Pine Island development hits major roadblock
Planning Commission votes unanimously to recommend denial of request to remove
land from Cultural Protection Overlay
By Delayna Earley
Island News
The
Pine Island developers received a blow on Monday night when the Beaufort County Planning Commission unanimously decided to recommend denial of their request to have the property removed from the Cultural Protection Overlay (CPO) boundary.
Developers of the controversial proposed gated community and golf course on St. Helena Island
submitted an application to have their 437-acre property removed from the land covered by the CPO, which is a decades-old ordinance that does not allow for gated communities or golf courses to be built on the island in hopes of preserving the Gullah Geechee culture that has deep roots in the community.
Recently, Pine Island developer Elvio Tropeano published a new downzoning plan that he and those in support of the development say
is the best-case scenario for responsible development on the island while respecting the community and the existing culture.
During Monday’s Planning Commission meeting, concerned citizens on both sides of the issue filled the seats to have their voices heard during the 4 5-hour long meeting that was mostly public comment regarding Pine Island. There were many citizens who commented on both sides, but for
TASTE OF BEAUFORT
most, those who agreed with protecting the CPO wanted to do so to avoid a “domino effect” of development on St. Helena Island if they allow one development to be excused from the CPO that would jeopardize the existing Gullah Geechee culture and their history as well as have a huge environmental impact on the island.
Those who were there to support Pine Island’s proposed downzoning plan, mostly did so because
this plan, to them, was the lesser of two evils and a golf course with 49 homes is much better than what the developers are able to build under their current zoning, which in their opinion will be more harmful environmentally and culturally to the island than the proposed plan.
“The way the CPO is written, for me, it’s twofold,” said Dennis Ross on the Planning Commission. “One
‘Many reasons’ behind decision to close Salvation Army store
Higher rent only part of the story
By Delayna Earley The Island News
The Salvation Army Family Store in Beaufort shut its doors for the final time on April 30
The store had served not only as a second-hand retail store, but also as an additional form of outreach for the nonprofit group to provide jobs in the community, clothing for those in an emergent situation such as loss from a fire and those who need help with clothing due to financial constraints.
“All of the money raised from that store stayed right here in Beaufort and helped those in this community,” said Capt. Wanda Long with the Salvation Army in Beaufort. “ The store ran off donations from the community, said Long.
“Even if they have holes in them, we could rag them out and we would make money off of the rags that went out,” said Long.
Long said that the decision to close the store was not an easy one, nor was it a decision made for one reason.
Rumors have been swirling on social media regarding the reason behind the store’s closing, and Long said that she has seen all of them and none of them hit completely at the truth.
Long said that while one of the reasons that they decided to shut down the store was that the rent on the location was raised, she also said it was not the only reason, and she does not blame the landlord but instead is understanding and said that it is more about the economy.
Kaylee Barron, 5, with the help of her aunt, Kendall Paige of Beaufort, eats a turkey leg during Taste of Beaufort at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park on Friday, May 2, 2025. Amber Hewitt/The Island News
Reginald and Patricia Stepherson of Savannah enjoy freshly fried seafood during Taste of Beaufort at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park on Friday, May 2, 2025. Amber Hewitt/The Island News
Clint Holmes of Beaufort enjoys a fried chicken steam bun made by Nom Nom Poke Shop during Taste of Beaufort at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park on Friday, May 2, 2025. Amber Hewitt/The Island News
LOWCOUNTRY LIFE & NEWS
The backdrop is
Since 1977, Friends of Caroline has been dedicated to providing quality-of-life care through compassionate palliative, hospice, and grief support services to the Lowcountry. 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
and the name of the photographer. Email your photos to theislandnews@gmail.com.
VETERAN OF THE WEEK BETTY HAMILTON
American Legion Beaufort Post 207 brings you Betty Hamilton, 105 years old, who joined the United States Army in Boston in 1940, before the U.S. entered World War II. She began her service as a physical therapist at an Army hospital near Washington D.C. During the war she served at a convalescent center set up at the Earl of Stafford’s estate in England. She met her future husband, Dr. Robert Hamilton there. Upon their return to Washington, they were married and he finished his residency at an Army hospital. She separated after the war as a First Lieutenant; the couple first moved to Knoxville, Tenn/, and finally settled in West Vir-
May 9
1981: Greg Jones is born in Columbia. Jones was a star athlete at Battery Creek High School in the 1990s, earning All-State honors on offense (running back) and defense (linebacker) in football. Jones played college football at Florida State University. Drafted in the second round of the 2004 NFL draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars, Jones played nine seasons in the NFL, eight with the Jaguars and one with the Houston Texans.
May 10
2019: Mills Langehans scores five goals to lead the Holy Trinity Lions to an 8-0 win over Cambridge Academy to win the SCISA 1A girls soccer championship at Porter-Gaud in Charleston.
2019: Beaufort Academy’s boys are denied a sixth consecutive SCISA 1A soccer championship, falling 4-2 to The King’s Academy at Porter-Gaud in Charleston.
May 11
2019: Beaufort High School claims its second straight Class 4A boys track and field state championship in Columbia. The Eagles
PAL PETS OF THE WEEK
Dog of the Week
Billie is a 3-month-old doll who loves to play, cuddle, and be carried. We are looking for someone special for Billie because she was born with a spinal infection that affected the mobility in her back legs. She can walk just fine, but running is not her thing. She’s perfectly content with short walks, and you’ll never have to worry about her jumping on people or counter-surfing. While Billie uses her potty pads, she does have an accident from time to time, making her the
cutest diaper dog you’ve ever seen. PAL will take care of her medical care; you provide the love. In short, Billie is looking for someone who understands
ginia. She moved to Beaufort in 2014 to live with her daughter and son-in-law. She will celebrate her 106th birthday in June.
– Compiled by John Chubb, American Legion Post 207 For Veteran Of The Week nominations, contact jechubb1@gmail.com.
won by a whopping 36 points despite having just three event winners – Alex Macias (pole vault), Desmond Gailard (triple jump) and Dexter Ratliff (discus).
May 12-13
1862: Beaufort’s Robert Smalls steals the CSS Planter and delivers the ship to the Union Navy. The three white crew members – Capt. C.J. Relyea, pilot Samuel H. Smith and engineer Zerich Pitcher –went ashore in Charleston, leaving Smalls, the ship’s wheelman, and the enslaved crew members unattended. Around 3 a.m., Smalls and his crew fired up the ship’s boilers and sailed to a wharf to pick up their waiting family members, then sailed past Confederate forces at Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie. Smalls, impersonating the captain, wearing his wide-brimmed straw hat to hide his face, used the proper coded signals at two Confederate checkpoints, including at Fort Sumter itself, and other defense positions. When the Planter cleared the Confederate defenses, just before dawn, Smalls raised a white flag and delivered the ship – and its 17 Black passengers (nine men, five women and three children) – to the blockading Union fleet.
– Compiled by Mike McCombs
and appreciates that there is beauty in being perfectly imperfect. She is spayed, up to date on vaccinations, and microchipped.
Cat of the Week
Zeal is a mature, full-figured tuxedo girl with lots of love to give. She’s a 9-year-old southern belle who likes to spill the tea and tell you all about her day. Zeal gets along with other cats and is people-friendly to the max. She is spayed, up to date on vaccinations, and microchipped.
For more info on Billie, Zeal or any of our other pets, call PAL at 843-645-1725 or email Info@ PalmettoAnimalLeague.org.
– Compiled by Lindsay Perry
Do you value your free hometown newspaper – made by locals, for locals? Free news isn’t cheap. Please help support The Island News!
Donations gratefully accepted at www.yourislandnews.com or The Island News, PO Box 550, Beaufort, SC 29901
Habersham’s Meg Largey took this photo of Ron Callari holding a butterfly at this year’s Friends of Caroline butterfly release April 24 at Beaufort’s Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.
Callari’s T-shirt.
picture
Betty Hamilton
EMPOWERING HEALTHCARE THROUGH
Nursing Excellence
NURSING IS NOT JUST A CAREER –IT IS A CALLING DEEPLY ROOTED IN A PASSION FOR SERVING OTHERS. It has and will always be about the patients, their well-being and their journey towards healing and recovery. We appreciate the profound impact that our nursing staff has on the lives they touch – caring for patients with empathy, dedication and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
NURSING EXCELLENCE GOES BEYOND SKILLS and qualifications – it starts with a caring heart and a commitment to embodying compassion, critical thinking and collaboration.
Especially during NURSES WEEK, we share our gratitude and admiration for the amazing nursing team at Beaufort Memorial, recognizing that the collective efforts of these extraordinary individuals truly empower healthcare and help us all move towards a brighter, healthier future.
Join Us in Honoring
EXTRAORDINARY NURSES
Consider turning your gratitude into a meaningful gift that acknowledges a nurse who made a difference and supports a healthier future for the community. Every gift made to the Beaufort Memorial Foundation in recognition of a nurse is shared while celebrating them as an “Honored Caregiver.”
SCAN OR VISIT
BeaufortMemorial.org/HonorYourCaregiver to donate and express your appreciation.
Licenses available for solid waste collectors on June 1
Staff reports
Beginning June 1, solid waste hauler licenses for 2025-2026 will be available for all associated collectors and haulers operating in Beaufort County.
The County will not accept disposal charges at its approved landfills from collectors and haulers who do not have a valid license after July 15
License fees are $100 per year for the first vehicle and $50 for each additional vehicle/decal.
Beaufort County’s Code of Ordinances requires that all contractors providing residential waste collection and transportation within the County have a license which, along with decals, can be obtained from the Beaufort County Solid Waste and Recycling Department at 120 Shanklin Road in Beaufort.
To schedule an appointment or if you have questions, contact Sally McLeod at sally.mcleod@bcgov.net or 843-255-2736
It’s open again
After being closed for almost two months while crews worked on the
April 30, 2025. Amber Hewitt/The Island News
LIMS students hosting photography showcase
Staff reports
From 6 to 7 p.m., Tuesday, May 13, Lady’s Island Middle School (LIMS) students will showcase 70 curated photos that they snapped around the school and community.
This photo exhibit is a culmination of the students’ work in our recent Project Based Learning (PBL) unit. PBL is a student-driven hands-on learning activity. According to Kathleen Pinner, a reading interventionist at LIMS, 15 students will be presenting 70 photos that document what home and community mean to them. This showcase is the outcome of our middle-schoolers work over the past two weeks in their Photography PBL unit.
The students benefited from the expertise of local professionals, who volunteered their time to teach both the history of the school and the style elements of photography. PBL combines the best research-based and classroom-proven project design elements and instructional practices. The overall goal
is for both teachers and students is to become more competent. The goal is for teachers to become more competent in their teaching practice, and students to become more competent in the 21st-century learning skills of critical thinking and problem solving, creativity and innovation, communication, and collaboration.
The event will take place at Lady’s Island Middle School at 30 Cougar Drive in Beaufort. In addition to the special exhibit of photography, the LIMS Art Gallery will also be open for viewing. Celebrate the craftsmanship of our 6th-, 7th-, and 8th-grade students.
On the evening of the exhibit, parking will be
Denied
from page A1
is to protect a history that’s going away and once it goes away, it’s not there anymore. You can read about it in books, you can talk about it, but it’s not there anymore … And it’s to protect a heritage that is just being eaten up every day. I, for one, I can’t, in my heart of hearts, I cannot support this.”
Planning Commission chair Ed Pappas said that he was basing his decision not on his opinion, but on the standards by which the Planning Commission has been tasked with making decisions.
“They’re outlined in the compressive plan, and they make up nine different review standards, and by my count, most of those standards aren’t met in this application as outlined by staff,” Pappas said. This setback is the latest in a long line of disappointments for the Pine Island development effort, which has been underway since 2022
The plan submitted by Tropeano on April 7, to amend the zoning map, ultimately removing Pine Island from the CPO, additionally proposed providing land and $2 5 million for a community center on the island as well as promises to preserve open space on the island and in the proposed golf course and gated community. Jobs with salaries averaging $80 000 were also one of the items that the Pine Island developer said the 18hole golf course and gated community would provide,
available in the front of the school and at the bus loop. Beginning at 5:45 p.m., on the evening of the exhibit, there will be a greeter at both the front door of the school, which faces the Sea Island Parkway entrance, and at the courtyard door at the bus loop, which faces the Sam’s Point side of the building.
“One is to protect a history that’s going away and once it goes away, it’s not there anymore.”
DENNIS ROSS, on protecting Gullah Geechee history.
although when questioned by commissioners about the nature and permanency of these high paying jobs, representation for Pine Island did not have specific answers.
If Beaufort County denies Tropeano’s request regarding the CPO, he has stated that the alternative, which is currently allowed under the zoning, would be to move forward with a denser development of 149 residential units and 90 docks that has been referred to a “full density plan”.
With this plan, there are no promises made regarding a community center or open space preservation.
The committee members will make their final recommendation to County Council during the planned Natural Resources Committee meeting on Monday, June 2 at 4 p.m., and then Council will make their final vote.
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.
Causeway Project, Sands Beach in Port Royal reopened to pedestrian traffic on Wednesday,
Heather R. Galvin, Probate Judge, Beaufort County, SC
Help your postal carrier Stamp Out Hunger
Staff reports
Residents of northern Beaufort County can do their part to help eliminate hunger in their own community on Saturday, May 10
Each year, letter carriers across the country head out on their routes on the second Saturday in May to collect donations of non-perishable food items to benefit local food pan-
tries. Since launching in 1993, the National Association of Letter Carriers’ annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive has grown into the nation’s largest one-day food drive, helping to fill the shelves of food banks in cities and towns throughout the United States. Residents can join letter carriers and their partner organizations in the fight to end hunger in their com-
munities by participating in the annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive. They can simply leave a donation of non-perishable food in a bag near their mailbox on the second Saturday in May, and your letter carrier will do the rest.
All northern Beaufort County collections will stay in the local community. For more information visit www.nalc.org/food
Back on the street
protesters, hailing from numerous groups, are taking to the street every week to make their point known in relation to the policies of the Trump Administration. Asa Aarons Smith/The Island News
County’s Fermin honored by Center for Women Veterans
ence to those who served."
Fermin
Staff reports The Center for Women Veterans recently announced their selection of 28 women veterans for the 2025 Department of Veteran Affairs Center for Women Veterans Trailblazers "Women Forging a Path" initiative. Beaufort County Veterans Affairs Director Caroline Fermin has been chosen as one of the 28 women Veterans to be honored with this national award and recognition.
"I am profoundly honored to receive this award," Fermin said in a news release. "It reaffirms my commitment to making a differ-
Army from page A1
“You know, everyone has to make a living,” Long said.
“This rent is their only income.”
Additionally, Long said that there are repairs that need to be made to the building that cannot be made while there are occupants in the building.
From the Salvation Army’s perspective, Long said that in recent years it has become more and more difficult to find people who are able to work in the store consistently as well, which
From their website: The Center for Women Veterans (CWV) is proud to announce the CWV 2025 Women Veteran Trailblazers Initiative “Women Making the Difference.” We have defined a woman Veteran Trailblazer as a woman who has served and separated from the service and makes an impact by enhancing the lives of other Veterans, Veteran families, or Veteran caregivers.
“Beaufort County is so fortunate to have Caroline as a member on our team," said Audra Antonacci-Ogden, Assistant County Administrator-Community Services. "Every day she shows her passion and dedication to our veterans and their families.”
is an issue that many businesses face.
While the hope is to eventually reopen the store at a different location, Long said that she will not be part of the decision-making process as she has received orders to move from Beaufort County and her position here.
“My husband and I have been given our marching orders to leave Beaufort after seven years, and so the new helm will be the ones to make those decisions when they get here,” said Long.
Long said that her last official day in Beaufort in her position will be June 22
Long said that while the Family Store was closed, all the other resources that they offer in the community as well as their location on North Street in downtown Beaufort are not going anywhere.
The nonprofit will continue to work with families who need relief with rent and utilities, food with Second Helpings, and helping Beaufort’s homeless population.
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.
Easter Sunday Apr.
Protesters once again lined the street at the intersection of Ribaut Road and Boundary Street in front of Beaufort City Hall on Monday, May 6. The
Caroline
Beaufort Memorial’s PATH program celebrates 4 new graduates
Staff reports
Four more graduates joined the ranks of Beaufort Memorial Hospital’s PATH program (People Achieving Their Highest) alumni as the organization celebrated its ninth cohort graduation last week.
The April 23 graduation was also a pinning ceremony for newly certified graduates in their field, and a “signing day” commemoration for Beaufort Memorial employees entering a new career pathway.
The four graduates in Cohort 9 completed programs as Clinical Medical Assistants (1), Patient Care Technicians (2) and Endoscopy Technicians (1).
Graham, Waverly
Along with the recognition of Cohort 9’s graduates, 10 employees committed to entering the program, marking the milestone decision for each of them. A pinning ceremony commemorated the next step for Sequina Register, CCMA, as well as
five certified Patient Care Technicians, who were unable to attend the ceremony due to nursing school commitments.
Beaufort Memorial Presi-
dent and CEO Russell Baxley, MHA, used the well-known metaphor “Bloom where you’re planted” to describe the achievements of current and past PATH graduates.
“PATH was created to allow our people, Beaufort Memorial staff, to thrive and grow where they are planted,” Baxley said in a media release. “We’ve had so many great people, so many great employees, come through the PATH program. Wherever you are on your journey, don’t stop growing where your feet are planted.”
The April 23 graduation was a family affair, with family and friends present of graduates and those being pinned. In fact, Sequina Register’s sister Edwina Register was one of the 10 that signed on for the program’s 10th cohort.
Edwina Register and Patient Care Technician Tonya
Coaxum are both reentering the PATH program in Cohort 10, starting out on a pathway to become Clinical Medical Assistants. The two graduated as PCTs in the program’s very first cohort in September 2022 Since then, the workforce development program has seen 83 graduates in nine cohorts so far.
The PATH program includes scholarships, clinical training, traditional education and non-traditional financial assistance to encourage individuals to advance their careers, building and supporting a stronger healthcare network throughout the Lowcountry.
Anyone interested in learning how they can join the team at Beaufort Memorial and grow their career through the PATH program should visit BeaufortMemorial.org/PATH.
NEWS BRIEFS
Dawson to host District 1 community meeting
County Council Member Gerald Dawson (District 1) will host a district meeting for the Sheldon community to discuss updates on construction of the Agnes Major Community Center.
The meeting will be 6 p.m., Thursday, May 8, at Elijah Washington Medical Center at 211 Paige Point Road in Sheldon. Eric Brown, County Parks and Recreation Director will give an update on the project. For questions and more information Council Member Dawson at 843-986-7265 or gdawson@bcgov.net.
Military Appreciation Day set
for May 9
The Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Military Enhancement Committee of Beaufort are hosting Military Appreciation Day from 4 to 7 p.m., Friday, May 9 at Laurel Bay.
The community event is free and open to veterans, active-duty military and their families. There will be family entertainment, a kickball tournament, kids bounce houses, local business giveaways and appearances by base commanders and local elected representatives. Free hot dogs, popcorn and soft drinks will be served.
Ribbon cutting for Southside Pickleball Courts
Beaufort County Parks and Recreation is holding a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Southside Pickleball Courts at 3 p.m., Friday, May 9. The courts are located at 1408 Battery Creek Road.
Opening remarks will be made by County Parks and Recreation Director Eric Brown, County Administrator Michael Moore, and County Council Chair Alice Howard. Remarks will be followed by the ribbon cutting and brief tour of the pickleball facility.
Veterans Wills Clinic
to be held May 9
Lowcounty Legal Volunteers is hosting a free Veterans Wills Clinic from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday, May 9, at the Beaufort County Disabilities and Special Needs Office at 100 Clearwater Way in Beaufort.
Pre-registration is required. Apply at LowcountryLegalVolunteers.org.
Rotary
Club hosting annual Vidalia onion fundraiser
The Rotary Club of Beaufort is hosting its annual fundraiser – the sale of farmfresh Vidalia onions in either 10-pound or 25-pound bags ($12 or $25).
The onions must be pre-ordered before Friday, May 9 and will be available for pickup between noon and 12:30 p.m. in the parking lot of Sea Island Presbyterian Church, Lady’s Island, on Wednesday, May 14
The money raised by this fundraiser is used to support grant requests from nonprof-
it organizations north of the Broad River in Beaufort County. Onions can be ordered and paid for at www.beaufortrotaryclub.org.
Coffee & Convos with the City Manager
Come out this May for a unique opportunity to meet Beaufort City Manager, Scott Marshall, over a cup of coffee. This is your chance to engage in casual conversations, share your ideas, and ask any questions you may have about our beautiful city of Beaufort.
The Coffee & Convos will take place on three Friday’s in May: 9:30 to 11 a.m., Friday, May 9, Magnolia Cafe; 9:30 to 11 a.m., Friday, May 16, Sunny Summers Cafe; 9:30 to 11 a.m., Friday, May 30, Mameem & Maudie.
Grab a coffee, come on in, and share your thoughts. We look forward to seeing you there. Let's make Beaufort an even better place to live together.
United Way ribbon cutting
The United Way of the Lowcountry is holding a special program and ribbon cutting at its 2025 Annual Meeting for its Showers of Dignity mobile trailer.
The event, along with a fun, casual picnic, is being held from 11:45 to 1:30 p.m., Monday, May 12 at the Port Royal Sound Foundation Pavilion at 310 Okatie Highway in support of a stronger, self-sufficient Lowcountry. Lunch begins at noon. Go to https://bit. ly/3RQWR61 to RSVP.
LWV Beaufort sponsors
state legislative review
Rev. Nathan Woodiff-Stanley, minister of Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Beaufort and part-time director of the S.C. UU Justice
Alliance, will speak Wednesday, May 14 on “The Path Forward: Post Legislative Session.”
Sponsored by the League of Women Voters Beaufort, the review of the legislative session which ends Thursday, May 15 will include a review of bills passed and actions local supporters can consider for those bills how local representatives voted.
The meeting starts at 5:30 pm at the UUFB at 178 Sams Point Road.
Northern Beaufort County Democratic Club to meet May 15
The Northern Beaufort County Democratic Club will be meeting at 6 p.m., Thursday May 15 at the Old Grace AME Chapel at 502 Charles Street in downtown Beaufort. Our guest speaker will be Mac Deford, who in 2024 ran for election to the U.S. House to represent South Carolina's 1st Congressional District.
The NOB Dems, along with several other groups, rally together every Monday at 4:30 p.m. in front of the Beaufort City Hall to exercise their 1st Amendment rights to speak up for democracy and defend the Constitution. These rallies are going on all over the United States. If the public wishes to add their voice in support, bring a sign (no vulgarity), stay behind the sidewalk, and off the median.
SCDNR using area boat landings for shellfish bed reseeding
South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) will be conducting its annual shellfish ground management efforts (oyster shell reseeding) at several Beaufort County boat landings beginning this week and running through the end of May.
The boat landings will remain open to the public, however there will be increased
truck and barge activity throughout each day while SCDNR reseeds the oyster beds at each location.
The schedule is as follows: Monday, May 12-Thursday, May 15: Broad River Boat Landing, Beaufort. • Monday, May 19-Wednesday, May 21: Edgar Glenn Boat Landing/Chechessee Landing, Okatie.
The barge will occupy one ramp while it is being loaded. Loading will take approximately two hours. At least one ramp will be available for public use while the barge is being loaded.
For questions and more information, contact County Public Works Director Bradley Harriott at 843-255-2740
May LIBPA Meeting
Beaufort County Director of Veterans Affairs Caroline Fermin will be the featured speaker at the Lady’s Island Business & Professional Association’s next meeting at 8 a.m., Tuesday, May 13 2025, at the Beaufort Realtors’ Association Headquarters at 22 Kemmerlin Lane on Lady’s Island. Please stop by for coffee and conversation concerning the community.
Poll workers needed; training available
The Board of Voter Registration and Elections of Beaufort County will be holding 10 new poll worker training classes.
All of the classes will be held at the main office, located at 15 John Galt Road, Beaufort, S.C. 29906. The classes will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., on the following dates: Wednesday, May 14; Saturday, May 24; Wednesday, June 18; Wednesday, July 16; Saturday, July 26; Wednesday, Aug. 20; and Wednesday, Sept. 17
To sign up for a class, visit https://beaufortsc.easypollworker.com/home.
County VA to offer End of Life Planning Seminars for veterans, families
Beaufort County Veterans Affairs is hosting End of Life Planning Seminars for veterans and their families.
These seminars address things veterans and their families can do today to ensure their personal effects are in order. They also discuss Veterans Affairs benefits that surviving spouses may be entitled to receive. They will be offered at either 9 a.m. or 1 p.m., at convenient locations around Beaufort County: • Tuesday, May 20: Hilton Head Branch Library, 11 Beach City Road. Tuesday, May 27: Beaufort Library, 311 Scott Street.
RSVPs are required for space and resource purposes. Please contact Crystal at 843-2556880 to reserve your seat. For questions and more information please contact Beaufort County Veterans Affairs at 843-255-6880
– Staff reports
Graduates of the Beaufort Memorial PATH program's ninth cohort included Tamara Thompson-
Patterson and Alyssa Morgan. Not pictured is Pavel Astileanu. Photo courtesy of Beaufort Memorial Hospital
Historic Port Royal Foundation Board Member Ben Leitzel speaks to members of the community during the Millet Park Rededication on Thursday, May 1, 2025. Amber Hewitt/The Island News
Public invited to participate in Memorial Day parade
Chat With Council
Jeff Baker listens as members of Beaufort County Council answer his questions regarding Sheriff P.J. Tanner deputizing officers as ICE agents during the Chat with
2025. Amber Hewitt/The Island News
Win ‘changes everything’ for Bryson Nimmer
As everything else in his life fell into place around him in the past nine months, Bryson Nimmer’s professional golf career seemed to be slipping away. Once a standout at Hilton Head Christian Academy, then a breakthrough star at Clemson, Nimmer caught fire during the COVID-19 pandemic and appeared poised for a quick rise through the ranks, but the grind of professional golf caught up to him, and he found himself drowning in a sea of talented young players, most of whom can hit it longer than the 5-foot-8 Lowcountry native.
After making only seven cuts in 19 starts last year, Nimmer slipped to conditional status on the Korn Ferry Tour, meaning he wouldn’t automatically qualify for events. Before last weekend, Nimmer had made only three starts this season, making two cuts and earning just north of $8 000 In the meantime, he and WJCL News anchor Riley Miller married last fall, and the couple is expecting a daughter. The clock was ticking, and Nimmer’s wheels were spinning.
“I was working out at our family farm and thinking maybe golf’s not for me,” Nimmer said.
Even so, he knew his game was in good shape, and if he could get a chance on a course that suited him, he was only one good weekend away from being back in the game. And, then, the magic happened at PGA Riviera Maya in Mexico.
After firing a 5-under-par 67 in the second round and taking the 36-hole lead, Nimmer stumbled on Saturday with a 73, but four birdies in his first five holes Sunday vaulted him back into the mix. Then, three bogeys in his last four holes on the front nine nearly did him in.
Nimmer settled down and shot 3-under on the back nine, including a birdie on the 72nd hole that
Eagles advance in baseball playoffs
LowcoSports.com
Hudson Mullen blasted a two-run homer in the first inning and pitched into the sixth inning while striking out six and allowing just one hit to lead Beaufort High to a 6-1 win over region rival Bluffton in the opening round of the Class 4A district playoffs Monday.
Dylan Rast recorded the final four outs — all by strikeout — to preserve the win and send the Eagles to Hartsville for a winner’s bracket game Tuesday.
Creek boys earn playoff win Battery Creek’s boys soccer team went on the road Monday and blanked Georgetown 2-0 for the program’s first playoff win since 2019. The Dolphins (10-8-2) travel to Swansea for a second-round matchup Thursday.
BA boys on to semis
April 29, 2025 at Battery Creek High School. HHP won, 3-1. Amber Hewitt/ The Island News
Nych Underwood scored a hat trick to lead the way as Beaufort Academy’s boys soccer team cruised into the SCISA 1A semifinals with a
HIGH
made him the clubhouse leader, but Stuart Macdonald dunked one from the fairway to force a playoff. Both players made par on the first extra hole, but Macdonald’s miscue on the second playoff hole gave Nimmer his first Korn Ferry Tour win, which secures his status on the tour for the remainder of this season and next season. It also vaults him to No. 16 in the season-long points standings, with the top 20 at the end of the year earning their PGA Tour cards.
“It’s crazy,” Nimmer said. “I think I just processed about two
minutes ago that I have somewhere to play now all year, and I’m in a really good spot now to get my PGA Tour card.
“It changes everything.”
Nimmer gets a week off to enjoy his success, and then it’s back to work — his summer schedule just filled up. Next up is a four-week stretch that ends close to home with the BMX Charity Pro-Am at Thornblade Club in Greer.
“Just gonna keep doing what I’m doing. I’m hitting it great, obviously,” Nimmer said. “Just try to keep this momentum going and see if we can get another one.”
Justin Jarrett is the sports editor of The Island News and the founder of LowcoSports.com. He was the sports editor of the Island Packet and the Beaufort Gazette for 6½ years. He has a
Serious pickleball
SCHOOL PLAYOFFS
Amy Goldberg and Mary Lange jump to make the hit during the Good Neighbor Medical Clinic's Pickleball Tournament on Saturday, April 26, 2025, contributing to their victory and earning them the Gold medal in the Women's Doubles category. Amber Hewitt/ The Island News
Bryson Nimmer
Battery Creek's Oswaldo Hernandez fights for control of the ball against Hilton Head Prep on Tuesday,
Editor’s Note: The opinions
VOICES & FAITH
A British geopolitical analyst on trade between China, SC
Imagine my surprise early on April 22 when I saw a column in The New York Times about China, tariffs and trade by British geopolitical analyst and author James Crabtree.
“I know that guy,” I thought, immediately remembering a tall and lanky graduate of the London School of Economics who volunteered for a couple of months during my ill-fated (but fun) 2000 congressional campaign. “And now he’s writing in the Times, Foreign Policy and all sorts of publications.”
So I reached out that morning to congratulate Crabtree. Turns out he was in China where the day was ending. Surprisingly, he responded within just a few minutes and agreed to answer a few questions about the unstable state of the world today, particularly in trade. In his Times column, he wrote about how steep tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump
would pay off – but for China, not the United States.
“South Carolina will find it harder to attract investment – and harder to trade and export – because other countries will see the U.S. turning inwards and against trade, and decide to take their investment and trade elsewhere,” Crabtree said.
And with the Port of Charleston being a top 10 port nationally, that will be a big deal, especially since about 20% of the port’s 12 2 million metric tons of imports were from China, according to Freight-
Waves price reporting service.
“There will hopefully still be a globalized, trading world — with Europe and East Asia at its heart — but the U.S. will play less of a role in it. And obviously, ordinary people in South Carolina are going to pay a whole lot more for a lot of things they buy as prices rise sharply and economic growth slows down.”
It will cost more, he said, for the new Nintendo switch, toys or a basic iPhone.
“Supply chains will adapt, and the U.S. can import toys from other countries, but they will cost more and often be less good.”
Crabtree, who has a new book coming out soon on the U.S. struggle for primacy in the Pacific, predicted that if the tariff war continues, the U.S. will do less trade overall “but relatively more with other countries which are not China, so the trade landscape will be less efficient and more complex.”
There have been basic global trade problems that needed fixing before the rush to slap on tariffs, such as how the U.S. has become too reliant on some Chinese goods. “But the tariffs are not a good way to achieve this objective, and they have lots of very damaging side-effects.”
Crabtree, now back in London with his family after serving as bureau chief for the Financial Times in India and head of an international think tank in Singapore, says his time in 2000 in South Carolina was critical to his career path.
“I was young and green, and knew very little about political campaigns,” he said, adding that he learned the importance of retail politics. “I loved Charleston and the Lowcountry, too, which I’d explore on the weekends. There aren’t too many British people who’ve been inside a Piggly Wiggly or visited the Hunley museum
Why financial literacy must include housing
or eaten scrapple. (I wasn’t vegan back then.)”
He said he also found being here to be intellectually fascinating.
“Living in South Carolina was one the first times I’d really lived and worked in a place which felt genuinely foreign and different, despite speaking the same language (just about).”
Volunteering here also planted a seed in his mind to return for graduate school at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard, where he met his wife. He also realized in the Palmetto State that he “somehow wanted to travel and learn for work. This became the impetus for later becoming a foreign correspondent, and living abroad in Asia for a dozen years.”
Andy Brack is editor and publisher of the Charleston City Paper and Statehouse Report. Have a comment? Send it to feedback@statehousereport.com.
Every April, we recognize Financial Literacy Month. It is a time to spotlight the tools and resources that help individuals manage their money, build credit, and work toward long-term stability.
Established by the U.S. Senate in 2004, Financial Literacy Month was built on a simple, powerful idea that knowledge is power -- it is the baseline for knowing how to read a credit report, understanding interest rates or how building a savings cushion can change lives.
After years of walking alongside families striving for stability, I have learned that knowledge without access isn’t enough. In too many commu-
nities, housing costs are rising far faster than wages. As many of us know, the rule of thumb is that housing should cost no more than 30% of a household’s income. But when rent and mortgage prices soar while paychecks stay flat, that guideline becomes meaningless for millions of hard working Americans. Even the term “affordable housing” sparks confusion. What one family can afford
Straight
Ihope you have enjoyed the recent messages about heaven lately, and I appreciate the emails expressing your speculations. My statements are my own opinions and calculations and originate from my fascination about what our future home will be like. There are so many more questions like will we eat? What will we do? Will we live in mansions? Will babies be born? Can our loved ones communicate with us? Will our pets be there? Will all of nature including our bodies remain the same throughout eternity? Will there be technology? Will we sleep? And so on.
We realize that no one really knows the specifics of all these things we are curious about, but there are hints here and there if we take the time to study and research the scriptures. There is no need to argue about heaven, but rather let us be filled with excitement and joy to know that being with God forever (wherever we are) is the greatest miracle blessing we could ever experience.
As we have been discussing heaven, it’s been on my mind that we should be taking our spiritual
may be completely out of reach for another. That disconnect doesn’t just cause misunderstanding, it creates policy gaps that leave people behind.
Housing is a community issue with ripple effects across our economy, workforce, education and health ecosystems.
1. When families are house-burdened, they often cut back on food, transportation, or medical care.
2. When essential workers cannot afford to live in the communities they serve, local businesses struggle to hire and retain staff.
3. When students face instability or homelessness, academic success and longterm opportunity suffers. Housing determines
LIVING
more than where you sleep. It shapes where you grow, learn, work, play and build your future. Financial education is vital. But it cannot fix systems that are fundamentally out of balance. It is not enough to tell someone to budget better if they don’t have access to fair lending, affordable housing or livable wages.
So as we promote financial literacy, I want us to continue to consider the following questions:
1. What’s standing in the way of affordable homeownership?
2. How can we equip people with both knowledge and access?
3. Where are the policy gaps that allow hardworking people to fall through
ON PURPOSE
the cracks? Because housing is not just about shelter. It is about opportunity, dignity and long-term stability. At Habitat for Humanity, there is a common myth that we “give away houses.” The truth is far more powerful.
Future homeowners complete a comprehensive financial education program, contribute 300 hours of sweat equity and purchase their homes with a mortgage capped at 30% of their income. Over the past 40 years, Central South Carolina Habitat for Humanity has built more than 280 homes, celebrated over 100 mortgage-free homeowners and revitalized more than 80 properties across Richland, Lexington and
Fairfield counties. When financial education meets opportunity, transformation happens. Families gain a home, they gain the tools to manage a budget, the confidence to make informed decisions and the stability to plan for the future. At its best, financial literacy does not just manage money. It unlocks doors. And home ownership is not just about having a house. It is about building a solid financial foundation to grow from.
Moryah Jackson is the Executive Director of Central South Carolina Habitat for Humanity, where she leads community-driven efforts to expand access to affordable homeownership across Richland, Lexington, and Fairfield counties.
is the gate and narrow is the way
relationship with the Lord very seriously and not take His grace for granted. We love to discuss how Jesus is our only hope and heaven is waiting for us, but there is also a responsibility to constantly examine and evaluate our minds and hearts to make sure we are walking on the narrow path of purity and obedience. Are we spending time each day in prayer because we love Him and those around us who need Him? Are we drawing near to Him each moment so that we can live in the awareness of His presence? Are we repenting of our sins when we disobey Him so that we can approach Him with a clean heart and a right spirit? The word I am sensing is complacent in the context of relaxing in the fact that we have been rescued and are now just waiting for our eternal reward.
As we mentioned about who will be in heaven, the Bible discloses distinct sins that He does not tolerate and are found in Proverbs 6:16-19, I Corinthians 6:9-20, Romans Chapter 1, and I Timothy 1:4-11. As Philippians Chapter 2 declares trembling and living in a reverential fear of God’s holiness, we are reminded that He does not compromise or forget anything we think or do. First Peter 1:15-17 says, “But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: Be holy, because I am holy. Since you call on a Father who judges each person’s work impartially, live out your time as foreigners here in reverent fear.” The word foreigners is used to explain this world is not our permanent residence as God’s children are citizens of the new heaven and earth which are coming.
Temptations surround us and try to lure our carnal nature to love and embrace sin. We are being warned not to be so consumed with distractions and pleasures that we lose focus of Christ.
Another word that is similar is deception. We bristle at the possibility of us being wrong, but there are many who are not gen-
uinely redeemed. They have head knowledge, but do not abide in a covenant relationship with the living Jesus. We have also talked about how it matters which god we love and serve, that all religions do not lead to Jesus Christ. He will not accept just any type of philosophy or ideas that humans can dream of. The God of the Bible is particular and precise when it comes to people placing their faith the blood sacrifice of Jesus, and embracing that He rose again from the dead to save them from being eternally lost.
God’s grace and love transforms them into a new spiritual identity as being righteous “in Christ.” I’ve listened to many people over the
years who confessed how at one time they were convinced they were born again, but later in life realized they were living an illusion.
Matthew Chapter 7 is disturbing as it talks about people who call on the Lord and believe they are working for Him, but He tells them on Judgment Day they were deceived. Again, this is why we must not assume the average decent person will automatically deserve heaven. If it was that easy, most everyone would be there. Actually, we read in Luke Ch. 13 that only a remnant will enter.
William Holland Jr. is an ordained minister, chaplain, and author. Read more about the Christian life at billyhollandministries.com.
ANDY BRACK
MORYAH JACKSON
WILLIAM HOLLAND JR.
Discover the enchanting world of Alice In Wonderland Jr.
Beaufort Children’s Theatre production playing at USCB Center for the Arts
Staff reports
Disney’s Alice in Wonderland Jr. is playing at the USCB Center for the Arts on Friday, May 16 and Saturday, May 17 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, May 18 at 3 p.m. The zany 60-minute musical is based on the 1951 Disney film and the novels by Lewis Carroll. The USCB Center for the Arts Beaufort Children’s Theatre cast includes 75 plus local students ages 8 to 18
“We love providing an opportunity for aspiring young actors to participate in live theatre. Children’s Theatre is like planting seeds of creativity in the garden of the soul; as we nurture each performance, we cultivate not just art, but a generation ready to dream boldly” said Bonnie Hargrove, director of USCB Center for the Arts and Beaufort Children’s Theatre.
Alice – Maren Tillapaugh
Small Alice – Sara Borders
Tall Alice – Lauren Grice
Mathilda – Riley Kunkler
Friend 1 – Chloe Miles
Friend 2 – Khloie Cole
Cheshire Cat 1 –
Annie Grace Wells
Cheshire Cat 2 –
Emma Brem
Cheshire Cat 3 –Christopher Jenkins
White Rabbit –Katie Cechini
Doorknob – Mia Angelina
Procida
Dodo Bird – James Riddle
Tweedle Dee –
Madeline Richardson
March Hare – DJ Wardlow
King of Hearts –Jackson Hamilton
Queen of Hearts –Sophia Mercier
Two of Clubs –Beau Backus
Four of Hearts –Tag Cushman
Ace of Spades –Logan Forrestall
Three of Diamonds –Kayla Chao
Wonderland Ensemble 1 – Blair Saunders, Fallon Saunders, Everett Johnston, Charlotte Bauer, Jean Tincher, Millee DeGraffenried, Maribel Bruns, Anna Claire Stansell, Jai Desai, Kareena Desai, Ivey Savage
Fall down the rabbit hole with Alice as she navigates the curious world of Wonderland on her journey of self-discovery. Along her adventure, Alice encounters the ever-tardy White Rabbit, the grinning Cheshire Cat, a cool Caterpillar, the wacky Mad Hatter, a temperamental Queen, and many more Wonderland characters in this charming, updated retelling of the classic Lewis Carroll stories.
as “I’m Late,” “The Unbirthday Song,” and “Painting the Roses Red,” in addition to music from the 2010 Tim Burton live-action film.
Tweedle Dum –
Peyton Brock
Rose – Olivia Rose Smith
Lily – Brinkley Fugate
Adapted especially for young performers, the musical includes favorite songs from the Disney canon such
Tickets are $24 for adults, $20 for seniors/military and $16 for students. To purchase tickets, visit uscbcenterforthearts.com.
The cast includes local students ages 8-18:
Petunia – Ivy Beer
Daisy – Ceclia Wareham
Violet – Ainsley Backus
Caterpillar – Caeden White
Mad Hatter – Liam Martin
Wonderland Ensemble 2 – Abigail Kuklis, Clara Vaughn, Evie Clavijo, Macie Ruth Magbee, Quinn Lucca, Annie Marshall, Valerie Baxley, Ava Borders, Sidda Leigh Brock, Annika Pagliaroli, Madelyn Colton, Sofe Agudelo-Sox
Wonderland Ensemble
3 – Maggie Thompson, Eliz-
abeth Marie McKinley, Eli Wardlow, Avery Merrick, Brendon VanVreede, Riley Phifer, Wynn Staiger, Emily Scott Howell, Reagan Smith Flower Ensemble – Kaylyn Smith, Maeve Saunders, Riley Kunkler, Khloie Cole, Chloe Miles, Lauren Grice Royal Cards Ensemble –Kallie Canfield, JJ Kunkler, Gabriel Davidson, Vivienne Gibbons, Lilly Grace Johnson, Melodie Steward, Noah Cantrell, Faith Cantrell, Jonah Perkins, Natalie Bozalek, Ryan Sprietsma, Genevieve Murray, Josephine Murray, Maddi Welch, Lily Kate Ferguson
Street Music on Paris Avenue
Coastal Discovery Museum hosting Wild Bees photography exhibit
Staff reports The Coastal Discovery Museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate, will present Wild Bees, a photography exhibit by Paula Sharp and Ross Eatman, from May 15 to August 17. On view in the museum’s main gallery, the exhibit features striking macro photography that offers a rare look at America’s native bees and their vital role as pollinators.
The public is invited to an opening reception from 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, May 15. Sharp and Eatman will conduct a tour of the exhibition before the reception at 4 pm.
"Visitors of all ages will be captivated by the close-up images of native bees — and inspired to learn more about these essential pollinators and why bee conservation matters,” said Elizabeth Greenberg, Director of Exhibitions. Sharp is a photojournalist and author of several novels, including the bestseller “Crows over a Wheatfield.” She has photo-
graphed throughout the United States and Brazil. Her recent book, “Native Bees of the Lower Rio Grande Valley,” documents more than 100 bee species representing 45 distinct genera.
Eatman has worked as a nature photographer for more than 25 years. He is a co-founder of Sharp-Eatman Nature Photography, a society dedicated to documenting conservation issues.
To mark World Bee Day on May 20, the museum will host a special event featuring David Arnal, Master Beekeeper and President of the Beaufort-Jasper Beekeepers Association. Bee Inspired: Celebrating World Bee Day in the Lowcountry begins at 4:30 p.m. with a self-guided tour of the Wild Bees exhibit and a honey wine tasting, followed by a talk by Arnal exploring the world of honey bees. The program is $10 per person. Advance registration is required for the lecture and wine tasting. Re-
serve your spot online at https:// bit.ly/44kD5az or by calling 843689-6767, ext. 223 Throughout the spring and summer, the museum will present several bee workshops and family-friendly programs.
“While honey bees often get the most attention, wild bees are important pollinators for our flowering plants, home gardens, crops, and woodlands,” said Dawn Brut, Director of Education. “Our bee programs bring a fun, interactive
element
Maren Tillapaugh as Alice. Submitted photo.
Rubi McKinnon and Juniper O'Connor, both 7, dance and laugh as The Austin Reece Band performs on stage during the first spring Street Music on Paris Avenue in Port Royal on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Amber Hewitt/The Island News
The Austin Reece Band performs on stage during the first spring Street Music on Paris Avenue in Port Royal on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Amber Hewitt/The Island News
to learning about bees.” Wild Bees has toured prominent museums, botanical gardens and galleries nationwide since its debut at the Rockefeller State Park Preserve Gallery, in Pleasantville, N.Y.
Wild Bees Brown-belted on Thistle Wild Bees Cellophane Bee Colletes latitarsis
Final F/A-18 flight
Family members of U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Jarrod Allen, of California, commanding officer of Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA(AW)) 224, watch Monday, April 28, as he taxis an F/A-18 Hornet during the squadron's final flight ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort. The flight concluded the squadron’s return from the Weapons and Tactics Instructor course at MCAS Yuma, Ariz., and commemorated the end of VMFA(AW)-224’s operational history with the F/A-18 Hornet as the unit begins its transition to the F-35B Lightning II. Lance Cpl. Julius Hackney/USMC
More on Lay Witness Statements supporting claims for VA Disability Claims
This is the third and final article in a series on Law Witness Statements. The first two articles can be read online at https://www.yourislandnews.com and click on Military.
What the veteran hopes the Lay Witness Statement will do Veterans hope that Lay Witness Statements will provide strong evidence that a service-related injury, wound, illness, condition, trauma, event, scar, or HAZMAT contamination/injury caused the veteran’s current symptoms and disability. The veteran hopes the statements convince the VA that the veteran’s disability: Was caused or worsened by military service or is a serviceconnected secondary disability that is caused or exacerbated by an already VA-awarded service-connected condition. Was caused by an injury, wound, illness, trauma, event, scar, HAZMAT contamination/injury, or medical condition that either happened while the veteran was serving, or was a “before military service condition” that was worsened by military service, or was a condition that showed up (like Agent Orange presumptive cancers and asbestos cancers and non-cancer injuries) after the veteran got out of the military. Happened to the veteran in a place the veteran claims happened, with a military unit (X Company, Y Battalion, Z Brigade, XX Division) and on the date and time the veteran claims. Symptoms have been witnessed, and the frequency, pain level, loss of motion/ strength, and severity of those symptoms are as the veteran describes and as the disabled veteran’s medical records and doctors describe in a claim. Is as detailed through factual observations that corroborate the veteran's claim that the veteran's disability is serviceconnected.
Effective Lay Witness statements
Effective witness statements are clear, concise, fact-based, offer context (throw light on the situation and interrelated conditions), personal insight, and align with VA rating criteria (CFR Title 38 Part 4). First-hand witnesses should write them, focused on specific observations,
and highlight the impact of the veteran’s symptoms and condition on daily life, work, and relationships. Effective buddy letters avoid opinions, suggestions, and irrelevant information.
Who can write a Lay Witness statement
Eligible individuals include anyone 18 or older with firsthand knowledge of the veteran’s condition.
Unlawful and severe penalties for false statements
VA Form 21-10210 states, “The law provides severe penalties which include fine or imprisonment, or both, for the willful submission of any statement or evidence of a material fact knowing it to be false, or for fraudulent receipt of any document to which you are not entitled.
Spouse Lay Witness statement
Offers detailed observations of symptoms and how the veteran’s disability affects home life, relationships, and daily functioning.
Example 1 — Notional Sleep
Apnea Statement: I, Alice A. Friendly, observe my veteran husband, U.S. Army SFC (Retired)
Sam W. Friendly, snoring loudly with pauses in breathing and waking up suddenly, gasping and choking every night. I see my veteran husband tired and suffering from morning headaches, restless nights, dry mouth, high blood pressure, irritability, depression, reduced libido, excessive daytime drowsiness, nighttime chest pains, excessive weight, and frequent trips to the bathroom every night.
My husband and I have been married since 2005. My husband has had these life-threatening, job-threatening, and marriagethreatening symptoms for the past 15 years. My husband did not have these Sleep Apnea problems and symptoms before he went to Iraq (OIF) on January 1, 2009
However, when he returned in January of 2010, he exhibited the
symptoms mentioned above every day and night since then.
My husband has been so irritable and sleepy that he has had many outbursts of anger over the past 15 years. His sleepiness and irritability have scarred our relationship and almost cost him his job at WestNorth-East-South Company, where he has been counseled numerous times for drowsiness at work, tardiness, an incident of falling asleep while driving a company truck, and for yelling at other employees. He did not have high blood pressure and never lost his temper with me or his military co-workers before he went to Iraq (OIF)in 2009. Still, he developed irritability and high blood pressure in Iraq, and they have worsened over the past 15 years.
On April 18 2025, I went with my husband to see his civilian primary care provider, Dr. Very Smart, phone 123-456-7890, email: XXXX.TTTT@XXX.com. Dr. Smart told my husband and me that my husband is suffering from Sleep Apnea. He also told my husband that he will need a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine to treat and prevent his Sleep Apnea. Dr. Smart referred my husband to a pulmonologist and sleep apnea specialist, Dan Brillant, M.D., F.C.C.P.
Dr. Brillant gave my husband a sleep test on February 1, 2025, and it confirmed that my husband suffers from severe sleep apnea. Dr. Brillant prescribed a CPAP Machine for my husband.
Ask a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) for help
VSOs are experts in VA benefits and how to file for those benefits, and how to appeal VA decisions you disagree with. VSOs are background checked, must pass a comprehensive examination, and are trained by the VA, a State Department of Veteran Affairs, and Veterans Service Organizations. Veterans can find S.C. County VSOs at https://bit.ly/3qbLVSL or https://scdva.sc.gov/countyveterans-affairs-offices, Georgia VSOs at https://bit.ly/44KMVA7 or https://veterans.georgia.gov/ locations/veterans-field-serviceoffice-near-you, and North Carolina county VSOs at https:// bit.ly/4ghZqHW or https://www. milvets.nc.gov/benefits-services/ benefits-claims.
VFW members can find a VFW Veterans Service Officer listing at https://www.vfw.org/assistance/ va-claims-separation-benefits, and
American Legion Members can find an AL VSO at https://www. legion.org/member-services/ veterans-services/veteransbenefits/find-a-veteran-serviceofficer. DAV members can find a DAV VSO at https://www.dav.org/ find-your-local-office/. Veterans can also search for VA-accredited representatives nationwide at https://bit. ly/3QnCk5M or https://www. va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/ index.asp at VA Regional Offices at https://bit.ly/3TahNn1 or https:// www.benefits.va.gov/vso/varo.asp. VVA members can find a VSO at https://vva.org/what-we-do/ veteran-services/service-officerlocator/.
The bottom line Veterans should solicit and use Lay Witness Statements whenever they are needed or can add value to their VA claim. They should ask Lay Witnesses to: Write a Lay Witness statement supporting their claim. Begin their VA Lay Witness Statement by establishing their relationship with the veteran filing a claim and the length of time they have known the veteran. Describe, in detail, what they (the firsthand witness) observed about the veteran’s condition during and after their military service. Include specific examples of events or symptoms. End the Lay Witness Statement (form or letter) with a formal/legal signature, date, and a statement certifying that the information provided is true and accurate to the best of your knowledge and belief. Be sure to include their contact information, such as your US Postal mailing address, email address, and phone number.
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
Naval Support Facility (NSF) Beaufort’s Security Department participated in a joint training event April 22 with Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit onboard NSF Beaufort. Lindsay Schreiber/Naval Hospital Beaufort
NSF, MCAS Beaufort hold Joint Security Drill
By Lindsay Schreiber Naval Hospital Beaufort
Naval Support Facility (NSF) Beaufort’s Security Department participated in a joint training event Tuesday, April 22, with Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit onboard NSF Beaufort, leading to a certification of a new team leader from the EOD unit, SSgt Jeronimo. With the guidance of SSgt. Scheunemann, who was overseeing the certification, the event went from reporting the suspected pedestrian-carried improvised explosive device (PCIED), to the team deploying on base, and the actual rendering the item safe and removing it. Navy Master-at-Arms Third Class (MA3) Gaston let the installation Security Department as the incident commander and Watch Commander during the event, ensuring the event location was secure and effectively communicating to the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) the status of the situation and maintaining control of the scene along with SSgt Jeronimo. Both units worked effectively as a team ensuring the installation and all personal aboard were kept safe, leading to an overall successful day that demonstrated the teamwork between both NSF Beaufort’s Security Department and MCAS Beaufort EOD.
LARRY DANDRIDGE
Gathering the Nations The Early Church Unites All Peoples
One day, as the apostle Peter was praying, he saw a vision. There was a great multitude of animals and birds, of the sort that dietary laws of the Old Testament prohibited the Jewish people from eating. God commanded Peter to rise and eat, and Peter replied that he would not, since the food is forbidden. But God replied, “Do not call anything unclean that God has made clean.” (Acts 10:15)
Strangers arrived looking for Peter. They had traveled from Caesarea, an important Roman port in that region. They were servants of a man named Cornelius, a centurion in charge of the Roman soldiers in that city. Although he was not Jewish, Cornelius was a just man who sought to know God. God sent an angel to Cornelius, instructing him to send for Peter in the city of Joppa, about a day’s journey away. The servants went and found Peter just as the angel had said.
Peter visited Cornelius and something unexpected happened. As Peter began to preach the good news about Jesus, the Holy Spirit came upon Cornelius and all in his household. Peter was astonished that the Holy Spirit would come upon Gentiles, or people who did not share the Jewish faith. Peter then baptized them, observing, “Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water, for they have received the Holy Spirit just as we have!” (Acts 10:47)
This was a turning point in the life of the early Church. God had given the Jewish people many dietary and social laws to help them preserve their religious identity. They were not supposed to mingle with Gentiles or visit their homes. The original followers of Jesus were all raised with these laws and customs. These habits were so ingrained that, at first, it was difficult even for leaders like Peter to imagine sharing the Gospel with Gentiles.
Jesus intended for all to know him, Gentiles and Jews. Through Peter’s vision and experience with Cornelius, Jesus reminded the early Church that there could no longer be a separation between those who are Jewish and those who are not. All people are meant to hear the Good News about Jesus and follow him. Christians began preaching the Gospel to all who would hear, both Gentile and Jew alike. Soon, Gentile Christians began to outnumber Christians with Jewish backgrounds.
The early Church was a family of faith meant for all peoples. Jesus meant for his Church to a worldwide family of faith, embracing people of all backgrounds and ethnic groups. In this family, it did not matter if you were Gentile or Jew, rich or poor, master or servant. All became brothers and sisters in Jesus. Humanity, broken apart by sin, was starting to be reunited by Jesus in a beautiful family of faith.