N ove m be r 2 01 6
The Breeze THE MAGAZINE OF BLUFFTON
HURRICANE MATTHEW See Page 26
Bluffton.com The Breeze NOVEMBER 2016
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Notes From The Editor:
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here are not words enough or space enough to mention all the people who need thanking for their selfless work during and after the storm. Matthew affected millions of people as he came barreling down on the islands and up our coast. There are thousands of stories and many miracles to tell— someone was looking over us! Remember the World’s Largest Boiled Peanut over at Cahill’s? Well, a large tree landed on one side of it, another on the other side…but not a scratch on the nut. It survived for another Peanut Festival. The Town went into action before the storm arrived. Thank you, thank you, thank you to our first responders who worked day and night to ensure a safe and orderly evacuation, followed by a safe return. The videos posted on Facebook by Mayor Sulka and Town Manager Orlando were invaluable for keeping thousands of us abreast of what was happening in our little town while we were holed up in safe havens. I have a new regard for Facebook as a media outlet.
The Breeze THE MAGAZINE OF BLUFFTON PUBLISHER Lorraine Jenness lorraine@hiltonhead.com 843-757-9889 EDITOR Randolph Stewart randolph@bluffton.com 843-816-4005 COPY EDITORS Allyson Jones allyson@hiltonhead.com 843-757-9889 Kerry Peresta kerry@hiltonhead.com 843-757-9889 SALES DIRECTOR Chierie Smith chierie@bluffton.com 843-505-5823 GRAPHIC DESIGNER Liz Shumake liz@hiltonhead.com 843-757-9889
Out of state power companies not affected by the storm sent trucks, men and materials to aid our local power companies, working day and night to restore power and make the roads safe. Thank you all for a well-coordinated effort. Thanks also go out to Beaufort County and FEMA officials for all your assistance and hard work. Thanks to our State and National Representatives for making sure funds were available to help everyone.
ART DIRECTOR Jennifer Mlay graphics@hiltonhead.com 843-757-9889
The National Guard played an important role in protecting our homes. Our Police and Fire Departments were on duty around the clock and thank you does not say enough for their sacrifices while they were away from their families.
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Gene Cashman III, Amber Hester Kuehn, ' Michele Roldan-Shaw Andrea Six, Mayor Lisa Sulka
Church and civic groups, both local and up and down the coast, joined in and volunteers went to work helping people remove fallen trees. Self Help distributed food and supplies until they ran out. Thanks to the Red Cross. Thanks to Samaritan’s Purse, a division of Billy Graham Ministries, who worked with local church volunteers to help those in need. Restaurants set up roadside stations to feed our responders, the Guard, the homeless and those who had no food or water. These selfless acts were seen everywhere. That is what is so amazing about this town we love and call home. People joined together to help people; neighbors helping neighbors.
PHOTOGRAPHERS, ARTISTS Chierie Smith
Thanks to Frank Hodge, who worked for decades until recently retiring, to ensure our building codes kept homes safe from hurricane destruction. It must also be said to those that did not evacuate—you dodged a bullet! Had the storm packed winds over 100 MPH, it would have been a different story. We still have lots of work ahead! The Arts and Seafood Festival and Polo Match allowed thousands to leave Matthew behind and begin returning to normalcy. Thank you, Rotary for all you did! Correction: The Breeze October 2016. In our Bluffton Gallery Guide, Terry Brennan was incorrectly listed as the artist of “Gay Seafood” (page 28). The artist is Emily Wilson. Guido Petruzzi painted “Bluffton Charmer” on page 27. We apologize for any confusion.
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CORPORATE OFFICE 40 Persimmon St. Suite 102 Bluffton, SC 29910 843.757.8877 DISTRIBUTION Bruce McLemore, John Tant 843.757.9889 The Breeze is published by Island Communications and The Breeze Media, LLC. All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored for retrieval by any means without permission from the Publisher. The Breeze is not responsible for unsolicited materials and the publisher accepts no responsibility for the contents or accuracy of claims in any advertisement in any issue. The Breeze is not responsible or liable for any errors, omissions, or changes in information. The opinion of contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the magazine and its Publisher. All published photos and copy provided by writers and artists become the property of The Breeze. Copyright. 2016.
CONTENTS
NOVEMBER 2016, VOLUME 14, NO. 11
08 Notes from the Mayor
F E AT U R E S
12 Too Important to Miss 18 A Thanksgiving State of Mind 22 Duty, Honor, Country 26 Hurrican Matthew: The Story of a Lucky Evacuee 31 Behind the Curtains
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38 Finding Your Inner Peace 40 The Village Pasta Shoppe's Baked Ravioli with Marinara Sauce 44 This Is Why We Walk
D E PA R T M E N T S
12 Environment 18 Thanksgiving Essay 22 Veteran's Day Tribute 31 May River Theatre Presents Curtains 36 Tide Chart 38 Business Spotlight: Inner Peace Massage 40 Featured Recipe 42 Restaurant Guide 44 Music: This Is Why We Walk
ON THE COVER: Samaritan's Purse Volunteer Photography by Cherie Smith
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W
hat a crazy couple of weeks we have had in Beaufort County. The majority of Bluffton residents had only heard about hurricane evacuations, but never experienced one until now.
slept. These buildings were built to withstand a Category 4 storm, so all who stayed behind to work were safe. Knowing these first responders could rest in comfort before the storm’s aftermath was heartening to see. However, they were ready to get out and do whatever they could to help our citizens as soon as the OK was given.
First, I want to thank Governor Nikki Haley for the foresight to get as many residents out of our county as possible. Blufftonians took heed—some right away and many others later—and were able to find lodging in a safe location and ride out the storm. I evacuated during Hugo and know the frustration of not knowing, on a minute-byminute basis, what is going on with your property. This is why I decided to post frequently on Facebook and other social media during Hurricane Matthew. The response from you was overwhelming and kept me focused on continuing through the night and several days after.
The next morning, Bluffton Police officers, firefighters and National Guard members started clearing streets, assessing damage and ensuring residents were safe. The amount of dangling power lines and fallen trees on Bluffton’s roadways was heartbreaking. Bluffton’s Historic District was one of many areas that took a beating, as debris and downed trees cluttered the once-charming streets. Riding the streets reminded me of the morning after a snow storm, except the snow was replaced by pine needles and branches along the roadway. It was eerily quiet with no traffic anywhere in sight. That Saturday morning, I wasn’t sure how we were going to return to the town we know and love.
As Mayor, my role was to be accessible to sign emergency documents and authorize funds for storm response. I was at Bluffton’s Emergency Operations Center in the Bluffton Police Department during the entire storm. Bluffton Police Chief Joey Reynolds and Town Manager Marc Orlando led their troops throughout the hurricane. These two men never left their staff; working, sleeping and eating beside them, as well as responding to the needs of our residents. They led by example and were able to prioritize responsibilities for themselves and others, around the clock, for nearly 10 days. As part of emergency operations preplanning, the Town established a partnership with eviCore (formerly known as CareCore National), where Town staff, police officers, firefighters and some media representatives
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The list of selfless acts is too numerous to list; however, please know the collective support and spirit of the Bluffton community is a treasure which no one takes for granted. If you ever doubt whether humanity is still good, I am here to tell you, it is alive and well. Thank you, Bluffton warriors, for your strength, generosity and actions in helping your neighbors through Hurricane Matthew.. It is my honor to serve this incredible community and I have personally read more than 1,000 emails, texts and social media posts of people’s contributions to our community’s recovery. To say this has been a humbling and life-changing experience is putting it lightly. Bluffton’s tagline, “Heart of the Lowcountry,” says it all and, on October 8, this heart grew 100 times its original size. I am proud to be your Mayor. I am sure you are asking, “When is this debris going to be picked up?” As this publication goes to press, county trucks are already being seen in Bluffton and surrounding areas. They are picking up storm debris on PUBLIC roads. Our hope is that FEMA will grant us a waiver and allow countywide pickup. Please be patient as it will take time to get back to normal but, day by day, we are getting closer. Please stay connected to your Town through Facebook (Town of Bluffton Government/ Bluffton Police Department), Twitter (@TownofBluffton/@BlufftonPolice) and the Bluffton Police Department app (My PD/Bluffton Police Department). Mayor Lisa Sulka, Town of Bluffton
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ENVIRONMENT
Photos courtesy of dnr.sc.gov/marine/mrri/waddell
Too To
IMPORTANT MISS By Amber Hester Kuehn, Marine Biologist Owner, Spartina Marine Education Charters
I
n the summer months, my friends and family call me antisocial because I am so busy! I’m always tired and always working. I run a charter boat company and manage the HHI Sea Turtle Protection Project along 14 miles of beach, where tourists and turtles bask in the beauty of the Lowcountry. My volunteer work is my third job. When injured sea turtles need transport to the South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston for rehabilitation or dolphins wash up on Hilton Head Island and in Bluffton, who takes care of that? I do, with the help of the Waddell Mariculture Research and Development Center.
If you have NEVER heard of Waddell Mariculture Center (WMC), let me start by saying that it is the ONLY facility like it in the United States. And, yes, it is in Bluffton, SC and has been for over 30 years! It is a research facility managed by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), where biologists have perfected methods for farm raising fish and shrimp. Individuals worldwide visit Waddell to collect information to successfully produce farm-raised seafood.
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“The Port Royal Sound embayment, from the ACE Basin to the Savannah River is the most pristine and biologically significant marine ecosystem on the East Coast. The Waddell Mariculture Center is the most important facility we citizens have to protect its health and we must enhance its role in our state’s fishing, boating and tourism economy.” –Dave Harter, Vice Chairman, Hilton Head Reef Foundation
impoundment owners by addressing management needs, including water quality, weed control and species management. *Beaufort County has the best red drum fishery on the East Coast. Waddell’s red drum stock enhancement program is responsible for that continuing success having stocked over 20 million fish in South Carolina waters. These fish populations are monitored using DNA technology developed by SCDNR. *WMC is undergoing a renovation to the main office and laboratory building. Part of the renovation plan includes the installation of cobia and spotted sea trout spawning systems. The Community Foundation of the Lowcountry awarded the center a grant for the purchase of new seawater filtration equipment to prepare water for the spawning tanks and recirculating systems. *WMC has stocked a million spotted sea trout in Charleston waters over the past few years while developing a rapid response stock enhancement program to protect this fragile fishery from severe climate fluctuations and habitat degradation. In addition to their primary mission, biologists at the center assist with other marine life issues in Beaufort County. There is a tight community of marine biologists and enthusiasts in this area—some have graduate degrees in marine science, some are charter boat companies that offer ecology tours, some are non-profit organizations and nature clubs and some are fishermen and boaters who pick up trash in the May River. At all levels, there is concern for the marine life in Beaufort County. When an opportunity comes around to support marine research and mingle with some seriously dedicated individuals, there is no better time to catch them than when they are socializing at the Annual Taste of Waddell fundraiser, an oyster roast and cookout taking place on the Bluff of the Colleton River at Waddell Mariculture Center. We work very hard and I have a feeling that you never knew… Here are just a few of the Waddell Mariculture Center’s achievements:
*The center is also part of the Marine Mammal Stranding Network. Biologists provide aid and assistance to injured turtles, whales, dolphins, and birds.
When Fall arrives, I start to see the “Light at the End of the Season.” I may have time to clean my bathroom or clear my desk…I haven’t seen its surface in months. Thank you to Al Stokes, Director of Waddell Mariculture Center, and Dave Harter, Vice Chairman of the Hilton Head Reef Foundation, for their help in my endeavors with injured sea turtles and the SC Marine Mammal Stranding Network. I WILL see you at Taste of Waddell on Sunday, November 13 from 3-7 p.m. There are certain annual events and fundraisers that keep us going and this one is Too Important to Miss!
*WMC received a research grant to monitor the effects of storm water on Beaufort County’s sensitive saltwater marsh. Working with USCB and Beaufort County, they will develop baseline data to improve the county’s storm water management plan. *WMC opens its doors to students for tours and lectures. More than 500 students tour the center each year and biologists provided lectures and tours to more than 3,000 guests. Donations made to the Waddell Fund were used to support two full-time college internship positions this year. The center was able to offer volunteer work to five college students, who worked at least one day a week aiding biologists. *WMC biologists assist SC seafood growers. They provide information and training to state residents when requested. This work is important, as the United States now imports 91% of its seafood and seafood farming accounts for 47% of all seafood. The center’s biologists assist state fish pond and coastal
Limited reservations are available for the 9th Annual Taste of Waddell. Visit friendsofwaddell.org to register or call Dave Harter at (843) 785-4106. If you are interested in supporting the Waddell Mariculture Center, but cannot attend the event, tax deductible donations are accepted for the Waddell Mariculture Center Fund at: Community Foundation of the Lowcountry PO Box 23019 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925 (843) 681-9100 www.cf-lowcountry.org
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Matthew is Gone. We Need You Now!
We all share the pain that Matthew has inflicted on our community and local economy. The best way to stay Lowcountry Strong is by supporting locally-owned businesses.
$20 If all 65,054 households in the County shifted
$20 per week from national chains
$67MM to local independently owned businesses
shop more local
the community impact would be $67 million/year.
.org
To learn more about the importance of shopping locally, to sign-up for FREE as a business, or to nominate a business you’d like to see participating, please visit shopmorelocal.org.
Together We Make the Lowcountry Strong Thank You to Our Sponsors:
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O L D T O W N
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You don’t want to miss historic Bluffton near the May River for some of the most unique shopping and dining in our area. It’s all blended with colorful and creative art galleries, history up and down local streets, and dining for lunch and dinner in charming settings. The Bluffton Old Town Merchants Society warmly encourages visitors to come and spend an afternoon or a day discovering historic Bluffton.
The Breeze NOVEMBER 2016
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A Thanksgiving Stat e O f M i nd
By Gene Cashman
I
t’s the day before Thanksgiving. Outside the weather was overcast and rain drizzled, but inside I was snug in my bed.
“How are you doing?” he panned, as if he knew he was about to ruin my day.
My wife, Betsy, and I had planned to hit the highway for Bluffton by noon. We felt that should get us through Atlanta before rush hour and into Bluffton by dinnertime. It was 6:30 a.m. and my eyes barely adjusted in the dim, fall morning light. The shower cycled from steaming hot to lukewarm to cold as I stood and stared listlessly at the tiles. I contemplated the upcoming long weekend and whether I should even attempt to go in to work or just wake Betsy up and hit the road. The plan was to spend a long Thanksgiving weekend in Bluffton. Betsy and I were extremely burned out from work and overdue for some downtime by the May River.
Thinking I needed to beat him to the punch and let him know he should leave me alone, I quick-wittedly replied, “Well, sir, not too good. My pants are too tight, I have bad breath, and I think I am coming down with the flu [cough, cough].”
The conundrum I pondered in the shower was that if I went in, I would more than likely get snagged into some ridiculous assignment and be late getting on the road. It never failed when I planned to leave town that I’d get stuck with some insidious task only a workaholic could love. I should call in sick, I thought, because no one should work the day before or after Thanksgiving. Despite my better judgment, and not to mention the loud protests from Betsy, I decided to go in. As I walked through the front office door, I mistakenly made eye contact with my boss.
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Without even blinking, he stated what I had feared in the shower, “Uh, sure but I’m going to need that report by noon.” I shuddered as the words rolled off his tongue. Now we were definitely going to be late leaving and would definitely get snagged in Atlanta holiday traffic. I could imagine us somewhere between Macon and I-95 in our own personal interstate nightmare around midnight, wishing we were anywhere but in that car. As I pondered these things, I realized that I was not feeling very thankful. I realized how much the past year of my life had been a whirlwind of work, a rushed vacation and more work. This was self-loathing at its finest the day before Thanksgiving, at work, doing a dumb report, thinking about all the perceived disasters of the year. After I finished the report, I left the office in a huff at a quarter to one.
I arrived home to find Betsy sitting on the front porch ready to go. There is nothing like rushing out of town hours past the time you wanted to leave. Just days before, Betsy had reminded me to value this time away from work, and she was right. I had once again placed work before personal time to be with family, and allowed it to come before my wife’s desires. I had allowed my priorities to be distorted by all the white noise in my life distracting me from what was important. That’s when I decided we needed a drastic, and foolishly fun, change of pace. I veered off the interstate and in the direction of the airport, called work and told them I was taking the next week off for family reasons. We were flying to Bluffton and staying a week! “You’re insane, this will cost a fortune,” Betsy fumed, “just drive, we’ll make it by midnight.” Her protest fell on deaf ears. USAir was offering its great “give us your first-born-child rate,” which in my tunnel vision of enthusiasm actually sounded reasonable. For $1,054.67, we purchased two non-refundable, round trip tickets to Hilton Head. I was trying to make up for a year of missed opportunity in one fell swoop. I had officially lost my mind. Betsy looked a little shell shocked, but I reassured her it would be worth the money. “You know,” she said glibly, “we could have flown to Italy and stayed in a four-star hotel for that kind of money. The next time you think about being spontaneous, stick to flowers and chocolate-covered strawberries.” But it was too late, the tickets printed, and we were off. There was just enough time to check in and clear security before the flight left. As we jogged down the concourse Betsy yelled, “Are we having fun yet?” A rhetorical question intended to tease me for acting so bizarrely. We boarded the plane and quickly realized she was sitting in 5C and I was in 20C. It was a crammed flight. The cabin was stuffy and hot. There were at least six babies. It smelled like a locker room and no one was interested in swapping seats.
resting on Goliath’s shoulder. I awkwardly laughed it off and listened in disbelief to the pilot further confirm that I may have made a hasty travel decision. “Ladies and gentlemen,” the nasal voice squawked, “it appears there is a severe weather delay in Charlotte and we are being rerouted to Cincinnati.” Betsy’s head popped up and whipped around, trying to make eye contact with me. I gave her the we-are-having-fun smile and cursed our dilemma under my breath. If we had driven, we would have been in Dalton by now. The plane landed in chilly Cincinnati and we de-planed for a two-hour delay. I called Bluffton, and Yaya answered the phone. “You through Atlanta yet, sweet boy?” I paused, not wanting to convey my frustration. “No Yaya, we decided to fly and are stuck in Cincinnati.” Sensing her confusion, I told her not to worry and to set a place for us at dinner. The two-hour delay stretched into four. If we had driven, we would have been through Macon and only hours from Bluffton. However, we were in Cincinnati and I was not feeling very thankful. Again. Around the second hour of the delay, I began to complain to Betsy about work, my pay, our hectic schedule, pretty much everything under the sun. My bad mood was spreading. Finally, at 9 p.m., we got back on the plane and lifted off for Hilton Head. At 12:01 a.m. EST time we touched down, pretty much the same time we would arrived if we had driven. We hailed a cab and, for an additional $35, got a ride to historic Bluffton. To our amazement, when we arrived there was a huge poster board sign on the door welcoming us.
“Yes, my dear,” I teased, “we are about to be having a whole lot of up close and personal fun.”
Inside, Yaya embraced us and heated up our dinners. I began to feel foolish about all the things I had complained about all day. Papa heard our voices and stumbled out for hugs. The commotion must have stirred my nephew Robert because he, with his baby brother in tow, also popped out. Before long the whole family was awake and laughing as we recounted our tale of woe.
I was stating the obvious, but the fact was, this could be a l-on-g flight to paradise. Skeptical, and definitely not amused, she plopped down next to what can only be defined as a “talker”— someone who incessantly talks the entire flight about things you probably wouldn’t dare admit. She stared me down in the hope I would at least try one more time to switch seats. The back of the plane is a tough sell and no one took the offer. I don’t think Betsy was feeling very thankful at the moment, either.
As I lay in bed later that night and thought about thankfulness, I realized something important. The amount of money or the time I spent at the office shouldn’t dictate my joy. Delays, short weekends and frustrations should not keep me from appreciating and loving what I have. Expenses, disappointments or not getting my way shouldn’t constantly impact my mood. Yeah, we paid a thousand dollars to make a three-hour flight that ended up taking eight, but we were home, in a place like no other, for a week!
I inched back to my seat in the tail of the plane, next to the restroom. Perfect, I thought, three hours of excuse me, excuse me, oh I am sorry, was that your knee, your elbow, your face? I, too, had found myself sitting next to an in-flight disaster: a wide-shouldered, 250-pound man with allergies. I referred to him as Goliath.
I went to sleep that night with a full heart. I was thankful for family, my spouse and Bluffton. I had so many blessings that I refused to see. I vowed to block out the white noise in my life, to quit complaining and start appreciating the many gifts that were all around me. I finally started acting thankful.
I had now begun to seriously doubt my spontaneity. I began to think that the lonely stretch of road from Macon to Pooler, Georgia, might not be as bad as I thought. Somehow I managed to drift off to sleep and dream of oysters, the May River’s salty air and Papa’s Thanksgiving fried turkey. It must have been a great dream because when the loud ding of the captain’s message woke me, my head was
Thank goodness. To put the world right in order, we must first put the nation in order; to put the nation in order, we must first put the family in order; to put the family in order, we must first cultivate our personal life; we must first set our hearts right. - Confucius
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Duty, Honor, COUNTRY
his story is about the “Long Gray Line,” a select group of patriots who spend four years preparing to protect our country’s freedom. Trained, determined and committed to lead devoted men and women into the ultimate sacrifice if necessary, they are graduates of the United States Military Academy. Their bond is sealed by the blood of those who came before them. Their motto: “Duty, Honor, Country.” I had the privilege to sit down with two such extraordinary men from Bluffton: Emmett McCracken, Class of 1954, and Carson MacKinlay “Mac” Viljac, Class of 2020. West Point attendance is not gained by simply applying, walking onto campus and starting classes. West Point is reserved for the select few who want to serve their country so badly they have earned an appointment to the academy from a Congressman, the Vice President or the President. Their fraternity is for life. Emmett McCracken earned his diploma from the venerable Bluffton High School in a graduating class of six. He sought an appointment, but Bluffton High School was so small, his application drew no attention. He went to Clemson for a year to brush up on his calculus and was appointed to West Point by Senator Strom Thurman.
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By Randolph Stewart
Prior to graduation at Hilton Head Christian Academy, Mac Viljac had applied for an appointment his junior year. Ten interviews later, (including those with Sens. Lindsey Graham and Tim Scott), he was called out of class to take a phone call. U.S. Congressman Mark Sanford told Mac that he was his principal nomination. Both Emmett and Mac’s lives changed overnight. The first six weeks at West Point is called “The Beast” and, within this time frame, the cadet “plebes” are put through strenuous physical and mental exercises. Thus, begins the process of molding the boys into men or girls into women who live and breathe “Duty, Honor, Country.” West Point was founded in 1802 by Thomas Jefferson in West Point, New York, overlooking the Hudson River on the site of Fort Arnold, built by the Continental Army in 1778, as a temporary fortification of this strategic bend in the river. For over 200 years, West Point has been a symbol of pride, accomplishment and dedication to their motto. The greatest military leaders in our country went to West Point. The academy has produced two presidents of the United States, a president of the Confederacy, as well as presidents of Costa Rica, Nicaragua and the Philippines (foreign cadets are permitted upon special appointment). The academy has produced 75 Medal of Honor recipients.
Statistics for the 1,246 cadets entering the Bicentennial Class of 2002 show their leadership and love for this country. According the Academy’s website, 74% were in the upper 20% of their class, 78 were valedictorians, 38 salutatorians, 233 national merit scholars and 732 were members of the National Honor Society. This included 222 high school class presidents, 191 school newspaper editors, 159 class yearbook editors, 155 members of their respective high school debate teams, 139 Eagle Scouts, 774 varsity team captains and 1,116 varsity letter winners in athletics. These young men and women could have entered the best-known schools in the country and become doctors, lawyers or corporate leaders, but chose to serve their country instead. Many of West Point’s traditions center around the restrictions placed upon the plebes. In the mess hall, a plebe sits at attention while eating, eyes may not wander (Left): Carson MacKinlay “Mac” Viljac, Class of 2020 farther than a seven-inch perimeter from (Right): Emmett McCracken, Class of 1954 the center of his plate and he must see that all the upperclassmen at his table are his class and has the record for receiving the most demerits in the properly supplied with food. In the barracks, a plebe always removes history of the Corp—700. The first demerit was for visible hair on his hat before entering the room of an upperclassman. He is restricted his upper lip. When I asked Emmett how many demerits he had from using “Diagonal Walk,” a shortcut across the main parade ground acquired at the Academy, he grinned and said, “Not many.” to classes and barracks, and must walk around the square. Emmett McCracken met his wife, Teddy, while at West Point. Many traditions and slang phrases never change. The Godson is Together they raised a family while he rose to the rank of Full the first child born after graduation to a member of each class. Colonel. His assignments included three tours in Korea, the last The Goat is the person graduating last in their class (still an honor one as Army Attache, one tour in Viet Nam with the Korean because they are graduating and will serve their country), and each Infantry Regiment and teaching geography at West Point. Emmett member of the class must give the Goat a silver dollar at graduation. continued to serve even after retirement. Returning to his roots in Emmett added that toward the end of the fourth year, the bottom Bluffton, Emmett is a former Mayor of Bluffton and Chairman of three or four in the class compete to be the Goat to get the money. the County Commission. He continues to set a wonderful example A Drag is the name for a young lady a cadet is escorting to Hop, for others to follow. a dance. An Elephant is a cadet who can’t dance. A Fatigue Tour is one hour of physical punishment. The title of Slug is assigned Mac Viljac, West Point class of 2020, has huge shoes to fill. His to the cadet who doesn’t pull his weight, is lazy or out of shape. A grandfather retired from the Navy after a career on submarines. Walrus refers to someone who can’t swim. A cadet’s Wife is his or His father, Thomas, served in the Army, and all of his uncles served their country, as well: Daniel (Army), John (retired Navy), William her roommate. (Marine Corps—three tours in Viet Nam) and his Uncle Jimmy The Corps has a strict system of discipline. Cadets receive demerits (82nd Airborne). His cousin, Michael, is currently servicing the or other forms of physical or mental punishment, for a myriad of Army in Guantanamo. The Viljac family should be proud, indeed, reasons. Even future generals and presidents received demerits and and recognized for their service to our country. punishment. Here are a few: As for Mac’s mother, Kim Viljac, she was ordered to tell her boy In 1913, Dwight Eisenhower was confined to quarters for an entire goodbye in only 90 seconds, knowing he will return a man and has month, suffered punishment tours every Wednesday and Saturday chosen a profession that will put him in harm’s way. West Point was and lost his newly won sergeant stripes for twirling a young lady on Mac’s first and only choice for college. He knew he wanted to serve the dance floor at a function, exposing too much of her ankle and a and protect his country. He is thankful for the opportunities granted little knee. to him and has an appreciation for those who came before in “The Long Grey Line.” Mac understands, even at his young age, that he It is rumored as true that when Edgar Allan Poe was a cadet, he has chosen to exit his comfort zone and embrace a new challenge enjoyed the occasional element of surprise. For instance, once it was like no other. He feels it is his duty to honor his country. announced that white gloves should be worn to the next formation. Cadet Poe complied and wore white gloves…and nothing else. America is made up of thousands of families just like the Viljacs, but with the announcement of Mac’s appointment to West Point, I The famous General George Armstrong Custer was the Goat of think America just got a little bit better.
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t was the first hurricane warning I’d ever taken seriously. Since moving to Bluffton from the West Coast in 2004, I’d seen a few storms come and go; Hanna in particular I remember as causing the most ruckus. Everyone scrambled to stock water and board windows, and their feverish flight clogged the roads. I thought the whole thing was stupid. Like Matthew, Hanna had ravaged Haiti before supposedly heading our way, so I bought some Haitian rum and made a signature cocktail to ride it out—but I wasn’t too surprised when all she brought was a light mist, a puff of wind, and an extra high tide in the marsh behind my house. I grabbed a beverage and went kayaking, my dogs swimming happily behind me, and laughed at what a joke it all was. Matthew was different. I don’t like the fear-factor mentality and refuse to feed into panic, but from the beginning something told me to take this threat seriously. Maybe it’s because now I live in an 18-foot travel trailer instead of a house, and my neighborhood is a deathtrap of projectiles. I’m not trying to be the girl who got killed when a flying pink flamingo staked through her heart so I left at 5 a.m. on Thursday morning to beat the Georgia evacuation traffic and headed East on I-16. By the time the first light of a beautiful calm-before-the-storm day was streaking the Eastern sky, I was pulling the camper up a dirt road to my home away from home: a cozy triple-wide set amidst cotton, peanut and soybean fields, with patches of scraggly woods. My dear friends Farmer Joe King (iconic vendor at the Bluffton Farmer’s Market) and his wife Ros (the absolute epitome of love and Southern comfort) have taken me in so many times that I have my own room and spot on the couch. I would spend the following week at peace and ease, with good people who loved and wanted me there, and I didn’t spend a dime. You couldn’t get more fortunate in an evacuation than that. Back in the day, there was no such thing as evacuation, let alone the Weather Channel. Hurricanes did not have official names. I’ve always read about the worst tempest in South Carolina history, the Great Storm of 1893, so monumental that exslaves reckoned their age by it. It slammed the Lowcountry unexpectedly one night with 130 mph winds and 20-foot
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storm surges, and the next day all anyone could do was try to disentangle the bodies from the trees. A survivor told of seeing a dead woman hanging onto a house timber with her teeth. No one knows the exact death toll, but estimates range from 1,000-2,000, a majority of whom were freed blacks scratching out their new living on the Sea Islands—and that’s to say nothing of their crops, livestock and shanties. Today, it is ranked the fifth deadliest hurricane in American history. But what we can be thankful for is that although a storm of equal magnitude today will certainly cause widespread destruction, it will not kill as many people. Hopefully the deadliest storm in local history will remain so forever. Yet, there is still no such thing as evacuation in places like Haiti. Those people are just sitting ducks in their little shacks, until the palm thatch and corrugated tin blow apart, then they cling to coconut trees. They don’t have cars—where would they go? In their lives, they may never venture over 20 miles from the village of their birth, anyway, it’s an island, with few solid buildings that provide adequate protection. In the aftermath, their water is contaminated by sewage and corpses, their food is rotted or nonexistent, but no one fights over gas pumps or bottled water because such things are not to be had. When a big one hits, they just die. As I write this, the estimate from Matthew stands at over 1,000 souls. As the storm skirted Florida and tracked up the coast, the first U.S. fatality was reported when someone had a heart attack, but the second was a woman in Jacksonville who got smashed when a tree fell on her camper. Yeah, I had definitely made the right decision in leaving, I thought as I kicked back on the couch watching the news with Joe. Matthew was closing in
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on Georgia but I felt safe. I was well inland, staying in the house at night, and my camper was battened down snug in a clearing with no trees. That night, the rain lashed and the wind howled with surprising force, which cost me sleep purely because I was thinking “If it’s this bad 80 miles from the coast, what’s it doing in Bluffton?” By 5 a.m. our power was out and we’d spend the next several days with no water or light, but it wasn’t until we went to Statesboro in search of a hot breakfast that I witnessed the real damage. Lines down all over the road. Four cars under one tree. Roofs torn up with rain coming in. Businesses closed and wrecks happening at stoplights because there was no electricity anywhere. Joe and Ros said that although they’d weathered worse in tornados and thunderstorms, this was the most they’d ever felt a hurricane—no one expected it to hit so hard in Statesboro. But, as I was to find out, that was nothing compared to Hilton Head and Bluffton. South Carolina has had its share storms. Hugo was so bad they retired the name. Floyd caused such a fiasco with the botched evacuation that residents recall people dying of heart attacks and thirst on the parking lot that had been I-26, where they were trapped for 20 hours only to find out the storm had turned away and they would be spared. Just last year, a devastating 18 inches of rain fell in 24 hours over Columbia, causing a “1,000-Year Flood” that drowned people and wreaked millions of dollars in property damage. Matthew will certainly take its place among these catastrophes. As for me, I lingered happily on the farm with Joe and Ros… but the reports coming from home were not good.
One friend had a tree through her house, another three feet of floodwater. One got all his crops washed out; another lost his boat and his dock, not to mention his dad had a stroke during the event. One spent two days by the roadside with her family because they couldn’t afford a hotel; another got stranded in a mansion in Wexford with no water and a diarrhea-ridden dog relieving himself in every room of the house. One got held up at gunpoint during the aftermath, another was working 12-hour shifts with backhoe and chainsaw just to cut through the mess at Sea Pines. Still another described the surreal feeling of returning by night to an apocalyptic scene of dangling power lines, unrecognizable roads, smoke rising eerily from illegal fires, and not a soul in sight except convoys of utility trucks headed in the opposite direction. Spots of total devastation here and there seemed to indicate mini-twister touchdowns, people said, and no one knew when the power would be back. But as I made my calls to check in, the important thing was that everyone remained alive and safe, even those who stayed to ride it out. They all said the same thing: “It was a long night.” By the time I came home, the power was on and things were settling down. Based on what I’d been hearing, I expected to find the whole place leveled, like those images you see after a tornado or a bomb: nothing but splinters and rubble. Yet, apart from toppled trees and lingering puddles, things looked mostly the same. The roof had blown off my shed, but I anticipated that and covered my worldly belongings with a tarp. Otherwise, my only casualty was that I lost my kittycat. Later, I went to visit some friends around Alljoy—a particularly hard-hit area—where a fresh perspective emerged as they talked of incredible camaraderie: people coming together with chainsaws, dinners shared over grills and space lent to neighbors in generator-powered freezers so that their quart bags of shrimp wouldn’t spoil. Now that I’ve actually been through one, my final take on hurricanes is that although they constitute a massive amount of headache, stress, inconvenience, cost and ruin, they aren’t the end of the world. Messes can be cleaned up, damage can be repaired and lost wages can be recouped. A certain number of people will die every day for all sorts of reasons, which is sad, but that’s just life. Things eventually return to normal, or at least whatever semblance of it we can expect in this constantly changing world. My heart goes out to everyone who has suffered major devastation, but for myself I’ll never take a hurricane as hard again. The wisdom of experience is that when the worst comes to pass, (the key word is PASS) the storm breaks up over the Atlantic, and the sun shines on whatever’s left. Bluffton smiles on.
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presents
DIRECTOR Bryce Cofield CHOREOGRAPHER MUSIC DIRECTOR Jodi Layman Warren Heilman
Fridays 8 p.m. November 4, 11, 18
Sundays 3 p.m. November 6, 13, 20
Saturdays 8 p.m. November 5, 12, 19
Tickets on sale starting October 24th Now On Line! www.mayrivertheatre.com Box Office 843.815.5581
THEATRE LOCATION 20 Bridge Street Ulmer Auditorium Bluffton Town Hall
ALL RESERVED SEATS
$27
BOX OFFICE LOCATION
CURTAINS is presented with the permission of Theatre Rights Worldwide.
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138-D Burnt Church Road Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
BEHIND THE CURTAINS
By Randolph Stewart
T
he May River Theatre’s production of “Curtains” is like no other play they have presented in the last 15 years. To say that it is a “Must See” is an understatement. This story is more than just a musical!
Set in a Boston theater, the show has it all—murder, mystery, a play within a play called “Robbin’ Hood of the Old West”; romance, dancing, music and over-the-top comedy.
The director, young theater aficionado Bryce Cofield, has perfectly cast the performers. Cofield has an eye for the little things: the movement that is just right, the timing required for comedic dialogue and the ability to create a sense of family within the cast…a “we are all in the same boat” feeling. The actors want to do their best, and trust him in every way. Cofield has instilled a sense of confidence in the cast, so they will be ready for opening night on time while simultaneously creating a connection with the audience, so that they are part of the setting and show, allowing everyone to follow the play and thoroughly enjoy it in every way. The music “sometimes goes this-a-way, sometimes it goes that-a-way,” but it underscores the action and is masterfully presented by Warren Heilman and his ensemble. Solos, duets and difficult three- and fourpart harmonies are performed by the company. The lyrics are fun and quirky, and maybe a bit slapstick, always gaining a grin…both scene and song tell the story. The funny thing is that the leading lady, Jessica (Mary Lynn Finn), sings horribly off key, can’t dance a step or remember her lines and is murdered on opening night. You may ask, did the sour notes get her killed? Who done it? Actors and ensemble take the dance numbers and weave them inextricably throughout the play, thanks to Jodi Joy Layman, who’s choreographic interpretation of “Curtains” brings humor into the dance numbers, yet softness, romance and athleticism when needed. You will enjoy the story of Aaron and Georgia, composer and lyricist respectively, a divorced songwriting team that still question their love for each other. These parts are played by Dan and Debbie Cort, with assistance and encouragement from their four-year-old daughter Lilyanna, who has been named honorary assistant director. You will not find a finer family of actors and singers anywhere. “I told you we were going to Broadway no matter what you write about us. “ (You have to see the play to understand what that means.) You will laugh out loud watching Aaron become jealous over his ex, Georgia, who has begun dating Bobby, the lead dancer in “Robbin’ Hood,” played by James Siler. Enjoy pure comedic acting from Siler and the way he plays the role. When Georgia and Aaron sing a song together, you realize their love for each other is true and lasting, both in the performance and in reality. I bet you will shed a tear!
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Photo Courtesy of May River Theatre
Next, we have Detective Frank Cioffi, (Daniel Derrer, who has a degree in Theater and is the complete package—a singer, actor and a dancer who gives the entire cast a performance which holds the bar high). Cioffi figures it all out with small clues, can you? He fancies himself an actor and begins a tender romance with Niki, a chorus girl played by Jean White. (White hits some notes I didn’t even know existed. She holds a BFA in theater and dance—and her acting, singing and dancing prove it!) The feeling is mutual for Niki and he shares his “lunch counter mornings and coffee shop nights” (except Cioffi has sequestered the cast in the theater, so they have not been alone).
Sidney’s daughter, is infectious. Her voice, facial expressions, stage presence, timing, dancing, singing and energy off stage is invaluable to “Curtains.”
Carmen (Jennifer Harden-Green), is the heart and soul of the production and married to self-serving and unfaithful Producer Sidney Bernstein (yours truly). Her voice, presentation of her dialogue, movement, comedic actions and command of whatever she is doing, are exactly as you would picture Carmen to be. The show must go on!
Lest we forget, Scott Grooms rounds out the performance’s excellence; his experience with sound and lighting is impeccable. “Curtains” is demanding and coordination and skill are required from all of the technical assistants.
Oscar (Bob Fitzsimmons, the only true, professional comedian and New Yorker in the cast), who financed the production using his earnings from his 1954 lingerie line, plays this role absolutely perfectly. The scene where Oscar reads the “Robbin’ Hood” reviews with Carmen, Georgia and Aaron is a May River Theatre (MRT) Classic. You are sure to love Belling, (DA Southern) the campy director of the play, “Robbin’ Hood,” the eternal optimist, both ostentatious and hilarious; whose decisions somehow turn out right. His vast stage experience and mastery of his craft are evident in this challenging role. The way Emily Rice plays the role of Bambi, Carmen and
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There are no small roles, just small actors having a minor role! Although the Ensemble normally doesn’t get mentioned, here is the entire cast: Lindsey and Stephan Brannan and Jeff Cory (who marks his tenth show at MRT both as an actor and musician). The MRT bright lights and youth include Elliott Lentz, Matthew Davey, Emily Kustak, Kat Lucena and Alyssa Ratajczyk. All are dedicated to their roles and it takes everyone to make this play as special as it is.
Just before the production opened, everything changed. After Hurricane Matthew pounded us, the mood was different. The cast had 24 hours to hold a week’s worth of rehearsals! Between rushing to safety with family or living in a hotel room holed up like a refugee then clearing trees off homes, something special happened at that first rehearsal after evacuation. Everyone knew their music and timing, were up to date with the dance steps and all that was left was for Warren, Jodi and Bryce to work their magic. With hard work and dedication, this cast created something together their audience will not forget. That is what is so special about “Curtains” …community theater working to help bring back normalcy to Bluffton through the arts, proving that “the show must go on” and that “there are a special kind of people called show people.” The bond formed within this company after Hurricane Matthew will last long after the curtain falls.
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NOVEMBER TIDES Tide chart is calculated for the May River. * Daylight Saving Time ends Nov. 6, 2 a.m. Full Moon November 14. TUES 1
WED 2
THURS 3
FRI 4
SAT 5
SUN 6*
MON 7
TUES 8
WED 9
THURS 10
H L H L
4:32 1 0:39 5:03 11:13
AM AM PM PM
FRI 11
H L H
5:30 11:04 6:01
AM AM PM
H L
1:47 7:49
PM PM
MON 21
H L H L
2:26 8:10 2:43 8:48
AM AM PM PM
TUES 22
H L H L
3:22 9:14 3:36 9:46
AM AM PM PM
WED 23
H L H L
4:16 1 0:14 4:27 1 0:38
AM AM PM PM
THURS 24
H L H L
5:08 1 1:09 5:18 1 1:25
AM AM PM PM
L H L H
4:14 1 0 : 4 6 4:51 1 0 : 5 8
AM AM PM PM
SAT 12
L H L H
4:50 11:22 5:29 11:35
AM AM PM PM
L H L H
12:07 6:27 12:38 6:57
AM AM PM PM
SUN 13
L H L
5:25 11:58 6:07
AM AM PM
L H L H
1:00 7:22 1:34 7:51
AM AM PM PM
MON 14
H L H L
1 2:14 6:03 12:37 6:47
AM AM PM PM
L H L H
AM AM PM PM
FRI 25
TUES 15
5:58 1 1:58 6:06
AM AM PM
12:57 6:43 1:22 7:31
AM AM PM PM
AM AM PM PM
H L H
H L H L
L H L H
1:52 8:15 2:29 8:43 2:44 9:07 3:22 9:35
SAT 26
AM AM PM PM
AM AM PM PM
AM AM PM PM
1:46 6:29 1:14 7:21
3:36 1 0:00 4:14 10:29
1 2:09 6:44 1 2:44 6:52
H L H L
L H L H
L H L H
SUN 27
AM AM PM PM
AM AM PM PM
AM AM PM PM
1:40 7:24 2:10 8:18
MON 28
1:29 8:08 2:09 8:17
AM AM PM PM
2:36 8:27 3:07 9:18 3:34 9:34 4:05 1 0 : 1 7
AM AM PM PM
AM AM PM
L H L H
H L H L
TUES 29
H L H L
4:27 10:54 5:05 11:26 5:19 11:51 5:57 12:26 6:12 12:49 6:51
1 2:50 7:27 1:27 7:36
H L H L
L H L H
L H L H
AM AM PM PM
L H L H
2:08 8:46 2:49 8:56
AM AM PM PM
WED 30
H L
1:27 7:09
AM AM
L H L H
2:47 9:22 3:27 9:33
AM AM PM PM
H L H L
AM AM PM PM
WED 16
THURS 17
FRI 18
SAT 19
SUN 20
Hilton Head Boathouse Showroom: 1498 Fording Island Road Bluffton, SC 29910 Hilton Head Boathouse: 405 Squire Pope Road Hilton Head Island, 29926
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L H L
843-681-2628 www.hhboathouse.net
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By Andrea Six The season of running to and fro, searching for the perfect gift high and low, all while pleasing family at functions you must throw is upon us. Though this is a time of thanksgiving, fun festivals and delicious flavors; it’s also a period, for many, when stress peaks and parties turn into a plate packed full of to-dos with not enough time to get them all done. Though this may be the scene at your house this holiday season, it’s certainly not what you’ll find at one of Sheridan Park’s newer businesses. After eight years in The Promenade, Inner Peace Massage tripled their space by moving to a soothing setting in Sheridan Park. Their new 2,600-square-foot location allows owner Heidi B. Johnson and her team more room to offer their guests comfort, tranquility and accessibility. “People may think of us in Old Town Bluffton, but it’s still us; it’s just us in a better, newer, larger location!” Johnson exclaimed. Stepping inside Inner Peace Massage isn’t like entering a typical business setting, it’s more like stepping into a friend’s living room; a place where comfort and care collide. With a calming cream-colored palette, the reception area invites guests in with fresh-cut flowers and plush chairs, not to mention friendly service from the front desk staff. It’s a place such as this that brings in a myriad of people, each at different places in their lives. “Everyone comes for a different reason, whether it be just high stress from their job, tough things going on in life or maybe because they’re just in a good place mentally or they’re physically active,” Johnson explained. “There are just so many different reasons to come for a massage and, thankfully, we’re able to help people in many different stages of life.” Part of the reason Inner Peace Massage is able to do this is because their team—of which almost everyone has more than 11 years of experience— is comprised of massage therapists who have diverse concentrations. While Johnson received her master’s level certification specializing in medical massage for arthritis, Carol Hunter, LMT, acquired advanced certifications in lymphatic drainage, pre-Natal massage and advanced therapeutic massage techniques. Catie Mengel, LMT, received advanced certifications in scar tissue therapy, Ashiatsu barefoot massage and Esalen massage while studying in California.
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The other half of the equation has to do with their offerings.
Inner Peace Massage doesn’t offer just a one-massage-fits-all; they offer a personalized experience. Therapists want to find more about their guests, so they’re better able to accommodate them. For example, take one of their most requested massages— the Inner Peace Signature Massage. Instead of abruptly walking a client back to a room after asking which massage they want, the therapists at Inner Peace have their clients fill out an intake form. “We ask everybody who comes in, every time they come in, to fill out an intake, whether they’ve been coming for years or it’s their first time,” Johnson said. “Every time they come in that specific treatment is tailored to their needs.” If the massage therapist understands more about their clients, they are able to focus attention on certain areas and customize the massage so the treatment is more effective. “We don’t just do a quickie, run-in 50-minute session—then out the door, go away,” Johnson clarified. “We’re looking to build a long-term relationship with our clients.” That’s why Inner Peace takes time before sessions start to discover what their clients need and why the business offers a variety of treatments. In addition to the therapeutic Signature Massage, restorative Swedish massages, deep tissue massages, prenatal massages, European face massages and, among others, the Hungarian Facial Rejuvenation, also known as “The Natural Facelift,” are available. The Hungarian Facial Rejuvenation is a contouring facelift massage, which starts with an exfoliating cleanse before the massage therapist systematically works through the client’s facial muscles with gentle acupressure, smoothing and sculpting to stop sagging, eliminate eye bags and patter out puffiness.
quite literally, it’s not just about working through stiff muscles, but also finding a state of mind. “Massage is not just a physical state; the mental part is just as important as the physical part,” Johnson emphasized. “You can work the physical body as much as you want but if you don’t get the mental state in a proper, relaxed place, then you can’t bring the body to the most healthy spot.” Tiffany Field, executive director of the Touch Research Institutes (TRI), discovered massage can improve ADHD symptoms in teenagers while Mark Rosenbaum and Jane Van de Velde unveiled the healing traits of massage therapy in their study, “The Effects of Yoga, Massage, and Reiki on Patient Well-Being at a Cancer Resource Center,” published in June 2016 in the Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing. While this study showed that Reiki helped most with pain control, results showed that massage therapy also helped reduce stress and anxiety, improved mood and enhance patients’ perception of overall health and quality of life. Johnson experienced this phenomenon while working with a customer named Brock after opening Inner Peace. He’d been a client of hers and, after two years, Brock returned and told Johnson that he’d been diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. From then on, he continued to get regular massages while he fought the illness. Each time he came, he brought Johnson a note. “And at the very end, right before he passed, he gave me a handwritten note, just thanking me for all that I did. And he gave me a necklace, which is called the Make A Wish Starfish, and he said that I made a difference in his life,” Johnson revealed.
“It’s a natural alternative for anti-aging. This holistic treatment works with returning the facial muscles back to a stronger base, for them to grow and mature,” Johnson says.
To this day, Johnson still wears that starfish necklace. This gesture from a grateful client illustrates the level of care found at Inner Peace. Their goal is to push past the pull of routines and use their skills, education and intuition to help clients not only with their physical pains, but other life changes, as well.
In addition to anti-aging treatments, Inner Peace also offers massages to help manage stress and emotional disorders, such as depression or anxiety, support immune system function, relieve pain and promote relaxation. But it’s not a magical fix. While their therapists do take your problems into their own hands,
All through November and December, Inner Peace Massage is offering a New Client Special at $69! This hour-long, handson therapy deal is the gift of health that you can give to a special someone this season.
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Baked Ravioli with Marinara Sauce Courtesy of The Village Pasta Shoppe This is an easy recipe with very little cleanup that works well in a 5x7 dish for a dozen or two ravioli. All ingredients are available at The Village Pasta Shoppe.
Ingredients
16 oz. The Village Pasta Shoppe’s Homemade Marinara Sauce, plus an additional 8 oz. to top off 1 Dozen Fresh Ravioli (your choice of flavor) ¼ lb. Grated Parmesan Cheese
Instructions
Pour a layer of about 8 oz. marinara sauce at the bottom of a 5x7 dish. Then place 6 ravioli of your choice on top of the marinara sauce. Cover the ravioli with another 8 oz. of marinara sauce. Add another layer of 6 ravioli. Top off with an additional 8 oz. of marinara sauce. Sprinkle a generous amount of grated parmesan cheese over the sauce. Bake in a preheated oven at 350° for 30-40 minutes. Serves 2. *Additional layers of ravioli can be added. Each additional layer of 6 ravioli needs at least 8 oz. of house marinara sauce. Six ravioli equal one serving.
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Courtesy of Toomers’ Bluffton Seafood House
BLUFFTON’S
RESTAURANT GUIDE Cahill’s Chicken Kitchen** Southern 1055 May River Rd. (843) 757-2921
Agave Side Bar Southwestern 13 State Of Mind St. (843) 757-9190
Choo Choo BBQ Express Barbeque, Pulled Pork, Ribs 129 Burnt Church Rd. (843) 815-7675
Corner Perk** Breakfast, Lunch, Coffee Promenade St. & May River Rd. (843) 816-5674
Bluffton BBQ Barbeque, Pork, Ribs 11 State Of Mind St. (843) 757-7427
May River Grill** Seafood Contemporary Old Town Bluffton 1263 May River Rd. (843) 757-5755
The Bluffton Room Fine dining 15 Promenade St. (843) 757-3525
Claude & Uli’s Bistro French 1533 Fording Island Rd. #302, Moss Creek Village (843) 837-3336
The Pearl Kitchen and Bar** Fine Dining 55 Calhoun St. (843) 757-5511 Squat ‘N’ Gobble** American, Greek 1231 May River Rd. (843) 757-4242 Toomers’ Bluffton Seafood House** Seafood 27 Dr. Mellichamp Dr. (843) 757-0380 The Village Pasta Shoppe** Italian, Deli, Wine, 10 B. Johnston Way (across from Post Office) (843) 540-2095 Walnuts Café** Contemporary 70 Pennington Dr., Ste. 20 (843) 815-2877
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The Brick Chicken American 1011 Fording Island Rd. (843) 836-5040 British Open Pub Pub, Seafood, Steaks 1 Sherington Dr. #G Sheridan Park (843) 705-4005 Buffalo’s Contemporary 1 Village Park Sq. (843) 706-6630 Butcher’s Market and Dell Deli 102 Buckwalter Pkwy., Ste. 3G (843) 815-6328 Captain Woody’s Seafood, Sandwich, Salads 17 State Of Mind St., The Promenade (843) 757-6222
Corks Wine Co. Contemporary, Tapas 14 Promenade St. #306, The Promenade (843) 816-5168 The Cottage Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 38 Calhoun St. (843) 757-0508 Downtown Deli Burgers, Sandwiches 27 Dr. Mellichamp Dr. (843) 815-5005 Fat Patties Burgers, Sandwiches 207 Bluffton Rd. (843) 815-6300 Hinchey’s Chicago Bar & Grill American 104 Buckwalter Pl., Ste. 1A (843) 836-5959 Hogshead Kitchen Contemporary 1555 Fording Island Rd., Moss Creek Village (843) 837-4647
Inn At Palmetto Bluff Continental 1 Village Park Sq. Palmetto Bluff Village (843) 706-6500
Neo Gastropub - Farm To Table Fare 1533 Fording Island Rd. #326, Moss Creek Village (843) 837-5111
The Juice Hive Juice Bar 14 Johnston Way, Bluffton Village (843) 757-BUZZ (2889)
Okatie Ale House American 25 William Pope Dr. (843) 706-2537
Katie O’Donald’s Irish, American 1008 Fording Island Rd. #B, Kitties Crossing (843) 815-5555
Old Town Dispensary Contemporary 15 Captains Cove, off Calhoun St.
Longhorn Steakhouse American 1262 Fording Island Rd., Tanger Outlet 1 (843) 705-7001 Mulberry Street Trattoria Italian 1476 Fording Island Rd. (843) 837-2426 Napoli Bistro Pizzeria & Wine Bar Italian, Mediterranean 68 Bluffton Rd. (843) 706-9999
The Oyster Bar Seafood 15 State Of Mind St., The Promenade (843) 837-1893
Sigler’s Rotisserie & Seafood Contemporary 12 Sheridan Park Circle (843) 815-5030 Southern Barrel Brewing Co. American 375 Buckwalter Place Blvd. (843) 837-2337 Stooges Cafe American 25 Sherington Dr. (843) 706-6178 ** See the ads in The Breeze and Bluffton.com for more info
Pour Richard’s Contemporary 4376 Bluffton Pkwy. (843) 757-1999 (843) 837-1893 Redfish Contemporary 32 Bruin Rd. Old Town Bluffton (843) 837-8888
Courtesy of The Pearl Kitchen & Bar
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This Is Why We Walk We gotta do somethin’ Love is in our hearts, we all have feelings Cheer on a survivor Join us as we come together – Start Believin’! This is why we walk – take me by the hand LoCo Motion strong – footprints in the sand This is why we walk – raise your glass Join the cause and start believin’!
By Michele Roldán-Shaw Photos provided by dothelocomotion.org
Grass skirts and coconut bras, pink flamingos and palm trees, white sand beaches and umbrella drinks, hundreds of gorgeous smiling women on three beautiful islands…does this sound like a dream? It’s actually a walk for breast cancer. LoCo Motion is the signature fundraising event for Carolina Cups—a local non-profit dedicated to funding breast cancer awareness, treatment and clinical research. The recently completed threeday, 30-mile walk on Daufuskie, Callawassie and Hilton Head Islands once again won the hearts of survivors and supporters alike. LoCo Motion is spearheaded by Laura Morgan, a cancer survivor herself. However, the inspiration did not come from her own battle, fought and won in her twenties, but a friend’s suggestion. “I was trying to finish 100 marathons or half-marathons,” Morgan begins, “and I was just dead. My body was broken down and I wasn’t enjoying the training anymore, so a friend suggested we try the Susan G. Komen Walk instead, which was 20 miles a day for three days in Tampa.”
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Morgan wasn’t too enthusiastic at first; but after forming the Carolina Cups team with friends and completing the walk in 2009, she was completely swept up in the cause. “Never in a million years did I think that it would turn into a non-profit or grow into the LoCo Motion event,” admits Morgan. Nevertheless, she found herself asking what was right about the Susan G. Komen event, what could be done better and how it could be organized locally. She decided to make it more inclusive by inviting runners, as well as walkers, and by decreasing the mileage to 30 over three days, instead of 60. Rather than requiring fundraising, revenue would be generated by flat entrance fees, corporate sponsorships, donations and after parties. The event would have three goals: bring awareness and funding to the cause, make an economic impact on the Lowcountry and inspire local residents to become fit and active. Carolina Cups was granted non-profit status and then, in 2011, the first LoCo Motion had 400 participants. Today, that number has nearly quadrupled. Hundreds of thousands of dollars have been raised for the fight against breast cancer, 90% of which stay local; recipients have included the Medical University of South Carolina/Hollings Cancer Center, Beaufort Memorial Hospital Foundation/Keyserling Cancer Center and Bluffton & Hilton Head Volunteers in Medicine. These precious funds have covered the cost of mammograms, biopsies and livesaving surgeries for local residents who otherwise would not be able to afford them. “People have this stigma in their heads about undeserved, underinsured people,” says Morgan, “but it’s you and me sister!” Despite LoCo Motion’s success, Morgan was so burned out after the 2013 event she was ready to quit. After working 60-hour weeks for no pay, in addition to running her other businesses—which basically subsidize LoCo Motion—she found that she just couldn’t keep up anymore. Although it was dear to her heart and many others, she reluctantly closed down LoCo Motion. But, in late 2014, she got a call from someone at the Beaufort Jasper Hampton Comprehensive Health Services who wanted to thank her. “I still cry when I think about it,” says Morgan. “She said, ‘I don’t think you realize there are children here in the Lowcountry who don’t have their mothers because there was no LoCo Motion in 2014.’ And she wasn’t trying to guilt me, she just wanted me to know the impact this event has made.” The call prompted Morgan to bring back LoCo Motion in 2015. This year’s walk was the most successful event to date, with 1,504 participants who raised big money and had the time of their lives. “My favorite part of the whole thing,” Morgan says, “has always been when I hug your sweaty neck at the finish line and put a medal around your head, then we cry together and get our picture taken. So this year instead of only doing that on the last day, I did what we refer to as Four Bling Weekend: you get a medal at all
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three finish lines, then at the end you get the Triple Islander Medal, which is this obnoxious 5-inch Mr. T medal that’s heavy and totally gorgeous. People said the number one reason they participated was the cause, but the number two reason was Four Bling Weekend.” Adding to the event’s popular appeal was a new theme song entitled “This Is Why We Walk,” written by Bluffton musician Jevon Daly and performed by Hilton Head vocalist Candace Woodson. Daly, who watched his mother die of brain cancer, recalled that after getting the diagnosis she said, “I’m going to start losing my faculties, and you know what we’re going to do? We’re going to laugh about it. Because I’ve had a good life.” But when it came time to write the LoCo Motion song, he wasn’t sure how he could be light-hearted. During his initial online research, he came across the testimonial of a woman saying she’d had both breasts cut off, yet people were going around saying, “Save the Ta Tas!” and laughing.
Jevon Daly
“I’m not really an inspirational song kind of guy,” notes Daly, who is known for his humorous lyrics and onstage antics. “So the hardest thing for me was to say, ‘How funny is this?’ Women are out there dying.”
It took Daly 40 hours, over a period of six months, to complete the project but, in the end, he nailed it. “I really wanted it to hit people who were going to be there,” he says. “I wanted them to be able to sing along, so when I got home from work one day and the kids were singing it, I thought okay, now I have something good.” To record the song, Daly and Morgan brought in Candace Woodson, who happens to be a breast cancer survivor herself. A single mother of two sons, Woodson was starting to feel like a career in entertainment might not be in the cards when she got diagnosed with breast cancer in 2014. 46 bluffton.com
Candace Woodson “I had already been through so much,” says Woodson. “I didn’t have the easiest childhood, then a broken marriage, raising my kids as a working single mom and trying to follow my dream in an industry that is so tough—I mean you wonder how anybody makes it—then I get cancer? That is supposed to break me.” But, it didn’t. Strong faith in God helped her endure, and love for her sons kept her motivated. Eventually she saw the cancer as a blessing in disguise. “When I got the diagnosis,” Woodson says, “it made me realize how inhibited I was in a lot of ways. We all have a bondage, whether it’s financial or a relationship or whatever. So after I had the double mastectomy, that’s when I wrote the song “Free” because I felt like I finally had another shot to give it my all.” Sure enough, Woodson’s career began to take off in earnest with a couple major hits in the U.K. She moved to Hilton Head from Tennessee, so her son could attend a tennis academy, and has carved out a successful niche on the Island with her band Domino Theory. She was thrilled to record the LoCo Motion song. “When I walked in and heard it being played on the loudspeakers, I felt so thankful I didn’t give up,” says Woodson, who also participated in the walk as a survivor. “This is my way of giving back. My voice is to show that you never give up, you just keep trying to live out your dreams and you’ll make it.” Next year’s LoCo Motion will be held September 21-24, 2017. For more information, to register or to make a donation, please visit dothelocomotion.org. To hear “This Is Why We Walk,” the Official LoCo Motion theme song performed by Candace Woodson and written by Jevon Daly, visit soundcloud.com.
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