When Mary McLaughlin first picked up a shotgun during the early days of COVID, she wasn’t seeking a new sport or imagining a future on an international team. She was simply curious.

Years earlier, she had fired a 20-gauge shotgun on her family’s farm in North Georgia but never considered herself particularly skilled. That changed when she attended a women’s beginner clinic in the SC Lowcountry. She went with a friend, expecting a casual afternoon outdoors. “I could actually hit something,” she recalled. That small victory opened a door she never planned to walk through but now can’t imagine closing.

Lori Lucas has always been a competitive athlete. She ran marathons and triathlons until tragedy struck just before her 40th birthday in 2014. She had fallen off her bike, and the way she landed fractured her left leg. She had multiple surgeries, including a double fasciotomy to save her leg due to compartment syndrome. She spent three months in a wheelchair, and her running days were over.

“No more running,” she said. “So I went back in the pool, swimming a lot.” Water was her best remedy and transformed her into a passionate swimmer. She swam in high school and college and was certified as a lifeguard. The transition was natural, and she is now a world champion swimmer.

Cori Talbert is a busy woman with lots on her “to do” list. But it doesn’t show. We met up at the new “Harris Teeter coffee house” in Beaufort, and I knew who she was as soon as she walked up. She had on the most beautiful, sparkly gold earrings with the Beaufort Water Festival logo, so I knew this had to be our new Commodore for 2027!

Cori is married to Pat, a retired Naval Officer, and they have three good-looking sons. She married Pat at age 20 and spent the first years as a busy “military spouse,” moving to duty stations as ordered and raising their boys. As anyone knows who’s done it, being a military spouse is a full-time job. And Cori balanced it all with volunteering and working as time went on.

Franny, you are a hero for animals in the Lowcountry. When did you realize being an advocate for animals would be your life calling?
I'm not sure exactly when it all began because it feels like it was always part of who I am. Helping an animal in need came as naturally as breathing. Even as a young child, I was drawn to dogs that were tied up alone in backyards. I would visit them whenever I could, spending time and giving them the attention they deserved. If a stray cat appeared in the back alley of our neighborhood, I made it my mission to find its home.

Looking back now, I realize my passion for helping animals took root during those carefree grade school years, when we spent our days outdoors until the streetlights came on. Those long afternoons gave me endless opportunities that almost always led me to animals.

Sussy (pronounced Suzy) Palma describes herself as an entrepreneur and a hard worker. Entrepreneurship runs in her family and is a big part of who she is today. Her father owns a large party supply company and a well-known high-end restaurant in Costa Rica. Growing up in a self-employed family, Sussy developed a savvy business mind and strong work ethic. So, naturally, she has spent her career pursuing her own business ventures. But this isn’t just another story of a businesswoman whose biggest success is the companies she’s built—it’s about the heart that guides them.

“I’m fortunate to have my family because they helped shape the person I became,” Sussy said. “All of my brothers and nephews have their own businesses, but my biggest influence was my dad.”

The most significant thing about Connie Turlington, who is the General Manager of Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort, is that she leads with heart—the steady, servant-minded type that comes from growing up in smalltown Hardeeville, South Carolina, where community was a way of life. Today, that same spirit shapes the culture of one of the most beloved Disney Vacation Club properties in the world.

Leah Melvin is a spitfire! A 36-year-old petite mom with pretty long hair, Leah is well-known in Beaufort for many things. She is a top realtor with Keller Williams and founder of the “Leah Melvin Group”. She explained that being in a group allows her to “work with the people I want to the most”, and for a mom of two, it allows flexibility to not be “on call” 24/7, as many realtors are. She has been able to be available for her two boys’ school activities, sports, church, and at-home time. She is rightfully proud that she “doesn’t miss a game, a school drop off or pickup!”

“I’m most proud of the life I’ve built for myself. I’ve worked hard since I was 14 and created a version of success that feels meaningful to me, with the support of a loving, loyal tribe. It’s rooted in genuine connections, flexibility, and the freedom to be present for what matters most.”

Across the Lowcountry—and on the front lines of our nation’s defense—women are answering the call to serve with extraordinary courage, strength, and compassion. From police officers patrolling our neighborhoods and firefighters rushing into danger to paramedics responding in moments of crisis and military personnel serving around the globe, these women embody the very best of public service. Their growing presence in roles once dominated by men reflects more than progress; it is a powerful reminder that bravery, leadership, and dedication know no gender.

Current Residence: Beaufort
Hometown: Tucson, Arizona

Career & Rank: Criminal Investigator (Sergeant) assigned to the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office Northern Investigation Section.

What inspired you to pursue such a challenging career?
I have felt a deep calling to serve my country and community for as long as I can remember. As a child, I always admired the military and law enforcement men and women in my community. After high school, I tried to enlist in the military, but medical circumstances prevented it. So, I focused on becoming a law enforcement officer to be able to serve and protect my community.

What is the No. 1 thing you would teach women about safety?
Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings and trust your intuition. Danger can arise even in the most familiar places. Stay present, stay alert and never underestimate the power of simply paying attention.

Current Residence: Bluffton
Hometown: North Tonawanda, NY

Career & Rank: Law Enforcement/ Lieutenant over Investigations Division

What inspired you to pursue such a challenging career?
I was inspired by watching law enforcement officers on television, as well as around my town and on the news. I was intrigued by what they did and their influences. Plus, I like to be challenged.

Why did you choose this branch of service?
I pursued this career path because I could have an impact on the community I serve and be part of the solution to problems rather than sit idly by. I won’t sit and complain about a problem; I will try to take it by the horns and fix what I can.

Current Residence: Hilton Head Island
Hometown: Jefferson City, MO

Career & Rank: 911 Communications Manager, Hilton Head Island Fire & Rescue

What inspired you to pursue such a challenging career?
I actually lucked into this profession. During an economic downturn, I was looking for a way to make ends meet when a friend recommended me for a position as a 911 Public Safety Telecommunicator. It wasn't a career path I had ever considered, but I applied and was hired. Once I started, I quickly fell in love with the work. Being able to provide comfort, guidance, and assistance to people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives has been incredibly rewarding and personally fulfilling. What began as a job to pay the bills became a calling, as I gradually worked my way up into my current position.

Current Residence: Port Wentworth, GA
Hometown: Watertown, NY

Career: Firefighter/Paramedic Jasper County Fire Rescue

What inspired you to pursue such a challenging career, and what do you love about it?
I was inspired to pursue fire and EMS because I wanted a career with purpose—one where I could serve others and be there for people on their worst days. What I love most is the privilege of earning someone’s trust in a moment of crisis and working alongside an incredible team that feels like family. My job challenges me physically, mentally, and emotionally, but it has also taught me resilience, compassion, and the importance of showing up for others when they need it most.

Current Residence: Hilton Head Island
Hometown: Brooklyn, New York

Career & Rank: NYPD - Retired Detective

What inspired you to pursue such a challenging career? How and/or why did you choose your branch of service? What do you love about it?

I joined the New York City Police Department (NYPD) because I wanted a career that would be meaningful and never boring. Being a part of NYPD (the greatest Police Department in the world!) was special. I was honored every day to wear the uniform and represent New York City.

The cases I worked were exciting, and I found a great deal of satisfaction in solving homicide cases, bringing answers and closure to victims’ families. I also loved the people I worked with—the camaraderie, teamwork, and sense of purpose. I had a lot of fun and will always value the profession and be proud of the work we did as a team.

Current Residence: Bluffton
Hometown: Milford, Ohio

Career & Rank: Driver/Operator, Paramedic (Bluffton Township) Paramedic (Hardeeville FD)

What inspired you to pursue such a challenging career?
I enjoy the medical aspect of emergency response. I began my career as an EMT-Basic in 2012 and worked with Beaufort County EMS. Then I went to Paramedic school in 2016 and made the switch to the Fire Department in 2021. I have found I equally enjoy the physical challenge of the job. And the camaraderie at the fire department has been a wonderful experience. I love to be a part of a team, and my crew at Bluffton Township Fire Department has been a huge blessing in my life.

What inspired you to pursue such a challenging career? How and/or why did you choose your branch of service? What do you love about it?
The inspiration started with my dad taking me to a college fair, where I had the chance to talk with representatives from the Air Force Academy. It was all fascinating since I was very interested in science and engineering. But afterwards, saying to him there was no way I could do that, he responded “why not?” Next thing I knew, I was the first woman nominated to any military academy from Georgia’s First District. Funny, the very first time I flew in an airplane was to report to the Academy in Colorado Springs. From that point on, I couldn’t imagine a career that didn’t involve flying. There is nothing more exhilarating than having four massive afterburners throw you down the runway and into the air. People often thank me for my service, which I appreciate, but my response is always, “it was a privilege.”

Current Residence: Beaufort
Hometown: Santa Fe, NM

Career & Rank: Drill Instructor and Data Specialist/Staff Sergeant

What inspired you to enlist in the United States Marine Corps (USMC) and work your way to Drill Sergeant?
The USMC is by far the hardest and most challenging branch in military service. I chose the hardest branch because I wanted to become a part of something much bigger than myself. I love the USMC; I have found my place in this institution. I have been pushed past my limits to become the best version of myself. I was inspired to become a drill instructor because I want to be part of a life changing transformation for people without a path or career choice in their lives and hopefully help them be the best version of themselves, too.

Tina Toomer of Bluffton rises every morning at dawn, connects with the Lord through the Bible and prayer and lets God take the oars. Tina knows only too well that by placing her family, her marriage, and their family business in God’s hands, she must go with the flow.

To go with the flow is a metaphor that applies to navigating a river—to follow the current of the river rather than push against it. However, it doesn’t mean that one tosses the oars into the water to kick back in the boat, hoping for the best.

Sandra Boyd is now the matriarch of her family on Saint Helena Island. But she remembers very well growing up in New Rochelle, New York, and travelling by Greyhound bus or car twice a year to visit her grandparents, aunts, uncles. and cousins. She loved coming South, but back then, it had “interesting moments,” as she puts it.

Segregation was widespread in most states, particularly in the South. Blacks were not welcome to stay at motels, eat at restaurants, use water fountains or bathrooms. But there were “safe places” along the way, and Sandra shared that “South of the Border” in Dillon, SC, was one of those. Even then, her family always took baskets of their own food and drinks along for the long ride.

Mother and daughter duo Ann Shelp and Danielle Shelp Streitenberger are grateful to have a close relationship and shared interests. They both love to read, go to the beach, and seek adventure. They even look alike, although Danielle is 30 years younger than her mother: “Mom’s favorite compliment is when we’re asked if we are sisters.”

Throughout their lives, they feel the stars have consistently aligned suggesting their relationship is blessed by pure serendipity. Some interesting and fun examples of this include:

Michelle Allen arrived in the Lowcountry in August 1990. Born and raised in Durban, South Africa, Michelle left her homeland just one year out of high school. With an adventurous spirit, she set out for Paris to embark on the next phase of her life. She was soon reminded of the language barrier and needed to pivot. Michelle had just enough money to buy a ticket to the U.S. but never intended to move here. She began working in a restaurant, married, and in 1999, her daughter, Megan, was born.

Kathy Straughn grew up in a small town in Alabama where she learned about helping those in need and building a caring community. Her mother died when she was very young, so Kathy lived five years with her loving grandmother, Martha Paramore, an incredible woman who owned a dry goods store. Well-known as always being the first person to respond to anyone in need, she was a giving person, an angel on earth,” Kathy said. “She never asked for anything but helped everyone.” It only makes sense that Kathy was deeply impacted by her grandmother’s generous spirit and has emulated it throughout her life.

Ifetayo White is a lively 81-year-old phenomenon with a couple of cats, a tortoise, two daughters, and two grandchildren. She is a Reiki instructor and healer with a peaceful studio in her beautiful home on St. Helena Island. I was honored to get to visit with her in person, after a Zoom call earlier with her two daughters.

Ifetayo’s home is at the end of Coffin Point Road, which is down a couple of winding dirt roads, past a homemade sign of a hand with fingers pointing three different ways at the intersection of three more dirt roads. It’s a serene, quiet community, and just a short walk to the beach, passing homes with gardens, chickens, and horses.

Cheryl Crosby Phillips believes animals find their way to the people who “need” them, just as much as the animals need these people. Tucked beneath the sweeping oaks of Bluffton, on the same land her grandparents once owned and lovingly passed down, Cheryl has built more than a home—she’s created a sanctuary.

What began as a deep love for horses has quietly grown into a nonprofit rescue, Grace Farm Too, the second location of Grace Farms, that now shelters a lively, unlikely family: 15 horses including 3 miniature horses, chickens, goats, sheep, a rabbit, cats, and even Duke—the farm’s famously wire-hairy pig with the ability to sit on command for a taste of a delicious apple. Robin Boeke, her partner at the rescue lives in Islandton and runs Grace Farm in that location.

You are the president of the Hilton Head Island Land Trust,
tell us about the organization.
The land trust was organized in 1987 with a mission to preserve and protect the natural habitat and significant historical parcels of land on Hilton Head Island for future generations to come. We own or have conservation easements on more than 300 acres of land on Hilton Head.

The HHI Land Trust started the live “eagle cam” of the famous eagle duo, Harriet and Mitch and now, George and Gracie. How did that come about, and what was your role and vision? The opportunity for our first “eagle cam” was brought to us by local Russell Patterson. The idea was to share and educate viewers worldwide about bald eagles, Hilton Head Island, and the importance of how conserving and protecting natural habitats align with the Land Trust mission.

Christy Richard grew up on Hilton Head Island and attended K-12 public schools there. That was back in the ‘80s when parents would send children outside to play. It was also before kids had cellphones glued to their hands and were too distracted to go outdoors. She said, “I loved the outdoors and meeting the characters of the Lowcountry. Being outside was the best time and gave me my love of nature. Kids need to connect to nature and spend more time outdoors.”

Christy’s uncle survived an alligator attack in Sea Pines back in 2004. He had a landscape business and wore a spray pack on his back as he approached a lagoon. Christy said, “A 12-foot gator named Bruno grabbed his leg and, fortunately, let go. My uncle had some pretty cool scars. I learned everything I could about these crazy dinosaurs for my own protection. My uncle was very proud he survived, and his license plate read ‘Gator Bait.’”

Carol Hyde, or “Dr. Hyde” as she was known for most of her life, is an accomplished musician who truly deserves the best piano in the world.

Growing up in the Midwest, her parents, who were “good Catholics”, had eleven children altogether. Carol was number three, and they ordered her first musical instrument, a flute, from the JC Penney catalog. From this tiny seed her parents nourished, she went on to an illustrious career in music lasting several decades. Earning a doctorate in Music Education and a second doctorate in Piano Performance from the University of Illinois in Champaign, Carol spread the joy of music in her career as a band director in an award-winning high school in St. Louis, Missouri, taking her student musicians to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and Rose Bowl Parade several times.

Tiger Bye is a force and fan of nature. Growing up in the Sunshine State, Tiger (her given name) was born to encouraging parents who were both yogis. At a young age, Tiger was practicing yoga while spending time with her parents during their classes.

Tiger and her mother later moved to Brookline, Massachusetts, where Tiger fell in love with the Boston suburb’s studious atmosphere. There, she developed a self-proclaimed “unquenchable thirst for knowledge.” She always wanted to live in New York City and enrolled in and graduated from NYU with a BA in political theory. “It was a great place to figure out who I was and what I wanted,” recalled Tiger. “My 18-year-old brain felt all things were possible in New York.”

Life has a way of guiding people toward their calling, even if it’s not their career. What do you feel you have been called to do?
I have been called to help people become and stay active in all stages of life.

Every year, instead of making a New Year’s Resolution, you pick something to accomplish. Tell us about some of the things you have chosen and if they have stuck. What is your goal this year?
I’m 55 years old, so this list might be too long! I competed in a  sprint triathlon, got back into hunter/ jumper horseback riding, learned to surf, joined the Masters swim team, competed in a century cycling event, became a triathlon coach, learned shag dancing, got certified in dry needling, started Jiu Jitsu (I’m now a purple belt), got certified in scuba diving, got my concealed carry permit, started Swim HHI, swam an 8-mile ocean race, and competed in an Ironman distance triathlon. Last year, I learned how to be a military mom, and one year I started a support group for mothers who have Type 1 Diabetic children. This year I’m taking up beekeeping. I enjoy and continue the activities that involve family and friends. 

Erin Witt Fleifel is a strong young woman. She is a certified Pilates Master Trainer, who, after extensive training in California and Miami, has become both physically and mentally strong. But she is equally strong inside, and aside from the physical alignment she teaches others, she works just as hard to stay spiritually aligned with who she really is.

On Highway 21 coming into Beaufort from Charleston, you will see a large billboard with a beautiful picture of Erin from a few years ago, advertising C. T. Lowndes and Company, recognized as the state’s oldest insurance company, founded in 1850. Erin was a successful agent with this prestigious firm for about ten years, but she had dreams of working for herself in a totally different direction. In October of 2024, she took the leap and opened her own Pilates studio.

Like most of us, Anne Poirier grew up in a home with a scale in the bathroom. She recalls that bathroom was where her parents weighed themselves religiously every day.

As a child, Anne was taught that food was both a punishment and a reward. Both she and her brother were adopted, and she didn’t resemble anyone in her family. The difference boiled down to a few words: stocky, sturdy, husky, and her brother’s nickname for her—“Annie Fanny”. Anne’s clothes were always purchased in the husky section at Sears.