July 9 edition

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JULY 9-JULY 15, 2026

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COVERING BEAUFORT COUNTY

Four St. Helena Island residents charged after Coligny Beach shooting wounds eight Sheriff Tanner: Fourth of July violence began with fight between two groups; investigators continue search for additional suspects

By Delayna Earley The Island News A Fourth of July celebration at one of Hilton Head Island's busiest beaches erupted into chaos Saturday night when

LOWCOUNTRY LOWDOWN

a fight between two groups escalated into gunfire, leaving eight adults wounded and prompting a rapid law enforcement response that led to the arrest of four St. Helena Island residents within hours.

The shooting occurred shortly after 8:20 p.m., Saturday, July 4 near the public beach access and volleyball courts at Coligny Beach as thousands of residents and visitors gathered for Independence Day festivities.

According to Beaufort County Sheriff P.J. Tanner, the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office Communications Center received

multiple calls reporting gunfire at approximately 8:21 p.m. Because numerous deputies and other law enforcement officers were already assigned to the island for the holiday, the first deputies arrived about 17 seconds after the initial calls were received.

"It was one of the quickest responses you're ever going to see," Tanner said during a Sunday afternoon media briefing.

Investigators believe the violence be-

Beaufort County Sheriff P.J. Tanner answers questions Sunday, July 5, 2026, at a press conference regarding the July 4 shooting at Coligny Beach on Hilton Head Island.

SEE SHOOTING PAGE A3 Amber Hewitt/The Island News

CELEBRATING 2550

LOLITA HUCKABY

Fourth festivities highlight community support

K

udos to the city of Beaufort and town of Port Royal – their employees and dozens of volunteers -- for providing folks, by most accounts, wonderful July 4th activities.

The city’s First Friday, which has been a monthly Main Street Beaufort tradition for more than a decade, of course had a 4th theme, with a live band music playing on Bay Street -- which was closed to traffic -- a petting zoo and a miniature train that toured waving kids around the block.

The retail stores – at least the half that stayed open after-hours – and restaurants seemed to be doing a booming business. Real estate offices, of which there are certainly plenty in the downtown area, were closed.

Reportedly, there was little evidence of the city’s new “social district” provisions, which allow participants to walk about with adult beverages purchased at either of the two bars participating in the program.

On Saturday, there was a children’s parade through the downtown area and into the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, an event which brought out dozens of decorated kiddies and flag-waving parents.

There was a real “family vibe” in the air.

Same down in Port Royal, where

People gather on the Henry Robinson Boardwalk at The Sands on Saturday, July 4, 2026, in Port Royal, to watch the fireworks display celebrating the 250th birthday of the United States of America. Amber Hewitt /The Island News The Parris Island Marine Corps Band plays for the crowd as the fireworks go off behind them celebrating the 250th birthday of the United States of America at The Sands Beach on Saturday, July 4, 2026, in Port Royal. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

SEE LOWDOWN PAGE A3

NEWS

NEWS

HEALTH

INSIDE

Former probation officer facing additional charges.

Pharmacy in Mossy Oaks area of Beaufort set to close in the next few weeks.

Protecting yourself from Lyme disease this summer.

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News Arts Voices Health Military Directory

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LOWCOUNTRY LIFE & NEWS Habersham’s Ron Callari submitted this photo of a “late bloomer” -- Amaryllis (genus Hippeastrum).

After flowering, they can be made to rebloom by allowing a dormant period (cool, dark, dry rest) before restarting the cycle with water and sunlight.

PUBLISHER Margaret Evans

EDITORIAL/DESIGN Editor-in-Chief

Mike McCombs theislandnews@ gmail.com

Assistant Editor Delayna Earley delayna. theislandnews@ gmail.com

Sports Editor

Justin Jarrett LowcoSports@ gmail.com

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VETERAN OF THE WEEK American Legion Beaufort Post 207 brings you Mary Heyward, 72, who graduated from Beaufort High School in 1972 and joined the Women Army Corps.

She attended Basic Training at Fort Jackson and then Advanced Computer Training to become a computer operator.

Her first duty station was at Fort Gordon, Ga., processing data for logistics and statistics. These were the days of punch cards, large reels of tapes and noisy

OBITUARY

Donald F. Miller

June 24, 1930 – June 23, 2026 St. Helena Island

Don Miller, of St. Helena Island, passed away on June 23, 2026.

Don was born to Ethel and Floyd Patton on June 24, 1930, in Albany, N.Y, where he spent his formative years. After receiving a Masters Degree from the University of Albany, he taught school and served in the National Guard.

Don began his career with the Foreign Service Division of the U.S. State Department in 1960.

During his 30-year career, he was with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and served in the African countries of Nigeria, Ethiopia, The Ivory Coast, Mauretania, Burundi, and Liberia. USAID’s core mission was to end extreme poverty, promote

line printers. After 3½ years, she transferred to Worms, Germany for another three-year assignment doing the same thing. She returned to the states to Fort Lewis, Wash. During that three-year tour, the Women Army Corps was transitioned into the Regular Army.

She went back to Germany for another tour at Stuttgart before reporting to Fort Jackson for Drill Sergeant School and duty as a drill instructor in a gender

Jere Russo

MARY HEYWARD

integrated unit.

She followed that tour at Advanced NCO Training at Fort Benjamin Harris, Ind., beMary fore returning Heyward for another three years in Stuttgart.

Her final assignment was at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, where she retired in 1994 as a Sergeant First Class with 22 years of service. She then returned to Beau-

JereRusso@ gmail.com

fort where she began a career with the Beaufort County IT Department and telephone services for 22 more years. Her oldest daughter has earned a MS/Ed.S. degree and is working towards her PhD while serving at TCL. – Compiled by John Chubb, American Legion Post 207.

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

democratic governance, provide disaster relief, and advance U.S. foreign policy and security inDonald F. terests globally.

Miller While serving with USAID, Don graduated from the National War College, where employees of federal agencies receive high level strategic leadership training in national security, defense, and foreign policy.

Due to his responsibilities as Regional Director of African Affairs, his position required a security detail. His assigned security codename was "HIPPO.” Don’s professional career granted him extensive travel, resulting in visits to six of the seven continents of the world.

Between his overseas assignments, he maintained residences in Washington, D.C., and Mt.

July 9

1868: Francis L. Cardozo is elected the state’s first African American Secretary of State.

1868: South Carolina, after the elections of 1868, ratifies the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

July 12 2019: Coinciding with the opening of the 64th Beaufort Water Festival, the League of Women Voters Beaufort and Indivisible Beaufort stage a Lights For Liberty vigil in protest of U.S. detention camps along the southern border.

Vernon, Va. In 1990, Don retired from the U.S. State Department, and moved to St. Helena Island, S.C. He was an avid tennis player and played competitively on Dataw Island. In addition to tennis, he excelled at every sport in which he competed, including baseball and basketball.

After retirement, Don was a dedicated volunteer, devoting much of his time to the Beaufort History Museum, and the Penn Center (the first school in the South for formerly enslaved West Africans). Don loved history, religion, teaching, travel, and collecting many different styles of art.

Don accumulated a wide variety of stunning artwork during his life, including everything from an extensive collection of African Art to Pipka Santas. In 2009, Don gifted a large portion of his African art collection to

sasha. theislandnews@ gmail.com

Accounting

April Ackerman april@ aandbbookkeeping. com

OBITUARIES

The Island News publishes obituaries, including a photo, free of charge. Please contact theislandnews@gmail.com for more information.

the University of Virginia.

Don was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Beaufort, S.C. Don is survived by his wife, Bonnie H. Miller of St. Helena Island, and his son, Gregory Miller of Beaufort, S.C. Don was preceded in death by his first wife, Sara, and his infant son, Brent.

In accordance with Don’s wishes, no funeral service will be held.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to St. John’s Lutheran Church, 157 Lady’s Island Drive, Beaufort, S.C. 29907.

Anderson Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family.

2019: Nate Livesay steps down as head boys basketball coach at Beaufort Academy.

2020: Twelve-year-old Gavin Moore of Beaufort wins the 50-mile Cremator Ultra endurance race from Beaufort Town Center to St. Helena Island and back, twice.

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

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

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

LEGAL NOTICES

July 14 2020: After being elected to three terms as Mayor of the City of Beaufort, Billy Keyserling announces he will not seek re-election.

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

-- Compiled by Mike McCombs – Compiled by Mike McCombs

CORRECTIONS

• In the July 2, 2026 edition of The Island News, in a story about the arrest of Beaufort County Communications Manager Laura Fanelli, her hire date and job duties were inaccurate. Fanelli was hired in 2018, and as Beaufort County’s communications manager, according to Beaufort County Public Information Officer Hannah Nichols, she is responsible for “strategically creating, designing, writing, publishing, and communicating county information to the public and media. This includes promoting County services, programs, news, and events while managing crisis communications when needed, and at the direction of the PIO.”

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

Donations gratefully accepted at www.yourislandnews.com or The Island News, PO Box 550, Beaufort, SC 29901 JULY 9-JULY 15, 2026

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THIS WEEK IN HISTORY

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

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

NEWS

Shooting

believe there is an ongoing threat to the public.

"We believe this was an isolated incident between these two groups," he said.

from page A1

gan when two groups of young people, consisting of both men and women ranging in age from 17 to 19, encountered one another near the beach access.

According to Tanner, an argument between the groups escalated into a physical fight between one individual from each group.

Moments after the first punches were thrown, gunfire erupted, sending beachgoers running for cover.

Authorities said eight adults suffered gunshot wounds or gunshot-related injuries during the incident.

Tanner said one victim suffered a grazing wound to the head, another was shot in the neck, and another was struck three times, including twice in the stomach. Other victims suffered wounds to the shoulder, arm, leg and foot. Some injured victims declined medical treatment at the scene.

The Beaufort County Sheriff's Office has not released the identities or conditions of the victims.

Four St. Helena Island residents charged Deputies quickly obtained descriptions of the suspects and their vehicle from witnesses while investigators simultaneously began reviewing surveillance footage from cameras positioned in the Coligny area.

According to Tanner, investigators identified the suspect vehicle on Pope Avenue at approximately 9:02 p.m., and stopped it on the Charles Fraser Bridge at about 9:07 p.m., less than an hour after the shooting.

Six occupants of the vehicle were detained and interviewed.

Following interviews and additional investigation, the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office announced the arrests of four St. Helena Island residents.

• Jayden Lorenzo Hawes, 18, is charged with attempted murder, possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime and aggravated breach of peace.

• Marcello Lopez Royal, 17, is charged with attempted murder, possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, aggravated breach of peace

Lowdown from page A1

citizens on Wednesday celebrated opening of the town’s new splash pad. Located in the Bruce Edgerly Park on 16th Street, the pad is being promoted as “a new way to play in Port Royal.”

Beaufort City Council, at one time, discussed putting a splash pad in the waterfront park but it was considered too much of an injury liability.

Port Royal’s schedule carried on most of the day with the Parris Island Marine Corps Band and others playing down at the Sands, concluding the annual fireworks display which lit up the river.

Some might not remem-

Hilton Head Island Mayor Alan Perry answers questions Sunday, July 5, 2026, at a press conference regarding the July 4 shooting at Coligny Beach on Hilton Head Island. Amber Hewitt/The Island News and sale or delivery of a pistol to and possession by certain persons unlawful involving a stolen pistol.

• Quazeir Rasheem Davis, 17, faces the same four charges as Royal.

• Christopher Charles Capers, 17, is charged with accessory after the fact to murder.

A review of Beaufort County Public Index records by The Island News shows separate General Sessions cases have been filed against each defendant.

Court records show Royal and Davis each received $10,000 cash or surety bonds on the charge of possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, $20,000 cash or surety bonds on the aggravated breach of peace charge and $10,000 cash or surety bonds on the charge involving possession of a stolen pistol. As of Monday afternoon, Public Index records reflected no cash or surety bond on the attempted murder charges.

Public Index records also show Capers was granted a $50,000 surety bond and has since been released from custody.

During Sunday's media briefing, Tanner stated that five people had been arrested and investigators expected charges against a sixth suspect.

Following the press conference, however, Beaufort County Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer Lt. Daniel Allen clarified to The

Island News that the sheriff misspoke. Allen confirmed four people have been arrested in connection with the shooting, consistent with the Sheriff's Office's written news releases.

Tanner said investigators continue gathering information regarding another possible suspect and indicated additional arrests and charges remain possible as detectives continue processing evidence, interviewing witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage.

ber this northern Beaufort County fireworks tradition hit a snag in 2020 when Port Royal AND Parris Island canceled their fireworks because of concerns about COVID. The Marine Corps Recruit Depot chose not to continue with its show, due to security issues but Port Royal “played on,” even though the 2021 show did have to be postponed due to an embarrassing technical malfunction.

(The Port Royal show did go on in September, kicking off the Labor Day Weekend.)

All this in the midst of a heat wave that’s keeping many – dare we say, most – folks inside for air-conditioned conditions.

One interesting observation, driving down Bay Street Saturday afternoon, was the presence of a number of small groups, with their

folding chairs and glasses of ice tea, set up along the Bluff, looking out at the Beaufort River, enjoying the breeze, possibly thanking God they’re not out there on that sand bar.

Technology helps investigators quickly identify suspects Tanner credited technology, combined with witness statements and the large law enforcement presence already assigned to Hilton Head Island for the Fourth of July holiday, with helping investigators move quickly.

Investigators reviewed video from the Sheriff's Office's mobile Verkada surveillance trailer, which had been positioned near the Coligny Beach entrance prior to the holiday following concerns about late-night criminal activity in the area.

The sheriff said the system captured the altercation and provided investigators with critical evidence.

In addition, license plate reader technology helped investigators identify and locate the suspect vehicle as it left the Coligny area.

"We have remarkable video," Tanner said. "We have

‘Ben Franklin’s’ visit to Beaufort adds to 4th fun BEAUFORT -- Since this column seems to be taking a positive note, kudos are due to the Historic Beaufort Foundation and their partners, the City of Beaufort, the county 250th Committee and others who started off July with a patriotic splash (no one fell in the water!).

To bring focus to the historic aspect of the 250th anniversary, the group sponsored several speaking events on Wednesday including a visit from GregRobin Smith, a living history presenter and Shake-

the entire incident."

Investigators also recovered four firearms during the investigation. According to Tanner, deputies recovered two firearms from marshland near the Charles Fraser Bridge after observing items being thrown from the suspect vehicle during the traffic stop. A third firearm was recovered from inside the vehicle, while a fourth was recovered from the beach.

One of those firearms, Tanner said, had been illegally converted to fire fully automatically.

Investigators continue gathering evidence Tanner said investigators are continuing to determine whether the shooting was gang-related but cautioned that it is too early to reach any conclusions.

"We're looking at every possibility," he said.

The sheriff also said investigators have identified approximately 150 witnesses and are continuing to review a large amount of surveillance and cellphone video collected from businesses, members of the public and law enforcement cameras.

The investigation has already generated numerous search warrants, and detectives continue processing evidence gathered from the scene and the traffic stop.

Despite the scope of the investigation, Tanner emphasized that officials do not spearean actor from Seattle who brought the presence of “Benjamin Franklin” to Beaufort.

(The Waterfront Park looked amazingly nice, with new landscaping and a perimeter fence, proposed by businessman Dick Stewart but paid for by the city, even if the city officials haven’t gotten an estimate yet on the cost to repair this failing asset.)

In addition to Smith braving the heat in his authentic Ben Franklin attire, special tribute must be paid to HBF director Lisa Sundra who stood with Smith, holding a kite, waiting, but not hoping, for lightning to strike.

Presence of ALRP cameras highlighted at HHI shooting BEAUFORT -- On a less than positive note, there’s been considerable online

Mayor calls shooting heartbreaking Hilton Head Island Mayor Alan Perry joined Tanner during Sunday's media briefing, calling the shooting devastating for the island community.

"I've been sick to my stomach since last night," Perry said. "I grew up here.

This is my home."

Perry thanked law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel and first responders for their rapid response, saying the outcome could have been much worse.

"Thank God nobody was killed," he said. "That's the fortunate thing. The unfortunate thing is that it happened in our backyard with thousands of people that we care about."

Perry said the Hilton Head Island Town Council plans to hold a special meeting to discuss additional public safety measures following the shooting.

He also said the town will continue working with the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office to expand security measures around Coligny Beach, including additional camera coverage and other technology aimed at preventing future violence.

Referring to the four defendants, who are listed in court and detention records as residents of St. Helena Island, Perry said, "When these thugs come in from out of town, we need to push them right back out."

At the same time, Perry urged residents and visitors not to allow the shooting to define Hilton Head Island.

"We can't rest our laurels on one bad incident," he said. "That's not who we are as a community. That does not define Hilton Head Island."

Sheriff disputes "mass shooting" label One of the more notable moments during Sunday's press conference came when Tanner interrupted a reporter's question after the incident was described as a mass shooting.

"This is not a mass shoot," Tanner said before answering the question.

He later explained that, discussion recently about the growing presence of surveillance video cameras in the community, a presence which played out July 4 at Coligny Plaza on Hilton Head Island.

Unfortunately, seven individuals suffered non-fatal gunshot wounds in a shooting after an altercation near the beach.

Fortunately, the area had security cameras and Flock Safety Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR) which helped the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office to arrest four suspects within hours.

In response to public concerns about crime in the in the area, Hilton Head Island town officials were all ready at work to install surveillance cameras.

A recent report in The Island Packet stated there are at least 70 such automat-

in his view, whether an incident qualifies as a mass shooting depends on the intended target rather than solely on the number of people injured.

Tanner's comments drew a distinction from the public discussion following the October 2025 shooting at Willie's Bar & Grill on St. Helena Island. That incident also stemmed from violence involving rival groups in a crowded public setting and left several people dead and others wounded, including bystanders. While the Willie's shooting was widely described as a mass shooting in public reporting and discussion, Tanner did not publicly challenge that characterization during his public briefings at the time.

The sheriff also said the Coligny Beach shooting underscores the need for additional investment in public safety infrastructure.

He pointed to surveillance technology as one of the most valuable tools investigators used in quickly identifying suspects and said he would like to see expanded camera coverage throughout the Coligny area, along with improved lighting and landscaping changes designed to eliminate places where people can conceal themselves after dark.

"It's critical and crucial that we continue to invest our energy and our money into things that work," Tanner said. "Technology is just one of those things."

The investigation remains active, and additional arrests and charges remain possible.

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact lead investigator Sgt. Matthew Aaron of the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office at 843-255-3436.

Anonymous tips may also be submitted through Crime Stoppers of Beaufort County using the P3 Tips app, by visiting TIPSBFT.com, or by calling 844-TIPS-BFT. 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. ic pole-mounted surveillance devices, which can also read auto license plates, placed throughout the county.

Some consider the ALPR’s an invasion of privacy because the data they collect can be used to determine individual’s travel patterns.

Their use has been legally challenged in lawsuits across the country.

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. The Rowland, N.C. native’s goal is to be factual but opinionated, based on her own observations. Feel free to contact her at bftbay@gmail.com.

Focused on our clients and helping them hit their targets.

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NEWS

Scratch Italian Kitchen closing; Piace Pizza moving

Shell Point restaurant purchased by Lady’s Island pizza restaurant

By Mike McCombs The Island News Scratch Italian Kitchen + Bar is closing later this month and Piace Pizza, currently located on Lady’s Island, will be taking its place.

According to Nick Borregine, the owner of Scratch, as well as Fat Patties, its predecessor for more than a decade in the same location, the business was sold to Piace.

“Our last day is the [July 26],” he said Monday afternoon. “We’ll be closed on [July 27], and they’ll have about a week to turn it into themselves.”

A post on the Scratch Facebook page Monday afternoon announced the closing.

“To our incredible Community, Friends, and Guests, Scratch will be closing on July 26th.

“This decision was not made lightly, but it comes at the right

time for our family as we prepare to step into our next season. While it is bittersweet to say goodbye we are not going anywhere. Keep an eye out for future special event

catering. We love this community and all of you.

“Thanks to all of our staff over the 15 years in this building.

Thanks to all of you who allowed us to be part of your lives. We are grateful for all the memories and the entire journey.

“With our deepest gratitude,” The move by Piace, located at 1 Merchant’s Lane on Lady’s Island, was announced in a Facebook post earlier in the day.

“We have some important & bittersweet news to share.

“After so many wonderful years on Lady's Island, Piace Pizza is moving to 831 Parris Island Gateway in Shell Point area! While we're sad to leave the community that has supported us for so long, we're incredibly grateful for this opportunity to grow. Our new location will give us more room to serve you and expand our menu

with even more delicious options.

“Our last day on Lady's Island will be Sunday, July 26. Our sister restaurant next door will be closing on Friday, July 17 so we can begin the moving process and get back to serving you as quickly as possible.

“We're hoping to open our new location around August 7 (pending the move), and we'll keep everyone updated if that date changes.

“Thank you for your love, support, and loyalty over the years.

You aren't just our customers — you've become family. We can't wait to welcome you to our new home and continue serving you for many years to come.”

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

LEGAL NOTICES STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF BEAUFORT IN THE PROBATE COURT FOURTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT CIVIL ACTION NO. 2026-CP-07-01099 NON-JURY Melonie Quimbley, Willie Michael Darden, Ashely Thomas, Mikelle Darden, Michael Darden, Jeffrey Darden, Kenisha Jackson, Frednisha Morton, Freddie Morton, III, and Christopher Morton.

Plaintiffs, vs The heirs and/or devisees of Freddie Morton,Sr., Pamela Darden, and Freddie Morton, Jr. and As Adjoining Land Owners: Ruthie Lee Gadson, Demetrius Gadson, Brook Gadson, Beatrice Gadson, Patrick Young, Jr., Lauretta H. Young, James Green, Sr., Victoria Frazier, Connie Washington, and Frank Washington, if living; and if not living, then the heirs or devisees of all such persons named above; and all persons unknown having or claiming to have any right, title, interest in or lien upon the real property described in the Complaint herein, being designated collectively as JOHN DOE and MARY ROE; including all persons who may be deceased, minors, in the Armed Forces of the United States, Non-Compos Mentis, and who may be under any disability, Defendants YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED AND REQUIRED TO ANSWER the Complaint in the above-entitled action, the original of which has been filed in the Office of the Clerk of Court for Beaufort County, South Carolina on March 6, 2024; and to serve a copy of your Answer to said Complaint on the undersigned subscriber at Heritage Law Firm, PC, 1011 Bay Street, Suite 2B, Beaufort, South Carolina, 29902, within thirty (30) days after service hereof, exclusive of the day of such service, and if you fail to answer the Complaint within the time aforesaid, the Plaintiffs in this action will apply to the Court for the relief demanded in said Complaint.

TO ANY UNKNOWN DEFENDANT ADULTS, PERSONS UNDER SOME LEGAL DISABILITY, MINOR(S) OVER FOURTEEN YEARS OF AGE, AND/OR TO MINOR(S) UNDER FOURTEEN YEARS OF AGE, AND THE PERSON WITH WHOM THE MINOR(S) RESIDES, ALL BEING A CLASS DESIGNATED AS JOHN DOE: YOU ARE FURTHER SUMMONED AND NOTIFIED that Plaintiffs have applied for the appointment of a guardian ad litem nisi to represent any unknown adults, said persons under some legal disability and minors; and if you fail to apply for the appointment of a Guardian ad Litem within thirty (30) days after such service of this Summons and Notice upon you, the Plaintiff’s appointment will be made absolute with no further action from the Plaintiffs.

HERITAGE LAW FIRM, PC By: s/Cherese T. Handy Cherese T. Handy, Esq. S.C. Bar #103184 ATTORNEY FOR PLAINTIFF 1011 Bay Street, Suite 2B Beaufort, South Carolina 29902 Beaufort, South Carolina Phone: (843)894-6998 June 30, 2026 chandy@heritage-firm.com; TRUSTEE'S NOTICE OF SALE 95-44 Pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. §§ 27-32-300, et. seq., NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN of the intent of the undersigned Trustee, KING CUNNINGHAM, LLC, to sell the below described Properties at Public Auction to the highest bidders for cash on 7/23/2026 beginning at 9:30 A.M. The Public Auction shall occur at the Office of Bolchoz Law Firm, 6 Buckingham Plantation Rd, Ste B, Bluffton, SC 29910. Property Descriptions: A fee simple undivided interest (SEE EXHIBIT "A") in the Project as tenant(s) in common with the holders of other undivided interests in and to the timeshare property known as MBV VACATION SUITES, as established in 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 R.O.D. Office for Beaufort County, South Carolina, as amended or supplemented (the “Declaration”), having Interval Control Number (SEE EXHIBIT "A"). The names and notice address of the obligor(s), record owner(s) of the timeshare estate (if different from the obligor(s), and junior interest or lienholder(s) (if applicable) (hereinafter referred to as “Obligors”) are identified in Exhibit “A”. The sale of the Properties is to satisfy the defaults in payment by the Obligors of the obligations secured by those certain Mortgages to HHI Development, LLC as recorded in the records of Beaufort County, South Carolina and detailed in Exhibit “A”. The amounts secured by the MORTGAGES, including accrued interest and late charges now owing along with a per diem amount to account for further accrual of interest and late charges are detailed in Exhibit “A”, together with any and all additional principal, interest, costs coming due and payable hereafter. The successful bidders shall be required to pay, in cash or certified funds, at the time of the bid, unless the successful bidder is the Creditor, which shall reserve a credit against its bid for the Total Owing as set forth in Exhibit “A”. The successful bidders shall also be required to pay for Deed Preparation, Documentary Stamps, or transfer fee, and Recording Costs. This sale is subject to all taxes, liens, easements, encumbrances, assessments, and/or senior mortgage liens of record and the undersigned Trustee gives no opinion thereto. An Obligor has the right to cure the default, and a Junior Lienholder has the right to redeem its interest up to the date of that the Trustee issues the Certificate of Sale pursuant to S.C. Code

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JULY 9-JULY 15, 2026

Ann. § 27-32-345. KING CUNNINGHAM, LLC, Trustee and Attorney for HHI Development, LLC, by Jeffrey W. King, SC Bar # 15840; or W. Joseph Cunningham, SC Bar # 72655, P.O. Box 4896, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29597, (843)-249-0777. EXHIBIT “A” – NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE Owner(s), Address, TS Interest, TS Interval Control No., MTG BK/PG, Default Amount, Trustee’s Fee, Interest, Total Amount Due, Per DiemRAYANN AYMAN NASSER&ABDULMOHSAN AMEER ALOBAIDAN 180801 N SUNITA AVE APT 1210, HIGHLAND VILLAGE, TX 75077, 0.0147723220820258%, U2204 -W38B, 4065/2214, $27,782.91, $450, $171, $28,232.91, $9.17; JULIUS QUINTIN MALLETTE&SHARON FREEMAN MALLETTE 517 CRESTLINE BLVD, GREENVILLE, NC 27834, 0.0147723220820258%, U2202-W47B, 3724/2523, $16,649.40, $450, $171, $17,099.40, $7.49; JAMES DAVID DELOOF&LORETTA ANN SANDORA-DELOOF 1102 OTTAWAS LANE, EAST TAWAS, MI 48730, 0.0147723220820258%, U2405-W9B, 4048/608, $27,160.18, $450, $171, $27,610.18, $7.51; SHANNON ADRIANSE&RONALD ADRIANSE 166 ROBBINS DR, FOREST CITY, NC 28043-9504, 0.0073861610410129%, U2405-W3E, 4197/818, $27,373.41, $450, $171, $27,823.41, $13.49; MICHAEL J. SEILER JR&JENNIFER FULTZ SEILER 1460 BRENTWOOD WAY, EARLYSVILLE, VA 22936, 0.0147723220820258%, U1202-W9B, 4338/1549, $38,625.93, $450, $171, $39,075.93, $15.19; SYLVIA NICOLE BROWN&ANTHONY BROWN 5388 W BLOOMFIELD LAKE RD, WEST BLOOMFIELD, MI 48323-2410, 0.0073861610410129%, U1301-W1E, 4284/681, $13,949.58, $450, $171, $14,399.58, $6.19; MARION ELAINE STREATER-JOHNSON&CHAUNELLE E. SALTERS 1880 LAFAYETTE AVE APT 17H, BRONX, NY 10473-2720, 0.0147723220820258%, U1605-W51B, 4212/2960, $11,935.40, $450, $171, $12,385.40, $4.13; SCOTT MICHAEL MCVAY 113 VASSAR COURT, MURFREESBORO, TN 37129, 0.0073861610410129%, U1502-W1E, 4150/2926, $11,815.84, $450, $171, $12,265.84, $5.6; BILLIE JEAN LEPLA&KEVIN GLENN LEPLA 2629 SHIPSTON CT, WARREN, MI 480911683, 0.0073861610410129%, U1502-W49E, 4349/1842, $14,816.14, $450, $171, $15,266.14, $7.83; LYDIA ALICE COLBERT&ALTON NELVIN COLBERT 489 S CARLSON ST, WESTLAND, MI 48186-4056, 0.0073861610410129%, U1201-W3O, 4440/1623, $16,821.03, $450, $171, $17,271.03, $7.71;TAMIKO ROCHELLE COOK 7476 LARCHMONT RD, HAYES, VA 23072-3518, 0.0147723220820258%, U2204-W1B, 4471/2252, $25,923.34, $450, $171, $26,373.34, $11.31;JAMES MICHAEL TCHERNESHOFF&MAUREEN LOUISE TCHERNESHOFF P. O. BOX 12006, HUNTSVILLE, AL 35815-2006, 0.0147723220820258%, U2607-W30B, 4201/1066, $30,234.81, $450, $171, $30,684.81, $10.69;JAMES MICHAEL TCHERNESHOFF&MAUREEN LOUISE TCHERNESHOFF P. O. BOX 12006, HUNTSVILLE, AL 35815-2006, 0.0147723220820258%, U2206-W8B, 3941/1903, $20,809.53, $450, $171, $21,259.53, $7.13;BRIAN J. METZKO&ASHLEY ANN GRAY 494 MURRAY LN, STRANG, OK 74367, 0.0073861610410129%, U1305-W11E, 3685/412, $9,989.47, $450, $171, $10,439.47, $4.33;STEPHANIE M. MILLER&KARLTON D. HENDERSON 9748 S LUELLA AVE, CHICAGO, IL 60617, 0.0073861610410129%, U1306-W6O, 4210/1420, $14,493.16, $450, $171, $14,943.16, $7.39.; TIPPI SHRADER MOORE&RICKY DEAN MOORE 8012 HAYDEN DR, KNOXVILLE, TN 379195515, 0.0073861610410129%, U1201-W19E, 4365/2504, $7,744.74, $450, $171, $8,194.74, $3.16; RICHARD ARTHUR PERKINS 3108 E STROOP RD, DAYTON, OH 45440, 0.0147723220820258%, U2302-W32B, 3802/73, $27,963.88, $450, $171, $28,413.88, $12.09; JACQUELINE JONES HILL&ALVIN HENRY HILL 3305 LAKE BEND DR, FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28311-7661, 0.0147723220820258%, U1405-W22B, 3642/178, $4,611.85, $450, $171, $5,061.85, $1.39; KACEY NICHOLE MAMO 124 PENDULUM RDG, GRANITEVILLE, SC 29829-2837, 0.0073861610410129%, U1102-W31E, 3745/1848, $38,271.48, $450, $171, $38,721.48, $7.91; HENRY WENDT PARKER 317 SEMINOLE DR, BLACKSBURG, VA 24060, 0.0073861610410129%, U1306-W50E, 3835/109, $7,755.84, $450, $171, $8,205.84, $2.84; BRADLY BUNDRANT&JO MERRELL BUNDRANT PO BOX 800, HALLETTSVILLE, TX 77964-0800, 0.0147723220820258%, U1611-W41B, 3778/3359, $13,231.90, $450, $171, $13,681.90, $3.26; CHARLES L. JENKINS JR&CHERYL LEVERT JENKINS 306 PLEASURE ISLE DR, ERLANGER, KY 41017-9460, 0.0073861610410129%, U2301-W49E, 4186/1750, $18,201.59, $450, $171, $18,651.59, $5.54; SUNDE SILLMAN&MARK THOMAS SILLMAN 1402 BOXWOOD, APEX, NC 27502, 0.0147723220820258%, U1308-W1B, 4315/2060, $30,374.12, $450, $171, $30,824.12, $11.27.

TRUSTEE'S NOTICE OF SALE 95-44 Pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. §§ 27-32-300, et. seq., NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN of the intent of the undersigned Trustee, KING CUNNINGHAM, LLC, to sell the below described Properties at Public Auction to the highest bidders for cash on 7/23/2026 beginning at 9:30 A.M. The Public Auction shall occur at the Office of Bolchoz Law Firm, 6 Buckingham Plantation Rd, Ste B, Bluffton, SC 29910. Property Descriptions: A fee simple undivided interest (SEE EXHIBIT "A") in the Project as tenant(s) in common with the holders of other undivided interests in and to the timeshare property known as MBV VACATION SUITES, as established in 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 R.O.D. Office for Beaufort County, South Carolina, as amended or supplemented (the “Declaration”), having Interval Control Number (SEE EXHIBIT "A"). The names and notice address of the obligor(s), record owner(s) of the timeshare estate (if different from

the obligor(s), and junior interest or lienholder(s) (if applicable) (hereinafter referred to as “Obligors”) are identified in Exhibit “A”. The sale of the Property is to satisfy the default in payment by the Obligor/Owner of the property owners association dues, assessments, special assessments, and/or taxes (collectively “Assessments”) to MBV Vacation Owners Association, Inc., as more particularly described in the certain CLAIM OF LIEN recorded in the records of Beaufort County, South Carolina as detailed in Exhibit “A”. The amounts secured by the CLAIM OF LIEN, including principal, interest and costs now owing together with any and all additional dues, assessments, costs, other fees, and interest coming due and payable hereafter are detailed in Exhibit “A”, together with any advances made for the payment of taxes, insurance and/or maintenance of the Timeshare Interest(s) (collectively “Advances”) and costs of the sale, including a title search fee, and Trustee’s and attorney’s fees and costs (collectively “Costs”). The successful bidder, other than the Creditor, shall be required to pay in cash or certified funds at the time of the bid. If the Creditor is the successful bidder at the sale, it shall receive a credit against its bid for the Total Amount Due set forth in Exhibit “A”. The successful bidder shall also be required to pay for Deed Preparation, Documentary Stamps, or transfer fee, and Recording Costs. This sale is subject to all taxes, liens, easements, encumbrances, assessments, and/or senior mortgage liens of record and the undersigned Trustee gives no opinion thereto. An Obligor has the right to cure the default, and a Junior Lienholder has the right to redeem its interest up to the date of that the Trustee issues the Certificate of Sale pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. § 27-32-345. KING CUNNINGHAM, LLC, Trustee, by Jeffrey W. King, SC Bar # 15840; or W. Joseph Cunningham, SC Bar # 72655, P.O. Box 4896, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29597, (843)-249-0777.

EXHIBIT “A” – NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE Owner(s), Address, TS Interest, TS Interval Control No., Lien BK/PG, Default Amount, Trustee’s Fee, NOS Costs, Total Amount Due; DAVID WILLIAM MAIN & LOUISE CURRIN MAIN, 812 EAGLE DR GRIFFIN, GA 30223-7250, 0.014772322082, U2506-W44B, 4496/818, $2,508.38, $450, $98.8, $3,057.18; PEKETA HENDERSON LONG & CLARISSA HENDERSON, 1513 PEACE ST HENDERSON, NC 27536, 0.014772322082, U2205-W16B, 4496/820,

$2,508.38, $450, $98.8, $3,057.18; SUNDAY JULIUS EKOJA , 19 PILOT RIDGE CT GREENSBORO, NC 27407, 0.0073861610410129, U2308-W6O, 4496/844, $2,514.05, $450, $98.8, $3,062.85; JAMES CHUCK ARCHIE , 2209 PARK STREET COLUMBIA, SC 29201, 0.0073861610410129, U2208-W6O, 4496/848, $3,018.21, $450, $98.8, $3,567.01; EDWARD CHESTER SPYRA & REBECCA LYNNE SPYRA, 667 MOUNT HAMMOND LN CHARLES TOWN, WV 25414, 0.014772322082, U1304-W23B, 4496/804, $2,949.83, $450, $98.8, $3,498.63; ANN ELNA HOWARD & DAVID A. HOWARD, 3571 LOST MEADOW CT ST. LOUIS, MO 63129, 0.0073861610410129, U1301-W49E, 4496/868, $3,343.60, $450, $98.8, $3,892.40; FREDERICK JOSEPH SHEAHIN & PATRICIA LEE SHEAHIN, 23994 BENJAMIN HARRISON CIRCLE MILLSBORO, DE 19966-8217, 0.014772322082, U1609-W49B, 4496/872, $4,399.82, $450, $98.8, $4,948.62; RENEE CHERYL DE LIGNY & ROBERT JAMES DE LIGNY, 25209 HARMONY WOODS DR MILLSBORO, DE 19966, 0.0073861610410129, U2402-W50O, 4496/856, $3,018.21, $450, $98.8, $3,567.01; HOLLY BUMSTED MORRIS & JOSEPH TYLER BUMSTED, 4821 SOUTH LANDING DRIVE UNIT 103 FORT MYERS, FL 33919, 0.0147723220820258, U1403-W19O, 4496/836, $2,096.62, $450, $98.8, $2,645.42; UGUNDA DAMASHUN WELLS , 902 SOUTHWESTERN DR CEDAR HILL, TX 75104, 0.0073861610410129, U1507-W6O, 4496/874, $2,514.05, $450, $98.8, $3,062.85; LINDA JACKSON BARNES & ARTHUR RAYNAL BARNES, 4880 HEARTHSTONE ROAD CLEMMONS, NC 270127710, 0.0147723220820258, U2303-W43B, 4496/876, $1,881.26, $450, $98.8, $2,430.06; ERIC MICHAEL DISANTO , 18944 WENTWORTH AVE LANSING, IL 60438, 0.0073861610410129, U2408-W1E, 4496/862, $3,253.22, $450, $98.8, $3,802.02; CAROL E. GAYFANTINI , 280 GOBBLERS KNOB LN WINCHESTER, VA 22602-2177, 0.0147723220820258, U2405-W14B, 4496/830, $2,633.75, $450, $98.8, $3,182.55; MICHAEL KEEGAN & JACQUELINE ALICE KEEGAN, 36614 N 14TH ST PHOENIX, AZ 85086-8492, 0.0147723220820258, U2110-W35B, 4496/850, $1,593.75, $450, $98.8, $2,142.55; CHARLES THOMAS SMALLWOOD , 10 SCOTCH DAM RD SOUTH EASTON, MA 02375-1014, 0.0073861610410129, U1511-W30B, 4496/832, $2,216.32, $450, $98.8, $2,765.12; BRITTANY

NANCY WACKERLY & TYLER WAYNE WACKERLY, 4125 ASHWAY AVE SE CANTON, OH 44707, 0.0147723220820258, U2507-W50B, 4496/840, $2,633.75, $450, $98.8, $3,182.55; THELMA ROBERTS & EMMANUEL NYAWAY, 3009 AKRON DR HOPE MILLS, NC 28348-9668, 0.0073861610410129, U2508-W6O, 4496/846, $2,514.02, $450, $98.8, $3,062.82; DIINAH CARLESE GINN & KEVIN REGINAL GINN, 4946 SWORD RD VIRGINIA BEACH, VA 23455, 0.0073861610410129, U2402-W3E, 4496/860, $4,090.17, $450, $98.8, $4,638.97; JACKIE NICOLE GODDARD & LORENZO MAURICE GODDARD, 800 OAK ROSE LN ROLESVILLE, NC 27571-3303, 0.0073861610410129, U1307-W48E, 4496/834, $2,998.65, $450, $98.8, $3,547.45; FRANK T. KOPCIAL & NJIDEKA EMILY ORIMILIKWE, 4819 NICHOLAS POINT DR GROVE CITY, OH 43123, 0.014772322082, U1210-W15B, 4496/802, $1,721.56, $450, $248.8, $2,420.36; MARK A. SHAFRANICH , 6095 CATALINA DR. UNIT 1815 NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, SC 29582, 0.007386161041, U1307-W44O, 4496/810, $2,096.62, $450, $248.8, $2,795.42.; JIAYAN CHEN , 1865 LAKE LILA LANE APT A2 ANN ARBOR, MI 48105, 0.007386161041, U1304-W3O, 4496/812, $2,388.63, $450, $248.8, $3,087.43; JEFFREY LYNN BOOTH & CATHERINE V. NOLDE, 82 MAIN STREET TURBOTVILLE, PA 17772, 0.007386161041, U1304-W44O, 4496/814, $1,860.71, $450, $248.8, $2,559.51; LIONEL G. BROWN & MARGARETA BROWN, 19 SHEPARD HILL RD NEWTOWN, CT 06470-1936, 0.0147723220820258, U1607-W40B, 4496/824, $2,508.38, $450, $248.8, $3,207.18; JOHN MOORE GAMBLE , 2299 CAVALRY BLVD JACKSONVILLE, FL 32246-4202, 0.0073861610410129, U1204-W42O, 4496/826, $2,388.63, $450, $248.8, $3,087.43; PAMELA SUE FORD & DONAL KENT FORD, 3900 WENDY ANN CIRCLE WEST PALM BEACH, FL 33417, 0.0147723220820258, U2401-W16B, 4496/838, $2,633.75, $450, $248.8, $3,332.55; DONNA MARIE LARGENT & DANA HEATH LARGENT, 3613 CARMEL HILLS DRIVE DENTON, TX 76208, 0.0073861610410129, U2503-W7O, 4496/852, $2,518.54, $450, $248.8, $3,217.34; NORMA LINDA BOGGS & JOSHUA M. BOGGS, 9002 TRAIL DUST SAN ANTONIO, TX 78254, 0.0073861610410129, U2401-W50E, 4496/858, $3,253.22, $450, $248.8, $3,952.02; THOMAS C. PIEPER & NANCY L. PIEPER, 609 BEACH WAY SUMMERVILLE, SC 29486-2414,

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

0.0073861610410129, U1501-W7E, 4496/864, $3,253.22, $450, $248.8, $3,952.02; RANJIT R KHANNA & HOLLY ELIZABETH FOSTER-KHANNA, 50 COLLEEN CT KENDALL PARK, NJ 08824-1522, 0.0073861610410129, U1610-W6E, 4496/866, $4,068.12, $450, $248.8, $4,766.92; CONNIE DIAN EPLEY & BARRY LEE EPLEY, 1118 MAPLE ST GOLDEN, CO 80401-1172, 0.014772322082, U1202-W6B, 4496/870, $2,241.02, $450, $248.8, $2,939.82 NOTICE OF APPLICATION Notice is hereby given that DVVY Group LLC dba Cafe al Dente 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/or liquor at is 303 Parkside Commons, Building D, Space 3 in New Riverside, Bluffton SC, 29910. To object to the issuance of this license and/ or permit, you must submit Form ABL-20, postmarked no later than July 23, 2026. Submit protests online at MyDORWAY.dor.sc.gov, or email ABL@dor.sc.gov.

NOTICE OF APPLICATION To all persons claiming an interest in: 2009-18'-MCKEE CRAFT-MKCV8211E809 JOSEPH BRUNN will apply to SCDNR for title on watercraft/outboard motor. If you have any claim to the watercraft/ outboard motor, contact SCDNR at (803) 734-3699. Upon thirty days after the date of the last advertisement if no claim of interest is made and the watercraft/outboard motor has not been reported stolen, SCR shall issue clear title.

Case No: 20251022950823

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

DECEDENT

PERSONAL PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE REPRESENTATIVE

PUB. DATE PUB. DATE

PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

PUB. DATE

JosephDawn FrankCarr Anastasia Laura 05/17/2025 Date of Death: 2/18/2026 2025ES0700899 Case Number: 2026ES0700647

Elisa O’Connor Patrick William Carr 16 William C/O 1917 LovejoyPope StreetDrive, Ste. 202 Bluffton, SC 29909 Beaufort, 29902

08/21/2025 06/25/2026

Frederick Ray LilesJr. Frank A. Heinrich, Date of Death: 07/05/2025 1/20/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700943 2026ES0700686

Melaine S. M. Smith Alexander Heinrich PO Box C/O P.O. BOX1107 5925 Beaufort, 29901 SC 29938 Hilton HeadSCIsland,

08/28/2025 07/02/2026

Jerry Joseph Dittle David Alan Cooke 03/01/2025 Date of Death: 5/11/2025 2025ES0700903 Case Number: 2026ES0700255

Lori R. Cullen Deborah Kay Cooke 16 William C/O P.O. BOX 313Pope Drive, Ste. 202 29909 Bluffton, SC 29910

08/21/2025 06/25/2026

Alan Michaelson; NancyJoel Jean O’Mara AKA Alan J. Michaelson Date of Death: 06/29/2025 5/31/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700944 2026ES0700691

Catherine Grubell Ronald E. Crider 16 William Dr.,Road, Ste. 202 C/O 1533 FordingPope Island Suite 294 Bluffton, SC 29909 Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

08/28/2025 07/02/2026

Marguerite Amya YvetteAnne FieldsFord 07/01/2025 Date of Death: 1/18/2026 2025ES0700906 Case Number: 2026ES0700662

Michael Ralph Tymaine FieldsFord PO Box C/O P.O. BOX5098 1538 Hilton Head SC 29938 Beaufort, SC Island, 29901-2478

08/21/2025 06/25/2026

John Edward Miracle; AKA John E. Miracle Thomas J. Rudasics Date of Death: 04/05/2025 3/19/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700932 2026ES0700690

Geraldine John ForbesG. Miracle PO Box 5098 1107 C/O P.O. DRAWER Hilton Head Beaufort, SC Island, 29901 SC 29938

08/28/2025 07/02/2026

Anna Maria Wilhelmina Haije Jackson Graham Dorothy A. Graham AKA La Dorothy 07/21/2025 Date of Death: 1/6/2026 2025ES0700892 Case Number: 2026ES0700649

Helma Franisca Elizabeth GrahamCap 17 Brams Point Rd. 42 Marsh Drive Hilton Head Beaufort, SC Island, 29907 SC 29926

08/21/2025 06/25/2026

Raymond Carl Pettersen Loren Bozarth Date of Death: 06/09/2025 2/25/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700929 2026ES0700381

08/28/2025 07/09/2026

Rita Marie O’Brien Eileen Howard Grove 07/25/2025 Date of Death: 5/14/2026 2025ES0700913 Case Number: 2026ES0700658

JohnK.M.Carver O’Brien, Jr. Kay C/O Adrienne PO DrawerWay 1107 760 Beaufort SC 29901 The Villages, FL 32163

08/21/2025 06/25/2026

Marilyn Kolbe Thomas RichardOlsen Hahn 05/30/2025 Date of Death: 3/22/2026 2025ES0700733 Case Number: 2026ES0700659

08/21/2025 06/25/2026

Robert Francis A. Parham, Jr. Jr. Harold Hawkins 07/09/2025 Date of Death: 4/9/2026 2025ES0700912 Case Number: 2026ES0700650

ConnieS.L.Hahn Olsen Carrie 112 Executive C/O P.O. BOX 22230Center 1 Corpus Christi Place, Hilton Head Island, SC #112 29925 Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 V. Alex Dorobantu Timothy Hawkins 1110Pinckney Pick Pocket Plantation Dr. Ste. C/O 10 Colony Road, Suite 400A Beaufort,SCSC29909 29902 Bluffton,

William John M. Roberson, Jr. Charles J. McOuat Charles McOuat AKA 05/20/2025 Date of Death: 4/29/2026 2025ES0700645 Case Number: 2026ES0700652

Lacey Michelle Robert McOuat Godec PO Drawer 1023 C/O P.O. BOX 5098 Beaufort, 29901 SC 29938 Hilton HeadSCIsland,

08/21/2025 06/25/2026

AndrewHernandez Gerard Schiavone, Marisol Pizarro III 06/09/2025 Date of Death: 2/2/2026 2025ES0700751 Case Number: 2026ES0700646

MelissaR. M. Schiavone Linda Tsien PO Church DrawerStreet 1107 C/O 115 Beaufort, SCSC29901 Charleston, 29401

08/21/2025 06/25/2026

Ronald Gene Tune Terri L. Rodney-Brown 06/30/2025 Date of Death: 12/29/2025 2025ES0700914 Case Number: 2026ES0700655

RodneyM.A.Rodney-Brown Schaake Coleen PO BoxLaw 22230 C/O Jolley Group, P.O. BOX 22230 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925

08/21/2025 06/25/2026

Melva Jean Shelton Wheeler James Simmons 07/16/2025 Date of Death: 9/4/2025 2025ES0700893 Case Number: 2025ES0701082

Teresa Lynn Anthony Jennifer Smart PO Box C/O P.O. BOX7906 1727 Hilton Head Beaufort, SC Island, 29901 SC 29938

08/21/2025 06/25/2026

Charles P.Fain Williams Sandra Boggess 07/23/2025 Date of Death: 5/22/2026 2025ES0700889 Case Number: 2026ES0700692

Laura Sutcliffe Ann Richardson David 2662P.O. Broad C/O BOXStreet 2358 29902 Beaufort, SC 29901

08/21/2025 07/02/2026

DonaldH.Simeon Nancy Cope Zuidema; AKA Donald S. Zuidema 04/29/2025 Date of Death: 2/22/2026 2025ES0700904 Case Number: 2026ES0700613

MarianneE.Zuidema Thomas Cope, Jr. C/OBirdsong 3404 Salterbeck 63 Way, Apt.Street, B-201Ste. 204 Mt. Pleasant, SC 29466 Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

08/21/2025 07/02/2026

PatriciaMarkus Francis Corille CroccoCushing Robert 07/29/2025 Date of Death: 7/10/2025 2025ES0700931 Case Number: 2026ES0700693

John F. Scott CroccoCushing Robert PO Box C/O P.O. 118 BOX 21668 Southport, 06890SC 29925 Hilton HeadCTIsland,

08/28/2025 07/02/2026

Charles Oliver Barbara Maria Golson DammelIII 09/28/2024 Date of Death: 5/17/2026 2024ES0701357 Case Number: 2026ES0700675

NancyRainer L. Golson Ralph Dammel C/OHill 16 William Pope Dr., Ste. 202 641 Farm Lane Bluffton, SC PA 29909 Springfield, 19064

08/28/2025 07/02/2026

GladysB.Kline Legare Sheila Gefen 04/27/2025 Date of Death: 5/4/2026 2025ES0700933 Case Number: 2026ES0700671

Charisse Lisa GefenParker Sicilian PO Box C/O P.O. BOX2478 3435 Beaufort,SCSC29910 29901-2478 Bluffton,

08/28/2025 07/02/2026

Frank L. Hart Date of Death: 5/6/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0700585

Geneva D. Cole Patricia Ann Wilson Date of Death: 5/16/2026 Date Death: 2026ES0700721 07/12/2025 Case of Number: Case Number: 2025ES0700916 Deborah Dickey Connor Mary Grey Boatwright Date of Death: 7/16/2025 Date Death: 2026ES0700702 08/04/2025 Case of Number: Case Number: 2025ES0700963 Carl D. Crankshaw Francis Brien; AKA Francis C. Brien Date ofCharles Death: 5/22/2026 Date Death: 2026ES0700710 07/11/2025 Case of Number: Case Number: 2025ES0700946 Harold D. Depkin, Jr. Arthur Emerson Date ofAndrew Death: 4/1/2026 Date Death: 2026ES0700712 07/27/2025 Case of Number: Case Number: 2025ES0700956 Frank Geiger Ervin Fitzgerald Date ofGene Death: 3/3/2026 Date Death: 2026ES0700713 12/24/2024 Case of Number: Case Number: 2025ES0700948 Kelia Ann Head Robin Date ofRaines Death:Hoffer 4/6/2026 Date Death: 2026ES0700577 04/27/2025 Case of Number: Case Number: 2025ES0700964 Thomas Richard Larsson Stanley M. Lawson Date of Death: 2/8/2026 Date Death: 2026ES0700708 06/21/2025 Case of Number: Case Number: 2025ES0700961 Kirt Travis Lindeman Joe Lieser DateWilliam of Death: 4/15/2026 Date Death: 2026ES0700724 07/12/2025 Case of Number: Case Number: 2025ES0700857 Shirley Wilson Loggans Date of Death: 4/14/2026 Larry Cecil Millender Case Number: 2026ES0700700 Date of Death: 02/19/2025 Case Number: Richard Joseph2025ES0700974 Ryan Date of Death: 3/21/2026 Suzanne Rekate2026ES0700636 Post Case Number: Date of Death: 07/21/2025 Case AlbertNumber: Michael2025ES0700962 Sramek Date of Death: 12/25/2025 Kelly Lynn Sullivan Case Number: 2026ES0700716 Date of Death: 07/21/2025 Case 2025ES0700954 MarkNumber: Timothy Thalman Date of Death: 3/25/2026 James Franklin2026ES0700714 Willard Case Number: Date of Death: 07/02/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700957

Susanne Hart 07/02/2026 C/O 112 Executive Center, 1 Corpus Christi Place #112 Hilton HeadHeather Island, SC 29928 R. Galvin, Probate Judge, Beaufort County, SC

Cynthia K.Bozarth Hutcheson Deborah Christina R. Lesher C/O P.O. BOX 22230 C/O 10 Head Hospital Center Commons, Ste. 400 Hilton Island, SC 29925 Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 Rhonda Cole Green Edward Harry248Tobergte C/O P.O. BOX C/O PO BoxSC7906 Beaufort, 29901-0248 Hilton Head Island, SC 29938 Thomas Norman Connor, Jr. Louise Brunson 66 Ulmer Drive C/O PO Drawer 1107 Bluffton, SC 29910 Beaufort, SC 29901 Bruce D. Crankshaw, Lea C. Attanasio Lisa Brien Linda C. James PO Drawer 1107Hilton Head Island, SC 29938 C/O P.O. BOX 5098, Beaufort, SC 29901 Isabel D. Wolf Clara1533 Marie Emerson C/O Fording Island Road, Suite 294 C/O POHead Box 3435 Hilton Island, SC 29926 Bluffton, SC 29910 Jennifer Court Daniel Fitzgerald C/O 121 Gene Executive Center Drive, Suite 218 27187 Chippendale Columbia, SC 29210Ter. Salisbury, MD 21801 Timothy Lewis William Hoffer, 1907 NewMyers Mexico StreetII C/O 2015 Boundary Savannah, GA 31404St., #227 Beaufort, SC 29902 Catherine Mary Copeland Melissa Davis C/O 1110 L.Pick Pocket Plantation Drive, Suite A C/O PO Drawer 1107 Beaufort, SC 29902 Beaufort, SC 29901 Andrea E. Lindeman Matthew J. Lieser C/O P.O. BOX 14 C/O 112Head Executive Hilton Island,Center SC 29938 1 Corpus Christi Place, #112 HiltonCatlin HeadMartin Island,Loggans SC 29928 Brian 2842 West Royal Oaks Drive Janese W.SCDavis Beaufort, 29902 180 Pearl Davis Road Springfield, GA 31329 Kristi Bell Ryan C/O P.O. BOX 7906 R. WillisHead PostIsland, SC 29938 Hilton C/O 17 Professional Village Beaufort, SC 29907 Albert Michael Sramek, III C/O P.O. BOX 3851 James F. Holland Bluffton, SC 29910 C/O PO Box 7906 HiltonR.Head Island, SC 29938 Paula Thalman C/O P.O. BOX 5098 Deborah F. Kopp Hilton Head Island, SC 29938 C/O PO Drawer 1023 Beaufort, SC 29901

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DECEDENT DECEDENT

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

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09/04/2025

NEWS

Voices of Mather: Speaking about the life of a persistent pioneer

By Luke Frazier The Island News Every place has its own rhythm and flow of history, oft-told stories, and wise guides. In the Beaufort area there is an abundance of places offering each, especially when it concerns the Civil War and Reconstruction.

Examples include the Reconstruction Era National Historical Park, Penn Center, Secession House, and the beautifully evocative Harriett Tubman statue outside Tabernacle Baptist Church.

But it was the pleasantly compact Mather School Museum and Interpretive Center on the Technical College of the Lowcountry (TCL) campus that provided a place for history buffs to gather on Saturday June 27, 2026.

The wise guide on this occasion was Sharon Beasley, Ph.D., who spoke on the life and legacy of Rachel Crane Mather, the namesake of the school founded in 1868. Beasley is now an Assistant Dean of Accreditation and Assessment at Mercer University, and her presentation was part of the “Voices of Mather” oral history project, a larger effort to collect and share Mather School alumni stories.

Beasley herself has a deep connection to TCL and Rachel Crane Mather, having graduated from nursing school at TCL and eventually becoming a faculty member and administrator. When it came to figuring out the subject for her dissertation a few years ago, she was inspired by her proximity to Rachel Crane Mather’s legacy, writing “Pioneering Women of Southern Education,” which featured Mather.

Interestingly, Rachel Crane Mather’s educational background itself remains a mystery in terms of where it took place. She was born in New Hampshire in 1823 and was a teacher in Boston for more than a dozen

Sharon Beasley, Ph.D., reads an excerpt from a letter written by Rachel Crane Mather to Mary Baker, a new friend she had met the day before, during the “A Pioneering Woman of Southern Education” presentation on Saturday, June 27, 2026. Amber Hewitt/The Island News years before moving to Beaufort in 1868. She came to start a “normal school” for teacher training at the behest of the American Missionary Association (AMA) but quickly decided to change her course. Beasley described the pivot as rooted in what Mather found when she arrived in the Sea Islands.

“She did her assessment of the area and realized the children needed something different,” Beasley said, “They did not have the capacity at the time to matriculate into a normal school but needed to be boarded and provided food.”

Beasley said that led to a conflict with her AMA benefactors, and that is when things took a serious turn.

Beasley, with her warm smile and bright orange blouse, peered over bold, red-framed glasses and labeled Mather a kind of disrupter for defying what the funding folks wanted.

“That money was very specifically designated for normal schools,

and so they did not want a boarding home. They did not want to support distribution of food and clothing,” Beasley explained, “Those were the things the young pupils needed, and she just didn't see the concession from AMA. And then she had a deep talk with God.” Beasley asked the audience to imagine Rachel Mather looking out over the Beaufort River and then projected a quote on a slide taken from a letter written by Mather pondering her future after she spoke her truth to powerful AMA funders.

“I was unsure of my purpose and how I would adopt a work that I came to start devoid of help from my original primary sponsors. I spent time in prayer and asked God for his guidance.”

What Mather decided was to proceed according to her own plan.

She lined up additional funding by

authoring a book about her work in Beaufort, publishing letters in The New York Times, appealing to politicians, and challenging those who stood in the way of her vision. All this raised awareness and developed a national donor pool.

Beasley says this proved what a force Mather was in terms of political astuteness and resourcefulness, characteristics she tried to impart in her students even as she worked to ensure that these young girls would be able to provide for themselves and their families.

“I think [Mather’s] personality was one that was very serious. She was a thoughtful and deliberate person. I think she thought through things in totality,” Beasley marveled, “The Bible was her foundation, and she was a deeply spiritual person, and I do believe she was an evangelist at heart.”

Dorothy Johnson was in the audience this day listening in rapt attention to Beasley. Johnson might also

be considered an evangelist of sorts, based on her love of being a Mather alumna.

Johnson, who graduated in 1958, sat there 68 years later making notes, nodding, and participating in the exchange of questions and answers afterward. Johnson testified to the power of this historical place.

“I’m from Dale, South Carolina. I didn't have my own room or my own bed. We had outdoor toilets and all of those things, and this was new to me, but my aunt had been [a Mather student],” she said.

Johnson said the teachers were very bright and she learned both practical skills and more during her time at Mather and launched into a career in the military and the U.S. Postal Service.

“I was the first black female from Beaufort County to go into the military in 1961, “Johnson proudly related, “I had to be a mediator between black and white [persons] and then they chose me to speak to teach others about getting along.”

Johnson was also named the Grand Marshal for the 2025 Beaufort County Veterans Day Parade.

Between Sharon Beasley and women such as Dorothy Johnson, the ripples of Mather School’s history continue to positively impact the wider world. Beasley points to Rachel Mather’s persistence as a fundamental piece of her identity and how she got things done.

“Rachel Mather was a very strong woman of faith,” Beasley concluded, “And I think her faith was the inner strength that fueled her persistence over nearly 40 years.”

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

Paul Slota, M.D., FACC, FSCAI to Beaufort Memorial Heart Specialists

Dr. Paul Slota, a board-certified, fellowship-trained interventional cardiologist, has joined Beaufort Memorial Heart Specialists, expanding access to advanced cardiac care across the Lowcountry.

With more than 30 years of experience in general and interventional cardiology, Dr. Slota brings extensive expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of heart conditions, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias and high cholesterol.

Early in his career, Dr. Slota was a founding physician of Hilton Head Heart, where he practiced for over a decade, caring for patients on Hilton Head Island and in Bluffton, as well as performing procedures in Savannah. He later relocated to Rock Hill, where he played a key role in establishing Carolina Heart Specialists and cared for patients there for nearly 20 years.

Now returning to the region, Dr. Slota sees patients in Beaufort and Okatie and performs procedures at Beaufort Memorial, strengthening the health system’s ability to provide comprehensive, high-quality cardiac care close to home.

CALL 843-770-4550 TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT.

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Interventional Cardiology ...................................................................

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Cardiology & Interventional Cardiology Thomas Jefferson University Hospital Philadelphia, Pa.

At the practice, Dr. Slota joins board-certified cardiologists Drs. Stuart Smalheiser, Francis O’Neill and Terry Grainger, as well as board-certified physician assistant Tara Kay.

300 MIDTOWN DRIVE, BEAUFORT • 122 OKATIE CENTER BLVD. NORTH, OKATIE

JULY 9-JULY 15, 2026

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NEWS

Georgia court records reveal new details in case against Beaufort County communications manager

Laura Fanelli released from Georgia jail following first court appearance as county confirms cooperation with law enforcement

By Delayna Earley The Island News Beaufort County Communications Manager Laura Fanelli has been released from a Georgia jail after making her first court appearance on felony charges, according to court records and Newton County jail officials.

Fanelli was arrested June 22 by the Beaufort Police Department on a fugitive from justice warrant issued from Georgia. According to Beaufort County Detention Center records, she remained in custody in Beaufort until June 27, when she was transferred to Newton County, Georgia.

Newton County jail officials confirmed to The Is-

Laura Fanelli land News that Fanelli was released from the Newton County Detention Center on July 2. As of publication, she was no longer listed as an inmate in the jail's online inmate database.

Court records filed in Newton County Superior Court show the State of Georgia has charged Fanelli with one count of felony theft by deception and one count of computer theft stemming from an alleged April 1, 2026, incident. The felony warrants were received by the Superior Court on June 29.

The case remains pending and has not yet been presented to a grand jury.

In response to questions from The Island News, South Carolina Law Enforcement

Division Director of Public Information Renée Wunderlich confirmed SLED assisted the Covington Police Department in locating Fanelli in Beaufort County on June 22.

"SLED assisted the Covington Police Department in Georgia locate Ms. Laura Fanelli on Monday, June 22, 2026, in Beaufort County," Wunderlich said in an email.

Wunderlich referred additional questions regarding the investigation to the Covington Police Department.

Additional court records obtained by The Island News show Fanelli made her first appearance in Newton County Magistrate Court on June 29. During that appearance, Fanelli invoked her right to counsel. The magistrate's order states that no further proceedings will take place until counsel is present, except for scheduling and housekeeping matters.

The order identifies Sam Burdette as Fanelli's retained attorney and schedules a future committal hearing.

The court order does not

indicate whether bond was granted or denied, and no bond amount is listed on the form. However, Newton County jail officials confirmed Fanelli was released from custody on July 2.

Beaufort County Public Information Officer Hannah Nichols said Beaufort County Administration made the decision to place Fanelli on administrative leave without pay on June 22 pending the results of an investigation.

"We have complied with all law enforcement agencies involved in this investigation and will continue to do so," Nichols said in a statement to The Island News. "We trust the judicial process to take its course, but are unable to comment further. Beaufort County remains committed to serving the people of our community with the highest level of service possible."

Fanelli joined Beaufort County in 2018 after previously serving as communications manager for Newton County, Georgia. According to Beaufort County, her duties include creating, writing

and publishing information for the public and news media, promoting county services and programs, and assisting with crisis communications under the direction of the county's public information officer.

In late 2020, Fanelli was placed on paid administrative leave after thousands of posts from a social media account attributed to her resurfaced publicly. The posts, many of which predated her employment with Beaufort County, included profanity and commentary on politics, race, religion and the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting public criticism and an internal investigation.

County officials ultimately concluded the posts did not violate county policy because they were made before Fanelli's employment with Beaufort County. She returned to work following the investigation and remained the county's communications manager.

The Island News has submitted requests for the arrest

Former Beaufort probation officer faces three new misconduct charges

Shytle faces 10 criminal charges; two civil lawsuits allege similar misconduct

By Delayna Earley The Island News Former South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services officer David Johnathon Shytle Jr. is facing three additional criminal charges after the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) announced this week that investigators had filed new allegations stemming from its ongoing investigation into his conduct while serving as a probation officer in Beaufort County.

SLED charged Shytle, 48, on July 1, 2026, with three counts of misconduct in office. He was booked into the Beaufort County Detention Center, and the case will be prosecuted by the 14th Circuit Solicitor's Office.

According to arrest warrants, the new charges allege Shytle engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a parolee he supervised while acting in his official capacity as a probation officer.

One warrant alleges that between May 2024 and July 2025, Shytle exchanged inappropriate text messages and images with the parolee and engaged in sexual intercourse with the individual.

Investigators allege the conduct violated his duty to faithfully perform the responsibilities of his office and maintain the public's trust.

The second charge alleges

Shytle sent inappropriate text messages to the same parolee between July and August 2024 while serving as the individual's supervising probation officer.

The third charge alleges he continued those communications between September 2024 and February 2025.

The latest charges bring the total number of criminal charges filed against Shytle

by SLED to 10.

The new charges come as Shytle continues to face seven criminal charges filed in August 2025, including two counts of second-degree assault and battery and five counts of misconduct in office. According to SLED, those charges stem from allegations involving inappropriate conduct with women under his supervision while serving as a probation officer.

Court records show all seven of those earlier charges remain pending in Beaufort County General Sessions.

A Beaufort County grand jury returned indictments in January 2026, and the cases have continued through the pretrial process. No dispositions have been entered.

In addition to the criminal cases, Shytle and the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services are defendants in two civil lawsuits filed in Beaufort County by women identified in court records as “Jane Doe” and “Jane Doe #2.”

The first lawsuit, filed in 2025, alleges Shytle sexually assaulted and harassed a woman while she was on probation under his supervision. According to the com-

plaint, the plaintiff alleges Shytle used his authority over her probation, including her request to transfer supervision to Texas, to coerce sexual contact and sexual communications. The lawsuit also alleges he used his position to pressure her into complying with his demands while she faced the possibility of imprisonment for violating probation.

A second lawsuit, filed in 2026 by a plaintiff identified as “Jane Doe #2,” alleges Shytle sexually harassed and assaulted another woman while she was on probation in Beaufort County. The complaint alleges Shytle made sexual comments, unwanted advances and inappropriate physical contact while exercising authority over the plaintiff as her probation officer.

Both lawsuits also allege the Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services knew or should have known of Shytle's alleged conduct and failed to properly supervise him or protect women under his supervision. Shytle and the department have denied the allegations in court filings, and both civil cases remain pending.

As with all criminal cases, the charges against Shytle are allegations. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

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.

Tree trimming set to start July 13 in Beaufort

Staff reports Dominion Energy will begin scheduled tree-trimming operations in designated areas throughout the City of Beaufort starting Monday, July 13.

According to the City

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JULY 9-JULY 15, 2026

of Beaufort, this routine maintenance is necessary to maintain safe clearance around power and utility lines and help reduce the risk of service interruptions.

The City recognizes that

the level of trimming, particularly on Beaufort's mature tree canopy, may appear significant. However, this work is an important part of maintaining a safe and reliable electric system for our community.

warrant affidavits, investigative records and additional court documents related to the Georgia case. Follow-up requests for comment have also been submitted to the Beaufort Police Department, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, the Covington Police Department, the Newton County Sheriff's Office and the Newton County District Attorney's Office. As of publication, those agencies had not responded.

The publicly available court records identify the charges against Fanelli but do not describe the allegations supporting them. The Island News will continue to update this story as additional information becomes available.

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

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

Wednesday’s Service

Hope & Healing Service at 12:00 PM

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

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NEWS AND COMMUNITY

Pharmacy will shut down in about two weeks

By Mike McCombs The Island News Those who live in the Mossy Oaks area of Beaufort and Port Royal will soon have one fewer pharmacy option.

The Walgreens located at 1294 Ribaut Road in Beaufort is set to close in August, with its pharmacy actually shuttering roughly two weeks from now on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.

According signs at the entrance of the store, the pharmacy will close at noon on July 15, while the store

will close entirely at noon on Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026. Pharmacy records from the location will be transferred to the Walgreens location at 2363 Boundary Street. There is also a Walgreens location at 155 Sea Island Parkway on Lady’s Island.

The closest pharmacy to the soon-to-close location is the CVS pharmacy at 1500 Ribaut Road in Port Royal.

According to a Walgreens employee, most merchandise from the location will be transferred to other stores or back to the warehouse,

while products that expire prior to the end of 2026 will be identified and marked down accordingly for faster sale.

On Sunday evening, there was a cart of perishable merchandise near the front of the store already marked as low as 50 percent off.

Prior to Walgreens, the building was home to Rite Aid and, before it, Eckerd Drugs. Before that, there was a restaurant on the site.

Mike McCombs is the editor of The Island News The Walgreens located at 1294 Ribaut Road in Beaufort is set to close in and can be reached at TheIslandNews@gmail.com. August. Mike McCombs/The Island News

Red, white and babies!

Four Independence Day arrivals made their appearance alongside the fireworks on July 4 at the Beaufort Memorial Collins Birthing Center. Three sets of Beaufort parents welcomed their sweet newborns on the nation's 250th, including Jasmin and Cole Ditore, who welcomed Joshua (7 pounds, 3 ounces) at 1:08 a.m.; Nami Yoshimatsu and Scott Maynard, who welcomed Noah (6 pounds, 15 ounces) at 9:04 a.m.; and Gypsy Garcia and Roberto Enrique Cribas, who welcomed Aiden (7 pounds, 2 ounces) at 7:12 p.m. Damaris Vasquez and Jovani Aravjo of Ridgeland also met a sweet arrival — their daughter Elizabeth (6 pounds, 4 ounces), who was born at 7:40 a.m. Festive quilts were handmade by the Sea Island Quilters, and Birthing Center staff Merick Murdaugh, CST and Donna Mixon, LPN crafted the Popsicle swaddles. Photos courtesy of Charlotte Berkeley Photography

Putting Down The Roots Of Liberty

Benjamin Franklin, aka GregRobin Smith, places the first handful of dirt on the tree sapling during the ceremonial planting of the Liberty Tree Sapling as Mayor Phil Cromer and Historic Beaufort Foundation Executive Director Lise Sundrla watch on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, in Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park in Beaufort. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

Pulling for the USA

Mayor Phil Cromer presents Benjamin Franklin, aka Shakespearean actor and living historian GregRobin Smith, with a key to the City of Beaufort following the Putting Down the Roots of Liberty event held on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, in Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park in Beaufort. Amber Hewitt/The Island News Die-hard fans of the U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team react after the USA scores to tie the game at 1 against Belgium on Monday night, July 6, 2026, at Carolina Tavern in Port Royal. The Belgians scored their second goal just seconds later to retake the lead and went on to win, 4-1, to advance to the Quarterfinals of the World Cup. Carolina Tavern owner Larry Fries said his place has been packed all week during the games. “You can’t find a seat anywhere when Team USA is playing.” Bob Sofaly/The Island News

Community Freedom Fest

Lands End July 4 Golf Cart Parade The Belton family, costume winner of the inaugural Community Freedom Fest, have their picture taken Saturday, July 4, 2026, at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park in Beaufort. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

The annual Lands End Fourth of July Golf Cart Parade, held on Saturday, July 4, 2026, featured 25 decorated entries celebrating America's 250th birthday. Photo courtesy of Kim Bradley

Scarlett Scallate throws a ball trying to make it into the bin during the inaugural Community Freedom Fest on Saturday, July 4, 2026, at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park in Beaufort. Amber Hewitt/The Island News JULY 9-JULY 15, 2026

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ARTS AND COMMUNITY

Penn Center’s York W. Bailey Museum hosting exhibition by folk artist

Staff reports Penn Center’s York W. Bailey Museum is hosting a solo exhibition featuring painting and sculpture by the South Carolina folk artist Bruce Ingram through Monday, Nov. 30, 2026.

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

An opening reception will be held from 6 to 9 p.m., Saturday, July 18, providing an opportunity for the public, collectors, and press to meet the artist and view the collection firsthand.

In the exhibition, Ingram, who lives and creates his art in Horry Coun-

WANT TO GO? What: "Manifesting the Spirit: The Visionary Art of Bruce Ingram" When: Through Nov. 30, 2026 Where: York W. Bailey Museum, 16 Penn Center Circle West, St. Helena Island Opening reception: 6 to 9 p.m., Saturday, July 18, 2026 Gallery hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday

ty, South Carolina, invites viewers into a deeply personal dialogue with artwork reflecting the griot (oral storytelling) tradition of his family. The artworks on display visually tell the

stories Ingram has grown up with, and reflect generations of African-American history in rural South Carolina.

Ingram utilizes sustainably sourced wood and recycled objects, adding these elements of the past into his paintings and sculptures, evoking a powerful emotional response.

“Bruce Ingram’s body of work represents the importance of African-American oral histories by using creative and unexpected ways to honor and remember the past,” said Monique deLaTour, Curator of the York W. Bailey Museum.

A Beaufort couple participate in the 2025 Beaufort County Walk For Water in Port Royal. Photo courtesy of Paul Nurnberg

Gary Erwin, AKA Shrimp City Slim, performs during the 10th annual Pleasure Island Seafood Blues and Jazz Festival held in 2003 at the Fort Fisher Military Recreation Area in North Carolina.

Submitted photo

ARTS BRIEFS Holiday Market on Paris Avenue seeking band

The fourth annual Holiday Market on Paris Avenue is looking for talented local musicians to make the event in Port Royal even more festive.

The event’s longtime band has dissolved, presenting an opportunity to showcase another amazing local act (or two).

The event, to be held

Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026, is in need of one musical act to perform from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., or two musical acts to perform from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and then 1:30 to 4 p.m.

The musical act can be a band, solo artist, acoustic duo, or performer – as long as it’s a great fit for this family-friendly community event.

Musicians interested in performing should email Kelly@LowcountrySpotlight.com with their infor-

mation, links to their music, and their performance rates.

Shrimp City Slim returning to Beaufort

Shrimp City Slim will return to Hop Dog at 223 Scott Street, Beaufort from 5 to 8 p.m., Friday, July 24.

Slim will perform his “world piano blues and original music.” There is no cover.

– Staff reports

First Friday – July

Registration open for Beaufort County Walk for Water

Staff reports Registration is open for the 10th annual Beaufort County Walk for Water on Saturday, Sept. 19, at Live Oaks Park in Port Royal and Saturday, Oct. 3, at Bluffton United Methodist Church.

An estimated 1,000 walkers are expected to participate, helping raise a record $100,000 to fight the global water crisis.

Beaufort County Walk for Water promotes awareness of the global water crisis and raises money to provide sustainable, safe water around the world.

All money raised benefits Water Mission, a nonprofit Christian engineering organization based in Charleston that builds safe water solutions in developing countries and disaster areas, such as western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene.

“We’re celebrating our 10th anniversary this year by offering free registra-

tion for all participants,” Beaufort County Walk for Water committee leader Nan Krueger said in a media release. “This creates an opportunity for even more people to learn about the global water crisis, engage with Water Mission’s work, and raise money to support safe water solutions around the world.”

Walkers who register by Aug. 18 and raise or donate at least $25 will receive a free T-shirt.

Participants can carry a bucket of water on part of a 3-mile walk to symbolize the burden millions of women and children in developing countries carry daily to collect water that’s often contaminated. That unsafe water has dire consequences: A person dies from water-related illness every 37 seconds somewhere in the world, according to Water Mission.

“Participation by Beaufort County residents, businesses and churches

makes a life-changing difference for thousands of people in desperate need,” Krueger adds. “The money the walk raises lifts up people for generations in communities around the world. As little as $50 provides one person ongoing access to safe, clean water, $500 can create latrine sanitation for a community, and about $1,000 can build solar panels for a power source. These are things most of us take for granted but make a transformational difference to those who don’t have them.”

Follow Beaufort County Walk for Water on Facebook and Instagram @ BeaufortWalkforWater, and on Twitter #bftwalkforwater.

For more information, call 843-769-7395. For sponsorship information, contact Bob Burroughs at 404-213-5513 or burrou_ bob@bellsouth.net.

Rotary honors Nick Hunt

The monthly First Friday celebration for July was held Friday, July 3, 2026, in downtown Beaufort.

Amber Hewitt/The Island News

Mary Hickman, 12, wins against her sister in friendly competition of pull-ups at Strike Line Training Group’s tent during the July First Friday event Friday, July 3, 2026, in downtown Beaufort. Amber Hewitt/The Island News A8

JULY 9-JULY 15, 2026

City of Beaufort mayor Phil Cromer honors Nick Hunt, declaring June 24 as “Nick Hunt Day” at the Rotary Club of Beaufort meeting on Wednesday, July 24, 2026. Hunt, with 49 years of continuous Rotary service and having earned every distinction that can be bestowed on an individual Rotarian, was diagnosed with a serious illness and was under hospice care at the time of the meeting. Amber Hewitt/ The Island News

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

The people chose change: A new chapter for District 121

T

he voters of District 121 have spoken, and I am deeply humbled, honored, and grateful to have earned the Democratic nomination for the South Carolina House of Representatives.

This victory does not belong to me alone. It belongs to every volunteer who knocked on doors, every supporter who made a phone call, every church member who offered a prayer, every family that displayed a yard sign, and every voter who believed that our district deserves a stronger voice and a brighter future.

Throughout this campaign, I traveled across Beaufort and Colleton Counties listening to the concerns of our residents.

Their stories reinforced what I have believed all along: The people of

O

rdinarily I would try to write the first draft of my weekly article on Saturday. With few exceptions, this day is pretty much freed up, and it gives me the following day to reread and determine what stays and what goes.

This weekend, however, I had the pleasure of being with both daughters and their husbands. My sonsin-law are truly wonderful men, and I consider them to be the sons I never had.

Thus our gathering on the 4th was filled with fun, back and forth banter and, of course, lots of good food.

The icing on the cake was the inclusion of my dear friend, Marge, who lives in our neighborhood.

So now it is a day later, and after all the festivities, I find myself contemplating an appropriate topic for the celebration of our country’s 250th anniversary. Nationally, this should have been a day filled with grandeur, awe, and a sense of gratification for where we are.

W

hard, to serve others, and to fight through adversity.

Those experiences have shaped my belief that government should be accountable to the people it serves and focused on improving their quality of life.

SHANNON N. DELOACH South Carolina is blessed with tremendous potential, yet we continue to face District 121 are not asking significant challenges. Too for special treatment. They many communities lack are simply asking for fair adequate healthcare access. opportunities, responsive government, and leadership Too many schools struggle with teacher shortages and that will put people before insufficient resources. Too politics.

This campaign has never many working families find it increasingly difficult to been about personalities. afford housing, insurance, It has always been about and basic necessities. purpose.

These are not partisan As a husband, father, pasissues.

They are people tor, small business owner, issues. and former law enforceAs we move toward the ment officer, I understand general election, I will the challenges that many continue to advocate for families face because I have lived many of them myself. I the priorities that I have know what it means to work championed from the

beginning of this campaign: Affordability, access, and accountability.

We must work to make life more affordable for working families and seniors. We must expand access to quality healthcare, educational opportunities, workforce development, and economic growth. We must demand accountability from government institutions and elected officials entrusted with serving the public.

We must also continue protecting the unique character of the Lowcountry. Our natural resources, waterways, historic communities, and Gullah-Geechee heritage are treasures that deserve preservation and respect. Economic development should never come at the expense of the communities and cultures that make our region special.

The people of District 121 deserve a representative who listens, communicates, and remains accessible.

Public service is not about holding a title; it is about serving people. If elected, I will work every day to ensure that residents know their voices are being heard in Columbia.

The primary election may be over, but the work is just beginning.

I invite Republicans, Democrats, Independents, and voters of every background to join this effort.

While we may not agree on every issue, we all share a common desire for safe communities, strong schools, economic opportunity, and a better future for our children and grandchildren.

The challenges before us are too important for division and political games-

‘Just say hell, no!’

CAROL LUCAS

While there was that sense hovering in the distance, I believe I am correct when I say that many of us felt less than gratified and more than slightly fearful.

That latter reaction was substantiated by how the president chose to celebrate our country.

On July 4th, we should have been able to anticipate a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of our republic which came with the signing of the Declaration of Independence by those 56 men who put their lives on the line and risked the hangman’s noose.

In my research, I discovered that 10 years ago, Congress created

a bipartisan “America 250 Commission” for the purpose of celebration. Of course, money was set aside for just this. Instead, this money “bought” a tribute to 47, himself, through what could reasonably be called a MAGA rally. But even that wasn’t sufficient; he chose to actually call it “the most spectacular TRUMP RALLY of them all.”

Of course there was the cage fight as well as all that led to further degradation of the White House property.

You know, dear reader, “the People’s House.”

I don’t think it is outrageous to say that 250 years ago, we declared our independence from just this kind of ruler who saw the people, as well as their possessions, and the government, as his personal property. Our nation’s founders overthrew a king; I believe that today, we are confronted with virtually the same challenge.

The signers wrote in the Declaration, “we mutually

pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor,” and it was a simple statement of fact.

The day they signed that document, each legally became a traitor and was sentenced to death for treason by the ruler who controlled their lands and their homes.

17 of the 56 signers of this document lost all they had and died in poverty.

So when we all gathered yesterday for our cookouts, did we bother to think of the damage one man can cause when left unchecked?

Think about this when you try to answer that question. No. 47 pardoned 1,500 insurrectionists and nothing has been done. In fact, one was hired for a White House position. The ranks of our military have been decimated. People who never should have been deported were and are still being sent from the country. ICE has been given carte blanche to kill without retribution. No. 47 and his family continue to blatantly

take bribes and have made, heretofore, unheard of sums of money.

Perhaps a post that I saw best describes where we are.

It stated: “America will not be destroyed by undocumented immigrants, safety net programs, marriage equality or DEI. Instead, that destruction will come about through the actions of a felon with no ethics, indebted to a dictator with no morals, enabled by a party with no integrity, promoted by a network with no honor.

It is Ken Burns who pointed out on Meet the Press that the United States of America is the oldest democracy on earth. I had never quite considered it in that context, but what an honor it is to think of our country as such. This alone should prompt all of us to say to ourselves and aloud, “We will not have that honor ripped away from us, not now, not ever.”

In conclusion, 47 may well celebrate this country’s 250th by erecting monu-

manship. The time has come to focus on solutions.

District 121 has chosen a new direction. Now we must continue moving forward together.

Thank you for your trust, your support, and your belief in this campaign. I look forward to earning the support of voters throughout Beaufort and Colleton Counties in the months ahead.

Together, we can build a district where families thrive, businesses grow, communities prosper, and every voice matters.

The people have spoken.

Now it is time to get to work.

Shannon N. DeLoach is the Democratic nominee for South Carolina House District 121, representing Beaufort and Colleton counties. He will face Shelley Gay Yuhas in the Nov. 3 General Election.

ments to himself, arches, ballrooms, trying to put his face everywhere, debasing long-standing parts of our country. We, on the other hand, can stand up to this as a unified country that embraces diversity on all levels.

Back in the 80’s, a campaign against substance abuse was established, headed by Nancy Reagan.

The slogan that caught on was, “Just say no.”

The abuse our country is undergoing right now at the hands of the present administration deserves an equivalent response. At the risk of offending those with delicate ears, this deserves, “Just say hell no!”

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.”

Put Trump or FDR on $250 bill?

ell it appears that we will have a brand new $250 bill to add to our currency in the near future to help celebrate 250 years of American freedom. Although I am not too sure that printing a bill of that denomination sends the right message at a time when inflation is still not under control, unless of course, we can still blame it on Joe Biden.

It seems like printing larger denomination bills is a common tactic among socialist nations like Argentina, Venezuela and Cuba when inflation soars out of control and you need a cart to carry enough money to buy a loaf of bread. That aside, it might be nice not to have to carry all those $100 bills around with you all of the time.

Most will be surprised to know that there is a movement in the administration to have President Trumps image and signature on the

JIM DICKSON

new bill. That has run into a small problem called the Thayer Amendment of 1866, which says that no living person shall have his image on United States currency.

This came about because a Treasury official had is own image printed on a 5-cent note.

Think about that one, a 5-cent note. How times have changed since 1866! Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says that although they have a mock up of the Trump bill, they will fully adhere to the law unless Congress acts.

Our very own Congressman Joe Wilson has introduced the Donald J. Trump

$250.00 Bill Act that would amend the Thayer Amendment to allow for President Trump’s image to be on the new bill, but so far it is stalled in committee and has not moved to the floor where it can be voted on, and without Congressional approval, no Trump $250 bill.

In the event that Congress chooses to disappoint us all and not act on the Wilson bill, I have an alternative proposal, that will probably shock some of my fellow Republicans. How about Franklin Delano Roosevelt?

Think about it, if not for FDR, we probably would not be celebrating 250 years of American freedom. We might instead be celebrating Adolf Hitler’s 137th or Emperor Hirohito's 125th birthday this year.

Roosevelt’s politics and mine don’t always mesh, but he did some good that many of us enjoy today, for example the Social Security Act and the Federal Deposit

Insurance Corporation.

His efforts to end the Great Depression where not as effective as he would have liked, but his early recognition of the danger that Germany and Japan posed to the United States and to the world was critical to the survival of Democracy.

At the time, the general feeling in America was that the war in Europe was Europe’s problem and that we should not get involved in any way. Congress even passed the Neutrality Act that forbid our involvement.

Roosevelt could see that if Britain fell to Hitler, we would be next on the list, and history has proved him right.

He began efforts to quietly re-arm the nation by increasing the size of the military, building more airplanes, ships and other war material. He worked with British Prime Minister Churchill to send arms and food to England so

that it could withstand the relentless attacks by Hitler’s air force and navy. FDR persuaded Congress to pass the Lend Lease Act to provided Britain aid and 50 U.S. Navy Destroyers that helped keep the sea lanes open to and from America.

When war came to America in the form of a sneak attack by the Japanese on Pearl Harbor in December of 1941, he mobilized American industry to become the “Arsenal of Democracy,” which was an unstoppable war machine that ended up defeating both Germany and Japan. Without his early efforts America would not have been ready for war, Great Britain and Russia would have fallen to the Nazis and Japan would have dominated the Pacific.

America and the world would be a very different place today, so even though Roosevelt was a Democrat, although I doubt that he would recognize most of

the “leading lights” of the party today, he would be my choice for having his picture on the new $250 bill. The best we have ever done for this great man was put is picture on a dime back in the 1940’s. This would be a good chance to do better, and if that don't work, how about Ronald Reagan?

I would hope that Mr. Trump would be OK with that, and be content to have his signature on the bill and his image on the new Commemorative Gold Coin, because whatever else his is, he is an American patriot.

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.

JULY 9-JULY 15, 2026

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

I

I am not holding my breath

t is Saturday, early, and it is relatively cool considering what is coming later this morning. This morning I have my coffee — Starbuck’s French Roast — as well as a new rendering of Port Royal’s slowly changing waterfront.

This rendering involves that area right around the two existing restaurants — Shellring Ale Works and Fish Camp — that draw in hundreds of hot, thirsty customers almost every evening.

In this connection, there was a meeting on June 30 wherein Town Manager Van Willis, Town Planner Noah Krepps, Dean Moss, Whit Suber, Nick Borregine and representatives from Safe Harbor and Fish Camp met to discuss what this particular waterfront was going to look like.

This area is slated for a bike trail — an extension of the Spanish Moss Trail — a vehicular access road and some sort of seafood market that will preserve Port Royal’s attachment to the crabs, shrimp and its oyster-harvesting past.

If one squints a little bit, one can see a slightly diminished bike trail entering the property at 12th Street.

One can see that the bike trail travels along the access road and to the Northeast of the two restaurants. It then jogs Southwesterly onto a strange, completely finished section of the trail. After that it joins a boardwalk crossing the marsh just below Fish Camp restaurant.

As previously mentioned this inverted bottleneck-shaped parcel will also get an access road connecting Ribaut Road with Safe Harbor’s yet to be built improvements; as well as a three-storied building that is slated to be a seafood market or a seafood processing plant depending

owner and author of the acclaimed, “Where Have All the Shrimp Boats Gone?”

Woody says that the “old days” are gone — gone with regard to the old fashioned ways that shrimp were caught, sorted, de-veined, de-headed and packaged SCOTT GRABER for sale. Shrimping now involves huge, steel-hulled on who one talks to. (This ships that stay at sea for is shown as Lot “G” on the weeks at a time. attached rendering.)

“These modern shrimp This appears to be an trawlers are safer and more awful lot of activity — inproductive than ever. Freezcluding parking — in and ing the shrimp on the boat around this elongated is more and more common. parcel. All of which begs the With capacities of 30,000 question about Lot G and pounds and up, these newer what kind of activity that trawlers unload when they building will bring. want to. They can play their In this connection, I shrimp like the commodity called Woody Collins who they have become. A 10has been a shrimper, boat cent increase or decrease in price can mean thousands builder, deep sea “Snapof dollars one way or the per” fisherman, restaurant

other. …

These boats now go where the shrimp are, wherever that may be. Recently a hot spot has been off the coast of North Carolina. A new phenomenon, shrimp in Chesapeake Bay, has recently yielded unheard of catches. Most of the Beaufort County fleet was up there working.” (Where Have all the Shrimp Boats Gone?)

Woody has met with Willis and pitched an idea that the smaller boats — those without on-board freezers and unable to stay at sea for days on end — be allowed to dock at the proposed “Lot G dock.” Those boats would be allowed to sell their justcaught catch directly to the public.

If the local, small-boat shrimpers can avoid a

middle man — the Florida brokers who once met their boats on the dock and dictated a price to the weary captain — Woody believes the boats and the crowds craving fresh shrimp “will come.”

But those crowds may not have any room to park.

It would appear that only 15 spaces are dedicated to Lot G. That doesn’t sound like enough for the captains, crews, employees and shrimp-buying customers. Shellring Ale Works appears to have about 21 spaces in its immediate vicinity although there are about 46 proposed parallel parking spaces along the access road which could be utilized by Shellring, Lot G and the Fish Camp customers and staff.

There is no doubt there

will be alterations to the proposed plan, but when, we wonder, will ground be broken on any of these “improvements.”

Apparently Safe Harbor will have its marina-connected construction underway “within a year’s time.”

But funding for Lot G, its dock, the bike trail and the access road are less certain.

I happen to be an 81-yearold curmudgeon who has watched many draft plans come and then yellow and eventually disintegrate.

I, for one, am not holding my breath.

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

Unfavorable comparisons – A path to improvement

I

have been asked by several friends and business associates why the City of Beaufort staffing and budget is so much higher than other local governments in the area. I was surprised by the numbers.

Seems reasonable to ask a few questions.

People asked me if I think the government in Beaufort is delivering better services than other local governments. I suggested they ask the City directly. To my surprise, they didn’t want to ask because they were worried that they would be labeled troublemakers and experience some form of

MUNICIPAL STAFFING – BY THE NUMBERS Municipality

DICK STEWART

2024 pop.

Staff

Staff/1,000 residents

Beaufort

14,300

165

11.54

Beaufort Co.

201,800

1193

5.92

Bluffton

39,100

150

4.16

Hilton Head

38,200

293

7.67

Port Royal

16,500

44

2.67

Municipality 2024 pop. retribution. I don’t believe Beaufort 14,300 that is a problem.

Beaufort Co. 201,800 In the 28 years since I returned to Beaufort, every Bluffton 39,100 single City Council member Hilton Head 38,200 I have met has had the best Port Royal 16,500 interests of the citizens of Beaufort at heart. I was has nearly three times as asked if I could explain the employees per thousand comparisons. I’m trying to understand why Beaufort residents as Bluffton and

2025 Budget $/1,000 residents $73 mil.

$5,105

$199 mil.

986

$205 mil.

$5,679

$175 mil.

$4,581

$11 mil.

$667

nearly four times as many employees per thousand residents as Port Royal.

There are certainly differences. As an example, the City of Beaufort staffing may include fire department personnel that work in Port Royal. County staffing may include the Sheriff’s staff that provide police services on Hilton Head.

Hilton Head doesn’t have a municipal police force.

Perhaps services are better in the City and both Port Royal and Beaufort County should double their staffing levels to provide the same quality of services. I just don’t know but the comparisons do raise real questions.

Right now, campaigns are beginning for two new City

Council members. This is a perfect opportunity to understand the comparisons and chart a path to improvement. After all, better and more efficient government is what voters want and expect. I’m happy to help.

We are all in this together.

I’d like to hear what you think at stewartthoughts@ gmail.com.

Dick Stewart has been honored with a “Lifetime Achievement” award from the Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce. He holds an honorary doctorate degree in Community Service from the University of South Carolina. Stewart serves on multiple nonprofit boards in the area.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ‘Understanding how our planet works’

understand the basics any more than you have to be a mechanic to drive a car.

Here in Beaufort, climate change isn't an abstract Climate change has too concept. It's higher tides in long been one of those our neighborhoods, hotter topics that many people summers, stronger rain avoid. It feels political, overevents, changing fisheries, whelming, or simply too big and the health of the salt to understand. But it doesn't marshes that define the have to be.

Lowcountry we love.

At its heart, climate Learning about climate science is simply about un- change isn't about choosing derstanding how our planet a political side. It's about works. It's about the oceans becoming an informed that shape our weather, the citizen. The more we undermarshes that protect our stand, the better decisions communities, and the choic- we can make for our famies we make that influence lies, our businesses, and our the future. You don't have community.

Imagine a Lowcountry to become a scientist to

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JULY 9-JULY 15, 2026

where our neighborhoods are more resilient, our air and water are cleaner, our marshes are thriving, and our families are spending less on wasted energy and disposable products. That future isn't built all at once, it begins with the choices we make today.

Turn off the air conditioner when you leave the house. Bring a reusable cup instead of buying another disposable one. Recycle what you can, and take advantage of Beaufort County's composting program.

Small actions save money, reduce waste, and remind us that caring for our community and caring for

our wallets often go hand in hand. A better future for the Lowcountry doesn't begin in some distant future. It begins with each of us, today.

for writing today. I tore out a page in the June 18 The Island News with an article from Ms. Louise Mathews entitled "Happy Birthday, Mr. President" and just -- Kate Ray couldn't throw it out. But then Ms. Lucas' article in the June 25 paper gave me ‘Pull your head my response.

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

a little more analysis and you will realize that there out of the sand’ Apparently some people are some people in power A very good, self-reflectcan't see their own willful who should not be there. He ing, article from Tim Wood. ignorance when the facts is not just a naughty boy And as always, thoughtful are right before their eyes. who makes a few innocent commentaries from Carol To quote Dorothy Celene mistakes. I am pretty sure Lucas, who I am going to Thompson, "There is you are not so naive. It's paraphrase a little later, and nothing to fear except the Andy Brack. Andy, the 2026 persistent refusal to find out time to pull your head out of the sand and step over elections can't come soon the truth. ..." that line. enough either!

Ms. Mathews, you almost -- Bob Lewis, Port Royal But now to my real reason came over to the truth. Just

COMMUNITY AND HEALTH

Tick talk: Protect yourself from Lyme disease

Local parents Ashlei Dore and John Cook had a goal in mind -- creating a welcoming space for families. On Saturday, June 27, 2026, Hoppin’ John Play Center, a new indoor play facility located at 37 Sam’s Point Road, Suite A on Lady’s Island, celebrated its grand opening. Amber Hewitt/The Island News

Hoppin’ John Play Center celebrates grand opening

Staff reports Hoppin’ John Play Center, a new indoor play destination for children ages 8 and younger, celebrated its grand opening on Saturday, June 27, 2026.

Created by local parents Ashlei Dore and John Cook, Hoppin’ John, located at 37 Sam’s Point Road, Suite A on Lady’s Island, was designed with families

in mind. Their center offers a fun, safe, and air-conditioned environment where children can climb, bounce, ride, explore, and play while parents relax.

The center, which features large play structures, bounce houses, ride-on toys, electric scooters, and dedicated toddler-friendly spaces, also offers birthday party packages, member-

ships, and open play sessions throughout the week.

Hoppin’ John Play Center is open from 9 a.m. to 6;30 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Sundays. Open Play is $16 per child for a two-hour session.

For more information or to reserve open play, visit www.hoppinjohnplaycenter.com.

On Saturday, June 27, 2026, 4-year-old Sylvie Harris of Lady’s Island plays in a swing on a jungle gym during the grand opening of Hoppin’ John Play Center, a new indoor play facility located at 37 Sam’s Point Road, Suite A on Lady’s Island.

Amber Hewitt/The Island News

Special to The Island News Every spring, ticks emerge as the talk of the town – and for good reason. As rising temperatures mean more time outdoors (more time on the golf course!), they also can mean an increase in the presence of ticks.

Ticks love warm, humid weather – something that the Lowcountry has in spades. As summer rolls around and outdoor activities continue to boom, the risk for tick-borne illnesses – the most known being Lyme disease – grows.

What are the biggest risks when it comes to tick bites, and how can you reduce those risks?

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection generally spread through the bites of deer ticks and is the most common tick-based illness found in the nation.

While the numbers of deer ticks are lower in the Lowcountry than they are in other areas of the state, Beaufort County residents can still develop the disease while spending time outdoors – especially due to a longer overall warm season, making for ideal conditions for the tiny arachnids.

Lyme disease symptoms to look for Not every tick bite will result in Lyme disease. In fact, most don’t – but it’s important to be aware of early symptoms of the disease, which typically appear anywhere from three days to three weeks after

the initial bite.

Early symptoms of Lyme disease • Fever and chills • Headache • Fatigue • Muscle and joint aches • Swollen lymph nodes • A “bull’s-eye” rash, which occurs in around 7080% of Lyme disease cases Later symptoms (if left untreated) • Severe headaches • Neck stiffness • Facial paralysis or drooping on one or both sides of the face • Irregular heartbeat • Nerve pain or tingling in hands or feet “Early detection of the disease is important,” said Dr. Michael Kaup, who sees patients at Beaufort Memorial Express Care and Occupational Health in Port Royal, Bluffton and Okatie. “Lyme disease is generally treatable with antibiotics, but delaying treatment can lead to more serious complications.”

Know your tick risk – and lower it Ticks wait in vegetation and latch onto passersby that become their hosts.

You’re most likely to encounter a tick in: • Tall grass or brush • Forested or wooded areas • Yard edges near trees or shrubs • Leaf litter or marsh edges While ticks can be found throughout this Lowcountry environment, there are simple precautions that

can reduce the risk of tick bites and Lyme disease.

Before going outdoors • Use EPA-registered insect repellents like DEET or picaridin • Wear long sleeves and tuck long pant legs into socks • Treat clothing with permethrin spray • Avoid tall grass and brush; when hiking, stay in the center of the trail After coming indoors • Check your entire body for ticks, paying particular attention to warm areas like armpits, behind your knee and your scalp • Shower within two hours of being outside • Put clothes in the dryer on a high-heat setting to kill ticks • Closely inspect pets and any backpacks or gear Found a tick? Now what?

If you discover a tick attached to your skin: • Use fine-tipped tweezers to carefully grasp the tick as close to your skin as possible • Pull upward steadily without twisting or squeezing the tick • Clean the area with soap and water or rubbing alcohol “Removing a tick within 24 hours significantly reduces your risk of contracting Lyme disease,” Dr. Kaup said. “Monitor your bite for several weeks and consult a healthcare provider if you develop a rash or any flu-like symptoms.”

JULY 9-JULY 15, 2026

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LOCAL MILITARY

FIFA World Cup 2026 Watch Party

U.S. Marines celebrate Wednesday, July 2, 2026, during the FIFA World Cup 2026 watch party at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. The watch party for the U.S. Men’s National Team’s 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina in Santa Clara, Calif., was hosted by Marine Corps Community Services and televised by FOX Sports to bolster camaraderie and morale within surrounding units.

Lance Cpl. Brianna Davidson/USMC U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. David W. Foust, left, and Pfc. Damion L. Magel both flight equipment technicians with Marine Air Logistics Squadron 31, Marine Aircraft Group 31, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, celebrate Wednesday, July 2, 2026, during the FIFA World Cup 2026 watch party at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. The watch party for the U.S. Men’s National Team’s 2-0 win over BosniaHerzegovina in Santa Clara, Calif., was hosted by Marine Corps Community Services and televised by FOX Sports to bolster camaraderie and morale within surrounding units. Lance Cpl. Carl J. Walters/USMC

Who can answer your questions about VA Medical Center services and benefits? (Part 1)

T

his is the first article in a series of three on “Veteran Service Officers, Social Workers, and Patient Advocates (VSOSWPA) can answer most of your non-clinical questions and solve many of your problems regarding VA health care, services, and benefits.”

I have had hundreds of veterans call me with (non-medical/non-clinical) questions or problems about VA healthcare services and benefits.

Most of their questions could be answered best by one or more of the following places and experts in VA healthcare, services, and benefits. · Place 1: The “VA Health Care” webpage at https://www.va.gov/ health-care/; · Place 2: “The Ralph H. Johnson Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center” webpage at https://bit. ly/4aDImfP; · VA and state benefits Expert No. 1: A VA-accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO); · VA health benefits and services expert No. 2: A VA Social Worker; · VA health benefits and services expert No. 3: A VA Patient Advocate.

Stop Stop reading and ask yourself the following important questions: · Have I signed up for VA Healthcare? If not, do so as soon as possible. A veteran can receive certain VA health care benefits even without being formally enrolled in the VA healthcare system, but the scope of care is limited and depends on specific circumstances. Enrolling is easy and can be done in person, online, by phone, by mail, or with the help of a trained professional. · Do I have a VA Healthcare iden-

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JULY 9-JULY 15, 2026

LARRY DANDRIDGE

tification card with my picture, name, barcode, member ID, plan ID, and expiration date on it? If not, find out if you are eligible, sign up for VA healthcare, and get your ID. · Have I seen my VA-assigned Primary Care Provider in the past 12 to 16 months? Your VA Primary Care Provider is either a Physician, a Physician Assistant (PA), or a Nurse Practitioner (NP). If not, call or visit MYHealthe Vet online to make an appointment. · Do I know that if I do not see (in person or by phone) my VA Primary Care Provider at least once every 12 to 16 months, I may be disenrolled from VA Healthcare? If you have been disenrolled, re-enroll. · Who are the members of my Primary Care Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT)? If you do not know, find out who they are and record their contact information. PACT Teams consist of a Provider, Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Pharmacist, Social Worker, and Clerk. · Do I have the contact information (phone numbers and names) of my PACT Team members in my phone, on my refrigerator door, or in my paper address book? If not, find out the phone number needed to contact each of them. · Do I have the contact infor-

mation (name, address, phone, and email) for the county or local Veterans Service (Affairs) Office and my VA-accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) in my phone, on my refrigerator door, or in my paper address book? Each South Carolina, Georgia and North Carolina county (or region in Georgia’s case) has a county Veterans Service Office. If not, find out the phone number needed to contact them.

Find S.C. county VSOs at https:// bit.ly/3QQPEWN. Find N.C. county VSOs at https://bit.ly/4fkcKOP. Find Georgia county/regional VSOs at https://bit.ly/4aWZtJJ. · Do I have the phone number and email address for my VA Medical Center or Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) Patient Advocate Office? If not, read the information on the RHJVAMC&HCS webpage “Patient Advocates” at https://bit.ly/4f89Iw2 and find out the phone number and email address needed to contact them. The RHJVAMC&HCS and its Myrtle Beach, North Charleston, and Goose Creek CBOCs Patient Advocates' Office phone number is 843-789-6066. The RHJVAMC&HCS Patient Advocate phone number for the Savannah, Hinesville, Beaufort, and Brunswick VA Outpatient Clinics is 912-9200214 Ext. 412205.

Find the answers and keep them in a place ready to use if needed.

I am not talking about a medical question like, “Should I have surgery or pain-reducing injections?” Those kinds of medical questions should be directed to your VA Primary Care Provider (Physician, Physician’s Assistant, or Nurse Practitioner) or Specialty Care Physician (Orthopedic Doctor, Cardiac Doctor, Pain

Management Doctor, Neurologist, Psychiatrist, Psychologist, or other specialty care physician).

I am talking about questions like: 1. Sample Non-clinical Question 1: How can I get my family referred to the local Fisher House while I (the veteran or military member) am an inpatient in the VA Medical Center?

Short answer: Ask your VA Primary Care Provider (and Social Worker). Contact your VA PACT Primary Care Provider and Social Worker to arrange a referral to the local Fisher House (and other services). With few exceptions, to use VA health care and a Fisher House, a veteran must be enrolled in VA health care.

Sign up for VA Healthcare If you have not yet signed up for VA Healthcare, you should find out if you are eligible at the VA webpage “Eligibility for VA Healthcare” at https://www.va.gov/health-care/eligibility/, and then enroll in VA Healthcare by going to the VA webpage “How to apply for VA Healthcare” at https://www.va.gov/health-care/howto-apply/ and follow the instructions to enroll in any of the following ways: 1. In person at a local VA Medical Center or Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC).

2. By phone, call 877-222-8387 with your application.

3. By mail, by sending your completed application to Health Eligibility Center, P.O. Box 52-7, Janesville, WI 53547-5207.

4. With the help of a trained professional, a VA-accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) whose services are free, a VA-accredited Attorney, or a VA-accredited Claims Agent. Attorneys and Claims Agents

EDITOR’S NOTE

This article is the first in a series of three.

charge for their services.

5. Online at the VA webpage “Apply for VA Healthcare” at https:// bit.ly/4y1jcln.

Long answer to Question 1, continued, Primary Care PACT: If enrolled in VA Healthcare, the veteran needs to contact his PACT’s Primary Care Provider and Social Worker to arrange a referral to the local Fisher House (and other services).

Long answer to Question 1 continued, PACT Teams: Learn more about VA PACT Teams on the VA webpage “Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT),” at https://bit.ly/4f5mwDh and the VA webpage “Your primary care provider and PACT Team,” at https://bit.ly/4wrKY8H. 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 VA-accredited VSO, a Patient Adviser at Charleston and Durham VA Hospitals, a Fisher House Charleston/Friends of Fisher House Charleston Goodwill Ambassador, and the Veterans Benefits Adviser for his local Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) Chapter and Cary, N.C., VFW Post 7383. Larry is also the author of the award-winning “Blades of Thunder (Book One)” and a contributing freelance writer with The Island News. Contact him at LDandridge@earthlink.net or 843-276-7164.

LOCAL MILITARY

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

Recruit Training Regiment, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, 10 July 2026 Recruit Training Regiment • Commanding Officer, Colonel A. P. Bariletti 2nd Recruit Training Battalion • Lieutenant Colonel R. J. Russell Commander of Troops, Captain D. M. Webster • Parade Adjutant, Staff Sergeant A. G. Johnson Company “H”, 1st Recruit Training Battalion • Captain D. M. Webster Drill Master • Staff Sergeant X. J. Francisco PLATOON 2032

PFC Abrahamsen, Aaron D.

PFC Bongiorno, Michael X.

PFC Cummings, Shen A.

PFC Aigner, Kylan D.*

Pvt Carnell, Aidan O.

Pvt Cureton, Djuan

Pvt Argueta, Jefferson

PFC Cartagenamartinez, Isai E.

Pvt Dalton, Jagger B.

PFC Bailey, Quincey D.

Pvt Chase, Oliver G.

Pvt Delfarno, Joshua P.

Pvt Bartole, Alessandro Z.

Pvt Chisolm, Alexander T.

PFC Dennis, Tristian S.*

PFC Belcher, Dylan J.

Pvt Cole, Jaden Y.

PFC Drogt, Landon W.*

Pvt Brown, Shawn T.

Pvt Colon, Anthony G.

PFC Duggan, Trevor J.

Pvt Burgess, Triston D.

Pvt Cucchoc, David I.

Pvt Fernandez, Jack R.

Pvt Burrell, Darius X.

Pvt Dasilva, Guilherme M.

Pvt Ferreras Jr, Johann

Pvt Burris, Jakorey D.

Pvt Davis, Xavier A.

Pvt Firestone, Joseph M.

PFC Castillo Jr, Roman

PFC Dejesus, Julian D.*

Pvt Flores, Steven A.

Pvt Chavezberrios, Pedro A.

Pvt Diazbautista, Ronald A.

Pvt Fu, Jie

Pvt Clark, Isaac H.

Pvt Eden, Noah H.

Pvt Galvan, Zabdiel

Pvt Ceballosrubio, Brandon J.

Pvt Damas, Devharah A.

Pvt Fagner, Caleb

Pvt Garciarivera, Luis D.

Pvt Cruz Jr, Pedro G.

PFC Degnan IV, Charles R.

PFC Fairbanks Jr, Brad L.

Pvt Gonzalez, Braydan

Pvt Cuevas, Gabriel P.

PFC Delacruz, David L.

Pvt Felder, Connor M.

PFC Gutierrez Jr, Christopher A.

Pvt Curtis, Mark C.

PFC Diasgarciagilbert, Hunter B.

PFC Fogarty, Lucas N.

Pvt Hernandez, Jonathan

PFC Davis, Owen M.

Pvt Eckman, Gavin C.

Pvt Garretson, Ethan S.

Pvt Jones, Alijah T.

Pvt Debnam, John T.

Pvt Estevezoregon, Osman

PFC Gustave, Dawensky J.

PFC Jurado, Melchi A.

Pvt Ervin, Donovan J.

Pvt Fernandezalvarez, Ernesto F.

Pvt Hearn, Bryson D.

Pvt Kondras, Bryce A.

Pvt Johnson, Michael W.

PFC Franiak, Ethaen J.

Pvt Gissendanner, Martez D.

PFC Hebert, Elmer R. III*

Pvt Lawrence, Marcus T.

Pvt Justiantonelli, Vinicius

PFC Gonzalez, Izreal M.

Pvt Guzman, Michael A.

Pvt Jerome, Mark A.

Pvt Mantone IV, Joseph L.

PFC Gonzalezcardenas, Jony R.

Pvt Hodge, Miles A.

PFC Kindle, Robert G.

Pvt Marte, Cristopher

PFC Grady, Kwaseem S.

Pvt Holloway, Daniel S.

Pvt Llanos, Christian P.

Pvt Mcintosh, James R.

Pvt Lynn, Aiden S.

Pvt Harrisperry, Tevon

Pvt Jeskie IV, Joseph J.

Pvt Lorenzo, Brian

Pvt Mclaughlin, Luke D.

Pvt Martinezvasquez, Andy J.

Pvt Haynes, Kirondre Z.

PFC Kelly, Liam S.

Pvt Marquez, Alvaro A.

Pvt Mendieta, Eric

Pvt Herreraescobar, Iker L.

Pvt Lampe, Benjamin S.

Pvt Martinezvaldivia Jr, Heriberto

PFC Milun, Mathew L.

PFC Hudson Jr, Tommy L.*

Pvt Lopez, Alejandro

Pvt Martins, Gustavo V.

Pvt Monger, Pradip

PFC Moncadavelasquez, Tommy S.

Pvt Hughes, Jacob S.

Pvt Mcwilliams, Seth P.

Pvt Mawika, Nathanael

Pvt Opett, Aidan T.

Pvt Nava, Cristobal I.

PFC Levy, David

PFC Miller, Ean N.

Pvt Merritt, Presten A.

PFC Potter, Jackson W.

Pvt Martinez Ii, Shawn M.

Pvt Moorehead III, Stephen A.

Pvt Murphy, Angelo I.

PFC Puccio, Jeovani E.

Pvt Melton, Joseph J.

Pvt Morris IV, Verton

Pvt Parada, Jim A.

Pvt Ramirezguiles Jr, Efrain

Pvt Osmonson, Blaine L.

PFC Mendozacabrera, Randall O.

Pvt Neal, Peyton L.

PFC Peake, Jason M.*

Pvt Rubelman, Ethan J.

Pvt Pfister, Robert O.

Pvt Mir, Mauricio A.

PFC Osborne II, Garnett W.

Pvt Perez, David A.

Pvt Sanchezconcha, Hector

Pvt Morales, Rudi D.

Pvt Oudessakerro, Naaol

PFC Pitts, Cohen T.*

Pvt Sinclair, Tyalexander A.

PFC Mortin Jr, Rodzhia A.

Pvt Pace, Christian A.

Pvt Quinn, Magnus D.

Pvt Smith II, Travis D.

Pvt Ramirezelizalde, Deivin

Pvt Navazaragoza, Alexis

Pvt Ponce, Matthew A.

Pvt Reinhart, Jakoby W.

PFC Spickard, Alexander L.

PFC Sanabriadiaz, Derick M.

PFC Nettles Iii, James L.

Pvt Ragins, Adrian J.

Pvt Rowland, Joshua I.

Pvt Thrower, Jaiden T.

PFC Newport, Jaden A.

Pvt Richardson, Jasiere A.

Pvt Scott, Jamier C.

Pvt Tweed, Jeremiah D.

Pvt Palmer Jr, Marque S.

PFC Rodriguezortez, Rudiz O.*

Pvt Sirois, Austin D.

Pvt Twumasi, Kwabena A.

Pvt Sebastian, Tanner F.

Pvt Proffitt, Jordan A.

Pvt Santosarenas, Johnny R.

Pvt Talley, Jack T.

PFC Waite, Roshawn J.

PFC Serranofuentes, Kenien J.

Pvt Sales, Joseph M.

Pvt Schoolcraft, Andrew R.

PFC Todd, Declan B.

Pvt Wells, Todd C.

PFC Smith Iii, Brian C.

Pvt Searles, Ryder C.

PFC Vargo, Ronald R.

PFC Wilson, Anthony T.*

Pvt Taylor, Bryce L.

Pvt Smith, Mason L.

Pvt Waisner, Mason L.

PFC Zheng, Darren

PFC Taylor, Jaden M.

PFC Snider, Tristan M.*

Pvt Wilkie, Aiden C.

Pvt Vallecilloortez, Osly Y.

PFC Strother, Wesley A.

PFC Williams, Darius D.

Pvt Vargassolorio, Mauricio A.

Pvt Sykes, Peter A.

PFC Womack, Kent A.

PFC Walkup Jr, Michael M.

PFC Taylor, Cole M.

Pvt Xochihuilanava, Steven J.

Pvt Wells, Jaydon N.

PFC Velasquezmancera, Angel*

Senior Drill Instructor Sgt M. D. Stotenbur PFC Adusmith, Kevin Pvt Alarcon, Alexis D. PFC Arredondo, Julian C. Pvt Ashby, Broderick D. Pvt Bambard, Austin W. PFC Batimon Jr, Corey S. Pvt Bee, Aiden M. PFC Bowens, Aaron J. Pvt Brown, Tyler D. Pvt Cabutotolentin, Abraham PFC Carter, Chase D.*

Pvt White, Dreshaun A. Pvt Williams, Cadyn L. Pvt Wysong, Elmer C. PFC Zaratemeneses, Juan J.*

PLATOON 2033

Senior Drill Instructor SSgt L. J. Boisselle

PLATOON 2034

Senior Drill Instructor SSgt A. S. Claxton

Senior Drill Instructor SSgt C. C. Barlow

Pvt Darby, Xander I. PFC Davis, Preston J. Pvt Demello, Mason J. Pvt Diaz Jr, Eric A. Pvt Esqueda, Marcus J. Pvt Fleek, Mccoy J. Pvt Gerald, Noah D. Pvt Gildea, Kendall J.

PLATOON 2037

Senior Drill Instructor SSgt E. C. Herron Pvt Alvarezferreras, Ricardo Pvt Bass, Franklin P.

PLATOON 2036

Pvt Cox, Joseph G.

Pvt Gonzalezluis, Danry D. Pvt Haas IV, Charles V. Pvt Henry, Jamon M. Pvt Henry, Sadiki H. PFC James, Jesse E. *

PFC King, Kason J.

PFC Mcdermott, Lucas V. *

Pvt Nuckles Jr, Joshua T.

Pvt Punch, Parker M.

Pvt Sanchez Jr, Roberto

PFC Tackett, Bryson S. * Pvt Tello, Nelson S. PFC Todd, Wyatt T. PFC Torres, Joshua X. Pvt Unrath, Gavin E. PFC Valentingandia, Nathaniel

Pvt Bermudezdavis, Daniel F. Pvt Billick, Daniel J.

PFC Adule, Frantz H.*

Pvt Blackburn, Shannon W.

Pvt Aguilar Jr, Wilson O.

PFC Armstrong, Dylan J.

PFC Bryant, Evan A.

Pvt Amoah, Joshua H.

Pvt Betz, Dalton J.

Pvt Cain, Brian C.

PFC Bejeranoaguirre, Francisco G.

Pvt Board, Malachi A.

PFC Calliste, Jayron D.

Pvt Bennett, Jonathon T.

Pvt Coronelverdugo, Anthony M.

Pvt Cavet, Jayden J.

Pvt Vittitow, Jonah G. Pvt West, Adrian J. PFC Williams, Keigan A. * Pvt Zuniga, Daniel D. *Denotes Meritorious Promotion

JULY 9-JULY 15, 2026

A13

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THURSDAY’S CARTOON

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

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

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

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THEME: ROM-COMS ACROSS 1. Anti-seniors sentiment 6. Ingested 9. "Lights out" tune 13. *"Sweet" villa (2025) 14. Leo, in Moscow 15. Mood disorder 16. Blooming bulb 17. *It happened on how many nights? (1934) 18. Follow up on (2 words) 19. *Sleepless where? (1993) 21. *Certain London Hill (1999) 23. "____ Te Ching" 24. Future J.D.'s hurdle, acr.

25. Chips accompaniment 28. Tibetan monk 30. Celebrity 35. Please do not delay, acr.

37. S.A.T. section 39. Polynesian island country 40. Scarlet O'Hara's home 41. Singing femme fatale 43. Rig or truck 44. Artist's support 46. Italian money, 1861-2002 47. Petri dish gel 48. Like a longer route?

50. ____ Scotia 52. RNs' org.

53. Morally reprehensible

55. Ensign, for short 57. *Not a wedding (1994) 61. *They were reaping benefits (2011) 65. Silly 66. Gone by 68. Generational divide 69. Oodles 70. Each one for himself?

71. Ouzo flavor 72. A whole lot 73. Pertinent 74. Not rights DOWN 1. Without further ____, pl.

2. Departed 3. Hip bones 4. *Actor Foley of #13 Across 5. Kind of block 6. Healing gel producing plant 7. *How many days to lose a guy?

(2003) 8. 0 and 2, e.g.

9. Diplomat's forte 10. ____-perspirant 11. One quark plus one antiquark 12. Spilled the beans 15. Dull surfaces 20. Fertile topsoil, pl.

22. Boat propeller 24. Army bathroom

25. *Fifty of these, to jog her memory (2004) 26. Newton of science 27. Dissect 29. *AOL delivery (1998) 31. Org. with a mission 32. Last letter, to Homer 33. *Pretty one (1990) 34. Nigerian money 36. Part of a hammerhead 38. Villain's rival 42. *When has she been kissed?

(1999) 45. Books, in Paris 49. Langley, VA org.

51. Fauna member 54. Peruvian beast of burden 56. Rive Droite and Rive Gauche separator 57. Hand-to-hand combat weapon 58. Unconstitutional and uncommon have it in common 59. Indian flatbread 60. Odds' partners 61. Arial, e.g.

62. Naive, alt. spelling 63. Olden days "do", second person singular 64. Files suit 67. Fall into it

LAST WEEK’S CROSSWORD & SUDOKU SOLUTIONS

A14

JULY 9-JULY 15, 2026

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E-Edition

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TODAY

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

KLAUS is a handsome black adult cat with one of the kindest hearts you’ll ever meet. He’s known for his gentle nature and his surprising love of kittens.

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A15

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Truth Matters

Always in Style Truth Is Timeless

Are new ideas more true?

How often people reject an idea by saying that it is “old-fashioned” or “out-of-date!” The underlying assumption is that if an idea is not new, it no longer applies to us today. One author memorably described this mindset as, “the newer is the truer; only what is recent is decent.”

The greatest truths are timeless.

Technology can become obsolete, with new versions of phones and gadgets released each year. In fashion, what seemed so trendy in one year can seem silly the next. But the greatest ideas, the truths worth discovering, are timeless. They remain true for all peoples and all time periods. They don’t expire; they don’t go out of style.

We see timeless truths in science and math.

Scientists spend their lives to discover timeless truths about the world around us. When we discovered that our planet rotates around the sun, we were discovering a fact that will remain true for as long as Earth exists. Similarly, math is the study of timeless principles. The multiplication table, for example, will be as true a million years from now as it is today.

Ideas must be explored on their own merits.

Just because an idea has been around for a while, we should not rule it out as unworthy of our consideration. Just because an idea is not fashionable or politically correct at the moment, this does not make it a false idea. In both cases, the idea in question has to be explored on its own merits. Instead of asking, “Is it new?” or “Is it popular?”, we should ask ourselves, “Is it true?”

Are you seeking timeless truths?

The most beautiful truths, the ones that change our lives, are the timeless truths. These truths change our minds and hearts; they bring meaning and joy to our lives. Rather than shunning anything old, we can do the opposite and seek out those truths that have endured from century to century. We can choose to seek out the truth, wherever it may be found, and wherever it may lead us.

Timeless truths can be discovered in faith and morality, too.

If we discover a truth about morality, it is timeless as well. If stealing is wrong, then it was wrong in the days of Moses, it is wrong today, and it will still be wrong when our future descendants are tempted to steal spaceships from one another. Similarly, truths about God and faith are timeless. If Jesus of Nazareth was actually God in our midst, then this is still the most amazing event in human history, even if it happened two thousand years ago.

Next Week Authentic Tolerance

Truth Matters 5 of 8 LightForBeaufort.org 70 Lady’s Island Drive, Beaufort • 843-522-9555 • www.stpetersbeaufort.org • office@stpetersbeaufort.org