HELPING OUR COMMUNITY: SPOTLIGHT ON LOCAL VOLUNTEERS
GIFT GUIDE FOR HIM
MEET THE STYLE MAVENS OF THE HAVEN
plus
BIRDIE JAMES ARRIVES IN WASHINGTON SQUARE
Nick Strimpfel is photographed in an ensemble by John Bayley Clothiers. Jewelry by Forsythe Jewelers.
ensemble by Birdie James.
GENIUSES AT WORK
Ambassador of Buzz
Maggie Marie Washo
Master of Coin
Marion Elizabeth Bowser
Chief Chatter
Kim Conrad Crouch
Sales Rockstar “Just Kandace” Cunningham
Head of Schmoozing
Morgan Ambler
Talent Delivery Specialist
Kaila Jeffcoat
Wizard of Light Bulb Moments Jevon Daly
Mascot in Training
Buoy Conrad Crouch Pritchard
The Gatekeepers
Greta Von Bowser
Vincent Von Bowser
Comic Sans Annihilator
Catherine Davies
Digital Sorceress
Hunter Kostylo
Error Eradicator
Lynne Hummell
Aspiring Novelists
Courtney Hampson
Lynne Hummell
Barry Kaufman
Daniel Moskowitz
Alan Perry
Heather Quinn
Cheryl Ricer
Larry Toomer
Sheila Tucker
Lighting Experts
Photography by M.Kat
Photography by Ocean Blue Media
Jennifer Green
Tom Curry
Find Us Here
PO Box 22949
Hilton Head Island, SC 29925
843.816.6247
maggie@ch2cb2magazine.com
If I had to sum up this issue in just one word, it would be “community.” It was not necessarily our intent at the outset – November usually features fluffy fare dedicated to highlighting local realtors and general gift guide ideas and fashion content for the holidays.
October was a strange month though, and things shifted quite organically during the production of this issue. First came Hurricane Helene, devastating North Carolina and flooding small towns in Appalachia while we watched the horror unfold in what brief social media posts the North Carolina locals could get out. I watched this bring out the best in the human race as Lowcountry residents, all too familiar with the aftermath of a storm, rallied together to bring water, food, generators, baby formula and more to those in need. Lynne Hummell interviews a few local heroes for her story, Wings of Angels, on page 103.
Then came Hurricane Milton, barreling down on the entire state of Florida just days after Helene had wreaked her havoc. In addition to the hour-by-hour coverage of a Cat 5 hurricane racing across the Gulf, there was the general unease and fatigue everyone feels during an election cycle. In conversations with so many friends and clients, we were all just feeling a bit raw. When it seems like everything around you is falling apart, it helps to look for the good, however buried it may be. Yes, Pollyanna was most certainly one of my
EDITOR'S
NOTE NOV. 2024
favorite Disney movies growing up. This issue shines a light on a lot of incredible people putting some good into the world, with their selfless acts of love and kindness. We kicked off the issue highlighting local volunteers for some of our most respected local charitable organizations. Read the article on page 34 – perhaps it will inspire YOU to get involved.
Heather Quinn shares Matt Bauman’s conviction to make this the biggest toy drive ever for Deep Well, hoping to top 2023’s number of donations, which hit $30,000. Read his story on page 91.
The Community Thanksgiving Dinner at Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks is back for its 25th year and we cover that, and how it got its start, on page 95.
Of course, there are so many good things in this issue – our limited series, Getting to 90, features Tom and Nancy Kemeny. Read their thoughts on love, marriage, and raising children on page 84.
Wishing you all a wonderful November. Remember to look around and be thankful – and look for opportunities to help others.
MAGGIE WASHO Publisher / Editor-in-Chief
Stylist Kaila Jeffcoat shines some light on the subject at a recent shoot at 18 Armada. See the spread on page 64.
Introduction by Barry Kaufman
Helping Our Community
Let it never be said that the Lowcountry doesn’t know how to give back. Ours is a community built on a spirit of volunteerism, where any need that should be filled will soon find itself with a small army of helpers ready to work.
When we set out to spotlight a few of the legion of selfless locals who call our area “home,” we knew the hardest job would be in limiting our search. While the volunteers you see here are to be lauded for their generosity and spirit, know that for every face you see here, there are hundreds more ready to make life a little better in our community.
Photography by M.Kat
CONSUELO PALMA
Volunteers in Medicine Clinic
Hilton Head
What is the organization’s mission?
Volunteers in Medicine (VIM)’s mission is to understand and serve the health and wellness needs of our medically underserved neighbors.
How long have you been a resident of the Lowcountry?
I came to the United States from Bogota, Colombia, in 1984, speaking very basic English. I arrived in Miami, and then my sister told me about Hilton Head. I came here, and I loved it at first sight. At that time, there was no Spanish TV, so I learned most of my English by watching American TV, and talking to people wherever I went. I’ve been here for 35 years and I still love it. What makes this organization special to you?
There are many things that make me proud of VIM. The doctors and other volunteers give freely of their time and talents to VIM patients, who need our medical care and cannot afford to get healthcare anywhere else. Our volunteers and other community members also often donate medical supplies to the clinic. I especially enjoy helping patients who do not speak English and might not be able to understand what the doctor is saying to them. I know how that feels. I love the other volunteers who work with us. Everybody has such a good heart. How many hours a week do you spend volunteering?
Usually three shifts a week, which is about 10 or 11 hours per week.
What do you do in your spare time –just for fun?
I always enjoy being creative and making gifts and birthday cards for my family, and especially my grandkids. I also love walking on the beach.
MISSY FAHLER
Pockets Full of Sunshine and Moss Creek Equestrian Centers Equine Assisted Program
What is the organization’s mission?
Pockets Full of Sunshine (PFS) provides opportunities to those in the special needs community who have aged out of the school system. Programs are held in an inclusive setting, through weekly programming, service projects, local markets, and socials.
Moss Creek Equine Assisted Program focuses on enhancing the health and well-being of the special needs community by facilitating relationships through interaction between the horses and humans.
How long have you been a resident of the Lowcountry?
Two years and two months.
What makes this organization special to you?
I have a degree in special education, though I never taught due to relocating for my husband’s work. When a friend introduced me to PFS, I knew this was
a perfect fit. It is a special place full of amazing people. The founders and staff providing the opportunities at no cost for the day program is something I’ve never encountered before. The Rays (our participants) are incredible and the friendships, camaraderie, and teamwork are wonderful. You can’t help but smile when you are around them and you always leave happier than when you arrived.
Moss Creek Equine Assisted Program gives the Rays a special opportunity to bond with the animals. Seeing the Rays’ reactions when they accomplish a new skill is so heartwarming.
How many hours a week do you spend volunteering? 14 hours per week
What do you do in your spare time – just for fun?
Walks on the beach with dogs and friends, sampling all the wonderful restaurants on the island, and reading.
KRISTIN MCNAMARA
Hospice Care of the Lowcountry
What is the organization’s mission?
Hospice Care of the Lowcountry honors life by providing compassionate care and guidance for those in our community experiencing serious illness, end-of-life, and grief.
How long have you been a resident of the Lowcountry?
My husband Patrick and I moved here from Maryland nine years ago. I was fortunate to continue working remotely for the first seven years as we settled into the Lowcountry.
What makes this organization special to you?
I first trained as a hospice volunteer in 1999 and have had the privilege of serving many patients over the past 25 years. It truly is a privilege to sit with people approaching the end of their lives, to listen to their stories as they reflect on their experiences, and to support their families through such a profound time. Hospice Care of the Lowcountry’s dedicated professionals and volunteers beautifully exemplify the deep caring and concern that is the best of hospice care by meeting people where they
are, accompanying them through their final days, and remaining with their families and friends into their bereavement.
How many hours a week do you spend volunteering?
As a patient volunteer, I typically volunteered two to four hours a week. However, I started a new role in January, assisting the hospice chaplain. I now see six to eight patients a week, stay in close contact with their families, and assist with the free bereavement support groups we offer to the broader Lowcountry community, regardless of whether they used hospice patient services or not. In this new role, I often volunteer 10 hours a week, and every minute is so rewarding.
What do you do in your spare time – just for fun?
I exercise daily – walking, swimming, biking, kayaking – I have to get outside every day! To decompress, I enjoy knitting baby blankets, reading voraciously, and doing jigsaw puzzles. Patrick and I also savor every visit with our children and grandchildren.
Hilton Head Island Deep Well Project
What is the organization’s mission?
Through services and advocacy, the Hilton Head Island Deep Well Project partners with neighbors to meet their basic needs and create a bridge to selfsufficiency.
How long have you been a resident of the Lowcountry?
After years of vacationing on the island, I became a part-time resident, and then a full-time resident a little over two years now. I moved here from Northern Virginia after working for more than 30 years for the federal government.
What makes this organization special to you?
I have volunteered for more than 30 years in food insecurity, cooking at a central kitchen and distributing food at pantries. Deep Well’s overall approach to helping my neighbors in need gain or regain selfsufficiency without stigmatizing them reflects my personal approach. I especially appreciate the food pantry providing as close to a grocery shopping experience as possible. I also enjoy working side-by-side with amazing, caring volunteers and staff.
How many hours a week do you spend volunteering?
Depending on the week, I volunteer eight hours at Deep Well. Also, I serve on several committees on the Palmetto Dunes POA Board. I was also recently asked to serve on the board of a newly forming nonprofit, Hilton Head Hydroponics (H3).
What do you do in your spare time – just for fun?
In addition to caring for my wonderful cat, Willow, I am an avid reader and also an amateur nature (especially birds) photographer.
ALICE BETTENCOURT
ROBIN & JOHN PICKENS
Bluffton Self Help
What is the organization’s mission?
To empower and advocate for Lowcountry neighbors to improve their lives through education and training, basic needs, and guided access to a network of community resources.
How long have you been a resident of the Lowcountry? Nine years.
What makes this organization special to you?
Robin: At Bluffton Self Help, it is not just the food pantry. We provide education in ESL and GED preparation, and training to help our neighbors develop coping skills. The focus is providing a hand up to help our neighbors succeed. There are no barriers like age or citizenship to getting help. And the staff is genuinely committed to the mission and to our neighbors.
John: There are so many things. The talent and dedication of the staff, our lovely neighbors, the fact that Bluffton Self Help is independent and not affiliated with any other organization. But most of all, at Bluffton Self Help, we believe that we can move the needle on food insecurity and poverty in the Lowcountry and I want to be a part of that!
How many hours a week do you spend volunteering?
Robin: Eight hours per week. I work in the market
during our regular food distribution and during Fresh Express, our monthly fresh produce giveaway. The distributions, where you get to meet and talk with our neighbors, are the most fun. I also hold neighborhood food drives and help with the Christmas Toy Drive, the School Supply Drive, and Stock the Market, our big springtime food collection.
John: About 20 hours per week. I work in both the Resource Hub and the market. In the Resource Hub, I work with neighbors to get them engaged with the services that Bluffton Self Help has to offer or refer them to other local service providers. In the market, I work in the warehouse, receiving donations from our very generous community and from Second Helpings. I try to keep the warehouse clean and well organized through regular operations and all of the special projects. I help stock the market shelves so that our neighbors have fresh options and a pleasant shopping experience. I also work in the market during regular food distribution and during Fresh Express, and I join in the special projects with Robin.
What do you do in your spare time – just for fun?
Robin: Golf, walking with friends, Mahjong, classes at USCB - OLLI, entertaining.
John: Fitness, classes at USCB - OLLI, golf, reading tutor with the United Way.
BROOKE MENDENHALL
Hilton Head Humane Association
What is the organization’s mission?
To improve the lives of homeless dogs and cats while also working to substantially lower the numbers of animals reproduced or relinquished.
How long have you been a resident of the Lowcountry?
Since 1981. Hilton Head Humane was incorporated in 1976!
What makes this organization special to you?
I love that everyone at the shelter has a shared vision to bring out the best in every animal, make their lives better any way possible, and make a difference by finding good homes for each of them. Everyone works tirelessly to keep the animals comfortable and wellcared for, to show them love that they may not have experienced before, and to place them in good homes
locally and through partnerships. But honestly, the most special parts of HHHA are the animals themselves. I work mainly with the dogs, and getting to know each of their faces, personalities, and quirks; taking them out to walk, play, learn something new, or make a few minutes of their day a little happier; and watching as they find just the right home is such a wonderful feeling.
How many hours a week do you spend volunteering? Usually, two to five hours on the weekends. I try to spend more when I’m not limited by a full-time and part-time job!
What do you do in your spare time – just for fun? I love to travel, teach group fitness, and spend time with my husband and our two rescue dogs, who both were adopted from Hilton Head Humane.
SUSAN HORN
NAMI Lowcountry
What is the organization’s mission?
NAMI is the acronym for National Alliance on Mental Illness. We are the largest grassroots organization in the country providing free support groups and education. The mission of NAMI Lowcountry is to improve the quality of life for all those affected by mental health conditions. We advocate and provide educational and support programs promoting recovery with dignity, hope, and the removal of stigma.
How long have you been a resident of the Lowcountry?
Twelve years. We came for vacation after selling our business in Connecticut. It rained all week, we were bored, and started looking at properties. Before we knew it, we owned a house! I’m originally from Atlanta so I was happy to be back in the South.
What makes this organization special to you?
I’m a firm believer that the toughest things I’ve lived through can be overcome by sharing with others. When my husband was diagnosed with a serious mental health condition, it was isolating, confusing, and terrifying. Once I was introduced to the NAMI Family to Family education program and became a facilitator for the Family Support
groups, I was hooked. We can talk from the heart. Even though our life situations are different, the feelings are the same. We share with others that nod their heads in understanding and compassion. I came on the NAMI Lowcountry Board in 2017 and have served as the secretary. The Walk is our main fundraising event of the year. I’ve been involved for several years with organizing, promoting Walk teams and securing sponsorship. It’s incredibly uplifting to see 300 people walking together to raise awareness and funds to support NAMI Lowcountry. I am proud that our organization is volunteer driven and peer led.
How many hours a week do you spend volunteering?
It depends on the time of year, but I would say it averages around 10 hours a week, between secretary duties, Family Support groups, and Walk organization.
What do you do in your spare time – just for fun?
I love reading, walking in my neighborhood, traveling with my husband, horseback riding, movies and theatre, dinners with friends, visiting my children and grandchildren. And it seems like I enjoy volunteering!
CHICK AND JOAN SIMONDS
Meals On Wheels Hilton Head/Bluffton
What is the organization’s mission?
Meals On Wheels Hilton Head/Bluffton is dedicated to providing meals to homebound clients in the Hilton Head/ Bluffton area, including Sun City. We not only deliver fresh,
nutritious meals, but we also ensure our clients are doing well as part of our daily engagement with them.
How long have you been a resident of the Lowcountry?
We moved to Hilton Head Island in April 2013. What makes this organization special to you?
My parents volunteered for, and received meals from, Meals on Wheels in Portland, Maine. This is an opportunity for both of us to volunteer together and give back to our neighbors so that they can continue to live on this beautiful island.
How many hours a week do you spend volunteering?
There are 200 volunteers delivering meals daily. Our routes typically take two to three hours to complete. Most of us will devote around 24 days a year.
What do you do in your spare time – just for fun?
Joan also volunteers two days a week at Volunteers in Medicine (VIM), and I am on the board of directors here at Meals on Wheels. Our children and grandchildren love to visit. Living on Hilton Head is a daily joy.
Second Helpings
What is the organization’s mission?
To fight hunger and food waste in Beaufort, Hampton, and Jasper Counties. We do this by rescuing more than 3 million pounds of food each year from 47 food donors and delivering it to 54 agency partners in the Lowcountry, who distribute the food to persons in need.
How long have you been a resident of the Lowcountry?
We have owned a property in Sea Pines since 2009. We have lived in Sea Pines full time since 2016.
What makes this organization special to you?
I like to volunteer for activities that make a significant positive impact and serve our local communities. Second Helpings helps improve the lives of many people in the Lowcountry by fighting hunger and reducing food insecurity. I also get to work with many great people in Second Helpings and our food donor and agency partners.
How many hours a week do you spend volunteering?
With Second Helpings, about 10 to 15 hours per week as a truck driver, Monday day captain, and board member. I am also a volunteer guide for the Outside Foundation’s Kids in Kayaks program. This involves 12 or more hours per week for about six weeks in the spring and six weeks in the fall.
What do you do in your spare time – just for fun?
I enjoy spending time with my wife of 41 years, traveling, playing a little golf, and spending time with our three daughters and their families, including four grandchildren. I also enjoy being on the water whenever I get a chance. I run a kayaking group in Hilton Head and lead a paddle every week (except in the winter months). I am a certified Level 4 Coastal Kayaking Instructor and I enjoy paddling in the ocean and surfing waves in a sea kayak.
DAVE EPPINGER
OF THE LOWCOUNTRY REALTORS
THINKING OF BUYING OR SELLING YOUR HOME?
GIVE ONE OF THESE REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS A CALL!
GREG MORTIMER
COAST BROKERED BY EXP REALTY
81 Pope Avenue Suite D Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (843) 227-8200 gregmortimer.exphiltonhead.com/
There are plenty of ways in which real estate professionals can prove that they’re at the top of their game. It can be when they read the market right and find buyers the perfect property for their needs. It can be when they help clients get comfortable in their new home, introducing them to the community.
But perhaps the most critical time for a Realtor to show you what they can do is when both sides sit down at the negotiating table. As someone who
has seen that situation many times from both sides, Greg Mortimer brings a skill set uniquely suited for serving his clients.
“I know how important it is to have an advocate – a Realtor who has the skills, experience, and knowledge to get the best deal,” Mortimer said. “As a speculative investor, I also know how important it is to present your house professionally for maximum sale. And my builder experience helps to make sure it passes inspection and closes.”
Mortimer got a jump start on building his career on the investor side of the table early, launching a property management business from his dorm room during his junior year of college. Just four years later, he was investing in real estate surrounding a lake mountain resort in Western Maryland, first building vacation rentals for himself, then moving on to spec building. What started in his dorm room has grown over
15-plus years to include construction of more than 250 homes in four states, along with several housing developments.
He also dabbled in the restaurant industry in Maryland, a side venture that has a unique Hilton Head Island connection.
“We used to vacation at the island at least twice a year and our favorite restaurant was the Santa Fe Cafe,” Mortimer said. “So, when we decided to rebrand our brew pub (in Maryland), I asked the owners of the Santa Fe Café if my staff could come and spend a few days with their staff. They said ‘absolutely,’ and we had our Santa Fe Grille for 15 very successful years before selling several years ago.”
He still owns a DQ Grill & Chill in Maryland that sits consistently among the chain’s top earners, and more importantly has kept the same core staff for 15 years. As a skilled Realtor with a background in development and the restaurant industry, he found himself right at home at Coast, which was launched by Rick Saba and Tristan O’Grady, the latter of whom has owned The Big Bamboo for years.
“Rick Saba and Tristan O’Grady have done an incredible job of attracting the best talent and establishing a great culture,” Mortimer said. “I feel like I have a competitive advantage whether I get a client who wants to purchase property or sell property. I feel like they get the entire Coast team because I have a wealth of expertise that I can reach out to at any time to help my clients.”
It definitely helps that he comes to the negotiating table with the knowledge of a Realtor and the tenacity of a developer. “I have made a name for myself as a good negotiator,” Mortimer said, “with the only exception being my two beautiful daughters, Olivia and Lauren, who seem to get the best of me every single time.”
LIAM CRONIN
ENGEL & VÖLKERS HILTON HEAD
800 Main Street, Suite 110 Hilton Head, SC 29926 (843) 290-7770
The morning after Hurricane Helene’s wrath had toppled trees, flooded streets, and left much of the Lowcountry without power, many of us were still reeling. Trying to assess the damage at the end of a long, sleepless night, we shuffled out from our shelters, awed by the storm’s ferocity.
By the time we were just managing to get outside, however, Liam Cronin had already demonstrated what truly sets him apart as a Realtor.
“I’ve just finished checking up on 15 of my clients’ properties,” Cronin said that morning, while the sun was still rising. “But that’s the job. My clients come first –after my family.”
MICHELLE ELLIOTT
CHARTER ONE REALTY
(704) 737-3128
MichelleElliott@charteroneRealty.com
For Michelle Elliott, real estate is about more than just buying and selling houses – it’s about building lasting relationships and strengthening her community.
Born and raised in Charlotte, Elliott started her career in banking and finance. This foundation gave her a strong grasp of financial planning and market trends, making her transition to real estate a seamless one when she moved to Hilton Head Island.
Elliott’s dedication to her profession and her community is a source of inspiration to her clients and peers alike. In recognition of her commitment, she has been appointed as the incoming president of the Hilton Head Area Realtors organization for 2025, a role she is excited to embrace.
“It’s so rewarding to be recognized by my fellow Realtors, and I’m excited to work to deepen that connection with my colleagues and community,” Elliott said.
But her commitment to relationships goes far beyond her
That family, including son Caleb and wife Candice Rae –whom you might recognize as the velvet-voiced songstress at the helm of the jazz group Folderol – join him in living the classic Lowcountry lifestyle. As Old Town Bluffton residents, they take Caleb to May River Montessori via golf cart, walk to the Farmer’s Market, stroll the shops of Calhoun Street, and show clients exactly why this is a magical place to call home.
He’s living by example and showing a level of client care that few can match.
“The Lowcountry Group is a five-person team, and they all work together in service of client care,” Cronin said. “I’m proud of all of them, and they’re doing great work.”
Entering his fifth year in real estate, with his team around him and his family by his side, Cronin is a new breed of real estate professional. He is one who lives the dream, and stops at nothing to ensure his clients achieve their own dream.
professional responsibilities. Each Thanksgiving, she looks forward to sharing dessert with close friends, many of whom were once clients.
“It all goes back to relationships and building on those relationships, not necessarily being a constant in their lives, but making sure I stay in touch,” Elliott said.
For her, staying connected with clients means being available whenever they need her, whether it’s for real estate advice or recommendations around town.
“I just had a client call the other day because they’d gotten a screw stuck in their tire and wanted to know where to go,” Elliott said. “It’s the little things I can do that help them be more connected in the community.”
When she isn’t working, Elliott enjoys spending quality time with her family and scuba diving. Her love for the Lowcountry is palpable, and it shines through in her enthusiasm for helping others discover the charm of Hilton Head Island and Bluffton.
“I love this area,” Elliott said, reflecting on her eight years here.
“There’s just so much to offer, and I want everyone to feel at home here.”
JEFF HUNT
THE LEGEND YOU WANT ON YOUR SIDE
6 Queens Folly Road
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (843) 422-5933
jeffh.dunesrealestate.com
In the competitive world of Hilton Head Island real estate, Jeff Hunt stands out as this area’s most knowledgeable Realtor. His stellar reputation is firmly rooted in his in-depth experience and personable approach and has been affirmed by glowing reviews from countless
clients. You’ll find nearly 200 five-star reviews on Zillow alone.
As an example of the outpouring of grateful support from his clients, you’ll find reviews like this one: “If you are looking at an investment property purchase, Jeff is the Realtor for you. He understands the economics of the island better than any other Realtor I have spoken to. We have bought and/or sold three investment properties with Jeff. Each transaction has been a success, and his guidance was an important factor in each.” S. Henry, Palmetto Dunes and Sea Pines.
These testimonials underscore Hunt’s unparalleled knowledge, professionalism, and dedication to his clients. He is not just a Realtor; he is a trusted advisor, a market expert, and a partner in your real estate journey. While countless Realtors are prepared to facilitate property viewings, he stands out by offering to unlock the doors to real estate strategies that even some of his most financially astute clients had yet to
• Dunes Real Estate’s No. 1 producer
2012 – present
• 2020 Hilton Head Realtor of the Year
• President’s Cup Winner 2018
• Real Trends/Tom Ferry:
• No. 6 in the State of South Carolina in total volume
discover as valuable opportunities.
“Most Realtors will tell you that your property depreciates every 27.5 years, which is true. What most Realtors will not tell you is that you can take many of those depreciations immediately, through avenues such as a CSS,” Hunt said.
Having people in your corner who understand the business side of owning investment property is crucial to your property’s overall profitability. “Real estate is not as simple as income/expenses,” Hunt said. “There are many revenue streams available to investors that improve their ROI, and most agents aren’t even aware they exist.”
Hunt’s business background, coupled with his real estate background, brings a unique perspective to any transaction he is involved in, regardless of its size. While his portfolio boasts grand achievements, such as private island and oceanfront home sales, he invests the same level of attention and care into even the smallest transactions.
“No deal is ever too small,” he said, underlining his belief that “everyone deserves a place they can call home.” This dedication does not go unnoticed, as expressed by J. Norris, a client in Shipyard, who wrote “Many of the other reviews detail all the aspects of Jeff’s masterful involvement with the respective sales; however, none of them reflect Jeff’s willingness to provide the same level of service for smaller sales as those involving six and seven figures. We cannot thank you enough Jeff.”
With Jeff Hunt, you are not only investing in a property; you are investing in a relationship built on trust, integrity, and unmatched expertise. When it comes to Hilton Head real estate, Jeff Hunt is, without a doubt, the legend you want by your side.
AMBER MORGAN
KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY
8 Lafayette Place, Ste 204 Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 (614) 204-5064
www.ambermorgansells.com
Amber Morgan isn’t your average Hilton Head Island Real estate agent – she’s your future best friend with a real estate license.
Need a house? She’s got you. Need someone to talk you out of a DIY beach house disaster? She’s there, hammer in hand, ready to help.
Morgan doesn’t just sell homes; she adopts her clients. By the end of the process, you’ll be texting her for brunch recommendations and sending her holiday cards.
Her superpower? Turning every real estate transaction into a relationship. Amber
BRIAN KINARD
DUNES REAL ESTATE 6 Queens Folly Road Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (843) 301-0814
Even if you’ve never hired him to buy or sell your home, Brian Kinard has already been working hard for you. As a member of the Town of Hilton Head Island’s advisory panel for the National Flood Insurance Program, he has already made your bottom line one of his top priorities.
“What our town is doing in terms of building codes and education saves homeowners on flood insurance,” Kinard said. “The work we do helps us maintain our discounts through FEMA’s flood insurance program.”
As the past few months have shown us, that is vital work. But being on that panel, helping his neighbors from behind the scenes, is exactly the kind of proactive approach that Kinard has made his calling card.
is the type who will go to a house showing, spot a creaky floorboard, and have a contractor on the phone before you can blink.
She’s not just about the sale – she’s about making sure your new home is perfect, down to the last detail. She is the real estate equivalent of having a BFF who always picks up the phone (even when you’re texting at midnight about kitchen backsplashes).
If you want a Realtor who is going to stick by your side, laugh with you through the ups and downs, and maybe even become your new favorite dinner guest, Amber Morgan is your goto. You’re not just getting a home; you’re getting a friend for life.
“I’m proactive, and by that I mean I take steps to find people the home of their dreams and take steps to get my seller’s properties in front of as many people as possible,” he said. “And on a broader scale, I’ve served the real estate industry at the local, state and national level (in positions) from a committee chair to president of the Hilton Head Area Realtors association.”
Guiding policy is important to Kinard, but never as important as guiding clients toward their real estate goals. To that end, he has made communications his credo.
“Lack of communication is one of the biggest pain points people have when it comes to Realtors. I try to over-communicate and keep buyers and sellers informed of everything that’s going on,” Kinard said. “I’m not here to make decisions for people, I’m here to give them the information they need to make an informed decision.”
BETH DEANGELIS
COASTAL LIVING TEAM, KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY 8 Lafayette Place Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 (843) 271-4254 coastallivingbybeth.com
Beth DeAngelis leads the Beth DeAngelis Coastal Living Team and stands at the forefront of Hilton Head Island real estate, bringing more than three decades of expertise and an unwavering commitment to their clients. Their reputation is built on delivering exceptional results for those buying or selling luxury homes, coastal properties, or investment homes and condos alike, all while ensuring that their clients’ unique needs and core values remain at the center of every transaction.
As part of Keller Williams Realty, DeAngelis is proud she and her small team are recognized among the top 1% of Realtors both locally and nationally.
DeAngelis’ success stems not only from her in-depth market knowledge
but also from her genuine desire to build lasting relationships that start well before the first in-person meeting. She and her team focus on understanding the “why” behind every client’s decision to move, guiding them through one of life’s biggest transitions with integrity and care.
Whether helping clients find their dream homes or navigating the intricacies of selling and investing, DeAngelis’ mission is always to provide tailored, seamless service. Her commitment to providing the best service includes offering honest advice, even when it’s not what a client might want to hear, and using her deep local knowledge to find hidden gems for her clients.
A hallmark of their approach is a dedication to ongoing market insights, ensuring that clients are equipped with the most current information to make well-informed decisions. Over the years, DeAngelis has cultivated an extensive network of trusted professionals, from lenders and inspectors to contractors, stagers and service providers, ensuring that every aspect of her clients’ real estate experience is as smooth as possible, both during and after closing. DeAngelis’ humility and gratitude shine through her work. “At the end of the day, it’s about being there for my clients every step of the way, helping them achieve their goals, and making
sure they feel confident in their decisions,” she said. Her commitment to excellence is reflected in the countless positive testimonials from clients, many of whom consider DeAngelis not just a Realtor, but a trusted advisor and friend, as evidenced by a recent client who remarked: “Beth and her team are warm and friendly, and wonderful to work with. They provide outstanding internet presence to generate more interest, go above and beyond to represent the client’s interests, and make the process of buying or selling a home as smooth as possible. We’ve worked with them three times and would recommend them to anyone!”
With Beth DeAngelis, you’re not just gaining a Realtor, you’re partnering with a professional who combines passion, local expertise, and personal dedication to help you make the right move.
• America's Top 1% of Agents
• #2 Small Team, SC – Real Trends, 2020, 2021, 2023
• Top 1% of Agents – HHI/Bluffton MLS
LEA SMITH
RE/MAX ISLAND REALTY RE/MAX Hall of Fame/Lifetime Achievement REALTRENDS 2024 top 10 Hilton Head Realtor (843) 338-6073 lea.homesonhiltonhead.com
When it comes to choosing a Realtor, nothing beats experience. Lea Allen Smith knows that experience is more than just knowing what you’re selling.
In fact, Smith doesn’t even consider herself a salesperson.
“I’m an educator and advisor. I guide my folks through the homebuying process and am well-known for advocating for my clients from the first home shown to the closing table and then I hang around after the sale,” Smith said. “It’s a long-term relationship we’re building.”
Smith knows a thing or two about the long-term view, having spent the past 38 years building her reputation as a savvy real estate professional; her many clients know their best interests are being looked after from start to finish.
LOWMAN & DOYLE TEAM
DUNES REAL ESTATE-MOSS CREEK OFFICE
1523 Fording Island Road
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Dan (843) 384-7698
Debbie (843)-301-1296
Tom (646)-438-1329
LowmanandDoyleTeam@gmail.com
If you were to add up the years of real estate experience shared between husbandand-wife Dan and Debbie Lowman and their partner Tom Doyle, you’d reach a number over 80 years. But what truly sets them apart is what they’ve done with those decades of experience, blending their skill sets to create an unbeatable real estate team.
She also considers herself an inventory expert.
“I don’t focus on just one area of the island,” Smith said. “I help people buy from Sea Pines to Sun City. I think this makes me a more valuable resource.”
Smith also prides herself on staying on top of education and trends. “Island properties are aging and many are in need of facelifts,” she reported.
For that reason, in addition to her many real estate credentials, including Certified Negotiations Expert, Smith recently became Residential Construction Certified and obtained her Residential Remodeling Certification. “This allows me to more accurately help a buyer understand what it involves to update, remodel, or add on to the home of their dreams,” she said.
It’s the long-term focus that has remained front and center through Smith’s nearly four decades in the local real estate industry, earning her fiercely loyal clients and repeat business, a rarified status as a true island expert, and a consistent run as one of RE/MAX Island Realty’s top producers. And it’s something that comes only with experience.
“We work closely to ensure that every customer or client receives the best and most professional service,” Doyle said. “And we have different ways of helping them make those important decisions.”
Those different ways come from their diverse backgrounds. Before real estate, Dan was in construction development. Debbie was VP and managing director of private banking for PNC Bank’s NW Pennsylvania market. Tom had a long career in the institutional trading side of Wall Street.
“Our own individual talents come together collectively as a team,” Dan said.
“And Dunes Real Estate has a very good platform for sellers and buyers, with state-of-the-art technology and very high-powered media exposure using their platform,” Debbie added.
All three of them take the business very seriously and work and study hard to stay on top of the everchanging real estate industry. In addition to the many licenses (Tom also holds Broker Licenses in Massachusetts & New York) and designations The Lowman and Doyle Team have acquired over their careers, all three have recently completed their Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR); Tom and Dan – Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE); Tom – Seller Representative Specialist; Dan – Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA); Debbie – Seniors Real Estate Specialists (SRES).
A trio of talents, a wealth of experience and the resources of Dunes Real Estate come together to set the Lowman and Doyle Team apart.
COAST BROKERED BY EXP
65 Lawrence Street Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 757-3010
www.coastbluffton.com
If you want to discover what makes Bluffton truly special, there’s no better time than during the Thursday Farmers Market at Martin Family Park. As local farmers display fresh produce and artisans showcase their craftsmanship, the heart of this vibrant community comes alive. Families gather for a day in the park, old friends reconnect, and amidst it all, the team from COAST Brokered by eXp Realty is there to welcome you.
“Our Bluffton office is perfectly located at 65 Lawrence Street, right across from the park, so we set up a table every Thursday to meet with people, hand out maps, and share our love for the area,” said Tisha
Chafer, who, along with managing partner Liz Acuff, founded the Bluffton office. “It’s all about being involved in the community we serve.”
The COAST brand has grown rapidly over the last two and a half years. Chafer and Acuff were tapped to partner with founders Tristan O’Grady and Rick Saba to bring the brand to Bluffton and open the brick-and-mortar space in 2024. The team has rapidly grown to become the No. 1 eXp Realty team in South Carolina with its combined offices.
COAST’s strategic presence has solidified its reputation as the go-to team for luxury real estate in the area. The team represents some of the finest homes in the Lowcountry, including iconic properties like 15 Bald Eagle, the most expensive oceanfront home to be listed on Hilton Head Island, and, most recently, 121 Gascoigne Bluff, a stunning estate on the May River. These exclusive listings reflect the level of luxury and sophistication clients expect.
“Tisha and I were chosen to partner together and manage the Bluffton office to extend the brand presence, and we’ve created a place where both clients and agents feel at home and recognize the level of
service and marketing the COAST brand is able to deliver,” Acuff said.
COAST’s Hilton Head office, just steps from the beach on Pope Avenue, has seen remarkable success since opening. The Bluffton office has experienced similar growth, attracting a dynamic team of agents. “We offer extensive training and mentorship, and being part of a mega team within eXp provides tremendous benefits –especially for new agents starting out,” Chafer said. “Plus, with half of our agents being Lowcountry natives, we offer an unmatched level of local expertise.”
If you want to see the true essence of Bluffton and meet the experts who represent its most exclusive homes, visit the Farmers Market. Stop by the COAST Brokered by eXp table, learn about their incredible listings, and see why Bluffton and the Lowcountry is the perfect place to call home.
EXP REALTY
110 Traders Cross, Suite 109 Bluffton, SC 29909 (843) 686-4000
tracydayton59@gmail.com
Tracy Dayton of EXP Realty gives her clients exemplary real estate service from start to finish. Respect, communication, and professionalism are part of her work ethic as a full-time agent dedicated to client satisfaction.
Originally from Queens, New York, Dayton’s first job in real estate was when she was 15 years old – as a receptionist in a brokerage in New York. After college, she secured a job with a land developer and started her real estate career. She found her piece of paradise and moved to Hilton Head Island in 2005. She has been assisting buyers and sellers in the Lowcountry for the past 19 years.
In addition to her real estate career, Dayton enjoys sharing the Lowcountry’s rich history with
With decades of experience, the Sulka-Bogart Team has been a trusted partner for buying and selling homes in the Lowcountry. Lisa Sulka and Bonnie Bogart bring a deep understanding of Southern Beaufort County, serving clients from Sun City to Sea Pines. Whether you’re looking to live on the island or the mainland, the team offers expert knowledge of the region’s diverse communities, outdoor amenities, and convenient access to essential services. Why work with us?
Local Experts. As long-time Lowcountry residents and fulltime Realtors, we know the neighborhoods, market trends, and unique aspects of each community.
her clients. “I love my job! I am blessed to meet new people and help make their real estate dreams come true,” she said. “I work hard to provide my clients with the most positive real estate experience possible. The Hilton Head area is paradise for those looking to escape to a place of natural beauty, friendly people, and incredible weather.”
In her free time, Dayton enjoys exercising, dancing, walking on the beach and, most of all, spending quality time with her family.
Dayton said her clients entrust her with one of their biggest decisions, and she is honored and privileged to work with them. “My biggest reward is being able to get results for my clients. I consider it a privilege to assist people with their real estate needs,” she said. “My family and friends will tell you I am tenacious when it comes to achieving my life goals. Allow my passion and 30-plus years of real estate experience to work for you.”
Smooth Transactions: Many buyers and sellers are surprised to learn how much is involved in getting a contract to the closing table. We emphasize a strong partnership built on trust to ensure a seamless process.
Personal Touch: We’ll help you find a community that feels right for you, whether you’re drawn to the charm of the island or the ease of the mainland.
Favorite Room in the House: For us, it’s the family room – a place where everyone can come together to relax, entertain, and make memories.
Quick Sale Success: It took just one week to sell our first home, and while it might take a bit longer, we continue to deliver results for our clients.
When you’re ready to open the next door, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
THE AGENCY
5790 Guilford Place Suite 200
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 706-2024
https://theagencyhiltonhead.com/
In an industry that can often be fiercely competitive, it’s interesting to see how far a sense of collaboration can go in setting a higher standard for real estate. Individually, the three principals of The Agency Hilton Head represent some of the most respected names in local real estate.
Alison Melton serves as the managing partner and broker in charge, bringing more than a decade of invaluable real estate experience and expertise to her colleagues and clients. She specializes in the area’s private, gated communities and equestrian properties, spanning from Sea Pines to Palmetto Bluff and throughout the Lowcountry.
Melton’s niche lies in offering a global perspective, informed by her personal investments in real estate across various markets in the U.S. and internationally. Her career is underscored by a myriad of accomplishments and accolades, including being recognized as a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS), a Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE), and a GUILD
Elite Member of the Institute of Luxury Home Marketing. As a Crystal R Major Investor in the Realtors Political Action Committee (RPAC), a consistent recipient of the Realtor Service Award (RSA) and a past three-year director on the board of directors for the Hilton Head Area Realtors, her contributions to the industry are simply unparalleled.
Melton has consistently ranked among the top agents in the Lowcountry, boasting career sales exceeding $250 million and setting record sale prices in prestigious communities such as Berkeley Hall, Colleton River, and Sea Pines. Having earned a triple major from the University of Richmond in Leadership Studies, International Studies, and Spanish, she had a prolific career in Latin American investment banking on Wall Street before transitioning into the real estate realm.
Hailed as a top-tier Realtor in the Hilton Head/Bluffton area, revered for her meticulous attention to detail and unwavering dedication to her clients’ needs, managing director Sabeth Biangone has cultivated an exceptional legacy marked by an unwavering dedication to client success. Her illustrious career boasts an impressive portfolio of accomplishments, including facilitating more than $100 million in sales and earning prestigious designations. Her sterling reputation is further underscored by her role as both a Hilton Head and Bluffton Ambassador, where she serves as a beacon of knowledge and expertise in her field.
Serving as a managing director and marketing accounts manager, Paige
Rose has spent more than two decades cultivating a reputation as an innovative voice in marketing, both in real estate and in the corporate world. Her expertise in SEO, PPC, social media, content marketing, web design, and AI has consistently propelled residential brokers and agents towards unprecedented growth. By leveraging marketing techniques, she has empowered professionals to expand their businesses and enhance their market presence effectively.
The above is what each represents individually. What they represent together is a collaborative approach to real estate that dovetails perfectly with the team-based approach at The Agency. Consisting of 120-plus offices employing more than 2,600 agents in 12 countries, The Agency’s massive reach is couched within a boutique approach to real estate, defined by its strength of character, rebellious spirit, and passion for reinvention.
“The Hilton Head Island and Bluffton areas offer residents and visitors an incredible quality of life and a lifestyle that is hard not to fall in love with,” Melton said. “As we are looking to bring our business to the next level, there is no denying that our strong local community aligns perfectly with The Agency’s unique culture of collaboration.”
KATHY SCHRODER
DUNES REAL ESTATE
6 Queens Folly Road Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (843) 290-0380
The island was a much different place in 1977 when Kathy Schroder arrived. A counselor by trade, she had become intrigued by real estate and tourism following encouragement from a grad school professor, and journeyed to Hilton Head to work alongside Charles Fraser.
“I wanted to learn what the new resort development was all about. In that process I found the similarity between counseling and real estate,” Schroder said. “Realtors are counselors, too. Just like counseling, real estate is a process of discovering where you want to be and the lifestyle you want to live.”
In the ensuing decades, she built her reputation as a Realtor
ERIC KUHN
WEICHERT REALTORS
1038 William Hilton Parkway Hilton Head, SC 29928 (843) 636-8939
It takes a lot of courage to walk away from a secure job at a Fortune 100 company, but the thing about having courage is that it often yields the sweetest rewards. Just ask Realtor Eric Kuhn, who left his career in Buffalo, New York, to follow in the steps of his family as a second-generation Realtor.
Eight years ago, he made the leap and has since won several awards, like being named 40 under 40 for Lowcountry Real Producers, named No. 1 agent in the Lowcountry in 2022, and achieving a consistent ranking in the top 1% for Weichert Realtors sales nationwide.
One thing about Kuhn is his continuous efforts to be
while developing deep roots within our community. “I’ve been on this rollercoaster for a while now, yes,” she said with a laugh. “And the man who chose me and chased me is from a local family, so I have knowledge of every place from South Beach to Pritchardville. I’ve handled most of it over the years.”
She has also spent that time becoming entrenched in the Hilton Head Area Realtors trade association, serving as president in 2023. “The benefit of being part of the association is the knowledge of what’s going on and what we’re doing both in terms of legislation and education,” she said.
And while her knowledge and experience have set her apart, it’s her rapport with her clients that this former counselor has found the most rewarding. “My clients appreciate my attention to detail and my attention to them,” she said. “It’s not something everyone knows.”
involved in the industry and community, having been a board member for the Hilton Head Area Realtors for the past three years. Additionally, he has earned his Accredited Buyers Representative designation, a master’s degree in business, and was honored with the Realtor Service Award.
“I like to think I provide a fresh perspective in the market to allow for new technology and up-to-date practices and marketing tools,” Kuhn said. “Maximizing social media and videography is something I take an extra creative approach to.”
When Kuhn isn’t selling real estate, he enjoys all outdoor activities including hiking, biking, pickleball, and chasing the beautiful Lowcountry sunsets.
KEN & CLAY OLIVER
In the bustling world of real estate, forging a successful partnership can be a challenge. But when you mix experience with fresh perspectives, magic happens. Enter Ken and Clay Oliver, the dynamic father-son team who not only reign supreme as the number one team for Dunes Real Estate, they also rank in the Top 15 Teams for all of South Carolina.
Prior to becoming a dynamic duo, Ken was recognized as Dunes Real Estate’s Top Listing and/or Selling Agent 37 out of 45 Years.
Ken and Clay are more than just real estate agents; they’re your dedicated allies on the journey to homeownership. Their mission? To make your experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible, taking the stress out of the process and ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.
Ken laughs as he explains their partnership: “We get along so well because we don’t think alike.” Clay chimes in, “I offer a different perspective on things. Dad has a systematic way that works wonders, but I like to bring in new ideas.” This unique blend of styles is what sets them apart and keeps them at the top of their game.
Clay joined Dunes Real Estate nearly six years ago, and let’s just say his “training period” was a bit longer than most—27 years of dinner-table discussions about real estate! “If you’re at the top of your industry for almost 50 years, integrity is crucial,” Clay says, crediting his dad’s lifelong lessons. “We
may have different approaches, but our core value of putting clients first unites us.”
Ken, a seasoned veteran, has embraced this partnership wholeheartedly. “I’ve been delegating more lately,” he shares. “When I visit a property, I make sure Clay is there to meet clients. He’s not just a background player; we’re a team!” This collaboration creates a rich tapestry of insights that benefits their clients.
Clay adds, “I can be a bit more aggressive in negotiations, while Dad offers that steady balance. Together, we cover all bases.” Their complementary styles ensure that clients get the best of both worlds: swift action paired with seasoned wisdom.
What truly sets the Olivers apart is their belief that client relationships don’t end at the closing table. They genuinely care about creating lasting connections and friendships. For them, it’s not just about closing the transaction; it’s about building a community where clients feel valued and supported long after the paperwork is signed.
So, if you’re searching for a real estate team that blends professionalism with a personal touch, look no further than Ken and Clay Oliver at Dunes Real Estate. They’re not just agents; they’re your partners in making dreams a reality—and you might just find a friend for life along the way!
One of the hardest things about creating a partnership in any business, especially in the high-pressure world of real estate, is establishing a rapport. There needs to be an innate sense of trust in one another’s capabilities and judgment. There needs to be a seamless delegation of duties, each understanding the other’s strengths. And there needs to be an almost intuitive understanding that each partner will handle a given situation the exact same way that the other would.
As a father-son duo, Ken and Clay Oliver embody most of these things.
“We get along so well because we don’t think alike,” Ken said.
“I just look at things a little differently,” Clay added. “He’s had a systematic way of doing something for so long, which is great, but I’ve
come in and given him a different perspective.”
Clay joined his father at Dunes Real Estate nearly six years ago, following what is more than likely the longest training period of any real estate professional on Hilton Head Island.
“For some 27 years, that’s what he heard around the dinner table,” Ken said.
“If you’re doing something at the top of the industry for close to 50 years, you have to have integrity. And that’s what my dad has told me my entire life,” Clay said. “We’re very different in ways, but our core values and how we approach the business, which is by putting people first, is the same.”
As far as lifelong mentors, Clay lucked out that he had dinner table access to a person who has built a decades-long career in island real estate, consistently racking up achievements as a top producer both within Dunes Real Estate and across the greater real estate community. But that luck goes both ways, and now Ken has found in Clay someone he can trust to set a new standard for integrity.
“”In the last six months in particular, there’s been a lot more delegation. I’m looking more to Clay to be completely involved in all aspects of our business,” Ken said. “Now, I’ll go look at a property and tell them I’d like to have Clay stop by so they can meet him – because he’s not some person in the background. We work as a team. … I just had a counteroffer last night that I sent him to look over. He’s great at bouncing ideas back and being another set of eyes.”
It’s the purest essence of what makes a great partnership. They don’t think alike, and that’s the point. But they do share a trust in each other and a respect for what the other brings to the table.
“It’s a combination of his market knowledge and me being able to move a little more quickly on things and being a little more bullish in negotiations,” Clay said. “He’s there to balance me out and we complement each other well.”
JULIE JANNING
HH ISLAND REAL ESTATE & RENTALS (843) 384-0928
julie@juliejanning.com
Real estate is an industry that demands quick thinking.
Unexpected challenges can crop up at any step in the process, whether it’s a buyer pulling out, a surprise on a home inspection, or any other manifestation of Murphy’s law.
It’s an industry that demands solutions, and a Realtor like Julie Janning, who is ready to find them.
“We’re in a very different real estate market than we were in 2020 and 2021. When you have challenges with a property, it’s all about listening to feedback, making adjustments, and fixing the problem,” Janning said.
“There are times when you can’t fix what’s wrong, but you can find that solution and get it in front of the people who can. Even if you can’t implement that solution, you can make it an option.”
That solution-focused attitude serves her well as sitting president
CARRI S. FUGE
THE REED TEAM, CHARTER ONE REALTY 11 Park Lane Hilton Head Island , SC, 29928 (843) 338-1117
For 24 wonderful years, the Lowcountry has been my home, where I have had the joy of raising my daughter, Anna. I was born and raised in South Carolina, and I graduated from the College of Charleston.
My career initially spanned politics and marketing. These roles not only honed my skills in sales and marketing but also deepened by understanding of audience engagement, a skill set that proved invaluable while I transitioned to the real estate industry.
My political career allowed me to spend time in Washington, D.C., and St. Louis, enriching my experiences and broadening my perspectives before I decided to return to South Carolina.
I joined Charter One Realty in 2014, working with The Reed Team. My approach to real estate is
of the Hilton Head Area Realtors association, particularly at a time when the fallout from the National Association of Realtors settlement has put the industry in flux.
“We did not expect that this year, but being able to adapt to changes, keep people calm, and work proactively instead of reactively has been a great experience,” Janning said.
She cites her early involvement with the local Realtors organization as key to her success, getting involved and joining in its advocacy efforts. But when it comes to her own brokerage, she is a one-woman show.
“I’m very client centered. I’m the broker, owner, and sole agent in my company so I don’t rely on other members to finish a transaction. I handle everything from start to finish,” Janning said. “And I am right there with the client for every step. They won’t be hearing from my assistant – they will be working directly with me.”
rooted in building and nurturing enduring relationships.
For me, real estate is not just about transactions; it’s about creating lasting connections and providing a level of service that goes beyond the sale. It is not a part-time endeavor for me; I treat it with the seriousness it deserves, dedicating considerable efforts to ensure that each client feels valued and important.
My deep understanding of, and genuine passion for, the Hilton Head Island area real estate market drives me to deliver not just a service but an experience that is tailored to each client’s needs. Many of our clients are not local to Hilton Head, and my knowledge helps educate them about the different areas and opportunities the island offers. I aim to earn their trust and make each interaction meaningful and productive, offering comprehensive support through every step of the buying or selling process.
I truly love what I do and love being at Charter One Realty on The Reed Team!
LAURA LEIGH MILES
PREMIERE PROPERTIES BY HAIG POINT
10 Haig Point Circle Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 lauraleighmiles@gmail.com (229) 886 3486
When you live on an island like Daufuskie, you learn an entirely new meaning of the word “community.” Here, in a place where the world turns at a slower pace and the only way back to reality is by boat, you truly get to know your neighbors. You do more than share a street name, you share in an atmosphere that only living at the
edge of the world can create.
Laura Leigh Miles first became enraptured with Daufuskie’s magic more than 20 years ago. Moving here from Savannah with her husband and their first child on the way, she was drawn by the tight-knit sense of place that mirrored her own upbringing in southwestern Georgia.
“I loved the community and the people here right away,” Miles said. “When I decided to get into real estate, it was easy for me. Because I don’t really have to sell. I just speak my truth and share my experiences.”
She brings a wealth of knowledge to her role as a real estate agent that few can match. It’s not just that she has called Daufuskie home for 18 years. It’s that she has raised children here,
seen the community come together in hard times and joined them in celebration during good times.
Daufuskie is a place that welcomes new neighbors, and Miles finds her true joy in opening the door for others to experience what she has over the years.
“I find such joy in this, because I’m not going to stop until you get exactly what you want,” she said. “I don’t want to sell anything; I don’t want to have to sugarcoat anything that someone doesn’t want to hear. Because we’re all neighbors here. If I sell you a home, that means you too. And the last thing I’d want to do is let down one of my neighbors.”
As she heads into the next phase in her life, she’s excited to devote even more of her time to the career that has become her calling.
“I’ve been a working mom for years, and with my kids about to be out of the nest, I’m excited about the time I’ll have to put everything into it,” she said. “As an agent, I’ve learned how much works this takes, and now I’ll be even more free to dedicate that work to my clients.”
It’s a new chapter in a story she has relished sharing with every client who becomes a new neighbor. By sharing her truth, by being that first member of the welcoming committee to introduce folks to her community, she has enriched that community and helped it to grow. And being the kind of community that a place like Daufuskie fosters, that community has embraced her.
“You have to trust your real estate agent, and I take a lot of pride in having built that trust with people here on Daufuskie,” Miles said.
“Having the community behind me, and knowing they can attest to that, has been everything.”
CINDY CREAMER
DUNES REAL ESTATE
6 Queens Folly Road
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (843) 298-2356
cindyc.dunesrealestate.com
In a world where real estate agents come and go, Cindy Creamer stands out as a rare breed—an industry leader whose influence extends far beyond buying and selling homes. With over 18 years of experience, Cindy has redefined
what it means to be a REALTOR®, setting a gold standard that buyers and sellers in the Lowcountry have come to trust. But her impact doesn’t stop at closing deals; Cindy’s commitment to advocacy makes her a champion of protecting private property rights and fostering a vibrant community.
“Everything I do starts with serving my clients,” Cindy explains. “It’s about representing their best interests from the moment we start working together, all the way through to protecting their private property rights and ensuring they’re part of a vibrant, thriving community. My goal is to not just facilitate transactions, but to be their advocate in every sense—protecting what’s most important to them both now and in the future.”
Cindy’s dedication is undeniable. She has served two terms as President of the Hilton Head Area Association of REALTORS®, one term as President of the South Carolina REALTORS®, and is currently serving as Regional Vice President for the National Association of REALTORS®, overseeing the Carolinas, Kentucky, and Tennessee. She also leads the South Carolina Leadership Academy, mentoring the next generation of industry leaders.
Her passion for advocacy extends well beyond real estate. Cindy has worked with Hospice Care of the Lowcountry and was recently appointed by Governor McMaster to the Children’s Trust of South Carolina, where she continues her mission to create meaningful change in her community.
“If you had told me 18 years ago that I’d be this involved, I wouldn’t have believed it,” Cindy reflects with a smile. “But I saw early on how much of a difference we could make, and being able to shape the industry while protecting the rights of property owners has been worth every second.”
Cindy Creamer isn’t just a REALTOR®; she’s an advocate, a leader, and a force to be reckoned with. Her commitment to her clients and her community makes her one of the most soughtafter real estate professionals in the region—because when you work with Cindy, you’re partnering with someone who’s not only passionate about real estate but also dedicated to making a lasting impact.
Article by Daniel Moskowitz
Cracking the Code:
NAVIGATING REAL ESTATE’S NEW RULES WITH CONFIDENCE
Aguy walks into a bar and says, “I’ll have a beer.” The bartender starts to pour, but the guy quickly interrupts, “Wait. Before you serve it, let’s sign an agreement on how much I’m going to pay and exactly what you’re going to do to serve it.”
The bartender looks puzzled. “You want to sort out the payment details before I even hand you the drink?”
“Yep,” the guy says. “That’s the new system.”
This sounds like the setup to a joke, but in the world of real estate today, it’s no punchline. If you’ve been keeping up with the headlines – “Real Estate Commissions Under Fire!” or “New Rules Shake Up Agent Fees!” – you might think the entire industry has been flipped on its head. But here’s the thing: While the media is busy making it sound like a revolution, the reality is much less dramatic.
There are no new laws here about real estate commissions and, for the record, real estate commissions have always been negotiable and were never set by law.
What has changed, thanks to the recent National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement, are two key things: Buyer agent compensation can no longer be advertised in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), and agents must now have a signed agreement with their buyer establishing their compensation and duties before showing you any property. Also, just to sprinkle in the technicality disclaimer, these procedural changes apply only to Realtor members and MLSs that choose to adopt the settlement procedures.
In short, it’s less about shaking up the whole real estate game and more about introducing some extra clarity and transparency.
But what does that mean for you as a buyer or seller? Let’s break it down and see how you can navigate this new landscape like a pro.
For buyers, the changes are a bit like pulling back the curtain on how your agent gets paid. Back in the day –meaning this past July – you might have gone through
the whole process of finding your dream home without knowing what your agent’s compensation was or who was footing the bill. Now, things are more transparent. Before you even step foot in a house or do a virtual tour, your agent is required to spell out their compensation and duties in a written agreement. No more guessing games.
How does this affect you? For starters, it puts you in a position to understand your agent’s duties to you while clarifying what your agent is making and your responsibility for any part of that compensation not covered through offerings or the transaction. We will discuss those soon. Here’s where it gets interesting: If the seller is unwilling to offer compensation to the buyer brokerage or negotiate contractual concessions that you could apply toward your transaction, that most likely means you will be paying it out of pocket. But don’t fret just yet – many sellers still offer compensation as part of the deal, which can help streamline things for you. This isn’t a “buyer beware” situation; it’s more like “buyer, be aware.”
On the seller side, things get a bit more flexible. Under the old system, compensation for buyer agents was typically posted alongside the property listing in the MLS. Sellers would often include that up front, like a box checked off on a form. Now, you’ve got options. You can still offer compensation up front, or you can negotiate it later – or even leave it entirely to the buyer to handle.
Sounds like a lot of responsibility, right? It is. But that also means more control, and with the right strategy, that control can work in your favor.
Think of it like this: Offering compensation up front has long been a triedand-true method for sellers to make their listing more attractive. Why? Well, in our Lowcountry market, you entice 1,700-plus agents to reach out to all their buyer contacts to get your property sold.
Think about it. As humans, we are more inclined to go the path of least resistance. Most buyer agents, also humans, have some hesitation in introducing a property and laying ground rules that the buyer needs to agree to their
Daniel Moskowitz Broker-in-Charge, Dunes Real Estate
terms of compensation before opening that door for their buyer. Generally, offers of compensation for at least the past century have simplified the process and helped sellers support getting the buyer through the door, while keeping their focus on the value of your home. And let’s be honest, the more buyers that walk through your door, the better your chances of receiving a competitive offer or having a competing offer scenario.
But here’s where the real estate landscape gets a little more nuanced, especially when financing comes into play and compensation offerings do not cover the terms of the buyer-broker agreement. If the buyer is relying on a mortgage, they’ll need to cover any agent compensation out of pocket since it can’t be rolled into the loan. That’s right – compensation for the buyer’s agent isn’t “mortgageable,” meaning it must be cash on hand.
So, offering compensation up front could make your property more appealing by reducing one more hurdle for buyers trying to budget for their dream home. To the seller’s benefit, the more cash a buyer puts down on a loan, generally speaking, the more purchasing power they have and the higher price they can now afford.
Now, for sellers who are weighing their options on how to handle compensation, there are really three main strategies.
The first option is the traditional method, known as cooperative compensation. This is the setup most sellers are familiar with, where the listing agent offers part of their commission to the buyer’s agent. It has been around for ages because it works. It keeps things simple and minimizes seller involvement in potential legal disputes over who gets credit for bringing in the buyer (procuring cause disputes, as they’re called in the biz). It’s clean, efficient, and keeps the process moving.
The second option, seller compensation, is a bit more direct. Here, the seller pays the buyer’s agent out of their own pocket, creating a direct contract between the seller and the buyer’s agent. It is generally less financial liability for the listing brokerage and gives the seller more control, but there’s also the potential for added complexity. You as the seller might find yourself in an abundance of compensation agreements with buyer brokerages and potentially exposed to legal costs associated with disputes over claims of compensation and performance. If you’re someone who likes to keep things straightforward, this might not be your best choice.
Then there’s the third option: negotiating compensation as part of the overall contract. This approach gives you flexibility, but it can also add a new layer of complexity to the negotiations. Picture this: Instead of just focusing on the price and terms of the sale, you’re also negotiating funds (called “concessions”) that a buyer may partially utilize to compensate their agent at closing.
Historically, compensation has generally been a non-issue during the negotiation phase, but now, it’s one more detail that could complicate things. And, while this might sound like a win for sellers who like to keep their options open, it’s worth considering the more simplified, comparative benefit of offering compensation up front and letting everyone focus on the home itself.
Here’s a fun twist. The latest rules also say that while you can still market concession offerings in the MLS, those concessions can’t be used to replace the former compensation structure. In other words, if you’re offering concessions, don’t count on them to be used entirely to cover the buyer agent’s fees post-settlement. It’s a little bit of a curveball, but it’s all about keeping things clear and avoiding any sneaky workarounds.
So, what’s the takeaway here? At the end of the day, the NAR settlement might have changed some of the technical aspects of how real estate compensation is communicated and handled, but the fundamentals remain the same. Sellers want to sell. Buyers want to buy. And real estate agents are here to help both parties get what they want while making sure everything is done in a transparent and fair way.
As a buyer, it’s about knowing how your agent will deliver value in representation and making sure you understand your responsibility to cover their fees when they achieve your goal. As a seller, it’s now about deciding how best to position your property to attract buyers, and offering compensation to buyer agents is one proven way to do that.
In this new world of real estate, where transparency is the name of the game, knowledge really is power. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just thinking about jumping into the market, the key is understanding the rules and knowing how to make them work for you. With a little planning and the right agent, you can navigate these changes with confidence – and even come out ahead.
Just like at the bar, it’s not just about agreeing on the price before the drink, you’ll want to take a look around. Is this place known for good service? Does the bartender have the support to deliver a top-notch experience? The same goes for real estate. Not all agents or brokerages are created equal.
Before you sign that agreement, make sure the agent –and the brokerage behind them – has the resources, expertise, and backup to really serve you. After all, you wouldn’t want to settle for a watered-down drink, would you?
Styled by Kaila Jeffcoat
Photography by M.KAT
Modeled by Sheridan Day and Nick Strimpfel
Special thanks to Jeff Hunt and Dunes Real Estate for hosting our shoot. This oceanfront home in Palmetto Dunes is listed for sale with Jeff Hunt & Associates and Dunes Real Estate. Call (843)422-5933 to set up a tour.
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By the Beach at Palmetto Dunes
In the context of architecture, it’s fairly easy to define “coastal style.” You’ll see it all over the beautiful property seen here, right on the water’s edge in Palmetto Dunes. Large windows and sliding doors for framing those mesmerizing views to the ocean. Expansive balconies, terraces and outdoor living spaces for capturing the bliss of a sunlit day. Clean lines that contemporize the entire look while creating a minimalist contrast to the beauty that surrounds it.
Wh en it comes to fashion, the definition of “coastal style” is a little harder to put into words. It can be elegant, but never pretentious. It can be rustic, but never unrefined. It’s a style that can’t be described, but it can be shown. And on the next few pages, we’re holding an open house of the winter’s coastal fashions paired with timeless architectural beauty.
Oceanfront Resort
Ensemble available at John Bayley
Ensemble available at Maggie + Me
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The cooler weather lends itself to a wealth of textures, from thick fleece to buttery soft flannel on outdoor gear to darker tones for more elegant ensembles. But it’s all about the accessories. For your home, it’s a comfy throw draped across your sofa, a hot mug of tea just within reach, and fire crackling on Savannah bricks. For yourself, it’s something a little more sparkly or a handbag that ties the entire ensemble together.
Ensembles available at Outside Hilton Head
available at Forsythe Jewelers
Jewelry
Jewelry available at Forsythe Jewelers
Ensemble available at Collage Boutique
Ensemble available at Southern Tide
Shoes available at Palmettoes
Ensemble available at
Palmettoes
Ensemble available at The Haven
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A good home pairs form with function, creating design inspiration that elevates livability. Framing a dine-in kitchen with a bay of plantation shuttered windows, topped by an eye-catching chandelier. Creating geometric angles that let every room enjoy the ocean view. Fashion often works the same way, creating everyday looks that still turn heads while indulging in cool-weather comfort.
Jewelry available at Forsythe
available at
available at
Jewelers
Shirt
John Bayley
Hat
Bennali’s Coastal Wear
available at
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Even the most subtle details can define style. It can be the contrast of textured hardwood floors against whitewash brick, the craftsman lines running through trim work. It can be the point of a heel, the flare of a hem or the drape of a necklace. As they say, the devil is in the details.
This oceanfront home in Palmetto Dunes is listed for sale with Jeff Hunt & Associates and Dunes Real Estate. Call (843)4225933 to set up a tour.
Ensemble
Gigi’s
Ensemble available at Coastal Bliss
Ensemble available at Kelly Caron Curated
Article by Barry Kaufman
Helping Hands
MOUL, REALTORS® HELPS HEROES FIND THEIR DREAM HOME
What makes someone a hero?
It could be that your idea of a hero is someone who has set an example of selflessness, of sacrifice. It could be someone who works to lift others up, regardless of any reward. It could be someone who puts themselves in harm’s way to keep others safe.
However you define them, these heroes deserve our deepest gratitude and our most unwavering support. Robert Moul recognized that simple truth long ago and set to work making sure local heroes received both.
Through the Moul, REALTORS® Heroes Program, heroes of all kinds receive up to 25% of their agent’s commission as a rebate at closing, whether buying or selling.
“When you’re able to just gift someone at closing for $3,000 or $4,000, that’s a big chunk of change,” Moul said. “I started giving back in 2015 and so far, we’ve given back $299,374 of our commission directly into the hands of our heroes. We love this program.”
The impetus for the program came from Moul’s own connection to our nation’s military heroes. With a brother serving active duty in the Army and an extensive military family across the branches, he has seen the kinds of sacrifices that our armed forces make far beyond the battlefield.
“I think our military doesn’t get enough recognition,” Moul said. “They put their lives in danger and leave their families behind. I wanted to give those families something.”
Photography by M.Kat
And it’s not just money that Moul, REALTORS® has given back. The company creates what Moul calls “a chain of people” to support these heroes in their new community. Sometimes it’s helping them get involved, sometimes it’s just helping them find a lender.
“But that’s something that has always set us apart –getting clients to the closing table with a smile,” Moul said. “Too often you hear people saying, ‘I didn’t even see my agent until they came to pick up the check.’”
The program proved so successful that, in recent years,
Moul has widened the definition to include heroes who might not get military parades, but still deserve our thanks. “We’ve extended it to teachers as well as firefighters, police officers, medical personnel, reservists, wounded warriors, and veterans,” he said.
Yuri Kenney, the Bluffton office sales manager said, “My wife is a teacher, and I’ve seen her coworkers struggle to buy a home. To watch them be able to use that money to realize that dream, it helps us feel like part of the community and lets them know they’re valued.”
Regi Johnson, Jen Thomas, Melissa Epstein, Robert Moul, Yuri Kennedy, and Taylor Cox
Not pictured: Claudia Chapman, Jordan Knight and Matt Wyrick
Moul, REALTORS® Clients
It’s a visible way that Moul, REALTORS® is giving back, among countless ways that most people don’t hear about. For the past three years running, Moul, REALTORS® has bought pounds of candy to give away for the Spooktacular Halloween Block Party held by the Town of Bluffton. They’ve also donated numerous items from school supplies and gym class supplies to Amazon gift cards to area teachers. And they’ve launched an entirely separate division of the Heroes Program for taking donations.
“Real estate can sometimes be a not-so-rewarding business to be in, but when we give back it feels much more rewarding,” Moul said.
Other real estate professionals know what he’s talking about – especially given the recent changes spurred by the National Association of Realtors settlement. The settlement essentially changes the way compensation is structured, meaning a buyer’s agent might have to negotiate with the sellers to determine their compensation, and as a buyer, you could be held be responsible for covering the difference in your agent’s pay.
“Another thing is, you can’t just go now, as a buyer, to look at a house. You have to sign an agreement first,” Moul said. “We’re navigating those changes.”
But then, navigating change has been what Moul does best since starting Moul, REALTORS®. From day one, he took a decidedly different approach to the industry, one driven by the new possibilities that technology presents.
“We’re really a technology-driven brokerage,” Moul said. “As the team has evolved over the years, I think we’ve built something unique.”
And there’s a brilliant combination of hardware and software at play. On the software side, they’ve introduced an online portal that not only gives his agents total visibility and insights into their transactions, but also gives clients a quick and easy way to track milestones towards their sale. On the hardware side, Moul is using his background in intelligence studies to dissect the market and find strategies that other brokerages aren’t.
“People see our little office in downtown Bluffton, but we’re competing against these goliath companies with multiple offices and we’ve been able to find our niche here in helping our clients,” Moul said.
Facing those odds to deliver for clients and give back to our heroes? Sounds rather heroic in itself.
STEM CELL SPECIALISTS
NOW IN THE LOW COUNTRY
Stem cell therapy, once accessible only to the wealthy or elite athletes, is now available to everyone in the Hilton Head and Bluffton area. The Novo Regenerative Clinic, located at 15 Moss Creek, offers cutting-edge treatments that leverage mesenchymal stem cells to enhance the body’s natural ability to heal and regenerate. As the Lowcountry’s premier stem cell clinic, Novo Regenerative is dedicated to helping patients find relief from chronic pain without invasive surgeries or long-term medication.
Dr. William Durrett, medical director of Novo Regenerative, is a South Carolina board-certified anesthesiologist and pain management physician with over eight years of experience in stem cell therapy. His journey with regenerative medicine began after successfully treating his own post-surgery complications using stem cells. Realizing the power of this therapy, Dr. Durrett made it his mission to offer an alternative for patients suffering from conditions like osteoarthritis, degenerative joints, and neck and back conditions.
“Stem cells have helped hundreds of patients find relief from chronic pain from hips, backs, knees, and shoulders,” Dr. Durrett explains. “We’re proud not only of the therapy we offer but also of the expertise we bring to every step of the process- from diagnosis with video fluoroscopy, to precise injections, to personalized aftercare. With over 90% of our patients reporting satisfaction, delivering results is our top priority.”
Dr. Grant Evans, co-owner of Novo Regenerative, shares his personal success story with stem cell therapy. “I was facing a knee replacement until I met Dr. Durrett. I decided to give stem cells a try, and it changed my life. I went from being unable to bend down while golfing to pain-free movement on the golf course and cycling again. That was two years ago, and I’ve avoided surgery altogether.”
Why Expertise Matters in Stem Cell Therapy
Dr. Evans and Dr. Durrett emphasize the importance of receiving stem cell therapy from specialists. “We often hear from patients who tried stem cell therapy elsewhere without success, only to discover it wasn’t administered correctly- or wasn’t real stem cell therapy at all,” said Dr. Evans. “This field requires precise expertise, particularly when injecting sensitive areas like the spine.”
How do people know they’re a good candidate?
“Many generalists or clinics without the right training may perform these procedures inaccurately,” Dr. Durrett said. “For example, a generalist might inject stem cells into surrounding muscles rather than directly into a herniated disc. This kind of imprecision can make a huge difference in the effectiveness of the treatment.”
The Novo Regenerative Clinic offers a complimentary in-office consultation to determine if a patient is a good candidate for stem cell therapy. The consultation includes an interview and video fluoroscopy exam. If treatment is recommended, the process involves pre-treatment protocols, precise stem cell injections, and follow-up care, which may include laser therapy or booster injections if needed.
“Our approach is simple and effective,” said Dr. Evans. “Our goal is to help patients regain their quality of life and return to their favorite activities pain free.”
To schedule your complimentary consultation, visit NovoRegenerative. com or call us (843) 836-5800 and discover how stem cell therapy can transform your life.
Left to right - Dr. Grant Evans, Cyndi Congrove, and Dr. William Durrett
PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT
GETTING TO 90:
PART TWO
Afew months ago, Maggie Washo and Jevon Daly reached out on Facebook to readers, looking to interview residents who had made it to 90 years old and beyond. Originally, the thought was to ascertain what these people had in common – if any commonalities existed. While they didn’t get exactly what they were searching for, the duo did have enjoyable conversations with lovely people who have been on this planet for a time. The dialogue veered sporadically from the price of gas and raising children to meeting celebrities, square dancing, politics, war, and the dangers of motorcycles. What follows are snippets of these interviews. This is the second part in a continuing series. See the next installments in our upcoming issues.
It’s the most unbelievably fortunate and best thing that could have ever happened to anybody in the world –to meet Nancy, and for her to agree to marry me.
ON LOVE & MARRIAGE AND RAISING CHILDREN
TOM AND NANCY KEMENY
Status: In their mid-80s, married for 61 years.
Tom Kemeny: People don’t get married because the dynamics change when you marry. A boy and girl meet, they live together, they’re happy. It’s all fresh, it’s fun, it’s sexy. Then you have the marriage, and it just has a different vibe.
Jevon Daly: Yeah, I know what you’re talking about. TK: It just puts a different dynamic onto your relationship. Now, I married when I was 21, when I met Nancy.
Nancy Kemeny: I was 23.
TK: It’s the most unbelievably fortunate and best thing that could have ever happened to anybody in the world – to meet Nancy, and for her to agree to marry me. She’s the most incredibly kind, generous, wonderful person that you could possibly meet. We now have two daughters, 10 grandchildren aged 18 to 38, three greatgrandchildren aged 5 to 14, and another two on the way. In fact, I think that Nancy is a saint, and I have it from reliable sources that the Vatican is fast tracking her sainthood instead of waiting 30 years after she dies. So having said that, the secret of our marriage is not to agree on anything. There is nothing we agree on. It doesn’t matter if we’re discussing what restaurant to go to, where to vacation, what presents to buy, whom to invite … it doesn’t matter what it is, we don’t agree on anything.
Maggie Washo: Right.
NK: Are you married, Maggie?
MW: I’m not.
TK: Not agreeing adds an interesting dynamic to our relationship because it’s not predictable. Not agreeing is one of our great strengths – it’s something that binds us together, as opposed to pulling us apart. I think it’s too easy to marry and it’s too easy to divorce. I’m guessing almost half of marriages end up in divorce. And when you have children, it’s just a terrible thing. It’s traumatic. The children never get over all these mixed marriages. I don’t think they really work, personally.
NK: Mixed marriages?
MW: A Brady Bunch-type situation. These kids plus those kids.
TK: So, we’ve been married 61 years, and Nancy doesn’t want me to tell you this, but virtually the first week after we were married (in Goldsboro, North Carolina), we were in a taxi in New York and I mentioned to the taxi
driver that we were just freshly married and he says, “I want to share with you the secret of my happy marriage. In a marriage you’ll have a lot of discussions and disagreements. You’ll fight. Make sure that you make up every night. Don’t let your wife go back to her parents. Don’t let her move out of the house – or even go to a different room. Make sure you make up every night and sleep in the same bed.” Now I know it sounds corny …
NK: It sure is.
TK: … but it does work because it forces you to settle any differences. I guess the older you are, the less passionate you are about your disagreements and tantrums you might have, right?
MW: Sure. Because most of it doesn’t matter.
TK: I mean, we can read each other’s thoughts. I can finish her sentences, and she hasn’t even spoken. That’s what happens after 61 years, right? So that, I think, is what binds us together. I don’t know if it works for anybody else. About parenting … I’m waiting for my great-grandchildren to put it into practice. I’m hoping to put the smallest amount of influence into this younger generation, because I cannot say I was a good parent. I was very busy. I traveled. I worked very hard – excessively hard to the point where I was not around.
NK: That’s what kept us together!
TK: I was away maybe one or two weeks at a time, but Nancy heroically managed to raise the children as best she could. And I think they were brought up on fish fingers …
NK: … and cheese sandwiches.
MW: Like most children, I guess.
NK: Probably. When I was born, in 1939, women did not go into the kitchen.
TK: And why would they? So, Nancy thinks that cooking and cleaning are cities in China!
NK: Oh, Tommy.
MW: So that’s why you had to work so hard.
NK: Yes.
TK: I’m very domesticated because it’s a sign of respect. Now, I don’t know if it’s a bit odd, but we don’t have staff. We feel that it’s very healthy to do things yourself. We shop, we clean, we cook. We do the best we can. I think it keeps us very grounded. I feel also, having other people in the house is sometimes not very good.
MW: Right. You want your own space. Nancy doesn’t want the staff to hear her yelling at you, Tom.
NK: That’s right. You’re so right, Maggie.
TK: So, about parenting, I could say that I have nothing that I can teach anyone. One thing I can teach, what I’ve learned, is the greatest concept of all, which is unconditional love. It’s easy to explain but it’s very hard to put into practice. Because there are occasions when you’re really challenged in life, with what your children do, or do not do. Troubles they get into – and it can be something minor, and it can be something catastrophic. And to be able to express to them that you love them constantly, all the time – “I love you when you’re good. I love you when you’re bad. I love you when you lie. I love you when you did something completely …”
NK: You give them the chop when they do something like that!
MW: The chop?
NK: No inheritance!
TK: Well, we haven’t done anything like that, but we like to say it. It’s a perennial hope that your children will turn out well. I’m very driven myself.
MW: So, do you feel like you expect a lot from your children because you expect a lot from yourself?
TK: I think I’ve learned to expect nothing. Because if you expect nothing, then you cannot be disappointed. If you expect a lot then you put too much burden on them. Instead, having no expectations is because they can’t disappoint you. Of course, you hope that your children will lead productive lives. And by productive I don’t mean making money. Productive meaning something that brings them joy and satisfaction and if they can earn a living, great.
NK: I think they’re having a great time driving their cars, going to the beach, not working … getting up when they like. I can’t think of anything better! Tommy thinks you have to get up, be at work early in the morning.
MW: So, Tom is a workaholic and you, Nancy, are not.
NK: No. I wasn’t brought up to work.
MW: You really are “opposites attract.”
TK: There is this unbelievable care and love that I feel for my wife, for Nancy, and I know she feels for me. So even when I goof off or do something mean …
MW: She’s not going anywhere. She’s not going to give you the chop.
JD: I feel like she’s given him the chop before.
TK: She’s so completely kind and loving and caring … it could be midnight and she realizes that I have forgotten something. She will get out of bed to go and get it –which I must stop her. It would never occur to her to say, “Well, you go and get it.”
MW: I think that’s a female thing.
TK: Well, no.
NK: Yes, it is.
MW: I think it is. Women are very caregiving – it’s “I want to solve your problem.”
NK: (to Jevon) Are you married?
JD: I was for almost 20 years.
TK: OK, well, we’ll interview you later.
JD: Everything you’re saying is … kind of my philosophy on … it’s just … I can only control myself, and I just try to do like you, if I want people to work hard, I don’t say, “Hey, work hard!” I just do it and hope one day they turn into me. But they’re probably not going to. Maybe one will, maybe one won’t. I don’t know.
TK: So, the secret of being happily married is to have the great fortune of finding the right person. We could not have been more different. Religion-wise. Backgroundwise. Social class-wise. Everything-wise. How her parents allowed me to marry her, I will never understand. Because if I had been an alien with blue ears and one eye in my forehead, coming from some galactic distance, I couldn’t have been more unsuitable, because they had a vision of a husband for her. Coming from the South, it would be the son of their bridge partner or country club friend. And here I am, from a different continent, different religion, different everything.
MW: You were raised in the South, Nancy?
NK: Yes, in North Carolina. Until I met Tommy. He’s from Romania. We met in Saint Thomas.
TK: I could not have been less acceptable. They were hoping for some normal person who lived on their street to marry their wonderful daughter. Instead, I came along and they gave us gave permission, for which I asked … but we would have gotten married anyway.
MW: Well, that’s why they gave it.
NK: We were married by my first cousin, and Tommy thought, “Well, that doesn’t count. We certainly aren’t really married.”
TK: I was given an ultimatum. Nancy said to either marry her or else there are 10 other guys who want to marry her. So, when I went to ask her father, I blurted out something about how much I loved her and that I was
GETTING TO 90
hoping that he would consent to us getting married and I don’t know what else I said. I was incredibly nervous and I was shaking.
NK: He said, “Why don’t you see me in my office tomorrow?”
TK: Which I did. But the point is that I then added – and I don’t know where I got the courage because I was 21 –“and, by the way, we hope to get your blessing but if you don’t give it, we’ll still get married.”
JD: Right, I know that sentiment right there.
TK: And you know, he never said a word. When he went up to the bedroom I figured, “Well I blew it and I’ll be kicked out maybe in the middle of the night.” All he said to his wife, Vivian, was, “That boy has spunk.” I was just learning English and I didn’t even know what that word meant, but I figured it was not a very good thing.
MW: Well, yeah. That’s what a dad wants for his daughter.
TK: The fact that he died six months later …
NK: It was two years later.
TK: It felt like six months. I think it has to do with the enormity of us being married. It finally dawned on him that we were 12,000 miles away – and that probably saved our marriage.
NK: It sure did. Because if we got into a fight, there was no way to go home. There was no boat. There was no plane.
MW: You had to figure it out.
NK: We lived in Cambodia.
MW: Cambodia?!
TK: And I can’t say what I did there, because …
JD: Then you’d have to kill us both.
TK: I’ll have to agree with you on that.
NK: I don’t know what he’s talking about.
TK: To summarize, I would say, be lucky and find someone wonderful. And by wonderful, I don’t mean the prettiest, which she was and is. I don’t mean having lot of degrees, or being from a wonderful family or being rich, all of which she was and is. I mean somebody with a good heart.
NK: What degrees? I have a degree in teaching kindergarten.
MW: So, he knew you were going to be a good mother!
TK: It’s not the obvious material things that you would hope to find in a wife. Pretty good family, maybe have some money, well-educated, good friends. That’s what everybody wants, ideally. But none of that is as important as having a good heart, to be a good person. That is the greatest value that I expect from my children and grandchildren. That is what I try to live by. That is my ethos. To be a good person. To be generous – particularly when nobody knows it. Anonymously. There is a word in Yiddish but it’s a German word – to be a mensch. To be a man.
MW: Does it mean teacher?
TK: “Mensch” means being somebody who always knows the right thing to do. Who has a strong moral compass, who is generous and does it anonymously –who will never take advantage of other people who are under him or, well, beholden to him.
MW: Do you have a faith? Is that where you get your moral compass?
TK: I believe in a higher power and that’s what guides me.
NK: We don’t go to church, but we have some very religious children and grandchildren.
TK: I believe in the higher power. It’s something easier to believe in than some abstract organized religion. The higher power could be a friend. The higher power could be …
NK: Tommy, people go to church because it’s like going to a club.
MW: (laughs) Well, and sometimes for businesspeople. People will join churches for business and networking.
TK: It’s amazing how a higher power works. During the dark times, when you are in a situation where somebody’s really in desperate need, emotionally or some other way, and you can share an experience that helps them, you are their higher power. You should not give advice, but you can share experiences. Advice is very dangerous, because what may have worked for you could cause somebody else to commit suicide. If you can share something that resonates with them and helps them, then I’m their higher power at that moment. There have been endless situations where I heard something somebody else said that helped me.
MW: Sure, yes.
It’s amazing how a higher power works. During the dark times, when you are in a situation where somebody’s really in desperate need, emotionally or some other way, and you can share an experience that helps them, you are their higher power.
TK: So, beyond that I can’t really say anything else other than I’m blessed. Really blessed. I never really use that word – that’s the first time I’ve used it, but I feel very blessed to be happily married. Notwithstanding all the arguments we had over 61 years. We can’t agree on anything. Where are we going to eat tonight? Are we going to go for a walk? It doesn’t matter what it is – we can’t agree, but eventually we do something together, right?
Actually, there is one thing on which we agreed very early in our relationship, which is how we divide our tasks and responsibilities. I am responsible for the “major” things, like macroeconomics, foreign policy, interest rates and who to vote for. … Nancy is responsible for the “small” stuff, which is really the most important: where we live, the number of children, their education, friends and everyday matters. Nancy’s genius is to make me feel that I am in charge.
ARTICLE BY HEATHER QUINN . PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT
SIMPLE GRASSROOTS EFFORT TO COLLECT TOYS RESULTS IN COMMUNITYWIDE GIVING
It’s not fancy. It’s just people helping people. It’s that simple.”
Matt Bauman’s heartfelt words about the Toy Drive to support Deep Well reflect his profound love and conviction for this simple but mighty endeavor. In 2023, Bauman collected more than $30,000 worth of donated toys that were then distributed through Deep Well’s Santa Shop to more than 800 local families.
The Toy Drive is a grassroots venture. Not only is the name itself simple, but the origin story has
humble beginnings. The idea came about after a neighborhood dinner party.
“The holiday party was a tad boring and we had an absurd amount of leftover food,” Bauman said. Although the company was enjoyable, something was missing.
The following year, Bauman and his co-hosts asked guests to cut down on excessive holiday platters and yule logs, and to donate a toy instead. They collectively chose Deep Well’s Santa Shop, which Bauman was drawn to for its faithful support
Matt Bauman wraps donated gifts for the Deep Well Toy Shop.
of residents in need, as the recipient for their gifts.
The dinner party turned out to be a success – a win-win situation where guests felt good about their charitable contributions and less wasteful of extra food, and, most importantly, Deep Well received much-needed toys for their Santa Shop.
The first year, Bauman and his friends donated 75 toys. He quickly recognized the ease of this experiment and enthusiasm from his neighbors and friends, which was a necessary element to keep the tradition going.
Sandy Gillis, executive director of the Deep Well Project, is extremely grateful that “the volume of toys, games, and books that are collected through Matt’s Toy Drive seems to grow every year, and that’s a good thing since the number of families that register for the program every year has grown significantly.”
Bauman is embarking on his seventh year running the Toy Drive and the momentum shows no signs of slowing down. Last year, 40-plus local businesses participated by hosting collection boxes for the Toy Drive. This year, Bauman is aiming to surpass 62 boxes.
While this story paints the picture of a jolly old man delivering gifts like Santa, the reality is that Bauman wears a different hat. A retired elementary school teacher, he is a baseball coach at Hilton Head Island High School. By day, he coaches baseball; by night, he wraps gifts.
“I’ve cleared out an entire room in my house! The boxes are stacked from the floor to the ceiling. I go through a ton of tape and wrapping paper,” Bauman said, pointing out numerous paper cuts on his hands.
This grassroots initiative radiates all the heartwarming vibes you’d find in a classic holiday film, but make no mistake – this isn’t a fictional story. Despite Hilton Head Island’s picturesque scenery and immaculate golf courses, there are genuine human needs often hidden beneath the surface. Bauman recognizes the unmet needs within many communities across the island.
“Teaching at Hilton Head Creative Arts Elementary, I saw the letters being written to Santa from certain students,” Bauman said. “They weren’t nice
“TEACHING AT HILTON HEAD CREATIVE ARTS ELEMENTARY, I
SAW THE LETTERS BEING WRITTEN
TO SANTA
FROM CERTAIN STUDENTS,” BAUMAN SAID. “THEY WEREN’T NICE LETTERS. (THEY WERE) LETTERS WRITTEN ABOUT HOW SANTA HAD FORGOTTEN THEIR FAMILY AND HOW THEY KNEW THEY WEREN’T GOING TO RECEIVE ANY GIFTS.”
letters. (They were) letters written about how Santa had forgotten their family and how they knew they weren’t going to receive any gifts.”
Bauman passionately believes that every child deserves a magical Christmas morning filled with presents, and this belief fuels his commitment to enhance the Toy Drive each year.
Local schools are the backbone of this project. Deep Well collaborates closely with teachers and social workers to identify the community’s needs.
“This work is deeply rooted in my experience as a teacher, and seeing the inequities that go on in the school building,” Bauman said. “You have affluent children and you have children (who are) completely dependent on school lunch and breakfast being free.”
Also acutely aware of the disparities within the school system, Deep Well volunteers, aka Santa Shop Elves, work with local teachers as a team to create a Toy Drive wish list, which is then displayed on every collection box.
Donation boxes are set up in every public school on Hilton Head Island, plus Heritage Academy. Additionally, Bauman sets a positive example for his baseball players, who engage in the Toy Drive each year. He even has a few former players who continue to participate after graduating high school; one college player has involved his fraternity in the effort.
Bauman is steadfast about his commitment to local families. “The goal every year is to help as many families as possible,” he said. “The amount of people that need help is not going down, it’s only going up – especially as more people move to the area.”
HOW THE TOY DRIVE WORKS
“The Santa Shop is really a community initiative,” Gillis said. “Deep Well purchases items to ensure all wishes can be covered, but the vast majority of all items are donated by island residents and businesses.”
The list of participating businesses is vast, with the majority being small, locally owned establishments. Hilton Head Island Physical Therapy has been a partner since the beginning and local bakery The G-Free Spot donated all the boxes this year.
Once Bauman assembles the boxes, they are delivered to the businesses that have signed up to host a donation box. A team of Bauman’s friends and volunteers help deliver the boxes.
On December 6, a box truck will make its rounds to all those businesses to collect the donated toys and will deliver them to Deep Well. Once there, the toys will be organized and placed on the shelves of the Santa Shop by Deep Well volunteer “elves.”
To request a Toy Drive donation box for your organization or business, email MattRBauman@gmail.com. The Toy Drive runs from November 1 through December 6. For more information, visit deepwellproject.org.
Article by Heather Quinn
ANNUAL THANKSGIVING DINNER MARKS 25 YEARS
of gathering together to celebrate community
Savory roasted turkey breast, sweet potato souffle topped with marshmallows, spiced pumpkin pie, creamy banana pudding, collard greens, fluffy whipped potatoes, and orange glazed ham. These are the mouthwatering dishes that any Southerner would anticipate gracing their Thanksgiving table.
However, this is not your average Thanksgiving feast. This is the menu for a remarkable gathering on Hilton Head Island for more than 1,500 people from all walks of life.
Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of more than 300 volunteers will be working tirelessly to create a Thanksgiving meal that fosters a deep sense of community, uniting neighbors and new residents, across all ages, in a festive atmosphere. This is the annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner at Hudson’s Seafood on the Docks, of which, as with most Lowcountry stories worth telling, the backstory is filled with fascinating details.
In 1998, The Island Packet newspaper published an article that focused on loneliness and feelings of isolation that some residents experienced during the Thanksgiving holiday. The article caught the eye of Allan and Gloria LaCoe, co-founders of the Community Thanksgiving with their friend Brian J. Carmines, owner of Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks.
“That article caught our attention,” Gloria said. “The combination of an aging population, plus the high number of second homeowners and vacationers, made large family gatherings difficult for various reasons. Many people were left alone on Thanksgiving.”
The LaCoes felt compelled to do something about the situation and immediately began to create a plan. They collaborated with Carmines, who magnanimously offered up his restaurant to host the dinner – Hudson’s was typically closed on Thanksgiving Day and the space was available.
The team grew from there. St. Andrew By-The-Sea Methodist Church stepped up to provide funding. Betsy Doughtie, then-director of the Deep Well Project, and Jackie Johnson also collaborated on the herculean effort.
“After months of hard work, we became extremely apprehensive about whether anyone would show up,” Gloria LaCoe recalled. To their relief and astonishment, when the doors opened that morning in 1999, they were grateful to see a long line of attendees. The inaugural Community Thanksgiving served more than 800 people.
What began as a small idea has turned into a cherished Hilton Head Island tradition.
The spirit of inclusivity is at the heart of the Community Thanksgiving origin story. This event was born from a desire to create connections within the community, and its beauty lies in the various reasons people are drawn to it. Andrew Carmines, Brian’s son and general manager of Hudson’s, expressed warm and heartfelt sentiments regarding the myriad of reasons people attend the dinner.
Guests at last year’s Thanksgiving Dinner at Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks.
Hilton Head Island Mayor Alan Perry and Gloria LaCoe.
General Manager of Hudson’s, Andrew Carmines, with his two daughters Alice and Millie.
Carmines shared encounters with recently widowed spouses who join the event to avoid spending Thanksgiving alone. He also mentioned newcomers to Hilton Head Island, eager to connect with others.
Even those who plan to make dinner, but mess up the main attraction, are welcome. “If you happen to burn your turkey, don’t worry – just come on down,” Carmines said.
Whether it’s tourists seeking a holiday experience away from their families, individuals who do not have the means for a Thanksgiving meal, those feeling isolated, or anyone else wishing to be a part of a community celebration, what truly matters is the common goal of gathering to share a meal with neighbors.
Served family style, the meal is designed to create a warm, inviting, and respectful environment. Each table includes a volunteer host or hostess who is invited to lead a blessing, similar to a traditional Thanksgiving dinner held in a family home.
While Hudson’s is renowned for its seafood, on this day, the kitchen transforms into preparing what typical families cook on Thanksgiving, complete with all the traditional dishes.
“Please don’t request shrimp or oysters,” LaCoe joked, emphasizing that the Hudson’s team, including chefs and cooks, creatively craft the perfect menu, year after year.
The attention to detail in meal preparation is impressive. Planning meetings begin in late August, with meal preparation beginning the week prior to Thanksgiving. Carmines said that after more than two decades of serving this meal to thousands of guests, they have fine-tuned their process to ensure the food is delicious while keeping costs manageable.
For instance, “We used to have a lot of dark meat leftovers, so a few years back we switched to bone-in turkey breasts and now we cook around 92, along with 12 whole turkeys, to create in-house stocks and stuffing,” Carmines said.
One standout dish is Miss Bessie’s Braised Ham Hock Collards. Lacoe recalled a year when food prices increased, causing them to reevaluate the menu to cut costs. The decision was made to replace pricy green beans with
collards, a change that initially made the founders nervous. Today, the collards are praised as one of the most popular sides.
Beyond community, there is another important component to the Community Thanksgiving dinner and that is one of giving back. Three organizations benefit from this event: The Deep Well Project,
Matt Harris carves up a turkey in the kitchen at Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks.
Second Helpings, and Bluffton Self Help. These nonprofits play a vital role in the Hilton Head and Bluffton areas throughout the year.
“Our community is incredibly generous, and it never ceases to amaze me,” LaCoe said. “People don’t realize that, while we are an affluent community, there are many unmet needs that often go unnoticed.”
Carmines underscores the significance of supporting these organizations. “Although the Thanksgiving dinner is free, we encourage attendees who have the ability to do so, to contribute monetary donations to our benefactors,” he said.
Each nonprofit will have a booth in the parking lot for guests to visit during the event. The atmosphere will be festive, with live music and activities for the whole family. This opportunity for attendees to give back after enjoying a free meal is what drives this event forward – a continuous cycle of generosity to improve the community.
Gloria and Allan Lacoe are proud of their contribution to the community through the Thanksgiving dinner. As co-founders and long-standing pillars of this gathering, this year marks a bittersweet transition, as they prepare to pass along the torch of responsibility.
“I am confident and have worked extremely closely with our successors and have collaborated with them closely,” Gloria LaCoe said. “But it is time.” The sparkle in her eye as she speaks of her departure tells a different story. While they might be stepping back, the LaCoes will never truly be absent from this event.
Carmines has a long history with the LaCoes and can’t help but feel nostalgic. “For me, it’s sad,” he said. “I know the new group coming in will be amazing, but I started working on this event in 2006 and it’s always been Allan and Gloria.”
The LaCoes, the Carmines family, and all the founding committee members have deep bonds, having worked together to create what has truly become a family affair.
As the 25th anniversary approaches, it’s hard not to look back at the journey. The tales of generosity, calamity, and even mishaps are many. Much like the familiar stories shared at Thanksgiving gatherings, a few of these stories are often regaled and retold every year.
LaCoe fondly remembers a time when there were no age restrictions for volunteers, creating a flurry of chaos as children “helped” serve dinner. Though their energy was adorable, little ones darting around the platters of turkey was a bit much. “It became clear we needed to set a minimum volunteer age of 10,” she said.
Then, there was the year when Santa showed up with presents, and the aftermath of wrapping paper and the cleanup was worse than the mechanics of the meal itself. Now, Santa attends with candy canes to give out to the children.
For Carmines, who grew up in and around Hudson’s, the wild tales center on how he was unexpectedly swept into the mayhem during a visit from college. He arrived with friends, only to walk into the kitchen that was a madhouse. He soon realized he was being initiated into Thanksgiving preparations when staff sent him on a mad dash to the grocery store to “buy all the stuffing they had!”
The Community Thanksgiving dinner at Hudson’s is one of Hilton Head Island’s most inspiring traditions. Join the Hilton Head Island community and be part of this heartwarming legacy.
For more information, visit communitythanksgiving. com.
GIFT GUIDE
1. Chopard pure teakwood frame $1,255; available at Eyeland Optique; 2. Smathers and Branson can cooler $34.50, Yeti, 10 oz tumbler $20; available at Outside Hilton Head; 3. Assorted Marinades for the Chef in your Life! $10 each; available at Hilton Head Oilerie; 4. Men’s Maritime® Compass Amulet in 18K yellow gold with center diamond from the David Yurman Men’s Collection (Chain sold separately) $2,450; available at Forsythe Jewelers; 5. Blue suede shoe by Donald Pliner $355, blue belt $125, pocket square $65; available at Palmettoes; 6. Palmetto Dunes belt $52; available at Robert Trent Jones Golf Pro Shop in Palmetto Dunes; 7. Owl mug $17.99; available at Wild Birds Unlimited
1. ZO Dual Action Scrub $80; available at Savage Skin Care; 2. Men’s boxers by Peter Millar, available in a variety of colors $40; available at John Bayley; 3. Lynn & Liana cheese knife set ; available at Gifted; 4. Chill hat by Patagonia $55, Smathers and Branson belt $175; available at Outside Hilton Head; 5. Dunlop EVH Eddie Van Halen Cry Baby wah pedal $200; available at John’s Music; 6. Men’s wireless running headphones $129.95; available at Outside Hilton Head; 7. Speaker by Turlebox $399; available at Outside Hilton Head; 8. Men’s boxers, available in a variety of colors $28, Men’s cologne: large $80, travel size $20, hat $29, Yeti 20 oz tumbler $45; available at Southern Tide; 9. David Yurman Men’s gold chain - 18K yellow gold small box chain necklace, 22” from the David Yurman Men’s Collection. $3,200; available at Forsythe Jewelers; 10. Sunglasses: Chopard polarized lenses, impact resistant $1,040; available at Eyeland Optique
Prices change and human error occurs, please see boutique or store listing for final pricing on all items.
1. Peter Millar Crown - Heritage Cashmere Sweater in Balsam; available at J Parker LTD; 2. Nesting Eagles Puzzle $21.99; available at Wild Birds Unlimited; 3. Pricing varies by model, please contact Club Car; 4. David Yurman Men’s 18K yellow gold station rubber Chevron bracelet from the David Yurman Men’s Collection. $2,250; available at Forsythe Jewelers; 5. Peach Bourbon Oils in large $24 and small $9; available at Hilton Head Oilerie; 6. Martin Dingman - Polocrosse Duffel in Burnt Pecan; available at J Parker LTD; 7. Hand-knitted child’s sweater $88; available at Island Child; 8. “100 Things” Guides for football fans $14.95- $18.95; available at Gifted 9. Jack Black cologne $80, Jack Black men’s facial cleanser $35; available at John Bayley; 10. Yeti, cooler available in different sizes, small size pictured is $200; available at Outside Hilton Head
1. An assortment of bar essentials makes the perfect gift for the man in your life; available at Le Cookery; 2. Flowered Cap $35; available at Robert Trent Jones Golf Pro Shop in Palmetto Dunes; 3. Ukelele $39.99, “You Can Teach Yourself Ukelele” book $14.99; available at John’s Music; 4. Exploring the Lowcountry by Kathryn Byrd $19.99; available at Wild Birds Unlimited; 5. Martin Dingman - Bill Penny Loafer in Aged Bark; available at J Parker LTD; 6. PRS Core Custom 24, 10-Top $5,319.99; available at John’s Music; 7. Lynn & Liana cutting board $84.99; available at Gifted; 8. Golf Shirt $90; available at Robert Trent Jones Golf Pro Shop in Palmetto Dunes
Tom and Cheryl Curry (in navy shirts), assisted by their sons and friends, celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary October 9 loading donated supplies onto several trucks for delivery to North Carolina.
ARTICLE BY LYNNE COPE HUMMELL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY JENNIFER GREEN & TOM CURRY
Wings of Angels
LOCAL PILOTS DELIVER SUPPLIES TO DEVASTATED NORTH CAROLINA COMMUNITIES
As a health care provider, Jennifer Green is trained and conditioned to pay attention to the needs of her patients. Her intuition of providing care applies to her friends as well. So, when her high school pal Kerri Hampton, who lives in Fairview, North Carolina, shared that her neighborhood had been hard hit by Hurricane Helene, Green immediately formed a plan to collect and deliver needed supplies.
“Kerri’s house is one of the highest elevations in her neighborhood, but most of her neighbors down the mountain lost their homes,” Green said. “She asked if we could help them.”
Green had already been inspired a Facebook post from Bill Herbkersman, seeking other small-plane pilots to fly supplies into areas throughout Western North Carolina.
“I’m a pilot, but not experienced, so I asked my instructor if he would fly up with me,” Green said. Bill Shank agreed.
Green put out a call on Facebook to her friends and patients and began collecting donated goods at her practice, Advanced Health Care in Bluffton Village. The response was quick and plentiful.
“Our community really steps up in times like this,” Green
said. “I made one post that morning and by noon I had more stuff than I could carry in one trip. On October 3, we took up about 200 pounds of water, lighters, batteries – and a lot of solar lights.”
People kept bringing donations, so Green and her daughter, Cooper, planned to drive more supplies to Fairview two days later. Hampton had made a special request: Cookies.
Green said her patients sprung to action again and brought boxes of sweets – many of them homemade. Those sweet treats were met with smiles and gratitude.
“Just seeing that we brought them a minute of joy was worth the effort,” Green said. “People ask ‘Does my $100 really make a difference?’ We chose this one neighborhood, and we know it does make a difference.”
The plea for pilots started on September 29 with Herbkersman’s Facebook post that he would be flying up to the Asheville airport, where he knew there was a relief network set up, and asked for other pilots to help.
“I had between 700 and 800 likes and close to 80 shares,” he said. “I started getting calls within an hour from local and statewide people asking, ‘how can we help?’”
Herbkersman said he heard from pilots as far away as
Jacksonville and Myrtle Beach, but most were from the island and Bluffton. He shared information on Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs), airport conditions, and other information.
“There was no coordinated effort, but that’s no surprise,” Herbkersman said. “Most pilots are independent and go where they need to go.”
Herbkersman said he had requested medications from MUSC, but they got redirected to a truck, he had an extra spot in his plane, and invited local newscaster Andrew Davis of WSAV-TV to ride along – “with the sole intent of getting more publicity for the missions,” Herbkersman said. “Andrew went above and beyond by doing more than his share of the loading and unloading, and he was also able to capture the emotions and feelings of some of the people we were helping.”
Herbkersman has long flown relief missions after hurricanes, including
flights to the Abacos, Puerto Rico, and New Orleans. “I knew, based on reports, how critical this mission would be because of the isolation, and access to those hardest hit was cut off because of the damage to the roads,” he said.
One of the first pilots to connect with Herbkersman after his post was businessman and pilot Tom Curry.
“He contacted me half a dozen times for info and strategies, and since this was his first time, he wanted to learn and was eager to help,” Herbkersman said. “So, we talked extensively about what to do. He’s done a great job.”
In talking to Herbkersman, Curry decided that instead of him spending time flying back and forth, he wanted to organize others and collect needed items.
“I am a pilot, but I wound up getting more involved in organizing. I spent all day, from the time I woke up until the time I went to bed, on the phone recruiting volunteers, recruiting pilots, collecting supplies, setting up drop locations and finding warehousing for supplies,” Curry said. “Within 24 hours I had collected so much more supplies than I expected. I knew it was way too much to fly, and I started focusing my attention to trucking the products.”
Curry rented three trucks and recruited drivers to take the supplies to Asheville.
He also organized seven private airplanes and their pilots to fly insulin and other medical supplies and other donations to Operation Air Drop in Hickory, North Carolina. “(They) turned out to be an amazing operation,” Curry said. “They were a hub where supplies flew in with fixed aircraft were then distributed to areas in need by helicopter.”
Dr. Matthew Epps and his wife, Jane, have provided “thousands of pounds”
Neighbors in the small town of Fairview, North Carolina, southeast of Asheville, applaud their unknown benefactors from Bluffton and Hilton Head Island. Jennifer Green of Bluffton and her flight instructor, William Shank, flew from Hilton Head to nearby Rutherford County Airport October 3 to deliver donated supplies for her high school friend Kerri Hampton and Kerri’s neighbors.
Kerri Hampton, left, of Fairview, North Carolina, greets her good friend Jennifer Green of Bluffton and pilot William Shank as they arrive at Rutherford County Airport October 3 with donated supplies for Hampton’s neighborhood southeast of Asheville that was hard hit by Hurricane Helene.
of medical supplies, Curry said, including first aid kits, IV’s, Benadryl, aspirin, and pain relievers.
Curry’s wife, Cheryl, and their sons worked alongside him gathering and organizing donations, loading trucks, and keeping track of supplies, drivers and destinations. The family has been involved in a number of relief efforts in recent years, including the memorable 2015 Hurricane Joaquin that brought historic flooding to Columbia. Curry shut his company down for a week and had his employees help collect supplies and drive trucks to deliver the goods.
“My wife and I spent our wedding anniversary that year collecting supplies and loading trucks,” Curry said. “It was funny that on on October 9 this year, we spent our 30th anniversary doing the same thing!”
At press time, continuation of relief efforts was undecided. By October 11, Herbkersman said, FEMA was restricting access to major airports.
However, “I plan on staying on top of this until the end of the year, realizing that the scope of the mission may change weekly,” Herbkersman said. “But a flight a week, bringing in what is needed and taking out those who need it, is kind of the plan.”
Some local donation collection points were open until the end of October, about the same time as reports from North Carolina indicated some churches and other reception locations were overwhelmed with an abundance of tangled clothing and chaotic disorganization. “We just don’t have the volunteers to separate all this,” a woman in North Carolina posted recently.
Curry suggested anyone interested in helping could donate funds to known organizations and churches. Samaritan’s Purse and Operation Air Drop were among his recommended nonprofits.
Sheila Tucker is a licensed marriage and family therapist and founder of Heart Mind & Soul Counseling.
Tucker
FEELINGS, FEAR, AND OTHER F WORDS
Ilove f-words. You know, like “fall” (bring on the cooler weather, please), “flannel” (oooh, cozy), and “free” (who doesn’t like a great deal?).
Admittedly, there is no shortage of f-words in a therapy session. And no, I’m not talking about the one you mutter under your breath when someone cuts you off in traffic (although that one does make an occasional appearance).
I’m talking about “feelings,” “fears,” “frustrations,” and yes, the ultimate f-word (that gets a bad rap): “failure.”
Article by Sheila
. Photography by M.Kat
The truth is, feelings, fears, frustrations, and failures are part of being human. And once we stop treating them like they’re out to get us, we can finally start living with a little more ease, joy, and a little more freedom.
Feelings: Can’t live with ’em, can’t live without ’em
Feelings are a mixed bag of amazing, and I’m not going to touch that. Most of us treat feelings like an overly chatty passenger on a long flight – sometimes interesting, but mostly, we want them to just stop talking so we can relax.
Happiness? Bring it on.
Sadness, anger, fear? Maybe let’s just stuff those down and pretend they don’t exist.
Yeah, that rarely works.
Feelings tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear. They show up whether you’re in the mood for them or not. Feelings aren’t there to ruin your day; they’re there to give you crucial information about what’s happening beneath the surface.
Ignoring your feelings works in the short-term. However, in the long run those feelings will make their presence known. Only it will likely happen at
the most inopportune time.
Instead, the goal is to make peace with your feelings – the good, the bad, and the ugly. It’s like inviting your feelings to sit down for coffee instead of slamming the door in their face. I just wrote an article about that. You can find it here: celebrateblufftonandbeyond.com/coffeecritique-compassion-navigating-yourinner-critic.
Fear: Master of disguise
Fear is like that overprotective friend who insists you wear a life jacket while standing next to a kiddie pool. It means well, but it tends to overreact.
Fear shows up in so many sneaky ways: fear of failure, fear of rejection, fear of vulnerability, fear of looking like a fool, and oh-so-many other creative ways.
The problem with fear is that it’s often disguised as something else.
Perfectionism? That’s fear of failure all dressed up.
Overworking? Fear of not being enough hiding in a productivity mask.
You don’t want to banish fear. Instead, you want to call it out. Once you acknowledge fear, it starts to lose some of its power. (Side note: The same is true of all the feelings that make you uncomfortable.)
Fear, when kept in check, is actually useful. It helps you avoid danger. However, when fear takes over, it’s like being stuck in the inside lane of a roundabout. You keep going in circles with no way out.
Frustration: The emotion that really wants your attention
Frustration often doesn’t get the attention it deserves, which might be why it acts out so much. It’s that nagging feeling that pops up when life isn’t going the way you expected – when your partner isn’t reading your mind, when your job is driving you nuts, or when you’ve asked
your kids to clean up for the thousandth time and – surprise – they didn’t.
Frustration wants to be acknowledged, and it can be a great teacher. It’s telling you something is off. Maybe you need to reset your expectations, maybe you need to communicate more clearly, or maybe you just need a break. The trick with frustration is not letting it fester.
Left unchecked, frustration has a habit of turning into anger, resentment, or the ever-charming “I’m fine” (when you’re clearly not fine).
When you’re frustrated, I invite you to dig a little deeper. What’s underneath your frustration? What unmet need or desire is hiding out there?
Nine times out of ten, it’s less about the situation and more about what’s bubbling below the surface. Failure: The ultimate f-word
Ah, failure – the f-word that makes most people cringe. Failure has this reputation as the villain in the story of life, the thing we all try to avoid like it’s contagious.
But here’s a little secret: Failure isn’t the monster under the bed. It’s an indicator that you’re moving and trying new things.
Failure tends to be viewed as something to be ashamed of or hide away. But what if you look at failure through a different lens?
Failure isn’t a dead end; it’s feedback, with the possibility of learning and growth. It’s the world’s way of saying, “Hey, that didn’t work. How about trying something else?”
Sara Blakely, the founder of Spanx, tells a story about how her father celebrated and encouraged her failures. It meant she tried something new, learned something about herself, and led to a spirit of increased curiosity.
The truth is, no one gets through life without experiencing failure.
The people who embrace failure – who let it teach them, guide them, and yes, even humble them – are the ones who grow the most. Failure is final only if you give up. Otherwise, it’s just a pit stop on the road to your next destination. Freedom: The f-word we crave
Freedom is the f-word on nearly everyone’s wish list. Freedom from fear, frustration, failure, and even feelings (though I wouldn’t recommend that last one). True freedom isn’t about avoiding emotions; it’s about embracing them. It’s about feeling everything without letting those feelings run your life.
Freedom comes with self-awareness and self-compassion, where you can sit with your feelings – yes, even the uncomfortable ones (especially the uncomfortable ones) –and know that they don’t define you.
The freedom to fail without letting it crush you. The freedom to be frustrated without lashing out. And most importantly, the freedom to trust yourself to handle whatever comes your way.
The truth is, feelings, fears, frustrations, and failures are part of being human. And once we stop treating them like they’re out to get us, we can finally start living with a little more ease, joy, and a little more freedom.
The next time any of these f-words show up, invite them in, sit them down, and see what they have to say. You might be surprised. They’re not as scary as they seem.
Renata Trench by Mille
Assortment of jewelry by Susana Vega, Paola Sighinolfi, and Redunne
Styled
by
Michelle Taylor + Kaila Jeffcoat
Photography by M.Kat
Modeled by Caroline
Molloy
Hair + Makeup by May River Made Up Hair by Leslie Hiers - Makeup by Destiny Brantley
BIRDIE JAMES
MICHELLE TAYLOR OPENS HER SECOND LOCATION IN WASHINGTON SQUARE IN BLUFFTON AND WE POP IN FOR A FIRST LOOK AT HOLIDAY FASHIONS MODELED BY CAROLINE MOLLOY.
This holiday season, Bluffton fashionistas are getting the best gift ever as a style icon returns to town. Since the venerable Hilton Head boutique closed its second Birdie James branch in Bluffton a few years ago, owner Michelle Taylor has been waiting to cross the bridge once again. In the interim, she’s curated a collection of styles and labels that will set the Washington Square shop apart, and let Bluffton greet the holidays in style. Enjoy this first look at what’s in store.
The Bluffton location stands apart from its sister on Hilton Head Island with a diverse range of designers you’ll only find here. While Vos jewelry is a mainstay at both, Bluffton leans heavier into bold prints and styles from designers like Farm Rio, Monica Nera, SANCIA, Susana Vega and Paola Sighinolfi.
Malibu Midi Dress by Monn Renn Earrings by Paola Sighinolfi
Banana Maxi by Farm Rio Necklace by Julie Vos
Top and bottom by Ripley Rader Jewelry by Susana Vega
Satin Midi Dress by Nekane (belt included)
Birdie James owner Michelle Taylor and store mascot Bean.
COURTNEY’S OPINION:
I’m naturally high, but that’s me. You do you, wild child!
In the spirit of being an informed writer, I googled “other names for marijuana” today. The results made me giggle. Coincidence? I think not. This was my favorite finding:
“Marijuana, dope, pot, grass, weed, head, mary jane, doobie, bud, ganja, hashish, hash, bhang. People affected by cannabis are ‘high,’ ‘stoned,’ ‘out of it,’ ‘whacked,’ ‘off their face.’”
My giggles come naturally, as do my munchies, so I’ve never felt the pull of the pot or the need to be off my face.
Also weed-free, my husband loves to strike up conversations with strangers. A few years ago, we were on a ski lift in Colorado. The trip to the top of the mountain is 12 minutes, so while I reveled in the snow and silence, my husband was inclined to strike up a conversation on our vertical trek. He asked our lift-mates what they did for a living. Pretty standard small talk. The stranger started explaining the indoor hydroponic marijuana farm he had started.
When the stranger asked my husband what he did for a living, hubby dead-panned, “DEA agent.” Needless to say, the rest of ride was awkwardly silent. When we got off the
True story. I tried once (post high school), but my lungs don’t seem to work that way, so it was over before it even started.
lift, we laughed and laughed. Giggling as if, well, as if we were high. It still makes us laugh today. But we don’t judge. Get whacked if you must.
I grew up in the 1980s. Nancy Reagan’s “Just Say No” war on drugs was ever-present. In addition, I was terrified to disappoint my parents, and breaking the law would have been tantamount to life in parental prison. So, I must admit I have never inhaled. True story. I tried once (post high school), but my lungs don’t seem to work that way, so it was over before it even started.
Barry’s recent dip into the marijuana gummy game, and the “wild ride” that subsequently transpired, inspired this month’s column. And I struggled to come up with a solid position on the matter. I have to be honest, marijuana and its legalization – or not – is not on my top five list of things that I need fixing, so I am boringly indifferent.
Sorry barry, My fiber gummies (this is 50) are about as crazy as i get these days.
Personally, and for some reasons that I am sure a therapist would be happy to deconstruct, I have a fear of becoming addicted to anything, so I steer quite clear of items in the drug category. To this day, when I have surgery and the doctor prescribes a pain medicine, I switch to Advil as quickly as I can. I have a full bottle of prescription sleeping pills, because I would rather lie awake and solve the world’s problems and be exhausted come morning than become reliant on a sleep aid. Of course, the irony is I am so tightly wound that a little marijuana would probably do me some good. But then I would worry about the brain cells I am losing and be wide awake anyway.
Sorry Barry, my fiber gummies (this is 50) are about as crazy as I get these days. But I am enjoying picturing a 17-year-old Barry lurking in a dark parking lot in Ohio, sweating profusely and waiting for his first weed hookup. In contrast, I am also imagining present-day Barry skipping through the Mall of America and experiencing Wink World and the Museum of Illusions without a care in the world.
You do you, my friend.
BARRY’S OPINION: Get on the legal train, South Carolina. This isn’t the War on Drugs anymore!
I was 17 years old the first time I purchased marijuana.
As my sole connection to obtaining The Devil’s Lettuce was an upperclassman who had some kind of shadowy hookup, I met my erstwhile dealer in the parking lot behind the United Dairy Farmers, nervously keeping one eye on every rooftop for police lookouts just waiting to send in the SWAT team.
Sure, I was paranoid. I’d grown up with the many War on Drugs PSAs playing in the background, after all. Every one of my cartoon heroes had told me that drugs would ruin my life, or even kill me dead. And yet, with all that accumulated guilt, with the voice of Super Mario ringing in my head telling me, “If you do drugs, you go to hell before you die,”* I laid down $20 for an eighth of an ounce of the skankiest ditch weed that Shawnee Hills, Ohio, had to offer.
Thankfully, Ohio’s many narcotics control officers must have had something better to do that day, because I walked away with contraband in hand and a clear criminal record.
I bring it up only because it’s a stark contrast to the last time I bought marijuana, which was this past summer.
This time, however, there was no shady back alley. There was no threat of incarceration. Just a well-lit storefront in the Mall of America, the world’s greatest monument to our national pastime of consumerism. Just steps away from the Nickelodeon amusement park – featuring some of the same characters who used to warn me about this sort of thing – I bought a packet of TCH-laced gummies from a smart-looking young man in a place that looked like an Apple store for Jazz Cabbage.
What a world, I thought, as I stuffed my illicit souvenir at the bottom of my
“Remember Barry, If you do drugs, you go to hell before you die! Just say no!”
shopping bag lest the kids find out. In my home state of South Carolina, what I had just done could land me in jail for a month. Here in Minnesota – a place whose chronically chill population always seems like they sparked a J on the car ride over, whether they did or not – it was perfectly legal.
Why? If this stuff is supposedly so dangerous, why is it dangerous only in South Carolina? Partially because every time someone in power puts forth a commonsense proposal for something as uncontroversial as medical marijuana, dark money PACs shower us with hyperbolic mailers about how they’re going to turn South Carolina into “one big pot party.”
(Shoutout to Tom Davis for having to deal with this crap just because he has the gall to want to help cancer patients.)
And we all know it’s ridiculous. We all know that legalizing marijuana has not led to chaos in the streets in the 24 states where it has been made legal recreationally. And the only thing it’s led to, in the 38 states where it’s legal medically, is doctors who have more options for treating their patients.
So why do we have such a stick up our collective derriere when it comes to legalizing Giggle Grass? The more conspiratorially minded among us might point out that South Carolina is fertile ground for illegal marijuana farms that would have their bottom line knocked out by legalization. And thanks to our political system, they are free to spend that money sending out mailers that keep us in fear.
I don’t know if I buy into that, but it’s intriguing. For my money, I think the reason why we as South Carolinians won’t even allow the oncology wing to have a good time is because we still think we’re fighting the War on Drugs.
Folks, we won the War on Drugs. And it wasn’t won by the dealers, or the distributors, or even the government. It was won on the strength of good old American commerce. We won it as soon as we took the profits from Satan’s Spinach out of the hands of criminals and put them into the hands of small businesses.
That $20 I paid for that scrubby bag of shake all those years ago probably wound its way into the hands of some bad people. The money that I paid this past summer supported the American Dream, keeping a mall storefront open and employees in a job. That money helped build someone a life.
That’s a victory lap that I and the people of Minnesota can be proud of. It’s time for South Carolina to get on the winning team.
*This is 100% a real PSA. Look it up on YouTube.
The leadership team at the Treasurer’s Office, trailblazers defying the government stereotype. Back row: Doris Bowers, Kimberly Chesney, Allison White, Tanya Ward. Front row: Jennie Stanek, Maria Walls, Jeff DeLoach
Article by Barry Kaufman
by Oceano Blue Media
MOVING FORWARD WITH PURPOSE
Beaufort County Treasurer’s Office lays out a fresh vision
When Maria Walls, CPA first entered the Beaufort County Treasurer’s Office, it was in the midst of a chaotic mess. A former employee had just been charged with a massive fraud, stealing $210,000 from public funds. Naturally, the office had a lot of ground to make up for in restoring trust – not just of the public, but of the rest of the county government.
“One employee was convicted, but everyone here was treated like a criminal. Everyone was polygraphed and it was a horrific work environment,” Walls said. “We had multiple internal control comments every year from the county’s external auditors. Once I got here, I cleared every one of them within 12 months.”
But Walls didn’t run for Beaufort County Treasurer simply to clean up messes. As someone who has taken a business-like approach to the fundamentals of government, she reinvented the office as a model of efficiency. Streamlining efforts from an overhaul of mybeaufortcounty.com that allowed for seamless payments to installation of self-service kiosks during the pandemic reflected a
Photography
Not just a place to work, the Treasurer’s Office invests in their team and workplace culture, leading to better services for citizens.
mindset that knew “government work” didn’t need to be a pejorative.
The results speak for themselves. Walls and her team earned a National Achievement Award in 2020 and again in 2024, County Executive of the Year, and SCGOP Local Government Award. Walls herself was awarded Thomson Reuters’ Office Holder of the Year twice, the only person to do so.
And yet, for all the admirable work she’s performed turning a disgraced office into a shining example of what government can deliver, it’s what comes next that has Walls truly excited.
“Out of everything I have ever done, our recent creation is something I’m most proud of,” she said. “There’s a verse that says, ‘Write down the vision so those who see it may run.’ So, we asked ourselves, ‘What are we here to embody?’ For us, that’s people serving people.”
That simple phrase, “people serving people,” became the defining vision for a document that Walls has rolled out for the entire team. Codifying not only the office’s core values and mission, it sets the tone for what that office’s culture can become. It also offers a road map that other government entities could potentially follow, emphasizing ownership, purposeful evolution, and serving with passion.
“I am so passionate about public service and defying the government stereotype. The fact is, we’re serving hundreds of thousands of customers and I can’t be everywhere all at once,” Walls said. “Our core documents, as we’ve come to call them, are the foundation of our team. They tell our team, and our customers, who we are.”
Beyond making a statement on the Treasury Department’s culture, the service document dictates a 360-degree approach that brings every member of the team together in mutual ownership of that culture. No longer based on rudimentary criteria such as attendance, appearance and grooming, and job knowledge, Walls’ approach demands that and far more, elevating the standards to something all of government should aspire to.
“Our team has evolved with purpose and it was time to raise the bar,” Walls said. “Our operating standards and performance measurements are now driven by our vision, mission, and values – not tasks.”
Embedded within the document are not only the vision, mission, and values of the office and the standard organizational chart, there are also a few key directives that reflect the evolution of Walls’ office.
Anyone who has ever sat through a corporate meeting that could have been an email can appreciate the structure outlined under “Meetings with
Treasurer Maria Walls, CPA, serving Beaufort County’s citizens since 2011
Purpose,” delineating and categorizing what meetings need to happen and when. Whether it’s a huddle, a check-in, or a full team meeting, each is designed to meet its specific purpose, and to provide the best possible outcome for everyone involved.
“We don’t have meetings that are pointless. Every team leader has what we call a ‘check-in’ at least every month with each team member,” Walls said. “It’s a chance for us to ask, ‘How are you doing? Where did you see me be successful for you this week? Where did you see me fail you this week? What blind spots am I missing? What do you see that I might not be seeing but should be aware of? And most importantly, how can I help you?’”
“Mistakes can destroy the public trust that we’ve worked so hard to restore over the past 13 years,” Walls said. “Because no one is perfect, and therefore is capable of mistakes, it’s important to ask ‘where might we have a blind spot?’ or ‘where might we have messed up in your eyes so that we can fix it?’ We have that desire to evolve – setting our team up to avoid problems in the first place, rather solve them on the back end.”
This new document also outlines a unique new aspect of Walls’ mission to “Evolve with Purpose,” upward- and downward-directed reviews that give each team member a chance to get the full picture of their own progress in that evolution.
“I don’t know of a single government agency that does 360-degree evaluations,” Walls said. “The county doesn’t do anything like this, so we created the process ourselves.”
It also provides a visual representation of the kind of efficient thinking that Walls has brought to the Treasurer’s Office, showing key metrics for the implementation of Auto Agent (a payment solution technology) and other projects, expected this year.
“We have quite a few owners that we call ‘bulk property owners,’ where they own 50 or more assets in the county that are being taxed, and getting a separate bill for each one,” Walls said. “We created the bulk property owner program to scale that down, and Auto Agent is going to automate a lot of that for us.”
These are the sort of forward-thinking solutions that Beaufort County citizens have come to expect from the Treasurer’s Office under Walls’ leadership. To see it written down is to gain a new appreciation for a new way to imagine government.
Want to see what Walls has created? Take a look at bit.ly/CoreDocs.
Article by Barry Kaufman . Photography by M.Kat
Meet the Style Mavens of The Haven
When Tracy Moss looks back on the year’s she has spent building The Haven from a dream into Bluffton’s preeminent fashion boutique, the thing she’s most proud of is the women who have joined her on this journey.
“There are six of us, ranging in age from 19 to early 60s. I wanted to have a diverse group so that everyone can find someone they can work with to find their look,” Moss said. “I like being able to offer something to a mom, a daughter, or a grandmother, and I feel like our staff reflects that. They can help anyone who walks in the door.”
Joining Moss at the Haven are Jessica Seminara, Stacey Walls, Michelle Wentworth, Roxy Taylor, Lori Cantrell, and Jenna Petracca, each making her own mark on The Haven’s beautifully curated offerings of accessible, fashion-forward clothing.
“I feel like I’m able to see through their eyes a lot, even when I go up to market,” Moss said. “I’m in my 50s now. I don’t remember what I wore in my 20s. So I try and think about what my 20-year-old would wear and what they like.”
Meet the Team
(from left to right) Roxy Taylor, Lori Cantrell, Jessica Seminara, Tracy Moss, Stacey Walls, Jenna Petracca and Michelle Wentworth
Presenting a decidedly different take on Southern fashion, the racks here offer a rich palette of neutral tones across items that exude laid-back elegant flair.
The buyers’ market is where Moss does some of her most important work, making multiple trips a year to scout out the hottest looks. “I always select neutrals. I love black, and denim is pretty much my vibe,” she said. “I feel like I go and cherry pick the best items from every booth.” With a laugh, she added, “It probably gets on every vendor’s nerves.”
But it’s worth irritating a few fashion houses to create the singularly chic blend of clothing and accessories that have made The Haven a Bluffton institution. Presenting a decidedly different take on Southern fashion, the racks here offer a rich palette of neutral tones across items that exude laid-back elegant flair. There are outfits and accessories for every situation – a day out on the boat, a night at a high-end wine bar, or just a casual get-together.
Pair these jeans with that black leather jacket for a bold rockabilly style. Layer this necklace over that dress for dazzling elegance. It’s a collection that lets women truly express their own sense of style, couched with a language of casual refinement.
“I don’t necessarily like the classic Southern look of pinks and florals, but I love the less formal Southern approach to fashion,” Moss said.
The broad perspective of her diverse staff helps guide
a fashionable sensibility Moss has developed over a lifetime in retail. Starting out in college at The Gap – which surely laid the foundation for her love affair with denim – she made her way to the Lowcountry, where she developed her style at iconic boutiques like the Porcupine and Birdie James.
“I’ve had a lot of smart people who have helped me along the way,” Moss said. “And I still do. I know how to merchandise, and I know what looks good. From there, it’s just a matter of surrounding myself with smart people.”
It’s a far cry from when Moss first took the leap in opening her own boutique five years ago, when it was just herself, her mom, and one person who handled her social media.
“I actually had to fire my own mom during COVID,” she said with a sigh of acceptance. “She was cool with it, though. She completely understood, and I helped her file for unemployment.”
With no hard feelings, her mom has watched with pride as Moss has built a staff around her who are helping her take The Haven to new heights.
“Eventually I’d like to have another store, but I don’t know how these chains do it,” Moss said. “One store is a lot.”
Thankfully, she has help. “I feel like one area where I really did my job well was in hiring,” she said. “Hire the right people and everything becomes a lot easier, and I feel like I’ve done that.”
Tracy Moss, owner of the Haven
ARTICLE BY BARRY KAUFMAN . PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL HRIZUK
WOrkIN’ FOr THE WEEkEND: FINDING TODaY’S ClaSSIC CarS
For those whose minds immediately picture tail fins and chromed-out bullet headlights when they hear the phrase “classic cars,” a trip inside The Weekend Motor Company is a stunning reminder that the automotive world didn’t cease production in the 1970s.
Today’s classic cars, the nostalgic holy grails of the modern collector, look a heck of a lot more contemporary.
“A lot of the older stuff, from the Model A Ford through the 1950s, unless it is museum quality or is a missing link to a generational family collection, is not getting the interest or the money. … people have many emotional ties to those vehicles, and try to quantify those emotions,” said owner Ryan Meany, whose collection spans one side of The Weekend
Ryan Meany, founder of the dealership, is inside the showroom, showcasing a curated selection of vehicles from his current inventory.
Motor Company, possibly the most exclusive dealership in the Lowcountry. “It’s the car that the coolest kid in the high school had that you fantasized about. It’s the car that, when you were riding around in the back seat of your parents’ car, you looked out the window and said, ‘Mom! Dad! Look
what they have on the lot!’ And for most of us, that is not a 1962 Ferrari Testarossa.”
Instead, his offerings here speak to a younger collector for whom nostalgia means driving a car that doesn’t connect to your phone’s Bluetooth. In Meany’s current inventory,
2019 Porsche Speedster: Sleek and minimalist with a lowslung design, and classic round headlights.
2018 Porsche GT2 RS: A muscular, high-performance beast with a wide stance, carbon-fiber hood, and large rear wing.
2024 Porsche GT4 RS: Aggressive and modern, featuring sharp lines, the pinnacle of the 718. Ryan is showing a client around a pristine, concoursecondition 1993 Mustang Cobra, pointing out its standout features as they discuss the terms of the deal.
you’ll see a single-owner 1998 Honda Prelude SH with just 50,000 original miles, a 1993 Ford Mustang Cobra with only 4,500 miles, and a 1972 Datsun 240Z in dazzling blue with a white interior, featuring lap seatbelts, crank windows, and an analog dash clock.
For a serial entrepreneur like Meany – the co-founder of Virgil Kaine Whiskey and founder of Yellowfish Properties – the dealership represents a chance to mingle business with pleasure.
“Post-Covid, when the real estate business started slowing down, I needed to find something else to do,” Meany said. “I just went back to that old adage of, ‘do what you love,’ and that’s where this sprung from. It’s what I probably should have been doing in the first place.”
Drawing on the years of experience and mountain of connections he has made within the car world, Meany built up The Weekend Motor Company as a place where a customer could get their hands on hard-to-find, but more affordable, “new classic” cars that many dealers don’t offer. And, since the collectors’ market has shifted to these newer classics, the savvy customer very often can enjoy their car and see a return on their investment a few years later.
“Over decades of going to auctions, I’ve amassed a Rolodex of car people I can call and say, ‘Hey, do you have a lead on this?’ Anybody can get on the internet and search on CarGurus. But if it’s something special and unique, it’s probably not on CarGurus,” Meany said. “A lot of the larger private collections, stuff’s always for sale. They just don’t advertise, so you’ve got to know who to ask. That’s actually one of my favorite things to do – to play ‘Go Find It.’”
Find out more at theweekendmotorcompany.com.
CELEBRATE FALL WITH ART, CULTURE, FESTIVALS, AND A NIGHTTIME PARADE
Fall is for festivals and fellowship on Hilton Head Island! I don’t know if you’ve seen a community calendar recently, but every week from now through the end of the year is packed with town-supported or sponsored events and festivals.
Grammy-award-winning musician Charlton Singleton of Ranky Tanky fame helped us kick off our annual Hilton Head Island Crescendo Celebration of Arts, Culture and History on October 15 at Shelter Cove Community Park. Crescendo features more than 100 unique local arts and cultural programs.
Through the end of November, residents and visitors to Hilton Head Island can enjoy exciting offerings from Tony-nominated plays and unique museum and gallery exhibitions to hands-on arts experiences, educational offerings, and cultural festivals.
The culmination of this beloved regional event, the Hilton Head Island Lantern Parade, will take place on Saturday, November 23. If you’ve never seen this parade, it is truly something special. Thousands of residents and visitors gather to watch the hundreds of parade participants each year as they proceed along South Forest Beach to the party at Lowcountry Celebration Park. New this year, spectators will be able to track the parade in real-time so that they can plan event attendance in numerous locations along the route. For more information, logistics, and more, visit culturehhi.org. I look forward to seeing you there!
The Island Recreation Center’s annual Oyster Festival will take place November 8-9. A tradition going back more than 30 years, the event celebrates our local seafood industry and fundraises for scholarships so that every family, no matter their background, can access childcare and recreational activities. You’ll likely find me on Friday night dividing my time amongst the all-you-can-eat steamed local oysters, Lowcountry boil, pulled pork, seafood chowder, and chili.
VISIT BLUFFTON’S WINTER WONDERLAND
BMAYOR
luffton has often been compared to a scene straight out of a Hallmark movie for its winter wonderland décor and charming scenery. A few years ago, town staff witnessed a gentleman proposing to his girlfriend in front of Bluffton’s Christmas tree, creating a picture-perfect moment.
That’s when we knew we had accomplished something special. But each year, we aim to add a little more magic to our holiday celebrations.
This year’s Christmas tree will arrive from the mountains of North Carolina on Wednesday, November 27, and will be set up at Martin Family Park. Our public services team will transform the Historic District, Buckwalter Place, and other areas around town into festive landscapes filled with lights, street banners, and holiday decorations. Fun fact: The town uses more than 10 miles of holiday lights to create our own Norman Rockwell-inspired setting.
Unfortunately, due to the Grinch, otherwise known as Hurricane Helene, New Riverside Barn Park won’t be able to participate fully this year as it sustained electrical damage. However, town staff will still add lights to the park’s fencing to expand our holiday spirit to this section of town.
On Monday, December 2, Bluffton staff will spend the day decorating the Christmas tree at Martin Family Park. This towering tree, which surpasses the height of the DuBois Park Pavilion, requires numerous team members and heavy
A Note from Hilton Head Island Mayor, Alan Perry
A Note from Bluffton Mayor, Larry Toomer
And, of course, November is the month of Thanksgiving, one of my favorite holidays, because it’s simply about being grateful for what we have. There are few things as meaningful and heart-warming as sitting with family, friends, neighbors, and others while you share a meal together. That’s why I also want to make sure you know about the Community Thanksgiving Dinner hosted at Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Organized by the St. Andrew By-The-Sea United Methodist Church, this free, family-style dinner event is open to anyone and everyone, and it grows every year thanks to the generosity of amazing volunteers and donors.
As we enjoy the fall weather and change in season, I hope you’ll find an event or activity that inspires a deeper connection with our island’s signature hospitality, our spirit of giving back to our neighbors and communities, and the unique blend of individuals who live and work here.
The parade has always been one of the town’s most beloved and well-attended events, officially kicking off the holiday season. It’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase our town’s unique spirit and create cherished memories for families.
equipment to reach its highest points.
As always, the holiday parade will take place, rain or shine, the first weekend of December. It will be canceled only if the town deems weather conditions unsafe, so be sure to mark your calendars for Saturday, December 7, starting at 10 a.m.
Bluffton’s Tree Lighting ceremony will kick off at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, December 6, at Martin Family Park, followed by Santa’s Workshop at the DuBois Park Pavilion. At 6:30 p.m., the movie The Polar Express will be shown at Martin Family Park. Be sure to bring blankets or chairs to enjoy the evening. Martin and DuBois parks are conveniently located next to one another on Boundary Street in the Historic District.
New this year, we are offering complimentary miniature train rides during the Tree Lighting event from 6 to 8 p.m., with the train route near the two parks.
The town also supports the second annual Menorah Lighting, to be held Sunday, December 29, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Martin Family Park. This is a free, public event so the community can celebrate additional holiday traditions.
The parade has always been one of the town’s most beloved and well-attended events, officially kicking off the holiday season. It’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase our town’s unique spirit and create cherished memories for families. On behalf of the town council and our staff, we are excited to decorate the parks, host the tree lighting, and present the parade. These events are our holiday gift to you, our residents.
If you get engaged or celebrate a special moment in Bluffton’s Winter Wonderland, please share your photos and stories with us – we’d love to hear all about it!
A Note from Larry Toomer continued
Article by Barry Kaufman
BACK IN BLACK
Once again, Coligny reminds us all that Black Friday is the real happiest time of the year.
There are some traditions that have come to define Hilton Head Island.
From the roar of the cannon announcing another RBC Heritage to the breathtaking spectacle of the Lantern Parade up Coligny Beach, these are singular moments that remind us of what a remarkable place we call home.
To this list of storied island traditions, we humbly suggest adding the now-legendary annual extravaganza that is Black Friday at Coligny
“To us, it’s a day that’s about so much more than just finding the best deal. It’s about coming out and joining with your neighbors in ringing in the holiday season,” said JR Richardson, whose family has owned Coligny since its founding nearly 70 years ago. “You spend Thanksgiving with your family, then you spend the next day with the entire community. Because on an island like ours, the two are often the same.”
And your whole extended family will find some reason why there’s no place to be on Black Friday like Coligny. Start with those members of your extended family who own and operate the local shops and restaurants here. These aren’t big box stores who hope to see a 12-13% bump in total revenue that day. These are small business owners who will find out today how much they can put under the tree this year.
“Since day one, local businesses have been the foundation of what sets Coligny apart,” added Richardson. “Helping them succeed is why we’ve made Black Friday such a celebration.”
And that celebration goes all day long, with the kidcentric freewheeling fun of the Jevon Daly Kids Show running from 11:30 a.m. – 1p.m. Whether he’s letting the audience know that “Sharks are our Homies” or asking them “What’s Your Superpower,” it’s a highlight of any kid’s Black Friday.
But, with all respect to Jevon, the real star of the show will be Santa Claus himself, who will arrive in spectacular fashion via helicopter. Flying high over the Coligny skies at 12:45, kids will revel in the arial excitement of seeing St Nick arrive, before the man himself takes center stage for photos from 1-2:30 p.m.
is
Jevon Daly gets the kids ready for Santa’s arrival on a helicopter at Coligny Plaza on Black Friday.
Of course, Hilton Head traditions are often best celebrated with a cup of cheer, and Coligny is raising a toast to the season with a Santa Bar Crawl. Throughout the watering holes and eateries that dot the plaza, you and your merry band can go wassailing from 2:30-3:30 p.m. spreading cheer as you go.
And the celebration doesn’t end at close of business Black Friday. As in years’ past, Coligny will give shoppers a chance at $1,000 simply by making the local choice — shopping and dining at their more than 60 specialty shops and restaurants. Simply enter your receipts all December long at ColignyPlaza/ Christmas and you will be entered for a chance to win a cool $1K on Christmas Day.
More than just a chance to shop, Black Friday at Coligny is a way to reconnect with community, celebrate the spirit of the season, and maybe get a $1,000 Christmas present you’ll never forget.
Hilton Head traditions are often best celebrated with a cup of cheer, and Coligny
raising a toast to the season with a Santa Bar Crawl.
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 maggie@ch2cb2magazine.com. If we have room and it’s appropriate for public consumption, we’ll be happy to oblige.
Hilton Head Dance Theatre presents The Nutcracker Nov. 15-24 to kick off the holiday season on the island. This production will hit the stage at the Seahawk Cultural Center for six shows only.
With instantly recognizable music by Tchaikovsky, and the charming story by E.T.A. Hoffman, The Nutcracker has become synonymous with the holiday season. The Hilton Head Dance Theatre first presented this classic on Hilton Head Island in 1985, and in the years since, these holiday productions have delighted tens of thousands of residents and visitors.
At the helm for each of these productions have been Artistic Directors Karena Brock-Carlyle and her husband, John Carlyle.
As the lights dim and Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score fills the air, the anticipation builds. It’s a snowy Christmas Eve and the Stahlbaums’ home is bustling with last-minute preparations for their annual holiday party. The tree is trimmed, the food and drink prepared, the presents are wrapped and under the tree. With their parents watching, the children anxiously await their opportunity to dance and receive their presents.
For this year’s production, guest artist Will Scott will dance the Grande Pas de Deux with Maya Shimada and Deana Grace St. Hillaire in alternating performances. Sara Beth Vergakis and Sarah Tiller will share the role of the Snow Queen, dancing with Jamal Edwards as the Snow King. Also featured, sharing the roles of both the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Dew Drop Fairy, will be Jamie Hanley and Katie Donahue.
Show times are 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 2:30 p.m. Sundays. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit hiltonheaddance.com.
C2 Magazine • Nov. 2024 Edition
Harbour Town Golf Links will close May 5, 2025, for restoration and will reopen in November 2025 .
The course is currently ranked No. 27 among Golf Digest’s Top 100 Public Courses in the U.S. and No. 5 on its list of Best Courses in South Carolina.
Originally designed by renowned architect Pete Dye and assisted by Jack Nicklaus, Harbour Town has been the home of the PGA Tour’s RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing since it opened in 1969. The iconic Pete Dye design will be restored to ensure championshiplevel conditions while preserving classic shot values and design. The restoration will thoughtfully consider Dye’s famous design but will make improvements to agronomy and maintenance of the course, rebuilding all greens, bunkers, and bulkheads. The different turfs currently in use – TifEagle on the greens and Celebration Bermuda on the fairways, tees and rough – will remain the same. Work has already begun by replacing railroad ties on some of the bulkheads. For more information, visit www.seapines.com or call (866) 561-8802.
The Foundation for Educational Excellence has named Dr. Jacqueline (Jackie) Rosswurm as the 2024 Peggy May Inspiration Award recipient for her leadership and commitment to education, organizational development, and community in Beaufort County.
Over the past five decades, Rosswurm has served in almost every aspect of the public school system. She has been in the classroom teaching, leading schools as a principal, working as a chief administrative and human resources officer for Beaufort County schools, and serving as acting superintendent in 2012. She retired in 2013.
In 2020, as a member of the board of directors of Community Foundation of the Lowcountry Rosswurm stepped in as interim president and CEO of Community Foundation of the Lowcountry (CFL) and later as chair of the board of directors. She remains active with CFL.
The Peggy May Inspiration Award recognizes an individual who has been supportive of or attended Beaufort County public schools and whose accomplishments have distinguished him/her in their chosen profession. The award is named for a former recipient, the late Peggy May, who served as county and state director of adult literacy, and board chair of the Foundation for Educational Excellence.
For more information, visit foundationedexcellence.com.
