January-March 2020 Newsletter

January—March | 2020

Photo taken on iPhone by Michael Rich, son of Cindy and David Rich Night Sky at the Tabby Ruins, December 2019

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Spending a gorgeous Thanksgiving week on Spring Island is a joy for all ages!

View and download all photos from Thanksgiving Week 2019 on the Albums page on the member website.

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Please join us in offering a warm welcome to your newest neighbors. We’re thrilled to have you here!

Rod & Lynne Jensen,

126 Spring Island Drive • Joined November 2019

Lynne and Rod Jensen are very excited to be moving to Spring Island, a perfect place to start their next chapter. They have been vacationing on Hilton Head since the 1980’s and love the area. When the opportunity to move to Spring Island presented itself (after looking for several years) they were thrilled.

Rod is originally from Nebraska and Lynne is from Buffalo, New York. They have 2 grown daughters and 2 grandchildren. Rod is an engineer by trade and retired from Lexmark after working for Kodak in the world of photos. Lynne is a nurse practitioner and professor at the University of Kentucky and will be retiring this spring. They are very excited to join the Spring Island community and participate in all the wonderful opportunities that it offers.

Larry & Dee Miller,

10 Bee Tree Drive • Joined August 2019

Dee and Larry Miller are both "Michiganders" but they have been in Missouri for a long period of time. A few tidbits: Both graduated from Michigan State University and then relocated to San Francisco. Dee is a former teacher in Mill Valley, Ca and then Ladue, MO. Larry is a Mechanical Engineer focusing on HVAC. Copper Mt, Colorado is their favorite spot to enjoy the mountains and skiing. Sailing has also been a hobby. The Millers were former members of the South Carolina Yacht Club to enjoy their racing program. Lake St. Louis, a small inland lake community, is the home base that provides golf and water sports....BUT they have a long winter.

The Miller family includes two married daughters, two grandchildren, and Lily, a rescued Standard Poodle.

They are all looking forward to being in Spring Island during the drabs of winter in Lake St. Louis and are looking forward to trying new adventures. Dee wants to be a "chicken tender" and Larry is going to search out some fish in the ponds and the sandtraps on the golf course.

Michael & Whitney Liptay,

10 Trading Post Trail • Joined December 2019

Whitney and Michael are excited to join the Spring Island Community. Having learned about it from several friends who already are members from their hometown of Glencoe, IL. Michael is a Cardiothoracic Surgeon at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. He specializes in lung cancer. Whitney is an energy healer/intuitive and founder of Sacred Connections, LLC and has been practicing for 14 years. Eastern meets Western medicine - they make for interesting dinner conversation! They have one daughter Courtney (22 years olds) and three dogs and a cat. They will be coming down to Spring Island on a part-time basis and looking so forward to recharging in nature.

BOUGHS OF HOLLY: A NOTE FROM KARL If you are considering adding an evergreen to your nature curtain so your neighbor is less visible, American holly (Ilex opaca) and dahoon holly (Ilex cassine) are both trees native to Spring Island. They prefer an acid soil that is average to moist and welldrained. Dahoon holly can tolerate wetter conditions than the American holly. These “tree hollies” should be allowed to grow to become small trees rather than attempting to maintain them as shrubs. Pruning should be done to maintain full branching to the ground and giving it a somewhat conical shape like a Christmas tree.

Like all hollies in the Ilex genus, they are dioecious - the male and female plants are separate so only the females produce berries. Female hollies in sunny areas produce the largest numbers of berries. Holly trees and cedar waxwings are synonymous.

In late winter and early spring flocks of waxwings descend on the trees making them appear to come alive. These beautiful birds provide constant entertainment while they are present.

Karl Ohlandt | 843-987-2016, kohlandt@springislandtrust.org

Cedar waxwing feast on American holly berries: Ilex opaca.

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TUSCANY IN OUR BACKYARD Based off of Dr. John Tew’s highly acclaimed wellness retreat held annually in Monteverdi Tuscany, Sempre Sano is a life-changing 3-day experience created to inspire a life of education, nutrition, and movement. Tew headlines the seminar, presenting research and methods of maintaining brain health throughout the aging process, which he has collected and successfully implemented during his career in Neurosurgery. Participants also hear lectures from a range of local and international health professionals; enjoy a Tuscan inspired cooking class and weekend of healthy cuisine; plus exercise in a variety of body mechanics. Leave with tools to live your best life centered on health and wellness.

SEMPRE SANO SPRING ISLAND • JANUARY 16-18, 2020 Limited spaces available. Register online or call the Sports Complex | 843-987-2044

SALT WATER LIFE BOATING For first-time boaters or those new to the Spring Island waterways, Captains Christiaan Pollitzer and Jake Parker offer a complimentary one-hour introduction to your boat. Boat captains are also available to run your boat privately (not to include fishing) at a rate of $40 per hour for a maximum of 4 hours.

RIVER CRUISES Private charters with a Spring Island captain on the Spring Island Sundeck boat | $75 per hour, maximum of 8 passengers

FISHING Spring Island's 36 fresh and saltwater ponds provide great fishing options. Bass and bream are abundant, making the ponds an ideal place for anglers to hone their skills and for youngsters to learn the sport. The saltwater ponds are home to flounder and redfish, which are great fun to catch. Fishing gear is available for use at the Sports Complex and a variety of lures and bait is available for purchase. Trolling motors and batteries can be rented daily for $25. Our Outdoor Pursuits team is available to instruct or guide your fishing adventure.

Call Will Stenack, Director of Outdoor Pursuits, at 843-987-2748 to schedule a personal guide.

Pond Fishing & Cast Netting with a Guide Available Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday for a 90 to 120-minute trip with bait, tackle and trolling motor. $50, maximum of 3 people Inshore Fishing Trip, 4 hours • Captain Jake Parker Includes bait, tackle, and cleaning of your daily catch. Maximum of 4 people. $450 (gratuity not included) Offshore Fishing Trip, 8 hours • Captain Christiaan Pollitzer Includes bait, tackle, ice and cleaning of your daily catch. Maximum of 6 people. $1250 (gratuity not included)

MONTHLY FISHING SOCIALS Meet at the Sports Complex to head to a different pond each month (where the fish are biting!). Complimentary.

Men | 1st Wednesday of the month, 2:00 pm Women | 1st Thursday of the month, 2:00 pm

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Hot Shots at the Clay Range If you are hesitant about picking up a gun or maybe don’t trust your aim, meet Wick Warrick or Dennis Paulette at the range and gain the confidence you need to enjoy one of Spring Island’s oldest sports. Gun rental, ammunition, clays, and bird shot practice on the Quail Walk course are available through the Outdoor Pursuits office. All first-time shooters require at least 15 minutes of instruction.

Outdoor Pursuits, Will Stenack | 843-987-2748, wstenack@springisland.com

LESSONS 30 and 60-minute Private Individual; or 60-minute Group (up to 4) FRIDAY MEMBER SOCIALS Men, 10:30 am | Women, 12:00 pm *NEW* ANNIE OAKLEY—LADIES ONLY—SOCIAL SHOOTS 1st Tuesday & Saturday of the month 10:00 am

INDEPENDENT SHOOTING Offered at designated hours throughout the week. For more information or to complete an application for independent shooting, contact Will Stenack.

Almost Heaven Spring Island has partnered with Almost Heaven Plantation in Ridgeland, SC (about 40 minutes from Spring Island) to offer a variety of quail, dove and duck hunting experiences. Coming up in 2020, look for more events and Member socials scheduled at Almost Heaven.

For more information on the property and offerings, visit www.almostheavenplantation.com or contact Outdoor Pursuits, Will Stenack | 843-987-2748, wstenack@springisland.com Interested in booking a quail hunt in the new year? Limited dates still available through March 2020.

Contact Robin Keown with Almost Heaven | 864-933-3116

Meet Captain Jake Captain Jake Parker was born and raised in Freeport, Grand Bahama where his family was in agriculture. He was introduced to fishing at a very young age and has been chasing the next bite ever since, casting for bone fish on the flats or pulling in Wahoo and Yellowfin Tuna from deeper waters. After moving to the States, he finished high school and went to college on a tennis scholarship. Soon after he suffered an ankle injury and had to hang up the rackets. After moving to the Lowcountry, he took a position with the SCDNR at the Waddell Maricultural Center in Bluffton. There he worked on the fin fish side of the operation where they would do different studies on Cobia, Striped Bass and Red Drum. Jake wanted to continue to follow his passion and pursued running his own fishing charter. He now has 15 years’ experience as a captain, running a 26-foot Avenger bay boat with his own company, Payback Charters. (The name Payback came from years of fishing.

You don’t always land that big fish - sometimes it gets away - but it makes you want to go back out there the next day and get some payback.) A new member to the team, Captain Jake is already a valuable asset to Spring Island and is grateful to be here. Grab your fishing pole and learn from the best!

Schedule your next adventure with Outdoor Pursuits | 843-987-2748

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SOCIAL & DINING EVENTS Reservations Online or call 843-987-2044

NEW YEAR’S DAY BRUNCH

SPECIAL FEATURES

Wednesday, January 1 • 10:00 am-2:00 pm • Golf House Replaces á la carte breakfast and lunch. Turn station 10:00 am—5:00 pm.

KIMBERLY JONES WINE DINNER Wednesday, January 22 • 6:00 pm • River House Oak Rooms Regular dinner service also offered.

ITALIAN WINE DINNER: ENOTECA PROPERZIO Monday, January 27 • 6:00 pm • River House Oak Rooms Regular dinner service also offered at the Golf House.

GUEST CHEF DINNER Saturday, February 1 • 6:00 pm • River House Oak Rooms Look for more delicious details as we welcome a special guest in the kitchen. Limited á la carte menu available.

LOCAL BREWS & BBQ Friday, February 7 • 6:00 pm • Bonny Shore Gazebo Find a new favorite in this special tasting of beers from Salt Marsh Brewery along with a barbecue dinner on the riverfront.

COUPLE’S CUPID COOKING CLASS Thursday, February 13 • 11:00 am • River House Kitchen Chef Jeremy teaches the art of cooking as a team. Lunch included.

FONDUE NIGHT Friday, January 24 • 6:00 pm • River House A nice winter warmer: cheesy fondue with fingerling potatoes, french bread, vegetables...and chocolate, too.

Full á la carte menu available.

NATIONAL PIZZA DAY Sunday, February 9 • 6:00 pm • Golf House Celebrate this delicious food holiday with Chef’s spread of handmade pizzas and pasta. Replaces á la carte dinner.

SUSHI NIGHT Saturday, February 8 and Wednesday, February 26 6:00 pm • River House Chef’s hand rolled sushi is back. Full á la carte menu available.

FRIED FISH PLATTERS FOR LENT Fridays: February 28 through April 10 6:00 pm • River House Special dish featured on Friday nights leading up to Easter.

Offered in addition to the full á la carte dinner menu.

VALENTINE’S DAY DINNER Friday, February 14 • 6:00 pm • River House An elegant four-course dinner with your sweetheart.

Replaces á la carte dinner.

GRAND FOOD & WINE TASTING Saturday, March 14 • 6:00 pm • River House Oaks Our annual toast to fabulous food and wines from around the world. Replaces á la carte dinner.

CONCERT NIGHT DINNERS 6:00 pm | Dinner Starts | River House 8:00 pm | Concert | Summer House Limited á la carte menu is offered after 7:30pm on concert theme nights.

TUESDAY TAKE & BAKE PIZZAS Make a super easy lunch or dinner on Tuesdays and pick up a fresh pie ready to bake at home. Available from the Member Pantry, while supplies last.

DINING TRADITIONS FRIED CHICKEN NIGHTS Golf House • 6:00 pm—8:00 pm Sunday, January 12 Sunday, February 2 and 23 Sunday, March 15 Replaces á la carte dining. Whole 30 entrée and grilled chicken available.

PRIME RIB NIGHT Mondays at the Golf House • 6:00 pm—8:00 pm 10-oz Queen Cut or 14-oz King Cut Regular á la carte menu available.

PRIX FIXE DINNERS Offered on Thursday Trust Talks nights, 3-course menus with choice of entrée will be served in place of a la carte.

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With the season’s temperatures chilly and brisk, our kitchen is filled with inspiration to make the kind of dishes that warm the soul.

Here are a couple of classic winter recipes— a hearty side dish that’s easy to whip up and take to a friend, and a big batch of flavorful (and healthier) greens to usher in the New Year.

Got a question on these or other recipes you’re trying out? Visit us in the kitchen!

Executive Chef Jeremy Halker | 843-987-2068, jhalker@springisland.com

SWEET POTATO SPOON BREAD        

¼ cup butter, melted 5 whole eggs 4 cups milk 1 lb roasted sweet potato paste 2 Tbsp salt 1 Tbsp black pepper 2 ½ cups yellow cornmeal 1 ½ tsp baking powder

In a large mixing bowl combine melted butter, eggs, milk and whisk until smooth. Add remaining ingredients and whisk until all lumps are removed. Pour mixture into a greased baking dish. Bake at 350ᵒ for 35 minutes or until set and lightly browned.

Serve with honey butter or maple butter.

WATERFALL FARM VEGETARIAN COLLARD GREENS         

5 lbs cleaned collard greens 1 cup olive oil 2 Vidalia onions, julienned 5 garlic cloves, shaved thinly 1 Tbsp red pepper flakes 1 cup brown sugar 1 cup water 2 cups apple cider vinegar salt and black pepper to taste

A LOOK AHEAD:

Bring a pot of water with ¼ cup of salt to a boil and blanch cleaned collard greens for 4-5 minutes. Drain collards through a colander or strainer and press all the water out. In a large pan place onions, garlic, red pepper flakes and olive oil and sauté until a light caramelization takes place stirring constantly.

Add sugar, vinegar and water and reduce for 5 minutes.

Add collard greens and season to taste cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes.

EASTER WEEK ON SPRING ISLAND

DINNER ON THE DECK Saturday, April 11 • 6:00 pm • River House Casual family cookout. Replaces a la carte dinner.

SUNRISE SERVICE Sunday, April 12 • 9:00 am • Old Tabby Ruins

EGG HUNTS Sunday, April 12 • 10:00 am & 10:15 am • River House, under the Oaks and Back Lawn

EASTER BUFFET Sunday, April 12 • 10:30 am—1:30 pm • River House Turn window service available at the Golf House from 10:00 am—5:00 pm. Golf House Breakfast and lunch services closed on Easter Sunday.

EASTER DINNER TO GO Sunday, April 12 • 3:00 pm • pick up from the River House Member Pantry cooler Full menu of options available online. Orders must be placed by Wednesday, April 8.

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Performing Arts These performances by top-industry entertainers are often sold out. Be sure to sign up in advance for all shows, each available for registration on the online Club Calendar.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 10 | “Little Traveling Music” Cabaret 8:00 pm, Summer House

SATURDAY, JANUARY 25 | Best of Broadway: Sharpe Family 8:00 pm, Summer House

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5 | Café by the River with Bob Milne 8:00 pm, Summer House

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12 | Davina & the Vagabonds 8:00 pm, Summer House

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21 | Dance! Dance! Dance! The Unusual Suspects Spring Island’s own house band is back for homegrown entertainment.

8:00 pm, Summer House

FRIDAY, MARCH 6 | David Holt Band 8:00 pm, Summer House

FRIDAY, MARCH 20 | Andrea Benton & Irish Celtic Band 8:00 pm, Summer House

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1 | Rastrelli Quartet 5:30 pm, Symington House

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25 | Ana Vidovic, Classical Guitar 5:30 pm, Tye House [5 Tidal Creek Lane]

FRIDAY, APRIL 10 | Etienne: Big Time Magical Act 8:00 pm, Summer House

SUNDAY, APRIL 26 | Pridgen Duo 5:30 pm, Symington House Themed dinners are offered on the evening of each concert to complete your night out.

All themed and menus posted on the Member website Calendar.

Please register for theme dinners in advance so we may properly prepare on these busy evenings. Thank you!

“1964: The Beatles”, November 2019

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FOLLOW YOUR ART All workshops are held in the Art Barn studios unless noted. Workshops are dependent upon a minimum number of participants. Details and pricing are posted for each event on the Club Calendar. Please register online to insure a space in the workshop of your choice. Visit the Spring Island website under Arts & Lifestyle for complete information and new listings for Workshops, Art Talks, Artist Receptions and Creative Groups News.

If a class is wait listed, please do not hesitate to contact Pam Brickell to be put on the list.

Shari Blaukopf

Stan Peterson

Peggy Ellis

Pippin Frisbie-Calder

Pam Brickell • 843-987-3403, pbrickell@springisland.com

January

February

ARTIST IN RESIDENCE • Pippin Frisbie-Calder, Printmaking

* MEMBER TEACHING MEMBER DRAW-A-THON *

January 3-10

ARTTALK • Pippin Frisbie-Calder January 7 | 11:00 am | Trust Barn / Studio B Art, Nature, and Working with Scientists. Pippin provides a glimpse into an artist’s process when working with scientists to interpret their data in order to conceive and build large art installations.

ARTIST RECEPTION • Pippin Frisbie-Calder January 8 | 5:00 pm—6:30 pm | Gathering Room

SKETCHING BIRDS • Neil Rizos January 9, 17, 23 | 9:00 am—11:00 am | Trust Barn Techniques to help capture our fast feathered friends. Open to all levels. Pencil, charcoal, ink. Basics will be reviewed at the start of each session. Must register for each class independently.

COLOR CLASS • James Nelson Lewis January 14 | 10:00 am—3:00 pm For beginner to advanced beginner artists.

January 16 | 10:00 am—3:00 pm For intermediate to advanced artists.

2-DAY CARDMAKING CLASS • Joan Schmaltz January 21-22 | 9:00 am—12:00 pm No experience needed. Beautiful cards and tags to bring home.

2-DAY OIL PAINTING WORKSHOP • Peggy Ellis *wait list*

DRAWING • Michelle Borzillo February 10 | 9:00 am - 12:00 pm The focus of this class will be learning how to produce an appealing drawing using the principles of drawing and composition based on the subject in front of you.

BEGINNING PORTRAITURE • Lenore Sillery February 11-12 | 9:00 am - 12:00 pm This all-graphite pencil class will begin with covering fundamentals: placement, basic shape, facial proportions and pencil techniques. Day 2 will focus on a provided image and combine fundamentals of Day 1 with light and shadow to create details. Basic drawing skills needed.

SUBTRACTIVE DRAWING • Cleta Grant February 25 | 1:00 pm—4:00 pm February 26 | 9:00 am—12:00 pm For the confident advanced beginner or intermediate drawing / painting skill level with charcoal and/or graphite pencil experience.

March 3-DAY WOOD CARVING • Stan Peterson *wait list* March 3, 5, 6 | 9:00 am - 4:00 pm No experience needed. Great fun to be had!

January 27-28 | 9:00 am—3:30 pm Beginner to advanced beginner painters.

ARTIST RECEPTION • Stan Peterson March 4 | 5:00 pm—6:30 pm | Gathering Room

ARTIST RECEPTION • Peggy Ellis

4-DAY WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP • Shari Blaukopf

January 29 | 5:00 pm—6:30 pm | Gathering Room

2-DAY OIL PAINTING WORKSHOP • Peggy Ellis *wait list* January 30-31 | 9:00 am—3:30 pm Intermediate to advanced painters.

March 9, 10, 12, 13 | 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Open to those with watercolor experience.

ARTIST RECEPTION • Shari Blaukopf March 11 | 5:00 pm—6:30 pm | Gathering Room

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UPCOMING EVENTS ON OLD TABBY LINKS Contact the Golf Shop to register and to fill out an entry form where applicable.

843-987-2013, otlgolfshop@springisland.com Wednesday, January 1

New Year’s Day Scramble 9- and 18– Hole divisions (tee times all day) Sunday, January 5

Couples Golf and Dinner 18 Holes (tee times from 11:00 am–12:00 pm) Sunday, January 19

Twilight Golf and Dinner 9 Holes (tee times from 1:00 pm—2:00 pm) Sunday, February 2

Couples Golf and Dinner 18 Holes (tee times from 11:00 am–12:00 pm) Friday, February 14

Valentine’s Day Scramble foursome teams: 9- and 18-Hole divisions (make your own game and tee time)

Tuesday, March 3

Moore Putting Challenge 9 Holes (shotgun 10:00 am) Sunday, March 8

Sunday - Monday, February 16 -17

Couples Golf and Dinner

PALMER CUP – EAST VS. WEST

18 Holes (tee times from 11:00 am–12:00 pm)

Sunday evening dinner & pairings party Monday golf, lunch, and awards party

Thursday-Friday, March 12-13

Friday, February 21

Thursday, March 12

“Chip Shot” Sporting Clays + Golf Sporting Clays at 10:00 am followed by lunch and 9 Holes at 1:30 pm Sunday, February 23

Twilight Golf and Dinner 9 Holes (tee times from 1:00 pm—2:00 pm)

BATTLE AT THE CREEK Accord at the Creek Sunday, March 22

Twilight Golf and Dinner 9 Holes (tee times from 1:00 pm—2:00 pm) Thursday-Saturday, March 26-28

SPRING MEMBER/GUEST

WEEKLY CLINICS Registration required. Please sign up with the Golf Shop by 5:00 pm the night prior.

MEN'S GOLF CLINICS Wednesdays, 11:00 am WOMEN'S CLINICS Tuesdays, 11:00 am Thursday "Thumpers", 11:00 am

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TOURNAMENT SPOTLIGHT

PALMER CUP EAST VS. WEST Sunday-Monday, February 16-17, 2020 Help your team bring home the win for this year’s Cup! Format: 2-person team scramble, match play, one-point front nine, back nine and total score Handicap Allowance: 35% of A player and 15% of B player Entry Fee: $85 includes skill prizes, boxed lunch, Sunday dinner, Monday celebration Sunday, February 16 6:00 pm – Dinner and Pairings Party Monday, February 17 8:00 am – Practice facility opens 11:00 – Tee times begin; Boxed lunch handed out prior to play 6:00 pm – Awards and cocktails on the Golf House lawn Non-participating spouses and friends are invited to attend the dinner and post round celebration (charges apply).

LADY GOLFERS Whether you are new to the game or a seasoned golfer, a great time to get on the course each week is Wednesday Ladies’ Day. The formats change weekly, from fun to challenging. The 18-holers tee off around 9:00 am with the 9-holers to follow. Sign up by the Tuesday prior and we will get you in the game!

If weather conditions prevent us from playing on any Wednesday, come to the Golf House bar area.

We’ll have coffee and nibbles and our pros on hand to answer questions, give us tips, and help us understand some of the trickier aspects of the game. We’ll send a message to the membership on Wednesday morning if this is the option of the day. No reservations are necessary.

WEEKLY GOLF GROUPS Tuesday Men’s • 12:30 pm Sign up by 9:00 am on the day of play.

Wednesday Ladies’ • 9:00 am Sign up by 5:00 pm the evening prior.

Thursday Men’s • 9:00 am Sign up by 5:00 am the evening prior.

Saturday Blue Tee • 8:30 am Sign up by 5:00 pm the evening prior.

Saturday Tabby/White Tee • 9:00 am Sign up by 5:00 pm the evening prior.

Not sure how to get started with a group or where you fit in?

We’ll be glad to find your spot!

843-987-2013 | otlgolfshop@springisland.com

FALL 2019 HIGHLIGHTS 2019 MEN’S CHAFFIN CUP | FLIGHT WINNERS Palmer: Charles Beasley & Dom Valiunas (Overall Champions) Seay: Doug Azar & Tommy Boyle LaMotte: Peter Rood & John McCarter Ransom: Jim Chaffin & Jon Verity Mobley: Dick Schmaltz & John Tierney Walker: Jack Crawford & Jim Sherman Cameron: Ned Grassi & Bob Truesdale

2019 WOMEN’S CHAFFIN CUP | FLIGHT WINNERS Magnolia: Mimi Boyle & Penny Martyn (Overall Champions) Live Oak: Kathryn West & Gaylynn Golden Ibis: Brooke Cragan & Mary Jane Ihasz Walker: Peggy Hendrick & Connie Broomfield

2019 FOUNDER’S CUP WINNERS Bob Truesdale and Judy Grassi

2019 THREE CLUB CHALLENGE WINNERS Brem Mayer and Judy Grassi

HOLE-IN- ONE! HOLE #6 Friday, December 6 | Dom Valiunas

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What a great start to the tennis season, from the Opener in October to the TENGO tennis and golf event in November (photo, left) followed by an incredibly busy Thanksgiving week. So much fun in such a short amount of time. The good news is that it's just the beginning! The Spring Island Tennis Association (SITA) will be hosting another fun event that brings together tennis players and pickleball players in a new “Tickle” Social on January 22. Then beginning in the morning on February 1 Spring Island will be hosting the Low Country Challenge. This is an event that brings together 4 great clubs for some excellent competitive tennis. Other participating teams include Callawassie, Dataw and Oldfield. All Spring Island matches will be played on Spring Island so be sure to come out and support your team.

In its constant quest for new and exciting events, the Tennis Committee is also in the process of putting together a competitive team event similar to the Davis Cup that will be played through February and March. Off in the distance we also have the Tabby Trophy in March. Keep your eyes open for event details.

Larry Angus | 843-987-3146, langus@springisland.com

TENNIS CLINICS Wednesdays, 10:00 am | DRILL & PLAY Reinforce positive habits in a 1-hour fast-paced drill followed by a 30-minute game with feedback. Ranks 3.0-4.5. 90 mins.

Thursdays, 11:00 am | SKILLS & DRILLS FOR DOUBLES Add new strokes and dynamics tactics to your own game that are used on the professional level. 90 mins.

Sundays, 10:00 am | COMMUNITY TENNIS All-inclusive round robin style game for just good ol’ fashioned fun on the courts.

SITA Our Spring Island Tennis Association (SITA) organizes and runs terrific tennis parties and special events (with prizes!). The annual fee of $35 per person covers all costs for participation in the special events, community tennis, club tournaments as well as discounts on tennis lessons and clinics. To join SITA call the tennis pro shop at 843-987-3146. The $35 fee will then be charged to your club account.

Non-SITA members are eligible for participation in any tennis related activity with all events being charged on a per time basis.

Have you caught the fever yet? Not only is pickleball the fastest growing sport in the country, it’s also the fastest growing sport on Spring Island. This fast-paced exciting game truly is for everyone. The Pickleball Committee has been busy putting together a schedule that includes both social and competitive events. On January 22 there is a combined tennis/pickleball “Tickle” Social that begins in the afternoon. Following the athletic portion of the event everyone will gather in the River House for libations and appetizers. For the “competitive Pickler” we will be hosting the first official Flighted Tournament beginning in February. Keep your eyes open for details regarding these events. In the meantime, meet us on the courts for our weekly programs, or arrange for private individual or 3+Me clinics on your own time.

Greg Crosby | 843-987-3146, gcrosby88@gmail.com

PICKLEBALL CLINICS Advance registration encouraged; limited to 12 per session. Register for clinics online or call the Sports Complex | 843-987-2003

Wednesdays, 10:00 am | BEGINNER SKILLS & DRILLS For new and less experienced players, learn the rules and game strategy as well as the importance of positioning. 90 mins.

Fridays, 10:00 am | SITUATIONS For the intermediate player, learn what to do and where to be on the court in many different situations. 90 mins.

COMMUNITY PICKLE PLAY Sundays | all levels | 10:00 am—12:00 pm

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THANKSGIVING TREATS The Equestrian Center was abuzz with activities during the week before Thanksgiving and the week of Thanksgiving. From drop-in guests to grandparents bringing their grandchildren to pet and feed carrots to the many horses. Aiden was especially happy to benefit from all the activity, “did someone say Carrot.” Lola and Moe also enjoyed the extra attention as did all our Spring Island horses. We hosted approximately 19 Trail Rides varying from 1 rider to 6 riders at any given time. Twenty-one lessons from six year old beginners to, well, we’ll leave the adult age open-ended. The 16 pony rides were a huge hit, bringing smiles from ear to ear as they were led around the “pony path.” We finished Thanksgiving week with S’mores at the Barn. Who wouldn’t love roasted marshmallows, chocolate and graham crackers!

A PRIZE-WINNING PAIR Chris Ksionek spent a good bit of time on Spring Island this past autumn with Lola, a 14-year-old Dutch Warmblood. They would regularly practice dressage in the ring and often go on leisurely trail rides around the island, favoring Shrimp Pond.

In early December Chris and Lola departed the Equestrian Center and headed to 80-degree weather in Florida for a Dressage Horse Show. On Sunday, December 8 Chris and Lola won the Third Level Dressage horse. We want to congratulate Chris on her win and look forward to her return to Spring Island!

GROUP TRAIL RIDES Our monthly trail rides continue with a different excursion each month. Ride your own horse or rent one from the Barn. It’s a great way to enjoy the island! Stick around for wine and cheese post-ride. Equestrian Barn | 843-987-4102, sistable@springisland.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 3 | 2:30 pm FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7 | 2:30 pm FRIDAY, MARCH 6 | 3:30 pm

UPCOMING EQUESTRIAN EVENTS THURSDAY, JANUARY 16 | 9:30 am

BREAKFAST RIDE We’ll take an early morning ride on the trails to work up your appetite to our final destination at the Golf House where a hot breakfast will await the group.

Aiden

Save the dates for these special rides over the next few months. Open to all Members!

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20 | 12:00 pm

PICNIC RIDE Hop on the saddle and join the group as we ride south through the island. We will be exploring the trails until we reach the Bonny Shore Gazebo for a picnic lunch.

NATURE RIDE The Spring Island Trust’s Chris Marsh and Kristen Mattson will take us on a nature ride and help us learn about some of the wonders of the island.

Register online for each event or contact the Stable.

Stop by any time and meet the friendly horses of Spring Island!

Equestrian Barn | 843-987-4102, sistable@springisland.com

Moe

THURSDAY, MARCH 19 | 10:00 am

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The Trust’s Role in Helping Evaluate Local Water Quality Recently, an article in the Bluffton paper described how concentrations of coliform bacteria have increased in the May River as a result of development of the areas in the May River watershed. Just like measuring a person’s total cholesterol level is just one way to measure a person’s health, measuring coliform bacteria concentrations is just one way to measure the health of a local tidal river.

To truly understand how healthy a tidal river is (or is not) also requires measuring marine biodiversity, health of top-level predators, and productivity of gamefish, crabs, shrimp and oysters. This is why the Spring Island Trust has funded Dr. Eric Montie’s research team to conduct a more holistic, three-year study of the health of the Colleton-Okatie River system (which includes Chechessee Creek).

The USC-Beaufort research team just finished its second quarter of monitoring (reports available from the Nature Center). Initial surveys suggest that the dolphin population in our local tidal rivers appears to be doing very well. This past month Dr. Montie’s team deployed underwater recorders at the mouth of the Colleton River and Chechessee Creek. Underwater biological sound activity is now known to be a good measure of a tidal creek’s biodiversity. Stay tuned for future research updates to learn more about that!

Chris Marsh, Director of the Spring Island Trust | 843-987-4154, cmarsh@springislandtrust.org

Doing Our Part to Protect Spring Island's Roadsides Now that we’re all driving at 25 mph, we have that much more time to soak up Spring Island’s magnificent scenery. How fortunate we are!

Thanks to the foresight of the island’s planners, as we meander around Spring Island Drive or down any of the side roads outside the cottage neighborhoods, we enjoy an uninterrupted curtain of native trees and shrubs.

The planners took 3 important steps in designing the estate home sites to ensure houses would be tucked out of view and the island’s native character would be preserved along its roadways.   

They established 50 foot deep, roadside nature curtains to be managed in their native state, They created an additional roadside buffer of 10 feet to as much as 80 feet between homeowner property lines and the road. This “roadside right of way” is owned and managed by Spring Island’s POA. They limited driveways to 12 feet wide and required that they be curved.

Questions about your Nature Curtain? Please contact Jay Gratton: 843-987-2060, jgratton@springisland.com

One Big Family The entire expanse of the Golf Maintenance building was filled with joy at the 2019 Employee Holiday Party held on December 14.

The staff really felt the love from their Spring Island family! Between a delicious feast, turkeys and hams, gift cards, and prizes, several employees were also celebrated at the occasion, Congratulations to the following employees and their special work anniversaries!

Pattie Landon, 10 years Food & Beverage Manager

Joe McGee, 15 years Outside Staff, Golf

Vanessa Bush, 20 years Dining Room Manager

Congratulations also to Kalvin Hill (F&B), Corey Landry (Facilities Maintenance), Carrie Lukach (F&B), and Christiaan Pollitzer (Outdoor Pursuits) for their 5-year anniversaries.

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HAVE YOU SEEN THE NEWLY UPDATED SITE? www.springislandtrust.org You can find information on everything from how to live with alligators to maps of the island’s ponds and our ongoing research on pollinators. Learn about our many ways of community outreach including Coastal Kingdom, Night Skies, and the Master Naturalist program.

TRUST TALKS

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EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM • NATIVE PLANT SALES AND MUCH MORE!

All events on Spring Island—including those hosted by the Trust—are listed on the member website Calendar. Find activity details and registration online for all Trust events throughout the year.

Questions? Contact Lisa Gravil | 843-987-7008, lgravil@springislandtrust.org

MEMBERS HELPING MANAGE THE “MYSTIQUE” The mystique of Spring Island is that it looks and feels like one large nature preserve. This is no accident. The original Spring Island Master Plan outlined many, many details about how to introduce humans onto the Spring Island landscape without taking away the “nature preserve” aura. Spring Island’s “nature preserve” mystique is what lures like-minded people together to make a very special community and thus helps Spring Island succeed in a highly competitive real estate market.

When it comes to managing habitat on Spring Island, the membership is an equal partner to the Spring Island Trust. Spring Island is 2,966 acres, of which the Trust manages and owns 1,131 acres of habitat and the residents collectively own 1,180 acres. To maintain Spring Island’s mystique requires the Trust and the residents working together to preserve the Island’s habitats.

One of the most important things members who own estate lots can do is to maintain their nature curtains. Nature curtains provide three benefits: they ensure that the homesites provide important habitat just like the nature preserves do; nature curtains bordering roads maintain the island-wide nature preserve concept; and nature curtains between homesites maintain privacy for the residents.

One of the ways the Trust helps residents is to provide information about how to manage their nature curtains. Trust landscape ecologist Karl Ohlandt helps residents learn how to manage their nature curtains by making homesite visits at no charge. He will share suggestions about recommended plantings, selective management, and tree care.

Karl Ohlandt | 843-987-2016, kohlandt@springislandtrust.org

Front Desk & Reservations

843-987-2044

River House

843-987-2023

Golf Shop

843-987-2013

Golf House

843-987-2065

Sports Complex

843-987-2003

Equestrian Center

843-987-4102

Mobley Nature Center

843-987-7008

Arts Center

843-987-3403

Hours of Operation Golf House

Breakfast: Daily, 8:00 am-11:00 am Lunch: Daily, 11:00 am-3:00 pm Dinner: Sunday-Monday, 5:30 pm-9:00 pm

Get Connected!

It’s one thing to settle on Spring Island, it’s another to navigate the Lowcountry.

As Dorothy said to Toto, I have a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.

That’s why we created Spring Island Connection, our community’s unique online tool where your friends and neighbors help answer questions like:



Now that I am here, how do I find a great new Primary Care Doctor, or my new Dentist?



What are all these itchy little red bumps and how in the world do I get rid of them?



Pickleball was fun, but now I need an orthopedic specialist.

Who’s the right one for me?



What’s our deal with the alligators?



The River House food is great, but I feel like dining off campus tonight.

Where’s a good seafood joint?



What’s the best way to get and stay fit at my age?



I need a new landscaper and I have a few small projects I want to get done around the house. Who should I call?

Spring Island Connection is a resource that benefits all of us, but it is only as good as the information and insights we share. Whether it’s about doctors, health care, fitness, nutrition, service providers, restaurants, or questions you need answered, let’s make this the season where we all get and stay connected.

If you are new to Spring Island, or just new to the benefits of our site, visit with one of the Connection Team volunteers at the New Member meeting to learn more or contact either Jim Basara or Gaylynn Golden for information and help signing up. jimbasara@gmail.com | gaylynn.golden@gmail.com

Signing up is so easy! Why wait?

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Go to www.springislandconnection.com Select Health or Local Click on Sign Up Fill out the registration form The staff of hundreds in our secure server location will then activate your account.

Thank you in advance for your help in building this great resource.

springislandconnection.com

River House, Dinner Only

Wednesday-Saturday, 5:30 pm-9:00 pm

Equestrian Barn

Daily, 8:00 am-5:30 pm

Golf Shop

Daily, 7:30 am-5:30 pm

Sports Complex

Open Daily, 6:00 am-9:00 pm

Staffed Monday-Saturday, 8:30 am-5:00 pm Staffed Sunday, 10:00 am-5:00 pm

River House Office

Monday-Friday, 9:00 am-5:00 pm Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 am-5:00 pm

members.springisland.com SPRING ISLAND’S LITERARY MAGAZINE Nearly 30 submissions were sent in for the inaugural “Fox Squirrel Review,” from poems to short stories, essays to fictional stories. A digital copy of the magazine is available to view on the Member website. You can also pick up a hard copy of the publication from the Member Services desk at the River House ($8).

Start gathering your own works to be included in next year’s edition!