By Lanier Laney

I'm sure it’s not necessary to tell you how much it would mean to all the businesses in Beaufort for us to be named America’s “Happiest Coastal Town” by Coastal Living Magazine (which we are by the way).  Beaufort is currently Number 1 in the voting contest online at the link below, but Sag Harbor, is close on our tail. Voting is open until Jan 28. My friends who live in Sag Harbor tell me there is a newspaper campaign there telling people to vote. We need to show them we can get the ‘word out’ here too! Does anyone have any computer savvy high school or middle school children who can help get the word out at their schools? Please send them this link if you do. Businesses, please send to your email customer lists.  Every little bit counts.  All you Facebookers, here’s your chance to help! Apparently you can vote and re-vote everyday as many times as you want: http://www.coastalliving.com/travel/happiest-seaside-town-00414000077606/

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<strong>Historic Beaufort Foundation oyster roast this weekend: </strong><strong>A traditional oyster roast at a historic plantation on the banks of Chowan Creek will be held by Historic Beaufort Foundation on Friday, January 18 as a fundraiser for its preservation activities.  Tickets are $45 per person for HBF members, $55 for non-members. The Oaks Plantation at 66 Godley Road on St. Helena Island was the first home to Union organizers of the Port Royal Experiment, which brought education and training to Beaufort County’s freed slaves and would later become the Penn School. The house will be open for tours. </strong><strong>Space is limited and shuttles will be provided from adjacent parking. Reservations for 4:30 p.m. or 7 p.m. may be made by calling HBF at 379-3331 or by ordering online at www.historicbeaufort.org/shop.</strong>
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