March 21 edition

Beaufort City Council to tackle tree rules

he

TThe best nights ever

CAPA’s Dancing With Our Stars raises record amount of money

The winners for 2024 are:

A or Myrtle

Apartments, where 312 townhouses and apartments are being built? They removed 590 trees from that 37-acre tract and paid the city $67 582 in fees.

One more piece of evidence: the Garden Oaks Apartments, under construction on Old Salem

SEE LOWDOWN PAGE A5

By Delayna Earley The Island News

The 7th annual Dancing With Our Stars event was the most successful one yet, according to Jessie Chapman, Director of Development at the Child Abuse Prevention Association (CAPA) of Beaufort. This year, their participants raised half a million dollars that will go to benefit CAPA and help to build and new facility that was announced last year. Participants, who are select-

ed for their contributions to the community and to CAPA, held fundraisers for several months to raise money in honor of the event for CAPA.

The money raised from ticket sales will also be added into the count, said Chapman. This year, both nights were sold out. The event was held over two nights, Friday March 15, and Saturday, March 16, and will be available to view online at the Beaufort County Channel (BCTV).

People’s Choice: Jeff Vinney and Erin Hancock.

Kid’s Choice: Jamie Achor and Skyeem Gardner.

Judge’s Choice: Tim Gurley and Candace Dore.

Alumni’s Choice: Douglas Cifranick and Lea McFadden.

Best Costume: Ty Reichel and Rashad Gadson.

Best Choreography: Rita Wilson and Erin Demers.

SEE STARS PAGE A4

The Island News Editor Mike McCombs, Assistant Editor Delayna Earley, Publisher Margaret Evans and Publisher Jeff Evans show off their hardware after the S.C Press Association Awards Luncheon on Friday, March 15 in Columbia. Linda Beattie/For

to — in addition to nine individual second- and third-place award and the two shared awards with McCombs.

Columnist Terry Manning took home his first first-place award with The Island News for Column Writing.

Photographer Bob Sofaly won first place for Sports Action Photo for a photo from the Beaufort

SEE AWARDS PAGE A2

the Island News

LOLITA HUCKABY

Team 3 – Rashad Gadson and Ty Reichel – doesn’t hold anything back during their performance in the seventh annual Dancing With Our Stars on Saturday, March 16, at the USCB Center for the Arts. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

Beaufort Memorial Hospital (BMH) marked the beginning of sitework for the relocation of its employer sponsored childcare center this week with a child-sized groundbreaking ceremony. Hospital administration celebrated the upcoming transition with the current class of four-year-olds, their BMH-employed parents, teachers, and school administrators in the area that will become the children’s playground. “We understand how important it is for employees to know that while they are at work, their children are in a safe and secure learning environment,” said Russell Baxley, Beaufort Memorial president and CEO. “That is why we continue to pursue ways to expand the number of children who can be cared for in the program. It ultimately enables our team members to thrive both personally and professionally.” What started as a response to COVID-driven school closures and virtual learning schedules, The Learning Center has evolved to help meet the ongoing need employees have for childcare. Beaufort Memorial partnered with Hobbit Hill Learning Center in summer 2020 to create the state-licensed center following South Carolina early learning standards. In September that same year, the center opened in an existing Celedon Square facility on Lady’s Island with plans to eventually expand in a location closer to the hospital campus. The program is expected to move over the summer into the new Beaufort Memorial Child Development Center at 5 Verdier Bluff on the Beaufort hospital campus. It will continue to care for infants and children from six months to five years of age and operate Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Photo courtesy of Beaufort Memorial Hospital. To submit a Lowcountry Life photo, you must be the photographer or have permission to submit the photo to be published in The Island News. Please submit high-resolution photos and include a description and/or names of the people in the picture and the name of the photographer. Email your photos to theislandnews@gmail.com.

VETERAN OF THE WEEK LOUIS SCHLEUGER

Beaufort’s Louis Schleuger, 81, joined the United States Marine Corps in Brill, Iowa, in 1960. After Boot Camp in San Diego he trained to be a Voice Radio Operator. His first assignment was at MCGACC Twentynine Palms, CA, He next served in Okinawa and then as a security guard in Subic Bay, Philippines. Next he trained as an Electronic Technician for ground radar systems which led him to MCAS Beaufort. After that tour he returned to Okinawa followed by a tour in Vietnam at Chu Lai.

NEWS BRIEFS

Use caution on Spanish Moss Trail extension

Beaufort County wants to remind people to use caution when moving through the Spanish Moss Trail Port Royal Extension while it's under construction, particularly the freshly poured concrete. The project will extend the trail from the current southern termi-

Awards

from page A1

High School football season and for his Short Story about a very young artist. He also won two third-place awards, one for Sports Feature photo and one for Sports Action.

Louis Schleuger

He returned to Okinawa for another tour before service at MCAS Cherry Point. He was selected for a two-year college program leading to an Associates Degree from Palomar Community College, Escondido, Calif., after which he re-

nus across Ribaut Road into Port Royal. The trail is heavily used by members of the public – pedestrians, rollerbladers, walkers and bicyclists – and that will continue.

Construction of the extension will continue for several more months dependent on weather and repair work. Please acknowledge and adhere to construction signing in the area. For more information on the

Hope Falls won a first-place award for Sports Page Design and a second-place award for Page One Design.

Wes Kerr took home first place for his Spot Sports Story about Beaufort High School’s 2022 football state championship win over Powdersville.

turned to Twentynine Palms for Advanced Electronics School. Then it was back to MCAS Beaufort before duty at MCAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. While there he earned a BA degree in business. He then then returned to Okinawa for his fourth tour there. His final active duty station was at the Marine Corps logistics base in Albany, Ga., from which he retired in 1980 as a Master Sergeant. He returned to Beaufort and completed an MBA and began work as a government employee at Par-

extension project, call Beaufort County Engineering Department at 843-255-2700

Friends of Fort Fremont hosting volunteer training

The Friends of Fort Fremont will hold an orientation and training class at 10 a.m., Monday, March 25 at the Fort Fremont

ris Island. In 1997 he moved to Washington, D.C., as an auditor in the DoD Inspector General’s office. He then spent 10 years in Yokosuka, Japan followed by an assignment back in DC then back to Yokosuka. In 2002 he retired as a GS-13 with 17+ years of civil service. He’s been married for 56 years during which he’s moved 14 times.

– Compiled by John Chubb, American Legion Post 207 For Veteran Of The Week nominations, contact jechubb1@gmail.com.

History Center, 1124 Land’s End Road, St. Helena Island. Volunteers are needed to greet visitors at the History Center during operating hours each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Anyone who enjoys meeting people from around the world is invited to attend. For more information, email tourfortfremont@gmail.com.

– Compiled from staff reports

Assistant Editor Delayna Earley delayna. theislandnews@ gmail.com

Advertising Sales Consultant Sandy Schepis 678-641-4495 sandyschepis@ gmail.com

Sports Editor Justin Jarrett won a second-place award for Sports Video and a third-place award for Sports Column Writing. The Island News staff was awarded third place in General Excellence for Weeklies over 6,500

ON THIS DATE

March 21

1964:

Auditorium. The National Championship

Sports

PAL PETS OF THE WEEK

Cat

neutered, up to date on vaccinations, and microchipped.

Dog Of The Week: This week marks four years since Harley first came to the Palmetto Animal League Adoption Center. Over the years, she has watched as many other dogs have come and gone. Now, it’s Harley’s time to find the forever

Lowcountry Weekly wins 2

Lynn and Cele Seldon won third place in Food Writing, and Margaret Evans won third place for Humor Column Writing.

Lowcountry Weekly is a bit of a unicorn — doesn’t qualify in many categories — so we’re very happy about those two awards as well,” Evans said.

Not to be left out of the conversation, Lowcountry Weekly, sister publication to The Island News and also published by Jeff and Margaret Evans, won two awards.

up to date on vaccinations, and microchipped. Please share this special video (scan QR code)

–

Beaufort High girls golf coach arrested, charged with Sexual Exploitation of a Minor

By Delayna Earley The Island

News Beaufort High School Girls Varsity golf coach James W. Corbin has been arrested and charged with five counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, 2nd degree on Wednesday, March 13. Corbin, 52, of Lady’s Island, was booked at the Beaufort County Detention Center just after 9:15 a.m. His bond was set at $15,000 per charge, and he was released early that afternoon.

According to a release from the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office investigation began on January 26 2024, when the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office received a lead from the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force indicating that images of minors engaged in sexual activity

or appearing in a state of sexually explicit nudity were disseminated from an address within Beaufort County.

surrendered to law enforcement early Wednesday morning.

ministration if your child is in need of any support.

18-yearold man charged in child’s shooting death

By Delayna Earley

The Island News

A St. Helena Island man was arrested Friday and faces charges related to the March 3 shooting death of a child.

Benjamin Shamar

Investigators substantiated information received from the Attorney General’s office and obtained probable cause to search Corbin’s home.

Corbin

BCSO executed a search warrant at his home on March 6 2024, seeking evidence related to sexual.

At this time, none of the minors identified are Beaufort High School students, but it is still an active investigation, according to BCSO spokesperson Maj. Angela Viens. According to Viens, all of the minors were prepubescent. An arrest warrant was issued for Corbin on March 12, 2024, and he

Corbin was not a faculty member of Beaufort High but is a stipended coach. According to a communication from Beaufort County School District, he is no longer employed due to pending criminal charges.

The Beaufort County School District (BCSD) has been made aware of pending criminal charges involving the Beaufort High School Girls Varsity golf coach, James Corbin, who also volunteered with the Boys JV soccer team. The purpose of this communication is to inform you that this individual is no longer employed by BCSD.

Although the district is unable to comment on an active law enforcement investigation or personnel matters, please do not hesitate to reach out to school ad-

According to his LinkedIn page, Corbin has been the girls golf coach since August 2021 and began working as the JV soccer coach in January 2022

His page also has him listed as currently working for Lockheed Martin as their Senior Systems Engineer, a position he has held since August 2022

This is still an active investigation, and no further details will be released at this time, according to the release.

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.

Yuhas files to run for SC House District 121

From staff reports Republican Shelley Gay Yuhas filed on Saturday, March 16 2024 to officially enter the race for State Representative of South Carolina’s House District 121. The seat is currently held by Democrat Michael Rivers.

Yuhas graduated from Beaufort High School in 1979. She is passionate about using her business experience, non-profit leadership and experience in the education field for the families of District 121

After graduating from the University of South Carolina with a B.S. in Computer Science and a minor in Business, Shelley branched out to other areas of the Lowcountry. For 25 years, Shelley operated as Chief Financial Officer for a medical and vocational case management company that helped people and families recover from catastrophic injuries. She also served on the board of the Lowcountry Food Bank from 2015-2021 including more than three years as Board Chair. In 2010, Shelley’s passion for education bore great fruit when she helped establish the Lowcountry’s first project based learning school at Crown Leadership Academy in Mt. Pleasant, SC, serving as the school’s Board Chair until 2017 Shelley and her husband, Steve, also a graduate of Beaufort High School, have been married for 39 years.

ADVANCED ORTHOPEDIC OPTIONS TO RELIEVE BACK AND NECK PAIN

Seabrook IV, 18, is in custody and was charged on March 15 with Involuntary Manslaughter, Obstruction of Justice, Unlawful Conduct Towards a Child, Tampering with Evidence and Filing a False Police Report, according to a Beaufort Police release.

Seabrook was booked on Friday around 3:30 p.m., according to Beaufort County Detention Center records, and released Tuesday, March 19

On March 3, Beaufort police responded to the report of a gunshot victim at Cross Creek Apartments just after 1 p.m.

Upon arrival, officers found a 6-year-old child with a gunshot wound to the head and they provided medical aid until emergency medical services personnel arrived.

The child was then transported to an area hospital with critical injuries. Police issued a release stating that the child had died two days later due to the gunshot wound.

Initially police said that the shooting appeared to be accidental, but they were still investigating.

When unmanageable neck or back pain gets in your way, it’s time for the board-certified, fellowship-trained experts at Beaufort Memorial to give you relief.

Whether you experienced a recent injury or have a chronic condition, Beaufort Memorial has your back. The Advanced Orthopedics and Spine Program at Beaufort Memorial brings together state-of-the-art technologies and top spine care experts to address a range of conditions that cause neck and back pain. Let our team create an individualized care plan, exploring both nonsurgical and surgical treatment options, so you can get back to life. At Beaufort Memorial you also find:

• Innovative solutions that improve your mobility and allow for more natural movement

• An Optimization Program that follows you through the process to ensure the best outcomes

• Advanced procedures that spare healthy tissue and speed recovery

• Outpatient surgeries that allow many patients to go home the same day Visit BeaufortMemorial.org/SpineCare

Beaufort County elections chief Smalls honored

From staff reports Beaufort County Board of Voter Registration and Elections Director Marie S. Smalls recently received the South Carolina Association of Registration Elections Officials’ (SCARE) coveted Moore Award.

The Moore Award is the highest award the SCARE organization presents to its members. The Moore Award was presented to Smalls at this year’s 48 th Annual Legislative Conference, in Myrtle Beach. The award was established by 4 th District Congresswoman Liz Patterson in memory of Betty Moore, the founding member of the association. Moore worked

Marie

tirelessly to form a state association of registration and election officials. The Moore Award is fashioned after the J. Mitchell Graham Award of the S.C. Association of Counties, of which SCARE is an affiliate.

The award is presented to a member of SCARE who best exemplifies the spirit of the organization through their continued sacrifice in service, time, energy, and effort to make the Association a more informed, knowledgeable, and committed group

of professionals.

Experts that promote networked training for individuals, as well as sharing valuable information to every county, collectively.

“Marie Smalls’ leadership, dedication, and innovative initiatives have undoubtedly made a significant impact on SCARE’s mission. Her unwavering commitment to promoting education, concern, and training within the organization reflects the values that the Moore Award represents,” Charleston County Director Isaac Cramer said in a release.

Smalls began working in the field of elections as a volunteer in 1988, while working as a Human Resources Specialist for Beaufort County, later becoming the Director. She joined the Voter Registration and Election staff in 2005 as an Elections Administrative Registrar (Deputy Director), and a member of SCARE in 2006

“In addition to helping me overcome the struggles of the redistricting process, Marie has taught me the resilience and tenacity to weather the storm of elections and its battlegrounds,” Georgetown County Director Aphra McCrea said. “With the softest voice in the most chaotic times, she was still strong, tough, and calm.”

Smalls obtained her National Certification as a Certified Elections/Registration Administrator (CERA) through the Election Center Program in August 2008. She was one of the first 500 people to become nationally certified in the Country and one of only two active members in South Carolina. Smalls has been the Director for the Board of Voter Registration of Beaufort County for longer than 10 years. Under her leadership with the Beaufort County Board of VR&E, the office has received three Excellence in Elections Award (“Best Practices”) within a fiveyear period.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY BABIES

The Beaufort Memorial Collins Birthing Center team welcomed five St. Patrick’s Day babies this weekend: Baby boy Adonis Clark, of Estill, was born at 12:40 a.m. and weighed in at 5 pounds, 4 ounces; baby girl Isabella Foster, of Beaufort, was born at 5:31 p.m. and weighed in at 5 pounds, 13 ounces; baby boy Judah Reyes, of Ridgeland, was born at 7:30 p.m. and weighed in at 9 pounds, 2 ounces; baby girl Harper Marie Gallagher, of Beaufort, was born at 7:58 p.m. and weighed in at 5 pounds, 10 ounces; and baby girl Zamira Zamora, of Bluffton, was born at 9:32 p.m. and weighed in at 8 pounds, 3 ounces. Congratulations to the families of these adorable babies. A special thank you to Sea Island Quilters for the St. Patrick’s-day themed quilt and Donna Mixon, LPN, who made adorable hats to send home with the babies. Photos by Charlotte Berkeley Photography.

You are invited!

Sponsored by Reverend Kenneth Hodges and the Beaufort Republican Women’s Club, the celebration will be held at 11 a.m. at Tabernacle Baptist Church, 901 Craven Street, Beaufort. Attorney General Alan Wilson is the Keynote speaker, and Riverview Charter School will make a video presentation. There is no charge for the event, but donations to the Harriet Tubman Memorial Fund are accepted. Cake and punch will be served.

Stars

from page A1

“It’s a friend-raiser and a fundraiser,” Chapman said about the event. “The goal is to make friends of CAPA and raise funds.”

Chapman said that every year the hope is to make the event bigger and better so that they can raise more money to benefit CAPA Beaufort, but this year will be hard to top.

PAL, Jasper County Sheriff offer free vaccines for pets

From staff reports Palmetto Animal League and the Jasper County Sheriff's Office are teaming up to provide a free Pet Vaccination Clinic on Saturday, March 23, providing core vaccines for cats and dogs.

“Cats and dogs are eligible to receive their basic yearly boosters, which protect them against common diseases,” says PAL President Amy Campanini. “It’s just as important for pets to get their annual vaccinations as it is for people.”

PAL is offering free 1-year rabies and DHPP dog vaccinations and free 1-year rabies and FVRCP cat vaccinations Saturday, March 23 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Jasper County Sheriff's Office Main Office, located at 12008 North Jacob Smart Blvd.

in Ridgeland. “Offering a vaccination clinic on Saturday helps those who find it hard to take time off work,” Campanini explained in a news release. “PAL is thankful to be able to provide this opportunity to the public as the free vaccines are made possible through a generous grant from Petco Love.”

The vaccination clinic will take place rain or shine. Cats must be in a carrier and dogs must be leashed. Free pet vaccinations will be administered on a first come, first served basis for 3 hours or until all allotted vaccines provided by the grant have been given.

“At PAL, we see access to high quality, affordable veterinary care as a vital part of our lifesaving mission,” Campanini said. “Accessible, preventative care

helps keep pets in a loving home for their lifetime, decreasing the number of animals surrendered to shelters.”

This Vaccination Clinic provides limited services, and PAL is unable to provide exams, treat, or diagnose your pet at the event. For complete care or if you have a sick pet, call 843645-1727 to schedule an appointment at the PAL Veterinary Clinic.

The Palmetto Animal League Veterinary Clinic is an accessible resource for every pet and every family, offering wellness exams, vaccines, microchipping, and much more at affordable prices. Support animal rescue when you care for your pet at the PAL Vet Clinic. For more information, visit www.PalmettoAnimalLeague.org.

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.

Team 5’s Tim Newman, left, doesn’t let having just one leg stop him as he “gets down” with dance partner Megan Howe during the seventh annual Dancing With Our Stars on Saturday, March 16, at the USCB Center for the Arts. Newman, a former Marine and Beaufort County Sheriff’s Deputy, lost his leg in 2005 during combat operations in Iraq. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

Judges for the seventh annual Dancing With Our Stars, from left, Grayson Williams, Cherimie Crane Weatherford and Mike McFee go over one of the team’s high points Saturday, March 16, at USCB’s Center for the Arts. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

Smalls

CYBER SECURITY

Monday, March 19, 2024. Amber Hewitt/The

Johnsonville Polish Kielbasa

Turkey under recall

From staff reports Salm Partners, LLC, a Denmark, Wis., establishment, is recalling approximately 35 430 pounds of Johnsonville turkey kielbasa sausage that may be contaminated with foreign materials, specifically pieces of rubber, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The turkey kielbasa sausages were produced between Oct. 30-31, 2023. The following products are subject to recall:

12-oz. vacuum-packed packages containing a single piece of "Johnsonville POLISH KIELBASA TURKEY" sausage and

Lowdown from page A1

best by dates "05/17/24" and 05/18/24" printed on the side of the packaging.

The products subject to recall bear establishment number "P32009" printed on the side of the packaging. These items were shipped to retail locations nationwide.

The problem was discovered after the firm received complaints from consumers reporting they found pieces of rubber in the readyto-eat turkey kielbasa products.

There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions or injury due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an injury should contact a health-

Road, 2 292 trees were felled and developers paid $33,752 in fees.

These are not made-up figures. They came from the Beaufort planning department for the City Council which was scheduled to tackle the city’s tree ordinance Tuesday night as part of their ongoing update of the city development code.

The council is taking a look at the tree ordinance because currently, the fee for removing a “landmark” or “specimen” tree is $100 per tree. This compares to Beaufort County’s fee schedule which calls for $250 “reforestation fee” for each tree removed.

And then there’s Port Royal, whose council members drew praise almost exactly one year ago when they passed an ordinance increasing the fees from $100 per caliper inch for “landmark” trees to $750 per caliber inch. For “specimen” trees, the fee was increased from $50 to $500 per caliber inch.

Port Royal’s council agreed at its annual planning retreat to review the ordinance because of complaints that the fees were excessive and making some lots financially unbuildable. But at last week’s meeting, with “discussion of tree ordinance” on the agenda, the result was the council directing their planning director to come back with some suggested changes.

Mayor Kevin Phillips, whose recent election campaign included support for the tree ordinance, stressed he wanted to make sure whatever revisions are eventually made, “there’s still some kick in there. Some bite.” to make sure folks knew the town’s serious about protecting its trees. We’ll have to see what course the Beaufort City Council will take. In the meantime, trees keep coming down because developers keep building.

care provider.

FSIS is concerned that some product may be in consumers' refrigerators. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on the FSIS website at www.fsis.usda.gov/ recalls.

Consumers and members of the

Red flags for Bay Point, maybe BEAUFORT – Clickbait: Something (such as a headline) designed to make readers want to “click” on a hyperlink especially when the link leads to content of dubious value or interest. Merriam-Webster definition

That’s how one friend more familiar with marketing described a recent press release with a “Bangkok” dateline that generated media coverage from those interested in the potential development of Bay Point island.

This release by IHG Hotels and Resorts offered plans for a “eco-conscious resort, spa and residential community” coming to Beaufort County via Hilton Head, Daufuskie and Bay Point. The release cites a management agreement with Bay Point LLC and the international Six Senses Resorts and Management firm headquartered in Bangkok, the foreign backers of a development plan circulated for the isolated Bay Point back in 2016

At that time, the plans for an “eco-friendly” community called for 50 villas on Bay Point, a plan that was widely protested all the way to the Governor’s office and ultimately rejected by the county.

This latest plan, again calling for “eco-friendly” development, has expanded to include unidentified property on Hilton Head Island and the former Melrose development on Daufuskie Island.

The release, which was picked up by news and hospitality marketing sites, promised the “limited” sale of lots on Bay Point starting in 2024

To date, no plans for any new development on Bay Point have been presented to the county although the island is, technically, already zoned for a limited number of single-family homes. At least one of those lots has already vanished from the barrier island with the only structure falling into the ocean back in 2020

Maybe this news is just “clickbait,” a test to see who may be interested as investors or potential property owners.

media with questions about the recall can contact Stephanie Schafer, Director of Global Corporate Communications for Johnsonville, at 888-556-2728 or sschafer@johnsonville.com. Consumers with food safety questions can call the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854) or send a question via email to MPHotline@usda.gov. For consumers that need to report a problem with a meat, poultry, or egg product, the online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System can be accessed 24 hours a day at https://foodcomplaint.fsis. usda.gov/eCCF/.

But it’s reason why groups like the S.C. Coastal Conservation League, the S.C. Environmental Law Project and The Nature Conservancy are so important to citizens concerned about the rapid pace of growth and the potential for development harmful to the coastal environment.

These non-profits, supported by members, have paid staff members who pay attention to the multitude of development proposals presented on almost a daily basis to county, state, and municipal regulatory agencies. Those staff members try to monitor the proposals as they make their way through the process and their success, lays in part, with notifying citizens what could be coming their way.

Who knows the future of this latest development idea or others, like the proposed development of Pine Island on the northern end of St. Helena Island? It’s almost certain these challenges end up in the courts, like the earlier plans for Bay Point, Pine Island, even 303 Associates’ plans for the hotel and parking garage in downtown Beaufort.

As long as the popularity of the Lowcountry continues to grow, these development challenges will continue, whether they’re considered “threats” or “evidence of economic growth.” It’s a difficult balance which requires everyone’s attention.

When you can’t win for losing PORT ROYAL – Town officials were applauded recently for an aggressive road repaving project that saw most roads within the downtown area of municipality get a new level of pavement.

Well, with the accolades come the criticisms, … that started pretty much before the tar even dried. Some residents came to council to complain with the new pavement came speeders. They hope the police will help crack down on the drivers.

Interesting enough, the Beaufort County Council got a similar complaint from residents of Forrest Fields neighborhood,

Kid Fest returns to Beaufort for 25th anniversary

From staff reports

Members of the Tri Command will host a day of fun activities for kids at the Cross Creek Shopping Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, April 6 Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort and Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) have partnered with local civilian agencies to spread awareness of both Child Abuse Prevention Month and Month of the Military Child in this open to the public event.

“I want to personally invite you to Kid Fest. This event is for both Marine Corps and local community families,” MCAS Beaufort Commanding Officer Col. Mark Bortnem said in a news release. “We must do everything we can to increase awareness and protect our children, no matter where they live. In partnership with the Child Abuse Prevention Association (CAPA), we hold this event in the local community to make sure everyone has the opportunity to have some fun while also getting the resources they need at the same time.”

This event is free, open to the public and accessible to everyone. All families are invited to attend for games, crafts, face painting, snow cones, military vehicles, fire truck tours and much more. Members of MCCS and Beaufort’s CAPA will provide education and awareness at booths during the event.

WANT TO GO?

Who: Tri Command

What: 25th Kid Fest

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, April 6

Where: Cross Creek Shopping Center Tickets: This event is free, open to the public

where new paving recently occurred. The residents said they’d complained to the sheriff’s office in the rural part of the county. The sheriff’s department folks sent them to the Council.

Sound familiar?

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

Brooke Plank Buccola, Representative Nancy Mace, and Port Royal Mayor Kevin Phillips engage in discussions during the 2024 South Coast Cyber Summit held on

Island News

Friends of Fort Fremont Oyster Roast

America’s Boating Club of Beaufort providing free boating classes

From staff reports

A new South Carolina state law took effect August 18 2023 requiring teens to take a boating course if they wish to go out on a boat on their own anywhere on state waterways.

The new requirement covers individuals currently 16 years old and younger. The new law states any type of watercraft, including personal watercraft, with a 10 horsepower engine or greater.

The Beaufort Yacht & Sailing Club and Beaufort Sail & Power Squadron, now known as America’s Boating Club of Beaufort, in conjunction with the S.C. Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), will host a free four-hour Safety Boating Class on Saturday, April 20. This course will be held at the Beaufort Yacht & Sailing Club, 30 Yacht Club Drive, off Meridian Road on Lady’s Island.

Those interested may select one of the two sessions being offered on this day. One will be from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and the second will be from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. The course is free and all material will be furnished. However, attendees should bring materials to take notes.

A test will be administered at the conclusion of the class. Upon successful com-

pletion of this class, SCDNR will issue a waterproof certificate for each applicant.

Interested individuals should go on-line to register, using the links provided below.

S.C. Boating Education Class – April 20 2024 Morning Session: https:// bit.ly/3THqatv.

S.C. Boating Education Class – April 20 2024 Afternoon Session: https:// bit.ly/4clv86y.

Applicants are encouraged to register for either one of the classes as soon as possible as there are a limited number of seats for each class. Other states that have implemented versions of this program have seen a very significant decrease in boating accidents and injuries, particularly for younger boaters. For additional information email Commander Frank Gibson at fgibson@islc.net.

Dawson named law enforcement captain over SCDNR coastal region; first woman to lead a region Dennetta

degree from Charleston Southern University and a Master’s degree from The Citadel. In 2023, she completed the Command Officers Development Course from the Southern Police Institute of Louisville, Kentucky.

Roughly 125 attendees in total gathered around to enjoy fun, friends, and food at the Friends of Fort Fremont Oyster Roast on Friday, March 15, 2024. Amber

From staff reports

Washington Street Park master plan unveiled

A new master plan developed for Washington Street Park will feature a performance pavilion, a basketball half-court, a tennis practice court, a rain garden, new landscaping and benches, two murals, and a historic marker.

The master plan, developed by engineering firm Davis & Floyd, was presented at City Council Work Session on March 12

The historic park, nestled in the Northwest Quadrant neighborhood, is managed by the City of Beaufort and owned by the Beaufort County Community Center, a non-profit. The park was developed in the 1940s when African-American residents donated land for the Beaufort County Negro Recreational Center – the only park in the City at the time for black families and children. The Beaufort County Community Center is comprised of the descendants of the original families who founded the park.

Fred Washington, Jr., and Mary Thompson, both members of the Beaufort County Community Center, are also members of the Washington Street Park Committee, which was convened in 2023 to help in the development of the master plan. Other members include Beaufort City

Councilman Mitch Mitchell, City of Beaufort staff, and several neighborhood residents. Downtown Operations Director Linda Roper is overseeing the project. Since the City of Beaufort began to manage Washing-

ton Street Park, it has installed restrooms and a new playground.

The master plan’s focal point will be a new performance pavilion, which has a very simple and natural design, with wooden columns

Attendees

Construction is scheduled to begin in late May and be completed by the end of the year.

that will hide electronics. Pavilion architect James Steverson said his mandate was to design a pavilion that would both “fit into this neighborhood” and accommodate performances. Fred Washington added, “We wanted a natural look. We’re trying to incorporate some of the history that we brought to the Historic District.”

The estimated cost of improvements to the park is $1 275 million. It is being funded through two grants, amounting to $330 000 with the balance coming from the Parks & Tourism Revenue Bond.

Bash

SC removing 1.6 million gallons of oil, contaminants from USS Yorktown

Legislative approval needed for 2nd phase of $30M cleanup paid with federal COVID aid

By Jessica Holdman SCDailyGazette.com

MOUNT PLEASANT — South Carolina is on track to remove some 1 6 million gallons of environmentally toxic oil and fuel from a World War II aircraft carrier turned museum that has sat docked on display for nearly 50 years in the Charleston harbor.

When the United States military gifted the USS Yorktown to South Carolina in 1975 — turning the former battleship that fought tours in both World War II and the Vietnam War into a stateowned museum visited by 300,000 tourists each year — it did not remove the fuel and other hazardous liquids as it would today when decommissioning a ship from its fleet.

Now the Palmetto State is in charge of the $30 million cleanup process.

Mount Pleasant’s Patriots Point Development Authority pushed for the fuel removal and restoration of the “Fighting Lady” for more than a decade.

There’s a lot of this stuff that remains on the Yorktown. The impacts of these pollutants are known and they are sometimes very, very long lasting.”

Thanks to nearly $11 million in federal COVID-19 pandemic relief funds, crews last fall started pumping out some 600,000 gallons of oily water and 9 tons of oily sediment from a portion of the ship’s 428 liquid storage tanks.

Divers, as part of an emergency measure to prevent a spill, also patched 35 holes in the hull of the ship, which sits mired in nearly 30 feet of pluff mud.

But massive amounts of hydraulic and heavy fuel oil still sit deep in the belly of the ship, said Jacqueline Michel, president of the company contracted to do the cleanup work.

To complete the next phase, South Carolina’s Office of Resilience on Wednesday will ask a legislative panel that oversees state spending to sign off on spending the remaining $18 million in federal relief funds set aside for the project.

Built in 1943, the aircraft carrier replaced the original Yorktown sunk by a Japanese submarine in the Battle of Midway. At its peak, 3 300 sailors manned the 820-foot ship, which is now a national historic landmark.

Cleaning it up is a complicated process, as many of the

fuel tanks are multiple decks deep and require draining of one area before crews can get access to another. In the first phase, workers pumped out the mix of water, oil and contaminants and transported it in a tanker to a wastewater treatment facility near Goose Creek.

The next round will focus on the outer two layers of tanks most in danger of leaking into the Atlantic Ocean if damaged.

“There’s a lot of this stuff that remains on the Yorktown,” said state Department of Natural Resources Director Robert Boyles. “The impacts of these pollutants are known and they are sometimes very, very long lasting.”

The state doesn’t want to risk the toxic liquids leaking into Charleston’s harbor, putting the state’s pristine beaches and $29 million tourism industry at risk.

As an example of past environmental disaster, Boyles pointed to 24,000 gallons of fuel oil spilled from a Norwe-

gian cargo ship, the M/S Star Evviva, in 1999. The spill impacted thousands of coastal birds and the commercial seafood industry in and around the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge.

Back at home, 12 500 gallons of oil spilled from the M/V Everreach container ship into the Cooper River on Sept. 30 2002, impacting 30 miles of Charleston shoreline. Cleaning that up and restoring the beaches and marshes took 16 years.

Today the Yorktown

stands as a memorial to “duty, honor, country and courage,” Boyles said. What the state wants to avoid from the ship is a legacy of “dirty, harmful, cleanup.”

“This should have been done a long time ago,” Gov. Henry McMaster said Tuesday. “We don’t have another minute to waste because we don’t know what’s going to happen. We don’t know when the next storm is going to happen.” His 2022 order directed the state Office of Resil-

ience, created a year earlier, to start the removal process. Not taking action could result in “unimaginable” damage to the state’s natural resources, the governor said.

“We are determined this is going to be finished so this area can continue to prosper,” McMaster said.

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

SC Senate reaches compromise tweaking how Legislature selects judges

Bill

would limit legislators to 4-year terms, give governor 4 appointments on a larger screening panel

By Jessica Holdman SCDailyGazette.com

COLUMBIA — A Senate compromise on changing how the Legislature picks judges newly gives the governor some input in the process but retains legislative control.

The unanimous vote Thursday in the Senate followed days of behind-the-scenes negotiations on an issue that threatened to derail this year’s judicial elections entirely.

Critics, including the attorney general and solicitors of both parties, have complained for months that the current system gives the Legislature too much power over judges, particularly lawyer-legislators who appear before the judges they put on the bench.

Sen. Wes Climer, who pledged last fall to block elections until changes are made, called the bill “a compromise that nobody loves but that everybody can live with.”

“I think it goes a very long way in reducing what heretofore has been undue, outsized influence of legislative politics on judicial outcomes,” said the Rock Hill Republican, who was part of the negotiating team.

Others who worked up the agreement included the chamber’s GOP and Democratic caucus leaders, both of whom are lawyers, and former solicitors in the Senate.

What would change?

It’s not anything close to the comprehensive changes some advocates wanted. Instead, it tweaks the existing process in a way that allows more lawyer-legislators

on the panel but with new rules designed to ensure judges aren’t screened by the same legislators term after term. Those who would prefer to keep the system as is called the changes workable.

South Carolina is among two states where the Legislature elects most judges to the bench. The process involves the Judicial Merit Selection Commission screening applicants and forwarding up to three candidates deemed qualified to the entire Legislature for a vote. Of the panel’s 10 members, six are legislators who are also lawyers. The other four are lawyers appointed by legislators.

The compromise would add two people to the panel, making it 12 Eight of them could be legislators.

The governor would, for the first time, get appointments. He would appoint four, giving the executive branch a third of the say in who advances to a joint assembly vote. One must be a criminal lawyer, one a civil lawyer, one a family court lawyer and one a retired judge. The House and Senate would each get four appointments: Four made by the House speaker, two by the Senate president and two by the Senate Judiciary Committee chairman.

Sen. Ronnie Saab, who was also part of negotiations, said he thinks the public is more concerned with who actually ends up on the bench instead of who’s on the screening panel.

Saab, a member of Judicial Merit Selection Commission since

2017, pointed to a lack of racial and gender diversity. South Carolina’s Supreme Court is the only state high court in the nation without a single female. It currently has one Black justice — Chief Justice Don Beatty — but he retires this summer. The Legislature is set to elect a new justice in June.

“When there is an absence of diversity on a judiciary, I believe that issue in and of itself could erode public confidence,” said the Williamsburg County Democrat.

The agreement ensures judicial elections that were initially scheduled for last month will proceed April 17

It does not bar legislators who are lawyers from serving on the panel, as many reformers wanted.

But it does term-limit them. Legislators can stay on for four years but then must be off the panel for four years before going back on, which should mean judges won’t be screened for election and re-election by the same legislators.

Climer said that will prevent legislators on the screening panel from entrenching themselves in the process and having “undue influence on the judges before whom they try cases.”

“Any time a citizen of this state enters a courtroom, the only thing that should have a bearing on the outcome of that process is the law and the facts,” said Climer, who is not a lawyer. “The judge’s politics, judge’s re-election, the attorneys’ politics shouldn’t matter. The Legislature’s politics shouldn’t matter.”

The bill also creates a process

for removing legislative appointees for misconduct or neglect. And it requires a commissioner to resign if they have an immediate family member or in-law seeking a judgeship.

When the screening panel finds a candidate “unqualified,” it must include the reasoning in its report.

And, rather than being limited to three candidates, the panel could forward as many as six to the Legislature for a vote. The bill requires all of the screenings to be livestreamed for the public.

Finally, the compromise adds more weight to votes cast by senators.

A candidate would need a majority of votes from both House members and senators rather than a simple majority of the full Legislature.

That’s likely to meet resistance in the House. Their greater numbers mean the House decides judicial elections. There are 124 House members and 46 senators. In contested races, it’s the count in the House that really matters.

Another vote Tuesday will officially send the compromise over to the House, where its fate is dubious.

A House committee that’s been meeting since last fall continues to work on its version of a bill changing the judicial selection process.

Just eight weeks remain in the regular session.

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

South Carolina is preparing to remove some 1.6 million gallons of oil and fuel from the USS Yorktown, a World War II aircraft carrier turned museum in Mount Pleasant. Jessica Holdman/ S.C. Daily Gazette

Sen. Wes Climer, R-Rock Hill, speaks on the South Carolina Senate floor

Thursday, March 14, 2024, before senators voted in favor of a compromise bill making changes to the panel that screens judicial candidates in the state.

Screenshot from S.C. House livestream

Clyburn makes re-election bid official during 2-week filing period

By Abraham Kenmore SCDailyGazette.com

COLUMBIA — U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn, South Carolina’s only Democrat in Congress, officially filed for re-election Monday for the 6th District that spans 14 counties.

The state’s longest-serving U.S. House member was among candidates to sign a party pledge and pay the filing fee to run in the June 11 GOP and Democrat primaries. The two-week window opened Saturday and continues until noon April 1

All 170 seats in the South Carolina Legislature (124 in the House, 46 in the Senate) are on the ballot this year, along with the seven U.S. House seats, 10 of the 16 solicitors, and various local offices. Neither U.S. Senate seat is up for re-election.

The 83-year-old Clyburn, first elected to the House in 1992, is expected to easily win re-election to a 17th term.

Two Republicans, Duke Buckner and Justin Scott, have so far filed to challenge him for the state’s only safely Democratic seat in Congress. It runs from Columbia, Clyburn’s home, south to Charleston and extends from rural counties on the state’s southern border with Georgia to rural Williamsburg County in the Pee Dee.

“I have asked my daughters when I reach my final resting place, I want a tombstone just big enough for the following inscription: ‘He did his damndest to make

state, thanks largely to federal aid he championed.

In February, Clyburn announced stepping down from his leadership position to take a more active role in the campaign to re-elect President Joe Biden, who credits Clyburn’s 2020 endorsement with him winning the White House. But Clyburn made clear in February he was running to keep his seat.

Clyburn, who turns 84 in July, told reporters Monday he had not yet decided whether he will run again in 2026. He said he’s taking it one term at a time.

He did say he is optimistic about the chances of a Democrat flipping the coastal 1st District back to blue.

this country’s greatness accessible and affordable to all,” he said in a roughly onehour speech after filing. Accomplishments he touched on included creation

of the Lake Marion regional water district in 1994 to provide clean drinking water to residents in water deserts, and recent bipartisan efforts to expand broadband in the

Democrat Joe Cunningham held it for a single term before Republican Rep. Nancy Mace put it back into the Republican column in 2020

“You can’t win until you win,” Clyburn said. “I can remember when there was no chance for a Republican to get elected. Now they’ve got six of the seven (U.S. House) seats.”

The 1st District is the only one won by former Gov. Nikki Haley in the Feb. 24 GOP presidential primary. Statewide, Trump won 60% of the vote, beating Haley by 20 percentage points. But she got a majority of votes in the 1st District, with 52 5% in that six-county district.

Abraham Kenmore is a reporter covering elections, health care and more. He joins the S.C. Daily Gazette from The Augusta Chronicle, where he reported on Georgia legislators, military and housing issues.

She is seeking a third term, this time touting an endorsement from former President Donald Trump. But she’ll have to get past a primary against former state agency director Catherine Templeton.

Senators amend pandemic response bill after McMaster says it puts ‘innocent lives at risk’

By Abraham Kenmore SCDailyGazette.com

COLUMBIA — Legislation limiting what state government could do to protect South Carolinians in a future pandemic or outbreak advanced — again — over the continued concerns of Gov. Henry McMaster and South Carolina’s public health director.

The Senate panel did, however, make some changes Thursday, as even supporters recognized the bill could cause real public safety problems.

Parts of the bill “could cripple South Carolina’s ability to respond promptly and appropriately to future public health threats and potentially place innocent lives at risk,” the Republican governor said in a letter sent to senators Wednesday evening ahead of the meeting.

“As a general rule, placing overbroad restrictions on the authority of public health officials, law enforcement officers, first responders, and emergency management professionals responding to emerging threats and disasters — whether public health or otherwise — is a bad idea,” McMaster wrote in a rare public criticism of pending legislation.

His unwillingness as COVID spread to impose the kinds of mandates other governors did makes his opposition especially notable. His rolling orders were comparatively short-lived and allowed for far more exceptions. McMaster was the last governor east of the Mississippi to tell people to stay home — unless they had to go to work — and among the first to lift restrictions.

After Thursday’s changes, the bill no longer bars public health officials from buying or distributing new vaccines. And it doesn’t prevent them from putting shots in arms. But it requires them to get signed consent before they do. The bill continues to ban em-

ployers from requiring workers to take new vaccines. And it still threatens to put business owners in prison for up to five years if they do.

Most of the adopted changes were offered by uber-conservative Sen. Richard Cash of Anderson County.

The original bill “simply takes the pendulum too far in the other direction,” said the Powdersville Republican. “We just don’t want people to be mandated to have to take them.”

The amended bill continues to restrict the public health agency’s authority to force people into isolation if they test positive for a disease or are exposed — something they never did in South Carolina during COVID. It advanced to the full Medical Affairs Committee 4-3 along party lines. A different, smaller subcommittee advanced the bill two weeks ago.

The bill’s sponsor, Sen. Shane Martin, was made chairman of the

The

panel that took it up Thursday.

Dr. Edward Simmer, director of the state Department of Health and Environment Concern, addressed the panel after writing a six-page letter of concern Wednesday.

“There are a number of issues that we believe where this bill would actually cause harm to the people of South Carolina and would in fact cause unnecessary death among the people of South Carolina during a public health crisis,” he told the panel.

Martin, R-Pauline, said his bill was a response to what he saw as overreaches during the COVID pandemic.

As written, the bill disallowed the public health agency from buying or handling any “novel vaccine,” defined as any vaccine approved in the last 10 years or any with emergency authorization, such as those given to COVID vaccines.

Simmer said that would include the flu vaccine, since it changes yearly.

“This would, for example, prevent a healthcare facility from requiring their staff to get the flu vaccine,” Simmer said.

Both Cash and Martin said they didn’t intend the prohibition to apply that broadly.

The bill limits how long people can be required to isolate: 10 days if they have a contagious disease and five days if they’re exposed to it. State law that dates to 2002 allows forced isolations only in certain conditions and through a set process. While DHEC never used that authority during COVID, requiring people to separate might be necessary for other infectious diseases, such as Ebola, plague, and bird flu, Simmer said.

Ebola has a 50% fatality rate. People can remain infectious for weeks, and it can take longer than five days for someone who’s exposed to come down with it, Simmer said.

Cash indicated he’s willing to amend the bill to include a longer window.

After the vote, Cash told the S.C. Daily Gazette the bill is a work in progress, and legislators need more answers. He intends to meet with Simmer later.

“I was glad we were able to have so much conversation with Dr. Simmer,” Cash said.

After the meeting, the governor’s spokesman said some of his concerns were addressed by the changes. But others remained.

That includes the bill no longer allowing natural disasters to be considered a public health emergency. Simmer testified that a natural disaster could cause health risks through pollution leaks or by leaving dead bodies behind. Public health officials need to be able to dispose of them quickly and safely, he said.

Abraham Kenmore is a reporter covering elections, health care and more. He joins the S.C. Daily Gazette from The Augusta Chronicle, where he reported on Georgia legislators, military and housing issues.

U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn speaks with reporters on Monday, March 18, 2024,

Members of a Senate subcommittee hear testimony on Thursday, March 14, 2024, regarding a proposed bill to limit public health official’s response to a future emergency. Abraham Kenmore/S.C. Daily Gazette

SC utility regulator resigns to oppose energy bill as legislators consider changes

House members expected to take up amendments this week

By Jessica Holdman SCDailyGazette.com

COLUMBIA — House lawmakers will consider tweaking legislation that clears the path for a new power plant in South Carolina in an effort to make it more palatable to consumer and environmental opponents.

Though exactly what those changes would do remains to be seen.

The bill, sponsored by GOP House Speaker Murrell Smith of Sumter gives permission for Dominion Energy and state-owned utility company Santee Cooper to partner on a possible 2 000-megawatt natural gas plant on the site of a former coal-fired power plant along the Edisto River in Colleton County.

But in the process, it also introduces sweeping regulatory changes that have drawn significant blowback.

It was even enough to lead one utility regulator to resign in protest. Tom Ervin of Greenville left the Public Service Commission to publicly oppose a bill he says could lead to another “nightmare scenario.”

When it comes to the gas plant, utility companies argue it’s necessary to meet the power needs of South Carolina’s growing population, as well as major manufacturers the state continues to attract. But opponents note utilities were making those same arguments 17 years ago when they pushed legislation that

would ultimately lead the state into a notorious nuclear fiasco.

That 2007 law, called the Base Load Review Act, allowed Santee Cooper and Dominion’s predecessor, South Carolina Electric & Gas, to charge customers upfront through their monthly bills for the expansion of the V.C. Summer nuclear power plant in Fairfield County. The project marked the first nuclear venture in the United States in 40 years.

Soaring costs and gross mismanagement led the utilities to abandon the expansion in 2017, but not before spending $9 billion that the Base Load Review Act would have allowed them to recoup even though the project was never finished. Dominion’s buyout of SCE&G’s parent company still left customers on the hook for $2 billion.

There is nothing explicit in this latest legislation that fast-tracks the new gas plant nor does it allow the utilities to collect money upfront to pay for it. Utility executives also swore they don’t intend to skirt regulatory review. But those reassurances have not quelled concerns.

Rep. Jay West, R-Belton, who chairs the legislative panel handling the legislation, said the group will likely take up amendments next week to remove “items in the bill that were counter to our intent originally and things that need to be fixed.”

One major worry has been

Rep.

speaks during a House committee meeting in Columbia Tuesday, March 5, 2024. He said the group will soon take up amendments

language that opponents say “signals” utility regulators, who are elected by the Legislature, to push the gas plant through by deeming it in the “public interest.”

Ervin’s resignation

“The legislative endorsement of this project makes it so that you couldn’t argue that customers shouldn’t cover major cost overruns or potential abandonment,” Ervin, the former utility regulator, wrote in his resignation letter Wednesday.

The former circuit court judge, who’s been on the Public Service Commission since 2018, said the legislation bypasses the board’s “statutory mandate to make a determination that an expensive combined cycle gas plant on the proposed Canady site is in the state’s

best interests.”

This, coupled with removing a requirement added in the wake of V.C. Summer that Santee Cooper disclose the cost of its projects during regulatory hearings, is what has prompted opponents to dub the legislation a “blank check” for utilities.

Ervin plans to testify against the legislation now that he no longer sits on the regulatory commission. He plans to warn lawmakers they are again putting their “thumb on the scale of justice.”

“We all should have learned important lessons from the V.C. Summer nuclear debacle,” he wrote. “Our state’s ratepayers cannot afford a repeat of those same mistakes again.

“A new natural gas plant will need new transmission

lines and new natural gas pipelines which will adversely impact private property owners and cost billions of dollars,” he continued. “You know who will have to pay for all these things! Yep, it’s going to be the ratepayers.”

He also worries about the bill allowing utility executives to meet privately with regulators.

“We need to preserve the (Public Service Commission’s) independence and integrity. As you know, our current law prohibits backroom deals and provides a statutory right for all stakeholders to participate in a transparent hearing in public view,” he wrote.

West, a co-sponsor, said clearing that up will be among the changes his panel will take up.

The bill will specify that public hearings need to be held to “allow intervenors and experts to battle it out” and that regulators should make their own independent finding despite the Legislature’s endorsement, he said.

“We want to clarify that this legislation would not limit consumers from addressing the commission nor would it limit the commissioners from considering what the consumers say in public hearings,” West said.

West said amendments will also remove language requiring regulators to give “substantial weight” to utilities when those companies seek approval of their long-

range plans for meeting the state’s electric needs.

But those proposed changes have yet to be made public.

He said lawmakers will also close what opponents see as a potential loophole in the bill.

The legislation inserts language about “like facilities.”

The concept has historically applied to replacing power generators that are being shut down, allowing installation of a new model without going back through months of stringent review.

Because the proposed Colleton County gas plant would be replacing a coal plant, environmental and consumer groups worry it could go through without being certified through the Public Service Commission, despite needing upgrades to at least 100 miles of natural gas pipelines that feed the site.

West also pointed out that, in addition to regulatory approval, state-owned Santee Cooper will need the OK to raise funds for the project from a special legislative panel that monitors government spending.

“Still looking for the blank check,” West said. “But if someone could point out a blank check, we would certainly remove that also.”

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

Major SC electric vehicle lithium project paused

Other battery recycling investments continue

By Jessica Holdman

prices have fallen a lot, and we are seeing supply project delays all over the world,” said Joel Jackson, an analyst with BMO Capital Markets Equity Research.

It puts a damper on South Carolina’s parade of economic development wins, which for the last couple years have been heavily centered around electric vehicles and batteries. It also suggests a setback in the United States’ efforts to build its own supply chain for critical battery metals and move away from reliance on China, which refines more than half the world’s lithium.

Of the Palmetto State’s other lithium-related projects, one has yet to break ground while another is progressing as planned, at least for now.

Lithium prices dropped 80% in the past year, according to data from Benchmark Mineral Intelligence. But the commodity has recently rallied slightly, up 12% from the rock-bottom price of $13,200 per metric ton at the end of February, the lowest prices had been in three years.

“We’ll see what happens next,” Jackson said.

Electric vehicle demand slows

The decline in lithium prices is directly tied to the electric vehicle market.

Demand for electric vehicles, while rising, has not grown as quickly as the industry originally predicted, particularly in the United States. While a record 1 4 million electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles were sold in the U.S. in 2023, analysts had projected sales to reach 1 7 million.

In response, American automakers, including Tesla and Ford, have cut prices and scaled back production plans.

For example, premium models of Ford’s 2023 Mustang Mach-E are selling for under $40 000, representing a roughly $8,000 cut. Tesla lowered the price of its 2023 Model 3 by $1 250 to $38 990 and Model Y by $3,750 to $43,990

Most of South Carolina’s vehicle manufacturers export the majority of the vehicles made here, making them less susceptible, but even the fast-growing China market has slowed. This has created a global glut of lithium and other metals used to make battery cells, which is particularly hard on the United State’s fledgling lithium industry.

“Prices today are unsustain-

able,” Albemarle CEO Kent Masters told investors.

He said the company is delaying — not canceling — the South Carolina project, though the company isn’t doing any engineering or other preparation work for the site.

For the construction process to restart, Masters said, lithium prices will need to stabilize from the volatile price swings of the past year.

Chester County Economic Development Director Robert Long is optimistic. Albemarle executives have told him the project is still a priority for the company.

Even if the plant doesn’t work out, it won’t be as devastating as losing an existing employer, Long said. The county would likely find another company to take the 700acre site, located just 4 miles from Interstate 77

But whether that new company could promise the $93,000 average annual wages Albemarle said it would offer is another matter.

The fall in lithium prices has produced one benefit — cheaper batteries — which has lowered the price of certain electric vehicles and could help spur demand.

But it’s a bit of a double-edged sword. If demand for electric vehicles rises, after lithium companies have pulled back on investments, automakers will again be scrambling for supplies.

Other plans for lithium batteries also seem to be on pause.

Charlotte-based Cirba Solutions, which also has battery recycling plans in South Carolina, was supposed to break ground in 2023 on a $300 million facility south of Columbia and begin operations later this year.

Charlotte-headquartered Cirba Solutions was supposed to break ground in 2023 on a $300 million battery recycling facility in Richland County. As of March 18, 2024, the company has yet to begin construction at the site south of Columbia. Albemarle Corp. has officially paused on plans for a plant in Chester County. Jessica Holdman/S.C. Daily Gazette

So far no construction has taken place but a spokeswoman for the company said it remains committed to the project.

Battery recycling project continues In rural Berkeley County, a company founded in 2017 by a former Tesla executive continues with construction of its second U.S. battery recycling facility. Redwood Materials broke ground in January and has started construction on the site’s first processing buildings, where it will refine the lithium and other metals it salvages from used batteries. It plans to start taking in used batteries later this year, according to a company spokeswoman.

Redwood calls its business model unique. It recycles not just lithium, but cobalt, copper and nickel, and remanufactures them into new battery components to sell back to U.S. battery manufactur-

ers. The company did not go into further detail about how much the low price of some of those metals might factor into the profitability of the business.

The $3 5 billion investment by the Carson City, Nevada-based company marks the largest single economic development project in the state’s history. It plans to eventually hire 1 500 workers and will pay some of the highest wages in Berkeley County — between $27 and $75 per hour.

Redwood is valued at $5 billion and has been earmarked for a $2 billion loan from the U.S. Department of Energy.

Editor’s Note: This story was updated with comments from Cirba Solutions on the status of its Richland County project. Jessica Holdman writes about the economy, workforce and higher education. Before joining the S.C. Daily Gazette, she was a business reporter for The Post and Courier.

Jay West, R-Belton,

Provided by Wells Fargo

The beginning of a new year is often a time when we look at the progress we’ve made toward our goals and set or reset goals so we can continue to see improvement. Physical well-being tends to top the list of resolutions, but financial well-being is just as important.

As you’re considering your goals and developing new money habits, think about ways to pay yourself first. This is about prioritizing your long-term financial well-being. Here are four actions that can help you define this strategy in a way that works best for you.

1. Determine your “money jobs” — what you want your money to do

“Money jobs” are the things we want to accomplish with our money. They can be shortterm, like buying a car or home, or long-term, like funding retirement.

Michael Liersch, head of Advice & Planning at Wells Fargo says, “When we align what we want to accomplish in life with our money, it can clarify whether money is truly working hard for us to get us to where we want to go. But that requires us to be intentional about what we want in our life [and] the jobs we want money to do for us.”

Once you assign a purpose to your money, you should have a better understanding of why you should pay yourself first. You might even consider naming different accounts after specific money jobs: New Car Fund, New Home Fund, etc. With a clearer purpose, you may better prioritize your spending and giving to help ensure your overall investment plan is on track.

2. Keep down or pay off debt

A clear next step for how you pay yourself first is chipping away at any debt you may have. Over time, this should free up more funds to save or invest toward your money jobs.

There are two approaches to paying down or paying off debt: logically or emotionally.

Logically, it makes sense to apply the “avalanche method” by first tackling debts with the highest interest rates or heaviest tax implications, such as credit card debt or loans against a 401(k) plan. The amount you’ll stop spending on interest is extra money in your pocket.

Another logical approach is the “snowball method,” when you give yourself a quick win by paying off the smallest debt first and then adding that payment amount to the next debt in line to keep the momentum going.

Emotionally, you might consider starting with the debt that makes you the most uncomfortable, such as medical debt that reminds you of a past health crisis. Paying off emotionally negative debt may help ease your concerns and put you in a more opti-

mistic mindset overall, establishing a better frame of mind to reach other financial goals.

Regardless of the strategy you choose, it can help to discuss debt prioritization with a financial advisor, who will be able to help you strategize.

3. Take small actions

Simple changes to your spending habits could make a big difference as you work toward your goals. For example, it can help to review all of your subscriptions (streaming services, magazines, the gym, etc.) and cancel the ones you don’t use or don’t really love. Paying attention to your habits when it comes to small purchases can be like giving yourself a bonus every month after you cancel.

This isn’t to say you should eliminate spending money on things you like; this is suggesting that you be mindful of where your money is going. If a purchase isn’t offering long-term benefits and you decide it’s not that important to you, perhaps the money should instead go toward one of the goals that you know is more important.

A financial advisor can help you take an aggregate look at your savings accounts, spending, and investments. With that point of view, you might see some obvious places where additional savings can occur.

4. Invest for your future, even amid challenges

Unexpected financial events happen to everyone, whether it’s a change in your kids’ activities or education suddenly getting pricier or a parent having a big health-related expense they can’t handle.

At these times, remember the airplane rule: Put on your own mask before helping others. Try to stick to the investment plan you have established, and when things pop up, review the plan with an advisor to see how you might be able to make adjustments to help others without derailing your progress toward your goals. This

Most cuts are small and can be cared for at home. But some cuts might need medical care.

animal or human bite, a burn, electrical injury, or puncture wound (like a nail).

The cut is more than half an inch long or appears to be deep. Large or deep wounds should be checked for nerve or tendon injury.

You think the cut needs stitches; for example, if the cut is gaping open or you can see yellow fat under the skin or red muscle.

For bleeding from a large or deep cut or tear: Rinse off the wound with water so you can see it clearly and check its size.

Place a piece of sterile gauze or a clean cloth over the entire wound. If available, wear clean latex or rubber gloves.

If you can, raise the bleeding body part above the level of the heart. Do not apply a tourniquet.

Using the palm of your hand

on the gauze or cloth, apply steady, direct pressure to the wound for 5 minutes. (During the 5 minutes, do not stop to check the wound or remove blood clots that may form on the gauze.)

• If blood soaks through the gauze, do not remove it. Apply another gauze pad on top and continue applying pressure.

If you have any doubt about whether stitches are needed, call your doctor. But don’t wait. If a cut needs stitches, medical glue, or another kind of repair, it must happen within 18–24 hours of when the cut happened.

Home care for small cuts:

• Rinse the wound thoroughly with water to clean out dirt and debris.

Wash the wound with a mild soap and rinse well. (For minor wounds, you don't need to use an antiseptic solution to prevent infection, and some can cause allergic skin reactions.)

Cover the wound with a sterile adhesive bandage or sterile gauze and adhesive tape. If the bandage gets wet, remove it and apply a new one. After the wound forms a scab, a bandage isn't needed.

Check the wound daily. Call your doctor if the wound is red, swollen, tender, warm, or draining pus.

Scars and treatment

Proper treatment of all skin injuries is essential to avoiding scars. Scarring can come from cuts—these are the most common injuries. But scrapes and burns can leave scars as well. Scars are more likely in injuries where the skin is not just cut but also crushed or otherwise damaged. Clean cuts can heal very well if they’re washed out and treated to avoid infection.

If there’s no loss or destruction of skin and tissue, stitches can be

a great idea, since health care professionals are good at lining up skin borders, which can minimize scarring.

How scars happen: To understand how scars form and how to avoid them, it’s helpful to understand your skin’s healing process. When you get a cut, scrape or burn, your body immediately responds with a series of steps to heal itself:

1 The first stage is hemostasis

The body prevents blood loss by sending platelets to the site, which bind together and seal the wound, forming a scab.

2 Next comes inflammation

White blood cells arrive at the area to fight off bacteria. You may notice redness, swelling, heat and pain. This is a natural part of the healing process and resolves on its own unless infection takes over. More inflammation in the healing process can mean a greater chance of scarring.

3 Proliferation is the next step. This is when the skin and vessels create new cells. As proliferation continues, you’ll see the edges of the scab shrink toward the middle, leaving new skin behind.

4 Finally, maturation occurs. The wound is healed, and there may be a scar in its place.

What you can do to avoid scars:

1 Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered.

For minor injuries, it’s important to keep them clean and protected. Use antibacterial cream or ointment and cover the area with a bandage, which can speed healing. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide, which can be harmful to healing wounds.

The presence of debris, bacteria or other impurities in open skin can trigger infection and extend the inflammation period.

Prolonged inflammation enhances scar formation. That’s why it’s essential to clean the wound carefully, with professional help if necessary.

2 Avoid scratching or picking scabs.

3 Get help for serious skin injuries or continued bleeding

Scar treatments: Once as scar has formed, are you stuck with it? Not necessarily. Plastic and reconstructive surgeons can do a lot to minimize scars and help you feel better about your appearance. A bonus is that some of these treatments can also address itching and pain associated with severe scars.

Source: Medically reviewed by Melanie L. Pitone, MD; https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/ bleeding.html?ref=search. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/ wellness-and-prevention/everyday-cuts-andscrapes-how-to-prevent-scarring

PVC, other microplastics found in clogged arteries

Last week, Care magazine® discussed microplastics in our food, air and water. Here is yet another example of how microplastics are affecting our planet, our health. Plastic pollution may be making its way into our bodies and threatening our hearts, a new study reveals. Researchers found that people with microplastics lodged in their artery walls are a staggering 4 5 times more likely to experience

heart attacks or strokes compared to those without these tiny plastic particles.

The tiny plastic fragments we unknowingly consume through food, water, are already linked to conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Parkinson’s disease, and dementia, as well as antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Now, research published in The New England Journal of Medicine links them to cardiovascular health, too.

In the study, scientists analyzed arterial plaques from 304 people undergoing surgery, and the results were alarming: 60% of people had polyethylene, while

March is colon cancer awareness month

Q: Is it colon cancer or colorectal cancer?

A: In the U.S., these terms tend to be used interchangeably. Technically, colon cancer occurs in the colon (large intestine) and rectal cancer in the rectum (last six inches of the colon). Note that rectal cancer is different than anal cancer.

Q: Do you really need a colonoscopy?

A: Yes. It’s recommended that everyone 45 years old and older begin getting colonoscopies (if you have a family history of colon cancer, you'll need to start sooner). Doctors prefer colonoscopies because, if something suspicious is spotted, they can take care of it on the spot. However, there are other screening options. Remember, the best screening option is the one that gets done.

Q: What are the signs of colon cancer?

A: Often, there are no signs until the cancer is advanced, which is why screenings are recommended. However, if you notice blood in your stool, a change in bowel habits, weight loss without trying, or pain or bloating in your abdomen, talk to your doctor about these symptoms.

— MUSC Hollings Cancer Center, https://myemail. constantcontact.com/Hollings-Headlines

12% had polyvinyl chloride (PVC). When participants were followed up nearly 3 years later, those with microplastics in their plaques were 4 5 times more likely

to have experienced heart attacks, strokes, or death.

“The plastic presence in human atherosclerotic plaques is surprising,” lead author Dr. Raffaele Marfella. Unfortunately, human tissue plastic contamination is not unique but widespread. Their likely effect on cardiovascular health is worrisome.”

While further research is needed to understand the effects of microplastics on

our hearts, this discovery shows that plastic pollution isn't just an environmental crisis—it's a public health issue, too. To learn more about this study and what it means for your health and our planet, read the full article at PVC, other microplastics found in clogged arteries; https://www. medicalnewstoday.com/articles/pvc-other-microplastics-found-in-clogged-arteries.

Air pollution and healthy homes care TALK ©

The air we breathe can contain particles of ozone, pollution, smoke, chemicals, pet dander, dust mites, mold and other items that can affect our health. In the Lowcountry, we’re experiencing our annual pollenpalooza. Exposure to hazardous or seasonal pollutants may have an immediate or a long-term effect on healthy individuals and those with heart and lung, and other health issues. Watch local air quality advisories to know when to stay indoors. Manage indoor air pollution by reducing use of harsh cleaning chemicals, using HEPA filters on vacuums and air cleaners, and having regular professional inspections of HVAC systems, fireplaces, chimneys, and wood burning stoves.

Know what triggers your breathing issues, when to take medications, and when to call your physician.

— https://www.nationaljewish.org/about/news

Body Moving

Even a light workout is a

great way to rev up for a new day. Prioritizing your health to start the morning can put you in a healthier mindset. Completing a workout be-

fore the day is even fully underway gives you something to be proud of, which helps boost your mental well-being. What’s more, an early

parent PULSE ©

Why should babies not have honey?

Babies younger than 1 year old should not be given honey. That's because a type of bacteria (called Clostridium) that causes infant botulism can be found in honey. Infant botulism can cause muscle weakness, with signs like poor sucking, a weak cry, constipation, and decreased muscle tone (floppiness).

How can you protect your baby from infant botulism?

Parents can help prevent infant botulism by not giving their baby honey or any processed foods that contain honey (like honey graham crackers) until after their

child's first birthday. Light and dark corn syrups also might contain botulism-causing bacteria, but a link hasn't been proved. Check with your doctor before giving these syrups to a baby.

What else do you need to know?

As kids get older, they can have hon-

ey because their mature digestive systems move the Clostridium bacteria spores through the body before they can cause harm.

Source: https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/honeybotulism.html

workout gets your blood pumping, which supports stronger cognition and produces more energy.

Treat Yourself

It’s never too early to give yourself a little TLC, and a delicious coffee-based drink is a great way to perk up your morning with a tasty treat. The best indulgent coffee beverages start with quality coffee. Teas of any flavor are also a positive greet-the-day option.

Establish a Self-Care Routine

While you’re still working toward being fully awake, a routine that lets you dive into daily preparations on autopilot can be helpful. Making time to take care of yourself can give you greater confidence to tackle the day, so find a pattern that fits and run with it. Aside from basic hygiene, take time to

In the news

moisturize your skin and apply sunscreen. Also build in time to focus on your mental health, whether you make some notes in a gratitude journal or meditate to manage stress.

Eat a Healthy Breakfast

Countless studies support the benefits of eating a nutritious breakfast. It’s good for your metabolism and digestive health. It also gives your body the fuel it needs to help you push through the day. You’re likely to think faster and be a more effective problem-solver when your body has proper nourishment. Eating early in the day also affects your mood; you’re less likely to be irritable if you’re not hungry.

Find more inspiration to perk up your mornings at https://www.eightoclock. com/?utm_source=%20familyfeatures&

. . .

New potential treatment for liver failure

A new drug has been shown to increase healing and regeneration of the liver after major surgery, according to a study published in the scientific journal Cell. Researchers hope that this could lead to more surgical options for patients diagnosed with advanced liver tumors and liver failure.

"This research is significant because this is the first drug of its kind to show an increase in healing and regeneration of the liver after major surgery," says Scott Nyberg, M.D., Ph.D., a Mayo Clinic transplant surgeon and co-senior author of the study. "This discovery has the potential to improve the treatment of liver failure, increase the safety of liver transplantation for living donors and potentially avoid the need for a liver transplant in some cases."

Liver disease remains a major health concern, causing an estimated 2 million deaths worldwide per year. While healthy livers have a nearly unlimited ability to regenerate themselves, that is not the case for livers that are damaged. As a result, surgeons treating a

patient with primary liver tumors are limited in how large of a section of the liver can safely be removed to avoid liver failure.

The study found that a drug called HRX215 inhibits the MKK4 protein found in liver cells. That appears to trigger the self-healing function of the liver, allowing it to regenerate.

The preclinical study was able to show that the use of HRX-215 increased liver regeneration and prevented liver failure, even after the removal of 85% of the organ.

The phase 1 study found excellent safety and tolerability of the drug in people.

Researchers are hopeful that this discovery will one day create more surgical

options for patients with advanced liver tumors by allowing more of the liver to be safely removed. It also has the potential to benefit patients with acute and chronic liver failure. This drug could potentially allow for successful liver transplants from a smaller portion of a healthy donor's liver, and thus posing less risk to healthy donors. This drug also could potentially eliminate the need for a liver transplant for some patients.

Source: Adapted from an article by Heather Carlson Kehren; https:// newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/ discussion/researchers-find-promisein-new-potential-treatment-forliver-failure/

Crabbers fear

“Closures Amendment” will shut them down

Crabbing may not be the oldest profession practiced along the Carolina coast, but it sure is one of the oldest.

Now, however, with a critical amendment to State Law S.955 winding its way through the legislative process in Columbia, commercial crabbers say they fear this is the beginning of the end.

If passed, the “closures amendment” to S.955 would begin a process that opens the door for the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (DNR), at the agency’s sole discretion, to close down South Carolina’s crab fishery for a short period, or indefinitely, in certain areas, or statewide.

It wouldn’t be the first time DNR has put watermen out of business.

Crabbers remember that in 1984 DNR “temporarily” closed the sounds to shrimping, and to date they haven’t reopened them. Twenty years later, the DNR closed shad fishing in the ocean for reasons that didn’t jive with the fishermen’s experience. And, two years ago, DNR closed crabbing in the trawl zones. The “sounds” are the St. Helena, Port Royal and Calibogue Sounds in Beaufort County, and in Charleston County the Charleston harbor. The “trawl zones” are the areas at the heads of the sounds to three miles out.

That history has crabbers justifiably uneasy about trusting the government. What the government takes, their experience has been, it doesn’t give back.

Ben Dyar, Director of DNR’s Office of Fisheries Management, gave two examples last week of situations that might warrant crab fishery closures: if the derelict traps situation (that crabbers call “ghost gear”) became an environmental hazard, and if the crab population was seen to be in dangerous decline. Ghost traps are crab traps that have become disconnected from their buoys and so they lie unattended on the river bottoms until they rot or wash up in storms.

“If our numbers this winter are twice what they were last year.

Looking through old photo albums a few days ago, I came upon a yellowed newspaper clipping with a photo of my father, Richard Wright, climbing into the cockpit of a U.S. Army Air Corps trainer plane, under the headline, “Relative of Original Fliers Seeks His Own Wings.”

During Dad’s eastern-Indiana upbringing, he had encountered Orville Wright at a few smallish family reunions, and we milked the suspected connection for all it was worth. So, apparently, did the Army Air Corps, seeking public approval of the country’s rapid military buildup prior to our entry into World War II.

Dad finished college in June 1941, with war raging in Europe and Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor not quite six months away. With sentiment for the Allies growing, Dad got wind of a new Aviation Cadet program, signed up, and was sent to train at Maxwell Field in Montgomery, Ala.

Shutting us down can’t be about protecting the crab fishery.” Stephen Preul, who’s been crabbing out of Beaufort for about 20 years, said last week, “It has to be about something else.”

Seeming to confirm Preul’s analysis, DNR’s Crustacean Manager in its Office of Fisheries Management, Jeff Brunson, acknowledged last week that this year the crab numbers are up, although by DNR’s estimates they are not back to the 1990’s-2000’s levels. Seeming further to bolster the view that the crab fishery is healthy, is another amendment to S.955 that, if passed, would increase the number of traps allowed the state’s recreational crabbers from two to five.

What the government does often speaks more convincingly than do its spokespeople. For example, if the government in its proposed amendment to S.955 indicates its willingness to increase by tens of thousands the number of recreational crab traps it permits, how can it also be true that the state’s crab population is “plummeting” as a sensationalist Post And Courier story, citing government sources, reported last week?

Also flawed, the crabbers loudly and DNR’s scientists quietly agree, is the reliability of DNR’s current crab population counting methods. Acknowledging the need for a new approach toward getting more reliable numbers along South Carolina’s dynamic post-COVID coastline, DNR has sought and received a grant to begin “tagging” crabs. As my father used to say, “Watch the hands.” What the government does speaks volumes. That program will begin in July. So, if the closures aren’t needed to protect the crab population,

Reynolds on the job:

that leaves the ghost gear.

The “something else,” crabbers suspect, is the prospect of DNR receiving National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Debris Removal grants. These monies, first available in Fiscal Year 2022 are typically in the $1-4 million a year range, according to NOAA’s website. Recipients pledge to use the money to remove sunken boats, derelict crab traps, rotting nets and other debris from river bottoms, creek beds and the ocean’s floor. To strengthen DNR’s position to get the NOAA grants, some crabbers say they have been told, it is suggested by NOAA that DNR impose closures.

According to NOAA spokesperson Keely Belva, debris removal grants are not specifically contingent upon governments having the ability to unilaterally shut down fisheries, but “if implementing a closure program would allow for more effective and efficient clean-ups and more clear outreach to the fishing/coastal communities about the issues, then NOAA would certainly see those as positive developments in addressing the derelict fishing gear problem overall.”

“If shutting us down is about

getting debris removal grants, that to me amounts to taking money from the crabbers and giving it to the government,” Pruel added. “Some spendaholic legislators may want to do that, but it’s a big stretch that Gov. McMaster who is all about protecting small businesses wants that.”

Other crabbers suggest, however, there may be a middle ground. Crabbers crab all year round, but because of the fisheries being open in the northern states during the warmer months, crabbing in South Carolina is least profitable, crabbers say, in late September and early October.

“Unfortunately, DNR began this discussion by suggesting they would close us down in January which is one of our best months,” Jim Reynolds who has been crabbing in Beaufort County for about 20 years, explained last week. “But if the state wants to impose a very narrow regulation that halts crabbing in Beaufort and Jasper counties, for example, for two weeks in late September and early October every third year so they can get their grant and do their debris removal, I can live with that. They just need to set a reasonable and regular schedule for all the coastal counties so

Celestial navigation?

That happened to be the spot where, three decades earlier, Wilbur and Orville Wright conducted the world’s first flying school. Whether aided by his relationship to the pioneering aviators or not, after training at half a dozen bases across the South, Dad earned his wings in April 1942 and was soon piloting a B-25 medium-range bomber. His initial overseas assignment was to Egypt, where his 434th Bomber Squadron of the 9th Air Force was to assist British forces in their fight against German General Rommel’s Afrika Korps, which was advancing toward the Suez Canal. Of course, back then one

didn’t take off from somewhere in the United States and fly non-stop to Cairo, especially in an aircraft labeled “medium range.”

Dad flew from Miami to landing strips in Trinidad and coastal Brazil; across the Atlantic to West Africa, with stops in Sierra Leone, the Gold Coast, and Nigeria; eastward through Sudan to Khartoum; and, finally, northward down the Nile to Egypt. Dad’s squadron arrived in time to participate in the decisive battle of El Alamein in late 1942 and then in the Western Desert Campaign that ended up driving the Germans back to the west, through Libya and Tunisia, and eventually out of North Africa.

But bombing German forces in the desert might not have been the scariest moment of Dad’s experience. That occurred earlier, on the trip to get there, flying between Kano in northern Nigeria and El Fasher in Sudan, a mere 1,150 miles in an aircraft that, carrying extra fuel rather than heavy

everyone knows what’s going on, and they can make their plans. Some crabbers will participate in the debris removal program and get paid for it, if it makes sense. And at that time of the year the others can shrimp or oyster for those two weeks. DNR just needs to work with us on this.”

The amendment to S.955 that is under consideration was introduced in January, 2024 by Charleston Senator George E. “Chip” Campsen, Chairman of the Senate Fish, Game and Forestry Committee. It formalizes the recommendations of the 2023 state study entitled “Report and Recommendations for the Sustainability of South Carolina’s Blue Crab Fishery.”

“At the end of the day, “Sen. Campsen said last week, “the crabs are a public resource. They don’t belong to the crabbers. Instead, there needs to be a stewardship agency that can close the fishery temporarily, if there’s a real threat to the crab population, or to get up abandoned traps.”

Bill Rauch was the Mayor of Beaufort from 1999 to 2008 and has twice won awards from the S.C. Press Association for his Island News columns. He can be reached at TheRauchReport@gmail.com.

bombs, could fly twice that distance.

For navigation the B-25 had a compass and a device that, once close to its destination, could locate and home in on a radio beam sent out from the airfield. As Dad told it, they left Kano heading pretty much due east, but after a while a fierce storm off the Sahara forced them miles off course. Once back in the proper heading and in what they perceived to be range of the El Fasher airstrip, they sought the expected radio beam, but found

nothing.

They flew in various directions, getting lower and lower on fuel, increasingly desperate to locate the signal to direct them to the airfield. Finally, after what seemed to Dad like hours of searching, they picked up a weak signal, headed toward its origin, sighted the strip, and landed. As I remember Dad telling it, his voice cracked just a bit even those several decades after the incident. “We didn’t even make it to the hangar,” he said. “We ran out of fuel as we were taxiing and had

to be towed the last several hundred yards. Another five minutes and we’d have gone down in the desert.”

Telling this story, as I’ve done quite a few times over the years, still makes me a little uneasy. Dad flew 35 combat missions in North Africa and returned to duty in Greenville, S.C. My mom joined him there and, well, a little more than nine months later I was born. Dad had, by then, been redeployed to the European theatre of the war. I didn’t cast eyes on him until I was 18 months old.

Had Dad not made it to El Fasher in 1942, I wouldn’t be writing this. So, I’m especially glad they picked up the radio beam. So are my kids, and even my wife — most days, anyway.

Donald R. Wright is a Distinguished Teaching Professor of History, Emeritus, at SUNY-Cortland. In 2005-06 he held the Mark Clark Chair of History at The Citadel. He is author of books on African, African-American, and Atlantic histories. Don and his wife Doris live in Beaufort.

BILL RAUCH

Jim

“Open mindedness and honest communication,” he says, “are essential to protecting the crabs, and the livelihoods of the crabbers for future generations.” Photo courtesy of Travis Harrison

“I’ve been doing this since I was fifteen,” Stephen Preul recalls. “I’ve got saltwater in my veins. It’s what I know and what I love.” Photo courtesy of Lesa Preul

DONALD WRIGHT

Hundreds of thousands of acres protected from ‘improvement’

It is Monday, and Susan and I are hiking the Big Well Trail at the Santee Coastal Reserve just north of McClellanville.

This trail is located atop an earthen dike that separates the South Santee River from several enclosures that once grew rice. After rice raising went South — to Louisiana and Arkansas — these slave-built enclosures were used to attract teal, widgeon and mallards that were then shot by northern plutocrats.

At the turn of the last century this place was called the Santee Gun Club, and it attracted a banking and finance aristocracy that included Grover Cleveland. They stayed in a rustic, large-porched lodge that came with personalized liquor lockers; liveried servants, fellowship and the chance to hunt quail, deer and ducks in the expansive Santee Delta.

Today these bankers and industrialists are long gone replaced by tourists wearing Patagonia and North Face. These folks arrive with their Deep Woods deet; Eddie Bauer hiking pants; and Apple iPhone 14 cameras ready to record the near extinct Red Cockaded Woodpecker. But the once plentiful quail are gone. No one is sure what is killing the quail, but one theory points to South Carolina’s fire ant. Yesterday an old friend, George Geer, drove us around the Santee Gun Club — now called the Santee Coastal Reserve — and all the while we talked of shotguns, fire ants, the declining quail population

and a time when every Beaufort lawyer dreamed of bucks, ducks and pulling a 10-pound Cobia out of the Broad River.

In 1972, George was with the Harvey Battey firm, I was practicing with the Dowling firm, and there was little interest in tennis (or golf) among the partners. There was some passing interest in Carolina and Clemson football, but that activity was entirely secondary to sitting atop 15-foot-high deer stands, often in freezing weather, warmed only by a Bean-bought thermos of Eight O’Clock Coffee.

The small talk at the Court’s roster meetings always involved somebody accidentally shooting a barn, or a Buick, or a rattlesnake in the bottom of a Jon boat.

Although there was world class tennis at Sea Pines (Chris Evert, Stan Smith, Evonne Goolagong) I was the only lawyer who used the firm’s tickets. In those days

the only Court-recognized reason for a continuance was a conflict with the first day of deer season. But these days, this obsession with deer and their evisceration seems to have evaporated — lawyers now seeking their recreation (and their small talk) in Paris and Perugia.

In 1974, what was left of the Northern gun-toting aristocrats sold the Santee Gun Club (24 000 acres) to the Department of Natural Resources. Today the public can hike any one of six trails that work their way around rice fields, through fresh water swamps, around old ruins and through immense stands of pine trees. This open to the public place is right next to the Francis Marion National Forest (250,000 acres) where there are also trails to hike; and rivers to kayak; and the opportunity to be rendered speechless without the assistance of drugs, alcohol or any electronic device.

This National Forest — largely acquired during the Depression — is next door to the Tom Yawkey Wildlife Center (20 000 acres) where one might camp on a beach that is entirely free of condominiums, karaoke bars and blue painted plunge tubes.

The Yawkey Center is adjacent the Cape Romain National Wildlife Preserve which extends another 22 miles down the coast of South Carolina. Again, we have the deserted beaches, and migratory birds and the opportunity to see South Carolina as it was first seen (by Europeans) when they waded ashore in 1670

Every year 90,000 immigrants come ashore — mostly from the American northeast and midwest — incrementally changing the South Carolina coastline. These folks tend to be older, well-pensioned and, of course, they want a place to live that has a view and a

deep water dock. This usually means Myrtle Beach, Mt. Pleasant or the Hilton Head-Bluffton-Hardeeville metroplex. (Yes, I know, it sometimes means Greenville.)

These new immigrants bring energy and diversity to those of us who claim to be natives. But the mansions and condominiums and their collateral commercial sequelae now stretch westward into Horry, Berkeley, Dorchester, Beaufort and Jasper counties.

Thanks to long-dead rice planters and their long-suffering, dike-building slaves; and long-dead bankers and their fixation with longgone quail; hundreds of thousands of acres in and around Georgetown County are protected from “improvement.”

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

The purpose of utility regulation must be protecting the public

In his resignation from the South Carolina Public Service Commission, Tom Ervin raised very important points about the legislation now being fast-tracked through the House of Representatives.

The bill would not only support a gas generating facility at Canadys but also completely rework the sound regulatory framework established after V. C. Summer.

The League of Women Voters of South Carolina testified in House subcommittee against this bill.

The League is an all-volunteer organization that advocates on a range of issues, with a special focus on good government.

We advocated for regulatory reform over several years leading up to and following the V. C. Summer project collapse. We have been told repeatedly that the current situation is not similar to the sad history around the Base Load Review Act and V. C. Summer, but the evidence points toward some very important parallels that must be acknowledged.

The League recognizes that South Carolina badly needs expanded sources of energy.

This is extremely important.

We just don’t want to get there by going down a path similar to past mistakes.

H. 5118 parallels that past because in many ways it depends on utilities to speak and act in the public interest without adequate guardrails. Utility regulation exists because acting in self-interest is an unavoidable temptation of monopolies. It takes a fair but strong regulatory system to ensure that the interests of both the public and utility shareholders and executives are protected.

Unfortunately, H. 5118 would

make the following mistakes.

It would:

Limit the topics raised by the public in hearings that the Public Service Commission can consider in their decisions; Tell commissioners to give extra weight to the testimony of utilities; essentially directing the commission to make evaluations favoring utilities rather than evaluating evidence using the expertise for which they were appointed; Add extra consideration for utilities’ bottom lines while adding nothing to protect ratepayers; Return the Office of Regulatory Staff’s mission to the impossible conflicting demands that existed before reforms following V. C. Summer; Add restrictive deadlines to commission decision-making, rushing the public hearing process; Allow utilities to proceed with the construction of certain facilities even before obtaining permission from the regulatory commission; Remove the consumer advocate as a participant in commission proceedings; Send appeals of commission orders and decisions directly to the state Supreme Court,

which would have no record of lower court proceedings, potentially overwhelming that body; Permit ex-parte communication between the commission and utilities — and only utilities — with terms only restricting those communications to such very broad topics as “planning” and “projects.”

The last of these flaws provides an excellent illustration of how dangerous the proposed changes are.

Other interested parties have no part in the communication and thus no opportunity to be assured of full knowledge of the content of the communication and no chance to respond or in any way contribute to the conversation.

The Public Service Commission conducts quasi-judicial proceedings. It is universally acknowl-

edged that single party ex-parte communication in judicial proceedings is an open invitation to bias and even outright corruption. We were told by an official several years ago the Office of Regulatory Staff was created in part because ex-parte communication between utilities and the commission had led to abuses, as would be expected when this behavior is permitted in a judicial or quasi-judicial proceeding.

Finally, and more broadly, we question the appropriateness of the General Assembly “encouraging” particular projects that are subject to regulatory review. This is a very heavy thumb on the scales of the regulatory process.

Let South Carolina’s very competent regulatory agencies do their work, informed by diverse sources of input and by the expertise for which they were appointed.

Commissioners and their staff have the depth of technical understanding necessary to objectively evaluate the evidence before them and reach sound decisions. The utilities are granted monopolies and in return should expect to function within a robust regulatory framework. The bill would compromise that.

Lynn Shuler Teague was born in Orangeburg, grew up in Columbia, and moved to New Mexico in 1968. She is a professional archaeologist and was on the faculty of the Arizona State Museum at the University of Arizona for many years. She and her husband returned to South Carolina when they retired. Since 2012, she has served as a vice president of the League of Women Voters of S.C. and volunteer League lobbyist at the Statehouse, working especially on the voting and election issues central for the League. She has directed the League’s work on redistricting since 2017

SCOTT GRABER

LYNN TEAGUE

Who cares about public notices?

You have the right to know what’s happening in your community.

Public notices – information local governments are obligated to provide citizens – are required to be published in local newspapers to provide a public record that’s accessible to everyone.

Public notices keep you informed about your government. But, in some states legislators are trying to keep public notices from appearing in local newspapers. This severely impacts government transparency and, in turn, limits the public’s right to hold them accountable for their actions.

Let your state legislators know that you value being able to access notices in your newspaper and that they are worth the investment.

Protect public notices i in newspapers and protect your right to know.

Creek’s Susi named North-South head coach

Buford, as well as several coordinator/assistant stops.

The coaching staffs for the annual all-star game featuring the top high school senior football players in South Carolina were selected by the South Carolina Athletic Coaches Association. Susi will line up opposite Powdersville’s Robert

TRACK AND FIELD

Mustar, who was tabbed to lead the North squad.

Susi’s South staff will include Derek Howard (Ridge View), Shane Fidler (Airport), Cedrick Jeter (Newberry), Greg Wright (Timberland), Brandon Iseman (Latta), Randy Hilyer (James Island), and Mark McClain (Westwood).

HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOCCER

Eagles carry hot streak into region

LowcoSports.com

After a perfect run through the Crescent Cup, Beaufort High’s girls soccer team hoped its hot streak wouldn’t run out just when the games started to count more.

No worries. Selena Duncan netted another hat trick and Charlotte Blair Scarpa added a goal to lead Beaufort to a 4-2 win over visiting Philip Simmons on Tuesday in a key Region 8-3A matchup, and Duncan continued her sensational junior season with five goals and two assists in a 9-0 rout of rival Battery Creek on Friday, establishing the Eagles as the team to beat in the region.

Beaufort has won six straight

since opening with a draw at SCISA power Hilton Head Prep and a shootout loss to Bluffton. The Eagles have allowed only six goals during the win streak, with junior keeper Johanna Laney recording three clean sheets with the aid of a strong back line. After a non-region matchup at Hampton County on Tuesday, the Eagles host North Charleston for a region match Thursday before two key contests at Philip Simmons and at home against Hanahan next week.

JPII off to strong start

John Paul II’s girls are off to a 3-0 start, and the Golden Warriors

have done it in dominant fashion, outscoring their first three opponents 17-2 going into Tuesday’s showdown with defending SCISA 2A champion Beaufort Academy.

Last week the Golden Warriors blanked First Baptist 3-0 behind six saves from TrinityGrace Maxwell, while Ayla Reynolds and Hollis Melnick each had a goal and an assist and Abby Brock also scored. Reynolds had a goal and an assist, Hollis Melnick scored two goals, and Evelyn Melnick netted the game-winner in a 4-2 win over Coastal Homeschool on Thursday.

SEE REGION PAGE B3

Both staffs will meet periodically between now and October on game strategy, player evaluation and ultimately the selections of each roster, kicking things off with the Carolinas

The 2024 Touchstone Energy Cooperatives Bowl will be played on Dec. 7 at Doug Shaw Memorial Stadium in Myrtle Beach.

HIGH SCHOOL BOYS SOCCER

New-look Beaufort team hitting stride

LowcoSports.com

It was an uneven start to the season for a Beaufort High boys team looking to reconfigure after losing a boatload of seniors off last year’s state runner-up squad, but the Eagles are still in position to defend their region crown.

Despite a 2-0 loss at Philip Simmons to open Region 8-3A play on Tuesday, Beaufort looks like a contender once again after routing Battery Creek, 7-0, on Friday to even its region mark. The Eagles have four wins and a tie in their last six matches, and they’re well-positioned to add another victory Friday at North Charleston before a key trip to Hanahan on March 27

If the Eagles take care of business between now and then, they’ll have back-to-back home games against Hanahan and Philip Simmons on April 9 and 11, and the region title could hang in the balance.

JPII bounces back in big way

After letting a halftime lead slip away in a 3-1 loss to First Baptist last Tuesday, John Paul II’s boys

SEE STRIDE PAGE B3

Lady Eagles went on to win the game 9-0, improving to 6-1-1 overall, 2-0 in region. The Lady Dolphins dropped to 4-4-1, 0-1. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

Whale Branch’s Dontray Lewis hurls the shot during a track and field meet Thursday at Beaufort High School. Lewis’ shot went 35 feet, 3 inches. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

Beaufort High School’s Gianna Pacheco, left, can’t make her shot on goal as Battery Creek’s Andrea Celeda clears the ball during the last period of their Region 8-3A conference game Friday night, March 15, at Dolphins Stadium. The

Penn Center holding book event for editor/authors Ansa, Lloyd

From staff reports

Penn Center’s York W. Baily Museum will be hosting a book talk and book signing for Meeting

At The Table: African-American Women Write on Race, Culture and Community at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, March 23. The event is free and open to the public.

In the aftermath of the death of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arber, and the worldwide protests that followed in 2020 the co-editors of Meeting At The Table created a project that would bring voices of African-American women together to honestly and transparently share how race and culture affected them in ways related to their families, their careers and their communities. The essays in Meeting At The Table will not only enlighten readers, but offer paths into the vital conversations across racial, cultural and community divides.

Co-editors Tina McElroy Ansa and Wanda Lloyd, friends for more than 50 years and also colleagues as journalists and authors, believe the 15 essays will inspire readers from diverse ages and backgrounds to create their own tables of conversations about race.

Lloyd – a journalist, professor, author and TEDx presenter – is a speaker on topics of journalism, media diversity and Black history. She was inducted into the National Association of Black Journal-

ists (NABJ) Hall of Fame in 2019 She is the author of Coming Full Circle: From Jim Crow to Journalism. The memoir is a self-reflective exploration of the author’s life growing up in the Deep South and becoming a trailblazing newspaper editor.

The foreword was written by novelist McElroy Ansa, best-selling author of five novels, including Baby of the Family and Ugly Ways Coming Full Circle was listed by bookauthority.org as one of the “25 Best Journalism Books to Read in 2020.” Kirkus Reviews calls the memoir “Inspiring reading for aspiring journalists and students of civil rights.”

Lloyd served more than eight years as executive editor of the Montgomery (Ala.) Advertiser. In this role, she was responsible for all news content for the daily newspaper, websites and several weekly newspapers. She is a former associate professor/chair of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communications at

Savannah State University. She has also been a columnist for the Savannah Morning News/savannahnow.com.

Lloyd was the founding executive director of the Freedom Forum Diversity Institute, based on the campus of Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn.

The Institute offered journalism training to people of color coming from careers outside of journalism and who were interested in a mid-career shift into journalism. In Nashville, she was also cohost of “Behind the Headlines,” a weekly radio news analysis show on WFSK-FM, the Fisk University station. Lloyd served as a senior editor at USA TODAY, where she served earlier as a deputy managing editor and managing editor. She was managing editor at The Greenville (S.C.) News, and she was an editor at The Washington Post, the Providence Evening Bulletin, the Miami Herald, and the Atlanta Journal. She has been a four-time juror for the Pulitzer Prize. She is a former director of the American Society of News Editors (ASNE), where she chaired the organization’s committees on Diversity, Human Resources and Nominations, and she was co-editor of the “ASNE Bulletin” (later “The American Editor”). She was a co-founder and chair of the National Association of Minority Media Executives (NAMME),

and she served as a member of the Dow Jones Newspaper Fund Board of Directors. She directed the landmark NABJ study Muted Voices: Frustration and Fear in the Newsroom, a survey of black journalists and newsroom managers. Ansa is a novelist, publisher, filmmaker, teacher and journalist. But above all, she is a storyteller and cultural icon. She is at work on her sixth novel, From Now On, to be published by DownSouth Press, the independent publishing company Ms. Ansa established nearly a decade ago.

First Lady Michelle Obama quoted passages from Ansa’s first novel Baby Of The Family in her 2011 remarks at Spelman College’s commencement. Later that summer, the writ-

er was the recipient of the 2011 Bebe Moore Campbell Memorial Award from the National Book Club Conference. She has been awarded the Stanley W. Lindberg Award for her body and work and for contributions to the literary arts community of Georgia. Like many Southern writers, Ansa has filled her life with the word. In the fall of 2004, Ansa established the annual Sea Island Writers Retreats on Sapelo Island, Ga. The annual retreats seek to assist emerging and established writers in honing their work and skills in fiction, non-fiction, memoir and editing in sessions with professional writers and editors.

Ansa has been a regular contributor to the award-winning television series CBS Sunday Morning with her essays, “Postcards from Georgia,” which were filmed on location on her beautiful Georgia Sea Island home of St. Simons Island.

“Chalk It Up!” Rules of Engagement

Once is not enough – come back several times both days

From

On Saturday and Sunday, March 23 and 24, “Chalk It Up!”, organized by the Freedman Arts District, will showcase artists from all over hunkering down on their hands and knees for two days to create giant chalk paintings.

Starting 10 a.m. on Saturday, artists will begin sketching their huge illustrations directly on the pavement of a parking lot on King Street near the Pat Conroy Literary

ARTS BRIEFS

Columbia Poet Laureate Bartell Boykin coming to Conroy Center

The Conroy Center will host an evening with Columbia City Poet Laureate Jennifer Bartell Boykin, author of the debut poetry collection Traveling Mercy, on Saturday,

Center. The theme “Tell Me a Story” is sure to inspire many of the artists to create some wonderful tales in chalk.

Working on the ground, artists will draw with soft pastels on the rough surface, adding color, depth, and detail to artwork on pavement “canvases” that are big — the smallest size measures four-feet square; some are as large as 10-feet square!

And they will continue to work on their artwork for the

two days of the festival, concluding at 5 p.m. on Sunday.

So here are a few simple rules of engagement:

1 Engage with the artists. This is what makes chalk festivals so special.

2 Watch the art be created from start to finish. Make repeated visits to check the progress and encourage the artists — it’s a marathon for them.

3 Get your groove on

with: Walker Dean on Saturday morning; Ashley Holland on Saturday afternoon; The Deckhands Band on Sunday morning; and Edward & Ryan on Sunday afternoon.

4 Have a bite to eat at the food trucks.

5 Enjoy face painting at the Kids Zone.

6 Vote for your favorite chalk art using your phone. The People’s Choice award winner

receives $200 Chalk It Up’ major sponsors include: the City of Beaufort; Beaufort County ATAX; South Carolina Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts; Sharon & Dick Stewart; 303 Associates; Alphagraphics; Beaufort Inn; Forino; JH Hiers; New South Shirts; and Sharing Common Ground. For more information, go to www.FreedmanArtsDistrict.org.

March 23, at 5 p.m., at the Conroy Center at 601 Bladen Street in Beaufort. The event is free and open to the public.

Books will be available for sale and signing. Seating is limited. Please call 843-3797025 to reserve a place.

Bartell Boykin will also be teaching a Foodways in Poetry writing workshop earlier

Easter Menu

Red Wine Braised Lamb Roast • Shrimp & Crab Casserole

Sides: risotto, scalloped potatoes, roasted green beans, banging brussel sprouts, mashed cauliflower, potato salad, cornbread salad

Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Croque Monsieur Croissant Bake

Quiche: crab, ham & asparagus, tomato feta spinach

Fresh Strawberry Roll • Chocolate Swiss Roll 136 Sea Island Parkway, #5 • 843.379.3303 thebeaufortkitchen.com

that same afternoon, from 2 to 4 p.m. Limited to 15 participants, the cost is $40 per person. To learn more and register for the workshop, please visit https://bit.ly/3TlHgMd.

USCB CFA hosting Leahy

USCB Center for the Arts will be presenting Canadian folk roots band Leahy at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, March 23

Over the course of their notable career, Canadian group Leahy has secured a place as one of the country’s most highly regarded progressive folk-roots bands. Their emergence on the Canadian music scene in the late 1990’s with their chart-topping instrumental single “Call to Dance,” introduced audiences to a new way of accessing a uniquely Canadian music genre. The “Leahy sound” is a combination of strong stride piano, driving rhythm guitar, unique bass lines and layered with a contemporary drumming style.

Tickets are $48 for adults, $40 for seniors and military, and $20 for students, and may be purchased at https://bit.ly/3PJcJHl or by calling the CFA Box Office at 843-521-4145

The USCB Center for the Arts is wheelchair accessible, with free parking next to the theater.

Conroy Center, Poovey hosting workshop on publishing

The Conroy Center will host a writers workshop – Publishing Pursuits: Traditional or Indie? – led by Beaufort’s Kim Poovey at 6 p.m., Wednesday, March 27. This in-person workshop will be held at the Conroy Center at 601 Bladen Street in Beaufort. It is limited to 15 participants, and the cost is $40 per

person.

Details about the workshop … you’ve finished your manuscript and are ready to share it with the world. The question is whether to go with a traditional publisher or try your hand at independent (Indie) publishing. There are pros and cons to both. Learn the differences between traditional, hybrid, and Indie publishing and how to decide which is the best option for your manuscript.

Duke Symphony Orchestra returning to Beaufort

The Duke Symphony Orchestra is coming back to Beaufort.

The 17th Annual Duke Symphony Orchestra Benefit Concert will be held at 7 p.m., Saturday, April 13 at Sea Island Presbyterian Church on Lady’s Island.

The Beaufort community has been a long time supporter of this time-honored tradition and again welcomes the talented student musicians of Duke University to the Lowcountry. Visit www.lowcountryleaders.com to purchase tickets. Premier tickets include an invitation to a private Conductor’s Reception immediately following the performance at a beautiful waterfront home.

All proceeds benefit the Foundation for Leadership Education as they help prepare tomorrow’s leaders by promoting leadership education, assisting with college scholarships and leadership grants, and developing and implementing leadership curriculum to be shared in our local school systems. Volunteer and Sponsorship Opportunities also available.

– Compiled from staff reports

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL

Mullen’s gem snaps Eagles’ skid

LowcoSports.com

When his team needed him the most, Beaufort High’s Hudson Mullen delivered.

The wheels were wobbling after the Eagles dropped the first three of four consecutive games last week, including a pair of lopsided defeats to Hilton Head Christian Academy, but Mullen hit the reset button and helped Beaufort salvage a split of its first region series.

The junior right-hander struck out 15 in a two-hit shutout Friday, allowing two walks and hitting a batter in a 3-0 win to split the series with the Iron Horses. Mullen is known for his prowess behind the plate and a powerful bat, but he has emerged as the Eagles’ ace on the mound this season, racking up 34 strikeouts in 16 innings while allowing just one run.

Beaufort was on the other end of a 3-0 result in the series opener, as Nolan Clifford limited the Eagles to one hit and struck out 13 in a dominant effort.

Beaufort’s bats didn’t do

much against HHCA, either, as the Eagles fell 17-1 and 13-3 while holding back Mullen for a pivotal region matchup.

JPII rebounds with Putnam’s gem

John Paul II bounced back from a two-game sweep against Hilton Head Prep to take down Thomas Heyward 3-0 on Friday as Ross Putnam pitched another gem.

Just 10 days removed from throwing a no-hitter against First Baptist, Putnam turned in another stellar outing against the Rebels, striking out six and allowing four hits and one walk in a complete game.

In 18 innings this season, Putnam has compiled a 2 33 ERA and 1 11 WHIP with 18 strikeouts. The right-hander has signed to play at Brevard College next season.

Mighty Lions take down Dolphins

Holy Trinity’s fledgling

Hilton Head Christian Academy first baseman Dylan Clark puts the tag onto Beaufort’s Jadyn Andrews after Andrews was caught in an intentional rundown during a “delayed steal” during the third inning allowing Logan Brutcher to score from third base Wednesday night, March 13, at BHS. During a delayed steal, the baserunner on first base delays his sprint to second base intentionally, getting caught in a rundown as the runner on third base steals home to score. Despite the successful trickery, the HHCA Eagles went on to win 13-3. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

baseball program earned a signature win Monday, rallying for a 10-6 victory at Battery Creek.

The Mighty Lions scored three runs in the sixth and two in the seventh to force extra innings, then broke out for five in the eighth

to stun the Dolphins, who couldn’t hold the lead for Aiden Hovest.

Hovest outdueled Barnes Gooding for five innings, and Creek held a 2-0 lead until Gooding chased his counterpart with a solo homer leading of the sixth to cut the deficit in half. The Mighty Lions teed off against the bullpen, putting up 10 runs in three innings, and Ben Solomons went 3-for-5 with two runs and three RBIs and threw two solid innings of relief to earn the win.

SAND SHARKS REWIND

Martello leads Sand Sharks in Jax

LowcoSports.com

USCB's track and field team set multiple personal bests and posted four top-five finishes when the Sand Sharks took to the track for the first time in the outdoor season Friday at the Bob Hayes Invitational in Jacksonville, Fla., and it was a local product who was responsible for the biggest highlights.

Battery Creek alum Michael Martello collected top-five finishes in the discus, hammer, and shot put, and his hammer throw of 47 7 meters reestablished USCB’s school record, earning him a thirdplace finish. Martello also finished fifth in both the discus (41 91m) and shot put (13 59m).

Cameron Edwards finished fifth in the long jump (6 39m) and triple jump (13 85m).

Stride from page B1

win at Coastal Homeschool.

Eight different players scored goals for the Golden Warriors, including Jackson Sanders’ first career hat trick. Brennan McDermott

Sand Sharks struggle on diamonds

It was a tough weekend for the USCB baseball and softball teams, both of which were swept in three-game Peach Belt Conference series. The Sand Shark softball team was competitive in all three games against visiting Flagler College, but the Saints left Hardeeville with three wins by a combined five runs. Cierra Kinlaw turned in two strong starts, but Flagler rallied for two runs in the seventh inning of a 4-2 win to open the series and scored three times in the seventh to take a 5-3 win in the finale.

The USCB baseball team’s losing streak hit seven games after dropping three at North Georgia over the weekend. The Peach Belt frontrunner Nighthawks routed the Sand Sharks 17-7

scored a goal and added three assists, while Collin Anfinson had a goal and two assists, and Seth Cano and Brian Orta each scored one goal and assisted on another. Kelon Reynolds, Luca Madhere, and Christian Tilton also found the back of the net for JPII, which hits the road to Northwood Academy and Hilton Head Prep this week.

Warriors grinding out region

wins

Their aggregate goal total isn’t pretty, but the Whale Branch boys are finding ways to win the games they’re in. The Warriors have won three hardfought results in their first four region contests with a 10 - 0 defeat at the hands of upstart Royal Live Oaks

mixed in, putting them squarely in third place in Region 7 - 1 A.

After a 4 - 3 win over Branchville and a 5 - 4 overtime victory over Bamberg-Ehrhardt to start region play, the Warriors were able to pull out another tough win Thursday against Bethune-Bowman, as Miguel Ruiz netted a hat trick to lead

No-hitters all around HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL

LowcoSports.com

It was a good week to be a pitcher on the area high school softball scene.

No-hitters abounded last week in the Lowco, with Beaufort High’s Kylie Rast and Adalyn Johnson each twirling a no-no in abbreviated routs of Philip Simmons while Battery Creek’s Stella Schubert threw a three-inning perfect game against North Charleston and John Paul II’s Tevi Mullen no-hit Whale Branch.

Rast mowed down the Iron Horses on Tuesday, recording all nine outs via strikeout and allowing only one baserunner on an error, and Johnson struck out 11 in a no-hitter of her own in Friday’s rematch, allowing one walk over four innings with another runner reaching on an error.

That duo will try to slow down a red-hot Battery Creek offense in a key region series this week.

The Dolphins have scored 10 or more runs in five straight games — all wins — totaling 84 runs over that stretch, including a 15-0 win over North Charleston in which Schubert sat down all nine Cougars and struck out five. Mullen nearly had two no-nos in a row, no-hitting the Warriors a day after allowing just one hit in a four-inning shutout of Cross Schools. She struck out six over three innings, allowing just one Whale Branch runner to reach on an error.

Region from page B1

Bucs blank PHA for 3rd shutout

Whale Branch to a 6 - 4 win after being tied 3 - 3 at halftime. The Warriors were set to face a tough test Tuesday against Bridges Prep, which is 6 - 0 - 1 overall and has outscored its first three region foes 23 - 0, including 9 - 0 wins over Bethune-Bowman and Bamberg-Ehrhardt last week

Bridges Prep’s girls blanked Patrick Henry 2-0 on Thursday to improve to 7-1 with their only defeat coming against a strong Holy Trinity team that is expected to contend for a SCISA state title.

Brooke Daugherty scored both goals in the win over the Patriots, and Jenna Fisher recorded the clean sheet. Each of the Bucs’ last three wins have been shutouts with Fisher and Gracie Sexton splitting time in net.

and 12-6 on Saturday before closing out the series with a 6-2 victory.

USC Beaufort third baseman Mariah Stephens scoops up the ball and makes the throw to first base during the first game of the Sand Sharks’ doubleheader with UVA Wise on Thursday at Richard Gray Athletic Center in Hardeeville. Bob Sofaly/The Island News

9th annual Ole Fashioned Oyster Roast

11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, April 13, The Gullah Museum, Hilton Head Island. General admission ticket is $10. Ole Fashioned Oyster Roast is $50. There will be artisans, entertainment, and food vendors for non-seafood eaters. Please visit www. gullahmuseumhhi.org to purchase tickets and for more information. Tickets can also be purchased at the event. (Originally scheduled for March 9, this event was postponed due to threat of inclement weather.)

Karaoke with Melissa

8 p.m. to midnight, Tuesdays, Highway 21 Bar, 3436 Trask Pkwy, Beaufort. Enjoy food and drinks during Karaoke with Melissa.

Karaoke with Melissa

7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., Wednesdays, Beaufort Moose Lodge, 350 Broad River Blvd, Beaufort. Enjoy food and drinks during Karaoke with Melissa.

Trivia with Tom – Fat Patties

7:30 p.m., Every Wednesday, Fat Patties, 831 Parris Island Gateway, Beaufort. Free. Team trivia event, win house cash prizes! For more information, visit https:// rb.gy/o9nhwe.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

9:30 p.m., Wednesdays, Rosie O’Grady’s, 2127 Boundary Street, Suite 2, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy karaoke with either Parker or Eric.

Trivia with Tom – Bricks On Boundary

7 p.m., Every Thursday, Bricks on Boundary, 1422 Boundary St, Beaufort. Free. Team trivia event, win house cash and Beer Bucket prizes! For more information, visit https://rb.gy/o9nhwe.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

7 p.m., Thursdays, Amvets Post 70, 1831 Ribaut Road, Port Royal. Free. Public is welcome. Enjoy Karaoke. Dinner will be available.

Bluffton Night Bazaar — a Lowcountry Made Market

5 to 8 p.m., first Thursday of each month, Burnt Church Distillery, 120 Bluffton Road. A highly curated selection of accessories, clothing, home goods, custom gifts and more by local artists and makers.

TECHconnect 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., 3rd Thursday of each month, Beaufort Digital Corridor, 500 Carteret Street, Suite D, Beaufort. Free. The BDC's signature happy hour “meetup” networking event for tech professionals. Connect with like-minded people, fellow entrepreneurs, start-ups and VCs over local food and cold beverages. Call 843-470-3506 or visit https://rb.gy/e7t2h for more information.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

9 p.m., Fridays, Highway 21 Bar, 3436 Trask Pkwy, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy Karaoke with Lt. Dan.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

9:30 p.m., Fridays, Rosie O’Grady’s, 2127 Boundary Street, Suite 2, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy Karaoke with Parker.

Karaoke with Melissa 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., Fridays, R Bar & Grill, 70 Pennington Dr, Bluffton. Enjoy food and drinks during Karaoke with Melissa.

Highway 21 Flea Market

9 a.m. to 4 p.m., every Saturday and Sunday, Highway 21 Drive-In. Sellers, vendors, handmade items, unique products and yard sale items. For information, email lowcountryfleamarket@gmail.com.

Port Royal Farmers Market

9 a.m. to noon, Saturdays, year round, Naval Heritage Park, 1615 Ribaut Road, Port Royal. Rain or shine. You will find fresh, local, seasonal produce, shrimp, oysters, poultry, beef, pork, eggs, bread and cheese, as well as plants, ferns, camellias, azaleas, citrus trees and beautiful, fresh cut flower bouquets. There are prepared food vendors serving barbecue, dumplings, she crab soup, crab cakes, paella, coffee, baked goods, bagels and breakfast sandwiches. No pets allowed. For more information, visit http://www. portroyalfarmersmarket.com/, visit @ portroyalfarmersmarket on Facebook or call 843-295-0058.

Slip and Splash Saturdays

10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturdays, Battery Creek Pool, 1 Blue Dolphin Drive, Beaufort, and Bluffton Pool, 55 Pritchard Street, Bluffton. $5 per person. Stay busy for hours climbing on our inflatable challenge track.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew

7 p.m., Saturdays, The Beaufort Moose Lodge, 350 Broad River Blvd., Beaufort. Free. Enjoy karaoke with Lt. Dan. Come early at 6 p.m. for Steak Night.

Eric’s Karaoke Krew 9:30 p.m., Saturdays, Rosie O’Grady’s, 2127 Boundary Street, Suite 2, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy karaoke with Eric.

Teddy Bear Picnic Read-Aloud

9 a.m. to noon, 1st Saturday each month, Port Royal Farmer’s Market, Corner of Ribaut Road & Pinckney Blvd, Port Royal. Free. DAYLO Students and other

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Tour Historic Fort Fremont Dawn to dusk, Monday through Sunday, The Fort Fremont Preserve, 1124 Land’s End Road, St. Helena Island. Free and open to the public. The History Center is open Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. Visitors can learn about the fort’s history during the Spanish-American War through interpretive signs, self-guided walking tours with a smart phone, exhibits in the history center, and docent-led tours. For more information visit www.fortfremont.org or contact Passive Parks Manager Stefanie Nagid at snagid@bcgov.net.

LIBRARY ACTIVITIES

volunteers will read to young children, who are encouraged to bring their favorite stuffed animals.

Karaoke with Melissa

8 p.m. to 12 a.m., 2nd and 4th Saturdays of every month, Peaceful Henry’s Cigar Bar, 181 Bluffton Rd, Bluffton. Enjoy food and drinks during Karaoke with Melissa.

DANCE

The Beaufort Shag Club

6:30 to 9 p.m., Wednesdays, AmVets Club, 1831 Ribaut Road, Port Royal. Free lessons for members from 6 to 6:30 p.m. We also host a dance the second Saturday of each month from 7 to 10 p.m.

Lessons will run September through May only. Visit our FaceBook page (beaufortshagclub) for current events.

EASTER

Eggstravaganza Noon, Saturday, March 30, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Sr. Road, St. Helena Island. Free and open to the public. Registration required. Join us for an Easter Egg hunt. There will be games, prizes and fun. Kids will receive a take-home craft. Don’t forget to bring a basket to collect eggs. Call 843-2556540 for more information.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Wellness Happy Hour with Rooted

Renewal

5 to 6:30 p.m., Thursday, March 21,

Celadon Health & Wellness Club. Another Wellness Happy Hour to learn about Health & Wellness Coaching with certified Coach Ashton Cradit. Complimentary event and open to all. Reservations required, 843-379-1088.

Lunch & Learn Create with Camilla

11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Friday, March 22, Celadon Club. Cost is $65 for members; $75 for nonmembers. Design and paint springtime flower boxes with local artist Camilla Pagliaroli. Lunch by Mameem & Maudie’s. Reservations required, 843-379-1088. RSVP deadline, March 18.

Balance Workshop with Go Yoga Jo 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, March 23,

Celadon Health & Wellness Club. Cost is $45 for members; $50 for nonmembers. Join Celadon’s Jo Heckert for a 90-minute workshop and immerse yourself in the world of balance. How we can improve it, how we can lose it, why we need it, and how we can support ourselves to achieve better balance. Reservations required, 843-379-1088.

Full Moon Sound Bath 5:30 to 6:45 p.m., Monday, March 25,

Celadon Health & Wellness Club. Cost is $33 for all. Chandra Bergmann of Alchemy hosts monthly Sound Baths at Celadon Club. Holistic healing modality. Reservations required, 843-379-1088.

Some Bunny Loves Me:

Mommy & Me Craft Time 10 to 11 a.m., Wednesday, March 27, Celadon Club. Cost is $10 per child; $5 for sibling(s). Join us at Celadon Club for a Bunny inspired Craft Time. Reservations required, 843-379-1088.

Rooted Beaufort Yoga classes 5:30 to 6:45 p.m., Thursdays, Cypress

Wetlands, Port Royal; 9 to 10:15 a.m., Whitehall Park or Pigeon Point Park.

Rooted Beaufort is a collective of local Yoga teachers who host outdoor yoga classes and donation-based events with proceeds being donated locally on a rotating basis.

HISTORY

Beaufort History Museum at the Arsenal 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturdays, 713 Craven St, Beaufort. General Admission for Adults $8, Seniors $7, Active Duty Military and College Students with ID $5. Children/Teens younger than 18 Free. Explore and experience more than 500 years of Beaufort History with knowledgeable docent guided tours.

The Historic Port Royal Museum 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or upon request, Thursdays through Sundays, The Historic Port Royal Museum, 1634 Paris Ave. The museum features the turn-of-the-century businesses and industries of Port Royal: Shrimping, crabbing, oystering, the railroad, the school and the mercantile. Great gifts featuring local artists are available. For more information. visit www.portroyalhistory.org, email historicportroyalfoundation@gmail.com or call 843-524-4333.

Solar Eclipse Art Noon, Saturday, March 23, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Sr. Road, St. Helena Island. Free and open to the public. All ages. No registration required. Learn about the upcoming eclipse and make corona art. Call 843-255-6540 for more information.

“Lego” With Lego

4:30 to 5:30 p.m., every Tuesday, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Sr. Road, St. Helena Island. Free and open to the public. Ages 5 and up. No registration required. Come see our new and improved Lego Club. Choose one of our new Lego kits and get going. Call 843-255-6540 for more information.

Book Club

5 to 5:45 p.m., every Wednesday through May 22, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Sr. Road, St. Helena Island. Free and open to the public. Ages 6 to 11. Registration is encouraged, but drop-ins are welcome. Books that make you smile. Make friends and share what you are reading. Call 843-255-6541 for more information.

Career Navigator

11 a.m. to 1 p.m., every Tuesday, Beaufort Branch Library, 311 Scott Street, Beaufort. Free one-on-one resume writing and job application assistance with a Career Navigator from Palmetto Goodwill. No appointments necessary. For more information call 843-255-6458.

MEETINGS

Zonta Club of Beaufort

6 p.m., 4th Tuesday of each month, Smokehouse, Port Royal.

Beaufort Rotary Club

Noon, Wednesdays, Sea Island Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall, 81 Lady’s Island Drive, Lady’s Island. Catered buffet lunch, followed by a guest speaker. Prospective members welcome. For further information and upcoming speakers, please visit website www.beaufortrotaryclub.org.

The Beaufort Trailblazers –A Volunteer Group 8 a.m., first Thursday each month, Herban Marketplace, Beaufort. Anyone interested in supporting or building off-road/dirt/wilderness mountain biking/jogging/walking trails near is encouraged to attend. For more information, call 843-575-0021 or email universitybicycles@hotmail.com.

Emotions Anonymous International local group meeting

4 p.m, Thursdays, via Zoom. Emotions Anonymous International, (EAI), is a nonprofit program designed to help people with emotional difficulties. It has a chapter in the Lowcountry and members want others who feel the need to know they are welcome to participate. There is no charge to participate. They are based on the 12 steps and 12 traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous and follow a specific format designed to provide the support and tools for navigating life’s painful difficulties. All are welcome. Anyone interested in participating may contact the group via email at EALowcountry@gmail.com or call or text Laurie at 252- 917-7082. For more information on EAI visit www.emotionsanonymous.org.

Rotary Club of the Lowcountry 7:30 a.m., Fridays, Sea Island Presbyterian Church, Sea Island Parkway, Lady’s Island. A light breakfast is provided before the program. For further information and upcoming speakers, please visit our website at www.lowcountryrotary.org or contact our President, Bob Bible a reconmc@aol.com or 843-252-8535.

League of Women Voters Beaufort Area

10 a.m., Saturday, March 16, Beaufort Library, 311 Scott Street, downtown Beaufort. This monthly meeting honoring Women's History Month. The guest speaker will be S.C. State Senator Margie Bright Matthews who will share the "story" of how the five female bi-partisan senators came together to defend women's reproductive rights, what it was like fighting that battle, and eventually receiving the 2023 John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award.

MUSIC

Beaufort Drum Circle

5:30 to 7 p.m., Sunday, March 24, Gazebo at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Bay Street, downtown Beaufort. Put it on your calendar and join us. By popular request, our first meeting of each month will be on the second Friday, while the second meeting will be on either Saturday or Sunday following the

fourth Friday. This is to encourage folks who work and cannot attend our Friday sessions. The Drum Circle is growing as we welcome new members and folks who may want to come and just listen, dance or join in. Bring a friend or neighbor to see what we are all about. If you see the Facebook posting about our last meeting, you'll meet Kurry Seymour, who has just moved into the area and will be working with Eric in facilitating our group. We believe he will add a new dimension to our Drum Circle. Kurry is a formally trained percussionist and pianist and is currently a music teacher in the Beaufort County School System.

OUTDOORS

Fripp Audubon Club’s

Ten Eyck Lecture Series

6 p.m., Thursday, March 21, Fripp Island Community Center, 205 Tarpon Blvd. Meet Stephen Schabel, Education Director of the Avian Conservation Center. Back by popular demand, please come meet Stephen and engage with these wonderful raptors up close and personal – hawks, owls. vultures, and more. During Stephen’s live demonstration learn about how these beautiful birds live, where they live and what is so unique about them. We will collect donations to the Avian Conservation Center during the meeting.

The Beaufort Tree Walk

Lady’s Island Garden Club invites you to take a meandering walk through the Historic “Old Point” and enjoy some unique and noteworthy trees. The “Walk” takes about an hour, is a little over a mile starting at the corner of Craven & Carteret streets in Morrall Park and concluding in Waterfront Park. Booklets with map and information about each tree are available free at the Visitors Center in the historic Arsenal on Craven Street.

Tours of Hunting Island

Every Tuesday, Hunting Island State Park, 2555 Sea Island Pkwy. Free, park entry fees apply. Sponsored by Friends of Hunting Island Keeper Ted and his team. For more information call the Hunting Island Nature Center at 843-838-7437. The next Tuesday is August 1.

SEWING/QUILTING

Sea Island Quilters

6:30 p.m., Thursday, March 21, Carteret Street United Methodist Church, 408 Carteret Street, Beaufort. In person or Zoom. “Surface Pattern Design” – If you’ve ever wondered how fabric designers take the vision in their heads and turn it into the patterns we use in our quilts and other projects, this is the presentation for you! Lissette will demonstrate for us how a simple sketch can become a pattern as well as talk us through her journey as a designer. She will have a trunk show and fabric sale for us, cutting yardage as well as selling precut bundles at a discounted rate. To enter the raffle for the Proteas print 5-yard cut, bring $5 cash to the March meeting; raffle slots are pre–sale only.

Maye River Quilters 10 a.m., Saturday, April 6, Palmetto Electric Cooperative, 1 Cooperative Way, Hardeeville. To attend as a guest, please email RSVP to mayeriverquilters@gmail. com. For more information and membership forms to join the group, call 978-464-0585.

American Needlepoint Guild Meeting 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., 1st Tuesday each month. The Hilton Head Chapter of the American Needlepoint Guild welcomes anyone, beginner or experienced stitcher, who is interested in needlepoint to join us for stitching, learning and fellowship. For more information, please contact us at hiltonheadislandchapter@needlepoint.org.

Embroidery Guild of America Meeting Second Tuesday of every month, Palmetto Electric Community Room, Hardeeville. The Lowcountry Chapter of the Embroidery Guild of America welcomes anyone, beginner or experienced stitcher, who is interested in any type of embroidery including needlepoint, crossstitch, surface and beaded embroidery, hardanger, bargello, sashiko, etc., to join us for stitching, learning and fellowship. For more information, please contact us at lowcountrychapter@egacarolinas.org.

SPORTS/GAMES

Kiwanis Club of Hilton Head Cornhole for Charity Tournament

1 p.m., Saturday, April 27, Lincoln & South Brewing Company, 138 Island Drive, Hilton Head Island. This year’s tournament will benefit SOAR Special Recreation of the Lowcountry. Cornhole teams will compete for cash prize donations to the local youth cause of their choice. Sign up to compete and sponsor the event by visiting https://hhikiwanisorders.weebly.com/.

ACBL Duplicate Bridge Club

9:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m., Tuesdays, Carteret St. United Methodist Church. Games and events will be held weekly. Director Gene Ogden. Contact Jane Simpson at

Lima Company takes on Combat Fitness Test

More on VA Mental Health Services

This is the final part of a fourpart series of articles on VA Mental Health Services.

The VA Crisis Line, Text, and Chat

If you are a veteran in crisis, call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 and press 1 or chat confidentially with a trained VA adviser at https://bit.ly/41UIcdJ or text to 838255. A crisis could be any kind of crisis including thinking of harming yourself or someone else, being homeless or about to become homeless, marital problems, joblessness, depression, or other. If you are looking for help in encouraging a veteran to get support or mental healthcare and it is not an emergency call VA “Coaching into Care” at 888-8237458

Ask the VA for help Veterans and their families, caregivers, and persons concerned about veterans exhibiting signs of depression, anxiety, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), Suicidal Tendencies, Bipolar, Paranoia, Schizophrenia, Effects of Traumatic Brain Injuries, Substance Abuse, Tobacco Use, Dementia, and other mental health problems should read the following webpages and ask for VA help.

1 The VA’s “Mental Health” master webpage at https:// www.mentalhealth.va.gov/.

2 The VA’s “Mental Health Services” webpag at https://bit.ly/3H8KAoE.

3 The VA’s “Veteran Suicide Prevention” webpage at https://bit.ly/4c5sulp.

4 The VA’s “Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Treatment” webpage at https://bit.ly/3uM96Je.

5 The VA’s “Depression Treatment for Veterans” webpage at https://bit. ly/4bR35eO

6 The VA’s “Getting Emergency Care at Non-VA Facilities” webpage at https:// bit.ly/3TskMsO.

7 The VA’s “Veteran Train-

ing” (Sleep Issues, Anger Management, Problem Solving, etc.)” webpage at https://www.veterantraining.va.gov. These courses may be helpful but they are not meant to replace treatment by a VA healthcare professional.

8 The “VA APP Store for Mental Health Applications” webpage at https:// mobile.va.gov/appstore (Alcohol, Drug, and Tobacco Use; Anger and Irritability; Anxiety, Stress, Trauma, PTSD; Depression and Mood; Mindfulness; Resilience; Goal Setting; Relationships; Beyond MST; Insomnia; Mental Health Assessments; Couples Coach; Psychological First Aid; VA Health Chat; Sleep and Insomnia; Safety Plan; etc.).

9 VA’s “Homeless Programs (National Call Center for Homeless Veterans)” webpage at https://bit. ly/3TJ4bT6. Veterans who are homeless can get help finding mental health care at a Veterans drop-in center, or by contacting the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 1-877-424-3838, or by visiting the VA’s Homeless Veterans Website at www. va.gov/homeless.

10 VA Mental Health “Transitioning Service Members” webpage at https://bit. ly/3PuTK2Z.

11 VA’s Mental Health “Veterans Looking for Support” webpage at https://bit. ly/3v9se49

12 VA’s Mental Health “Wom-

en Veterans” webpage at https://bit.ly/3vkJfs6

13 VA’s Mental Health “LGBTQ+Veterans” webpage at https://bit. ly/491BapW.

14 VA’s Mental Health “Family Member or Friend” webpage at https://bit.ly/3TJpROX.

15 VA’s Mental Health “Older Veterans” webpage at https://bit.ly/4alrtDI.

16 VA Mental Health “Health Care Provider” webpage at https://bit.ly/3Vqwp65

17 VA Mental Health “Student Veterans and Faculty” webpage at https://bit.ly/4alldMA.

18 VA Mental Health “Substance Use” webpage at https://bit.ly/4ckRRzD and https://bit.ly/4919SjA and https://bit.ly/48ZtZi1

19 VA “Caregiver Support Program” webpage at https:// www.caregiver.va.gov.

20 And the references at each of the above web pages.

Find a Caregiver Support Program Coordinator

The Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) Caregiver Support Program (CSP) offers clinical services to caregivers of eligible and covered Veterans enrolled in the VA healthcare system. The program’s mission is to promote the health and well-being of family caregivers who care for our Nation’s Veterans, through education, resources, support, and services.

Locate your nearest VA Medical Center/System Headquarters using the VA Locator at https:// bit.ly/4928QDR. CSP Coordinators are located at every VA Medical Center. Contact the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center Caregiver Support Program Coordinator at 843-789-7959. Contact the Dorn VA Medical Center CSP Coordinator at 803-695-6777

Guide to VA Mental Health Services Veterans Service Officers (VSOs), Veterans Service Organizations, veterans, and persons concerned about a veteran's mental health should download and read the “VA Guide to VA Mental Health Services for Veterans & Families” at https:// bit.ly/3viFSBX. Published in July of 2012, this guide, describes the guiding principles of VA mental health care. It explains how to find mental health care and the different treatment settings where the VA offers mental health care, such as hospitals (inpatient care), clinics (outpatient care), and telemedicine (where mental health providers in one location can talk with, evaluate, and treat veterans at another location through closed-circuit video). The “VA Guide to VA Mental Health Services for Veterans & Families” also provides information about the types of treatments available for the most common mental health problems of veterans (such as depression, substance abuse, anxiety, and PTSD) and describes the special programs offered for particular groups of veterans (such as women veterans, homeless veterans, and older veterans) and more.

VA Mental Health Resources for family, friends, and caregivers of veterans

In addition to online resources, VA Caregiver Support Coordinators at your nearest VA medical center and a caregiver peer support mentoring program can help connect caregivers for support and learning. Call the VA’s Caregiver Support Line at 855-260-3274

Coaching into Care

Family, friends, and caregivers of veterans can also contact the VA’s “Coaching into Care” program to speak directly with a licensed psychologist or social worker, free of charge. They can provide information about mental health and VA services, as well as

tips for how to begin the conversation about treatment with a loved one. Caregivers can reach a licensed psychologist or social worker at 888-823-7458

Other helpful references

There is too much helpful information at www.va.gov and other websites to put in a short series of four articles on VA Mental Health Services. The veteran’s VA Healthcare Social Worker is an excellent source for information on VA Mental Health Services. Readers will also benefit by reading past The Island News articles on this important subject at:

January 12, 2022 Article 1 of 4: https://bit.ly/44uSbXY.

June 19 2022 Article 2 of 4: https://bit.ly/4clkA7s.

June 24 2022 Article 3 of 4: https://bit.ly/4clkA7s.

June 29, 2022 Article 4 of 4: https://bit.ly/3vl6VfT.

The bottom line

The RHJVAHCS is the only S.C. medical system with a dual five-star Patient Satisfaction-Quality Rating. The RHJVAHCS is the only VA healthcare facility to secure a position on Becker’s 2023 Great Community Hospitals list. The RHJVAMC has been ranked in the top 10 percent of all public and private hospitals by the Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information System (HEDIS) for longer than a decade. The RHJVAMC&HCS has a VA Flagship Mental Health Center. Please help the VA to encourage veterans to use VA healthcare, especially mental healthcare.

Larry Dandridge is a Vietnam War wounded warrior, disabled veteran, ex-Enlisted Infantryman, ex-Warrant Officer Pilot, and retired Lt. Colonel. He is a past Veterans Service Officer, a Patient Adviser at the RHJ VA Hospital, the Fisher House Charleston Good Will Ambassador, and the VP for Veteran Affairs for the local Army Association Chapter. Larry is the author of the award-winning book Blades of Thunder and a contributing freelance writer with The Island News. Contact him at LDandridge@earthlink.net or 843-276-7164

LARRY

ANNOUNCEMENTS

DONATE YOUR CAR TO KIDS. Your

donation helps fund the search for missing children. Accepting Trucks, Motorcycles & RV’s , too! Fast Free Pickup – Running or Not – 24 Hour Response – Maximum Tax Donation – Call (888) 515-3810

Tuesday, March 26, 2024 is the last day to redeem winning tickets in the following South Carolina Education Lottery Instant Games: (1464) FASTEST ROAD TO $2 000 000

Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 833-230-8692

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance – NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-397-7030 www.dental50plus.com/60 #6258

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-877-852-0368

Is 2024 your year? We’re here for it and here for you. Reach your goals this year with WeightWatchers. Get started with THREE months FREE, visit www. weightwatchersoffer.com/52 Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts. Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees cancelled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 833-638-3767

AUCTIONS

LIVE ESTATE AUCTION – Saturday, March 23 at 9:30 A.M. 1157 Galilee Rd., Barnwell, SC. Enclosed trailers, tons of tools, shop equipment, estate shotguns, extensive remote control car collection, coins, riding lawn mowers, vintage drink boxes/bottles, furniture, antiques, glassware, etc. Two auctioneers selling simultaneously! www.cogburnauction. com 803-860-0712

ABSOLUTE CONSTRUC-

TION-TRUCK AUCTION. Tues, March 26 2024 60 containers- 500 new attachments. 8AM Farm equipment. 9AM inside Construction equipment –10% buyers premium. See meekinsauction.com NCLN 858

ADVERTISE YOUR AUCTION in 80 S.C. newspapers for only $375. Your 25word classified ad will reach more than 1 5 million readers. Call Randall Savely at the S.C. Newspaper Network, 1-888727-7377

EMPLOYMENT

Locals Raw Bar, Lady’s Island, seeks BOH cooks, chefs & stewards and FOH hosts & servers. Apply within or email us at localsrawbar@gmail.com. 97 Sea Island Parkway

HELP WANTED – DRIVERS

ADVERTISE YOUR DRIVER JOBS in 80 S.C. newspapers for only $375. Your 25-word classified ad will reach more than 1 5 million readers. Call Randall Savely at the S.C. Newspaper Network, 1-888-727-7377

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-844-7750366 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-875-2449

Up to $15,000 00 of GUARANTEED

Life Insurance! No medical exam or health questions. Cash to help pay funeral and other final expenses. Call Physicians Life Insurance Company – 855837-7719 or visit www.Life55plus.info/ scan

TELEVISION & INTERNET SERVICES

DIRECTV OVER INTERNET – Get your favorite live TV, sports and local channels. 99% signal reliability! CHOICE Package, $84 99/mo for 12 months. HBO Max and Premium Channels included for 3 mos (w/CHOICE Package or higher.) No annual contract, no hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-855-237-9741

DIRECTV Sports Pack. 3 Months on Us! Watch pro and college sports LIVE. Plus over 40 regional and specialty networks included. NFL, College Football, MLB, NBA, NHL, Golf and more. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-844-6241107

Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80 000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-877-542-0759

VACATION RENTALS

ADVERTISE YOUR VACATION PROP-

ERTY FOR RENT OR SALE to more than 1 5 million S.C. newspaper readers. Your 25-word classified ad will appear in 80 S.C. newspapers for only $375. Call Randall Savely at the South Carolina Newspaper Network, 1-888-727-7377

YOUR AD HERE

Email Amanda (amanda@lcweekly.com) or Sandy (sandyschepis@gmail.com) to place your classified ad here!

LAST

Registration deadline is March 29, 2024 register online SeaIslandRotary.org

Tips for Daily Prayer

To grow in daily prayer, we need a plan.

When beginners take up jogging, it’s important to have a good plan. They will need a good starting distance: too short and it won’t be a good workout, too long and it won’t be realistic. They will also need to choose a good time and place so that they can stay faithful to their workouts. As they follow their plan, running will gradually come more easily. In a similar way, if we want to develop our daily prayer life, we will need to follow a plan.

Start small but be consistent. It is beautiful to lift our hearts up to God in small moments of prayer throughout our daily activities, but if we really want to deepen our relationship with him, we also need to set aside time to be quiet with him in prayer. It needs to be more than a couple of minutes; after all, it usually takes a few minutes simply for our minds and hearts to settle down. If you’re just starting out, consider setting aside 10-15 minutes a day for prayer.

When can you give your best to God?

We want to give time to God when we are at our best. If one is a morning person, for example, that will often be a great time to pray. It could be during one’s lunch break, after arriving home from school or work, or in the evening before bed. The important thing is to choose a time that is consistently open on our calendars, and a time when we can give our best attention to God.

Where’s your best place to pray?

One great thing about praying is you can pray anywhere you like: your bedroom, on the back porch, or any place that is relatively quiet and free from distractions. Can you get rid of the background noise of the television or radio? Can you turn off your cellphone and allow yourself to be “unplugged” for a short while? You want to focus on God. You can be confident that you have his full attention, and that he cares deeply about you and what’s on your mind.

Just try and keep at it!

It may be tough at first. In the everyday noise of our lives, being still and quiet might not come naturally. But as you keep showing up for your time with God, you will gradually see that it is getting easier and that it is becoming a part of the day that you look forward to. Just as a runner grows stronger and more confident with each day of training, you will see results in your daily time with the Lord!