CB2 Magazine: August 2022

CB2 CELEBRATE AUGUST 2022

BLUFFTON AND BEYOND

DRIVEN

THE GREAT AMERICAN LOVE STORY BETWEEN CLASSIC CARS AND THE MEN WHO DRIVE THEM

AUGUST 2022

FOR RICK PATEL, SECURITY BLANKETS ARE THE ENEMY PLUGGED IN

IS AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE IN YOUR FUTURE?

MEN BEHIND BUSINESS THE

FEATURING

50+

LOCAL BUSINESSMEN

20 DRIVEN The great American love story between classic cars and the men who drive them

WHAT’S INSIDE 31

C2'S THE HOT LIST: A GUIDE TO WHAT'S FLYING OFF THE SHELVES RIGHT NOW

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THE MODERN MALE’S GUIDE TO NON-TOXIC MASCULINITY

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FOR RICK PATEL, SECURITY BLANKETS ARE THE ENEMY

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PLUGGED IN: IS AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE IN YOUR FUTURE?

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KEEPING THE WHEELS SPINNING: HOW JIM BUSER WAS ABLE TO GROW HIS EMPIRE DESPITE LOCKDOWNS, SETBACKS, AND INCURSIONS FROM BIG-BOX JUGGERNAUTS.

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HEMINGWAY, THE UKRAINE AND MY BROTHER

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SAVING FUR BABIES 24/7: CAROLINA VETERINARY CRITICAL CARE OFFERS PET CARE WHEN YOU NEED IT MOST.

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WEXFORD CASTLE: FAMILY HOME OFFERS GRANDEUR, WARMTH, AND MEMORIES

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THE TURTLE TROT: WEEKLY BEACHFRONT FUN RUN FOR A GREAT CAUSE

O N O U R C OV E R S

Rob Iulo with Land Speed Auto

46 BILLY WATTERSON Focused On Brewing Lowcountry Business Equality

54 C2 SPECIAL SECTION: MEN BEHIND THE BUSINESS Nunzio Patruno, owner of Nunzio Restaurant + Bar

104 NEIGHBORHOOD STROLL: WEXFORD

ON THE CH2 COVER Phil Sirmans and his vintage El Camino

ON THE CB2 COVER John Mallett, State Farm Insurance

Photography by 2Lights, 1Stand

Photography by 2Lights, 1Stand

This is the first of many articles in a continuing series in CH2 & CB2 magazines highlighting neighborhoods and gated communities in the Lowcountry.

This photo has nothing to do with my Editor’s Note. But there is a story on the Turtle Trot on page 114 of this issue.

GENIUSES AT WORK

play

The Referee Maggie Marie Washo

Miss Livin' My Best Life Carolyn Hunter Kostylo Master of Coin Marion Elizabeth Bowser Rainmaker Kim Conrad Crouch Master Handshaker “Just Kandace” Cunningham Lead Door Knocker Morgan Ambler Talent Delivery Specialist Kaila Jeffcoat

Editor's Note A U G U S T

Mascot in Training Buoy Conrad Crouch Pritchard Famous Local Musician Jevon Daly The Gatekeepers Greta Von Bowser Vincent Von Bowser The Cut & Paste Crew Catherine Davies Aspiring Novelists Cheryl Alexander Jesse Blanco Linda S. Hopkins Barry Kaufman John McCann Lisa Sulka Lighting Experts Krisztian Lonyai Two Lights One Stand Photography Celia Carroll Photography Find Us Here PO Box 22949 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925 843.816.6247 maggie@ch2cb2magazine.com

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THE OUTWARD MINDSET: AN ALTERNATIVE TO MURDER

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very morning after I’ve gotten my run in and taken care of whatever four-legged friends I’m nannying that week, I go about the process of getting ready for work.

I generally use this drinking coffee, showering, applying makeup time to listen to … MURDER! Yes, I have been addicted to Dateline podcasts about crime for more than a minute now. Maybe it’s Lester Holt’s soothing deep voice as he shares stories about the evil that lives in the heart of man. Who can say? Sometimes the podcast is still going as I get to work, and Hunter has to hear me shout at the phone in disbelief at the despicable human race and their hideous actions—mostly driven by greed, lust, and jealousy.

A few weeks ago, I was mindlessly scrolling through Tik Tok to find what new dance trends might be suitable for entertaining people with my mediocre skills, when I came across a young man talking about three books that would “make you the smartest person in the room.”

The books he mentioned were The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg, Predictably Irrational by Dan Ariely, and Outwitting the Devil by Napoleon Hill. So, the next morning, instead of murder, I chose an audiobook. Having quickly made it through all three, I went on to another, which I think is much better than all three he mentioned.

The Outward Mindset: Seeing Beyond Ourselves by the Arbinger Institute is a book that will perhaps change the way you see others—and quite possibly change the way you see yourself.

Ultimately, it will help you to see how it is your actions that are creating your environment and not the actions of others. This book is a must-read for anyone in a position of leadership or looking to make positive changes in a family unit or within friendships. If there is one golden nugget I gleaned from this book, it is this: “Don’t wait for others to change. The most important move is to change your

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mindset regardless of whether others change theirs.”

As a Type A, get-things-done, cross t’s-and-dot i’s-quickly-andefficiently personality, sometimes I fail to see the importance of just being still and connecting with people for a minute. There is an ongoing joke in our office about my love of quoting “Pierce-ism’s.” My mentor, Pierce Lowrey, loved sprinkling the office with inspirational business quotes.

They were on walls, in our mailboxes, in handwritten notes. Some of my favorites are: “Is what I’m doing right now getting me to my goals?”; “Example is not the main thing in influencing others. It is the only thing.”; “It is impossible for a man to learn what he thinks he already knows”; and “You never saw a fish on the wall with his mouth closed.”

But a light went on the other day as I was reading this book.

What made Pierce Lowrey a great leader was not his quotes and inspirational statements. It was the way he connected with people—his customers, employees, and business associates. He genuinely cared about what was going on in your life, and when there was a problem, he wanted to help. At least once a week he would come into my office and ask if there was anything he could do to assist with whatever issues we were dealing with that week.

If you’re going to be a good leader, you must care about the people you lead and serve with your organization more than you care about yourself. And that is the most important thing in business.

We hope you enjoy our big Men in Business issue and learn a thing or two from some of these success stories. Until next month!

MAGGIE WASHO Publisher / Editor-in-Chief

Instagram - @ch2hhimag Facebook - facebook.com/ch2magazine TikTok - @ch2mag YouTube - youtube.com/celebratehiltonhead

The steering wheel of Mike Iannazzo’s ’55 Chevy Bel Air glistens in the morning sunlight.

Check the fuzzy dice.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY 2LIGHTS, 1STAND ARTICLE BY AMY BARTLETT

THE GREAT AMERICAN LOVE STORY BETWEEN CLASSIC CARS AND THE MEN WHO DRIVE THEM

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ove drives us crazy. What draws us or makes our eyes light up and why is the great unanswerable question, whether that’s a person, a song, a place—or one particular car, made one year, in one perfect color.

Muscle cars, luxury sports, collectable classics, flatbeds with four on the floor and dripping in pure Americana.

When it comes to cars—classic, collectable, vintage, vogue, fast, furious—unanswerable though the question may be about our longstanding love affair with the king of the road, six southern gentlemen give the answer a good go. Jim, Phil, Bill, Michael, Rob, and Mike grab the keys to take us back in time, through the garage, and cross the double yellow to head into the sunset with their favorite set of wheels.

The starting line Ask any man or woman who ever loved a car and they’re likely to take you back to their first.

Not just a bygone era when cars were cool and crowned in chrome, but to a discovery of a driving passion.

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Mike Iannazzo, his German Shepherd Fonzie and The Golden Boy, a ’55 Chevy Bel Air.

Phil Sirmans and his 1972 El Camino are photographed under the Cross island Bridge.

Mike Iannazzo and Rob Iulo restore classic cars as a hobby and for other automobile enthusiasts at Land Speed Auto, on Hilton Head island.

Phil Sirmans wins a proverbial best in show for the memory of his first fourwheel love, with a story that couldn’t possibly get more “Wonder Years” if it tried. Already a young car enthusiast who says it was his dad who lit the fire for fine cars, Sirmans’ voice lifts when he tells of the one-dollar bill of sale that landed him his sweet-16 set of keys.

“I used to love to get the new Auto Trader at the gas station and scavenge through it. I had spent the summer cutting grass for this lady who was my dad’s second grade teacher. She said, ‘I know you’re turning 16. I have something in the garage you should have.’ I didn’t even know what kind of car was in that garage. She sold it to me for a dollar; we had it towed to our yard, and when I pushed it out and opened the hood, a giant rat fell out.” Sirmans paused here where you’d think this bucket of bolts story is going to buckle, but without missing a beat he said, “I had it running in a week.”

The car in the garage was a ’79 Plymouth Volare. Two-toned blue. It was love at first rat. But it would share

a parking space with another gasguzzling great when Sirmans’ dad asked for his car wish list. “I gave him an impossible option and a not so impossible possibility (I figured it was a good negotiating tool to force his hand a little), a late ’80s Lamborghini Countach or a black ’87 El Camino.” Another pause drives the drama with an impeccable timing belt before Sirmans added, “You can guess which one was sitting in the driveway.”

Theirs was a story passed down from one generation to the next. It wasn’t the first—or the last—or the millionth; turns out “I got my love of cars from my dad” is a whole vibe. A genre. A longstanding tradition. But “Dad” levels out further to a whole range of influences between the guys (and gals) who just love cars, and that big wheel keeps on turning.

Art you can drive There’s barely a father-son duo who radiates this more than Michael and Bill Head, known for their mini-fleet of personal classics and for H&H Auto on the island, the go-to for so many lovers

of luxury and well-made machinery.

Michael Head words it nearly as beautifully as the sleek and timeless line of the Mercedes style they both love: “My love for cars started with my father who has dedicated most of his life to restoring and preserving Mercedes Benz and other classic cars. I realized at a very young age that he was not like other dads who collected baseball cards or other knick-knacks. He collected art you could drive. It’s art that moves you—personally, emotionally, literally. It moves you down the road, at the mph of your personal choosing.

When Bill Head talks of cars, you hear where Michael Head gets it. Head Sr. speaks of cars matter-of-factly, as if their greatness is a given. He talks of them humbly, referring to his early acquisitions as pace cars that set him on the right track. “Fifty-five Chevy,” he said quietly, and “1970 Chevrolet Chevelle,” with the gravity of memory, like a favorite piece he recalls hanging in a gallery. His appreciation is pure; when asked what he loves about the world of classics, where many talk of driving, showing, building, CH2CB2MAGAZINE.COM

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Bill Head, owner of H & H Auto with his 1969 Z28 Camaro.

A closer look at the engine in Iannazzo’s 1955 Chevy.

Michael Head sits in a 1966 230SL Mercedes Benz.

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Head said with respect and genuflection, “I just love the car itself.” If that doesn’t cut straight to the heart of any aficionado, I don’t know what does.

Asked when he began to take cars seriously, he said with the sound of drawing a line in the sand, “I have always taken it seriously.” He took his passion (“hobby” wouldn’t do it justice) and turned it into a business, a career, a lifestyle, and nowadays, a small catalog of cars. Above all, he speaks of cars as you speak of industrial arts: the machinery, engineering, maintenance, manufacturing, the automotive science behind building the rocket itself. He takes pride in the work of the business he’s built. “It’s rewarding to see the quality in the make of the vehicle and to be a part of that—to leave it better than you found it.”

Leaving it better than you found it, and the value of a multi-generational influence, is something Mike Iannazzo and his current business partner (and former high school auto tech teacher) Rob Iulo know from experience. Iulo similarly learned the tricks of the trade school when he was a teen from buddy Rich Conklin, with whom he started Radir Wheels which specialized in what they called “new-stalgia,” offering American-made, vintage-designed wheels. Fast forward, the student became the master and started Land Speed Automotive with his former teacher. And the cars that drove them wild? All three had a thing for ’55 Chevys, but then there’s the 1932 Ford Deuce Coupe that keeps crowds singing “Little Deuce Coupe” in their soul every time they catch a glimpse of Iulo’s pride and joy.

Cars are stories Like so many of his automotive fellows, Jim Russell fully appreciates how meaningful memories can be both to the driver doing the reminiscing and to the listener. “Cars are stories,” Russell said, touching on one of the strongest elements in our sentimentality for steering wheels. For Russell, it must be mentioned, this meant a ’63 split-window coupe corvette only made for one year. It was the only one with split window, and it took him back in time.

It’s a sentiment repeated by his peers. Mike Iannazzo said, CH2CB2MAGAZINE.COM

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Rob Iulo with his 1949 Studebaker. Iulo owns Land Speed Auto.

Detail shot of the Studebaker tires.

A few stars in Bill Head’s fleet (rom left to right): 1966 230SL Mercedes Benz, 1971 280SL Mercedes Benz, 1961 190SL Mercedes Benz, and the 1969 Z28 Camaro

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Jim Russell with his 1967 Chevrolet Corvette

“It’s about remembering the way things were. It slows life down and makes you think of a different time.”

“Being around and driving a classic car, to me, is the closest thing to time travel, going back in time and seeing how simple things were,” Michael Head said.

By different time, Iannazzo hits on a subject larger than lingering memories. “Cars today have spoiled everybody,” he said about the creatures of comfort we are and our climate-

controlled cocoons with surround sound, four-color GPS, OnStar, push-to-start, seat setting memories, and parking assist. God forbid the self-driving cars known as autonomous vehicle (AV). It’s inhuman—literally removing the drive from the driving equation in every sense.

“But when you’re riding in an old car,” Iannazzo said changing his tone,” you’re reminded, people were made of steel! We were driving around for miles in the heat and cold

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Jim Russell with a few of his favorite vintage cars; 1966 Ford Bronco, 1968 Ford Mustang and a 1973 Ford Bronco

just to go on vacation. No conveniences, just power. The car has evolved amazingly. But we’re soft. We’re not building our cars in our garages and taking them out on the open road to find what we can find, with or without air conditioning.”

A paper plate 10 Not only does the contemporary ease of comfy cars call into question our collective “steel” and “mettle” (all puns intended), but it troubles the waters of another human condition: the need for connection.

“I love that classic cars bring people together from all different backgrounds; everyone is always excited to share with you who/when/where/how they acquired their classic,” Michael Head said.

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The details are what makes vintage cars so memorable.

Jim Russell put this shared love at the top of the list like the others. “I like to drive, hitting the throttle and the feeling of driving, but when you have one of those conversations where people recognize what they love—‘Is that a ’71? I used to have one of those!—that’s the most fun, driving and seeing people’s expressions when they remember too.”

“My love for old cars has always been the drive, but, it’s also seeing people build their own cars, bringing something like that to life, and sharing what they’ve built with others,” Mike Iannazzo said. “Like my ’55 Chevy Bel Air—the Golden Boy. It’s completely impractical. My car’s kind of wild and gets the attention of people who like cartoony cars. It takes the imagination somewhere else.

Especially when you get a kid giving it a big thumbs up or a paper plate with a number on it. When you get a kid with a paper plate 10, it doesn’t get better than that.”

Sirmans recalls an equivalent tucked in his window during an event. “I love car shows but never entered one. I just like going to them. One year I was working the Concours d’Elegance, and a guy left his business card on my truck where I was parked in the employee parking lot asking why the truck wasn’t in the show. I never contacted him, but what he got out of it, I still get out of it.

Sometimes I just like to sit in the garage and look at it, but it’s so much better when you see someone else appreciate something like this and you get a big thumbs up or a honk—any little gesture that tells you they see it too.”

The cars we love They only have the chance to “see it” because there was a driver who saw it first—who sometimes saw the diamond in the abandoned and rusted-up rough and got it running. Made it something to behold. Art you can Drive. The cars we love.

Sirmans said, “I love a lot of things. I like to cruise, and to build, not from the ground up but restore. But sometimes I literally get out of the car, turn around and give it another look.”

That’s something we’re all pretty guilty of. Counting by the classic car shows around the nation, including annually right here on HHI, or weekend pop ups from Parris Island to Sea Pines, there are more than a few of us turning around to simply give the gorgeousness one more loving look.

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Photography by 2 Lights, 1 Stand

THE HOT LIST We asked local boutiques to share with us some of the most popular items they are selling this season. From sequined dresses and Audrey Hepburn-inspired sunglasses, to bags with an altruistic mission, here’s what’s hot in the Lowcountry right now. *prices change and human erorr occurs. Please see boutique listed for final pricing on all items.

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1. Hey Dude Wally Men’s Camo $65, Hey Dude Wendy Chambray $65, Available at 32 North; 2. Poetry Candle, 50 hr. $38, Match Tin Citrus $28, Palo Sticks Medium $58, Palo Sticks Large $78, Palo Sticks $12, Available at Birdie James; 3. Tasc Cloud Ace Polo $83, Tasc Cloud Polo $83, Available at Palmetto Dunes Robert Trent Jones; 4. Gabriel & Co.’S Bujukan Collection 14K Yellow Gold 40 Mm Diamond Classic Hoop Earrings, Featuring 7 Round Diamonds Each, D = 0.25 CTW, Available at Forsythe Jewelers; 5. Makeup bag - $15, Tinted lip balm - $22 each, Available at Merle Norman; 6. Chopard Men’s Sunglasses $1100, Available at Eyeland Optique; 7. Women’s Rattan Crossbody Handbags $115, Available at Palmettoes

THE HOT LIST *prices change and human erorr occurs. Please see boutique listed for final pricing on all items.

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"I COULD GIVE UP SHOPPING BUT I'M NOT A QUITTER."

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1. Gullah Days by Carolyn Grant, Emory Campbell, and Thomas C. Barnwell, Jr. $29.95, Available at Binya Boutique; 2.

Palmettoes Signature Royal Oxford Shirt $125, Available at Palmettoes; 3. Velvet Headband with Crystals $75, Brocade Floral Headband $55, Raffia Headband $55, Confetti Headband $65, Available at Coastal Bliss; 4. ABLE Meskel Tote in Cognac $248, ABLE Mare Handle Clutch in Cognac $85, ABLE Abera Backpack in Black/Cognac $218, Available at Haskins & Co.; 5. Roberto Coin’s Venetian Princess collection 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Dog Tag On 19” Paper Clip Chain, D = 0.15 CTW., Available at Forsythe Jewelers; 6. Oliver Goldsmith Audrey Women’s Sunglasses $375, Available at Eyeland Optique.

THE HOT LIST *prices change and human erorr occurs. Please see boutique listed for final pricing on all items.

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"WHOEVER SAID THAT MONEY CAN'T BUY HAPPINESS SIMPLY DIDN'T KNOW WHERE TO GO SHOPPING."

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1. Pink Skipjack Hat $25, Deep Water Trucker Hat $29, Navy Garrison Perforated Hat $29, Red SunFarer Trucker Hat $29, Grey Skipjack Hat $29, Available at Southern Tide Hilton Head; 2. Peter Millar Sunnies Performance Jersey Polo $110, Available at John Bayley Clothiers; 3. Wooden Ships Vacay Sweater $128, Available at Fresh Produce; 4. Bristol Handbag with Acrylic Chain $98, Available at Coastal Bliss; 5. Queen of Sparkles Sequin Purple Tiger Dress $260, Queen of Sparkles Sequin Green Leopard Dress $260, Queen of Sparkles Sunshine Dress $312, Available at Copper Penny.

THE HOT LIST "IF YOU CAN'T STOP THINKING ABOUT IT. . .BUY IT!" *prices change and human erorr occurs. Please see boutique listed for final pricing on all items.

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1. Large Bamboo Lowcountry Boil Board $88, Small Bamboo Bluffton Board $30, Available at Eggs ‘n’ Tricties; 2. Smith & Quinn Travel Pouch $40, Smith & Quinn Kennedy Top $104, Smith & Quinn Molly Skort $104, Available at Palmetto Dunes Robert Trent Jones; 3. Roberto Coin’s Venetian Princess Collection 18K Yellow Gold Small Diamond Medallion And Paperclip Chain, 19”, D = 0.06 CTW, Available at Forsythe Jewelers; 4. River + Sky Brooklyn Dress in Oasis $162, Available at Radiance Boutique; 5. Baliawear Pant to Jumpsuit, Paradise $149, Available at Maggie and Me Boutique; 6. Feeling Groovy Pants $64, Pink Hat $36, Available at Egan + Ella; 7. Eliminator Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeder $119.99, Available at Wild Birds Unlimited.

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8. Hamptons Private Coffee Table Book $95 available at Kelly Caron Curated; 9. 14KT yellow gold paperclip necklace $1,275, 14KT yellow gold & diamond paperclip earrings 0.28carats $1,905, Available at Heritage Fine Jewelry; 10.

Smathers & Branson Belts, $175/Each Available at Knickers 11. Marble Challah Tray with Decorative - Gold 16” $92 available at Kelly Caron Curated; 12. Johnny O Camo Titan Hoodie $118, Available at Knickers; 13. Cobalt Blue Wine Stemware (Set of 6), $185, Available at Kelly Caron Curated

ARTICLE BY BARRY KAUFMAN

THE MODERN MALE’S GUIDE TO NON-TOXIC MASCULINITY TAKE A KNEE, BOYS. WE’RE SHOWING YOU HOW TODAY’S GENTLEDUDE GETS BY IN A WORLD THAT’S KIND OF OVER THE WHOLE MACHO SCHTICK.

G

uys, we need to talk. We had a good run for a while, making pretty much all the decisions and holding all the cards, but the world is changing. We men are suddenly being held accountable for all the things we do. And I gotta be honest, we’re not handling it all that well. If anything, we’re getting worse.

At the heart of the world’s sudden “lack of capacity for our crap” is a concept that is often left intentionally vague: toxic masculinity. What does it mean? Well, that’s the problem. It describes whatever you’re doing that’s bothering someone at the time. Frustrated because the shuttle to the beach is late? Male rage. Sitting down on a park bench without squeezing your thighs together like Suzanne Sommers? Manspreading. Describing a complex subject that might require some background in order to fully comprehend it? Mansplaining.

It’s a giant minefield of cancellation, essentially. But, if you take a closer look at examples of toxic masculinity, you’ll get a feel for what, exactly, the big deal is and how you can work to become a slightly less toxic male.

TOXIC TRAIT NO. 1: NOT BEING HANDSOME One of the central tenets of toxic masculinity is the concept of the “alpha male,” the lone wolf whose burliness and testosterone are enough to solve any problem without assistance. The world is waking up to the fact that this alpha male personality is more or less a cover for a host

TOXIC TRAIT NO. 1: NOT BEING HANDSOME IF YOU’RE GOING TO BE AN ALPHA MALE TOXIC CHUD, BE A SEXY ALPHA MALE TOXIC CHUD.

TOXIC TRAIT NO. 2: NOT BEING A DOT COM BILLIONAIRE

IF YOU’RE GOING TO TREAT PEOPLE LIKE GARBAGE, TRY TO MAKE A HISTORIC AMOUNT OF MONEY OFF OF THE INTERNET FIRST.

of insecurities and inadequacies. Where you try to project strength and machismo, what the world sees is an insufferable bore.

Unless, that is, they see an attractive insufferable bore. Take Chris Pratt’s character in the recent Jurassic World films. Across three bafflingly dumb movies, he portrayed Owen Grady, a he-man of the highest order, whose job description in the first film was literally “Alpha Male.” To drive this point home, he is introduced in each movie doing something ludicrously masculine, like wrangling dinosaurs on horseback, fixing a motorcycle, or building a cabin in the remote Canadian wilderness with his bare hands.

And women love him, because Chris Pratt has abdominal muscles that don’t seem like they should exist on normal humans. But had they cast someone a little less buff, like Parks and Recreation Chris Pratt, it would become pretty obvious that all this macho posturing concealed pure buffoonery, all the way down.

The lesson being, if you’re going to be an alpha male toxic chud, be a sexy alpha male toxic chud.

TOXIC TRAIT NO. 2: NOT BEING A DOT COM BILLIONAIRE A toxic male is one who doesn’t take anyone’s feelings into consideration, and generally doesn’t even want to hear them. The fierce independence of the toxic male means that your problems are your problems, and they

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need to stay that way. These men have been trained since boyhood to just shut your yap, keep your head down, mind your own business and don’t cotton to any bellyaching. Eventually, all those emotions will coalesce into the urge to hit a ball with a stick.

A modern non-toxic male, on the other hand, expresses sincere empathy for those around him. He works to ensure a fairer future for all, recognizing his own privilege and putting it to good use to help others. Unless his privilege includes owning several yachts each worth the GDP of a small equatorial nation, in which case all bets are off.

If you’re super rich, you can literally be an emotionless cyborg profiting off emotional manipulation a la Zuckerberg or a heartless taskmaster forcing employees

THE MODERN MALE’S GUIDE TO NON-TOXIC MASCULINITY to use Mountain Dew bottles as restrooms like Jeff Bezos.

And we’ll love you for it. Because while it seems like a lot of people have read Big Brother, not many of them made it to the last line.

In short, if you’re going to treat people like garbage, try to make a historic amount of money off the internet first.

TOXIC TRAIT NO. 3: NOT LEANING INTO IT HARD ENOUGH The modern world is sending men a very clear message: clean up your act. We will no longer tolerate men behaving like entitled jerks, talking down to women and turning selfishness into an artform. And by a very clear message, I mean the message does get very mixed up with shocking regularity.

Women love Ross Gellar from Friends, even when they realize what a genuine creep he was throughout the entire show (the man had two children. How often did you ever actually see them?). Albus Dumbledore is held up as a paragon of ethics in literature, despite literally training a young child to die. Edward Cullen was like 150 and dating a high schooler. Penn Badgely gets serious fan mail from young women, considering his character on You is explicitly played as a stalker.

What do they all have in common? Not a single one of them ever showed a single hint of contrition. Instead, their toxicity defined them to some extent. “This is me,” they all told the world. “I’m a horrible, horrible person; now love me.” And we did because they made no apologies for who they were.

The big takeaway here is, if you’re going to be a toxic male, own it.

TOXIC TRAIT NO. 4: AGREEING WITH ANYTHING I JUST WROTE Because we live in a world that has become hypersensitive to the uglier parts of the male psyche, it behooves me to add an explainer onto this piece. Obviously, this was all meant to be taken ironically. I don’t like that I have to explain it, but here we are.

Guys, there’s really no mystery to understanding toxic masculinity. The long and short of it is, don’t be a jerk, treat everyone like equals and work to ensure everyone enjoys life as much as you do. If you can’t figure that out, and you’re not handsome or rich, things aren’t going to get any easier for you.

Oh, and stop calling each other “bro.” Not because it’s toxic; it just irritates me. 

TOXIC TRAIT NO. 4: AGREEING WITH ANYTHING I JUST WROTE IF YOU CAN’T FIGURE THAT OUT AND YOU’RE NOT HANDSOME OR RICH. THINGS AREN’T GOING TO GET ANY EASIER FOR YOU.

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QRick Patel stands on a

corner in Hardeeville near the Piggly Wiggly, where several of his businesses are located.

A R T I C L E BY T I M WO O D . PH OTO G RAPH Y BY 2LIG H TS , 1STAND

FOR RICK PATEL, SECURITY BLANKETS ARE THE

enemy

H

e just might be the busiest businessman you’ve never heard of, and that’s alright by Rick Patel. He’s much more about sharing his vision with you face-to-face than marketing a brand.

“I don’t have interest in being interviewed or photographed, but if it can lead to spreading my message and creating more opportunities, well then, let’s have a conversation,” said the 40-year-old serial entrepreneur in agreeing to this story.

It’s not that talking about himself isn’t his comfort zone. It’s more that Patel is passionate about obliterating comfort zones.

“Doing things because it’s the way they’ve always been done, keeping systems because we’re afraid of failure or change, it just holds us back,” Patel said. “I’ve learned this through life lessons, and I want to show folks there is another way to approach business, education, and life.”

Patel’s father, Dinesh, moved his wife and two kids from India to Spartanburg, S.C. in 1987. Rick knew his dad as a farmer with an epic heart, always giving to

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others first. Dinesh worked hard, instilled a giving spirit in his kids and pushed them to strive for a life beyond a farm.

“I was taught that the path there was college, so I aced my AP classes in high school and headed to USC to be a pharmacist,” Patel said. He dropped out 18 months in.

“The college life was so scattered, so many ways to be distracted. I was hanging out, just everything but school, and it was not for me. It was a huge disappointment, but it was not my path,” Patel said of choosing to drop out.

So, Patel began a life with his future wife, Vaishali, and moved to Hardeeville at age 23. Under the tutelage of his father-in-law, he opened a gas station in downtown Hardeeville in 2006. Opening his own business felt like the endgame—that a comfortable living as a business owner and family man was the pinnacle.

“I never thought of expanding until I tried to help my nephew open another station in 2013,” he said. “My nephew backed out of the deal, and I had to discover how to run my second business remotely without it being owner operated.

But I got this taste of helping others, and I saw that I could help my family and others by pushing hard beyond those boundaries I’d set for myself or let others set for me.”

Over the next five years, Patel bought three more gas and convenient stores, a pharmacy, a liquor store, warehouse space, and a grocery store. He built a staff of 40-plus employees and found a passion for giving wannabe entrepreneurs a hand up.

“I love team building, because the core of that is just planting a vision, empowering people to think for themselves, to think of better ways to build the business,” he said. “I’m one person. I’m so much more powerful when I open myself to new ideas and give people the confidence to help me achieve those plans.”

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“I’m so excited to get this off the ground. When we can Give kids the foundation to believe in themselves—in their decisions and their possibilities—we can really change the story of this community’s next generations,” As his businesses grew, Patel knew it was time to be more aggressive in giving back on a wider scale to the community that helped build him up. He and Vaishali created the Patel Foundation, and just months after its launch, they faced an immediate chance to help.

In 2019, when a tornado hit upper Jasper County, he organized to deliver meals, water and groceries to those displaced by the tragedy. He utilized his network of suppliers to put together a food drive in 2020 that, to date, has provided over 800,000 pounds of groceries to area families.

“It’s alarming to see so many folks not even have the basics of survival, let alone the help to find a path to a bigger life,” Patel said. “We are committed to not just providing help in the moment, but to setting up systems that eliminate these food deficiencies in the first place. We have to do better than just putting a Band-Aid over a dam.

I know we can do better.”

Patel and his family were presented with the inaugural Heartbeat of Hardeeville award by the Town Council in March 2021, created to honor residents that go above and beyond for the betterment of the town and its people.

The Patel Foundation has continued to host community

food drives while building a food distribution network with a growing roster of area business leaders and has created a supplies partnership with the Jasper County School District to address food and supply gaps between school district budgets and the growing population.

“How do we keep moving forward? That’s the key. It feels like we face crushing obstacles every day, but it just makes the successes all the sweeter,” he said. “My parents are amazing people, they always believed in me, but I had far too many people give up on me along the way. I’m never going to give up on my neighbors.”

Patel is now the father of two (son Ayaan, 8, and daughter Aanya, 12) and sees the struggles area youth face as a school parent. It has inspired him to turn his foundation’s focus to launching an after-school resources program in Hardeeville and beyond. The program is focused on financial and life skills coaching to help area kids develop better tools for problem solving.

“I talk to 14- and 15-year-olds that want to work for us. I ask them crazy questions, like if your friend did drugs, how would you react? How do you not just handle the peer pressure, but help them find another path? And what I find so often is that these decisions kids and teens make, it so often comes down to confidence,” Patel said. “It is all about self-confidence, and they live in a time where the messages they get on social media are just chipping away at any hope of building that confidence. That’s where we come in.”

The pilot program will target kindergarten through third grade to begin, with the plan to add a grade each year to grow as the kids grow.

“I’m so excited to get this off the ground. When we can give kids the foundation to believe in themselves—in their decisions and their possibilities— we can really change the story of this community’s next generations,” he said. “College is not the path for everyone, but education in any and all forms is the key—to be able to think for yourself and find solutions in any situation. Teaching yourself core truths like hard work, dedication and persistence. When you can do that, you’re never stuck, you’re always moving forward.”

Patel is practicing what he’s preaching on the possibilities front. In the last year alone, Patel has expanded his business empire to include insurance through a partnership with Danny McKenzie.

“He invited me into the business, and I found I just loved connecting with people and simplifying this insurance game for people,” he said. “We’re going to offer every kind of insurance from every possible company under one roof—a one-stop shop.”

Patel has expanded his liquor distribution business through partnerships with businesses like Palmetto Bluff and more than 130 restaurants in the area.

He invested heavily in app technology to creat better service and streamlined ordering for his clients. And he recently joined as a part owner in a Mezcal brand as the exclusive U.S. importer of the brand.

“These different opportunities, I feel so blessed. I think back to the early days, how I was perfectly content in making a decent living and what has happened since I pushed beyond those limits I had put on myself,” Patel said. “Comfort zones are dangerous. They are the destroyers of potential.”

Patel’s next step outside comfort zones is opening his first brick-and-mortar business in Beaufort County. He is working to open a 23,000-square-foot liquor and party store in Bluffton and is excited to dive into the community the same way he has in Hardeeville.

“I’ve been told I’m a Pied Piper of positivity. I truly enjoy raising others around me, whether that’s businesses or families or my staff,” he said. “The challenge of building a new team, of teaching folks to not just run a register, but to realize how much they can do beyond the register, that’s what makes me excited to start each day.

“I’m a go-go-go guy, but I also live in the moment. Our family enjoys the fruits of the labor; we savor it all,” Patel said. “Showing Ayaan and Aanya that their futures are limitless, inspiring them to surround themselves with good friends and to be mentors, that’s the endgame. I believe there is so much untapped territory to grow and invest in the Lowcountry. Investing in technology is essential. But above all, investing in people, that’s how we will blow past every obstacle to achieve a future beyond our dreams.” 

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ARTICLE BY TIM WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY BY 2LIGHTS, 1 STAND

WATTERSON FOCUSED ON BREWING LOWCOUNTRY BUSINESS EQUALITY

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t’s a mix most businessmen have often found to be too strange a brew. For Billy Watterson, it’s a lifetime of ambitions and learnings distilled into a simple mantra.

“You can have fun in business, execute on your dreams and still have a very serious mission doing it,” said the owner of Bluffton’s Burnt Church Distillery, a $13 million big swing success story that is the seed of his Southern rebirth. “I know I have a great opportunity here to leverage our name, our networks and our success into creating success for so many others.”

He has rapidly earned a reputation in these parts as an innovator, but Watterson’s Lowcountry journey began as the “Ohio guy finds Hilton Head vacation oasis” cliché. He graduated from the University of Findlay, a 4,800-student faith-based college in northwest Ohio. He put his 1996 degree in environmental and hazardous materials management to work at Sears and Roebuck in Chicago, cutting his teeth with the department store titan as an environmental manager in charge of complex regulatory requirements.

Watterson elevates the entrepreneurial spirit and encourages growth of black-owned businesses through programs supported by the Lowcountry Legacy Fund.

Billy Watterson, CEO of Watterson Brands, seen here at future home of Ma Daisy’s, is constructing an equitable business model in the Lowcountry.

“My boss let me run with a number of big and complicated tasks, and I got my butt kicked in business but learned a lot in five years,” Watterson said of his business beginnings. “But I began thinking, ‘This isn’t filling me up.’ So, a small group of us began a consulting business.”

That idea has evolved into Watterson Brands, the backbone and incubator of more than 20 brands over the last two decades, from recycling companies, disaster remediation and organic farms in the Midwest to an interior design firm and home furnishing boutique on Martha’s Vineyard and new spins on self-storage and dating apps.

Hilton Head Island was the respite for the Wattersons for many years, a place he and wife Brenda could take their four kids to escape the Windy City hustle, recalibrate the soul, and recharge the creative battery.

Five years ago, Billy convinced Brenda to spend a full summer here. “That summer, we immersed ourselves in the lifestyle here and it became clear we couldn’t and shouldn’t leave,” he said. “I was so nervous to bring up the idea of moving here, but Brenda was right there with me. So, we enrolled our twin daughters in school and planted roots.”

Full-time Lowcountry life began as a bit of a detox for Watterson. “I spent about a half a year just doing a lot of work on myself, spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally. Just really thinking about where I’d been and where I wanted to go,” he said. “I wasn’t ready to retire, but I just wasn’t sure what was next.”

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WATTERSON FOCUSED ON BREWING LOWCOUNTRY BUSINESS EQUALITY

An idea from a past hiking trip with his brother Sean kept resurfacing during that refresh. “We started riffing ideas, talked about this dream of making whiskey,” Watterson said. “Six months later and I said, ‘That’s it.

We’re going to open a distillery.’”

He convinced Sean to uproot from Ohio and chase the dream with him. The pair began looking for a property in Bluffton, a place Watterson first discovered in 2017. “We went to the Christmas Parade, and I just thought, man, this place is cool. This is where we need to be.”

The home was more of a no-brainer than the name of the business, which began as Black Iron Distillery. “I threw the name out to my team, and it wasn’t resonating. There was confusion and a lot of silence,” he said of the original title. “Black iron was a thing in Charleston, not here. So, one day, as we were searching for property, we came across Burnt Church Road. I thought what a crazy name; what the hell happened here? And that curiosity took me in a direction I would have never seen coming.”

He hired noted lineage tracer Melanie Marks to do historical research into the name, a journey that took them back to the 1700s.

They discovered the burnt church was actually the Mission to the Blacks, and that discovery led Watterson to the philanthropic cornerstone of his new business.

“I got a sense of place and a whole different appreciation for the people here and the disconnects and the opportunity for change,” he said. “I had the luxury of time to listen and to learn the history here.”

He had conversations with leaders like Ahmad Ward in Mitchelville and became fast friends with Bluffton Town Councilwoman Bridgette Frazier, whose family has deep roots in Bluffton and the Lowcountry. He began asking where all the black-owned businesses were here and was frustrated by the answers.

“I was told to tread lightly by many different people, but things needed disrupting here,” he said. “Race has been this political football for far too long, but this issue isn’t political; it’s about doing what’s right.

“So, then it becomes what can I do? Folks like Ahmad and Bridgette— their answers were the same. What the black community needs from the white community is resources and open doors. That’s where we can begin to truly create unity. So, I took those two ideas and ran with them.

“I heard the saying in business long ago that high tide raises all ships, and I loved that—followed that idea for years. But I’ve learned that that just isn’t the reality,” he said. “The American Dream only works if folks feel like it’s meant for them. If your boat is already underwater, that high tide just floods and drowns you. I want to be part of giving our black community a new wave of opportunity.”

The $13 million Burnt Church Distillery has been a runaway success officially since March 2021, and Watterson has put action behind his words. First, he partnered with Santa Fe Café co-owner, Marshall Sampson in launching the fast-casual Pizza Co. restaurant on the Distillery ground. He worked with Frazier to launch BlacQuity, an incubator and educational resource hub for aspiring black-owned businesses.

Watterson is also partnering with Frazier on the former Pepper’s Porch property on May River Road. Frazier plans to turn the land that houses the iconic Deer Tongue building into a new restaurant, Ma Daisy’s, and the home of the future Bluffton Gullah Cultural Heritage Center.

He has equally ambitious plans on the island as well. Watterson became a fan of L.J. Bush, the leader of the black youth mentorship program Changing Our Image Now (COIN). The two became friends, and after discovering Bush’s long-time passion for craft brewing, he knew he had his next business partner.

Watterson and Bush acquired the Side Hustle Brewing Company with big plans to expand into the south end’s premier brewery. Watterson bought the former Bank of America building on Pope Avenue. He and Bush are transforming the space into The Bank, a 17,000-square-foot facility with an on-site brewery, an outdoor beer garden, and a variety of eatery concepts with Sampson and Bill Alberts including Taco Bills, Pizza Co., Bank Burgers and Benjamin’s Food Truck, the permanent home for his son Benjamin’s successful food truck and Dole Whip venture.

“We’re going to experiment and have fun, and we’re leaning in to the idea. The Vault will be where you go to get your beer,” Watterson said. He, Sampson and Bush are also working on a seafood concept for the space as well as an idea called BoozeBox, a food truck that’s focused on spirits.

He also recently acquired the Island Packet building on the corner of U.S. 278 and Buck Island Road in Bluffton, which will be used in the short term to house a production brewery that will help with the launch of non-alcoholic spirits and a new ready-to-drink cocktail-on-the-go line called Island Time, which will launch over the next couple months.

It’s a tribute to the island that began as a respite but has led to a creative rebirth for Watterson.

“We’re just beginning here. I want to be part of an evolution here. I can’t wait to do my first from-scratch development on the island. I want to bring a next-level downtown district to Hilton Head,” he said. “Above all, I want to be a facilitator that creates more and more financial equity in our community.”

Giving back has taken on so many different forms for Watterson. He and Brenda launched the Watterson Family Foundation to be the center of their charitable efforts. That spawned Help4Hope, which gave close to $200,000 back to restaurants that provided 15,000 free meals during the pandemic in 2020. The Lowcountry Legacy Fund is a foundation created to support programs that build infrastructure, expand economic opportunities, and achieve economic equality in the Lowcountry. A portion of every transaction at the Distillery and his future businesses goes to the fund. And the Distillery has become a hub for Bluffton’s annual Juneteenth celebration led by Frazier.

“I am so grateful for all these relationships and for this Lowcountry life,” Watterson said. “I make a point not to work past 5:30 p.m, and I don’t work weekends. I soak in every moment I can of this life; I drive over the bridge two times a day and the view rejuvenates me every time. We can work hard and play hard, and there is so much opportunity here. I see a lot of prosperity ahead for our community, all corners of the community. I want to be central in creating that. We’re off to a good start, but I’m always looking for new partners to come on board to get us there.”  CH2CB2MAGAZINE.COM

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ARTICLE By Linda S. Hopkins

Plugged In I S A N E L E C T R I C V E H I C L E I N YO U R F U T U R E ?

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f electric cars could talk, they would tell you they feel misunderstood. And those who love them would give them a big hug and a “there, there,” while advising them to be themselves, dare to be different, and ignore the bullies.

The controversy over electric vehicles rages—in the news, on social media, and in daily conversations. Everyone has an opinion, and, as usual, the people objecting most loudly are those who have never driven or even ridden in an electric vehicle.

“They don’t understand how fun and thrilling an EV can be with the quiet ride and the instant acceleration,” said Stewart Stropp, senior director of automotive retail at J.D. Power. “Once they’ve been in an EV, shoppers are three times more likely to get one.”

Many reject the technology on principle. They don’t like the inventors and those who stand to profit from the growing industry. Some view EV ownership as a political issue, rejecting the environmental “go green” spin as left wing government propaganda. And others are simply fearful. After all, change is always a little scary.

The truth is, nearly all new technologies throughout history have initially been criticized, feared, ridiculed, and debunked. Thankfully, some above-average thinkers had the foresight and fortitude to ignore the naysayers and invent such useful tools as electricity, telephones, airplanes, cars, and computers, to name a few.

ONE SWEET RIDE: MY PERSONAL EV EXPERIENCE Although I am typically an early adopter of new techy toys, I’ll be the first to admit I was skeptical about EVs. My

The navigation system is the best I've experienced and the get-up-and-go unmatched.

Through a system of cameras, sensors and radar, the car can drive and even navigate all by itself-well, almost. husband Tom leased his first Tesla four years ago. I drove it exactly once and decided I was perfectly happy with my familiar ride. Meanwhile, Tom continued to rave about how easy his car was to drive, how great the camera system was, how much he loved it, and how much less fatigued he was after his regular five-hour commute to and from Atlanta. He offered to buy me a Tesla, but I resisted.

Fast forward to 2020, Tom was on his second Tesla by then and still insisting that I “needed” one. “Once you drive it, you will never drive a ‘dumb’ car again,” he said, expounding on his four-wheeled brainchild’s superior intelligence. I was offended for my car’s sake because I thought she was a pretty smart cookie. I just didn’t know what I didn’t know.

In December of 2020, after a particularly expensive service call and a pricey routine oil change, I broke down and accepted my husband’s offer to buy me the Tesla with the agreement that if I didn’t like it, he would take it and I would continue driving my beloved BMW. We ordered it in January of 2021, and after nine months of nervous anticipation, the new Tesla S appeared in my driveway. Tom was right: I never want to drive another car.

For the record, my car is not a reflection of my political views or my stance on environmental issues. I don’t care who invented it or how fat his bank account is. For me, owning a Tesla is about cool technical features that make driving easier, more comfortable, and a lot more fun.

I often say that driving my car is like driving my iPad. Everything I need to control is right at my fingertips on a large touch screen or on my steering wheel. People ask about the learning curve. There were a few adjustments, which took a short drive around my neighborhood and a trip to the grocery store to get used to.

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The navigation system is the best I’ve experienced and the get-up-and-go unmatched. Through a system of cameras, sensors and radar, the car can drive and even navigate all by itself—well, almost. The misconception is that people are tooling about in cars that are driving themselves like drunken teenagers on a joy ride. This is not the case. Built-in safety features prevent inattentive use of self-driving functions. You, the driver, must remain in control, but the car can do a lot of the work for you.

Perhaps the nicest feature is the camera system. The large screen in front of the dash gives me a crystal clear picture of everything behind and around me—particularly helpful when backing or maneuvering in tight parking lots. When driving, the system shows every car around me, eliminating blind spots, assisting with lane changes, and generally improving safety.

While I can’t speak for every electric vehicle, these are just a few of many reasons why I love my Tesla. Is it for everyone?

Certainly not. If you are a person who is intimidated by new technology or uncomfortable using a computer, then you probably don’t want a car that operates like one. But if you, like me, are intrigued by innovative products and are open to learn a new trick or two, an EV might be your next ticket to ride.

OBJECTION … OVERRULED As gas prices soar and more Americans consider an electric car, many still have questions and concerns, some legitimate and many that are outdated or unfounded.

Let’s take an honest look at a few of the common protestations: 1. Limited range. Range anxiety and the fear of getting stranded were valid when EVs were first released because their range was typically less than 100 miles. This anxiety continues to exist, whereas current EVs get anywhere from 200-500 miles on a single charge. Not to mention that charging stations are much more abundant now. Getting a charge on the road is as simple as pulling off to pump gas and a heck of a lot cheaper.

2. Inconvenience of plugging in. The easiest and best way to plug in/charge for daily use is in your own garage. Most electric vehicles can be charged with a standard 120 V (Level 1) outlet. To charge the vehicle more quickly, you can install a dedicated 240 V (Level 2) outlet and charge to your heart’s content while you relax in the comfort of your home or sleep through the night. On the road, charging stations are everywhere. According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center, there are currently over 46,000 public EV charging stations in the U.S., with a total of over 115,000 individual

Plugged In (EVSE) charging ports. They are conveniently located just like gas stations, and the network is ever-expanding. So, maybe you have to stop a time or two on your trip. (Tesla calculates your power needs based on the destination and automatically routes you to a nearby charger well in advance.) You’ll have time to stretch your legs, visit the restroom, get a snack, let Fido out to relieve himself, etc.

3. Cost of charging. While the electricity to charge is not free, the cost of charging at home is relatively inexpensive.

How much you pay will depend, of course, on how much you drive and how often you need to charge. According to John Voelcker, a longtime automotive journalist and industry analyst who specializes in electric vehicles, “A conservative rule of thumb is that an electric car gets 3 to 4 miles per kWh. So, divide the total miles you drive each month by three to get the kWh you would use monthly. Multiply that number by your cost per kWh. The dollar amount you get will most likely be lower than what you pay each month to buy gasoline.”

Rates vary at public charging stations, depending on region, timing, the model you’re charging, and whether you choose Tier 1 or Tier 2 recharge speeds (the latter being quick but more expensive). One important caveat: Tesla Superchargers only work for Tesla vehicles. That is until the network opens up to other EVs in the United States.

4. Potential power outages. This is a completely unfounded fear. Generally, power outages don’t last long, and you are smart enough to keep your car charged ahead of your daily needs, just as you would keep enough fuel in your gas tank to get to work and back. Should the power be out in your area for an extended time, there will be a convenient charging station in the next town over or certainly within your car’s range. It’s no different than searching out fuel for your gasoline-powered automobile.

5. Sticker shock. It’s true that electric vehicles are expensive.

It’s also true that they cost less to maintain over time: no parts to replace, no oil to change, no fluids to add, and of course, no gas. Yes, batteries wear out over time, but many of today’s EVs warrant their batteries for eight years or 100,000 miles.

You may also be eligible for a federal tax credit and/or state tax rebate and other incentives to offset the initial cost of the vehicle. Additional perk: In most areas, you can ride solo in the HOV lanes, saving you time, energy, and money.

6. The climate enigma. Some people tout electric vehicles as the green option, claiming that their environmental impact is much lower than that of a gas-powered vehicle. While no greenhouse gas emissions come directly from EVs, studies point to the high level of emissions required to produce EV batteries and the electricity they use unless it is sustainably sourced. There’s also the question of what to do with the spent batteries. Improved methods of recycling and reuse are under development and will be essential in lessening any future environmental footprint of electric vehicles.

7. What about hurricane evacuations? The most common objection locally is from residents concerned about being stranded during a hurricane evacuation. Preparing by fully charging your EV is no different than filling up your gas tank prior to a storm. Could you run out of juice along the way? Technically, yes, but it’s not likely with all the built-in reminders and navigation tools to find the nearest chargers and superchargers.  CH2CB2MAGAZINE.COM

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MENBUSINESS A U G U S T

2 0 2 2

BEHIND THE

“Success is not final; failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill

DAVE MILLER Superior Services 36 Persimmon St #202, Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 682-2665 gotosuperior.com What services does your business provide?

Whole-house service solutions, AC repair, plumbing, electrical, and much more.

What is your motto in business?

Do what you say you are going to do, deliver superior results, and the customer is always right.

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

My dad is my most important mentor.

Although painful as a teenager, he taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. One example from my youth that I remember to this day was when I took his boat out for a “joy ride” and got stuck on a sandbar. When I called him to let him know I had “borrowed” his boat, he made me dig the boat out to bring it home. I’ll never forget being out in the hot sun for a couple of hours digging that thing out. It was painful but taught me a great lesson of perseverance and hard work to accomplish a goal.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

During the heat of summer, I don’t.

But I make up for it during the cooler months. When I am with my young family, I try my best to be present.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

Honestly, my favorite thing to do in my down time is try and figure out how to be better at what we do as a company. I love what I do, so when I do have down time, I love to make it better so we can deliver Superior results.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Never give up; your will to be the best at what you do is a muscle.

The more you work a “never quit” attitude, the stronger it gets.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

Kenneth Scott Builders is one company I continue to enjoy working with. They consistently deliver on their promises. In the crazy past couple of years, I have noticed their commitment to clearly set expectations and deliver on them.

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JIM BANNON Bannon Law Group, LLC 10 Westbury Parkway, Unit A Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 815-4505 bannonlawgroup.com

What services does your business provide?

Criminal defense and real estate closings.

What is your motto in business?

Serving our community and neighbors.

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

I’m going to flip this and say the most support I have had in every step is my wife and law partner, Meredith Bannon. We have only achieved what we have by being in the trenches together.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

We mix it all together. Our daughter comes in and helps around the office, and we take phone calls on the soccer field.

We want our clients to know we have them covered regardless of the time and location.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

Root for Penn State football.

“We Are.” Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Go for it. Don’t let fear or a million reasons stop you. It’s a fun ride.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/ business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

Love FARM. Brandon Carter is a culinary genius who recognizes it in others.

TIM AND TJ FERGUSON May River Home Services Bluffton: (843) 836-3000 Hilton Head: (843) 681-2350 www.mayriverhomeservices.com What services does your business provide?

Heating and air conditioning (service, replacement, indoor air quality, new construction/remodel and inspection agreements) What is your motto in business?

Tim: For our family to provide service to your family with the utmost integrity.

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

Tim: My father was my most important mentor. He taught me that your word and doing what you say you are going to do can bring you success in business as well as in life.

TJ: My father and both of my grandfathers. They taught me to work hard every day and to always tell the truth first—then you don’t need to remember a lie.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

Tim: I am lucky that I get to work with my family. My wife Dana and son TJ help carry our workload.

We talk “shop” around the dinner table, but it is what we enjoy.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

Tim: I love the outdoors and anything related to that! I am very fond of boating, and the salt air helps remove my stress.

TJ: I enjoy this place we call home—being on the river and spending time with family as much as possible.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Tim: Don’t ever stop learning.

Listen to everyone and apply when/where necessary.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/ business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

Tim: Favorite? I’m not sure as I know many business owners. I try to surround myself with people who have the same thought process.

DENNIS JAWORSKI & CHUCK HALL Palmettoes 71 Lighthouse Rd. Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (843) 363-6800 What services does your business provide?

Palmettoes is a boutique shop located in the Shops at Sea Pines Center carrying a well-curated collection of apparel, shoes and accessories for both women and men. We buy it…we show it…we sell it…we sew it.

What is your motto in business?

Palmettoes business creed is, “Make a friend; if you make a sale, that’s gravy.” It’s all about relationships.

Who was the most important mentor you had, and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

My first boss in this business, back when I was a student at MSU, showed me the need to relinquish power and create a true team— encourage “ownership qualities” with the entire staff.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

Juggling family and business is easy for me because my coworkers are my “family.” I’ve been a widower for 17 years, and my children are scattered across the country with their careers and families.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

My favorite thing to do when outside the shop is spending time with friends for drinks and dinner and Sunday Fundays at the beach.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

The most important advice I could offer to any new entrepreneur is simply to celebrate victories and learn from failures.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/ business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

Brent Ferne, owner of C’est Bon Coffee & Pastries just across the way from Palmettoes. He is also an onsite owner, working to develop a loyal following and baking and preparing menu items for his clients.

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LARRY BAKER ESPY Lumber 147 Arrow Rd. Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (843) 785-3821 3785 Argent Blvd.

Ridgeland, SC 29936 (843) 379-5000 espylumber.com What services do you provide?

We are a local lumber supplier with experts who can assist you with millwork, siding, roofing, decking, construction supplies and engineered wood products.

What is your motto in business?

“Never take criticism from someone you don’t respect.”

Who was the most important mentor you had, and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

CHRIS SHOEMAKER May River Excursions 81 Calhoun Street Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 304-2878 mayriverexcursions.com

What services does your business provide?

Fishing, and river and water taxi excursions What is your motto in business?

I try to work hard and be productive every day.

Who was the most important mentor you had, and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

Al Ameer was a great mentor to me. He taught me to direct, delegate and disappear. Let your employees grow with guidance, be helpful, and then get out of their way.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

I enjoy fishing and hunting. Also, as an Air Force veteran, I volunteer with the Disabled American Veterans Beaufort Chapter 12 organization.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Always have a plan, and never give up. If you fail at something, you learn and gain valuable experience.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

I have been a customer of G&J Equipment Rental for nearly 16 years. They take great care of their customers, and they are very trustworthy! I won’t go anywhere else. The owner, Gahagan Patterson is a stand up guy and is always helping the community.

I’m happy to call him, my friend!

My dad has been my biggest mentor and supporter.

Nothing comes easy, and he’s always there when I need him. I wouldn’t be where I am without him.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

That’s extremely tough, but your family and friends have to understand your business and the sacrifices you have to make sometimes.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

My advice to new entrepreneurs is to find something you enjoy doing and go for it!

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/ business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

I am always impressed by Hudson’s—their commitment to fresh, local seafood and how they cater to both tourists and locals.

Who was the most important mentor you had, and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

Chef Angelo Consoli, my chef instructor of the culinary school in Bari, Italy that is now named after him. He taught me to strive for perfection; a disciplined strong work ethic; and respect for the culinary sciences and profession. He ignited the passion I possess as the chef and business owner I am today.

How do you juggle family time running a business?

Commitment to a true partnership is essential in understanding the challenges of running a business and family. My spouse, Maribel, and I work very hard to have that work/ life balance. We are very fortunate to have succeeded in raising two adults who are bright, self-realized, and loving people. This is what is important in life.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

I enjoy traveling, gardening, and winemaking. I also like discovering new restaurants to enjoy with my wife or simply going to the movies.

NUNZIO PATRUNO Nunzio Restaurant + Bar 18 New Orleans Road (843) 715-2172 www.nunziohhi.com What services does your business provide?

We provide the best of dining out experience in an Italian restaurant outside of Italy. We have created a restaurant where guests get away from it all, enjoying warm hospitality, authentic Italian cuisine, and gracious service. Guests enjoy dining in our various indoor and outdoor dining spaces and ambiences. One of my favorite spaces is our

beautiful and vibrant bar, perfect for apps & drinks, dinner, or just cocktails.

Finally, Nunzio HHI is also perfect for private dining, especially for those “little big parties,” offering a venue for one’s most important events. If you cannot make it into the restaurant, the takeaway menu is great for families and fast meal pickups. It is always a pleasure to serve our guests coming from far away and living here on Hilton Head Island and in the Lowcountry.

What is your motto in business?

Never take your eye off the prize no matter the challenges you encounter.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Try to understand the market; follow your gut instincts; and do not get distracted by outside influences.

At the end of the day, you can only count on your own strength and ability to succeed.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

I give a shout-out to my dear friend Lance Aulffo, the Door Doctor. He is a true craftsman with a passion for perfection. In his line of work, he does not cut corners. He tediously takes the time and step-by-step process to achieve the result he had in mind—thus, a beautiful product to be admired. In some way, I do the same.

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was one way it did not have to stay like that and that I had options and they were all up to me. He helped me understand I had choices, as few as they may have been, choices that could change the course of my life. So, while he did not mentor me directly, his actions and encouraging words got me here today. Whatever success personally or in business I may have enjoyed over the years started with him. Life is 10 percent what happens to you and 90 percent how you react to it. Positive reactions provide positive results. Thanks, Uncle Jim! How do you juggle family time with running a business?

Anyone in real estate knows this can be very challenging. In this business, you must be there for your clients when they need you. I am fortunate that I have a great client base and a very understanding wife. The key is to put down time on the calendar; it helps to block out time for any task, including family time What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

We really enjoy the water, so taking the boat out and having lunch at Palmetto Bluff is always fun. Also, I like traveling and seeing different places.

We have been very fortunate to see some great places. It is also nice to just hang out with friends and relax.

JEFF HUNT Jeff Hunt & Associates Dunes Real Estate Jeffh.dunesrealestate.com (843) 422-1111 (843) 422-5933 What services does your business provide?

We help people buy and sell real estate.

What is your motto in business?

To stay 100 percent customer centered. I have always been resolution oriented. In real estate or any business, it is paramount to always be solving problems and objections while helping your clients achieve their goals and aspirations.

Focusing on my client’s needs and concerns and working with them in more of a partnership helps ensure that we accomplish the goal whether it is a financial goal or an emotional goal. By homing in on what the client truly

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wants to accomplish, it is easier for everyone involved to achieve their goals. By not selling real estate and being more of an advisor, I am able to help my clients buy real estate; or in the case of selling, I am able to put clients on a track to the next chapter of their life by not selling their home but helping them solve problems, therefore resulting in the sale of their home. Focusing on your clients will help you to build a business, not just make a sale.

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

One person stands out of the many people who have influenced me: my uncle, Dr. James Clapp. His calm demeanor and positive outlook impacted me in a way I truly cannot explain. He grew up not having a lot, yet once he became a successful doctor, he always treated people, and even me as a child, with dignity and respect. His example of how to treat others and handle adversity helped me believe in my abilities and understand what is truly important. He helped me see that just because my situation

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Be prepared. There are opportunities in every market and every industry.

Whatever your business, you must provide value. For example, in real estate, a lot of agents just sell property. But if you look at the truly successful agents, you will notice that the longevity and sales volume is consistent, not because they sell a lot, but because they are providing a service that has value and meaning to their clients. Focus on others and help them succeed, and you will find that you are succeeding as well.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

The Bluffton Room is one of my favorites. In these times of inconsistency, The Bluffton Room always knocks it out of the park—not just with great food, but the service and friendly nature of the staff is the best. It is hard to get in, so make reservations. It is worth it for sure!

happy people are built. There have been many times when other people’s children have taken priority over my own, but being diligent about striking the right balance has worked for me.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little down time?

When I have down time, I enjoy time with my family. Whether it is traveling together, coaching their teams, or simply prioritizing time together at the dinner table, it has been my greatest joy. In terms of hobbies, I am an avid fisherman and surfer, always happy to be near the ocean.

Advice for new teachers entering the profession for the first time?

I always remind new teachers that they have entered into a joyful profession where they have incredible opportunities to impact the lives of young people in positive ways.

I tell them to avoid toxic people and to remember that every child is important. The hardest children to teach may be the ones upon whom they have the greatest positive impact. I remind them to be serious, but not to take themselves too seriously. They should prepare well for every day, seek advice from mentors, know that some days won’t go well and that the best teachers learn from mistakes and adapt.

PAUL HORGAN

New Head of School as of July 1, 2022

Hilton Head Preparatory School 8 Fox Grape Road Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 www.hhprep.org What services does your business provide?

Private school, educating students from JK-12th grade What is your motto in business?

The mission of the school is for 100 percent of the students. Every child is important, every day.

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did the teach you that’s helped you be successful?

The mentor I credit with being the most influential in my career is former Dean of Admissions at The College of William and Mary,

Gary Ripple. Gary saw potential in me before I saw it in myself, and he encouraged me to aspire to greater leadership opportunities.

More importantly, in the midst of the pressures of day-to-day operations, he helped me stay centered on the constant pursuit of service to children and helping them achieve their potential. A man of great integrity and wisdom, Gary has been a constant in my career for over 20 years, helping me serve schools and the children who depend on them.

How do you juggle family time with running a school?

For many years, family has been synonymous with school as both of my children attended my previous school and my wife Becky was a teacher there. The juggle of home life and work life is one that requires planning and prioritizing time. I believe as a school leader that it is important to model this for those I serve. I know that everybody who works in schools such as Hilton Head Prep works very hard in their jobs, but family is the foundation upon which

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

Shout-out to Hillary Dollenberg of Dollenberg Properties and Rob Hattler of Pavilion Construction. These two teamed up to help find my family our new home in a competitive market— Hillary as the expert Hilton Head Realtor and Rob as general contractor to renovate the property we found.

Hillary was smart, savvy, discerning and focused on my family during the process of finding a home. Rob has been attentive, committed, and focused on our vision for the home as he has undertaken a complete renovation over the last four months.

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THOMAS M. DOWLING Alliance Global Partners 1000 William Hilton Pkwy Suite C5, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (843) 715-2239 tdowling@allianceg.com What services does your business provide?

We help successful business owners and families make good decisions with their wealth so they can take care of the ones they love, the causes they care about and make a difference in the lives of those around them.

What is your motto in business?

We believe you can create and maintain a simple and elegant financial life. We also believe you can do it faster and with less effort than you ever thought possible.

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful.

Unfortunately, I have not had a mentor but wish I did. I wish I had that earlier in my career. That’s why I enjoy helping people when they need it.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

It’s a partnership with my wife.

With effective communication, it’s amazing what you can get done.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

I enjoy coaching and watching my sons in their sporting activities.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Find someone you respect who owns a business and learn from them by asking as many questions as possible. Then, when your business becomes successful, do the same thing for someone else.

Being an entrepreneur is not easy, but it is very rewarding.

JOHN MALLETT State Farm Insurance 15 Mallett Way Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 815-4888 johnmallett.com

J

ohn Mallett has long been known and respected as a “good neighbor,” working with State Farm since 1971, starting in Newark, Ohio in the regional office. In 1976, he was promoted to the regional office in Jacksonville, Fla. as underwriting superintendent for the Southeastern region.

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He then became a local agent on Hilton Head Island in 1983. In 2000, he built a new office in Sheridan Park in Bluffton. He is proud of his experienced and knowledgeable staff, most of whom have been with him for more than 20 years.

His office provides auto, home, renters and life insurance. “We specialize in reviewing clients’ insurance programs and providing personalized solutions,” he said. “We feel our role in being a good neighbor means providing service that is prompt, accurate, friendly and cost effective.

understanding their needs has helped me ensure that we are both successful.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

Juggling for me seems to be a professional skill. Between four teenagers, a house full of cats and puppies, and my businesses, I tend to have lots of balls in the air. My secret to success is hiring great people. The team in Hilton Head led by Mark is an absolute treasure. Their hard work and enthusiasm for the business and our customers delivers an exceptional experience while allowing me to focus on other things.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

Given my usual pace of things, my first response is a nap.

However, once decently rested, I enjoy seeing movies in the theater, following Notre Dame football, and reading action and thriller novels.

SEAN RYAN Wild Birds Unlimited Festival Centre, 45 Pembroke Dr. Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 (843) 802-2010 hiltonhead.wbu.com.

What services does your business provide?

We specialize in bringing people and nature together through the hobby of backyard bird feeding, nature products and local expert advice.

What is your motto in business?

Do the right thing. Each transaction, each interaction, every single day, make sure you do the right thing.

Sometimes that choice leads to a less optimal result for you personally, but the investment in the business and the reputation will pay off in the long run.

Who was the most important mentor you had, and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

I worked for Lance for seven years across two different corporations.

Good communication takes investment from both sides to make it happen. Listening to others and

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

It will sound a little silly but take care of your customer. Be genuine in your approach. The positive interactions you build will snowball over time and lead you to greater success.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/ business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

I have fallen in love with Giuseppi’s Pizza. My youngest and I enjoy a three-course meal every time we visit: garlic dough dippers as an appetizer, pizza as the main meal, followed by cannoli for dessert. I’m pretty sure it’s the best pizza I have ever had, and their service and the experience are outstanding!

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Jeff and Gary started the company in 2015 and feel extremely blessed with how the growth has exploded in the past 7 years. Jeff and Gary are excited to see the growth continue through Coley, Travers, and William.

COLEY DAVIS, TRAVERS DAVIS & WILLIAM VOELKEL

Coley Davis is local to the Lowcountry.

He is a graduate of Bluffton High School and Clemson University. He is an avid golfer and outdoorsman. When he is not working, he loves to spend his free time hunting and fishing. He started working for Hilton Head Insurance & Brokerage in 2017.

1000 William Hilton Parkway, Suite J-13 Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (843) 252-0840 hiltonheadinsuranceandbrokerage.com

Travers Davis grew up in the Lowcountry.

He attended Hilton Head Christian Academy and the College of Charleston.

After graduating, he went directly to

the insurance business. He has been in the business over 10 years. Travers began working for Hilton Head Insurance and Brokerage in November 2018. When not working Travers loves the outdoors and spending time with his wife Holly. They are eagerly awaiting the birth of their first child this month.

William Voelkel moved to Hilton Head Island in 2010 from Florida. As the newest member of the team, he comes with a long history of customer service as a GM in the retail industry for over 13 years with brands such as Under Armour, Michael Kors, and, most recently, Old Navy. William and his wife Joy have been married for over 21 years and have three children. When not in the office, William enjoys the beach, running, cycling, and traveling.

children at home. You get better results from everyone when you’re showing, not telling.

WILL COLEY Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming Palmetto in Old Town, Bluffton and Shelter Cove, HHI (843) 757-9663 woofgangpalmetto.com What services do you provide?

We offer our clients pet grooming salon and spa services as well as nutritional consultations. Our stores carry the absolute best in pet care products in every department whether it be the bakery, apothecary, market, or boutique. We also do a great deal of special ordering, usually for regional faves of Lowcountry newcomers. Delivery will be launching soon as well as a slew of new services we can’t wait to offer our clients.

What is your motto in business?

Pets and their people over profit. I find when we prioritize the first two, the third always follows.

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

My father Ron Coley, without a doubt. It’s too hard to pick just one lesson he’s taught me. I think the important thing is that he didn’t just tell me how to be, he modeled it for me in his own actions and behavior. That’s the kind of man I want to be with my team at work and

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

My wife Jaime and I are business partners, so we share the duties both at work and at home with our three kids. Just like my business motto stated above, I prioritize people and their pets.

Sometimes those people are my family and our own beloved pets. I never regret putting my family first.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

Get outdoors and move my body. The where and how change, but nature and exercise are the key to maintaining a healthy balance in life.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Just be nice—that is to say, learn to regulate your emotions. It’s going to be the most valuable weapon in your arsenal. So much of the business world champions aggression and ruthlessness, but you can achieve more (and enjoy it more) when you keep things positive.

True strength comes with being in control of yourself, not others.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

Russo’s Fresh Seafood on Red Cedar Road.

Owners Charles and Cammie are two of the hardest working individuals I’ve ever met, and it shows in their success. They never waiver in their quality, whether it be in the sourcing of their seafood, the people they employ, the time-consuming procedures they utilize, or the insanely expensive equipment they use.

JAMES R. CANHAM Southern Smiles 15 Lafayette Place Suite E, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 (843) 686-5526 www.southernsmiles.net What services does your business provide?

General dentistry, dental implants, oral surgery (extractions/wisdom teeth removal), cosmetic dentistry (crowns/veneers), endodontics (root canal therapy), orthodontics (braces), 3-D imaging, ZOOM whitening, sedation dentistry, sameday crowns.

What is your motto in business?

Where precision, service and technology create beautiful smiles!

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

I have been fortunate enough to have had many mentors in my life who have helped in furthering my education in dentistry. There is one particular dentist out of Wichita, Kansas who taught me oral surgery and implant surgery 15 years ago.

He also introduced me to 3-D imaging and lasers to help with diagnosis and treatment. I was an early adopter of these modalities.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

Fortunately, I have an amazing team at Southern Smiles Dentistry who work very hard to ensure that I have plenty of quality time to spend with my family.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

I really enjoy spending time outdoors, playing golf and spending time on the beach with my family and friends.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Seek out mentors, hire exceptional employees, and work harder than your competition.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

Custom Audio Video. They offer top-of-the-line products, do a phenomenal job, and have very knowledgeable staff.

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owners is to work hard and be honest, and success will follow.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

I love to spend time with my beautiful wife, Bonnie.

We love old cars and enjoy traveling to shows.

STEVE FISHER Floors To Go By High Tide 123 Mathews Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 (843) 681-4925 hiltonheadisland.floorstogo.com What is your motto in business?

The customer is always right. We offer a lifetime warranty with our products.

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

I would have to say that my mentor was Lou Perella. He was the old owner of Louis Sterling Floorcoverings, and I worked for him as an installer. He was an incredible business owner who took care of his customers, and I watched and learned how he ran his business.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

Making time for your family is just simply something you have to do, and I always find time for my family.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

My advice to new business

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

I would like to give a shout-out to two of my favorite local establishments. Fat Baby’s and The Smokehouse. Pete Bernstein and “E-Z,” longtime locals, have worked to create consistent food and a fun environment, making Fat Baby’s a great staple on the island. The Smokehouse, owned by Jerry Leonard, used to be a small “dive” on Pope Ave. and now has been rebuilt into a big and beautiful restaurant on Palmetto Bay Road. Jerry has worked hard, and I respect how much he has grown his business. All these guys started out on the island as simple bartenders and are now successful business owners.

o’clock every evening, but now I’m usually home by 4:30 p.m. and on my dock by 5:00.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

My golf buddies and I play at our club every Saturday morning. That’s always the highlight of my week.

And my wife and I are out on the boat once or twice a weekend. You will very seldom find me sitting inside my house; we are usually out on the dock.

SCOTT ODOM Sir Grout of the Lowcountry (843) 640-5544 www.sirgroutlowcountry.com What services does your business provide?

Travertine, marble and limestone refinishing/ polishing/sealing as well as grout color sealing.

What is your motto in business?

Show up on time, set a proper expectation and try to exceed that. And always treat the customer with kindness and respect.

Who was the most important mentor you had, and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

This might be the easiest question ever for me to answer. My now-retired business

partner Barry Raduta. I went to school to be certified in stone restoration many years ago, but no one taught me more than Barry. We were business partners for many years until he retired a couple years back. We did everything together from estimates to the actual work, and we had a great time doing it. When we did estimates, it wasn’t just educational to the customer; it was a bit entertaining as well with our back-and-forth banter. I miss him every day. Barry taught me many different methods of stone restoration that we use every day.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

I have a very supportive wife, Kathy, who also handles our accounting. And our daughters are older now which allows me the flexibility to effectively manage the business. So, there’s really not a lot of juggling going on. I have learned that I don’t need to do estimates until 6 o’clock five days a week. Up until three or four months ago, I was getting home at 7

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Show up when you say you are going to show up. If you have a 9:30 a.m. appointment to look at a project, you should be there at 9:30 a.m. If you’re running 10 or 15 minutes behind, communicate that to the customer. If you don’t show respect for their time, they’re probably not going to show you that either. And remember what you do every day might be routine to you, but it might be the first time the customer is ever hearing about it.

Explain the process of what you’re doing. Details matter. And remember there is never a traffic jam on that extra mile. Go above and beyond to the best of your ability for that customer. And if there’s a particular area you are going to fall short in, explain why to the customer. They appreciate that. If they have a good experience, they’re probably going to tell a few people. If they have a bad experience, they’re probably going to tell everyone.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

Peter Bentley, Five Star Painting of Hilton Head. They did all the interior painting in our home in Bluffton.

Peter was very thorough during the estimate and even helped a couple days on the actual project when extra help was needed. A business owner who will roll up his or her sleeves when needed always has my respect.

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How do you juggle family time with running a business?

It’s all about balance and making time for the people who are important to you.

You can’t work nonstop seven days a week and expect your family to be happy. It’s important to enjoy the fruits of your labor with them.

What’s your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

Believe it or not, when there is downtime, I can be on my excavator or on my skid steer leveling a property and be as happy as I am on my boat.

It’s something that you don’t have to think as much about, but it allows you to be in the moment. I don’t want to say that it’s mindless, but it’s not as consuming. When you’re doing what I do every single day, there are so many people calling, so many thoughts going on, trying to keep up with every single project, it’s nice to occasionally have some time to just do one simple thing and be present.

MARK CREAMER Palatial Homes Design, LLC. 145 Island Dr., Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 (843) 342-3311 www.palatial-homes.com What is your motto in business?

Find any way to make the customer happy and create quality they appreciate. Always listen to your client, do the best job possible, and give them the “wow factor.”

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Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful.

I’ve had so many mentors in my life, and I call them my “10-second moments” of meeting people that sometimes don’t even know that they’ve changed your life. In business, my wife Cindy is very sharp and intuitive and makes me think of things that I probably wouldn’t have thought about before. Frank Nero, Vice President of Bristol-Myers Squibb, was like a father figure to me and he gave me a strong sense of what is right and wrong in business. And, of course, my dad gave me the discipline of doing things the right way and not having to do it twice.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Find mentors in your life that you can relate to and who can elevate your thoughts to attain the goals you want.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

That’s a tough one! I’m surrounded by such great people and so many of them are successful. And I work with some of the best business partners. I don’t think it’s fair for me to call out a favorite.

What is one thing you didn’t know when you became an entrepreneur that you wish you had known?

I guess I wish I had known about all the responsibilities that come along with being an entrepreneur. There are a lot of things you learn and need to know… but at the same time, how much fun and exciting things would be.

What is one of your mottos in life?

There is no such thing as a free lunch.

BOB ENGLER Budget Blinds of Hilton Head Island 11 Sheridan Park Circle Ste. 2, Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 837-4060 budgetblinds.com/hiltonheadisland/

What services does your business provide?

Our Company offers custom window coverings. We specialize

in blinds, shades, plantation shutters, and automated window coverings.

What do you think about when you are alone in your car?

I am usually thinking about either how can I get better at golf or what we need to do to improve our business. These are two things that seem to require constant thought and effort!

To what do you attribute your success?

I attribute my success to never giving up and willingness to do whatever it takes. I also attribute success to the support and motivation from my wife and kids. When we started out, I left a job I was very comfortable with. To make the leap with a wife, twoyear-old, and two-monthold was very motivating— to provide for them as well as wanting to make them proud.

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WILLIAM CUBBAGE IBP Savannah (912) 963-1923 www.ibpsavannah.com What services does your business provide?

We offer spray foam insulation, blown/batt insulation, and exterior coatings.

What is your motto in business?

Be someone your customers can trust. Especially in a small community, your customers are also your neighbors and your friends. Being successful at one of these usually means you’re successful with the other.

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful.

There are too many to name, but they all embodied the same message: Don’t take on more than you can successfully deliver.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

Prioritize the time when I have it.

Whether it’s 30 minutes before work or just before bedtime, I try to be in the moment with the boys as much as I can.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

Pool or beach with the boys and Ashley. We are very fortunate to live in such an amazing place like the Lowcountry.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Don’t bite off more than you can chew. Establish quality over quantity.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

The Sugaree. Thanks for keeping me fed. Best breakfast sandwich in town!

You don’t, but you do the best you can. (I’m not proud, but it’s the truth.)

JOE O’ROURKE V Joe’s Ice Cream & Beverage Co. 15 Bruin Road Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 707-9514 www.joesicecreambeaverage.com What services does your business provide?

Happiness.

What is your motto in business?

I have a few of them, but “DBAFF” (Don’t Be A F—king Fan) is a good one! It helps me take the “emotional” element out of tough business decisions.

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful.

My parents. They taught me skills and values that cannot be taught in a classroom. How you determine “success” is up to you.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

I do not get much downtime, but I love to travel.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Be original. Then ask yourself: How much are you willing to give up to be successful?

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/ business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

I hate this question. I have had an opportunity to meet and have many amazing conversations with local business owners, but here we go. I’m very proud of Lindsey Spears of Paintings N’ Stuff. A local artist, her business is growing because she works extraordinarily hard and does not make excuses. I have thoroughly enjoyed watching her grow, personally and in business.

Spartina 449—The nicest and kindest leadership core that you can work with! (We work together often.) They too, work extremely hard. You see a theme?

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

We all work in it together. Our backyard is our retreat and example of how hard work pays off.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

I enjoy cooking in our outdoor kitchen and swimming in the pool with our dogs. My wife is an avid pickleball player.

MATT LONGWELL Sweetgrass Custom Outdoor Kitchens Beaufort, SC (843) 441-0231 matt@sweetgrasscustomoutdoorkitchens.com sweetgrasscustomoutdoorkitchens.com

What services does your business provide?

We design and build outdoor kitchens and living spaces.

What is your motto in business?

“You are only limited by your own imagination.”

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

My father. He taught me that unlimited vision and success comes with hard work ethic; your employees will only work as hard as you do; and treat everyone you meet like a customer or best friend.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Never send a call to voicemail, even after hours. Treat everyone the way you want to be treated; even your worst enemy can become your best friend.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

For the most part, we learn from watching other business owners— what not to do and how to treat your customers.

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ALEX HAYNES Genesis Construction Company, LLC. 33 Boundary Street Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 757-8220 (office) genesis-construction.com

What services do you offer?

General Contractor/Custom Home Builder What is your motto in business?

“Building to a higher standard.”

It’s important for our company to always raise the bar in the building industry.

Who was the most important mentor you had, and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

My previous boss, Joe Fraser, for all the opportunities starting off in

DR. CHARLES NIVENS Dr. Charles Nivens, M.D Spine Medicine 3 Plantation Park Dr Suite A Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 705-7471 www.nivensspine.com What is your motto in business?

The motto of my business is to work hard every day. We strive to treat every patient with kindness and the respect they deserve. Most importantly, we strive to provide the best care and treatment for each of our patients.

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Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

Dr. George Thurmond, an ear nose and throat physician that I worked for during my undergraduate at Augusta College. He became my surrogate father. As I worked for him, I noted that he worked very hard but always devoted as much time for home life and family as possible. He was also very involved in the running of the business, at all times, in every aspect.

my career. Also, Bill Mischler (our founder) for teaching me how to be successful. I wouldn’t be where am I today if not for them.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

I have a lot of help with very talented and dedicated employees.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

Family boat day and neighborhood golfcart ride.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Don’t stress out about the things you cannot control. Become a problem solver.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/ business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

Rick Patel. Rick is a client and has become a good friend. He has a big heart and gives back to the community all the time. He’s always striving for more!

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

We spend most of our time off during the week and weekends with family.

Our social life is mainly our family life.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

My passion when I am not working is writing. What originally began as a catharsis has progressed into a true love and passion. This past year, I successfully published my first novel, The Little Girl, which is an autobiographical book. I am honored to acknowledge that this book has already won two awards. I am currently working on my next book that will be a fictional thriller.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Be prepared to work hard every day.

Do the best job you can every day, and you will be successful.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

My favorite local business is the Butcher’s Market and Deli. The owners, Jay and Diane are fabulous people who always have a positive attitude and run a successful business at the same time.

For information about The Little Girl or to purchase a copy, visit https://www. tfmann.com.

leadership position. I make sure to be as organized as possible; I live by my online Outlook calendar. It’s important to me to have a hard stopping point each day so I can be home at a decent hour to have time with my family.

After all, the reason I work so hard is to provide for and spend quality time with the ones I love most.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

I like to think I am a chill guy.

When I have down time, I usually like to be on an adventure with my partner Shawn and my son Byron. If I am not doing that, you will find me winding down on the sofa, streaming a binge-worthy television show.

JAMES DISMOND Hospice Care of the Lowcountry 7 Plantation Park Drive Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 706-2296 hospicecarelc.org What services does your organization provide?

Hospice Care of the Lowcountry is an independent, community-based, non-profit organization, serving Beaufort and Jasper counties for almost 40 years. It was established to give comfort and honor dignity for end of life patients and their families through compassionate physical, emotional and spiritual care, regardless of their financial circumstances.

“Our philosophy of care is as much about living well as it is about experiencing end of life in a manner that is dignified, compassionate and as

stress-free as possible.” We help our valued patients and their families experience the fullness and dignity they deserve, even as they face the anxieties associated with the end of life.

What is your motto in business?

The motto that I go by is: “Own your vision and push your boundaries.” It is important to know your vision, not just for your career but for the business you are leading or working within. It is also just as important to continue to push your own personal boundaries, to challenge yourself, creating growth opportunities.

How do you juggle family time with running an organization?

Work/life balance can be extremely difficult when you are in a key

Advice for anyone looking to make a difference?

My advice to anyone who wants to make a difference would be to align your talents with your passion to make a successful impact. Remember, making a difference can be simple tasks such as being kind, volunteering to read a book to children, donating items, and so much more. Also, do your research, and see if there is an organization that is already doing what you had in mind; rather than duplicating the service, join forces with the established organization making a difference.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/ business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

One of my favorite local businesses is Bluffton Candles, owned and operated by Leo & Angie Evangelista. Bluffton Candles’ slogan is “The Heart of the Lowcountry,” and that’s exactly why they are my favorite business. Leo and Angie embody the very reasons why I love living in the Lowcountry: they treat every customer like their family, and their product quality is in a league of its own.

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many life lessons he was teaching us until I became an adult. Looking back, he was himself and kept his word while treating everyone with respect. I try and carry this every day in business and life!

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

Our business never stops and finding family time is sometimes challenging.

At R.S. Andrews, we have the best staff, working together so we can all get some balance at home and work. It also takes support at home, and I have the best! I love what I do, so coming to work is easy for me. I am very proud to represent the R.S. Andrews brand for our owners in Atlanta.

MICHAEL E. FRAZIER R.S. Andrews Services of South Carolina 39 Persimmon St Suite 602 Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 706-5090 gorsandrews.com

What services does the business provide?

R.S Andrews is a full-service heating, cooling and plumbing business, serving residential and commercial customers. R.S Andrews has been in business since 1968.

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What is your motto in business?

“We Deliver Smiles” is the R.S. Andrews motto, and we work hard to deliver those smiles to all our customers every time. We are dedicated to providing residential and commercial air conditioning, heating, and plumbing services to those in the Lowcountry and Coastal Empire areas.

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

My father was the best mentor, hands down. He led by example in all aspects of life. He taught my brother and me how to win on the baseball field and succeed. I never knew how

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What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

I love to fish the waterways here in the Lowcountry. Being on the water is so peaceful, and the beauty is second to none. Every day brings something new and never gets old.

I also enjoy playing golf, and most important, I love family trips with our dogs to North Carolina and Florida.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

I want to give a shout out to Unisource Mortgage Services, Inc. Bill and Cheryl Fletcher lead by example at work and in life while giving back to our community in many ways.

I also want to give a shout out to Chris Haro, Keller Williams Realty. His attention to detail and knowledge shows throughout your buying or selling process.

ALEX NIGHTINGALE ELA’s, The Pearl, Celeste,

What is your motto in business?

Quality over quantity.

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

Going to sound corny, but my dad, Earl Nightingale. He has always been the hardest working person I know and still is.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

You have to put family first—no other way to do it…. I also have to give praise to my staff; we all look out for each other What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

Honestly, as long as I am around my wife Abbey and kids, Raegan (nine) and Maddox (six), I don’t really care what we are doing.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Find something you love, put your head down and grind!

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

Ashley Romine, Athletes Mechanic. Physical therapy that focuses on getting you back on your routine and not back in their office. They truly care about their patients.

EARL NIGHTINGALE

JOHN WASEM

What services does your business provide?

Full-service restaurants.

What is your motto in business?

If you work hard and pay close attention to the details, you will most likely see results you are looking for.

Celeste Coastal Cuisine, Roadhouse Ribs

ELA’S on The Water, Celeste Coastal Cuisine

What is your motto in business?

Do it well; never accept mediocrity, as you will lower the expectations of the entire organization.

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

John Orr, Hyatt Hotels. He was tough on me at a time I needed it—taught me discipline and honor.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

It’s a family business, so we are all involved and see each other every day ... fun.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

Like Alex, I have two young kids (Elle, eight and Ian, six), so it can be difficult during the busy season. But luckily we try to schedule ourselves so that we can still spend quality time together. Family comes first!

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

Do home repairs... I find this relaxing.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Stay the course. Too many give up too soon. You have to be passionate about your trade. If it’s all about money, you’ll burn out. Do something you love.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

The Lowrey Group: Pierce and Bonnie Lowrey.

They did it right and set the bar high. We miss Old Fort Pub.

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

Earl Nightingale, and I’m really not kissing up! I’ve never met anyone in my entire life with the work ethic that he possesses, and I’m very fortunate to have learned from his example.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

I really enjoy hanging with the family at home more than anything, but I also golf and play music.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Make a list of goals, put your head down, and never let up. Goals can always be adjusted, but that doesn’t mean you are settling for mediocrity.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

Harold’s Diner. I love everything about it!

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BURT SKY & CARL HESS Peaceful Henry’s 181 Bluffton Rd, Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 757-0557 www.peacefulhenrys.com

I began my professional career in high-tech designing, developing, and implementing major software systems for global companies. During the 1990s, I was based in Paris as a consultant for Tandem, Compaq, and Hewlett Packard, servicing Europe, Japan, China, and Australia.

I fell in love with cigars, making it a point to visit cigar stores in every country and city.

After 23 years on the road, I decided to retire and involve myself in a business where I could

find passion, fun, and personal fulfillment. The cigar industry seemed like a great fit.

I found Peaceful Henry’s while visiting Bluffton. The previous owner was ready to retire. My exact words to him: “Don’t close; let me buy the business.” I purchased Peaceful Henry’s on February 28, 2012.

Carl Hess, holding over 30 years’ experience in the cigar industry, from NYC to Bluffton, S.C. joined Peaceful Henry’s over 7 years ago. Carl was mentored by cigar industry legend Alfons Mayer. Whether you are a cigar enthusiast or new to the lifestyle, Carl will share his knowledge, expertise and passion with you. I invite you to take your palate on a journey through premium cigars.

It will be “time beautifully filled.”

After multiple expansions and remodels, Peaceful Henry’s has become a destination for folks throughout the Lowcountry and the U.S., premiering an extensive selection of cigars, full smoking lounge and bar, and some of the best food in Bluffton.

Peaceful Henry’s is your place to enjoy life.

we work very well together. And the babies are our motivation. When I get home, it’s straight to daddy mode.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

We love to bring the babies down to the Alljoy Beach. It’s where I grew up, and it’s our neighborhood. It’s beautiful, quiet, and private. The view is the best part.

BUBBA FLANDERS May River Pressure Washing, LLC (843) 415-6545 (843) 802-3632 mayriverpressurewashing.com

Who is the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

My father worked hard his whole life and instilled it in me. He taught me how to be my own boss and showed me I can have anything if I put the work in.

What is your motto in business?

Always aim to do the next right thing. The good will come back to you. A motto our family lives by as well.

How do you juggle family time while running a business?

It’s a family business! We all have a part.

My wife is accountant and marketing, and

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

Andrea and Nick Bergelt, owners of Healthy Habit and childhood friends of ours. They inspire us with their hard work and dedication. They see what the community needs and give them what they want. And they set an example: don’t stop once you reach the top, showing us there is so much more, and we are ready for it.

Dr. Michael Campbell Sr., Dr. Michael Campbell Jr., Dr. Kevin Campbell Optical Solutions drmichaelcampbell.com Hilton Head North End Hospital Center Commons 10 Hospital Center Commons, Ste 100 Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 (843) 681-6682 Hilton Head Mid-Island -Shelter Cove 50 Shelter Cove Ln., Ste. G Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (843) 785-8008 Bluffton- Old Town Bluffton 27 Dr. Mellichamp Dr. Ste 100 Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 706-0607

MCSr.: My father was the most important person in my life. He worked 24/7 but always seemed to make it to my events when they occurred.

MCJr.: My mother and father have given me many tools in life to strive to be the best in everything I have tried to accomplish. I have been lucky to have amazing high school teachers (shout out Dr Gray) and college professors in my life.

KC: I have so many people to thank who impacted me on this journey, but obviously the easy answer is my father. His hard work and dedication to his patients has given me a foundation on which I hope to grow.

What is your motto in business?

Michael Campbell Sr.: I always try to listen and think before I react to a patient’s question or condition. I want to make every patient feel comfortable and know that they have been listened to at every visit.

Michael Campbell Jr.: Giving the best health care possible and treating all patients like one of my family members.

Kevin Campbell: To make patients feel as comfortable as possible with the proper education regarding their diagnosis.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

MCSr.: Time management is key to making a business run. You must plan your schedule daily and strategically, but in this business, expect emergencies to happen.

MCJr.: Being recently married, I am still trying to figure this one out…. Chloe, I will figure it out.

KC: The harder you work during your workday, the more you get done. This allows for more family time after hours and keeps me from bringing work into the home.

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

MCSr.: Spending time on the water or watching baseball and more baseball.

MCJr.: I love to hop on the golf cart with my wife, and we love being outside.

KC: Being outside, whether that is on the water with friends/family or exercising.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

MCSr.: My advice to new business owners/managers is to always be ready to work harder than anyone around you.

MCJr.: Don’t be scared, and work hard for your dreams. Go for it.

KC: I am a new entrepreneur! All advice is welcome.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

MCSr.: I give a shout-out to the SERG Group because I am always amazed by how well their different locations perform year in and year out.

MCJr.: I would like to give a shout-out to Grant Taylor who owns Peddling Pelican bike rentals in Sea Pines. He works nonstop, giving up all his holidays to provide rental services to the tourists.

KC: Eric Overstake, “E-Z” at Fat Baby’s Pizza is crushing it! His genuine care for his employees and work ethic make that place what it is.

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KEVIN SEVIER State Farm Agency 301 Buckwalter Pl Blvd, Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 837-2886 What is your motto in business?

I borrow part of the mission statement from State Farm, and that is to help people recover from the unexpected. My team and I work diligently each day to make sure our customers understand their insurance needs and where risks or gaps in coverage may come up. I don’t know that there is a way to possibly be prepared for every disaster or accident that comes your way, but we want to educate our customers so they understand how their insurance policies work for them.

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful.

My father in law, Troy Herndon, is probably the most important mentor I have had in business. He taught me to always take care of your customer. He had a way of empathizing with a customer after a loss like no other, working with employees as they adapt to business model changes, or just communing with friends. He empowered his team to make decisions, and he always backed them

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on those decisions, even when he may have thought there was a different way to handle a situation. He was always a competitive person in business, but he believed if you aren’t moving forward in business, you are moving backwards. Jokingly, there wasn’t a stranger that he ever met; we literally could be traveling across the country, and we always ran in to someone Troy knew. He is retired now and enjoying the years of hard work, but I still enjoy grabbing lunch with him to talk about business.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

Early on, juggling business and family time was more difficult. I wasn’t ready to let go of some of the responsibilities at the office.

As time has gone by, I have been lucky to surround myself with a great team, and they allow me the time I need to get away from the office. I can take those family trips without worrying about what will happen at the office.

I can take an afternoon off to spend time in the woods or on the boat with my family. My family would probably say that my phone is never far away, even when I’m on vacation, but they understand it is hard to let go sometimes.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

I enjoy boating with my family or shooting sporting clays with my sons. Growing up with my brother and my dad, we always did the same. I have always enjoyed the outdoors, so shooting sports and being on the water always figured into the equation.

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Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Don’t lose focus of where you want to be.

Continue to keep that your focus even when you feel like you are hitting your head against a wall every day. Business plans will have to change to adapt to what is going on in the economy or in our community. COVID hurt a lot of business owners, so make sure you have a plan B for when the disaster hits, and I promise it will. Have a backup plan for how you will continue to provide for your family and your employees. The most successful business owners aren’t necessarily great because plan A worked; it’s because they were willing to adapt and come up with a plan B (or C).

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

Shout out to Jared Stromer with Stromer Plumbing. He started working in a small family-owned plumbing business after his time in the Marine Corps, but he had a mindset to grow this business to something larger. He always makes times for his daughters and his wife Nichole. He is grounded, humble, generous, and an astute businessman. I always hear people talk about someone being willing to give you the shirt off their back; this is Jared. He has a mindset for taking care of his customers and his employees today, and he is always planning for tomorrow in his business.

He has a great business model to emulate, and we should all strive to be the family man that he is for his girls.

person as an individual as important as your business itself and they will respond with love and loyalty.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

Running this business is family time for me. After years of traveling the world in my prior career in health care and missing so much family time, I came out of retirement to build a local business with my son. Nothing occupies your time and attention like your own business; operating one with your family takes “family time” to a whole new level.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

Like most folks who relocate to this area, I love to golf and fish. Living close to the water, I can go fishing on a whim without a whole lot of preparation or planning. I like that. I also love doing things with my dog, Rudy. Every day is a training day for him, so when I have a little extra time, he’s always ready for an adventure.

TINO VILLANI Mosquito Hunters of Savannah-Hilton Head (843) 301-1159 mosquitohunters.com/hilton-head-sc

What services does your business provide?

We provide effective and responsible control of outdoor pests, especially those that bite, including mosquitos, no see-ums, fleas, and ticks. Our service is ongoing and comprehensive in that once we initiate, we will continue to treat at regular intervals to ensure that the pest population remains below annoying levels. If at any time between services there is an uptick in pest

activity, we will be there, same day, to re-treat at no cost, no questions. Our goal is to ensure the most consistent and effective outdoor pest control possible.

What is your motto in business?

Take Back Your Yard!

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful?

I have been fortunate to have many inspirational mentors over my long career. All have added immeasurably to my successes. One of my most treasured mentors is a close friend and business associate who taught me something that I have made a part of everything I do with Mosquito Hunters.

He taught me that every successful business is nothing more than a series of successful relationships. Treat every

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Faith and focus are your two most important friends. Have faith in yourself and stay focused on your business.

Things don’t always happen the way we plan them, and often we have to remember that it’s better to grow slowly than stand still. But if you retain faith and focus, you will succeed.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

There are lots of brave folks here who walked away from familiar surroundings to make a go of things in Hilton Head and are amazingly successful. If I had to pick one, which is completely arbitrary, I’ll give a shoutout to Cash Mullen of Freedom Boat Club. Cash took an okay business and, in a few years, turned it into a great business. He is definitely focused and believes in himself. I continue to wish him success in achieving all that he wants from his business.

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MICHAEL SABA Artisan Custom Homes – Hilton Head, LLC 67 Cemetery Road Hilton Head, SC 29926 (843) 501-9730 artisanhiltonhead.com

What services does your business provide?

We design and build new custom homes.

What is your motto in business?

Treat others as you would like to be treated yourself. Be the best new home builder and builder of choice for the clients, contractors, governments, and communities where we work.

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful.

I owe my parents for giving me the life skills to succeed and learn. My most important professional mentor was my boss and VP in my early years in the business. He taught me the technical side of home building

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and, as important, the behavioral skills of total commitment, hard work, integrity and fighting hard for the client and the company.

The amount of time working was never as important as the quality of the time exerted.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

My wife Jill and I run the business together with the help of our VPC, quality assurance manager and designer, so our work is actually part of our family. We love what we do, and it never seems to impede our time together. After a long successful career with National Home Builders, reaching the level of division president, I decided in 2017 it was time for our next chapter and to go out on my own and form Artisan Custom Homes – Hilton Head. My dream since I graduated from SMU (where I met Jill) was to build custom homes on the beach. We’re at the beach; we have the knowledge, and we will only build 4-5 homes at any given time to ensure the highest standards of Artisan Homes.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

I enjoy golfing, boating and traveling with

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my family and friends and spending time with our English Cream Golden Retrievers, Jockamo and Pebbles. We like to experience great destinations, food, wine, and new experiences. Live well, love much, laugh often, and give thanks to God for every new day, as every day is a holiday.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Have a plan! Dream it, visualize it, and never give up on your goals. Luck is when preparedness meets opportunity. Work really hard, treat people well and fairly, be organized, honest and prepared, the opportunities are all around us in this great state and nation.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

Tammy and Munjid Yousif own Olive & Fig Restaurant in Bluffton, S.C. They are the most caring, decent, hardest working, most unselfish couple I know. As a first generation Lebanese American, we go there whenever we need some “home cooking!”

Their commitment to high quality, service and attention in their business and to their family, faith and friends in their lives really stands out.

John Paull Innovative Concrete Coatings 3147 Argent Blvd Suite 4, Ridgeland, SC 29936 (843) 295-1391 innovativeconcretesc@gmail.com innovativeconcretecoatings.com

What services does your business provide?

We are a full-service concrete floor coating contractor, specializing in durable polyurea coatings.

What is your motto in business?

We make concrete beautiful!

Who was the most important mentor you had and what did they teach you that’s helped you be successful.

The truth is that I have never had a mentor but what I have had is a collective and combined group of successful people cross my path over the years. Individual’s as well as my parents were generous with their

time and advice which helped me get to where I am today. These people guided me by answering tough questions and giving me honest feedback when needed. The support I’ve received from family and close friends has been immeasurable and greatly appreciated.

Becoming a member of local Business chapters and associations has also helped open many doors that probably would not have been available if I had not joined them.

How do you juggle family time with running a business?

Originally born and raised in Michigan, most of my family still resides there.

My wife and I both stay very busy but try to work in leisure time when we can. Evenings sometimes run late, but for the most part, dinner together is important time to catch up on the day’s events. Long weekend camping trips once a month in our fifth wheel are something we both find pleasure in and try to make happen. Boating, short rides on the motorcycle, and spending time cooking out with friends and my wife’s daughter and mother are all part of keeping us

happy and refreshed. The schedule is tight, but somehow we manage to work it all in.

What is your favorite thing to do when you get a little downtime?

I’m currently in the process of building my ’67 Fastback Mustang.

Advice for new entrepreneurs?

Find something you love and believe in, and you will find your success.

Give a shout-out to one of your favorite local businesses/business owners and tell us what you think they are doing right.

The R Bar—a sports bar and restaurant in the Lowcountry. Shout out to Brandon, Tanya, Benny, & Brittney. The owners, who are also personal friends, have always had a clear vision and determination about what they wanted. The R Bar, in my opinion, is the best sports bar in the Hilton Head Island/Bluffton area. Amazing food with a great atmosphere has captured the hearts of not only the local people but those who visit our beautiful cities and islands.

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Jim Buser, local Entrepreneur, is photographed at Sports Addiction in Bluffton.

ARTICLE BY BARRY KAUFMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY 2 LIGHTS, 1 STAND

HOW JIM BUSER WAS ABLE TO GROW HIS EMPIRE DESPITE LOCKDOWNS, SETBACKS, AND INCURSIONS FROM BIG-BOX JUGGERNAUTS.

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f you grew up in sports, odds are good you have that one coach who taught you something that stuck with you. Far more than simply showing you how to run faster, catch a ball better, or swing a bat with greater force, this mentor made sure your spirit was as ready for competition as your body was.

Jim Buser was lucky enough to have had several great coaches. At Oklahoma State, it was his coach Ralph Tate who gave him that one quote, that one nugget of wisdom, that has made all the difference.

“He said you can have a dream, but that dream will not come true without a plan,” Buser said. “That’s always been there.”

As such, meticulous planning has always been a part of Jim Buser’s life. It’s served as a guiding light as he has kept his first business, Sports Addiction, thriving despite overwhelming competition. It was planning ahead that let him expand outward, opening the Old Town Bike Barn in the Bluffton Promenade and Hilton Head by Boat. Through trials and tribulations, it has been his keen planning, his almost clairvoyant mindset on what will come next, that has kept the wheels spinning on his empire.

To understand how far this has taken him, you need to go back 20 years to when he first opened Sports Addiction with his sister, Kathy Sigler. Following a long period

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From left to right: David Flementis, Chris Kraly, Brandon Stinson, and Jim Buser.

working under retail mentor Bill Herbkersman, Buser had set out his own shingle as a sporting goods store for young and old.

“We opened as a sort of smaller version of a Dick’s Sporting Goods,” he said. At that point, the retail giant had not made any overtures toward opening a spot in a town as small as Bluffton, creating the perfect opportunity for Buser to fill that void. Still, he knew that it was only a matter of time before the retail giant caught wind of a town that was just then flirting with explosive growth.

And then, at the worst possible moment, they did.

“Around 2008 or 2009 when Dick’s opened, our lease ran out,” Buser said. “It stomped on our foot. We really got in the mud for a while.”

But there was a plan, hastily set into motion, that would allow Sports Addiction to grow into something that the big box store couldn’t touch. “We went back to our roots: swimming, running shoes, pickleball, fitness equipment

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for home or commercial use…” Buser said.

The shop retooled and relocated, to a spot out in Okatie. “We realized we needed to get out and take care of people in Berkeley Hall, Palmetto Bluff, Spring Island, Sun City … and it ended up being a great location. I went out there with my father four months before he passed away and he said, ‘This is the spot you need to get.’”

The move allowed Sports Addiction to keep its doors open during the worst of the great recession, and it also spurred Buser to start expanding his plans. He’d opened the Old Town Bike Barn already, whose growth was quickly fueled by the closure of the only other bike repair shop in town.

Still, as anyone who lived through that time knows, money was tight. “Financially, I was rubbing pennies together. So, I thought, ‘Why not get my captain’s license?’”

Taking on charters allowed for the next expansion, Hilton Head by Boat. On the smaller center console Triton and eventually the 26-foot Hurricane Godfrey, the sunset

Jim and Marri Buser with their dog Cooper on their boat in Broad Creek.

sail and dolphin cruise charters let Buser add to his empire and feed his desire to get out on the water. And with that, the third front on his expanding empire opened, letting Buser sail through the choppy waters of economic uncertainty.

His meticulous planning had gotten them through the worst of it, but there was another storm on the horizon in the form of a global pandemic. We assume you know which one. For Buser’s business, however, this storm’s clouds were ringed with silver.

“During COVID, they told you to get outside, so everyone wanted to get a bike,” he said. He planned for that, as well, filling his inventory of bicycles to the brim in anticipation of both the surge in demand and the cratering of supply. “I was super aggressive. It was just ‘buy now because there’s not going to be any later on.’”

In addition to the stream of cyclists showing up at the Bike Barn, Sports Addiction’s emphasis on home gym equipment helped them thrive during lockdown. “It brought a lot of awareness to being physically fit. Everyone was buying equipment for their home instead of going to the gym.”

The pandemic also helped him secure a key staffer, one who has always been a big part of his plans. “My wife, Marri, was in the restaurant business at Captain Woody’s for 10-11 years. When COVID hit, we were so busy, I asked if she could quit because we needed her so bad. She was essential,” he said. “There were people lined up outside my door placing orders for bikes, and we were just blowing through so much stuff. She started handling inventory and pricing, and it’s the best thing that ever happened to my marriage.”

She’s not the only key team member, though. Buser is quick to credit the folks who helped build his businesses and keep them running. Whether it was Bill Herbkersman’s mentorship early on, the members of the business community who have supported him from the beginning (“They know who they are.”) or the employees who have proved indispensable, they are all part of the plan.

“I’m super blessed to have this incredible staff who have been with me through all that. It was rough being in there during COVID,” he said. “My staff was amazing. It was definitely different, but we were so busy.”

And now, with the pandemic behind us and further highs and lows ahead, Buser continues to look down the road to what’s next. “You have to have some kind of plan— some kind of vision,” he said. “They don’t always work out.

You gotta stick your foot in the mud for a while because it doesn’t come easy.”  CH2CB2MAGAZINE.COM

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WRandy Rose and Steve Krehbiel of Rose Hearing Healthcare Centers.

We caught up with Randy Rose to find out a thing or two about a condition that plagues 15 percent of the population as they age:

HEARING LOSS.

WHAT TYPICALLY CAUSES HEARING LOSS, AND IS IT PREVENTABLE? Sensorineural Hearing Loss is the most common type of hearing loss. It can be a result of aging, exposure to loud noise, injury, disease, or certain drugs.

Hearing loss is preventable by protecting your hearing from noise; many people have lost hearing due to work noise exposure. A single rock concert, for example, can age your hearing 10 years, so protect your hearing as you would protect your eyes.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE FIRST SIGNS OF HEARING LOSS, AND AT ABOUT WHAT AGE CAN THIS HAPPEN? There is no right answer to this question. We fit infants with hearing systems as well as people of all ages. My hearing loss started in my forties. First signs of hearing loss would be having to ask people to repeat themselves or trouble hearing the television.

In general, most people lose the higher frequencies which is where the consonants are, so they get by with the vowel sounds. The vowel sound is the power of the words, and consonants are the clarity of the words.

WHY IS IT MORE DIFFICULT TO HEAR PEOPLE IN RESTAURANTS OR PLACES WITH MORE AMBIENT NOISE AS HEARING LOSS OCCURS?

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FIRST SIGNS OF HEARING LOSS WOULD BE HAVING TO ASK PEOPLE TO REPEAT THEMSELVES OR TROUBLE HEARING THE TELEVISION.

Difficulty hearing in a noisy environment is an ageold conundrum. For some reason we feel that a hearing aid system should only allow us to hear what we want.

However, technology today allows us to help with this better than ever before. Testing new technology has shown that people with newer hearing aids in a noisy environment could hear almost as well as those tested in the same environment who had normal hearing.

DOES HEARING LOSS GET PROGRESSIVELY WORSE? For some patients, hearing does not get worse, which is why we try to retest hearing at least once a year, but generally every two years. Small changes in hearing can cause a big difference in performance of your hearing system.

WHAT IS THE BEST TYPE OF HEARING AID CURRENTLY ON THE MARKET, AND WHY IS IT REMARKABLE? There are basically six companies making hearing aids: Widex, Oticon, Starkey, Resound, Signia and Phonak. We choose which companies work best for each client depending on hearing loss, lifestyle, and history of amplification. All these companies are good; the provider is key. If your provider is good at programming the system to fit your needs, and if you follow through with wearing the hearing system on a schedule, you will be delighted with the outcome.

IS HEARING LOSS PERMANENT, OR IS THERE A CURE? Some hearing losses are permanent, and some are temporary. If you suspect a hearing loss, come in for a hearing test to determine if it is permanent, if it can be medically treated, or if it is treatable through proper amplification.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT ON MY FIRST VISIT TO ROSE HEARING HEALTHCARE CENTERS? Your first visit with us should be pleasant, no pressure. We strive to give dignity back to people with hearing loss. We do a best-practice workup to find out if you have a correctible hearing loss or if the hearing loss needs to be medically treated. If hearing aids are the best course, we will let you demo the latest hearing aids and give you a risk-free trial for 30-45 days.

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ARTICLE BY BECCA EDWARDS

HEMINGWAY, THE UKRAINE AND MY BROTHER “NEVER THINK THAT WAR, NO MATTER HOW NECESSARY, NOR HOW JUSTIFIED, IS NOT A CRIME.” — ERNEST HEMINGWAY

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ince coverage of the initial assault by Russia on Ukraine February 24, 2022, we have all seen images or read or heard accounts.

Most likely, these scenes and depictions have elicited an emotional response in you. Maybe you have even asked yourself, “What can I do for the Ukrainians?”

Andrew Dupps did.

Growing up, Dupps often had a worn copy of The Old Man and the Sea vying for space in his cluttered childhood room. I know. As his little sister, I would sneak into his room and steal the book from time to time to read excerpts.

My brother has a Hemingway way about him.

He always has. He looks like a force to be reckoned with; he is good with a rifle and even better with a fishing rod; and he even worked as an anti-poacher

in Zimbabwe, where he essentially hunted people who were hunting endangered or protected animals.

So, when Andrew told the family he was going to the Polish border to contribute to the relief effort for the Ukrainians, we asked our hero not to be too much of a hero. That wasn’t his intention. Instead, from March 14 to 22, as he volunteered along the Polish border, 12 miles from missile attacks, he gained a firsthand perspective of some of the people and places affected by the Russian-Ukrainian conflict. In a Q and A with his annoying little sister, he shared his story: Q: When did you first visit Ukraine and feel invested in the Ukrainian people?

A: I had gone to Crimea in 2004 to go duck hunting. I spent a week there. Our guides were locals from Sovjetski, which is a small town in western Crimea.

Not many Americans had visited there and since there

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HEMINGWAY, THE UKRAINE AND MY BROTHER

b Andrew Dupps

was only one hotel (that dated back to the 70s), we got to meet several of the people in the town. They were very polite and social, introducing us to local favorites.

Q: Why did you feel compelled to go to the Polish border and help Ukraine?

A: Watching the events on TV, seeing the faces of people who were getting bombed, having to evacuate from their homes and leaving everything behind hurt me. I felt I needed to do something besides watch it all on TV. I did not know which charities were real and which ones were not, so I needed to go and see who needed help.

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Q: What was traveling to Poland like?

A: I arrived in Paris from the U.S. When I got to the waiting area for my flight to Warsaw, I could see all shapes and sizes. Most of the passengers were normal, but a handful were men carrying vests and other gear. Some of them looked like characters out of a truck stop sitcom.

Two guys had duck hunting camo outfits on. They were already gravitating toward each other. Then there were a couple of others that looked the part: tight haircut, black Gore-Tex boots, military backpack. I ended up talking to one of these guys and his contact at Warsaw gave me a lift to the train station.

Q: What were your accommodations like?

A: I stayed in various hotels. The closer you got to the border, the harder it was to find a room. The first night I was in Kraków, and I stayed in a five-star hotel on the square for $72. Kraków was amazing. I then got hotel rooms east of Rzeszow for a couple of nights. After that, I slept in my rental car in the parking lot of the Medyka border crossing.

Q: Who did you meet there?

A: On my first day, I went to the Przemysl train station since I had seen it on TV several times as they reported on the refugees coming into Poland.

They directed me to a centralized building where

refugees are dropped off from the border. Here you can register as a volunteer. That day, they were not accepting any more volunteers but asked me to come back tomorrow to see if they needed any help. That afternoon, I decided to go to the border at Medyka and see it for myself. As I was walking around, I met two young Frenchmen and asked them if there were any people from the U.S. helping. They told me to come back in the morning and they would introduce me to some Brits who were there.

The next morning, I found them, and they introduced me to “The Colonel,” a Brit who was helping English-speaking people get over to Ukraine to help. He gave me a stark view into what was happening in Kiev and that it was not a picnic. I told him I was here for humanitarian help, not to join the Territorial Defense. He introduced me to David Fox Pitt with Siobhan Trust. David had brought over everything from Scotland and was making pizzas, soups and hot drinks for those coming over the border. There were several people from the U.K. plus a handful of Americans who came in shifts to help, along with David. Mixed in with this group was a guy from Warsaw who was able to take time off from his company to help plus a person from Medyka who came after she got off work in the afternoon to help at night.

The refugees came over the border 24 hours a day unless temperatures got too low. Sometimes temps were below 25 degrees at night. Our tent was along the walkway once you passed Polish border crossing. There were tents all along the walkway with volunteers from several countries. Israelis had

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b Andrew Dupps making pizzas for Ukraine refugees on the Polish border

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Scenes from the Ukraine a medical tent; Germans had a vet station; Indians had a soup truck; French made sandwiches; plus different international organizations had tents with food, SIM cards, blankets, baby items, etc. One American came there within three to four days of the invasion. His name was Jesse. He worked with several groups and began helping refugees on the other side of the border with food and blankets. We dropped off supplies to the Ukrainian side at night. He was collecting medical supplies from sources in the U.S. and Europe and delivering them to Lviv and Odessa.

Q: What were your impressions?

A: Most of the people at the border were there to help in any capacity. There was a unified sense of community among everyone. That was my first time in Poland, and I was amazed by how helpful they were and their unwavering support for the people of Ukraine. Watching the Ukrainians walk down the line towards the buses to Przemysl, it was all women and children.

The women over 55 looked stoic, clearly veterans of the Soviet days. The moms holding their children looked shell shocked.

The children mostly had smiles on their faces, like it was just

THESE ARE PROUD, TOUGH, AND KIND PEOPLE. I WAS GIVEN DONATIONS BEFORE HEADING OVER TO POLAND, AND I HANDED OUT $100 BILLS TO SOME FAMILIES THAT HAD NOTHING. EVERYONE INITIALLY REFUSED, AND I HAD TO INSIST THAT THEY ACCEPT IT. THIS WAS FOLLOWED BY TEARS AND HUGS.

another day.

Q: What does Ukraine need most right now?

A: They need the West to remain focused on their fight and help with military and humanitarian aid. This is not Ukraine’s war. This is, in my opinion, the beginning of Russia versus the West.

The Poles know this, and that’s why they are helping to the point of putting their economy in peril.

Q: What should people understand about the Polish and Ukrainian people?

A: These are proud, tough, and kind people. I was given donations before heading over to Poland, and I handed out $100 bills to some families that had nothing. Everyone initially refused, and I had to insist that they accept it. This was followed by tears and hugs. They know by experience or from studying their history what it means to be under Soviet control. Most are willing to die before allowing their families fall back under Russian control.

Q: Are you still raising funds/ goods for Ukraine?

A: I was initially helping Jesse raise funds for a new ambulance, helmets, tactical vests and supplies. I have made some donations to people helping in Ukraine as medics. The Siobhan Trust is fantastic and well plugged in. I would suggest anyone wanting to help to contact them.

Q: It feels like people have almost become used to the war. What are your thoughts on this?

A: Sadly, I agree. With everything else happening in the U.S., news from the war gets put more and more on the backburner. Allowing Russia to get away with this means decades of turmoil in Europe which will cost the U.S. a hundred times more than the cost to stop it now.

Q: What’s next for you.

A: I am working on getting back to Ukraine this summer.  CH2CB2MAGAZINE.COM

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ARTICLE BY CHERYL ALEXANDER P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y M . K AT

Fur Babies

24/7

CAROLINA VETERINARY CRITICAL CARE O F F E R S P E T C A R E W H E N YO U N E E D I T M O S T

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f you own a pet, then it is very likely your fur baby is as dear to you as anyone else in your family and their health just as precious. Most pet owners have regular vets for their fur children, just like they have pediatricians for their human children. But where do you turn in a crisis? Where do you go for acute pet care in the middle of the night when moments are precious and seconds count?

That was the situation when Legend, a young Rottweiler puppy whose appetite for food and fun was suddenly arrested. Not only had the pup stopped eating, but when he suddenly couldn’t even stand up, his owners realized they were facing a life-threatening emergency.

“He had been treated for parasites and wasn’t responding,” said Dr. Matthew Tenwolde of Carolina Veterinary Critical Care. Dr. Tenwolde tested Legend’s potassium levels and found that they were too high to

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Andrew Starmer and Matt Tenwolde give Tinkerbell a check-up.

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Carla Genther, Andrew Starmer, Dr. Katherine Hamlet, Dr. Denise Lane, Dr. Josh DuVall, Dr. Matt Tenwolde and Nicole Smith measure. To him, it was a clear sign of Addison’s Disease, a treatable disease but only if it’s diagnosed quickly. Having access to Carolina Veterinary Critical Care was a blessing for Legend and his owners.

“If your local vet is closed or your pet requires critical care, that’s where we can help,” Dr. Tenwolde said.

While Dr. Tenwolde and his staff currently don’t offer vaccines or wellness exams, they do work closely with your family veterinarian in a team-based approach to provide high quality continuity of care. They can stabilize your pet in an emergency, offer hospitalization, and if needed, a wide variety of surgical procedures. Best of all, they are local. You no longer have to travel to Charleston or Savannah to get critical care for your fur babies.

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Dr. Michelle Martin looks on as Dr. Josh DuVall analyzes a sample.

“Serving our community is the ultimate goal of this business,” Dr. Tenwolde said, “and we offer our service through our passion for animals. All our employees are local people who care deeply about helping people and pets when things go wrong in middle of the night. Whether your pet has a cut or something more serious illness like kidney failure or toxicity, if you’re worried about your pet, we are always here.”

Dr. Tenwolde knew from age eight

Pet food can be purchased on site, along with pet meds.

that he wanted to be a veterinarian. He graduated in 2007 from the U.C. Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, the nation’s top veterinary school. After receiving more training at Ohio State University in medical and surgical internship, he returned to UC Davis to teach before opening an emergency and specialty care hospital with colleagues in Sacramento, California.

While in California, Dr. Tenwolde met his future wife Bobbi Jean, a Bluffton transplant and family practice physician. It was during a trip to the Lowcountry to visit her family that he realized the need for his expertise in this area. He and his wife decided to bring emergency veterinary care to this area. After working for more than a year at a local clinic, Dr. Tenwolde decided to go out on his own, and Carolina Veterinary Critical Care opened its doors.

Today, the Tenwoldes call Bluffton home, along with their 3- and 5-year-old children and “Boo Boo Kitty” their cat, who was found on the side of the road and brought to his office, eventually surviving 10 surgeries.

Just like Legend, the Rottweiler, Boo Boo Kitty owes his life to the care he received at Carolina Veterinary Critical Care.  Carolina Veterinary Critical Care is located at 21 Buck Island Road in Bluffton. To learn more, call (843) 706-9200 or visit carolinavcc.com.

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Article by Cheryl Alexander Photography by John McManus Architecture & Interiors by Group3 Construction by Sandcastle Constructors

WEXFORD CASTLE FAMILY HOME OFFERS GRANDEUR, WARMTH, AND MEMORIES

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at Smith jumped the pond to the U.S. from England with her husband Dave and their three daughters in 1976, but Wexford Plantation on Hilton Head Island wasn’t their first stop. In fact, they initially moved to Virginia but began visiting Hilton Head almost as soon as they got to the States. And, too, Wexford wasn’t the location of their first home on the island.

“My late husband and I first bought a beach house in 1989 that we co-owned with some friends of ours from Lynchburg,” Pat said. “We would come often and enjoy it ourselves, then when we weren’t here, we’d rent it out. The more time we spent here, the more we realized we wanted a permanent place of our own, and that’s how we came to live in Wexford.”

However, even the Wexford house Pat lives in now is not the original house the couple bought back in 2004. The original home was already an older home that the

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Upon entry, the 30-foot ceilings in the foyer and common areas are only upstaged by the presence of the proper English bar on one side of the living room and large custom fireplace on the other.

WEXFORD CASTLE Smiths quickly began renovating: first the kitchen, then the bathrooms. They were always looking for a way to add a fourth bedroom and could never seem to make it right, so they began looking at other homes.

“We knew we wanted to stay in Wexford because we love the size of the neighborhood, the community connection, and the amenities,” Pat said. “But when we began looking at other homes, we realized how much we loved our own view of the harbor and the ninth tee box. We decided not to move but instead start from scratch and rebuild on our lot. I think we were the first people in Wexford to do something like that, and even our children thought we were crazy.”

The Smith’s must-haves were that elusive fourth bedroom, a bigger garage, and a bigger Carolina room.

Having worked with architects and local builders on the numerous renovations of their existing home, they sought out a well-respected architectural firm known for exceptional designs and then took their recommendation of a seasoned builder with the experience to pull off a complicated project.

Mike Ruegamer of Group3 had chosen to design the home utilizing Autoclaved Aeriated Concrete block (AAC), and Tommy Smith of Sandcastle Constructors, who had built numerous homes with AAC, was the perfect fit. The team started to come together.

Securing the interior design contract also solidified the plan and ensured that the Smith’s overall vision for the home could be efficiently achieved. The home could be designed around the furnishing, and the furnishings and appointments could be massaged into the home design. “This always make for a seamless design process,” Ruegamer said.

Securing the interior design contract also solidified the plan and ensured that the Smith’s overall vision for the home could be efficiently achieved The Group3 interiors team together room by room using a neutral color palette throughout with pops of color infused in the couple’s extensive art collection—much of it from Hong Kong—and accessories.

The Smith’s must-haves were that elusive fourth bedroom, a bigger garage, and a bigger Carolina room.

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WEXFORD CASTLE

Sandcastle’s Tommy Smith was excited to be selected for what would prove to be a very challenging project. “It’s what we do,” he said.

After demolition of the existing home, Sandcastle drove more than 160 timber piling to support the footings that would support an allmasonry three-story home, full of structural steel and capped with a barrel tile roof—a very heavy and very massive structure.

Tommy said that taking Mike’s design, producing it to the exact details, and then seeing the finished product jump off the page was one of the most rewarding parts of the project. Plus, seeing the Smith’s elation and pride upon completion was priceless.

Pat, too, relied heavily on Group3’s interiors team. They worked together room by room using a neutral color palette throughout with pops of color infused in the couple’s extensive art collection—much of it from Hong Kong—and accessories.

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“It was great working with the designers at Group3 as they offered me only three or four options to select from rather than 300 or 400. I never felt overwhelmed,” Pat said.

Drawing from their English roots and influences, Pat describes her interior aesthetic akin to an English castle and the exterior style as Gothic Mediterranean. The approach is most definitely grand, rising from ground level several steps up to a large double mahogany front door, creating a symmetrical, prestigious aesthetic.

Upon entry, the 30-foot ceilings in the foyer and common areas are only upstaged by the presence of the proper English bar on one side of the living room and large custom fireplace on the other. Textured fabric walls, soft rugs, and the rich woodwork lend warmth to this majestic space.

Impressive stone walls and custom-cut, beveled glass panels framed down from the ceiling (designed by Ruegamer from Group3) separate the living room and cozier den and kitchen where there is a second, equally impressive fireplace. Each of these common spaces has a view of the Carolina room, which

WEXFORD CASTLE offers an outdoor kitchen, a third fireplace, and a view of the incredible Wexford harbor and golf course. The backyard is home to an inviting pool and hot tub, both of which were a part of the original home.

With new OCRM rules in effect for work in a buffer zone, a pool was only possible if “grandfathered” from the original approved plan for the house that was demolished.

The pool and deck were covered with a temporary wood floor that provided safety and an efficient material staging and working platform during construction. Once it was time to finish that area, the temporary floor was removed and the old pool completely remodeled, bringing a new modern look, complete with water features that complemented the new home.

Other design elements that nod to the castle-like aesthetic are the ceilings in the home. The 30-foot common areas are coffered, while the master bedroom and the game room (where there is another bar) are vaulted. Rounded walls are

also effectively regal, and the master bathroom is perfectly oval, even incorporating curved French doors to maintain the shape.

The main master suite is downstairs, while the other three bedrooms (one a second master) are on the second floor. Uniquely, each of the bedrooms in this castle offers a water view. Another distinctive upstairs feature is the open hallway overlooking the stately first floor. Its barreled ceiling is tiled with curved herringbone patterned Scagliola stone that matches the stone columns and stone stairwell, adorned with solid bronze railing, all perfectly complemented by the glasswork separating the common areas.

Though Pat’s favorite space in the home is her den and kitchen, she also loves the authentic English “phone box” shipped over from the UK and her dining room that houses a magnificent, hand-carved dining table and chairs the couple brought back from Hong Kong. Her late husband’s favorite room was his study where he also had a secret wine vault with a collection that Pat says was his pride and joy.

“This home represents so much of our life together,” Pat said. “Our hard work, our dedication to family, and all the memories of where we came from make this home our legacy.” 

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X This is the first of many articles in a continuing series in CH2 & CB2 magazines highlighting neighborhoods and gated communities in the Lowcountry.

Wexford

NEIGHBORHOOD STROLL:

ARTICLE BY CHERYL ALEXANDER TOURING HILTON HEAD ISLAND’S PREMIER NEIGHBORHOODS

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exford, a neighborhood located on Hilton Head Island, is a highly acclaimed residential gated community. What separates Wexford from other communities is its serene natural backdrop, remarkable inland harbour, luxurious amenities, and its inviting atmosphere and friendly residents and staff.

“Wexford is the quintessential private waterfront community,” said Ryan Spence, Wexford Chief Operating Officer, “providing unparalleled amenities such as an 18-Hole golf course, active tennis and pickleball courts, croquet, and a spectacular pool complex. To compliment these

Wexford

NE I G HB ORHO O D STROLL:

QWexford’s 37-acre inland

harbour offers direct access to Broad Creek and the Intracoastal Waterway and features deep canals that cut a beautiful, watery ribbon through the community, affording owners the ultimate pleasure of docking boats in their own backyard. amenities, we have a welcoming clubhouse for dining and member events, and an inland locked harbour with over 200 boat slips—a true differentiator on Hilton Head Island. We have a dedicated and world class staff that serves our members and supports all the amenities we have to offer.”

Wexford was designed so that enjoyment of the water is an integral influence on activities year-round, day and night.

As well, the community’s exclusivity means the waters are uncrowded and there are no commercial activities—simply a distinctive boating lifestyle meant to endure. Wexford boaters enjoy easy access to ports from Maine all the way to the Caribbean.

“Our beautiful marina,” said Mark Dryden, Wexford Harbour Master, “is situated at the center of Wexford. It has 138 private docks behind homes and another 135 slips in a marina near the Clubhouse. We have seven guest slips available, plus kayaks, stand up paddleboards (SUPs) and the Wexplorer, a pontoon party boat we use for harbour tours.

Some members bring their own food and beverages, then make an afternoon of it.”

As Harbour Master, Dryden’s role is a full-time position, and along with his staff, they provide navigational and docking assistance. Lit docks and all the normal facilities can be found in the marina with water, electricity, and of course a pump out shore station and boat.

Wexford’s 37-acre inland harbour offers direct access to Broad Creek and the Intracoastal Waterway and features deep canals that cut a beautiful, watery ribbon through the community, affording owners the ultimate pleasure of docking boats in their own backyard.

“The Wexford harbour is a certified South Carolina Clean Marina and boasts an innovative lock system—one of only three on the East Coast,” explained Dryden, “that minimizes tidal fluctuation to maintain a nearly constant water depth around 8 feet, provides 24-hour deep water access to Broad Creek and the Intracoastal Waterway, and can accommodate vessels up to 70 feet in length, with beams of up to 19 feet.”

Cindy Creamer, Wexford resident and Realtor, Dunes Real Estate, and her husband Mark, owner of Palatial Homes Designs, LLC, are emphatic about the benefits of boating at Wexford.

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QThe Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course is artistically blended

with the natural settings of the community to provide a meticulously maintained tour through tall, majestic oaks and stately pines.

“It’s really great to live in a community where we can get on the water at any given moment,” says Cindy. “We take our boat out almost every weekend, and thanks to the lock system, we don’t have to worry about tides; Broad Creek is always accessible. The community provides so much by way of outdoor and social activities, there’s really something to do nearly every day here in Wexford.”

“On any given day,” added Mark Creamer, “we just

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Wexford

NEIGH B O R H O O D ST R O L L :

SThe Wexford Clubhouse recently played host to Hospice Care of the Lowcountry’s Yacht Hop Fundraiser.

pack up the dogs, grab some snacks and meet up with a few friends to explore Pinckney Island, the May River, watch the sunset or to even grab a bite at Hudson’s. Tuesday summer fireworks at Shelter Cove are also a treat to see by boat.”

Cindy and Jason Bullock, owners of Carolina Rides—We Electrify Fun, moved to Hilton Head Island eight years ago along with their two daughters Marielle, a senior at Heritage Academy, and Caroline, a sophomore at Heritage Academy.

“We were living in West Virginia,” said Cindy, “and we decided life was too short to not live at the beach. We rearranged some work responsibilities and were eager to move

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SThe elegant dining room in the Wexford Clubhouse overlooks the marina.

to the South and into the amazing community of Wexford.”

“What we love most about Wexford,” said Jason, “is the wonderful sense of community, the great friendships that we have made, and the beautiful harbour and amenities.

Even though we’re working full time, we feel like we’re on vacation with our boat in the backyard.”

Tiger and Kathy Buford are building a home in Wexford and have been using all the amenities since purchasing their lot.

“We chose Wexford because we were looking for a haven,” said Kathy. “Of course, it’s wonderful living in Hilton Head where everyone wants to visit because it’s so beautiful. However,

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Cindy Creamer, Wexford resident and president of the South Carolina Realtors Association.

when the crowds descend, it’s nice to have a place where you can take advantage of all the benefits—from a distance.”

Tiger, owner of Tiger Recruiting, a recruiting company that specializes in orthopedic recruiting, works from home and loves to golf. Kathy loves walking their dog on the miles of professionally manicured leisure trails, and Wexford offers them both in a stunning setting.

Speaking of golf, the Arnold Palmer Signature Course is artistically blended with the natural settings of the community to provide a meticulously maintained tour through tall, majestic oaks and stately pines. It continues around the unique harbour and an expansive stretch of coastal marshlands to offer a unique and special experience with spectacular views.

“The Clubhouse dining, too, is great,” said Kathy, “and we’ve met all our future neighbors, who are super nice and welcoming.

We can’t wait to make Wexford our permanent home.”

Aside from the boating opportunities, social vibrancy abounds.

“Our residents have access to an active calendar for all demographics,” explained Spence, “from a myriad of member and holiday events, racquet and golf programming, social groups and pool side lounging while enjoying Waves our pool bar serving tropical drinks and light fare.”

Residents love the social hub of the Wexford pool complex which includes two pools, one for relaxation and one for recreation. Both pools are great for meeting up with friends and member of the Wexford community. Plus, Wexford is one of the only neighborhoods on the island that allows electric vehicles, so much of the neighborhood transportation to events and parties is via golf carts and Mokes. They are a great way to scoot around.

Wexford’s championship Tennis and Pickleball Center, offering six Har-Tru clay courts and four Pickleball courts (all ten of which are lighted for night play) is beautifully situated between the Harbour and Golf Course. As well, it includes both upper and lower viewing decks and a handsomely appointed clubroom for hosting courtside social events. Wexford’s full-time, Professional Tennis Registry certified staff offer year-round teaching clinics for all levels of ability.

Wexford has it all, including 24-hour gated security and its philanthropic arm, the Wexford Foundation, which has distributed over $2 million to local charities over the past decade. Wexford truly offers an extraordinary lifestyle that is sure to pleasantly exceed your expectations.

“Wexford is more than just a marina,” said Dryden. “With its canals and unique architecture, it is a little slice of Venice, quietly hidden away on Hilton Head Island.”  For more information, visit wexfordhiltonhead.com.

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have stuck by me through everything,” Knowles said. “As a result, we have built quite a camaraderie and support team. They have seen all the ups and downs I’ve been through with the different closures, and they always come back ready to go.

Our members, too, have been so supportive. We are getting healthy together, facing challenges and trials together, and getting stronger together.”

Rock&ride CYCLEBAR OFFERS EMPOWERING EXPERIENCES, CREATIVE CLASSES, AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT Article by Cheryl Alexander Photography by Celia Carroll

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aking a class at CycleBar Hilton Head offers an unforgettable encounter with energy that will leave you rinsed out, inspired, and powered up. For the past six years, CycleBar Hilton Head has used this energy to overcome adversity and build a strong community whose focus is good health and good vibes.

Overcoming obstacles is something CycleBar owner Katie Knowles does well. “Just 10 days after we opened our doors, Hurricane Matthew hit,” Knowles said. “We had to shut down for 30 days, and when we reopened, we were faced with growing a new business in a community that was rebuilding.”

Following Matthew, more bad weather and a global pandemic forced Knowles to shut her doors. In fact, since she opened CycleBar, Knowles has not been able to stay open consecutively for even a full year due to some extenuating weather or circumstance beyond her control. Yet, true to her mission, she keeps riding and just gets stronger.

“During the pandemic,” she explained, “we had to re-open with a completely different mindset. For almost a year, we held classes outdoors.

We had to wheel the bikes in and out every day to the Rollers parking lot. Due to limitations with our lease, we were unable to use our own parking lot, so we owe a lot to Rollers for allowing us to hold classes there.”

Knowles also rented out the CycleBar bikes to different groups to stay afloat during the pandemic.

She gives credit to her instructors for much of her success. Many of them have been with her since that first day and through every trial. “My instructors

The class experience The classes at CycleBar are different each time, and there are five formats from which to choose. The CLASSIC class is the basic 45-minute ride with something for everyone. It is a rocking mix of strength, endurance, challenges, hills, and drills. The PERFORMANCE class is a race/statsdriven 45-minute class that allows you to up your game using CycleStats technology, group challenges, and rider competition to challenge you. The CONNECT class allows you to unplug.

Monitors are turned off and participants tune in to the rhythm of the music. The EMPOWER class is a very athletic and more saddle-based ride where participants tap into their strength, power, and mindset. The XPRESS class is a 30-minute intervalpacked, rhythm-based ride.

CycleBar also offers opportunities for community support with their CYCLEGIVES classes. These are exciting indoor cycling rides for companies, groups, and families to help raise funds that benefit a cause.

“One client’s husband had cancer and the family had accrued tremendous bills,” Knowles said. “She hosted a 45-minute class in our space, and all the money raised went towards alleviating their hospital bills.”

Join the ride While you can always sign up for a class online at cyclebar.com/location/hilton-head, Knowles offers special deals for locals, so make sure to reach out to CycleBar before booking a ride.

“This is a great way to cross train with other fitness modalities,” Knowles explained, “and the cardio component is great.” For more information, visit cyclebar.com/ location/hilton-head or call (843) 715-2009.

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Food-court Fare with a side of Family-Friendly Fun Train-themed Crave Station offers something for everyone Article by Cheryl Alexander

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rave Station, located on the corner of Pope Avenue and Lagoon Rd., is a new food-court style restaurant whose global fare is sure to satisfy. Chris Morford (who was featured as a “Theorist” on two seasons of the popular TV show The Curse of Oak Island on the History Channel) and his wife Stella, along with brother- and sister-in-law David and Chao Klapper, have put together a unique dining experience— both in its menu and décor—with the idea to cater to groups whose members may be indecisive or can’t agree on just one option and families looking for something kid-friendly.

Initially the partners thought to open a pizzeria and were ready to open at Tanger Outlet when they learned the Pope Avenue location was available. “We had all but signed the lease for ‘Pizza Mia,’” said Morford, whose daughter is named Mia, “but then we found the Pope Avenue space, a great location but just too large for a little pizzeria. Because half of our family is from China, we decided to add some Asian food to the menu. Then the menu kept expanding.”

It was then that they decided on a food court, offering a variety of food.

Because the location was formerly a gas station and convenience store, when they were bouncing around ideas for a name of their restaurant, “Station” kept coming up. The train-themed aesthetic complements the concept of every food type having its own station.

“Our hand-built counters look like vintage train cars,” Morford said. “A metal artist made the train wheels, and my dad built the train roofs. Every train also has a real whistle that kids can pull for an authentic train sound.

We have toy trains for the children to play with and a Wheel of Fortune game. Everything about this place is kid- and family-friendly.”

The partners kept the original Pizza Mia sign that hangs over the pizzeria station where every imaginable topping is available to make your own pizza.

Specialty pizzas include margherita, supreme, chicken caprese, teriyaki tofu, or teriyaki chicken.

“Being from Chicago, I am a big pizza lover,” Morford said. “We came up with our own pizza dough and sauce recipes. Currently, we’re offering

traditional New York style, but soon deep-dish Chicago style pizza will be available. Chicago style is a bit more difficult and takes a little longer, but in my opinion, it’s the best and worth the wait.”

The Asian station offers chicken, steak, or shrimp teriyaki bowls from recipes that Stella and Chao—who do much of the cooking—brought from their native China. Again, the sauces are all homemade, and nothing is from a bottle or a can. A variety of sushi rolls, as well as hot miso soup, top off the offerings.

A burger station menu includes fresh made-to-order, never frozen American fare: burgers, hot dogs, shrimp po-boys, or chicken sandwiches. The all-beef burgers are smash burger style, which keeps the burger juicier and tastier.

Toppings include bacon, fresh veggies, and a variety of cheeses. Jumbo grilled hot dogs are prepared daily, 100 percent beef, and can be topped with chili and cheese. Chicken sandwiches are fried or grilled. All the sandwiches except the hoagie-style po-boy are served on fresh potato buns.

A multi-flavor ice cream station satisfies your sweet tooth. Milkshakes made with real ice cream—no powders or mixes—are also available, as well as fun bubble (boba) teas, fruit infused teas, and coffee drinks in multi flavors, all made to order. Kids love the peach, strawberry, or lemonade flavored yogurt juice drinks. And adults can choose from sodas, beer, wine, and a full bar.

Morford admitted that with so much to offer, people wonder if they can deliver consistent quality on such a varied menu.

“One family we recently had the pleasure of serving commented ‘Wow! You really can do it all!’ We love making people happy, and know we have everything to satisfy your cravings.” CH2CB2MAGAZINE.COM

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ARTICLE BY CHERYL ALEXANDER . PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIKE RITTERBECK

THE

TURTLE TROT WEEKLY BEACHFRONT FUN RUN FOR A GREAT CAUSE

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or the past five years during the summer months, anywhere between 300 and 400 locals and visitors of all ages have gathered each Wednesday morning at 8 a.m. on the beautiful beach at Palmetto Dunes for the Turtle Trot, a 5 kilometer run/ walk. This fun event, held this year from June 8 to August 24, is sponsored by the Palmetto Dunes Property Owners Association and Palmetto Dunes Cares to raise money for Palmetto Dunes Cares, a charitable giving initiative targeting the areas of health, environment, arts and culture,

community development, and education within the greater Hilton Head area.

“It’s more of a fun run than it is a competitive race,” said Elizabeth Simpson, director of communications for the Palmetto Dunes Property Owners Association. “Many entire families will race together, some pushing kids in strollers, some with toddlers, and even grandparents. Everyone is participating at different fitness levels and at different ages, from six to 80 years old. It’s a great way for families to do a meaningful activity together.”

“IT’S MORE OF A FUN RUN THAN IT IS A COMPETITIVE RACE.”

“EVERYONE IS PARTICIPATING AT DIFFERENT FITNESS LEVELS AND AT DIFFERENT AGES, FROM SIX TO 80 YEARS OLD. IT’S A GREAT WAY FOR FAMILIES TO DO A MEANINGFUL ACTIVITY TOGETHER.”

Since inception in 2018, Palmetto Dunes Cares has awarded $155,000 to more than 25 local non-profits through a partnership with the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, (CFL) a 501(c)(3) organization managing over 300 local funds.

The 2022 grant recipients include Backpack Buddies, Bluffton Community Soup Kitchen, Bluffton Self Help, Coastal Discovery Museum, Deep Well Project, HHI Recreation Association, Hilton Head Island Safe Harbour, Hospice Care of the Lowcountry, Lowcountry Autism Foundation, Lowcountry Legal Volunteers, Memory Matters, National Alliance on Mental Illness Lowcountry, PEP - Programs for Exceptional People, Sea Turtle Patrol Hilton Head, The Children’s Center, and World Affairs Council of HH. In addition to the Turtle Trots each Wednesday morning, Palmetto Dunes Cares also offers Turtle Education Talks each Wednesday evening at 8 p.m. on the beach in front of the Dunes House.

“The Turtle Talks is as popular an event as the Turtle Trots,” Simpson said.

“Each Wednesday evening, a member of

A crowd gathers in front of the Dunes House on the Palmetto Dunes beach early on a Wednesday morning.

Four runners in matching Turtle Trot shirts celebrate their 5k victory with a smile for the camera.

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IN ADDITION TO THE TURTLE TROTS EACH WEDNESDAY MORNING, PALMETTO DUNES CARES ALSO OFFERS TURTLE EDUCATION TALKS EACH WEDNESDAY EVENING AT 8 P.M. ON THE BEACH IN FRONT OF THE DUNES HOUSE.

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Runners head towards the finish line. The race is coordinated by Alfred Olivetti and his team at Hilton Head Running Company.

Volunteers smile and keep everyone hydrated during the weekly races.

the Sea Turtle Patrol comes to the Dunes House and educates visitors who attend on our beloved nesting sea turtles. They learn what to look for, why it’s important to turn off our lights in the evenings, why it’s important to fill in holes at the beach, and more. People love the Turtle Talks, and they sell out every week.”

The popularity of the Turtle Trots has resulted in the expansion of the event to include a Thanksgiving Day Turtle Trot.

These events are the main fundraisers for the Palmetto Dunes Cares organization.

Registration is online only and is $25 prior to race day and $35 day of the race. Registration includes a T-shirt. Kids under 12 run for free and can purchase a T-shirt for $10. All races begin at 8 a.m.

Participants are encouraged to wear shoes and bring water.

“This is a fun way to kick off one morning of your vacation,” Simpson said, “or for locals to meet up with friends and family to do something active before starting the day and give back to the community at the same time.”  For more information or to register, visit http://www.pdpoa.run/.

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Hilton Head Island Mayor

M A Y O R

Photography by M.Kat

A Note from John McCann

GET TO KNOW HILTON HEAD ISLAND

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recently spoke to a newcomer to Hilton Head Island, and she shared with me that there was no comprehensive guide for people like her that outlined all the information new Hilton Head Islanders should know. As you settle into the community, you find out bits and pieces of information you wish you had when you first moved to the island. Obviously, when you move into your new home, you will sign up for electrical service, water and sewer service, and insurance coverage. Those are steps I’m sure your real estate agent, landlord or property owners association covers with you.

While I don’t have a comprehensive guide or list, I want to share some things newcomers should know and do as they become acclimated to the island. These are tips that will help you learn about the town, be informed about town services and operations, and provide some useful tools.

• Find out who your elected representative is on our town council.

Along with myself, there are six council members who represent the island’s six wards. Come to a town council meeting as well as other committees and board meetings. You can learn a lot about projects and issues we are focused on such as short-term rentals and workforce housing. The contact information for council members is listed on our website at hiltonheadislandsc.gov. If you have a concern about any issues or suggestions, I encourage you to reach out to your elected representative.

• Register to vote in Beaufort County, S.C. This is necessary so you can participate in any local elections. The Beaufort County Board of Elections and Voter Registration is responsible for providing citizens with voter identification cards that will have information about wards, voting precincts and polling locations.

• Get a decal for the trash dump. Our town information specialists

< Bluffton Mayor

receive calls often about recycling and using the trash dump. Beaufort County operates our “Convenience Center” at 26 Summit Drive and requires you to have a car decal to drop off your trash. Visit the county’s website at beaufortcountysc.gov/solid-waste-andrecycle/convenience-centers.

• Explore our town website at hiltonheadislandsc.gov. This is our hub of information for residents and visitors. You can find out about town services, upcoming town meetings, our strategic action plan, emergency preparedness, beach regulations, beach and recreational parks, the environment and more. Are you familiar with or prepared for the 2022 hurricane season? Check out the information on our hurricane center page so

A Note from Lisa Sulka

M AY O R

GETTING TO KNOW BLUFFTON0

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id you ever wonder how development happens in Bluffton? How did the town grow from a one-square mile town to a 54-square mile town? What are the rules, regulations and ordinances that govern how our town is developed or not developed? How does South Carolina annexation law operate, and how does this law explain why the town’s jurisdictional boundaries zig zag through areas?

We have two venues for a baseline education about Bluffton’s government and our town’s culture. Town staff members host “Mobile Town Halls.” The event management and hospitality training staff members at the University of South Carolina at Beaufort host the Bluffton Ambassador Program.

Town staff presents Mobile Town Halls to neighborhoods and civic groups and hosts public sessions as well. The last one, held at the Bluffton Police Department, June 30, was well attended and included a tour of the department.

During this free workshop, participants receive an overview of town government, operations, initiatives, projects, and policies. Town staff also give short presentations on annexation, economic development, and governance.

Representatives of the town’s departments such as the Bluffton Police Department, Public Services, Watershed Management, and Growth Management are also available for a question-and-answer session after the presentation.

The Mobile Town Halls are focused on how local government operates and its parameters. This is designed to give residents a 360-degree perspective of what local government does and the services it provides. This baseline

Photography by Krisztian Lonyai

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you are ready to deal with any major storm that may arise between now and November 30, the end of hurricane season. And if you really want to be in the know about our town, e-subscribe to receive news and notices. On our website homepage, click the “Subscribe” tab in the upper right corner and provide your email address. Check the topics that matter to you, and you will start receiving related information.

• Explore CultureHHI.org. CultureHHI is the best local site for arts, culture, and event information. Our Office of Cultural Affairs keeps tabs on activities for all to enjoy.

You can find out about artists, organizations, local history, and island historical sites on the CultureHHI website and Facebook and Instagram pages.

• Download the MyHHI app on your mobile device. MyHHI gives users an easy tool to report non-emergency issues like potholes, pathway damage, beach violations, blocked storm drains and dead animals to the town from their smartphones, tablets, and computers, thanks to the town’s partnership with SeeClickFix, a citizen engagement platform. Our staff will work to address those issues. Users can access information about parks, beaches, cultural happenings, and other topics. The app is free and is available for download from the Google Play and the Apple Store. Once you download the app, you will be prompted to create an account to submit service requests.

• Stay connected with us. Finally, follow our town social media channels: Facebook, LinkedIn, Next Door, Instagram and CultureHHI. Our Town Communications Department shares a wealth information on town programs, services, the environment and more through social media.

A Note from Lisa Sulka continued knowledge helps residents participate more effectively in the decision-making of our government.

The Bluffton Ambassador Program, held via ZOOM, is another free workshop for residents. This program is comprised of quick summaries of Bluffton history, amenities, governance, future planning and touches on cultural aspects such as natural resources, marine life, festivals, and the arts.

The Bluffton Ambassador Program is designed to give an overview of “what is means to be a Blufftonian” and is perfect for new residents, local Realtors, merchants and, especially, for hospitality employees.

This program is highly recommended for new employees who interact with the public.

For more information about the Mobile Town Halls, please contact Public Information Officer Debbie Szpanka at dszpanka@ townofbluffton.com. For more information about the Bluffton Ambassador Program, please contact Su Gibson at gibsonsl@uscb. edu. Both programs can be presented to private groups or via a public session.  CH2CB2MAGAZINE.COM

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Visiting Italian students have a photo op with Hilton Head Island mayor, and members of the Italian-American Club.

Article by Carmen Hawkins DeCecco Photos by Lisa Formenti and Carmen DeCecco

Ciao First ever dolphin cruise out of Broad Creek Marina. Sunday, July 3rd.

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nless you’ve been living in a tree stump, you may have noticed the island has been rather … ahem … congested these past few months.

How often does one muse, “Where are all these people coming from?”

New Jersey? Ohio? How about Verona, Italy?

Last month, 32 Italian high school students, accompanied by two chaperones, arrived in Bluffton to visit area colleges and tour the Lowcountry. Maybe a little background is in order.

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College of Charleston visit. July 5th, 2022.

In June 2019 (a lifetime ago, pre-pandemic), a delegation of islanders and Town of Hilton Head Island officials set off to embark on a sister-city pact with the distant city of Verona. This being Hilton Head Island’s first such international partnership, the travelers were pleasantly surprised by their reception in the town known as Shakespeare’s favorite setting for romance and comedy.

Sister-city agreements can be traced back to 1931, when Toledo, Ohio “twinned” with Toledo, Spain, in an effort to learn more about each other’s culture, but more important, solve the deep puzzle, “How the heck did we both wind up calling ourselves Toledo?”

Twenty-five years later, post-WWII, President Eisenhower legitimized and encouraged the practice of international city partnerships. He believed

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that nations of the world could only heal through “people-to-people” diplomacy.

It was Eisenhower’s belief that too often serious decisions made by world leaders were driven by agendas that did not reflect the true needs of their citizens.

Folks from all walks of life prefer peace to war, he said. “I’ve never heard a single American businessman refer to war in terms of anything other than regret,” Eisenhower stated in his 1956 People to People address.

Eisenhower concluded that it was up to local municipalities and individuals to reach across the divide to form lasting bonds that would eclipse temporary geopolitical conflicts. He insisted that cooperation between towns in the form of students, professors, and executives, sharing ideas on science, philosophy, arts, and culture, would do much to advance the cause of world peace.

Since then, there has been a rapid proliferation of sister-city programs.

There are upwards of 2,000 international partnerships in 143 countries, according to

Johnny DeCecco, President of the Italian American Club of Hilton Head (IACHH), presents custom-made T-shirts to the visiting students from Italy.

The IACHH is the liaison between Verona and Hilton Head Town officials and helped organize this first student trip to the Lowcountry.

Sister Cities International, a central organization for member cities. Four cities in South Carolina currently partner with 17 cities overseas, including such disparate towns as Stornoway, Scotland, Plovdiv, Bulgaria, and Bergamo, Italy.

A cornerstone of developing a productive sister-city agreement is the education component. Student exchange programs lead to internships, work-study arrangements, and fully dimensional cultural awareness beyond what is found in textbooks. Our recent guests from Verona learned much about the Lowcountry by exploring our landscape and nature, visiting our colleges, and touring our towns.

“I envision an academic and cultural exchange program between our two cities which extends into the years and works in both directions,” said friendship pact mediator, Richard Collins of Verona. “The first task will be to evaluate how the pilot education program worked by gathering feedback from all parties. Our intention is to repeat the program in 2023. We

Hayden & Colin Jackson - two of ten local high school students who welcomed Italian students for lunch at Poseidon Rooftop following Town Hall ceremony, Thursday, July 7th.

are also interested in hosting a program of students from the Hilton Head/Bluffton area to Verona and Venice. I anticipate this is the trampoline from which the friendship pact may spring into a sister-city agreement and subsequently extend its interests to all areas.”

When a student named Ludovica was asked what she would tell her friends back in Italy about Hilton Head Island, she said, “I think I’m going to tell them to come here because it’s a beautiful place.”

Can we plan a reciprocal student visit? Of course. All it takes is a few dedicated souls on our end. “We will organize the study/travel abroad program on this end,” Collins said.

“On your end, a school or university should be identified and a director appointed to structure the program. We are happy to work with this institution and director from the early developmental phase.”

Well, what’s everybody waiting for? 

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This & That

C2 Magazine • August 2022 Edition A Series of Fortunate Events, interesting news and a hodge-podge of other items.

You know…this and that! If you would like to submit something for this special section, please email hunter@celebratehiltonhead.com. If we have room and it’s appropriate for public consumption, we’ll be happy to oblige.

UNDERGROUND BURRITO A R T I C L E

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J E S S E

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’ve met all kinds of people in my decade-plus chasing good eats across this region: good ones, bad ones, tall ones, short ones, and anything you can imagine in between. Around every corner is a character, especially in Old Town Bluffton, where they enjoy their quirk with a shot of bourbon, maybe a chardonnay. We must maintain appearances, you know. Or do we? I frankly don’t think anyone cares.

Down the road a bit, you find James Soules (French pronounce please: Soo-lay). “Jimmy,” as he is known around these parts, is one of those characters—card carrying, in fact.

Chef, owner, and serial entrepreneur, Jimmy could probably read you Gone with the Wind in about an hour-15.

I met Jimmy once upon a moon when he was head chef running the show at The Bluffton Room. He opened the place. After a break in Puerto Rico where he was running a spot on the beach, he came back to tiny Old Town to open Agave in the Promenade.

That was all long ago. These days, you’ll find Jimmy inside that burrito shop you’ve likely driven by a million times but never got up the courage to stop for. It’s called Underground Burrito and it sits in the heart of Old Town Bluffton on May River Road, in the space formerly occupied

by Twisted Bakery.

Once you do stop by, you will find a guy as passionate about what he’s doing with his restaurant as anyone around, but it is not exactly what you’d think. Yes, of course, the end game here is to sell as many burritos as he can, but it’s who he is selling to that makes this venture a little different.

“We are rolling hundreds of burritos almost every other day. Dozens for Palmetto Bluff,” he is quick to share. “The other day, we had a group of nine come in while we had boxes everywhere. It made for a crazy lunch hour.”

Which made me wonder why there wasn’t a separate line for wholesale and delivery burritos than there is for regular day-to-day customers. That got me a bit of an explanation.

Yes, of course, they want to make those day-to-day customers happy, but the big picture vision here is the vending machine, one of which is on display and in use right out front of his May River Road shop. And, yes, it is open 24 hours a day.

“We see it all the time on surveillance video,” Jimmy said. “We know who the regulars are and even the police.”

What they are seeing is people who walk up to the cooler at night, swipe a credit or debit card, and dial up a burrito. Instructions are clear on the label. You pop it in the microwave oven that’s sitting right next to it for 40-60 seconds, and boom—a quick snack. All the microwave does is heat up an otherwise fresh-never-ever-frozen-burrito, which, Jimmy believes makes all the difference in the world.

“We roll these in the machine pretty much every day, and they are gone overnight, especially the pork.” Jimmy said.

Especially on the weekends, late at night is my guess— for those that know where the secret stash is, of course.

As you might imagine, this Burrito vending machine comes with rules—Department of Agriculture, et al. No dairy (sour cream) or guacamole can be put in the burritos that are refrigerated. Them’s the rules. There are others, but those get the most attention.

It’s why Jimmy doesn’t offer guac with his burritos, tacos or quesadillas. He will be happy to make you some, but that side order is going to run you about $9 right now.

“We’ve had people get upset,” he tells me. “And we have to explain this isn’t a build-your-own burrito joint.”

What this also isn’t is an authentic, straight out of Oaxaca taco stand. There are plenty of places for that in the area (like La Poblanita!). These are gringo tacos and burritos—my word, but his description. And based on how many of you love Chipotle and Moe’s, you shouldn’t have a problem with that. Don’t get me started.

The long-term goal here is to have these vending machines positioned all over town with daily rolled burritos.

Outside of the home improvement stores, maybe an airport, maybe on boat docks. If you frequent some of the breweries in the area, you’ve probably already been eating and liking them. As I’ve mentioned already a few times, they are plenty popular all over Bluffton and Hilton Head Island.

In the short term, you are more than welcome to stop by their mothership for a taste, made to order of course. Or sneak up on that vending machine out front after hours.

If Jimmy has his way, you will see those everywhere sooner rather than later. Then he will tell you about that venture he’s working on at the golf course. 

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This & That

C2 Magazine • August 2022 Edition A Series of Fortunate Events, interesting news and a hodge-podge of other items.

You know…this and that! If you would like to submit something for this special section, please email hunter@celebratehiltonhead.com. If we have room and it’s appropriate for public consumption, we’ll be happy to oblige.

Paddleboarders and kayakers from around the country are invited to race in the 2022 OluKai Lowcountry Boil Paddle Battle on September 10 on the scenic Skull Creek. This year’s event includes three distinct races: the 1-mile Vairo Aloha Fun Cup, the 4.5-mile Shrimpers Cup and the 11-mile Boil Long Course, which is a circumnavigation of Pinckney Island. There is something for every age, skill level, and vessel—including kayaks, paddle boards, OC-1’s and surf skis. There will also be vendors, food, sponsor displays and lots of fun for spectators. The OluKai Lowcountry Boil Paddle Battle will be hosted at the Rowing and Sailing Center at Squire Pope Community Park with events starting at 8 a.m. Trophies will be awarded to the top three men and women in each division with more than five competitors, and there will be cash awards for Long Course divisions with more than 10 participants.

The OluKai Lowcountry Boil Paddle Battle is a fundraiser to benefit The Outside Foundation, a local non-profit whose mission is to get kids outside and protect and preserve our local eco-system. All registration fees and donations go directly to supporting the Foundation’s programs including Kids in Kayaks, the Oyster Recycling and Reef Building Initiative, and various litter sweep programs.

All information about the event, supplementary events, registration, photos and more can be found at lowcountrypaddle.com.

In addition to the main race day events, there will be supplementary events hosted on Sunday, September 11. Starting at 8 a.m., Lowcountry Trash Heroes, Palmetto Running Company, Keen on Klean and The Outside Foundation will collaborate to host a litter sweep of the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge. On the beach side of the island, race organizers will host a surf technical sprint with a beach start and finish.

Robert Costello is pleased to announce the opening of Public Kitchen + Wine Bar in Port Royal Plaza on Hilton Head Island. The restaurant is a modern take on a 1920s speakeasy, offering classic craft cocktails and a huge whiskey selection along with charcuterie, cheese plates, crudites with hummus, and more. Open TuesdaySaturday from 5 p.m.-2 a.m. with live music Fridays and Saturdays; Sundays from 8 p.m.-2 a.m.

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CH2CB2MAGAZINE.COM

This & That

C2 Magazine • August 2022 Edition A Series of Fortunate Events, interesting news and a hodge-podge of other items.

You know…this and that! If you would like to submit something for this special section, please email hunter@celebratehiltonhead.com. If we have room and it’s appropriate for public consumption, we’ll be happy to oblige.

Robin Sue Ross’ impressionistic paintings will be on display at the Art League Gallery August 16-September 24.

An opening reception, free and open to the public, will be held Wednesday, August 17, 5-7 p.m.

Surroundings...Capturing the Lowcountry on Canvas features works in acrylics and oil pastels by Robin Sue Ross. Ross’ paintings are a colorful, impressionistic tribute to the Lowcountry landscape and its wildlife. Her bold colors and loose brushstrokes capture moments in time that might otherwise be overlooked. “My goal as a colorist is to successfully evoke a reaction of delight and wonder,” she said. “I would hope that this exhibit reminds us to never forget to focus on the absolute beauty we have around us.”

Ross has degrees in visual arts and art education, and briefly taught public school art and gave private studio lessons before embarking on a 30-year career as a professional musician. She recently rediscovered her love of painting during the pandemic and is grateful to have done so amidst the beauty of the Lowcountry.

The Art League Gallery is located at 14 Shelter Cove Lane on Hilton Head Island. It is open Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and 90 minutes before every Arts Center performance. For more information, call (843) 681-5060.

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