SEPTEMBER 24–30, 2026
WWW.YOURISLANDNEWS.COM
COVERING BEAUFORT COUNTY
ELECTION 2026
A new sheriff is coming Seifert, Small say what comes next
By Delayna Earley The Island News Beaufort County voters will choose a new sheriff in November for the first time in nearly three decades, and the two candidates seeking the job are offering different approaches to what should come next for the Doug Beaufort County Seifert Sheriff’s Office. Republican Doug Seifert and Democrat Alphonso Small Jr. responded to a questionnaire from The Island News addressing violent crime, staffing, immigration enforcement, surveillance technology, community trust, spending and Alphonso Small Jr. transparency. Seifert spent 20 years with the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, advancing through the ranks to lieutenant before leaving the agency earlier this year. Small has more than 13 years of law enforcement
Paying
final respects
The American flag is presented to Christine Schmedes, Mirasol Health Hospice Nurse, during the Unclaimed Sailor Ceremony for U.S. Navy veteran Kenneth Milligan and his wife, Alice, on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026, at the Beaufort National Cemetery. Photos by Amber Hewitt/The Island News
SEE SHERIFF PAGE A7
O’Toole resigns after 9 years leading Beaufort County economic development BCEDC faces 1st leadership change as questions continue over funding, oversight, the organization’s future By Delayna Earley The Island News John O’Toole, the only executive director the Beaufort County Economic Development Corporation has had since it began operations, is stepping down after nine years leading efforts to recruit businesses, investment and jobs to Beaufort County. O’Toole submitted his resignation Monday, Sept. 14, and is expected to remain with the organization until mid-November. His departure comes as the
publicly funded economic development organization faces increased scrutiny over its finances, spending and relationJohn ship with Beaufort O’Toole County, its largest financial contributor. O’Toole has said that scrutiny did not factor into his decision to leave and that he plans to remain in South Carolina. The Beaufort County Econom-
ic Development Corporation, or BCEDC, was established by Beaufort County Council in 2016, with operations and leadership taking shape under O’Toole the following year. The organization serves as the lead entity for organizing and directing economic development efforts on behalf of Beaufort County. Its mission includes attracting investment, creating well-paying jobs and diversifying the county’s economy. During an event marking eight
years of the organization’s work in 2025, BCEDC reported nearly $850 million in investment, over 3,000 jobs created and just over 100 completed projects. Those projects represented approximately 1.3 million square feet of developed real estate, according to the organization. O’Toole has since said the number of jobs created during his tenure has grown to approximately 3,400. But how the organization is funded and how taxpayer money is spent have increasingly
drawn the attention of Beaufort County Council. Beaufort County is the BCEDC’s largest financial contributor, providing money for operating expenses as well as its job and site fund, which is used to support economic development projects. In 2025, Beaufort County ordered an audit of the organization and later placed additional controls on the expenditure of county-provided funds.
SEE CHANGE PAGE A8
SPORTS
ELECTION
HEALTH
INSIDE
High School Football Roundup: Dolphins end 23-year drought with win over Beaufort.
Experience or fresh eyes? Cadd, Frazier vie for county auditor.
Safely savor summer’s last days.
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News Sports Voices Health Military Directory
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ISLAND NEWS PUBLISHING, LLC
LOWCOUNTRY LIFE & NEWS
PUBLISHER Margaret Evans
EDITORIAL/DESIGN Editor-in-Chief
Mike McCombs theislandnews@ gmail.com
Assistant Editor Delayna Earley delayna. theislandnews@ gmail.com
Sports Editor
Justin Jarrett LowcoSports@ gmail.com
SALES/BUSINESS Advertising
Amanda Hanna 843-343-8483 amanda@ lcweekly.com
According to Habersham’s Ron Callari, peak mushroom foraging season in Beaufort runs from late summer through autumn (September to November), when cooling temperatures and heavy rains create ideal conditions. 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
American Legion Beaufort Post 207 brings you our new Post Commander, James Mack, 65, who joined the U.S. Army in Beaufort in 1979. After Basic Training at Fort Sill, Okla., he attended Advanced Infantry Training at Fort Riley, Kan., where he began duties with Field Artillery and Supply. In 1981, he continued to serve in Giessen, Germany in the same field.
In 1983, he separated as a Specialist 4th Class and used the GI Bill to earn an Associate Degree in electronics at James TCL. In 1989, he Mack joined the Army Reserve, serving with an Engineer Company at Fort Stewart. In 1992, he transferred to the Georgia
NEWS BRIEFS
Duke Streets streetscape/ drainage project starting
The City of Beaufort announced Saturday, Sept. 19, the commencement of the Duke Street streetscape and drainage project. The full project is to begin within the next three weeks. This week, there have been and will be intermittent single lane closures between Hamar Street and Bladen Street while crews continue work on utility relocations and conflicts. For questions concerning this project please contact the City of Beaufort Capital Improvements office at 843-379-7068.
County Council hosting ‘Chat With Council’
Beaufort County Council is hosting another "Chat With Council" as an opportunity for members of the public to get to know Council members and ask questions. The chat will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 24, at the Beaufort Branch Library at 311 Scott Street in Beaufort. The chat will be informal and registration is not required. There will be a sign up sheet for those interested in speaking. However, no minutes will be taken, the meetings will not be televised, nor will County staff be on premises. All Council members may be in attendance, however even if it's a quorum, Council will not hold any votes or conduct any official business as part of this community meeting. Council members are encouraging all members of the public to attend and ask
JAMES MACK Air National Guard in Savannah working in Combat Communications. In 1996, he transferred to the Air Force Reserve, drilling at Charleston AFB. From there he made deployments to Oman, Qatar and Ramstein AFB, Germany. In 2014, he retired as a Senior Master Sergeant. From 2007, until he retired, he worked for the power company (now Dominion Energy). From
2014 to 2023, he worked with a contractor at MCAS Beaufort providing audit, inspection and safety services. He assumed command of American Legion Beaufort Post 207 in July 2026. – Compiled by John Chubb, American Legion Post 207. For Veteran Of The Week nominations, contact jechubb1@gmail.com.
questions on any topic of concern to them. other beneficial insects and has now been For more information, please contact the observed along the coast from Savannah to Clerk to Council's office at 843-255-2180. Charleston. Officials are working to locate and remove nests and need the public’s help identifying and reporting them. Tabernik, Cunningham The town hall is free and open to the pubhosting meeting in Bluffton lic, and no registration is required. If you are County Council Vice-Chair Anna Maria a beekeeper, gardener, pest-control profes"Tab" Tabernik (District 6) and Council Mem- sional or simply interested in learning more ber Logan Cunningham (District 7) will host about an invasive species making its way a public meeting to present the details of into our area, this should be an informative the new soccer fields located at Buckwalter discussion. Recreation Center. They will also highlight various uses and opportunities that the fields will provide for the community. County staff County seeks public input on from the Parks and Recreation and Facilities future land use, growth Departments will be present to answer quesBeaufort County has opened a Land Use tions. and Built Environment Public Input Survey The meeting will be at 6 p.m., Thursday, form to gather input that will guide the FuSept. 24, at Buckwalter Recreation Center at ture Land Use Map and the Built Environ905 Buckwalter Parkway. For more informa- ment Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan. tion, please contact the Clerk to Council's ofBeaufort County is undergoing a 5-year refice at 843-255-2180. view of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. This critical document guides the County’s activYellow-Legged Hornet Town ities. Since its adoption in 2021, many of the Plan’s recommended action items have been Hall set for Friday completed. As a part of the 5-year review, the On Friday, Sept. 25, City Hall will serve County wants to hear from the public. as the location for a Yellow-Legged Hornet The form will be open until Friday, Sept. 25. Town Hall from 4:30 to 6 p.m. in Council Participants will be able to draw directly on Chambers. maps to indicate areas where various types This is not a City-sponsored event, but the of land uses, like conservation or growth, are subject is certainly relevant to the Lowcoun- appropriate and provide input on how Built try. The meeting is being hosted by Clemson Environment Chapter action items should be University’s Apiculture and Pollinator Proprioritized. To participate, simply navigate to gram and the Clemson Department of Plant the form at https://bit.ly/4ivVEQe. InstrucIndustry’s Invasive Species Program. tions are provided. The yellow-legged hornet is an invasive – Staff reports species that poses a threat to honeybees and
THIS WEEK IN HISTORY
September 28
1983: The movie “The Big Chill,” directed by Lawrence Kasdan and starring Tom Berenger, Glenn Close, Jeff Goldblum, William Hurt, Kevin Kline, Mary Kay Place,
Meg Tilly and JoBeth Williams is released September 29 in theaters. Filmed primarily at Tidalholm, 1729: The Lords Proprietors, with the in Beaufort, the film features a group of baby exception of Lord Granville, formally boomers, who attended the University of Michigan, reuniting after 15 years when their surrenders their title and interest in Carolina for 2,500 pounds sterling. friend Alex dies by suicide. – Compiled by Mike McCombs
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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
Man identified weeks after body found in Chowan Creek Cause and manner of Calvin Armstrong's death remain pending
By Delayna Earley The Island News A Beaufort County man whose body was found in Chowan Creek last month has been identified as 32-year-old Calvin Armstrong. The Beaufort County Coroner's Office announced Armstrong's identity after DNA testing was used to confirm who he was, nearly three weeks after his body was recovered Aug. 30. Armstrong's cause and manner of death remain pending autopsy results, according to the Coroner's Office. The office said there is no suspicion of foul play. The Beaufort County Sheriff's Office remains the investigating agency. Earlier in the investigation,
however, the Sheriff's Office described Armstrong's death as "suspicious." Lt. Danny Allen, the Sheriff's Office Calvin spokesperson, told Armstrong The Island Packet on Sept. 4 that the case remained under active investigation. A Sheriff's Office report obtained by the newspaper also characterized the death as suspicious and stated that Armstrong's body appeared to have been in the water for some time. A man traveling by boat reported finding a body near the Chowan Creek bridge along Sea Island Parkway at approximately
9:43 a.m. Aug. 30. Chowan Creek separates Lady's Island and St. Helena Island. Identification was found in the man's clothing, according to the Sheriff's Office report, but the Coroner's Office did not publicly identify him until DNA testing confirmed his identity. Armstrong died one day before his 33rd birthday. His mother, identified on Facebook as Eddie Baker, publicly shared after the family was notified that her son's body had been found that the news came just before his birthday. "Today is a bittersweet day," Baker wrote in a Facebook post. "We was informed yesterday that they found my son's body. Calvin you
will be greatly missed. Today is his birthday. My son would have been 33 years old." A funeral notice from Marshel's Wright-Donaldson Home for Funerals identifies Armstrong as the son of Eddie Mae Armstrong and Jonas Armstrong. Armstrong's body was one of two recovered from northern Beaufort County waterways Aug. 30. Less than three hours after Armstrong was found, at approximately 12:15 p.m., another body was recovered along the Broad River shore. That person was later identified as 33-year-old Yu Wei Huo, a Navy Hospital Corpsman assigned to Headquarters and Ser-
vice Battalion at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. Huo had been reported missing Aug. 27. At the time of the recoveries, Allen told The Island News that the two deaths were not believed to be connected to each other. The Naval Criminal Investigative Service is investigating Huo's death. Armstrong's death remains under investigation by the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office. 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.
Race4Love returns Saturday
Hopeful Horizons raises awareness, supports survivors of domestic violence Staff reports In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), Hopeful Horizons is once again bringing the community together for the 14th annual Race4Love 5K Run and 3K Walk on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, at Cat Island in Beaufort. The annual event honors survivors, remembers those whose lives have been lost
to domestic violence, and raises critical funds to support individuals and families impacted by abuse. Established in memory of LCpl. Dana Tate and Cpl. Dyke “AJ” Coursen, two Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office deputies who were killed while responding to a domestic disturbance call in 2002, Race4Love has become a meaningful Low-
country tradition. The event brings together runners, walkers, families, businesses, and community supporters with a shared commitment to raising awareness and creating safer communities. Proceeds from Race4Love directly support Hopeful Horizons’ comprehensive services for survivors of child abuse, domestic violence, and sexual assault, in-
cluding emergency shelter, transitional housing, counseling, legal advocacy, case management, crisis support, and other critical resources. Hopeful Horizons provides these services at no cost to survivors throughout Beaufort, Jasper, Colleton, Allendale, and Hampton counties. “We are so grateful for our community’s generosity and commitment to Hopeful
Horizons’ mission - to protect, treat and prevent,” said Kristin Dubrowski, CEO of Hopeful Horizons. “Your participation and support of this event lets victims know they are not alone and helps ensure that our critical, life-saving services remain available.” Registration and additional information are available at www.race4love.com.
Meredith Hernandez, M.D. TO BEAUFORT MEMORIAL Urology Specialists
A
s demand for specialty healthcare services continues to grow across the Lowcountry, Beaufort Memorial has expanded access to urology care in Beaufort and Okatie with the addition of Dr. Meredith Hernandez to its Urology Specialists practice. Dr. Hernandez provides comprehensive care for a wide range of urologic conditions, including kidney and bladder stones, enlarged prostate, urinary disorders and urological cancers. She also specializes in advanced robot-assisted surgical procedures that enhance precision, support faster recovery and help achieve optimal patient outcomes. Inspired by a family legacy of physicians, Dr. Hernandez developed an early interest in medicine and was drawn to urology because of its unique combination of patient relationships, personalized care and innovative surgery. Her passion for helping patients navigate complex diagnoses and treatment decisions has shaped a care philosophy centered on education, communication and trust. “I want all of my patients to feel comfortable, informed and supported as we make healthcare decisions together,” she said. “I aim to create an open environment that is built on trust and honest communication.”
CALL 843-524-7607 TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT.
Residency – Urology University of Tennessee Health Science Center Memphis, Tennessee
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Doctor of Medicine University of Tennessee Health Science Center Memphis, Tennessee
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Bachelor of Arts
Neuroscience, Minor in Nutrition The University of Tennessee Knoxville, Tennessee
BEAUFORT – 1055 RIBAUT ROAD OKATIE – 122 OKATIE CENTER BLVD. NORTH
Dr. Hernandez joins board-certified urologist Dr. Louis F. Plzak and board-certified physician assistants Kristin S. Callaghan, Nancy Thomas and Matthew Baker at Beaufort Memorial Urology Specialists.
BEAUFORTMEMORIAL.ORG • MOST MAJOR INSURANCE PLANS ARE ACCEPTED.
SEPTEMBER 24–30, 2026
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NEWS
Scammers target Beaufort County wallets Vezin wins 100-Mile American Heroes Run Beaufort/Port Royal Deputy Fire Chief sets course record in race honoring 9/11 firefighters Staff reports Deputy Chief Ross Vezin of the City of Beaufort/ Town of Port Royal Fire Department left his mark on the recent American Heroes Run in Boulder, Colo. Vezin placed first in the 100-mile race and set a new course record with a time of 22 hours, 6 minutes. The American Heroes Run honors the 343 firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice on Sept. 11, 2001, during the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. Vezin chose to take on the 100-mile challenge as a way to honor the 343 firefighters, particularly in recognition of the 25th anniversary of September 11. “For the 25th anniversary, I wanted to make it extra mentally and physically tough on myself and do something special to remember the 343 firefighters who didn’t make it home to their families,” Vezin said. The race began at 10 a.m. on the morning of Friday, Sept. 11, and Vezin finished a little after 8 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 12.
Taste of the World Festival in Port Royal this weekend Staff reports Global cuisine is visiting Port Royal this weekend when the Old Village Association hosts the town's new fall festival, Taste of the World, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 26 at Live Oaks Park. In its usual mix of fun, food, live music, and adult beverages, Port Royal will be hosting a diverse array of food trucks in one spot. Some of the food trucks that will be attending are Innichka Chef – Ukrainian; Piece of Yard & Abroad – Jamacian; Gloria Filipino Food Truck – Filipino; The Hungry Route – Greek; Okan – West African/Caribbean; Poncho's Tacos and Beer – Mexican; and Una-Jaltera – Puerto Rican. The live entertainment is just as diverse as the food available at the event. The entertainment lineup includes: Revolution Ballroom Belly Dancers – Noon Hispanic Heritage Dancers – 12:45 to 2:45 p.m. Revolution Ballroom Salsa Dancers – 3 p.m. Wona Womalan – Africa Drum and Dancing – 4 p.m.
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SEPTEMBER 24–30, 2026
Sheriff ’s Office warns residents to slow down, verify requests before sending money
By Delayna Earley The Island News The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents to slow down and verify who they are dealing with as scammers continue to use everything from compromised bank accounts to severe weather to convince victims to hand over money. The Sheriff’s Office issued a scam alert Sept. 16 warning of several schemes currently affecting residents or being reported across the country, including scammers posing as financial institutions and legitimate businesses. In one of the scams, callers pose as representatives of banks, credit unions or other financial institutions and tell victims their accounts have been compro-
mised. The victim is then instructed to transfer money to another account to protect it. According to the Sheriff’s Office, victims have already lost thousands of dollars through the scheme. Residents should never transfer money based on an unsolicited phone call, text message or email, according to the agency. Instead, anyone receiving a suspicious message should contact their financial institution directly using a verified phone number or other trusted method. Scammers are also posing as legitimate businesses and advertising merchandise or services online. In those cases, victims may receive professional-looking invoices requesting a deposit or full
payment, often through a wire transfer or payment app. Once the money is sent, the merchandise never arrives or the promised work is never performed. The Sheriff’s Office recommends independently verifying a business before sending money and being particularly cautious when someone requests payment through a wire transfer or another method that can be difficult to reverse. The agency is also warning residents to be on alert for scams connected to severe weather and disasters. September is National Preparedness Month, and scammers can take advantage of emergencies by posing as government officials, charities or contractors. Residents can protect
themselves before a disaster by reviewing insurance coverage, keeping important documents secure, creating a household inventory and researching contractors before hiring them. Regardless of the type of scam, one of the biggest warning signs is a demand to act immediately. Scammers frequently create a sense of urgency in an attempt to keep potential victims from having time to question the request or verify who is contacting them. Before sending money or providing personal or financial information, the Sheriff’s Office recommends stopping and independently confirming the identity of the person, business or organization mak-
ing the request. Anyone who believes they have been the victim of a scam should immediately contact their financial institution and report the incident to law enforcement. Suspected scams can be reported to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office through its non-emergency dispatch line at 843-5242777. Fraud can also be reported to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.gov. 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.
Civil War, Reconstruction highlight HBF Fall Festival of Houses and Gardens
Historic Beaufort Foundation Beaufort’s role and architecture during the Civil War and the era of Reconstruction will highlight Historic Beaufort Foundation’s threeday Fall Festival of Houses & Gardens to be held Oct. 16-18. For 52 years, gracious homeowners have shared their private homes and gardens in support of Historic Beaufort Foundation and its mission to preserve and protect Beaufort's historic, architectural and cultural legacy. This event, along with the Spring Architects’ Tour and the Lafayette Soiree, are the Foundation’s primary annual fundraisers. Tickets for the annual event are available online at www.historicbeaufort.org and typically sell fast, with some events selling out. Twoday ticket bundles are available with a 10 percent discount. “We always encourage early purchase, but this year we’ve been getting more calls than usual from people outside of South Carolina who want to make this a special Beaufort weekend,” said Lise Sundrla, Historic Beaufort Foundation’s executive director. Tours and events are rain or shine and tickets are non-refundable. Generally, HBF and property owners prefer that children under 12 not attend. However, Sundrla said she’d be happy to discuss this on an individual basis by calling her office at 843-379-3331. Two highlights of each year’s tour are the tour poster and the floral decorations. Annually, HBF invites a local artist to create the image for the fall tour poster. Over the years the posters have become treasured collectables. HBF is pleased to announce this year’s fall tour artist – Betty Cothran. And, for many years, the Beaufort Council of Garden Clubs and longtime John Mark Verdier House docent and interior designer Norman Owens have graciously crafted floral decorations for tour sites. An evening with Dr. John McCardell & Dr. Steve Wise — 5:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 16 This evening reception and discussion features acclaimed Southern historians John McCardell and Steve Wise as they discuss the American Civil War and the era of Reconstruction in Beaufort. This
The McKee-Smalls House, also known as the Robert Smalls House, was constructed in the early 1800s. Photo courtesy of Historic Beaufort Founation special member-only event will be held at the home of Dave and Nancy Russell, the iconic Dr. Joseph Johnson House known as The Castle, ca. 1861. Space is limited for this special member-only event. Tickets: HBF members only, $200 per person. Beaufort Transformed — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 17 A tour of homes and churches associated with the American Civil War and the era of Reconstruction (this is a walking tour with shuttles available). Beaufort's Fall Festival of Houses & Gardens offers a unique glimpse into homes and gardens and sites within and around the National Historic Landmark District. After Federal troops captured Beaufort in November 1861, many homes, churches and commercial structures were occupied and repurposed as headquarters, hospitals, quarters, and other military uses for the duration of the war. Eight homes and two churches will be showcased on the tour this year. Highlights include the McKee-Smalls House (also known as the Robert Smalls House), ca. 1810s; Berners Barnwell Sams House No. 2, ca. 1852; the John Joyner Smith House, ca. 1820s (remodeled in
some 72 acres. The manor house, barn and windmill/water tower provide an important example of early architectural development on St. Helena during the period of 1790 to 1920. Built ca. 1810, the barn is a significant example of early tabby construction. In 1867-68 the property was purchased by Laura Towne and Ellen Murray, Northern missionaries and teachers who arrived on St. Helena Island in 1862 and founded Penn School, one the nation's first schools for formerly enslaved persons and the first to be established in the southern United States. Following their deaths in the early 1900s, the property was purchased by James Ross Macdonald and remains in the family today. Mollie Barnes, professor of English at USC Beaufort and the inaugural Lawrence S. Rowland Endowed Professor, will be joining Larry Rowland mid-day to discuss Frogmore's early history and Penn School founders Laura Towne and Ellen Murray who purchased and resided at Frogmore Plantation following the Civil War. Tickets: Single Day tickets are $175 for members and $200 for non-members. Bundle tickets (Saturday and Sunday) to receive a 10 percent discount. Note that Sunday tickets will be offered by shift – 9 to 11 a.m. and noon to 2 p.m. Please indicate the shift timeframe you would prefer in the notes section of the order form or call the HBF office at 843-379-3331. They will do their best to accommodate your preference.
1850); the John Fripp Chaplin House (Chaplin Court), ca. 1815 and the Paul Hamilton House (The Oaks), ca. 1855. The McKee-Smalls House was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1975. The history of this significant property and its ownership embody the more dramatic aspects of social change in post-Civil War Beaufort. Considered one of the most remarkable figures in American history, Robert Smalls' journey from enslavement to U.S. Congressman is anchored deeply in Beaufort. Tickets: Single Day tickets are $75 for members, $85 for non-mem- Need to know • All events are rain or shine. bers. Bundle the Saturday Tour and • Tickets are non-refundable. Sunday Lowcountry Brunch & Tour • All purchasers will be required and save 10 percent on your ticket to sign/agree to a waiver prior purchase. to ticket purchase. • Bundling options are available Frogmore Lowcountry Brunch & for discounts. Tour — 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 18 HBF is a 501(c)3 nonprofit eduThis year's Lowcountry Brunch & Tour will be held at the home of Bill cation foundation created to preand Caroline Hatcher, Frogmore serve, protect, and present sites and Manor, ca. 1810 and Plantation on artifacts of historic, architectural, St. Helena Island. The property was and cultural interest throughout originally owned by Lt. Governor Beaufort, South Carolina. For more William Bull, who willed it to his information on the entity's mission and history, please visit www.hisson in 1750. Once boasting more than 3,000 toricbeaufort.org and follow them acres, the property today includes on Facebook and Instagram.
Seeking God
Engine Troubles “I Don’t Need God”
Going down the highway, the “check engine” light comes on. If you are driving an older car with lots of wear and tear, it would not come as a great surprise that you need a mechanic. You would be expecting to visit one sooner or later. But if your car is new and in great condition, it would be easy to assume you won’t be needing a mechanic. The indicator light might come as a real surprise, and you may ignore it as a false alarm.
With worldly blessings, we can think we don’t need God. Those who have all of their material needs met, for example, are more likely to feel self-reliant. They don’t need to depend on anyone else, including God. Even if everything is not perfect, most of us live comfortably. We have family and friends who love us and care for us. We have plenty of ways to be entertained. In such times, it is easy to think, “I’m doing just fine without God.”
Those who are struggling tend to be more open to God. When people are vulnerable, aware of their weaknesses and their struggles, they are like the first drivers in our example. They more easily recognize their need for God, and they are often more receptive to his guidance. This is probably why, throughout Scripture, God tends to work through those who are lowly instead of the important and powerful.
But there are often signs that all is not well. Like the “check engine” light coming on in our car, there are often subtle signs that all is not going as well as we pretend. We may struggle with anxiety or depression. There might be a boredom to our lives, or a quiet sense that something important is missing. We may distract ourselves from these realities with constant noise or activities, so that we don’t have to be silent and ask ourselves deeper questions. Sometimes, this interior pain can manifest itself through unhealthy relationships or behaviors, or we try to dull the pain with overeating, pornography, drinking, or drugs. Have you ever had unexpected joy? Besides paying attention to the warning signs that you might be experiencing, it can also help to look at the times that life has surprised you. Have there been times in your life when you have felt that life could not get any better, and yet someone or something entered your life and brought you unexpected joy? This is how it can be with God. When we invite him into our lives, we begin to discover a joy and a peace deeper than what we knew before.
Seeking God 4 of 8 LightForBeaufort.org
Next Week Making a Total Gift of Self 70 Lady’s Island Drive, Beaufort • 843-522-9555 • www.stpetersbeaufort.org • office@stpetersbeaufort.org
SEPTEMBER 24–30, 2026
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SPORTS HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL ROUNDUP
Battery Creek’s Nate Freeman drops back to pass during the second quarter as Beaufort’s Cameron Posey (21), and Andrae Ellison (56) put the pressure on during the second quarter Friday night, Sept. 18, at Dolphins Field. The Dolphins defeated their crosstown rival 42-18 to remain undefeated at 5-0. Bob Sofaly/The Island News
Creek’s UPRISING Dolphins end 23-year drought with win over Beaufort
By Justin Jarrett LowcoSports.com For a short period Friday night, breaths shortened and chests tightened among the Battery Creek faithful. Faithful since forever, finally equipped with a fresh shot of hope, Dolphins devotees could easily envision a slide back into the world they had occupied for decades. Beaufort had scored before halftime, taken the ball coming out of the locker room, and moved down the field. The Eagles were on the verge of taking the lead, and then it could all come crashing down like a house of cards. Not this time, though. These Dolphins are different. It only took two plays to rewrite an age-old narrative. Battery Creek’s Jeremiah Washington made an acrobatic interception on the 6-yard line, and one play later, Eddie Heyward bolted 94 yards to the end zone, sending the Dolphins on their way to a 42-18 win over Beaufort and a 5-0 start that matches the best in program history. Heyward was the hero, racking up 277 rushing yards on 20 carries with three touchdowns behind a powerful offensive line that dominated the trenches all night, and he did most of the damage after halftime. The Eagles limited him to just 38 yards in
BATTERY CREEK 42, BEAUFORT 18
Beaufort Battery Creek
0 6
12 8
0 20
6 8
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18 42
First Quarter BC—Nate Freeman 1 run (PAT failed), 6:13 Second Quarter BFT—Qualeek Isnar 4 pass from Keaton Layman (PAT failed), 9:02 BC—EJ Frazier 5 run (Eddie Heyward run), 3:34 BFT—Hall Schoen 1 pass from Layman (PAT failed), 0:14 Third Quarter BC—Heyward 94 run (Johnny Hernandez kick), 9:02 BC—Heyward 8 run (Hernandez kick), 4:38 BC—Michael Cohen 10 fumble return (PAT failed), 4:25 Fourth Quarter BFT—La’Jaivion Samuel 36 pass from Braydon Moyd-Smalls (PAT failed), 11:50 BC—Heyward 6 run (Washington run), 9:46
the first half, and sophomore Keaton Layman led two scoring drives, tossing touchdown passes to Qualeek Isnar and Hall Schoen. The latter came with 14 seconds left before halftime and pulled Beaufort within two at 14-12. Beaufort was driving again when Washington’s pick and Heyward’s long run changed everything. The panic attacks were over, and the party was just getting started. Heyward added an 8-yard touchdown run to cap off a workmanlike drive, and Creek’s de-
fense pounced on a Beaufort mistake for a defensive score to break it open with a 20-point third quarter. Beaufort had one last gasp, as Braydon Moyd-Smalls and La’Jaivion Samuel hooked up for a 36-yard touchdown pass to pull back within two scores, but another sustained drive ending with a 6-yard Heyward touchdown run put any thoughts of a comeback to bed and gave Creek Nation city-wide bragging rights for the first time in ages. Battery Creek’s 5-0 start matches the program’s best in 1980, and the five-game winning streak matches the longest in program history, but the next five count for much more than the first five. The Dolphins open Region 5-2A play with a trip to Academic Magnet on Oct. 2, a game Battery Creek should win if it expects to contend for a region title with the likes of Woodland and Philip Simmons. Beaufort (1-4) has a week off before opening Region 6-4A play at home against Bluffton on Oct. 2. Justin Jarrett is the sports editor of The Island News and the founder of LowcoSports.com. He was the sports editor of the Island Packet and the Beaufort Gazette for 6½ years. He has a passion for sports and community journalism and a questionable sense of humor.
Whale Branch 26, Barnwell 0: Dee Delaney’s first win as a head coach was an impressive one coming out of a bye week and reframes the rest of the season in a new light. Makai Zachery had rushing and passing touchdowns, Jamar Bronner added a score on the ground, and Jermaine Black capped off a shutout with a pick-six, as Whale Branch blanked a Barnwell team that put up 42 points a week earlier. The Warriors (1-3) host Woodland on Friday before opening Region 5-1A play at home against Hampton County on Oct. 2. Colleton Prep 59, Beaufort Academy 14: Cale Owens was 11-for-11 for 281 yards and five touchdowns to lead the undefeated War Hawks to another lopsided win. BA (1-4) hosts Cross Schools on Friday. — LowcoSports.com SCORES & SCHEDULE WEEK 4 Friday, Sept. 18 Patrick Henry 60, Hilton Head Prep 12 First Baptist 42, Cross Schools 2 Lake View 21, Colleton Co. 19 Bluffton 64, PK Yonge (Fla.) 6 Battery Creek 42, Beaufort 18 Hilton Head Island 27, Camden 20 May River 35, Manning 21 Bishop England 17, Hampton Co. 10 Whale Branch 26, Barnwell 0 Ridgeland 52, Burke 0 Pinewood Prep 49, HHCA 35 Colleton Prep 59, Beaufort Academy 14 Thomas Heyward 25, Carolina Academy 6 WEEK 5 Friday, Sept. 25 Thomas Heyward (1-4) at Hilton Head Prep (0-5) 4:30 p.m. Porter-Gaud (3-2) at John Paul (0-4), 7 p.m. HHCA (4-1) at Colleton Prep (6-0), 7 p.m. May River (3-1) at North Augusta (4-1), 7:30 p.m. Cross Schools (3-1) at Beaufort Academy (1-4), 7:30 p.m. Ridgeland (1-4) at Baptist Hill (2-2), 7:30 p.m. Hilton Head Island (4-1) at Bluffton (2-3), 7:30 p.m. Colleton Co. (1-3) at Hanahan (5-0), 7:30 p.m. Christ Church (0-5) at Hampton Co. (3-2), 7:30 p.m. Woodland (3-1) at Whale Branch (1-3), 7:30 p.m. Burke (0-4) at Hardeeville (2-2), 7:30 p.m.
Dolphins volleyball swept
Battery Creek’s Angel Mejia, left, and Giancarlo Guillen both try to block Philip Simmons’ Levi Sablotsky during the second set of their volleyball match Tuesday evening, Sept. 15, 2026, at Battery Creek High School. The visiting Iron Horses won 3-0 in three straight sets, 15-16, 2626 and 25-17. Bob Sofaly/The Island News A6
SEPTEMBER 24–30, 2026
Battery Creek’s Alayha Lanning, far left, and Veronica Strain double team the ball over the net beyond the reach of Philip Simons’ Maribelle Macatol during the second set of their volleyball match Tuesday evening, Sept. 15, 2026, at Battery Creek High School. The Iron Horses won the match 3-0. Bob Sofaly/The Island News
ELECTION 2026
Two candidates, two approaches to Beaufort County’s money Incumbent touts experience and systems already in place, while challenger calls for a fresh review of how the county safeguards and manages public money
By Delayna Earley The Island News Beaufort County voters choosing their next treasurer will decide between a longtime incumbent who says the office should continue building on systems and technology already in place and a challenger who says his private-sector financial experience could bring a different approach Maria to managing pubWalls lic money. Incumbent Maria Walls and challenger Scott Songer responded to a questionnaire from The Island News addressing financial safeguards, taxpayer service, delinquent taxes, technology, growth and transparency. Walls, 43, has served as Beaufort County Treasurer since 2015 after four years as deputy treasurer. A certified public accountant, she holds bachelor's and master's degrees in accounting from Rider University and worked as an external auditor before joining Beaufort County. She said the office currently handles more than $650 million in billing and collections and manages an annual average of $900 million across 41 bank and investment accounts. Songer, 53, is an entrepreneur and founder of StrongerWorks and SilverStream Advisors. He holds an MBA from the University of Virginia's Darden School of Business and said he has spent more than 25 years building and advising financial technology and payment businesses. He currently serves on the Beaufort County
Solid Waste and Recycling Board view, regular reconciliations and and has not previously held elect- separation between the Treasurer's Office and Beaufort County ed office. Finance Department are essential safeguards. The Treasurer's Office Managing growth Both candidates identified receives and safeguards money Beaufort County's growth as a while the Finance Department challenge for the handles spending functions and Treasurer's Office, performs bank reconciliations, but they proposed creating a system of checks and different approach- balances, she said. Songer proposed daily balances to preparing ing of collections, timely bank recfor it. Walls identified onciliations, dual authorization for Scott population growth movement of funds, multifactor Songer and employee authentication, restricted system recruitment and access and automated exception retention as the office's most sig- reports. He also said audit findings nificant challenges. She pointed to employee surveys, regular staff should have a person responsible communication and a virtual oper- for addressing them, a deadline ating manual documenting office and public status reporting until procedures as steps already taken they are resolved. to improve retention and training. She said the office would contin- Technology and ue investing in technology, includ- taxpayer service The candidates agreed technoling upgrades to the myBeaufortCounty platform and its customer ogy should make the office more service system, while maintaining efficient without eliminating traditional ways of receiving help. in-person services. Walls pointed to myBeaufortSonger identified increasing transaction volume, cybersecuri- County, electronic billing and a ty and fraud risks, coordination customer service management among county offices and public platform she said has reduced wait times. She reported a 96.4% confidence as major challenges. He said he would begin with a customer satisfaction rating and 90-day review of internal controls, said the next term would include technology, staffing, customer ser- upgrades to the customer service vice, banking relationships and platform and a similar satisfaction unresolved audit findings, fol- tool for in-person services. Songer proposed email and text lowed by a public improvement reminders, online appointment plan with deadlines. scheduling, improved mobile access and clearer explanations of Safeguarding public money Both candidates emphasized in- fees and deadlines. He said the ternal controls and separation of office should continue providing telephone, paper and in-person financial duties. Walls said multiple levels of re- options and consider extended
hours during peak collection periods when warranted. Songer also proposed a shared intake and referral system among the Treasurer, Auditor and Assessor offices, including a single case number that would follow a taxpayer's issue until it is resolved. Walls said the offices already communicate regularly and pointed to the Auditor's Office adopting the same customer service management platform used by the Treasurer. She said 95.3% of customers currently need to contact her office only once to resolve their issue. Delinquent taxes and tax sales Both candidates stressed communication with property owners before delinquent property reaches a tax sale. Walls emphasized that much of the delinquent tax process is dictated by state law, leaving the treasurer responsible for administering those requirements. She said her office has added electronic billing and reminders, mail tracking, public notices and other efforts to reach taxpayers. Walls said she plans to add another billing notice between annual tax bills in November and delinquent notices in April. Songer said a tax sale should be the end of a documented process and proposed supplementing legally required notices with additional letters, electronic reminders and outreach, particularly for heirs' property owners, older homeowners and families experiencing temporary hardship. "The sale of a taxpayer's property should be the very last option," Songer wrote.
Both also said residents entitled to excess proceeds from tax sales should be informed that they can claim the money without paying third-party companies. Walls described safeguards currently used by her office, while Songer proposed a searchable list of unclaimed overages, repeated outreach and public reporting on outstanding funds and processing times. Experience vs. a different approach Walls said her experience is the primary distinction between the candidates. She said her 15 years in the Treasurer's Office have given her an understanding of public finance law and office operations and argued that voters can evaluate her based on results already produced. Songer pointed instead to his more than 25 years in financial technology, payments, banking and financial controls. He said he would seek greater public reporting of collections, investments and office performance and would examine whether qualified local financial institutions have opportunities to compete for county business, subject to state law and requirements governing safety, liquidity and return. Complete responses from both candidates will be available online at The Island News website, YourIslandNews.com. 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.
LWV hosting next candidate forum
Staff reports The League of Women Voters Beaufort Area has scheduled two candidates forums in the upcoming weeks to help educate voters about candidates in local races. The forum for Beaufort City Council candidates —
four candidates for two seats — will be held from 6 to 8:30 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 29 at Grace Chapel A.M.E. Church at 10 Holly Hill Road on Lady’s Island. The forum for county fort County districts 2,3,4 also at Grace Chapel A.M.E. Board of Education candi- and 5, will be held from 6 to Church. The forums will feadates in the northern Beau- 8:30 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 13, ture prepared questions from
Sheriff
from page A1 experience with the S.C. Department of Corrections and several local agencies and currently represents District 6 on the Beaufort County Board of Education. Their responses reveal some significant policy differences, particularly over federal immigration enforcement, but also areas where their proposed approaches are similar. Violent crime and prevention Both candidates said the Sheriff’s Office needs to do more to identify potential violence before it happens. Seifert identified growth and traffic, violent crime and staffing as the county’s three most significant public safety challenges. He proposed regularly analyzing repeat locations, violent offenders, illegal firearms and recurring disputes to identify patterns that could warrant intervention. Small identified violent crime and unresolved cases, keeping resources aligned with population growth, and building community trust as his top concerns. He said he would strengthen intelligence gathering and information sharing while focusing enforcement on violent offenders and illegally possessed firearms.
Following major incidents such as the October 2025 mass shooting at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island and the July 4 shooting at Coligny Beach, both candidates said they would conduct after-action reviews and improve the way information about threats and recurring conflicts is shared. Seifert proposed a regular violence-review process involving patrol, investigators, crime analysts and partner agencies. Small similarly called for stronger information sharing among deputies, investigators, municipal departments, SLED, federal agencies and community organizations. A divide over 287(g) One of the clearest differences between the candidates is the Sheriff’s Office’s participation in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s 287(g) program. Seifert said he supports continuing the agreement, subject to a review of its training, costs, oversight and results. He said federal immigration enforcement should remain primarily a federal responsibility and cautioned that participation should not interfere with local policing or result in witnesses or victims being treated differently because of their perceived immigration status. Small said he would end the agency’s voluntary participation
in the current 287(g) Task Force Model “to the fullest extent permitted by law.” Small said BCSO should continue cooperating with federal agencies on criminal warrants, violent offenders, human trafficking, drug trafficking and other criminal investigations, but argued local deputies should not voluntarily take on broader federal immigration enforcement duties.
the LWV and the audience. Participants will not be permitted to display campaign buttons, signs, clothing or literature in the forum room. The LWV reminds voters to check out VOTE411 ahead of time to make sure registrations are up-to-date and to
including an explanation of what cannot yet be released and why. Small said “silence should not be the default,” calling for initial factual statements, continuing updates and explanations when information must legally remain confidential. Community trust and Heritage Days Both candidates also said cultural and community events should be evaluated using consistent, written standards. Seifert said Heritage Days at Penn Center should receive the same advance planning and professional communication as major events elsewhere in Beaufort County. He also proposed a Community Engagement Team and said he would examine the need for a St. Helena-area substation or another way to increase BCSO’s presence north of the Broad River. Small proposed assigning BCSO liaisons to major recurring events and establishing written criteria based on attendance, traffic, security, emergency access and staffing. He also said senior leadership should maintain relationships with communities throughout the year, rather than appearing only during emergencies.
Technology, privacy, transparency The candidates were closer in their approaches to automated license plate readers. Both support continuing to use the technology for legitimate investigations while requiring documented reasons for searches, audits of how the systems are used and limits on how long information is retained. Seifert said searches should be logged and access restricted based on an employee’s role, while Small said every search should create an audit record and supervisors should regularly review use of the system. Both said the public should receive more information about policies governing the technology. They also offered similar views on transparency following shootings, deaths, uses of force and oth- What comes next The candidates’ backgrounds er major incidents. Seifert said the public should re- help frame perhaps their biggest ceive verified information quickly, difference in how they would ap-
find personalized candidate information and other information about voting, including relocated polling places. Election Day is November 3, with early voting to start Oct. 19 through Oct. 31. For more information, contact Beaufortvotes@gmail.com.
proach taking over the agency. Seifert said his 20 years inside BCSO give him an understanding of the employees, systems and partnerships the next sheriff will inherit. He said he would preserve the agency’s accreditation, forensic laboratory, victim advocacy, emergency management capabilities and interagency partnerships while reviewing staffing, workload, technology and policies during his first 100 days. Small described his experience across several law enforcement agencies as providing an outside perspective. He said his first 100 days would include a comprehensive review of staffing, overtime, command structure, finances, contracts, equipment, training and policies, along with the creation of a Citizens Advisory Committee and regular community meetings. The Nov. 3 election will determine who succeeds Sheriff P.J. Tanner, who announced earlier this year that he would not seek another term after serving as sheriff since 1999. Complete responses from both candidates will be available online at YourIslandNews.com. 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. SEPTEMBER 24–30, 2026
A7
ELECTION 2026
Experience or fresh eyes? Cadd, Frazier vie for county auditor
By Delayna Earley The Island News Beaufort County voters choosing their next county auditor will decide between an incumbent who says experience and continued modernization are key to the office and a challenger who says she would bring a fresh perspective focused on accessibility, communication and taxpayer education. Incumbent David Cadd and challenger Carletha Frazier responded to a questionnaire from The Island News addressing tax-roll accuracy, exemptions, technology, taxpayer access and the effect of state-approved property-tax exemptions on local governments. Cadd, the current Beaufort County Auditor, has worked for Beaufort County for 11 years, including six years as deputy auditor and three years as auditor. He previously served 30 years in the U.S. Marine Corps and holds a Master of Business Administration and bachelor’s degree in business management and human resource management from Park University. Frazier is a licensed real estate broker in South Carolina and Georgia and program manager for Coastal Community Development Corporation. A lifelong Beaufort County resident from Bluffton, she has more than 20 years of experience in real estate and has worked in property management, housing and community development, nonprofit leadership and business ownership. She has served on several Town of Bluffton boards but has not previously held elected office.
Change from page A1
An audit by Mauldin & Jenkins for the 2024-25 fiscal year found the BCEDC had overstated revenue and understated liabilities by
Experience vs. running error rea fresh look ports and reviewAsked about the ing millages, tax biggest challenges amounts, fees and facing the office, billing addresses Cadd focused on before bills are keeping technolo- Carletha generated. He David gy current as state Frazier said new software Cadd and local tax laws being implementchange. ed by the Auditor, Assessor and He pointed to a redesigned Audi- Treasurer offices should further tor’s Office website, a ticket-based improve that process. customer service system and imFrazier said she would review plementation of new tax software existing safeguards before looking intended to streamline calculations for opportunities to strengthen and improve transparency. verification and identify unusual Frazier identified maintaining changes or discrepancies. When accuracy across county and state errors occur, she said taxpayers systems, helping taxpayers better should be told what happened and understand the property-tax pro- how it will be corrected, and the ofcess and making services accessi- fice should determine whether the ble throughout the county. problem affects other accounts. Rather than assuming existing The candidates also agreed taxprocesses need to be replaced, payers should have multiple ways Frazier said she would first review to interact with the office. workflows and internal controls Cadd pointed to online Homeand talk with employees before de- stead Exemption applications, pertermining what should change. sonal-property appeals, telephone That difference carries through assistance and in-person service. many of their responses. Cadd Frazier proposed exploring secure frequently pointed to changes document uploads, application already implemented during his tracking, appointment schedultenure, while Frazier said she ing and electronic status updates would evaluate existing systems while maintaining phone, mail before deciding whether addition- and in-person options. al changes are necessary. Reaching taxpayers Keeping the tax roll accurate across the county Both candidates emphasized With Auditor’s Office locations preventing mistakes before tax in Beaufort and Bluffton and the bills reach residents. Hilton Head Island location closed Cadd described the current indefinitely, the candidates differed process of converting informa- somewhat in how they would evaltion received from other agencies, uate whether additional in-person
approximately $461,000. O’Toole attributed the issue to an outside accounting firm, and the error was corrected. County Council also reduced its 2026 contribution to the BCEDC’s job and site fund by $3 million. Questions surrounding the BCEDC have extended
beyond its finances to its overall structure and role in the county’s economic development efforts. Beaufort County Councilwoman Anna Maria Tabernik, who serves as County Council’s liaison to the BCEDC board, has questioned the organization’s spending priorities and
services are needed. Cadd said growth could eventually require additional offices and said he would be open to staffing a Hilton Head location several days a week if adequate space were available and demand supported it. He said the condition of the previous Hilton Head office contributed to its closure and was one reason the office expanded online services. Frazier said she would examine call and walk-in volume, wait times and where requests for assistance originate before determining whether another permanent office is warranted. Alternatives could include scheduled satellite hours, community service days or rotating in-person assistance. Affordable housing tax exemptions The candidates were also asked about state-approved affordable housing property-tax exemptions after The Preserve at Port Royal received an exemption estimated by local governments to remove more than $1 million annually from local tax rolls. The South Carolina Department of Revenue, not the county auditor, determines eligibility for the exemption. Cadd said municipalities should request quarterly updates about their tax bases, including assessed values and exemptions, to identify potential revenue changes before preparing budgets. Frazier said the Auditor’s Office should identify significant changes to the tax roll and communicate
whether Beaufort County needs a separate corporation to handle economic development. She has also raised questions about the county’s representation on the board in relation to the amount of taxpayer funding it provides. Port Royal has already taken a different approach. The town stopped pro-
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. PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE
PUB. DATE
Frederick Ray Liles Case Number: 2026ES0701083 Date of Death: 07/05/2025 Michael Ray McElveen, Sr. Case Date Number: of Death:2025ES0700943 7/30/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701105 Alan Joel Michaelson; AKA Alan J. Michaelson Date of Death: 06/29/2025 Case DavidNumber: Frederick2025ES0700944 McMullen Date of Death: 5/20/2026 John Edward Miracle; AKA John E. Miracle Case Number: 2026ES0701099 Date of Death: 04/05/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700932 Williemena Smalls Pope Date of Date: 3/23/2026 Raymond Carl Pettersen Case Number: 2026ES0701085 Date of Death: 06/09/2025 Case 2025ES0700929 MoriseNumber: Gregg Robinson Date of Death: 5/20/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701081 Patricia Ann Wilson Date of Ernest Death:Ross 07/12/2025 Robert Case Date Number: of Death:2025ES0700916 7/22/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701087 Mary Grey Boatwright Date of Death: 08/04/2025 Brenda Joyce Spitzer Case Date Number: of Death:2025ES0700963 6/16/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701077 Francis Charles Brien; AKA Francis C. Brien Date Death: 07/11/2025 LettieofMae Stoops Case Date Number: of Death:2025ES0700946 8/8/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701107 Arthur Andrew Emerson Date Death:Tinnerholm 07/27/2025 AKA Karen J. Tinnerholm KarenofJeanne Case Date Number: of Death:2025ES0700956 7/11/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701071 Ervin Gene Fitzgerald Date of Death: 12/24/2024 Dorothy Powning Agnew AKA Dorothy P. Agnew Case Date Number: of Death:2025ES0700948 7/13/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701116 Robin Raines Hoffer Date of Death: 04/27/2025 Ernesto A. Chambers, Jr. Case Date Number: of Death:2025ES0700964 7/18/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701111 Stanley M. Lawson Date Death: LindaofAnn Green06/21/2025 Case Date Number: of Death:2025ES0700961 6/6/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701122 Joe William Lieser Date of Death: Joanne Frances07/12/2025 Hackett Case Date Number: of Death:2025ES0700857 6/21/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701110
Melaine S.SCSmith Beaufort, 29907 C/O PO Box 1107 McElveen Jennifer Wilson Beaufort,Ray SC McElveen, 29901 Jr. Michael C/O P.O. DRAWER 507 CatherineSC Grubell Beaufort, 29901-0507 C/O 16 William Pope Dr., Ste. 202 Bluffton, SC 29909 David S. McMullen C/O 7511 Saint Andrews Road, Ste. 3 Geraldine G. Miracle Irmo, SC 29063 C/O PO Box 5098 Hilton Head Island, SC 29938 Dondrett Pope 24 Kato Lane Cynthia K.SCHutcheson Beaufort, 29906 Christina R. Lesher C/O 10Elizabeth HospitalRobinson Center Commons, Ste. 400 Ann Hilton Head Island, Village SC 29926 C/O 17 Professional Beaufort, SC 29907 Edward Harry Tobergte C/O PO Andrew Box 7906Ross Robert Hilton Island, C/O 1501Head North StreetSC 29938 Beaufort, SC 29902 Louise Brunson C/O POSpitzer DrawerJones 1107 Sonda Beaufort, SC 29901 C/O POST OFFICE BOX 1866 Walterboro, SC 29488 Lisa Brien C/O PO Drawer 1107 Lisa K. Westbrook Beaufort, 29901 515 BatterySCCreek Beaufort, SC 29902 Clara Marie Emerson C/O POL.Box 3435 Diane Smith Bluffton, SC 29910 C/O 10 Hospital Center Commons, Suite B Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 Daniel Gene Fitzgerald 27187 Chippendale Carolyn W. Agnew, Ter. Timothy S. Agnew Salisbury, MD 21801Village C/O 17 Professional Beaufort, SC 29907 William Myers Hoffer, II C/O 2015Naomi Boundary St., Chambers #227 Nigeria Simone Beaufort, SC 29902 C/O POST OFFICE BOX 291675 Columbia, SC 29229 Melissa L. Davis C/O PO Walker Drawer 1107 Robert Beaufort, SC 29901 C/O 504 West 5th North Street Summerville, SC 29483 Matthew J. Lieser C/O 112 Executive Frances J. HackettCenter 1 Corpus Christi Place, #112 C/O P.O. BOX 22230 29928 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925
08/28/2025 09/24/2026
Larry CecilEllen Millender Jennifer Harrelson Date of Death: 02/19/2025 6/17/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700974 2026ES0701139
Janese W. Davis Michael Paul Harrelson 180 Pearl 468 PaigeDavis PointRoad Bluff Springfield,SCGA29940 31329 Seabrook,
09/04/2025 10/01/2026
Suzanne Rekate PostIII Harry Gordon Kirby, Date of Death: 07/21/2025 7/31/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700962 2026ES0701113
R. Willis Post Marie P. Pearson C/O P.O. 17 Professional BOX 882 Village Beaufort,SCSC29910 29907 Bluffton,
09/04/2025 10/01/2026
Kelly Sullivan HelenLynn Rowland Martin Date of Death: 07/21/2025 8/2/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700954 2026ES0701127
James R.F. Holland Jaclyn Borja PO Box C/O P.O. BOX7906 3851 Hilton Head Island, SC 29938 Bluffton, SC 29910
09/04/2025 10/01/2026
James Franklin Willard AKA Mary Ann McKoane Mary Ann Ina McKoane Date of Death: 07/02/2025 7/23/2026 Case Number: 2025ES0700957 2026ES0701129
Deborah F. Kopp Brian Anderson PO Drawer 1023 C/O P.O. BOX 7906 Beaufort, 29901 SC 29928 Hilton HeadSCIsland,
09/04/2025 10/01/2026
Darlayne Glesias 09/24/2026 Warren Hard Story Heather R. Galvin, Probate Judge, Beaufort County, SC C/O 17 Professional Village Date of Death: 8/20/2026 Beaufort, SC 29907 Case Number: 2026ES0701124
Warren Mark Story C/O P.O. BOX 1107 Beaufort, SC 29901
10/01/2026
Paul Marshal Glick Date of Date: 8/19/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701095
Antonia Sears Glick C/O P.O. BOX 22512 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925
09/24/2026
Anthony Paul Weare Date of Death: 5/4/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0700766
Harley D. Ruff C/O 17 Professional Village Beaufort, SC 29907
10/01/2026
William G. Glickman Date of Death: 8/19/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701100
Scott W. Griswold C/O P.O. BOX 21668 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925
09/24/2026
Sarah Anne Wells AKA Sarah Ann Wells Date of Death: 5/28/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701115
Norbert Mixon C/O P.O. BOX 22230 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925
10/01/2026
Ardith Holzmacher Date of Death: 7/25/2026
James Robert Holzmacher C/O 17 Professional Village
09/24/2026
Glen Williams Date of Death: 4/8/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701142
Kathryn E. Williams C/O 811 Craven Street Beaufort, SC 29902
10/01/2026
DECEDENT
PERSONAL PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE REPRESENTATIVE
PUB. DATE PUB. DATE
Joseph FrankAnderson Anastasia Jane Neale 05/17/2025 Date of Death: 7/8/2026 2025ES0700899 Case Number: 2026ES0701042
Elisa O’Connor William Meades Anderson, III 16 William C/O POST OFFICEPope BOX Drive, 3885 Ste. 202 29909 Bluffton, SC 29910
08/21/2025 09/17/2026
Jerry Joseph Dittle Charles Thomas Benton Date of Death: 8/4/2026 03/01/2025 2025ES0700903 Case Number: 2026ES0701028
Lori R.Benton Cullen Carol C/O P.O. 16 William Pope Drive, Ste. 202 BOX 3435 29909 Bluffton, SC 29910
08/21/2025 09/17/2026
Marguerite AnneJones Ford Briggs Howard 07/01/2025 Date of Death: 5/24/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0700795 2025ES0700906
Michael Ralph Catherine JonesFord Schmidt PO Box C/O P.O. BOX5098 5098 Hilton Head Island, SC 29938
08/21/2025 09/17/2026
Anna Maria La Haije Sandra FayeWilhelmina Moss 07/21/2025 Date of Death: 12/19/2025 2025ES0700892 Case Number: 2026ES0700722
HelmaF. Franisca Scott Moss Cap 17 Brams 118 FoxcroftPoint RoadRd. HiltonHartford, Head Island, SC 29926 West CT 06119
08/21/2025 09/17/2026
Rita Marie O’Brien William Burton Rodgers 07/25/2025 Date of Death: 7/10/2026 2025ES0700913 Case Number: 2026ES0701049
John M. O’Brien, Margrett WinifredJr.Rodgers C/OBoulters PO Drawer 125 Lock1107 Rd. Beaufort SC 29901 Irmo, SC 29063
08/21/2025 09/17/2026
MarilynRosenthal Kolbe Olsen Diane 05/30/2025 Date of Death: 7/24/2026 2025ES0700733 Case Number: 2026ES0701047
08/21/2025 09/17/2026
Andrew Gerard Schiavone, III Date of Death: 06/09/2025 Case Number: Joan Vaupel 2025ES0700751 Date of Death: 8/10/2026 Ronald Gene Tune Case Number: 2026ES0701020 Date of Death: 06/30/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700914 Olive H. Warrenfeltz Date of Death: 6/13/2026 Melva Jean Shelton Wheeler Case Number: 2026ES0701050 Date of Death: 07/16/2025 Case Number: Philip Spigener2025ES0700893 Watson, Jr. Date of Death: 6/18/2026 Charles Fain Williams Case Number: 2026ES0700880 Date of Death: 07/23/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700889 Randall W. White Date of Death: 6/30/2026 Donald Simeon2026ES0701032 Zuidema; AKA Donald S. Zuidema Case Number: Date of Death: 04/29/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700904 Kenneth Arthur Wright Date of Death: 7/4/2026 Patricia Francis2026ES0701057 Crocco Case Number: Date of Death: 07/29/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700931 Emma Jane Bobbitt Date of Death: 8/20/2026 Charles Oliver Golson III Case Number: 2026ES0701078 Date of Death: 09/28/2024 Case Number: 2024ES0701357 Karen Marie Brundage Date of Death: 7/26/2026 Gladys Kline Legare Case Number: 2026ES0701106 Date of Death: 04/27/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700933 Arlene A. Erbacher Date of Death: 2/15/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701080
ConnieRosenthal L. Olsen Elissa 112 Executive Center C/O POST OFFICE BOX 3851 1 Corpus Christi Place, #112 Bluffton, SC 29910 Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 V. Alex Dorobantu Brenda Little C/O 1110 Pocket 5911 TrentPick Jones WayPlantation Dr. Ste. A Beaufort,GA SC 30038 29902 Lithonia, Linda M. Stokes LaceyTreat Michelle 5856 WalkGodec Drive C/O PO Drawer 1023 Lithonia, GA 30038 Beaufort, SC 29901 Cherita Stokes Watson 3675 Harvest Drive Melissa M.GASchiavone Decatur, 30034 C/O PO Drawer 1107 Beaufort,Hanusiewicz SC 29901 William C/O P.O. BOX 2358 Rodney A.SCSchaake Beaufort, 29901 C/O PO Box 22230 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925 Colleen W. Bible 8 Brickyard Hills Drive Teresa Lynn Anthony Beaufort, SC 29907 C/O PO Box 7906 Hilton Head Island, SC 29938 Christine E. Watson C/O 508 Hampton Street, Suite 201 Laura Ann SC Richardson Columbia, 29201 2662 Broad Street Beaufort, SC 29902 Dianne J. White C/O P.O. BOX 3435 MarianneSCZuidema Bluffton, 29910 C/O 3404 Salterbeck Street, Ste. 204 Mt. Pleasant, Susan Geist SC 29466 C/O P.O. DRAWER 1107 John F. Crocco Beaufort, SC 29901 PO Box 118 Southport, CT 06890 David H. Bobbitt C/O POST OFFICE DRAWER 14 NancyHead L. Golson Hilton Island, SC 29938 C/O 16 William Pope Dr., Ste. 202 Bluffton, SCEdward 29909 Pluss Krisstoffer 316 Kinsler Road Charisse Parker Blythewood, SC 29016 C/O PO Box 2478 Beaufort,Glesias SC 29901-2478 Darlayne C/O 17 Professional Village Beaufort, SC 29907
Herman Anthony Erbacher Date of Death: 8/6/2026 Case Number: 2026ES0701079
RobertStokes, A. Parham, Henry Sr. Jr. Date of Death: 3/26/2026 07/09/2025 2025ES0700912 Case Number: 2026ES0701052 William M. Roberson, Jr. Date of Death: 05/20/2025 Case Number: 2025ES0700645
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DECEDENT DECEDENT
Heather R. Galvin, Probate Judge, Beaufort County, SC
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their effects to the county, municipalities and other taxing entities. When an exemption produces unintended consequences, she said the auditor should provide financial information to local officials, the Department of Revenue and state lawmakers who have authority to change the law. Making their case Cadd said his experience in the Auditor’s Office distinguishes him, pointing to his knowledge of tax law and ongoing technology upgrades. He said he wants to complete changes already underway and cited reductions in the office budget and contracts intended to reduce future costs. Frazier acknowledged she has not worked inside the Auditor’s Office, saying she would instead bring more than 20 years of real estate experience along with a background in property management, housing, business and local appointed service. She said her approach would begin with listening to employees, determining what is already working and identifying where improvements are needed. Complete responses from both candidates will be available online at The Island News website, YourIslandNews.com. 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.
viding its annual contribution to the BCEDC last year, choosing instead to use that money for economic development efforts focused specifically on Port Royal. Town Manager Van Willis has said the decision reflected the town’s desire for a more concentrated focus on commercial and retail development appropriate for Port Royal. O’Toole continued assisting Port Royal after the town stopped funding the organization, including helping the town obtain a grant for a study of retail opportunities in its downtown area. O’Toole came to Beaufort County after spending 18 years with Eversource Energy in Connecticut, where his work included community engagement, economic policy and business development. He also served three terms as the chief elected official in Seymour, Connecticut. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Skidmore College and an MBA from the University of New Haven. His resignation now leaves the BCEDC facing its first leadership transition since the organization began operating. The BCEDC board met Thursday, Sept. 17, three days after O’Toole submitted his
resignation. According to the board’s amended agenda, members were scheduled to enter executive session to discuss personnel matters before returning to public session for possible action regarding staffing. The agenda did not identify the personnel matter or specify what staffing action was under consideration. No video of the meeting is available. The board was also scheduled to receive updates on its 2025-26 audit and job and site fund, consider its 202627 budget and consider a proposed grant for Beaufort Memorial Hospital projects. O’Toole remains listed by the BCEDC as its executive director, alongside Senior Project Manager Kelli Brunson and Economic Development Specialist Brian Warner. He is expected to remain at the helm of the organization through mid-November as the BCEDC moves through its first change in executive leadership. 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.
LEGAL NOTICES
STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF BEAUFORT IN THE FAMILY COURT FOR THE FOURTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT CASE NO: 2026-DR-07-310 BERNARD D. WILSON, Plaintiff, v. HAZEL MARTINEZ, Defendant. SUMMONS TO DEFENDANT, HAZEL MARTINEZ, YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to answer the Complaint in this action, a copy of which is herewith served upon you, and to serve a copy of your answer to this complaint upon the undersigned at his office, Fender Law Firm, Post Office Box 1101, Beaufort, South Carolina 29901, within thirty (30) days from the date of service hereof, exclusive of the day of such service, and if you fail to answer the complaint within the time aforesaid, Plaintiff in this action will apply to the Court for an Order granting the relief demanded in the attached complaint.
Fender Law Firm, LLC Addison D. Fender, Esquire addison@fenderlawfirm.net Attorney for Plaintiff Post Office Box 1101 Beaufort, SC 29901 Telephone: 843-379-4888 Facsimile: 843-379-4887 Beaufort, South Carolina July 23, 2026 LEGAL NOTICE To all persons claiming an interest in: 2011-14'-TRACKER-BUJ05681H0112014-20HP-SUZUKI-DF20AES-02002F412573 JAMES PALMER will apply to SCDNR for title on watercraft/outboard motor. If you have any claim to the watercraft/outboard motor, contact SCDNR at (803) 734-3699. Upon thirty days after the date of the last advertisement if no claim of interest is made and the watercraft/ outboard motor has not been reported stolen, SCDNR shall issue clear title. Case No. 20260423950302
PLACE YOUR LEGAL NOTICE HERE Please contact ads.theislandnews@gmail.com for more information on placing your legal notice in The Island News.
VOICES Editor’s Note: The opinions of our columnists in the Voices section are not necessarily the opinions of The Island News.
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t is Wednesday, early, and its slightly cooler this morning. I’ve got my coffee and I’m thinking about “Slow Horses” on Apple TV. Let me explain. In 1966, I was in a car wreck on I-95; surviving that calamity with a fractured skull and a ruptured spleen. After two weeks in a Richmond hospital I was assigned to a bed in The Citadel’s infirmary; but insisted on going back to the barracks. In 1966, I was a junior at the military college but was put into a room with two seniors — two seniors who happened to be privates. If one was a “senior private” rules regarding shined shoes and inspection-ready rooms were relaxed. Senior privates were not usually harassed by the cadet officers, enjoying a protected status that acknowledged they now lived on the fringe of the school’s disciplinary system.
Does the job come with a sword?
their “Don’t give a damn” attitude which persisted into my own senior year. But then, one night in Washington, D.C., I met a dark-eyed, dark haired woman. “Scott, I can’t help but noSCOTT GRABER tice that your roommate has stripes on his sleeve (Buff Stansbury was a Captain) Notwithstanding these and that you have none,” fringe benefits they were Carole said as we sipped a still privates required to Belgian wheat in a basemarch at Friday parade — ment bar called Brickskeller. often out of step, sometimes “Scott doesn’t do the milmissing parts of their uniitary part; he’s focused on form and toting the old M1 academics,” Buff replied. Rifle. This in stark contrast “But why?” Carole asked, to their officer classmates “Why did you go to a miliwho carried sabres; were tary college to begin with?” belted in scarlet; sporting On our drive back to black feathers atop their Charleston I had nine ceremonial shako. hours to contemplate the But “my seniors” didn’t question,“Why did I enroll seem to mind; content if I wasn’t going to play the to run out the clock like game?” Jackson Lamb’s reassigned, Part of the explanation warehoused agents in “Slow was the spiffy, tight-fitting Horses.” gray tunic with two black I, myself, had no “rank” stripes outlining one’s torso. and quickly acclimated to Part of the allure was the
I was determined to transfer to a normal college where I might get a real education. I discovered, however, that my Citadel grades were so low most would not transfer. I also discovered that my altruism had evaporated. I did not believe that the violence and daily degradation (at The Citadel) had anything to do with getting ready for the coming conflict with the Soviets. The following September, I returned to campus determined to salvage some kind of education in spite of the Friday afternoon parades, Saturday morning inspections and limited “leave” in a crumbling, sewer-scented city that came with two serviceable hotels and maybe four decent restaurants. I also came back with no interest in rank or putting stripes on my sleeves. Or so I thought. In January of my senior year I was told to put on
my first-class uniform and report to the President’s office. “Am I being expelled?” I wondered as I waited outside the President’s office. “You are a mystery to me Mr. Graber,” he said as I entered. “You have good grades, you are well-liked by your classmates, and yet you have no interest in the rules of this institution.” “We have decided to put you on Regimental Staff as Citadel’s Public Relations Officer.” “Does the job come with a sword?” I asked. “Of course it does,” he said. “You will also carry the rank of captain. …” As I ran from the President’s Office to the tailor shop I thought, “Can they attach the stripes before Carole arrives next weekend?” Scott Graber is a lawyer, novelist, veteran columnist and longtime resident of Port Royal. He can be reached at cscottgraber@gmail.com.
When was illegality last considered?
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notion of self-denial. But the biggest part was engaging in a noble enterprise. Noble enterprise? When I decided to apply to The Citadel, our armies had decisively defeated the Japanese; and the German Wehrmacht; and now were standing guard against the Communist menace in Korea and in Berlin. There were movies that emphasized courage, novels that underscored sacrifice, and decorated veterans like Mark Clark who said there would be a final showdown. “And, if we’re going to survive that showdown,” to paraphrase Mark Clark, “Our young men have to be tougher than your average teenager from Stalingrad.” And so one August morning, I willingly descended into a world of furious, red-faced, screaming cadets (called cadre) for eight months — a hellscape. And when I emerged — battered and stunned —
he law is the public conscience.” – Thomas Hobbes
Recently, I posted on Facebook a picture of Mitch McConnell sitting in a wheelchair, looking as though his mind were anywhere but in the moment. Sen. John Hoeven was leaning over and whispering into his ear to vote no. That moment was described as one of McConnell’s first votes after returning from a 92 day absence. There is so much more to be said about this appalling situation and all that the Republicans have done to keep a barely warm body that cannot stand alone, much less function reasonably as part of the Senate. Not only is this a sham in terms of how our government is supposed to function, but it is also an inhumane and disgraceful way to treat one of their own. But that is not the focus of this article. One response I received to my post asked, “But isn’t this illegal?” My response to him was, “Since when has legality been a priority for this administration?” And this got me thinking about
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CAROL LUCAS
how much of what this administration has done is downright illegal or questionable at best. Furthermore, there is no longer any effort to hide this, but rather the in-your-face and thumb-yournose attitude that accompanies these acts. That said, I went online to find some of those issues for which there is no doubt of the illegalities attributed to this president, the most of any president in our history. Donald J. Trump has been the subject of numerous investigations, civil suits, criminal indictments and two impeachments; he has pleaded not guilty in the criminal cases and was impeached twice by the House of Representatives (but acquitted in the Senate each time). As of mid-2024 reporting,
he faced four separate criminal prosecutions covering conduct from business practices to efforts surrounding the 2020 election, with indictments and counts that have been modified through prosecutorial process. I have no intention of going into the sordid details of each case; rather I want to remind you, dear reader, of the felonious record of the man who presently stands as head of our country. His record of being brought to court dates as far back as the 1970’s when he was accused of discrimination against blacks with his rental properties. Those cases were followed by many purported sexual accusations, but the one with which we are probably most familiar is that of E. Jean Carroll, where 47 was found guilty of sexual abuse as well as defaming the character of Ms. Carroll. The Manhattan District Attorney's Office brought an unprecedented case against Trump in April 2023 that aimed to prove he not only falsified 34 financial records "with intent to defraud" — in this instance, to mask a hush money payment made to Stormy Daniels in the final days of his 2016 presidential election — but
that he did so in order to conceal a second crime, which elevated the charges from misdemeanors to felonies. In falsifying the records, the DA's office argued, Trump more broadly attempted to bury evidence of an illegal conspiracy to influence the 2016 election. The man who presently occupies the White House certainly gave the country enough insight to his tactics during his first term, especially toward the end. He was charged with a violation of the Espionage Act when he took national defense documents, several that were labeled “Top Secret.” His reasoning? He was entitled to those. Ah, yes, entitlement — a huge part of his problem. But I digress. Then there were the attempts to subvert the 2020 election results, starting with a call to Georgia’s secretary of state, Brad Raffensberger, to "find 11,780 votes" and overturn the U.S. election results. Of course, there is the fullblown riot of Jan 6. We all know what we saw that day. We know the aftermath: the resulting deaths and impairment of Capitol Police; the storming of
the Capitol and feces smeared on the walls; the rushed escape of congressmen and women; 47’s failure to intervene in something reprehensible that he had started. Alex Jones has revealed he was instructed by the president three days before it occurred to “lead” the insurrection. And let’s not forget his acceptance of “Hang Mike Pence.” My main objective of this piece boils down to this: Trump has been charged with a total of 88 felony counts across four criminal investigations. He has already been found guilty of 34 of them. Furthermore, don’t forget the Epstein files that are hanging overhead like Damocles’ sword. The effort of this administration to bury these files only supports the notion that there is much in there that 47 doesn’t want known. Returning to my friend’s question re McConnell, “Isn’t that illegal?” Of course it is, but when was the last time doing something illegal was a consideration? The facts prove otherwise. 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.”
A message of reconciliation, hope
ometimes when walking our dogs in Pigeon Point Park, I get a sense of the weight of the past. Soft voices seem to carry across the green grass, lovely plantings, and many beautiful old moss-draped oak trees that provide much needed shade. Except for the occasional cries of kids playing on the new playground, it is usually very quiet and peaceful. However a little over 80 years ago, it was an entirely different scene. This Park holds a secret. Did you know that there was a World War II Prisoner of War Camp at Pigeon Point? From October of 1943 through the spring of 1944, around 250 captured Italian soldiers, who fought for the Axis powers, were interned in a camp on Pigeon Point Road in the area of Pigeon Point Park. They were captured in North Africa
KEVIN DE L’AIGLE
and sent to Camp Wheeler near Macon, Ga., before being sent to Beaufort. The camp opened one month after Italy surrendered to Allied forces. They were employed by Beaufort County farmers to harvest vegetables, since so many local farm workers were still fighting overseas or working in war effort jobs. The Axis forces in Tunisia surrendered on May 13, 1943, yielding more than 275,000 prisoners of war. Since the U.S. had a great many Liberty Ships returning empty after dropping
off supplies in Europe and Africa, they loaded up with POWS and sailed back to the States. Almost 90% of the Italian POWs agreed to support the U.S war effort by joining Italian Service Units. The Italian POWS destined for the U.S. numbered roughly 51,000 and were placed in the 21 camps in 18 states. Italian prisoners of war contributed more than one millions hours of labor to the war effort. They were farm workers, bakers, ditch diggers, dock workers, freight handlers for trucks and railcars, fulfilling the needs of the communities in which their camp was located. Since they knew they would likely be shipped home within a few months, it was reported that they worked long and hard. A 2001 documentary entitled “Prisoners in Paradise” by Camilla Calamandrei told their story. Under the rules
of the 1929 Third Geneva Convention dealing with prisoners of war, they were fed well, housed and paid a small wage of $24 per month. There were 12 such camps in South Carolina, including one just up the road in Hampton. Imagine being a young Italian, probably speaking little to no English, captured in the deserts of Tunisia, loaded onto a ship and sent thousands of miles across the Atlantic to be unloaded in Georgia, then being sent by train to be housed in tents and work in the rich soil, sun, and insects of Beaufort, SC.? It must have been like being on another planet! There must have been some conflicting feeling, or even trauma, of changing loyalties or whether to "collaborate" with what was very recently their enemy and captor. How could
they live with being both prisoners and allies to the U.S. at the same time, while certainly being homesick? The one thing that they were most amazed about was the abundance of food here after they had been subject to years of survival wartime rationing in Europe. And we know that food for Italians is an emotional, even metaphysical, concept. It is through food (and wine!) that people connect. They had seen Hollywood movies, so they were already intrigued by American life, despite Mussolini's fascist anti-American propaganda. Some local churches welcomed the mostly Catholic Italians, and of course, despite regulations, a few of the prisoners developed relationships with locals, both romantic and platonic. The Pigeon Point camp closed in the Spring of 1944. Other POWs remained in
camps around South Carolina until 1946 when the last prisoners went home. Many POWs brought positive stories of their life in "quasi paradiso" back home to Italy. Some eventually came back to the U.S. after repatriation, having seen the "American Dream" first hand and wanting more. The message of the Italian POWs is one of reconciliation and hope after the horrors of World War II. How different our treatment of peaceful immigrants is today to the way we treated former enemy combatants of the 1940s. Camps at the border cannot be described as places of abundance and reconciliation today. The current atmosphere of fear mongering and division during war time creates wounds that
SEE DE L’AIGLE PAGE A10 SEPTEMBER 24–30, 2026
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VOICES Editor’s Note: The opinions of our columnists in the Voices section are not necessarily the opinions of The Island News.
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his past weekend, I attended a retreat for people experiencing estrangement. The attendees have adult children who have thrown away their relationship with Mom and Dad. The facilitator, Deacon Henry deMena, M.A., who has over a quarter-century experience in grief counseling, started his presentation saying there are three ways long-term relationships break: death, divorce, and estrangement. The first two have been around for a long time. The last, estrangement, is a growing phenomenon today. Deacon deMena quoted statistics that as many as one-third of families are experiencing a form of estrangement. Some adult children authentically experienced abuse as children, and as adults have nothing to do with their parents. That is reasonable and understandable. In most cases, though, parents ask why this total break happened. They examine their lives with a microscope seeking an answer. One of the first slides in the presentation asserted that one cause for estrangement is a change in our society. We have become a throwaway culture. This culture aligns with “advice” Millennials and Gen Z
absorb. Some young people encounter internet influencers who encourage them to break off any relationship that bothers them. Others may even have a therapist who encourages disconnection if a relationship detracts from the patient’s sense of their own perfection. Experts claim that today’s young people are less resilient than previous generations, and rather than seek reconciliation, which is difficult, just bail out when life gets tough. The throw away culture may have started with my generation, the Boomers, who became comfortable with getting rid of things. When is the last time anyone darned socks? If a shirt tears, we buy a new one rather than sew it up. We throw away food rather than use leftovers. Boomers’ thrifty parents and grandparents saved everything. I know, because my husband and I cleaned out my mother-in-law’s
ERICH HARTMANN
communities don’t just accommodate natural growth, they develop an unhealthy dependence on it. This underlying “growth = health" assumption is treated as default gospel at every level. It’s often referred to as “line goes up” economics because it creates obvious increases in metrics that politicians can point to and claim “success!” Then we are scolded when we ask questions, and we’re told that “growth is inevitable,” when it’s really just one variable among many we should weigh and consider. Building more housing to attract more workers to attract more businesses is the “chicken/egg” argument, and it’s exactly backwards. Adding more people does not always increase quality
de l’Aigle from page A9
may never be healed. Perhaps there are lessons to be learned from the soldiers and locals at the camp at Pigeon Point over 80 years ago. Respecting the dignity of others, and working together with love towards a better future will always win over darkness, division and hate. Hebrews 13:1-3 says to remember those in prison and, "Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it." Kevin de l’Aigle is a local hospitality executive and certified yoga teacher. He sings in the choir at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church and enjoys life in downtown Beaufort with his family and three rescue dogs.
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LOUISE MATHEWS
house of at least 60 years’ accumulation. My family joked that my maternal grandmother would save two leftover peas. She taught me to scrape the butter wrapper to get every last bit. The Greatest Generation that predated my own saved everything “because they might need it someday,” and they rarely ended relationships. To my parents and their neighbors, divorce was relatively rare. People really tried to work through differences to preserve connections and the people they valued. Possibly, having less as children during the Great Depression and losing friends, siblings and spouses in World War II taught them to cherish their bonds with others. For my Boomer generation, divorce became much more common. Laws gave people more reasons to break apart a marriage. Television started showing blended families. We were also a generation that became enamored with things that we could buy with a credit card. Things that became the least bit worn, outdated, or tiresome went out the door to the thrift store or into the trash. Younger generations have learned from us. I think they have taken our throwaway culture to new heights. Millennials and Gen Z have
been coddled through school and sometimes sports with the idea that everyone is special, and everyone gets an award. True, every person is unique, but that doesn’t mean that everyone deserves an award. “Deserve” itself is the most over-used, malignant word in advertising. You deserve a car, a boat, a great house, a fabulous spouse of whatever gender, great food, superb vacations, and on and on. There is never a mention of how hard you need to work or what you need to persevere to get all these wonderful things you “deserve.” In our society, if I breathe, I deserve. It should not be a surprise that in a society where so much stuff gets thrown away, we throw away people. We can dispense with a spouse, a parent, a friend, a sibling that we no longer like. We can block them on the phone, email, and social media. In certain states, we can get rid of viable babies right up until birth. In a few of the same states, we can now also get rid of people who will never get well. Relationships with parents are often unsettling. Parental-adult child relationships have been the backbone of good comedy because we have all recognized the discomfort we feel in generational dispute. Typically, parents and
The myth of more
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his dogged pursuit of “more” at all costs is a powerful force in civic planning. It’s driven important strategic decisions in almost every town, village and hamlet across the country for decades. This basic theory of “more” is that the only way to achieve economic health is through endless population increases and unchecked development, with the byproduct of increased tax collections. But is this even true? Is “more” growth and “more” revenue always better? Well … not exactly. First of all, there are different kinds of “growth” that all get mushed together, often on purpose. Residents tend to think in terms of population growth, while governments tend to think in terms of tax growth. But both of these kinds of growth create sticky constituencies, crony institutions, dependent bureaucracies and recurring obligations that can make more growth not only easier to justify, but self-fulfilling. The “more, more, more” approach creates a feedback loop where
Throwaway people
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of life, and we’ve seen the results of that play out around the country over the last few decades, with historic out-migration from areas that have become more dense, and more annoying. Density does not magically create “affordability” either, it makes things more expensive, increases competition, traffic, crime and explodes government responsibilities and costs. More people often just creates more problems. The kind of growth we should actually be pursuing is productivity growth: creating more value with the people, businesses, land and infrastructure we already have. That can come from better technology, a more skilled workforce, and more productive use of existing property and resources. And it doesn’t require rapid population increases, massive developments, or the wanton destruction of local character to succeed. More tax revenue should not be a goal, either, nor should it loom as large as it does in our planning discussions. Governments are not businesses, tax collections
are not profit, and more revenue does not mean fiscal positivity. Of course, diversifying the tax base is a worthy goal, but adding tens of thousands of housing units does not do that. In fact, big new developments can show more taxes at first, but often end up costing communities much more down the road. This Quixotic quest for more tax revenue through more population growth only creates a toxic development treadmill, the dreaded “Growth Ponzi Scheme” that has consumed countless other communities. This is not new news. Beaufort & Port Royal are not in the vanguard here. We are the caboose on a policy train that has already run roughshod through much of the country for decades. The evidence is in, but so far we have refused to acknowledge it. So many once-great communities have gone from zero-to-insane in just a few years, like our neighbors Hilton Head and Charleston. But are their residents happier? Is their cost of living lower? Are their potholes fixed? Are they safer?
their adult children do not agree on topics ranging from which diaper brand is the best to which politician to support. In past eras, disagreement was a basis for conversation, sometimes very loud, not separation. Family members agreed to disagree; they were still family. Young people today who need safe spaces, or a no-grades policy because college is stressful enough, or who believe any contrary statement is a micro-aggression are adults with children’s minds. They play at “adulting.” They live in an endless loop of online validation that tells them they are perfect just the way they are. They believe any stress is bad and must be eliminated. That goes for people they perceive as “toxic,” like parents who come from a different time and background, who love them to distraction, and who do not understand why any statement with which the offspring disagrees could get them cut off. In 20 years, will their children emulate them and throw them away, too? 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.
Are their schools better? When we look around at all the thousands of apartments and cluster homes currently being jammed into our small community, one of the most common questions is “Why?” “Why would our leaders do this to Beaufort?” Well, it’s pretty simple: most of them actually believe that “more” is the right thing to do. Every one of these massive projects was at one point enthusiastically approved and ushered through the system, and hat-tipped in our comprehensive plans. The reason there has been near-zero effort to cancel or amend them, despite vehement resident opposition, is not because our leaders are bad, or corrupt, or stupid, but because the “experts,” consultants, lobbyists, and progressive urban planners have assured them that “more” is the only way to make Beaufort better. Remember: the purpose of local government is to provide the basic public functions its citizens have authorized, not to maximize revenue, or population, or
headcount or institutional scope. But in too many instances population growth and increased tax receipts have become the goal, instead of increasing quality of life. Potential new residents have taken priority over current constituents. And this naive, slavish dedication to “more” for the sake of “more” is the exact wrong way forward for Beaufort. It’s our job to protect and preserve our home, for our children and future generations. We must stop accepting shrugging shoulders and pointing fingers as a valid answer. This is a 90/10 issue around here, and leadership must listen to their constituents instead of lobbyists, consultants and progressive planners. We have to figure out how to get creative, and fight like hell to do everything we can to cancel or drastically amend these gargantuan clearcut monstrosities … before everything we love about Beaufort is gone forever. Erich Hartmann is a creative director, brand strategist, and writer. He lives in Beaufort with his wife and two sons.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Are SC voters stupid?
30 days before voting time in order to give your vote to that person. Now that the primaries are over, I want to ask Why would anyone want to change the "right" a question? Are the voters in South Carolina we presently have? We have been fooled by stupid or do the party officials just think they "tricky" wording. are? I see multiple examples that would make – Danny Covington, St. Helena Island me ask that question. One example — on the Republican ballot in June, voters were asked, "Should people have Follow the rules the right to register with the political party of We're glad you did the article [about] the their choice when they register to vote?" I be- school principal's endorsement of a candidate lieve the reason for asking the question that for City Council, but please assure us that no way is party officials wanting change know ev- effort will be made to have the City, County, or eryone wants as many RIGHTS as possible and any other form of government responsible for of course 70 plus % voted "Yes." However, regis- informing candidates as to the rules. Those tering by party will result in having less rights. rules are readily available to all candidates, Presently we have the right, if registered, to and a good starting place for those uninformed show up on primary day, view all the candidates would be the County Election Commission and and select the party you prefer at that time. If the State Ethics Commission. South Carolina changes and requires us to regThere's nothing "iffy" about the rules and I ister by party, you can only vote in the party's find it very hard to believe an employee of the primary you are registered in. Also, the over- State Commission said "it may be a violation," whelming majority of states requiring registra- when if fact it's a flagrant violation! While I've tion by party do not allow independent voters to never been an employee of our School District, participate in primaries at all. Imagine you have I want to believe a review of the rules is part a family member or a person you like who is of the annual orientation for all teachers and running for office in the party you are not regis- other employees. I also find it hard to swallow tered in. You will have to go back and re-register the statement that "all district employees have
“While I've never been an employee of our School District, I want to believe a review of the rules is part of the annual orientation for all teachers and other employees.” been asked to review HRS-13." Change the word [from] "asked" to "required" and you've nailed it. I also don't understand why we'd "reach out to the State Ethics Commission to request refresher training for principals on election-season and state ethics requirements." Sounds like an extra expense and an effort to soft-pedal what has just happened with a school principal. I'm sure our school officials have all the needed information in a file in every one of our schools. What is needed most is for people to follow the rules. – Edie Rodgers, Beaufort
VOICES Editor’s Note: The opinions of our columnists in the Voices section are not necessarily the opinions of The Island News.
Brack: On hurricanes, Senate race, debates, AI
T
he news has been pretty dull of late. But if you’re thinking about hurricanes, that’s good news. The Atlantic coast apparently has reached a new record: No hurricanes so far this season. That’s the longest time without a first big storm since the modern satellite era started in the mid-1960s. As of Sept. 18, the coast has gone 110 days without an active storm that became a hurricane. There have been five minor storms since the hurricane season started June 1, but there haven’t been any with winds of 74 mph or more. According to a story on S.C. Public Radio, it’s tough to turn to history before satellites to confirm whether a storm became a hurricane because something might have
N
ANDY BRACK
formed at sea and remained there without anyone knowing. Nevertheless, presatellite records suggest the latest time that a season’s first Atlantic hurricane formed was Oct. 5, 1905. And there appear to be two years without hurricanes — 1907 and 1914. Let’s hope the El Nino wind patterns do whatever they do to make 2026 a year without hurricanes. While this good news on storms might have caught your eye, other stories are worth noting.
The Darline effect You know that something might be going awry with a Republican candidate’s campaign when an old-school conservative like Washington Post columnist George Will throws a big bone to the Democratic nominee. “This year, South Carolinians can demonstrate political independence by electing Democrat Annie Andrews,” wrote Will. “She is a 45-year-old mother of three and a pediatrician who likes children and wants to be in the U.S. Senate.” It’s pretty clear in the commentary that he’s frustrated by the appointment of Darline Graham, sister of the late GOP U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham who died unexpectedly in July, to take her brother’s seat. She won a late, packed GOP primary, but it had to go to a runoff and was messy.
Will seems to be most irked that Graham seems to be nothing but an automatic yes vote for whatever President Donald Trump wants. He said the framers of the country wanted senators to be independent — “mature and insulated from transitory gusts of public opinion.”
Gray area Looks like voters will see the stuff that Andrews and Graham are made of in an Oct. 11 debate to be broadcast statewide on SCETV. What’s not clear is whether they’ll debate on Gray media stations owned in the state. Why? Because Gray Media is doing something that sounds just plain weird — requiring candidates to sign exclusivity agreements to take part in debates they televise. That is, quite frankly,
anti-democratic — in the sense that one outlet wants to control the process for its financial benefit which would, in fact, chill political discussion in a socially irresponsible way. The framers wanted more debate, not less. Let’s hope all candidates refuse to accept Gray Media’s terms for debates as long as the company is motivated by something other than allowing voters to see candidates for what they are. (Shout out to SCETV: Thank goodness you’re there to fill the gap as you long have.) It’s the people, stupid A special state Senate committee is finally at work to try to figure out South Carolina’s part of what to do to keep artificial intelligence from taking over. It’s about time, as
highlighted in a new editorial in the Charleston City Paper that says state and federal lawmakers need to step in and regulate AI: “AI is moving at such a frightening pace that regular people are smart to be worried. It’s also time for people to insist that the government step away from its laissez-faire treatment of the industry. “Federal and state lawmakers should regulate it, slow down its development and make sure applications are for the common good, not something that can metastasize into an untamed digital beast to make humans unnecessary.” Andy Brack is editor and publisher of the Charleston City Paper and Statehouse Report. Have a comment? Send it to feedback@statehousereport.com.
Faulty faults for forest fires
ational news sources recently reported on politicians' erroneous blame-casting efforts for wildfires and the smoke they produce. Canada was singled out as being especially egregious. Nowhere is the thick smoke thicker, the density of dense thought denser, the dimness of dim light dimmer than in a political office where avoidance of the truth is being formulated. Consider this: South Carolina has 12.8 million acres of forest; that’s roughly 20,000 square miles. Sixty-six percent of the state is forest, with 87% privately owned, 8% federally owned, and 5% state-owned. The forests here are of substantial value and incredible beauty; some of the finest in the world. In my home state of Michigan, there are three federal forests: the Ottawa, Hiawatha, and Huron; all are vast; together they cover over 4,000 square miles. In addition to the federal forests, Michigan has more than 6,000 square miles of state forests and another 19,000 square miles of privately owned forest. Altogether, Michigan has more than 30,000 square miles of forest. In both Michigan and South Carolina, the vast majority of the forests are road accessible. That’s a lot of forest. Together, Michigan and South Carolina’s
of acres of northeast Michigan forest and caused the loss of many lives. Don was careful with his answer. He wanted to emphasize positive changes – better weather forecasting, more and better road access that allowed improved firefighting equipment and DOUGLAS PUGH techniques to be employed more quickly. forests constitute 3.8% of the area But he was careful not to imply of the Canadian Boreal forest. that a major forest fire could never happen again in Michigan, for 3.8%. new risks existed: more frequent, longer periods of intense heat and The Canadian forest is the dryness; invasive species attacklargest contiguous forest in ing woodlots; and leaving forest the world, stretching from the tracts diseased, drying, and dying. Canadian Yukon in the northwest Don told me that summer to Newfoundland and Labrador (1918), the fire risk index he monin the east. It encompasses over itored was at its highest level for 1.3 million square miles, the great 20 continuous days — an unprecemajority of which - 70% - is undented duration. I asked him if he touched wilderness unbroken by thought global warming was the roads. Canada holds more large cause. He wouldn’t use that term, roadless tracts—“intact forest but Don did say this: “Something landscapes” — than any other is going on.” place on earth. That something is going on all A few years ago, I interviewed over the world. Don Klingler. Don, since retired, I reached out to the South Carowas the Michigan Department lina Forestry Commission on two of Natural Resources forest separate occasions seeking their manager for Michigan's Lower comment on these issues, but I Peninsula. never heard back. I first interviewed Don in 2018 All the Boreal forests of the when forest fires and their severEarth are experiencing dramatic ity were increasing nationwide. I increases in wildfires (Boreal asked if we could ever experience forests circle the Earth in the another disaster like the Mets fire, northern latitudes, covering Europe, Russia, Canada, Alaska, a fire which destroyed thousands
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and the northern United States). The Canadian boreal forest is the largest on Earth. The Boreal forests in Russia’s Siberia are experiencing severe, widespread wildfires. Tens of thousands of hectares have burned, fueled by high temperatures and extensive drying damage from silkmoth infestations; many of these fires are burning uncontrolled. Europe and Eurasia are experiencing increasingly severe, frequent, and synchronized “megafires” that are overwhelming suppression efforts. They follow the most destructive wildfire season on record, with over 1 million hectares burned across the European Union alone. As of July this year, wildfires have scorched over 3.8 million acres in California, Utah, and Colorado. Minnesota had 25 wildfires, burning more than 70,000 acres. Many fires in our country burn out of control. A significant portion are in areas that, like much of Canada's forests, have no road access. These fires are not the result of our or Canadian inaction, but largely of forces beyond anyone’s control. Don Klingler’s “Something” is a worldwide multifaceted problem. What can be done? “When the boreal forests of Canada catch fire, no one can do anything about it in many cases. The forests have been suffering
because the planet’s thermostat is being jacked up. Wood-boring pests that flourish in milder climates have swept north and east, through tens of millions of acres. Droughts and dwindling snowpack have stressed the trees.” — “Canada’s Forest Will Burn and Burn,” The Atlantic (07/16/26, Parlow, Joshua) But Europe is responding with a vigorous coordinated effort: “Firefighters from across our continent share one mission: to protect people, homes and forests --nearly 800 firefighters will be pre-positioned where the risk is highest, with aircraft ready to deploy at a moment’s notice. When fires threaten, the countries of Europe will respond as one.” — European Commission (06/2026)
Our nation, Canada, and individual states have a long tradition of successful cooperative efforts. Together, we are being impacted by a momentous, multifaceted global problem: a “Something” that isn’t going away and can only be addressed through vigorous, considered, coordinated action. To maintain otherwise is nonsense. Doug Pugh is a retired judge from northern Michigan. He and his wife winter on Fripp Island and are pleased to be there … when they are. He can be reached at pughda@gmail.com.
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a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon who specializes in the surgical and nonsurgical treatment of conditions affecting the hand, wrist, elbow and upper extremity. He is on the medical staff at Beaufort Memorial and part of the hospital’s Advanced Orthopedics & Spine program. Dr. Smith joins BOSS after completing advanced training at the prestigious Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center. At the practice, he provides comprehensive care for a wide range of injuries and conditions, including fractures, tendon and ligament injuries, nerve compression disorders, arthritis and other disorders of the upper extremity. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Smith has contributed extensively to orthopaedic research and education. He has authored and co-authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and book chapters and has presented his work at regional and national orthopaedic conferences. Recognized for academic and research achievement, he remains committed to advancing patient care through innovation.
“My approach emphasizes individualized treatment plans, patient education and evidence-based care, with a focus on restoring function, relieving pain and helping patients get back to doing what they enjoy.”
• Fellowship in Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery, Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center
• Residency in Orthopaedic Surgery, Indiana University • Doctor of Medicine, Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, Indiana University School of Medicine Bachelor of Science, summa cum laude, University of Alabama •
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Safely savor summer’s last days
Special to The Island News Summer may be winding down, but there’s still time to enjoy some boating, swimming and picnicking. Maximize the fun of late-summer activities and minimize the hazards with these tips:
Don’t let the bugs bite Watch out for the ever-so-familiar and perpetually pesky critters that can spoil outdoor fun. Chiggers, mites in the larval stage, are most frequently found in woods, meadows and other grassy areas. To avoid them, wear insect repellant on clothes and skin. If you've potenWhen outdoors for a ical activity. tially been around chiggers, lengthy period time, look for • Place a wet, cool cloth take a shower or bath and these warning signs: around the neck. scrub your skin with soap • Heat cramps — muscle and water. cramps of the abdomen, Don’t rock the boat If you get bitten, use an legs or arms. Boat outings are a over-the-counter anti-itch • Heat exhaustion — ex- warm-weather highlight and cream or ointment like cessive sweating with a tradition all summer long calamine lotion to ease pale, moist, cool skin. for many Lowcountry famithe itching. Heat exhaustion can lies. Ants, mosquitoes, bees also involve weakness, It’s important to keep the and other insects that bite loss of appetite, dizzi- following precautions in or sting cause redness, ness, heat cramps, nau- mind while relaxing on the sea, urge to defecate, river: swelling and itching. Apply chills, rapid breathing, • Do not drink and drive. ice packs and, if possible, retingling of the hands or • Always use safety move the stinger. Calamine feet or confusion. equipment such as life lotion will relieve itching. • Heat stroke — dizziness, jackets, and be sure to “If a person faints or has stomach pain, confuhave a working radio for difficulty breathing after a sion, weakness, sudden emergencies. bite or sting, seek medical atloss of consciousness. • Know your child’s swimtention right away,” advises May include seizures; ming abilities and reTammy Page, DNP, FNP-C, hot, dry skin; weak, rapmember that strong curboard-certified family nurse id pulse and respiration. rents make swimming practitioner at Beaufort MeThis is a medical emerin local waters much difmorial Express Care and Ocgency that needs immeferent from swimming cupational Health. “It may diate attention. in a pool. be a life-threatening allergic reaction.” If you experience heat “No matter your level of cramps or heat exhaustion, boating experience, it's nevPlay it safe in the you should: er a bad idea to brush up on summer heat • Force water consump- boating and water safety,” The heat and humidity in tion (you’ll be more like- Page added. Beaufort County can be stily to drink the amount There is still plenty of fling, even late in the season. you need to rehydrate if time to get in a few more If you're outside during the the water is cool) picnics, boat rides and • Move to a cooler area in splash sessions! Keep these hot hours of the day, take the shade. tips in mind so your fun isn't extra precautions against • Take a break from phys- cut short. overheating.
Beaufort Memorial adds fellowshiptrained orthopaedic surgeon
Special to The Island News To meet the growing need for specialized orthopaedic care throughout the region, BOSS Orthopaedics is pleased to welcome Mark P. Smith, M.D., a fellowship-trained surgeon specializing in the surgical and nonsurgical treatment of the hand and upper extremity. Dr. Smith is a member of Beaufort Memorial's medical staff and the hospital's Advanced Orthopedics and Spine Program. A summa cum laude graduate of the University of Alabama, where he earned a degree in Biology with minors in Spanish and General Business, Dr. Smith earned his medical degree from the Indiana University School of Medicine and completed his Orthopaedic Surgery Residency at Indiana University. He then completed a Hand and Upper Extremity Fellowship at the prestigious Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center, gaining specialized expertise in treating complex hand and upper-extremity conditions and injuries. While in medical school, Dr. Smith was inducted into the distinguished Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. He also received multiple academic and research honors, including a first-place resident research award from the Indiana Orthopaedic Society.
Dr. Smith joins a distinguished team of board-certified orthopaedic surgeons at BOSS Orthopaedics, including Ralph F. Salzer, M.D., Mark T. Dean, M.D., Scott E. Strohmeyer, M.D., Mark P. Douglas A. Scott, M.D., Smith, M.D Daniel Del Gaizo, M.D., B. Andrew Castro, M.D., and Patrick Pallitto, M.D. Together, the practice provides comprehensive orthopaedic care, including sports medicine, joint replacement, spine care, fracture treatment, and rehabilitation services for patients throughout the Lowcountry. With three offices and an after-hours walk-in clinic at its Bluffton location, BOSS Orthopaedics is one of the Lowcountry's leading providers of orthopaedic surgical and non-surgical care. Patients can see Dr. Smith at any of the practice offices: Beaufort at 1076 Ribaut Road; Bluffton at 4812 Bluffton Parkway; and Hilton Head Island at 39 Hospital Center Commons. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 843-525-0045, text 843-396-2248 or visit BOSSOrtho.com.
LOCAL MILITARY
Dealing with asbestos claims, Part 3 T
VA service-connected disability claims and asbestos trust claims for asbestos exposure-caused diseases, injuries
he first article in this series of five referenced and covered: • Three The Island News articles of January of 2025 on why veterans should file VA service-connected disability claims with the VA for asbestos exposure caused cancer and non-cancer disease and asbestos trust claims with Asbestos Trusts; • Asbestos is everywhere; • Asbestos was used extensively by the military; • Asbestos Material Safety Data Sheets were not required until 1983; • Elderly veterans are high risk for asbestos exposure and disease; • VA Service Connection for Asbestos Exposure; • Companies hid the deadly facts about asbestos; • Vietnam Veterans disease symptoms are just now appearing; and • Enlisted veterans are in a higher risk category for asbestos exposure and disease.
Last week's article, Article 2 of five covered: • Sailors and shipyard workers are at highest risk; • The first signs of asbestos-related disease are frustratingly vague; • Eligible veterans can claim asbestos injuries with both the VA and asbestos trustsl • Elderly Veterans are at elevated at risk of asbestos exposure and disease; • Veterans and VSOs should use the free help provided by the Asbestos.com Help Center; • Asbestos injuries/disease are “not” presumptive to the VA; • Companies hid the deadly effects of asbestos; and • There is no safe exposure level for asbestos. Asbestos and cancers According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), "What Other Health Conditions Are Associated with
exposure); amunz@asbestos.com to help EDITOR’S NOTE • Pleural (lung lining) plaques you file a claim with the VA This article is the third in a series (thicken tissue that forms that for service-connected disabilof five. forms as a reaction to asbestos ity for your asbestos caused fibers becoming lodged in the or contributed to disease and using asbestos faced thoupleura-linings of the lungs); injuries. sands of lawsuits. In 1994, • Pleural (lung lining) thick• Contact ClearTrust Claims Congress passed an amendening; LLP or any legacy experienced ment to the bankruptcy law LARRY DANDRIDGE • Pulmonary fibrosis (A group (with asbestos law suits or that allowed companies to of lung diseases in which asbestos trust claims) firm to establish over 70 asbestos lung tissue becomes scarred help you file claims with multiAsbestos?" at https://bit.ly/47b7ect; trusts to compensate vicple asbestos trusts or law suits and stiff, which can be caused The NIH National Cancer Institims of asbestos exposure for compensation. CTC LLP by asbestos exposure); and tute’s "Asbestos" webpage https:// and prevent the companies is the only firm this author • Pulmonary chronic lung bit.ly/3TbfjdX; Lung Cancer Group, from facing further lawsuits. could find who will help vetdisease, which (according "Asbestos Cancers", dated Jan. 14, 5. Veterans (and non-veterans) erans and non-veterans with to the NIH National Cancer 2026, https://bit.ly/4hGiinS; and can receive thousands to hun“non-cancer” asbestos trust Institute) is a type of disorder SCIENCEINSIGHTS, "What Candreds of thousands of dollars claims and cancer claims. that affects the lungs and othcer Does Asbestos Cause? Types from the manufacturers of the er parts of the respiratory sysand Risks, dated May 1, 2026, asbestos-containing products tem. It usually develops slowly More to know https://bit.ly/4Aq0xRj, asbestos they were exposed to through Many veterans do not know the and may get worse over time. may cause cancers such as: asbestos trust claims. following 28 facts: Chronic lung disease may be • Mesothelioma including 6. Veterans who served before 1. Veterans make up about caused by smoking tobacco or pleural mesothelioma, the 1990s are presumed by 30 percent of all people by breathing in secondhand • Peritoneal mesothelioma; the asbestos trusts (but not diagnosed with mesothetobacco smoke, chemical • Pericardial mesothelioma; presumed by the VA) to have lioma (one of the asbestos fumes, dust, or other forms • Testicular mesothelioma; been exposed to asbestos if injuries/illnesses), whom of air pollution. Types of • Benign mesothelioma; they served at locations on asbestos trusts have paid. chronic lung disease include • Esophageal cancer; the trusts’ site lists. 2. There are three forms of asthma, chronic obstructive • Laryngeal cancer; and 7. Veteran and non-veteran compensation for asbestos pulmonary disease (COPD), • Asbestos-related lung cancer. claimants must file a claim caused or contributed injupulmonary fibrosis, asbestowith the asbestos trusts that ry/diseases, including VA sis, pneumonitis, and other Asbestos "non-cancer" apply to them. If a claimant Service-Connected Disabililung conditions. Learn more diseases/injuries meets the eligibility requirety Compensation, Asbestos at https://bit.ly/4AqgzKL. According to the Lung Cancer ments, they receive payment. Trust Claims ($5,000 to Group, "Asbestos Cancers", dated No adversary litigation, $50,000 for “non-cancer” Jan. 14, 2026, https://bit.ly/4h8u- Long latency period discovery, depositions, or asbestos trust claims and According to the CDC, https:// VYM; Agency for Toxic Substanccourt involvement is required more than $100,000 for ases and Disease Registry (ATSDR), bit.ly/3UWedmX, The latency pein claims against asbestos bestos trust cancer claims), "Asbestos and Your Health" dated riod for asbestos can be 10 to 40 trusts. Eligibility is deterand lawsuits (restricted beyears or more from initial expoAug. 26, 2026, https://bit.ly/4AFmined by the information and cause many manufacturing sure to onset of illness (disease). SKPw; and Mesothelioma Hope, documentation submitted. and mining companies have This is why so many Vietnam "Asbestos Related Diseases," now formed asbestos trusts). Continued next week. https://bit.ly/3UWec2n; asbestos Veterans (like this author) are just 3. Veterans and non-veterans now getting sick from asbestos. may cause serious "non-cancer" working for the military Veterans who served before 1990 diseases/injuries such as: Larry Dandridge is a Vietnam War wounded on ships/boats/vessels or • Asbestosis (Lung disease that are at elevated risk and elderly warrior, disabled veteran, ex-Enlisted shipyards are at higher risk. veterans are at higher risk. If you leads to scarring and inflamInfantryman, ex-Warrant Officer Pilot, and For example, the Charlesmation. Asbestosis is a specific are a veteran who has asbestos retired Lt. Colonel. He is a past VA-accredited ton, S.C., Naval Shipyard injuries or disease symptoms of type of occupational pulmoVSO, a Patient Adviser at Charleston and is listed on 15 separate injuries or disease, you should: nary fibrosis caused by inhalDurham VA Hospitals, a Fisher House Asbestos Trusts. Therefore, • See a doctor with experience ing asbestos fibers. It leads Charleston/Friends of Fisher House Charleston if you worked there, you are in asbestos diseases and to scarring and stiffening of Goodwill Ambassador, and the Veterans presumed by the asbestos injuries. lung tissue, causing shortness Benefits Adviser for his local Association of the trusts to have been exposed • Ask a VA-accredited Veterans of breath, a dry cough, and U.S. Army (AUSA) Chapter and Cary, N.C., to asbestos, and you may be Servcie Officer (VSO), who clubbing of the fingers; VFW Post 7383. Larry is also the author of able to file a claim with each knows about Asbestos.com’s • Fluid buildup/Effusions in the award-winning “Blades of Thunder (Book of those 15 Trusts. free help center at veterathe pleural space (the thin One)” and a contributing freelance writer with 4. In the 1980s, companies layer of tissue that surrounds The Island News. Contact him at LDandridge@ noutreach@asbestos.com. mining, manufacturing, and the lungs-caused by asbestos earthlink.net or 843-276-7164. Call 888-327-8271 or email
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Meet ATHENA! She truly is a goddess. Athena has the most kind eyes that stare into yours with pure love. She would love nothing more than a comfortable lap to lie in.
PIRATE may not sail the seven seas, but this 7½-month-old Feist mix is on a mission to steal hearts. Her spunky puppy energy is always ready for adventure.
IRENE is an irresistible, adorable dilute tabby with the sweetest little face — and no eyes. But don’t let that fool you. Her blindness doesn’t slow her down or dim her spirit one bit.
Meet MIDGE, a sweet 8-month-old Rat Terrier mix. She is shy at first, but once comfortable, she loves giving kisses and being your shadow. Her charming heart is ready to bloom.
KATARA is a gorgeous tabby girl with truly eyecatching markings — she’s the kind of cat you notice right away. Even better, her personality is just as lovely as her looks.
Say hello to EARL, a handsome 3-year-old Coonhound mix with a nose for adventure. With his goofy personality and irresistible ears, he brings joy to every day.
At 9 years old, LEXI is ready to settle in a home filled with love and cuddles. She prefers a quiet home, with the softest blankets, and a nice long lasting bone to chew on.
Meet KOOL KID, the handsome black kitten who has mastered balancing big zoomies and deep relaxation. One minute he is chasing toys, and the next he is kicked back relaxing.
Meet MOLLY! This sweet and gentle girl was found as a stray, completely malnourished. With the help of our staff, she has reached a healthy weight and is as happy as ever.
PANEER is a 7-month-old white and orange Domestic Shorthair with a funloving personality and goofy charm. He fills his days with playtime, curiosity, and antics that will keep you smiling.
ZADIA is a lovely young orangeand-white tabby who strikes that balance between social and independent. She gets along well with the people she meets.
TIKKA is a 7-month-old calico Domestic Shorthair with playful, curious energy. This sweet girl loves chasing toys and exploring her world before curling up for a well-earned nap.
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.
A14
SEPTEMBER 24–30, 2026
CLASSIFIEDS & GAMES ANNOUNCEMENTS Coming to a store near you! Grass Carp 8" – 11", Coppernose Bluegill 1" – 3" & 3" – 5", Shellcracker 1" – 3", Channel Cats 3" – 5" & Mosquitofish. Southland Fisheries 803-776-4923. 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 ADVERTISE YOUR AUCTION in 80 S.C. newspapers for only $375. Your 25word classified ad will reach more than 1.5 million readers. Call Randall Savely at the S.C. Newspaper Network, 803750-9561. 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. 45day risk free trial. Free shipping. Lifetime support. More than 1.5 million happy customers. Call Audien 1-855-620-9614. Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-844775-0366 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! 1-877-542-0759 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: THE 2010s ACROSS 1. Convention freebie 5. *Tucker of TV's "Modern Family" 8. To the ____ degree 11. *Space Shuttle Program org. 12. Deal with it 13. Extra tire 15. Stead 16. Real estate land unit 17. Enter user name and password (2 words) 18. *Instagram's parent company 20. "Fine by me" 21. Strong virile man 22. Caviar alternative 23. *Bruno Mars' hat 26. Highest-reaching 30. Before of yore 31. Quill-dipping vessel 34. Popular aquarium show star 35. Schoolmarm's whip 37. Neither here ____ there 38. Opposite of cation 39. Hurry up, acr. 40. Blood infection 42. Not com or edu
43. Arranged in order 45. Inside info 47. Aye's opposite 48. B2C business 50. Hyperbolic tangent 52. *Katy Perry's 2010 hit 55. Battle royal 56. One R in R&R 57. Nightcrawler 59. *Hipsters' facial trend 60. Prima donnas' problems 61. Not in favor 62. Public promotions 63. Even, to a poet 64. CISC alternative DOWN 1. *Pete Davidson's TV show 2. Ragamuffin 3. On a deck, perhaps 4. Cowboy, in South America 5. Popular warming drink 6. Chef's garb 7. Opposite of domineering and bold 8. Hindu serpent deity 9. Legendary King Priam's city 10. Chicken coop dweller 12. Taxi driver 13. Ship with a single mast 14. *____ GO game
19. Spooky 22. Decay 23. Greek cheese, pl. 24. Remove from existence 25. _____'s, blended Scotch whisky 26. High rocky hills 27. Celestial hunter 28. Open disrespect 29. Sour-tasting 32. Capped joint 33. *Funko ____! 36. *Toy for the fidgety 38. Off kilter 40. Dirty dwelling 41. Specks in the sea 44. Oohed and ____ 46. Atmospheric pressure line, on weather map 48. Military blockade 49. Fire-raising 50. ____ off on a golf course. past tense 51. Exclamation of sorrow 52. *____ solo, Alex Honnold's feat 53. Raja's daughter 54. Baby fox and baby beaver 55. Business school degree, acr. 58. Habitual twitching
LAST WEEK’S CROSSWORD & SUDOKU SOLUTIONS
SEPTEMBER 24–30, 2026
A15
820 Bay Street Beaufort, SC 29902
843.521.4200 $738,000
$1,150,000
HABERSHAM | MLS 192256
3BDRM | 3.5+B | 2245sqft | Live/Work Amy McNeal 843.521.7932
HERMITAGE | MLS 195383
4BDRM | 2.5B | 3101sqft | Private Dock Edward Dukes 843.812.5000
$598,000
DATAW ISLAND | MLS 197558
3BDRM | 2.5B | 2180sqft | Pond/Golf Views Paige Walling 843.812.8470 Trudy Arthur 843.812.0967
$679,000
CAT ISLAND | MLS 197321
3BDRM | 3.5B | 2320sqft | F.R.O.G. Bryan Gates 843.812.6494
www.LowcountryRealEstate.com
l l a FFestival of Houses Historic Beaufort Foundation's
& Gardens - 2026
October 16th, 17th & 18th Tickets: 843.379.3331 HistoricBeaufort.org Beaufort, SC