July 3 edition

JULY 3–9, 2025

WWW.YOURISLANDNEWS.COM

COVERING BEAUFORT COUNTY

Portion of Waterfront Park closed over safety concerns City’s announcement comes only days before start of 2025 Beaufort Water Festival

Due to a recent engineering assessment, an approximately 40-foot-wide section of Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, on the water side of the park that rests on the relieving platform, was closed and fenced off for safety reasons on Monday, June 30, 2025. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

By Mike McCombs The Island News The City of Beaufort is closing off a 40-foot-wide section of Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, effective Monday, June 30, over public safety concerns.

The announcement was made just after 6 p.m., Sunday, June 29, less than two weeks before the start of the 2025 Beaufort Water Festival. The opening ceremonies are scheduled for Friday evening, July 11.

According to the City of Beaufort’s release, “Following a recent engineering assessment, an approximate 40-foot-wide section of Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park will be closed, … The closure primarily targets the water’s edge side of the park that rests on the park’s relieving platform.

“This decision was made following a through structural analysis of the park conducted by McSweeney Engineers and JMT. The analysis indicated structural concerns

and identified significant deterioration and overstressed piles within the platform structure.”

City Manager Scott Marshall told The Island News on Sunday evening that one of the components in its engineering consulting contract is a conditions assessment. The engineers delivered that assessment at about 6 p.m., Friday in a meeting with City officials.

SEE PARK PAGE A5

LOWCOUNTRY LOWDOWN

LOLITA HUCKABY

Hot enough for you?

Let’s talk about ICE

Beaufort City Councilman Mike McFee dots the eyes of the dragon during the ceremonial Awakening of the Dragon, as Terriann Ely hits the gong and Kaci Willis holds a microphone close to capture its sound, a symbolic moment marking the start of the Dragon Boat Race Day on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

A

ST. HELENA ISLAND ny community gathering on St. Helena can be expected, these days, to include conversation about the proposed Pine Island development.

But that wasn’t the case last week, when members of the Beaufort County Council, during one of their “Chat With Council” forums, got an earful about Sheriff P.J. Tanner’s working relationship with the U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, or ICE. Back in March, Tanner said he would be pursuing an agreement to participate in ICE’s 287(g) program, a working agreement which would allow the local deputies to carry out immigration policies. Beaufort County was

Goal attained

Another successful event for DragonBoat Beaufort on Saturday

By Delayna Earley The Island News More than 700 paddlers and spectators braved the extreme heat on Saturday to compete in this year’s DragonBoat Race Day. Twenty-eight teams took to their boats on

Saturday, June 28, to compete for glory, but also to raise money for a good cause.

The event, which was held at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park in downtown Beaufort, raised more than $90,000 for the DragonBoat

Beaufort Fund, beating the stated goal of $80,000, and the final tally is still being calculated.

The funds raised are used to help support cancer patients who are un-

SEE GOAL PAGE A9

SEE LOWDOWN PAGE A10

NEWS

HEALTH

ARTS

INSIDE

Beaufort County offers more than fireworks for July 4 celebrations.

Safely to shore: 10 tips to keep boaters safe.

6 Lowcountry women featured in national art show at Brookgreen Gardens.

PAGE A3

PAGE B1

PAGE B3

Lowcountry Life A2 News A2–10 State News A10–11 Health B1–2 Arts B3 Education B4

2ND ANNUAL

contest deadline

JULY 31

public voting

AUG 8-15

winners announced

Voices B5–7 Military B8 Local Events B9 Directory B10 Classifieds B11 Games B11

Hosted By

AUG 19

PHOTO CONTEST GIVE US YOUR BEST SHOT!

Presented by

For general entry rules and detailed photo criteria, visit our website!

Register Online | Cash Prizes!

Visit PortRoyalSoundFoundation.org

ISLAND NEWS PUBLISHING, LLC

LOWCOUNTRY LIFE & NEWS

PUBLISHERS

Jeff & Margaret Evans

EDITORIAL/DESIGN Editor-in-Chief

Mike McCombs theislandnews@ gmail.com

Art Director

Hope Shreve

ads.theislandnews@ gmail.com

Assistant Editor Delayna Earley delayna. theislandnews@ gmail.com

Sports Editor

Justin Jarrett LowcoSports@ gmail.com

SALES/BUSINESS

Advertising Sales Director

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

Accounting

April Ackerman april@ aandbbookkeeping. com Billing questions only.

Jan Cheslak’s entire family loves going out in the boat to the sandbar, but her 3½-year-old granddaughter, Scottie Vargas, captured in this June 21 photo, thinks there’s nothing better than sliding through the pluff mud before frolicking in the river. To submit a Lowcountry Life photo, you must be the photographer or have permission to submit the photo to be published in The Island News. Please submit high-resolution photos and include a description and/or names of the people in the picture and the name of the photographer. Email your photos to theislandnews@gmail.com.

VETERAN OF THE WEEK

American Legion Beaufort Post 207 brings you Jim Berry, 74, who joined the United States Air Force upon graduating from the ROTC program at Clemson in 1973.

Commissioned as a Second Lieutenant he specialized as a base civil engineer. He first served at Blytheville AFB, Ark., a B-52 base. He had secondary duties involving the honor details at funerals.

He next served at Campion Air Force Station at the early warn-

Jim Berry

ing radar site in rural Alaska.

From Alaska he was reassigned to Wright Patterson AFB, Ohio, where he earned a Masters Degree in Facilities Management.

JIM BERRY

Back to South Carolina, he then served at Shaw AFB in Sumter, helping to convert it for the F-16 (Fighting Falcon) fighters. While there he met and married Barbara, as well as deployed to Egypt to support the Iranian hostage crisis. Having become an expert in preparing for the F-16, the Air Force assigned him as an active duty officer to McEntire Air National Guard facility in Hopkins, S.C. as the Base Engineer to convert it for F-16s.

He retired in 1994 as a Lt. Col-

onel and began a 20-year career as the Physical Plant Director of South Carolina for the Department of Mental Health. His duties were statewide including managing the construction of Victory House in Walterboro.

In 2019, he and Barbara moved to Port Royal.

– Compiled by John Chubb, American Legion Post 207.

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

ON THIS DATE

CONTACT US PO Box 550 Beaufort, SC 29901 TheIslandNews@gmail.com www.YourIslandNews.com

July 4

2021: The Town of Port Royal’s July 4 fireworks celebration is plagued by technical difficulties causing it to start almost two hours late and last only a few minutes. Eventually, the town would host a “do-over” on September 3.

July 7

facebook.com/TheIslandNews

DEADLINE

2020: After being deluged with 8 inches of rain during the day, Hunting Island State Park closes. The park received 12.75 inches of rain over two days. It would be more than two weeks before it reopened.

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

– Compiled by Mike McCombs

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

PAL PETS OF THE WEEK Dog of the Week Meet Buster, a big-hearted beefcake with a smile that lights up the room! He’s the perfect mix of goofy and loving. Watching him happily trot around with a squeaky toy is pure comedy gold.

He adores people and thrives on attention, leaning into pets and belly rubs like it's his full-time job.

Buster brings joy and laughter wherever he goes. He’s a snuggly, playful, couch potato of a dog who’s ready to fill your home with unconditional love and squeaky toy fun. He is neutered, up to date on vaccinations, and microchipped.

someone loves her best. She’s a bit reserved with people at first, but if you sit quietly and wait, she will saunter over to say hello.

If you’re looking for a calm, no drama cat with a good heart, Mini is a beautiful gem of a cat just waiting to be discovered.

She is spayed, up to date on vaccinations, and microchipped.

Cat of the Week Mini is a sweet, petite, motherly kind of cat. The kittens at PAL naturally gravitate to her

comforting energy. She enjoys snuggling with the kittens, but what she really dreams of is a home of her own where

For more information on Buster, Mini, or any of our other pets, call PAL at 843-645-1725 or email Info@ PalmettoAnimalLeague.org.

– Compiled by Lindsay Perry

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 A2

JULY 3–9, 2025

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

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, 2025, 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. Content published from Care Magazine® is intended as a reference and options source only, not as a guide to self-treatment or substitute for profession medical advice.

It is provided for educational purpose only. Readers assume full responsibility for how this information is used. 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

Beaufort County offers more than fireworks for July 4 celebrations Fripp Island Fripp Island Golf Cart Parade – The parade will feature golf carts decorated to reflect the superhero theme. The parade will begin at 9 a.m. on Friday, July 4, on Fripp Island and is free to attend.

Fripp Island Independence Day 5K – Walkers and runners are invited to participate in this year’s patriotic 5K on Thursday, July 3, beginning at 9 a.m. at the Creekhouse at Fripp Island Resort.

Fripp Island Fireworks – Fireworks will begin at dusk on Fripp Island Beach on Friday, July 4, after dusk.

By Delayna Earley The Island News Fireworks, parades and good music – there is no shortage of Americana-themed activities to celebrate the Fourth of July in Beaufort County.

There are plenty of family friendly patriotic events as well as adult-only events, catering to everyone in the community.

County-wide Salute from the Shore Flyover – This event will begin at 1 p.m. on Friday, July 4, and can be seen from most areas in Beaufort County.

The military flyover will begin at Cherry Grove at 1 p.m. and will end in Beaufort at about 1:35 p.m., for the F-16s with the Warbird Flight showing up approximately an hour later at 2:35 p.m.

Spectators enjoy fireworks during the Port Royal Fourth of July Celebration at Sands Beach on Thursday, July. 4, 2024, in Port Royal. Delayna Earley/File/The Island News

Beaufort 4th Annual Firecracker 5K Run – The 5K run will begin at 8 a.m. on Friday, July 4, on Bay Street in downtown Beaufort. Participants will run through downtown Beaufort and across Woods Bridge.

– The annual fireworks show will be set off over the Beaufort River after dark. Before then, live music, activities for kids and families, food vendors and a performance by the “Iron Mic” Parris Island Marine Band can be enjoyed at Sands Beach on Friday, July 4, from 5 to 10 p.m.

Port Royal 4th of July Celebration Coolers, pets (apart from and Fireworks at the Sands service dogs) and firearms

or concealed weapons are prohibited. The boat ramp will close on July 3 at midnight and volunteers will be shuttling people to and from their vehicles throughout the evening.

community who are over 25 and want to celebrate the Gullah Geechee culture with community, music and dancing. The event will begin at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 4, and will go until midnight at the Penn Center’s Frissell ComSt. Helena Island munity House at 16 Penn Juke Joint Jam at Penn Center Circle on St. Helena Center – A Fourth of July Island. Tickets are $28 and party for members of the can be purchased online.

Bluffton Bluffton Independence Day Pre-Party and Fireworks – Bounce houses, food vendors, carnival games, live music and fireworks over the May River beginning at 9 p.m. at this free event at Martin Family and DuBois Parks from 5 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, July 3, in Bluffton. Parking will be available at M.C. Riley Elementary School at 200 Burnt Church Road and free Palmetto Breeze shuttles will be available to take attendees to Oyster Factory Park.

There will be handicapped parking spaces at Town Hall at 20 Bridge Street.

Hilton Head Island Fourth of July Concert with Gregg Russell – Hilton Head musician Gregg Russell will be holding a fun concert under the Liberty Oak in Harbour Town in Sea Pines on Friday, July 4, at 8 p.m.

HarbourFest Fireworks and Entertainment – Carnival games, face painting, live music and fireworks at Shelter Cover Harbour and Marina. Entertainment will begin at 6:30 p.m. and fireworks will begin at dusk on Friday, July 4.

Harbour Town Fourth of July Parade – The parade will feature decorated bikes, wagons and pets and will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, July 4, in Harbour Town.

Firecracker 5K Run and Family Fun Walk – The 41st Hilton Head Firecracker race will begin at 8 a.m. on Friday, July 4, at Honey Horn Park on Hilton Head Island. Register for the race at hiltonheadfirecracker5000.com.

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.

Cory A. Messerschmidt, M.D., FAAOS

BOARD-CERTIFIED, FELLOWSHIP-TRAINED ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON

T

o further enhance orthopedic options for patients throughout the Lowcountry, Beaufort Memorial has added an experienced surgeon to its team at Beaufort

Memorial Orthopaedic Specialists.

Dr. Cory A. Messerschmidt brings his expertise in joint preservation, replacement

and robotic surgical techniques to the practice, seeing patients in both Port Royal and Okatie. Fellowship-trained in sports medicine, he also performs minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures such as ACL repairs, meniscus preservation and shoulder arthroscopy for both adult and pediatric patients.

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

During his sports medicine fellowship at Emory University, Dr. Messerschmidt worked with professional sports teams such as the Atlanta Falcons and NCAA collegiate teams including Georgia Tech. In recent years, he has worked closely with local high school athletes, helping them recover from sports-related injuries and make a confident return to activity.

CALL (843) 524-3015 TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

PORT ROYAL

1680 RIBAUT ROAD

Board-certified

Orthopedic Surgery ................................................................

Fellowship Training Sports Medicine Emory University Atlanta, Ga.

................................................................

Residency

Orthopedic Surgery Medical University of South Carolina Charleston, S.C.

................................................................

Doctor of Medicine

Eastern Virginia Medical School Norfolk, Va.

OKATIE

122 OKATIE CENTER BLVD. NORTH

Dr. Messerschmidt joins boardcertified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon Vandit Sardana, M.D., MSC, FRCSC at the Orthopaedic Specialists practice.

Dr. Vandit Sardana

JULY 3–9, 2025

A3

NEWS

Beaufort shows up for unclaimed veteran

Staff reports More than 100 people showed up Tuesday, June 24 at Beaufort National Cemetery for the unclaimed committal service for U.S. Army SP4 Horrell White.

“Thank you to the over 100 people who took time out their busy days to help us honor and remember SP4 Horrell White,” the Cemetery posted on Facebook.

“Thanks also to all those who were with us in spirit. “ According to Beaufort National Cemetery, Horrell was a Vietnam War veteran who died late last year at the age of 76.

In its Facebook post announcing the event, Beaufort National Cemetery said White wasn’t “an unclaimed veteran service in the traditional sense.” His family had been located, but due to “unavoidable circumstances,” could not claim their loved one.”

According to Beaufort National Cemetery, White is interred in Columbarium 1, Row E, Niche 23.

More than 100 people showed up Tuesday, June 24 at Beaufort National Cemetery for the unclaimed committal service for U.S. Army SP4 Horrell White.

Photos by Asa Aarons Smith/The Island News

Sands Beach Ribbon Cutting

Port Royal’s Town Council Members (from left) Jorge Guerrero, Mayor Pro Tempore Mary Beth Heyward, Jerry Ashmore, Darryl Owens, and Mayor Kevin Phillips address the crowd just before the ribbon cutting for the recently opened Sands Beach Causeway on Thursday, June 26, 2025.

Amber Hewitt/The Island News

NEWS BRIEFS

July LIBPA meeting set for July 8

Shelter Box representative Matt D’Angelo will be the featured speaker at the Lady’s Island Business & Professional Association meeting at 8 a.m., Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at the Beaufort Realtors’ Association Headquarters at 22 Kemmerlin Lane on Lady’s Island.

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

Poll workers needed; training available

ty Human Services Alliance, and United Way of the Lowcountry (UWLC) – is designed to assist low-income individuals and families, non-English speaking taxpayers, people with disabilities, and seniors with their tax filing needs.

In Bluffton, the service is available from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Mondays, July 28; and September 29, at the Bluffton Public Library at 120 Palmetto Drive.

In Beaufort, the service is available from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday, August 25 at the United Way of the Lowcountry Beaufort Office at 1277 Ribaut Road.

Limited spots are available, and in-person appointments are required. Visit www.uwlowcountry. org/VITA to reserve your spot, check for eligibility requirements and to find a list of necessary documents to bring.

Port Royal’s Sands Beach Causeway is officially open after the ribbon cutting on Thursday, June 26, 2025. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

The Board of Voter Registration and Elections of Beaufort County will be holding 10 new poll worker training classes.

All of the classes will be held at the main office, located at 15 John The Rotary Club of Beaufort, the oldest of Beaufort’s three Rotary Clubs, announced its 2025-26 board of Galt Road, Beaufort, S.C. 29906. directors at its June 25 meeting. They are, from left, Nancy Dykeman, Secretary; Barry Wilson, DirectorThe classes will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., on the following Human Services at-Large and Past President; Travis Fortson, Fundraising; Lauren Nelson, Interact Club Sponsor; Graham dates: Wednesday, July 16; SaturHolcombe, Club Administration; Whitney McDaniel, Co-Treasurer & Past President; Ethan James, Rotary day, July 26; Wednesday, Aug. 20; accepting grant Foundation; Brenda Litchfield, Membership; Bob Allen, Past President; Ron Garrett, President; Jim Weiskopf, and Wednesday, Sept. 17. applications Public Image; and Peter Murphy, Community Services. Not pictured are Howard Heckrotte and Jay Patel, To sign up for a class, visit Beaufort County Human SerSergeants-at-Arms; Rosemary Hunt, International Services; Owen Hand, Membership; Nick Hunt, Club https://beaufortsc.easypollworker. vices is accepting applications Programs, and Wayne Promislow, Treasurer. Photo courtesy of Rotary Club of Beaufort com/home. for the FY26 Grant Program. Applications will be accepted until Friday, Aug. 22. Any application United Way of the of its residents To be eligible for the ComFunds may not be used for: received after that date, will not Lowcountry offers • Only one application per or• fundraising or capital cammunity Services Grant, orgabe considered. ganization (identified by EIN) additional free tax paigns According to the Community nizations are required to meet will be accepted, and fiscal • endowments or scholarships specific criteria: Services Grant Program webpage, prep days agents are not permitted • to reduce debt of any kind • Eligible applicants must be United Way of the Lowcountry's "Funds for this grant program are • Agencies seeking funding • religious or political activities 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizaVolunteer Income Tax Assistance provided by County Council of must register their organiza• legal services. tions whose mission aligns Beaufort County.

Established in (VITA) program is offering addition prior to applying; instrucwith improving quality of life 2013, the Beaufort County Comtional free tax preparation days to For questions or more informations are provided within the for Beaufort County residents, help qualifying residents of Beau- munity Services Grants Program tion, please call Beaufort County application particularly those who are fort and Jasper counties file their supports local non-profit human Human Services at 843-255-6058 vulnerable or disadvantaged Eligibility, criteria, application or visit the webpage at https://bit. federal and state tax returns accu- service organizations in enhanc• Agencies must directly serve timeline and the application it- ly/4npqEBv. ing residents' quality of life. All rately and efficiently.

Beaufort County and use all self are all outlined at https://bit.

The program – a collaboration grant awards are contingent upon – Staff reports awarded funds for the benefit ly/4l8UTe8 for interested groups. between the IRS, Beaufort Coun- the availability of funding."

A4

JULY 3–9, 2025

NEWS

SCDNR performing courtesy boat inspections over July 4 weekend

S.C. Department of Natural Resources S.C. Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) Law Enforcement Division will be conducting courtesy boat inspections twice at public boat landings in the Beaufort area over the Fourth of July weekend, one of the busiest boating times of the year for South Carolina lakes and waterways.

SCDNR officers will be at

Battery Creek Boat Landing from 9 to 11 a.m., Friday, July 4. They’ll also be at Lemon Island Boat Ramp from 9 to 11 a.m., Sunday, July 6.

SCDNR boating safety and enforcement officers will perform quick but thorough inspections for required safety equipment and proper boat and motor registrations. Those who are not in compliance with safety regulations or registra-

tion requirements will not be ticketed during the complimentary inspections. Instead, they will be given an opportunity to correct the problem before they launch their boat.

SCDNR officers will also be available to answer questions and give boaters tips on how to stay safe on the water.

To report boating violations such as reckless oper-

ation or an intoxicated boat operator, call the SCDNR toll-free, 24-hour hotline at 1-800-922-5431 or dial #DNR on your cell phone.

For a copy of South Carolina’s boating regulations, to find out about local boating safety courses, or to obtain a free float plan form, contact the SCDNR boating safety office at 1-800-277-4301 or visit http://www.dnr.sc.gov/ education/boated.html.

Courtesy boating inspections will be offered at public boat landings around the state over the Fourth of July weekend.

Photo courtesy of S.C. Department of Natural Resources

Burton Fire promotes new officers

Staff reports On Friday, June 27, at Burton Fire District Station 84, in front of family, friends, and coworkers, the Burton Fire District promoted two firefighters to the rank of Lieutenant.

After being sworn in by Burton Fire Chief Harry Rountree, the families of both the newly promoted officers got to pin on their new ranks.

Newly promoted Lt. Basye Hibbett, an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), has been with the Burton Fire District since 2016. In 2021, Lt. Hibbett was part of an emergency crew that successfully revived a person who was in cardiac arrest.

Newly promoted Lt. Morgan Clifton, a paramedic, was selected as Shift II’s 2023 Firefighter of the Year.

“I have the honor of hiring these folks and promoting them as they grow within this profession and progress in their careers,” stated Burton Fire Chief Harry Rountree. “No matter how many times I get to do this it’s just as happy and rewarding each time.”

Park

from page A1 Echoing the City’s news release statement, Marshall said City staff has worked since Friday to put together the appropriate safety measures “consistent with recommendations from the engineering assessment.”

Marshall said this included meeting with Water Festival officials on Sunday morning to discuss the partial closure of the park’s impact on the event.

“We met with them this morning,” he said. “It was a productive meeting.”

The pavilion will remain available, while the day dock and playground will be inaccessible until further notice.

Marshall said the closure wasn’t necessarily inclusive of the entire playground, “but until we can properly fence it off,” it will be closed.

City staff will continue to work with engineers to determine how or if these portions of the park may

Newly promoted Lieutenants Morgan Clifton and Basye Hibbett. Photo courtesy of Burton Fire District

BCSO seeks help locating missing St. Helena man Hannah Morgan pins her husband, newly promoted Burton Fire District Lt. Morgan Clifton, with his new rank on Friday, June 27, at Burton Fire District Station 84. Photo courtesy of Burton Fire District be opened moving forward.

Staff and the engineers are to meet again this week for more recommendations.

Marshall couldn’t be specific, but he said there was a chance some details of the closure could change.

“We hope to clarify some items,” he said.

One thing is clear – the park won’t fully reopen for quite some time. Marshall admitted that any repairs to or replacement of the park’s platform structure could and likely will be “years away.”

While it’s clear some action has to be taken, the City and the engineers haven’t reached the point in the process where it’s clear what that will be yet. And even then, it’s unknown how much it will cost or exactly how the City will go about paying that price.

But despite knowing the park would likely be closed for some time when those questions are answered, said Marshall, the City did not anticipate a closure of any part of the Waterfront Park at this time.

Kristin Hibbett pins her husband, newly promoted Burton Fire District Lt. Basye Hibbett, with his new rank on Friday, June 27, at Burton Fire District Station 84.

Photo courtesy of Burton Fire District “I can only say based on the information we’ve been given before we got this report, I can tell you we did not anticipate having to close the park before repairs or total replacement,” Marshall said. “We were left with very little choice after the analysis. We’ve got to err on the side of safety.”

How we got here Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park opened in 1979, changing the face of downtown Beaufort.

The relieving platform is the 46-year-old Waterfront Park’s supporting structure.

The seawall and promenade essentially rest – or floats — on roughly 570 pilings.

In June of 2024, a team of divers with McSweeney Engineers inspected the seawall and relieving platform as part of its regular five-year inspection. The ensuing report revealed “severe deterioration” — a handful of pilings were damaged beyond repair, and nearly 50 more showed signs of moderate to severe deterioration.

Staff reports The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in locating Abel Santos Robles, 46, of St. Helena Island.

Robles was reported missing by family members after he was last seen on Monday, June 23. As of Tuesday afternoon, July 1, he has not been seen or heard from.

Robles was last seen wearing a plaid

After previous inspections, some pilings had been reinforced with “jackets,” to extend their life expectancy. According to the report, those prior repairs were still intact.

After the report, the City stopped visits by large cruise ships and began the processes of hiring engineering consultants and identifying sources of funding for what is certain to be a long, multi-million-dollar process, whether it be to repair the structure or rebuild it altogether.

City Council members were told at a meeting that a “catastrophic” collapse was unlikely, that these type of structures commonly fail slowly without a collapse.

Earlier this year, the City formed a Waterfront Advisory Committee (WAC) to help “shape both short- and long-term policy decisions that the City Council must make,” according to Marshall in a news release at the time. “These decisions will directly impact the future vitality and sustainability of one of our region’s most

shirt, blue jeans, and work boots. He is believed to be driving a white 2004 Ford Excursion with South Carolina license plate number 2422TF. Anyone with information regarding Robles’ whereabouts is asked to contact Lt. Malphrus at 843-255-3233 or call the Sheriff’s Office non-emergency dispatch line at 843-524-2777.

cherished public waterfront recreational assets.”

After the WAC’s second meeting June 23, Marshall told the committee their could be additional information from engineering surveys coming forth before its next scheduled meeting in September and that the group may have to meet again sooner than planned.

Will the Water Festival go on?

The 12th DragonBoat Beaufort Race Day was held Saturday in the park and will likely be the last event on the promenade for some time.

Given the short amount of time between when the City received the conditions assessment and the start of the event, Marshall said he made the call to allow the event to go forward.

“We were less than 12 hour from the event,” Marshall said. “I felt like that was the right call at the time.”

As for the Beaufort Water Festival, the Waterfront Park is the centerpiece of most of the main events.

Commodore Todd Stowe was not available for comment Sunday evening, but Program Coordinator Dusty Vickers said there wasn’t really much Festival officials could say right now.

The Beaufort Water Festival issued a statement on its Facebook page later Sunday evening.

“All festival events are continuing as scheduled at this time,” the statement reads. “We remain in close coordination with the City of Beaufort and are committed to prioritizing the safety of our attendees, staff, and volunteers.”

Signage and barriers were to be installed early Monday morning to clearly mark the areas of the park that are off limits to the public. According to the City’s release, areas marked as “no trespassing” will be strictly enforced.

Assistant Editor Delayna Earley contributed to this report.

Mike McCombs is the Editor of The Island News and can be reached at TheIslandNews@gmail.com.

JULY 3–9, 2025

A5

A6

JULY 3–9, 2025

JULY 3–9, 2025

A7

NEWS

Registration open for BCSO Citizens Police Academy

Staff reports Registration for the Fall 2025 Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Citizens Police Academy (CPA) is open.

Space is limited, so those interested are encouraged to apply soon at https://bit.ly/3I6jFgx. The CPA program is a free, nine-week program for adults.

Participants meet once a week

and learn about the many divisions and units within the Sheriff’s Office.

Topics covered include Patrol Operations, 911 Dispatch Center, Criminal and Cold Case Investigations, the Forensic Laboratory, the Firearms

LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF APPLICATION

Notice is hereby given that DKC Productions, LLC., dba Cowtown Twenty Five, intends to apply to the South Carolina Department of Revenue for a license and/or permit that will allow the sale and on premises consumption of beer and wine, at, 20 A Market, #1, Beaufort, SC 29906. To object to the issuance of this license and/or permit, you must submit an ABL-20 protest form by, July 10, 2025.

Submit the ABL-20 online at MyDORWAY.dor. sc.gov, or email ABL@dor.sc.gov.

NOTICE OF APPLICATION Notice is hereby given that Shea Dawg LLC, ¬dba Main Street Island Pub, intends to apply to the South Carolina Department of Revenue for a license and/or permit that will allow the sale and on premises consumption of beer, wine, and liquor at 1411 Main Street, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926. To object to the issuance of this license and/or permit, you must submit Form ABL-20, postmarked no later than July 10, 2025. Submit protests online at MyDORWAY.dor.sc.gov, or email ABL@dor.sc.gov.

ister of Deeds for Beaufort County, South Carolina, in Records Book 2268 at Page 1741.

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF BEAUFORT

This being the same property acquired by Derrin Ferguson by deed of the Beaufort County Treasurer dated November 17, 2021, and recorded on December 2, 2021, in Records Book 4090 at Page 139.

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS CASE NO.: 2023-CP-07-01345 (Non-Jury) DATAW ISLAND OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.,

TMS: R300 005 00A 0408 0000

Plaintiff,

Terms of the sale are as follows:

vs.

A. The undersigned Master will require a deposit of 5% on the amount of the bid (in cash or equivalent) same to be applied on the purchase price only upon compliance with the bid, but in case of non-compliance within thirty (30) days to be forfeited and applied to the costs and Plaintiff’s debt.

FRANKIE GLOVER; THOMAS M. HUTCHINSON AND PATRICIA A. HUTCHINSON; CRC INDUSTRIES, LLC; DATAW ISLAND CLUB, INC.,

B. Interest on the balance of the bid shall be paid to the day of compliance at the statutory rate.

C. The sale shall be subject to taxes and assessments, existing easements and restrictions of record.

D. Purchaser to pay for costs of recording the deed.

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF BEAUFORT

E. If Plaintiff is the successful bidder at the said sale, for a sum not exceeding the amount of costs, expenses and the indebtedness of Plaintiff in full, Plaintiff may pay to the undersigned Master-in-Equity only the amount of the costs and expenses, crediting the balance of the bid on Plaintiff’s indebtedness.

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS CASE NO.: 2023-CP-07-01349 (Non-Jury) DATAW ISLAND OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC., Plaintiff,

F. Personal or deficiency judgment not being demanded, the bidding will not remain open after date of sale.

vs.

DERRIN FERGUSON; ROBERT MAJOR; FIELD CAPITAL, LLC; DATAW ISLAND CLUB, INC., Defendants.

NOTICE OF SALE (Deficiency Waived) On August 4, 2025, at the Beaufort County Courthouse at 11:00 o’clock, A.M., I will sell at public auction the following described properties: ALL that certain piece, parcel or lot of land situate, lying and being on Dataw Island, Beaufort County, South Carolina, being shown an described as Lot 1274, Phase V, Dataw Island, on a plat recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Beaufort County, South Carolina, in Plat Book 44 at Page 164, and an individual plat prepared by David E. Gasque, RLS, dated October 31, 2005, which is attached to that certain deed recorded in the Office of the Reg-

Training Simulator (FATS) and additional safety and crime prevention presentations.

During the program, participants will spend one Saturday learning more about and viewing demonstrations by the Sheriff’s

G. That the undersigned Master-in-Equity will by advertisement, according to law, give notice of the time and place of sale and the terms thereof and will execute to the Purchaser, or Purchasers, a deed to the premises sold. The Plaintiff, or any other party to this action, may become a purchaser at such sale, and if, upon such sale being made, the Purchaser, or Purchasers, shall fail to comply with the terms thereon within thirty (30) days after date of sale, the funds deposited shall be forfeited and applied as set forth hereinabove, and the property re-advertised for sale upon the same terms at the risk of the former highest bidder. s/James J. Wegmann JAMES J. WEGMANN MASTER-IN-EQUITY FOR BEAUFORT COUNTY Beaufort, South Carolina June 12, 2025

Office Special Operations Teams (SWAT, K9 Units and Bloodhound Tracking Team, etc.). At the conclusion of the program, participants are afforded the opportunity to ride-a-long with a patrol deputy.

For convenience, the program is offered at locations in both northern and southern Beaufort County.

The first class for those regis-

sale, for a sum not exceeding the amount of costs, expenses and the indebtedness of Plaintiff in full, Plaintiff may pay to the undersigned Master-in-Equity only the amount of the costs and expenses, crediting the balance of the bid on Plaintiff’s indebtedness.

F. Personal or deficiency judgment not being demanded, the bidding will not remain open after date of sale.

Defendants.

NOTICE OF SALE (Deficiency Waived) On August 4, 2025, at the Beaufort County Courthouse at 11:00 o’clock, a.m., I will sell at public auction the following described property: ALL that certain; piece, parcel or lot of land situate, lying and being on Dataw Island, Beaufort County, South Carolina, and being shown and described as Lot 1138 on a plat recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Beaufort County, South Carolina, in Plat Book 35 at Page 156.

This being the same property acquired by Frankie Glover by Deed of the Beaufort County Treasurer dated January 12, 2022, and recorded on January 25, 2022 in Records Book 4108 at Page 1794, in the Beaufort County, South Carolian Register of Deeds Office.

TMS: R300 005 00A 0274 0000 Terms of the sale are as follows: A. The undersigned Master will require a deposit of 5% on the amount of the bid (in cash or equivalent) same to be applied on the purchase price only upon compliance with the bid, but in case of non-compliance within thirty (30) days to be forfeited and applied to the costs and Plaintiff’s debt.

B. Interest on the balance of the bid shall be paid to the day of compliance at the statutory rate.

C. The sale shall be subject to taxes and assessments, existing easements and restrictions of record.

D. Purchaser to pay for costs of recording the deed.

E. If Plaintiff is the successful bidder at the said

G. That the undersigned Master-in-Equity will by advertisement, according to law, give notice of the time and place of sale and the terms thereof and will execute to the Purchaser, or Purchasers, a deed to the premises sold. The Plaintiff, or any other party to this action, may become a purchaser at such sale, and if, upon such sale being made, the Purchaser, or Purchasers, shall fail to comply with the terms thereon within thirty (30) days after date of sale, the funds deposited shall be forfeited and applied as set forth hereinabove, and the property re-advertised for sale upon the same terms at the risk of the former highest bidder. s/James J. Wegmann JAMES J. WEGMANN MASTER-IN-EQUITY FOR BEAUFORT COUNTY Beaufort, South Carolina June 12, 2025 Boat Title Request Attempting to obtain a title for boat # SC 6649-BE 75HP Mariner. IPLO0186267 NOTICE OF SALE HEREBY GIVEN The undersigned will sell personal property to enforce a lien, starting Monday, July 14, 2025, at 12:00 PM, on StorageAuctions.com. Sale location: 1720 Ribaut Road, Port Royal, SC, 29935. Tenant: Paschal Hickman Unit# 01-00035. Payment by card required via phone. All items are sold as-is and must be removed within 72 hours. Sale may be canceled if settled. Unit contains: Boxes, wooden cabinet, old couch, small wooden tables, chairs, wood box spring.

NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND INTENT TO SELL Name and address of Purchaser: SEE EXHIBIT A, A fee simple undivided ownership interest (SEE EXHIBIT A) in the Project as tenants(s) in common with the holders of other undivided interests in and to the timeshare property known as MBV VACATION SUITES, as established by that certain Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions and Vacation Ownership Instrument for MBV Vacation Suites, recorded at Book 3406, Pages 1312- 1365, et seq., of the records of the

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 REPRESENTATIVE

PUB. DATE

Dusty Conner Date of Death: 05/09/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700648

John Bradley Ballington C/O PO Drawer 507 Beaufort, SC 29901

06/19/2025

Grace Smalls Cummings Date of Death: 09/08/2024 Case Number: 2025ES0700650

Angel S. Cummings-Redmon C/O PO Box 1609 Bluffton, SC 29910

06/19/2025

Eleanore Farley; AKA Eleanore Mary Farley Date of Death: 07/31/2024 Case Number: 2025ES0700109

Ellen Marie Lagasse Elaine Marie D’Farley C/O 16 William Pope Dr., Ste. 202 Bluffton, SC 29909

06/19/2025

Richard Delroy Fredecker, Jr. Date of Death: 05/13/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700611

David Scott Fredecker C/O PO Box 7906 Hilton Head Island, SC 29938

Michael X. Hughes Date of Death: 02/25/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700439 Carol Jan Humphrey Date of Death: 03/30/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700633

DECEDENT

PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

PUB. DATE

Harriet Inez Hair Date of Death: 05/05/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700667

Elizabeth S. Fisher Anne Shelburne Newell C/O PO Box 1938 Bluffton, SC 29910

06/26/2025

Judith K. Husmer Date of Death: 05/30/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700685

Kimberlie Duchesneau C/O PO Box 21668 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925

06/26/2025

Alan Dean Miller Date of Death: 04/01/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700456

Bonnie East Miller C/O 1533 Fording Island Rd., Ste. 294 Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

06/26/2025

06/19/2025

Henry Robinson Date of Death: 01/03/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700678

Linda G. Robinson C/O PO Box 248 Beaufort, SC 29901-0248

06/26/2025

Kathleen L. Hughes C/O PO Box 7906 Hilton Head Island, SC 29938 Wendy Kay Parker C/O 7511 Saint Andrews Rd., Ste. 3 Irmo, SC 29063

06/19/2025

Patricia Lee Barrett C/O PO Box 22230 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925

07/03/2025

06/19/2025

Richard Joseph Barrett, Jr.; AKA Richard J. Barrett, Jr.; AKA Richard J. Barrett Date of Death: 03/30/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700708

Gina M. Brown C/O PO Box 3697 Radford, VA 24143

06/19/2025

Dennis M. Bush C/O PO Box 7906 Hilton Head Island, SC 29938

07/03/2025

John Impagliazzo Date of Death: 03/28/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700644

Diane M. Bennett Date of Death: 05/20/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700705

Daniel Thomas Jackson C/O PO Box 5908 Hilton Head Island, SC 29938

06/19/2025

Beverly V. Bitler C/O PO Box 22230 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925

07/03/2025

Patricia Cunningham Jackson Date of Death: 05/11/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700639

Harold Paul Bitler, Jr. Date of Death: 02/10/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700711

Gerald Joseph Ladwig 2203 N. Old Pine Trail Midland, MI 48642

06/19/2025

Leyonard Keith Blocker 202 Glendale St. Hampton, SC 29924

07/03/2025

Gail Brenda Ladwig Date of Death: 09/17/2024 Case Number: 2025ES0700635

Barbara Ann Blocker Date of Death: 06/05/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700704

Drusilla C. McNair C/O 1533 Fording Island Rd., Ste. 294 Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

06/19/2025

Keisha L. Brown Thomas 1132 Walden Place Drive Elgin, SC 29045

07/03/2025

Evelyn D. McNair Date of Death: 05/22/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700660

Violet James Brown Date of Death: 05/06/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700695

Kent Johnson 2850 Park Square Fernandina, FL 32034

06/19/2025

Lisa Renee Johnson C/O 1533 Fording Island Rd., Ste. 294 Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

07/03/2025

Lavera Rae Nagle; AKA La Vera J. Nagle Date of Death: 04/18/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700659

Tonya Vonn Carl Date of Death: 05/22/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700713

Lori W. Trapani C/O PO Box 22512 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925

06/19/2025

Holly S. Knobler C/O 17 Professional Village Beaufort, SC 29907

07/03/2025

Patty I. Reed Date of Death: 03/29/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700654

Deborah Jean Crupper Date of Death: 06/23/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700706

Troy Scott Riner Amanda Lee Riner Clifford C/O PO Drawer 1023 Beaufort, SC 29901

06/19/2025

Shereece Anderson 1211 Fairview Dr. Columbia, SC 29205

07/03/2025

Elton Jackson Riner Date of Death: 05/16/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700661

Winfred Tyrone Green Date of Death: 04/21/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700699 Betty Lynn Jones Date of Death: 05/22/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700703

Donald L. Jones C/O 17 Professional Village Beaufort, SC 29907

07/03/2025

Robert Lynn Sain Date of Death: 05/21/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700641

Charles G. Sain C/O 1110 Pick Pocket Plantation Dr., Ste. A Beaufort, SC 29902

06/19/2025 Jessica Leigh Levis Date of Death: 04/13/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700701

Hailey Nicole Levis C/O 700 Huger St., Ste. 102 Columbia, SC 29201

07/03/2025

Bonnie Sue Silva Date of Death: 04/03/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700588

Kindra Merrill C/O 7511 Saint Andrews Rd., Ste 3 Irmo, SC 29063

06/19/2025 Thomas J. Malta Date of Death: 03/31/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700691

Patricia Ann Malta 327 Farnsleigh Ave. Bluffton, SC 29910

07/03/2025

Mary Bolen Vaux Date of Death: 03/26/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700643

Roberts Vaux C/O 16 William Pope Dr. Bluffton, SC 29909

06/19/2025 Jesse Steven McCoy; AKA J. Steven McCoy Date of Death: 04/06/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700694

Matthew D. McCoy C/O PO Drawer 1107 Beaufort, SC 29901

07/03/2025

Richard Warren Blankenship Date of Death: 06/06/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700686

G. Wayne Blankenship PO Box 36 Sheldon, SC 29941

06/26/2025 Thomas David Reilley, Jr. Date of Death: 05/02/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700702

Diane Marie Reilley C/O PO Box 22230 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925

07/03/2025

Vivian Eleanor Coupe Date of Death: 02/08/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700671

Douglas L. Coupe C/O PO Box 7906 Hilton Head Island, SC 29938

06/26/2025 Brenda G. Tootle Date of Death: 03/12/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700658

Charles D. Tootle, Jr. C/O 17 Professional Village Beaufort, SC 29907

07/03/2025

Patricia Ann Gilmore; AKA Patricia Ann Gilmore Fanning Date of Death: 05/13/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700668

Patricia Ann Gleason C/O PO Box 5098 Hilton Head Island, SC 29938

06/26/2025 Dennis Jeffrey Watson Date of Death: 09/04/2024 Case Number: 2025ES0700696

Brad R. Watson C/O PO Box 7906 Hilton Head Island, SC 29938

07/03/2025

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

A8

JULY 3–9, 2025

tered in the Southern Beaufort County CPA program is scheduled for Tuesday, August 19, 2025, from 6 until 9 p.m. at a location in Bluffton.

The first class for those registered in the Northern Beaufort County CPA program is scheduled for Thursday, August 21, 2025, from 6 until 9 p.m. at a location in Beaufort.

R.O.D. Office for Beaufort County, South Carolina, as amended or supplemented (the “Declaration”), having Interval Control Number (SEE EXHIBIT A). You are currently in default under certain provisions for the mortgage referenced in Exhibit A. The total amount presently delinquent, with Attorney fees and costs is listed below in Exhibit A. As provided for in paragraph 4. of the aforementioned mortgage, the lien-holder 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. PURSUANT TO SECTION 27-32-325, S.C. CODE ANN., 1976, AS AMENDED, YOU ARE HEREBY ADVISED OF THE FOLLOWING: IF YOU FAIL TO CURE THE DEFAULT OR TAKE OTHER APPROPRIATE ACTION WITH REGARD TO THIS MATTER WITHIN THIRTY CALENDAR DAYS AFTER RECEIPT OF THIS NOTICE, YOU WILL RISK LOSING YOUR INTEREST IN THIS TIMESHARE ESTATE THROUGH A NONJUDICIAL FORECLOSURE PROCEDURE. HOWEVER, UNDER THE NONJUDICIAL PROCEDURE, YOU WILL NOT BE SUBJECT TO A DEFICIENCY JUDGMENT OR PERSONAL LIABILITY FOR THE LIEN BEING FORECLOSED EVEN IF THE SALE OF YOUR TIMESHARE ESTATE RESULTING FROM THE NONJUDICIAL FORECLOSURE IS INSUFFICIENT TO SATISFY THE AMOUNT OF THE LIEN BEING FORECLOSED. YOU MAY OBJECT TO THE SALE OF YOUR TIMESHARE ESTATE THROUGH THE NONJUDICIAL FORECLOSURE PROCEDURE AND REQUIRE FORECLOSURE OF YOUR TIMESHARE INTEREST TO PROCEED THROUGH THE JUDICIAL PROCESS. AN OBJECTION MUST BE MADE IN WRITING AND RECEIVED BY THE TRUSTEE BEFORE THE END OF THE THIRTY-DAY TIME PERIOD. YOU MUST STATE THE REASON FOR YOUR OBJECTION AND INCLUDE YOUR ADDRESS ON THE WRITTEN OBJECTION. IN A JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING THAT RESULTS FROM YOUR OBJECTION, YOU MAY BE SUBJECT TO A DEFICIENCY JUDGMENT AND PERSONAL LIABILITY FOR THE LIEN BEING FORECLOSED IF THE SALE OF YOUR TIMESHARE ESTATE RESULTING FROM THE JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE IS INSUFFICIENT TO SATISFY THE AMOUNT OF THE LIEN BEING FORECLOSED. FURTHERMORE, YOU ALSO MAY BE SUBJECT TO A PERSONAL MONEY JUDGMENT FOR THE COSTS AND ATTORNEY’S FEES INCURRED BY THE LIENHOLDER IN THE JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING IF THE COURT FINDS THAT THERE IS COMPLETE ABSENCE OF A JUSTIFIABLE ISSUE OF EITHER LAW OR FACT RAISED BY YOUR OBJECTIONS OR DEFENSES. YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO CURE YOUR DEFAULT AT ANY TIME BEFORE THE SALE OF YOUR TIMESHARE ESTATE, BY PAYMENT OF ALL PAST DUE LOAN PAYMENTS OR ASSESSMENTS, ACCRUED INTEREST, LATE FEES, TAXES, AND ALL FEES AND COSTS INCURRED BY THE LIENHOLDER AND TRUSTEE, INCLUDING ATTORNEY’S FEES AND COSTS, IN CONNECTION WITH THE DEFAULT. Any response or inquiry should be made in writing to King Cunningham, LLC, Attn: Jeffrey W. King, Esq. who is serving as Trustee in this matter, at the following address: 1000 2nd Ave S, Ste 325, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582. EXHIBIT “A” Owner(s), Address, TS Interest, Interval Control No. (Unit, Week, OEB), Deed BK/PG, MTG BK/PG, Default Amount, Costs, Attorney Fee, Total Amount Due, Per Diem; HESRICK S. RICHARDS&GEORGEENA MARIA RICHARDS, 466 LAKE ST, BELLINGHAM, MA 02019-1810, 0.0073861610410129%, U2205W5E, 4225/3235, 4225/3240, $15,077.48, $49.56, $450, $15,177.48, $7.6.; SHANIDA N. GOGGANS , 1935 MCGRAW AVE 1H, BRONX, NY 10462, 0.0073861610410129%, U2302-W4E, 4201/1052, 4201/1057, $14,359.90, $49.56, $450, $14,459.90, $7.34.; LINA CHUA FANG , 171 HOWARD AVE, STATEN ISLAND, NY 103014400, 0.0147723220820258%, U1109-W40B, 4359/3059, 4359/3064, $66,599.39, $49.56, $450, $66,699.39, $27.44.

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF BEAUFORT IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS FOURTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT CASE NO.: 2025-CP-07-0999 Jane Powers Huggins Plaintiff, vs.

Superior Pine Realty Company, Beaufort County, South Carolina, William M. Miley, Jr., Leith Paul Webb, Penn Agricultural School, et al.

Defendants.

LIS PENDENS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an action will be commenced in the court upon a Complaint of the above-named Plaintiff against the above-named Defendants regarding property which is located in the County of Beaufort, State of South Carolina. Said premises affected by this action are more particularly described as follows: This is an action to quite title to the subject property (the “Property”) which is more particularly described herein as follows: ALL that certain piece, parcel or lot of land, together with the buildings and improvements thereon if any, situate, lying and being in St. Helena Township, in the McTurius Section, Beaufort County, South Carolina, containing fifteen (15) acres, more of less, being bounded and described as follows, to-wit: Bounded on the North by lands, NOW OR FORMERLY, of the Rosenwald School; Bounded on the Ease by Seaside Road; Bounded on the South By lands, NOW OR FORMERLY, of Lawrence Poper; and bounded on the West by lands, NOW OR FORMERLY, of Joe Johnson.

Derivation: This being the same property conveyed to Jane Powers Huggins as “Parcel M” by deed dated July 15, 2016 and recorded on August 4, 2016 in Book 3499, at page 2324 in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Beaufort County.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 1662 Seaside Road, St. Helena Island, SS 29920 TMS No: R300 036 000 006A 0000 This Lis Pendens is filed pursuant to South Carolina Code of Laws § 15-11-10, et seq., to provide notice of the forthcoming action affecting title to the above-described Property.

May 23, 2025

BUIST BYARS & TAYLOR, LLC /s/ G. Hamlin O’Kelley, III G. Hamlin O’Kelley, III S.C. Bar No. 15491

/s/ William McAdoo Deford, Jr. William McAdoo Deford, Jr. S.C. Bar No. 103784 Buist, Byars & Taylor, LLC 652 Coleman Blvd., Suite 200 Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina 29464 (843) 856-4488 hamlin.okelley@buistbyars.com mac.deford@buistbyars.com Attorneys for the Plaintiff STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF BEAUFORT IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS FOURTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT CASE NO.: 2025-CP-07-0999 Jane Powers Huggins Plaintiff, vs.

Superior Pine Realty Company, Beaufort County, South Carolina, William M. Miley, Jr., Leith Paul Webb, Penn Agricultural School, et al.

Defendants.

NOTICE, NISI TO THE DEFENDANTS NAMED ABOVE YOU ARE HEREBY GIVEN that Kelley Y. Woody, Esq., has been appointed as Guardian ad Litem Nisi in the above-entitled action by Order of the Court, and that such Order will become absolute thirty (30) days after the last publication of this Notice, unless such of the Defendants that may be heirs, devisees, distributees, administrators, executors, guardians, and all those persons who may be minors, in military service, under any legal disability, or other persons claiming by or through the deceased persons above-named or someone on their behalf shall in the meantime procure the appointment of a Guardian ad Litem for them; and that such Order is on file in the Office of the Clerk of Court for Beaufort County in the Beaufort County Courthouse, Beaufort, South Carolina.

BUIST BYARS & TAYLOR, LLC /s/ G. Hamlin O’Kelley, III G. Hamlin O’Kelley, III S.C. Bar No. 15491 /s/ William McAdoo Deford, Jr. William McAdoo Deford, Jr. S.C. Bar No. 103784 Buist, Byars & Taylor, LLC 652 Coleman Blvd., Suite 200 Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina 29464 (843) 856-4488 hamlin.okelley@buistbyars.com mac.deford@buistbyars.com Attorneys for the Plaintiff May 23, 2025 Mount Pleasant, South Carolina STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF BEAUFORT IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS FOURTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT CASE NO.: 2025-CP-07-0999 Jane Powers Huggins Plaintiff, vs.

Superior Pine Realty Company, Beaufort County, South Carolina, William M. Miley, Jr., Leith Paul Webb, Penn Agricultural School, et al.

Defendants.

AMENDED SUMMONS TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to answer the Complaint in this action a copy of which is herewith served upon you, and to serve a copy of your Answer upon the undersigned attorneys at 652 Coleman Boulevard, Suite 200, Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina 29464, within thirty (30) days from service hereof, exclusive of the day of such service; and, if you fail to answer the Complaint within the time aforesaid, judgment by default will be rendered against you, and the Plaintiff in this action will apply to the Court for the relief demanded.

TO MINOR(S) OVER THE AGE OF FOURTEEN YEARS AND/OR TO MINOR(S) UNDER THE AGE OF FOURTEEN YEARS AND THE PERSON WITH WHOM THE MINOR(S) RESIDES, AND/OR PERSON UNDER SOME LEGAL DISABILITY: YOU ARE FURTHER SUMMONED AND NOTIFIED to apply for the appointment of a Guardian ad Litem within thirty (30) days after the service of this Summons upon you. If you fail to do so, application for such appointment will be made by the Plaintiff immediately and separately and such application will be deemed absolute and total in the absence of your application for such an appointment within thirty (30) days after the service of the Summons and Complaint upon you.

YOU WILL ALSO TAKE NOTICE that should you fail to answer the foregoing Summons, the Plaintiff will move for an Order of Reference of this case to the Master in Equity or Special Referee of the County which Order shall, pursuant to Rule 53 of the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure, specifically provide that the Master in Equity or Special Referee is authorized and empowered to enter a final judgment in this case with appeal only to the South Carolina Court of Appeal pursuant to Rule 203(d) (1) of the South Carolina Appellate Court Rules.

BUIST BYARS & TAYLOR, LLC /s/ G. Hamlin O’Kelley, III G. Hamlin O’Kelley, III S.C. Bar No. 15491 /s/ William McAdoo Deford, Jr. William McAdoo Deford, Jr. S.C. Bar No. 103784 Buist, Byars & Taylor, LLC 652 Coleman Blvd., Suite 200 Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina 29464 (843) 856-4488 hamlin.okelley@buistbyars.com mac.deford@buistbyars.com Attorneys for the Plaintiff May 23, 2025 Mount Pleasant, South Carolina

NEWS

Book on Combahee River Raid becomes Pulitzer Prize winner Author and researcher Edda Fields-Black discovered her own family tie to the raid in the process

By Skylar Laird SCDailyGazette.com Edda Fields-Black was working on a book about rice plantations when she came across the story of a raid in Beaufort that freed more than 700 slaves from Lowcountry plantations.

The Carnegie Mellon University professor decided to pursue the story and, nearly a decade later, published “COMBEE: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom During the Civil War,” which recently won the Pulitzer Prize for history.

Fields-Black first learned about the June 1863 raid reading an account by Minus Hamilton, who was an 88-year-old slave when the daring mission led by Tubman freed him. He told of how three steamships traveled up the river in the dead of night before sounding their whistles, sending slaves working on the neighboring plantations running to the river and to freedom.

Hamilton also talked about his awe at seeing fellow Black men in uniform for the first time, and that image struck Fields-Black.

“I was like, ‘Wow,’ and I tucked it away for a long time,” said FieldsBlack, of Pittsburgh.

She tried to read more about the raid Hamilton recounted.

But she found little beyond mentions here and there in biographies of Tubman, who’s best known as a conductor on the Underground Railroad.

So, she set out to write the history herself, telling it from the perspective of the raid’s participants and detailing the importance of the rice plantations in pulling it off, she said.

“I wanted to pull out all of those elements, and I thought that I could tell that story,” FieldsBlack said.

“COMBEE,” the Gullah pronunciation of the Combahee River, won the prestigious Pulitzer Prize alongside “Native Nations: A Mil-

“She could’ve been on the moon, and she would’ve figured out how to survive,” she said.

Edda Fields-Black gives a keynote speech for Juneteenth at Carnegie Mellon University in 2024. Photo courtesy of Carnegie Mellon University lennium in North American” by Kathleen DuVal in a category that rewards “a distinguished and appropriately documented book on the history of the United States,” according to the Pulitzer website.

The 776-page book told “a richly-textured and revelatory account” of the raid, “weaving military strategy and family history with the transition from bondage to freedom,” the prize’s jury wrote.

Harriet Tubman Tubman, who became known as the Moses of Her People after escaping slavery herself in 1849, spoke about the Combahee River Raid during her life.

Her role in the raid made her the first woman ever to lead a major military operation in the U.S. and the only Black woman to lead troops during the Civil War. A statue of her unveiled in May 2024 at Beaufort’s Tabernacle Baptist Church commemorates her part in the raid and her years spent in Beaufort.

But historians, lacking official records, rarely delved into the details, Fields-Black said.

When she started telling friends and colleagues about her plans, they similarly insisted there was no way to tell the story from the perspective of enslaved people because no records of the raid existed. But they did exist — just not the kind most researchers rely on, she said.

“There’s a broader question about believing women, believing marginal people and taking our words and our descriptions of our own experiences at face value,” Fields-Black said. “And that hadn’t been done.”

The rice plantations, with their snakes and alligators, made Tubman’s work even more impressive.

Other historians had written about the raid as if the environment were the same as in the more northern states where Tubman had worked, but as a researcher of rice fields, Fields-Black knew the specific challenges they presented.

Finding the story As she started to research in earnest, Fields-Black knew she couldn’t rely solely on the official military records of the raid, which were written by the Confederate troops controlling Beaufort at the time. Slave narratives from the 1930s mentioned the raid only in passing, and official records in Beaufort and Colleton counties were burned as cities went up in flames during the Civil War, she said.

Fields-Black turned instead to a lesser-used historical resource: pension files. Following the war, soldiers relayed information about themselves and their experiences in an attempt to receive payment from the government.

Among those submitting applications were members of the 2nd South Carolina Volunteer Infantry, a regiment consisting largely of freed men from the sea islands who drove boats up the Combahee River for enslaved people to board and escape.

Through scouring hundreds of pension files, Fields-Black came across a familiar name.

She had known about a Hector Fields from whom her family descended, but she had thought he lived in nearby Colleton County, not Beaufort. The pension files, however, told the story of Fields as a Civil War veteran who fought in the volunteer infantry, helped free slaves and eventually settled down in Colleton County, she said.

Fields-Black grew up in Florida, but she still has family in that area. Her own father was born in Green Pond, a small town in the same county, and the family’s roots in South Carolina are strong, she said.

The story “has become a source of immense pride in our family,” Fields-Black said.

ABOUT THE SOUTH CAROLINA DAILY GAZETTE

The South Carolina Daily Gazette is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news site covering state government and officials and how their decisions affect people across the Palmetto State. The site offers a free newsletter delivered to your inbox every weekday morning.

To subscribe, visit https:// scdailygazette.com/subscribe/.

The content is free both to readers and to other outlets, which can republish its work under the Creative Commons license.

The South Carolina Daily Gazette is an affiliate of States Newsroom, a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit supported by grants and a coalition of donors and readers.

The Gazette retains full editorial independence. Its name comes from the state’s first successful newspaper, the South-Carolina Gazette, first printed in 1732.

Seven years later, it also became the first newspaper in colonial America edited and published by a woman.

Even after they were freed, many of the people in the raid returned to Confederate territory, risking their lives and freedom, to help others, she said. The raid itself happened after the Emancipation Proclamation, which had proclaimed all slaves in Southern states to be free.

But in Confederate-controlled areas, that wasn’t put into effect.

The nation’s last slaves weren’t freed until two years later, on June 19, 1865, known as Juneteenth.

“It’s the actions of these folks that some would say, and I would agree with them, are even more important than, say, the Emancipation Proclamation in the demise of slavery and ending the institution of slavery,” Fields-Black said.

Skylar Laird covers the South Carolina Legislature and criminal justice issues.

Originally from Missouri, she previously worked for The Post and Courier’s Columbia bureau. S.C. Daily Gazette is part of States Newsroom, the nation’s largest state-focused nonprofit news organization.

Goal

from page A1 dergoing treatment in Beaufort County and are struggling financially.

DragonBoat Race Day organizers Terri Ely-Wenrick and Kaci Willis said that “we as human beings in a community should collectively be together as one and lift each other up when we need lifting up or just help each other” because cancer is a non-discriminatory disease, which is why they raise the money to help as many as they can.

The annual event had a few new features; one was a special award given out in honor of the daughter-in-law of a DragonBoat Beaufort paddler who recently died from cancer.

The Kelsey Kup was awarded to the most spirited team.

The DragonBoat Beaufort team also developed a story about a Beaufort dragon to go along with a hunt that children participated in while attending Saturday’s event.

Children searched the park for glass hearts made by a member of the DragonBoat Beaufort team,

Christie Tarpley of The Healing Dragons team from Charlotte, N.C., tosses a carnation into the The team drummer keeps the beat, setting the pace for paddlers river as part of the Carnation Ceremony, a tribute honoring those who have survived cancer and at the Dragon Boat Race Day on Saturday, June 28, 2025. remembering those who have passed, at the Dragon Boat Race Day. Amber Hewitt/The Island News. Amber Hewitt/The Island News. and they were able to keep them.

Saturday’s event was the last major event to be held in Waterfront Park before the City of Beaufort announced that they would be closing a portion of the park nearest to the seawall due to safety issues.

“It wasn’t our fault,” joked Willis and Ely-Wenrick about the portion of the park closing.

Then, more seriously, they added that they were glad that they were allowed to still have the race day and that no one got hurt.

The Winners Senior Division 1. Storm Surge 2. Paradise Paddlers Cancer Survivor Team 1. JAX Thunder 2. JAX Flash 3. JAX Limitless Community C Division 1. Beaufort Believers 2. Sea Witches 3. Weichart Warriors Community B Division 1. JCB Diggin’ Dragons 2. Knights of Columbus Council 5056

3. Thunder Paddlers Community A Division 1. Drachentoter 2. BMH Spittin’ Fireballs 3. Coosaw Point Fighting Squirrels Fastest Community Team 1. Drachentoter Fastest Mens Team 1. F3 Shockwaves Highest Individual Fundraiser Darlene McGrath

Most Money Raised by a Drummer Sea Witches Highest Fundraising Team Knights of Columbus Council 5056 Kelsey Kup Paradise Paddlers Heartbeat of the County F3 Shockwaves Best T-shirt Weichart Warriors Best Decorated Tent Beaufort Believers

Best Drummer Costume Sea Witches Special Shoutout for fabulous fundraising efforts Team: Leadership Beaufort Alumni Hippsters Team: Rack Attack Individual: Richard Ronde of Knights of Columbus Council 5056 Delayna Earley, who joined The Island News in 2022, formerly worked as a photojournalist for The Island Packet/The Beaufort Gazette.

She can be reached at delayna. theislandnews@gmail.com.

JULY 3–9, 2025

A9

NEWS & STATE NEWS

Skeletal remains found on St. Helena Island

By Delayna Earley The Island News The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the discovery of unidentified skeletal remains found on Sunday, June 29, behind an unoccupied residence on St. Helena Island.

Police received a report regarding the remains around 5 p.m. on Sunday in the area of Sea Island Parkway (U.S. 21), and as of Tuesday afternoon, the circumstances surrounding the case are still under investigation, according to Lt. Daniel Allen

with the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office.

It is unknown at this time how long the remains have been there or if they are connected to a prior case or need to be investigated as a new case.

Due to the skeletal na-

ture of the remains, the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office said it would be several days before they would have any information that they could potentially release regarding the case, and at this point, they could not comment.

Anyone with information Tips App or by calling 844about this case should con- 847-7238 (844-TIPS-BFT). tact the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office non-emerDelayna Earley, who joined The gency dispatch line at Island News in 2022, formerly 843-524-2777. Tips can worked as a photojournalist for The be reported anonymously Island Packet/The Beaufort Gazette. through Crime Stoppers of She can be reached at delayna.

Beaufort County, by the P3 theislandnews@gmail.com.

Weekly protests continue

Roughly three dozen protesters lined the street in front of Beaufort City Hall on Boundary Street on Monday, June 30, 2025. The protesters are rallying against policies enacted by President Donald Trump’s administration. They rally together every Monday at 4:30 p.m. in front of the Beaufort City Hall at the intersection of Boundary Street and Ribaut Road. Asa Aarons Smith/The Island News

By Skylar Laird SCDailyGazette.com COLUMBIA — State legislators will get a pay cut following a state Supreme Court order that halted socalled “in-district compensation” payments. How long it will last depends on the justices.

The Wednesday, June 25, order came in response to a legal challenge over a $1,500 monthly raise legislators included in the state budget.

The $1,000 legislators have been receiving each month since 1995 under that same budget clause became collateral damage in the pause. If the state’s high court sides with the state senator questioning the constitutionality of the raise, the pay could go away altogether, cutting legislators’ incomes by $12,000 per year.

The change would apply only to the money meant to pay for duties outside the Statehouse. Legislators would still receive their annual salary of $10,400 and stipends for food and lodging during session, which are currently $240 per day.

The order instructed the state treasurer to stop “distributing any funds” under the clause included in the

Lowdown

SC legislators get $1,000 a month pay cut instead of raise

state budget that goes into effect Tuesday.

Because legislators rewrote the existing clause instead of adding a new one with the increased amount, that affected the entire sum they would have received.

“In light of the Court’s order, I want to inform you that, at a minimum, no in-district payments will be made on July 16 or August 16,” Senate President Thomas Alexander wrote in a letter to senators Wednesday.

“To be specific, this amount includes both the prior $1,000 as well as the $1,500 increase. Any future payments will depend on further action by the Supreme Court in this matter.”

Representatives received a similar notification from the House clerk, emphasizing that the decision will affect the entire monthly payment, not just the raise.

Even the 44 Republicans in both chambers who turned down the increase will lose out on their normal $1,000 each month.

That could be the case for the foreseeable future, said Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey, who’s among the Republicans who opted out of the raise.

The court order set a deadline of Sept. 4 for legal filings, though it could take longer for justices to come to a decision.

If the justices decide the raise is unconstitutional, they can’t keep the original payments in play without rewriting a piece of the state budget, a move that would go beyond the court’s authority, the Edgefield Republican said.

Legislators could reinstate the original amount, but getting the votes to do so during an election year for the House, as 2026 will be, is unlikely because of the potential campaign fodder it could give opponents, Massey said.

In that case, legislators would go at least a year and a half with the lowest salary they’ve had in decades.

“I don’t think we can fix it,” Massey said.

That wasn’t the intention, said Sen. Wes Climer, who is challenging the raise in court. He didn’t have a problem with the in-district compensation itself, he added, but rather with legislators increasing it during a non-election year.

“It’s unfortunate,” the Rock Hill Republican said.

wide, the number of participating law enforcement agencies has increased to 700 since the beginfrom page A1 ning of the year.

Tanner, in the same Post and part of the 287(g) program in the Courier article, told the reporter early 2000’s until it was reduced his deputies “would not be going during the Obama administration. to Walmart and doing identity The department applied again checks.” for 287(g) designation in 2017 Audience members at last but never received that authoriza- week’s “Chat With Council” asked tion. The proposal, once it became the County Council members to public, was protested by several put a stop to the ICE relationship, community demonstrations. which they described as an illegal Post and Courier reporters, in a practice leading to racial discrimJune 20 article, stated more than ination and potential harassment.

20 law enforcement agencies in But Council members were quick South Carolina, including the to respond they didn’t control the State Law Enforcement Division, sheriff since he’s an elected office. or SLED, applied for and were acSeveral speakers reminded the cepted into the program. Nationelected officials they did have

A10

JULY 3–9, 2025

“It’s not the desired outcome. But the fault for this outcome lies with those who tried to cheat. That outcome is still better than the Legislature appropriating itself the people’s money in real time.”

Climer, represented by former senator and Columbia attorney Dick Harpootlian, has argued in court filings that the raise violates a provision in the state constitution that bars legislators from increasing their own “per diem.”

When the 1890 constitution that still governs the state went into effect, that per diem was the only payment legislators received, so it effectively covered all of their income, Harpootlian has argued in court filings.

Attorneys for the House and Senate have argued the constitutional clause barring legislators from raising their own per diem applies only to the subsistence stipends meant to cover meals and lodging. The in-district compensation qualifies as a reimbursement, even though legislators don’t have to report how they spent the money, attorneys for both chambers have argued in legal filings.

control over the sheriff’s annual budget, which happens to be $35.9 million out of the total $199 million 2026 Beaufort County budget.

Council members said they had discussed similar concerns with Tanner but were assured the agreement would not lead to improper arrests or racial profiling.

“He stressed that if anyone had a problem, they could certainly call him,” said one council member.

For the record, it’s 843-2553200. Good luck.

Senators who voted both for and against the raise are frustrated knowing they’re getting at least a temporary pay cut, Massey said.

The last time legislators tried to increase their in-district compensation, in 2014, they did so in a separate budget clause that would have given legislators the option of an extra $1,000 per month. Then-Gov. Nikki Haley vetoed the raise, but because it was a separate part of the budget, legislators’ existing pay remained in place.

Losing a portion of what little legislators make “discourages people who don’t have individual wealth or own their own business from running for office,” said Rep. John King, a longtime supporter of increasing legislators’ pay.

The Rock Hill Democrat used his $1,000 each month to help pay for extra staff at the funeral home he runs so he could spend more time helping constituents, he said. He’ll be able to make up the difference by paying out of pocket, but others may not, he said.

Conversations around increasing pay to encourage more people to run for office

development on Pine Island at last week’s “Chat With Council,” the rezoning request for the 500acre, 49-home neighborhood has not gone away, simply taking a summer hiatus.

Although the County Council voted in Sept. 2024 to reject the request to remove the property from the Cultural Protection Overlay zoning district, Elvio Tropeano and developers of the isolated island near Dulamo came back in May with new lawyers, asking for a rezoning and promising a community center. The Pine Island on hold until cooler County Planning Commission reweather jected that request unanimously.

ST. HELENA ISLAND – While The request moved to the there was only a passing reference County Council Natural Resourcto the proposed gated community es Committee which decided to

are worthwhile, Massey said.

Having people from different backgrounds often leads to more points of view on issues and, therefore, better legislation, he said.

“Having a pay decrease certainly doesn’t help that,” Massey said.

But legislators went about getting a raise the wrong way by adding it to the state budget instead of going through a committee process that would have included vetting and public input, he said. His opposition to how the raise was approved is why he turned it down.

Going through the normal committee process probably would have flagged the constitutional question and allowed legislators to write the law in a way that wouldn’t put their current pay in jeopardy, he said.

“There are consequences to doing it this way,” Massey said.

Skylar Laird covers the South Carolina Legislature and criminal justice issues. Originally from Missouri, she previously worked for The Post and Courier’s Columbia bureau. S.C. Daily Gazette is part of States Newsroom, the nation’s largest state-focused nonprofit news organization.

take a summer break and delay the discussion until probably their September meeting.

In the meantime, there appears to be little movement in the two legal challenges the Pine Island folks filed against the county as part of the permitting process which began back in November 2022.

Lolita Huckaby Watson is a community volunteer and newspaper columnist. In her former role as a reporter with The Beaufort Gazette, The Savannah Morning News, Bluffton Today and Beaufort Today, she prided herself in trying to stay neutral and unbiased. As a columnist, these are her opinions. Her goal is to be factual but opinionated, based on her own observations.

Feel free to contact her at bftbay@gmail.com.

STATE NEWS

US Supreme Court: SC can remove Planned Parenthood from Medicaid providers list Decision reverses multiple previous federal appeals court opinions

By Skylar Laird SCDailyGazette.com Medicaid patients don’t have the right to sue to see their doctor of choice, allowing South Carolina to exclude clinics that also provide abortions from its government health care program, the U.S. Supreme Court decided Thursday.

The South Carolina case that led to the 6-3 ruling began with Gov. Henry McMaster’s July 2018 executive order directing the state’s Medicaid agency to remove abortion clinics from its list of providers that patients can choose for coverage of non-abortion health care services.

The case is not about abortion — not directly, anyway — but whether South Carolinians can use their Medicaid health coverage at Planned Parenthood for services such as breast and cervical cancer screenings, birth control, and testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections.

McMaster’s directive was quickly blocked by the federal courts, as Planned Parenthood sued on behalf of a patient who said she wanted to get all of her gynecological care at one of the provider’s two clinics in South Carolina but couldn’t unless Medicaid paid.

The case has been decided and appealed multiple times as it bounced back and forth.

Ultimately, six justices on the nation’s highest court decided nothing in the federal Medicaid laws provided the patient a constitutional right to sue. Three of the justices considered more liberal dissented.

“Though it is rare enough for any statute to confer an enforceable right, spending-power statutes like Medicaid are especially unlikely to do so,” Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote for the majority in his 24-page opinion. Justice Clarence Thomas wrote a separate concurring opinion.

McMaster declared victory.

“Seven years ago, we took a stand to protect the sanctity of life and defend South Carolina’s authority and values — and today, we are finally victorious,” the governor said in a statement Thursday.

However, nothing changes immediately.

Before South Carolina can officially remove Planned Parenthood from its Medicaid rolls, it needs another court order, said Katherine Farris, chief medical officer for Planned Parenthood South Atlantic.

“At a minimum, it will deprive Medicaid recipients in South Carolina of their only meaningful way of enforcing a right that Congress has expressly granted to them,” Jackson wrote. “And, more concretely, it will strip those South Carolinians — and countless other Medicaid recipients around the country — of a deeply personal freedom: the ‘ability to decide who treats us at our most vulnerable.’”

Vicki Ringer, lobbyist for Planned Parenthood South Atlantic, along with Sen. Tameika Isaac Devine, D-Columbia, talks about the Supreme Court’s ruling that patients can’t sue to see the Medicare provider of their choice on the Statehouse steps Thursday June 26, 2025. Skylar Laird/S.C. Daily Gazette That’s because justices’ decision on the patient’s right to sue sent the case back to a lower court.

Until the state gets the still-necessary permission, Planned Parenthood will continue providing services to Medicaid patients, Farris said.

“The state never claimed that we do not provide excellent care to Medicaid patients,” Farris said.

“Rather, this is a purely political decision to deny patients the right to come to our offices because the name Planned Parenthood is on the door.”

Farris also noted that Wednesday’s ruling applies only to South Carolina.

However, it opens the door for other states to begin deciding which health care providers to approve or not approve to receive Medicaid funding, Farris said.

“The long-term consequences of that decision are devastating,” Farris said.

South Carolinians already can’t use Medicaid to pay for abortions, except in cases of rape, incest or to save a patient’s life, as per a federal provision the state follows.

Planned Parenthood’s clinics in Columbia and Charleston receive a small fraction of the state’s total Medicaid dollars.

Of the $35 million total spent on South Carolinians’ Medicaid-covered family planning services in 2022-23, Planned Parenthood re-

ceived $88,464, or 0.2%, according such wrote. And states, including to the latest data from the state’s South Carolina, have an appeals Medicaid agency. process allowing providers who have been removed from the proWhat the justices said vider list to protest, he wrote.

The arguments primarily cenWhether people can sue to retered around two words in the fed- solve such questions should be eral Medicaid law. left to lawmakers, not judges, GorMedicaid patients “may obtain” such wrote. care from any provider “qualified “New rights for some mean new to perform the service,” according duties for others,” the opinion to one of the qualifications states reads. “And private enforcement must meet in order to receive fed- actions, meritorious or not, can eral Medicaid funding. force governments to direct monPlanned Parenthood’s attor- ey away from public services and neys argued the words “may ob- spend it instead on litigation.” tain” meant patients had a right In the dissenting opinion, Justo visit the doctor of their choos- tice Ketanji Brown Jackson wrote ing, and they could sue if the state the majority’s reading of the law tried to bar them from exercising was “narrow and ahistorical.” that right.

“The fact that the provision does But that is not a “rights-creating not specifically use the word ‘right’ term,” such as specifically calling is not dispositive,” Jackson wrote. the decision a “right,” “privilege,” “We have never required Congress “entitlement” or “immunity,” at- to use specific verbiage to establish torneys for the state contended. If individual rights.”

Congress had wanted to be sure Gorsuch’s concern that the decipatients were guaranteed the abili- sion could open the floodgates to ty to choose their doctors, it would other lawsuits based on different have explicitly said so, the attor- parts of the Medicaid law is unneys argued. founded, considering that didn’t The nation’s highest court happen after the federal appeals agreed. courts previously ruled against Deciding otherwise “would risk South Carolina, Jackson wrote. obliterating the longstanding line She warned that the ruling will between mere benefits and en- weaken the Reconstruction-era forceable rights,” Gorsuch wrote. law allowing people to sue in orIf a state is found to be violating der to protect their rights and “is the law, the federal government likely to result in tangible harm to could cut off its funding, Gor- real people.”

Reaction from lawmakers Republican lawmakers celebrated the opinion as another strike against abortions in the state.

The federal ruling follows decisions by the state’s highest court upholding the state’s so-called “fetal heartbeat” law as a six-week abortion ban.

“Planned Parenthood has sued South Carolina over and over again, and over and over again, the abortion-giant keeps losing,” Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey, R-Edgefield, said in a statement.

“Today’s ruling is a win for all South Carolina taxpayers, and most of all, this pro-life generation looking forward to the day when Planned Parenthood’s doors close for good.”

The opinion allows the state to determine how it spends its money without interference from outside groups, Attorney General Alan Wilson said in a statement.

“The Supreme Court just slammed the door on Planned Parenthood’s latest attempt to force its radical agenda through the courts on our state,” Wilson said.

“South Carolina, not federal judges or D.C. activist groups, gets to decide how we run our Medicaid program.”

The decision will disproportionately affect low-income women who relied on Planned Parenthood’s services, Sens.

Margie Bright Matthews and Tameika Isaac Devine said in a joint statement.

“The real price of this decision will be paid by patients, especially Black, brown and rural women who now face fewer options and greater barriers to care,” the Walterboro and Columbia Democrats said.

Skylar Laird covers the South Carolina Legislature and criminal justice issues.

Originally from Missouri, she previously worked for The Post and Courier’s Columbia bureau. S.C. Daily Gazette is part of States Newsroom, the nation’s largest state-focused nonprofit news organization.

Promote your

Church Services in The Island News and increase membership!

Contact us today!

Amanda Hanna

amanda@lcweekly.com

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

Hope Shreve

ads.theislandnews@gmail.com

Donate now at SCIndependentJournalism.org JULY 3–9, 2025

A11

DON’T LET SNORING ON’T LETOR SNORING CPAP STRUGGLES CPAPOR STRUGGLES KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT

A second opinion can help quiet the second guessing.

A second opinion can help quiet the second guessing and help you feel more confident with your investment plan.

DON’T LET SNORING OR CPAP STRUGGLES Help leave investment doubt behind. Talk with a financial DON’T LET SNORING STRUGGLES HAVE SOLUTIONS FOR YOU!OR CPAP advisor who can demystify the complexities of investing KEEP YOU UP AT KEEP YOU UPNIGHT AT YOU! NIGHT WE HAVE SOLUTIONS FOR DON’T LET SNORING OR CPAP STRUGGLES KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT WE HAVE SOLUTIONS FOR YOU!

Call us today.

WE HAVE SOLUTIONS FOR YOU! Investment and Insurance Products:

ruggling with your CPAP?

✔ In Network with Medicare,

e offer custom-fit oral appliances as a more

with your CPAP? to mfortable,Struggling and easier-to-use alternative

Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and TriCare Insurance.

In Network with Medicare,

✔

Steve von Clausburg NOT FDIC Insured NO Bank Guarantee Branch Manager, Vice President

MAY Lose NewValue Address:

By appointment only Wells Fargo Advisors Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Whitney McDaniel, CFP® AAMS® Struggling your CPAP? comfortable, and with easier-to-use alternative to 1011 Bay Street, Suite 2E Financial Advisor, Vice is President Investment and TriCare Insurance.

Wells Fargo Advisors a trade –name used byOfficer Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Beaufort, SC 29902 CPAP for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.

In Network with Medicare, We offer custom-fit oral appliances as a more Member a registered broker-dealer and non-bank ailiate of Wells Fargo & Katie C.SIPC, Phifer, CFP®, CDFA®, RICP® Phone: (843) 524-1114 Cigna, Blue Cross BlueCompany.

Shield, Financial Advisor, Senior Vice President – Investment Officer © 2020 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. CAR-0322-01749 comfortable, and easier-to-use alternative to We offer custom-fit oral appliances as a more

AP for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.

✔

CALL US and TOobstructive LEARNsleep MORE! CPAP for snoring apnea.

1022 Physicians Dr. #B, Charleston, SC 29414 fax 866-462-0121 for Physician Referrals

and TriCare Insurance.William Abbott

Correspondence: 400 Merchant St. Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

Financial Advisor

DANA BLALOCK, D.D.S.

Claudia Hahne Private Wealth Client Associate Tracey Hammett Senior Client Assistant

843-494-5004 | www.sleepbettersc.com DANA BLALOCK, D.D.S. DANA BLALOCK, BLALOCK, D.D.S. DANA D.D.S.

843-494-5004 | www.sleepbettersc.com

843-494-5004 | www.sleepbettersc.com 29 Plantation Park Drive #117 Bluffton, SC 29910 fax 866-462-0121 for Physician Referrals

The use of CDFA® designation does not permit Wells Fargo Advisors or its Financial Advisors to provide legal advice, nor is it meant to imply that the firm or its associates are acting as experts in this field.

and Insurance Products: DANA BLALOCK,Investment D.D.S.

843-494-5004 | www.sleepbettersc.com DR. JORDAN HENKE 843-494-5004 | www.sleepbettersc.com

NOT FDIC Insured

NO Bank Guarantee

MAY Lose Value

Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. ©2025 Wells Fargo Clearing Services. PM-12102026-8059551.1.1

Shepherding His Flock The Catholic Church is Apostolic

Jesus changes Simon’s name to “Rock.”

When God gives someone a new name in the Bible, it signifies a new identity and mission. In Matthew 16, Jesus changes Simon’s name to Peter, which means “rock” in their language. “I tell you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of hell will not overcome it.” (Matthew 16:18) Jesus is declaring that Peter will be the rock upon which he builds his family of faith, the Church.

The authority of the apostles was passed on.

As the Church grew, the apostles would pass on their authority to new leaders through the laying on of hands. These new leaders, called bishops, likewise passed on this authority to the next generation of leaders in the same way. Throughout the history of Christianity, when questions of faith arose, the bishops would gather and bring clarity. Through the ministry of these shepherds, Jesus kept his flock united and faithful to the Gospel.

Jesus uses language associated with the royal steward.

He promises Peter, “I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven.

Whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” (Matthew 16:19) Jesus is echoing language found in Isaiah 22:15-25. Each king of Israel had a royal steward who ran the kingdom on the king’s behalf and spoke with his authority. The steward wore large keys on his shoulder as a symbol of his office. The office was continuous, passed from one steward to another.

The ministry of Peter and the apostles continues today.

The pope is the successor to the apostle Peter, and Catholic bishops are successors to the apostles in general. If one could look back through time, one would see an unbroken chain stretching from bishop to bishop all the way back to the apostles, through the laying on of hands.

Jesus is making Peter his royal steward.

Hearing this language, the apostles would have understood that Jesus is bestowing an office of leadership upon Peter. Jesus is the king of heaven, and Peter will be his royal steward, leading the Church on his behalf. Since the Church on earth will always need a visible leader, this office will continue after Peter. The “keys” of leadership will be passed from generation to generation.

Jesus sent out Peter and the apostles to lead his Church.

The early Church was built upon the apostles, who Jesus sent to continue his ministry. Led by Peter, the apostles taught and led in the name of Jesus. When theological disputes threatened to split the family of faith, the apostles gathered together and settled the issues definitively, as seen in Acts 15. Through his shepherds, Jesus kept his flock united as a spiritual family and faithful to the true Gospel.

The Church Today Message 5 of 8

The Church is still built on rock.

Like Peter and the apostles, the pope and bishops are imperfect servants, but Jesus works through them to keep his Church faithful to the faith he gave to the apostles. Through these leaders, Jesus continues to guide and shepherd his universal Church so that it can bring his light to all nations.

Next Week The Catholic Church Is One 70 Lady’s Island Drive, Beaufort, SC • 843-522-9555 • www.stpetersbeaufort.org • office@stpetersbeaufort.org

HEALTH&WELLNESS

JULY 3–9, 2025

HIGHLIGHTING RESOURCES, TIPS, AND STORIES FOR A HEALTHY COMMUNITY

B1

Ouch – something bit me!

Bug bites, stings can cause itching, allergic reactions

Special to The Island News Many biting and stinging insects call the Lowcountry home.

While many of these insect bites and stings are fairly harmless — albeit itchy and uncomfortable — other critters have a little more bark to their bite (or sting).

For example, fire ant bites and wasp, hornet and bee stings can cause intense pain and, for some people, allergic reactions.

Mosquito bites are also unpleasant, and some people can develop serious reactions with blisters and hives that can lead to fevers and swollen joints, shared the Ameri- also carry diseases such as West on your own,” says nurse practitioner Erin Scott, who sees pacan Academy of Allergy, Asthma Nile and the Zika viruses. & Immunology. Mosquitos can “You can treat most bug bites tients at Beaufort Memorial Low-

country Medical Group Primary Care in Beaufort. “However, seek immediate medical help for serious symptoms, such as a rash, fever or body aches.”

As a result of a bite or sting, some people develop anaphylaxis, a very severe allergic reaction in which the throat swells and hives, fainting or wheezing can occur.

This can be fatal, so emergency care is crucial.

Two effective tools for preventing bug bites are bug spray and appropriate clothes.

• Use an EPA-registered insect repellent: Apply

SEE BITE PAGE B2

Ounce of prevention, pound of cure Avoiding sun damage can keep skin complications at bay

Beaufort Memorial employee volunteers don their life vests before participating in the 2024 DragonBoat Beaufort race.

Photo courtesy of Beaufort Memorial Hospital

Safely to shore 10 tips to keep boaters safe

Special to The Island News Thousands of people take to the water on boats during the summer. And while many locals are longtime, experienced boaters, it’s never a bad time to brush up on boating and water safety.

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, in 2023 there were 3,844 recreational boating accidents in the U.S, resulting in 564 deaths.

Of those accidents, 156 of them occurred in South Carolina, resulting in 24 deaths.

Alcohol use is the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents.

“No matter how much boating experience you have or how much you think you know, it’s always a good idea for everyone to review and follow boating safety rules before departure,” advised Dr. Saeed Rehman, medical director at the Beaufort Memorial Hospital Pratt Emergency Center.

Here are 10 basic boating tips from the National Marine Manufacturers Association to help you stay safe on the water this summer: 1. Be weather wise: Always check local weather conditions before departure. If you notice

darkening clouds, volatile winds, rough water or a sudden drop in temperature, play it safe by getting off the water.

2. Follow a predeparture checklist: Proper boating safety includes being prepared for any possibility on the water. Following a predeparture checklist is the best way to make sure no boating safety rules or precautions have been overlooked or forgotten.

3. Use common sense: Always operate at a safe speed (especially in crowded areas), stay alert at

SEE BOATERS PAGE B2

By Dr. Emi Rendon Pope Special to The Island News Sunscreen is a year-round staple, but this is the time of year when people start slathering up.

For those who don’t protect themselves, however, it can also be the season for sun damage to the skin.

No matter your age, protecting your skin now can help you avoid more complications down the line. The sun’s ultraviolet rays are known to lead to skin damage, early aging and skin cancers. Dermatologists have indicated that most skin damage actually occurs Dr. Emi in our younger Rendon Pope years, making sun protection important not only for adults, but for children, too.

Our skin tells the story of how much time we’ve spent in the sun, and there are a few ways that our skin can reveal how much sun exposure it has experienced, including brown spots (or “age spots”), broken blood vessels, freckles, hyperpigmentation, tanning and wrinkles.

How can you protect your skin from sun damage?

First, choose the right sunscreen. For darker skin tones, it is recommended to use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and an SPF of at least 50 for lighter skin tones. Darker skin tones should use tinted sunscreen with iron oxide in it to protect from visible light — not just the UVA rays.

Regardless of “waterproof” claims and “long wear,” all sunscreens must be reapplied every two hours when you’re spending the day in the sun.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA), sunscreen does not contain any harmful substances, despite what you may hear. The only people who should not use sunscreen are children younger than six months old, who should

SEE SUN PAGE B2

UTIs spike during summer – why?

Special to The Island News This summer, alongside your trusty sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat and stylish sunglasses, add one more crucial item to your summer routine: a strategy to prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs).

UTIs are more prevalent during the summer months than at other times of the year, thanks to warm temperatures that allow bacteria to grow.

Why are UTIs more common in the summer?

UTIs are common throughout the year and, in women, one of the most common types of infection, according to the Centers for Dis-

ease Control and Prevention.

These infections occur when bacteria make their way into part of the urinary tract, and women have a shorter urethra than men do, making it easier for bacteria to make their way inside the body.

UTIs spike in summer for many reasons. During the summer months, especially here in the Lowcountry, many of us spend long periods of time outdoors and near water. That often includes ample time in a wet bathing suit. Bacteria can thrive in warm, moist environments, exposing your genital area to UTI-causing bacteria that can make their way into the body.

Another reason is mere convenience. When you’re outdoors being active or in places without easy access to a bathroom, you may find you hold your urine for longer periods of time. Doing so can increase your risk of a UTI. Finally, hot weather makes you sweat more, which can increase the risk of dehydration – and all of these factors combined can be a recipe for infection.

“During the summer, it’s easy to become dehydrated, particularly if you’re spending time outside in the heat,” says Carri Knapp, board-cer-

SEE SPIKE PAGE B2

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Making a splash No matter your age, learning to swim is key

Special to The Island News In a community surrounded by water — and rich with pools that offer a cool dip and respite from the heat of the June sun – swimming is an essential skill.

While the focus for swim lessons tends to be on children, adults should also think about improving their swimming ability and knowledge of water safety.

So, why learn to swim?

There are a few reasons, said Mary Bradlee Baker, a wellness coach with Beaufort Memorial LifeFit Wellness Center.

• Personal safety: Drowning is one of the top five causes of deaths from injury in Beaufort

County for individuals ages 17 and younger, as well as ages 65 and older, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Health.

• Fear of water: Overcoming fear is a great accomplishment and a source of confidence and pride. Even for those who are terrified of the water, it’s possible to get comfortable and become a competent swimmer. Find a patient and experienced swim instructor, explain your situation and give yourself permission to progress slowly.

• Better health: “Swimming can benefit your

body in a number of ways, such as keeping your heart and lungs healthy and improving your stamina, strength, flexibility, posture and balance,” Baker said.

• Lifelong enjoyment: Swimming is a low-impact exercise that even those with arthritis can enjoy.

To ensure success in learning how to swim, there are a few tips that can make things a little easier.

Ease in, says Baker.

“Start in the shallow end of a pool and focus on the position and movement of each part of your body,” she said. “You’ll find it’s easier to develop the various

LOCAL RESOURCES FOR SWIM LESSONS A variety of swim schools and programs — for a variety of fees — are available locally. Here are a few options: • Beaufort County Parks & Rec: American Red Cross swim lessons are offered year-round for adults at the Battery Creek and Beaufort indoor pool facilities. Children’s lessons are also offered at the Bluffton and Beaufort pools.

• Beaufort-Jasper YMCA: Beginner and advanced lessons are available for adults and children, with sessions starting throughout the year.

• Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS): Group and private lessons are available for authorized pool patrons.

Active-duty personnel of all skill levels are eligible for free swim lessons. For more information and to schedule, call 843-228-7943.

elements of a swim stroke when you’re able to stand up and take a break.”

Pool time is key – consistent practice will pay off as you’re learning. Signing up

for lessons with an instructor can help you put together all the elements and help you find success.

Sometimes, a few accessories can also help, Baker

noted, like goggles and fins.

“Goggles that fit well can make a difference in your comfort and ability to maneuver in the pool,” she explained. “Fins, paddleboards and other tools can help you focus on specific movements, but don’t forget to practice without these aids so as not to build reliance.”

Pick the right suit, too.

Baggy swim trunks or uncomfortable, trendy styles don’t function well for swimming, so pick something comfortable and functional.

Finally, don’t give up.

“Keep at it,” Baker said.

“And if you’re away from the water for an extended time, be aware that a refresher may be needed.”

Manage diabetes safely in warm weather

By Kim Edwards Special to The Island News Summer weather is here, with skyrocketing temperatures, high humidity and sticky, sunny days. While spring and summer offer opportunities for fun on the water and Kim vacations with Edwards family, these hotter months can increase the risks of complications for people with diabetes.

Boaters from page B1

all times and steer clear of large vessels and watercraft that can be restricted in their ability to stop or turn. Also, be respectful of buoys and other navigational aids, all of which have been placed there to ensure your own safety.

4. Designate an assistant skipper: Make sure more than one person on board is

Sun

from page B1

Higher temperatures call for different diabetes management techniques. There are some simple precautions that can be taken when those temperatures start to climb.

Monitor blood sugar more frequently and take care of supplies.

Many people with diabetes take insulin, which the body can absorb more quickly in the heat, resulting in low blood sugar (blood glucose) levels. Frequent monitoring may be needed to help with adjustments in medication dosing or diet changes.

The heat and humidity can also affect injectable medications as well as glucose monitoring supplies, and this can lead to false readings. Keep these medications stored in cool locations or insulated cooler bags away from heat and sunlight.

Stay hydrated. Hot temperatures can cause the body to dehydrate more easily. Drink plenty of water to help stay hydrated and avoid the urge to consume drinks containing sugar that could cause blood sugar levels to spike.

Use sunscreen. Any type of sun-

(EPIRB) or personal lofamiliar with general boat- you’re going and how long ing safety and all aspects you’re going to be gone. cator beacon (PLB). of your boat’s handling and 6. Use life jackets: AcA float plan can include cording to U.S. Coast Guard operations. If the primary the following information: navigator is injured or in• Name, address and statistics, 83% of people who capacitated in any way, it’s phone number of trip drowned due to boating acimportant that someone else leader and all passen- cidents were reported to can follow the proper boatgers; have not been wearing life ing safety rules to get every• Boat type and registra- jackets. Make sure that your one back to shore. tion information; family and friends aren’t part 5. Develop a float plan: • Your trip itinerary; and/ of this statistic by assigning Whether you choose to inor and fitting each member of form a family member or • Types of communica- your on-board team with a tion and signal equip- life jacket prior to departure. staff at your local marina, always be sure to let someone ment on board, such as 7. Avoid alcohol: Just else know your float plan. an emergency position as you wouldn’t drink and This should include where indicating radio beacon drive, never drink and boat.

FOR SKIN CANCER, EARLY DETECTION MATTERS MOST Skin cancer is the ultimate sign of sun damage, so regular skin cancer screenings will protect you far more than a special treatment or cream.

The AADA estimates that more than 3 million people in the U.S. have skin cancer, including basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. Providers can treat both types of skin cancer effectively when diagnosed in their early stages.

stay in the shade. Other children should only use mineral sunscreen, those Melanoma is the deadliest type of skin cancer and causes about 20 deaths every day in the U.S. As with other with either titanium dioxcancers, treatment is more successful if melanoma is ide or zinc oxide. identified in its early stages before it reaches the lymph When applying sunnodes. screen, don’t overlook senSkin cancer screenings can also identify actinic keratosis, sitive and often forgotten the most common type of precancerous skin disease seen by dermatologists. The condition often appears as a red, areas like the back of your brown or pink patch on the skin regularly exposed to the neck, lips, tops of your feet, sun and its UV rays. This area may be itchy or painful. ears and scalp.

Commonly affected areas include the hands, lips and face.

The Food and Drug AdIf left untreated, it can develop into squamous cell carcinoma. However, treatments are often effective and ministration recommends successful, and most people who get treated for actinic wearing clothes that keep keratosis don’t develop skin cancer. you covered, such as a With all forms of skin cancer and precancerous skin wide-brimmed hat that covdisease, as the saying goes, “An ounce of prevention ers your face, ears and neck; is worth a pound of cure.” Protecting your skin from damage and making an effort to avoid overexposure will wraparound sunglasses make a difference in the long run and could prevent you that block UVA and UVB from getting skin cancer or precancerous skin disease light for eye protection; altogether. and lightweight clothing to cover exposed skin.

Beaufort Memorial Lowcountry Finally, don’t shy away rays are strongest, usually from shade. Find an um- between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Medical Group Primary Care. brella or covered patio to She specializes in the prevention, stay out of direct sunlight diagnosis and treatment of Emi Rendon Pope, M.D., is a or stay indoors when UV acute and chronic illness. board-certified internist at

Spike

from page B1 tified family nurse practitioner at Beaufort Memorial Express Care & Occupational Health. “When you stay hydrated, your urine is diluted, and you’re flushing bacteria out of the body when you urinate, which can lower the risk of infection. That’s why it’s important to drink

B2

JULY 3–9, 2025

burn can cause extra stress on the body, and this stress can lead to higher blood sugar levels. Always keep SPF 30+ on all exposed skin.

Wear proper shoes. Hot weather tends to bring out flip-flops and sandals. It’s important for people with diabetes to wear protective shoes because they can develop nerve damage that decreases sensation to hot surfaces and sharp objects. For these individuals, small cuts can lead to infection and long recovery time, so avoid going barefoot or wearing shoes that do not properly cover the feet.

plenty of water throughout the day.”

If you’ve ever experienced a UTI, you’re familiar with how uncomfortable these infections can be. UTI symptoms include: • Cloudy or discolored urine • Discomfort in the back or below the ribs • Fatigue • Fever • More frequent urges to urinate

• Pain or burning during urination These symptoms can occur with any type of urinary tract infection, but symptoms may be more severe if the infection moves into the bladder or the kidneys.

To lower your risk of developing a UTI this summer and throughout the rest of the year, start with these tips: • Wipe from front to back after using the bath-

Bites

from page B1

Exercise safely. Plan your exercise around cooler parts of the day and stay in shaded areas. It may also be necessary for those with diabetes to monitor blood sugars before, during and after exercising.

Diabetes doesn’t have to get in the way of summer fun. Following these simple tips can ensure you stay safe and healthy in almost any weather.

Kim Edwards, RD, CDE, is a registered dietician and certified diabetes educator with Beaufort Memorial LifeFit Wellness Services in Beaufort and Okatie.

“The probability of being involved in a boating accident doubles when alcohol is involved,” Dr. Rehman said, “and studies have shown that the effects of alcohol are exacerbated by sun and wind.”

8. Learn to swim: If you’re going to be in and around the water, proper boating safety includes knowing how to swim.

9. Take a boating safety course: Classes are offered locally through the South Carolina Department of Nat-

“You can treat most bug bites on your own.”

ural Resources.

10. Consider a free vessel safety check: Take advantage of a free vessel safety check from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or the U.S. Power Squadron.

Both offer complimentary boat examinations to verify the presence and condition of certain safety equipment required by state and federal regulations. They’ll provide a specialist to check out your boat and make helpful boating safety tips and recommendations. reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can provide relief. Be sure to read the label and follow directions on dosing.

An oral antihistamine can help with itching, Scott advises.

• Leave it alone: “If you develop a blister, don’t break it,” Scott says.

“Broken blisters can lead to an infection, as can scratching the bite area.”

repellent to exposed ERIN SCOTT, skin and clothing, but nurse practitioner, be aware that some on treating bug bites repellents, such as at home vs. when DEET, can damage to seek care. synthetic fabrics.

Always follow label instructions carefully, and do not apply insect remedies that can relieve repellent to skin under pain and itchiness.

• Reduce swelling and clothing. irritation: “A cool • Cover up: Wear clothBites should get betcompress or indirect ing that covers your ter on their own in about ice on the affected arms, legs and feet, a week.

But if you noarea will relieve the and use mosquito nettice an increase in redswelling,” Scott said. ting to cover babies in ness or a foul-smelling “To alleviate itching, strollers and infant carsoak the affected area drainage, go see your riers. In warm weather, in an oatmeal bath and healthcare provider. light fabrics such as If you’re having more then apply cortisone cotton and linen can serious issues with a bite cream.

An oral antihiskeep you cool even or sting, or start having tamine can help with during summer temsymptoms of an allergic reitching, too.” peratures.

• Take an over-the- action, quickly get in touch For bug bites or stings counter medication: with your primary care prothat don’t require medical For painful bites, an vider or head to the emercare, there are a few home over-the-counter pain gency room. room. This can help prevent bacteria from entering the urethra.

• Reconsider your birth control method. Some types of birth control, including spermicides and diaphragms, can increase the risk of UTIs. If you experience recurring infections, talk with your OBGYN or another women’s health provider about an alternative birth

control option.

• Use the restroom when the urge strikes. Go to the bathroom when you need to go and ensure you completely empty your bladder.

• Stay hydrated. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty to drink water — by then, you may already be dehydrated.

• Urinate after sexual activity. Directly following intercourse and

other forms of sexual activity, take a quick trip to the restroom to flush out your bladder and any bacteria that may have made their way into the urinary tract.

• Change out of wet clothing quickly. Don’t linger in a wet swimsuit. Change as soon as you’re able to after you get home from the pool or beach.

ARTS

6 Lowcountry women featured in national art show at Brookgreen Gardens

Staff reports Six Lowcountry artists — Rose Cofield, Sandy Dimke, Joan Eckhardt, Sheila Grabarsky, Saundra Renee Smith and Bernice Tate — will have their work featured in “Brookgreen Inspires, Women Create,” a juried exhibit of 70 works of painting, photography, sculpture and mixed media on display through July 20, 2025, at Brookgreens Gardens in Murrell’s Inlet.

Sponsored by the National Association of Women Artists’ South Carolina Chapter, the exhibit interprets the landscapes, animals, sculptures and culture of the gardens through the eyes of female artists from many states other than South Carolina, including Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Georgia, Florida and Oklahoma.

Winning the Hammond-Soroka Photograph-

Raising Rice, Cotton, En Me by Saundra Renee Smith ic Expression award at the Brookgreen exhibit, “Fiery Forest” by Dimke was conceived and created by using a vertical pan, taken with a very slow shutter speed.

Dimke wanted to show the trees in fall while emphasizing their vibrant color and magnitude. It exemplifies the importance of protecting and preserving the environment for future generations.

Cofield’s “Autumn” was influenced by the natural

beauty of Brookgreen Gardens, its plants, fauna and their vibrant transformation in the autumn season. Her goal was to provide the viewer with a sense of connection to the natural world and the ever-changing seasons.

Eckhardt is passionate about nature photography and her “Paper Rose” is an excellent example of stretching her creativity with an abstract constructed botanical.

She attempts to create imag-

es that reveal a sense of place and create an urge to linger and engage with the subject.

Grabarsky’s colorful abstract, “Flowery Languages” reflects that Brookgreen Gardens is that place of infinite colors and majestically organized. As soon as Grabarsky dips into any green on her palette, her brush is off and running, creating cohesive imaginary fantasy gardens.

Smith, a Gullah artist, created “Raising Rice Cotton En

Me.” The bright hues born from a culture tempered in isolation is what makes her work a special tribute to the Gullah people who hold a place wholly unique in American History. Smith’s work is both spiritual and transformative. Using acrylic paints she captures the natural beauty of salt marshes, tidal creeks, palmetto trees, all in elegant, vivid colors.

Tate, sculptor, has “Bumble Bee” on exhibit. She

sees the artwork as a transformational evolution of what was — a whimsical reimagining of the mysterious energy still rooted in that ancient soil. It’s not just a sculpture; it’s an invitation to feel life differently. It’s how Tate expresses awe and the fierce beauty of Brookgreen Gardens.

NAWA was founded in 1889 to promote women artists and provide exhibition and educational opportunities for them at a time when women were routinely shut out of the art salons, galleries and exhibitions open to male artists.

Brookgreen Gardens is a renowned sculpture garden covering more than 9,000 acres and is recognized by the National Register of Historic Places. The exhibit is open in the Rosen Gallery daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. through July 20. All work in the show is for sale through the gallery.

Beaufort Art presents Beth Stern’s ‘Reflections’

Staff reports Beaufort Art Association Gallery will showcase the art of Beth Bronnum Stern in its upcoming featured artist series. Her show, “Reflections, opened on July 1 and runs through August 30.

Stern’s medium of choice is oil on canvas. The subject matter includes landscapes, cityscapes, portraits, still life, and dog portraits.

Stern’s work from the past 40 years has evolved from contemporary still life, which combined the conventional subject of still life with non-traditional compositions.

Painting unusual combinations of objects from several angles within the same painting, she has juxtaposed compositions with vivid, heavily textured fields, in the form of diptychs and triptychs.

Lowcountry Beauty by Beth Stern Although today, Stern leans towards more traditional compositions, her focus on light, high contrast, and reflection has remained.

Her palette has always been a mix of vibrant colors.

Since the reflection of light through glass and water contin-

ues to be a subject of many of her paintings, Stern has titled her exhibit “Reflections.” Stern’s style of oil painting reflects more of a personal vision and mood, rather than being a solely realistic interpretation. She hopes viewers will experience feelings of closeness

ARTS BRIEFS

SOBA presents Urbanic’s ‘Flight-n-Fancy’

Conroy Center’s Virtual Open Mic The Society of Bluffton Artists (SOBA) is Night features author hosting “Flight-n-Fancy” by Janet Urbanic, its July Featured Artist Exhibit, on display of ‘After the Storm’ from July 6 through August 2 at the SOBA Gallery in Old Town Bluffton. An opening reception is scheduled for 3 to 5 p.m., Wednesday, July 10 and is free and open to the public.

Urbanic’s artwork reflects her deep appreciation for the beauty of the Lowcountry, particularly its captivating birds, serene marshes, and vibrant wetlands. Working primarily in oil and watercolor batik, she brings a gentle, often whimsical approach to her compositions, exploring the emotional connections found in nature and human relationships.

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

A native of Ohio, Urbanic relocated to Sun City nearly six years ago after retiring from a 25-year corporate career. She began painting in oils through a class offered by the Cleveland Museum of Art, building upon a creative foundation that began with teaching ceramics and china painting. Urbanic holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications from Hiram College, where she also pursued her love of art through elective coursework — including a formative trip to Paris to study the works of master painters.

The Pat Conroy Literary Center's monthly Open Mic Night for July will be presented as a virtual event, live-streamed to its Facebook page, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, July 10. The featured presenter is novelist Abagail Summers, author of ‘After the Storm.’

Open Mic will also feature short readings of three to five minutes each by other writers in many genres. Interested in reading as part of virtual Open Mic? Email contact@ patconroyliterarycenter.org. Learn more at https://bit.ly/3Iq8HlW. Summers is a Lowcountry author of short stories, poetry, and novels — including “Life with a Bird Out the Window” (2014), “Forgiving the Past” (2020), “The Untold Legacy” (2021), and her newest release,” After the Storm” (2025).

In “After the Storm,” June Waters walks away from the country music business at the height of her popularity, leaving people wondering why. But only she knows why.

Not even the people closest to her know what’s happening inside her head or her heart. To make matters worse, her dad is dying from lung cancer and can no longer run the farm on his own, which has put her family in jeopardy of losing it all.

– Staff reports

to nature, scenery, and images — more than just viewing a painting.

Since living in the Lowcountry, light, shadows, gorgeous colors, and contrasts in the water and foliage have been the vision for her paintings. She finds the glass-like quality of still water and mirror-images of a lush summer landscape reflections to be motivational, and the vibrancy of the Lowcountry colors, from sunrise to sunset, create the inspiration for her intense color palette.

Stern, originally from Georgia, resides on Fripp Island. She earned her Masters of Art in Painting at New York University, and lived in Greenwich Village in New York City, working in her studio and exhibiting her work.

She later moved to Bedford, N.Y.,

where she and her husband raised three children. She has exhibited in many shows, has her work in public and private collections, and has done numerous commissions throughout the years. Her donations of art to various organizations have helped in their fundraising efforts through the years, as well.

Putting art aside, her hobbies are pretty simple — walking on the beach, spending time visiting her parents, children, and other family members, photography, cooking, taking care of her dogs, Pilates, and watching (but not playing) lots of pickleball.

Beaufort Art Association invites the public to Beth Stern’s opening reception from 5 to 8 p.m., Friday, July 11.

Subscriptions, tickets available for USCB CFA 2025-2026 Mainstage Season

Tickets are available for the 2025–2026 Mainstage Season at the USCB Center for the Arts.

Season subscriptions are live and single tickets became available July 1. Secure the best seats early and enjoy exclusive discounts!

The Mainstage Full Season Package includes: Big Swing & The Ballroom Busters (Oct. 3); S.C. Ballet presents Dracula: Ballet with a Bite! (Nov. 1); Real Love: Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton Christmas Tribute (Dec. 13); The DooWop Project Christmas Show (Dec. 19); Natural Wonder: The Ultimate Stevie Wonder Tribute Experience (Jan. 16, 2026); Elizabeth as

Taylor: An Unofficial Tribute to Taylor Swift’s Music (Feb. 6, 2026); Rhythm of the Dance — The National Dance Company of Ireland (March 3, 2026); Candlelight Celtic (March 9, 2026); and Electric Avenue: 80's Movie Soundtrack (March 19, 2026).

Discounted add-ons for Full Season packages include: Summer at the CFA: The Jersey Beach Boys — July 24, 2025 Beaufort Theatre Company: 9 to 5 the Musical — Sept. 20, 21, 26, 27, 28 Beaufort Theatre Company: Into the Woods — April 11, 12, 24, 25, 26, 2026 Beaufort Children's The-

atre: Elf, Jr. — Nov. 21-22 Beaufort Children's Theatre: Newsies —Jan. 30, 31 and Feb. 1, 2026 Beaufort Children's Theatre: Seussical the Musical, Jr. — May 15-17, 2026 Season subscriptions give patrons early access to seat selections. Subscribers save approximately 15% off individual ticket prices with a Full Season package and approximately 10% off with a Half Season package.

There are also additional savings on Beaufort Theatre Company and Beaufort Children’s Theatre shows with Full Season packages.

Subscribe or purchase season or individual tickets at https://bit.ly/44aXpL6.

JULY 3–9, 2025

B3

EDUCATION

USCB announces 2025 President’s, Chancellor’s lists

Staff reports The Chancellor's and President’s lists recognize University of South Carolina Beaufort undergraduate degree-seeking students with superb records of academic performance.

The following local students were named to USCB's President’s List: From Beaufort — Brock Bekemeyer, Brooke Brennan, Sabrina Chavez, Dominick Crowell, Celeste Cruz-Reyes, Polly Heater, Jarrett Kizer, Cristos Kramer, Hannah Krebs, Karina Lopez Dami-

an, Rayneasha Marsh, Natanya Martin, Mariah Midyette, Emma Morrison, Jose Nava Mercado, Rebecca Pollard, Taylor Pratt, Dominique Raymond, Rebecca Riley, Kyndal Silva, Jaclyn Skinner, Eli Smith, Gray Ward, Annalee Webb, Keniyah Webb.

From Port Royal — Jayden Caesar.

From St. Helena Island — Jerni Lowery.

The following local students were named to USCB's Chancellor's List: From Beaufort — Simon Araneda, Ashly Avila, Eliz-

abeth Barber, Sarah Bell, Madison Berbigler, Tresharna Bitler-Gray, Autumn Carey, Teresa Carrera, Abigail Carte, Karma Clark, Kimberly Combs, Emylse Contreras Martinez, Cole Culbertson, Isabelle Davis, Ryan Denny, Ty Emmert, Kerys Fitzgibbons, Jason Garcia Arias, Hayden Greenwalt, Thomas Grygowski, Nijah Henry, Carmen Hincher, Julia Jarvis, Emma Johnson, Heather Johnson, Kristin Ketola, Katharine Mason, Tabitha McLeod, Briana Mooney, Dustin Nakamura,

EDUCATION BRIEFS

Polaris Tech graduates 39, largest class yet

Polaris Tech Charter School’s largest graduating class yet — 39 — earned South Carolina diplomas last month with 64 percent headed to college or trades school and others joining the workforce.

Valedictorian Esmeralda Ortega of Ridgeland plans to attend the College of Charleston to major in Systems Engineering.

Salutatorian Kimberley Amaro, also of Ridgeland, plans to attend Clemson University and major in Biological Sciences.

“Not only is this our largest graduating class since the school started in 2018, but 22 of our 39 graduates have been with us since sixth grade, when they were part of our opening day class,” said Kim Statler, executive director at Polaris Tech.

Polaris Tech is a state-approved charter school now serving K-12 students from Jasper, Colleton, Hampton and Beaufort counties. It is a free school (no tuition), that focuses on preparing young people for successful work and college.

our school year after 39 seniors earned diplomas and are headed to college, trade schools and employment,” she said.

7 from Beaufort graduate from College of Charleston

The College of Charleston recently awarded seven local students undergraduate and graduate degrees at its Spring 2025 commencement.

From Beaufort: Katelyn Carter (Bachelor of Science in Commercial Real Estate Finance), Cadence Gillaspie (graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science; also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Public Health), Annie Guimond (Masters of Public Administration), Rainee Kearney (graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Professional Studies in Professional Studies; also earned a Undergraduate Certificate in Project Management Certificate), Jacob Rye (graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre), Benjamin Straut (Bachelor of Science in Finance), and Anthony Szczepek (Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science).

More than 1,700 bachelor's Polaris Tech degree and master's degree canstudents see strong didates participated in the 2025 academic growth College of Charleston Spring Polaris Tech Charter School Commencement ceremony. students improved greatly in reading and math during the past school year, with more students College of Charleston than ever performing at or above announces grade level.

President’s, The iReady Spring Diagnostic results show strong academic Dean’s lists The College of Charleston growth in both subjects, Polaris Tech Executive Director Kim named eight Beaufort students to the President's List for Spring Statler said.

In reading, the percentage of 2025: Emily Bennett (Studio Art), students performing on or above Catherine Cozad (Communicagrade level increased by 24 per- tion), Cadence Gillaspie (Politicent between Fall 2024 and cal Science and Public Health), Spring 2025, while the number of Emma Jansen (Archaeology and students performing two or more Anthropology), Jacob Rye (Thegrade levels below decreased by atre), Emily Stacks (International Studies and Spanish), Charlotte 17 percent.

In math, students performing Vyge (Psychology), and Ryan on or above grade level increased Wadman (Marketing).

To qualify for the President's by 22 percent during the 2024List (Highly Distinguished), stu25 school year, and those two or more grade levels below de- dents must earn a GPA of 3.800 or higher and complete a minicreased by 21 percent.

“By any measure, these results mum of 12 semester hours.

The College of Charleston also are both strong and encouraging,” Statler said. “Our learn- named nine Beaufort students to ers really picked up their pace, the Dean's List for Spring 2025: and the navigators continually Margaret Armes (Chemistry), challenged their classrooms to Rainee Kearney (Professional Studies and Project Management stretch academically.

“These iReady test results Certificate), Connor McCombs are a fabulous way to wrap up (Historic Preservation/Commu-

Elizabeth Peck, Jenna Phillips, Raven Porter-Riggens, Latara Rhodes, Abby Sauls, Jamie Smith, Natasha Solis Gonzalez, Erica Swanson, Le Vuong, Anna Wade, Sydney Wiese, Veronica Woodward and Lynette Wyant.

From Port Royal — Jamaya Bryant and Sophia Ma-

nity Planning), Tyler McGuire (Computer Science), Zelie Plair (Psychology), Olga Richards (Business Administration), Reagan Sandstrom (Early Childhood Education), Anthony Szczepek (Exercise Science), and Emily Womack (Public Health).

To qualify for the Dean's List (Distinguished), students must earn a GPA of 3.500 or higher and complete a minimum of 12 semester hours.

3 local students graduate from Wofford College

Wofford College awarded 452 Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees to graduates during the college's 171st Commencement exercises.

Three local students graduated: Izzy Yeager of Beaufort (29902), Talie Phillips of St. Helena Island (29920), and Jordyn Ford of St. Helena Island (29920).

Wofford College, established in 1854, is a four-year, residential liberal arts college located in Spartanburg. It offers 27 major fields of study to a student body of 1,800 undergraduates.

Georgia Southern honors 10 local students

gagnotti.

From Seabrook — Lily Dalrymple, Quintilian Fields, Lilliann Haag, Kalyn Moultrie and Tyneisha Smith.

From St. Helena Island — Nicholas Butcher and Donald Lunardini.

USC Beaufort is the fastest growing four-year insti-

Beaufort (29906).

Georgia Southern University, a public Carnegie Doctoral/R2 institution founded in 1906, offers approximately 155 different degree programs serving more than 27,506 students through 10 colleges on three Georgia campuses in Statesboro, Savannah, Hinesville and online instruction.

Mississippi names 2 from Beaufort to Chancellor’s Honor Roll

The University of Mississippi announced students named to the Spring 2025 Honor Roll lists.

Noah Questelle (Beaufort – Risk Management and Insurance) and Jessica Polk (Beaufort – Psychology) were named to the Chancellor's Honor Roll, which is reserved for students who earn a semester GPA of 3.75-4.00.

To be eligible for honor roll designation, a student must have completed at least 12 graded hours for the semester and may not be on academic probation during the semester.

The University of Mississippi, affectionately known as Ole Miss, is the state's flagship university.

Henry named to Mississippi State’s Georgia Southern University President's List

recently recognized approximately 2,420 students, including four local students, for excellence in academics on the Spring 2025 President's List. To be eligible for the President's List, a student must have at least a 4.0 grade point average and carry a minimum of 12 hours for the semester.

Honorees included Lily Melville of Beaufort (29906), Dejanae Dixon of Beaufort (29907), Jason Hernandez of Beaufort (29906) and Zoe Pedro of Fripp Island (29920).

Georgia Southern University recognized approximately 3,800 students, including six local students, for excellence in academics on the Spring 2025 Dean's List. To be eligible for the Dean's List, a student must have at least a 3.5 grade point average and carry a minimum of 12 hours for the semester.

Honorees included Kiara Hall of Beaufort (29906), Sergio Smith of Beaufort (29907), Olivia Akers of Beaufort (29902), Hannah Tidwell of Beaufort (29907), Talmadge Magbee of Beaufort (29902), and Jayra Hernandez of

Beaufort’s Noah Henry was named to the Mississippi State University spring 2025 President's List.

Students on the President's List achieved a 3.80 or better gradepoint average, based on a 4.0 scale, while completing at least 12 semester hours of coursework with no incomplete grades or grades lower than a C. Mississippi State University is a national STEM-focused, doctoral degree-granting, landgrant university offering a wide range of educational experiences for learning and growth to a diverse student body of more than 23,000 students.

Beaufort’s Blencoe named to Alabama’s Dean’s List

Beaufort’s Joseph Blencoe was named to The University of Alabama Dean’s List for Spring Semester 2025.

A total of 14,289 students enrolled during Spring Semester 2025 at The University of Alabama were named to the dean's

tution within the University of South Carolina System.

It offers 20 baccalaureate degrees on three campuses — Bluffton, Beaufort and Hilton Head Island.

USCB’s 2,000 students hail from multiple states and more than a dozen international locations. Its award-winning faculty of scholars and professionals is committed to undergraduate teaching and research in small-class settings. USCB is ranked among the top 10 regional public colleges in the South.

list with an academic record of 3.5 (or above).

The UA dean's and president's lists recognize full-time undergraduate students. The lists do not apply to graduate students or undergraduate students who take less than a full course load.

Beaufort’s Ellenberger earns Emerson College Dean's List honors

Sawyer Ellenberger of Beaufort (29907) earned Dean's List honors for the spring semester at Emerson College. Ellenberger is majoring in Media Arts Production and is a member of the Class of 2026.

The requirement to make the Dean's List is a grade point average of 3.7 or higher for that semester.

Based in the world-class city of Boston, opposite the historic Boston Common and in the heart of the city's Theater District, Emerson College offers experiential learning programs in Boston and across the globe.

19 local students make Maryland Global Campus Dean’s List

Nearly 18,000 University of Maryland Global Campus students were named to the Dean's List for the spring 2025 term, including 19 from the Beaufort area.

The following students from the area were recognized: From Beaufort — Tylor Arnett, Artyoom Cobb, Kristen Haynescosio, Jason Hill, Heather Hodge, John Imms, Leandre Ingram, Jason Jerozal, Anthony Martinez, Diana Martinez Portuhondo, Gabriel Morales-Salas, Luis Reyes Arias, Caitlin Skoufis, Jamil Torres, Tiare Waldon, and Xinyi Xie. From Seabrook — Kevin O’Quinn.

From Port Royal — Erica Allen and Madison Minner.

To be eligible for the honor, a student must complete at least six credits during the term, earned a grade point average of at least 3.5 for the term, and maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.5 at UMGC. University of Maryland Global Campus was founded more than 75 years ago specifically to serve the higher education needs of working adults and military service members.

– Staff reports

See Into The Future . . . . . . read Living & Growing the Jesus Way

Sunday Morning Worship at 8:30 & 10:30 81 Lady’s Island Drive Pastor Steve Keeler • (843) 525-0696 seaislandpresbyterian.org B4

JULY 3–9, 2025

Opinion, Arts, Culture, Lifestyle, Homes, Cuisine

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

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

I

t is Thursday, early, and it is still cool on my reconditioned deck. This morning I have my coffee, Starbucks’s Breakfast Blend, and “Crucibles” just published by James R. McNeal and J. Eric Smith.

James McNeal is a retired rear admiral. Eric Smith is a former Naval Supply Officer and, importantly, was born right here in Beaufort, the son of a Marine Corps Colonel.

“Crucibles” is nonfiction and tells us “How formidable rites of passage shape the world’s most elite organizations.”

Among the organizations chosen for scrutiny are the Swiss Guard, The Knights Templar, the French Foreign Legion, the Gurkhas, the U.S. Naval Academy and the United States Marine Corps.

Some may know I went through a plebe system at The Citadel in 1963-64.

Some may remember that I came out of that experience with mixed emotions. But

I

Forever grateful we learned these lessons SCOTT GRABER

when I learned this book had been published, I was eager to read it.

In its prologue, “Crucibles” starts off at the Naval Academy; but Chapter 1 takes us straight to the Marine Corps Recruit Deport at Parris Island.

This choice was interesting because I can hear reveille and taps on my reconditioned deck; and for years I’ve heard stories about “The Crucible” at Parris Island.

But I’ve never known detail.

The training that occurs on Parris Island consumes 12 weeks beginning with the basics of military drill and PT. Then comes a

t looks like three formally great American cities are now engaged in the race of the century … the race to the bottom. Which city will win, at this point it’s all up in the air, but Chicago has a sizable head start.

I pretty much thought that it was a contest between Chicago and San Francisco, but if Zohran Mamdani wins the general election for mayor of New York City, I think San Francisco is pretty much out of the race, and New York City becomes the hands down favorite.

San Franciscans have done a few things to handicap themselves. They got rid of their “Looney Tunes” mayor and district attorney and replaced them with two fairly sensible people, so that is going to count against them, especially if NYC jumps in with a self proclaimed antisemitic, Social Democrat.

Chicago still has a pretty good chance as long as Brandan Johnson is in the mayor's

swimming “qualification” and the rifle range. Finally there is 54-hour event involving 48 miles of hiking while carrying 55 pounds of gear.

“While the specific details and schedule of the Crucible are closely guarded, the event includes a variety of test situations (often anchored around the stories of some significant moments in Marine Corps history to affirm those historical connections) and including casualty evacuations, limited food, sleep deprivation and utter physical exhaustion.”

It is important to put these young men under enormous stress, to make them feel that all is lost, experience the same desperate feeling the Marines felt at the Chosen Reservoir.

Most of these teenagers, apparently, reach down and find courage they never knew they had.

When this exercise is done, they then march — dirty, exhausted and

emotionally drained — to the Iwo Jima Memorial and get their “Eagle, Globe and Anchor Insignia.”

The authors, in preparing their manuscript, spent time with a Marcus Heydahl — a professor of Leadership, Ethics and Law at Annapolis who posed two questions.

“Why do we allow tests like the Crucible? And why societies would want to allow these groups themselves to regulate who gets to be a member?”

“It is hard for people who are not doctors and lawyers to tell the difference between someone who is qualified and someone who is not.”

Speaking of doctors, Heydahl continues, “So what is the difference between a good doctor and a bad doctor? I don’t know the answer to that. But others doctors know.

So as a society we let doctors and lawyers decide who gets to be a doctor or a lawyer because the rest

of us are not qualified to do so.”

Heydahl believes that professional soldiers, like the Marines, understand better than anyone, the rigors of combat and what it takes to function in combat.

And so we as a society let the Marine Corps decide the methods of finding that teenager who is going to be focused, resilient when his world is coming apart.

“Crucibles” also looks at other organizations—the Gurkas, the French Foreign Legion and the Japanese Special Attack Units (“Kamikaze”)—and tells us how Nepal, France and the Japanese created their particular brands of ferocity.

Then the authors bring us back to the Naval Academy where they detail the impossible academic load (Naval Engineering, Calculus, Chemistry) together with the inspections, “chow calls,” “come arounds,” “square meals,” and “countless offenses, obvious and subtle that could result in

The race to the bottom JIM DICKSON

office. It’s going to be fairly hard to beat a city whose mayor has been declared “The Worst Mayor in America,” but I think if the Mamdani thing happens in NYC, Mayor Johnson may lose his title.

Many of us who have loved Chicago over the years watched in horror as Mayor Lori Lightfoot started the process of taking one of the nation’s most prosperous and dynamic cities on a fast downhill slide and almost transformed it into a third world country. When her term was up, many of us breathed a sigh of relief, thinking maybe the city is saved and can be

turned around.

Then they elected Johnson.

What we thought was impossible suddenly was. He is worse than Lightfoot! It’s not bad enough that he is a socialist who is bankrupting the city and controlled by the school and government unions, he is a clueless socialist, who stumbles from one disaster to the next without understanding why.

A mayor Mamdani in NYC would, I think, be even more dangerous. He appears to be very smart, good looking, well spoken and extremely likable.

Which is all good for a politician.

The other side of the coin is what is scary. He is a self proclaimed Social Democrat who hates capitalism, wants the government to own all means of production and wealth. He says that he will abolish the police, close all prisons, make buses, trains and college free, freeze rents, and heavily tax anyone who makes a million dollars or

more to pay for all of this.

Sometime, if you want to ruin your day, Google the Social Democratic National Platform, what they want for America is laid out for all to see. It could have been written by Karl Marx, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez or Bernie Sanders. Just as a special added attraction, Mamdani is very openly antisemitic in a city which has the largest Jewish population in the world outside of Israeli, and is the world center of capitalism, yet he just won the Democratic primary, and has good chance of becoming mayor, go figure!

Aside from the fact that New York City and Chicago used to be exciting, vibrant, and endless interesting places to visit, why would anyone living in South Carolina care what happens to them? We should care, those two cities are an integral part of our national economy and our culture.

If they fail the economic and cultural impact will be felt all

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Dr. Annie Andrews for US Senate

Lindsey Graham is almost 70 years old. If re-elected next year, he will begin his fifth term in office, which becomes 30 years, a career lifetime. We can hold differing opinions about Graham, but I think most of us recognize that public servants become dug-in politicians when they stay too long in office. Political power is healthiest — serves best — when it is limited, and I think it is time for a new Senator in South Carolina.

I support Dr. Annie Andrews for Senator in 2026. She combines a career of service in the medical field with youthful energy

to focus on building a healthier, safer, and more prosperous South Carolina for all of us. Let's bring the next generation forward. Please get to know Dr. Andrews at drannieandrews.com.

hardly calls forth a spirit of civility.

I have to ask Mr. Newman where he obtained some of the information he presented as fact. For example, he cited a 70/30 conservative/liberal split in our population. Mr. Newman, what is your – Carol Brown, Beaufort source for this "fact?" Unless you can produce a credible source, these are just numbers you pulled out of thin air. (BTW, A very odd title in 2024 42.2% of Beaufort county voters Tim Newman's June 26 column was voted for the Harris/Walz ticket. This is titled, "Where is the civility now?" A very according to scvotes.com which is a far odd title because Mr. Newman exhibited more credible source than Mr. Newman.) absolutely no civility in his attack of people Mr. Newman also claimed that he was in our community who do not agree with positively outraged by an anti-police his politics. His use of words like, "stupid," sign he saw at recent protests. I have now "ignorant," "lemmings," and "disgusting" attended more than half a dozen protests

getting ‘fried,’ and once convicted, assigned to area tours (marching in circles with a drill rifle outside of Bancroft Hall …”

“We would both be absolute lying If we said the four years in Annapolis between I Day and graduation were not absurdly hard, and we would be equally totally lying if we said that we enjoyed the experience much at all. …”

But the authors — both graduates of the Naval Academy — say that difficult experience changed them.

“Those lessons fundamentally shaped everything we have done throughout our personal and profession careers …

We were not grateful while being taught those lessons, but we are forever grateful that we learned them.”

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

across the country. Because of bad government, crime and high taxes, people with wealth and major corporations are already moving out, and that process will only accelerate until there is no one left to pay for all the “free stuff,” and for those who can’t move, life will get very ugly.

What can you do about it, sadly nothing unless you can vote in one of those cities. The important thing is to stay informed and involved so that it doesn't happen here. I know, but never say never, what citizen of New York or Chicago twenty years ago could have imagined what is going on there today?

Born, raised and educated in the Southwest, Jim Dickson served in the U.S. Navy Reserve in Vietnam before a 35-year business career.

Retired to St. Helena Island, Dickson and his wife are fiscally conservative, socially moderate and active in Republican politics, though they may not always agree with Republicans. Having lived around the country and traveled around the world, Dickson believes that the United States truly is the land of opportunity.

in Beaufort and I have yet to see any anti-police signs. What I have seen it an impressive display of mutual respect (and dare I say civility?) between the police and the protesters.

Mr. Newman, if you were so outraged by a protester bearing a harmless sign, please tell us how absolutely outraged you were when the president pardoned convicted criminals who assaulted police officers with bear spray, flag poles, tasers, sticks, and knives on Jan. 6, 2021. If you are unwilling or unable to do this, then we can safely conclude that you are just another uncivil, hyper-partisan hypocrite.

– Peter Birschbach, Port Royal

FREE in • Obituaries

Life Changes

• Engagements

• Weddings

• Births

• Death Notices

300 Words or Less are FREE (includes picture). Over 300 words billed at 0.25¢ per word.

Contact Island News at 843-233-9465 or Jeff.TheIslandNews@gmail.com JULY 3–9, 2025

B5

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

P

On turning off the incessant hum of politics

erhaps the most delightful thing about vacationing in France this year was something beyond the great food, spectacular culture, lush vistas and kind people.

The best thing about this year’s time away from the United States was not having to hear about Donald Trump and politics every time you turn a corner. Maybe it’s not until one gets away for a bit that you realize how inundated and exhausted we are by politics through social media, television, radio, newspapers and all of the messaging that slams into our brains daily. Being able to mostly turn that off for a few days has been a vacation in and of itself.

Sure, we heard about the sudden bombing of Iran, the New York mayor’s race and the not unexpected announcement by S.C. Attorney General Alan Wilson that he is

S

outh Carolina has quietly become a solar success story.

With more than 1,800 megawatts (MW) of installed solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity, our state is harnessing the power of the sun to lower energy bills, create jobs, and strengthen our grid.

But that progress — and the local jobs and savings it brings — is now under serious threat.

At the heart of this issue is the federal residential solar investment tax credit, known as the 25D credit.

For decades, this incentive has helped thousands of South Carolinians afford rooftop solar systems. It’s been a win-win: Homeowners cut their energy bills, and solar companies expand operations, hiring local workers to meet the growing demand.

But the so-called “One Big Beautiful” budget bill — which the president wants on his desk by July 4 — aims to eliminate the 25D credit within months.

This would be a catastrophic blow to South Carolina’s rooftop solar industry — and to our ability to meet future energy demands affordably and reliably.

The timing couldn’t be worse. Rooftop solar is an important energy generation source that can be scaled up quickly.

That speed is critical

sant hum and chatter of politics.

It will be good for your soul.

IN FRANCE, my younger daughter and I had a good time visiting Paris, Bordeaux and several small villages along the Dordogne River. Here are some observations: ANDY BRACK Air-conditioning: We visited during an unexpected heat wave in a part of the world that doesn’t do running for governor. air-conditioning well. In one hotel, But what’s been joyously missthe lowest setting for the A/C was ing is the rat-a-tat-tat of people dis- 76 degrees– and it was still humid. secting every little aspect of what In an apartment we rented briefly, Trump and his administration are the 18-inch-thick walls did a great doing – even though they often job of keeping out the heat, but it just seem to make up stuff as they was still warm inside. To get cooler, go along to respond to whatever is we bought a $30 fan. in the daily news cycle.

Food: Once you eat bread So maybe the best vacation baked by the French, you won’t advice of the year – either inside want the schlock that most Amerthe U.S. or out – is to turn off soicans eat. It’s fresh, clean-tasting, cial media and television for a few hearty and inexpensive – as are wine, cheese and more. While you days to get away from the inces-

JULY 3–9, 2025

rented car on narrow French country roads can be exhausting.

Smoking: About the only disappointing part of some local restaurants were smokers at outside tables. While smoking doesn’t appear as ubiquitous here as it once was, it’s noticeable and makes one think about how much more pleasant restaurants are in the U.S. since smoking has been banned.

Guns: The culture isn’t permissive or obsessive on guns. People weren’t walking around with them. Gun shops were rare – most likely because of how hard it is to get hunting rifles here. About the only guns we saw were among trios of police officers in high-traffic tourist areas.

Andy Brack is editor and publisher of the Charleston City Paper and Statehouse Report. Have a comment? Send it to feedback@statehousereport.com.

Will Congress extinguish SC’s bright solar future?

AARON DAVIS

RICHARD LOVEGREEN

as our state grapples with rising electricity demand, aging grid infrastructure, and the growing costs of fossil fuels.

And the potential doesn’t stop at homes.

South Carolina is rich in industrial and commercial rooftop space — warehouses, factories, and retail stores with untapped solar potential. Ending the 25D credit would slam the brakes on this opportunity just as momentum is building.

The broader economic impact is no less troubling.

A new analysis from the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) warns that gutting these tax credits could cause an immediate drop in solar and storage investments across the U.S. By 2030, as much as $220 billion in investment could be lost. This doesn’t just impact solar panel installers, but also manufacturers, electricians, engineers, and logistics providers who all contribute to this growing clean energy economy.

And as Republicans in

the Senate thrash out the details, the policy uncertainty is already having repercussions. More than $9 billion in investments have already been canceled or stalled in 2025, according to E2. Republican districts have been hit the hardest.

In South Carolina, we’ve already seen what federal clean energy incentives can do.

Since the passage of the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, our state has secured more than $15 billion in clean energy investment — second only to North Carolina. Projects from companies like Scout Motors and Redwood Materials are bringing thousands of new jobs to the Palmetto State.

Unfortunately, many of the same South Carolina lawmakers whose districts are benefiting from this boom have succumbed to partisan pressure to phase out the very credits spurring the investment. That includes the 25D credit, along with key incentives for solar leases and solar manufacturing.

This isn’t just bad politics

A solar installation recently completed in Greenville. Photo courtesy of Aaron Davis B6

can still get junk in larger grocery stores, it’s interesting to look at how there are far fewer ingredients listed on packaging. Everything seems less processed.

Coffee: It’s just better. Anywhere you go in France – except maybe train stations – has better coffee than you generally get in the U.S. The portion sizes, however, are tiny.

Markets: Villages thrive on weekly markets where you can get everything from canned duck and the sweetest strawberries to olives, nuts, cheese, fish, meat, clothing, jewelry and all kinds of knick-knacks. We didn’t see a lot of Chinese-made junk.

Transportation: The highspeed trains between big cities are way cool. It took 2.3 hours to go 350 miles from Paris to Bordeaux, for example. Ubers are affordable.

Trams are easy. But driving in a

A recent battery backup installation in Aiken. Photo courtesy of Aaron Davis — it’s an economic misfire.

Removing the 25D credit means fewer homeowners can afford solar, fewer installers stay in business, and fewer South Carolinians get hired. It also makes our grid more vulnerable and our energy prices more volatile.

Meanwhile, state-level actions like the so-called South Carolina Energy Security Act, which was signed into law in May, are poised to make things

worse by allowing utilities to raise rates annually.

Repealing existing federal clean energy tax credits and funding programs would increase average annual household energy costs in South Carolina (including electricity and fuel expenses) by nearly $50 per year in 2030 and nearly $270 per year in 2035 (Energy Innovation Policy & Technology).

The good news? The bill is not yet signed, sealed or delivered to the Oval Office.

Preserving the 25D credit and other clean energy incentives could add $32 billion to South Carolina’s economy over the next decade and support nearly 220,000 full-time jobs, according to a study commissioned by American Clean Power.

This isn’t a red state or blue state issue — it’s a common sense economic one.

Clean energy tax credits are delivering real results in South Carolina.

Undoing them now would undercut years of progress, threaten jobs, and raise costs for families and businesses.

Sens. Lindsey Graham and Tim Scott and their

colleagues in the House have long championed South Carolina’s economic growth.

They can now help protect one of the state’s fastest-growing industries, rooftop solar, and the jobs of hardworking South Carolinians who are building our clean energy future — one rooftop at a time.

Aaron Davis is the CEO and founder of Firefly Solar, a leading solar energy company based in Piedmont, S.C. With a background in solar sales that began in California, Davis established Firefly Solar in 2016 to deliver high-quality, customer-focused solar solutions across the Southeast. Under his leadership, the company has expanded its services throughout South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia.

Richard Lovegreen of Columbia is a seasoned solar industry specialist and the manager of Greentech Renewables, where he has dedicated the past 20 years to advancing energy solutions. A graduate of N..C. State University, Richard has become a respected leader in the Southeast’s renewable energy landscape. He currently serves as chair of the S.C. Solar Council, championing an all-hands-ondeck approach to the clean energy transition, with a strong focus on the power and potential of solar.

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

W

Drinking water, minding our business

hen I started writing for this newspaper, I was less concerned with Donald Trump and Trumpism than I was with what I felt the takeaways might be from his first term in the White House.

I tried to look at the broader picture of a country growing stranger to me.

I wrote about “freedom” versus “free-dumb.” The term used by writer Umair Haque described what he saw as the transformation of what Americans traditionally celebrated as freedom from (unnecessary federal oversight, regulation and persecution) into a lesser freedom to (be selfish, assert the individual over society, or elevate a con man to the presidency just to tick off the libs.)

Specifically, Hague wrote, freedumb is “the absence of any kind of obligation or responsibility to anything greater than narrow, immediate, infantile self-satisfaction.” He wrote in May 2020 in reaction to the COVID crisis and its mask mandates, but I would gather the term is a relevant sum-

I

TERRY MANNING

mation of how much of the world views America today.

And what sparks this view more than the mishandled immigration policies of the current administration? Armed, masked men swarm unsuspecting day laborers on low-paying jobs. Or stage courthouse stakeouts to seize applicants following the lawful process of gaining citizenship.

Frightened schoolchildren leave notes for their mates, begging them not to be forgotten if ICE agents grab them up and ship them off to countries known and unknown.

Some citizens who oppose these policies and actions march.

Some protest. Some risk them-

selves by pointing their smartphone cameras at the sanctioned abductions. And many ask, where are the Black marchers? Why aren’t Black people doing more?

Don’t they know they are next?

To which many Black Americans answer, no, baby, we were first! And while yes, other people of color marched alongside us, a lot of those other people chose not to. They saw that sometimes racism in this country isn’t about Black and white, it’s about Black and non-Black, and if they could join with the non-Black side, their efforts to assimilate often paid off for them.

A friend sent me a video clip in which a series of influencers give reasons for Black Americans having every right to exercise their freedom to mind their business.

From a young Black woman: “When y’all come here, you align with whiteness, you glorify whiteness, you love whiteness, and you demonize Blackness, so you need to make videos to ask white Americans to join with you ’cause that’s who you love so much.”

A young Black man: “You came here illegally, so you’re getting sent back. Like, I’m not really understanding where I’m supposed to be feel bad. … We can’t just go to other countries illegally and just pop up and start working.”

Another young woman: “They’re always trying to find a reason to blame Black people for anything, even when we clearly have nothing to do with this. At all."

A young Puerto Rican woman: “Black people are tired of being a bank where everyone keeps making withdrawals, and no one ever makes a deposit … I’ve seen how anti-Blackness and colorism still show up in our homes, in our language, in our media, in our families.”

And later, from the same Puerto Rican woman: “To Black women and men that are saying we've poured into everybody and got nothing back, you're not wrong.

You’ve carried movements, you've carried communities, you’ve carried generations, without rest, without complaint.”

Those are hard arguments to dispute. And yet … If we pride ourselves on being the first fighters for truth, the frontline for making America live up to its promises, is this the time for inaction?

Superman doesn’t stop doing the right thing because people don’t always thank him. Batman doesn’t stop because he’s tired.

Wonder Woman doesn’t quit because she typically goes it alone — and in heels!

A major point of the first “Black Panther” movie (I know, I’m switching publishers) was Wakanda deciding it owed the world a chance to benefit from the advanced technology the mythical country was able to develop away from threat of colonization.

So I guess the question is, is Black America taking a timeout to come back with a new, improved vision for the country or just line dancing and asking, “Where them fans at?”

Terry E. Manning worked for 20 years as a journalist. He can be reached at teemanning@gmail.com.

Obliterate, annihilate, exterminate?

None of the above

t would seem the word of the day, indeed of the week, was “obliterated.” I imagine if you were to randomly stop people on the street and ask them to define this word, you would get varying degrees of response, but that, ultimately, all would come fairly close to an acceptable definition.

Why then, is it so difficult for the president of this country to choose an appropriate word to describe anything in which he has a hand without resorting to the superlative? Is he so insecure that he must stress, repeatedly I might add, that his is the best, the most outstanding, better than anything ever seen before; the examples are endless.

You see, 47’s life is one of superlatives. To fully get the drift of that last comment, I must subject you to a brief English lesson. I know, I know … painful.

There are three degrees of adjective descriptors: positive, comparative, and superlative. They are used to show intensity or de-

W

CAROL LUCAS

gree of quality. Big, bigger, biggest. I chose that word as an example, given the person about whom we are talking.

But it serves to underscore my point. There are so many choices that 47 could use when he speaks.

But in his small world where he is the focus, “the King” if you will, all that Midas touches turns to the gold standard.

Just a little bit of Greek mythology that supports my contention.

King Midas is a figure from Greek mythology known for his ability to turn everything he touched into gold. This "golden touch" ultimately became a curse, as he couldn't eat or drink, and even his daughter turned to gold when

he embraced her. This is a cautionary tale of greed and the perils of interfering with the gods.

And so to the topic at hand: the declared “obliteration” of Iran’s nuclear program. As closely as I can determine, this is how it happened.

Saturday evening we received the news of our bombing of Iran. I remember going to bed thinking, “Dear God, he has gotten us into another war. Isn’t it enough that he is choking the country’s economy with tariffs or illegal hostage taking of legal immigrants? It was another restless night, to be sure.

After that came the leaked preliminary intelligence report that the strike had merely delayed Iran’s efforts for a few months.

It was noted that analysts were making determinations strictly through satellite imagery, a picture that simply showed large, discolored holes in the earth. Knowing that their operations are located deep underground, logic tells you it is difficult to

ascertain the full extent of the damage. Ah, yes, logic.

On Sunday morning, the White House came out with the admonition that there had better be no retaliation on Iran’s part.

Really? Iran then retaliated by bombing U.S. facilities in the region.

Let me interrupt here to ask you, dear reader, to remember the oversight of this nuclear program that had been put into place in 2015 during the Obama administration. This was known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and permitted monitoring and inspection by the International Atomic Energy Agency (in return for sanctions relief.)

Trump got rid of that in 2018. Might it be because it was implemented under Obama? Inquiring minds want to know but will never get a definitive answer.

“Operation Midnight Hammer,” and what it accomplished, fully occupied the news following week. The gap between 47’s description of “total obliteration” and the more

nuanced language of the military and intelligence was glaring.

Of course Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had to get into the act, if no more than to rant at the press and declare the site had been decimated. I guess we should be grateful he opted for a synonym, albeit a superlative one. He also quipped, “If you are going to visit the site, take a big shovel.”

Ironically that may be closer to the truth than all the other drivel put forth.

As for the success of the mission, that still has to be determined. Two things need to happen for Trump's claims about "Operation Midnight Hammer" to withstand scrutiny over time.

The first is that no enriched uranium canisters previously stored at Fordow or elsewhere were removed and are later discovered in a revamped Iranian program. It is worth noting that satellite images show more than a dozen trucks leaving the area before the bombing.

What those trucks contained is mere conjecture.

The second is that the broader U.S. intelligence community, from Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence to the CIA's John Ratcliffe, need to be firm in their conclusions that the strikes were every bit as devastating as Trump and Hegseth have declared. Of course, Gabbard seems to be persona non grata at this juncture. Until that time, words like obliterate are inappropriate guesswork until proven.

Just remember, George W Bush learned the hard way, with his premature "mission accomplished" banner in the Iraq war, that a president's credibility and authority is diminished if unfounded assertions are made about the success of military operations.

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.”

MY SATIRICAL CORNER

ell, I have finally had it!

I’m so fed up with this MAGA debauchery that I’ve joined a class-action lawsuit against Donald J. Trump, President of the United States of America.

The numbers are quite impressive: Seven million U.S. registere voters have signed up on this class-action and we are seeking $3,000,000,000 in damages … each. The accusations include, but are not limited to, extreme anxiety and bitter pessimism on top of utter disillusionment with 30 to 40 percent of the U.S. population.

Now, though, we are presently quite excited about a positive settlement since President Trump’s legal victories are few and far between; I mean, E. J.

JIM DICKSON

Carroll is getting $83,000,000 (isn’t she??) and twenty-one quatrillion has a nice ring to it … well, we think it does.

I have no idea what the others will do with their settlements but I plan to purchase Alcatraz Island and turn it into the biggest, most beautiful spa ever created. A resort/casino catering to ultra-athletes whom can only enjoy this very exclusive retreat by

swimming to it from San Francisco Bay. I, of course, will live in a very super-duper, ultra expensive and opulent penthouse on top of the island’s highest guard tower.

There won’t be any rescuing struggling swimmers either; only the best and fittest military types are welcome. No losers!

The world’s biggest and best hygienic staff will be at the complete disposal of all of my high-achiever-guests: Like D.T.’s friends Kim Kardashian; my new old pal Tyler Perry; (maybe) Crazy Elon and, of course Jeffrey B. with his blushing bride, Lauren … if any of them survive the swim!

There will be plenty of hot rocks, trigger pointing, orange skin tinting, hair implanting and the most professional, best-ever comb-over beauticians the world

has ever known. All the stuff that a lot of money will buy (after your U.S. dollars are converted into the resort’s special crypto cards …).

The sky is the limit but Jeffy has fabulous ($$$$) deals for going on beyond the sky! Did I mention I will have the whole of Alcatraz Island painted bright white, putting Ostuni, Italy to shame?

Entertainments will include, but is certainly not limited to, lobbing grapefruit mortars at passing boats and ferries; fireworks and parades, every night, with Christian/patriotic and military themes as well as viewing Wayne (Mr. Las Vegas) Newton in the middle of the night as he is sleeping within his personal, all glass, cryonic chamber. (We’ve agreed with Amazon … thanks Jeff … to

mail him back and forth, to and from Vegas, every 24 hours).

We’ve been told our case will get eyes and ears around 2040 or sooner, depending on how quickly President Trump’s pending 300 legal cases work through the U.S. system, as long as no more are added. Gee, I hope we still have the chance to get rich quick even when Donald J. is dead and gone. I mean, I’m only thinking about the future for our kids, grand kids, and great grandkid’s; Although … the biggest and best class-action lawsuit the world has ever seen (or will ever see) is pretty big and beautiful too.

Timothy E. Wood, retired carpenter of the United States of America.

Thank you very much for your attention to this very important matter.

JULY 3–9, 2025

B7

LOCAL MILITARY

VMFA-224 redesignates as Marine Corps’ newest F-35B squadron

By Capt. Jacob Ballard 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing MARINE CORPS AIR STATION BEAUFORT – Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA(AW)) 224 redesignated to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 224 during a change of command and redesignation ceremony Thursday, June 26, 2025, at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort.

The event marked the squadron’s historic transition from operating the F/A-18D Hornet to becoming an F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter squadron, concluding more than 32 years as a Hornet squadron and as a Marine all-weather fighter attack squadron.

In addition to the redesignation, the ceremony also served as a change of command, representing a transfer of responsibility, authority, and accountability from Lt. Col. Jarrod Allen, the former commanding officer, VMFA(AW)-224, to Lt. Col. John Stuart, the current commanding officer of VMFA-224.

I

U.S. Marines with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA(AW)) 224 present flowers to the families of Lt. Col. Jarrod Allen, from California, the off-going commanding officer of VMFA(AW)-224, and Lt. Col. John P. Stuart, from Virginia, the oncoming commanding officer of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 224, during a squadron redesignation and change of command ceremony Thursday, June 26, 2025, at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. The ceremony represented the squadron's transition from an all-weather F/A-18D Hornet squadron to an F-35B Lightning II squadron and signified the transfer of responsibility, authority, and accountability from Allen to Stuart. Lance Cpl. Gavin K. Kulczewski/USMC “For over 30 years, the Fightin’ Bengals have superbly executed the mission of a Marine all-weather fighter attack squadron,” said Allen. “As the Bengals redesignate, it ends an era of the All-Weather designation that began with the Night Fighter designation in 1943.

I could not be prouder of the

War, Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, and the Global War on Terror. Throughout its history, the squadron consistently adapted to emerging aviation technologies to meet evolving modernization demands, including numerous hardware and software upgrades to the F/A-18 Hornet.

of fighter aircraft with the F-35B, that legacy will be an omnipresent reminder of why we must constantly prepare for whatever comes next.”

As the Marine Corps’ newest F-35B squadron, VMFA224 continues to prepare its personnel, equipment, and procedures for F-35 operations. The squadron expects to receive its first F-35B in late 2025 and is working towards receiving its Safe for Flight certification.

“The next thing for the Fightin’ Bengals is to build upon the rock-solid foundation we’ve inherited and produce a stealth fighter squadron unmatched in tactical excellence, maintenance efficiency, quality, and Marine Corps ethos,” said Stuart.

“Rest assured, when our nation calls upon the Bengals to do its bidding, the adversaries of our country and her allies will understand what it means to ‘Fear the Ambush.’”

VMFA-224 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

Agent Orange (toxic) exposure and disability compensation

continue to receive phone calls, emails, and text messages from elderly veterans (especially Vietnam veterans) and their families, and others. Most of the time, they ask me about service-connected disability compensation for conditions caused

by Hazardous Materials, and especially Agent Orange-caused conditions, illnesses, injuries, and disabilities.

Since I am a 100% serviceconnected, permanent, and totally disabled veteran with several Agent Orange-caused disabilities and serious health conditions, I feel honor-bound to write extensively about Agent Orange and VA disability compensation and health benefits.

Therefore, this article, along with my next four articles and the referenced VA webpages within, will cover service-connected disability compensation claims for Agent Orange-related health conditions, eligibility requirements, new PACT-Act related presumptive conditions and locations, how to get disability benefits through Agent Orange related claims, and answer common questions on this vital subject.

Presumptive diseases Veterans should note that if they receive a VA disability rating, they may be eligible for VA healthcare and other benefits, potentially worth hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars over time. They should also understand that the VA assumes that certain diseases can be related to a veteran's qualifying military service. The VA calls these "presumptive diseases."

Question 1: What does it mean to have a presumptive condition for toxic exposure?

To get a VA disability rating, a veteran’s disability must be connected to their military

B8

Marines and Sailors who upheld the high standards of excellence during the final days of this chapter.”

With origins dating back to 1942, the “Bengals,” or “Fightin’ Bengals,” have a storied legacy in Marine Corps aviation. The squadron supported operations in World War II, the Vietnam

After conducting its final F/A-18 flight on April 28, 2025, the Bengals now look ahead as they transition to the F-35B. The F-35 is a fifth-generation fighter jet with advanced stealth, agility and maneuverability, sensor and information fusion, and provides the pilot with real-time access to battlespace information. It is designed to meet an advanced threat while improving lethality, survivability, and supportability.

The F-35B Lightning II is the short-takeoff and vertical-landing (STOVL) F-35 variant. This capability allows the aircraft to operate from amphibious assault ships and expeditionary airstrips less than 2,000 feet long.

Stuart also reflected on the squadron’s legacy.

“The newly unfurled battle colors of VMFA-224 are adorned with streamers that represent the unit’s history, accomplishments, and the legacy left by those who came before,” said Stuart.

“As the squadron transitions into the fifth generation

JULY 3–9, 2025

LARRY DANDRIDGE

service. For many health conditions, veterans need to prove that their service caused their condition. But for some conditions, the VA automatically assumes (or “presumes”) that the veteran’s service caused their condition. The VA considers a condition presumptive when it is established by law or regulation. If a veteran has a presumptive condition, they do not need to prove that their service caused the condition.

The veteran only needs to meet the service requirements for the presumption.

Survivor’s benefits According to the VA’s “Public Health – Agent Orange and Survivors’ Benefits” webpage https://bit.ly/4lg8MaM, the VA offers a wide range of benefits to surviving spouses, dependent children, and dependent parents of veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange and died because of diseases related to Agent Orange exposure. Benefits include (1) compensation and (2) health care benefits.

1. Survivors also may be eligible for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) if the veteran died from other service-related injuries or diseases or was totally disabled from a service-connected condition for a certain length of time at the time of death. Find out more about eligibility for DIC at the VA’s webpage “About VA DIC For Spouses, Dependents and Parents” at https://bit. ly/3I5BUCR and the VA’s

webpage “The PACT Act and Your VA Benefits.”

2. Surviving spouses and children of veterans who died from a VA-rated, serviceconnected disability may be eligible for health care benefits under the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA). Survivors may be eligible for CHAMPVA if the veteran was rated permanently and totally disabled from a service-connected disability at the time of death. To be eligible for CHAMPVA, you cannot be eligible for TRICARE/ CHAMPUS. Find out more about eligibility for CHAMPVA healthcare benefits and how to apply at the VA’s “CHAMPVA Benefits” webpage https:// bit.ly/44xVvTJ, and the VA’s “Office of Survivors’ Assistant” webpage https://www.va.gov/ survivors/. Veterans and their family members should also read The Island News article dated Dec. 13, 2023, titled “VA Survivor Benefits, Death Certificates, VSOs”, at https://bit.ly/4lzlOQm.

Agent Orange (The cause of many presumptive diseases) The VA webpage “Public Health – Agent Orange” found at https://bit.ly/4nyNNBA states that Agent Orange was a tactical herbicide used by the U.S. military for control of vegetation.

It was named for the orange band around the storage barrel.

The military sprayed Agent Orange and other tactical herbicides during the Vietnam War. Veterans who may have been exposed to Agent Orange include veterans who served in locations including Vietnam, the Korean Demilitarized Zone, on Thai Air Force bases, and others who flew on or worked on C-123 Aircraft.

Learn more about Herbicides, C-123 Airplanes and Agent Orange, and the Korean

Demilitarized Zone and Agent Orange at: • https://bit.ly/44HKH6D. • https://bit.ly/4lqOuuK. • https://bit.ly/4eufGWZ.

According to the “VA Agent Orange Exposure and Disability Compensation” webpage at https://bit.ly/4lriXJ0 and the VA webpage “Public Health – Veterans Diseases Associated With Agent Orange” at https:// bit.ly/4lwMXDp, if you have a health condition caused by exposure to the herbicide Agent Orange during your service, you may be eligible for VA disability compensation. Compensation offers tax-free monthly payments of over $3,900 per month for a 100% disabled veteran.

Question 2: Am I eligible for VA disability compensation?

A veteran may qualify for VA disability compensation based on Agent Orange exposure if the veteran meets both of the following requirements: 1. The veteran has a health condition that is caused by exposure to Agent Orange; and 2. The veteran served in a location that exposed the veteran to Agent Orange.

VA complete disability compensation eligibility requirements The VA determines eligibility based on the facts of each veteran’s claim. The VA also assumes (or “presumes”) that Agent Orange causes certain cancers and other illnesses. The VA calls these “Presumptive Conditions.” And the VA assumes that veterans who served in specific locations were exposed to Agent Orange. The VA refers to this as presumptive exposure.

The VA added two new Agent Orange presumptive conditions based on the PACT Act. • High Blood Pressure

EDITOR’S NOTE This article is the first in a series of five.

(High Blood Pressure).

• Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS).

The VA also added five new Agent Orange presumptive locations.

Requirements for Agent Orange presumptive diseases The VA considers a condition presumptive when it is established by law or regulation.

If a veteran has been diagnosed with one of these conditions, the veteran does not need to prove that it started during or got worse because of their military service.

However, the veteran must demonstrate that they served during the specified time and place of eligibility and that they have the qualifying condition or disease (disability).

The VA assumes that certain diseases can be related to a veteran's qualifying military service. The VA recognizes certain cancers and other health problems as presumptive diseases associated with exposure to Agent Orange or other herbicides during military service. Veterans and their survivors may be eligible for benefits for these diseases.

Continued next week.

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 Veterans Service Officer, a Patient Adviser at the RHJ VA Hospital, the Fisher House Charleston Good Will Ambassador, and the VP for Veteran Affairs for the local Army Association Chapter.

Larry is the author of the award-winning book Blades of Thunder and a contributing freelance writer with The Island News. Contact him at LDandridge@earthlink.net or 843-276-7164.

WHAT’S HAPPENING ART Budding Artist After-School Art Club 4 to 5 p.m., or 5:15 to 6:15 p.m., Mondays/Wednesdays or Tuesday/ Thursdays, Happy Art Studio, 10 Sam’s Point Way, Beaufort. Ages 8 to 13. Painting, drawing, clay or crafts. Visit www.happyartstudio. net.

CALENDAR Beaufort Lions Club Water Festival Pancake Breakfast 8 to 11 a.m., Saturday, July 12, Sea Island Presbyterian Church, 81 Lady's Island Drive, Beaufort.

Pancakes, waffles, biscuits/gravy, scrambled eggs, sausage, coffee, tea, juice. For more information, email beaufortlionsclub@gmail. com or follow us on Facebook/instagram/Nextdoor.

May River Shrimp Fest Sunset Party 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., Friday, July 25, Oyster Factory Park, Bluffton.

Featuring live music by “Cristaldi & Stiltner” and “Vanna & The Rump Shackers.” Enjoy a festive atmosphere with local seafood, food trucks, craft beers, boutique wines, and family-friendly fun. Kids and leashed pets are welcome. Tickets are $11 in advance, $15 at the door, with children under 12 free. Group discounts are available online. All tips collected from beer and wine sales support local charities. For tickets and more information, visit www.blufftonsunsetparty.com or call 843-757-8520.

Yemassee Shrimp Festival Friday, Sept. 19 & Saturday, Sept.

20, 101 Town Circle Yemassee. Live music includes the East Coast Party Band (8 p.m., Friday), sponsored

by Comcast; and Funk Factory 5 (8 p.m. Saturday). Ore details to come.

Karaoke with Melissa 7:30 p.m. to midnight, Mondays, Tomfoolery, 3436 17 Market, Habersham, Beaufort. Enjoy food and drinks during Karaoke with Melissa.

Karaoke with Ali 9 p.m. to midnight, Tuesdays, Luther’s Rare and Well Done, 910 Bay Street, downtown Beaufort. With DJ Ali. Karaoke with Melissa 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., Wednesdays, Beaufort Moose Lodge, 350 Broad River Blvd, Beaufort. Enjoy food and drinks during Karaoke with Melissa.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew 9:30 p.m., Wednesdays, Rosie O’Grady’s, 2127 Boundary Street, Suite 2, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy karaoke with either Parker or Eric.

Trivia with Tom – Bricks On Boundary 7 p.m., Every Thursday, Bricks on Boundary, 1422 Boundary St, Beaufort. Free. Team trivia event, win house cash and Beer Bucket prizes!

For more information, visit https:// rb.gy/o9nhwe.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew 7 p.m., Thursdays, Amvets Post 70, 1831 Ribaut Road, Port Royal.

Free. Public is welcome. Enjoy Karaoke. Dinner will be available.

Karaoke at Willie’s 8 p.m., Thursdays, Willie's Bar and Grill, 7 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Saint Helena Island. Come and showcase your singing talents or just enjoy the performances. For more information, visit www.GullahLove.com.

Bluffton Night Bazaar – a Lowcountry Made Market 5 to 8 p.m., first Thursday of each month, Burnt Church Distillery, 120 Bluffton Road. A highly curated selection of accessories, clothing, home goods, custom gifts and more by local artists and makers.

Habersham Farmers Market 3 to 6 p.m., Fridays, Habersham Marketplace. Vendor roster includes B&E Farm, Cottonwood Soap, Flower Power Treats, Hardee Greens, Megs Sweet Treats, Vitamin Bee, Lady’s Island Oyster Company, Pet Wants.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew 9 p.m., Fridays, Highway 21 Bar, 3436 Trask Pkwy, Beaufort. Free.

Enjoy Karaoke with Lt. Dan. Eric’s Karaoke Krew 9:30 p.m., Fridays, Rosie O’Grady’s, 2127 Boundary Street, Suite 2, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy Karaoke with Parker.

Karaoke with Melissa 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., Fridays, R Bar & Grill, 70 Pennington Drive, Bluffton. Enjoy food and drinks during Karaoke with Melissa.

Port Royal Farmers Market 9 a.m. to noon, Saturdays, year round, Naval Heritage Park, 1615 Ribaut Road, Port Royal. Rain or shine.

You will find fresh, local, seasonal produce, shrimp, oysters, poultry, beef, pork, eggs, bread and cheese, as well as plants, ferns, camellias, azaleas, citrus trees and beautiful, fresh cut flower bouquets. There

are prepared food vendors serving barbecue, dumplings, she crab soup, crab cakes, paella, coffee, baked goods, bagels and breakfast sandwiches. No pets allowed. For more information, visit http://www. portroyalfarmersmarket.com/, visit @portroyalfarmersmarket on Facebook or call 843-295-0058.

Slip and Splash Saturdays 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturdays, Battery Creek Pool, 1 Blue Dolphin Drive, Beaufort, and Bluffton Pool, 55 Pritchard Street, Bluffton. $5 per person. Stay busy for hours climbing on our inflatable challenge track.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew 7 p.m., Saturdays, The Beaufort Moose Lodge, 350 Broad River Blvd., Beaufort. Free. Enjoy karaoke with Lt. Dan. Come early at 6 p.m. for Steak Night.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew 9:30 p.m., Saturdays, Rosie O’Grady’s, 2127 Boundary Street, Suite 2, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy karaoke with Eric.

Teddy Bear Picnic Read-Aloud 9 a.m. to noon, 1st Saturday each month, Port Royal Farmer’s Market, Corner of Ribaut Road & Pinckney Blvd, Port Royal. Free. DAYLO Students and other volunteers will read to young children, who are encouraged to bring their favorite stuffed animals.

Karaoke with Melissa 8 p.m. to 12 a.m., 2nd and 4th Saturdays of every month, Peaceful Henry’s Cigar Bar, 181 Bluffton Road, Bluffton. Enjoy food and drinks during Karaoke with Melissa.

CLASS REUNION Beaufort High School Class of 1975 Oct. 17 through Oct. 19, 2025, Beaufort. 50th Class Reunion Celebration. Request that graduates of this class contact the class Community Outreach Representative Barbara Gardner Hunter at 347-4979326 or email gardnerbarbara991@ gmail.com to provide current contact information.

DANCE Lowcountry Shaggers 6 to 9 p.m., Mondays, Holiday Inn, 2225 Boundary Street. Shag lessons with Tommy & Sheri O’Brien and others. Occasional ballroom and once-a-monh line dancing. Biginner, intermediate and advanced lessons. Open dancing after lessons. Visit www.lowcountryshaggers.com of email lowcountryshaggers@aol.com.

The Beaufort Shag Club 6:30 to 9 p.m., Wednesdays, AmVets Club, 1831 Ribaut Road, Port Royal. Free lessons for members from 6 to 6:30 p.m. We also host a dance the second Saturday of each month from 7 to 10 p.m. Lessons will run September through May only.

Visit our FaceBook page (beaufortshagclub) for current events.

GOLF 4th annual Stingray Scramble Saturday, Sept. 20, Ocean Creek Golf Course, Fripp Island. Proceeds benefit Riverview Charter School.

Early bird pricing is $650 for team of four through July 1. After July 1, $700 for team of four. Register online at https://bit.ly/4kTF4br. Visit https://bit.ly/4mWQ7ls for sponsorship opportunities.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS Rooted Beaufort Yoga classes 5:30 to 6:45 p.m., Thursdays, Cypress Wetlands, Port Royal; 9 to 10:15 a.m., Whitehall Park or Pigeon Point Park. Rooted Beaufort is a collective of local Yoga teachers who host outdoor yoga classes and donation-based events with proceeds being donated locally on a rotating basis.

BEMER Circulation Therapy 10 to 11 a.m., Fridays via Zoom.

Already own a BEMER? Never heard of it but curious? Join to ask any questions about this leading-edge German technology that enhances blood flow 30% in 8 minutes. Sessions are designed to support those who have their own unit but everyone is welcome. Brought to you by BEMER Specialist -- Human & Equine, Elizabeth Bergmann.

Text 410-212-1468 to get the Zoom link. Free.

HISTORY Beaufort History Museum at the Arsenal 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturdays, 713 Craven St, Beaufort. General Admission for Adults $8, Seniors $7, Active Duty Military and College Students with ID $5.

Children/Teens younger than 18 Free. Explore and experience more than 500 years of Beaufort History with knowledgeable docent guided tours.

The Historic Port Royal Museum 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or upon request, Thursdays through Sundays, The Historic Port Royal Museum, 1634 Paris Ave. The museum features the turn-of-the-century businesses and industries of Port Royal: Shrimping,

crabbing, oystering, the railroad, the school and the mercantile.

Great gifts featuring local artists are available. For more information. visit www.portroyalhistory.org, email historicportroyalfoundation@ gmail.com or call 843-524-4333.

Tour Historic Fort Fremont Dawn to dusk, Monday through Sunday, The Fort Fremont Preserve, 1124 Land’s End Road, St. Helena Island. Free and open to the public.

The History Center is open Thursdays from 1 to 4 p.m., Fridays from 1 to 4 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m.

Visitors can learn about the fort’s history during the Spanish-American War through interpretive signs, self-guided walking tours with a smart phone, exhibits in the history center, and docent-led tours. For more information visit www.fortfremont.org or contact Passive Parks Manager Stefanie Nagid at snagid@ bcgov.net.

LIBRARY ACTIVITIES Free Lunches At The Library Through July 31. Ages 0 to 18.

Child/teen must be present to receive lunch. Lunches must be consumed at the library location. All locations will serve “cold lunches.”

No lunches will be served on July 4. Schedule for individual branches: Beaufort Branch, 11 to 11:45 a.m.; Bluffton Branch, 11 a.m. to noon; Hilton Head Island Branch, 10 to 11 a.m.; Lobeco Branch, noon to 1 p.m., Port Royal Branch, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.; St. Helena Branch, 11 a.m. to noon.

Moo-fort, Mermaids and More: Colorful Public Art Projects in Beaufort County 5:30 p.m., Monday, July 28, Beaufort Branch. Ages 12 to 100. Free, no registration. Join Cassandra Knoppel for a colorful review of past, present and public art projects in Beaufort County from 2000 to 2025. Come reminisce with us as we remember all the fun we had with the “Big Pig Gig,” the “River of Art,” “Surf and urf,” and “The Big Swim!”

“Hidden Gems” Book Club 3 p.m., third Monday of each month, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St. Helena Island. Free. So many books, so little time. St. Helena staff have uncovered some great titles to get you started on your “hidden gem” journey. Join us for lively discussions and coffee or tea.

No registration required.

Career Navigator 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., every Tuesday, Beaufort Branch Library, 311 Scott Street, Beaufort. Free one-on-one resume writing and job application assistance with a Career Navigator from Palmetto Goodwill. No appointments necessary. For more information call 843-255-6458.

Bridge Club 10 a.m. to noon, Wednesdays, Beaufort Branch Library, 311 Scott Street, Beaufort. Join us if you want to learn a new game, practice your skills, or need more players. Call the Beaufort Branch Library at 843255-6458 for more information.

Mahjong Club 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Fridays, Beaufort Library, 311 Scott Street. All levels of players are welcome. Feel free to bring your own mahjong sets. Plan to meet every week. For more information, call the Beaufort Branch Library at 843-255-6458.

MEETINGS Lady’s Island Business & Professional Association 8 a.m., Tuesday, July 8, 2025, Beaufort Realtors’ Association Headquarters, 22 Kemmerlin Lane, Lady’s Island. Shelter Box representative Matt D’Angelo will be the featured speaker. The public is invited to stop by for coffee and conversation concerning the community.

Beaufort Lions Club 6 p.m., first and third Monday of every month, St John's Lutheran Church, 157 Lady's Island Drive, Beaufort. For more information, visit thebeaufortlionsclub@gmail.com or follow on Facebook/Instagram/ Nextdoor.

PFLAG Savannah – Beaufort Peer Group 6:30 p.m., first Tuesday of every month, Fellowship Hall, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Beaufort (UUFB), 178 Sams Point Road, Beaufort. Free. The group will be moderated by Rick Hamilton and Kay Carr. The provides advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community, family, peers, and allies in the Lowcountry.

The peer group provides a safe and strictly confidential environment for LGBTQ+ individuals, their families, friends, and allies to discuss the challenges faced in coming out or being out in neighborhoods, the workplace, school, or church.

The organization offers resources for counseling, educating, and advocating to achieve an equitable, inclusive community where every LGBTQ+ person is safe, celebrated, empowered, and loved. Minors under the age of 18 are required to come with an adult parent, guard-

ian, or mentor. Additional information about peer groups, membership, donations, and volunteering is on the website www.PFLAGSavannah.org and on Facebook.

Beaufort Chapter of America’s Boating Club 6 p.m., 2nd Tuesday of most months, at various Beaufort/Port Royal venues. Regular meetings begin with a Social, followed by Dinner and often include an exciting Guest Speaker from the Lowcountry. For Meeting Information or Educational Opportunities, please contact Paul Gorsuch, Administrative Officer at admino@beaufortboatingclub.com . Boat ownership is not required, however a passion for safe responsible boating is mandatory.

Zonta Club of Beaufort 6 p.m., 4th Tuesday of each month, Smokehouse, Port Royal.

Rotary Club of Sea Island lunch meeting 12:15 p.m., 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, Sea Island Presbyterian Church, 81 Lady’s Island Drive, Lady’s Island. Social gathering every 3rd Tuesday at 5:30 pm, locations vary and posted on our website. For more information, visit www.seaislandrotary.org.

Rotary Club of Sea Island social gathering 5:30 p.m., 3rd Tuesday of each month, locations vary and posted on our website. For more information, visit www.seaislandrotary.org.

Beaufort Rotary Club Noon, Wednesdays, Sea Island Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall, 81 Lady’s Island Drive, Lady’s Island. Catered buffet lunch, followed by a guest speaker. Prospective members welcome. For further information and upcoming speakers, please visit website www.beaufortrotaryclub.org.

The Beaufort Trailblazers – A Volunteer Group 8 a.m., first Thursday each month, University Bikes, Beaufort. Anyone interested in supporting or building off-road/dirt/wilderness mountain biking/jogging/walking trails near is encouraged to attend. For more information, call 843-575-0021 or email universitybicycles@hotmail. com.

Emotions Anonymous International local group meeting 4 p.m, Thursdays, via Zoom.

Emotions Anonymous International, (EAI), is a nonprofit program designed to help people with emotional difficulties. It has a chapter in the Lowcountry and members want others who feel the need to know they are welcome to participate.

There is no charge to participate.

They are based on the 12 steps and 12 traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous and follow a specific format designed to provide the support and tools for navigating life’s painful difficulties. All are welcome.

Anyone interested in participating may contact the group via email at EALowcountry@gmail.com or call or text Laurie at 252- 917-7082. For more information on EAI visit www. emotionsanonymous.org.

Al-Anon Beaufort County 7:30 p.m., Thursday, 80 Lady’s Island Drive in Beaufort. “Do you worry about how much someone drinks? Is it affecting your life? You are not alone. Al-Anon Beaufort Serenity Group offers help and hope.

Join the group in Beaufort, or visit the Lowcountry page at https://bit. ly/3HvksaF for more times and locations.

Rotary Club of the Lowcountry 7:30 a.m., Fridays, Sea Island Presbyterian Church, 81 Lady's Island Dr., Ladys' Island. Catered breakfast from local chef. Speakers weekly. Occasional social events replace Friday mornings, but will be announced on our website, www. rotaryclubofthelowcountrybeaufort.org.

MUSIC Campfire Tyler 6 p.m., Saturday, July 12, Olde Beaufort Golf Club Bar & Grill, Lady’s Island. Food and a full bar.

Distant Sounds 6 to 9 p.m., Saturday, July 12, Tomfoolery, Habersham. Something for everyone, from the 60s to the 10s. David Ayres on guitar & vocals, Richard Knieriem on drums & vocals, Eric Roberts on bass, Paul Butare on guitar & vocals.

Distant Sounds 6 to 9 p.m., Friday, Aug. 8, Oct. 3, Another Slice Pizza, Harbor Island. Something for everyone, from the 60s to the 10s. David Ayres on guitar & vocals, Richard Knieriem on drums & vocals, Eric Roberts on bass, Paul Butare on guitar & vocals.

Distant Sounds 6 to 9 p.m., Friday, Aug. 29, Sept.

12, Seaside Bar & Grill, St. Helena Island. Something for everyone, from the 60s to the 10s. David Ayres on guitar & vocals, Richard Knieriem on drums & vocals, Eric Roberts on bass, Paul Butare on guitar & vocals.

Campfire Tyler 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sundays, The Fillin’ Station, Lady’s Island.

Live entertainment 7 to 11 p.m., Wednesdays, Luther’s Rare and Well Done, 910 Bay Street, downtown Beaufort.

Chris Jones 7 to 11 p.m., Thursdays, Luther’s Rare and Well Done, 910 Bay Street, downtown Beaufort.

Habersham Third Fridays Music on Market 5 to 8 p.m., third Friday of the month, Habersham Marketplace.

Live entertainment 9 p.m. to midnight, Fridays & Saturdays, Luther’s Rare and Well Done, 910 Bay Street, downtown Beaufort.

OUTDOORS/NATURE Free boating inspections Get a free vessel safety check by local members of the America's Boating Club of Beaufort. If your boat passes, you will receive a VSC decal to mount on your boat that will be visible to other boaters and maritime law enforcement personnel. Email Safety@beaufortboatingclub.com .

The Beaufort Tree Walk Lady’s Island Garden Club invites you to take a meandering walk through the Historic “Old Point” and enjoy some unique and noteworthy trees. The “Walk” takes about an hour, is a little over a mile starting at the corner of Craven & Carteret streets in Morrall Park and concluding in Waterfront Park. Booklets with map and information about each tree are available free at the Visitors Center in the historic Arsenal on Craven Street.

Tours of Hunting Island Every Tuesday, Hunting Island State Park, 2555 Sea Island Pkwy.

Free, park entry fees apply. Sponsored by Friends of Hunting Island Keeper Ted and his team. For more information call the Hunting Island Nature Center at 843-838-7437.

PHOTOGRAPHY Wild Bees photography exhibit Through Sunday, August 17, Coastal Discovery Museum, Hilton Head Island. A photography exhibit by Paula Sharp and Ross Eatman.

A public opening reception will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, May 15 at Coastal Discovery Museum.

Sharp and Eatman will conduct a tour of the exhibition before the reception at 4 p.m.

RUNNING Sunset 5K – Hawaiian Shirt Run 7:30 p.m., Thursday, July 24, Oyster Factory Park, Bluffton. The route takes participants through the charming streets of historic Old Towne Bluffton. The event is perfect for both runners and walkers. Come dressed in your brightest Hawaiian shirt or shorts — prizes will be awarded for the most colorful outfits! All participants will receive a themed T-shirt, lei, postrace refreshments during our lively Post Race Celebration. Strollers & Leashed pets welcome. Registration is open at bearfootsports.com.

SEWING/QUILTING American Needlepoint Guild Meeting 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., 1st Tuesday each month. The Hilton Head Chapter of the American Needlepoint Guild welcomes anyone, beginner or experienced stitcher, who is interested in needlepoint to join us for stitching, learning and fellowship.

For more information, please contact us at hiltonheadislandchapter@ needlepoint.org.

Embroidery Guild of America Meeting Second Tuesday of every month, Palmetto Electric Community Room, Hardeeville. The Lowcountry Chapter of the Embroidery Guild of America welcomes anyone, beginner or experienced stitcher, who is interested in any type of embroidery including needlepoint, cross-stitch, surface and beaded embroidery, hardanger, bargello, sashiko, etc., to join us for stitching, learning and fellowship. For more information, please contact us at lowcountrychapter@egacarolinas.org.

SPORTS/GAMES ACBL Duplicate Bridge Club 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m., Tuesdays, Carteret Street. Events will be held weekly. Contact Director and Club Manager Susan DeFoe at 843-5972541 for location.

Bridge Club 10 a.m. to noon, Wednesdays, Beaufort Branch Library, 311 Scott Street, Beaufort. Join us if you want to learn a new game, practice your skills, or need more players. Call the Beaufort Branch Library at 843-2556458 for more information.

Beaufort Masters Swim Team 6 to 7 a.m., Monday through Friday, Wardle Family Port Royal YMCA. Coached practices. Ages 18 & older, all skill & speed levels, no prior swim team experience needed.

Visit lowcountryswimming.com for more information.

JULY 3–9, 2025

B9

SERVICE DIRECTORY ATTORNEY

CHURCH SERVICES

Christopher J. Geier

PEST CONTROL

Attorney at Law, LLC Criminal Defense & Civil Litigation

16 Professional Village Circle, Lady's Island Office: 843-986-9449 • Fax: 843-986-9450 chris@bftsclaw.com • www.geierlaw.com

residential commercial real estate

AUDIOLOGY & HEARING

Beaufort Audiology & Hearing Care Monica Wiser, M.A. CCC-A Licensed Audiologist 38 Professional Village West, Lady's Island monica@beauforthearing.com www.beauforthearing.com | 843-521-3007

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

Beaufort Cleaning & Organizing, llc

Satisfaction Gauranteed

We Understand the Importance of Clean!

Residential Cleaning

(843) 286-5929

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

PET SERVICES

CLEANING

Licensed & Insured

843-379-0185

www.BeaufortPestControl.com

Deep Clean

Furbulas Dog: Grooming, Boarding, and Pet Sitting Brittany Riedmayer

843-476-2989 Member of National Dog Groomers Association of America

POOL & FIBERGLASS REPAIR Vacation Rentals

www.beaufortcleaning.com

FURNITURE / HOME DECOR

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

furniture, home decor & more (843) 379-4488

Allison & Ginny DuBose, Owners aldubose@yahoo.com

CHIMNEY SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL SKIN THERAPIST

MOBILE HOME INSURANCE

John D. Polk Agency INSURANCE

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

843-524-3172 info@polkagency.com

CALL FOR A QUOTE TODAY!

E-Edition

Digital Newspaper

START READING

YOURISLANDNEWS.COM

TODAY

issuu.com/theislandnews

JULY 3–9, 2025

DA Roofing Company

Donnie Daughtry, Owner

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 and advertising content

B10

ROOFING Call us for ALL of your roofing needs. New Construction, Residential and Commercial, Shingles, Metal, Hot Tar & Hydrostop.

All repairs and new additions.

FREE ESTIMATES — 843-524-1325 Email Amanda Hanna (amanda@lcweekly.com) to place your Service Directory ad here!

CLASSIFIEDS & GAMES ANNOUNCEMENTS DONATE YOUR CAR TO KIDS. Your donation helps fund the search for missing children. Accepting Cars, Trucks and Vans. Fast Free Pickup – Running or Not – Tax Donation – Call (888) 515-3810 Replace your roof with the best looking and longest lasting material – steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-855-900-1261 Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 833-2308692 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 Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty.

Top-of-the-line installation and service.

Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time!

Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-877-852-0368

THURSDAY’S CARTOON Read with caution; not necessarily the opinions of the editorial staff.

AUCTIONS Real Estate Auction: 7,778± Sq Ft Estate on 20± Acres – Framed & Ready for Your Vision. 1055 Stone House Rd., Chapin, SC.Bid online through Wed. 7/9 at 12PM EST www.TheLigonCompany. com Call 803-366-3535. Randy Ligon, CAI, CES, BAS SCAL1716 SCRL17640 SCAFL4120 ADVERTISE YOUR AUCTION in 80 S.C. newspapers for only $375. Your 25word classified ad will reach more than 1.5 million readers. Call Randall Savely at the S.C. Newspaper Network, 803750-9561.

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 Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-844-7750366 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 today at amanda@lcweekly.com to secure your spot and get your ad featured in our upcoming issue!

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: FLOWERS ACROSS 1. Straw man's "victim" 5. Protestant denom.

8. Large edible mushroom 11. Mischievous Norse deity 12. *Thumbelina emerges from a flower in a fairy ____ 13. Brick and mortar destination 15. Garner wages 16. Guinness and such 17. *Poison: "Every Rose Has Its ____" 18. *"If you go to San ____, be sure to wear some flowers in your hair" 20. Electric one and moray one 21. Killer whales 22. p in mpg 23. Fatwa, alt. sp.

26. Spain's neighbor, across Strait of Gibraltar 30. "Back To The Future" actress 31. Leaked, as in ship 34. Miso bean 35. Operatic solos 37. H+, e.g.

38. Is dressed in 39. Leave a Hancock 40. Cast-off skin 42. Egyptian boy king

43. Clearance, as under a bridge 45. Neglectful in duty 47. *"Dandelion Wine" author ____ Bradbury 48. Dear one 50. Black cat, to some 52. *"Build Me Up _____" 56. Adult 57. ____ bowl, frozen dish 58. Poetic "through" 59. Latin dance 60. "Buffalo ____, won't you come out tonight..."

61. Kids' building block 62. Altitude, abbreviated 63. Like a fox 64. Water carrier DOWN 1. Staff symbol 2. Zoo sound 3. Gumbo pod 4. Separate grain from chaff 5. Model-building wood 6. Smart ones?

7. 100 centavos 8. Refrigerate 9. Commits a faux pas 10. Mont Blanc, e.g.

12. a.k.a. meditation in motion (2 words) 13. Ranch grazer 14. *Bette Midler's 1981

Grammy winning song (2 words) 19. Dungeness one and snow one 22. *Poppy's seed container 23. Banned camera setting, in a museum 24. Falcon's home 25. Boreal forest, in Russia 26. Ma tre d's list 27. Raccoon's South American cousin 28. *2024 Grammy winner for "Flowers" 29. Hop-drying kilns 32. *Lis in fleur-de-lis 33. *____ Goo Dolls of "Gutterflower" fame 36. *"Flowers in the Attic" author V.C. ____ 38. One of journalism's Ws 40. Declare 41. Costing nothing 44. Want to 46. ____ Beach, SC 48. Belonging to duke 49. Miuccia Prada's homeland 50. Like traditional storytelling 51. Lose skin 52. Tea servings 53. Tobacco 54. Strong desire 55. Standard's partner 56. Govt. property org.

LAST WEEK’S CROSSWORD & SUDOKU SOLUTIONS

JULY 3–9, 2025

B11

820 Bay Street Beaufort, SC 29902

843.521.4200 $99,000

$375,000

COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITY

SHELL POINT | MLS 190553

MLS 186027 | .9 Acre | Excellent Location on Exit 33 Intersection of I95 & Hwy 17 Lloyd Williams 843.754.4735

$100,000

3BDRM | 2B | 1700sqft Ashley Nye 561.350.8109

$340,000

POLAWANA | MLS 190076

5 Acre Homesite | Breathtaking Landscapes Community Dock Wayne Webb 843.812.5203

MINK POINT | MLS 188690 3BDRM | 2B | 1814sqft Bryan Gates 843.812.6494

www.LowcountryRealEstate.com On-the-spot care for minor illnesses and injuries

Open evenings and weekends, too!

MONDAY - FRIDAY 8 A.M. to 8 P.M.

SATURDAY 8 A.M. to 5 P.M.

SUNDAY 1 P.M. to 5 P.M.

1680 RIBAUT ROAD, PORT ROYAL • 843-524-3344

BeaufortMemorial.org/ExpressCare