Beaufort Celebrates Community Spirit with Honors, Festivals, and Events

Exciting Times in Beaufort!

Hey there, Beaufort! If you thought the end of the year would be a quiet time for our beautiful city, think again! There have been some fantastic happenings lately, and we’re here to fill you in on all the buzz!

Swim Lessons Forever Remembered

First up, let’s take a moment to shine a light on a beloved member of our community, Alvin Settles. As of November 14, 2022, the swimming pool at the Charles Lind Brown Center has been officially renamed in his honor. Alvin dedicated over 30 years to teaching swimming lessons to children and adults alike right here in Beaufort. His passion for teaching and ensuring that everyone learned to swim has left a lasting legacy in our community. Now, every splash and stroke should remind us of the impact he made!

A Military Honor for a Local Legend

Next, let’s give a huge round of applause to Lt. Col. Larry Dandridge, a retired U.S. Army officer and a familiar face around town. On November 15, 2022, he was awarded the Order of the Palmetto, the highest civilian honor in South Carolina! This prestigious recognition is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the state. Larry has regularly shared his insights and experiences with the community through articles, and he truly embodies the spirit of service and dedication. An inspirational figure, indeed!

Keeping History Alive

Speaking of dedication, let’s talk about how we care for our town’s rich history. On the agenda for the Beaufort City Council was the approval of the updated Beaufort Preservation Manual, often referred to as the Milner Report. This vital document serves as a guide for preserving our historic structures for the future. The update ensures that we maintain the charm of Beaufort while also adapting to modern needs. Protecting our heritage is essential, and this new manual will be pivotal as our city continues to grow!

Pride in Our Community

In a heartwarming display of love and acceptance, Lowcountry Pride hosted its first-ever Lowcountry Pride Festival in Port Royal on November 18, 2022. This annual event brought together folks from all walks of life to celebrate diversity and foster inclusiveness. It was a day filled with joy, laughter, and a vibrant display of rainbow colors! What a beautiful way to uplift our community!

Mixed Martial Arts Takes Center Stage

Switching gears a bit, the excitement didn’t stop there! On November 19, 2022, the inaugural ever Beaufort Brawl mixed martial arts event took place at The Foundry. Fans packed the venue, eager to see local fighters duking it out in the ring. With thrilling bouts and nail-biting moments, the event was a knockout success, showcasing the athletic talent and community spirit in Beaufort. If you missed it, be sure to check it out next time!

Looking Back in History

But why stop there? Let’s not forget the historical significance of our city. For those interested in Beaufort’s past, it’s notable that on November 3, 1874, local hero Robert Smalls was elected to the South Carolina Legislature, paving the way for African American representation in politics after the Civil War. As we celebrate our present, let’s also pay homage to those trailblazers who fought for equality and progress.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! A quick roundup of the latest and greatest happenings in our wonderful Beaufort community. It’s heartwarming to see our city come together to honor its history, uplift one another, and celebrate diversity. Here’s to more exciting events and milestones as we head into the new year!