Unless you've been living under a rock, you know that modern Americans are much fatter than they were just a few decades ago. Take one look around a shopping center or strip mall and it seems that half the people present are struggling with obesity. Recent data from the CDC supports those observations - more than 39% of adults in the United States were considered obese from 2015-2016. That number is up from 33.7 percent in 2007-2008.
Perhaps more alarming is the fact that severe obesity is on the rise as well. The same report from the CDC tells us that nearly 8% of Americans were severely obese from 2015-2016, which is up from 5.7% in 2007-2008. When you read between the lines, those statistics mean that almost 4 in 10 adults are obese in the U.S., and almost 1 in 13 are severely obese.
Unfortunately, "fixing" obesity isn't something that can be done overnight. There is no quick fix that is also safe and non-surgical. The obesity problem in the U.S. is only getting worse as more adults and children choose the ease and convenience of fast food sugar-packed products over healthy eating, exercise, and positive lifestyle choices.
Besides the challenges of being overweight, like clothes that don't fit and hurtful comments, the health risks are much more serious. Obesity can endanger your life, and those who rely on you may lose you earlier than expected. Over time, the likelihood of developing severe and life-altering health problems grows.
The good news is that a new medication called semaglutide in Bluffton, SC, is available for people struggling with obesity. This game-changing treatment approaches obesity as a chronic metabolic disease rather than a problem that can be solved through willpower alone.
At VIP Cosmetic Surgery, we now ioffer semaglutide as part of our custom weight loss program. If you've been struggling with obesity and have tried other diets with little to no success, don't lose hope. With the help of our medical and nutritional providers, you can lose weight, keep it off, and take meaningful steps toward better health.
Our weight loss program with semaglutide starts with a comprehensive consultation and evaluation process. During this phase, we will determine the ideal semaglutide dosage for you and provide personalized nutrition and exercise guidelines. Once we have a better understanding of your body and your weight loss goals, you'll begin receiving regular injections of semaglutide in Bluffton, SC.
It's your responsibility to incorporate lifestyle changes, specifically in your diet and exercise, to reach your weight loss goals. However, we'll be there every step of the way and conduct regular check-ins to help you stay on course. We'll also closely monitor your progress and overall health to ensure that your weight loss is safe and sustainable. The purpose of our semaglutide weight loss program is to offer a comprehensive weight loss treatment that helps you achieve natural, long-lasting results. That's the VIP Cosmetic Surgery difference.
Patients who sign up for our semaglutide weight loss program benefit from the following:
For semaglutide to have the biggest impact on your weight, you've got to make changes to your diet. When you eat nutrient-dense, whole foods that support weight loss and healthy living, you're setting yourself up for long-term weight loss. Our nutrition plans are comprehensive and customized to your needs and lifestyle. That way, when you're ready to make real changes in your life, we'll be there with a nutrition plan you can follow to make the journey easier and more sustainable.
One of the biggest reasons why people fail to achieve their weight loss goals is because they try to do it all on their own. When you sign up for VIP Cosmetic Surgery's semaglutide program, you benefit from monthly check-ins with Dr. Farr to see how your progress is going. During this meeting, you can talk to the doctor about your progress and what hurdles you're still trying to overcome. The doctor will give you advice and guidance based on his experience and - perhaps most importantly - help keep you on track so that you can lose weight and keep it off for good.
Our practitioners will provide tests to ensure that your body is healthy, hydrated, and well-fed. By checking your hydration and nutrition levels, we can help ensure you're losing weight in a healthy manner and not starving yourself. By maintaining optimal health throughout your weight loss journey, you're giving yourself the best shot at long-term weight loss.
For individuals working to lose weight and stay healthy, sticking to a consistent diet and exercise routine can be tough. Between work obligations and important tasks like picking your kids up from school, there just doesn't seem to be enough time in the day to eat healthy foods. After all, McDonald's is on the way home, and your little ones are screaming for food.
Fortunately, many busy people find semaglutide to be a valuable tool in their weight loss journey. This FDA-approved injection, used for treating both diabetes and obesity, functions by activating GLP-1 receptors in the brain to aid in weight loss and promote long-term health.
In more simple terms, semaglutide imitates glucagon in the body, signaling to the brain that you're full and don't need to eat more. When you take semaglutide and try to overeat, your body sends a message that says, "That's enough." In essence, it makes you feel full, so you're less likely to binge eat, especially at night when food tends to sit in your stomach.
Semaglutide also slows down digestion, reducing unnecessary snacking throughout the day. By minimizing glucose spikes after meals, it lowers inflammation, which is a crucial step in optimizing your overall health. Moreover, Semaglutide assists in insulin secretion by the pancreas regulates glucose levels in the body and even possesses anti-aging and longevity properties. If you're struggling with weight loss, treatments such as semaglutide can make a substantial difference for you.
In summary, semaglutide helps you lose weight in a few different ways, including:
At VIP Cosmetic Surgery, one of the most frequently asked questions our providers receive from curious weight loss patients is whether or not semaglutide is supported by clinical trials. As it turns out, many trials have been conducted measuring the efficacy of semaglutide for weight loss, and the results are very promising.
Semaglutide is designed for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher who are attempting to shed at least 10% of their total body weight without success with other methods. Clinical trials involving over 1,900 obese adults who were unable to lose five percent of their body weight after a year of treatment with other medications demonstrated that semaglutide increased average weight loss from 2% to 20% over a treatment period of just over one year compared to a placebo.
In a different trial involving 1,387 patients with obesity (but not type 2 diabetes), participants were randomly assigned to different doses of semaglutide: 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or placebo for 104 weeks. The group that took the higher dose of semaglutide lost an average of 31 pounds, while those on the lower dose lost an average of 11 pounds.
According to the NCBI, the Semaglutide Treatment Effect in People With Obesity (STEP) trials have shown the efficacy of semaglutide, as well. In large randomized controlled trials, patients who received 2.4 milligrams of semaglutide lost a mean of 6% of their weight after 12 weeks and 12% of their weight after 28 weeks.
So, what do all these statistics mean for you? If you're looking to shed some pounds, it's worth giving semaglutide injections a shot. This type of treatment isn't a miracle drug, but it can significantly boost your chances of weight loss success. That's why, at VIP Cosmetic Surgery, we have incorporated semaglutide as a fresh treatment option for individuals grappling with obesity, especially those who have exhausted other remedies and are seeking something new.
As is the case with promising therapies like semaglutide, people considering the drug have a lot of questions about whether it's right for them. Keep reading to get answers to some of the most common questions relating to semaglutide.
If you're an adult dealing with obesity, excessive weight, or weight-related medical conditions such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure, semaglutide injections could be a suitable option for you. To qualify for semaglutide weight loss services at VIP Cosmetic Surgery, you must meet the BMI range criteria established by the FDA. If you're unsure whether semaglutide injections are the right choice for you, we recommend scheduling a consultation with one of our weight loss practitioners today.
Our doctors and practitioners often hear from patients asking whether semaglutide is safe for long-term use. It's natural to have concerns about a medication that impacts your body. Simply put, as long as you meet the criteria, it is safe to take this weight-loss medication. Even patients with endocrine, kidney, heart, and liver conditions can safely use semaglutide. As of June 4, 2021, the Food & Drug Administration has given the green light for semaglutide injections (2.4mg once weekly) for chronic weight management in adults with obesity and at least one weight-related condition.
Weight loss medications such as semaglutide may cause people to regain weight once the treatment is stopped. According to a clinical trial featured in Practice Update, participants regained 11.6% of their lost body weight within a year of discontinuing semaglutide medication and lifestyle intervention. Researchers suggest that this weight gain could be linked to the reversal of the cardiovascular benefits associated with semaglutide treatment, including stable blood sugar levels and blood pressure.
This data underscores the importance of continued medication and ongoing treatment for obesity as a chronic health condition to effectively manage its impact on quality of life and heart health. The key takeaway here is that due to its nature as a weight loss treatment, it's best to take regularly over time for the best results.
That length of time will vary depending on factors such as:
There's no question about it - semaglutide is making waves in the medical community. Thousands of obese men and women in the U.S. are using the treatment to get a handle on their weight and live healthy lives. With its ability to reduce blood sugar levels and facilitate weight loss, it makes sense that patients are looking for ways to get the most out of their regimen.
Keep reading to learn a few of the best tips to maximize your journey with semaglutide.
Before you start taking semaglutide or make any changes to your treatment plan, make sure to discuss it with your healthcare provider who prescribes semaglutide. They will evaluate your specific needs, determine the right dosage for you, and give you important instructions on how to use the medication properly. At VIP Cosmetic Surgery, our weight loss practitioners work one-on-one with every patient who takes semaglutide to ensure they're staying healthy, hydrated, and committed to our semaglutide program.
Make sure to keep a close eye on your blood sugar levels as recommended by your semaglutide provider. While semaglutide can assist in reducing blood sugar levels, it's important to regularly monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. When you begin a weight loss program at VIP Cosmetic Surgery, you can rest easy knowing we check your blood sugar levels periodically.
Regular physical activity can boost the effects of semaglutide. It's best to aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise 3-4 times a week to support weight loss and overall health improvements.
It's important to understand that results may not happen right away and could take some time to become noticeable. Try to be patient as you follow your treatment plan, maintain consistency with lifestyle changes, and have confidence that positive results will come gradually.
To maximize the effectiveness of semaglutide, it's very beneficial to eat a well-rounded diet abundant in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Always try to choose nutrient-rich options over high-calorie, high-fat foods. That way, you can achieve your weight loss objectives quicker. When you work with weight loss experts like the doctors at VIP Cosmetic Surgery, you'll have access to customized nutrition plans that will help expedite your weight loss and keep off the pounds once you reach your goals.
Make sure to set up regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to track your progress, make any necessary changes to your treatment plan, and talk about any concerns or questions you might have. At VIP Cosmetic Surgery, follow-ups and check-ins are built into our semaglutide program, giving you one less thing to worry about as you lose weight.
Are you striving to reach a healthy weight and live a more fulfilling life? Are you eager to have a positive impact on yourself and your loved ones? Take the first step toward better health by contacting VIP Cosmetic Surgery. Our experienced, compassionate practitioners will collaborate with you to identify your weight-loss goals. Once we know more about you and your body, we'll create a custom plan and provide the cutting-edge strategies and treatments you need to see real results. If you're ready to make a meaningful change, we're ready to guide you on the path to success.
Every holiday season, streets and homes across the country come alive with Christmas lights, each neighborhood offering its twist on the age-old tradition.From grand displays that span entire lawns to simple wreaths glowing on front doors, the tradition of decorating with Christmas lights brings a new kind of holiday cheer.Here is a guide to some of the best light displays across the Lowcountry this Christmas.Holiday Nights & LightsTake a mesmerizing drive through the fourth annual Historic Mitchelville...
Every holiday season, streets and homes across the country come alive with Christmas lights, each neighborhood offering its twist on the age-old tradition.
From grand displays that span entire lawns to simple wreaths glowing on front doors, the tradition of decorating with Christmas lights brings a new kind of holiday cheer.
Here is a guide to some of the best light displays across the Lowcountry this Christmas.
Holiday Nights & Lights
Take a mesmerizing drive through the fourth annual Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park Holiday Nights & Lights event, 40 Harriet Tubman Way. This drive-through lights show is guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit. The display is open nightly from Saturday, Dec. 7 through Monday, Dec. 9 from 6-8:00 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.
Holiday Lights at Fire Station 3
Visit the annual Holiday Lights at Fire Station 3, 534 William Hilton Pkwy, for a fun and festive display. In the spirit of the season, Fire Rescue will be collecting non-perishable food items and new unwrapped toys for Deep Well. New unwrapped toys should be for ages 1-12 and can be dropped off until Dec. 15. Non-perishable food items can be dropped off through January.
Hilton Head Island Christmas Tree Lighting
The Lowcountry Celebration Park, 94 Pope Avenue, will be aglow this Saturday, Dec. 7, for the lighting of the 30-foot-tall Christmas Tree. Watch a magical laser light show, enjoy local music, food trucks and more. The event is from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and the Christmas tree lighting is set for 6:30 p.m.
Town of Bluffton Tree Lighting Ceremony
Kick off the holiday season with The Town of Bluffton during the 53rd tree lighting ceremony, this Friday, Dec. 6, at 5:30 p.m. in Martin Family Park, 68 Boundary St. A miniature train will be available at the tree lighting from 6-8 p.m. to ride around Martin and DuBois Parks. Following the ceremony, you can enjoy the movie “Polar Express” and explore Santa’s Workshop at DuBois Park’s Pavilion.
To keep the festivities going, the Bluffton Christmas Parade is Saturday, Dec. 7 at 10 a.m. through Bluffton’s Historic District.
The Town is also hosting its second annual Menorah Lighting ceremony on Sunday, Dec. 29 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Martin Family Park. All of these events are free and open to the public.
Aquarium Aglow
Visit the South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston, 100 Aquarium Wharf, to enjoy an incredible light display with larger-than-life installations, festive photo ops and the most unique visit with Santa. The event is held on select evenings from Nov. 23 through Dec. 30 and tickets are $21.95-$29.95 and available to purchase on their website.
Celebrate the Season
Pack the whole family in the car and turn on your favorite Christmas songs to enjoy the dazzling path through Moncks Corner Holiday Lights Driving Tour, 1 Riverwood Dr. This festive light display is open Nov. 29 through Dec. 30, 6-9:00 p.m. It costs $10 per vehicle and all proceeds benefit local charities.
Holiday Festival of Lights
Don’t miss the 32nd annual Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park, 871 Riverland Dr. Enjoy over 750 light displays on a three-mile driving tour that includes the newly rebuilt Cooper River Bridge display. This event also includes train rides, marshmallow roasting, gift shops and more. It is open until December 31 and tickets start at $15 per vehicle.
College of Charleston Light Show
From Dec. 14 through Jan. 1, transport yourself into a winter wonderland at College of Charleston’s historic Cistern Yard and Randolph Hall, 66 George St. The lights string across the campus’ famed live oaks and the event includes a hot chocolate stand on weekends. The light show is free and starts hourly from 6-9 p.m.
The Lights around Park Circle and Christmas Tree Lighting
Watch the 40-foot Christmas Tree light up with Mayor Burgess on Friday, Dec. 6, 6-7 p.m. at Park Circle Community Building grounds, 4800 Park Circle. This event will have live music and free hot cocoa. After the lighting, be sure to enjoy the beautiful lights and displays around the park. This event is free and the lights will be available to tour until New Year’s Day.
Mount Pleasant Towne Center
Visit the Mount Pleasant Shopping Center this Christmas season to check off your holiday shopping and enjoy the sparkling chandeliers, giant lighted reindeer, canopies of lights and a 40-foot tree. The decorations are ongoing through the holidays, 1218 Belk Drive.
Bee City Zoo
If you’re looking for an all-day Christmas adventure, visit the Bee City Zoo and enjoy the zoo at night with dazzling lights. The lights will be available until Dec. 30 and tickets are $14 per person. Children under two are free, 1066 Holly Ridge Ln. Cottageville, SC.
3241 Morningdale Drive, Ivy Hall, Mount Pleasant
Homeowner Kelli Frazier Miller is known for her amazing and elaborate holiday decorations in the Ivy Hall neighborhood. Her Christmas display runs 24/7 in December then switches over to a Winter Wonderland in January. Its a must-see in North Mount Pleasant.
Park Crossing Drive & Sailmaker Street, Daniel Island
For some fun home holiday cheer, visit these two streets for festive decorations. One home even has a mailbox for letters to Santa, so make sure your kids bring their wish lists with them.
Walking in a Woodlands Wonderland, Morrow Lane, North Charleston
Visit this charming Christmas light show every Sunday through Thursday until the New Year. The show begins nightly at 6:00 p.m. Visit their Facebook page for more details or tune in on 93.9 FM.
Wonderland of Temuco Lane, 104 Temuco Lane, Plum Creek Neighborhood, Summerville
Come enjoy the lights and sounds of Christmas in this beautiful home display. The family is partnering up with Lowcountry Orphan Relief, so don’t forget to bring items on their donation wish list to leave in the donation box at the end of the driveway. The show will run until Jan. 1, Sunday-Thursday, 5:30-8 p.m. and Friday-Saturday, 5:30-9:30 p.m. Visit their Facebook page for more details.
Santa on Santino, 105 Santino Court, Goose Creek
For twinkling lights, blow-ups and a lighted arch over the driveway visit this house on Santino Court. The arch features 334 feet of PVC pipe, 250 zip ties, 72 feet of rebar and 1,800 lights. This display is ongoing through the holiday season.
Cadd Family Christmas Lights, 66 Springfield Road
David and Amanda Cadd brighten the neighborhood cul-de-sac with their dazzling display of lights. Their display includes synchronized lights and music, a snow machine and a Santa sleigh. Their display is guaranteed to make your season merry and bright.
Other popular neighborhoods to visit for holiday lights include:
Hardeeville city officials recently approved first reading of ordinances to allow Buc-ee's to locate new store in Hardeeville, city officials saidBluffton Today0:000:36Beaver nuggets, brisket and a host of other souvenirs and snacks are tentatively scheduled to be arriving in Hardeeville in about four years as Buc-ee's plans to locate a store in the city.The Hardeeville City Council, during its Nov. 7 regular meeting, approved first reading of an ordinance to approve the planned development district, the...
Bluffton Today
Beaver nuggets, brisket and a host of other souvenirs and snacks are tentatively scheduled to be arriving in Hardeeville in about four years as Buc-ee's plans to locate a store in the city.
The Hardeeville City Council, during its Nov. 7 regular meeting, approved first reading of an ordinance to approve the planned development district, the initial master plan for the development, and a development agreement which will bring Buc-ee's to the city. Second reading of all three ordinances will be held Nov. 21, City of Hardeevlle Mayor Harry Williams said.
"Even though Buc-ee’s representatives are working closely with the city and its development processes, the project is only at the beginning stages of development and its progression will coincide with the South Carolina Department of Transportation’s I-95 Widening and Exit 8 Redevelopment Project," a city spokesperson said.
The current schedule for the SCDOT projects to be completed would be in 2028, the projected timeline which would also be the projected year for the ribbon cutting for Buc-ee's, Williams said during the Nov. 7 Hardeeville City Council meeting.
Buc-ee's will be located adjacent to Interstate 95 at the Exit 8 intersection with U.S. Highway 17, city officials said. The Hardeeville location is scheduled to include Buc-ee's signature offerings, including a large selection of regionally themed merchandise and gifts.
This exciting development, city officials said, is set to become a significant economic driver for the region, enhancing the city's reputation as a thriving hub for commerce and travel in South Carolina.
Stan Beard, Director of Real Estate and Development at Bucee's, LTD., met with the Hardeeville City Council during its Oct. 24 workshop about the proposed location, informed council the store would be 74,000 square feet, the largest store the company builds to date.
"This location, by far, requires a 74,000 square foot store," Beard said. "The traffic created is no different between a 74,000 and a 53,000 square foot store. The reason we went bigger were our out-of-state stores (out of the state of Texas), were thank goodness, so crazily successful, that they started getting a little too busy."
In a Nov. 8 news release Beard said the city's leadership and staff have been supportive and responsible stewards of their community and believes they will make great partners.
"Hardeeville is a perfect location for us to continue our growth along the southeast coast," he said. "We love South Carolina and look forward to bringing the Buc-ee’s brand of road trip fun to the Lowcountry.”
During the Oct, 24 workshop with council, Beard also said hotels and sit-down restaurants had been drawn to the areas where other Buc-ee's were located.
"The store will contribute to the city's financial health through increased sales and property tax revenues along with increased revenue through the City’s hospitality tax and business license fees, which will, in turn, support public services, infrastructure projects, and community initiatives," a city news release said.
The new location in Hardeeville is expected to generate 200 new jobs in the area, ranging from entry-level positions to managerial roles, providing a boost to the local job market and offering stable, competitive wages, city officials said.
"The City of Hardeeville is proud to welcome Buc-ee’s; an elite brand name that has become a destination stop along I-95," City of Hardeeville Mayor Harry Williams said. "We all have been very impressed with the professionalism and thoroughness of the Buc-ee’s team in planning for a quality facility that provides safe access for their customers and our residents."
Williams said Buc-ee’s will bring great paying jobs for Hardeeville and Jasper County residents that will not require long commutes.
"Buc-ee’s and Hardeeville promise to be a long and successful marriage,” he said.
Newly appointed Hardeeville City Manager Josh Gruber said the arrival of Buc-ee's in Hardeeville 'is a testament to the city's potential as a key destination in the region.'
"This project not only highlights Hardeeville's strategic importance along the I-95 corridor, it also underscores our commitment to fostering an environment that attracts and supports business growth," Gruber said. "We are excited about the opportunities Buc-ee's will bring to our community, from job creation to increased tourism, and we look forward to the positive ripple effects this will have on local businesses and residents alike."
BLUFFTON — For most of its lifespan, this was a one-square-mile town tucked along the banks of the May River. And it remained that way for nearly a century and a half.Then came 1998, the year the town started to expand by gobbling up surrounding property. Now, Bluffton spans 54 square miles — a far cry from the early days of this area incorporated in 1852.In the past quarter century, its population has exploded from a quaint 750 residents to 35,000 strong, making it S.C.'s 15th largest city. Such rapid growth has ca...
BLUFFTON — For most of its lifespan, this was a one-square-mile town tucked along the banks of the May River. And it remained that way for nearly a century and a half.
Then came 1998, the year the town started to expand by gobbling up surrounding property. Now, Bluffton spans 54 square miles — a far cry from the early days of this area incorporated in 1852.
In the past quarter century, its population has exploded from a quaint 750 residents to 35,000 strong, making it S.C.'s 15th largest city. Such rapid growth has caused discomfort for some residents. New development means less green space and more traffic, along with the slow disappearance of the Lowcountry town they grew to love.
Despite these worries, Bluffton is set to annex another 65 acres of unincorporated county land into town limits — filling in part of a donut left behind during its rampant growth. Opponents say the land grab will usher in commercial development and force Beaufort County to pursue a long-controversial road project. They also accuse Bluffton officials of not making the approval process more accessible.
Town staff say the move will allow Bluffton to benefit from taxes generated by the land, while also requiring builders to operate under municipal code. Local longtime developer John Reed says he can better execute his vision for the area through one local government, rather than two.
Town Council on Nov. 12 is set to approve a slate of ordinances that will annex land owned by Reed, whose office is a short walk from council chambers. Reed estimates that he has built 4,000 homes in Bluffton, including the developments of Hampton Lake, Belfair and Berkeley Hall.
Off the corner of Buckwalter and Bluffton parkways, Reed plans a medical campus and town center. S.C. Department of Health records show Novant Healthcare wants to open a hospital that would become the anchor tenant. Further along the road, Reed envisions mixed-use businesses where people can dine, work and shop.
The process of enveloping Reed's land moved along in public meetings where locals could comment, but Bluffton officials did not explicitly call for such input. Town officials did not anticipate the annexation to cause much uproar. Their approach was in stark contrast to Beaufort County, which spent months barnstorming the Lowcountry to educate voters about its unpopular transportation sales tax. Residents sank the ballot initiative during the recent election.
Reed has twice asked Bluffton to annex land in the area. He was rebuffed each time, most recently in February 2023 when he tried to add residential development rights to the deal. His current request will bring in 28 acres of commercially zoned land — keeping his development rights effectively unchanged from county control. The remaining 33 acres are wetlands. As part of the agreement, Reed will build roads from Bluffton Parkway onto the property.
Even though the zoning remains the same, the annexation would simplify Reed's pursuit of his commercial project. He would only need to navigate Bluffton’s development process and requirements, rather than bringing some plans to Beaufort County. Reed also would not need to keep a 50-foot buffer between properties in the town and county.
If council approves the annexation, Bluffton would still need to greenlight Reed’s development plan — a process that would include a traffic analysis.
The area in question is near a stretch of road identified for construction almost two decades, and a source of controversy around Bluffton for just as long. A petition fighting the road has more than 2,200 signers.
Bluffton Parkway Phase 5B, first introduced in 2006 as a new roadway, would run around 2-1/2 miles from Buck Island Road to Innovation Drive. The parkway now runs from Mackay Creek, near the bridges to Hilton Head Island, to Buckwalter Parkway, although along a crooked route exacerbated by two separate sections. Critics have long argued that 5B, which would create a more direct connection, would benefit developers while adversely affecting nearby neighborhoods.
The intersection near the land under consideration is at the nexus of a major commerce center and multiple residential communities. The area is built out by its enormous Kroger grocery store, small restaurants, health, retail, and fast food businesses. On one of the parcels now stands a cell tower.
Satellite images show that none of that development, commercial or residential, was there 30 years ago. Old-growth, dense forests stood where the parkways now intersect and carry thousands of drivers daily.
The most recent public outcry came after town staff included documents referencing the road project in a report for the annexation. The report referenced a stipulation from 2008 that Reed would donate property for 5B should the county allow the road project to move forward. That requirement is irrelevant to the annexation, Town Manager Stephen Steese said.
"As soon as 5B showed up on anything, it raised concern for the people that are opposed to 5B," Steese said. "Again, 5B doesn't have anything to do with this property whatsoever."
Despite those reassurances, several community members voiced their concerns during a Sept. 10 council meeting. Worries over more traffic and uncontrolled development topped the list.
"We're actually not in opposition to the annexation request or corresponding documents," said Jordan Holloway, a board member of the Retreat at Grande Oaks Homeowners Association. "However, we are in opposition to the connection of South Innovation Drive to (Bluffton) Parkway."
Some residents are concerned that the commercial development would bring more traffic to the area, forcing the county to pursue the controversial road project.
"The bottom line is that there is clearly an underlying agenda here to force the building of 5B," Rose Hill resident Joy Coe posted to social media. "Will we really benefit from the building of segment 1 of 5B if we are inundated with more traffic in that area? Do we really need more commercial development in the Buckwalter area?"
Reed argues that the development would ease traffic by providing a commercial and healthcare space within Bluffton’s most-populated area. Rather than driving across town, residents will have a closer option for medical care, retail and restaurants, Reed said.
As part of the annexation agreement, Reed would build connector roads that he believes would lessen traffic on the town’s main arteries. The longtime developer said the annexation will not affect 5B, but he supports the road project.
Reed plans to bring the issue of 5B again to County Council in 2025. He said the county's indecision has stagnated other projects. Whether for or against, he would like to see a final decision made.
"Do I believe 5B is important? Yeah, I do," Reed said. "The growth is here, and it's continuing. In an emergency, in a hurricane, you're going to need it"
It's that time of year again: It's time to get excited about entering the 2025 HGTV Dream Home Giveaway.This year's home is ...
It's that time of year again: It's time to get excited about entering the 2025 HGTV Dream Home Giveaway.
This year's home is located in Bluffton, South Carolina. It's the fourth time the state has been chosen as the location for an HGTV Dream Home. The last time was in 2020, when the Dream Home was built on Hilton Head Island, which is a short distance away from this year's location.
HGTV described the home as "a harmonious blend of classic Southern luxury and modern sophistication."
Bluffton is about 160 miles north of the 2024 Dream Home in St. Anastasia, Florida.
Here are the details about this year's home, the prize package and how to enter.
The HGTV Dream Home Giveaway is an annual sweepstakes from the Home and Garden Television channel, which has been going since 1997.
The HGTV Dream Home 2025 is in Bluffton, South Carolina. The newly built, fully furnished home was described as "an enchanting Lowcountry retreat."
“This year's HGTV Dream Home highlights the charm of Bluffton, South Carolina — a picturesque town that offers the perfect escape," said Betsy Ayala, interim head of content, HGTV. "We’re thrilled to invite viewers to explore this stunning home and enter for a chance to make it their own."
Bluffton is located less than 10 miles west of Hilton Head Island, about 60 miles southwest of Charleston, South Carolina or about 20 miles northeast of Savannah, Georgia.
Bluffton is a golfer’s paradise, boasting world-class courses that attract enthusiasts year-round, HGTV said.
"Enjoy the area’s laid-back lifestyle, local festivals, and access to outdoor activities such as boating, kayaking, and fishing.
"Unlock the charm of Lowcountry living with this timeless custom-built home, embodying coastal elegance and thoughtful design," HGTV, a member of the Warner Bros. Discovery family of brands, announced in a news release.
The three-bedroom, three and-a-half-bathroom home is more than 3,000 square feet, and "is a harmonious blend of classic Southern luxury and modern sophistication.
"Immerse yourself in the seamless fusion of indoor and outdoor living, where earthy tones and costal textures create a serene environment." The rooms include:
The home was built by Shoreline Construction and was designed by Court Atkins Group. The home's interior design is by Brian Patrick Flynn, the same person who designed the 2024 Dream Home in St. Anastasia in Florida.
The winner of the sweepstakes, valued at more than $2.2 million, will receive:
The official entry period of the HGTV Dream Home 2025 runs from 9 a.m. ET on Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2024, through 5 p.m. ET on Friday, Feb. 14, 2025. Eligible fans can enter daily at HGTV.com and FoodNetwork.com.
Sign up to receive daily reminders to enter the HGTV Dream Home Giveaway 2025, which begins Dec. 17, 2024, at 9 a.m. Eastern Time.
See a one-hour special on the HGTV Dream Home 2025 on Monday, Jan. 1, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET on HGTV, HGTV GO and Hogar de HGTV. It will also air on Max and Discovery+ the same day.
The 2024 HGTV Dream Home was located on St. Anastasia in Northeast Florida, east of St. Augustine, south of Jacksonville.
It was designed by architect Michael Stauffer and built by local builder Glenn Layton Homes. The home's interior design was by Brian Patrick Flynn.
The three-bedroom, four-bathroom home was about 3,300 square feet with views of the Matanzas River and the St. Augustine Lighthouse. Value of the total Anastasia Island HGTV Dream Home package was estimated at just over $2.2 million.
Value of the total 2024 Anastasia Island HGTV Dream Home package was estimated at just over $2.2 million. In total, the winner of the sweepstakes received:
Marie Fratta, a school teacher from Hawthorne, New York, won the St. Anastasia home in Florida, HGTV announced on May 22, 2024.
Two months later, the house was listed for sale. Property records show the HGTV Dream Home sold Sept. 4, 2024, for $2 million.
There were 130 million entries for the 2024 HGTV Dream Home sweepstakes.
There have been five HGTV Dream Homes in Florida. Besides the 2024 home in St. Anastasia, there were:
2016, Merritt Island: For the home and garden network's 20th anniversary, HGTV chose a waterfront home off Tropical Trail on Merritt Island to be the 2016 HGTV Dream Home. The home was sold not long after David Rennie of Connecticut was selected as the sweepstakes winner.
2008, Islamorada: HGTV Dream Home is 2008 was described as a "three-story oasis with its bright blue and yellow exterior blends seamlessly with its surroundings and boasts breathtaking views of the crystal clear waters, white sand and blue skies with expertly placed patios and windows." Video tour of the home.
2003, Mexico Beach: The 2,800 square foot home was on a 10,000 acre preserve of coastal forest situated on the East Bay of the Florida Gulf of Mexico. "The sprawling compound displays imaginative architecture that provides a relaxed, comfortable camp feel with contemporary qualities." Video tour of the home.
1999, Rosemary Beach: Architect Richard Gibbs said of the home, "The architecture here in Rosemary Beach is patterned after the time-tested traditions of St. Augustine, New Orleans and the Dutch and French Caribbean. Video tour of the home.
This story was updated to add new information.
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