Tribute to shrimping reminds consumers to ‘eat local’
BEAUFORT
It started in 1994 as a way to capitalize on the release of the movie “Forrest Gump,” which had been partially filmed in Beaufort and promoted the livelihood that made Forrest, aka Tom Hanks, a rich man.
The Beaufort Shrimp Festival celebrated its 31 anniversary this past weekend, and as most festivals in Beaufort, shrimp dishes were as much the attraction as the men and women who supplied the ocean harvest. The single commercial shrimp trawler highlighted at the two-day festival was there but had to anchor in the Beaufort River, off of the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront, whose promenade is now it appears to be collapsing.
But the domestic, wild-caught shrimp were there for the festival goers, in all types of dishes prepared by local restaurants. The message throughout the festival, more pronounced than in the past few years, was “Eat Local,” part of the educational campaign to remind consumers of the importance to support U.S. shrimpers and avoid imports.
The S.C. Shrimpers Association, working with other commercial shrimpers associations in the coastal Southeast, are part of a federal lawsuit challenging the restaurants that sell shrimp dishes advertised as “local” when in fact,
SEE LOWDOWN PAGE A6
BCSO deputy at center of controversial video fired
Master Sgt. William Squires pointed service firearm at teens while off duty, allegedly under influence of alcohol
By Mike McCombs The Island News
A Beaufort County Sheriff’s deputy that pointed his service firearm at a group of Hilton Head Island teenagers on Sunday, Sept. 28, while off duty and allegedly under the influence of alcohol, has been fired by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO).
Master Sgt. William “Billy” Squires, a 19-year veteran of the
BCSO and a member of the Violent Crimes Task Force, was terminated Friday morning.
“William Squires was brought in this morning at 9, and his classification now, he is terminated from the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office for a variety of policy violations,” Beaufort County Sheriff P.J. Tanner told the news media just after 11 a.m. at the BCSO Headquarters on Bay
Street in Beaufort. “He is no longer an employee of the Sheriff’s Office.”
The video Squires, was officially identified for the first time Friday, though many on social media and several media outlets had shared his identity. He became infamous thanks to a now-viral video that began to be shared across social
media late Sunday night, resulting in shock and anger, both in Beaufort County and elsewhere.
The video showed Squires approaching several young teenage boys while pointing his gun at them and screaming for them to get on the ground. He was dressed in civilian clothing, shorts and a dark shirt
Forrest
from Savannah
way over the Woods Memorial Bridge during the Run
hosted by The Digital Coridor on Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025. Left: Christy Valentine from Jonesboro, Ark., dances behind in line with Forrest Gump, aka Paul Dengler, during the 31st annual Beaufort Shrimp Festival on Friday, Oct. 3, at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park in Beaufort. Amber Hewitt/The Island News. Photos by Amber Hewitt/The Island News
Committee discusses next steps for Waterfront Park
By Delayna Earley The Island News
The Waterfront Advisory Committee held its monthly meeting on Monday, Oct. 6, and members discussed several important topics related to rebuilding the promenade in Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park in downtown Beaufort.
Following a joint Beaufort City Council and Waterfront Advisory Committee on Sept. 23, to
Since June 2025, a 40-footwide section of Waterfront Park, the promenade closest to the water, has been blocked off with large temporary fencing to keep anyone from entering the area after a structural analysis of the park found that there were structural concerns and significant deterioration and overstressed pilings within the platform structure.
hear options of how to possibly fix the issue with the promenade, council members selected three proposals that they believed were the best solutions and would like to see more about – rebuilding a new relieving platform, building a seawall instead of an overhang or building a hybrid structure that would involve floating docks.
SEE PARK PAGE A7
The City of Beaufort closed the promenade at the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park in July 2025, just prior to the start of the Beaufort Water Festival. Amber Hewitt/File/The Island News
LOLITA HUCKABY
Above:
Gump, aka James Miller
Ga., makes his
Forrest Run 5k
LOWCOUNTRY LIFE & NEWS
Bentley Barton snapped this photo of Battery Creek from his backyard on South Hermitage Road. 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 RALPH YOUNG
American Legion Beaufort Post 207 brings you Ralph (Gunny) Young, 83, who joined the United States Marine Corps in South Bend, Ind., in 1960. After Boot Camp at Parris Island, he was assigned as a Transportation Specialist – driver and continued duties at Parris Island. He then served as a driver at DaNang,
Ralph Young
Vietnam for two years. He was next assigned to Okinawa, first as a driver for loading and unloading aircraft, and then as a guard at a secure facility. He returned to Parris Island and MCAS Beaufort as a driver, especially for VIPs. Going to sea aboard USS Hornet (CVS-12), he continued as a special guard as the ship made a deployment to the Western Pacific. Back to Beaufort, he served two tours, first at Parris Island as a guard and VIP driver and at MCAS Beaufort as a guard. He retired in 1980 as a
NEWS BRIEFS
Annette ‘toni’ Hiers
January 18, 1950 –October 2, 2025 Beaufort, S.C.
Annette (Toni) Hiers, 75, of Beaufort, S.C., died Thursday, Oct. 2 2025 at Beaufort Memorial Hospital.
Toni was born on Jan. 18 1950 in Pittsburgh, Pa. She is the daughter of the late Joseph Gillott and Mary Cook Gillott. She was a retired LPN nursing supervisor from Bayview Nursing
Home with 35 years of service. Toni is preceded in death by her late husband, Steve. Surviving is one son, Eugene Brancho of Beaufort, S.C., and one daughter, Lisa (Christopher) Bebin of Trafford, Pa.; her grandchildren Shane Kotuch of Mt. Vernon, Ga., Jessica Brancho of Pennsylvania, Anthony Brancho of Meadville, Pa., Emily (Tanner) Bromer of Lynchburg, Va., Rebecca (Tyler) Clayton of Plum, Pa., Hailey George of Springfield, Mo.,
Gunnery Sergeant with 20 years of service. He then worked locally before moving to the Retreat at Lady’s Island in 2019
– Compiled by John Chubb, American Legion Post 207 For Veteran Of The Week nominations, contact jechubb1@gmail.com.
OBITUARIES
The Island News publishes obituaries, including a photo, free of charge. Please contact theislandnews@gmail.com for more information.
Kaidyn Brancho of Beaufort, S.C.; and several great grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to Friends of Caroline Hospice. Anderson Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family.
Carteret Street UMC hosting Fall Bazaar
Carteret Street United Methodist Church will host its Fall Bazaar from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 11, at 408 Carteret Street in Beaufort. There will be pumpkins, crafts, baked
goods, a silent auction, books, a garden shop, concessions and good junk. Stop by for food, fun and fellowship.
Davis to speak at October LIBPA meeting
State Sen. Tom Davis will be the guest
speaker whe the Lady’s Island Business & Professional Association meets at 8 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025, at the Beaufort Realtors’ Association Headquarters at 22 Kemmerlin Lane on Lady’s Island. Stop by for coffee and conversation concerning our community.
– Staff reports
October 11
2019: Beaufort High School defeats Bluffton, 35-24, at home to give Eagles Head Football Coach Bruce Lybrand his first win as a head coach.
October 12
1565: Jean Ribaut, the founder of Charlesfort on Parris Island and a Huguenot (French Protestant), is captured and killed by the Spaniards at the Massacre of Matanzas
Inlet near St. Augustine in what is now Florida.
1935: John M. Trask, Jr. is born in Wilmington, N.C., to John M. Trask Sr. and Flora Graham Trask. He worked in the family farming business on St. Helena Island, chartered First Carolina Bank and served as Associate Administrator for Finance and Investment in the Small Business Administration during the Carter Administration from 1977 to 1979. In 1971 he partnered with Marguerite Broz and Betty
Waskiewicz to form the Beaufort County Open Land Trust.
October 13
1862: Gen. Ormsby Mitchel announces plans for a dedicated freedmen’s village on Hilton Head Island. Mitchel would die Oct. 30, but the town of Mitchelville, named in his honor, would become the first selfgoverning freedmen’s town.
– Compiled by Mike McCombs
Our Pets of the Week have moved to Page A18 so we can showcase even more pets in need of loving homes. Be sure to check it out and meet all the new faces waiting to be adopted through Palmetto Animal League and Beaufort County Animal Services.
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
Belleau Wood Tavern to serve
By Amber Hewitt
The Island News
living tribute to the Corps
PORT ROYAL – What started as just a thought shared between two Marines is soon to be a reality — Belleau Wood Tavern.
Right outside the gates of Parris Island, a new sacred space is being built to honor the legacy of the World War I Marines who earned the name "Devil Dogs." Marines stationed at Parris Island and MCAS Beaufort, along with their families and neighbors supporting them, will soon have a gathering place worthy of their service and sacrifice.
Zachary Green, co-founder of the future establishment, said “Belleau Wood was the battle that introduced the world to Marines as ‘Devil Dogs’ — ferocious, determined, and unmatched. We created Belleau Wood Tavern as a sacred space to honor that legacy, welcome new Marines, and share with the public what makes
Marines who we are. After all, our Corps was founded at Tun Tavern in Philadelphia 250 years ago next month. Now that tradition lives on at Belleau Wood Tavern in Port Royal, carrying the legacy into the next 250.”
Located at 7 Marina Blvd., in Port Royal, the Tavern will not be just a bar or restaurant, it will be a place where both new Parris Island graduating Marines along with their families can share their first meal after graduation and retired
Marines will welcome as a place to reconnect, swap stories, and honor their shared legacy.
The establishment will be lined with relics. You’ll find hats from drill instructors who've forged generations of Marines, plaques
from units past and present, and photos that capture the grit, camaraderie, and humor that define the Marine Corps family.
The walls will speak to generations of service. Built by Marines for Marines, and for all who support them. The Belleau Wood Tavern promises to be a place of fellowship, remembrance, and pride for decades to come.
“The honors and glories of the past are safeguarded by those who bear the duties of protecting their legacies,” co-founder Roy Dakroub said. “Belleau Wood Tavern is the passion project of two Marines who take incredible pride in serving their fellow warriors in a way that keeps us connected to our roots, honors our traditions, and forges a future where warriors are welcome.”
The Belleau Wood Tavern is scheduled to break ground on the Marine Corps’ 250th birthday, Nov. 10, 2025
Beaufort man identified as victim in Cross Creek Plaza shooting
By Delayna Earley The Island News
Beaufort’s Christopher
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Allen Funeral home per his obituary and will be announced at a later date.
Police arrived at the scene on Sept. 29 just before 9
Jamal Burton, 28, was identified as the victim of the Monday, Sept. 29, shooting at Cross Creek Plaza in the parking lot near the Little Caesars Pizza, according to the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office.
p.m. to find one victim in the parking lot near Little Caesars Pizza with multiple gunshot wounds, according to Lt. Lori Evans, spokesperson for the Beaufort Police Department.
Officers administered live-saving care before the
victim was taken to Beaufort Memorial Hospital, where he died from his injuries, according to Evans.
There were no other injuries but the walls of the Little Caesars building sustained damage, said Evans.
Anyone with information
about the fatal shooting is encouraged to contact Lt. Mendicino at 843-322-7911
Anonymous tips can be submitted through the Crime Stoppers of Beaufort County website, the P3 Tips app or by calling 1-844-847-7238 (1-844-TIPSBFT) and reference the case #25B34154
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.
Rendering of the future Belleau Wood Tavern. Photo courtesy of Zachary Green and Roy Dakroub
Junior Service League of Beaufort hosting diaper drive
Staff reports
The Junior Service League of Beaufort (JSLB) is hosting its 1st annual Fall Diaper Drive, running until Oct. 31. This initiative aims to support local families in need across Beaufort and Jasper County by collecting essential diapers for infants and toddlers.
In recognition of the challenges many families face, the Junior Service League is committed to making a positive impact in our community. Diapers are a significant expense for families, and this drive aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens they encounter.
The sizes most needed are Newborn, Size 1, and Sizes 4-7. Any contribution will make a difference and help ensure that every child has access to this basic necessity.
Donations are being accepted at the following drop off locations:
Londono Engineering at 1011 Bay Street, No. 304 in downtown Beaufort.
Schiller & Hamilton Law Firm at 78 Sams Point Road on Lady’s Island.
• Nuances at 918 8th Street in Port Royal. For more information about the Diaper Drive or to learn more about the Junior Service League of Beaufort, please visit our JSLB on Faceboo at https://www. facebook.com/JSLBFT/.
Video from page A1
with dark slip-on shoes, his BCSO tactical vest and body camera. He had his weapon holster on his hip.
When they do not immediately comply, he proceeds to grab one of the boys by the shirt and tries to kick his legs out from under him, as the boy and his friends scream in fear and yell for someone to help them and to call the police.
At one point, one of the boys can be seen attempting to push the deputy while the deputy holds his friend, at which point the deputy draws his weapon again, points it at the boys and says, “I will shoot you.”
The video ends with more screaming from the boys as they yell for their moms, for help and a question that was asked several times during the video but never answered, “What the [expletive] did we do?”
BCSO response
According to Tanner on Friday, the BCSO communications center received numerous calls around 6:45 p.m., Sunday evening about an ongoing incident in the Squiresgate community on Hilton Head Island ranging from a shots fired call to a disturbance call.
When deputies arrived, they found Squires dressed in some of his BCSO equipment – his tactical vest and body-worn camera, his service weapon, his badge, and a radio. They also encountered several teenage boys.
While deputies tried to determine what had happened, they summoned Command Duty Officer Lt. Craig Washington to the scene for assistance. According to Tanner, he began unraveling a situation that was “very concerning.”
Tanner said Washington first contacted him a little after 8 p.m., and began to relay information to him. He told Washington to keep calling with updates and estimated he likely spoke with Washington five times that evening.
Toward the end of the evening,
AutoNation Subaru hosting 4th annual Mutt Mixer
Concert event supports Palmetto Animal League
Staff reports
Mingle with some of the Lowcountry’s cutest and most eligible dogs at the 4th annual Mutt Mixer concert event supporting pet rescue on Thursday, Oct. 9 from 5 to 7 p.m. at AutoNation Subaru Hilton Head.
Guests will enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres, beverages, door prizes, and live music by the bluegrass band “Lowcountry Boil.” AutoNation Subaru Hilton Head is a dog-friendly dealership, which means the party is “BYOD” (Bring Your Own Dog). For those hoping to find their next great love at the event, fee-waived pet adoptions will be available, made possible through a generous grant from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).
“It’s a wonderful night for the dogs to get out of the kennel and hopefully connect with their forever family,” said PAL President Amy Campanini. “AutoNation Subaru
Hilton Head not only throws a great party, but the Mutt Mixer also kicksoff to their pledge to donate $100 to PAL for every dog or cat adopted in October.”
In addition, the first 100 people to arrive with a donation of pet supplies or cash, valued at $20 or more, for PAL will receive a free event T-shirt compliments of Subaru.
“Whether you love animals, or music, or both, the Mutt Mixer is always a night to look forward to and a night to remember,” said AutoNation Subaru Hilton Head Customer Relations Manager & Delivery Specialist, Bill Harper. “Guests love getting to meet PAL’s adoptable dogs while enjoying a night out with friends, family, and dozens of like-minded locals.”
Attendees may RSVP to be eligible for door prizes at https://muttmixer2025.eventbrite.com.
“You never see our showroom as full of smiles and laughter as the night of this event,” said Harper. “We’re always giving good vibes here at AutoNation Subaru Hilton Head, but once a year, during this event, our space takes on a life of its own – because for those two hours everyone is focused on saving lives. Helping rescue pets is and always will be an important part of who we are at Subaru.”
Service academy nomination applications open through Sen. Tim Scott’s office
Staff reports The Office of U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) is accepting U.S. military academy nomination applications
for the class of 2030. Sen. Scott is able to nominate a limited number of students in South Carolina for attendance at the following U.S.
military academies: the U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy and the U.S. Merchant Marine Acad-
emy (the U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require a congressional nomination). Students who are interested in applying for a
nomination should apply by 11:59 p.m., on Friday, Oct. 17, 2025. For more information, visit www.scott.senate.gov/ academy.
Tanner said Washington relayed concerns that Squires was under the influence of alcohol.
“Based on the information that I got around the 9 o’clock hour, … knowing that he was off duty and knowing that he was suspected of consuming alcohol, and he was armed and he was wearing our tactical vest, it was time,” Tanner said. “[I said] let’s find out what his blood alcohol level is.”
Tanner said he gave Washington a direct order around 9:30 p.m. to take Squires directly to the BCSO location on Hilton Head Island for a breathalyzer test.
When Squires refused to consent to the breathalyzer test, Washington was ordered to collect his credentials and weapons and Squires was suspended without pay at that point.
“That’s insubordination,” Tanner said. “That’s not tolerated. And we moved forward from there.”
Internal Affairs investigation
At this point, Tanner had not yet seen the now-viral video. He said would not see it until just after 5 a.m., Monday morning.
“I saw it for the first time, and honestly, I was appalled about what I saw,” Tanner said. “Knowing the officer, not really understanding the circumstances of what led up to the video … looking at the video, it was appalling to look at. I can also see how, the average citizen sees that video and just goes into shock as to what they see.”
Shortly after, on Monday, the BCSO began its Internal Affairs (IA) investigation, while the investigation to determine if there should be any criminal charges as a result of Sunday’s incident was opened by the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division (SLED).
“The SLED investigation is appropriate because you really don’t want the same agency doing both investigations,” Tanner said. “When we do a policy investigation, we look at policies of the Sheriff’s Office. SLED is going to look at criminal violations. And they’ll report their findings to [the] solicitor.
According to Tanner, though there is one IA investigation and
one supervisor’s inquiry on his record, along with several minor automobile incidents, Squires, who was hired on Sept. 11, 2006, has a fairly clean record for someone with 19 years service.
That being said, Tanner said it was clear Squires committed numerous policy violations.
“I can tell you, looking at it administratively, there are a host of policy violations,” he said. “Any and all, in combination or individually, would cause termination of the employee.”
According to Tanner, these are the BCSO policies Squires violated: Code of Conduct: Failure to obey a lawful order by refusing to submit to the Datamaster;
Code of Conduct: Conducting himself in an unprofessional manner that did not project and support public respect and cooperation;
Code of Conduct: Being under the influence of alcohol in a public place with his judgment impaired, leading to actions which brought discredit and ill-repute upon the Sheriff’s Office;
Code of Conduct: Attempting or unlawful Arrest regarding a neighborhood dispute where there was no clear threat of bodily injury or death;
Code of Ethics: Failing to deal with the community in a manner that instills respect for law enforcement and inspires confidence and trust;
Off-Duty Firearms Policy: Consuming alcoholic beverages while armed in an off-duty capacity and presenting this firearm for an unlawful purpose, which was outside of compliance of the Sheriff’s Office Use Of Force policy;
Use of Force Policy: Using force, presentation of a firearm, soft-hand and empty-handed techniques against subjects without reasonable suspicion or probable cause;
Arrest and Detention Policy: Taking unlawful action by attempting to detain juveniles involved in a neighborhood dispute where he resides without independent justification known by him at the time;
Arrest and Detention Policy: Failing to contact the on-duty supervisor of the call and recusing
himself from a law enforcement action; Communications Policy: Failure to advise the communications center, which is our dispatch center, either by phone or radio, of what the event was; and
Body-Worn Camera Policy: “Once he put on that vest and started acting in the capacity of the on-duty officer, then he’s required to have the body camera on. He did not,” Tanner said. “The body camera was on the vest, but it was not activated.”
Tanner explained that it is the BCSO’s responsibility to determine which, if any, Sheriff’s Office policies Squires broke because in South Carolina, the certifications of law enforcement officers are actually owned by the Criminal Justice Academy (SCCJA) in Columbia. If a law enforcement officer’s transgressions are serious enough, a law enforcement agency may ask that his or her certification be revoked.
That happened in relation to Squires at 9 a.m., Friday morning, Tanner said.
Should Squires appeal a revocation of his certification, the general counsel of the BCSO is responsible for prosecuting that revocation at the SCCJA. The SCCJA Training Council would then render a final verdict on his revocation.
“That was our responsibility,” Tanner said.” And it continues to be our responsibility.”
Tanner said details from the IA investigation would be released after SLED completes its criminal investigation.
Going forward
Tanner said the public and the media would have to wait and see what SLED finds in it’s criminal investigation, but that he was under the impression it would turn it’s findings over to the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office by Thursday, Oct. 9.
“It’s very important that we do two separate investigations and it’s always best that two agencies are involved in that process,” he said.
Once that happens, it’s likely a grand jury will decide what charges, if any, should be brought against Squires.
Any questions involving the teenagers or the other adults involved in the incident will probably be answered by the SLED investigation, as well.
The Sheriff said he was unaware if SLED had interviewed the teenagers involved in the incident or their parents, but he said the BCSO had been unsuccessful in speaking with them.
“Their desire is not to talk with us,” he said.
Tanner said that, try as he may, he can’t explain why Squires acted the way he did. He knew him – “I hired him” – but not as well as many other deputies he works with, he said.
“Honestly, in my 45 years of law enforcement and almost 27 years of being Sheriff, nothing really surprises me. I mean I hate to say it that way, and I’m not downplaying this, but what I saw was horrible,” Tanner said. “But we have a lot of good men and women that work for this Sheriff’s Office. Both on the enforcement side, the administrative side, the communications center, … it’s a tough job for most of them. It’s very unfortunate, and I know the impact this has on the rank-and-file deputies that have seen this video. It’s appalling to everyone. Regardless if they were best friends or not.”
And Tanner said he understand the blowback in the community that this incident has caused.
“This is unfortunate because of the look it has. I can understand the community’s reaction. I completely understand it,” he said. “This is not the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office. This is a former officer that worked at the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office. I wish I was that person that could dive into his mental thoughts and tell you why he did what he did, but I can’t do it.
“I think we dealt with the situation appropriately, and I think we dealt with it in a timely fashion. We will continue to monitor and do what needs to be done.”
Mike McCombs is
Bluegrass band Lowcountry Boil will provide live music at the 4th annual Mutt Mixer. Submitted photo
Groups, authors to celebrate Freedom to Read Day
Staff reports
“Here is all I ask of a book — give me everything. Everything, and don't leave out a single word.”
PAT CONROY, “My Reading Life”
On Let Freedom Read Day, Saturday, Oct. 11, the nonprofit Pat Conroy Literary Center, the South Carolina chapter of Authors Against Book Bans, and the student book club DAYLO (Diversity Awareness Youth Literacy Organization) will host a reading at Witness Tree Park from 2 to 4 p.m. Honoring the final day of Banned Books Week, this event will feature brief readings by local writers and students from frequently challenged and banned books as well as empowering works about pro-literacy advocacy, and original poetry and prose responding to censorship and erasures. Scheduled to appear are novelist Rebecca Dwight Bruff, poet Tim
Conroy, essayist Jonathan Haupt, poet Miho Kinnas, memoirist Carol Lucas, poet Susan Madison, poet Jacquelyn Markham, novelist Valerie Sayers, and DAYLO students.
Witness Tree Park is located across King Street from the Conroy Center’s location at 601 Bladen Street in Beaufort. The Center and DAYLO will also host the monthly Silent Book Club Beaufort meet-up that same afternoon, afterward from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Learn more about the Conroy Center at www.patconroyliterarycenter.org.
Roy Fyfe Jr. creates a lot of smoke and has red, beady eyes as he tells his tales of horror during the old pirate days of Beaufort as part of the 2023 annual Exchange Club Ghost Tours to benefit the Child Abuse Prevention Agency on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2023. Bob Sofaly/File/The Island News
Ghost Tours are back
Proceeds from hauntingly popular tours benefit CAPA
By Mike McCombs The Island News
It’s that time again, when ghostly spirits take over downtown Beaufort. CAPA and the Exchange Club of Beaufort are hosting the 31st annual Ghost Tours, presented by Beaufort Charities, beginning this weekend. Proceeds from the walking and carriage tours will benefit the Child Abuse Prevention Association (CAPA), including the Open Arms Children’s Home and the Re-
source Family Program, which recruits, trains and supports foster families. The tours will run Friday and Saturday, Oct. 10 and 11; Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 17 18 and 19; Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 24 25 and 26; and Thursday, Oct. 30. Reservations are recommended. You can book your tour online at www.capabeaufort.org or by calling 843-52GHOST.
Mike McCombs is the editor of The Island News and can be reached at TheIslandNews@gmail.com.
‘You
want someone to walk that journey with you’
Beaufort Memorial oncologist brings passion, personal touch to Lowcountry cancer care
Special to The Island News
Dr. Eric Turner is a longtime devotee of the Lowcountry, and talking to him, you’d never know he wasn’t born and raised here.
Having owned a home on Fripp Island for 18 years, he may as well be a native through and through. His phone camera roll is bursting with the pinks and golds of South Carolina sunsets seen from Fripp Island and the Spanish Moss Trail. He loves traditional outdoor pastimes of the region like golf and tennis, and has lately been hearing the call of the pickleball community.
He’s a self-proclaimed “foodie” and a familiar face at many of Beaufort’s dining establishments, praising the shrimp and grits at Saltus as some of the best he’s ever had, and is a fixture on weekends at Johnson Creek Tavern with friends on Fripp.
You wouldn’t guess that Dr. Turner, a board-certified and fellowship-trained oncologist with Beaufort Memorial Oncology Specialists – and the Beaufort Memorial Director of Medical Oncology since arriving here in June 2024 – actually grew up in a Chevrolet dealership in Albemarle, N.C., tinkering with cars and dreaming of being a Major League Baseball star. That dream shifted to a desire to serve his community and patients in the on-
cology field, which he said is “where his heart is.”
A young man’s dream
Dr. Turner grew up around cars: his father was a Chevrolet salesman for 26 years, so the North Carolina native was raised in and around the dealership. That upbringing instilled in him a love of cars, particularly classic models, and an interest in auto-body work, which followed him throughout high school.
(Right now, his “baby” is his 1966 Stingray Corvette.) As a young teenager,
though, his passion was baseball. His dreams of an MLB career came to a screeching end following an arm injury in high school.
“Doctoring was the next thing,” he chuckled. “You never know where life is gonna take you.”
That arm injury caused him to spend some time around the field of orthopedics, and Dr. Turner did consider that direction for his medical career.
However, he ultimately decided on a different path.
“At one point, when I first started medical school, I
briefly entertained the idea,” he said. “But really, oncology was my true calling.”
Finding his purpose
Dr. Turner’s introduction to a career in oncology began after finishing his undergraduate degree at North Carolina State University in Raleigh and he began working in Duke University’s Molecular Cancer Biology department. There, he spent five years doing cancer research.
During his five years researching at Duke, his family was shaken by something
unexpected: his father was diagnosed with Stage 3 lung cancer, causing Dr. Turner’s connection to the oncology field to transition from a professional one to a personal one.
While he was in medical school, his mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Years later, she, too, was diagnosed with lung cancer.
“My dad went through the whole gamut – chemotherapy, radiation and surgery,” he recalled. “I bring a lot of that to the table when I see a patient, because I remember the years of going through what my family went through, those patient visits, the doctor’s office, hearing the news, the scans. By doing that, it affects how you approach patient care.”
His goal is always to give patients the experience that he and his own family wanted during their own journey.
The bonds created in the field of oncology are unique, he said.
“I never wavered from oncology, and the biggest part of it is the bonds, the associations that I develop with my patients over what is absolutely a condition that’s life-threatening,” he said. “That bond and relationship is extremely special.”
Pledge the Pink For several years, the oncologist and Lowcountry outdoor enthusiast and his
65th annual St. Peter’s Catholic Church Bazaar
to 17,000 in 1998, as many find it easier just to buy the tasty crustaceans from a variety of sources.
imported shrimp are served. The association is also pushing for state “truth in labeling” regulations which are already in place in Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama and Texas.
Beaufort’s shrimp festival follows two weeks after the Yemassee Shrimp Festival, also celebrating its 31st anniversary.
The Yemassee festival is more a tribute to the recreational harvest of shrimp using bait. The state regulates shrimp-baiting, with appropriate permits, between Sept. 12 and Nov. 10
The practice has declined in popularity, with only 6,000 permits used last year compared
But while the festivals are fun and a great excuse to get together, enjoy food and music, remember … it started with shrimp … and a tribute to the hard-working individuals who earn their living on the sea. There are certainly not as many as there used to be, but the shrimpers of the Lowcountry were here long before the developers, real estate sales people and parttime residents who thought those anchored shrimp boats looked pretty.
Wayward deputy, ICE raid –Sheriff has plenty to explain BEAUFORT – Much has been said, particularly online, about last month’s Hilton Head Island incident where an off-duty Beau-
wife have participated in Pledge the Pink, a multi-day event dedicated to raising money for breast cancer screening, treatment, outreach and research.
With Fripp Island now as his permanent residence, Dr. Turner has ties to Pledge the Pink both as a local and as a Beaufort Memorial physician.
In fact, participants and volunteers at the 2025 event – held Oct. 16-19 and featuring events on Fripp Island, Dataw Island and in Habersham – may even see the oncologist bringing up the rear of the Beaufort-Memorial-sponsored golf cart parade held on the island on Oct. 18
While Beaufort Memorial is sponsoring the golf cart parade that will feature the smiling, waving physician, the organization is also sponsoring the Survivor and Thriver celebration scheduled for Friday, Oct. 17 on Dataw Island.
As an oncologist, Dr. Turner values the relationships with his patients more than anything, and the event is an opportunity to get out and share that passion with his community.
“I love taking care of oncology patients,” he said. “I always tell patients, this is a journey, and you want someone to walk that journey with you. It’s a tight bond, and that’s what I really love about it.”
fort County Sheriff’s deputy was seen shoving two teenagers to the ground in the middle of a neighborhood street and threatening them with bodily harm.
As is often the case these days, the incident played out largely online because the teenage victims were able to record the situation with their cell phones and immediately share that footage. The situation quickly became a viral phenomenon.
Most observers know by now the 19-year-veteran law enforcement officer was initially suspended and then fired by Sheriff P.J. Tanner who, as painful at the situation probably was for him and other law enforcement officers, was probably glad to have something else to talk about other than the county’s first publicized ICE raid a week earlier.
Tanner did discuss during a Friday press conference last week the Sept. 25 ICE raid which occurred in Bluffton, but he stressed his deputies were only helping State Law Enforcement Division, or SLED, officers hand out warrants. The sheriff’s department’s two additional officers who will be part of the 287 (g) agreement with ICE, are still in training and probably won’t be active until next month, Tanner told reporters. Not unexpectedly, the role of social media, i.e., Facebook posts and podcasts, magnified “news” of the Hilton Head incident and hundreds of folks were immediately commenting online, giving their opinions on what exactly IS the truth.
The “truth,” thus far, has been the firing of a 19-yearveteran law enforcement officer.
Whether further charges against the individual will be brought remains to be seen, but if there are, they most certainly will be the results of “some very bad decisions” on his part.
The “truth” behind the arrests of the five men in the ICE raid last month and charged with identity fraud is clouded by political implications and not nearly so clear-cut.
Lolita Huckaby Watson is a community volunteer and newspaper columnist. In her former role as a reporter with The Beaufort Gazette, The Savannah Morning News, Bluffton Today and Beaufort Today, she prided herself in trying to stay neutral and unbiased. As a columnist, these are her opinions. The Rowland, N.C. native’s goal is to be factual but opinionated, based on her own observations. Feel free to contact her at bftbay@gmail.com.
A Fripp Island resident and longtime lover of the Lowcountry, Dr. Eric Turner with Beaufort Memorial Oncology Specialists will be the "caboose" at the Pledge the Pink golf cart parade on Fripp Island on Saturday, Oct. 18. Photo courtesy of Beaufort Memorial Hospital
Nancy Merrill, creator of the “Elf Dust” creative book and game for children was at the 65th annual St. Peter’s Saint Peter's Catholic Church Bazaar on Saturday, Oct. 4. Asa Aarons Smith/ The Island News
The young ones enjoyed the inflatable rides Saturday, Oct. 4, at the 65th annual St. Peter’s Saint Peter's Catholic Church Bazaar. Asa Aarons Smith/The Island News
8 graduate from Beaufort Memorial PATH program
9 receive national certifications; 14 enroll
Special to The Island News
The Beaufort Memorial PATH program (People Achieving Their Highest) celebrated eight graduates in its 10th cohort on Aug. 20, as well as the pinning of newly certified graduates in their field and the welcoming of 14 Beaufort Memorial employees entering the program on a new internal career pathway.
The eight graduates in Cohort 10 completed programs as Clinical Medical Assistants (2), Patient Care Technicians (1) and Coders (5).
Students in the coding class surprised their instructor, Kimberly Richbourg, AAPC, with flowers and a plaque to commemorate the experience, with the entire class passing the certification exam on the first try.
“Without you, there wouldn’t be an ‘us,’ said Krystal Brown, one of the graduates. “Everything you taught us was laid out, there were no questions. You did an amazing job for us, and we want to say thank you.”
Cohort 10 graduates include Clinical Medical Assistants (Tonya Coaxum and Edwina Register), a Patient Care Technician (Ashley Sgro-Chiang) and Coders (Krystal Brown, Sarah Europe, Cassandra LaFontaine, Arianna Morris, and Diane Singleton).
While the cohort saw eight graduates, the celebration held on Aug. 20 included the ceremonial pin-
Park from page A1
Engineers with McSweeney Engineers were tasked with coming up with preliminary renderings and information about each option that could be shown to council and could be shown to the public to get their opinion. Which led to one of the big questions on the table during Monday’s meeting – what is the best way to get the public’s input, when should they do it and should it be open to everyone or should they target certain groups individually who may be more affected than others?
It was discussed that a survey may be the best option for the city to get input from the public about the project, and while business owners and building owners in downtown Beaufort will be directly affected daily by any work done at the park, it would be best to make one survey for everyone to fill out online and include certain questions on the survey that would allow those collecting the information to gauge the background and vested interested that an individual may have in the park.
The next monthly meeting of the committee is scheduled for Nov. 3, but committee members talked about scheduling a Special Called meeting in October to vote on and discuss the survey so that it could be posted before the Nov. 3 meeting. Several committee members voiced concerns that they had heard from com-
Alani Crawford, CPCT, is pinned as a Certified Patient Care Technician.
Crawford is a 2025 high school graduate who participated in the PATH dual enrollment program with the Beaufort County School District and joined the Beaufort Memorial team this summer. Photo courtesy of Beaufort Memorial Hospital
ning of newly certified graduates in the CMA, PCT, Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and Central Sterile Technician (CST) tracks. These newly certified graduates include a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (Alyssa Morgan, CCMA), two Certified Patient Care Technicians (Alani Crawford, CPCT and Tamara Thompson-Graham, CPCT), a Certified Central Sterile Technician (Dashaunna Montford, CRCST) and five Certified Professional Coders (Krystal Brown, CPC, Sarah Europe, CPC, Cassandra LaFontaine, CPC, Arianna Morris, CPC, and Diane Singleton, CPC).
munity members in the aftermath of the Sept. 23 meeting, such as the extended length of time that is anticipated for the project to completed and the aesthetic of the fencing if it really is to be along the promenade for the next 3 to 5 years.
There were suggestions made about how to possibly make the fencing more attractive, either by finding fencing that is lower and not so high as to block the view of the Beaufort River and many in the comments of the live online streaming of the meeting made comments about how local artists should be invited to come and paint the fencing to make it more appealing and reflect Beaufort’s art culture as well as serve a functional purpose of keeping people out of the unsafe area.
City Manager Scott Marshall said that the number of attendees at the previous weekend’s Beaufort Shrimp Festival shows that the addition of the fence to Waterfront Park has not kept people from coming to the park to enjoy the festivals and activities.
The committee also began discussions about big questions like do they want to build the infrastructure to accommodate cruise ships.
City Councilman Josh Scallate commented that even if the committee, council and community agree that they do not want to allow cruise ships to dock at Waterfront Park now, they should still look into seeing if they have the funds and ability to build the necessary infrastructure so that if
Heather R. Galvin, Probate Judge, Beaufort County, SC
Beaufort Memorial President and CEO Russell Baxley emphasized that the PATH program is an “investment,” – healthcare is a difficult industry, he said, and while a hospital is made up of bricks and mortar, it’s the people within the walls that make it special.
“This investment that you all have made doesn’t stop here,” Baxley said. “This program is unlike any other. It has been modeled by several hospitals throughout the state, and you guys are now a part of that.”
During the Aug. 20 ceremony, 14 Beaufort Memorial team members signed on for Cohort 11 of the program, joining internal pathways that include the Surgical Technician and Endoscopy Technician tracks. Since the workforce development program began in 2022 PATH has seen 104 graduates.
The PATH program includes scholarships, clinical training, traditional education and non-traditional financial assistance to encourage Beaufort Memorial staff members to advance their careers, building and supporting a stronger healthcare network in the Lowcountry.
“This program is a testament to Beaufort Memorial’s investment in not only their employees, but the community that we serve,” said Joy Solomon, MSN, RN, NPD-BC, Beaufort Memorial Director of Education and Workforce Development. “We’re very proud of the
the mindset changes in the future and Beaufort’s community and council does decide they want to allow cruise ships, they would be
able to do that.
success we have experienced, and of the participants, who have the courage to step forward on a new path and enhance their career at Beaufort Memorial.”
“My number one rule is it’s got to be built with the least amount of maintenance in the future as pos-
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.
sible. We can’t keep doing this,” Mike Sutton said.
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.
Galvin, Probate Judge, Beaufort County,
Heather R. Galvin, Probate Judge, Beaufort County,
The coding graduates from Cohort 10 of Beaufort Memorial’s PATH program (from left): Krystal Brown, Cassandra LaFontaine, Arianna Morris, Diane Singleton and Sarah Europe. Photo courtesy of Beaufort Memorial Hospital
Beaufort Memorial team members who signed on for PATH Cohort 11. Photo courtesy of Beaufort Memorial Hospital
ARTS
Windhorse hosting inaugural Port Royal Plein Air Invitational
Staff reports
The Windhorse Gallery & Marketplace is is hosting the Inaugural Port Royal Plein Air Invitational, a three-day celebration of open-air painting and creative community, Friday, Oct. 10 through Sunday, Oct. 12, at The Shed and throughout the picturesque streets and coastal landscapes of historic Port Royal. This invitational event will bring together both regional and nationally recognized plein air painters to capture the unique beauty of the South Carolina Lowcountry — from mossdraped oaks and marshy vistas to quaint harbor fronts and sunlit village corners. All artwork will be created in situ over the course of the weekend, offering attendees the chance to witness the ar-
tistic process in real time. The event will feature live painting, daily artist demonstrations, and a "Wet Paint" style exhibit and sale featuring freshly completed works.
Whether you're a seasoned collector, an art enthusiast, or simply a curious observer, the Port Royal Plein Air Invitational promises an inspiring and immersive ex-
perience that highlights the power of art to connect people with place.
Meet the artists The line-up of artists that
have been selected for this event include: Steve Hessler – Floyd, Va.; Elizabeth Middour – Mt. Pleasant; Susan Mayfield – Salida, Colo.; Susan Trott – Charleston; Trina Smith – Augusta, Ga.; Haldora – Sun City; Steve Weeks – Beaufort; Jessica Graham – Augusta, Ga.; June Klement – Augusta, Ga.; Ning Xie – Charleston; Susan Stone – Port Royal; Emily Scott – Beaufort; Ann McCall Wilson – Port Royal; Christopher Pursley –Port Royal.
Schedule of Events
Friday, Oct. 10: Welcome reception from 5 to 7 p.m., mingle with artists, sponsors, and guests at this relaxed opening evening featuring music, refreshments, and a first look at the week-
Come on, invite him in!
end to come. At the Windhorse Gallery at 809 Paris Avenue.
Saturday & Sunday, Oct. 11–12: Live painting & demos all day. Explore Port Royal and the surrounding Sea Islands while observing artists at work. Enjoy scheduled demonstrations, meet the painters, and even join in a community paint-out open to all ages and skill levels. Various locations throughout Port Royal. Sunday, Oct. 12: Wet Paint Party & closing reception from 4 to 6 p.m. Celebrate a successful weekend at a lively closing event featuring freshly completed paintings, live music, hors d’oeuvres, and art available for sale straight from the easel. At the Windhorse Gallery at 809 Paris Avenue.
USCB Center for the Arts hosting Dracula: Ballet With a Bite
Staff reports Sink your teeth into USCB Center for the Arts season’s most thrilling performance as South Carolina Ballet unveils Dracula: Ballet With A Bite — a darkly seductive spectacle where passion, danger, and dance collide at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 1. This production brings Bram Stoker’s iconic tale to life through masterful choreography, striking staging, and a dynamic original score by Thomas Semanski that drives the tension and drama throughout the performance. Semanski’s score blends haunting orchestral arrangements with driving rock-inspired rhythms, creating an atmosphere that is both contemporary and timeless. The music’s dark, hypnotic melodies heighten the sense of danger
and allure, propelling the story forward with dramatic intensity. Its layered textures and unexpected harmonies mirror the seductive yet menacing nature of Dracula himself, adding depth and emotional weight to each scene.
The ballet follows the dark and captivating journey of Count Dracula as he emerges from the shadows and seduces his prey. Passion and fear intertwine as Dracula’s magnetic charm ensnares innocent souls, drawing them into a dangerous world of desire and darkness. The narrative builds to a powerful climax where love and loyalty are tested, and the line between good and evil is blurred.
Under the artistic direction of William Starrett, Dracula: Ballet
Shorts at High Noon continues
Staff reports
The Beaufort Film Society, in association with the Technical College of the Lowcountry (TCL), is presenting the popular Shorts at High Noon program once again this fall, and it continues this week.
During the months of September, October, and November you'll get a chance to catch encore presentations for many of the 2025 Beaufort International Film Festival films in the categories of Shorts, Student Films, Short Documentaries, and Animation Films. Spend your lunch hour at the movies. Get excited, get inspired, and get ready for BIFF 2026, the event’s 20th anniversary. Screenings are on Wednesdays only. Checkin time is 11:30 a.m., with screenings beginning promptly at High Noon.
TCL’s Auditorium is located at 921 Ribaut Road, Building 12 in Beaufort. Admission is free. For more information, visit beaufortfilmfestival.com.
Shorts At High Noon
2025 Schedule All screenings, held on
Wednesdays, are from the 2025 Beaufort International Film Festival. Category or Individual winners are denoted by *
Oct. 15
Lovesick (20 minutes, Short)
Knead (12 minutes, Short)
*Game Night (19 minutes, Short) Oct. 22
Small Hours (22 minutes, Short) 4th Dementia (17 minutes, Short)
The Greatest Guy You Never Met (9 minutes, Short) Oct. 29
Familiar (18 minutes, Short) Wakanyeja Kin Wana Ku
Pi (11 minutes, Short Documentary)
Burning the Old Man (18 minutes, Short) Nov. 5
*Neither Donkey Nor Horse (29 minutes, Short)
Love Less Likely (17 minutes, Short) Nov. 12
Breakfast In Beaufort (29 minutes, Short Doc)
*Ms. Rossi 3: Ms. Rossi
Meets the Mob (20 minutes, Short) Nov. 19
BFS Members will vote on 1 of 3 BIFF 2026 film submissions to help determine an Official Selection for the upcoming festival. Proof of membership is required.
WANT TO GO?
Who: South Carolina Ballet
What: Dracula: Ballet with a Bite
When: 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 1 Where: USCB Center for the Arts, 801 Carteret Street, Beaufort Tickets: Adult $55, Senior $48, Student $35; Not recommended for children under the age for 13. For details and tickets, visit USCBCenterForTheArts.com.
With A Bite merges classical ballet with contemporary movement, creating a visually striking and emotionally charged performance. Intricate choreography, dramatic lighting, and opulent gothic-inspired costumes immerse audiences in the seductive world of Dracula’s castle. The haunting pas de deux between Dracula and his victims embodies the complex interplay of power and vulnerability, while ensemble pieces reflect the relentless pull of fate and temptation. This production is a captivating exploration of love, fear, and immortality. Combining the elegance of ballet with the intensity of theater, Dracula: Ballet With A Bite offers a thrilling experience that lingers long after the curtain falls. Costumes are not required but encourages. Halloween is the night before, … Tickets are available at uscbcenterforthearts.com. Parental guidance strongly suggested. This show is not suitable for children under the age of 13
Rhett House Reels hold 2nd screening
Staff reports
The second screening of Rhett House Reels, presented by the Rhett House Inn and the Beaufort Film Society, is set for 5:30 to 8 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 9
The selections for screening, set to start at 7 p.m., feature some of the best films from past editions of the Beaufort International Film Festival.
This week’s synopsis and trailers:
“On My Mind”
18 Minutes; Bronshoj, Denmark
Director: Martin Strange-Hansen
Synopsis: Henrik wants to sing a song for his wife. It has to be today, it has to be now. It's a question of life, death and karaoke.
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/521983186
“40 Minutes Over Maui” 14 Minutes; Los Angeles
Directors: Michael Feld Josh Covett
ARTS BRIEF
Synopsis: For 40 minutes on January 13, 2018, the fate of the world hung in the balance, for Larry and Penny ... their Hawaiian vacation was ruined.
Trailer: https://www.facebook.com/ watch/?v=289777428397385
“Over My Dead Body”
25 Minutes; Los Angeles
Director: Meital Cohen Navarro
Synopsis: The film explores an internal conflict surrounding a family of Jewish immigrants (played by Muslim actors) from Iran now living in present-day Los Angeles. I offer a window into the taboo subjects of religious intolerance and intermarriage outside of one’s culture. The choice that the heroine makes may seem controversial to some, but I believe it is a heart-wrenching and powerful decision that is becoming a new reality.
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/430927199
Promotional events continue for Seldons’ new book
Promotional events are still ongoing this fall for the new book by Beaufort’s Cele and Lynn Seldon, “100 Things to Do in the Lowcountry Before You Die.”
The book completes a trilogy for Reedy Press following the bestsellers “100 Things to Do in Charleston Before You Die” and “100 Things to Do in Savannah Before You Die.”
Upcoming events include:
Thursday, Oct. 9 – Book Talk and Signing: The Beaufort Bookstore, 2127 Boundary Street, 5 to 7 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 15 – Panel Discussion: Philanthropic Educational Organization Writer’s Symposium, The Park House at Habersham, 2 Habersham Park, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Email Chapterampeosc@gmail.com for ticket information.
Artist Steve Hessler’s work “Net Income, Gay Fish Company.” Submitted photo
Governor’s School accepting applications for 2026-2027
Staff reports
The South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities, a topranked public, residential high school for artistically talented students, is now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 school year and summer programs. South Carolina residents in Grades 6–11 are encouraged to apply online at SCGSAH.org.
The tuition-free, residential high school program currently serves 10 th– 12 th-Grade students who receive pre-professional training in creative writing, dance, drama, film, music, and visual arts. Beyond its highly acclaimed arts programming, the school also offers a rigorous high school education. SAT and ACT scores consistently ranking above state and national averages. Graduates receive arts and academic scholarships to some of the nation’s most prestigious colleges, universities, and conservatories.
the “Best High School for the Arts in SC,” the second “Best Public High School Teachers in SC,” and among the top five “Best College Prep High Schools in SC.”
Governor’s School students are consistently recognized in regional and national arts competitions, including YoungArts, the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, Youth America
sic, and visual arts. These artistic experiences allow students to explore and expand their artistic abilities while learning the fundamentals of their chosen discipline from professional artists in a supportive and inclusive environment.
The reviews and rankings site, Niche, has recognized the Governor’s School as
Grand Prix, and U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts. Distinguished alumni have been named South Carolina Teachers of the Year and have won Emmy, Tony, Grammy, and Webby awards In addition to the Residential High School program, each summer, the Governor’s School hosts hundreds of students for overnight, immersive arts programs in creative writing, dance, drama, film, mu-
All interested students or parents can apply online at SCGSAH.org and complete the necessary application and/or audition requirements for their chosen program. The priority application deadline for all programs is Jan. 10, 2026. Applications will be accepted until all openings are filled. Financial assistance is available for all programs through the Governor’s School Foundation.
The Governor’s School is hosting two sessions of its annual Go Govie! Day on Saturday, Nov. 1 2025, and Jan. 10 2026, where interested students and their families can tour campus, attend arts demonstrations, and learn more about Governor’s School programs. To register, visit www.scgsah. org/go-govie-day.
Staff reports
Application is open for the 2026 Lighthouse Scholarship, sponsored by the Foundation for the Leadership Education's Lighthouse Scholarship fund.
Graduating high school seniors who display a strong propensity toward leadership as demonstrated through academics, positive character, community involvement, leadership roles and/or extra-curricular activities are encouraged to apply.
Other requirements for application include:
You must be a graduating high school senior; You must have a 3 0 or greater GPA on the SC Uniform Grading Scale; You must score a 21 or greater on the ACT or a 1080 or greater on the SAT;
You must be a legal U.S. citizen; You must be a legal resident of Beaufort County; and You must present two letters of recommendation.
Visit https://lowcountryleaders.com/ lighthouse-scholarship to submit scholarship application and leadership essay online before Saturday, Nov. 1. Two Letters of Recommendation are also required via email at contact@lowcountryleaders.com. Information about the value of the lighthouse scholarship, the applicant selection process and the mission of the Foundation for Leadership (FLE) can be found at www. lowcountryleaders.com.
For questions, email contact@lowcountryleaders.com.
Living & Growing the Jesus Way
Sunday Morning Worship at 8:30 & 10:30 81 Lady’s Island Drive
Pastor Steve Keeler • (843) 525-0696 seaislandpresbyterian.org
Hit me with your best shot
With flu season around the corner, vaccines are recommended
By Jenna Gossett, MSN, FNP-C Beaufort Memorial Lady’s Island Internal Medicine
With flu season on the horizon, it’s time to start thinking about your annual vaccination. Cases of influenza, or the flu, are typically seen from October to March or April.
The peak of flu season can vary year to year, but the peak in our community is usually around February.
When should I get the flu vaccine?
It is usually recommended to not get the flu vaccine too early so that you are protected throughout flu season. It’s recommended that you get your flu shot in September or October, but these vaccines are provided throughout the remainder of flu season.
Who should get the flu vaccine?
In the U.S., flu shots are recommended annually for everyone ages six months and older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Vaccination is especially important for people who are at high risk of developing serious com-
plications if they get the flu, such as those with chronic lung disease, asthma or diabetes, as well as pregnant women and anyone over age 65
How well do vaccines protect against the flu?
The CDC states that although vaccine effectiveness can vary, recent studies show the flu vaccine reduces the risk of flu illness by about 40%-60% among the overall population during seasons when most circulating flu viruses are similar to those used in the vaccines.
Similar to what we’ve seen with the COVID-19 vaccines, one of the biggest benefits to flu vaccinations is the protection from serious illness. The flu vaccine prevents thousands of people in the U.S. from being hospitalized each year.
There are many other respiratory infections that cause flu-like symptoms and they typically circulate during the same time of year. Flu vaccines do not protect against other common viruses
such as rhinovirus (a cause of the common cold) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Can you get sick from the flu vaccine?
The flu vaccine won’t give you the flu. Flu shots are made with an inactivated virus or with a single protein from the virus. And although the nasal spray vaccine contains live viruses, they’ve been weakened to an extent that they won’t make you sick.
Some people may experience mild side-effects from a vaccine,
including a low-grade fever, muscle aches and a headache. These side effects show that your immune system has been activated to develop the antibodies that can fight off the real virus when you’re exposed.
Why do I need to get vaccinated every year?
Influenza viruses undergo frequent genetic changes. Each year, scientists monitor global infection trends and select the H1N1 H3N2 and Type-B strains that are most likely to become widespread
and cause severe sickness. Vaccine developers then produce that year’s vaccines to combat those particular strains of the virus. Each year’s vaccine is formulated to protect against new variations. In addition to needing protection against new strains, the immunity that your body builds gradually diminishes over time.
Where should I get the shot and which option should I choose?
Fortunately you don’t need to worry about all of the different flu vaccine options. Your primary care provider can guide you to the one that is most appropriate given your age and health history. If you’ve had a flu shot before without issue and don’t have health concerns, such as severe egg allergies or Guillain-Barre syndrome, you can get your shot wherever is most convenient. What’s most important is to be sure you receive your annual vaccination.
Special to The Island News
Being familiar with your own body and knowing how to identify changes is one of the best ways to take charge of your health. This is especially true when it comes to your breasts.
One in eight women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime. The earlier it is caught, the better the prognosis.
“We have several ways to screen for breast cancer but yearly mammograms and clinical breast exams by a medical provider combined with monthly self-breast exams are standard. For some women additional screening tools such as ultrasound and/or breast MRI may be recommended,” says Dr. Tara Grahovac, a board-certified, fellowship-trained breast surgeon with the Beaufort Memorial Breast Care & Surgery Program. “No single test is perfect, but when you follow the screening recommendations given by your doctor regularly, you significantly increase the chance of early detection and an excellent outcome. Leaving out a screening could delay a diagnosis.”
While there is debate in the medical community about the effectiveness of breast self-exams, Dr. Grahovac has personally seen how important they are when done consistently. “I can’t say how many times I’ve had patients come to me who noticed a change in their breasts, and we were able to detect the cancer early,” Dr. Grahovac says. “I encourage all my patients to do monthly breast self-exams, especially those who are at high risk for breast cancer.”
Watch for These Changes in Your Breasts Look for the following changes while you complete your breast self-exam:
• Thick Area: A thickened area of skin or obvious lump can occur during menstruation or breastfeeding. However, lumps that don’t go away could be tumors growing near the surface of the skin. Dimple: Dimples that don’t go away could be a sign of a tumor deep in the breast. Tumors can pull the skin inward causing an indentation.
• Nipple Crust: Crust on the nipple is often harmless, but it may signify Paget’s disease. With this type of breast cancer, cancer cells live inside the nipple, creating a red or white scab-
BREAST SELF-EXAMINATION STEPS
Standing in front of a mirror:
1. Face the mirror with arms by your sides and inspect your breasts.
2. Start in the middle of the breast. Press each breast gently with your fingertips in a circular pattern that extends over the breast. Feel for any lumps, thickened skin or changes that seem unusual.
3. Raise your arms and repeat the exam, looking for anything abnormal that appears with the change in position.
Lying down:
1. Place a pillow behind your right shoulder and put your right arm behind your head.
2. Using your left hand, gently move your fingertips over your right breast in a circular pattern until covering the entire breast area and armpit. Check for any abnormalities in the breast.
3. Squeeze the nipple to look for discharge or a lump.
4. Repeat on the other side.
“Most breast have some lumpiness that is completely normal,”
Dr. Grahovac said. “But what a woman should look for is any change from the previous month. Your physician should evaluate any breast changes that are noticeably different.”
like crust that doesn’t go away. The area may also be sore.
• Redness or Heat: These can be signs of an infection, such as mastitis (in breastfeeding women), or a skin condition called eczema. However, if medical treatments don’t help after a week, red or hot areas could be a sign of inflammatory breast cancer.
Unexpected Fluid: Nipple discharge that occurs in the absence of developing breasts, infection, cysts, pregnancy or breastfeeding should be checked out by your doctor.
• Skin Sores: Breast cancer can break down the skin and form a wound. If a sore is infected, it may smell or ooze.
• Bump or Hard Lump:
3D technology has advantages for screening mammograms
Special to The Island News
If you are nearing your 40s, you may have heard about the importance of scheduling regular mammograms to screen for breast cancer. Most women should start these screenings at age 40, and women with a family history or other risk factors for breast cancer may need to start them earlier. Even if you know you need one, you might be wondering what a mammogram is and how it can help you.
Prevention versus diagnosis
“The mammograms we encourage women to get each year are screening mammograms,” said Dr. Evan J. Wolff, a board-certi-
fied radiologist at Beaufort Memorial who is fellowship-trained in breast radiology. “During these exams, a mammographer takes X-ray images of each breast to look for abnormalities and other signs that you may have breast cancer or another breast condition.”
The mammographer is the first set of eyes for the radiologist. While the radiologist is ultimately responsible for reading the scan, astute mammographers have the first set of eyes on the images and can anticipate what the radiologist may need. After the mammogram, the radiologist reviews the images and looks for noticeable changes in
your breasts from your previous screening (if you’ve had one before) and abnormal tissue that might need further investigation.
“If something unusual appears, the radiologist will use a standing order – written protocols that authorize designated members of the health care team to complete certain clinical tasks without having to first obtain a physician order – or call the referring physician for an order to perform a diagnostic mammogram,” explained Dr. Wolff. “These mammograms involve X-ray images, just like a screening mammogram, but the mammographer takes more images, so the exams typically last longer.”
3D screening technologies
For many years, mammography X-rays were 2D images. Beaufort Memorial began using 3D technology, also known as tomosynthesis, more than 10 years ago and in early 2023 began using the 3D technology as the standard of care for all patients receiving screening mammograms.
The improved image quality includes many advantages over conventional 2D images, including: Fewer call-backs. Since radiologists can see a detailed view of your breast tissue from just one screening, you have less of a chance of being called back for
A lump or bump that feels like a soft pea or soft bean is normal. A hard or immovable bump that feels like a lemon seed may be cancerous.
• Sunken Nipple: Any new nipple changes, such as the nipple flattening or turning inward, could be signs of a breast cancer tumor.
• Growing Vein: Most new blood vessels or veins are connected to weight gain or breastfeeding. However, although uncommon, a pronounced vein near the surface of the skin can also be a sign of breast cancer. New Shape or Size: If one breast unexpectedly changes size, flattens, swells, or droops, this could be a sign of breast cancer.
• Orange Peel Skin: Sometimes when a breast swells, it causes hair follicles to look like dimples — similar to the surface of an orange peel. Breast swelling can indicate inflammatory breast cancer.
additional tests.
• A 40% increase in breast cancer detection. 3D imaging technology has brought with it a high success rate in detecting breast cancer before symptoms start showing.
• 15% fewer false-positive results. Your test results are false-positive if they suggest you have a condition you don’t actually have. 3D screening technologies can help radiologists avoid this problem.
Many insurance providers now cover 3D mammography for screening mammograms, but if you aren’t sure, call your provider.
Jenna Gossett, MSN, FNP-C is a boardcertified family nurse practitioner who sees patients at Beaufort Memorial Lady’s Island Internal Medicine, offering a wide range of primary, urgent and intensive care.
Jenna Gossett
Keep pickleball injuries off the court
By Dr. Cory A. Messerschmidt
Beaufort Memorial Orthopaedic
Specialists
Have you recently gotten the pickleball bug? If so, you’re not alone. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, pickleball is America’s fastest-growing sport, with 223 5% more people playing since 2022
Dr Cory A. Messerschmidt
Along with this increase comes an unwanted side effect: pickleball injuries.
That increase in injuries is normal, and understanding the risks empowers you to make efforts to reduce your likelihood of injury when you pick up a paddle.”
So, what are common pickleball injuries, and how can you stay safe on the court?
Overuse injuries Since pickleball is so fun, you may want to play as much as possible.
Overuse injuries occur when you perform the same movement over and over without giving your body time to recover. They’re common with certain occupations, but they also affect athletes of all levels and often require orthopedic care.
This type of injury can occur in practically any joint or ligament. Body parts that may be affected by overuse injuries in pickleball include: Elbow — Racquet sports, such as tennis, badminton and ping pong, often lead to pain in the elbow. Typically called tennis elbow, this type of pain affects so many pickleball players that it’s also now known as “pickleball elbow.”
• Leg — A competitive match will have you jumping, bending and lunging. As you do, you can hurt your leg. Knee injuries are common overuse injuries, as are injuries to the Achilles tendon, found in your lower leg.
• Shoulder — Constant use of your shoulder in pickleball can lead to rotator cuff injury. This can cause pain that worsens with movement.
When injury causes immediate pain
Though many pickleball injuries occur slowly over time, some happen immediately. These are known as acute injuries.
Acute injuries you may experience include:
• Bone fractures — Falling, a major cause of pickleball injury, can break bones in your wrists and other limbs.
• Eye injuries — The ball or paddle can hit your eye, scratching the cornea,
damaging the retina or causing vision problems.
• Sprains and sprains — A wrong movement can sprain or strain your ankle and other joints.
Additionally, pickleball can damage your most important muscle. While exercise is normally good for your heart, physical activity — including pickleball — can have a negative effect on heart health.
The pickleball court is small, but you can’t stand still. You’re constantly moving left to right, front to back, and you’re moving quickly. These intense movements can put your heart at risk. If you plan to increase physical activity significantly, talk to your primary care or sports medicine provider.
Reduce your risk
While playing pickleball puts you at risk for acute and overuse injuries, there are ways to reduce your likelihood of injury. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends the following:
• Dress for success. Proper footwear helps you stay on your feet and supports your ankles from harm. Eye protection guards against eye injury.
• Drink up. Staying hydrated helps your body function at its best and reduces the likelihood of common injuries experienced by pickleball players.
• Practice proper technique. Bad technique puts your bones and joints, muscles and tendons at increased risk. Learn how to play the game and use proper technique every time you get on the court.
Start slowly. Warm up before you play. Start with slow movements and dynamic stretching. Afterward, do some traditional static stretching as you cool down.
• Stop short of injury. You can easily overdo it on the pickleball court. Play at medium intensity and for a short amount of time until you build up strength to push harder and longer.
Even with preparation and precaution, injury can occur. Home care often helps, but sometimes you need professional attention. If your injury forces you to stop playing immediately or you can’t put weight on the affected limb, get it checked out. Pushing through that kind of pain could worsen your injury and require a lot more time to heal.
Fellowship-trained in sports medicine, Cory A. Messerschmidt, M.D., FAAOS, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with Beaufort Memorial Orthopaedic Specialists who sees patients at the practice in Port Royal and Okatie.
By Justin Jarrett LowcoSports.com
JPII evens record with dominant region win
When Shayne Milligan showed up to WHHI-TV’s High School Football Media Day in early August, trimmed down and clean-shaven, he knew he had the pieces in place for a breakthrough season for John Paul II football.
He just wasn’t sure whether it would come this year or next. But the future has arrived at JPII, and freshman Jadon Inabinett and
a dominant offensive line led the breakout performance that has been building for the Golden Warriors, who routed First Baptist 4210 on Friday to even their record at 3-3 and earn their first region win.
Inabinett had the biggest game of his young career with 243 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 10 carries to lead an impressive offensive showing, as the exceptional play of offensive linemen Griffin Spencer, Spencer Murphy, Payne
Campanella, Russell Spencer, Will Debrover and tight end Sean Phalen paved the way for 487 total yards, including 440 on the ground.
Andrew Boyden added 80 yards and a score on 10 carries, Alan Wolf rushed for 50 yards and a touchdown and threw a TD pass to Sean Phalen, and Merrick Baroni added a rushing touchdown to go along with five tackles, a punt inside the 20, and a 6-for-6 night on PATs.
JPII’s defense delivered its stron-
gest showing of the season, recording nine tackles for loss and three sacks and smothering the Hurricane offense throughout the night.
Phalen was the defensive anchor with six tackles and two sacks, while Nate Moore had a breakout performance, disrupting plays in the backfield and adding several tackles for loss. The secondary came up big as well, with interceptions by Wolf and Zachary Moulton. After winning just one game a
year ago, the Golden Warriors (33 1-0) are back to .500 and set up for a strong finish, as they travel to struggling Hilton Head Prep on Friday before a rematch with Hilton Head Christian Academy.
HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL ROUNDUP
Bluffton 48, Beaufort 7
Aedan McCarthy passed for 478 yards with a touchdown to Amare Patterson, and McCarthy and Kordell Holley each scored three times on the ground to lead the Bobcats to a blowout home win to snap their two-game skid. Patterson caught three passes for 156 yards and a touchdown against his former team, while Malcolm Gordon, Jacobi Saunders, and Chris Doyle anchored a dominant defensive performance for Bluffton.
Next week: Bluffton (5-2, 1-1) is idle; Beaufort (2-4 0-1) vs. Colleton Co.
North Charleston 16, Battery Creek 13
The Dolphins did everything they needed to do to win on the road except stop Lorenzo Kitching Jr. The Cougars star rushed for 164 yards and a touchdown and returned a kickoff 75 yards to the house, and Kitching and quarterback CJ Furby each added a two-point conversion run, which proved to be the difference in a key Region 6-3A game.
Next week: Battery Creek (2-5 0-1) at Oceanside Collegiate
Bethesda Academy 50, Beaufort Academy 0 Jordan Turner went 6-FOR-7 for 182 yards and four touchdowns with three TD passes to Ralo Wesley, and the Blazers scored twice on defense and took a kickoff return to the house as they continued their dominant run through the regular season. Bethesda has scored 47 or more points in each of its five games.
Next week: BA (5-2) is idle
SCHEDULE AND RESULTS
Justin Jarrett is the sports editor of The Island News and the founder of
Beaufort High’s Alyson Dennison serves against Bluffton High at Beaufort on Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025. Amber Hewitt/The Island News
Bethesda Academy’s Jordan Turner is sent flying as a play makes its way out of bounds Friday night, October 3, 2025, at Beaufort Academy. Bethesda Academy won, 50-0. Amber Hewitt/ The Island News
Beaufort Academy’s Nych Underwood brings down Bethesda Academy’s Jordan Cheever at Beaufort Academy on Friday, October 3, 2025. Bethesda Academy won, 50-0. Amber Hewitt/The Island News
ART Budding Artist After-School
Art Club
4 to 5 p.m., or 5:15 to 6:15 p.m., Mondays/Wednesdays or Tuesday/Thursdays, Happy Art Studio, 10 Sam’s Point Way, Beaufort. Ages 8 to 13. Painting, drawing, clay or crafts. Visit www.happyartstudio.net.
CALENDAR
Inaugural Port Royal Plein Air Invitational
5 to 7 p.m., Friday, Oct. 10; all day Saturday, Oct. 11; all day Sunday, Oct. 12. 809 Paris Avenue, Port Royal. A threeday celebration of open-air painting and creative community, taking place at The Shed and throughout the picturesque streets and coastal landscapes of historic Port Royal. For more information, visit https://bit.ly/4lLDpnA.
40th annual Hilton Head Kiwanis Chili Cookoff & Jeep Island Noon to 3 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 11, Lowcountry Celebration Park, 94 Pope Avenue, Hilton Head Island. All major debit and credit cards will be accepted for chili samples, food, beverages, and more. Local BBQ legend Orchid Paulmeier of One Hot Mama’s restaurant, fresh off of her Top 5 finish on the Food Network’s “BBQ Brawl,” will once again be competing in the Chili Cook Off! In addition to the traditional adult beverages and soft drinks, this year’s event also will include local craft brews from Local Legend Brewing Company! The event raises much-needed funding for many local youth charities, including Island Rec Association and the Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island. Chili cooks will face off to determine the best concoctions in Professional, Amateur, and People’s Choice categories. Winners will earn cash prize donations to the local youth cause of their choice. Visit www.hiltonheadkiwanis.com to sign up online to cook, sponsor, and buy tickets. For more information, email the Hilton Head Kiwanis Club at hiltonheadislandkiwanis@gmail.com
Rock N Ribs 2025 5:30 p.m. until ..., Saturday, Oct. 25, FISH @ Coligny, 1 North Forest Beach Drive, Hilton Head Island. BBQ Feast runs from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.; Live music the rest of the night. Lineup includes Algorhythm, Cranford Hollow, and a latenight set by Nick Poulin. The All-YouCan-Eat BBQ is from Orchid Paulmeier, Judd Foster, Slowcountry BBQ, Local Pie & more. Tickets are $45 and include BBQ, music, and a donation to Second Helpings. Capacity is limited to 400. For tickets, go to https://bit.ly/46JhEzu.
Karaoke with Melissa
7:30 p.m. to midnight, Mondays, Tomfoolery, 3436 17 Market, Habersham, Beaufort. Enjoy food and drinks during Karaoke with Melissa.
Karaoke with Ali
9 p.m. to midnight, Tuesdays, Luther’s Rare and Well Done, 910 Bay Street, downtown Beaufort. With DJ Ali.
Karaoke with Melissa
7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., Wednesdays, Beaufort Moose Lodge, 350 Broad River Blvd, Beaufort. Enjoy food and drinks during Karaoke with Melissa.
Eric’s Karaoke Krew
9:30 p.m., Wednesdays, Rosie
O’Grady’s, 2127 Boundary Street, Suite 2, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy karaoke with either Parker or Eric.
Trivia with Tom – Bricks On Boundary
7 p.m., Every Thursday, Bricks on Boundary, 1422 Boundary St, Beaufort. Free. Team trivia event, win house cash and Beer Bucket prizes! For more information, visit https://rb.gy/o9nhwe.
Eric’s Karaoke Krew
7 p.m., Thursdays, Amvets Post 70, 1831 Ribaut Road, Port Royal. Free. Public is welcome. Enjoy Karaoke. Dinner will be available.
Karaoke at Willie’s
8 p.m., Thursdays, Willie's Bar and Grill, 7 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Saint Helena Island. Come and showcase your singing talents or just enjoy the performances. For more information, visit www.GullahLove.com.
Bluffton Night Bazaar — a Lowcountry Made Market
5 to 8 p.m., first Thursday of each month, Burnt Church Distillery, 120 Bluffton Road. A highly curated selection of accessories, clothing, home goods, custom gifts and more by local artists and makers.
Habersham Farmers Market
3 to 6 p.m., Fridays, Habersham Marketplace. Vendor roster includes B&E Farm, Cottonwood Soap, Flower Power Treats, Hardee Greens, Megs Sweet Treats, Vitamin Bee, Lady’s Island Oyster Company, Pet Wants.
Eric’s Karaoke Krew
9 p.m., Fridays, Highway 21 Bar, 3436 Trask Pkwy, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy Karaoke with Lt. Dan.
Eric’s Karaoke Krew
9:30 p.m., Fridays, Rosie O’Grady’s, 2127 Boundary Street, Suite 2, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy Karaoke with Parker.
Karaoke with Melissa
7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., Fridays, R Bar & Grill, 70 Pennington Drive, Bluffton. Enjoy food and drinks during Karaoke with Melissa.
Port Royal Farmers Market
9 a.m. to noon, Saturdays, year round, Naval Heritage Park, 1615 Ribaut Road, Port Royal. Rain or shine. You will find fresh, local, seasonal produce, shrimp, oysters, poultry, beef, pork, eggs, bread and cheese, as well as plants, ferns, camellias, azaleas, citrus trees and beautiful, fresh cut flower bouquets. There are prepared food vendors serving barbecue, dumplings, she crab soup, crab cakes, paella, coffee, baked goods, bagels and breakfast sandwiches. No pets allowed. For more information, visit http://www.portroyalfarmersmarket.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
com/, visit @portroyalfarmersmarket on Facebook or call 843-295-0058.
Slip and Splash Saturdays 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturdays, Battery Creek Pool, 1 Blue Dolphin Drive, Beaufort, and Bluffton Pool, 55 Pritchard Street, Bluffton. $5 per person. Stay busy for hours climbing on our inflatable challenge track.
Eric’s Karaoke Krew 7 p.m., Saturdays, The Beaufort Moose Lodge, 350 Broad River Blvd., Beaufort. Free. Enjoy karaoke with Lt. Dan. Come early at 6 p.m. for Steak Night.
Eric’s Karaoke Krew 9:30 p.m., Saturdays, Rosie O’Grady’s, 2127 Boundary Street, Suite 2, Beaufort. Free. Enjoy karaoke with Eric. Teddy Bear Picnic Read-Aloud 9 a.m. to noon, 1st Saturday each month, Port Royal Farmer’s Market, Corner of Ribaut Road & Pinckney Blvd, Port Royal. Free. DAYLO Students and other volunteers will read to young children, who are encouraged to bring their favorite stuffed animals.
Karaoke with Melissa 8 p.m. to 12 a.m., 2nd and 4th Saturdays of every month, Peaceful Henry’s Cigar Bar, 181 Bluffton Road, Bluffton. Enjoy food and drinks during Karaoke with Melissa.
CLASS REUNION Beaufort High School Class of 1975 Oct. 17 through Oct. 19, 2025, Beaufort. 50th Class Reunion Celebration. Request that graduates of this class contact the class Community Outreach Representative Barbara Gardner Hunter at 347-497-9326 or email gardnerbarbara991@gmail.com to provide current contact information.
DANCE
Lowcountry Shaggers 6 to 9 p.m., Mondays, Holiday Inn, 2225 Boundary Street. Shag lessons with Tommy & Sheri O’Brien and others. Occasional ballroom and once-a-monh line dancing. Biginner, intermediate and advanced lessons. Open dancing after lessons. Visit www.lowcountryshaggers. com of email lowcountryshaggers@aol. com.
The Beaufort Shag Club 6:30 to 9 p.m., Wednesdays, AmVets Club, 1831 Ribaut Road, Port Royal. Free lessons for members from 6 to 6:30 p.m. We also host a dance the second Saturday of each month from 7 to 10 p.m. Lessons will run September through May only. Visit our FaceBook page (beaufortshagclub) for current events.
Alpha Sessions
FAITH
6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Mondays through Nov. 17, St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 70 Lady’s Island Drive, Beaufort. We believe everyone needs a space to ask questions and be heard. If you have questions about Christianity, or are exploring life, faith, and meaning, this session is for you! We offer a free meal and good conversation. For more information, email Matthew at faith@stpetersbeaufort.org.
HALLOWEEN
Ghosts and Myths of Hilton Head Island
7 to 8 p.m., Friday, Oct. 17; Saturday, Oct. 18; Friday, Oct. 24; Saturday, Oct. 25, Zion Cemetery & Baynard Mausoleum Outdoor Learning Center, 574 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. $15 per person. Purchase your tickets early! This event always sells out and tickets are limited. Not recommended for children under 12. Experience the chills of the paranormal stories of the Lowcountry. Experience the chills of the paranormal stories of Hilton Head Island as we bring to life Lydia Davant, Andrew Baynard, Cap’n Jack Stoney, Mary Kirk, Paulson Schwarzer, and Williams Eddings Baynard. Witness the Hilton Head Island of the 18th and 19th centuries through their eyes on a journey beyond the cemetery gates. Hear firsthand the ghost stories about the Harbour Town Lighthouse, the Baynard Funeral Procession, and the Blue Lady of Hilton Head Island. For more information and to register, visit https://heritagelib.org/classes-events/.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
BEMER Longevity Technology 9 a.m., Wednesdays via Zoom. Seen the buzz on “life span VS health span?” Want to grow better, not older? Haven’t heard of BEMER yet? Come for Q&A about how this longevity-enhancing medical device can enhance your health, fitness and overall well-being in just 8 minutes, 2 times a day. Offered by BEMER Specialist - Human & Equine, Elizabeth Bergmann. Text 410-212-1468 to get the Zoom link. Free.
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 Heritage Library Fall Classes — Patriot or Loyalist?
1:30 to 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 15, USC Beaufort, Hilton Head Island Campus, Room 115, 1 Sand Shark Drive, Hilton Head Island. $10 to $12 per person. Did your family play a role in the American Revolution and if so, which side did they fight on? Join us for this class and learn how to research and identify your Patriot or Loyalist. With presenter Jane Theissen. For more information and to register, visit https://heritagelib.org/classes-events/. Heritage Library Fall Classes — What Did They Do in the War?
1:30 to 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 29, USC Beaufort, Hilton Head Island Campus, Room 115, 1 Sand Shark Drive, Hilton Head Island. $10 to $12 per per-
son. Once you have identified if there is a Revolutionary War Patriot or Loyalist in your family, learn how to dig deeper into
the research and learn as much as you can about that family member including what they did in the war. With presenter Jane Theissen. For more information and to register, visit https://heritagelib. org/classes-events/.
Heritage Library Fall Classes — Carolina: Barbadian Clone 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 5, USC Beaufort, Hilton Head Island Campus, Room 115, 1 Sand Shark Drive, Hilton Head Island. $10 to $12 per person. The relationship between government and early settlers in Carolina south of Cape Fear provided proving ground for the development of social activism and organized resistance leading to open and armed revolt. Learn how this dynamic evolved in South Carolina and influenced the development path that evolved the older, American colonies of Britain to the north. With presenter Richard Thomas. For more information and to register, visit https://heritagelib. org/classes-events/.
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-thecentury businesses and industries of Port Royal: Shrimping, crabbing, oystering, the railroad, the school and the mercantile. Great gifts featuring local artists are available. For more information. visit www.portroyalhistory.org, email historicportroyalfoundation@gmail.com or call 843-524-4333.
Tour Historic Fort Fremont Dawn to dusk, Monday through Sunday, The Fort Fremont Preserve, 1124 Land’s End Road, St. Helena Island. Free and open to the public. The History Center is open Thursdays from 1 to 4 p.m., Fridays from 1 to 4 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. Visitors can learn about the fort’s history during the Spanish-American War through interpretive signs, self-guided walking tours with a smart phone, exhibits in the history center, and docent-led tours. For more information visit www.fortfremont.org or contact Passive Parks Manager Stefanie Nagid at snagid@bcgov.net.
LIBRARY ACTIVITIES
Stormwater 101
2 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 10, Port Royal Branch Library, 1408 Paris Ave., Port Royal. With Valentina Palacio of Beaufort County Public Works. For adults.
Gullah Geechee Stories and Traditions Night
4 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 14, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St. Helena Island. With Queen Quet, Chieftess of the Gullah Geechee nation. For all ages.
Composting 101 10 a.m., Friday, Oct. 17, Beaufort Branch Library, 311 Scott Street, Beaufort. With Valentina Palacio of Beaufort County Public Works. For adults.
Diabetes and You 10 to 11:30 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 18, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St. Helena Island. A representative from the South Carolina Department of Public Health will be there to discuss diabetes and how to get health.
Plant Swap
2 to 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 18, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St. Helena Island. Take a plant. Leave a plant. Bring your divided perennials, extra clippings and plant propagations to swap with others.
Gullah Paint & Sip 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 25, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St. Helena Island. Join us to celebrate Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Awareness Month. Local artist Dorneisha Batson will teach Gullah Geechee techniques. All materials will be provided. Space is limited. Please call 843-655-6487 to register.
Gullah Geechee CREATE
4 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 28, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St. Helena Island. With Queen Quet, Chieftess of the Gullah Geechee nation, and artists Quadre’ Stuckey and Zavia Jenkins. For all ages.
Stormwater 101
11 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 12, Lobeco Branch Library, 1862 Trask Parkway, Lobeco. With Valentina Palacio of Beaufort County Public Works. For children.
Drawing Basics
10:30 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Nov. 15, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St. Helena Island. Join art instructor Cindy Tighe to learn the basics of drawing. Ages 12 and up. Space is limited and registration is required. Call 843-255-6487.
Composting 101
4 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 18, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St. Helena Island. With Valentina Palacio of Beaufort County Public Works. All ages.
Zero-Waste Tye-Die
11 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 20, Lobeco Branch Library, 1862 Trask Parkway, Lobeco. With Valentina Palacio of Beaufort County Public Works. For children. Requires registration. Call 843-255-6479.
Recycling 101
11 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 10, Lobeco Branch Library, 1862 Trask Parkway, Lo-
beco. With Valentina Palacio of Beaufort County Public Works. For children.
Composting 101 2 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 10, Port Royal Branch Library, 1408 Paris Ave., Port Royal. With Valentina Palacio of Beaufort County Public Works. All ages.
“Hidden Gems” Book Club 3 p.m., third Monday of each month, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St. Helena Island. Free. So many books, so little time. St. Helena staff have uncovered some great titles to get you started on your “hidden gem” journey. Join us for lively discussions and coffee or tea. No registration required.
Career Navigator 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., every Tuesday, Beaufort Branch Library, 311 Scott Street, Beaufort. Free one-on-one resume writing and job application assistance with a Career Navigator from Palmetto Goodwill. No appointments necessary. For more information call 843-255-6458.
Bridge Club 10 a.m. to noon, Wednesdays, Beaufort Branch Library, 311 Scott Street, Beaufort. Join us if you want to learn a new game, practice your skills, or need more players. Call the Beaufort Branch Library at 843-255-6458 for more information.
Mah Jongg Open Play 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Thursdays, St. Helena Branch Library, 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Road, St. Helena Island. Already know the basics of this fun and popular tile game? Join others for open play – all materials supplied. Cards may be purchased at nationalmahjonggleague.org.
Mahjong Club 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Fridays, Beaufort Library, 311 Scott Street. All levels of players are welcome. Feel free to bring your own mahjong sets. Plan to meet every week. For more information, call the Beaufort Branch Library at 843-255-6458.
MEETINGS
Beaufort Lions Club 6 p.m., first and third Monday of every month, St John's Lutheran Church, 157 Lady's Island Drive, Beaufort. For more information, visit thebeaufortlionsclub@ gmail.com or follow on Facebook/Instagram/Nextdoor.
PFLAG Savannah –Beaufort Peer Group
6:30 p.m., first Tuesday of every month, Fellowship Hall, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Beaufort (UUFB), 178 Sams Point Road, Beaufort. Free. The group will be moderated by Rick Hamilton and Kay Carr. The provides advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community, family, peers, and allies in the Lowcountry. The peer group provides a safe and strictly confidential environment for LGBTQ+ individuals, their families, friends, and allies to discuss the challenges faced in coming out or being out in neighborhoods, the workplace, school, or church. The organization offers resources for counseling, educating, and advocating to achieve an equitable, inclusive community where every LGBTQ+ person is safe, celebrated, empowered, and loved. Minors under the age of 18 are required to come with an adult parent, guardian, or mentor. Additional information about peer groups, membership, donations, and volunteering is on the website www. PFLAGSavannah.org and on Facebook.
Beaufort Chapter of America’s Boating Club
6 p.m., 2nd Tuesday of most months, at various Beaufort/Port Royal venues. Regular meetings begin with a Social, followed by Dinner and often include an exciting Guest Speaker from the Lowcountry. For Meeting Information or Educational Opportunities, please contact Paul Gorsuch, Administrative Officer at admino@beaufortboatingclub.com . Boat ownership is not required, however a passion for safe responsible boating is mandatory.
Zonta Club of Beaufort 6 p.m., 4th Tuesday of each month, Smokehouse, Port Royal.
Rotary Club of Sea Island lunch meeting 12:15 p.m., 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, Sea Island Presbyterian Church, 81 Lady’s Island Drive, Lady’s Island. Social gathering every 3rd Tuesday at 5:30 pm, locations vary and posted on our website. For more information, visit www.seaislandrotary.org.
Rotary Club of Sea Island social gathering 5:30 p.m., 3rd Tuesday of each month, locations vary and posted on our website. For more information, visit www. seaislandrotary.org.
Beaufort Rotary Club Noon, Wednesdays, Sea Island Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall, 81 Lady’s Island Drive, Lady’s Island. Catered buffet lunch, followed by a guest speaker. Prospective members welcome. For further information and upcoming speakers, please visit website www. beaufortrotaryclub.org.
The Beaufort Trailblazers –A Volunteer Group 8 a.m., first Thursday each month, University Bikes, Beaufort. Anyone interested in supporting or building off-road/ dirt/wilderness mountain biking/jogging/walking trails near is encouraged to attend. For more information, call 843575-0021 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 tradi-
tions of Alcoholics Anonymous and follow a specific format designed to provide the support and tools for navigating life’s painful difficulties. All are welcome. Anyone interested in participating may contact the group via email at EALowcountry@gmail.com or call or text Laurie at 252- 917-7082. For more information on EAI visit www.emotionsanonymous. org.
Al-Anon Beaufort County 7:30 p.m., Thursdays, 80 Lady’s Island Drive in Beaufort. “Do you worry about how much someone drinks? Is it affecting your life? You are not alone. Al-Anon Beaufort Serenity Group offers help and hope. Join the group in Beaufort, or visit the Lowcountry page at https://bit. ly/3HvksaF for more times and locations. Rotary Club of the Lowcountry 7:30 a.m., Fridays, Sea Island Presbyterian Church, 81 Lady's Island Dr., Ladys' Island. Catered breakfast from local chef. Speakers weekly. Occasional social events replace Friday mornings, but will be announced on our website, www.rotaryclubofthelowcountrybeaufort.org.
MUSIC Distant Sounds 6 to 9 p.m., Friday, Oct. 3, Another Slice Pizza, Harbor Island. Something for everyone, from the 60s to the 10s. David Ayres on guitar & vocals, Richard Knieriem on drums & vocals, Eric Roberts on bass, Paul Butare on guitar & vocals. Warsaw Island Boys 6 to 9 p.m., Friday, Oct. 10, ShellRing Ale Works, Port Royal. Campfire Tyler 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sundays, The Fillin’ Station, Lady’s Island.
Lowcountry Wind Symphony rehearsals 7 to 9 p.m., Wednesdays, Beaufort High School Band Room.
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of
& Satur-
OUTDOORS/NATURE Free boating inspections Get a free vessel safety check by local members of the America's Boating Club of Beaufort. If your boat passes, you will receive a VSC decal to mount on your boat that will be visible to other boaters and maritime law enforcement personnel. Email Safety@beaufortboatingclub. com . The Beaufort Tree Walk Lady’s Island Garden Club invites you to take a meandering walk through the Historic “Old Point” and enjoy some unique and noteworthy trees. The “Walk” takes about an hour, is a little over a mile starting at the corner of Craven & Carteret streets in Morrall Park and concluding in Waterfront Park. Booklets with map and information about each tree are available free at the Visitors Center in the historic Arsenal on Craven Street. Tours of Hunting Island Every Tuesday, Hunting Island State Park, 2555 Sea Island Pkwy. Free, park entry fees apply. Sponsored by Friends of Hunting Island Keeper Ted and his team. For more information call the Hunting Island Nature Center at 843838-7437.
SEWING/QUILTING American Needlepoint Guild Meeting 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., 1st Tuesday each month. The Hilton Head Chapter of the American Needlepoint Guild welcomes anyone, beginner or experienced stitcher, who is interested in needlepoint to join us for stitching, learning and fellowship. For more information, please contact us at hiltonheadislandchapter@ needlepoint.org.
Embroidery Guild of America Meeting Second Tuesday of every month, Palmetto Electric Community Room, Hardeeville. The Lowcountry Chapter of the Embroidery Guild of America welcomes anyone, beginner or experienced stitcher, who is interested in any type of embroidery including needlepoint, 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 ACBL Duplicate Bridge Club 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m., Tuesdays, Carteret Street. Events will be held weekly. Contact Director and Club Manager Susan DeFoe at 843-597-2541 for location.
Bridge
Beaufort
VOICES
Editor’s Note: The opinions of our columnists in the Voices section are not necessarily the opinions of The Island News
Redemption, rebirth remain possible
It is Monday, early, and I’m just back from an early morning swim in the Sound. I’ve got my coffee — Eight O’Clock — and a blueberry infused English Muffin.
For the past few days I’ve been listening, over and over, to a 14 minute-long speech titled “How the Elite Rigged Society” by David Brooks.
I’m sure you know Brooks — he writes for The New York Times and frequently appears on the PBS program, News Hour.
Brooks begins his speech (in England) by saying that we have created a “meritocracy” (in the United States) wherein the “wealthy” get their sons and daughters into a small number of elite colleges. Brooks says these privileged issue from just 34 top tier universities get 54% of the better-paying, consequential jobs in America.
Within this cohort of privilege — a “caste” according to Brooks — there is an emphasis on selffocus and entitlement. All of which has “privatized morality” and destroyed the “moral order built into the universe.”
It is hard for me to know what Brooks means by the “moral order of the universe” but I would think that we’re talking about a body of belief
that includes the Gospels, the teachings of Socrates, Plato, Erasmus. I would also think that Edmund Burke, James Madison and Alexander Hamilton would be part of the “order.” I would hope the more recent writings of Paul Tillich, Toni Morrison and James Baldwin would make the grade.
Brooks goes on to say that this caste has also abandoned it’s sense of any responsibility to bring along the poor, to heal or to help those born into your beaten-up, dog-on-a-chaindouble-wide in Appalachia.
He also says we’re a divided country; we are “ruptured;” and a recent study done by The New York Times found that 64% of those responding believed that we are divided “beyond the ability of our political system to solve our current problems.”
In short a huge pessimism has replaced our normal, systemic optimism.
But then Brooks reminds us that in 1829 the United States elected Andrew Jackson splitting the country into two parts — New England vs. the South and West. The election of Jackson was largely a reaction to the growing influence of mill owners and the industrial growth of New England.
Likewise, in 1860, the United States was “ruptured” into two parts over the issue of slavery.
In the 1880s there was an economic crash (1882-1885) — yet another rupturing of our Republic which led to sweeping economic reforms led by Theodore Roosevelt.
All of which brings me to the Franciscan priest, Richard Rohr, who says that people who know trauma and tragedy; individuals who hit rock bottom, are the same folks who often rise up and fix themselves.
Rohr says these broken people are given the opportunity to rethink their values; to again examine their concepts of the Divine; and while looking (for the goodness) within have the chance to start afresh.
But a problem with this recovery seems to be the fact that most of us never read Aristotle, Plato, Epicurus or the Roman philosopher Lucretius in the first place. When I started
“...we’re a divided country; we are ‘ruptured;’ and a recent study done by The New York Times found that 64% of those responding believed that we are divided ‘beyond the ability of our political system to solve our current problems.’”
SCOTT GRABER, on America’s growing divide.
college (1963) I learned a lot about small unit tactics like envelopment; but nothing about the classical thinkers in Greece or Rome.
In olden days there were a few American colleges that taught languages like Greek, so that one might read the Greek philosophers in their native tongue. But these days — when the humanities are being treated
like Leukemia — one rarely gets access to the minds of Erasmus or Luther much less Paul, Augustine or Aquinas.
And, as long as we’re being candid, if there is an Elin Hilderbrand romance (Endless Summer) lurking in the library one is unlikely to pick up Voltaire. So I suppose we have to settle for Tucker Carlson, Rachel Maddow and Bill Maher. And yes, on Sunday, The Church still translates Matthew and Mark and, of course, there is always YouTube (Premium) to fill in the gaps
But mostly, these days, we swim alone in a wine dark sea.
But lest you believe that all is lost I would point out another question posed in The New York Times poll, “Do recent events signal the collapse of Democracy in the United States?”
Only 18% of those polled answered that question in the affirmative. In short, 82% of those polled believe our imperfect, up and down experiment in government is not over. Those 82% still think redemption and rebirth are possible, probable.
Scott Graber is a lawyer, novelist, veteran columnist and longtime resident of Port Royal. He can be reached at cscottgraber@gmail.com.
SC lawmakers playing politics with women’s lives
October 2024, at what should have been a joyful nineweek ultrasound, I learned that my pregnancy had stopped developing three weeks earlier.
My doctor explained that the pregnancy was not viable. I was devastated — but the nightmare didn’t end there.
Because of South Carolina’s six-week abortion ban, my doctor would not treat me for a miscarriage until I underwent a second ultrasound 11 days later to confirm what we already knew: There was no heartbeat, and my pregnancy was over. Each day that passed while I carried my nonviable pregnancy put me at increasing risk of infection,
sepsis, and even death. Women in other states with abortion bans, like Texas and Georgia, have already died under similar circumstances. South Carolina shouldn’t be next. I needed a common medical procedure called dilation and curettage (D&C) to complete my miscarriage. Reasons for a D&C include miscarriage and abortion treatment. Under our state’s laws,
doctors who provide an illegal abortion face the threat of losing their medical license, a $10 000 fine, and even jail time.
I remembered thinking I should qualify for the procedure because my pregnancy was non-viable.
However, terrified for his own livelihood, my doctor told me he could not help me. So, while grieving my loss, I had to travel to Virginia and pay $3,000 out of pocket to get the care I desperately needed.
Now, lawmakers are considering S.323, a bill that would take things even further — stripping away the few remaining exceptions and putting more women and girls in danger.
If this bill passes, more people will be forced to
leave the state or sit at home and hope their bodies do not become septic while waiting for a miscarriage to pass naturally. Some won’t make it.
I was fortunate to have the resources and support to travel. Many South Carolina women do not.
Those without the means will be left to risk their fertility, their health, and their lives because politicians decided their suffering was an acceptable price for a political talking point.
This isn’t just about people like me.
Under S.323, a sixthgrade girl could be forced to give birth after being raped by a family member.
A mother of two could be forced to carry a pregnancy with a fatal fetal anomaly,
only to watch her baby die shortly after birth.
These aren’t hypotheticals — they are the brutal, real-world consequences of laws like this.
Today, I am in my third trimester of a new pregnancy, and while I am deeply grateful, I remain painfully aware of how fragile pregnancy can be.
Every appointment brings both joy and anxiety, and I can’t help but think about how easily I — or anyone else — could face another crisis.
If something goes wrong again, I could find myself right back where I was last year: begging for care that my own state refuses to provide.
South Carolina lawmak ers like to claim they are
“protecting life.” But S.323 would do the opposite: endanger women, girls, and families across our state. The decision to end a pregnancy should belong to patients and their doctors — not politicians who will never face these terrifying moments themselves. I want my daughter to grow up in a South Carolina where women’s lives are valued and protected, not sacrificed for politics.
Christine Glang lives in Simpsonville. She is a wife, and mother to her daughter. She is currently pregnant with a son due to arrive in early October. She was previously interviewed by WYFF4 about being denied miscarriage treatment under South Carolina’s
SCOTT GRABER
CHRISTINE GLANG
Editor’s Note:
VOICES
Don’t be dumb about vaccinations
Did you get your flu shot yet? How about your Covid vaccine? Or did you and your kids get vaccinated for measles?
No? Well that’s why the state health department is forced to issue this kind of statement:
“Measles is highly contagious and there is risk for continued, rapid spread of the disease in the Upstate among communities with low immunization rates,” said the state’s epidemiologist, Dr. Linda Bell, on Thursday.
Just having to issue such a statement must drive public health officials crazy. Why? Because measles was officially declared eliminated in the United States by the World Health Organization in 2000 – until
preening politicians and anti-vaccination activists got in the business of spreading outright falsehoods about vaccinations. If people would turn off information from non-scientists and listen to the facts, they might understand vaccines are an incredibly strong treatment to keep communicable diseases at bay. But no, they’d rather believe something they turn up in “research” based
on some stupid post on the Internet than listen to scientists and doctors who actually know what they’re talking about.
We wouldn’t be having measles outbreaks in this country if the weirdo world would stop listening to the nonsense spewing out of the non-science mouths of “vaccine skeptics” like U.S. Health and Human Services
Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Yep — the guy who claimed a worm was eating his brain, who dumped a dead bear carcass in Central Park and who can’t seem to get facts straight whenever testifying before Congress.
According to the state Department of Public Health (DPH), South Carolina now has eight confirmed cases of measles in the
Upstate. While it may not sound like a lot, remember that measles spread more quickly than rabbits making new rabbits. And what’s most worrisome to scientists, here and across the country, is how the unvaccinated people who have the disease got it from unknown sources, which indicates what Bell called “unrecognized community spread.”
She said the department anticipates more cases will be identified.
“(We) implore community members to act responsibly,” she said. “If you are ill, stay home. Notify a health care provider by phone of symptoms suggestive of measles before visiting a clinic. Follow guidance for control measures and
cooperate with DPH investigations.”
The painful virus spreads easily by air when someone with the disease breathes, coughs or sneezes.
“At this time, it is very important to get better protection against measles spread in our communities by increasing measles vaccination coverage.”
Put more bluntly, if you are unvaccinated for measles, stop being stupid. Measles vaccines work and are safe, preventing infections with a 97% rate of effectiveness, according to the department.
“Measles virus can remain infectious in the air in a confined area for up to two hours after the sick person is gone from the area. People with measles
should stay home from work and school and avoid contact with others for four days after their rash first appears.” If you’re not vaccinated against measles — or against flu or Covid, for that matter — talk with a real doctor, listen and get the shots. Doing so is a community responsibility because it helps to keep everyone, including you and your loved ones, safer.
Learn more online about measles from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: cdc.gov/measles/ vaccines/index.html
Andy Brack is editor and publisher of the Charleston City Paper and Statehouse Report. Have a comment? Send it to feedback@statehousereport.com.
Time for change for education in SC
As a parent, grandparent, and teacher, I am appalled by the constant attacks on the character of teachers and the teaching profession. The politicization of education is elevating the education crisis in our state, and our children and grandchildren are the victims.
Students all over South Carolina attend classes without a certified teacher as school districts struggle to fill teacher vacancies. Teachers are working second jobs because they are still paid $10,000 below the national average.
Yet, the teachers who are showing up every day, sacrificing early mornings, late nights, and weekends to meet the needs of their students and fulfill the expectations of the profession, are not supported or valued. We need our teachers.
For two decades, our education system has ranked in the bottom 10 nationally. Instead of addressing the root causes of our educational plight, the current administration has chosen to focus on divisive political battles. Banning books, cutting ties with librarians, canceling the AP
African American Studies course, targeting teachers, and defunding public education are not solutions to the real challenges plaguing our schools.
Positions of power should not be used to promote divisive ideology. These are positions of service. Too many students are afraid. They are not only concerned about the increase in violence and bullying; they are also afraid of failing. The constant changes in curriculum and testing have diminished student confidence and learning. Students in rural areas face even greater challenges. School facilities are outdated, students have limited access to advanced courses and Career and Technical Education opportunities, and a high percentage of teachers are
uncertified and international. Parents all over the state are frustrated with the lack of meaningful communication and transparency. In 2024, the Berkeley County School Board closed J.K. Gourdin Elementary school by adding an amendment to the school budget which closed the school without it being on the original agenda. Parents did not have the opportunity to voice their opinions or concerns before the final decision was approved. Parents felt betrayed and blindsided. Parents want the best for their children, but their voices are being ignored. When politics outweigh purpose, our children lose. South Carolina deserves leadership that unites us, values education over politics, and elevates the level of learning for every child in every zip code.
My vision to advance South Carolina as one of the Top 10 educational systems in the country does not require big reforms. My plan of action includes: Creating an intercounty digital platform specific for teachers to support each other and share ideas;
Working with Legislators to increase teacher pay to the national average; Investing in Early Childhood Education starting at six months to support parents, child care development centers, and home day cares; Establishing Arts Integration and Language Immersion programs in every district; Decreasing the frequency of curriculum changes; Increasing the number of Career and Technical Education courses, Apprenticeships, and Preapprenticeships in every district; Increasing the number of fulltime social workers, guidance counselors, school psychologists, and nurses within schools; Using technology, including AI, to personalize instruction to meet the unique needs of every student; Partnering with Law Enforcement and Firefighter Associations to provide contemporary tactical training for School Resource officers, local officers, and state officers;
Establishing a consistent financial plan for school safety that protects our children, teachers, and everyone in the school building; Working with school districts to create new revenue sources to properly fund school budgets; Collaborating with the South Carolina Public Library System to promote reading initiatives that restore the joy of reading; and Hosting collaborative Town Halls with local superintendents and local elected officials in every county.
South Carolina deserves better. It is time to elect an educational leader who will advocate for and serve every student, every teacher, every school, and every family in South Carolina. Your voice and your vote in 2026 elections will determine the future of education for your children and grandchildren.
Sylvia Wright is a candidate for South Carolina State Superintendent of Education.
Shout out to Beaufort County Public Works
I would like to give a big shout out to Beaufort County Public Works for coming to the Oakmont Subdivision to dig ditches and clear street drains to alleviate the flooding and septic issues this subdivision has been having since the heavy rains back in August. I believe this work was expedited by the Beaufort County Council, specifically Joe Passiment (Burton 1A) when I and many others went to speak to the County Council on these very issues on September 8. I thank the County Council for listening to our issues and acting quickly on them. Thank you again. – Lisa Disbrow, Beaufort
Holy Week
Holy Week
1004 11th St., Port Royal Holy Communion Wednesdays Hope & Healing service at noon All are welcome! Livestreamed at www.stmarksportroyal.org
@ 7:30 p.m.
@ 7:30 p.m.
Good Friday, Apr. 18 @ noon
Good Friday, Apr. 18 @ noon
Easter Vigil, Apr. 19 @ 7:30 p.m.
Easter Vigil, Apr. 19 @ 7:30 p.m.
Easter Sunday Apr. 20 @ 9 & 11 a.m. 1104 11th St., Port Royal stmarksportroyal.org
Easter Sunday Apr. 20 @ 9 & 11 a.m. 1104 11th St., Port Royal stmarksportroyal.org
ANDY BRACK
SYLVIA WRIGHT
First responder emergency training
U.S. Marines and emergency services with Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, conduct live emergency simulation training Sept. 16, 2025, at MCAS Beaufort. This training was conducted to prepare responders for real-world emergencies and enhance coordination between responding units. Cpl. Mason Coots/USMC
Refresher course on filing for Service-Connected Disability Compensation
Ireceive many phone calls, emails, and text messages each week, asking me about VA service-connected disability compensation. This article is the first in a series of five that will provide a refresher course on the steps to follow when filing a claim for service-connected disability compensation. It also provides a “Call to assist veteran and their families” because some veterans and their dependents and survivors are too ill, too impaired, not computer literate, do not have a computer, do not have access to the internet, may not have a phone, may be homeless, do not text or use email, thus making it more important for family members, friends. Veterans service organizations, the VA, and VSOs collaborate to locate and assist these veterans.
The information in this article is based on The VA “Welcome to VA.gov” website https://www. va.gov.
The VA “Welcome Kit” (June 2025 Guide version 4), https://bit.ly/3KE4MDp. The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) webpage (https://www.va.gov/health/). The “2025 Federal Benefits Guide for Veterans, Dependents, Survivors, and Caregivers” at https://bit. ly/46TE6G1
The VA “Podcast Network” (https://news.va.gov/va-podcast-network/).
The VA “YouTube SITREP” (https://www.youtube.com/@ VAmadesimple).
The VHA “YouTube channel” (https://www.youtube.com/ user/VeteransHealthAdmin).
The VA “Facebook” site (https://www.facebook.com/ VeteransHealth/).
The VHA “Twitter Veterans Health” webpage (https:// www.va.gov/health/social/ twitterdisclaimer.aspTwitter and https://x.com/VeteransHealth).
The VA Blog “VA NEWS” webpage at https://news. va.gov. Discussions with VA-accred-
ited Veterans Service Officers (VSOs).
More than 250 articles I have written, over the past five years, for The Island News on veterans’ benefits and how to apply for those benefits. You can read my past articles at https://www.yourislandnews. com; click on Military.
Things to do while in the military
1 Keep a copy of all the documentation (evidence) of a service connection. Veterans should keep all records of service-connected wounds, injuries, illnesses, traumas, Hazardous Material Exposures/Contaminations (and resulting injuries/illnesses), traumatic events/injuries, scars, and medical conditions. This includes military medical records, military personnel records, accident reports (aircraft, vehicle, workplace, OSHA), incident reports, line of duty investigation reports, Incident Reports, Purple Heart Awards, Enlisted Efficiency Reports, Officer Efficiency Reports, pictures (injuries/damaged equipment, etc.), Operational Hazard Reports, and other records that can be used to prove the event, wound, injury, illness, HAZMAT exposure, trauma, happened and what caused or worsened the condition..
This must include (1.) health conditions that the veteran had before beginning military service that were worsened by military service; (2.) conditions, injuries/ wounds, illnesses, traumas, scars, events that happened during military service; and
(3.) conditions that showed up after leaving military service, like cancers caused by Agent Orange, non-cancer (and cancer conditions caused by asbestos exposure. etc.), and secondary conditions caused by the original condition (like Migraine Headaches caused by Traumatic Brain Injuries, Osteoarthritis caused by fractured bones, Plantar Fasciitis caused by foot problems, etc.).
Military members should report all injuries, wounds, burns, illnesses, traumas, HAZMAT exposures/contaminations, and sexual traumas (combat, accident, violence in the workplace, others), and resulting symptoms, pain, loss of range of motion, loss of hearing, loss of sight, loss of memory, to their medical provider and the chain of command.
2 Get a copy of “all” of your military medical, military personnel, DD214, and other records when you retire or separate from the military. This is so important. Not having your discharge papers (DD214/other separation papers, military medical records, and military personnel records) can delay and even prevent a veteran from receiving their hardearned benefits. Although service-connected events, conditions, injuries, wounds, illnesses, traumas, events, and HAZMAT exposures/ injuries can be proven with other evidence, such as lay witness statements, it is more challenging to establish service connection eligibility without military medical records. Repeat!, “It is more challenging to establish service connection eligibility without military medical records.”
3 Use a VA-accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO). Military members, veterans, their family members, and survivors should use a VA-accredited Veterans
Service Officer (VSO) to help them understand their benefits (federal and state) and file for service-connected disability compensation and other benefits. VSO services are free. Contact your local VSO to schedule an appointment. Veterans can find S.C. County VSOs at https://bit. ly/3qbLVSL and Georgia VSOs at https://bit.ly/44KMVA7. They can also search for VA-accredited representatives nationwide at https:// bit.ly/3QnCk5M or at VA Regional Offices at https:// bit.ly/3TahNn1
4 Ask your battle buddies, witnesses, and family for Lay Witness Statements. As soon as possible after a service-connected injury, wound, illness, trauma, HAZMAT Exposure/Contamination Injury, or event, ask the witnesses to write a Lay Witness Statement documenting the event and the symptoms and effects (wounds, injuries, illnesses, etc.) they saw, heard, felt, and smelled. Read more about Lay Witness statements in The Island News veterans’ benefits article dated 26 July 2023 titled, Lay Witness (Buddy) statements.
5 Make an Inventory of your Service-Connected Conditions and Symptoms. This process begins approximately a year before the veteran leaves military service and continues throughout the veteran’s life, evolving as new conditions and symptoms develop and worsen, as well as secondary conditions emerge. Go through your military medical records, VA medical records, and civilian medical records, and highlight each disabling condition that is service-connected. Then write down by each condition the symptoms you are experiencing, (pain, loss of motion, fever, sweats, tingling, ringing in ears, burning, fear, anxiety, depression, etc.), frequency of symptoms (constant, daily,
EDITOR’S NOTE
This article is the first in a series of five.
weekly, etc.), severity of symptoms (mild-moderate, high, unbearable and 1 to 10 on a scale of 10 being the worst pain you can stand), temperature, sweats, blood pressure measurements, and how disabling the condition is (cannot walk more than XXX feet, cannot stand for more than XX minutes, cannot perform certain functions/jobs, cannot lift more than XX ponds, etc.).. Make sure you describe your loss of hearing, loss of sight, loss of color vision, loss of night vision, loss of range of motion, and other adverse effects.
6 Make an inventory of your medications. Include who prescribed the drug, why you are taking the medication, the name of the medication, the dosage taken, and the frequency taken (AM or PM or both, etc.). Write down for each medication what it is taken for and any side effects you are having. Also, list any over-the-counter drugs or supplements you take, such as vitamins, magnesium, potassium, zinc, etc.
7 Make an inventory of all of your medical equipment and devices. Examples include cane, crutches, walker, wheelchair, motorized scooter, braces, wraps, tens unit, neck traction machine, etc.
Continued next week.
Larry Dandridge is a Vietnam War wounded warrior, disabled veteran, exEnlisted 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 DANDRIDGE
LOCAL MILITARY
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
Recruit Training Regiment, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, 10 October 2025
Recruit Training Regiment • Commanding Officer, Colonel A. P. Bariletti 1st Recruit Training Battalion • Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel G. T. Moynihan Commander of Troops, Captain N. J. Busalacchi • Parade Adjutant, First Lieutenant R. M. Swetnam Company “A”, 1st Recruit Training Battalion • Captain N. J. Busalacchi Drill Master • Gunnery Sergeant J. J. Merriweather, Staff Sergeant B. C. McGuigan
PLATOON 1064
Senior Drill Instructor
SSgt J. D. Vazquez-Iglesias
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PFC Gorniak J. J.
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Pvt Hogan D. W.*
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Pvt Perez R. A. PFC Portalesgarcia J. Pvt Prince E. J.
Pvt Ramirezmiguel F. M. PFC Rennish D. J. Pvt Riascos T. PFC Robertson N. D.
Pvt Rodriguez R. J. Pvt Rowe D. T. PFC Roy J. W. Pvt Sanchezcarrasco J. D.
Schoonover L. L. PFC Sharp R. A. * Pvt Shipp I. N. Pvt Silva J. D.
Pvt Sterling M. T.
Pvt Stewart IV G. G.
Stimmell J. B.
Pvt Taylor A. S.
Taylor W. B.
Ton A. Pvt Truluck N. M. PFC Wallace M.
PLATOON 1066
Senior Drill Instructor SSgt S. R. Harvin IV
Pvt Avendano S. C.
Pvt Barr K. J.
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Pvt Basehore J. R.
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PFC Brown J. M.
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PFC Cileone G. A.
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PFC Delacruzgonzalez M. A.
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Pvt Donaldson Jr M. N.
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PFC Hernandez Candanedo Jr O. F.
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Pvt Lambert J. T.
Pvt Liboy A. L.
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Pvt Sanchez J. J. *
PFC Sargent J. J.
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PLATOON 1068
Senior Drill Instructor SSgt A. C. Gonzalez
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PFC Hollister J. Y.
Pvt Holt S. E.
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PFC Powell R. D.
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Villa A.
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ATTORNEY
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Celebrating the “Beaufort Style” October 17th, 18th & 19th
Fed by God
The Eucharist
In Scripture, God took pity on his people in their hunger.
As the Israelites journeyed through the desert, God fed them with manna from heaven. (Exodus 16) He fed Elijah with special bread that strengthened him to walk for forty days. (1 Kings 19:8) Twice, Jesus took pity on the great crowds who had gathered to hear him preach, and he miraculously fed them all from a few loaves of bread. He promised the crowds that he would give himself as the Bread of Life, giving his flesh as true food and his blood as true drink. (John 6:55)
As our bodies yearn for food, so our souls yearn for Jesus. Without food, we grow weak and are unable to carry out our daily tasks. Without union with Jesus, we become spiritually weak and lack the strength to do all that he calls us to do. There are many ways that we can allow Jesus to nourish our soul, such as quiet times of prayer and reflection on his Word in Holy Scripture. But Jesus has also given us a very special gift, the Eucharist, by which we are nourished in both body and soul with Jesus himself.
Jesus gave us this gift of himself on the night before he died. At the Last Supper, Jesus took a loaf of bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” He then took a cup of wine, gave thanks to God, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink, all of you; for this is my blood of the covenant.”
(Matthew 26:26-29) In a mysterious way, through what looked like normal bread and wine, Jesus was uniting himself with his disciples, in a way that connected them in both body and soul.
Receiving Holy Communion, we become one with Jesus. When Catholics gather for worship, we believe that Jesus works a miracle. The Eucharist is not merely a symbol or a reminder of Jesus, but truly Jesus himself, hidden under the appearance of bread and wine. When we receive the Eucharist in Holy Communion, we are becoming one with Jesus in our entire being, in body and soul. And he is giving himself entirely to us, physically and spiritually, in his humanity and in his divinity.
The Sacraments Message 3 of 8
The Eucharist is our most precious treasure as Christians. It is because we believe that the Eucharist is truly Jesus, and not a symbol, that reception of Holy Communion is limited to those who share our faith and are properly prepared. Catholic children, for example, are typically prepared for Holy Communion at about age seven, when they are old enough to begin to comprehend that they will be truly receiving Jesus himself and not ordinary bread.
Through Holy Communion, Jesus nourishes us on our journey. Just as God nourished the Israelites as they journeyed towards the Promised Land, Jesus strengthens us in Holy Communion on our earthly journey towards heaven. What food does for the body, so the Eucharist does for the soul. Receiving Holy Communion with love, we are united intimately with Jesus, grow in our relationship with him, and receive grace to live a life of holiness and faith.
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