August 21 edition

Man killed, homes destroyed in Fripp Island fire

Saturday blaze occupies firefighters for 14 hours

By Mike McCombs The Island News

A 59-year-old man and a dog lost their lives in a fire Saturday morning, Aug. 16, on Fripp Island that completely destroyed three homes and severely damaged two others.

Around 10:15 a.m., the Fripp Island Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire at 718 Bonito Road. Firefighters arrived on scene within minutes to find one home fully engulfed in flames and two adjacent residences in danger.

Fox & Friends co-host visits Beaufort

By Delayna Earley

The Island News

The downtown Beaufort area is beloved by locals and tourists alike, but early on Tuesday morning, the area got some recognition at the national level when Fox & Friends co-host Steve Doocy broadcasted live from Blackstone’s Café and several other locally owned businesses on Bay Street.

Blackstone’s Café owner Jake Higgins said that while he did not organize the visit from the television show, he was happy to let them broadcast

from his restaurant and to feature a tradition that he is very proud of. Every morning the patrons of the restaurant are invited to stand and say the Pledge of Allegiance, a point which Higgins said that the show wanted to highlight. Higgins also said that hundreds of people came out to be present as Doocy broadcasted live, but a lot of them ended up having to wait outside once the restaurant reached capacity.

SEE FRIENDS PAGE A5

Ofelia Fernandez, 5, and Kelleher Wiggers, 6, of Bluffton explore water quality levels during the ninth annual STEAM Festival, sponsored by Palmetto Bluff Conservancy and Beaufort Memorial Hospital, held Saturday, Aug. 16, at the Port Royal Sound Foundation’s Maritime Center. The festival, which celebrates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math), showcased demonstrations, simulations, experiments and hands-on activities by area businesses, organizations and schools using STEAM to succeed. Asa Aarons Smith/The Island News

It was immediately evident, given the intensity of the fire and the summer heat, that fire crews had their work cut out for them. Fripp Island promptly asked for additional manpower and resources and received help.

The Lady’s Island/St. Helena Fire District, City of Beaufort/ Town of Port Royal Fire Department and the Burton Fire District all assisted with manpower and resources.

Unfortunately, given the proximity of the homes to one another, three houses were totally destroyed and two others sustained significant exterior damage before the fire could be extinguished.

According to the Fripp Island Fire Department, fire crews remained on the scene for more than 14 hours to ensure full containment and safety.

One individual was unaccounted for during the response to the fires. Ultimately, the man, as well as a dog, was found inside one of the destroyed structures.

“The Fripp Island Fire Department extends its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased during this difficult time,” the department said in a news release.

SEE FIRE PAGE A4

Marine recruit suffers gunshot wound on Parris Island

the recruit's condition is being monitored by medical personnel, and no additional personal details will be released at this time. The incident is currently under investigation, and according to Chief Warrant Officer Bobby Yarbrough with COMMSTRAT there are no updates after six days or any additional information to release, as of yet.

LOWCOUNTRY LIFE & NEWS

Yvonne Visser snapped this photo in Walling Grove Plantation with the Coosaw River in the background. 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 TIM EAST

American Legion Beaufort

Post 207 brings you Tim East, 62, who joined the U.S. Air Force in Indianapolis in 1981. After Basic Training at Lackland AFB, San Antonio and logistics management training at Lowery AFB, he was assigned to Langley AFB in Virginia.

Three years later he transferred to Dover AFB in Delaware. He next served at Ramstein AFB in Germany where he worked at the underground command post.

His final active duty assignment was at Charleston AFB. In 1992 he transferred to the Air Force Reserve, deploying in 2003 to Pakistan and Afghanistan where he was First Sergeant over joint personnel. In 2005, he deployed to Iraq working with the security forces. He retired in 2012 as a First Sergeant. Beginning in 1993 when not activated by the Air

Force, he was a S.C. Highway Patrol Officer until 2009, when he joined the Ridgeland Police Department. He retired in 2022 after 29 years working in law enforcement.

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

Beaufort County redesigns Auditor’s website

Staff reports

Beaufort County Auditor David Cadd has announced the overwhelming success of the department's website updates. Utilizing feedback from taxpayers, the new user-friendly tools and resources were shaped by user comments and requests.

The website has had over

190 000 views since April 2024

Some of the new features include: Online forms that allow taxpayers to apply for the Homestead Exemption or appeal their personal property valuations; A new Tax Calculator designed to estimate taxes

August 22

1813: During the War of 1812, the British landed forces at Beaufort and Hilton Head Island where marauders plundered settlements.

August 27

1782: South Carolina statesman and soldier John Laurens, an aidede-camp to Gen. George Washington and a close friend of Alexander Hamilton and the Marquis de Lafayette, is one of the last casualties of the American Revolution, killed at Combahee Bluff (or the Battle of Combahee River) near Beaufort by a British foraging party in search of supplies for the besieged British garrison at Charlestown. During the war, Laurens tried repeatedly to gain support for recruiting enslaved Africans in South Carolina to fight against the British in exchange for their freedom. He was repeatedly denied.

across all property types; and A Spanish Language Access feature that expands accessibility for residents.

Beaufort County Auditor David Cadd said he is “thrilled to work with such great County employees and to be able to support our residents with upgraded features and a state-of-the-art user friendly website.”

The Auditor encourages all residents to utilize the new website features and stay connected through social media platforms Facebook, Instagram, and X.

To explore the new features and tools, visit the Beaufort County Auditor’s website at www.beaufortcountyauditor.com.

1893: A Category 3 hurricane strikes Beaufort and the surrounding islands in the Lowcountry. Known as the Sea Island Hurricane of 1893, the storm killed at least 2,000 people and was responsible for leaving as many as 20 000 people homeless. The majority of buildings on Lady’s Island and St. Helena Island were damaged beyond repair. Relief efforts were led by Clara Barton and the American Red Cross, the first time the organization would provide relief from a powerful storm.

2021: Longtime Battery Creek High School Wrestling Coach Nathan Day dies three days shy of his 58th birthday after a battle with COVID-19. In his 16 years at the school, Day led the Dolphins to six team state championships and 30 individual championships.

– Compiled by Mike McCombs

PETS OF THE WEEK HAS A NEW HOME!

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

Fire damages Wing Stop in Beaufort

By Delayna Earley

Island News

The

A structure fire at Wing Stop on Robert Smalls Parkway was called into the City of Beaufort/Town of Port Royal Fire Department just before 8 a.m. on Aug. 15 in Beaufort.

Beaufort EMS, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort Fire Department, and the Beaufort Police Department all responded along with the fire department to aid in extinguishing the fire and conducting the initial investigation.

According to a statement by the City of Beaufort/ Town of Port Royal Fire Department, an employee noticed smoke coming from the rear of the restaurant as

the restaurant. Ross Vezin, a spokesperson for the fire department, said that the structure sustained major smoke and fire damage throughout the restaurant, and adjacent businesses suffered minor smoke damage. The cause of the fire is currently being investigated by the City of Beaufort/ Town of Port Royal Fire Department and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).

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.

Burton Fire Captain retires after 60 years of service

Staff reports

Ralph

Staff reports The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) issued a news release on Sunday, Aug. 17, asking for the public’s help following an early morning shooting on St. Helena Island.

According to the BCSO, at approximately 12:20 a.m., deputies responded to reports of gunfire on Legree Road. Upon arrival, deputies discovered that a residence had been struck multiple times by gunfire; no one inside the home was injured.

The investigation is ongoing.

Sunday afternoon, Aug. 10, at the Burton Fire District Station 84 Captain, mechanic Ralph Neiderhiser celebrated his retirement with family, friends, and coworkers from both his past and present. Neiderhiser began his service more than 60 years ago as a volunteer firefighter for his home town in Pennsylvania. He eventually was hired as a mechanic for Hilton Head Fire and Rescue and retired after 20 years. He continued in the fire service as a fire chief for the Point South Volunteer Fire Department before being hired as a mechanic for the Burton Fire District in 2005, and in 2013 he was selected as the Fire Officer of the Year.

T

Neiderhiser, with his iconic cowboy hat that he is never without, has been responsible for ensuring the maintenance and safe operation for the Burton Fire District’s emergency vehicles, as well as small engines and other equipment, and has earned the trust and respect of those who operate them.

His knowledge and skills grew and expanded as fire apparatus became more computerized. He was once described as such a talented mechanic “he could figure out how to weld two pieces of wood together if they needed to be.”

Three of Ralph’s grandsons followed him into the fire service and are fire officers in South Carolina fire departments.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency dispatch line at 843-524-2777

To remain anonymous, tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers of Beaufort County via the P3 Tips app, online at tipsbft.com, or by calling 844-TIPS-BFT (844847-7238).

Spenser Staub, M . D. to Beaufort Memorial Pulmonary Specialists

o further meet the need for pulmonary care in the Lowcountry, Beaufort Memorial has added board-certified and fellowship-trained pulmonologist Dr. Spenser Staub to its Pulmonary Specialists practice.

Dr. Staub joins the practice from the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), and will be diagnosing and treating patients with various pulmonary conditions, including COPD, asthma and other acute and chronic lung diseases, as well as managing care for patients admitted to the Beaufort Memorial Hospital intensive care unit (ICU).

Growing up in Charleston, many of Dr. Staub’s role models were physicians, which guided him to a career in the medical field. He has used his medical expertise in clinics around the globe, including in a medical command unit in the U.S. Army National Guard, where he has been a member since 2019.

During residency and fellowship training, Dr. Staub presented research at various national medical conferences and had several medical journal articles published. He was also recognized as an outstanding educator two years in a row by medical students at MUSC.

Fellowship

Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine

Medical University of South Carolina

Residency

Internal Medicine

Medical University of South Carolina

Doctor of Medicine

Medical University of South Carolina

Bachelor of Science

Spanish Language and International Health

(Departmental Honors in Biochemistry)

Medical University of South Carolina

Dr. Staub joins board-certified pulmonologist Andrew Stevens, M.D., board-certified nurse practitioners Risa Linford, AGACNP and Shawna Nievierowski, FNP-BC, as well as board-certified pulmonologist John Krcmarik, M.D. at the practice.

Ladson man killed in head-on collision on US 21

By Mike McCombs

The Island News

A 29-year-old Ladson

man was killed Sunday night, Aug. 17, in a head-on collision on U.S. 21 north of Beaufort.

According to the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office, Jacquay Roberson died on scene at approximately 10:02 p.m., on scene at 3557 Trask Parkway from injuries suffered in a motor vehicle collision.

Master Trooper William Bennett of the South Carolina Highway Patrol said the crash occurred at approximately 9:55 p.m., Sunday, roughly 4½ miles north of Beaufort.

Roberson was the driver of a 2025 GMC pickup and was carrying a passenger. The second vehicle involved was a 2005 Ford pickup truck in which the driver was the only occupant.

According to Bennett, Roberson was traveling north on U.S. 21, while the Ford was headed south, when Roberson crossed the center line and struck the Ford head-on in the southbound lane.

While Roberson died on scene, his passenger was transported by EMS to Beaufort Memorial Hospital.

The driver of the Ford was transported by EMS to Beaufort Memorial Hospital, as well. The collision remains under investigation by the S.C. Highway Patrol.

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

Hoffman named Public Works Program Manager of Year

Hoffman manages Solid Waste and Recycling Program

Staff reports

Beaufort County Solid Waste and Recycling Program Manager Victoria Hoffman was recently named Public Works Program Manager of the Year by American Public Works Association’s (APWA) South Carolina Lowcountry Branch, according to a press release.

Nominated by County Public Works Director Bradley Harriott, Hoffman was nominated for the Excellent Manager Award because she approaches every task with determination, is reliable, has a strong drive to innovate and improve pro-

Fire from page A1

The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office will release the man’s identity and official cause of death following notification of next of kin. However, Beaufort County Chief Deputy Coroner Shane Bowers said there may be a delay in public identification.

“At this time, we are in the process of positively identifying the victim using DNA evidence,” Bowers said in an email. “It can take weeks for this information to come back, so we will release the identity of the victim when we have those results.”

The Beaufort County

NEWS BRIEFS

Filing open for Port Royal Town Council election

The Beaufort County Board of Voter Registration and Elections will be holding a General Election on Nov. 4 2025, to fill two Town Council seats in the Town of Port Royal.

Candidate filing opened on Aug. 8, and closes at noon on Friday, Sept. 5 2025. Filing must be done in person at Port Royal Town Hall at 700 Paris Avenue.

The filing fee for Town Council is $100 and is due at the time of filing. Candidates must be eligible voters residing within the town limits and must complete the Statement of Intention of Candidacy – Non-Partisan form.

State ethics filings, including a Statement of Economic Interests and Campaign Disclosure, are also required. These can be completed through the State Ethics Commission at www.ethics.sc.gov. Voter registration deadlines are as follows:

In Person: Friday, Oct. 3 2025

Online/Email/Fax: Sunday, Oct. 5 2025

By Mail: Must be postmarked by Monday, Oct. 6, 2025 For more information and filing forms, visit www.beaufortcountysc. gov/vote.

NOB Democratic Club meets Thursday

The Northern Beaufort County Democratic Club will meet at 6 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 21 at Grace AME Chapel at 502 Charles Street in Beaufort.

With the cuts to SNAP, attendees are asked to bring a non-perishable food item to donate to HELP of Beaufort.

The group will take part in a Labor Day Protest from noon until 1 p.m., Monday, Sept. 1 in front of

cesses and delivers results on time and with a remarkable attention to detail.

"I was proud to nominate Victoria Hoffman as she is a valuable member of the Public Works Department," Harriott said in a news release. "Her ability to manage complex projects, maintaining a positive attitude and emphasizing teamwork has earned her the respect of her colleagues as well as County residents."

"It is an incredible honor to receive this recognition," said Hoffman. "I am grateful to work

alongside such a dedicated team, serving the public and continually striving to improve solid waste efficiency for the residents of Beaufort County. "I'm proud of what I've accomplished to this point: streamlining the encroachment permit system, launching new programs like e-waste drop offs and food waste diversion. I remain deeply committed to the County and my community and look forward to continuing to share my passion for environmental sustainability and public service."

The American Public Works As-

sociation's goals include promoting the value of public works and enhancing its visibility and awareness, being the voice of public works to government leaders, the public, and media, providing excellence in education and credentialing and delivering outstanding and valuable membership experience in collaboration with chapters. For more information about the American Public Works Association, visit https://bit.ly/3Jg1llP. For more information about Beaufort County Solid Waste and Recycling, visit https://bit.ly/45yM4VX.

Sheriff’s Office (BCSO), and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED)

are investigating the cause of the fire. Updates will be provided as more informa-

tion becomes available.

In their news release, Chief Josh Horton and the

Fripp Island Fire Department thanked those that came to their assistance.

“We would also like to express our gratitude to the agencies and organizations that assisted in this incident: Lady’s Island/St. Helena Fire District, City of Beaufort/Town of Port Royal Fire Department, Burton Fire District, Beaufort County EMS, Fripp Island Public Service District, and the Fripp Island Resort,” the release said. “Finally, we are profoundly grateful to the Fripp Island community, who provided food, drinks, ice, and support to firefighters throughout the response.”

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

Beaufort City Hall. The demonstration is tomshow support for the working class against the billionaires.

Service academy nomination applications open through Sen. Scott’s office

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 Academy (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.

Road resurfacing continues

Beaufort County daytime road resurfacing continues, weather and schedule permitting. Road work will be done from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

Black Skimmer Drive and Chinaback Drive, both on Lady's Island, were to be completed by Wednesday, Aug. 20. Chinaback Drive and Purdy Way, also both Lady's Island, are slated to begin Thursday, Aug. 21 and be completed by Friday, Aug. 22

The resurfacing operations are funded by the Beaufort County Transportation Committee.

During construction, lane closures, road cones and signage will

be visible to direct traffic safely. Motorists and residents should be prepared for lane closures and are encouraged to use extra caution when approaching work zones.

For more information, call the Beaufort County Engineering Department at 843-255- 2706

Factory Creek Pier, Brewer Memorial Park temporarily closed

The Factory Creek Fishing Pier and Brewer Memorial Park were to be temporarily closed beginning Wednesday, Aug. 20 for dock improvements.

According to a Beaufort County media release, construction is expected to last for approximately three weeks, depending on weather.

For more information, contact Beaufort County Public Works at 843-255-2800

Candidate filing opens Aug. 22 for Yemassee Municipal Election

The Town of Yemassee Municipal General Election will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 4 2025. Voters will elect two Town Council Members and the Mayor, each serving a four-year term. These seats are currently held by Council Member David Paul Murray, Council Member Stacy Pinckney, and Mayor Colin J. Moore.

All Mayor and Town Council seats in Yemassee are at-large and non-partisan. Individuals seeking to run must file a Statement of Intention of Candidacy – Nonpartisan.

The filing period opens at noon on Friday, Aug. 22, and runs through noon, Friday, Sept. 5 at the Yemassee Municipal Complex, during normal business hours from

8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. (Note: The Town will be closed Monday, Sept. 1, for Labor Day. No filings will be accepted on that day.) Eligible candidates must be a registered South Carolina voter residing in the Town of Yemassee.

Candidates may obtain and complete the Statement of Intention of Candidacy – Non-Partisan form from the South Carolina Election Commission website or at the Yemassee Municipal Complex. Submit the completed form in person along with the appropriate filing fee -- $300 for Mayor or $150 for Council Member. All fees must be paid at the time of submission and are non-refundable.

Candidates must also complete the required South Carolina Ethics Commission campaign forms online at https://ethics.sc.gov/campaigns.

County hosting free electronics recycling event

The Beaufort County Department of Solid Waste and Recycling will host a free electronics recycling event for County residents Saturday, Aug. 23

It will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at River Ridge Academy 3050 Raider Drive in Bluffton. To assist in alleviating traffic buildup, please take Hampton Parkway to Raider Drive to access the event.

Items that will be accepted for recycling include personal computers, laptops, CRT monitors, LCD monitors, CRT televisions, non-CRT televisions, printers, hard drives, and miscellaneous electronics (cell phones, tablets, and fax machines).

Residents are asked to stay in their cars during the event. Staff will unload electronics, residential only.

Andrews to speak at joint Indivisible meeting

Dr. Annie Andrews, a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate in South Carolina, will be the featured speaker at a joint meeting on Indivisible Beaufort and Lowcountry Indivisible at 10 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 6, at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Lowcountry at 110 Malphrus Road in Bluffton.

The event is free and open to the public.

Morris Center

Executive Director to step down

Tamara Herring, Executive Director of the Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage, will step down from her role effective Friday, Oct. 31, 2025

The Morris Center Trust has engaged Annmarie Reiley-Kay, a respected museum consultant, to lead a comprehensive search for the next Executive Director.

The Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage is a learning and exhibition center dedicated to preserving and cultivating the history, culture and spirit of Ridgeland and its surrounding counties. Housed in a collection of vintage buildings, with the architecturally distinctive Sinclair Service Station as its focal point, the center features ever-changing exhibitions, interactive and dynamic learning opportunities, cultural offerings, storytelling and other forms of art.

Items not accepted at this event include microwaves, vacuums, stereos, speakers, tuners, VCRs, DVDs, lamps, etc. These can be taken to the Convenience Centers for disposal and will not be unloaded at the event.

– Staff reports

By Jeff Evans The Island News

After more than three years of construction and waiting, HELP of Beaufort held a private ribbon cutting Friday, Aug. 15 to say, “Thank you” to its volunteers and donors for making the organization’s dream of a new building a reality

The building was a community partnership build –100 percent of the labor and fiances that contributed to the building of the structure were donated by members of the community.

“The construction has taken four years, and it’s good to finally have it done. We’ll now be open for the community,” HELP of Beaufort Executive Director Lori

Moving on up

HELP of Beaufort officially opens new building

Opozda said. “Two buildings ago we were down on Ribaut [Road] and it worked out really well for us. We got a lot of volunteers, we got a lot of donations, so it seemed to be a good fit. And then when we had to move over to Charles Street.

“We ended up buying this property because Ribaut was such a good location for us. It gives us a lot more visibility and it’s a more centralized location for everybody. For people who live in the Burton area, Beaufort, St. Helena. It’s right in the middle so it works out well.

“I’ve been with HELP 10 years now [since] back when we were located on Ice House Road off Hwy. 17. And we had to move about every

two years, which was costly and disruptive because you had to shut everything down to move again.

“Now we have a permanent location with no mortgage. Everything was donated for either goods or services. This gives us the ability to concentrate on our core mission, which is our clients. Being able to start up new programs and expanding the ones we have. When you’re moving all the time you don’t have an opportunity to do that.”

The doors to the new facility officially opened for business on Monday, Aug. 18

Friends from page A1

A highlight of the event for him was to have the viewers of Fox & Friends across the nation get the opportunity to see the people of Beaufort, S.C.

“That’s the most important part,” Higgins said. “The people, my staff, who make all these years turn are the most important part of it. That’s the heart and soul.”

While there were many who showed up to support the broadcasting of the Fox News show, the event drew protesters as well who held signs disparaging Fox News for not practicing unbiased journalism and pandering to a conservative audience.

Protesters also carried signs

speaking out against President Donald Trump and members of his administration.

The back-and-forth between sides began well in advance of Fox & Friends arrival on Tuesday, with many carrying on heated debates anywhere that information for the event was posted on social media.

Some protesters made claims that they were being censored when trying to debate the issue on posts made to Blackstone’s Café’s social media.

Higgins said that the people who manage his social media did hide some comments made on the post that were deemed to be inappropriate.

“It’s a business page, it’s not a community town square or a government page where they’re allowed to say whatever they

Full of Grace Mary

What is so special about Mary?

God chose Mary to play an extremely important role in the salvation of the world. Speaking through the angel Gabriel, God called Mary “full of grace” and asked her to be the mother of Jesus. Mary freely said yes to God’s request, and Jesus was conceived in her womb through the Holy Spirit. As one saint said, “No Mary, no Jesus.”

Doesn’t Jesus want us to care about him alone?

Imagine a young man starting to consider marriage. Wouldn’t he want his girlfriend to meet his parents and develop affection for them?

Surely he would not say, “Sweetheart, I don’t want you to pay any attention to my parents or get to know my friends. I only want you to care about me.” When someone loves us, we are happy that they also develop love for those whom we care about. In the same way, Jesus is happy for us to care for his mother and others he loves.

Do Catholics worship Mary?

want,” Higgins said. “This highlighted the city of Beaufort and the businesses and people here and it was such a great experience to see all the support and love by the people. It had nothing to do with politics, it was literally just about the people, and it was so refreshing to be a part of that.”

Higgins said it was an honor to stand next to Mr. Ray Stokes, a 101-year-old World War II veteran, and say the Pledge of Allegiance live on TV.

“It was pretty inspiring,” Higgins 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.

No, Catholic Christians only worship God. Mary is a human being created by God, like all of us. We do not worship her, but we honor her as the mother of Jesus and the greatest of all the saints. She is the best example in Scripture of humility and obedience to God’s will.

What are Scriptural examples of giving honor to others?

Honoring someone means that we have respect and admiration for that person. Our highest respect and admiration goes to God, of course. But God also commands us to honor our parents (Exodus 20:12), church leaders (1 Tim 5:17), the emperor (1 Peter 2:17), and others in political authority (1 Tim 2:2). God foretold through Mary herself, “From this day, all generations will call me blessed.” (Luke 1:48) From the earliest centuries up to the present day, Christians have fulfilled this prophecy in our honor of Mary.

Why do Catholics ask Mary to pray for them?

Catholics pray directly to Jesus every day. He is our closest friend, and we come to him with our worries and needs. But as discussed in a previous message, we can also ask those in heaven to pray for us. The saints are not dead, but even more alive than we are, and closer to God. Scripture indicates that they are still aware of what is happening on earth and that they pray to God on our behalf. So we find it very natural to ask the saints to pray for us, and particularly Mary as the Lord’s mother.

How can Mary help in our walk with Jesus?

Just as affection for one’s mother-in-law does not weaken one’s relationship with one’s spouse, but strengthens it, so too an appropriate affection for Mary helps us to love Jesus even better. Mary always points us to her son, just as she did during the wedding at Cana: “Do whatever he tells you.” (John 2:5) One is not obliged as a Catholic to honor Mary, but countless Christians have discovered that Mary’s example and intercession have led them to experience an even deeper love of Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

County government corrects interest calculation lapse

Approximately $1.6 million to be refunded to taxpayers

Staff reports

According to a media release, Beaufort County Government has identified and corrected a lapse in interest calculation on real property tax refunds dating back to 2020

In May of this year, it was brought to the attention of the CFO and County Administrator that interest calculations on refunds and appeals for real prop-

erty, previously calculated in the Auditor’s office, had ceased back in 2020. The County Administrator directed the Assessor’s office to work with the South Carolina Department of Revenue to calculate the interest owed and return Beaufort County to compliance with State Code.

“Once we were made aware that calculations had ceased, the County began acting immediately,”

Beaufort County Administrator Michael Moore said in the news release. “Every affected taxpayer will receive what they are owed as quickly as possible.”

Since 2020, more than 5,500 refunds were issued without the legally required interest. At present, the County owes approximately $1 6 million in unpaid interest to affected taxpayers. The Assessor’s Office has completed the back-

Center for the Arts hosting McClure’s ‘Office Hours’

Special opening reception set for Thursday

Staff reports

The USC Beaufort Center for the Arts is hosting “Office Hours,” a solo exhibition by artist and USCB instructor Emma Barnes McClure, through Friday, Sept. 29

A special opening reception will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 21

Also featured will be works by USCB Studio Art juniors and seniors created under McClure’s guidance.

Barnes is a multi-disciplinary artist from Islandton, S.C. She attended the South Carolina Governor's School for the Arts and Humanities from 2008 to 2010

In 2014, she graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a BFA in Painting & Printmaking and a double major in Gender Studies. In 2019 she attended Athena Standards, an art residency in Athens, Greece. In 2022, Barnes received an

MFA in Painting, Drawing and Photography in the Alfred University international Düsseldorf program. She continues to produce and exhibit work around the country including Lake City’s 2023 Art Fields Festival, the Arts Center of Greenwood, Florida Mining Gallery, Michigan Medicine Gallery, Montgomery College Gallery in Maryland, and Sulfur Studios in Savannah.

Early morning fire leaves Beaufort family displaced

Staff reports Just before 1 a.m., Monday, Aug. 18, fire crews responded to a structure fire on Euhaw Street in Beaufort that left a family displaced. The City of Beaufort/ Town of Port Royal Fire Department Battalion 1, Engine Company 1, Ladder Company 2, Engine Company 3; Lady’s Island – St. Helena (LISH) Fire District Battalion 20, Engine Company 220; Beaufort County EMS; and Beaufort Police Department all responded.

Beaufort/Port Royal Battalion 1 and Engine Company 1 arrived on scene in less than three minutes, reporting visible smoke and flames coming from a single-story residential structure. Engine Company 1 secured a nearby hydrant, laid a supply line, and initiated an aggressive interior attack, quickly bringing the fire under control. Ladder Company 2 assisted with fire suppression and conducted a search and rescue of the residence. Crews from Engine Compa-

ny 3 and LISH Engine Company 220 worked on the building’s exterior, checking for fire extension and extinguishing hot spots.

Fire crews remained on scene for more than three hours to complete salvage and overhaul operations. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

The Red Cross was notified and is assisting the displaced family. Dominion Energy also responded to secure the residence’s power and gas. No injuries were reported.

log of calculations and forwarded them to the Auditor’s Office for processing. The Treasurer’s Office is also prepared to assist Finance staff with issuing the refund checks.

“I’d like to thank our County Administrator, the Finance team, and our Assessor’s Office for their quick work over the past few weeks to calculate these refunds,” County Council Chair Alice Howard said in the news release. “Making our taxpayers whole is simply the right thing to do.”

Taxpayers eligible for a refund will receive direct communication from the County with details on the amount and process for reimbursement. For questions regarding the real property interest refunds, please contact the Beaufort County Assessor’s Office at 843-255-2400

Nurse Practitioner joins BMH

Lady’s Island Internal Medicine

Staff reports

A board-certified nurse practitioner has joined the Beaufort Memorial primary care team at Lady’s Island Internal Medicine.

Jenna Gossett, MSN, FNP-C, is a certified family nurse practitioner with a wide range of expertise in primary, urgent and intensive care. Gossett will help her patients modify their lifestyles in order to manage chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.

Gossett entered the nursing field in 2012 and has since developed a diverse background in the healthcare industry. She worked for healthcare systems in California and around the country as a travel nurse while experiencing life in an RV. She has also been a nurse in facilities throughout South Carolina, including Columbia, Orangeburg, Greenville and Charleston.

No stranger to the Lowcountry, she has worked in the region since 2021. She took on nurse practitioner roles in emergency

room settings in Varnville, then urgent care in Beaufort and now family practice on Lady’s Island, which appealed to her due to the long-term, personal connections that she will be building with her patients, she said.

“I look at my patients as a whole, modifying the approach to overall health based on their needs, lifestyle and goals,” she added.

Gossett, who earned her Master of Science in Nursing at Chamberlain University in Addison, Ill., will work with her patients on preventive care and illnesses, as well as helping patients manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure) and obesity.

To schedule an appointment with Gossett or any of the providers at Beaufort Memorial Lady’s Island Internal Medicine, call 843-522-7240

Staff reports United Way of the Lowcountry's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is offering additional free tax preparation days to help qualifying residents of Beaufort and Jasper counties file their federal and state tax returns accurately and efficiently. The program – a collaboration between the IRS, Beaufort County Human

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

In Bluffton, the service is available from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday, Sept. 29, at the Bluffton Public Library at 120 Palmetto Drive. In Beaufort, the service is

available from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday, Aug. 25 at the United Way of the Lowcountry Beaufort Office at 1277 Ribaut Road. Limited spots are available, and in-person appointments are required. Visit www.uwlowcountry.org/ VITA to reserve your spot, check for eligibility requirements and to find a list of necessary documents to bring.

Tuesday, Aug.

Top honor

Lady’s Island Middle School Assistant Principal recognized with highest district award

By Delayna Earley The Island News

Geneva Young can summarize her life to this point in periods of four years, and she would be the first to agree that starting off her fourth year as an assistant principal at Lady’s Island Middle School by being named the Beaufort County School District’s (BCSD) Assistant Principal of the Year for the 2025-2026 school year is a pretty great beginning to the year.

Young said that she was so convinced that she would not win the award that she didn’t even react when they called her name.

“I am still in disbelief,” Young said. “When my name got called my principal was like, ‘Miss Young, isn’t that you?’ and I was like, ‘Oh, it is!’” Born and raised in Beaufort County on St. Helena Island, Young attended Lady’s Island Middle School in between her time at St. Helena Elementary School and Beaufort High School, where she graduated in 2004

She attended the University of South Carolina in Columbia for three years before she returned home to help care for a family mem-

ber who was experiencing health issues.

Young finished her undergraduate degree at University of South Carolina Beaufort and started with the BCSD as a long-term substitute teacher before getting hired on as a second-grade teacher at Broad River Elementary School in 2010 She worked at Broad River Elementary School and spent time as a teacher for the Chinese immersion program there before transitioning to being a reading coach.

Now, Young is entering her fourth year as the sixthgrade assistant principal at Lady’s Island Middle School and loves what she does.

“I can honestly say I am having the time of my life,” Young said about her job. “I wake up in the morning and I’m just ready to come back in the school building with these babies. I call them babies, but they don’t like it when I call them babies, but they will forever and always be their parents’ babies, so they’re my babies.”

As an assistant principal, Young said that what feels like sets her apart is that she is always willing to go above and beyond for her job.

“Honestly, my mom, I

EDUCATION BRIEFS

Nexus Care of Beaufort, All Aboard Beaufort Youth Leadership host Back to School meeting

Nexus Care of Beaufort's STAR (Striving to Achieve Resiliency) Youth Leadership Program is kicking off another school year with an event encouraging middle school and high school students north of the Broad to develop peer-to-peer conversations about preventing substance use and misuse.

In partnership with All Aboard Beaufort, the event will be held Thursday, Aug. 21 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the Penn Center at 16 Penn Center Circle Eas.

The special guest is Marie Gibbs. As a Gullah native, she taught, inspired, and motivated young minds for more than 30 years at St. Helena Elementary School, the school she attended as a child and the school from which she later graduated. Gibbs retired in 2008 and began her second career as a devoted grandmother and volunteer at the Penn Center Museum.

This event is free and open to all interested middle school and high school students in northern Beaufort County.

For more information and to R.S.V.P., contact Jodie Martinez at jodie.martinez@bcgov.net.

think she has a spy on me because she’ll send me a text at 8 p.m. or 9 p.m. at night and say, ‘Why are you still at the school building,’ and I say, ‘Mom, I have to do the work.’”

Young said she is more than happy to work hard in her job though, because at the end of the day it’s all for student achievement and the staff that she “serves” as well. She is not afraid to get her hands dirty and will always jump in to help a teacher in need because she is a helper.

Even though this year marks four years for Young in her current position, she said that she is truly happy staying where she is for a little bit.

“I just really see myself continuing in the leadership role,” Young said. “One day hoping to be a principal within Beaufort County School District, if they would have me, and then just bringing everything that I have learned along the way with me in that role.”

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.

Sparklight to host free digital literacy class

To help Beaufort/Port Royal residents build confidence and skills for today’s digital world, Sparklight will host a free digital literacy class on Tuesday, Aug. 26, from noon to 2 p.m. at its retail location at 1425 Ribaut Road in Port Royal.

Attendees will learn basic internet terms, web browser navigation and online search techniques. The session will also cover identifying digital devices, connecting to Wi-Fi networks and troubleshooting basic internet connection issues. Instructors will overview online safety principles, including selecting strong passwords/pass phrases and recognizing scams.

“The internet is essential for accessing information, securing education and employment, connecting to vital services and more,” said Jane Shanley, Sparklight Senior Regional Director, Southeast. “We’re pleased to offer this practical workshop to help Beaufort-area residents improve their knowledge and open up new opportunities.”

For more information and to reserve your spot, please call 843-384-8971. Attendees are encouraged to bring their preferred digital device to boost their hands-on skills.

– Staff reports

SC 29405 (“Creditor/Lienholder”), will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, outside of the Beaufort County Government Center Entrance, 100 Ribaut Rd, Beaufort, SC 29902, beginning at 10:00 a.m. on September 10th , 2025, the following described Property: AS TO: Frank Bancer and FRANCINE MUNKACSY An undivided one fifty-second (1/52) fractional interest in Unit No. 5421 respectively, SurfWatch Horizontal Property Regime, lying situate and being in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, South Carolina, and being more particularly shown and described by reference to the Master Deed, establishing the said Horizontal Property Regime, being dated June 17, 2004, and recorded in the Land Records for Beaufort County, South Carolina, on June 22, 2004 in Deed Book 01976 at Page 0001, as further amended from time to time, and by reference to that certain plat entitled "Plat of Phase 1, 2 & 3 SurfWatch Horizontal Property Regime", said plat prepared by Surveying Consultants, Inc., Terry G. Hatchell, S.C.R.L.S.#11059 , said plat being dated July 15, 2005, and recorded in the Land Records for Beaufort County, South Carolina, in Plat Book 108 at Page 5, as may be further revised from time to time ("Plat"). AND ALSO, all of the rights, privileges, easements, and common areas appertaining to the above-described property as set forth in the Master Deed and By-Laws of SurfWatch Horizontal Property Regime. AND ALSO, all right, title, interest and privileges extending to Time Sharing Interest Numbers(s) 5421-S-09 in each of the respective aforedescribed Units, as contained in that certain Time Sharing Declaration, dated June 17, 2004, recorded in the Land Records for Beaufort County, South Carolina, on June 22, 2004 in Deed Book 01976 at Page 0082, as amended from time to time. The sale of the Property is to satisfy the past due obligations of the Owner(s) as evidenced by the Claim(s) of Lien duly recorded in the following Official Records Lien Book/Page: 161/1018, 4390/1280 of the Public Records of Beaufort County, South Carolina. Owner is currently in default under certain provi-

LEGAL NOTICES

sions of the Master Deed Establishing SurfWatch Horizontal Property Regime, Beaufort County, South Carolina by MARRIOTT OWNERSHIP RESORTS INC. recorded in the Registrar of Deeds, Beaufort County, South Carolina on June 22, 2004 in Deed Book 01976 at Page 0001, as further amended from time to time, (the “Master Deed”). As provided for in the

$4,134.09. If additional costs and/or fees associated with the foreclosure and sale are incurred, such additional costs and/or fees shall be added to this amount on the date of the Foreclosure Sale. NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE SurfWatch Owners Association v. JENNIFER HUNTER PO BOX 1690 PAROWAN UT 84761-1690 (“Owner”) Contract number 10253466. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that according to the Notice of Sale recorded in the Register of Deeds Office for Beaufort County, South Carolina, Daniel C. Zickefoose, as Trustee/Attorney and Eck, Conley & Richardson, P.L.L.C, 4000 Faber Place Drive, Suite 300, North Charleston, SC 29405 (“Creditor/Lienholder”), will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, outside of the Beaufort County Government Center Entrance, 100 Ribaut Rd, Beaufort, SC 29902, beginning at 10:00 a.m. on September 10th 2025, the following described Property: AS TO: JENNIFER HUNTER An undivided one fifty-second (1/52) fractional interest in Unit No. 5141 respectively, SurfWatch Horizontal Property Regime, lying situate and being in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, South Carolina, and being more particularly shown and described by reference to the Master Deed, establishing the said Horizontal Property Regime, being dated June 17, 2004, and recorded in the Land Records for Beaufort County, South Carolina, on June 22, 2004 in Deed Book 01976 at Page 0001, as further amended from time to time, and by reference to that certain plat entitled "Plat of Phase 1, 2 & 3 SurfWatch Horizontal Property Regime", said plat prepared by Surveying Consultants, Inc., Terry G. Hatchell, S.C.R.L.S.#11059 , said plat being dated July 15, 2005, and recorded in the Land Records for Beaufort County, South Carolina, in Plat Book 108 at Page 5, as may be further revised from time to time ("Plat"). AND ALSO, all of the rights, privileges, easements, and common areas appertaining to the above-described property as set forth in the Master Deed and By-Laws of SurfWatch Horizontal Property Regime. AND ALSO, all right, title, interest and privileges extending to Time Sharing Interest Numbers(s) 5141-S-09 in each of the respective aforedescribed Units, as contained in that certain Time Sharing Declaration, dated June 17, 2004, recorded in the Land Records for Beaufort County, South Carolina, on June 22, 2004 in Deed Book 01976 at Page 0082, as amended from time to time. The sale of the Property is to satisfy the past due obligations of the Owner(s) as evidenced by the Claim(s) of Lien duly recorded in the following Official Records Lien Book/Page: 157/173 of the Public Records of Beaufort County, South Carolina. Owner is currently in default under certain provisions of the Master Deed Establishing SurfWatch Horizontal Property Regime, Beaufort County, South Carolina by MARRIOTT OWNERSHIP RESORTS INC. recorded in the Registrar of Deeds, Beaufort County, South Carolina on June 22, 2004 in Deed Book 01976 at Page 0001, as further amended from time to time, (the “Master Deed”). As provided for in the Master Deed, as amended, the lienholder has chosen to proceed with a non-judicial foreclosure procedure in accordance

with Article 3 of Chapter 32 of Title 27

closure

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE SurfWatch Owners Association v. JENNIFER HUNTER PO BOX 1690 PAROWAN UT 84761-1690 (“Owner”) Contract number 10253466. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that according to the Notice of Sale recorded in the Register of Deeds Office for Beaufort County, South Carolina, Daniel C. Zickefoose, as Trustee/Attorney and Eck, Conley & Richardson, P.L.L.C, 4000 Faber Place Drive, Suite 300, North Charleston, SC 29405 (“Creditor/Lienholder”), will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, outside of the Beaufort County Government Center Entrance, 100 Ribaut Rd, Beaufort, SC 29902, beginning at 10:00 a.m. on September 10th , 2025, the following described Property: AS TO: JENNIFER HUNTER An undivided one fifty-second (1/52) fractional interest in Unit No. 5315 respectively, SurfWatch Horizontal Property Regime, lying situate and being in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, South Carolina, and being more particularly shown and described by reference to the Master Deed, establishing the said Horizontal Property Regime, being dated June 17, 2004, and recorded in the Land Records for Beaufort County, South Carolina, on June 22, 2004 in Deed Book 01976 at Page 0001, as further amended from time to time, and by reference to that certain plat entitled "Plat of Phase 1, 2 & 3 SurfWatch Horizontal Property Regime", said plat prepared by Surveying Consultants, Inc., Terry G. Hatchell, S.C.R.L.S.#11059 , said plat being dated July 15, 2005, and recorded in the Land Records for Beaufort County, South Carolina, in Plat Book 108 at Page 5, as may be further revised from time to time ("Plat"). AND ALSO, all of the rights, privileges, easements, and common areas appertaining to the above-described property as set forth in the Master Deed and By-Laws of SurfWatch Horizontal Property Regime. AND ALSO, all right, title, interest and privileges extending to Time Sharing Interest Numbers(s) 5315-S-48 in each of the respective aforedescribed Units, as contained in that certain Time Sharing Declaration, dated June 17, 2004, recorded in the Land Records for Beaufort County, South Carolina, on June 22, 2004 in Deed Book 01976 at Page 0082, as amended from time to time. The sale of the Property is to satisfy the past due obligations of the Owner(s) as evidenced by the Claim(s) of Lien duly recorded in the following Official Records Lien Book/Page: 157/201 of the Public Records of Beaufort County, South Carolina. Owner is currently in default under certain provisions of the Master Deed Establishing SurfWatch Horizontal Property Regime, Beaufort County, South Carolina by MARRIOTT OWNERSHIP RESORTS INC. recorded in the Registrar of Deeds, Beaufort County, South Carolina on June 22, 2004 in Deed Book 01976 at Page 0001, as further amended from time to time, (the “Master Deed”). As provided for in the Master Deed, as amended, the lienholder has chosen to proceed with a non-judicial foreclosure procedure in accordance with Article 3 of Chapter 32 of Title 27 of the Code of Laws of South Carolina. The total amount due as of the date of the Foreclosure Sale is $9,232.60. If additional costs and/ or fees associated with the foreclosure and sale are incurred, such additional costs and/or fees shall be added to this amount on the date of the Foreclosure Sale.

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE SurfWatch Owners Association v. DENNIS G KILPATRICK

Could your foot pain be psoriatic arthritis?

Condition can cause flare-ups of swelling, pain in feet

By James Varner, MMS, PA-C Beaufort Memorial

Lowcountry Medical

Group Primary Care

If you have psoriasis, you have about a 1-in3 chance of developing psoriatic arthritis.

Often, some of the first signs of this condition appear in your feet. If you’re experiencing unexplained foot pain, swelling and tenderness, you could have psoriatic arthritis in your feet.

Each one of your feet has 26 bones and 33 joints, and all of those are connected by ligaments, muscles and tendons. Psoriatic arthritis can flare up at any one of those points.

Psoriatic arthritis can cause joint pain, stiffness, swelling, pain and tenderness in the ankles, feet and toes. The condition affects the feet in other ways, causing:

Difficulty walking;

Heel pain;

Joints that feel hot;

Losing your range of

motion or being unable to flex your toes and feet; Pain on the bottom of your foot or in your arch;

Swelling in your toes such that they look like sausages; and Toenail changes, such as discoloration, pitting in your nails and nails separating from the nail bed.

Your healthcare provider can help you manage psoriatic arthritis with medications and lifestyle changes. If you stick with your treatment plan, symptoms shouldn’t limit your activities.

Some people with psoriatic arthritis can develop a rare condition called arthritis mutilans, which can cause the soft tissues in your bone to deteriorate, making it hard to bend or move your joints. Arthritis mutilans can also cause bones to fuse, complicating your ability to accomplish simple daily tasks, such as walking

around your house.

Fortunately, arthritis mutilans can be prevented in most patients. Current treatments for psoriatic arthritis are quite effective.

Treatment often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medication and physical therapy. To start, avoid activities and shoes

How to choose a Primary Care Provider

By Chris Ketchie Beaufort Memorial Vice President of Physician Services

One of the longest and most important relationships of your life will likely be the one you share with your primary care provider (PCP). Your PCP serves as an ongoing medical resource and provides comprehensive care for chronic health issues or concerns.

Finding a new PCP, however, can feel overwhelming. The population here in the Lowcountry is growing and aging, creating an increased demand for primary care and specialty care services. These needs are growing faster than healthcare systems can meet them. If you’re new to the area, or if your primary care provider is retiring, it can be overwhelming to figure out what’s next. Where do you even start with such an important decision?

When it comes to finding a new PCP, here are a few things to consider:

Your insurance network

Research the providers within your healthcare plan using an online doctor database so you won’t be surprised with outof-network costs or a high bill from a provider who does not accept your insurance.

Word of mouth

Online reviews give you many opinions about a particular PCP, but can sometimes lack context and reliability. They can be a good place to start, but recommendations from friends, neighbors or family members can be more accurate and you can ask questions about good and bad experiences.

Your particular needs

If you have a chronic medical condition, such as hypertension or diabetes, look for a primary care provider who specializes or has a specific interest in your conditions. Beaufort Memorial has a comprehensive online provider directory that shows which providers are accepting new patients, and the specialties and clinical interests of each provider.

Having a gender preference for your PCP can have an impact on who you feel comfortable talking to, as well. Ask yourself if you would be more comfortable bringing up certain issues with a male or female

provider. That can help narrow down your choices.

Visit BeaufortMemorial.org/Providers to see the full list.

Don’t wait to schedule

Be proactive when scheduling with a PCP. If you’re new to the area, don’t wait until you need an appointment to schedule one. For immediate care needs and medication refills that may be needed before your PCP visit, Beaufort Memorial has three Express Care locations in Port Royal, Okatie and Bluffton with providers that can help, and these locations are open evenings and weekends.

Onsite visit

The best gauge of care is to experience it. Make an appointment to give the office and provider a test drive. At your visit, evaluate how your visit went, the friendliness of front desk and office staff, and any wait times you experience.

When you walk out of an appointment, you should feel comfortable with what went on and that you have a clear understanding of what your treatment plan is. We never like people going home from an appointment with unanswered questions or feeling like they weren’t heard. It’s important to make sure your PCP is a good fit for you.

To see what Beaufort Memorial primary care providers are accepting new patients, visit BeaufortMemorial.org/PCPNewPatients.

Chris Ketchie has been the Vice President of Physician Services at Beaufort Memorial since 2016. He is head of Beaufort Memorial Physician Partners, the largest multispecialty medical group in Beaufort and Jasper counties, overseeing 23 practices comprised of 100+ physicians and advanced practice providers.

that exacerbate pain and use ice packs and shoe inserts to reduce inflammation. If pain affects your day-to-day life, your provider can give you corticosteroid injections.

If you know you have psoriasis, pay attention to changes in your feet or toes and talk to your provider about any symptoms that concern you. Many other orthopedic conditions have similar symptoms to psoriatic arthritis, including these other types of arthritis: Gout, which develops when excess uric acid forms crystals in body tissue; Osteoarthritis, which often occurs with age or

as a result of a previous injury; and Rheumatoid arthritis, a different type of chronic inflammatory arthritis.

Other non-arthritis-related conditions can also cause foot pain, including plantar fasciitis — inflammation of tissue (the plantar fascia) on the bottom of your foot. Additionally, diabetes and chemotherapy can cause neuropathy, or nerve pain, in your feet. Overuse injuries and standing for a long time can cause problems, such as tendinitis and stress fractures.

Whether it’s psoriatic arthritis, osteoarthritis or something else entirely, your healthcare provider can help you get back on your feet.

James Varner, MMS, PA-C is a board-certified physician assistant who sees patients at Lowcountry Medical Group Primary Care in Beaufort, specializing in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses in adults.

Sleep and your blood pressure: an intricate relationship

Special to The Island News

If you have trouble getting a good night’s sleep, you might be at a higher risk of developing high blood pressure than the average person. Lack of sleep and inconsistent sleep schedules have been linked to high blood pressure, as well as several other health conditions, including stroke and Type 2 diabetes. For these reasons, it is important to be informed about the relationship between sleep and blood pressure.

“A lot of people don’t recognize the sheer importance of getting quality sleep on a regular basis,” says Tara Kay, MMS, PAC, of Beaufort Memorial Heart Specialists. “Prioritizing sleep could mean the difference between good health and dealing with a lifetime of chronic medical conditions.”

When you get deep, restful sleep, your blood pressure drops. If you aren’t getting high-quality sleep, your blood pressure may remain elevated for longer than it normally would, increasing your risk for cardiovascular issues, such as heart attacks and strokes.

That’s in part why sleep disorders, including obstructive sleep apnea, increase your risk for high blood pressure and other forms of heart disease. Obstructive sleep apnea interferes with your ability to breathe normally while you sleep and, as a result, disrupts your sleeping patterns.

The American Heart Association recommends adults get seven to nine hours of sleep each night to protect their heart health, as well as their overall health.

If you’re struggling to stick to a schedule or get the recommended seven

to nine hours of sleep, try these tips: Stay consistent about your bedtime and what time you wake up in the morning. Consistency is key if you want to create a healthy sleep routine. Get into the habit by waking up and going to bed at the same time each day. Build the right environment for sleep. You can help your body fall asleep more easily if you keep your room dark and free of distractions.

Put your devices to bed, too. While you may be tempted to scroll through social media before bed, the blue light from screens can make falling asleep difficult. Shut your devices down 30 or more minutes before bedtime.

Maintain a healthy diet and stay active.

Exercise regularly and avoid eating snacks or a large meal before bed. Both can improve your sleep quality.

High blood pressure is a leading risk factor for stroke, so it may not be surprising that people with poor sleep

habits also have an elevated stroke risk. Interestingly, however, it appears that sleeping too much seems to be the culprit. Research has shown that people who sleep more than nine hours and those who take long afternoon naps (90 minutes or more) have a higher risk of stroke than people who sleep less than eight hours a night and those who take short naps (about 30 minutes). Many factors could contribute to the need to sleep more, including: A lack of physical activity; Mental health issues, such as depression; and Sleep disorders, including obstructive sleep apnea.

If you find yourself needing to sleep more than nine hours or feel like you can’t make it through the day without a long nap, talk to your provider about what could be causing your fatigue.

Protecting your cardiovascular health benefits you both now and in the long run. Make good sleep a priority and protect your body’s hardest working muscle.

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

Yemassee Shrimp Festival Friday, Sept. 19 & Saturday, Sept. 20, 101 Town Circle Yemassee. Live music includes the East Coast Party Band (8 p.m., Friday), sponsored by Comcast; and Funk Factory 5 (8 p.m. Saturday). Ore details to come.

2025 Beaufort County Youth Conference

9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 20, USC Beaufort Center For The Arts, 801 Carteret Street, Beaufort. The event aims to bring rising middle school and high school together from all over to address and tackle pressing challenges. For more information, call Lynn at 843-476-1888; Brandon at 843-3210373; or Carrie at 843-812-4399 for more information.

Gather & Give: A Family Promise Barn Bash 6 to 9 p.m., Friday, Oct. 3, The Barn at Hampton Lake, 7457 Hampton Lake Drive, Bluffton. $150 per ticket. Join us for an unforgettable evening of music, good food, good company, and giving back — all in support of Family Promise of Beaufort County. Beer & wine included. Live music and more. To purchase tickets, visit https://bit.ly/45gHNpF.

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.portroy-

WHAT’S HAPPENING

alfarmersmarket.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.

GOLF

4th annual Stingray Scramble Saturday, Sept. 20, Ocean Creek Golf Course, Fripp Island. Proceeds benefit Riverview Charter School. Early bird pricing is $650 for team of four through July 1. After July 1, $700 for team of four. Register online at https://bit.ly/4kTF4br. Visit https://bit.ly/4mWQ7ls for sponsorship opportunities.

Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry's 28th annual Golf Tournament 9 a.m., Monday, Sept. 29, Oldfield Club, 130 Oldfield Way, Okatie. Tickets and sponsorships start at $200. Through this event and the auction, Habitat aims to raise funds to build a Habitat home for a local family. With funding from the past several years’ tournaments, Habitat is currently constructing the “Larry Sanders House” in Ridgeland. That house is named in honor of Larry Sanders, who has been the tournament organizer for many years. Sanders continues to be involved by recruiting players and sponsors for the event. To register to play in the tournament or to become a sponsor, please visit www.lowcountryhabitat. org/2025golftournament.

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 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

“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.

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 843-2556458.

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 Is-

land. 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 offroad/dirt/wilderness mountain biking/ jogging/walking trails near is encouraged to attend. For more information, call 843-575-0021 or email universitybicycles@hotmail.com.

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

Al-Anon Beaufort County 7:30 p.m., Thursday, 80 Lady’s Island Drive in Beaufort. “Do you worry about how much someone drinks? Is it affecting your life? You are not alone. Al-Anon Beaufort Serenity Group offers help and hope. Join the group in Beaufort, or visit the Lowcountry page at https:// bit.ly/3HvksaF for more times and locations.

Rotary Club of the Lowcountry 7:30 a.m., Fridays, Sea Island Presbyterian Church, 81 Lady's Island Dr., Ladys' Island. Catered breakfast from local chef. Speakers weekly. Occasional social events replace Friday mornings, but will be announced on our website, www.rotaryclubofthelowcountrybeaufort.org.

MUSIC Rick Rudd

4 to 9 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 24, GG’s Restaurant & Bar, 1003 Paris Avenue, Port Royal. Celebrating the establishment’s first anniversary.

Ed Walter 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., Friday, Aug. 29, GG’s Restaurant & Bar, 1003 Paris Avenue, Port Royal.

Distant Sounds

6 to 9 p.m., Fridays, Aug. 29, Sept. 12, Seaside Bar & Grill, St. Helena Island. Something for everyone, from the 60s to the 10s. David Ayres on guitar & vocals, Richard Knieriem on drums & vocals, Eric Roberts on bass, Paul Butare on guitar & vocals.

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.

Live entertainment

7 to 11 p.m., Wednesdays, Luther’s Rare and Well Done, 910 Bay Street, downtown Beaufort.

Chris Jones

7 to 11 p.m., Thursdays, Luther’s Rare and Well Done, 910 Bay Street, downtown Beaufort.

Habersham Third Fridays Music on Market 5 to 8 p.m., third Friday of the month, Habersham Marketplace.

Live entertainment 9 p.m. to midnight, Fridays & Saturdays, Luther’s Rare and Well Done, 910 Bay Street, downtown Beaufort.

OUTDOORS/NATURE

America's Boating Club

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

and RUN, FORREST, RUN! For more information and to sign up, visit https://shorturl.at/YoyHx.

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

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

SPORTS/GAMES

Beaufort Brawl 6: Summer Showdown 6 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 30, The Foundry, 2127 Boundary Street, Suite 18-B, Beaufort. Doors open at 5 p.m. A full fight card showcasing top amateur fighters from Beaufort, the Southeast, and beyond and featuring high-impact amateur MMA, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai, and kickboxing bouts. Affordable VIP access and general admission tickets — perfect for fans, families, and fight-fitness enthusiasts. Tickets are available at https://bit.ly/4eWJ6NI.

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 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.

Beaufort Masters Swim Team 6 to 7 a.m., Monday through Friday, Wardle Family Port Royal YMCA. Coached practices. Ages 18 & older, all skill & speed levels, no prior swim team experience needed. Visit lowcountryswimming.com for more information.

Basic Boating Course 6:15 to 8:30 p.m., Thursdays through Sept. 4, First Presbyterian Church of Beaufort Education Building, 1201 North Street, Beaufort. $50 for the first family member, $15 for each additional member. For more information, contact education@Beaufortboatingclub.com.

Beaufort Academy leaves Hilton Head Prep in the dark

Eagles win abbreviated road opener 36-0

By Wes Kerr LowcoSports.com

Even Mother Nature

couldn’t hold down a motivated Beaufort Academy squad on opening night.

After a one-hour delay from a pop-up thunderstorm, BA’s Devin Fripp secured the second-half kickoff, eyed an open crease on the right side, and let his speed do the rest — 91 yards to the house, delivering a dagger to any hopes of a Hilton Head Prep comeback.

Fueled by a surge in the second quarter with two quick-strike touchdown passes from sophomore quarterback Nic Shuford Jr., Beaufort Academy blitzed Hilton Head Prep 36-0 on the road Friday in a shortened affair. The contest was halted and called early in the fourth quarter due to the darkness shortly after 8 p.m.

“That’s a big win right there,” BA newcomer and Whale Branch transfer Rahiem Saunders said on Lowco Pigskin Live. “Yesterday at practice we said, ‘I believe’ together, and we had the belief we could do it together and pull off the win.”

Hilton Head Prep held its own early in a defensive struggle, as both units were able to neutralize explosive plays in the ground game. Despite a promising opening drive, the Dolphins were unable to come away with points after a holding pen-

alty just outside the BA 40yard line stymied the early success from running back Davis Cargill. On the defensive side, Paulie Smith came up big to stuff senior back Nych Underwood before an incompletion gave the ball back to the Dolphins. The game began to turn when the Eagles started going to the air. A pair of long bombs — a 49-yard dime to Fripp followed by a

66-yard strike to Jace Paulk — caught an inexperienced Hilton Head Prep secondary off guard for a sudden 14-0 lead. The frustration boiled over quickly for the home side in a horrid two-play sequence, as Wyatt Harmer threw into double coverage right into the hands of BA’s Ben Davis, and Underwood took it the distance for a 45yard score on the first play of the ensuing drive. Just

like that, it was 22-0

“We’ve got a great offense,” Saunders said. “Nych balls and balls. He kept telling me after every play not to get tired and keep going. I had a lot of energy before the game, and the heat was wearing me down, but he just kept telling me to keep going.”

The Dolphins had a golden opportunity to get back in the game before halftime with Harmer’s 46-yard com-

pletion to Finnian Rooney, but a hungry BA defensive line forced a couple of wayward throws to keep the shutout intact. There was hope that an hour-long delay due to weather could turn the momentum around for the Dolphins, but that thought was wiped away on the opening kickoff of the second half. A brilliant return by Fripp put him in the end zone for the second time and

put the game out of reach for a stunned Hilton Head Prep sideline.

Beaufort Academy’s ferocious defensive front shut down a Dolphins group looking to make a response in large part due to the beastly play of Saunders on the line. Reserve quarterback Ben Davis capped off his stellar game in the fourth, finding Paulk on another deep ball for a 61-yard touchdown. With darkness falling in Sea Pines, the game was called shortly after to give BA the season-opening road win.

Shuford was sensational in his first game under center, completing 8 of 10 passes for 184 yards and two touchdowns and adding 63 yards on six carries. Paulk led all receivers with five catches for 140 yards and two scores, while Fripp reeled in two receptions for 85 yards and a touchdown along with his kick return score, and Underwood excelled on the ground with 147 yards and a touchdown on 11 carries.

Cargill was productive for the Dolphins in the season opener, recording 83 rushing yards on 14 attempts and an eight-yard reception.

Beaufort Academy (1-0) travels to Carolina Academy on Friday, while Hilton Head Prep (0-1) will look for some redemption at home on Friday against St. Andrew’s (Ga.).

Treys4Trey Basketball Camp

Nick Pringle, was aimed at empowering local youth, providing school resources, and fostering community

season

a Final Four appearance with Alabama the previous year, was in attendance to mentor youth and engage with families. The organization

brother, Trey. After the Skills camp, the Treys4Trey organization held a back-to-school bash with school supply giveaways, games and free food.

Branchville at Patrick Henry, 6:30 p.m.

SCHOOL BOYS VOLLEYBALL

Ashley Ridge at Bridges Prep, 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday, August 26

SCHOOL GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

Beaufort at HHCA, 6 p.m.

Effingham Co.

II at Laurence Manning, 7:30 p.m.

St. Andrew’s at Hilton Head Prep, 5 p.m.

Colleton Prep at St. John’s Christian, 7:30 p.m.

Academic Magnet at Patrick Henry, 7:30 p.m.

Thomas Heyward at Bethesda Academy, 7:30 p.m.

Cross Schools at Jefferson Davis, 7:30 p.m.

Monday, August 25

HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

Battery Creek at Colleton Co., 6:15 p.m.

Orangeburg Prep at Colleton Prep, 6 p.m.

SPORTS

JPII stuns

Colleton Prep to open season

Boyden, Wolf power Golden Warriors offense

By Max Arraj LowcoSports.com

They’ll be dressing down at John Paul II Catholic School on Monday, and they hope to make it a regular occasion.

The Golden Warriors’ football team earned the entire school the right to wear their “Victory Monday” T-shirts after grinding out a 31-22 win over visiting Colleton Prep on Friday at Hardeeville’s City Hall.

Alan Wolf bookended a breakthrough performance for JPII’s offense with a pair of long touchdown runs and connected with freshman phenom Jadon Inabinett for a long touchdown pass to help the Golden Warriors stun the War Hawks in a shootout.

Wolf scampered to the end zone on the second play from scrimmage, and the teams traded touchdowns early before JPII opened up a 24-14 lead on a Jackson Reilley field goal.

Colleton Prep rallied to pull within 24-22 early in the fourth quarter, but Wolf went 60 yards to paydirt on the next offensive play to restore the two-score lead.

JPII’s defense made a big stop, and coach Shayne Milligan let his bruising back seal the win with a gutsy fourth-down call.

“I knew between Alan and Andrew Boyden, we would take care of the ball and we would drive it home,” Milligan said on Lowco Pigskin Live. “Those two guys, when it’s down to crunch time, I

HIGH

want the ball in their hands.”

Boyden converted, Wolf took a knee, and the Golden Warriors celebrated a huge win for a program that is hungry for success after a couple of tough seasons to start Milligan’s tenure. The backfield duo was the backbone of JPII’s success Friday. Boyden was the workhorse, rushing for 134 yards and a touchdown on 21 carries, while Wolf racked up 127 yards and two touchdowns on 10 carries and went 3-for-5 passing for 90 yards and a score. Inabinett was the speedster for JPII, adding 26 yards on five carries as well as a 58-yard touchdown reception from Wolf.

Boyden’s impact wasn’t limited to offense — he delivered a standout performance on defense, flying from sideline to sideline to make tackles and anchor the middle of the field.

The Golden Warriors' defense was relentless all

night. Sean Phalen lived in the War Hawks' backfield, contributing to three sacks, two of them solo efforts. Zachary Moulton provided stability and leadership on the back end, making several impressive open-field tackles to keep Colleton Prep’s offense in check. The secondary came up big as well, with Taylor Murphy and Reilley each recording interceptions.

The War Hawks (0-1) look to bounce back next week at St. John’s Christian Academy, while the Golden Warriors (1-0) face a tough road test next week at Laurence Manning, which won 54-25 in Hardeeville a year ago.

“Nothing’s gonna change with what we’re doing,” Milligan said. “I have confidence in our backfield. A lot of our focus is going to be on our pass defense. A couple things tonight I was a little frustrated with, but I think a lot of that just comes down to getting reps.”

SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW CAPSULES

Fort Dorchester (0-0) at Beaufort (0-0)

All-Time Series: Fort D leads 12-10

Last Meeting: Fort D W 28-21 (2024)

Streak: Fort D won 3

Outlook: This is a brutal matchup for the Eagles’ opener, as Bryce Lybrand’s squad is inexperienced at the offensive skill positions and still looking to find a rhythm on that side of the ball. Beaufort’s defense should be able to keep the Eagles in the game, but it will take a tremendous effort against a potent Fort Dorchester offense to have a chance at opening with a win.

Bluffton (0-0) at Whale Branch (0-0)

All-Time Series: Bluffton leads 7-0

Last Meeting: Bluffton W 57-0 (2024)

Streak: Bluffton won 7

Outlook: The Bobcats boast the biggest collection of offensive weapons we’ve seen on one roster in the Lowco in quite some time, with electric receivers Carnell Warren and Amare Patterson working the outside for quarterback Aedan McCarthy and running back Kordell Holley. The Warriors, on the other hand, are facing something of a rebuild in their first year without legendary coach Jerry Hatcher, so it could be a rough night for the home team.

Battery Creek (0-0) at HHCA (0-1)

All-Time Series: HHCA leads 1-0

Last Meeting: HHCA W 17-7 (2024)

Streak: HHCA won 1

Outlook: The Eagles were able to grind out a tough road win at Creek last year, but the Dolphins have gotten bigger and stronger in the trenches over the offseason, while HHCA is light on size up front this season. That doesn’t mean the Dolphins will have an easy time containing Navy commit Reid McCollum, whose big arm and strong frame make him a menace on the ground and through the air, but if their linebackers can limit big plays on the ground and their sec-

ondary holds up, Creek could be poised for a huge confidence-boosting win in its opener on the road.

John Paul II (1-0) at Laurence Manning (0-0)

All-Time Series: LMA leads 1-0

Last Meeting: LMA W 54-25 (2024)

Streak: LMA won 1

Outlook: The Golden Warriors played their best game of football in coach Shayne Milligan’s three years on the job in last week’s 31-22 win over Colleton Prep, showing off an efficient offense and a resilient defense. This will be a tougher test on the road, but this JPII team seems up to the challenge.

Quarterback Grainger Powell and company torched the Golden Warriors’ secondary a year ago, but the defensive backfield held up well against a War Hawks team with some passing prowess, so don’t expect history to repeat itself. This one could go down to the wire, and JPII has already shown it can salt away a win late.

Beaufort Academy (1-0) at Carolina Academy (1-0)

All-Time Series: Tied 1-1

Last Meeting: BA W 23-21 (2024)

Streak: BA won 1

Outlook: Last year’s meeting in the first round of the SCISA 1A playoffs was a Donnybrook, with BA squeaking out a victory, so it’s safe to assume another competitive matchup. Dietrich Shuford was the star against the Bobcats a year ago, and he’s now in the coaching booth. But his younger brother Nic Shuford Jr. put on a show in his debut under center in a 36-0 win over Hilton Head Prep, and he has some serious weapons around him in receiver Devin Fripp and Jace Paulk and powerful running back Nych Underwood. BA’s speed combined with its size up front should be enough to get the Eagles to 2-0

VOICES

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

Political crazy seems to be winning

Adrone’s view of what’s happening in the world today shows a South Carolina and United States caught between crazy and scary. We’re in a new political territory that seems to sink lower almost every day. Just look at this week’s scorecard:

Crazy No. 1: Congressman Ralph Norman, a newly minted Republican lemming for governor, revealed a shocking display of spectatorship, not leadership, with a lazy proposal calling for South Carolina to redistrict. In a state where at least 40% of voters cast ballots for people other than Republicans, the GOP already has six of seven congressional seats (86%). Manipulating one more would be ridiculous and discriminatory – and undermine democracy.

Crazy No. 2: Another Republican gubernatorial

candidate, U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace of the Lowcountry, keeps yammering about anything under the sun to get noticed, proving the political adage that one of the most dangerous places in the country is between a craven politician and a television camera. In just the last few days, she’s spewed on about trying to ban child gender-related medical procedures (what is it with this obsession?) to politicizing the case of an abused dog to score points.

Crazy No. 3: Charleston attorney Mullins McLeod became the first Demo-

Let’s

Iwas inspired by my readings from both Carol Lucas (07/30/25) and Frank Wainwright (08/13/25) concerning the problems of U.S. gerrymandering -- (past to present, any and all, including state and local districts) -- to write this opinion piece considering the present state of our own U.S. voting system.

Some folks may not believe that I actually do think about solutions to our democracy’s problems, just not complaining about them.

To set the record straight, gerrymandering started as far back as 1788 when Anti-Federalists attempted to gerrymander James Madison out of his congressional seat. The name itself was established from Elbridge Gerry (a Democratic-Republican and Founding Father) in 1812; He had signed (as Massachusetts governor) a redistricting bill that opponents thought was a partisan manipulation of district lines favoring his party over the Federalists, which it was.

And let me clearly vow at this time: Any and all gerrymandering is wrong and simply increases

crat to announce he was running for governor this week, only to find himself on the quick receiving end of a painfully negative story about a May arrest for disorderly conduct. Any politico with a lick of sense could see that the full story, only lightly reported before the campaign announcement, would expand when he entered the race. Worse: Upon a media request, police released a video that showed an unforgettable incoherent rant in the back of a cop car in which McLeod spewed all sorts of venom. Nevertheless, he says he was unlawfully arrested and he’s in the race, but he’ll have trouble wiggling out of what voters saw.

Crazy No. 4: That video spurred the state Democratic Party to do something not expected – to encourage McLeod to drop out of the governor’s race. While it’s understandable

party leaders are embarrassed and irritated by the turn of events, actively getting involved in dissing a candidate is unorthodox, perhaps indicating they’re worried that voters might forgive and forget as they did when the nation elected a convicted felon to be president.

Crazy No. 5: R.J. May of Lexington County, a firebrand conservative Statehouse Republican indicted in June on 10 counts of distributing child sexual abuse material, finally resigned from his seat while sitting in jail. What is it with Republicans and sex? (Recall that Mace in February accused her ex-fiance and three other men of rape, sex trafficking and other sex crimes. The matter is mired in lawsuits.) On top of all of this, the nation seems to be spiraling downward out of control – even though the stock

market hasn’t (yet) tanked as many feared with the addition of punitive tariffs on foreign goods that are paid by American consumers. There’s a blatant power war by the GOP in Texas to redraw congressional maps to nab more U.S. House seats and a counter-offensive in California to keep that from happening.

President Trump, being savaged by many in the MAGA world as well as liberals for whatever is damning in the Epstein files, is lobbing distractions hither and yon to shift America’s focus.

Examples: a summit with Russian bromance partner Vladimir Putin on Ukraine and the completely feckless federalization of law enforcement in Washington, D.C. — the kind of action he didn’t take

when a rabid coterie of 2 000 right-wing nutcases attacked the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 2021 And then there’s U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s demoralizing anti-vaccine campaign that has already led to increases in measles cases and threatens to make America sicker in more ways than one. South Carolina, like America, is sorely missing responsible, strong leadership with integrity. If people stay on their sofas and don’t stand up to stupid politics and neo-fascism, the days of the republic are numbered.

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

fix our voting system

TIM WOOD

our partisan divide as we are now witnessing. Both gerrymandering and the electoral college no longer afford, (in my uncompromising opinion), any benefits to a society that wishes to be a proper, majority rule society; As I sincerely hope and pray we will continue to be and grow back into. I firmly believe that both gerrymandering and the Electoral Collage, in today’s world, augment partisanship.

Gerrymandering is not written into our constitution, the electoral college process is (Article II, Section 1), but I advocate that both should end completely and as soon as possible.

The Apportionment Act of 1842 mandated the use of single-member districts for states with

multiple House seats; (Our states before this were using different forms of the same principle). The Electoral College was established during the 1787 Constitutional Convention as a compromise between delegates that were split between those wanting the Congress (alone) to vote for a president and vice-president as opposed to those delegates that wished them elected by the population with the popular, majority rule. In our present society, it is a mean, bitter pill to swallow a president and vice-president who won office from a manipulated Electoral College but who lost in the popular vote. Politicians desire the popular vote but gladly embrace the overrule from the Electoral College.

Establishing state districts was necessary as a means to even out the population (in states) with regard to a fixed number of members (435) in the House of Representatives. A simplification is that rural areas will be bigger districts than districts in densely populated (urban) areas … it is simply dividing “head counts” equally for voting in our representatives.

“Any and all gerrymandering is wrong and simply increases our partisan divide as we are now witnessing.”

TIM WOOD, on why gerrymandering must end.

To assure each State’s (political) majority winners in any and all elections. If we, as a country, got back to the basics of this concept it could very well end this growing population/partisan divide: A direct result from both gerrymandering and corruptions of the Electoral College. I believe in a democratic, majority rule system of government, elected within a system devoid of gerrymandering and the Electoral College. This is the first step into purifying our voting system … back to basics.

The next necessary steps for a pure majority rule society would be to 1) Establish term limits for all governmental positions, both state and federal; 2) Enforce limits on time and money now being used in campaigns; and 3) Modify our party system to have people proclaim their ideologies into our 10-year census. IE: Ultra-Conservative (UC); Basic Conservative (BC); Basic Liberal (BL); Ultra-Liberal (UL). Four parties, if you will. I think this would force coalitions and make it easier to understand in which direction our citizen majorities are evolving.

As a small example, wouldn’t you love to be able to vote for a set of term limits for all Federal appointed judges, especially SCOTUS? Imagine that! True majority rule. The best system for governmental/cultural rule, ever.

Tim and Kristy Wood moved to Beaufort in 1974. He worked as a carpenter in both restoration and new home construction, as well as operating a shop specializing in custom woodwork, Wood on Wood Specs. He is semiretired, involved with fine woodworking and formerly sat on the City of Beaufort Zoning Board of Appeals.

Thank you, from a veteran

Greetings from a thankful veteran. On behalf of many veterans within the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), especially those from the MOAA Columbia Chapter, I would like to express how much we all appreciate Larry Dandridge’s informative articles dealing with military matters. Whether these articles deal with Agent Orange, cost of living updates, and various other benefits and compensation to include the legislative tools at work for us, they are each important matters about which we veterans all should be cognizant.

Larry, please keep up the great work. The difference you are making in improving the quality of life for us cannot be underestimated. You yourself are definitely continuing to serve and making a positive difference in many lives.

– Col. Carl W. Horn, U.S. Army (ret.); President, Columbia Chapter of MOAA

Put the brakes on!

Mr. Erich Hartmann has presented the well-researched facts regarding Beaufort City and Beaufort County's future quality of life in his article in the August 7 issue of your paper. He has waved the warning flag, and let us pray that our local officials will read his article and let it sink in that we'll

soon be “any town USA” if we don't put the brakes on the multi-unit developments popping up like weeds.

Is there any chance you could re-print his excellent article once a month for the rest of this year? I'm not anti-development, but I do believe we're overdue an assessment as to the number of new units already approved for the entire County and just what that means to all our citizens regarding the need for new and wider roads, schools, water, sewer, etc. We must remember that our County is a series of islands, and in the final analysis, we have ONLY TWO ROADS IN AND TWO ROADS OUT!

– Edie Rodgers, Beaufort

Trump does not belong in the White House

Donald Trump continues to bring shame and embarrassment to our country. He is doing everything in his power to conceal the extent of his involvement with Jeffrey Epstein. Epstein's victims and the American people have a right to know what the president knew, what he did, and what he covered up.

In a sworn deposition one plaintiff testified that Trump sexually assaulted her at Epstein's home on four separate occasions. In one very harrowing episode,

the plaintiff testified that she pleaded with Trump to wear a condom. He refused ("I'll do whatever I want with you!"), violently slapped her, and raped her. Afterwards, he threw some money at her so she could "get a [expletive] abortion."

She was 13 years old at the time of these alleged assaults. She ultimately withdrew her complaint after she and her family received numerous death threats.

We know why Trump wants to conceal the extent of his involvement with Epstein. If he raped underage girls, he belongs in prison. If he knew about Epstein's crimes against underage girls and said nothing, he belongs in prison. He does not belong in the White House.

– Peter Birschbach, Port Royal

Be educated, stand up for science

The news is full of the current administration’s attack on democratic norms and federal institutions, but what is not as well known is the all out assault on science, environmental safeguards and on federal agencies charged with protecting and managing public lands. This administration has called climate change a hoax and is in the process of dismantling any limits on climate pollution and to grant hundreds of industrial facilities a free

pass to pollute. The science on climate change is undisputed and well documented through decades of scientific research and data. As evident from recent extreme weather events, a warming planet leads to bigger floods, more intense hurricanes, longer droughts and more destructive wildfires. These weather events have dangerous consequences for human health and safety and for other wildlife that share this planet. This administration has also slashed an already struggling federal work force that is tasked with protecting and managing federal lands, including the National Park Service, the Fish and Wildlife Service and the Forest Service. Public lands, including our amazing national parks, protect scenery, wildlife habitat and provide invaluable places for human recreation. All of these attacks will have long lasting consequences on both the human and natural environment, and for what? These actions have no benefit and actually harm most Americans. The only winners in this are the big industrial polluters that seek to avoid environmental protections and increase profits. This administration has proven once again that they don’t care about this planet or the American people. I encourage everyone to educate yourself in the facts, stand up for science and hold this administration accountable.

– Susan Davis, Beaufort

VOICES

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

A yearning to do it all over again

It is Sunday, early, and I’m in the dining room at the Pisgah Inn. This morning the young staff is getting the room ready for the tide of early-rising, Crocs and sock-wearing retirees seeking scrambled eggs, blueberry pancakes and a side of stoneground grits. My son, Zach, is still sleeping in the room.

I’m here at the Inn — located a Mile Marker 408 on the Blue Ridge Parkway — celebrating my 80th birthday and Dean Moss’ 79th birthday. We are here, with our sons, perched on a ledge roughly 5,000 feet higher than the Town of Port Royal.

Pisgah is not the big-timbered, fireplace-in-the-lobby lodge that comes with a spa and a Michelinstarred restaurant. It is, rather, a collection of modest, low-slung buildings that, on the whole, remind one of a 60’s-era Holiday Inn. But each of those rooms has a balcony where one might sit — assisted and accessorized with three fingers of a Glenfiddich Single Malt — and gaze into an undulating, blue-grey line of mountains

So, Mr. “Art of the Deal” comes away empty handed. Despite suffering from, even being in the last throes of TDS, I had hoped for the sake of Ukrainians who are under daily attack that at least a cease fire could be accomplished. Heaven knows that an overload of fawning was spewed across the screen for the world to observe. A red carpet laid for a world renowned war criminal on American soil; shaking of hands with a couple of extra pats thrown in; a ride in the presidential limo.

After the meeting, when the not-so-informative press conference took place, Putin spoke first — in Russian, despite the fact that he knows English. A foreign leader speaking first on American soil has never happened before. This was a purposeful nod to “I have you right where I want you.”

Perhaps the most galling of all is this: 47 gave Putin his moment in the global spotlight, something he has not been afforded for more than 10 years. The man is a pariah on the international

SCOTT GRABER

that stretch for 30 miles. It is a fabulous view that inspires contemplation, serious conversation and eventually one slides into an involuntary feeling of contentment. It is well worth the $250 double occupancy room rate.

Yesterday afternoon, we gathered at the Adirondack chairs just below the dining room and examined our maps. Dean and I have always loved maps — the kind of maps come with contour lines, elevation gain, scale and color coded trails revealing precipitous, vertigo-inducing climbs. These maps categorize the trails as beginner, moderate or advanced/difficult; and up until now we have gone for the ver -

stage, and this preening despot was afforded a lot more courtesy than was the Ukrainian president when he visited the White House. Remember the greeting, “You’re all dressed up today?” with the smirking VP mimicking the same later in the meeting. I accessed several pictures during my research for this article, and one stands out. Check out the photo on the BBC site — Putin standing there looking smug while 47 has arms outstretched, looking as though he wants to hug him.

In the midst of all this, one fact stands out: the oppressed of this horrible situation had no representative at the table. Yes, I understand the notion of supposedly “paving the

tical, hand-over-hand scramble up and over elongated, tubular stones that once were molten fire on the bottom of the ocean. But now I am 80; and these days I’m painfully aware of a diminished lung capacity; a right ankle that is unreliable; and recently I spent several days at Beaufort Memorial where a hole in my stomach was cauterized.

Normally, the 8-foot high, wrap-around windows in the dining room reveal a lush, green carpet of mountain laurel 2 000 feet below in the Cradle of Forestry. But yesterday morning there was fog — we were in a cloud — and we could barely see the yellow lines in the Parkway as we drove to the trailhead.

In an effort to show the world were aren’t yet done with our ankles (or our lungs) we ascended Black Balsam Knob, then topped Tennant Mountain, parts of the Art Loeb Trail scoured-out (by Hurricane Helene) as deep as the trenches at Passchendaele.

There were others on the trail — actually more hikers than I could remember — and I also

way.” But did that happen?

Much of what I read seems to agree that no strategic or political agreement was reached. At a very short press conference, 47 said “there was some great progress made.” However, no details of this greatness were forthcoming. Remember, too, that deal-maker extraordinaire promised earlier this meeting had “only a 25% chance of failure.”

Perhaps for the Ukrainians who were afraid the U.S. would succumb to Putin’s pressure, this was a relief, albeit short-lived.

It’s worth noting that prior to this meeting, 47 threatened (on Fox News) new sanctions on Russia as punishment, should there be no ceasefire agreement. This would occur in a vague two or three weeks. We shall see.

So, what does this much-touted, woefully disappointing “summit” point to for all parties?

I’m no diplomat, just a citizen who takes what is happening to our country seriously. For one, my perception of the whole thing

remembered that my friend, Tim Wood, had told me many National Parks are “Over-run with tourists and trash cans full of used diapers … eventually we’re going to have to have a lottery.”

But seeing other hikers, especially children passing us by with Disney-themed backpacks, reminded me that Dean and I (and our issue) were stumbling through these wet, blackberry-covered mountains 30 years ago.

Zach and Dean’s son, Will, arranged our birthday adventure with some thought to previous trips on this same trail. In fact, Zach insisted on bringing along four small tins of potted meat — saying this was the entree we ate 30 years ago when we camped just below Cold Mountain — reminding me that we didn’t have a can opener and had to smash the cans (with rocks) to access the paste.

The red-colored meat paste, even when taken with whole grain Triscuits, was a reminder that these early trips had their share of disappointment. For -

is the old quip, “all show and no go!” Perhaps I’ll be proven wrong, and 47 will come forth with promised sanctions on Russia. If I am wrong, I’ll be very happy to say so although this won’t provide the much needed ceasefire for the beleaguered Ukrainians.

As for Russia, Putin got his spot in the limelight while the leader of the most powerful country in the world fawned and patted. And 47? He got nothing, NOTHING in return.

Score? Russia 10, U.S. 0 Ukraine — the hundreds that will continue to die as a result of Russian aggression.

Make no mistake, this is not a war about territory division. Putin wants all of Ukraine. He does not believe it is a country. And that is just the beginning of Russian aggression.

Those who believe we should just let them “fight it out and the best man wins,” fail to recognize that will be just the beginning. Europe is savvy enough to remember what the product of the encroachment of a dictatorship looks like. They are

tunately we also packed-in beef jerky, strawberry licorice sticks and some power bars that rounded out our lunch.

I have been told that life should be a journey of discovery — complete with wrong turns and back-tracking and, sometimes, not knowing where you are on the map. There is the inevitable misstep; the stumbling; the blisters; and occasionally one returns to Pisgah's dining room with a sore hip.

But one does return. And one does learn from the experience — Zach pointing out that the lids on the potted meat now come with rings that expedite the removal process.

Now the table is set for afterthe-hike anecdotes, a well-deserved glass of the Sonoma Valley Chardonnay, the self-deprecating stories that reveal vulnerability.

And, of course, a yearning to do it all over again.

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

willing to help the small country that is presently a buffer to a repeat performance. I discovered that the threat that the United States has over Russia would be a potential total boycott of Russia's oil production, but that would immediately cause a huge spike in global oil prices. It's a threat no president seems comfortable delivering on. However, there are certain things the United States could do that would demonstrate that it's serious. There's $300 billion in frozen Russian Central Bank assets sitting in banks around the world. If the United States and Europe launched a plan to take that money and say, we're going to use it to underwrite all future cooperation with Ukraine, that would be a serious indication of a longterm commitment and it would put real pressure on Putin. (BBC report)

"I thought it was very respectful that the president of Russia is coming to our country as opposed to us going to his country or

Join Us at Beaufort Christian Church

Beaufort Christian Church will hold its first worship service on Sunday, August 31st at the Holiday Inn Express. Go to the temporary lobby and we’ll be the first doors directly ahead! Fellowship: 9:30 AM • Sunday School: 10:00 AM Worship Service: 11:00 AM This is just the beginning! If you have any questions, please call Lou at 843-271-5555 or email at Lvellia@Reagan.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

even a third-party place,” Trump said this week, as his team was rushing to finalize details of the summit. Really? It is here that I must digress, dear reader, to say that my apparent TDS can’t be nearly as dangerous as willful ignorance.

Meanwhile Ukraine continues to be “the little train that could,” as Zelensky traveled to Washington to meet with the President on Monday. The much-admired addition to this is that he wasn’t alone. Many European NATO representatives, as well as the President of France, were there to support him. Can you recall any time our history when major European figures had to band together as a force, come to our capital, and support a foreign entity against a perceived American bully president?

Let that sink in!

Carol Lucas is a retired high school teacher and a Lady’s Island resident. She is the author of the recently published “A Breath Away: One Woman’s Journey Through Widowhood.”

USS Carl Vinson homecoming

Operations Specialist 1st Class Sharee Scantling of Beaufort shares the “first hug” with her children on the pier at Naval Air Station North Island after the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), the flagship of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 1, returns to its home port of San Diego on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025, from a nine-month deployment to the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of operations. An integral part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, U.S. 3rd Fleet leads naval forces in the Indo-Pacific and provides the realistic, relevant training necessary to execute the U.S. Navy's role across the full spectrum of military operations. Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Elizabeth Grubbs/U.S. Navy

What Veterans need to know about VSOs, VA Healthcare, PACT ACT, more

This is Article 2 of five answering veterans’ frequently asked questions on veterans' healthcare, the PACT Act, VA priority groups, VA copays, the VA’s Foreign Medical Program, and family and caregiver benefits. Last week’s article (See https:// www.yourislandnews.com and click on MILITARY) covered what veterans and their family members need to know about VA-accredited Veterans Service Officers (VSOs). This week’s article will provide information on “The Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act.”

What is the PACT ACT?

According to the VA webpage “The PACT Act and Your VA Benefits” at https://bit.ly/3UAmx8k, the PACT Act is a law that expands VA health care and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. This law helps the VA provide generations of veterans and their survivors (See https://bit.ly/45qfe9E) with the care and benefits they have earned and deserve. Starting March 5, 2024, the VA expanded VA health care to millions of veterans.

How did the PACT ACT affect veterans' VA benefits and care?

The PACT Act is the VA's largest expansion of health care and benefits. The PACT Act brought these welcomed changes:

• Expanded and extended eligibility for VA health care for veterans with toxic exposures and veterans of the Vietnam, Gulf War, and post-9/11 eras. Added 20-plus more presumptive conditions for burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic exposures. Added more presumptive-exposure locations for Agent Orange and radiation. Required the VA to provide

a toxic exposure screening to every veteran enrolled in VA health care and follow-up screening every five years after. Veterans who are not enrolled, but who are eligible to enroll, will have the opportunity to enroll and receive screening. Learn more at the VA “Environmental Health Registry Evaluation” webpage https://bit.ly/4oG8snC. Helped the VA improve research, staff education, and treatment related to toxic exposures. Improved the decision-making process for determining what medical conditions will be considered for presumptive status. Required research studies on the mortality of veterans who served in SW Asia during the Gulf War, Post 9-11 Veteran Health trends, and veteran cancer rates. Authorized 31 new facilities across the country, providing greater access to VA healthcare.

What does it mean to have a presumptive condition for toxic exposure?

Veterans can view military exposure categories on the VA’s Public Health website at https:// bit.ly/3HGa3Jq. Specifically: To get a VA disability rating, your disability must connect to your military service. For many health conditions, you need to prove that your service caused your condition. But for some conditions, the VA automatically assumes (or “presumes”) that your

EDITOR’S NOTE This article is the second in a series of five.

service caused your condition. The VA calls these “presumptive conditions.”

The VA considers a condition presumptive when it is established by law or regulation. If a veteran has a presumptive condition, the veteran does not need to prove that the condition was caused by military service. The veteran only needs to meet the service requirements for the presumption.

Learn more about exposure to hazardous materials (HAZMAT) on the VA webpage “Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals and Materials” at https://bit.ly/3HBAAYq and the VA’s newsletter “Military Exposures & Your Health” at https://bit.ly/3UAIgNC.

Veterans may qualify for VA disability compensation for PRESUMPTIVE illnesses or conditions linked to exposure to the following: • Chemical/biological testing or Agent Orange (including Veterans’ Children's birth defects). Burn pits and other environmental hazards in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other areas. Mustard gas or Lewisite (a toxic gas), or Camp Lejeune contaminated drinking water. Asbestos or Gulf War Illnesses in Southwest Asia or Afghanistan. Project 112 or Project SHAD (Shipboard Hazard & Defense) or Radiation.

New presumptive conditions Additionally, the VA announced on January 8, 2025, via VA News a https://bit.ly/41fSXst that it made acute and chronic leukemias, multiple myelomas, myelodysplastic syndromes,

myelofibrosis, urinary bladder, ureter, and related genitourinary cancers presumptive for Gulf War and Post-9/11 veterans. What should veterans do?

The most significant expansion of VA healthcare ever took place during the Biden Administration and under the PACT ACT. With the current administration firing tens of thousands of VA employees and canceling hundreds of VA research and support contracts, now is the time for veterans to file their claims for service-connected disability compensation and sign up for VA healthcare before claims processing is slowed and before services are negatively impacted. Veterans who have never filed for a presumptive condition should: Read the information on the VA’s webpage “All Things PACT Act 101 (PPACT Act Overview)” at https://bit. ly/473Hr7f and make an appointment to see their local VA-accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO). Read the information at the VA’s website at https://www. publichealth.va.gov/exposures/ and make an appointment with their VA Medical Center or Community-Based Outpatient Clinic to have a Toxic Exposure Screening. Ask a VA-accredited VSO to help them file a claim for any wound, injury, illness, or condition that he or she suffers from that was caused or worsened by or is secondary to their disabling military service-connected condition. Learn more at the VA webpage “How to File a VA Disability Claim” at https:// www.va.gov/disability/howto-file-claim/. Ask a VA-accredited VSO to help them file a supplemental claim (See https:// bit.ly/4mNyXpn) for the presumptive condition that was previously denied but is now considered presumptive.

Ask a VA-accredited VSO to help them enroll in VA Healthcare, the nation’s largest integrated healthcare system, which is according to NIH, the Journal of General Internal Medicine, the Journal of American College of Surgeons, the Joint Commission, and many others as good as or better than nonVA care in terms of clinical quality, safety, infection prevention, and other metrics. What should veterans’ survivors do? Under the PACT Act and other VA benefit programs, survivors (spouse, children, and sometimes parents) may be eligible for VA benefits, including Dependency and Indemnity Compensation, Burial Benefits, Bereavement Counseling, Survivors' Pension, Life Insurance, DOD Death Gratuity, Home Loan Guaranty, Survivors/Children’s Educational Assistance, Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship, Civilian Health and Medical Program/CHAMPVA, Accrued Benefits, and more. Survivors should make an appointment with their local VA-accredited VSO. They should ask the VSO to review their VA and state veterans benefits with them and help them apply for those valuable benefits. Learn more at www.va,gov/suvivors and by reading the “VA Survivor Benefits and Services Guide” at https://bit.ly/4oJtlhQ.

Continued next week.

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

LOCAL MILITARY

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

Recruit Training Regiment, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, 22 August 2025

Recruit Training Regiment • Commanding Officer, Colonel A. P. Bariletti

2nd Recruit Training Battalion • Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel A. Yang Commander of Troops, Captain E. Lee • Parade Adjutant, Captain S. A. Acquavaiva Company “G”, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion • Captain E. Lee Drill Master • Staff Sergeant E. Sarmiento Jr.

PLATOON 2048

Senior Drill Instructor

SSgt J. F. Navarro

PFC Adams, Alexavier C.

Pvt Alsop, Evan A.

PFC Bernhard, Gabriel E.

PFC Berrezuetaandino, Caleb E.

PFC Bordelon, Trey A.

Pvt Burton, Logan L.

Pvt Carter, Memphis D.

PFC Colvin, Brayden A.

Pvt Conard, Landon G.

Pvt Condor, Sebastian Z.

Pvt Craig, Hunter A.

PFC Donahue, Riley J.

PFC Fabrizio, Elijah K.

PFC Giusto, Adam C.

Pvt Grant, Nicholas G.

PFC Hampton, Luke N.

Pvt Hargrave, David M.

PFC Haron, Abanoub D.

PFC Harvey, Hassan X.

PFC Hill, Anthony P.

PFC Housend, Justin B.

Pvt Jaramillo, Trent R.

Pvt Johnson, Ari K.

Pvt Jones, Davis C.

PFC Kamgainnoubissi, Steve G.*

PFC Konan, Kouadio T.

Pvt Lester, Lavoris T.

PFC Mcclain, Preston A.

PFC McCracken, Brice A.*

PFC Mclendon, Johnathon D.

Pvt Mobley, William I.

Pvt Morock, Anthony D.

PFC Mue, Shu K.

PFC Murray, Jonnie J.

PFC Pedrazabanos Jr., Jesus

Pvt Phun, Benson

PFC Pilson, Saadiq L.*

PFC Porcoro, Blake W.

Pvt Pugh, Jeremiah T.

PFC Richter, Keaton S.

Pvt Roberson, Isaac D.

Pvt Roberts, Skyler B.

PFC Rubiojimenez, Brandon

Pvt Salazar, Xander A.

Pvt Saleck, Maussab O.

PFC Sharp, Maximus A.

PFC Sheats, Tyrell T.

PFC Soeun, Jayden B.

PFC Thompson, Christopher O.

PFC Valientegarcia, Saul

Pvt Villalobos, Brandon E.

PFC Wagner, Moses N.

PFC Waller, Samuel M.

PFC Williams Jr., Michael A.

Pvt Young, Nicolas A.

PLATOON 2049

Senior Drill Instructor

SSgt S. T. Menani

Pvt Alfaro, Yuri M.

PFC Allendeotero, Yarianis M.

PFC Bell, Julianna E.

PFC Bin, Wesstinjade C.

PFC Castillobennett, Emily T.

PFC Childers, Rebecca A.

PFC Conley, Jenna L.

Pvt Crocker, Rylee A.

PFC Cruz, Yanelli N.

PFC Davis, Amber N.

PFC Flores, Sheila J.

PFC Fugate, Alexis T.

PFC Galatas, Abbigail C.

PFC Garcia, Jocelyn

PFC Garciacortez, Jocelyn

PFC Gordilloguazhco, Evelyn A.

PFC Hahn, Lisa J.

PFC Hernandez, Karla S.

PFC Jones, Chelsea M.

PFC Kalajzic, Ana

PFC Lararamos, Sandra L.

Pvt Lewczyk, Chloe G.

LCpl Litz, Madison C.*

PFC Maldonadoortiz, Jarehtzi D.

PFC Martin, Armani N.

PFC Martinezlalinde, Paula V.

Pvt Matheus, Annacaroline M.

Pvt Mcpherson, Rachel A.

Pvt Mikulec, Anna J.

Pvt Miller, Ayla M.

Pvt Morales, Olani T.

PFC Moser, Shyanne M.

Pvt Ochoaalcantara, Genesis G.

PFC Perezmendez, Katiana

PFC Reyeshernandez, Jerly R.

PFC Rios, Amya *

Pvt Schicker, Madison K.

Pvt Siguenza, Emely A.

PFC Thimogene, Rosemelinda

PFC Torresrodriguez, Jessica T.*

PFC Vera, Hailey M.

PFC Vicente, Beverly S.

PFC Walendowski, Ava E.

Pvt Willis, Alexandrea A.

PLATOON 2050

Senior Drill Instructor

SSgt G. R. Apollon

Pvt Anglim, Justin E.

Pvt Ayalacordero, Mathew

Pvt Barraganrafael, Irving D.

Pvt Bautistarojas, Cesar E.

Pvt Bennett, Wayne H.

PFC Bunker, Trent H.

Pvt Byers, William G.

Pvt Coffey, Matthew K.

Pvt Cohen, Isaac S.

Pvt Conn, Aaron A.

Pvt Cook, Armando R.

PFC Cooke Jr., Kelley W.

PFC Danielsbradford, Julious J.

Pvt Don, Benjamin

PFC Eller, Avery B.*

PFC Enebi, Eneojo S.

Pvt Fontesreyes, Christian

Pvt Ford, Lucas R.

Pvt Foutz, Cooper G.

Pvt Garcia, River D.

Pvt Gooch, Jacob P.

Pvt Haslip, Logan P.

Pvt Hope, Cayden A.

Pvt James Jr., Koron K.

PFC Kahrs, Teydros J.

PFC Kern, Matthias A.

PFC Klinger, Nathaniel V.

Pvt Labelle, Jacob D.

PFC Lawson, Jacob C.

Pvt Louis Jr., Dominique

PFC Martin III, Bryan K.

PFC Martinez, Brandon

PFC Mcgillicuddy, Kevin F.

PFC Merrell, Justin T.

PFC Morczek, Keyton B.

Pvt Morenocastillo, Jesus

PFC Mutinda, Michael M.

Pvt Nadler, Benjamin R.

PFC Naparstek, Joseph N.*

PFC Newsome, Atticus M.

Pvt Oneal, Gavin T.

Pvt Owens, Hunter J.

Pvt Page, Joe J.

PFC Pitts, Logan

PFC Ressland, Morgan L.*

Pvt Robb, Justin A.

Pvt Salinasmontes, Jose J.

Pvt Snell, Mason C.

Pvt Tyler, Colin G.

PFC Wallace, Cameron W.

Pvt Wolverton, Kallen R.

PLATOON 2052

Senior Drill Instructor

SSgt J. A. Delvalle

Pvt Alkire, Sean M.

Pvt Askew, Ryland R.

PFC Barana, Ajeet

PFC Blevins, Zachary C.

PFC Bongoy, Lucas B.

Pvt Brown, Grhaile D.

Pvt Brown, Mason D.

PFC Cadenaagius, Rodrigo H.

PFC Clay, Zachary T.

Pvt Cole, Luke L.

Pvt Colgan III, Michael D.

PFC Culp, Christopher T.

Pvt Deleon, Kaiden V.

Pvt Downing, Donald J.

PFC Drake, Damien A.

PFC Emory III, Gary L.*

Pvt Emrick, Damien A.

PFC Fitzgerald, Mannix D.

Pvt Foster, Jaden J.

PFC Grant, Durrant D.

Pvt Griffith, Riley S.

Pvt Hawkins, Cory G.

Pvt Hodnett, Morgon C.

PFC Idres, Andrewmiguel A.

Pvt Ison, Jerry D.

Pvt Jolliff, Brandon R.

PFC Kiah, Kyros R.

Pvt Krineski, Evan E.

Pvt Lochard, Ross C.

Pvt Long, Joshua M.

Pvt Martinez, Elan M.

Pvt Matney Jr., Gary D.

Pvt Mccarrick, Tyler J.

PFC Morris, Joshua A.

Pvt Parker, Evin W.

Pvt Plumagaytan, Bryan

PFC Ramirez, Elias V.

Pvt Redlinski, Jacob R.

PFC Rooker, Joseph I.

Pvt Royster, Lijah M.

Pvt Rushdan, Mikeal R.

Pvt Salvador, Matthew

PFC Shepherd, Nicholas R.

Pvt Sims, Roland S.

PFC Skerl, Andrew E.

Pvt Smith, Jackson W.

Pvt Smith, Tamerion K.

Pvt Sortoespinoza, Anthony J.

Pvt Spencer Jr., Maurice K.

Pvt Stephens, Russell G.

PFC Tangeman, Cale H.*

PFC Teurman, Jeremyah L.*

Pvt Trout, Luke A.

Pvt Underwood, James A.

PFC Valach III, Joseph L.

PFC Vidalcarasas, Isaias J.

PFC Wickham, Kaden P.

Pvt Woods, Jacob E.

Pvt Wysong, Waylon L.

Pvt Yong, Kyle M.

PFC Zimmerman, Kellen C.

PLATOON 2053

Senior Drill Instructor

SSgt K. M. Hobley

PFC Abdurrahmaan, Tariq N.

Pvt Alt, James L.

Pvt Arroyomoreno, Manuel

PFC Assibey, Nana Y.

PFC Bolen, Michael I.

Pvt Bramlett, Joshua S.

PFC Brown, Hayden D.

PFC Burnham, Nikolas C.

Pvt Carbajal, Angel

Pvt Carpenter, Erik M.

PFC Castillo, Vincent J.

Pvt Chauny, Gilbert L.

Pvt Cianciolo, Charles W.

Pvt Cole, Jackson T.

PFC Corey, Kalab R.

PFC Didion, Tyler J.*

Pvt Donaldson, Samuel D.

PFC Dripps, Issac S.*

Pvt Evans, Cody D.

Pvt Forville, Wenley

Pvt Gandy, Imanuel

PFC Geary, Lukus J.

PFC Ghalib, Yunus Y.

PFC Guzmangarcia, William*

PFC Hale, Jaice B.

Pvt Hartley, Christopher A.

Pvt Hughes, Roman E.

Pvt Jacintoramirez, Serjio E.

PFC Jimenezcolon, Kalel A.

Pvt Johns, Ethan R.

Pvt Kline, Ryan S.

Pvt Madle, Damien A.

PFC Martin, Nicholas A.*

Pvt Morfin, Mario A.

Pvt Muterspaw, Trestyn L.

Pvt Najeravasquez, Kevin H.

Pvt Nethercott, Ryan M.

Pvt Parker, Gage J.

Pvt Pavich, Reece A.

Pvt Rivera, Carmelo J.

PFC Robinson, Joshua A.

Pvt Roderick, Logan C.

PFC Rogers, Blake R.

PFC Rosebeck, Brayden A.

PFC Stutzenberger, Pedrom P.

Pvt Taylor, Christian J.

Pvt Turner, Collin M.

Pvt Vasquez, Angel

PFC Walker, Joshua R.

Pvt Watsonduncan, Christopher L.

PFC Weatherford, Beaux D.

Pvt Welborn, Mitchell B.

Pvt Wooten, Angel I.

Pvt Wu, Shih F.

PLATOON 2054

Senior Drill Instructor

SSgt D. M. Sosa

PFC Anderson, Gabriel C.

Pvt Arevaloraciano, Daniel E.

PFC Ayalatamayo, Samuel D.*

PFC Barr, Daniel J.

Pvt Baumgardner, Talon K.

PFC Blevins, Dylan R.

Pvt Bonow, David C.

Pvt Branham, Austin R.

Pvt Bryant, Michael B.

Pvt Burnette, Gabriel A.

PFC Bynum, Justin M.

PFC Calixto, Steven

PFC Carpenter Jr., Cody A.

Pvt Dean, Colin B.

PFC Dobolek, Spencer M.

Pvt Ellingsworth, Ramsey g.

Pvt Essex, Drew C.

PFC Flanders, Brandon S.

Pvt Fowler, Hadden M.

Pvt Franklin, Douglas E.

Pvt Gonzalezquintanilla, Alexandre

Pvt Halverson, Tyler B.

PFC Hansfordm, Drake A.

PFC Isom, Christian A.

PFC Judd, Aydan B.

PFC Kelly, Gregory W.

PFC Koniszewski, Kaden R.

Pvt Leak, Elijah R.

PFC Mesler, Landon G.

PFC Missalou, Pemosso E.

PFC Narcisse Jr, Christophe

Pvt Nault, Gage M.

PFC Niedner, Blake D.

Pvt Onofremartinez, Bryan

Pvt Ontiverocruz, Angel G.

PFC Patterson, Steve G.

Pvt Pertuit, Brenton E.

Pvt Pinkston, Malachi S.

Pvt Quintana, Manuel J.

Pvt RodriguezNunez, Dereck M.

Pvt Rollins, Kaden G.

PFC Schweitzer, Joshua R.

Pvt Smith, Trent G.

PFC Starkey, Cameron J.

Pvt Velazquez, Calvin S.

Pvt Venturelli, Frank R.

PFC Waddell, Zachary E.

Pvt Wells, Braeden M.

PFC Wilson, Jonah S.*

LCpl Yun, Armen*

Pvt Zuercher, Blaise Z.

*Denotes Meritorious Promotion

SERVICE DIRECTORY

ATTORNEY

Christopher J. Geier

Attorney at Law, LLC

Criminal Defense & Civil Litigation

16 Professional Village Circle, Lady's Island Office: 843-986-9449 • Fax: 843-986-9450

chris@bftsclaw.com • www.geierlaw.com

AUDIOLOGY & HEARING

Beaufort Audiology & Hearing Care

Monica Wiser, M.A. CCC-A

Licensed Audiologist

38 Professional Village West, Lady's Island monica@beauforthearing.com www.beauforthearing.com | 843-521-3007

Hear the Beauty that Surrounds You

The Beaufort Sound Hearing and Balance Center

Dr. Larry Bridge, AU.D./CCC-A 206 Sea Island Parkway, Suite 31, Beaufort thebeaufortsound@gmail.com www.thebeaufortsound.com | 843-522-0655

CLASSIFIEDS & GAMES

CARTOON

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Ivy League professor offers elite 1-on-1 SAT

Reading and Writing tutoring. Perfect SAT scorer. Personalized lessons and proven results: boost grammar, comprehension, and test strategy skills. Call Claire, 516-974-2122

Replace your roof with the best looking and longest lasting material – steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-855-900-1261

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We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-855-704-3381

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AUCTIONS

ADVERTISE YOUR AUCTION in 80 S.C. newspapers for only $375. Your 25-word classified ad will reach more than 1 5 million readers. Call Randall Savely at the S.C. Newspaper Network, 803-750-9561

HELP WANTED – DRIVERS

ADVERTISE YOUR DRIVER JOBS in 80

S.C. newspapers for only $375. Your 25-word classified ad will reach more than 1 5 million readers. Call Randall Savely at the S.C. Newspaper Network, 803-750-9561

HELP WANTED – DRIVERS & ROOFING

LABORERS NEEDED

Two Brothers Roofing is now hiring motivated, hardworking individuals to join our growing team! We are currently looking for:

• Roofing Laborers

• Drivers (Valid Driver’s License Required) We’re searching for people who are ready to give it their all and help build something today that still matters tomorrow.

Requirements: Comfortable working in both hot and cold weather conditions

Able to lift and carry 70 – 100 lbs Must be able to load shingles onto roofs

Drivers must have a valid driver's license

We’re looking for people who show up ready to work, put in real effort, and take pride in what they build.

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-844-775-0366 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

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TELEVISION & INTERNET SERVICES

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

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VACATION RENTALS

ADVERTISE YOUR VACATION PROPERTY FOR RENT OR SALE to more than 1 5 million S.C. newspaper readers. Your 25word classified ad will appear in 80 S.C. newspapers for only $375. Call Randall Savely at the South Carolina Newspaper Network, 803-750-9561

YOUR AD HERE Looking to advertise your business, announce a yard sale, or share other classifieds? Contact Amanda Hanna today at amanda@lcweekly.com to secure your spot and get your ad featured in our upcoming issue!