesting the Spirit: The Visionary Art of Bruce Ingram and is on exhibit through Monday, Nov. 30. Ingram is okay with the title’s pinch of artspeak terminology.

“To me, visionary represents the vision that the Lord brings to me,” Ingram said, before relating how as a young boy walking along, he would see a piece of wood or stone that, “Told me to pick it up and take it home because it wants to be something.”

Ingram’s art is realized across a variety of forms.

There are stories about growing up on a Horry County farm and encountering the Lord. Paintings about wondering and wandering and marveling. Sculptures about seeking to understand the ways of the world in the rural south in the distant past and into the future.

Ingram also says he was intrigued by nature itself.

“Coming up on our tobacco farm as a child, I used to love going into the middle of a field and lay on my back and watch the clouds,” Ingram said, and remembers seeing a rainbow and thinking, “How fascinating it is that the Lord would allow such beautiful colors to be in the sky like that.”

The 66-year-old Ingram couldn’t recall a time when he wasn’t making art of some kind and now puts the num-

Folk artist Bruce Ingram shares his favorite art piece he created just before the opening reception for the Bruce Ingram Folk Art Exhibit “Manifesting the Spirit” held at Penn Center's York W. Bailey Museum on Saturday, July 18, 2026. Amber Hewitt/The Island News ber of his finished pieces at around five hundred. He paints on various kinds of surfaces, including tin (first as an experiment when he couldn’t afford canvases) to reclaimed wood, canvas, and fabric. His sculptures incorporate various metals, fabrics and wood.

In this show there are more than sixty works of art.

“It’s in my blood, my DNA,” Ingram says about his art, “[It’s] a family trait, my kids are artists too.”

Much of his work ties back to family lineage, personal and historical. He was raised mostly by his uncle and had a great grandfather who lived to be one hundred fourteen years old. Ingram was provided a rich stew of stories by these men and other family members and considers it important that these narratives survive. Ingram credits his daughter Ivy for doing this by helping him write and publish a book called Wisdom

Stories.

But the reality of history also includes stories of slavery, racism, and oppression, and Ingram’s art doesn’t avoid tackling those stories as well.

Among the bright folk art scenes of fishing holes, birds in flight, and church suppers are works that put the horrors of slavery and lynching front and center. One of these is the painting “Freedom Fighter’s Spirit.”

This painting presents a washed out American flag across the top half of its banner-like canvas. A silhouette of a black Union soldier stands among the red and white stripes on the right hand side. The bottom half shows black field workers in a snowstorm of cotton being watched by a white man on horseback. Straddling the intersection of the flag’s stars and stripes is a faded and barely readable handbill announcing, “TO BE SOLD /

ARTS BRIEFS Penn Center hosts National Craft Open Studios Weekend

Craft enthusiasts gathered at the York W. Bailey Museum at Penn Center for two days of free, handson craft activities and artist demonstrations as part of the inaugural National Craft Open Studios Weekend (Saturday, July 18 and Sunday, July 19).

Visitors had the opportunity to meet five Lowcountry artists, watch them at work, and learn about their creative processes and the traditions behind their crafts. Participating artists included Torreah “Cookie” Washington, Amiri Farris, Bruce Ingram, Monique de La Tour, and Teniqua Pope.

The nationwide event connected communities with local artists while celebrating American craft traditions and the stories behind handmade works.

Movies on Monday continues in August

series will have two more installments in the month of August.

The Aug. 17 movie is “Project Hail Mary.” A science teacher wakes up alone on a spaceship. As his memory returns, he uncovers a mission to stop a mysterious substance killing Earth's sun, and realizes that an unexpected friendship may be the key. The film is rated PG-13.

The Aug. 31 movie is “The Christophers.” The children of a once famous artist hire a forger to complete some unfinished, long ago abandoned canvases so they'll have an inheritance when he dies. The film is rated R. Both movies will screen at 3 and 7 p.m. Tickets are $8, $7 for Movie Club members, and are available at the door or online at uscbcenterforthearts.com.

Penn Center’s York W. Bailey Museum hosting Bruce Ingram exhibition

Penn Center’s York W. Bailey Museum is hosting a solo exhibition featuring USCB Center For The painting and sculpture by Arts’ Movies on Monday the South Carolina folk art-

Torreah “Cookie” Washington works on her craft on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the York W. Bailey Museum at Penn Center as part of the inaugural National Craft Open Studios Weekend. Asa Aarons Smith/ The Island News

ist Bruce Ingram through Monday, Nov. 30, 2026.

The exhibition showcases Ingram’s mastery of visual storytelling through memory and found objects.

Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.

a Choice Cargo of about 250 Fine Healthy NEGROES.” But Ingram reminds us that slaveholders aren’t the only ones watching. He inserts a pair of “almighty eyes” looking on from the top right corner, a motif he repeats in other works. Ingram says the moral of this work is simple, “Freedom isn’t free.”

Another work, the sculpture titled “My Country ‘Tis of Thee,” is less specific than “Freedom Fighter’s Spirit.” It has no text but in its indication of family bondage it is perhaps even more powerful.

There are two faces carved in a single piece of dark wood in a way that suggests a mother carrying a child. Wrapped around the top figure’s head is a red, white, and blue fabric cap with the white part in the shape of a star. Beneath this face and crowding down onto the smaller figure is more red and white draped fabric, which then continues

to the bottom below the face.

The kick in the teeth is the wrapped chains and manacles around the middle and down the side, creating a notion of captivity and domination.

With the tune “America” playing in your head after reading the title (which is, of course, the first line of the song) you soon arrive at the second line, “Sweet land of liberty …” and realize how far short we fell as a country for so long. Putting figures in chains as a political statement has rarely been done with such eloquence.

In a unique way music is brought into the show full force with a series of work focusing on Blues music. Ingram points out that he was raised about two miles from a “juke joint” and as a child he felt like he couldn’t wait to be a part of that dancing and captivating musical rhythms.

Today he often works on his art while listening to music

by Howling Wolf, Louis Armstrong, and Muddy Waters.

The series includes a strikingly complex collage of a guitar case of blues references, names and imagery (“Born in America — The Blues”); a pleasantly shimmery and ethereal painting of a guitar player (“Spirit of the Bluesman”); a large vertical painting that includes a crossroads, ball & chained convicts, and cotton field workers underneath a bluesman heading into the city (Crossroad Blues); and a painting of a spirit rising over a cotton field framed in rough wood on which are painted the names of iconic blues songs (“Blues Spirit”).

The entire series is stellar, vibrant and evocative of the

rich cultural history of this most American of music genres. It seems to be tied back to both the positive experiences Ingram had as a child that are evident in the more pastoral folk art scenes and the recognition of the rough edges of life in the never ending nightmare of racist legacy.

I’m not a blues scholar, but I know a good tune when I hear it. Ingram’s blues series is fine work, playing like a guitar solo that transports you to a land of the sweet bye and bye.

Overall the show is worthy of not only visiting but repeat visits. If you feel the need to leave on a positive note, make the painting of an elder looking at a TV with President Obama appearing on the screen (“Never Thought I’d See the Day”) your last stop.

And you can also take solace in the exhortation of Bruce Ingram himself on the night of the opening reception. He repeated to the crowd, “Find your art, find your art …”

When asked about this message later Ingram said, “I feel everyone is born with a gift, a creative gift. Whatever you have a passion for, ask the Lord to reveal the gift he has for you.”

It’s no mystery what the Lord has revealed about Ingram. He is an artist of vision, depth, and intuitive power who harkens the past for us to appreciate, even as we might weep under its weight.

Luke Frazier is a writer and award winning media producer who moved to the Lowcountry in 2024. He runs NOW Communications and can be reached at nowandfuturecomms@gmail. com.

Water Festival Caribbean Night

BAA’s Featured Artist for July, August — John Meckley

The Beaufort Art Association Gallery is hosting a Featured Artist solo exhibit by local artist John Meckley. Meckley’s signature show, “Wings Over the Lowcountry,” will be on display through Sunday, Aug. 30 at the Beaufort Art Association Gallery located on Bay Street in downtown Beaufort.

For more information about Meckley and his art, visit LowcountryFineArtByJohnMeckley.com.

For additional information about the Beaufort Art Association, visit the Gallery at 913 Bay Street Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., or go online at beaufortartassociation.com.

— Staff reports

Three-year-old Zyonna Jenkins dances to the music on Caribbean Night during the 70th annual Beaufort Water Festival on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park in Beaufort. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

Water Festival Grand Parade

A Shriners mini car drives circles around a S.C. Highway Patrolman during the Grand Parade on Bay Street in the 2026 annual Beaufort Water Festival on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Beaufort. Amber Hewitt/The Island News JULY 30-AUGUST 5, 2026

A11

LOCAL MILITARY

Parris Island Mass Casualty Exercise

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. William A. Mahoney, operations officer, Marine Aircraft Group 31, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, taxis under the traditional “water salute” after his final flight Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. This milestone flight honors a distinguished career of dedicated service, representing the culmination of countless hours in the sky and an unwavering commitment to the mission. Cpl. Isabella Renaud/USMC

A U.S. Navy Corpsman from Parris Island in the Indoctrination Division Course (IDV), carries a simulated casualty Wednesday, July 22, 2026, during the final exercise of the course on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. Lance Cpl. Jacob Claudell/USMC

A U.S. Navy Corpsman from Parris Island in the Indoctrination Division Course (IDV), conducts triage on a simulated casualty Wednesday, July 22, 2026, during the final exercise of the course on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. Lance Cpl. Jacob Claudell/USMC A U.S. Navy Corpsman from Parris Island in the Indoctrination Division Course (IDV), conducts triage on a simulated casualty Wednesday, July 22, 2026, during the final exercise of the course on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island.

Lance Cpl. Jacob Claudell/USMC

U.S. Navy Corpsmen from Parris Island in the Indoctrination Division Course (IDV) carry a simulated casualty on a litter Wednesday, July 22, 2026, during the final exercise of the course on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. Lance Cpl. Jacob Claudell/USMC

Who can answer your questions about VA Medical Center services and benefits? (Part 3)

T

his is article three of three on Veteran Service Officers, Social Workers, and Patient Advocates. I hope that these articles will convince veterans of all ages, but especially elderly veterans, to stop procrastinating and: · Recognize the tremendous value of VA health care, service-connected disability compensation, and dozens of other federal (VA) and state veterans’ benefits. · Sign up for VA healthcare, the largest and best healthcare system in the world. · Realize it takes time to file claims for VA benefits and for the VA to approve VA benefits, and if they wait until they need VA benefits and services, those benefits may not be there or may be delayed months/ years or be denied if the veteran has not already enrolled in VA healthcare and filed for military service-connected disability compensation.

LARRY DANDRIDGE

compensation, pensions, and other benefits. Not true. The VA is funded to provide every veteran with their hard-earned and valuable benefits.

Myth 3: If I need my VA benefits, I can apply for them quickly, and they will instantly, or at least quickly, be there for me. Not true. Veterans need their DD214, other military personnel records, and military medical records to file for many VA benefits. They may also need to complete time-consuming tasks to generate other records, statements, and evidence, such as VA medical records, civilian medical records, lay Believing the following myths witness statements, Nexus letters, will bite you in the backside pictures, line of duty investigation Myth 1: I do not need VA healthreports, accident reports, incident care, service-connected disability compensation, and the other VA ben- reports, medical study reports, and efits now when I am in my 20s, and I more to support claims. Claims can be erroneously disapproved and will not need them when I am older. have to be appealed.

Nothing could be more incorrect.

Myth 4: I am retired military.

Jobs go away, businesses are bought Medicare and Tricare for Life will by larger companies, older technolcover anything I need for as long as ogies are replaced by newer ones, I live. Not true. The Veterans Health people are fired, companies want Administration is America’s largest employees to move to areas they do integrated health care system, with not want to live and work in, insane more than 1,200 sites of care, and it DOGE operations fire indiscrimiis consistently ranked as the nation’s nately, and people get sick and can top healthcare provider. Ralph H. no longer work.

Johnson VA Medical Center is a Myth 2: Other veterans need five-star-rated hospital and system veteran benefits more than I do, that is ranked in the top 10% of all and there is not enough funding public and private hospitals for for all of them, especially healthquality of care, customer satisfaction, care, service-connected disability

A12

JULY 30-AUGUST 5, 2026

infection prevention, and hundreds of other healthcare metrics. Many Veterans may be eligible for VA health care. Enrollment in VA health care satisfies your Affordable Care Act health coverage requirement — no add-on insurance plan is needed.

All enrolled Veterans have access to VA’s comprehensive medical benefits package, including preventive, primary, and specialty care; prescriptions; mental health care; home health care; geriatrics and extended care; medical equipment and prosthetics; and more. Most Veterans qualify for cost-free health care services, although some Veterans must pay modest copays for health care or prescriptions. Women Veterans can receive primary care, breast and cervical cancer screenings, prenatal care, maternity care coverage, and other gender-specific services.

Veteran benefits include burials and memorials, education and training, housing assistance, careers and employment assistance, family member benefits, life insurance, disability compensation, healthcare, and pensions.

The first article in this series explained that Veteran Service Officers, Social Workers, and Patient Advocates (VSOSWPA) can answer most of a veteran’s non-clinical questions and solve many of their problems with VA health care, services, and benefits. That article also encouraged eligible veterans to: · Sign up for VA healthcare. Learn more from your local VSO, VA Medical Center Eligibility and Enrollment Office, and at https://www.va.gov/ health-care/, https://www.va.gov/ health-care/eligibility/, and https:// bit.ly/4wYZDZl. · Learn more about their Primary Care Patient Aligned Care Team

(PACT) at https://bit.ly/3RSNAOq, https://bit.ly/4x3fXs2, and https://bit. ly/4gZrJ26. · Keep the names and phone numbers of the VA specialists on their Primary Care PACT Team. · Make an appointment with the veteran’s local county (or regional) VA-accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or other VA-accredited VSO and find out what their federal (VA) and state veterans’ benefits are. · Learn more about their local VA Medical Center and Health Care System Patient Advocates Team at https://bit.ly/4wp8CTV, and by calling the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center’s Patient Advocate phone 843-789-6066 for Charleston, North Charleston, Goose Creek or phone 912-920-0214, Ext. 412205 for Myrtle Beach, Savannah, Hinesville, Beaufort, and Brunswick outpatient clinics and by emailing vhachapatientadvocates@va.gov. · Use their local VA Medical Center Patient Advocates Team (Medical Center or Clinic Office) to help veterans resolve issues with their care. If the veteran experienced any problems that they haven't been able to resolve by talking with their care team and VA PACT leadership, please reach out to one of the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center and HealthCare System (RHJVAMC&HCS) patient advocates. · Find South Carolina County VSOs at https://bit.ly/4wpcuo1.

North Carolina County VSOs at https://bit.ly/4wrozsP. Find GA County/Regional VSOs at https:// bit.ly/4wI12Ed. · Use their VA PACT Team Social Worker or another Specialty Care Social Worker to answer any questions the veteran has about VA Healthcare services and benefits and to refer the

EDITOR’S NOTE

This article is the third in a series of three.

veteran to any care or services they need.

Article 2 in this series explained why veterans should use a VA-accredited VSO to learn what veterans’ VA benefits and services they are eligible for, what benefits are available at their location, and to file claims for veterans’ benefits and services. It also provided valuable warnings and suggestions.

This series ends with the following recommendations for all veterans to: · Obtain copies of your military medical, personnel, DD214, and dental records from the national archives or military storage areas. · Enroll in VA healthcare. · Make an appointment with your local VA-accredited VSO and find out what your VA and state veterans' benefits are and apply for those benefits. · Put your local VSO, VA Social Worker, and VA Patient Advocate’s contact information on your phone, in your address book, and on your refrigerator door.

Larry Dandridge is a Vietnam War wounded warrior, disabled veteran, ex-Enlisted Infantryman, ex-Warrant Officer Pilot, and retired Lt. Colonel.

He is a past VA-accredited VSO, a Patient Adviser at Charleston and Durham VA Hospitals, a Fisher House Charleston/Friends of Fisher House Charleston Goodwill Ambassador, and the Veterans Benefits Adviser for his local Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) Chapter and Cary, N.C., VFW Post 7383. Larry is also the author of the award-winning “Blades of Thunder (Book One)” and a contributing freelance writer with The Island News. Contact him at LDandridge@earthlink.net or 843-276-7164.

LOCAL MILITARY

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

Recruit Training Regiment, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, 10 July 2026 Recruit Training Regiment • Commanding Officer, Colonel A. P. Bariletti Second Recruit Training Battalion • Lieutenant Colonel R. J. Russell Commander of Troops, First Sergeant K. C. Collis • Parade Adjutant, Gunnery Sergeant R. M. Orr Company “E”, Second Recruit Training Battalion • Captain H. M. Flint Drill Master • Staff Sergeant X. J. Francisco PLATOON 2040

Senior Drill Instructor SSgt T. A. Boren Pvt

Arevalomendez, Edwin G.

PFC

Barton, Joseph J.*

Pvt

Benfield, Jonathon W.

Pvt

Boyd, Donovan M.

Pvt

Bredeson, Parker S.

Pvt

Brown Jr, Matthew E.

Pvt

Clayton, Cameron R.

PFC

Coles, Nyje

PFC

Delancett III, Terry L.

Pvt

Farr, Kaleb N.

PFC

Felmlee, Matthew E.

Pvt

Fowler, Kaden C.

Pvt

Francisco, Jesler M.

PFC

Harmon, Travis L.

Pvt

Hebel, Geronimo R.

PFC

Hernandezrodriguez, Edwin A.

PFC

Hill, Zavior S.

Pvt

Holt, Rylee D.

Pvt

House, Shane D.

PFC

Johnson, Maverick N.

Pvt

Juarez Jr, Agustin

PFC

Kashindi, Dieudone

PFC

Kelsey, Gabirel J.*

Pvt

Larinfuentes, Francisco B.

Pvt

Lebronmorales, Joseph R.

Pvt

Long, Alex D.

PFC

Macomber, Nicholas G.

Pvt PFC

PFC

Boonpong, Scott

PFC

Maldonado, Marco

Pvt

MorenzaGinebra, Fabian

Pvt

Stewart, Dillon J.

Pvt

Bowen, Christopher J.

Pvt

Martin, Jacob B.

Pvt

Mosley, Jaliek D.

PFC

Urbano, Eustorgio R.

Pvt

Callahan IV, John W.

LCpl Mcclendon, Brandon L.

Pvt

Pereira, Higor G.

Pvt

Weber, Christopher J.

Pvt

Cardoso Jr, Humberto

Pvt

Monastra, Nathaniel A.

Pvt

Perez, Leonardo

Pvt

Chesser, Nathaniel H.

PFC

Murray, Liam

PFC

Quinones-Partain, Griffin J.*

Pvt

Connell, Tyler D.

Pvt

Perezreyes, Antonio F.

Pvt

Roberts, Jarimah J.

Pvt

Damuth, Evan C.

Pvt

Pryor, Caleb T.

PFC

SaintSauveur, Elysee

Pvt

Daniel, Noah S.

Pvt

Quarles Jr., John D.

Pvt

Scott, Cameron M.

Pvt

Danzinger, Dylan J. *

Pvt

Ramos, Marlon D.

PFC

Serrano, Danny X.

Pvt

Davis, Kaden T.

Pvt

Reddien, Ryan S.

Pvt

Sixberry II, Thomas A.

PFC

Demarte, Daniel A.

Pvt

Reeder, Brady S.

PFC

Pvt

Duqueguevara, Wilmer

Pvt

Richardson, Dawson J.

Pvt

Eavenson, Kenly L.

Pvt

Pvt

Edwards, William T.

Pvt

PLATOON 2046

Senior Drill Instructor SSgt D. E. Motanga Pvt

Agbeyibor, Presten E.

Pvt

Alemanalberto, Jose A.

Pvt

Andinocruz, Alan Y.

Sustache Jr., Jonathan

Pvt

Azconagarcia, Juan F.

PFC

Sutherland, Benjamin M.

PFC

Boyd, David Y.*

Rivera, Nathan J.

Pvt

Tant, Hunter E.

Pvt

Byrd, Brynson S.

Pvt

Rivera, Xavier A.*

PFC

VelasquezMoreno, Robin J.

PVT

Capristan, Esteven G.

Ehret, Jacob M.

Pvt

Rothery, James B.

Pvt

Wood, Ranjay D.

PFC

Ceus, Benedict L.

Pvt

Fray III, Phillip A.

Pvt

Sanchezfeliz, Juan A.*

Pvt

Workman, Dylan C.

PFC

Chambers Justin R.

Pvt

Gonzalez, Brialdo

PFC

Sandovalgandara, Cristopher J.

PVT

Crace, John G.

Pvt

Guzmansoriano, Cristian

Pvt

Seymour, Zorian S.

PVT

Dillard, Danyal A.

Pvt

Hay, James B.

PFC

Srebernak, Luke W.

Senior Drill Instructor SSgt J. A. Harding

PFC

Espinosa, Xavier A.

Pvt

Hernandez, Mauricio

Pvt

Sterrett, Charles J.

Pvt

Aceves Jr, Juan J.

PVT

Floyd, Joshua D.

Pvt

Jackson, Landon T.

Pvt

Syers, Caleb R.

Pvt

Adamson, Hunter M.

Pvt

Jenkins III, James L. *

Pvt

Thomason, Nathan S.

PVT

Garciagonzalez Adrian

Pvt

Amon, Zachary A.

PFC

Juangautier, Matthias W.

Pvt

Torres, Alejandro

Pvt

Baker, Seth W.

PVT

Garciamendez Yohansel R.

Pvt

Knight Jr, Charles A.

Pvt

Trejoocampo, Joshua G.

PFC

Benning, Cellyon D.

PVT

Giraldomesa, Juan F.

Pvt

Lagranda, Trevon K.

Pvt

Troy, Christopher L.

PFC

Bigelow, Tobie M.*

PVT

Gnapp, Dean R.

Pvt

Luecke, Richard C.

Pvt

Turner, Brayton J.

PFC

Boama, Kwasi A.

PVT

Harper, Hunter C.

Pvt

Mcclain, Londin A.

Pvt

Williams, Jack T.

Pvt

Brown, Joshua T.

PVT

Holguin, Daniel A.

Pvt

Nix, Charles D.

Pvt

Woodell, Kian S.

PFC

Buckner, Mekei E.*

PFC

Jimenezgarcia, Yadiel T.

Pvt

Ortizmojica, Onix M.

Pvt

Worth Jr., Brandon S.

PFC

Burchett, Stanton E.

PVT

Johnson, Justin L.

Pvt

Pedroorozco, Theo E.

Pvt

Zuver, Jaton R.

Cardenasguanoluisa, Shamil

PVT

Jones, Dandre W.

Mammo, Yafet F.

Pvt

Pvt

Riverarodriguez, Yadiel J.

Pvt

Cardenasguanoluisa, Zahid F.

PVT

Kennedy, Sean L.

Meriweather, Jaden Q.

Pvt

Rollings, Jacob T.

Pvt

Cuellararellano, Marco R.

PVT

Kruger, Adam T.

PFC

Deslances, Andy L.

PFC

Lancaster, Ty S.

PLATOON 2044

Senior Drill Instructor SSgt A. Z.

PLATOON 2045

Pvt

Moore, Elijah J.

Pvt

Ross, Ashton D.

PFC

Morales, Ivan G.

Pvt

Russell, Jake M.

Pvt

Morgancampbell, Jairus K.

PFC

Abdelrahman, Yehia A.

Pvt

Diazrios, Zabdi A.

PFC

Lehew, Jackson C.

PFC

Shinn, Riley D.

PFC

Alvarezniubo, Alexander

Pvt

Fejeran, Jayden M.

Pvt

Munozperez, Luis I.

PFC

Lewis, Jordan D.

PFC

Shovlin, Jacob P.

PFC

Arnold, Cole O.

Pvt

Fields, Kade A.

PFC

Nicot, Adrian R.

PVT

Maldonadonarciso, Guillermo

Pvt

Silva, Andrew J.

Pvt

Barakat, Andre L.

Pvt

Fisher, Jake R.

Pvt

Obrecht, Brayden D.

PVT

Malloy, Vincent D.

Pvt

Sorvillo, Trey J.

Pvt

Brocksmith, Tyler K.

Pvt

Guallpa, Mike J.

Pvt

Parker, Peyton J.

Pvt

Spicer, Kenneth H.

PVT

McElwain, Garrett L.

Pvt Crawford, Michael L.

PFC

Guaman, Alex J.

PFC

Patten, Jacobi M.

Pvt

Stevens, Jonathan J.

PFC DelgadoHerrera, Jesus D.

Pvt

Guzman, Kelvin M.

PFC

Mendoza, Jose O.*

Pvt

Perry II, Stephen L.

Pvt

Tursi, Wade A.

Pvt

Dorman, Sean F.

PFC

Heyliger, Dishon J.

PVT

Miller V, Charles O.

Pvt

Phillips, Jakob J.

Pvt

Uk, Thang

Pvt

Evans III, John D.

Pvt

Hibbs, Ryan J.

PVT

Minshew Hayden C.

Pvt

Pierre, Jayden A.

Pvt

Wepngong, Dukealan E.

PFC

Gergely, Pavel J.

Pvt

Jackson, Toby

PVT

Morrison, Logan C.

PFC

Pittman, Gavin A.

Pvt

Woodworth, Tyler S.

PFC

GomezDiaz, Amel A.

PFC

Jimenezvargas, Julio J.

PFC

Moudonetiegne , Mayeulbrian B.

Pvt

Prince, Landon J.

Pvt

Gonzalez, Joel A.

PFC

Keller, Christian R.

PVT

Navarrolopez , Sebastian A.

Pvt

Ramirezarias, Joshuam A.

Pvt

GonzalezGaraban, Ali A.

Pvt

Lafaver, Eli J.

PVT

Nystrom, Mason A.

PFC

Reppart, Myles A.*

PFC

GraciaRodriguez, Jetzel

Pvt

Landry, Austin P.

PVT

Okpo, Matthan E.

PFC

Revels, Daniel B.

Pvt

Adkins, Brendon O.

PFC

Harris, Zaviaon

Pvt

Landry, Justin J.

PVT

Olivotejada, Alexander

Pvt

Shack, Elijah M.

Pvt

Ariasalvarez, Juan J.

Pvt

Hart, Christopher P.

Pvt

Lavely, Dameon J.

PVT

Portell, Jesse M.

PFC

Stanfill, Jason M.

Pvt

Beacher, Akeem H.

Pvt

Henry, Anthony R.

PFC

Lopez Jr, Carlos J.

PVT

Resto, Luis A.

PFC

Strickland, Brady T.

Pvt

Burnett Jr., Cedrick L.

Pvt

Huaman, Eduardo M.

Pvt

Luz, Thales

PVT

Rheault, Cameron M.

Pvt

Sykes, Brodie J.

PFC

Buser, Logan A.

PFC

Irizarry, Andrew D.*

PFC

Maines, Brayden S.

PVT

Riveraperez, Jeremy J.

Pvt

Tineorodriguez, Hewyn

Pvt

Collins, Timothy R.

PFC

Janes, Brayden T.*

Pvt

Mallia, Thomas J.

Pvt

Vencesrodriguez, Agustin

PVT

Salas, Maximiliano

PFC

Cruzreyes, Edwin M.

PFC

Jerden, Zachary D.

PFC

Marshall Jr, Anthony J.

PFC

Verocay, Matthew G.

PVT

Senoviomarmolejo, Jose

Pvt

Daron, Patrick J.

Pvt

Jones, Dhakari C.

Pvt

Monteroregalado, Fernando.

Pvt

Voneps, Jacob C.

PFC

Sharma, Samir H.

Pvt

Delgado, Jadiel I.

Pvt

King, Jaiden M.

PFC

Paida, Edwin

Pvt

Wilkerson Jr, Jarrell L.

PFC

Ferrera, Tristan A.

Pvt

Kroschel, Leviticus L.

PFC

Payne, Leland J.

PVT

Smith, Tallon E.

Pvt

Hernandez, Phoenix J.

PFC

Lobos, Roger J.

PFC

Pittman, Ethan J.

PVT

Torres, Alex J.

Pvt

Holtzman, Hayden P.

Pvt

Locust, Bryan D.

Pvt

Puglise, David E.

PVT

Vales, Jeremiah

Senior Drill Instructor SSgt S. M. Rivera

Pvt

Jones, Aiden J.

PFC

Maldonado, Jason S.

Pvt

Quevedolewis, Marcel E.

PFC

Velazquez, Jonathan

Pvt

Aburto, Giovanni

Pvt

Jurek, Kyndal M.*

PFC

MartinezMejias, Steven J.

PFC

Reyesconcepcion, Elvis R.*

PFC

Wall, Jack C.*

Pvt

Alvarez, Abimael S.

Pvt

Kolter, Brendin M.

Pvt

Mayfield, Brandon R.

Pvt

Riley, Anthony B.

PVT

Walsh Jr, Joseph J.

Pvt

Avellanedaaveldanez, Josue

Pvt

Labarba, Christian R.

PFC

Miller, Trevor L.

PFC

Rodriguez, Justin M.

PVT

Watson, Daylon H.

Pvt

Bairefoot, Tommy J. *

Pvt

Lee, Hayden C.

Pvt

MolinetFerradas, Ernesto

Pvt

Smith, Gavon S.

PVT

Winget, Tegan A.

Pvt

Bell, Darien M.

Pvt

Lopez, David

PFC

Moncada, Cameron M.

Pvt

Smith, Sawyer A.

*Denotes Meritorious Promotion

PLATOON 2041

PLATOON 2042

Senior Drill Instructor Sgt E. J. Andrade

JULY 30-AUGUST 5, 2026

A13

CLASSIFIEDS & GAMES ANNOUNCEMENTS No more cleaning out gutters. Guaranteed! LeafFilter is backed by a no-clog guarantee and lifetime transferrable warranty. Call today 1-855820-2770 to schedule a FREE inspection and no obligation estimate. Get 15% off your entire order. Plus, Military & Seniors get an additional 10% off. Limited time only. Restrictions apply, see representative for warranty and offer details.

We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-855-704-3381 DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400 plus procedures. Real dental insurance – NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-397-7030 www.dental50plus. com/60 #6258 AUCTIONS ADVERTISE YOUR AUCTION in 80 S.C. newspapers for only $375. Your 25-word classified ad will reach more than 1.5 million readers.

Call Randall Savely at the S.C. Newspaper Network, 803-750-9561.

HELP WANTED – DRIVERS ADVERTISE YOUR DRIVER JOBS in 80 S.C. newspapers for only $375. Your 25-word classified ad will reach more than 1.5 million readers.

Call Randall Savely at the S.C. Newspaper Network, 803-750-9561.

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE Audien Hearing. The world’s first hearing aid

with touchscreen controls. No tiny buttons, apps or prescriptions. 45-day risk free trial. Free shipping. Lifetime support. More than 1.5 million happy customers. Call Audien 1-855-6209614.

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-844-775-0366 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

TELEVISION & INTERNET SERVICES DIRECTV OVER INTERNET – Get your favorite live TV, sports and local channels. 99% signal reliability! CHOICE Package, $84.99/mo for 12 months. HBO Max and Premium Channels included for 3 mos (w/CHOICE Package or higher.) No annual contract, no hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-855-237-9741 DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Directv and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply.

Call DIRECTV 1-844-624-1107 Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-877-542-0759 VACATION RENTALS ADVERTISE YOUR VACATION PROPERTY FOR RENT OR SALE to more than 1.5 million S.C. newspaper readers. Your 25-word classified ad will appear in 80 S.C. newspapers for only $375. Call Randall Savely at the South Carolina Newspaper Network, 803-750-9561.

YOUR AD HERE Looking to advertise your business, announce a yard sale, or share other classifieds? Contact Amanda Hanna (amanda@lcweekly.com) or Sasha Horne Hirshout (sasha.theislandnews@gmail.com). It’s an easy and affordable way to reach thousands of local readers right here in the Lowcountry.

THURSDAY’S CARTOON

Read with caution; not necessarily the opinions of the editorial staff.

See Into The Future . . . . . . read Opinion, Arts, Culture, Lifestyle, Homes, Cuisine

Discover What You’re Going To Do Next More coverage and content at LowcountryWeekly.com

PLACE YOUR AD IN MORE THAN

80 SC NEWSPAPERS Reach up to 1.5 million readers using our small space ad network!

Contact Randall Savely 803.750.9561 | scnnonline.com Newspaper Network Statewide and regional options available South Carolina

THEME: HISTORY 101 ACROSS 1. Charlie "Bird" Parker's sax 5. Mary ____, businesswoman extraordinaire 8. Downloadable smartphone purchase 11. In ____ of 12. Greek salad staple 13. Appraisal 15. Law school prerequisite, acr.

16. "Once ____ a Time in America" 17. Dictum, pl.

18. *____ press, Johannes Gutenberg's invention 20. "Sittin' On the Dock of the Bay" singer 21. In need of a muffler 22. Make a choice 23. *Genghis Khan's ____ Empire 26. Intima, pl.

30. Fertility clinic stock 31. Tranquil 34. Famous Steeler coach, Chuck ____ 35. Twisted cotton thread 37. Key next to spacebar 38. Like a gymnast 39. Naysayer's favorite prefix 40. Develop, as in story 42. ____-AFTRA

43. Famous fox of fable 45. Like a smell of soil 47. *World's first 24-hour TV news network, acr.

48. Molten rock 50. Smoke plus fog 52. *First Roman emperor 55. Part of foot, pl.

56. Chowder protein 57. Pelvic parts 59. Are not 60. *Homesteader's purchase, sing.

61. "____ the good die young" 62. *Pres. during the Cuban Missile Crisis 63. It is 64. Fermented rice brew DOWN 1. Pledge of Allegiance ending 2. Talk like Daffy 3. Eye drop 4. Day trip 5. Flat-topped military caps 6. Lack of muscle tension 7. Opposite of yin 8. Mushroom spore sacs 9. Benatar and Morita, e.g.

10. Money in Myanmar 12. Pointless 13. Take as one's own

14. *____ Bull, Lakota's famous leader 19. Gallows' rope 22. *World War ____, 1914-18 23. Wisdom tooth, e.g.

24. Sheep-like 25. Highly unpleasant 26. "He's Just Not That ____ You" 27. Damp 28. Islam's Supreme Being 29. Lament for the dead 32. Writer Ayn 33. Rudolph's friend Hermey, e.g.

36. *One of Mount Rushmore presidents 38. *First President in the White House 40. Cremation ashes container 41. Peanut or pea, e.g.

44. Emotional turmoil 46. 2:1 and 3:1, e.g.

48. Defraud 49. Petri dish jellies 50. Feudal lord's servant 51. Humble and docile 52. Frozen bowl berry 53. Arm bone 54. *The ____ Road, ancient EastWest trade route 55. Pilgrimage to Mecca 58. Pirate's "yes"

LAST WEEK’S CROSSWORD & SUDOKU SOLUTIONS

A14

JULY 30-AUGUST 5, 2026

SERVICE DIRECTORY FURNITURE / HOME DECOR

APPAREL PRINTING

PET SERVICES

Furbulas Dog: Grooming, Boarding, and Pet Sitting

SCREEN PRINT EMBROIDERY CUSTOM APPAREL

Brittany Riedmayer

1001 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902 open Tues.-Sat. noon to 5pm, Sun. by chance

843-476-2989

furniture, home decor & more

Member of National Dog Groomers Association of America

(843) 379-4488

NEWSOUTHSHIRTS.COM

Allison & Ginny DuBose, Owners aldubose@yahoo.com

843-982-0170

POOL & FIBERGLASS REPAIR

MOBILE HOME INSURANCE

ATTORNEY

Christopher J. Geier

Attorney at Law, LLC Criminal Defense & Civil Litigation

John D. Polk Agency INSURANCE

Manufactured Homes • Cars • Boats RV's • Homes • All Commercial

2048 Pearl Street, Beaufort, SC 29902 Office: 843-986-9449 • Fax: 843-986-9450 chris@bftsclaw.com • www.geierlaw.com

AUDIOLOGY & HEARING

Beaufort Audiology & Hearing Care Monica Wiser, M.A. CCC-A Licensed Audiologist

843-524-3172 info@polkagency.com

CALL FOR A QUOTE TODAY!

PEST CONTROL

38 Professional Village West, Lady's Island monica@beauforthearing.com www.beauforthearing.com | 843-521-3007

REALTOR

Hear the Beauty that Surrounds You

The Beaufort Sound Hearing and Balance Center Dr. Larry Bridge, AU.D./CCC-A 206 Sea Island Parkway, Suite 31, Beaufort thebeaufortsound@gmail.com

residential commercial real estate

843-379-0185

www.BeaufortPestControl.com

YOUR AD HERE

www.thebeaufortsound.com | 843-522-0655 CHIMNEY SERVICES

Be Seen, Be Chosen!

Put your business in the spotlight by advertising in the Service Directory.

Connect with eager customers, showcase your expertise, and secure your space today!

Amanda Hanna – amanda@lcweekly.com | Sasha Horne Hirshout – sasha.theislandnews@gmail.com

E-Edition

Digital Newspaper

START READING

YOURISLANDNEWS.COM

TODAY

A customer favorite! Enjoy the classic newspaper format in a digital environment. Published every Thursday, the E-Edition is a digital replica of the print newspaper, with all of the same news issuu.com/theislandnews and advertising content, on your computer, tablet or smartphone.

Meet ATHENA! She truly is a goddess. Athena has the most kind eyes that stare into yours with pure love. She would love nothing more than a comfortable lap to lie in.

Meet AUDREY HEPBURN! This beautiful 2-yearold grey and white Domestic Medium Hair loves being close to people. Affectionate and devoted, she’s ready to leave shelter life behind.

IRENE is an irresistible, adorable dilute tabby with the sweetest little face — and no eyes. But don’t let that fool you. Her blindness doesn’t slow her down or dim her spirit one bit.

Meet BLACK BETTY! This sweet 1½-year-old, 41-pound Blue Heeler mix has a calm, gentle heart and so much love to give.

With a little patience, she’ll gain confidence and become the loyal, loving companion.

KATARA is a gorgeous tabby girl with truly eyecatching markings — she’s the kind of cat you notice right away. Even better, her personality is just as lovely as her looks.

CAPTAIN KIDD is a 2½-month-old black and white kitten with endless curiosity, playful energy, and a heart full of love. He enjoys chasing toys, exploring every corner, and snuggling when playtime is over.

At 9 years old, LEXI is ready to settle in a home filled with love and cuddles.

She prefers a quiet home, with the softest blankets, and a nice long lasting bone to chew on.

HONDA is a 2½-month-old black and white Domestic Shorthair with a calm, affectionate personality that’s impossible to resist.

This sweet boy loves cuddles and being close to his people.

Meet MOLLY! This sweet and gentle girl was found as a stray, completely malnourished.

With the help of our staff, she has reached a healthy weight and is as happy as ever.

Meet RORY! This 6-month-old, 24-pound brindle Terrier mix is playful, affectionate, and always ready to share kisses and cuddles. She dreams of a family to call her own where she can grow and play.

ZADIA is a lovely young orangeand-white tabby who strikes that balance between social and independent. She gets along well with the people she meets.

ROSEMARY is the kind of girl who steals hearts with just one look. Playful, and full of happy energy, she loves toys, cuddles, and making every day brighter. She’s ready to trade shelter life for a forever home.

All animals above are available at Hilton Head Humane’s Hilton Head campus at 10 Humane Way, Hilton Head Island, S.C. 29926. Open Mondays through Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 843-681-8686 or email adoptions@hhhumane.org.

JULY 30-AUGUST 5, 2026

A15

820 Bay Street Beaufort, SC 29902

843.521.4200 $750,000

$1,150,000

DATAW ISLAND | MLS 196987

3BDRM | 3B | 2493sqft | Marsh/Water Views Paige Walling 843.812.8470 Trudy Arthur 843.812.0967

$235,000

HERMITAGE | MLS 195383

4BDRM | 2.5B | 3101sqft | Private Dock Edward Dukes 843.812.5000

DOWNTOWN BEAUFORT MLS 197139 | .07 Acre Homesite Great Location Lloyd Williams 843.754.4735

$750,000

CAT ISLAND | MLS 196462

4BDRM | 3B | 2500sqft | Marsh Views Ashley Nye 561.350.8109

www.LowcountryRealEstate.com

r e c n a C t r o pp u S BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP Second Wednesday of the Month | 6 – 7pm*

The SCIIJ supports the development and production of independent and nonprofit news in S.C. to promote democratic ideals.

JOIN IN-PERSON OR ONLINE

ALL CANCER SUPPORT GROUP Fourth Wednesday of the Month | 1 – 2pm* Beaufort Memorial Medical and Administrative Center 990 Ribaut Road, Beaufort • Room 317, 3rd Floor

SCAN TO RSVP

To RSVP for a free Support Group, scan our code or visit:

Thank you to

BeaufortMemorial.org/CancerSupportGroup

*Meeting schedule subject to change and may be impacted by holidays.

for generously sponsoring this ad.

QUESTIONS?

Donate now at SCIndependentJournalism.org

Call Kianna Brown, LMSW • 843-522-7328

Truth Matters

Four Chaplains The Power of Truth

A German torpedo found its target.

In the early morning of February 3, 1943, the Dorchester, a transport for the United States Army, was struck by a German torpedo as she neared Greenland. The ship capsized and sank in less than 20 minutes. Of the 900 passengers, only 229 survived.

Four chaplains were aboard the Dorchester.

Each were of a different faith: Lt. Clark V. Poling, Dutch Reformed, Lt. George L. Fox, Methodist, Lt. John P. Washington, Catholic, and Lt. Alexander D. Goode, Jewish. Motivated by love of God, country, and neighbor, all four had volunteered and trained at the Army Chaplains School at Harvard University. They were journeying to their first assignment during World War II.

They preached courage during the chaos.

As the ship took on water, pandemonium broke out among the service men, merchant seaman, and civilians. The Army chaplains spread out among them, preaching courage and giving comfort.

Where was their strength coming from, in the midst of fear and terror?

They gave their lives so that others may live.

Most astounding in the bedlam enveloping the Dorchester was the act Engineer Grady Clark witnessed. When all of the life jackets had been distributed, the four chaplains removed theirs and gave them to four frightened men. John Ladd, another survivor, testified, “It was the finest thing I have seen or hope to see this side of heaven.”

Survivors were moved by their heroic example.

In nearby rafts, survivors recall seeing the four chaplains as the ship slanted, sank, and disappeared. They were arm in arm offering prayer, four faiths uniting in petition to one God. Some say they heard singing. Every witness was struck by the selflessness, fierce faith, and heroism of these brave men.

This shows us how truth can transform our lives.

The chaplains gave their lives because they were convinced of the goodness of God. They were certain that death would not have the final say; they would soon be with God in heaven. Their love of God gave them courage to lay down their lives for their brothers. Truth helped these four men become the heroes God needed them to be.

Past Messages LightForBeaufort.org

Truth Matters 8 of 8 LightForBeaufort.org 70 Lady’s Island Drive, Beaufort • 843-522-9555 • www.stpetersbeaufort.org • office@stpetersbeaufort.org