OCTOBER 15–21, 2026
WWW.YOURISLANDNEWS.COM
COVERING BEAUFORT COUNTY
County Council: Can we just go home? Agenda fight opens tense meeting; members later reject immediate release of investigation report
night when members were already discussing whether they might simply go home. An effort to add two discussion items to the Oct. 12 agenda set off a tangle of votes, procedural questions and conflicting explanations about how many members By Delayna Earley needed to agree before council The Island News could proceed. Beaufort County Council had Councilman Logan Cunningbarely begun its meeting Monday ham pointed out that the seven
members who wanted the additional discussions could block the original agenda by voting against it. “So the seven people that want to discuss this today, if they vote no, then the agenda is not approved for today,” Cunningham said. Earlier in the procedural debate, he summed up the possible outcome: “All right, so we can all go home.”
Council ultimately stayed and conducted its business. But the disagreement that complicated the opening returned before adjournment, this time with pointed accusations, an argument over contacting outside counsel and a failed attempt to immediately release an investigation report. The Quick Group inquiry dominated both ends of the meeting, exposing disagreements over
ELECTION 2026
council’s next steps and whether County Administrator Michael Moore should respond to the findings before the public sees them. Seven votes, but no amended agenda The opening dispute began when Councilman Lawrence McElynn asked to add discussions
SEE HOME PAGE A4
Governor candidates differ on key issues Wilson, Johnson, Addison outline competing priorities for South Carolina as voters prepare for Nov. 3 election
Democrat Annie Andrews, Republican Sen. Darline Graham and Libertarian Kasie Whitener prepare to debate Sunday, Oct. 11, 2026, at South Carolina ETV’s studio in Columbia, S.C. Katharine Wilson/S.C. Daily Gazette
Airing their differences Social Security, data centers and healthcare: Senate candidates exchange jabs while talking policy
By Katharine Wilson SCDailyaGazette.com COLUMBIA — The candidates for U.S. Senate traded political digs as they answered policy questions Sunday in their likely only debate
ahead of what’s predicted to be a of Lindsey Graham, which reset close finish. the race. The debate featured an all-female Democrat Annie Andrews, who’s stage, a first for a U.S. Senate seat in seeking to flip a seat that’s been South Carolina, on the three-month anniversary of the shocking death SEE SENATE PAGE A8
By Delayna Earley The Island News South Carolina's candidates for governor agree that rising living costs, access to health care, education and infrastructure are among the state's most pressing challenges, but their proposals for addressing those issues reveal significant differences in how they believe state government should operate. Republican Alan Wilson, Democrat Jermaine Johnson and United Citizens Party candidate Dr. Michael Addison responded to questionnaires distributed by The Island News ahead of the Nov. 3 general election. Green Party candidate Walid Hakim did not respond before the newspaper's print deadline. The candidates were asked
SEE ISSUES PAGE A6
Suspended BCSO rookie deputy fired following internal investigation
Former deputy faces domestic violence charge; firearm discharged during incident; woman faces additional charges
suspended and the subject of an internal investigation following his arrest Friday, Oct. 2, 2026, in connection with a domestic violence incident in Beaufort, has been fired. According to a statement released Friday, Oct. 9, “The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office terminated Evan Lee Siglinski’s employment By Mike McCombs on Thursday, October 8, 2026, and Delayna Earley following the completion of an The Island News Internal Affairs investigation that A rookie Beaufort County substantiated violations of agency Sheriff’s Office deputy who was policy.
“The administrative investigation began on Friday, Oct. 2, 2026, after the Sheriff’s Office was notified of a Siglinski domestic incident involving Siglinski at his residence while he was off duty. Siglinski was arrested by the Beaufort Police Department, which is the investigating agency in the criminal case. “Siglinski was suspended and placed on paid administrative
leave on October 2, 2026, pending the outcome of the internal investigation.” Sigelnski, 23, was booked into the Beaufort County Detention Center shortly after 8 p.m., Oct. 2 and charged with third-degree domestic violence, according to jail records. Kierstin Margaret Griffith, 22, was booked approximately two hours later and charged with first-degree domestic violence and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.
Both were arrested by the Beaufort Police Department, and both posted bond Oct. 3. Beaufort Police Master Sgt. Sean Flomer confirmed in an email to The Island News that both parties were charged with domestic violence offenses and that a firearm was discharged during the incident. Flomer also confirmed that someone was transported for medical treatment but did not identify
SEE ROOKIE PAGE A4
NEWS
ARTS
SPORTS
INSIDE
100 Women Who Care Beaufort supports Mimi’s Closets.
Shifting Sands: USCB Center for the Arts announces Call for Artists.
Dolphins down, not out: Woodland hands Battery Creek first loss.
PAGE A4
PAGE A10
PAGE A11
News Arts Sports Opinions Military Directory
A2–5 A10 A11 A12–14 A16–17 A19
THE ISLAND NEWS
LOWCOUNTRY LIFE & NEWS
PUBLISHER Jake Higgins
EDITORIAL/DESIGN Editor-in-Chief
Mike McCombs theislandnews@ gmail.com
Assistant Editor Delayna Earley delayna. theislandnews@ gmail.com
SALES/BUSINESS Advertising
Amanda Hanna 843-343-8483 amanda@ lcweekly.com
Advertising Jere Russo JereRusso@ gmail.com
J. Mark Daniel, Woods Memorial Bridge Tender, shares his view of the sunrise over Lady’s Island on Friday morning, Oct. 2, 2026. 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
William Kelley
American Legion Beaufort Post 207 brings you William Kelley, 66, who joined the U.S. Army in Charleston, W.Va., in 1982. After Basic Training at Fort Dix, he trained to be a Heavy Truck Driver. He was assigned to Lucius D. Clay Kaserne, Wi-
NEWS BRIEFS
Northern Beaufort County Democratic Club meeting
The Northern Beaufort County Democratic Club (NOB Dems) will be meeting at 6 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 15 at Grace Chapel AME Church at 10 Holly Hall Road on Ladys Island. Meetings are open to anyone committed to “defending democracy, upholding the Constitution, and ensuring equal justice for all.” The group rallies every Monday at 4 p.m. in front of the Beaufort City Hall. Those wishing to add their voice in support should bring a sign (no vulgarity), stay behind the sidewalk, and off the median.
Republicans plan two rallies
The Beaufort County Republican Party has announced two rallies ahead of the November election. The first is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 16, at Okatie Ale House. The rally is scheduled for 3 to 6 p.m. A second event, described as a Republican pop-up rally, is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 22, at Bricks on Boundary in Beaufort. That event is scheduled for 3 to 5:30 p.m. Both events are listed on the Beaufort County Republican Party’s official calendar, although the organization has not identified which candidates are expected to attend.
‘No Kings’ rally set for Oct. 17
The Northern Beaufort County Democratic Club (NOB Dems), along with several other groups, be taking part in another “No Kings” rally at noon, Saturday, Oct. 17, at the intersection of Boundary Street and ribaut Road in front of the Beaufort City Hall
Accounting
esbaden-Erbenheim, Germany, livery truck driver. In 2020 he the headquarters of U.S. Army moved to Beaufort. Europe. He was next assigned to Fort Hood, Texas, from which he – Compiled by John Chubb, separated in 1985. He returned American Legion Post 207. to West Virginia and drove large For Veteran Of The Week trucks, including cranes and nominations, contact tankers, before becoming a dejechubb1@gmail.com.
AMVETS Post 70 is hosting a Comedy Night on Friday, Oct. 23, headlined by Mark Evans, along with feature comedian Lori Evans. Tom Mullins will emcee the event and Eric Heatherdale will handle DJ duties. Doors open at 5:30 and the show starts at 7 p.m. The show is for ages 21 and older, and tickets are $20. Tickets can only be purchased in person from the bartender at Post 70, located at 1831 Ribaut Road in Port Royal. The post’s “Wings & Things” food menu will be available from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Friends of Beaufort Library seeking volunteers
The Friends of the Beaufort Library would love help at its annual fall book sale, Nov. 6-8 at the Beaufort Waterfront Pavilion and at other events throughout the year. Email volunteer3@friendsofthebeaufortliSam Skardon, the Democratic candidate brary.com for more information and to sign up for Lt. Governor, will be the guest speaker at to help. the next Indivisible Beaufort Meeting at 11 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 24, at Grace Chapel AME Church at 10 Holly Hall Road on Lady’s Is- Habitat for Humanity hosting land. 9th annual Turkey Trot 5K Skardon replaces the original scheduled Habitat for Humanity of the Lowcountry inspeaker, Jermaine Johnson, Democratic can- vites runners, walkers, families, and visitors to didate for Governor, as he is unable to attend participate in the 9th annual Turkey Trot 5K due to a scheduling conflict. on Thanksgiving, Thursday, Nov. 26, 2026, in A Mount Pleasant native, Skardon attend- downtown Beaufort. ed South Carolina public schools and EmThis Thanksgiving tradition features ory University. After college he spent four awards, a costume contest, and plenty of years on the staff of the late Congressman Thanksgiving spirit. Registration and checkJohn Lewis. He went on to earn his MBA at in will take place from 7 to 7:30 a.m., with the Georgetown University and returned home race beginning at 8 a.m. Proceeds benefit Habto South Carolina to begin a career in com- itat for Humanity of the Lowcountry. munity development finance. Register at https://bit.ly/4jVzMyd. For the past seven years, Skardon has worked to put capital into the hands of small – Staff reports
2019: About 75 to 100 members of the groups Women For Trump and Engage The Right rally peacefully against each other in front of the office of U.S. Rep. Joe Cunningham (SC1-D) on Boundary Street. The main topic of contention was the impeachment trial of President Donald Trump.
2019: Noted scientist, explorer and oceanographer Robert Ballard speaks at John Paul II Catholic School. Ballard is best known for discovering and exploring the wreckage of the RMS Titanic. 2019: Holy Trinity Classical Christian School sweeps the SCISA 1-A boys and girls cross country championships at Heathwood
Hall in Columbia. Collin Dunham won the boys individual championship.
October 21 2016: Following Pat Conroy’s death the previous March, The Pat Conroy Literary Center opens in Beaufort, coinciding with the first annual Pat Conroy Literary Festival.
Donations gratefully accepted at www.yourislandnews.com or The Island News, PO Box 550, Beaufort, SC 29901 OCTOBER 15–21, 2026
Billing questions only.
CONTACT US PO Box 550 Beaufort, SC 29901 TheIslandNews@gmail.com www.YourIslandNews.com facebook.com/TheIslandNews
DEADLINE For press releases and advertising, please submit by noon on Friday for the following week’s paper.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters to the Editor should consist of fewer than 275 words and be emailed with a name and contact information to TheIslandNews@gmail.com
Contact ads.theislandnews@gmail.com for more information on placing your legal notice in The Island News.
– Compiled by Mike McCombs
Do you value your free hometown newspaper – made by locals, for locals? Free news isn’t cheap. Please help support The Island News!
A2
april@ aandbbookkeeping. com
LEGAL NOTICES
THIS WEEK IN HISTORY
October 19
April Ackerman
business owners and families South Carolina’s economy too often leaves behind, and the clean energy projects powering the state’s future. He has served as a Commissioner of the Charleston Housing Authority, on the Charleston Women and Minority Business Empowerment Commission, and as Chairman of the Charleston County Democratic Party. Skardon lives in Charleston with his wife, Leslie, a member of Charleston City Council, and their twin sons.
Skardon to replace Johnson, speak at Indivisible Beaufort Meeting
October 17
Sasha Horne Hirshout
sasha. theislandnews@ gmail.com
WILLIAM KELLEY
AMVETS Post 70 hosting Comedy Night Oct. 23
Advertising and Digital Strategy
Scan Here to Donate
DISCLAIMER All content of The Island News, including articles, photos, editorial content, letters, art and advertisements, are copyrighted by The Island News and Island News Publishing, LLC, 2026, all rights reserved. The Island News encourages reader submissions via email to theislandnews@gmail.com. All content submitted is considered approved for publication by the owner unless otherwise stated. The Island News is designed to inform and entertain readers and all efforts for accuracy are made. Guest columns do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of The Island News, its publisher or editors. The Island News reserves the right to refuse to sell advertising space, or to publish information, for any business or activity the newspaper deems inappropriate for the publication.
NEWS
Rep. Rivers arrested, charged with pointing gun at man Charges stem from June 9 incident at Colleton County polling place
By Mike McCombs and Delayna Earley The Island News Rep. Michael Rivers (D-121) was charged with Pointing and Presenting a Firearm at a Person on Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, by the S.C. Law Enforcement Division (SLED). In a story first reported by The Island News on June 10, 2026, Shannon N. DeLoach, who defeated the incumbent Rivers of St. Helena Island in the June 9 Democratic primary to be the party’s candidate for the House District 121 seat, claimed that Rivers pointed a handgun at DeLoach's uncle, Oliver Francis, during an encounter outside the Green Pond Community Center. The incident allegedly occurred Tuesday, June 9, at the polling place on Ivenia Brown Road in Green Pond while voters were casting ballots. At the time, SLED opened an investigation into the incident, according to Public Information Officer Renée Wunderlich. That investigation resulted in Rivers being charged. According to the arrest warrant, issued Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026, by Colleton County Magistrate Roosevelt LaShon Jenkins, “On June 9, 2026, Michael Frank Rivers, the current S.C. House District 121 Representative, while at the Green Pond Community Center located at 371 Ivenia Brown Road in Colleton County, did commit the offense of pointing and presenting a firearm at the victim, [redacted]. Rivers and the victim had a brief verbal altercation over the political campaign for the S.C. House of Representatives District 121 seat. The verbal altercation led to Rivers obtaining a firearm from his vehicle compartment
and point it at the victim. The Affiant’s belief is based upon multiple statements and video evidence. This being Rivers in violation of the South Carolina Code of Laws 1623-0410.” The case will be prosecuted by the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office. Rivers, booked into the Colleton County Detention Center, was released on Friday on a $15,000 recognizance bond. The alleged incident According to DeLoach in June, both he and Rivers were present at the polling location Tuesday afternoon, June 9, greeting voters when the encounter occurred. DeLoach said he approached Rivers and attempted to have a cordial conversation despite tensions that had developed during the campaign. "I shook his hand and pat him on the back," DeLoach told The Island News. "Just wanted to let him know, however things go, I'll give you a call tonight." DeLoach said Rivers responded by asking, "When it's all said and done, how much you going to sell my signs back to me for?" "I said, 'Sir, what are you talking about?'" DeLoach said. "I said, 'Why can't we just have a cordial conversation with one another?'" DeLoach said Rivers dismissed the conversation. "So I said, 'You know what, sir? You're good. Have a good day. I can see you can't be cordial with me,'" DeLoach said. According to DeLoach, Rivers then got back into his vehicle. Francis, who had been sitting
in DeLoach's truck during the exchange, then got out and approached Rivers' vehicle. "I said leave my nephew alone. Stop lying on my nephew," Francis told The Island News. According to DeLoach, Rivers stopped near the exit of the parking lot before allegedly retrieving a handgun. "As he was rolling near the end of the driveway, he stopped," DeLoach said. "That's when he reached down. He pulled up the pistol. He leaned over to my uncle, pointed it, and then put it in the air." DeLoach said Rivers then drove away from the polling place. Francis provided a similar account. "And he reached down and pulled out the gun and turned and pointed at me and he put it up in the air and he pulled off," Francis said. The incident occurred just hours before the conclusion of the Democratic primary election in which DeLoach defeated Rivers. He is facing Republican Shelley Gay Yuhas in the Nov. 3 general election. Previous investigation This incident is not the first time Rivers has faced allegations involving a firearm. Records obtained by The Island News show that the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office investigated Rivers in 2022 following allegations that he pointed a firearm during a dispute on St. Helena Island. The incident report identified Rivers as the suspect in an aggravated assault investigation and states the matter was referred to SLED because Rivers was serving as a member of the South Car-
This incident is not the first time Rivers has faced allegations involving a firearm. olina House of Representatives at the time. As of July, the investigation was active, more than four years after the alleged incident, according to a response to a Freedom of Information Act request obtained by The Island News. The response, dated June 25, came after The Island News requested records related to the 2022 investigation, including the complete investigative file and any records reflecting the disposition of the matter. In denying the request, SLED Deputy General Counsel Paul Ahearn said the agency could not provide records documenting the outcome of the case because no such records currently exist. “Be advised that SLED does not possess a ‘complete investigative file and any records reflecting the disposition of the matter’ at this time since this case remains active and ongoing,” Ahearn wrote. “Therefore, SLED cannot produce something that does not yet exist and your request is denied.” Ahearn added that The Island News may check with the agency periodically regarding the status of the investigation and that SLED will provide responsive, non-exempt public records “at the appropriate time.”
The investigation stems from a Sept. 14, 2022, incident on Seaside Road on St. Helena Island, where the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office responded to what deputies described as a disturbance involving a property dispute. According to the incident report, Clifford Huff and Sandra MackHuff told deputies Rivers became angry during an argument over land ownership, retrieved a handgun from his vehicle, cocked it and pointed it at Huff. Both told deputies they wished to pursue criminal charges. Deputies classified the case as aggravated assault and identified Rivers as the suspect before transferring the investigation to SLED because Rivers was serving as a member of the South Carolina House of Representatives. The report also shows investigators conducted follow-up interviews, attempted to contact Rivers by telephone, preserved phone records related to the investigation and ultimately referred the case to SLED for further investigation. Although Ahearn’s response did not explain why the investigation remained open, it confirms no final disposition has been reached. The Island News will update this story as more information becomes available. Delayna Earley, who joined The Island News in 2022, formerly worked as a photojournalist for The Island Packet/The Beaufort Gazette, as well as newspapers in Indiana and Virginia. She can be reached at delayna.theislandnews@gmail.com. Mike McCombs is the editor of The Island News and can be reached at TheIslandNews@gmail.com.
LEGAL NOTICES TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE You are hereby notified that you are in default of the payment of common expenses and assessments (“Delinquencies”) due to the GOLDEN ISLE-NAUTICAL WATCH TIME SHARE OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. (“GINWTOA”) c/o Trustee for GINWTOA, P.O. Box 7926, Hilton Head, SC 29938. Due to your failure to pay the Delinquencies, GINWTOA (under the authority of Title 27, Chapter 32, Article 3 of the Code of Laws of SC 1976) and the Trustee for GINWTSOA (as evidenced by the Notice of Appointment of Trustee recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Beaufort County, SC in Book 4582 at Page 2226), will offer for sale at public auction at 7 Finch St., Suite 7A, Hilton Head, SC 29926, the timeshare intervals of the timeshare owners for the amount of the Delinquencies for each timeshare owner (listed below) to the highest bidder, for cash, on October 21, 2026 at 10:00 A.M. The Delinquencies due and owing to the GINWTOA are based upon the provisions of the Declaration of Multiple Ownership Rights, Restrictions, Affirmative Obligations, Conditions, Etc. which constitute covenants running with Units 4 and 32 of Nautical Watch, Harbor Island, Beaufort County, SC, dated June 29, 1984 and recorded on June 29, 1984 in said Register of Deeds Office in Book 398 at Page 6, as amended in Book 404 at Page 1456, as further amended in Book 419 at Page 166, in Book 1835 at Page 1987, in Book 2671 at Page 98, and as further amended from time to time thereafter.
DECEDENT
PERSONAL PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE REPRESENTATIVE
PUB. DATE PUB. DATE
PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE
PUB. DATE
Joseph Frank Anastasia Dorothy Powning Agnew AKA Dorothy P. Agnew 05/17/2025 Date of Death: 7/13/2026 2025ES0700899 Case Number: 2026ES0701116
Elisa O’Connor Carolyn W. Agnew, Timothy S. Agnew William PopeVillage Drive, Ste. 202 C/O 1716 Professional Bluffton, SC 29909 Beaufort, 29907
08/21/2025 10/01/2026
Frederick RayBrown Liles Williams Theresa Mae Date of Death: 07/05/2025 8/3/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700943 2026ES0701159
Melaine Smalls S. Smith Lucretia C/OKelis PO Box 27 Lane1107 Beaufort, 29901SC 29920 St. HelenaSCIsland,
08/28/2025 10/08/2026
Jerry Joseph Dittle Jr. Ernesto A. Chambers, 03/01/2025 Date of Death: 7/18/2026 2025ES0700903 Case Number: 2026ES0701111
Lori R. Cullen Nigeria Naomi Simone Chambers 16 William C/O POST OFFICEPope BOX Drive, 291675Ste. 202 Bluffton, SCSC29909 Columbia, 29229
08/21/2025 10/01/2026
Alan JoelJoseph Michaelson; Michael Allen AKA Alan J. Michaelson Date of Death: 06/29/2025 8/4/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700944 2026ES0701177
Catherine Grubell Jane C. Wooten William PopeVillage Dr., Ste. 202 C/O 1716 Professional Bluffton, SC Beaufort, SC 29909 29907
08/28/2025 10/15/2026
MichaelWalker Ralph Ford Robert PO Box C/O 504 West5098 5th North Street Hilton Head Island, SC 29938 Summerville, SC 29483
08/21/2025 10/01/2026
John EdwardCarroll Miracle; AKA John E. Miracle Sara Burns Date of Death: 04/05/2025 10/15/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700932 2026ES0701204
Geraldine G. Miracle Joseph Burns Carroll PO Box C/O P.O. BOX5098 2358 Hilton Head Beaufort, SC Island, 29901 SC 29938
08/28/2025 10/15/2026
Each and every timeshare owner listed in this Notice of Sale is in default of their obligation to pay their respective Delinquencies to GINWTSOA. The sale of the timeshare owners’ timeshare intervals is being conducted to satisfy the Delinquencies of the timeshare owners to GINWTSOA as detailed in the Assessment Liens for Common Expenses & Assessments recorded in said Register of Deeds Office as follows: Description of Owner(s) Timeshare Interval Balance Due Lien recording
Marguerite Anne Ford Linda Ann Green 07/01/2025 Date of Death: 6/6/2026 2025ES0700906 Case Number: 2026ES0701122 Anna Maria Wilhelmina Joanne Frances Hackett La Haije 07/21/2025 Date of Death: 6/21/2026 2025ES0700892 Case Number: 2026ES0701110
Helma Franisca Frances J. HackettCap 17 Brams Point Rd. C/O P.O. BOX 22230 29926 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925
08/21/2025 10/01/2026
Raymond CarlCollins Pettersen Joyce Ulmer Date of Death: 06/09/2025 8/16/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700929 2026ES0701183
08/28/2025 10/15/2026
Rita MarieEllen O’Brien Jennifer Harrelson 07/25/2025 Date of Death: 6/17/2026 2025ES0700913 Case Number: 2026ES0701139
John M. Paul O’Brien, Jr. Michael Harrelson C/O Paige PO Drawer 468 Point1107 Bluff Beaufort SCSC29901 Seabrook, 29940
08/21/2025 10/01/2026
Ann West Eversole, AKA Barbara Ann West Eversole, Patricia BarbaraAnn WestWilson Eversole, Barbara Ann Eversole Date of Death: 07/12/2025 9/22/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700916 2026ES0701187
Cynthia Hutcheson Ruby M. K.Chavers Christina R. Lesher C/O 811 Craven Street C/O 10 Hospital Center Commons, Ste. 400 Beaufort, SC 29902 Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 Kenneth Edward Eversole Edward Tobergte C/O 1509Harry King Street C/O PO BoxSC7906 Beaufort, 29902 Hilton Head Island, SC 29938
MarilynGordon Kolbe Kirby, Olsen III Harry 05/30/2025 Date of Death: 7/31/2026 2025ES0700733 Case Number: 2026ES0701113
08/21/2025 10/01/2026 Mary Grey Boatwright Paul Fleming Date of Death: 08/04/2025 9/2/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700963 2026ES0701205
Louise Brunson Lenora Fleming PO Drawer 1107 C/O P.O. BOX 2478 29901 Beaufort, SC 29901-2478
09/04/2025 10/15/2026
RobertRowland A. Parham, Jr. Helen Martin 07/09/2025 Date of Death: 8/2/2026 2025ES0700912 Case Number: 2026ES0701127
ConnieP. L.Pearson Olsen Marie 112 Executive C/O P.O. BOX 882 Center 1 Corpus Christi Place, #112 Bluffton, SC 29910 Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 V. AlexR.Dorobantu Jaclyn Borja 1110BOX Pick3851 Pocket Plantation Dr. Ste. A C/O P.O. Beaufort,SCSC29910 29902 Bluffton,
Francis Charles Brien; AKA Francis C. Brien Jonas Willie Gadson Date of Death: 07/11/2025 8/28/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700946 2026ES0701197
Lisa Brien Gadson Chantieria C/O Charwood PO DrawerCircle 1107 325 Beaufort, SCNY29901 Rochester, 14609
09/04/2025 10/15/2026
William Roberson, Mary AnnM.Ina McKoaneJr.AKA Mary Ann McKoane 05/20/2025 Date of Death: 7/23/2026 2025ES0700645 Case Number: 2026ES0701129
LaceyAnderson Michelle Godec Brian PO Drawer 1023 C/O P.O. BOX 7906 Beaufort, 29901 SC 29928 Hilton HeadSCIsland,
08/21/2025 10/01/2026 Arthur Leslie D.Andrew Gintz Emerson Date of Death: 07/27/2025 6/24/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700956 2026ES0700909
Clara Marie Emerson Christopher J. Gintz C/OBlack PO Box 14 Tern3435 Road Bluffton, SC 29910 Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
09/04/2025 10/15/2026
AndrewHard Gerard Schiavone, III Warren Story 06/09/2025 Date of Death: 8/20/2026 2025ES0700751 Case Number: 2026ES0701124
Melissa Mark M. Schiavone Warren Story PO Drawer C/O P.O. BOX 11071107 Beaufort, SC 29901
08/21/2025 10/01/2026 Ervin GeneHarrison Fitzgerald Elizabeth Purvis Grace Date of Death: 12/24/2024 8/29/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700948 2026ES0701185
Daniel Gene Fitzgerald Eugene Waring Grace 27187North Chippendale 509 Street Ter. Salisbury,SCMD29902 21801 Beaufort,
09/04/2025 10/15/2026
Ronald Gene Anthony PaulTune Weare 06/30/2025 Date of Death: 5/4/2026 2025ES0700914 Case Number: 2026ES0700766
RodneyD.A.Ruff Schaake Harley Box 22230 Village C/O 17POProfessional Hilton Head Beaufort, SC Island, 29907 SC 29925
08/21/2025 10/01/2026 Robin Raines Hoffer Earthilee Jenkins Gray Date of Death: 04/27/2025 10/18/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700964 2026ES0701189
William Myers Hoffer, Nathaniel M. Gray, Jr. II C/O 2015 BoundaryDrive St., #227 7110 Lindenwood Beaufort, SC 29902 Corpus Christi, TX 78414
09/04/2025 10/15/2026
Melva Anne Jean Shelton Wheeler Sarah Wells AKA Sarah Ann Wells 07/16/2025 Date of Death: 5/28/2026 2025ES0700893 Case Number: 2026ES0701115
Teresa Lynn Anthony Norbert Mixon PO Box C/O P.O. BOX7906 22230 29938 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925
08/21/2025 10/01/2026 Stanley Samuel M. BartLawson Grove Date of Death: 06/21/2025 7/24/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700961 2026ES0701200
Melissa L. Davis Mary Angela Grove Drawer 1107 Village C/O 17POProfessional 29901 Beaufort, SC 29907
09/04/2025 10/15/2026
Charles Fain Williams Glen Williams 07/23/2025 Date of Death: 4/8/2026 2025ES0700889 Case Number: 2026ES0701142
Laura Ann Richardson Kathryn E. Williams 2662811Broad Street C/O Craven Street Beaufort, SC 29902
08/21/2025 10/01/2026 Joe William Janice LouiseLieser Herr Date of Death: 07/12/2025 7/11/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700857 2026ES0701143
09/04/2025 10/15/2026
Donald Simeon Zuidema; Richard Albert Cofield, Jr. AKA Donald S. Zuidema 04/29/2025 Date of Death: 8/16/2026 2025ES0700904 Case Number: 2026ES0701154
Marianne Mary BethZuidema Cofield 3404 OFFICE Salterbeck C/O POST BOX Street, 1938 Ste. 204 Mt. Pleasant, SC 29466 Bluffton, SC 29910
08/21/2025 10/08/2026
Patricia Francis Crocco Margaret Sue Collins 07/29/2025 Date of Death: 8/22/2026 2025ES0700931 Case Number: 2026ES0701168
John F. Crocco Bradford S. Collins PO Box 118 C/O 17 Professional Village Southport,SCCT29907 06890 Beaufort,
08/28/2025 10/08/2026
Matthew Lieser Mary JaneJ.Tennant 112 Executive 2C/O Friendship LaneCenter 1 Corpus Christi Place, #112 Bluffton, SC 29910 Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 Michael Anthony Hoer 100 Willow Drive Janese W. Davis Old Tappan, NJ 07675 180 Pearl Davis Road Springfield, GA 31329 Robert Kozakiewicz 349 Fripp Point Road R. Willis PostSC 29920 St. Helena, C/O 17 Professional Village Beaufort, SCMacDonald 29907 Long Christopher 35 St. Simon Drive James F. Holland Bluffton, SC 29910 C/O PO Box 7906 Hilton Head Island,Jr.SC 29938 Edward J. Minger, C/O 23 Plantation Park Drive, Suite 503 Deborah F.SCKopp Bluffton, 29910 C/O PO Drawer 1023 Beaufort, SC Morazzano 29901 Mark Robert C/O 19 Shelter Cove Lane, Suite 105 Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Thomas & Eileen Fitzgerald
Unit 4/Week 3
$38,753.55
4461/3306
June M. Williams
Unit 4/Week 4
$38,753.55
4461/3309
Lemerio & Francene Pinckney
Unit 4/Week 5
$38,753.55
4461/3312
Frank & Mary Richardson
Unit 4/Week 10
$ 9,941.38
4461/3327
Richard A. DeLong
Unit 4/Week 17
$38,753.55
4461/3342
Matthew & Elizabeth G. Moser
Unit 4/Week 18
$38,753.55
4461/3345
Timothy R. Tedrow
Unit 4/Week 21
$38,753.55
4461/3348
Augusta McD Ball
Unit 4/Week 25
$38,753.55
4461/3246
Terry B & Judith A. McConnell
Unit 4/Week 28
$15,835.43
4461/3249
Milton C & Sara Lou Sikes
Unit 4/Week 31
$36,598.78
4461/3252
Anne Anderson & Robert Johnson
Unit 4/Week 32
$38,753.55
4461/3255
Willie J & Helen Odums
Unit 4/Week 33
$38,753.55
4461/3258
Violet M Montgomery & Donna D Bouchillon
Unit 4/Week 34
$38,753.55
4461/3261
Willie A Sr. & Jessie R DeLoach
Unit 4/Week 37
$38,753.55
4461/3264
Steven J & Michelle D Currier
Unit 4/Week 38
$38.753.55
4461/3267
Lillie M. Allison
Unit 4/Week 39
$38,753.55
4461/3270
Freddrick & Betty Hargrove
Unit 4/Week 40
$38,753.55
4461/3273
Edsel & Shirley Mitchell
Unit 4/Week 41
$38,753.55
4461/3276
Mabel J. Davis
Unit 4/Week 42
$38,753.55
4461/3279
Lou Ann Adams
Unit 4/Week 43
$38,753.55
4461/3282
Phyllis R. Ford
Unit 4/Week 44
$38,753.55
4461/3285
James & Dorothy Hightower
Unit 4/Week 50
$38,753.55
4461/3294
Albert & Elena Keenan
Unit 4/Week 51
$38,753.55
4461/3297
NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATES All persons having claims against the following estates, MUST file their claims on FORM #371 ES with the Probate court of Beaufort County, the address of which is 102 Ribaut Road, Beaufort, SC 29902, within eight (8) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice to Creditors or within one (1) year from date of death, whichever is earlier (SCPC 62-3-801, et seq.), or such persons shall be forever barred at to their claims. All claims are required to be presented in written statements on the prescribed form (FORM #371 ES) indicating the name and address of the claimant, the basis of the claim, the amount claimed, the date when the claim will become due, the nature of any uncertainty as to the claim, and a description of any security as to the claim.
EACH TIMESHARE INTERVAL WILL BE AUCTIONED SEPARATELY. The sale will require the highest bidder, other than GINWTSOA, to pay cash or certified funds. If GINWTSOA is the successful bidder at the Sale, it shall receive as a credit against the bid price of a sum equal to the assessments, including interest, late charges, fees and per diem. The Sale shall be subject to taxes and assessments, existing easements, easements and restrictions of record, and any senior mortgage lien. The purchaser is to pay for the preparation of the Deed, documentary stamps on the deed and the costs of recording the deed.
Charles Oliver Golson III Virginia Lee Crutchley 09/28/2024 Date of Death: 9/4/2026 2024ES0701357 Case Number: 2026ES0701151
The timeshare intervals being sold are undivided weekly timeshare interests in Unit Four, a portion of Nautical Watch, Harbor Island, St. Helena Township, Beaufort County, SC, as said timeshare regime being established by the Declaration of Multiple Ownership Rights, etc. dated June 29, 1984 and recorded in said Register of Deeds Office in Book 398 at Page 6, as amended. TMP R300 020 00A 0124 RIGHT TO CURE: The timeshare owners listed above have the right to cure the default up to the date on which the Certificate of Sale is issued for each timeshare interval listed above in accordance with Section 27-32-345 of the SC Timeshare Lien Foreclosure Act.
Richard George Gerlich Date of Death: 8/24/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701165
s/Maria Belbas Parker, Esq. Maria Belbas Parker, Esq., Trustee and Attorney for Golden Isle-Nautical Watch Owners Association, Inc. PO Box 7926, Hilton Head, SC 29938 October 1, 2026
Gladys Kline Legare Dominic Lamont Dasher 04/27/2025 Date of Death: 7/15/2026 2025ES0700933 Case Number: 2026ES0701152
DECEDENT DECEDENT
10/15/2026 08/28/2025
08/21/2025 10/01/2026
Larry Cecil Millender Date of Death: 02/19/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700974 Dianne Jeannette Kozakiewicz Date of Death: 8/31/2025 Suzanne Rekate2026ES0701194 Post Case Number: Date of Death: 07/21/2025 NancyHoward L. Golson 08/28/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700962 Todd Crutchley 10/08/2026 Sandra MacDonald Long 16 Pinckney William Pope Dr.,Road, Ste. 202 C/O 10 Colony #400 Date of Death: 7/20/2026 Kelly Lynn Sullivan Bluffton, SC 29909 Case Number: 2026ES0701070 Date of Death: 07/21/2025 Charisse Lamont Parker Dasher, Jr. 08/28/2025 Case Dominic 10/08/2026 MarieNumber: Catherine2025ES0700954 Minger C/OChowan PO BoxCreek 2478 Bluff 33 Date of Death: 6/27/2026 29901-2478 James Franklin2026ES0701182 Willard Beaufort, SC 29907 Case Number: Date of Death: 07/02/2025 Case Number: Elizabeth S. Gerlich 10/08/2026 Robert Joseph2025ES0700957 Morazzano C/O 200 Main Street, Suite 201 N Date of Death: 1/6/2026 Hilton HeadHeather Island, SC 29926 R. Galvin, Probate Judge, Case Number: 2026ES0700145 County, SC Beaufort
09/04/2025 10/15/2026
09/04/2025 10/15/2026
09/04/2025 10/15/2026
09/04/2025 10/15/2026
Helen Hand Date of Death: 8/15/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701149
Gerard W. Hand C/O P.O. BOX 22230 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925
10/08/2026
Robert Michael Spack Date of Death: 8/30/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701198
Jessica Spack 78 Willie Cameren Way Angler, NC 27501
10/15/2026
Cherie Lynn Oda Utz Date of Death: 5/3/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701146
Kathy J. Oda C/O 204 N. Cedar Street, Suite 203 Summerville, SC 29483
10/08/2026
Ronald Clayton Stephens Date of Death: 8/24/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701190
Betty Ann Stephens C/O POST OFFICE BOX 2473 Beaufort, SC 29901
10/15/2026
Heather R. Galvin, Probate Judge, Beaufort County, SC OCTOBER 15–21, 2026
A3
NEWS
100 Women Who Care Beaufort supports Mimi’s Closets
Staff reports This quarter, 100 Women Who Care Beaufort donated $10,600 to Mimi’s Closets, an organization likely unfamiliar to many in the community that is making a difference in the lives of students throughout Northern Beaufort County. Mimi’s Closets, an education-support initiative of Women United, a volunteer-driven affinity group of United Way of the Lowcountry, is dedicated to removing some of the everyday barriers that can prevent children from succeeding in school. The idea is simple but powerful: students need more than a classroom and a teacher to be ready to learn. When children lack appropriate clothing, school supplies, food, or basic personal-hygiene items, those challenges can affect everything from school attendance and classroom participation to self-esteem and academic performance. For students attending Title I schools, these obstacles can
The $10,600 donation from 100 Women Who Care Beaufort to Mimi’s Closets will help restock the four existing supply closets (Shanklin Elementary, St. Helena Elementary, Whale Branch Elementary, James J. Davis Early Learning Center) and support the addition of two more Beaufort County schools this fall: Lady’s Island Elementary School and Whale Branch Middle School. Photo courtesy of 100 Women Who Care become significant barriers to learning. Located within participating schools, each Mimi’s Closet is stocked with items that students may need but cannot always access at home. Supplies include backpacks, school supplies, uniforms, snacks, hygiene products, toiletries, tooth-
Rookie from page A1
that person, describe the injuries or say who discharged the firearm. Griffith’s additional charge of possession of a weapon during a violent crime indicates investigators allege she possessed a weapon in connection with the alleged violent crime. A source familiar with the incident told The Island News that Griffith was the person who discharged the firearm and that she also sustained a nonfatal gunshot wound during the incident. The Island News has not independently confirmed the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including how or if Griffith was wounded.
Home
from page A1 seeking timelines and action plans for the Quick Group report and a proposed change that would have the county attorney’s office report to council rather than the administrator. McElynn said he was seeking discussion, not legal advice that would require an executive session. Seven members supported the additions. Chair Alice Howard, Vice Chair Anna Maria Tabernik, Paula Brown and Gerald Dawson opposed them. But seven votes did not settle the matter. Council worked through competing explanations about whether a simple majority was sufficient or a supermajority was required, eventually proceeding under the interpretation that approving the agenda with the additions required eight votes. The amended agenda was declared failed. That left another question: Would enough members approve the original agenda to allow the meeting to continue? The original agenda needed six votes. Cunningham noted that the seven
A4
OCTOBER 15–21, 2026
brushes and toothpaste, wipes, pull-ups for preschool children, and first-aid supplies. Mimi’s Closets currently operates in four Title I schools in Northern Beaufort County, providing support to approximately 1,153 students at Shanklin Elementary School, St. Helena
Asked whether Sigelnski was employed by, affiliated with or training with the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, Flomer said only that those involved were “affiliated with law enforcement.” Sheriff P.J. Tanner confirmed subsequently confirmed that Sigelnski is a rookie deputy with the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office. Though he confirmed Sigelnski was the subject of an internal affairs investigation, Tanner declined to discuss the circumstances surrounding the incident itself, saying Beaufort Police is responsible for the criminal investigation. “It would not be appropriate for me to respond to any questions you may have that the city police department was involved in,” Tanner said. “I would recommend that you speak with the city police department for any and all infor-
members who supported the additions could instead vote against proceeding without them. Council ultimately approved the original agenda 7-4. McElynn, Cunningham, David Bartholomew and Joseph Passiment voted against it. The meeting moved on. The investigation did not stay out of it. ‘A damn good job of arguing with me’ As council approached adjournment, McElynn returned to the subjects members had declined to add, asking leadership for a timeline and warning against allowing them to “drift off into Never Neverland.” His request reignited the argument, and this time, the discussion moved beyond parliamentary procedure. Tabernik challenged McElynn’s contact with outside counsel, saying council had agreed that communications with the firm should go through the chair. McElynn said he had been directed to contact the attorney about the proposed reporting change. When Tabernik said she was not going to argue with him, McElynn replied, “Well, you’re doing a damn good job of arguing with me.” Howard intervened, but the larger dispute over re-
Elementary School, Whale Branch Elementary School, and James J. Davis Early Learning Center. The $10,600 donation from 100 Women Who Care Beaufort will help restock the four existing closets and support the addition of two more schools this fall: Lady’s Island Elementary School
mation associated with that call for service.” Flomer confirmed Beaufort Police is the lead investigative agency. He also answered “no” when asked whether the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division had been requested to investigate or was investigating any portion of the incident. Court records filed Oct. 5 show three criminal cases stemming from the incident. Sigelnski is charged with third-degree domestic violence and received a $5,237.50 personal recognizance bond. Griffith faces separate charges of first-degree domestic violence and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. She received a $25,000 personal recognizance bond on the domestic violence charge and a $10,000 personal recognizance bond on the weapons charge, according to court records.
and Whale Branch Middle School. By providing students with basic necessities, Mimi’s Closets helps ensure that children can walk into their classrooms feeling comfortable, confident, and ready to learn. It is a practical way to support students today while helping build a
Both posted bond Oct. 3. The cases remain pending in Beaufort County General Sessions Court. Beaufort County Detention Center records show Sigelnski was booked at 8:07 p.m. Oct. 2 and Griffith was booked at 10:05 p.m. Court records list Oct. 3 as the arrest date for both. The exact circumstances that led to the domestic violence charges and the discharge of the firearm remain unclear. Beaufort Police has not publicly identified who allegedly fired the weapon, who was transported for medical treatment or provided additional details about what occurred before the arrests. The Island News requested a copy of the incident report from Beaufort Police. Flomer directed the newspaper to submit a Freedom of Information Act request
leasing the investigation re- spoken with Moore that day. port continued. Dawson urged council to give Moore time to read the Fairness to Moore or report, digest it and prepare fairness to the public? to answer questions. CounHoward said Moore re- cilman Mark Lawson also ceived the report Oct. 6 and supported eventual release needed an opportunity to but wanted Moore to have an respond to its recommenda- opportunity to respond first. tions before public release. Tabernik supported disShe initially pointed to coun- closure while questioning cil’s next regular meeting, whether investigators had Oct. 26, for further consider- completed the assignment ation. council gave them. “I don’t think that is fair to “We told the public we’d our administrator to release release it. The public paid for it today without him being it,” she said. able to publicly address the She said council had rerecommendations in it,” quested a data-driven inquiHoward said. ry into four specific areas Bartholomew challenged and that the work was not that reasoning. complete to her satisfaction. “It’s not fair to the public Howard said a supplement that we spend that much was expected but had not yet money on it,” he said. been received. He described the report as No completion date for 15 pages and questioned the that additional work was need for additional prepara- established during the extion time. change. “It’s not rocket science,” he Council commissioned said. the inquiry earlier this year Councilman Tom Reitz to examine departments pressed Howard on council’s and personnel overseen by earlier commitment to make Moore and their compliance the findings public. When with county policies, proceHoward said Moore had not dures, laws and ordinances. prepared written comments, Council unanimously authoReitz questioned how she rized an outside inquiry June knew. 1 and agreed June 22 to hire “Did he report that to you The Quick Group, LLC. The or are you just making it up Island News’ earlier reportright now?” he asked. ing and the county’s June “No, I’m not making it up. action summary document That’s insulting,” Howard those decisions. responded, saying she had Bartholomew moved Mon-
stronger future for our entire community. Mimi’s Closets is funded entirely through donations and fundraising and receives no funding from United Way of the Lowcountry. To learn more about Mimi’s Closets and its work in local schools, visit www.uwlowcountry.org/ our-work/womenunited. With this latest contribution, 100 Women Who Care Beaufort has now donated more than $590,000 to nonprofit organizations serving Northern Beaufort County. Each quarterly donation reflects the collective power of local women coming together to make a difference in the community they call home. All Beaufort women are encouraged to consider joining and helping select which organization will be the next recipient. The group’s next quarterly meeting will be held October 13 at First Presbyterian Church Hall in Beaufort. To learn more about 100 Women Who Care Beaufort, visit www.100wwcbeaufort.org.
through the City of Beaufort. As of Friday, The Island News had not received the incident report detailing the circumstances that led to the arrests. The Sheriff’s Office internal investigation into Sigelnski was separate from the criminal investigation being conducted by Beaufort Police. The charges against Sigelnski and Griffith remain pending, and neither has been convicted in connection with the incident. 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.
day to release the findings immediately, with Cunningham seconding. Cunningham also questioned whether every council member had read the entire report before taking a position on its release. The motion failed 5–6. Tabernik, Bartholomew, Cunningham, Passiment and Reitz supported immediate release. Howard, Brown, Dawson, York Glover, Lawson and McElynn opposed it, according to the county’s vote record. ‘Why is that secretive?’ Even after that vote, questions about access to the report produced another tense exchange. When Cunningham asked who else had seen it, Tabernik revealed that a paper copy had already been provided to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office at the sheriff’s request. She said the sheriff requested it in connection with another matter, that it had been provided shortly before the meeting and that the disclosure had been advised by the attorney. Reitz questioned why council had not been told the report had been provided to the Sheriff’s Office. “Listen, I appreciate and respect law enforcement,” Reitz said. “My only question is why would council not be advised to that at that mo-
Mike McCombs is the editor of The Island News and can be reached at TheIslandNews@gmail.com.
ment? I’m not saying not to release it, but why is that secretive?” “It’s not secretive. It happened right before this meeting,” Tabernik responded. Tabernik rejected the suggestion that the exchange had been secretive and said she would not impede a law-enforcement investigation. The discussion did not establish the nature of that investigation or its connection to the report. Moore said he had not shared the report with staff. He said consulting some employees would help him respond to policy recommendations, but he would wait for direction before doing so. He indicated he could provide his written response by Oct. 19. Before adjourning, council settled on meeting again that day after its scheduled committee meetings, moving the discussion forward from Oct. 26. Council finished the night with another meeting to attend, and without approving immediate public release of the findings. 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.
NEWS
BCSO seeks help locating missing teen
Staff reports The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is seeking public’s help locating Zyon Zaydin Townsend, 15, of Burton. Townsend’s family reported him missing on Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026, after not seeing him since late Wednesday evening, Oct. 7, at their residence on Westgate Circle in Burton. Townsend is described as approximately 5 feet, 7 inches tall and weighing about 120 pounds. He was last carrying a Walmart bag. Anyone with informaseen wearing a black shirt, black sweatpants, a black tion regarding Townsend’s hat and slippers. He was also whereabouts is encour-
Promote your
Church Services in The Island News and increase membership!
Contact us today!
Amanda Hanna
amanda@lcweekly.com
Hope Shreve
ads.theislandnews@gmail.com
aged to contact the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency dispatch line at 843-524-2777.
Penn Center hosting Community Sing Staff reports Penn Center’s Community Sing event is back. This month’s event — to be held at 5:30 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 18 at Penn Center’s Frissell Community House at 16 Penn Center Circle West, St. Helena Island — will be hosted by First African Baptist Church, Nazareth Baptist Church and
Adam Street Baptist Church. For generations, music has been a powerful thread connecting culture, faith, history, and community across the Sea Islands. Community Sing at Penn Center continues that tradition, bringing people together in a joyful celebration of heritage, harmony, and remembrance.
Easy as 1-2-3
Do It for You, for Only $99.
A screening mammogram is one of the best tools
for detecting breast cancer early. Isn’t your health worth it?
Select Your Location
To purchase your screening mammogram, visit BeaufortMemorial.org/SaveOnMammos. Select your preferred location (Beaufort, Okatie or Hilton Head Island) and click “Add to Cart.”
Make Your Purchase Online
Pay in advance by October 31 with a credit card, HSA/FSA account, or PayPal. Vouchers can be used up to six months from the time of purchase.
Schedule Your Mammogram
3 LOCATIONS! – BEAUFORT • OKATIE • HILTON HEAD ISLAND
Visit BeaufortMemorial.org/ MammoAppointment or call 843-522-5015 to schedule your mammogram. Bring your voucher receipt to your appointment.
Buy Now, Schedule Later – Purchase a $99 screening mammogram voucher from MDsave
during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, then schedule with Beaufort Memorial in the next six months. Promotional pricing applies to 3D screening mammogram vouchers purchased through MDsave between October 1-31. If other procedures or views are necessary at the time of the exam, there may be additional charges for the patient and/or their insurance plan.
With You Always OCTOBER 15–21, 2026
A5
ELECTION 2026
Issues
His responses called for responsible development, stronger local planning and safeguards against shifting the costs of private development onto taxpayers.
from page A1 about 10 issues, including taxes, education, health care, energy costs, workforce housing, coastal resilience and government accountability. Their responses offer voters a look at how each would approach the state's challenges, with particularly notable differences over Medicaid expansion, school choice and tax reform. Cost of living and taxes All three candidates identified affordability as a priority, although their proposals differ in how they would restructure South Carolina's tax system. Wilson, who has served as South Carolina's attorney general since 2011, supports gradually eliminating the state's individual income tax. His proposal would use revenue triggers intended to protect funding for education, infrastructure and public safety. He also supports property tax relief for seniors and veterans and limiting state spending growth to population growth plus inflation. Wilson said he would seek authority for the governor to temporarily suspend the state gas tax during extraordinary price increases. "My number one priority as governor will be making South Carolina more affordable for the families who call it home," Wilson said. Johnson, a state representative from Hopkins, takes a different approach. He supports repealing portions of the state's income tax overhaul that he says increased taxes on working families while benefiting wealthier residents. Johnson also supports tax relief for small businesses, a higher minimum wage and measures intended to prevent large data centers from passing infrastructure and electricity costs to residential customers. Addison, a businessman and retired chiropractic physician from Orangeburg, supports eliminating the individual income tax but proposes replacing that revenue through a restructured and increased sales tax. Unlike Wilson, Addison specifically calls for a public fiscal analysis before implementing the changes to determine how they would affect working families, retirees, businesses and essential services. Addison also supports a $15 minimum wage, eliminating unjustified corporate tax exemptions and reducing duplicative business fees.
From left to right, Dr. Michael Addison, United Citizens Party, Jermaine Johnson, Democratic Party, and Alan Wilson, Republican Party. Education and school choice Education presents one of the clearest differences among the candidates. Wilson supports universal school choice, arguing that parents should have greater control over where their children receive an education. He also supports competitive teacher salaries, improved classroom resources, early literacy programs and expanded career and technical education. Johnson opposes using public money for private-school voucher programs, arguing that those funds should remain in public schools. His education platform includes universal prekindergarten, increased teacher compensation and changes to the school funding formula intended to reduce disparities between rural and urban districts. "Every child in South Carolina deserves a great public school close to home," Johnson said. Addison supports strengthening public education through improved teacher compensation, mentoring programs, additional classroom resources and funding based on student needs. On private-school choice, Addison said he would review existing programs and potential expansions with lawmakers before committing to a particular approach. He said any program receiving public funding should be subject to appropriate academic and financial accountability. Healthcare and Medicaid The candidates also differ substantially on whether South Carolina should expand Medicaid eligibility. Johnson and Addison support expansion, while Wilson has expressed concerns about its long-term financial implications. Johnson proposes using revenue from medicinal cannabis to help fund Medicaid expansion, which he argues would improve access to care and support rural hospitals. He also identifies mental health services as a priority, particularly in addressing youth violence, addiction and access to treatment. Addison supports Medicaid expansion with a sus-
tainable funding plan and legislative approval. He also proposes developing a Palmetto Public Option concept focused on affordable telehealth access and participation by small employers. Addison said the proposal would complement rather than replace comprehensive health insurance. Wilson favors expanding rural clinics, telemedicine and efforts to recruit medical professionals to underserved communities. However, he questions whether Medicaid expansion would create financial obligations that could become difficult for the state to sustain. Wilson also cited concerns about fraud within the existing Medicaid program. "I will not make promises that could leave South Carolina taxpayers with unsustainable obligations in the future," Wilson said. Infrastructure and Lowcountry growth South Carolina's growing population has increased pressure on roads, bridges and public services, particularly in Beaufort County and surrounding Lowcountry communities. Wilson identified improvements to major interstate corridors, including Interstate 95 and Interstate 26, as priorities. He also specifically mentioned congestion along U.S. 278, access to Hilton Head Island and transportation needs in Bluffton, Beaufort and Port Royal. Wilson said infrastructure planning should account for population growth and the demands placed on schools, water systems and emergency services. Johnson called for changes to the state's infrastructure contracting process, including expanding competition for major projects and auditing the South Carolina Department of Transportation. He said Lowcountry projects should be prioritized according to demonstrated needs rather than political relationships. Johnson identified clearing the backlog of roads, bridges and drainage projects as a priority for the region. Addison emphasized the need to evaluate infrastructure costs alongside development proposals.
Energy costs and data centers All three candidates expressed concerns about rising electricity costs and the potential impact of large data centers on South Carolina's utility infrastructure. Wilson supports an energy strategy that includes nuclear power, natural gas, renewable energy and modernization of the electrical grid. He said data center developers should provide for their own power and water needs and that communities should have the ability to reject unwanted projects. Johnson has introduced legislation intended to pause new data center permits until requirements are established to prevent the companies from shifting electricity and infrastructure costs onto other customers. He also supports requiring large electricity users to build or secure their own generation capacity. Addison proposes restrictions on data center incentives, including opposing tax abatements and subsidized utility arrangements. He would require developers to disclose their projected electricity and water consumption, infrastructure needs and environmental impacts before receiving approval. Addison also supports stronger scrutiny of utility rate increases and protections against passing unnecessary construction costs to customers. Housing and workforce The candidates agree that South Carolina must address the growing difficulty workers face finding affordable housing near their jobs. Wilson supports reducing regulatory barriers, encouraging private-sector development and expanding partnerships among employers, technical colleges and apprenticeship programs. He said the state should respect local zoning authority while helping communities address workforce housing shortages. Johnson supports partnerships among local governments, employers and developers to increase housing opportunities for teachers, nurses, first responders and other workers. He also proposes expanding career training and establishing a council focused on young adults and workforce opportunities. Addison supports rehabilitating existing housing, reusing vacant buildings and encouraging smaller homes, apartments and accessory dwelling units where appropriate. He also favors enforceable affordability requirements when public money supports housing development.
concerns for Lowcountry residents. Wilson supports investments in flood mitigation, stormwater infrastructure, water quality and hurricane preparedness. He also emphasizes private property rights and local authority over development decisions. Johnson said drainage improvements and flood protection should receive priority within the Lowcountry's infrastructure backlog. He supports the South Carolina Office of Resilience and partnerships with local governments on voluntary buyouts, living shorelines and wetland restoration. Addison proposes evaluating coastal projects based on demonstrated risk, community benefits and longterm maintenance needs. His approach includes protecting wetlands and dunes, improving drainage, addressing failing septic systems and examining the cumulative effects of development. All three candidates said local communities should have a meaningful role in decisions affecting development and coastal protection. Government accountability Each candidate also identified government efficiency and accountability as a priority. Wilson proposes a Families First Audit Initiative, which he said would be overseen by his running mate, Mike Reichenbach. The initiative would examine state agencies for waste, duplication and opportunities to improve efficiency. Johnson said he would launch audits across state government, beginning with the Department of Transportation, and establish publicly available performance measures for agencies. He also supports increasing competition for state contracts and strengthening cybersecurity. Addison favors independent audits, transparent procurement procedures and performance evaluations based on measurable results. He said agency leaders should be held accountable for failures while ensuring that corrective actions do not unnecessarily disrupt essential public services.
Different backgrounds, priorities The three responding candidates bring different professional and political backgrounds to the race. Wilson, 53, is serving his fourth term as South Carolina attorney general. He is also a colonel in the South Carolina Army National Guard and has served in the military for nearly 30 years, including a deployment to Iraq. He identifies eliminating the state income tax, improving infrastructure, strengthening education Coastal resilience and the and increasing government environment accountability as priorities Flooding, storm damage for his administration. and development pressure Johnson, 41, represents are particularly important District 52 in the South
Early voting begins Oct. 19 Early voting for the Nov. 3 general election begins Monday, Oct. 19, and continues through Saturday, Oct. 31; 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Early voting is closed Sunday, Oct. 25. Northern Beaufort County early voting locations Beaufort County Voter Registration and Elections Office: 15 John Galt Road, Beaufort St. Helena Branch Library: 6355 Jonathan Francis Senior Drive, St. Helena Island What to bring Voters must present an accepted photo ID, such as a South Carolina driver's license, stateissued identification card, U.S. passport, military ID or South Carolina voter registration card with photo. Who can vote early? Any registered Beaufort County voter may vote at either location, regardless of their assigned Election Day precinct. No excuse or special application is required. Election Day Tuesday, Nov. 3. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at voters' assigned precincts. Questions? Contact the Beaufort County Board of Voter Registration and Elections at 843-255-6900 or visit www.scvotes.gov.
Carolina House of Representatives. His professional background includes entrepreneurship, insurance and business coaching. His priorities include universal prekindergarten, Medicaid expansion, mental health services, tax changes benefiting working families and increased oversight of state contracting. Addison, 61, has a professional background in health care, insurance, construction and environmental services. He identifies Medicaid expansion, tax restructuring, workforce housing, teacher recruitment and government transparency as priorities. Although the candidates share concerns about affordability, infrastructure and the effectiveness of state government, their proposals reflect different views about taxation, public investment and the role government should play in addressing those challenges. Voters will decide who will lead South Carolina for the next four years in the Nov. 3 general election. The Island News invited all four candidates to participate in its questionnaire. Complete responses from Wilson, Johnson and Addison will be available online at www.yourislandnews.com. Green Party candidate Walid Hakim did not respond before the print deadline. Should Hakim submit his completed questionnaire, his responses will be incorporated into the online version of this story. 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.
Focused on our clients and helping them hit their targets. (843) 379-1065 • WWW.CWACPAS.COM • 1411 QUEEN STREET A6
OCTOBER 15–21, 2026
MAKE THE RIGHT MOVE FOR BEAUFORT!
FREEDOM & PERSONAL RIGHTS Government should work for you, not control your life. STRONG SCHOOLS, REAL OPPORTUNITIES Support teachers and expand career pathways so students graduate ready. SMART GROWTH & LOWER COSTS
Scan the QR code to support Shauna’s campaign!
www.bishopforbeaufort.com
Support local businesses and responsible growth. ACCESSIBLE, AFFORDABLE HEALTHCARE Care should not be out of reach. Paid for by Bishop For Us All OCTOBER 15–21, 2026
A7
ELECTION 2026
Senate
from page A1 reliably red for decades, cast herself as “an independent voice” — twice noting she grew up in a Republican home — while saying the three-month incumbent has shown she’s “not up for the job.” Sen. Darline Graham, who was appointed to fulfill her late brother’s fourth term, touted herself as the only conservative in the race, while accusing Andrews of being a “radical liberal” who’s moderated her positions for the contest. As the main party nominees exchanged barbs, Libertarian Kasie Whitener pointed to her skills as a small business owner and entrepreneurship professor at the University of South Carolina and a willingness to be “honest” about the nation’s fiscal woes. A fourth candidate on the ballot, Mark Hackett with the Constitution Party, did not meet South Carolina ETV’s eligibility rules for the debate. Here’s a look at their answers to questions on data centers, healthcare, Social Security and the war with Iran: Data centers One of the clearest policy divides during the debate involved data center growth. Andrews proposes a twoyear moratorium. Regulations developed during the pause should ensure data centers pay for themselves so that customers’ rates don’t go up. And she wants a “return to real local control,” she said, then accused “data center Darline” of only wanting to build data centers “faster and faster.” In response, Graham said she too wants local control of decisions. She noted co-sponsoring the Ratepayer Protection Act, which directed state regulators to consider standards aimed at protecting communities. The proposal easily cleared the House 417-3 in September but was blocked by Democrats in the Senate, who criticized it as a toothless, pre-election gimmick. Graham called Andrews’ plan dangerous to national security. A two-year hold on development means “China is going to be so far ahead. We are going to be in so much trouble,” Graham said. She also characterized Andrews’ proposal as putting the federal government, rather than communities, in charge of data center decisions. Seeming to echo that argument, Whitener said communities don’t need the federal government’s permission
Democrat Annie Andrews prepares to debate Sunday, Oct. 11, 2026, at South Carolina ETV’s studio in Columbia, S.C. Katharine Wilson/S.C. Daily Gazette
Republican Sen. Darline Graham prepares to debate Sunday, Oct. 11, 2026, at South Carolina ETV’s studio in Columbia, S.C. Katharine Wilson/S.C. Daily Gazette
to figure out what’s best for eral collections, saying that’s them. only “giving more money to the people who can’t be trustSocial Security ed to spend it.” Congress must do someDarline Graham, who was thing over the next six years 13 when she lost both parto avoid an automatic drop- ents, noted she and brother off in Social Security bene- relied on Social Security to fits, according to the latest live, as does a 91-year-old update on the Old Age and aunt. Survivors Insurance Trust But she didn’t give any Fund, the formal name of proposal for keeping the systhe program providing ben- tem solvent. efits to retirees, people with Asked about it after the disabilities, and — like the debate, campaign spokesGraham siblings — children man T.W. Arrighi said Graof deceased parents. More ham doesn’t have a stance than 70 million Americans on changing the retirement receive Social Security ben- age but is open to discusefits, according to the Social sions, while adding that she Security Administration. wouldn’t vote to impact older The 2032 timeline hap- Americans. pens to coincide with the six“No one who’s nearing reyear Senate term of whoever tirement age will ever be imwins in November. pacted by what Sen. Graham Asked what needs to be decides to do,” he said. done to keep the program solvent, Andrews said the Healthcare obvious answer is to raise On stage, Graham used the cap on wages “so that the her allotted time on the Sovery wealthiest among us cial Security question to pay more into the system.” again accuse Andrews of Under the law’s calcula- wanting “government-fundtions, which are adjusted an- ed healthcare for all,” saying nually, workers contribute a that would only drive up the maximum of $11,439 of their nation’s debt and further paycheck this year in Social jeopardize Social Security. Security taxes, an amount Throughout the debate, matched by their employer. Andrews refuted that she That’s because the maximum supports “Medicare for all,” taxable income is $184,500. a term used by progressives Last year, Lindsey Graham including U.S. Sen. Bernie took heat for saying people Sanders of Vermont in his should work longer in order unsuccessful bids for presito collect full Social Security dent to advocate for a healthbenefits, which has been 67 care system fully run by the since the Reagan adminis- federal government. On the tration. campaign trail, Andrews has Andrews said she would called that single-payer pronever support raising the re- posal outdated. tirement age. The pediatrician, who’s Calling Social Security’s made healthcare central to collapse an imminent threat, her campaign, instead proWhitener said the best way poses allowing people to buy to solve the problem is by a government-run health increating a bipartisan study surance plan, in conjunction committee to make recom- with expanding Medicaid mendations, similar to the eligibility and restoring the Base Realignment and Clo- enhanced federal subsidies sure process that decided that helped people afford priwhich military bases to close vate insurance on the federafter the Cold War ended. al Obamacare marketplace. Young people should be al- Congress allowed those enlowed to opt out entirely and hancements, created as part invest their own money for of a pandemic relief package, retirement, she said. to expire at the end of last She also disagreed with year, making private insurAndrews’ proposal to raise ance too expensive for many. the wage cap to increase fedAndrews’ plan would let
people buy a discounted government plan. She believes the competition would cause private insurers to lower their rates. “Over time, there will be a domino effect as more and more Americans are happy with their public option,” Andrews told reporters after the debate. The Democrat also supports reversing the changes to Medicaid under the “One Big Beautiful Bill” passed by Republicans in Congress last year — which, as Graham repeatedly pointed out, Andrews called the “ugly” bill. Those changes include phasing out a program authorized in 2016 that allowed states to use federal taxes to boost Medicaid reimbursement rates to hospitals. In South Carolina, where the program’s use since 2023 has hiked payments to hospitals by an average of 70%, hospitals stand to lose $150 million annually over 15 years, according to the state hospital association. Andrews contends that further threatens already struggling rural hospitals. Graham, meanwhile, pointed to the $50 billion over five years the law provided nationwide for rural healthcare. South Carolina was allotted $167 million for the first year of the program. Andrews also wants to undo changes making Medicaid more expensive in states that expanded coverage to all adults up to 138% of the federal poverty level. South Carolina is among the 10 states that never did. So those changes don’t apply to the Palmetto State. That includes a requirement that people verify they’re working, volunteering, or attending school at least 80 hours a month, or that they qualify for an exemption, such as caring for a young child. Andrews accused Graham of supporting the law’s gutting of Medicaid. In response, Graham said if that’s a reference to the law requiring “able-bodied people to work or train for 20 years a week to receive Medicaid, then yes, count me in.
LOCAL BANKERS. LOCAL DECISIONS. Graham Holcombe
SVP | City Executive - Beaufort
186 SEA ISLAND PARKWAY
843.605.0102
A8
OCTOBER 15–21, 2026
I’m all for it.” Her ideas for bringing down healthcare costs include “more transparency in pricing to help create competition.” She also noted co-sponsoring a bill allowing small businesses to buy insurance at cheaper rates given to larger companies. Whitener said healthcare costs keep increasing because of government regulations and scarcity of doctors and providers. Government regulations and billing complexities have created multiple layers of administrators who far outnumber doctors, she said. “They want to address the costs, but what we really have to address is the scarcity problem,” she said. War with Iran The nation’s continued war with Iran since February also brought a heated exchange. Under the 1973 War Powers Resolution, Congress can force the president to end military action it hasn’t authorized. Resolutions to do so have failed repeatedly in the Senate. Andrews, who opposes the war, noted Graham was among the “no” votes three times. The Democrat also used the chance to bring up Graham’s flub to a question about Taiwan during the pre-GOP runoff debate in August. In her only other debate Graham admitted she wasn’t informed on the issue: “I’m not a polished politician. National security is not my thing, not my area of expertise,” she said. Andrews pointed to that answer to accuse Graham of being unserious and unqualified: “If your surgeon said that appendectomies aren’t really his thing, would you still hand him a scalpel? No. So why would we hand Darlene Graham a full term in the U.S. Senate?” Andrews said. She said money spent on war would have been better invested in healthcare, infrastructure and public education. “The war is the
exact reason we now have record-high gas and diesel prices,” Andrews said. Graham said she wants the war to end but not by Congress while Iran is “still dangerous,” saying she believes victory against a weakened Iran is close. She touted her role in last month’s passage of sanctions against Russia as negotiated and championed by her brother. Whitener said she opposes preemptive wars and aggression toward other countries. She said that national security should be maintained through diplomacy, free trade and cultural exchange. Name-calling While answering a question on U.S. policy towards Israel, Graham said Andrews would not stand up to the “socialist Democratic party.” In response, Andrews reminded viewers she predicted in her opening statement that Graham would call her a socialist. “But the truth is, my name is Annie Andrews, and there shouldn’t be any confusion about that because, unlike my opponent, I haven’t changed my name recently,” she said, adding that she would stand up to members of her party. Graham has sometimes used the last name of her husband, Larry Nordone. Campaign fliers supporting Lindsey Graham ahead of the June primary referred to her as Darline Graham Nordone, prompting accusations from critics on the right and left that she switched her name to run for office. But Graham has consistently said her legal name is Darline Graham. She said she used Nordone on a social media account so the “volleyball moms would recognize me,” but Graham has always been what she signs on legal documents. “Just so that you and everyone else knows,” she said. “It has always been Graham, and — you know why it’s Graham? — because I lost my parents when I was a little girl, and I kept the name Graham so that I felt connected to them.” It’s highly unlikely there will be another U.S. Senate debate. Saying voters need to hear more about their differences, Andrews asked Graham twice to commit to at least two more debates before Nov. 3. Graham she’d rather use her time meeting with voters than standing on a debate stage. Katharine Wilson writes about politics for the SC Daily Gazette. Before joining the publication, she wrote about local and state politics for The Baltimore Sun. S.C. Daily Gazette is part of States Newsroom, the nation’s largest statefocused nonprofit news organization.
ELECTION 2026
Attorney general candidates differ on crime, corruption, privacy
By Delayna Earley The Island News South Carolina's candidates for attorney general agree that protecting residents, addressing public corruption and upholding the law should be priorities for the state's chief legal officer, but their responses to questions from The Island News reveal different approaches to how the office should carry out those responsibilities. Republican David Stumbo and Democrat Richard Hricik responded to questionnaires distributed by The Island News ahead of the Nov. 3 general election. The candidates were asked about 10 issues, including the independence of the Attorney General's Office, public corruption, violent crime, consumer protection, artificial intelligence, human trafficking, constitutional rights and the use of automated license-plate readers by law enforcement. While both candidates emphasize accountability and public safety, Stumbo focuses on his experience as a prosecutor and his relationships with law enforcement, while Hricik advocates for changes to the office's priorities, particularly in consumer protection, public corruption investigations and civil litigation. Their responses also reveal differences over the use of surveillance technology and the role the Attorney General's Office should play in protecting residents from misconduct by businesses and government agencies.
Independence of the office Both candidates said the attorney general must make decisions based on the law rather than political relationships or outside influence. Stumbo, who has served as solicitor for South Carolina's 8th Judicial Circuit since 2013, said his experience as an elected prosecutor has required him to make independent legal decisions. "As Attorney General, the first two questions I will ask as we approach any decision will be 1) what are the facts, and what does the law say? And, 2) what is in the best interest of the people of South Carolina?" Stumbo said. He said he would answer directly to South Carolina residents rather than other elected officials or special interests. Hricik, a Mount Pleasant attorney with more than 30 years of experience in trial and appellate litigation, also emphasized independence but identified campaign financing as a potential source of political influence. Hricik said he does not accept campaign contributions, including money from political action committees or special interests, and is not personally financing his campaign beyond certain expenses. He argues that refusing contributions would allow him to make decisions without obligations to donors. "The law is black and white it is not 'red' or 'blue' and it should never be politicized," Hricik said. Hricik also emphasized that the Attorney General's Office represents the interests of South Carolina residents rather than the governor, political parties or other elected officials. Public corruption and government accountability The candidates differ in how they would approach investigations involving public officials, ethics violations and the misuse of taxpayer money. Stumbo said public corruption cases should be handled through the same investigative and prosecutorial process used in other criminal matters. He supports providing law enforcement with the resources necessary to conduct investigations
and making charging decisions based on evidence and applicable law. Stumbo said holding government accountable is an important responsibility of the attorney general and that he would carry out that responsibility without political favoritism. Hricik called for reestablishing a dedicated public corruption unit within the Attorney General's Office. He argues that South Carolina already has laws addressing corruption but needs stronger enforcement and a greater willingness to investigate powerful interests. Hricik pointed to his background in forensic accounting and civil litigation as qualifications for examining financial records and identifying potential misconduct. He said his approach would emphasize tracing financial transactions and investigating individuals and organizations involved in public corruption.
Violent crime and criminal prosecution Stumbo and Hricik also differ in how they would address violent crime, repeat offenders and backlogs in the state's criminal courts. Stumbo emphasized his experience prosecuting criminal cases and managing a circuit solicitor's office. He has served as solicitor for the 8th Judicial Circuit, which includes Abbeville, Greenwood, Laurens and Newberry counties, since his election in 2012. Before becoming solicitor, Stumbo worked in the South Carolina Attorney General's Office and the 11th Judicial Circuit Solicitor's Office, prosecuting cases involving violent crime, sexual assault, child abuse, narcotics, domestic violence and felony DUI. Stumbo said he would approach violent crime and case backlogs with the same commitment he has demonstrated as a circuit solicitor. Hricik called for a broader evaluation of how criminal cases move through South Carolina's judicial system. He acknowledged the Attorney General's Office's creation of a Violent Crimes Case Reduction Unit in 2025 but argued that additional changes are necessary. Hricik proposes using data analysis and modern technology to evaluate staffing, identify areas with the greatest need and improve the allocation of prosecutorial resources. He also questioned whether longstanding divisions of responsibility among state prosecutors and circuit solicitors have contributed to inefficiencies. Consumer protection Both candidates support protecting South Carolinians from fraud, financial exploitation and predatory business practices, although Hricik places greater emphasis on expanding the office's involvement in consumer disputes. Stumbo said existing consumer protection laws are sufficient and that his administration would focus on enforcing them. "The laws we have on the books are sufficient," Stumbo said. He pointed to his experience prosecuting individuals accused of exploiting vulnerable residents and said he would continue those efforts as attorney general. Hricik said the office should take a more active role in addressing consumer complaints involving insurance companies, improper fees, disputed debts and other business practices. He criticized what he described as the office's limited response to certain consumer concerns and said he would improve communication with residents seeking assistance. Hricik also identified environ-
mental protection as an area where he believes the office should be more active. He said the attorney general should use existing laws to hold businesses accountable when their actions harm residents or South Carolina's natural resources.
Artificial intelligence and online exploitation The candidates agree that artificial intelligence presents new opportunities for criminal activity, particularly identity theft, fraud and the exploitation of children. Stumbo said individuals who use artificial intelligence to commit crimes should be investigated and prosecuted under applicable laws. He highlighted his previous work with South Carolina's Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, which he helped lead as a prosecutor earlier in his career. Stumbo also expressed support for legislation criminalizing certain AI-generated child sexual abuse material. Hricik said the rapid development of artificial intelligence and other technologies requires law enforcement to adapt. He supports stronger enforcement of existing fraud, identity theft and exploitation laws, along with additional technical resources for investigators. Hricik also proposes working with law enforcement agencies, circuit solicitors and technology specialists to identify gaps in existing legislation. He emphasized the importance of protecting constitutional privacy rights while addressing crimes involving emerging technologies. Opioids, trafficking and child exploitation Both candidates identified human trafficking, child exploitation and drug distribution as serious concerns. Stumbo supports using the statewide grand jury to investigate organized criminal activity, including fentanyl distribution, human trafficking and crimes involving children. He also said money obtained through major legal settlements, including opioid settlements, should be used for its intended purposes. Stumbo supports continuing the work of existing statewide task forces, including those addressing human trafficking and internet crimes against children. Hricik called for expanding the Attorney General's Office's role in investigating organized criminal networks. He said the statewide grand jury should more aggressively pursue cases involving trafficking, exploitation and the financial networks supporting criminal enterprises. Hricik also supports greater coordination among local prosecutors, state investigators and federal law enforcement agencies. He argues that investigations should focus not only on individuals committing crimes but also on the organizations and financial structures that allow criminal operations to continue. State and federal litigation The Attorney General's Office also represents South Carolina in civil litigation, including lawsuits involving private companies and disputes over state and federal policies. Both candidates said decisions about pursuing litigation should be based on whether a case benefits South Carolina residents. Stumbo said he would prioritize transparency involving settlement agreements and payments to outside attorneys. He said outside legal counsel should be retained only when necessary to obtain favorable results for the state.
Hricik emphasized his experience handling civil litigation in state and federal courts. He said decisions about lawsuits should consider the evidence, legal arguments, potential recovery and risks associated with pursuing a case. Hricik also said litigation should not be used simply to advance political objectives. Both candidates identified protecting South Carolina's interests as the central consideration when deciding whether to pursue legal action.
Flock cameras and privacy The candidates expressed different views about the constitutional implications of automated license-plate readers, including Flock cameras, which are increasingly used by law enforcement agencies throughout South Carolina. The cameras capture license plates and vehicle information that investigators can search when investigating crimes or attempting to locate missing people. Supporters say the technology helps solve crimes, while critics have raised concerns about privacy, data retention and the potential for tracking individuals who are not suspected of criminal activity. Stumbo said the use of license-plate readers by law enforcement does not, by itself, violate the Fourth Amendment. He pointed to investigations involving murders, abductions and other violent crimes in which he said the technology has played an important role. However, Stumbo acknowledged that the systems can be misused. He said he would work with the General Assembly to establish stronger privacy protections and hold law enforcement agencies or private companies accountable for improper use of the technology. Hricik also acknowledged the potential benefits of license-plate readers but placed greater emphasis on constitutional limitations. He said communities should have a voice in deciding whether their law enforcement agencies use the technology. Hricik also argued that collecting extensive information about a person's movements raises greater privacy concerns than recording a vehicle at a single location. He cited the South Carolina Constitution's protections against unreasonable invasions of privacy and the U.S. Supreme Court's June 2026 decision in Chatrie v. United States. In that case, the Supreme Court ruled that police acquisition of certain cellphone location-history data constituted a search under the Fourth Amendment. The court did not determine whether the warrant used in that case was constitutionally sufficient, leaving that question for further consideration. The ruling did not directly decide the constitutionality of automated license-plate readers. Hricik said the more extensively law enforcement uses technology to track an individual's movements, the stronger the justification should be for requiring a warrant. He also said law enforcement personnel who unlawfully access private information should face consequences. Civil rights and constitutional protections Both candidates said the attorney general has a responsibility to protect constitutional rights and ensure laws are enforced consistently. Stumbo said the state and federal constitutions should guide lawmakers and government agencies when adopting new laws. He supports using formal opinions from the Attorney General's
Office to advise state and local officials when proposed laws could conflict with constitutional requirements. Hricik emphasized his experience litigating constitutional issues in federal courts and teaching constitutional civil rights litigation. He said the attorney general must be willing to challenge government actions that violate constitutional protections, regardless of the political affiliation of the officials involved. Hricik also stressed that the attorney general does not have the authority to write legislation, describing the office's responsibility as interpreting and enforcing the law rather than advancing a particular political agenda. Different backgrounds, different priorities The two candidates bring different professional backgrounds to the race to succeed Attorney General Alan Wilson, who is running for governor rather than seeking another term. Stumbo, 50, lives in Greenwood and is serving his fourth term as solicitor for the 8th Judicial Circuit. He earned his law degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law and has worked as a prosecutor for more than two decades. His previous experience includes two periods with the South Carolina Attorney General's Office, where he worked on statewide grand jury investigations, criminal prosecutions and cases involving the exploitation of children. Stumbo identifies public safety, criminal prosecution, cooperation with law enforcement and protecting vulnerable residents as priorities. Hricik, 59, lives in Mount Pleasant and has practiced law for more than 30 years. He earned an accounting degree from Cleveland State University and a law degree from William & Mary Law School. His professional background includes forensic accounting, civil litigation and teaching constitutional law. Hricik has also served in roles involving attorney ethics and disciplinary matters through appointments and service with South Carolina legal organizations. He identifies government accountability, public corruption investigations, consumer protection, constitutional rights and greater independence for the Attorney General's Office as priorities. Although both candidates emphasize enforcing the law and protecting South Carolina residents, their responses reflect different views about how the office should allocate its resources and balance criminal prosecution with its broader legal responsibilities. Stumbo points to his experience managing criminal prosecutions and working with law enforcement agencies as preparation for the office. Hricik argues that the attorney general should take a more active role in civil litigation, consumer protection and investigating misconduct by powerful public and private interests. Voters will decide who will serve as South Carolina's next attorney general in the Nov. 3 general election. Complete responses from Stumbo and Hricik will be available online at www.yourislandnews.com, edited only for spelling, grammar and AP style. 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. OCTOBER 15–21, 2026
A9
ARTS
Beaufort Symphony Orchestra to open 2026-2027 season with ‘German Masters’
Staff reports The Beaufort Symphony Orchestra (BSO) is excited to announce the launch of its 2026–2027 season, opening at 5 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026, at the USCB Center for the Arts. The opening performance, titled “German Masters,” celebrates the Program highlights • Georg Philipp Teleenduring legacy of three mann – Concerto for titan composers who trans2 Violas in G major: formed orchestral music: Highlighting the orGeorg Philipp Telemann, chestra’s own talented Ludwig van Beethoven, and Felix Mendelssohn. musicians, featured
soloists Ami Rabinowitz and Kailyn Stromer take center stage in one of the earliest works to champion the viola as a solo instrument. • Ludwig van Beethoven – Symphony No. 1 in C major: A foundational piece debuting at the dawn of the 19th century, signaling a revolutionary step forward in symphonic history. • Felix Mendelssohn – Symphony No. 3 in A minor (“Scottish”): A
Romantic masterpiece inspired by Mendelssohn's 1829 journey through Scotland, evoking stormy landscapes and lush melodic beauty.
A uniquely Beaufort experience This opening performance coincides with the conclusion of the Historic Beaufort Foundation’s annual Fall Festival of Houses and Gardens. After enjoying the town’s historic
architecture, attendees are invited to wind down their weekend with an evening of timeless classical music. Concert tickets can be purchased online at www. beaufortorchestra.org/tickets.html. About the BSO The Beaufort Symphony Orchestra brings live classical music performances and educational outreach to the Lowcountry region[cite. For more information, ticket sales, or donation oppor-
WANT TO GO?
Who: The Beaufort Symphony Orchestra (BSO) What: “German Masters” When: 5 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026 Where: USCB Center for the Arts Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online at www. beaufortorchestra.org/ tickets.html.
tunities, visit www.beaufortorchestra.org or send mail to P.O. Box 504, Beaufort, SC 29901.
Shifting Sands: USCB Center for the Arts announces Call for Artists
Special to The Island News The USCB Center for the Arts, in collaboration with the Pritchards Island Research Symposium, invites artists to participate in an upcoming exhibition titled "Shifting Sands: The Art and Evolution of Pritchards Island." This unique initiative invites regional artists to contribute to USCB’s ongoing stewardship of Pritchards Island and its surrounding marine ecosystems. Selected artists will be invited to a half-day guided boat trip and field day on Pritchards Island in late October. This excursion will serve as the primary inspiration for creators as they develop original artworks. The resulting exhibition will be on display from March 16 through April 22, 2027 with an opening reception on March 19.
their application via email by Oct. 16 to Bonnie Hargrove, Director for the USCB Center for the Arts, at bhargrov@uscb.edu. Submissions must include the following materials: • Work Samples: 3 to 5 high-resolution digital images of recent work (minimum 300 DPI). • Professional CV: A current curriculum vitae detailing artistic background and exhibition history. • Biography & Artist Statement: A brief bio and a statement reflecting the artist's interest in the project. • Digital Links: Links to the artist's professional website or relevant social media portfolios.
spired artworks. The Center for the Arts/Pritchards Island Research Foundation will retain a 30 percent commission on sales with the exception of one artwork which jurors will select as a contribution to the inaugural Pritchards Island Research Fund Benefit Art Auction. At the auction, 60 percent of proceeds from the sale of art work will be donated to the fund, with 40 percent going to the artist. Minimum bids will be set in collaboration between the artist and the Center for the Arts.
About the project Pritchards Island remains one of the region's last undisturbed and undeveloped barrier islands, serving as a living laboratory for coastal erosion, marine biology, and climate science. Please Note: All exhibited work Through "Shifting Sands," the must be for sale. Artists may ex- USCB Center for the Arts and the Submission Guidelines Interested artists must submit hibit up to four Pritchards-in- Pritchards Island Research Sym-
‘Shorts At High Noon’ continues
Beaufort Film Society offers free weekly screenings of award-winning short films Staff reports The Beaufort Film Society’s popular Shorts at High Noon film series continues each Wednesday through Nov. 18, 2026, at its new home at the USC Beaufort Center. The seven-week series gives Lowcountry audiences another opportunity to enjoy a selection of short films screened during the 2026 Beaufort International Film Festival (BIFF), including several category and individual award winners. Screenings begin promptly at noon, with check-in beginning at 11:30 a.m. Programs run approximately one hour. Admission is free and the public is invited to the screenings. “Shorts at High Noon gives our community another chance to see some of the outstanding independent films that helped make BIFF 2026 so memorable,” Beaufort Film Society President Ron Tucker said. “It’s an easy way to spend a lunch hour enjoying some terrific filmmaking, and we’re especially
A10
OCTOBER 15–21, 2026
17 minutes — Student Collision Theory ★ — 21 minutes — Student
pleased to once again make these screenings available to the community free of charge.” 2026 Shorts At High Noon Schedule Wednesday, Oct. 21 The Crawfish Dance ★ — 3 minutes — Animation Watching Walter — 18 minutes — Short Goodbye Stranger — 17 minutes — Student Wanna Be A Star — 6 minutes — Short Wednesday, Oct. 28 The Dumbletons — 14 minutes — Short O & O ★ — 20 minutes — Short Snipped — 14 minutes — Short Wednesday, Nov. 4 Yer Smackin’ — 7 minutes — Student The Lights Above ★ —
Wednesday, Nov. 11 Lonely ★ — 19 minutes — Short Walter — 18 minutes — Short The Artis Residence ★ — 11 minutes — Short Wednesday, Nov. 18 Session is for Beaufort Film Society members only. The final program will offer BFS members a special opportunity to participate directly in the selection process for the 2027 Beaufort International Film Festival, viewing three BIFF 2027 submissions and voting to help determine an official selection for the upcoming festival. ★ Denotes a BIFF 2026 Category or Individual Award Winner For additional information about Shorts at High Noon, the Beaufort Film Society and the Beaufort International Film Festival (Feb. 16–21, 2027), visit beaufortfilmfestival.com.
Pritchards Island is USCB's pristine research island and a living example of natural processes on a barrier island. Tyler Hassig/USC Beaufort posium aim to bridge the gap between science and art, using visual storytelling to raise awareness about the fragile beauty and continuous evolution of South Caroli-
na's coastal ecosystems. For more information about the exhibition or submission process, contact Bonnie Hargrove at bhargrov@uscb.edu.
Conroy Center introduces Gwaltney
A Few Words from Robert Gwaltney An introductory statement from new Executive Director Robert Gwaltney from The Pat Conroy Literary Center’s website: “It is a joy to be writing to you from Beaufort as I begin my new role as Executive Director of the Pat Conroy Literary Center. I have long admired Pat Conroy — not only as a writer, but as someone who believed deeply in the power of stories to connect us, challenge us, and help us better understand ourselves and one another. To now have the privilege of helping steward his literary legacy is both humbling and exciting. “As I enter my third week at the Center, our Board and I have already begun the important work of strategic planning and imagining what the next chapter of the Conroy Center can be. Three priorities are guiding that work: preserving legacy, expanding reach, and deepening impact. “I come to the Conroy Center with tremendous respect for what has already been built here. Through years of thoughtful programming and community engagement, the Center has become far more than a place that preserves the legacy of a beloved writer. It is a place where Pat’s belief in the transformative power of the written word continues to live. “We see that legacy in the students who discover their own voices through programs like Storybuilders and Camp Conroy; in the teachers who are encouraged and supported in the vital work they do; in the readers who find connection, conversation, and community through books; and in the writers who find inspiration, encouragement, and opportunities to grow their craft. “Now we have the opportunity to build
The Pat Conroy Literary Center hosted a reception to welcome new Executive Director Robert Gwaltney on Friday Sept 16, 2026, at the Center’s Bladen Street headquarters in Beaufort. Asa Aarons Smith/The Island News upon that extraordinary foundation — to introduce Pat’s work and values to new audiences, strengthen the communities we already serve, and ensure that the Conroy Center remains a vibrant literary home for generations to come. "There is much ahead, and I could not be more excited to begin this journey with you. “The next chapter of the Pat Conroy Literary Center is waiting to be written. We hope you will help us write it.”
SPORTS HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL
Dolphins down, not out Woodland hands Battery Creek first loss
Holly Hill quarterback Mason Green, center, has nowhere to go as Beaufort Academy’s Terry Dortch, left, and Jamison Paulk close in on him during the second quarter of their game Friday, Oct. 9, at BA’s Merritt Field. The Eagles defense held tight leading to a 20-6 win over the Raiders. Bob Sofaly/ The Island News SCORES & SCHEDULE
Battery Creek’s Caiden Bellinger puts a big hit on Woodland’s receiver Majai Wolfe at the end zone during the final minutes of their game Friday, Oct. 9, at Dolphins Stadium. However, the referee ruled that Wolfe was interfered with and Bellinger, despite stopping the touchdown was assigned a 15-yard personal foul. Battery Creek’s six-game winning streak was ended as the Wolverines came away with a 24-14 win. Bob Sofaly/The Island News By Justin Jarrett LowcoSports.com The streak is over, but the season is not. Battery Creek’s historic six-game winning streak to open the season ended Friday night, as Jervaze Salley threw two touchdown passes and added a rushing score to lead visiting Woodland to a 24-14 win in a key Region 5-2A matchup. Battery Creek battled Woodland through a defensive struggle, but a pair of costly turnovers and a late third-quarter touchdown helped the Wolverines pull away. The Dolphins’ first loss spoiled a big night from Elijah Frazier, who racked up 125 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns in a losing effort. The Dolphins answered Woodland’s opening-drive touchdown with a big play of their own, as Nate Freeman connected with Frazier for a 38-yard touchdown pass with 3:33
left in the first quarter. Frazier slipped behind the defense, and Freeman delivered a deep strike to even the score at 7. Both defenses settled in from there, trading stops in a game that remained tied until Woodland kicked a field goal on the final play of the first half to take a 10-7 lead into the break. Battery Creek had opportunities to swing the momentum, but the Dolphins couldn’t capitalize after their second interception of the night, and Salley responded by finding Jhalin Herring along the left sideline. Herring broke free from defenders near the 45-yard line and raced to the end zone for a 44-yard touchdown that extended Woodland’s lead to 17-7. The Dolphins’ next promising possession ended with a costly takeaway, as Chandler Fogle intercepted a pass and returned it deep into Battery Creek territory. Wood-
John Paul II earns 1st win of the year LowcoSports.com John Paul II picked up its first win of the season Friday, routing Hilton Head Prep 41-6 in an afternoon clash in Sea Pines on Hilton Head Island. Jadon Inabinett racked up 182 yards on six carries and scored three touchdowns to lead a dominant ground game for the Golden Warriors, who attempted only one pass and didn’t complete any. Taylor Murphy added 95 yards and a touchdown on four carries, and quarterback Alan Wolf had a rushing score. It was 41-0 at halftime, and JPII nearly finished off the shutout before the reserves allowed a fourth-quarter score. Sean Phalen led a strong defensive effort with six tackles, including three tackles for loss, while Russell Spencer added five tackles with two TFLs, and Zachary Moulton and Nicklaus Feltner each had an interception. JPII (1-6) is back in action Friday, hosting Laurence Manning at David J. Spisso Field in Hardeeville in a SCISA Region 2-4A game that was postponed last month due to inclement weather.
Battery Creek’s Michael Williams intercepts the ball as Woodland receiver Majai Wolfe can only watch during the third quarter Friday, Oct. 9, at Dolphins Stadium. The visiting Wolverines would have the final say and ended the Dolphins’ six-game winning streak 24-14. Bob Sofaly/ The Island News land needed just one play to capitalize, with Salley scoring on a 14-yard run to open the fourth quarter and push the lead to 24-7. Battery Creek refused to go quietly. Frazier broke loose for an 18-yard touchdown run to give the Dol-
phins a chance to climb back into the game, but Javion Hall intercepted a pass on Battery Creek’s final possession to seal the Wolverines’ victory. Michael Williams provided a bright spot for the Dolphins on both sides of
the ball. He caught three passes for 94 yards and added 51 yards on three rushing attempts, and he recorded an interception on defense and broke up a pass to prevent a potential touchdown. The Dolphins’ ground game faced a difficult challenge against a Woodland defense anchored by Koby Doctor. Eddie Heyward, Battery Creek’s leading rusher, was held to 21 yards on nine carries as the Wolverines consistently limited the Dolphins’ ability to establish the run between the tackles. The Dolphins (6-1, 1-1) are still in play for a region championship, but the margins are razor-thin now. If Battery Creek wins its final three games — at home against Timberland on Friday, at Lake Marion on Oct. 23, and back in Burton for a showdown with Philip Simmons on Oct. 30 — the Dolphins can do no worse than a tie for first.
HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL
Dolphins swept
Battery Creek’s Ellen Neuhaus just misses the spike by Woodland on Tuesday at BCHS. Though the spike was missed, the ball fell harmlessly out-ofbounds during the first set and the hosting Dolphins got the point. However, the visiting Wolverines went on to win 3-0 over the Dolphins in straight sets. Bob Sofaly/The Island News
Jasmine Robinson, center, and Ellen Neuhaus, teamed up at the net and caused Woodland High School’s Issabella Lopez to stumble during the first set Tuesday, Oct. 6, at Battery Creek. The Lady Wolverines, however, went on to win the contest 3-0 in straight sets. Bob Sofaly/The Island News
Week 7 — Friday, Oct. 9 SCHSL 5-5A Summerville 50, Stratford 7 Fort Dorchester 30, West Ashley 16 James Island 45, Stall 0 SCHSL 6-5A Berkeley 36, Carolina Forest 24 Socastee 20, Wando 17 Cane Bay 20, Goose Creek 14 SCHSL 6-4A Lucy Beckham 47, May River 0 Colleton County 35, Beaufort 14 SCHSL 5-3A Oceanside Collegiate 42, Georgetown 0 Hanahan 56, North Charleston 0 SCHSL 5-2A Timberland 41, Academic Magnet 28 Woodland 24, Battery Creek 14 Philip Simmons 44, Lake Marion 0 SCHSL 7-1A Hampton Co. 57, Ridgeland 0 Hardeeville 15, Allendale-Fairfax 0 (forfeit) SCISA 2-4A John Paul II 41, Hilton Head Prep 6 Laurence Manning 10, Porter-Gaud 7 Northwood Academy 44, Pinewood Prep 43 SCISA 2-3A Bethesda Academy 30, HHCA 6 First Baptist 57, St. John’s Christian 0 John Paul II 41, Hilton Head Prep 6 SCISA 1-2A Calhoun Academy 50, Cross 6 Colleton Prep 46, Patrick Henry Academy 28 First Baptist 57, St. John’s Christian 0 SCISA 2-1A Beaufort Academy 20, Holly Hill Academy 6 Dorchester Academy 48, Thomas Heyward 13 Week 8 — Friday, Oct. 16 SCHSL 5-5A Stall (2-5, 0-3) at West Ashley (1-6, 1-2) Fort Dorchester (4-4, 3-1) at Summerville (4-3, 2-1) Ashley Ridge (2-5, 2-1) at James Island (7-0, 4-0) SCHSL 6-5A Carolina Forest (5-2, 1-1) at Socastee (3-4, 2-0) (Thurs) Goose Creek (1-6, 0-2) at Berkeley (6-1, 2-0) Cane Bay (3-4, 1-1) at Wando (3-4, 0-2) SCHSL 6-4A Colleton Co. (2-5, 1-1) at Bluffton (3-4, 1-1) Lucy Beckham (4-3, 1-1) at Beaufort (1-6, 0-2) May River (4-3, 1-1) at Hilton Head (6-1, 2-0) SCHSL 5-3A Georgetown (1-6, 0-1) at Hanahan (7-1, 1-1) Bishop England (7-0, 1-0) at Oceanside Collegiate (4-3, 2-0) SCHSL 5-2A Academic Magnet (4-3, 0-2) at Philip Simmons (4-3, 2-0) Timberland (3-4, 1-1) at Battery Creek (6-1, 1-1) Lake Marion (4-2, 1-1) at Woodland (5-2, 1-1) SCHSL 7-1A Whale Branch (1-5, 0-1) at Hardeeville (5-2, 2-0) Allendale-Fairfax (1-6, 0-1) at Ridgeland (1-7, 0-2) SCISA 2-4A Laurence Manning (5-1, 1-0) at John Paul (1-6, 0-4) SCISA 2-3A No games scheduled SCISA 1-2A Cross (3-4) at St. John’s (1-6) SCISA 1A No games scheduled
Holly Hill Academy quarterback Mason Green desperately tries to get away from Beaufort Academy’s Riley Jones during their game Friday, Oct. 9, at BA’s Merritt Field. Jones’ constant pressure helped the Eagles beat the Raiders 20-6. Bob Sofaly/The Island News OCTOBER 15–21, 2026
A11
OPINIONS Editor’s Note: The opinions of our columnists in the Voices section are not necessarily the opinions of The Island News.
Revisiting those long-gone Africa days
I
t is Saturday and it’s cooler This morning I’m listening to music which leans heavily into the Henry Mancini/Percy Faith catalogue. Yes, I will admit that I sometimes feel slightly depressed about opportunities missed; roads not taken. But there is a reliable anti-depressant that calls for the playing of John Berry’s “Out of Africa” as rendered by John Williams in his soaring soundtrack. Many know the 1985 movie that featured Meryl Streep and Robert Redford. It’s most famous scene — Redford washing Streep’s hair while reciting Coleridge — would become the most explicitly erotic scene to emerge in that strange decade. I want to be clear that I did not hear the theme song while driving a Land Rover in the Serengeti — actually I’ve never been to East Africa and have not seen those vast herds of warthogs and
B
SCOTT GRABER
wildebeest. Nor can I remember flying in a biplane with Meryl Streep; or shooting a lion with Robert Redford; but somehow my travels in West Africa got themselves attached to the “Out of Africa” theme song and now this tune is instantaneous transport to the falls just below Stanley Pool. But, to be truthful, my Africa is about the chaos surrounding a forthcoming civil war in Congo; an on-going civil war in Cote d’Ivoire; and watching strangely beautiful tracer rounds being fired by unhappy, unpaid soldiers in the employ of Mobutu.
stop just because a cousin’s funeral coincided with the first day of Common Pleas. Oddly enough I actually enjoyed this predictability. Then I went to Africa. The first thing I learned was not to take photographs in an airport. That lesson underscored when I was, along with fellow attorney Carew Rice “detained” in a dark and dank basement while four armed men insisted we were spies. The second thing I learned was appointments (with government officials) rarely happened when scheduled. I learned commercial airplanes had no schedule at all. I learned that the local beer was — because of the alcohol content — the safest beverage; and that anything resembling a salad was a bacteriological minefield. Along the way I met people who actually thrived in this unreliable, impermanent, disaster-prone place — a beautiful young
doctor (focused on Malaria) comes to mind; and a young bureaucrat who admired my loafers — meaning I had to give them to him — which resulted in my eating blackened bush meat with his extended family. After four trips I decided I had to share this strangeness with my wife. But one day she stopped and said, “I’m not getting on that airplane.” We were on our way to Sokoto, Nigeria, and were catching an ancient, rebuilt 727 departing Abuja. Notwithstanding the duct tape — securing the emergency exit — I insisted we board. “For God’s sake, Susan, this is Africa,” I said. A week later this same flight crashed, killing all on board. A less-painful memory was flying out of Africa on an Air France Airbus and looking down at a thousand miles of billiard-table browness that is the Sahara, whispering to Susan,
“Someday we will be back.” “Someday we’ll take a wooden, sail-powered dhow up the Niger; and then we’ll rent a Peugeot 504 — a/k/a ‘Africa’s vehicular workhorse’ — and drive through the desert to Timbuktu.” But that flight would be our last flight out of Africa. Five years ago my wife was diagnosed with a brain disorder called Aphasia; and this disease has removed much of her memory. But I do have scrapbooks full of photos; and I have “Out of Africa” that pulls the trigger on my memories giving voice to the photos. These days we still can revisit those long-gone Africa days when we traveled with a toothbrush, a Nikon single lens reflex and a large dollop of youthful recklessness. Scott Graber is a lawyer, novelist, veteran columnist and longtime resident of Port Royal. He can be reached at cscottgraber@gmail.com.
Beaufort County Sheriff ’s Office: A new beginning
eaufort County deserves a new beginning and a conversation about what comes next. For nearly three decades, Beaufort County has had the same elected leadership in the Sheriff’s Office. That transition gives our community an opportunity to preserve what is working and decide what kind of leadership we want for the future. I bring more than 13 years of law enforcement experience, including work in corrections, patrol, school-based law enforcement, and leadership as a lieutenant. I understand the responsibilities of the badge, the challenges deputies face, and the importance of protecting the public and those who serve it. But my candidacy is about more than experience. It is about how the Sheriff’s Office should serve Beaufort County. My first priority will be strengthening communication between the Sheriff’s Office and the community. Residents should have ways to raise concerns, receive information, and understand decisions. I
I
My experience includes Kalashnikov-toting teenagers at improvised road blocks; being arrested in the airport in Abidjan; and summoned to the Presidential Palace in Brazzaville — actually a single-storied “rancher” surrounded by barbed wire and armored personnel carriers. My tours of French-speaking Africa came when I was trying to make a living as a small town lawyer in an environment that was characterized by statutes, case law, procedure, rules of decorum and aging, robe-wearing druids who enforced these semi-religious protocols. My waking life was depositions and trials — punctuated by forms and briefs — that gave life a metronome-like quality. If there was an unexpected event, a death in the family, one could approach the Circuit Court judge and ask for a continuance. But one never knew whether the wheels of justice would
ALPHONSO SMALL
will establish a Citizens Advisory Committee, hold community meetings, and strengthen partnerships with schools, churches, neighborhoods, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and community leaders. The Sheriff’s Office should be present when there is no emergency, not only when someone calls 911. My second priority will be accountability. Early in my administration, I will conduct a comprehensive review of the agency’s budget, staffing, overtime, contracts, equipment, training, policies, and operations. Taxpayers deserve to understand how their money is used, and deputies deserve the staffing, equipment, training,
and leadership necessary to work safely and professionally. We should be able to explain our priorities and demonstrate our results. That includes unresolved cases. Victims and families should not feel forgotten because public attention has moved on. I will review investigative resources, strengthen cooperation with partner agencies, and make serious unresolved cases an ongoing priority. My third priority will be our young people. I want young residents to know the Sheriff’s Office as more than an institution they encounter during a crisis. I will create opportunities for young people to engage with deputies through mentorship, community partnerships, career opportunities, and a Youth and Community Advisory Council. We cannot ask the next generation to trust institutions that do not take the time to listen to them. I will also take a different approach to Beaufort County’s participation in the current 287(g) Task Force Model.
I would end voluntary participation in that model to the fullest extent permitted by law while continuing appropriate cooperation with federal authorities on legitimate criminal investigations. Our deputies should be focused on protecting Beaufort County, investigating crime, helping victims, apprehending dangerous offenders, and keeping our communities safe. Victims and witnesses should feel comfortable calling law enforcement when they need help. None of this means everything the Sheriff’s Office has done during the past three decades is wrong. There are dedicated deputies, investigators, dispatchers, and civilian employees who have served this county faithfully. There are programs and practices worth preserving. Leadership means keeping what works, changing what does not, and asking whether we are meeting the needs of the people we serve. I am not asking Beaufort County to simply change the name on the office door.
I am asking for an opportunity to begin a new chapter. A chapter where young people are heard. Where victims are not forgotten. Where deputies are supported. Where taxpayers receive accountability. Where every community has a relationship with its Sheriff’s Office. And where leadership is measured not by how long someone holds an office, but by how well they serve the people entrusted to them. The badge belongs to the public. And I am ready to lead a Sheriff’s Office grounded in Accountability. Community. Transparency. Alphonso Small is a Democratic candidate for Beaufort County Sheriff. He is a law enforcement professional with more than 13 years of experience serving South Carolina communities, currently serving as a member of Beaufort County’s Board of Education. His campaign for Beaufort County Sheriff is centered on accountability, transparency, communication, and stronger connections between law enforcement and the community.
Set our differences aside and work together
n 1958, about a decade after the end of World War II, a young Japanese woman married a U.S. Marine in Tokyo. She was immediately disowned by her family, and they moved to the U.S. with an uncertain future. During World War II, the U.S. government forcibly relocated and interned Japanese Americans, including their children and grandchildren, most of whom were U.S. citizens. The war was brutal for both countries, and this young bride now felt the tinge of racism as they settled into her new home. A woman named Olga stepped up to help the couple. The military community was supportive. Times were hard, and this
A12
OCTOBER 15–21, 2026
member of our community recently said, “A legacy isn’t leaving something for people; it’s leaving something in people.” My beloved mother-in-law took her hurt and pain and turned it into hope and the ability SHELLEY GAY YUHAS to change an atmosphere from darkness to light. Why do I share this stobride’s family had rejected ry? Because I am running her. But she was strong and for election to represent courageous, able to bring S.C. House District 121 warmth to any room with and have a vision where her smile and laughter. we start fresh. Setting our Soon, the young couple was differences aside and walkexpecting their first child. ing in unity to make our That child was my husband. community better. WorkMarrying into an intering with all communities racial family has been one because all people matter. of the greatest joys of my Leaving a legacy of hope. life. My mother-in-law, Mrs. Hate and division Haruko Ishikawa Yuhas, have no place anywhere, better known as “Shorty,” especially in District 121. fulfilled her mission. A wise When we begin to talk, we
may find that our stories are not that far apart. We find common ground that creates opportunities and growth. Growth leads to strength. Strong families produce strong children, which leads to stronger communities. Our district’s diversity makes us stronger – different perspectives help us make better decisions. There is a path forward, and my vision for our district will help alleviate the hardship we face, turning our suffering into perseverance, perseverance into character, and character into hope. As a child in a wartorn country, Haruko was responsible for carrying the family’s bag of rice and her younger brother to safety whenever the sirens
sounded. Most of us may never know that experience. Beaufort County may not be an active war zone, but there are parallels: many of us know the pain of losing mothers, fathers, children, and grandchildren far too soon to violence and drugs. It is time for change. How do we move forward without settling into the pain and division caused by this kind of violence? We need look no farther than the prayer many of us say every Sunday. We ask God to “forgive our trespasses” and “forgive those who have trespassed against us.” If my motherin-law had carried that pain instead of letting it go, she never would have been the vibrant, funny, compassionate woman who helped so
many in our community. A woman who left a legacy in people. So, District 121, let us start with ourselves. What pain are we carrying from the past? How do we move forward? Choose kindness. Every day, we can let go of insecurity and ineffectiveness and move in the opposite direction. Our past and our present show a community marked by freedom, and I am ready to set our differences aside and work together. Determined to leave a legacy IN people. Our home and our community are worth it. Our families are worth it. YOU are worth it. Shelley Gay Yuhas is the Republican candidate for S.C. House District 121.
VOTE BY NOVEMBER 3! V O T E E A R LY : O C T. 1 9 - 3 1
RE-ELECT SHANNON
ERICKSON
O U R C O M M U N I T Y VO I C E I N T H E S . C . H O U S E ! From major Interstate widening projects to safer neighborhood streets, our State Representative Shannon Erickson is working hard for better and safer roads - and she is getting results! A PROVEN LEADER IN COLUMBIA
As the Chair of the House Education and Public Works Committee, Shannon plays a key role in overseeing the SCDOT, which spends billions of dollars a year on a statewide network of 41,000 miles of roads, bridges and freeways. She played a key role in guiding the recent SCDOT restructuring bill through into law, making historic changes aimed at making the agency more efficient and responsive.
A STRONG ADVOCATE FOR REGIONAL HIGHWAY NEEDS
Shannon Erickson makes improving this region’s highways a top priority. She fought to get major regional projects moving forward, including the Harbor Island bridge replacement project, as well as the Interstate 95 widening project. When there were plans to begin the I-95 widening near the NC state line, she pushed back, showing the greater traffic and safety problems on 95 were much farther south, ensuring the widening would start in this region, where improvements are needed the most.
WORKING FOR SAFER LOCAL STREETS
Neighborhood streets are important too. Since first elected, she has worked closely with public officials, SCDOT staff and others to get local projects prioritized for funding and construction. She worked to implement traffic calming strategies, pedestrian improvements and speed limit lowering in high traffic areas and neighborhoods for safety of our citizens driving, walking and biking.
SHANNON ERICKSON IS GETTING RESULTS FOR BETTER & SAFER ROADS!
K E E P I N T O U C H W I T H R E P R E S E N TAT I V E E R I C K S O N :
843-263-1867 repshannonerickson@gmail.com REPSHANNONERICKSON
@SHANNONERICKSON
ERICKSONFORHOUSE.COM Seeking God
Saints and Sinners Encountering Brokenness Among Believers
“This gym will change your life!” A friend raves about his gym, sharing enthusiastically how exercise changes one’s life, and you decide to check it out. Walking around, you see a number of very fit people, exercising with focus. But you also notice a lot of people who aren’t doing much. They seem more concerned with socializing than getting in shape. And in the corner, you see your friend, taking a nap on one of the exercise balls!
There is no perfect gym, and no perfect group of believers. If we were to wait for a church full of perfect members, we would never be part of a church! Jesus told us this would be the case: his church would be full of wheat and weeds, saints and sinners, until the end of time. (Matthew 13:24-30) To a certain degree, we are all weeds. We all have sins and brokenness. Thankfully, the Church is meant to be a hospital for sinners, not a club for perfect people.
We experience a similar phenomenon in church. In pretty much every faith community, one will find people who are passionate about God and live out their faith whole-heartedly. But one will also find people who are going through the motions, or who are not practicing what they preach, perhaps even among those who are leaders or well-regarded. If you have been hurt or scandalized by someone who should have been an example of faith, it might be helpful to consider the following reflections.
Be inspired by those who are spiritually fruitful. The quality of a gym is best seen by looking at those who take advantage of all it offers. Similarly, the value of a church is best seen by looking at those who make full use of its spiritual treasures. Such believers will still have weaknesses, but one should be able to see a peace and a joy in their lives. In the Catholic Church, we are inspired by people like Francis of Assisi or Mother Teresa, whose lives were transformed by Christ’s grace in beautiful and amazing ways.
God is still worth knowing, even though his followers fail. There are many things in life worth doing, even though people involved are flawed. In our analogy, the napping friend has not been faithful to exercise, but this doesn’t mean that exercise and good nutrition aren’t worthwhile pursuits. Just because some people who follow God don’t practice what they preach, it doesn’t mean that God isn’t real or that he isn’t worth knowing. Each of us are sinners in need of salvation. If we are honest with ourselves, we can probably see how we have often wanted to live a certain way but have failed, or sins that we have struggled with but just couldn’t seem to overcome. We are all broken to one degree or another; “all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) Remembering our own human weakness can help give us some perspective when we encounter indifference or outright evil among some of Christ’s followers.
Next Week Heroic Sacrifice
Seeking God Message 7 of 8 70 Lady’s Island Drive, Beaufort • 843-522-9555 • www.stpetersbeaufort.org • office@stpetersbeaufort.org
OCTOBER 15–21, 2026
A13
OPINIONS Editor’s Note: The opinions of our columnists in the Voices section are not necessarily the opinions of The Island News.
Especially when the October wind blows, Part 2
“Donald Trump polarized a lot of people with his tough talk, but would you rather have someone who is abrasive and accomplished the following, or would you like someone mellifluous like Barack Obama or Bill Clinton who could not achieve any of these achieveLOUISE MATHEWS ments which were not just good for the United States but were good for the Western Alliance in general?” Because of Mr. Trump’s threats — Victor Davis Hanson, to take back the Panama Canal, The Daily Signal podcast, Oct. 8, 2026 which in contravention of our treaty was controlled by the Chinese at both ends, Mr. Trump encourfollow Victor Davis Hanson, a aged Latin America to align with Senior Fellow in classics and the United States and completely military history at the Hoover neutered the Chinese and Russian Institution of Sanford University. “pink tide” in our neighboring He looks at current events from hemisphere. His Greenland deal a historian’s perspective. He closed arctic sea lanes to China. is a cheerleader for Western Because of his tariffs and tough Civilization, which, to Woke talk with Canada, which has 80 America makes him anathema. To percent of its trade with the U.S., me, he writes rationally, choosing Canadians are beginning to “reject language that lacks bias. His the socialist paradigm that has writing and speech are plain and wrecked their economy.” full of common sense. Before Mr. Trump, most NATO It is election season, and countries reneged on their agreed people will soon cast their votes upon 2 percent of GDP in military in congressional races which pundits claim will be a referendum support. This anemic commitment signaled to Vladimir Putin that he on Donald Trump’s presidency. would not have concrete EuropeSome podcasts and articles such as Dr. Hanson’s applaud President an resistance to an invasion of Ukraine, which Russia did during Trump’s accomplishments. While the Biden Administration. Now, Democrats grumble about the because Mr. Trump threatened growth of the Trump business to leave NATO, almost all NATO conglomerate’s wealth, the party countries are putting nearly 5 of Lincoln focuses on what Mr. Trump has done. Typically, legacy percent of GDP into defense. On the home front, the Demmedia outlets fail to describe his ocrat playbook resurrects 1992, achievements.
I
D
o we no longer qualify as a civilized nation? I ask this question with all sincerity. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has declared that the military will carry out a public execution for the first time in recent history with a firing squad by troops at the base where the crimes occurred. It’s worth noting that several enlisted men have filed to leave the army, citing religious and conscientious objection to this. They don’t want to be part of it. It behooves me to stop here and state my position on “punishment by death.” I am in favor of the death sentence when the circumstances merit such, and many times they do. In the case of Army Major Nidel Hasan, I believe he deserves to die for killing 13 people and injuring many others. By a firing squad? That’s bad enough, but live stream the execution? I’m sorry, but this is a grotesque normalization of the situation dictated by a person whose actions since taking his position are questionable at best.
when the cry was, “It’s the economy, stupid,” and the first Gulf War was all about “blood for oil”. The “affordability” crisis of 2026 is questionable in light of the record high median household income of $87,460 in 2025, which is the highest in the world. For African American households, median income increased by 4.8 percent. The poverty rate has hit an alltime low of 10.2 percent. Despite the Iran War, the Atlanta Federal Reserve predicts that third-quarter GDP growth will finish at 5 percent. The stock market has grown by 8.1 percent, which is good news for middle class people who are on pensions or are building a retirement account. Most Americans have experienced tax relief under Mr. Trump’s administration. The standard deduction increased, the child tax credit expanded, and senior citizens received an additional deduction. Consumer spending remains strong. As one meme I recently saw put it, people are still renting apartments, houses are still selling, and car dealerships are still marketing automobiles. There have always been and always will be people who cannot afford everything they want when they want it. Does that constitute a crisis? Prices are high, but most people seem to forget that the largest increase in prices since 2020 was under the Biden Administration when prices for staples such as
“Most Americans have experienced tax relief under Mr. Trump’s administration. The standard deduction increased, the child tax credit expanded, and senior citizens received an additional deduction.” food, fuel, and shelter rose nearly 30 percent. Inflation climbed over Mr. Biden’s tenure by 21 percent, over 5 percent per year. The Trump administration has halved that annual inflation. Some prices are lower, such as the cost of eggs. Beef prices are high due to very complex circumstances.\ Perhaps Americans need to remind themselves that for our health, we are supposed to be eating less red meat. There was a time not too long ago when folks on the Left who are now bemoaning the cost of beef were calling for the decimation of cattle herds so we could decrease the amount of methane bovines expel into the atmosphere, thereby slowing climate change. Gas prices are high. Americans seem to forget that in the first week of the Biden administration, Mr. Biden issued executive orders cutting oil and gas production. According to the Institute for Energy Research, these were the first of 250 actions over four years that limited U.S. fossil fuel energy production. In June 2022, a year
Are we becoming what we are fighting?
But that sentence — and other American military executions before it — were held in front of a small audience of witnesses, and not broadcast widely. Private Bennett’s case was problematic because it was conCAROL LUCAS sumed by racial overtones. “The Kennedy administration was particularly concerned that there had been “He’s going to get a firing a series of executions of squad of soldiers, as it African-American soldiers.” should be,” Hegseth said. Despite these concerns, “And we’ll make sure that President Kennedy did people are able to watch not intercede on Bennett’s it, that it’s public, because behalf and commute Private people need to understand Bennett’s sentence. that there are serious conHowever, since this sequences for these types of execution, the guidance for things.” putting a soldier on death — Real America’s Voice row has changed. “The good news is that As for the serious conseour military death penalty quences for “these types of arrangements are somethings,” I’d like to ask where what better than they were are those same consequenc- when Private Bennett was es for the murders comexecuted in 1961. Spemitted by ICE, specifically cifically we now have a those of Renee Good and regulation in the manual for Alex Pretti? But I digress – courts-martial that at least that’s another story. begins to guide the exercise The last military execuof discretion so that jurors tion was carried out in 1961, — or as they are called, when Army Private John members — of the court Bennett was hanged for martial aren’t completely rape and attempted murder. at sea in terms of deciding
who should be executed and who should not.” — Eugene Fidell Let me interject with this: it appears that the aforementioned “good news” no longer takes precedent. Hegseth said the military executions comparable to plans for Hasan’s death haven’t been held since World War II “but I kind of like the mentality we had in WWII — which was win, understand that when the enemy attacks you, you stand your ground.” I see nothing but glee on the part of Hegseth, and for those who choose to watch this, I’m afraid they fall into the same category. Asked if Hasan had made any appeals to President Donald Trump to spare his life, according to Politico, Hegseth said he did not care. “We’ll see him on Dec. 3,” he said. Can you detect the “glee, with just a touch of manic arrogance?” Keep in mind Hasan is now paralyzed and confined to a wheelchair. This doesn’t change his guilt, not one bit. But it does beg the question, how will this act be handled? Will he stay in
and a half into the Biden administration, gas was $5.01 per gallon. By the time Mr. Trump took office, gas was $2.81 per gallon mostly through the depletion of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve and imports. The U.S. is now the greatest producer of oil and natural gas in history. Once energy markets stabilize with the end of the War Against the Iranian Regime, gas prices will decline. Professor Hanson notes that the cost of this unpopular war – about $40 billion to date – “amounts to about 25 percent of the conservative estimates of recently discovered welfare corruption and fraud in California alone.” That’s $160 billion! The Trump Administration’s focus on abolishing fraud, crime, and illegal immigration will have to wait for the third part of this series. Louise Mathews retired from a career in community colleges and before that, theater. A 13-year come-here in Beaufort, she has been a dingbatter in North Carolina and an upstater from New York.
the wheelchair? By tying him to a post, will he be forced to stand? Will he be blindfolded? All of this is beyond the comprehension of anyone with a modicum of humanity. Before closing, I feel compelled to add a bit of Hasan’s background. Wikipedia tells us the following. Retired Col. Terry Lee, after working with Hasan, reported that he made “outlandish” statements against the military presence in Iraq and Afghanistan, reportedly saying, “Muslims should stand up and fight the aggressor,” referring to American soldiers. Despite this, Hasan, physician/psychiatrist, was promoted from captain to major. Prior to his transfer to Fort Hood, Hasan had received a "poor performance" evaluation from supervisors and medical faculty. Nevertheless, his former boss, Lt. Col. Ben Phillips, graded his performance as "outstanding." I don’t know about you, but does it not seem questionable that when this man went on to conduct the bloodbath of his fellow
soldiers, that others should have been called into review. Someone dropped the ball along the way. Again, that is a sidebar, but I feel it’s an important one. With that said, the thrust of this article lies with this man’s execution, justifiable as it is. It is the way in which Pete Hegseth has decided to commandeer the spotlight, albeit a negative one, by making it a threering circus. So, what’s next … public hangings so people can observe up close and personal? Have we lost our sense of human dignity? Public executions are more commonly experienced in non-democratic countries like North Korea or Iran. Think about that, dear reader. Are we becoming what we are fighting? Archbishop Paul Coakley calls it what it is, a “barbaric promotion of a culture of death.” 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.”
Join Us for Sunday Morning Worship at 8:30 & 10:30 81 Lady’s Island Drive Pastor Steve Keeler (843) 525-0696 seaislandpresbyterian.org A14
OCTOBER 15–21, 2026
BUSINESS
Family governance: A framework for multigenerational wealth
Provided by Wells Fargo Advisors What is family governance? In general, it is the way you operate as a family — the structured set of agreed-upon principles, rules, and procedures for communication, education, transition planning, and decision-making. “Good family governance can be a key to success for families of wealth and promotes effective leadership and accountability,” says Lorilee Mills, a family dynamics, education, and governance consultant with Wealth & Investment Management, Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. “Families who are intentional about their continued growth over multiple generations often know that they must shift their attention from a narrow wealth creation focus to one that includes building strong relationships, developing the rising generation, and investing time and effort in the community.” The expansion of families into multiple households and geographies can bring increased diversity of goals, talents, and interests. Successful families often know that they must not only be intentional about educating and reaffirming core family values but also be willing to listen and learn from all family members. Developing a governance structure with the input of multiple generations helps set clear expectations on what roles and responsibilities will be handled and by whom, draws a direct link back to the family values and mission, and helps ensure that the diversity of opinions and perspectives that exist within a family are included. “I believe effective family governance should never lose sight of the family’s core views and values but should allow for progression of the family’s evolving needs,” says Mills. When developing family governance structures, the definition of who is family can be broad. In addition to immediate family, it may include extended family, in-laws, individuals separated by divorce, adopted children, domestic partners, and trusted advisors. In any case, governance can help answer a number of questions: • How can we work together to make these important decisions? • Who will we communicate with — and how? What will we say? • How will we transition the management of our wealth over multiple generations? • How will we deal with disagreements or conflicts that may arise? • How will we hold disagreeable or problematic family members accountable? • How will we educate and prepare future generations for their roles and responsibilities?
ested,” says Mills. With family members on both coasts, they took the time to have deep-dive conversations with the third generation. Through these conversations, they identified a couple of potential successors. As they prepared for the transition of the business, they developed family governance structures, including creating a family council and a family employment policy, that were both flexible enough to reflect family traditions and also allow for new ideas coming from the rising generation. A family office or advisors can help support the development of a governance system. A non-family facilitator can be very beneficial, especially at the early stages of developing a family governance structure. An objective, external advocate can ensure everyone in the family has a voice and can provide examples and guidance of governance structures based on experience with other families. Family governance can be a key part of a comprehensive plan for managing wealth within families. A successful governance system can be instrumental in equipping your family to navigate the challenges of family, business, financial, and legacy continuity. “Creating a structure that is inclusive enough to serve the current generation yet flexible enough to be embraced by future generations can be a crucial task for multigenerational families,” says Mills. “Such an approach can help sustain and preserve wealth for generations to come.” Wealth & Investment Management offers financial products and services through bank and brokerage affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company. This article was written by/for Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of William Abbott,Financial Advisor in Beaufort,SC at 843-681-1417. Investment and Insurance Products are: • Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency • Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate • Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered brokerdealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. ©2026 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved. First Clearing is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.
“A third-generation family I worked with faced the dilemma that not only did they not ©2026 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights know if there was an appropriate successor reserved. to lead the family business, but they also didn’t know whether anyone was even inter- PM-04072028-5997997
l l a FFestival of Houses Historic Beaufort Foundation's
& Gardens - 2026
October 16th, 17th & 18th Tickets: 843.379.3331 HistoricBeaufort.org Beaufort, SC
OCTOBER 15–21, 2026
A15
LOCAL MILITARY
A Family Legacy Father and son unite at Parris Island
U.S. Marine Corps Col. Jonathan Smith, deputy commander of Marine Corps Information Command, speaks with his son, Pfc. Ethan Smith, a new Marine with Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, Recruit Training Regiment, following an Eagle, Globe and Anchor ceremony Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. During the EGA ceremony, recruits are given their EGA and officially become United States Marines. Sgt. Isaiah W. Smith/USMC
U.S. Marine Corps Col. Jonathan Smith, deputy commander of Marine Corps Information Command, and his son, Pfc. Ethan Smith, a new Marine with Mike Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, Recruit Training Regiment, hold the Eagle, Globe and Anchors from the day they earned their title as Marines on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, on Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. “July 2, 1997. September 26, 2026,” the respective dates the father and son earned their titles as Marines is written on the backing of Col. Smith’s EGA. Sgt. Isaiah W. Smith/USMC
Dealing with asbestos claims, Part 6 VA service-connected disability claims and asbestos trust claims for asbestos exposure-caused
T
his the final article in this series. This article:
• Lists 11 more things that veterans and some VSOs may not know about VA Service-Connected Asbestos Injury/ Disease Claims and • Suggested Steps to take when preparing to work with a VA-accredited VSO to file a service-connected disability claim for asbestos injuries/disease. 18. VA raters are looking for the veteran complaining about asbestos exposure and injury/disease and symptoms, without realizing that the long-latency of asbestos disease and identifiable symptoms is 10 to 40 years and longer. 19. Those who do not die of asbestos disease often die from heart failure secondary to their asbestos disease. All persons with significant asbestosis has a compromised pulmonary system, which places stress on the heart/cardiac system. These persons with develop “cor pulmonale (Pulmonary Heart Disease), secondary to the Chronic Lung Disease. 20. Smoking does not prevent a Service-Connected Disability claim or a claim with an Asbestos Trust from being approved. 21. The VA does not recognize COPD, Emphysema, and Chronic Bronchitis as being primarily caused by asbestos exposure. 22. Exposure to asbestos does not have to be lengthy to cause injury/disease. 23. Sometimes, doctors do not dig deep enough to see that there is also asbestos lung disease that is contributing to
A16
OCTOBER 15–21, 2026
Medical Centers are in Boston, Los Angeles, Miami, and Houston. Suggested steps Suggested steps to take when preparing to work with a VA-accredited VSO to file a service-connected disability LARRY DANDRIDGE claim for asbestos injuries/ disease. breathing problems. 1. Use a VA-accredited Veterans and VSOs representative. Use must help doctors dig a VA-accredited Vetdeeper. erans Service Officer 24. Veterans with asbes(VSO) whose services tos lung disease must are free or a VA-achave chest imaging credited Claims Agent (X-Ray, CT, MRI) and or Attorney (services A Spirometry test, are normally not free) which measures lung to help you file claims function. with the VA. 25. Veterans need a Pulm2. Enroll in VA Healthonologist to differencare, if you are not tiate between COPD already enrolled. You and RLD/ILD. Vetercan apply Online, By ans with Restrictive Phone, By Mail, or In Lung Disease (RLD Person at your nearest – scarring on the outer VA Medical Center lining of the lungs or or Outpatient Clinic. ILD Interstitial Lung Learn more and apply Disease (ILD – fibrosis On-Line at https://bit. and asbestosis damage ly/4B59qQz. to lung tissue inside 3. Ask your VA Medical the lung, need to have Center to evaluate, dia Pulmonologist to agnose, and treat the differentiate between medical condition/ COPD and RLD/ILD. disability (in this case 26. Veterans with asbesan asbestos caused tos-related cancer recondition). You will quire a Tissue Biopsy need the diagnosis and Pathological Report a NEXUS (Connection with their service-conto asbestos caused nected claim. condition) letter from 27. Veterans and their a qualified physician VSOs must help the to submit with your veteran’s doctors to unclaim. derstand and make the 4. Make a list of your medical-connection of Military Occupational asbestos exposure to Specialties (MOSs) the veteran’s disand the work you did ease, symptoms, and outside of your MOS disability so that the that exposed you doctor(s) can provide to asbestos. Write a an accurate diagnosis statement describing and NEXUS letter. each ship, shipyard, 28. There are at least four building, and other VA Medical Centers place you worked with and Healthcare Sysand around asbestos. tems that specialize Include details of the in asbestos exposure specific asbestos you caused diseases. Veterwere exposed to, the ans have the option of lack of MSDSs, PPE, receiving care at any and training. Make a VA facility, particularly note that you never for rare asbestos diswent to see a military eases that are difficult doctor while serving because of the long to treat. Those four
5.
6.
7.
latency period of asbestos and the fact that your disease symptoms did not show up until many decades after military service. Watch the four YouTube videos by Asbestos.com, Mesothelioma Center, Veterans Director, Parts 1-4: “How to Help VSOs in their Communities With Asbestos Related Service - Connection Claims”: • Part 1 – “Components of Asbestos Diseases” at https:// bit.ly/3W5Qxge. • Part 2 – “Asbestos Decision Criteria” at https://bit.ly/4zp6I6M. • Part 3 – “Nexus Statements for Asbestos Diseases” at https://bit.ly/3TPnltm, and • Part 4 – “Asbestos Exposure Summaries” at https://bit. ly/3VMHtwI. List each service-connected disabling condition. And list the symptoms you suffer from each disabling condition (disease, injury, wound, burn, trauma, etc.) how often the symptoms occur (the frequency), how high his pain level is on a scale of 1 to 10 (intensity), how long the pain lasts (duration), how the problem/condition affects your mobility, range of motion, and ability to do your job, socialize with family, friends, and others. Write a draft statement describing each ship, shipyard, building, mess hall, and other place you worked with and around asbestos. Include details of the specific asbestos (steam pipe insulation decomposition/filling the air with fibers, etc.) you were exposed to.
EDITOR’S NOTE This article is the sixth in a series of six. (The series was originally five.)
Include a note (if true) that you never went to see a military doctor while serving because of the long latency period of asbestos (disease symptoms did not show up until decades after military service). 8. Assemble your evidence that will support your claims (DD214; military medical records, personnel records, dental records; VA medical records; Civilian Medical Records; doctor’s diagnosis; Lay Witness Statements; medical studies/ reports; Doctor/Physical Therapist (other specialty therapists) Nexis Letters; pictures; Disability Benefits Questionnaires; and other evidence. 9. Make a list of previous treatments (surgeries, radiation, chemo therapy, hormone therapy, traction, acupuncture, nebulizer, rescue inhaler, massages, service dog, metabolic chamber, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Chamber, and devices used or currently being used (implants, crutches, cane, walker, wheel chair, TENS Unit, chiropractor, traction devices, NSAIDs, Aspirin, Tylenol, Voltaren Cream, Lidocaine Patches, etc.). 10. Make a list of things you can no longer do because of your disabilities, such as walk, get up from the floor without help, climb a ladder, walk upstairs, crawl under the car, weld, drive, pass a flight physical, lift more than 20 pounds, dress or feed yourself, make love, etc.
11. Make a list of your mental health and secondary conditions and symptoms. (PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, etc.). You may have heart disease secondary to Asbestos disease. 12. Make a list of your doctors, their specialties, phone/FAX numbers, and email addresses. 13. Make a list of your VA Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT) Team members. Include your physician (or PA/ NP), RN, LPN, Social Worker, Pharmacist, and Clerk and their contact information. Your VA Social Worker is your expert on VA services. 14. Make a list of safety things you have done to your home or need done to your home (like widen doors for wheelchair, install a wheel chair ramp, remove all throw rugs, install bars in shower, a wheel chair hoist/ ramp/carrier for vehicle, etc.). 15. Find or request or have your VSO request a copy of your military medical records, personnel records, DD214, and dental records – from the National Archives or Military Holding Facilities. Larry Dandridge is a Vietnam War wounded warrior, disabled veteran, ex-Enlisted Infantryman, ex-Warrant Officer Pilot, and retired Lt. Colonel. He is a past VA-accredited VSO, a Patient Adviser at Charleston and Durham VA Hospitals, a Fisher House Charleston/Friends of Fisher House Charleston Goodwill Ambassador, and the Veterans Benefits Adviser for his local Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) Chapter and Cary, N.C., VFW Post 7383. Larry is also the author of the award-winning “Blades of Thunder (Book One)” and a contributing freelance writer with The Island News. Contact him at LDandridge@earthlink.net or 843-276-7164.
LOCAL MILITARY
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
Recruit Training Regiment, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, 16 October 2026 Recruit Training Regiment • Commanding Officer, Colonel A. P. Bariletti 2nd Recruit Training Battalion • Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel R. J. Russell Commander of Troops, Captain D. M. Webster • Parade Adjutant, First Lieutenant M. K. Meo Company “H”, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion • Commanding Officer, tain D. M. Webster Drill Master • Staff Sergeant M. R. Brooks PLATOON 2064
PLATOON 2065
Senior Drill Instructor SSgt N. DiazHeras Pvt PFC Pvt PFC Pvt Pvt Pvt Pvt PFC Pvt PFC Pvt Pvt PFC PFC Pvt PFC Pvt PFC PFC Pvt Pvt Pvt PFC PFC PFC Pvt PFC Pvt Pvt Pvt Pvt LCpl Pvt PFC Pvt Pvt PFC Pvt PFC Pvt PFC PFC Pvt PFC Pvt PFC PFC Pvt PFC Pvt PFC Pvt Pvt Pvt PFC PFC PFC Pvt Pvt Pvt PFC Pvt PFC PFC PFC Pvt Pvt Pvt Pvt PFC Pvt PFC Pvt Pvt PFC PFC Pvt Pvt Pvt Pvt PFC PFC PFC Pvt PFC PFC
Aldanamazariegos, Kent K. Apariciobautista, Alex I. Atwood, Peyton R. Barber, Ethan D.* Barrios, Izayah A. Bastida, Angel G. Bell Jr, Theodore P. Booker, Ayden J. Chamberlin, Joshua J. Cheriel, Jayson J. Collazo, Joshua J. Cosby, Chayne N. Crane, Zachary A. Creamer, Noah C. Cruzcruz, Christopher A. Dann, Joshua S. Dean, Mason A.* Decker, Benjamin C. Dullum, Shannon P. Dye, Thomas D. Ekongotoberu, Charles A. Espinelsanchez, Thomas A. Eustace, Gavin M. Farina, Ryan T. Garciamonroy, Noah N. Gibson, James Gonzalezvazquez, Joshua Harris, Mason P. Harrison, Jace A. Hawkins, Tayshawn A. Hellstrom, Alexander T. Hinson, Dawson R. Hodge, Logan A. * Holm, Espen B. Hough, Hayden I. Hoyt, Colt P. Hunt, Ryan J. Johnston, Taylor D. Jordan, Joshua M. Kastelhun, Hunter M. Koehler Jr, Jonathan P. Lane, Christian J.* Lane, Joshua S. Loveless, Kevin J. Maddox Iv, Robert F. Maish, Gavin M. Malloy, Romel M. Maltadedone, Thomas* Matias, Jeremiah A. Meier, Joshua J. Memnon, Cameron T. Merry, Aidyn K. Mitchell, Cody W. Nardozzi, Giovanni M. Neuer, Brayden A. Newberry, Andrew M. Oates, Carson D. Paulinovenegas, Cristofer E. Pelaezluna, Caleb I. Penhall, Tyler C. Perez, Brian J. Quintanillaromero, Yurem A. Ramirez, Steve A. Reuter, Jack K. Richardson, Brayden L. Ring, Matthew S. Roberts, Franklin J. Robinson, Jacob M. Robinsondavis, Jeremiah A. Rodriguez, Jacob A. Rosales Jr, Amelio R. Rosas, Anthony D. Rose, Jadan L. Rummel Jr, Jonathan L. Scirrotto, Cole G. Sharp, Gabriel M. Smallhorne, Sean A. Torres, Gustavo Troublefield, David D. Tucker, Bakari J. Turner, Christopher B. Usher, Ayden T. Venturarodriguez, Carlos J. Villanuevasalinas, Christopher Williams, Wesley G. Wix, Alexander M. Zaw, Aye A.
PLATOON 2066
Senior Drill Instructor SSgt M. M. Sasamoto
PLATOON 2068
Senior Drill Instructor SSgt M. D. Stotenbur
PLATOON 2069
Senior Drill Instructor SSgt C. C. Barlow
PLATOON 2070
Senior Drill Instructor Sgt J.C. Hosbrook
Senior Drill Instructor SSgt E. C. Herron
Pvt
Alexander, Christian B.
Pvt
Acevedosantiago, Gerardo A.
PFC
Adams, Brendan P.
Pvt
Barsy, Ryan S.
PFC
Abreuramirez, Deivyo B.
Pvt
Alonsoorellana, Gerardo
PFC
Aguinaga, Juanpablo
Pvt
Almodovarrivera, Jessier
PFC
Bennickjr Ii, Richard A.
PFC
Abundiolopez, Jose C.
PFC
Alvarez, Javier R.
Pvt
Antonioreyes, Marcos
Pvt
Alvaradoperez, Jorge A.
Pvt
Bergan, Joseph J.
Pvt
Adamson, Romario T.
PFC
Angell, Brian K.
Pvt
Ashby, Brandon J.
Pvt
Alvarezurbina, Axel
PFC
Borst, Tucker C. *
Pvt
Almodovar, Brandon J.
PFC
Anglin, Levi T.
Pvt
Auten, Cooper G.
Pvt
Amburgey, Ayden K.
PFC
Boucher, Kade O.
Pvt
Almulaiki, Mohamedtareq
Pvt
Augustin, Jamesley
Pvt
Baker, Noah A.
Pvt
Badillorincon, Alejandro J.
PFC
Buckler Jr, Dontae N.
PFC
Amayajulca, Daniely J.
PFC
Bailes, Jack A.
PFC
Barba, Jordano
Pvt
Baez, Johan
Pvt
Buntz Iii, Kenneth J.
PFC
Ambs, Hunter D. *
PFC
Banks, Kristopher L.
PFC
Berry, Ashton L.
Pvt
Black Jr, Kenneth S.
PFC
Burgossantana, Joseph *
PFC
Arrington, Bryce A.
Pvt
Barton, Jordan A.
PFC
Boriarodriguez, Alexis O.
Pvt
Boggs, Jace D.
Pvt
Callahan, Logan J.
Pvt
Badillo, Saul, Y.
PFC
Boucher, Ryan A.
Pvt
Boudreaux, Evan M.
Pvt
Boldin, Tamari T.
PFC
Cardenas, Jorge F.
Pvt
Beltran, Jordan J.
Pvt
Branch, Elijah M.
Pvt
Bowers, Scotty N.
Pvt
Bonillablanco, Kevin A.
PFC
Champlin, Owen J.
Pvt
Berrospipacheco, Thomas A.
Carrasquillocastro, Jose M.
Pvt
Bowien, Micah E.
PFC
Bonillafigueroa, Anderson I.
PFC
Chancellor, Jacob A.
Pvt
Bonamico, Nicholas A.
Pvt
Castanongonzalez, Andy D.
PFC
Bray, Roy T.*
PFC
Bowlin, Camden S.*
Pvt
Clemens, Thomas J.
Pvt
Booth Jr, Anthony M.
PFC
Chatham, Cole P.
Pvt
Brooks, Bryan J.
Pvt
Brkljacic, Noah J.
Pvt
Corderoparra, Justin A.
Pvt
Brown, Warren, P.
Copeland, Owen C.
Pvt
Buckley, Jayden G.
Pvt
Brown, Christian
Pvt
Cruz, Kevin J.
Pvt
Byrd, Jaden N.
PFC
Crawford, Tyree D. *
Pvt
Cabrerarodriguez, Osberto A.
Pvt
Builes, Jaiden G.
PFC
Dawkins, Kyle J.
Pvt
Cardenassalinas, Daniel R.
Pvt
Delarosa, Victor M.
Pvt
Cardinale Jr, Anthony J.
Pvt
Cabasnario, Fernando
Pvt
Delaney, Joseph H.
Delossantoscruz, Albert A.
Chaives, Gabriel
Pvt
Calvacheandradepiedr, Johan I.
PFC
Dookie, Doneiko O.
Castro Jr, Angello G.
Pvt
PFC
PFC
Chambliss, Ayden J.
Pvt
Cannon, Fisher D.
Pvt
Edwards, Benjamin L.
Coraizacaperez, Daniel A.
Dixon, Joshua I. *
Pvt
Pvt
PFC
Dugger, Christian X.
Clark, Trenton R.
Pvt
Chinchillafigueroa, Angel O.
Pvt
Eichele, Camden T.
Coyne, Liam T.
Pvt
Pvt
PFC
Pvt
Cox, Levi A.
Pvt
Ernest, Mayson D.
Davila, Kaleb W.
Durham, Desean C. *
Cohee, Ethan R.
Pvt
LCpl
PFC
Cunninghamwilliams, Nova E.
PFC
Cross, Japeth F.
Pvt
Estradaventura, Brandon O.
Direnzo, Jace R.
Escobedo, Itzack A.
Pvt
Pvt
Pvt
Finical, Mason M.
Davis Jr, Michael G.
PFC
Daly, Vincent H.
PFC
Estradaventura, Jefferson O.
Erzah, Emmanuel Y.
Pvt
Pvt
Pvt
Pvt
Ehrenreich, Donovin R.
Pvt
Fongrodriguez, Drew A.
Fleetwood Jr, James T.
Floresyuquilema, Jonnathan J.
Delacruz, Joshua E.
Pvt
Pvt
PFC
Diazluna, Branlie R.
PFC
Fittro, Gabriel L.
PFC
Franciswelcome, Omar T.
Fournier, Joshua L.
Franciscobarahona, Michael S.
Pvt
Pvt
Pvt
Gaba, Grayson J.
Drieborg, Dirk J. *
Pvt
Garrison, Denton J.
Pvt
Gaba, Ryan J.
Fulgencio, Jaime A.
Pvt
LCpl
Pvt
Elliott, Adam B.
Pvt
Gelewski, Hayden A.
PFC
Gallego, Adrian B.
Gaffney, Brendan T.
Glover, Devin R.
Pvt
PFC
Pvt
Gonzalez, Daniel
Emrick, Lucas A.
PFC
Gomez, Grayson S.
Pvt
Galvis, Sebastian A.
Gant, Jacob, T.
Pvt
PFC
PFC
Pvt
Gonzales, Rocco P.
Pvt
Harris, Vincent J.
Garciaapolinar, Janier
Gribble, Isaac J.
Eshak, Kerolous S.
Pvt
Pvt
PFC
Febles, Simon L.
PFC
Goodnight, Akayran M.
LCpl
Hughes, Tyler O. *
Haring, Thomas D.
Groves, Dylan T.
Pvt
PFC
Pvt
Guthrie, Jadon J.
Fischer, Joel R.
PFC
Green, Brandon M.
Pvt
Hutcheson, Nathaniel W.
Hendershot, Matthew J.
Pvt
Pvt
Pvt
PFC
Guerrerogonzalez, Jose S.
PFC
Irizarry Ii, Erick X.
Henriquezperez, Enmanuel
Hensley, Joshua A.
Florer, Ethan K.
Pvt
Pvt
PFC
Fry, Jerry J.
PFC
Guzman, Brandon A.
Pvt
Isenia, Jeadon A.
Herrerarivera, Carlos A.
Hernandezvarona, Pedro E. *
PFC
Pvt
Pvt
Hughes, Hunter L.
Gaddie, Linkin S.
Pvt
Hall, Collin M.
Pvt
Jacobs Jr, Sean P.
Jeanpierre, Kerlensky P.
Pvt
Pvt
Pvt
Gaffud, Ivancarl A.
PFC
Hargett Jr, Grant A.
Pvt
Jones, Johnathan E.
Jorge Jr, Richard I.
Huynh, Christ H.
Pvt
PFC
Pvt
Jackson Jr, Alphonzo *
Garcia, Kayden A.
PFC
Holz, Zachary F.
PFC
Karaffa, Jacob D.
Juarez, Steven
PFC
Pvt
Pvt
Pvt
Jackson, Jaccob M.
PFC
Keim, Evan M.
Juarezperez, Jorge M.
Johnson, Ashton P.
Gavin, William J.
Pvt
Pvt
PFC
Gilbert, Dylan R.
PFC
Jamison, Valerius K.
Pvt
Kinsey, Brayden M.
Keo, Puthireach
Jones, Shawn R.
PFC
PFC
Pvt
Kek, Tristin J.
Gilhooley, Brendan W.
Pvt
Jefcoat, Landon C.
Pvt
Kirkpatrick, Samuel R.
Knight, Chaos J.
Pvt
PFC
Pvt
Pvt
Lambert, Braylon P.
Pvt
Lake, Camren R.
Liberatore, Johnpaul A.
Kendrick, Ian L.
Gore, Dustin C.
Pvt
PFC
Pvt
Gutierrez Iii, Francisco L.
Pvt
Lapeyrouse, Tidus J.
Pvt
Lamphere, Alexander X.
Lopez, Christopher J.
Kinser, Samuel L.
Pvt
Pvt
PFC
PFC
Hammond Iii, Lance S.*
Pvt
Lavergne, Wade M.
PFC
Licona-Rivera, Angel G.
Pvt
Lopezrojas, Bryan
Pvt
Lamphere, Lincoln J.
PFC
Harju, Owen D.
PFC
Leap, Jaden C.*
Pvt
Lindgren, Alexavier J.
PFC
Luis, Logan J. *
Pvt
Lopez, Anthony
Pvt
Harrison, Jackson L.
Pvt
Lockwood, Samuel R.
PFC
Liu, Kaihua
Pvt
Marin, Nicholas J.
Pvt
Lopez, Markus I.
Pvt
Hebert, Dugan J.
Pvt
Lopezpacheco, Oscar R.
Pvt
Lobsang, Tenzin
PFC
Marks, Mason A. *
PFC
Maine, Johnathan L.
Pvt
Helmuth, Finley C.
Pvt
Mahone, Jacob S.
Pvt
Markland, Tyrese A.
Pvt
Mcbrideallen, Jacob A.
PFC
Martin Jr, Levon D.
PFC
Hentz, Luke J.
Pvt
Marion, Camaree K.
Pvt
Marshall, Branden L.
Pvt
Melnyk, Anthony A.
PFC
Martinsanchez, Efren G.
Pvt
Hilley, Eli D.
PFC
Martin, Arquez
Pvt
Martinez, Angel E.
Pvt
Mendoza, Aden A.
Pvt
Mcconkeyescobar, Ethan D.
Pvt
Hines, Caleb J.
Pvt
Mccoy, Kaeden M.
Pvt
May, Christopher D.
Pvt
Mora, Diego J.
PFC
Mccray, Romari D.
PFC
Hoffmann, Gage A.
Pvt
Medley, Nicholas J.
Pvt
Mccarthy, Wyatt D.
Pvt
Moran, Logan A.
Pvt
Montero, Preston J.
Pvt
James, Amani S.
Pvt
Meister, Jackson D.
Pvt
Mcpeek, Gavin R.
Pvt
Mosebrook, Samuel A.
Pvt
Murphy, Jhannen E.
Pvt
Johnston, Wiley M.
Pvt
Meleanquivera, Juan D.
Pvt
Mejia, Francesco
Pvt
Murphy, Ethan R. *
Pvt
Nichols, Tyler H.
Pvt
Keegan, Brady J.
PFC
Minnett, Cordea L.
Pvt
Melgarfunez, Darwin J.
PFC
Myrick, Dayshaun S.
PFC
Obrien, Dylan F.
Pvt
Keehl, Brandon A.
PFC
Monroe, Jamarion L.
Pvt
Mendozapantoja, Axcel
PFC
Osterwalder, Lucas G.
Pvt
Ortegacortes, Dominick A.
Pvt
Kilburn, Jacob A.
PFC
Monteromontero, Eduardo
Pvt
Molinacastanon, Angel A.
Pvt
Pearson, Joshua, C.
Pvt
Panega, Logan W.
PFC
Lainez, Andy L.*
Pvt
Moore, Hayden J.
Pvt
Moore, Aaiden C.
Pvt
Perez, Yandel A.
Pvt
Parker, Rafiq K.
Pvt
Lebron, Jaydell G.
Pvt
Morris Iii, Roger A.
PFC
Moukouengoboumba, Jule L. *
PFC
Rivera, Brandon
PFC
Parks, Brandon E.
PFC
Leggett, Tyler J.
PFC
Noun, Noah P.
Pvt
Paute, Justin D.
Pvt
Rodriguez Ii, Christopher J.
PFC
Peoples, Ronan A.
Pvt
Lloyd, Conner O.
Pvt
Ohara, Colin J.
Pvt
Perez, Jose I.
Pvt
Rubio, Jonathan L.
PFC
Phillips, Trystan J.
PFC
Luellen, Christian J.
Pvt
Olk, Ryan W.
Pvt
Perro, Geoffrey J.
PFC
Salamimagar, Mikim
PFC
Ramirez, Fernando D.
Pvt
Massey, Zaire K.
Pvt
Padronterrazas, Josue G.
Pvt
Polk, Jonoah A.
Pvt
Saldanazapata, Yeuris B.
Pvt
Ramosmartinez, Anthony J.
Pvt
Mendoza, Javier A.
Pvt
Pastorgonsalez, Hector
Pvt
Portillo, Adner E.
PFC
Saul, Domenick B.
PFC
Restrepo, Victor J.
PFC
Molina, Antonio M.*
Pvt
Perkins Jr, Anthony D.
Pvt
Rabelodelacruz, Fher
Pvt
Sesay, James J.
PFC
Riveramora, Logan S.
Pvt
Musial, Elliott J.
LCpl
Puentes, Daniel C.*
Pvt
Ritrovato, Robert C.
Pvt
Shadid, Ramel H.
PFC
Roberson, Jackson L. *
Pvt
Nickeo, Nataniel X.
Pvt
Pulis Jr, Adam C.
PFC
Rizzuto, Aidan J.
Pvt
Sibriancontreeas, Jason S.
Pvt
Salaslerez, Noe
Pvt
Nolasco, Raudy Y.
PFC
Rodriguez, Josean G.
Pvt
Romerocabanaz, David
PFC
Silvalopez, Anthony F.
Pvt
Santos, Bryan P.
PFC
Padillaromero, Osmar A.
Pvt
Rodriguez, Nicolas
Pvt
Salazar, Malachi L.
Pvt
Solorzano, Kevin A.
Pvt
Savadogo, Sulay
Pvt
Parish, John C.
PFC
Salinas, Jason S.
Pvt
Santos, Andrew M.
Pvt
Stacy, Preston, M.
Shepherd III, Timothy E.
Pvt
Phillips, Grayson A.
Pvt
Sanchezguy, Alejandro N.
Pvt
Schlottman, Reid V.
Pvt
Sutradhar, Sukanta
Pvt
Signorelli, Puppet T.
PFC
Raghunandan, Jeremiah
Pvt
Schoettle, James B.*
PFC
Self, Nathaniel G. *
Pvt
Sweitzer, Cole A.
Pvt
Simon, Gerard A.
PFC
Ramirezflores, Bryan
PFC
Shrestha, James
PFC
Serio Jr, Angelo A.
Pvt
Talbot, Engeri E.
PFC
Simpson,Aden L.
Pvt
Richards, Shane W.
PFC
Skaggs, Jonas E.
Pvt
Shull, Gavin C.
Pvt
Tarr, Tahelon F.
PFC
Skirvin, Robert D.
PFC
Riverasanta, Jose E.*
Pvt
Smith, Wesley J.
Pvt
Sikorski, Jace F.
Pvt
Terpening, Jack T.
Stonecypher, Jayden L.
Pvt
Romanrivera, Juan C.
Pvt
Tapianunez, Christopher A.
Pvt
Southworth, Aidan C.
Pvt
Tobin V, Harry W.
Pvt
Stthomas, Kuwan N.
PFC
Rosariovargas, Enyelle G.
PFC
Terrell, Asaad E.
Pvt
Starkey, Isaiahlee G.
Roskamp, Cooper N.
Pvt
Uzhcatenesaca, Eric P.
Pvt
Tillman, Philipluis L.
Turpin, Kyle A.
Taisler, Hunter K.
Pvt
PFC
Pvt
Temple, Brody A.
Sadeghi, Kourosh
Pvt
Valliere, Nicholas R.
Pvt
Troost Jr, Elijah J.
Urbanavage, Dylan M.
PFC
Pvt
Pvt
Pvt
Vasquezcolon, Wilver V.
Pvt
Valdez, Axel
Vanhorn, Mason A.
Thibodeaux, Roman M. *
Sadowski, Tristin J.
Pvt
Pvt
Pvt
Shahbazyan, Hagop
Pvt
Vega Jr, Edwin
Pvt
Ventura, Kent B.
Vazquezsuarez, Ruben
Tubbs, Haydn W.
Pvt
Pvt
Pvt
Vicenteotero, Jose L.
Stfleur, Don R.
Pvt
Walker, Christopher R.
Pvt
Whitacre, Zander A.
Walter, Austin A. *
Pvt
Pvt
PFC
Thomas, Dimitri K.
PFC
Waller, Matthew D.
Pvt
Wickham, Jackson M.
Witt, Justin M.
Warren, Brenden R.
Pvt
Pvt
Pvt
Whitlock, Aiden J.
Tuang, Thang K.
PFC
White, James D.
Pvt
Williamssharpe, Prosper D.
Zavala, Ismael E.
Pvt
Pvt
Pvt
Pvt
Winter, Kealan J.
PFC
Zabel, Devin C.
Pvt
Young, Evan J.
Pvt
Zhu, Jason
PFC
Pvt
PFC
Pvt
*Denotes Meritorious Promotion OCTOBER 15–21, 2026
A17
CLASSIFIEDS & GAMES ANNOUNCEMENTS 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 DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400 plus procedures. Real dental insurance – NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-397-7030 www.dental50plus. com/60 #6258 AUCTIONS NORTH CAROLINA REAL ESTATE AUCTION. Wed., Oct. 21 at 12 noon. Online. Laurinburg, NC. 5.82± Commercial Acres. US Hwy. 15 / McColl Rd., Archdale, NC. 13.13± Acres. Mixed RA / M-2 Zoning. TheLigonCompany. com. Real Estate & Auction Services 803-3663535. SCAL1716 SCRL17640 SCAFL4120 NCAL8951 NCRL183864 NCAFL10066 NCRFL28666 LIVE ON SITE ESTATE AUCTION. Sat., Oct. 17. 9:30AM. 1619 Jill Street, Holly Hill, SC. Selling multiple estates including estate of Dr. Andy Bishop. Auction is packed! Nice furniture, antiques, glassware, vintage cookie jars, china, coins, tools, estate shotguns, enclosed trailer, automobiles, nice wood working equip, much more! Two auctioneers selling most of the day! Continue to browse web for addl. photos. Preview Fri., Oct. 16 from 11AM to 6PM. www.cogburnauction.com. 803-860-0712 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. MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE No more cleaning out gutters. Guaranteed!
LeafFilter is backed by a no-clog guarantee and lifetime transferrable warranty. Call today 1-855-820-2770 to schedule a FREE inspection and no obligation estimate. Get 15% off your entire order. Plus, Military & Seniors get an additional 10% off. Limited time only. Restrictions apply, see representative for warranty and offer details. Audien Hearing. The world’s first hearing aid with touchscreen controls. No tiny buttons, apps or prescriptions. 45-day risk free trial. Free shipping. Lifetime support. More than 1.5 million happy customers. Call Audien 1-855620-9614. 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. TELEVISION & INTERNET SERVICES DIRECTV OVER INTERNET – Get your favorite live TV, sports and local channels. 99% signal reliability! CHOICE Package, $84.99/ mo for 12 months. HBO Max and Premium Channels included for 3 mos (w/CHOICE Package or higher.) No annual contract, no hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-855-237-9741 DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Directv and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-844-624-1107 Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-877542-0759 VACATION RENTALS ADVERTISE YOUR VACATION PROPERTY FOR RENT OR SALE to more than 1.5 million S.C. newspaper readers. Your 25-word classified ad will appear in 80 S.C. newspapers for only $375. Call Randall Savely at the South Carolina Newspaper Network, 803-750-9561.
YOUR AD HERE Looking to advertise your business, announce a yard sale, or share other classifieds? Contact Amanda Hanna (amanda@lcweekly.com) or Sasha Horne Hirshout (sasha.theislandnews@gmail. com). It’s an easy and affordable way to reach thousands of local readers right here in the Lowcountry.
THURSDAY’S CARTOON Read with caution; not necessarily the opinions of the editorial staff.
PLACE YOUR AD IN MORE THAN
80 SC NEWSPAPERS Reach up to 1.5 million readers using our small space ad network!
Contact Randall Savely 803.750.9561 | scnnonline.com Newspaper Network Statewide and regional options available South Carolina
THEME: BASEBALL ACROSS 1. Diver's acronym 6. *Bat wood 9. 1970s "pet" 13. *High-flying fly ball 14. *Tampa Bay player 15. Round loaf, in Paris 16. Oak fruit 17. Golf peg 18. Investigative report 19. *Winningest World Series team 21. *How many feet between bases? 23. Help 24. Queen of Hearts' pastry 25. *80-game restriction, e.g. 28. Cecum, pl. 30. Mr. Miyagi's forte 35. Some soaps have none 37. Mobile phone in Britain, slangily 39. Heat-conducting solid 40. Australian palm 41. Borders on 43. Large African antelope 44. Campus VIPs 46. *Umpires: Men in ____ 47. Wednesday Addams' roommate 48. *Babe Ruth, a.k.a. the ____
of Swat 50. Campaign worker 52. Before, old-fashioned 53. Buck or doe 55. GDP predecessor 57. *Grand slam:home run with bases ____ 60. *____-inning stretch 64. Courteous and respectful 65. Large coffee pot 67. Habituate 68. Administer ceremonial oil 69. Bird word 70. Come in 71. Magnifying glass 72. Flow's partner 73. Classroom furniture pieces DOWN 1. Fix a cat 2. Kind of cola 3. "Once ____ a time..." 4. Muslim woman's cover 5. Relating to apnea 6. Crafts' partner 7. Ed.'s request 8. Laughing predator 9. *Record holder for most career hits 10. Give a boot 11. Modeling material 12. Piano's E or G, e.g.
15. Small chicken variety 20. Organ swelling 22. Rub the wrong way 24. Arranged in rows and columns 25. *Record holder for most career home runs 26. Farewell, in France 27. Edible cactus 29. *One of five first Hall of Fame inductees 31. Blood vessel network 32. Repent 33. Short-trunked ungulate 34. Exclude or omit 36. Rave's partner 38. Purse on red carpet 42. Swamp plant 45. Equestrian's seat 49. Born, in bio 51. Begrudged 54. Derive 56. Tubular pasta 57. *Third base ____ 58. Kitchen appliance 59. Pains 60. Nose-in-the-air type 61. Bonkers 62. Hiker's journey 63. Not his 64. *____ Ripken Jr. 66. *Umpire's blown call
LAST WEEK’S CROSSWORD & SUDOKU SOLUTIONS
A18
OCTOBER 15–21, 2026
SERVICE DIRECTORY FURNITURE / HOME DECOR
ATTORNEY
Christopher J. Geier
PET SERVICES
Furbulas Dog: Grooming, Boarding, and Pet Sitting
Attorney at Law, LLC Criminal Defense & Civil Litigation
2048 Pearl Street, Beaufort, SC 29902 Office: 843-986-9449 • Fax: 843-986-9450 chris@bftsclaw.com • www.geierlaw.com
Brittany Riedmayer
1001 Bay St, Beaufort, SC 29902 open Tues.-Sat. noon to 5pm, Sun. by chance
843-476-2989
furniture, home decor & more
Member of National Dog Groomers Association of America
(843) 379-4488
AUDIOLOGY & HEARING
Allison & Ginny DuBose, Owners aldubose@yahoo.com
POOL & FIBERGLASS REPAIR
MOBILE HOME INSURANCE
John D. Polk Agency INSURANCE
Manufactured Homes • Cars • Boats RV's • Homes • All Commercial
843-524-3172 The Beaufort Sound Hearing and Balance Center Dr. Larry Bridge, AU.D./CCC-A
info@polkagency.com
CALL FOR A QUOTE TODAY!
PEST CONTROL
206 Sea Island Parkway, Suite 31, Beaufort thebeaufortsound@gmail.com
REALTOR
www.thebeaufortsound.com | 843-522-0655 CHIMNEY SERVICES
residential commercial real estate
843-379-0185
www.BeaufortPestControl.com
YOUR AD HERE
Be Seen, Be Chosen! Put your business in the spotlight by advertising in the Service Directory. Connect with eager customers, showcase your expertise, and secure your space today! Amanda Hanna – amanda@lcweekly.com | Sasha Horne Hirshout – sasha.theislandnews@gmail.com
E-Edition
Digital Newspaper
START READING
YOURISLANDNEWS.COM
TODAY
A customer favorite! Enjoy the classic newspaper format in a digital environment. Published every Thursday, the E-Edition is a digital replica of the print newspaper, with all of the same news issuu.com/theislandnews and advertising content, on your computer, tablet or smartphone.
Meet VALKYRIE, a spunky 5-monthold mixed breed pup with a striking white and black bi-color coat. At just 12 pounds, she’s got tons of energy and loves to play!
Meet PIP SQUEAK, a 10-year-old Beagle mix with gentle eyes and expressive ears. She loves soaking up affection and enjoying leisurely adventures. This loyal little shadow has so much love!
Meet LIL DEBBIE, a 2-yearold brown-andwhite mixed-breed girl with a heart full of love to give! She’s a mediumsized sweetheart at 39 pounds. She loves to cuddle!
Say hello to BILLY, a goofy 4½-monthold gray and white Terrier mix. Weighing 19 pounds, this pup has a huge personality. He loves making friends, playing, and exploring!
Meet ELLIE MAE, a 4-year-old white mixed breed with a heart full of adventure and affection to share. A medium-sized girl at 27 pounds, smart and ready to learn!
Meet BRUNSWICK, a handsome 5-yearold Terrier mix returned due to family circumstances. He is very loving, active, and absolutely adores playing fetch. He needs an outdoorloving family!
Meet ACE, a sleek black domestic shorthair kitten at 6 months old, ready to bring happiness to a family! He’s a bundle of energy and affection, always up for playtime!
Say hello to MADDIE, a beautiful 15-year-old orange tabby. This sweet senior is the definition of a loving companion. She is snuggly, affectionate, and loves to curl up in your lap!
Meet SPADE, a beautiful black kitten with adventure on his mind! At just 6 months old, he’s a bundle of playful energy, affectionate, friendly, and just mischievous enough!
Meet GOMEZ, a 5-month-old black kitten named after the Addams Family patriarch. He is outgoing, sweet, playful, and full of charm. He loves to greet new friends and soak up attention!
Meet CAMA, a beautiful female tabby with a gentle, reserved nature that makes her so endearing. While she may start off a little shy, you'll be rewarded with quiet affection!
Say hello to GHOSTY, a 4-month-old dilute calico kitten with a heart as beautiful as her striking looks. This affectionate little girl loves fun playtime, cozy naps, and attention!
All animals above are available at Hilton Head Humane’s Hilton Head campus at 10 Humane Way, Hilton Head Island, S.C. 29926. Open Mondays through Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 843-681-8686 or email adoptions@hhhumane.org. OCTOBER 15–21, 2026
A19
820 Bay Street Beaufort, SC 29902
843.521.4200 $975,000
$519,000
LADY'S ISLAND | MLS 198451
BATTERY POINT | MLS 197128
3BDRM | 3B | 2.19 Acres | Carriage House Robin Leverton 843.812.3344
3BDRM | 2.5B | 1890sqft Amy McNeal 843.521.7932
$2,200,000
BLUFF HERON BLUFF
$2,495,000
HISTORIC BEAUFORT | MLS 195300
MLS 198014 | 5BDRM | 3.5B | 3620sqft Private Dock Bryan Gates 843.812.6494
5BDRM | 5.5B | 3554sqft | Completely Restored Dawn Yerace 843.441.6518 Josh Yerace 843.941.9443
$169,000
$595,000
$1,275,000
$2,295,000
CAT ISLAND | MLS 167842
DATAW ISLAND | MLS 197334
COOSAW POINT | MLS 197405
FRIPP ISLAND | MLS 197851
$774,900
$1,795,000
$2,389,000
$370,000
.66 Acre Homesite | Marsh/Water Views Cul-de-sac Donna Duncan 843.597.3464
PORT ROYAL | MLS 195945
3BDRM | 2B | 1700sqft | Completely Renovated Seller Related to Agent Shannon Denny 843.575.7055
3BDRM | 2.5B | 1982sqft | Fairway Views Paige Walling 843.812.8470 Trudy Arthur 843.812.0967
CAT ISLAND | MLS 198049 4BDRM | 3.5+B | 3774sqft Inground Pool | Waterfront Edward Dukes 843.812.5000
$1,250,000
$1,250,000
OLD POINT | MLS 184327 5BDRM | 2B | 2850sqft Scott Sanders 843.263.1284 Edward Dukes 843.812.5000
COMMERCIAL | MLS 192600 3.16 Acres | 2 Buildings | OLREA Great Visibility & Location Scott Griswold 843.575.8700
$395,000
$500,000
DATAW ISLAND | MLS 198194
MERIDIAN ROAD | MLS 196515
$975,000
$2,495,000
LANDS END | MLS 192134
SPANISH POINT | MLS 198200
2BDRM | 2B | 1300sqft | Fairway Views Julia O'Hara 201.456.8620
18.13 Acres | Close to Beach Area Scott Sanders 843.263.1284
2.03 Acres | Beautiful Live Oaks Excellent Location Trea Tucker 843.812.4852
3BDRM | 3.5+B | 3646sqft Deepwater Private Dock Edward Dukes 843.812.5000
3BDRM | 3.5B | 2740sqft | Community Amenities Heidi Smith 850.803.1216
NEWPOINT | MLS 195607
5BDRM | 5.5B | 5481sqft | Deepwater Dock Sara Miller 540.209.5434
$1,275,000
NEWPOINT | MLS 198013
4BDRM | 3.5B | 3446sqft | Community Dock Bryan Gates 843.812.6494
$2,229,000
NEWPOINT | MLS 198253
5BDRM | 5.5B | 4591sqft | Waterfront Amy McNeal 843.521.7932
4BDRM | 3.5B | 2358sqft | Oceanfront Wayne Webb 843.812.5203
COFFIN POINT | MLS 195662 .45 Acre Homesite | Deepwater Lloyd Williams 843.754.4735
$415,000
JERICHO WOODS | MLS 198254 3BDRM | 3B | 1746sqft Julia O'Hara 201.456.8620
$200,000
CAROLINA SHORES
MLS 197282 | 1.72 Acre Homesite Breathtaking Views | Marshfront Paige Walling 843.812.8470
$5,000,000
$478,500
COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITY
DATAW ISLAND | MLS 195685
MLS 193307 | 3 Acres | High Traffic w/ Great Visibility Trea Tucker 843.812.4852 Wayne Webb 843.812.5203
3BDRM | 2B | 1824sqft | Golf Views Paige Walling 843.812.8470 Trudy Arthur 843.812.0967
If you are thinking about selling, now is the time to consider your options! Call us today to learn what your home could sell for in today’s market. www.LowcountryRealEstate.com