Celebrate Hilton Head Magazine - July 2020 by CH2/ CB2 : Celebrate Hilton Head / Celebrate Bluffton

SPECIAL SECTION

ON THE WATER FEATURING

HOW TO GET OUT ON THE WATER:

YOUR GUIDE TO BOATING IN THE LOWCOUNTRY

RED, WHITE, & BLUE

NAUTICAL LOOKS TO CELEBRATE AMERICA IN STYLE

CH2â&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SPECIAL HEALTH & WELLNESS SECTION

JULY 2020

THE INFAMOUS JOHNNY B!

MEET THE CAPTAINS

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28 RED, WHITE AND BLUE Nautical looks to celebrate America in style

WHAT’S INSIDE 18

A NOTE A FROM OUR MAYORS

FIVE DRINKS WITH: SEAN AND JULIA DENNIS OF WILD BIRDS UNLIMITED

PEDAL POWER: BLUEWATER ADVENTURES’ LATEST PARTY BOAT OFFERS A WHEEL GOOD TIME.

HISTORY AND MYSTERY AT PALMETTO DUNES OCEANFRONT RESORT: MUSTSEE HISTORIC LIGHTHOUSE GETS A MAKEOVER

HOW TO GET ON THE WATER: YOUR GUIDE TO BOATING IN THE LOWCOUNTRY

SUMMER LOOKS FROM COASTAL BLISS

ONE MOTHER’S HEARTBREAK, ANOTHER MOTHER’S HOPE: LOCAL MOM ON A MISSION TO FIND CURES FOR CHILDHOOD CANCERS

C2 SPECIAL SECTION: MEET THE DOCTORS

46 MEET THE CAPTAINS Spotlight on local fishing charter captains.

RAVISHING IN RED One eye-catching adornment speaks volumes about the whimsy within this waterfront dream home.

O N O U R C OV E R S

A JOINT EFFORT Dr. George Sutherland and physician assistant Brian Thorpe are here to help shoulder your burden.

John Brackett of Sweet Pea Fishing Charters in Skull Creek Marina Photography by M.KAT

Ensemble by Southern Tide in Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina Photography by M.KAT Styling by Kaila Jeffcoat

GENIUSES AT WORK Architect of Ideas Maggie Marie Washo

play

Technology Mastermind Carolyn Hunter Kostylo Financial Warden Marion Elizabeth Bowser Influencer-In-Residence Kim Conrad Crouch Culture Maven “Just Kandace” Wightman The Boomerang Morgan O'Banion In-house Jeweler on Retainer Kaila Jeffcoat Intimacy Mentor Lucille Rosita Gonzalez Washo The Gatekeepers Greta Von Bowser Vincent Von Bowser The Cut & Paste Crew Jeff Cline Fran Sherman Robin Ross Monica “Mika” St. John Writing Specialists Amy Bartlett John P. Batson, MD, FACSM Becca Edwards Linda S. Hopkins Barry Kaufman Matthew G. Kovalcik, CFP Mandy Matney Marie Mcaden John McCann David Moses Michele Roldán-Shaw Lisa Sulka Lighting Experts M. Kat Photography Krisztian Lonyai Photography by Anne Paul Nurnberg Find Us Here PO Box 22949 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925 843.689.2658 m.washo@celebratehiltonhead.com

EDITOR'S NOTE JULY 2020

ere’s an interesting tidbit. An inadvertent consequence of COVID-19 is that boat sales are up. It seems families are looking for ways to have fun while social distancing this summer and are perhaps trading in that trip to Walt Disney World for a new boat. Which is just fine with us. This issue celebrates life on the water, which we Lowcountry residents know an awful lot about. After spending some time last month interviewing local captains Chip Michalove and Chris Shoemaker for our 21 Faces of Lowcountry Hospitality feature, we decided to go back to the water and feature a few more local fishing guides ready to help you catch your first or five-hundredth fish. Check out our interviews with Captain Miles Altman, John Brackett, Drew Davis and more on page 46. Mandy Matney and David Moses explain the various ways you can get out on the water in an incredibly informative article on page 53. Local options abound between boat clubs, rentals, and just going out with a professional. Consider this read a starting point for deciding just how committed you want to be to that #saltlife before you plunk down a nice chunk of change for your own vessel. Even our fashion has a nautical twist, with our local boutiques promoting red, white and blue ensembles to celebrate America in style. We would like to thank Captain Keith Walston and his son Brandt of Vagabond Cruise for hosting our shoot on the Spirit of Harbour Town. We had a blast with our models Suzy and Robert, and you can watch the video of our shoot on the water by subscribing to our YouTube channel.

Speaking of videos, be sure to follow us on all of our social media channels to keep up with CH2 and CB2 all month long. Behind the scenes videos, Instagram stories, Tik Toks, contests and more fun stuff is posted every day. Be sure to check out our special Health & Wellness section this month as well, with articles on intermittent fasting, giving up alcohol, and new treatments for managing arthritis. Have a great holiday, everyone. We may not be celebrating with fireworks this year, but we still have a lot to be thankful for, so go out and show it. And remember, being kind is classy. ;-) Maggie Washo Editor-in-Chief CH2/ CB2 Magazine

MAGGIE WASHO Publisher / Editor-in-Chief

M A Y O R

Hilton Head Island Mayor Photography by M.Kat

A Note from John McCann

RALLY SETS STAGE FOR MORE COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

he month of July is typically one that is welcomed in under the banner of celebrating freedom. We celebrate with fireworks, cookouts, family reunions, vacations and more. This year, however, at least in our town, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re skipping the fireworks. Families will still come together, albeit likely in smaller gatherings. And the thought of freedom is now juxtaposed with interwoven cries for justice and change, particularly for African Americans who have been fighting for decades to be treated fairly and equally. At a recent rally, I observed just how important issues around equity and freedom are for citizens of the Hilton Head Island community. This Rally for Justice and Change followed the heartbreaking death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Our local Martin Luther King Jr. Planning Committee, the Beaufort County Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Department, and representatives from the town and other groups within the community organized this powerful yet peaceful event. To me, the great results produced by this event are what makes this island such a special place. We heard from a diverse group of citizens who shared stories about the injustices they have witnessed, experienced first-hand and prayed to protect

< Bluffton Mayor

A Note from Lisa Sulka

Photography by Krisztian Lonyai

HOW CENSUS DATA HELPS OUR TOWN 18

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themselves and their families against. They spoke of the changes that have been made and those that they would like to continue to see happen all across the island. Many of us who attended walked away with a greater understanding of the diverse people and cultures that make up our community, and I want to personally thank those responsible for helping to organize and execute this event so successfully. The rally gave us a starting point for conversations we need to continue to have with each other. It is now up to us to ensure that these

M AY O R

ecently, I was on a call with the mayors of South Carolina and Lt. Governor Pamela Evette. She has been asked to lead the 2020 Census Committee for our state. I learned so much on this call and hope that this article will help all of you understand the importance of filling out your census. There are great sites to look at, and if you are competitive like me, you will want our town to be the highest percentage in response. The state had an official kickoff on June 17, and you will now begin seeing a lot of information on social media and the news, encouraging people to fill out their census, either online or by mail. The deadline to self-report, is October 17, so we have a lot of time to get this completed. We have been told in the past that results from the census help states, counties and towns with funding schools, parks, infrastructure and much more. Everything we receive from the federal government today is based on results of the 2010 census, and the results of that decade were 20 percent under what we should have completed. Guess what? Today, when so many businesses were trying to get funding to keep their doors open from the recent COVID-19 pandemic, the fact is that this state was 20 percent underfunded by the CARES Act because they rely on the census data to fund states. That alone is unacceptable.

conversations move forward into actions. Organizations in our community are working on avenues to connect people for these conversations, and we will be ready to support these endeavors. Aside from organizing the rally, the MLK Planning Committee hosts a multi-day event every January to celebrate Dr. King’s birthday and his ideals, and other events throughout the year to bring our community together. Since the rally, the committee has turned its attention to three areas: voting, education and police reform. The committee needs dedicated volunteers to help determine and implement strategies in these areas. If you are interested and have the time and energy to devote to these causes, please email hhimlkcommittee@ gmail.com. Our friends at the Mitchellville Preservation Project are hosting a series of virtual discussions on race, equality, economics, diversity, education, and citizenship. I encourage you to tune into some of these conversations and learn about the perspectives other thought leaders are sharing. You can visit exploremitchelville.org to learn more about these sessions. As we look to address freedom and justice for all and be an island that embraces all races and celebrates our diversity, it’s essential to lend our support to organizations like Mitchelville and the Martin Luther King Jr. Committee. Our Hilton Head Island Town Council’s Intergovernmental Committee recently held a virtual listening session to hear concerns from residents. We plan to continue hosting these types of sessions and explore ideas that may be possible to implement. In the end, our goal is to make sure we are engaged with all of our citizens, regardless of race or background, and that we are creating a community where we all respect each other. A Note from Lisa Sulka

The common reason many residents give for not completing the census is that they are fearful that data they provide will be handed off to other departments in our government. That is not true. In fact, this data is secure and is not allowed to be released for 72 years. If you want to read more on this, visit census.gov (under history/genealogy) or email me, and I will send you the link to connect. I filled out my census online last month, and it took all of 90 seconds to do it. So, there really is no excuse not to help this town by filling out the form. There is a great site to go on to see how we match up for this census and compare to the 2010 census. Go to censushardtocountmaps2020.us. Let’s be number one in the state for completing our census in 2020: 2020census.gov. Effective March 2020, we closed all town buildings to public access until further notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Please visit our website at townofbluffton. sc.gov for more information. You may also check our town Facebook account for news at facebook.com/ TownBlufftonSC. C2 MAGAZINE

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5 DRINKS WITH: 

Sean &

O Julia Dennis, Wild Birds Unlimited HE’S DRINKING:

SOUTHERN BARREL DAMN YANKEE IPA SHE’S DRINKING:

ADULT LEMONADE WITH GIN I’M DRINKING: FROZEN MARGARITA

Article by Barry Kaufman Photography by M.KAT

ver the course of quarantine, we all discovered some new hobby or skill. Some people took to sprucing up their landscaping. Some binged every serial killer documentary on Netflix. But for many, the biggest entertainment of the spring was right in their own back yard. With bird watching’s popularity soaring (pun totally intended), it seemed like a good time to sit down with Sean and Julia Dennis of Wild Birds Unlimited. We met up at Agave in Old Town Bluffton for a few drinks and some feathery conversation. BK: With everyone stuck inside the last few months, it’s been crazy to see the number of people on social media suddenly getting really into birding. Is it having a moment? Julia Dennis: I would say yeah, definitely. More people are spending time at home and having more time to look at birds, so they’re buying houses and feeders. It’s been really busy. Sean Dennis: I hope it’s more than a moment, but birding is definitely having a moment in terms of attention and news articles about birding. All you have to do is search the news tab on Google and all these articles come up about birding. One reason is people are cooped up inside. Another one is with the different viewpoints of social media and its impact on our lives, some people want some kind of escape from it—something more natural. Birding is certainly that. JD: It’s a really relaxing thing to do. SD: It’s a stress reliever. Sure, hardcore birders can get themselves worked into a tizzy looking for bird number 700, but for the average person it’s relaxing. BK: Were you guys birders when you took over Wild Birds Unlimited three years ago?

Julia Dennis, Barry Kaufman and Sean Dennis show of their stylish mask at Agave.

JD: We didn’t start out as serious birders. We’ve always been animal lovers, and some of our friends got us into birding. We were very new at it when we got into this, but it seemed like a great way to meet other people who loved animals and nature. BK: I mean, you guys knew that roseate spoonbill like that. (Some context: prior to the interview, C2 publisher Maggie Washo offhandedly mentioned a pink bird she’d seen on Marshland Road, and the couple identified it in unison almost instantly.) JD: It’s kind of a life bird for me at this point. SD: It’s one of the more exotic things that show up here, the occasional wayward traveler. BK: What other wayward travelers have you spotted? JD: We’ve had customers who saw a Bullock’s oriole on some suet. It’s not supposed to be here. It’s a West Coast bird. SD: The most exotic we’ve had at the house are black-bellied whistling ducks. They’re normally in Florida or further south, but we’ve had populations living here. We had a male and female show up in our yard and just peck around and then fly up.

We’ve always been animal lovers, and some of our friends got us into birding. We were very new at it when we got into this, but it seemed like a great way to meet other people who loved animals and nature. C2 MAGAZINE

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You spotted me!

5 BK: Is this kind of a hotspot for birds? SD: I would say yes. And I think it’s growing. The Audubon Society here is very active and ranks in the top five nationally in terms of participation. Sun City has a very active birder community, not only watching but advocating for environmental issues that affect birds. BK: What sort of things should I be putting out to attract birds? JD: Eastern bluebirds, everyone wants those. They love mealworms. And bark butter bits are very popular because they can grab and go and take it back to the nest. They have a lot of calcium, which is important for nesting birds because mothers have to leech calcium from their own bones to make the nest. They’ll also come to feeders if there are sunflower chips, which is the seed out of the shell.

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DRINKS WITH: Sean and Julia Dennis, Wild Birds Unlimited

BK: They won’t eat them unshelled? SD: It’s actually kind of interesting; chickadees and titmice will grab a sunflower seed between their feet and peck it open. They’re insect-eating birds, because their beak comes to a little terminal point. So somehow that group of insect-eating birds has discovered the secret of opening those seeds; then you have other insecteating birds that either haven’t figured it out or don’t want to. BK: Birds are smarter than people give them credit for. JD: Crows in particular are very smart. SD: They’ve even found tool use in little nuthatches. We have ruby throated hummingbirds that can fly from Central or South America all the way to Hilton Head. And yet we have politicians who think they’re in the Appalachians and they’re actually in Argentina.

BK: Shots fired! SD: That came to me in the shower the other day; I had to use it. BK: What’s on your list of birds you need to see around here? JD: The highest thing on my life list is a Harpy Eagle, but you’re not going to see one of those unless you’re in Panama or Costa Rica. They’re these giant raptors, and they look bizarrely human. They’re amazing. SD: I think it’s worth finding a photo on your phone to show him. They’re enormous, terrifying raptors… JD: They eat sloths SD: Yes, they eat sloths. BK: They eat ... sloths? Both: Yes BK: Oh my God! (Julia then proceeds to show me photos of a Harpy Eagle on her phone, photos that will haunt my nightmares for the rest of my days). BK: Shifting gears away from horrifying sky demons to more ground-based abominations, is there any real way to keep squirrels away from a feeder? JD: Oh sure. We approach it three different ways at the store. Either buy a squirrel-proof feeder, or you can baffle the pole your feeder is on. If all else fails, give them food they don’t like. Safflower is something they don’t like because it’s bitter. The other option is hot pepper bird food. Every type of food we offer comes in a hot pepper version so you can keep squirrels, raccoons and deer from eating it; but birds will eat because they don’t have the taste receptors. SD: It’s the straight capsaicin. BK: You should have brought some out; we could have crumbled some up on some tacos. Okay, I have a trivia night coming up. Any bird facts I can throw in there? SD: You know house finches? Until the 1940s, there were none on the East Coast. People would capture and cage these things and basically keep them as songbirds. There was a whole trade going on. Eventually the feds got wind of what was going on, and there were a bunch of pet store dealer folks who knew the heat was coming and released their populations into the wild. So, for the past 60 years they have happily thrived on the East Coast. All these house finches you see around here are descendants of birds released in New York. BK: So, we have the Joe Exotics of the bird world to thank for house finches. SD: There was a person who decided it would be a grand idea to bring over a pair of every bird mentioned in Shakespeare. So, thanks to him, there are starlings everywhere and none of them are native birds.

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This & That

C2 Magazine • July 2020 Edition A Series of Fortunate Events, interesting news and a hodge-podge of other items. You know…this and that! If you would like to submit something for this special section, please email hunter@celebratehiltonhead.com. If we have room and it’s appropriate for public consumption, we’ll be happy to oblige. Colleton River Club recently announced the hiring of Kerri Neiderer as marketing and membership manager. In this role, Neiderer will oversee the membership development program, coordinating and customizing each member experience for the community’s potential new members.

HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES OF HILTON HEAD ANNOUNCES THEIR NEW COPES SERVICES Housekeeping Services of Hilton Head recently announced the addition of the new COVID-19 Outbreak Prevention Electrostatic Sprayer (COPES) system to their suite of cleaning services. The system is the newest scientifically based technology to be implemented by Housekeeping Services, and the COPES system is designed to kill potentially deadly viruses, such as COVID-19, with its electrostatic wrapping system. With the recent impact assessment of the pandemic on our country and the population demographics of our area, Housekeeping Services felt that it was important to make an investment in the system to be able to provide clients with hospital-grade disinfectant services to sterilize hotel rooms, rental units, nursing homes, healthcare facilities, fitness centers, schools, daycares, restaurants and other businesses. “Critical times call for critical and innovative solutions. We’re just trying our hardest with the best tools we can find to keep our customers and staff safe and healthy,” Housekeeping Services owner David Myers said. How the liquid adhesion works As trained Housekeeping Services staff apply the COPES system to surfaces, spray droplets are pumped through an electrostatic charging ring, which enables the positively charged droplets to cover surfaces uniformly via the cationic charge—targeting pathogens wherever they may hide. As the droplets hit the negatively charged surface, they create a uniform spread, holding the cationic charge for two to three seconds, therefore not creating drips as two positive charges will repel each other. Surfaces not treated regularly can become hotbeds for pathogen growth. The electrical charge causes an attraction-force 75 times greater than the force of gravity, making the disinfection method extremely efficient. “Incorporating our COPES disinfection services to facilities such as gyms, fitness centers, dance and yoga studios brings peace of mind to those community members who seek health and wellness in those facilities, as well as taking the overall cleaning services we are providing to a new and higher standard in the industry,” Housekeeping Services Commercial Janitorial Division manager Mailyn Cappuccio said. To schedule a free consultation with Housekeeping Services on how the COPES system can benefit your business, staff and customers, contact Cappuccio at (843) 816-5774.

F3 Lowcountry Raises, Distributes $80,000 to Local Charities For the last five years, under the cover of darkness throughout Beaufort, Bluffton and Hilton Head Island, a cohort of dedicated men have been gathering in various locations at 5:15 a.m. for the purpose of making themselves more physically, socially and spiritually fit. They call themselves F3 Lowcountry, and their moniker stands for Fitness, Fellowship and Faith. Each year, these men take on a physical and philanthropic challenge that results in a 200-mile relay from Columbia to Charleston, significant funds raised, and a variety of regional charities benefitted. Coming in to 2020, the local affiliate of F3 Nation had generated roughly $150,000 in its first four years of participation in the race and had distributed contributions to over 10 area non-profits. This past March, 81 members of the group were prepared to run the race again with ambitions to raise $100,000 for charities, but the emergence of COVID-19 derailed those plans. Not to be discouraged, the group pushed forward with both of its goals, and on Saturday, May 23, after a grueling two-hour bootcamp style workout on Coligny Beach, they distributed a combined $80,000 to The Boys & Girls Club of Bluffton, The Sandbox, Young Life Hilton Head and P.A.C.K. Savannah. Of course, the group is quick to point out that it receives incredible support from local businesses, friends and family members who purchase BBQ pork shoulders, sponsor events, and make donations toward the cause. The group looks forward to continuing its mission to serve as high-impact men and leaders within the community through its cornerstones of fitness, fellowship and faith. For more information or to join F3 Lowcountry, please visit f3lowcountry.com.

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This & That

LOCAL NONPROFIT RECEIVES DONATION FROM LOCAL GIRL SCOUT TROOP

The girls of Girl Scout Troop 4008 raised $16,000 in cookie sales, with proceeds distributed into three groups: troop savings, pizza & pool party, and local charity donation. They voted to donate an allotment to three local charities, including Hospice Care of the Lowcountry, Bluffton Self Help, and Hilton Head Humane Association. “While we are always grateful for any donations we receive, the gift of our younger generation learning the value of philanthropy is a meaningful blessing to us all,” Hospice Care of the Lowcountry’s executive director Jenny Brasington said. Learn more about Hospice Care of the Lowcountry at hospicecarelc.org.

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Kroger recently contributed $10,000 to Second Helpings to help feed our neighbors during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is just one way the company supports food rescue and distribution in Beaufort, Hampton, and Jasper counties. The Kroger stores in Bluffton and on Hilton Head Island regularly provide food that is then distributed by Second Helpings’ volunteers to food pantries and soup kitchens in these counties. The funds will be used to purchase food. Each week, Second Helpings is purchasing approximately $5,000 worth of food for agencies that are not receiving donations from their local communities. “The smaller agencies don’t have the support of many of our larger agencies,” Lili Coleman, executive director said. “Food donations are needed for these agencies because they are seeing more requests and providing assistance with less volunteer help and smaller staff. Our Second Helpings volunteers are delivering to all agencies that are still open and processing food orders to supplement the food supply. We are rescuing less meat and produce due to limited supplies and more demand. Donations like this one provide the badly needed resources to feed our local neighbors.”

This & That

C2 Magazine • July 2020 Edition

It’s time to ride your heart out! Stop the cycle of heart disease and stroke in the coastal community by participating in the American Heart Association’s CycleNation. This movement empowers the community to use stationary bikes to help Americans get heart and brain healthy, while raising funds to continue vital community programs. The Hilton Head event is on August 28, and the Savannah event is on August 29 at Cyclebar. Either sponsor a bike or commit to a minimum fundraising goal of $250 per rider and $1,000 per team. The dollars you raise fund our life-saving mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives! To sign up, visit cyclenation.org/coastalempire. Almost 100 members and guests of the Women’s Association of Hilton Head Island (WAHHI) participated in their first online webinar meeting in the organization’s almost 60-year history. New York Times bestselling author Mary Alice Monroe was the featured speaker, introducing her new release, “On Ocean Boulevard,” and speaking of her other five beach house books, her writing process, and her love of loggerhead sea turtles. The webinar was sponsored by Hilton Head Regional Healthcare and Lux Medical Spa making this event free to members and their guests.

Island Writers’ Network, long-established writers’ group dedicated to encouragement and support of writers in any stage of the process, congratulates the winners of their Student Flash Fiction contest: first-place winner, Jannah Tepic; secondplace winner, Tommy Hughson; third-place winner, Julia Willey; first honorable mention, Trey Thompson; second honorable mention, Emerald Lofton, and third honorable mention, Griffin Sanders. All attend Hilton Head Island High School. For more information or to become a member of the Island Writers’ Network, visit islandwritersnetworkhhi.org.

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Redâ&#x20AC;˘White & Blue Nautical looks to celebrate America in style z z z DREAM BOUTIQUE red dress: Ted Baker $170 bracelets: $22/each

to Captain Keith SPECIAL THANKSandt at Vagabond Br Walston and ng us on the Cruises for hosti r Town Spirit of Harbou

Vagabond Cruise

has been operating in the world-famous Harbour Town since 1968, providing Hilton Head Island vacationers with a wide range of water-bound tours and excursions ranging from a romantic dinner cruise, a day trip to Savannah, a fully narrated dolphin nature cruise, a once-in-a-lifetime ride aboard a 12-meter racing yacht, and a trip back in time to visit the Lowcountry of Daufuskie Island. Whether you are looking for a fun family activity, a relaxing day on the water, a thrilling journey, or a romantic getaway, the crew at Vagabond Cruise has an adventure for you.

Photography by M.Kat | Styled by Kaila Jeffcoat | Robert & Suzy courtesy of Halo Model & Talent Agency | Hair & Makeup by Erica Horton of Salon Karma | Design by Jeff Cline

Palmettoes & Egan + Ella HIS shorts: Castaway $95 shirt: John Randall Collection $85 sweater: Alashan $95 HERS dress: ee.some $48 jacket: love tree denim $38 earrings: $16

*Prices change and human error occurs. Please see boutique listed for final pricing on all items in this spread.

z z z

z z z forsythe jewelers

David Yurmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Novella Collection - Hampton blue topaz & diamond mosaic pendant ($2,400) with sterling silver chain ($230), Novella three stone ring ($1,750), blue topaz Cable Collection bracelet ($1,800), sterling silver & diamond Cable Classic bracelet ($950), Pave Collection sterling silver medium hoop earrings (1,650).

forsythe jewelers Jude Francesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Moroccan, Provance and Lisse Collections: 18K yellow gold necklace with diamond & turquoise stations ($2,200) huggie hoop earrings ($750) with Moroccan charm earrings ($2,670), and Moroccan charm pear shaped Cabochon turquoise earrings ($1,310) and three stacking rings of turquoise, gold and diamonds ($630, $650, $760).

Redâ&#x20AC;˘White & Blue

Birdie James dress: Fresh Alondon $188 bird earrings: Mignonne Gavigan $250.00 cuff: Selina King $390

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Gigiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boutique top: joy joy $86 denim: kut $89 earrings: $23

Knickers menswear shorts: Johnnie-O $98 shirt: Johnnie- O $89 sweater: Johnnie-O $135

RADIANCE + KNICKERS HIS pant: Faherty $148 top: Faherty $68 poncho: Faherty $188 HERS shorts: Michael Stars $118 top: Susana Monaco $98

Redâ&#x20AC;¢White & Blue

Southern Tide + Fresh Produce HIS swim trunk: Southern Tide $85 t shirt: Southern Tide $38

Red•White & Blue

HERS sweater: Woodenships $112 shorts: HIHO $65 earrings: Little fish boateak $62

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Palmettoes shorts: Castaway $95 shirt: Castaway $135 vest: Johnnie-O $135

Southern Tide shorts: Southern Tide $99.50 shirt: Southern Tide $89.50

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z z z So Sandra top: Lulu-B $64 red pant: Ethyl $78 hat: wyeth $66 bracelet: $28/each earring: $18 wristlet: Agabhum $58

Pink Pineapple top: Hilary Radley $69 pant: A.Z.I $135 shoe: Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;artiste $99.95 necklace: Christina Brampti $127 bracelet: Christina Brampti $49

Redâ&#x20AC;˘White & Blue

RESTAURANTS ON THE

water

WHETHER YOU ARRIVE AT YOUR DESTINATION BY CAR OR BOAT, THESE RESTAURANTS HAVE HAVE BREATHTAKING WATERFRONT VIEWS TO TAKE IN WHILE YOU ENJOY YOUR BREAKFAST, LUNCH OR DINNER.

BISTRO 17 17D Harbourside Lane 843-785-5517 bistro17hhi.com Bistro 17 is a cozy, waterfront French café, located to the right of Neptune’s statue in Shelter Cove Marina. The restaurant offers incredible lunch and dinner menus, with live music seven nights a week. They are kid (and dog!) friendly. Don’t miss out on a great dining experience overlooking the yachts of Shelter Cove Marina & Harbour. Alfresco dining is also offered. THE BLACK MARLIN 86 Helmsman Way (Palmetto Bay Marina) (843) 785-4950 blackmarlinhhi.com Black Marlin offers the island’s largest selection of fresh-caught seafood, delicious hand-cut steaks, and premium frozen drinks, all in a relaxing Key West atmosphere. Located dockside at Palmetto Bay Marina, you can dine indoors or outdoors on the expansive patio. Take in the water views from your seat at The World Famous Black Marlin Hurricane Bar while enjoying menu selections such as the award-winning Sushi Nachos. BUCCI & MURRAY’S PUB ON THE HARBOR 13 Harbourside Ln Bldg 2-C, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (843) 785-3300 Whether you’re gathering with friends for a gorgeous view of the Shelter Cove sunset or joining loved ones for a cozy meal, we offer all that you need for a night of joyful laughs and great food. After all, entertainment and comfort are the principles we treasure most. After a day on the beach, unwind with us at Bucci & Murray’s Pub on the Harbour for a night of pure bliss. BUFFALO’S Village at Palmetto Bluff (843) 706-6630 palmettobluffresort.com Specializing in casual southern Italian cuisine, Buffalo’s is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, conveniently located in the center of Wilson Village and offering picturesque views of the May River and chapel. THE CRAZY CRAB Hwy. 278 Overlooking Jarvis Creek or Sea Pines (843) 681-5021 (North End) (843) 363-2722 (Harbour Town) www.thecrazycrab.com The Crazy Crab provides spectacular waterfront dining experiences at two famous Hilton Head Island locations. The menu is derived from Lowcountry recipes, and each entrée is individually prepared to order. Specializing in crab, they also offer amazing lobster, oysters and, of course, hushpuppies. At the Jarvis Creek location, the covered outside deck area can seat nearly 100 with an outdoor bar, live music during the summer, and a perfect view of breathtaking Lowcountry sunsets. In Harbour Town, there is plenty of family entertainment just outside the front door with the Harbour Town Lighthouse, a massive playground, live music in the summer, and amazing views of Calibogue Sound. A local favorite for over 30 years.

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COAST, OCEANFRONT DINING Sea Pines Resort (843) 842-1888 www.coastoceanfrontdining.com Specializing in fresh, regionally sourced seafood, Coast is a polished casual atmosphere with one-ofa-kind oceanfront views. Located at the spectacular Sea Pines Beach Club and offering indoor and outdoor seating, Coast’s menu features a diverse variety of seafood favorites, like the signature fresh seafood platter and fresh fish tacos, along with oysters, peel-and-eat shrimp, and an array of burgers, sandwiches and wraps. The beachfront bar is a casual and relaxing destination providing seasonal evening entertainment and an assortment of specialty drinks and frozen cocktails. Visit Ocean Lounge, conveniently situated on the second floor of the world-class Sea Pines Beach Club, or enjoy incredible second-floor views and an extensive beverage menu. Coast features an all-day menu, dinner menu and bar service with seasonal nightly live outdoor entertainment (weather permitting). THE DUNES HOUSE 14 Dune House Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (843) 593-9104 www.palmettodunes.com/dining/the-dunes-house For property owners and guests of Palmetto Dunes, The Dunes House is located just steps away from the beach and offers casual dining for resort guests and property owners. This laid-back beach bar and restaurant allows you to enjoy food, drinks and fun with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. Open for lunch and dinner, the Dunes House features an entirely outdoor kitchen offering fresh grilled hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, wraps, Hilton Head Island’s best fish tacos, and other fabulous dishes. A wide range of beverages are also available, from beer and wine to sodas and signature frozen drinks. During the summer months, The Dunes House offers live entertainment on Monday and Friday nights. ELA’S BLU WATER GRILLE Shelter Cove Marina (843) 785-3030 elasgrille.com

ELA’S, Hilton Head Island’s award‐winning waterfront restaurant on Shelter Cove Harbour, features exceptional water views, fresh catch seafood, prime cut steaks, and a sophisticated atmosphere. Our contemporary decor, romantic garden patio, and chic bar with live music make ELA’S a favorite destination for casual dining, romantic evenings, and special events. Open Daily for dinner from 5pm. Check website for lunch hours. FISHCAMP ON BROAD CREEK 11 Simmons Road (843) 842-2267 www.fishcamphhi.com Join us for laid-back waterfront dining on the Broad Creek. Backyard games, live music, delicious food and an all-around great time for the whole family. We’re bound to be your new favorite restaurant destination on Hilton Head! HUDSON’S SEAFOOD HOUSE ON THE DOCKS 1 Hudson Rd. (843) 681-2772 hudsonsonthedocks.com All tables feature extraordinary views of Port Royal Sound for a truly unique Lowcountry dining experience. Hudson’s employs the largest and one of only two remaining fishing fleets on the island which brings fresh local seafood straight from our docks to your table. Share the excitement as their crews unload thousands of oysters, shrimp and soft shell crabs from the day’s catch. Bring your family and friends for a special Lowcountry treat that has been a tradition for island-goers for many years. OLD FORT PUB Hilton Head Plantation (843) 681-2386 oldfortpub.com With breathtaking sunset views over the Intracoastal Waterway and Pinckney Island, right next to historic Fort Mitchell, Chef Kynif’s summer menu is full of fresh-from-the-garden produce, local seafood, and tasty steaks to delight your taste buds. Relax on the romantic breeze-brushed deck under mossdraped oaks or gather family and friends inside the window-wrapped dining room. The island’s waterfront destination steeped in Lowcountry history. OLD OYSTER FACTORY 101 Marshland Rd. 843-681-6040] www.oldoysterfactory.com Hilton Head Island's Finest Waterfront Dining. A Hilton Head Restaurant Destination For Over 30 Years! Serving Lunch and Dinner Daily.Overlooking Broad Creek, the Old Oyster Factory is a waterfront Hilton Head restaurant for family and children of all ages. With fresh-caught seafood and a wide range of steaks and delicious desserts, you'll be sure to enjoy your meal while taking in one of Hilton Head's best panoramic views of the marshland landscape. POSEIDON 38 Shelter Cove Lane, Suite 121 (Shelter Cove Town Center) (843) 341-3838 www.poseidonhhi.com Poseidon serves premium quality cuisine from land and sea, from coast to coast. The nautically-inspired restaurant features outdoor and amazing waterfront sunset views. Poseidon brings together a truly unique Coastal Hospitality® and dining experience that will create wonderful memories to last a lifetime and be remembered for generations to come. SAN MIGUEL’S Shelter Cove Marina 843-842-4555 www.sanmiguels.com San Miguel’s serves fresh, authentic Mexican food and award winning Margaritas all with a waterfront view in beautiful Shelter Cove Harbour. THE SALTY DOG CAFE South Beach Marina (843) 671-CAFE saltydog.com Hilton Head Island’s favorite waterfront café overlooks beautiful Braddock Cove. Live music and children’s entertainment echo the sounds of family fun nightly during the season, while fresh seafood is served daily. A schedule of seasonal events can be found at saltydog.com. Be sure to check out The Salty Dog T-shirt Factory to get your world famous Salty Dog T-Shirt.

SKULL CREEK DOCKSIDE 2 Hudsons Road. (843) 785-3625 www.docksidehhi.com This restaurant, which resembles an old-style river house, is full of authentic architecture, reclaimed wood, and nautical accents that leave you feeling like you’ve stepped into a Melville novel. Second-to-none, the sweeping waterfront view is showcased by full-pane glass windows throughout the restaurant which you can enjoy no matter where you dine. The covered patio dining area, and massive outdoor bar, The Sharkbar, allow patrons to enjoy the lowcountry climate and serve to further highlight the amazing sunset views over Skull Creek. SCOTT’S FISH MARKET RESTAURANT 17 Harbourside Lane Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 Located directly waterfront on picturesque Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina, Scott’s Fish Market Restaurant & Bar has served the freshest seafood, hand cut steaks, homemade pastas, creative salads, sandwiches, and tantalizing deserts for thirty-two years in an unrivaled waterfront setting. Scott’s features a selective wine list and extensive drink menus. We maintain a fresh approach to seafood preparation, locally sourcing native products from the low country, local waters, and surrounding areas. The restaurant offers water views from every table, and they feature one of the largest outdoor dining areas on the island. Our comfortable marina front atmosphere is complemented by energetic service with indoor and outdoor seatings! SKULL CREEK BOATHOUSE 363 Squire Pope Road (843) 681-3663 skullcreekboathouse.com On the edge of the “friendliest marina of the Carolina coast,” at Skull Creek Boathouse, you will enjoy beautiful views whether you choose to dine indoors or outdoors on the pet-friendly terrace. The restaurant has received local and national awards for their Lowcountry inspired cuisine masterpieces, and has recently appeared on Food Network. Stop by for lunch, sunset supper, dinner, happy hour or weekend brunch! They also provide the perfect backdrop for your private parties and catered events. SUNSET GRILLE 43 Jenkins Rd. (Intracoastal Waterway at Hilton Head Harbor) (843) 689-6744 Whether you are dining at lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch you will not be disappointed. Sunset Grille has been consistently recognized as one of Hilton Head Islands best kept secrets and was voted by Garden & Gun magazine to have one of the BEST Bloody Mary’s in the south. With virtually no advertising it has remained one of the most popular dining destinations on the Island. Along with the fantastic food, great beverage list and attentive service, Sunset Grille offers one of the best sunset and water views on Hilton Head Island. Located at the Hilton Head Harbor Marina on the Intracoastal Waterway and overlooking Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge, it is a view not to be missed! THE OTHER SISTER’S WINE BAR 13 Harbourside Lane Unit B, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 The Other Sister’s Wine Bar sits on the waterfront tucked in Shelter Cove Harbour on Hilton Head Island. Come choose from a variety of selected local and imported wines. We have daily tastings, and wine by the glass, as well as gourmet meat and cheese plates, tapas, salads, sandwiches, house made desserts and more. Join us on Sundays for Brunch and Happy Hour daily from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wine NOT. UP THE CREEK PUB AND GRILL 18 SIMMONS ROAD (843) 681.3625 UPTHECREEKPUBANDGRILL.COM Where casual waterfront dining is yours to enjoy. The spacious deck overlooks Broad Creek Marina, Lowcountry marshes and a daily parade of boats. Drink up and chow down on a variety of burgers, sandwiches, salads and casual small bites. Up the Creek Pub & Grill has affordable prices and is just the perfect family-friendly Hilton Head Island restaurant. A great spot to enjoy after your ziplining tour, aerial adventure ropes thrill, dolphin tours, kayaking or parasailing trip. Open seven days a week from 11 a.m. until.

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JULY 2020

Pedal Power ARTICLE BY BARRY KAUFMAN . PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT

f you’ve spent any amount of time in a major city over the last few years, you’ve no doubt seen one of the coolest trends to hit the drinking world: pedal-powered pubs. In essence, these wheeled watering holes take patrons on a sudsy tour of the city, propelling themselves along as they imbibe. Like food trucks before them, these mobile bars seemed like a novelty but have proven their staying power, and it was only a matter of time before they came to Hilton Head Island. Bluewater Adventures, however, is putting their own twist on the pedal pub. Enter the Miss Christie, a cycleboat that seats a dozen and holds 20 for a pedal-powered paddlewheel drinking tour of Calibogue Sound. “There’s nothing like it on Hilton Head,” Captain Nick Haidon said. “When we finally got it out on the water, the phone started ringing non-stop.” It’s easy to see why. Decked out in its eye-catching orange and teal paint scheme, the Miss Christie demands attention when it sails out of Shelter Cove Marina. On board, the party atmosphere is unlike anything else on the island. Some folks will wander the deck, watching dolphins dance on the waves, while some will perch on one of a dozen bike seats set around a central BYOB bar and help turn the boat’s paddlewheel. And one lucky guest at a time will get to serve as DJ, connecting to the Bluetooth sound system to pump up the jams. And you’d better bring it. As Haidon pointed out with a laugh, “The Captain reserves the right to turn your music off.” (During the C2 cruise you see here, Captain Mike did have to step in at one point, because apparently, I was the only Slayer fan on the boat). “We actually blew out the speakers on the maiden voyage. That’s how loud and rowdy this group was.”

UCaptain Nick Haidon and the CH2 crew head out on the water after boarding Miss Christie in Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina.

SA photo op in front of the Harbour Town lighthouse from the boat.

SOur captain flashes us a smile and tells us to turn up the tunes!

B L U E WAT E R A DV E N T U R E S ’ L AT E S T PA R T Y B OAT O F F E R S A W H E E L G O O D T I M E .

Cycling is optional. The boat is fully equipped with a motor.

The speakers have been upgraded, so feel free to crank it. But then, everything on the ship has been upgraded. Part of creating something entirely new is having to constantly tweak the formula. “It took a full year to get this because it’s such a new concept,” Haidon said. “Every time we’d get to a new part, there would be a Coast Guard inspection. We had to move that boat around a lot.” The result is a machine built for a good time. All you have to do is bring a few friends and a cooler of your most potent potables. A two-hour tour will run $55 a person, and a four-hour tour is $99 a person, with bottled water and ice for your drinks included.  To learn more, visit bluewateradventurehiltonhead.com.

The Leamington Lighthouse was built between 1879 and 1880 as part of a larger system of navigation lights guiding ships into Port Royal Sound.

ARTICLE BY LINDA S. HOPKINS

H I S T O R Y a nd

M Y S T E R Y AT PA L M E T TO D U N E S O C E A N F R O N T R E S O R T

M U S T- S E E H I S TO R I C LIGHTHOUSE GETS A MAKEOVER

ttention history buffs, lighthouse followers, and ghostbusters. Whether you are a local resident looking for something different to do or a vacation visitor coming off the beach or golf course, why not add a little history and mystery to your plans for the day by visiting Hilton Head Island’s only true lighthouse? The Hilton Head Rear Range Lighthouse (also known as the Leamington Lighthouse) is not only a charming, but is significant as one of the few surviving lighthouses in South Carolina. HISTORY LESSON Located in the Leamington neighborhood of Palmetto Dunes, the distinctive structure, overlooking the resort’s award-winning Arthur Hills Golf Course, was built between 1879 and 1880 as part of a larger system of navigation lights guiding ships into Port Royal Sound. Congress authorized $40,000 for the construction of the complex. A cast-iron skeleton tower built about a mile inland on six concrete piers, the 94-foot-tall lighthouse was activated on August 1, 1881. Light from the structure was visible from 15 miles away. Featured on the National Register of Historic Places and part of the Inventory of Historic Light Stations, the lighthouse occupies a unique place in Hilton Head Island history. One of only a handful of surviving lighthouses in South Carolina, the Hilton Head Rear Range Lighthouse is Hilton Head Island’s only historic lighthouse. The lighthouse, which originally included a wooden exterior, was

deactivated in 1932. During World War II, however, the structure served as an important lookout tower for enemy ships and anchored Camp McDougal, a network of U.S. Marine temporary barracks and ammunition sheds. Gun emplacements and searchlights were established on the nearby beach. Marines were taught to use naval guns, called “Big Betsy,” as well as .30- and .50-caliber machine guns, and practiced firing these weapons into the Atlantic. The original lighthouse complex included a keeper’s house and a shorter forward beacon that was mounted on a second keeper’s house near the beach. By positioning their ships so that the two beacons were vertically aligned, sailors entering Port Royal Sound would know that their vessels were in the proper channel. Today, only the rear lighthouse survives, along with a vintage brick oil house and a water cistern located on site alongside one of the oldest living oak trees on Hilton Head Island. Sheltered by towering pine trees, the main lighthouse structure, which is now inactive, includes a central cylindrical stair tower, a wooden watch room and a cypress lantern room. Lighthouse Keepers would climb 112 steps to reach the hexagonal watch room. THE MAKEOVER In 1985, Greenwood Communities and Resorts, the parent company of Palmetto Dunes, refurbished the lighthouse, cistern,

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x Before

After The lighthouse, which originally included a wooden exterior, was deactivated in 1932.

and oil house, installing a decorative sodium vapor optic, and opened the grounds to the public. On December 12, 1985, the Hilton Head Rear Range Lighthouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places and has served as a popular Palmetto Dunes landmark and visitor destination ever since. Now, the Hilton Head Rear Range Lighthouse has been renovated again, including the addition of a new stained cedar shingle roof, replacement of 360-degree observation deck boards and structural wood areas, cleaning and treating of the interior, cleaning of the exterior structure, and painting with an oil-based, marine-grade paint. In addition, the windows and doors were replaced and painted in a “Charleston Green,” while overgrown foliage around the lighthouse was removed, and more. “We are pleased with the recent renovation and improvements to the historic Hilton Head Rear Range Lighthouse and excited to welcome visitors to see the completed project,” said Palmetto Dunes Chief Operating Officer Brad Marra. “We’re also excited to share the recent tree survey information on one of the oldest oak trees on Hilton Head Island that is adjacent to the lighthouse.” The Leamington Lighthouse Live Oak (Quercus virginiana) stands close to the Hilton Head Rear Range Lighthouse and provides a magnificent backdrop for the fifteenth green of the Arthur Hills Golf Course. The tree stands approximately 70 feet tall and has a canopy

that spreads across 150 feet. With a diameter of about nine feet, calculations estimate the age of the tree to be between 435 to 450 years old (survey report 2019), recognizing it as one of Hilton Head Island’s oldest living trees. THE MYSTERY But what’s a lighthouse without a resident ghost? A number of interesting stories and legends surround this historic lighthouse, the most famous being the legend of the Blue Lady. Like any good ghost story, this one begins on a dark and stormy night and ends with bumps in the night. In 1898, long before the Weather Channel or evacuation routes existed, without warning, a powerful hurricane hammered Hilton Head Island. Lighthouse keeper Adam Fripp struggled through the blustery wind and rain to get to the lighthouse in Palmetto Dunes to leave the light on for any ships that might need guidance. In a driving rain, Fripp made his way to the oil house, and then to the tower and up the spiral staircase. Just as he reached the top, a powerful gust of wind shattered one of the glass panes in the lantern room. The strain of the ascent coupled with the shock of the exploding glass was more than Fripp’s heart could handle. Hours later, his daughter Caroline noticed her father’s prolonged absence and went in search of him. Wearing a long blue dress, Caroline climbed the tower where she discovered her dying

father. Fripp implored his daughter to “keep the light burning no matter how dangerous the storm.” Faithful to her father’s final wish, Caroline sloshed through hip-deep water to replenish the lamps with oil. She managed to tend the light throughout the storm, but her sorrow and exhaustion proved too much, as she died shortly thereafter. Since that time, sightings of a girl in a blue dress near the tall skeletal tower have been reported on stormy nights. So beware, the next time you visit the Leamington Lighthouse. You might just meet the ghost of Caroline Fripp, a spirit that awakens with the sound of wind and rain! SEE IT FOR YOURSELF Guests who wish to visit the lighthouse should enter Palmetto Dunes and proceed to the resort’s South Gate, where they can request a guest pass. Proceed to the Leamington gate and turn left onto Leamington Lane to the lighthouse, then park along the roadside. The Lighthouse area is also one of numerous popular wedding venues in Palmetto Dunes and is available for small private events. The lighthouse is not open for visitors to view inside or to climb to the top.  For historical photos and documents, an extensive history and information on visiting the Hilton Head’s Rear Range Lighthouse in Palmetto Dunes, visit hiltonheadlighthouse. com and/or, follow on Facebook @ thehiltonheadlighthouse.

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MEET the

Captains uly is prime time to be out on the water in our area, and no one knows where the fish are biting better than our local charter captains. Sure, you could rent a boat and try to do it yourself, but you could also get stuck on a sandbar, run out of gas and not catch a thing. Why not leave it to the experts?

We caught up with a few local captains who have been navigating these waters for years and who know just where to take you to catch that cobia, redfish or shark. Keep reading to learn what they love about the job, the size of the biggest fish they’ve ever caught (so far as we know!) and what scares them the most about being out on the water.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT | DESIGN BY JEFF CLINE

Stacy Garbett

Palmetto Dunes Lagoon Charters | palmettolagooncharters.com What is the most frequently asked question on your boat? “What kind of bird is that?” What is the hardest part of your job? Hmmm. Catching fish. (Ha! Ha!) What are you primarily fishing for in these lagoons? Big redfish. How long have you been a Charter Captain? 13 years. Tell us about the strangest person that’s ever been on your boat? I don’t know! You stumped me on that one. How do you spend your free time? I spend a lot of my days off on the water—and with my dog, Hunter. What is your favorite part of the job? Taking kids fishing. They love it! What is one thing you always tell your customers out on the water? Be safe; be careful! How many charters do you generally do a day? Three What is the biggest fish you’ve ever caught? An over 60-pound redfish. What is your biggest fear out on the water? Lightning!

Q: What is the biggest fish you’ve ever caught?

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John Brackett

Sweet Pea Fishing North End Charter Fleet sweetpeafishing.com How long have you been a charter captain? Nine years.

Q: Do you have any tried-andtrue seasick remedies?

What are you primarily fishing for? In the river, cobia, Spanish mackerel and sharks in the summer. If you catch a big enough cobia, you can actually keep it, and it’s a great fish to eat. Those are the options inshore. Offshore fishing is really good right now. We went about 28 miles offshore yesterday and caught a king mackerel, then went another 12 miles and managed to reel in triggerfish, mahi-mahi and red snapper. Do you spend your free time on the water? I do spend a fair amount of my off time on the water. I really enjoy kitesurfing and other watersports. Do you have a first mate who helps you out on trips, and if so, what are his duties? I do. I have a guy who has been with me almost six years now. He started the summer after his freshman year in high school, and he’s about to be a senior at Anderson University. So, he’s been with me every summer since. His duties involve getting here before I do and making sure the boat is set up and ready to go. That means getting rods and reels out and rigged and the boat iced down. He works hard all day, pulling the anchor, rigging baits and, at the end of the day, he’s doing cleanup. What is your favorite part about the job? I just get really excited to see the look on people’s faces when they’re catching a fish. A lot of the time it’s their first time out here, and you never know what we’re going to catch. It’s exciting to see what’s coming up. I love it as much as they do. What was the biggest fish you’ve ever caught? Probably the biggest fish I’ve caught are the tiger sharks, which are in the seven- to nine-foot range. . Do you have any tried-and-true seasick remedies? The best way to have a good day on the water is to get a good night’s sleep, don’t drink all night, and don’t eat a big breakfast. What is your biggest fear out on the water? We don’t want to have anybody with any kind of emergency medical issues while we’re offshore. I’ve taken first aid courses and hopefully would be able to keep things under control until we can get in or get help to us; but obviously that’s a big concern. The well-being of the boat is paramount too. We don’t want water on the inside of the boat, and we don’t want fire.

Drew Davis

Out of the Blue Fishing Charters outofthebluefishingcharters.com

How long have you been a Charter Captain? I’ve had my captain’s license since 2017, but this is my ninth year out on the water. You’re the son of the famous local fisherman Fuzzy Davis, so you learned from the best, right? Ha! Ha! Yes. It’s not bad growing up having him as a role model—especially if you love fishing. I’m a pretty lucky guy! What is your biggest fear out on the water? Getting caught in a huge storm. But we try to keep an eye on that ahead of time and keep everyone safe. What is the most frequently asked question on your boat? “How deep is it?” What is the hardest part of your job? Sometimes the hardest part of my job is just dealing with the ever-changing weather conditions. Everyone is always hyped up for the day, and I want to give them the best experience possible. What are you primarily fishing for out on the water? I do a lot of inshore fishing, so redfish, trout, flounder and tarpon. Tell us about the strangest customer you’ve ever taken out on the boat? There are so many of them, we could be here for an hour. I’ve taken a lot of famous people out. My dad and I took Sam Hunt (country singer) fishing. A few NFL players… What do you do in your free time? Do you spend it on the water? I love to hunt and love to fish. I enjoy hanging out with all of my buddies on the island. We take the boat out and just cruise around. I’m always outside. How many fishing trips do you do in one day? I usually do two, although back in high school I would do three a day. I also sell real estate, so I like to leave my afternoons open for returning calls. Generally, I’ll take one group out from 7-11 a.m. and another from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Do you have any tried-and-true seasick remedies? I always tell them to keep their eyes focused on the land, but I don’t think it works. Drink some water! Do you have any good luck charms on the boat? Not really … but I do have this Auburn visor that I try to wear every day, because I feel like if I forget it I won’t catch anything.

Q: Do you have any good luck charms on the boat?

MEET the

Captains Miles altman Shelter Cove Marina

How long have you been a captain? I got my license in 1972, so almost 50 years.

the fish don’t cooperate, and the weather is bad. That’s why they call it fishin’, not catchin’.

What was it like fishing on the island back in 1972? Oh man, it was nice. There was nobody here. Back in the 1970s, we hardly ever saw another boat when we were out on the water.

What do you do in your free time? A lot of fishing!

What is the most frequently asked question you get from your guests? “Can you eat that?” And usually my answer during the summer months is no, because it’s a shark or it’s a size too small to keep. .

Do you have any tried-and-true seasick remedies? The best thing I can tell you to do is to take Dramamine the night before when you go to bed and take another one in the morning when you get up. That way it’s in your system.

What is the hardest part of being a fishing charter captain? The hardest part of being a captain is producing fish. We’re really at the whim of the fish and how hungry they are. So, it’s pretty much out of your control. It’s not as easy as taking out a dolphin tour and saying, “Look, there’s a dolphin!” Sometimes

What is your biggest fear out on the water? Safety! Things can happen quickly on a boat. My main concern is keeping people safe.

How many charters do you do in one day? We average about three a day.

What is the biggest fish you’ve ever caught? Locally, a tiger shark.

Q: What was it like fishing on the island back in 1972?

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JULY 2020

MEET the

Captains

john martin Outside Hilton Head outsidehiltonhead.com

How long have you been a captain? I’ve been a licensed captain for 16 years, but I’ve worked and mated on boats for a lot longer than that. What is the most frequently asked question you get from your guests? The number one question we get is, “What are we going to catch?” And I tell them the options are endless. We do the best we can to find SOMETHING to catch. What is the hardest part of being a fishing charter captain? Keeping everyone entertained. Fishing is generally not instant gratification. Sometimes it takes a little bit of time to fulfill everyone’s requests. What are you primarily fishing for right now? In the summertime, we catch a lot of mackerel and do a lot of shark fishing. How many charters do you do in one day? Typically, three a day. Do you have any tried-and-true seasick remedies? Ginger ale or ginger cookies. What is the biggest fish you’ve ever caught? A 989-pound blue marlin What is one thing you always tell your customers? I try to give everyone the lay of the land while we are out on the boat—explain to them where we are and what they are seeing. I give them a little history lesson or life lesson from being out on the water. Do you find that most people want to catch fish to eat or just for the sport of it? I’d say it’s about 50/50. It’s fun to catch something you can eat, but a lot of people just want to feel something at the other end of the line. What is your favorite thing about being a fishing captain? I really enjoy all aspects of the job but meeting different people day-in and day-out is probably one of the biggest perks.

Q: What is one thing you always tell your customers?

brian gale

Captain Hook Party Fishing Boat | captainhookhiltonhead.com How long have you been a captain? This summer will be 17 years.

How many charters do you do in one day? Maximum is two a day.

What is the most frequently asked question you get from your guests? It pretty much goes in this order: “How far out are we going to go; what are we going to catch; why no bananas on a boat; and what’s the biggest fish you’ve ever caught?”

What is your biggest fear out on the water? Fire!

So, what is the is the biggest fish you’ve ever caught? The biggest fish I’ve ever caught was not on this boat. It was a 350-pound blue marlin. Of course, everyone around here knows, the biggest thing in the waters around Hilton Head Island is the shark. What is the hardest part of being a fishing charter captain? Making the big decisions when it comes to weather. I’m sure most captains would agree. When you see a lightning storm coming with high winds, we have to make a call about where we are going to go, how are we going to get there, and how are we going to keep our people safe. What are you primarily fishing for right now? Captain Hook primarily fishes for black drum, whiting, redfish, bluefish and sharks. What do you do in your free time? Do you spend a lot of it on the water? In the summertime, our season, the last thing I want to do is be out on the water because I work 10 hours a day, six days a week. Sunday is my only day off, and I spend it with my family. Now in the off-season when we operate only two to three days a week, yes; my crew and I and the family love to get out on the water.

What is one thing you always tell your customers? Keep your thumb on the spool. If you’ve been out with us before, you know what I’m talking about— you know what I mean. Do you find that most people want to catch fish to eat, or just for the sport of it? On Saturdays, we tend to see more locals who want to catch and keep. During the week, we primarily host our island visitors who are just out there for the fun of it. What is your favorite thing about being a fishing captain? I love getting to see someone catch their very first fish. Do you have a mate who helps out, and if so, what are their duties? It depends on how many people are on board, but generally we have two to four crew members on each trip. Their duties include cutting up bait, taking care of the fish on board, seeing to all customer needs, answering basic questions, and making sure everyone is safe Do you have a good luck charm on the boat? Yes! Very rarely do we ever sail without a lady on board. We feel like a woman on board is good luck. And we see the women out fish their husbands most of the time. We call it lady luck. ;-)

Q: What is your biggest fear out on the water?

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JULY 2020

How to: Get on the Water YOUR GUIDE TO BOATING IN THE LOWCOUNTRY Article by Mandy Matney and David Moses

f you’ve been in the Lowcountry for any length of time, you’ve probably been aboard one, been tugged behind one, driven one, or at the very least seen one from afar and wondered how to get on it. There is no better time than now to explore our vast waterways by boat. Boating is the perfect activity in this COVID-19 world. And summer is the best season to get out on the cool water exploring the many islands, channels, creeks, and views you can’t experience from land. “People are really looking for the romance of family time that they remembered as kids growing up,” said Grant Kaple, general manager of the Hilton Head Boathouse. “Whether it’s skiing or tubing or dolphin watching, people are really looking for something to do with their kids, now more than ever.” From the historically rich landscape of Daufuskie to the mysterious Morgan Island populated by elusive monkeys, your options for adventure are endless when you boat in Beaufort County. On top of the magical destinations, the Lowcountry offers many varied solutions to get you on the water. Maybe you’re a first-timer or newcomer and need the help of a charter captain to guide you through the tides. Maybe you’re experienced enough to rent a boat and explore our waters on your own. Maybe you’d prefer the convenience and variety offered by boat club membership. Or maybe, you’re ready to commit to the lifestyle and buy a boat of your own. This guide will help you weigh your options and make the decision that’s right for you. CHARTER CAPTAINS, GUIDED TOURS AND RENTALS Boating in Beaufort County is harder than it looks. That was the consensus of virtually every boating enthusiast we spoke to for this article. There are many factors at play that make the area particularly unique including tides, currents, and sandbars (oh my!) that can quickly turn a boat trip sour. “It happens more often than you think,” said Chip Michalove, veteran charter captain at Outcast Sport Fishing and well-known shark whisperer. “It’s very common for a once-a-year boating guy, or firsttimer to rent a boat and find themselves stuck on a sandbar.”

How to: Get on the Water Michalove said he’s had to help dozens of people who’ve run into trouble on their first time out in our waters. “I think a lot of these people are used to lakes where all you have to worry about is not hitting another boat or the dam,” he said. “But we’ve got sandbars, and some of these sandbars are literally just a few inches above the ground. Unfortunately, we all find out the hard way.” Twenty years ago, on his first charter trip ever, Michalove found himself stuck on a sandbar offshore. He said even though depth machines and nautical charts help, it takes a lot of experience to learn how to navigate them, especially considering that sandbars shift every winter. On top of learning how to avoid the sandbars, boaters in the Lowcountry have to learn the tides, channel markers, currents—and parallel parking a boat is no easy task. Speaking of tough, fishing in the Lowcountry is also much harder than it looks. According to Michalove, the first-time fisherman is much better off booking a charter captain. “There’s no doubt that if you’re here to fish and you’re not familiar with the waters, you have a better chance of catching fish on the beach than you do on a boat,” he said. “I mean you have to learn where the ledges are and know where the artificial reefs are. There’s just too much to learn for the new boater or to come down here and have a successful day if they plan on fishing.” Michalove said fishing charter captains cost between $400 and $2,500 a day. Not limited to fishing, chartered boats can last between one and eight hours and can cost anywhere between $200-$2,500, depending on time of year, length of cruise and type of activity. But a guided tour would likely be your best bet when you combine the added value of safety and local knowledge.

JULY 2020

C2 MAGAZINE

At Outside Hilton Head, for example, an incredible emphasis is placed on tailoring each moment into lasting memories for every guest. This passion for enriching lives started in 1979 when CEO Mike Overton started a windsurfing school on the beaches of Sea Pines. Since then, Outside has grown to offer a variety of guided tours and other activities including private charters, shark tooth hunting, fishing adventures, excursions to private islands, kayaking, paddle boarding, leisurely rides to Daufuskie, boat rentals, of course, and much more. Setting Outside apart, Overton said, is the qualifications of their guides, known as interpreters, who are required to complete an extensive, multi-tiered 150-hour training program designed to make each extremely knowledgeable about the area and adept at building trust with guests. Their 31 licensed Coast Guard captains, including 37-year veteran Captain Boo Herald, make it their daily mission to connect people with exceptional places, products, and experiences. “If you wanna connect people to the outdoors, it’s all about tides,” Overton said he learned during a conversation with Sea Pines Founder Charles Fraser. And for the next 35 years, Outside has been crafting smiles for countless thousands of residents and visitors, all while making our community a better place. For the DIY boating adventurer, Outside Hilton Head is one of a few companies on the island that offers boat rentals. Outside offers pontoon and deck boat rentals that can last between two to eight hours and cost between $245 to $705, depending on the kind of boat and the length of time you wish to rent it. BOAT CLUBS On our mission to learn more about boating in the Lowcountry, we explored an interesting alternative to charters, rental and ownership: boat membership. For the last 15 years, Steve Sherman has made it his mission as regional membership director for Freedom Boat Club to share all the varied forms and joys of boating—from inshore and offshore fishing to tubing and leisurely party-boat adventures to Daufuskie.

According to Freedom Boat Club’s research, the average boat owner only uses their boat 10 times a year. “If you own a boat and it just sits there a lot of the time—like other recreational vehicles—when they sit, they break. Plastic dries and rubber cracks. And all that must be factored into repair and maintenance costs,” Sherman said. For those of us who don’t have the armada of vessels and committed time required to accomplish all tasks but still want to enjoy everything our magnificent waterways have to offer, Sherman recommends the convenience and versatility of Freedom Boat Club. Joining a boat club essentially provides access to boats that are shared among a “home club” membership base—and each club or “franchise” could have boats at multiple marinas nearby. By joining the Freedom Boat Club on Hilton Head Island, members have unlimited access to boat reservations at Palmetto Bay Marina, Port Royal, and Skull Creek Marina. On top of that, members can reserve boats at Freedom Boat Club’s 230 locations around the world, up to four times per location. Each fleet at different locations varies, depending on the region, but usually consists of bow riders, deck boats, pontoons, and center console fishing boats—all name brands under two years old. Islanders now have two options for joining a boat club since Carefree Boat Club at Palmetto Bay Marina just opened this summer under the leadership of Patrick Coughlin. Coughlin highlights that entry fees of joining the boat club are significantly less than you would spend on buying a boat, and monthly membership fees are less than you would spend storing your boat at a wet-slip or dry-dock. The convenience of a boat club is easy to recognize as members choose to go fishing, tubing, or head to a restaurant with friends. When they are finished, they just bring the boat back and pay for the fuel. The club handles cleaning, storing, insurance, maintenance, expected repairs, unexpected repairs, renewing and growing the fleet, and every other reason you’ve heard that the “best two days of owning a boat are the day you buy it, and the day you sell it.” “People who have owned boats before immediately understand the benefits of opting for membership,” Coughlin said. Like Freedom Boat Club, Carefree members have unlimited access to reservations at their home clubs. But at Carefree, members have up to three reservations a year at Carefree’s 90 locations around the United States and Canada. Carefree is currently offering half-off membership rates, Coughlin said, adding that now is the time to join because the member-to-boat ratio is low. Oh, and if you’re worried about hitting a sandbar, don’t. Both Freedom Boat Club and Carefree offer classes to members. BUYING A BOAT For the dedicated, experienced, enthusiastic boater ready to own their vessel, Grant Kaple at the Hilton Head Boathouse has you covered. First, Kaple said potential boat owners should consider how you’re going to use the boat. His most popular boat is a 21-foot Sea Hunt Ultra, which he described as “the combination of a pickup and a minivan,” with both excessive seating and speed for families to enjoy. However, there are expenses to consider with boat ownership. Marina storage can cost about $4,000 a year; maintaining a motor can cost between $800 and $1,600; and other maintenance fees can add up. Yet there are many benefits of owning your own boat compared to joining a boat club. “It’s like renting a home vs. buying a home: you can customize it to make it your own,” Kaple said. For the serious fisherman heading offshore, boat ownership is the best option as clubs don’t allow their boats to head way offshore, Kaple pointed out. Boat owners also enjoy the spontaneity of being able to take their boat out whenever they please without reservation. “For that early fisherman wanting to get the first bite of the morning, you can’t get that with a boat club,” he said.  C2 MAGAZINE

JULY 2020

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“I’D GLADLY PAY YOU TUESDAY FOR A HAMBURGER TODAY” —Wimpy, from the cartoon Popeye

ARTICLE BY MATTHEW G. KOVALCIK, CFP

hen I was a child, I lived for Saturday morning cartoons. One of my favorites was Popeye the Sailor. Popeye loved his spinach. Me, not so much. The nuns at the Catholic pre-school I attended force-fed me canned spinach, and it was downright awful! Nevertheless, I loved watching Popeye. All these years later, I can’t recall much of what he did or said, but I do remember his sidekick, Wimpy. Mainly, I remember Wimpy’s prescient phrase, “I’ll gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today.” Wimpy was always a little short on cash … or maybe he worked at the Federal Reserve where the mentality of borrowing in excess today and paying it back in the future is the rule. Regardless, I think of Wimpy’s famous quote often when I see the ridiculous behavior from the Federal Reserve and the Treasury as they throw money at every challenge we face. The Federal Reserve’s modern-day corollary to Wimpy’s signature phrase might go something like this: “We’ll gladly stick it to you and your children in two decades so long as we don’t have to suffer today.” It’s all done in the name of propping up equity prices, which fuels consumer sentiment and ultimately keeps the economy in an uptrend. We don’t yet know how much money the Fed will throw at the pandemic, but it will be many trillions before it is all over. I don’t really think we have the capacity to understand four trillion dollars because we don’t ever deal with that amount of money. How about in terms of time; think of how quickly the seconds tick by throughout your minutes, hours and days, and then ask yourself, how long is four trillion seconds? It’s about 127,000 years! As I write this on June 10, with the S&P trading at about 3195, I’m reminded of the old phrase, “Don’t fight the Fed.” There is no doubt in my mind, with the dislocation between Wall St. and Main St. that there is some merit to it, but how long the Fed can prop up the equity market nobody knows. What should investors do during these unprecedented times? For starters, investors are wise to maintain a baseline asset allocation target. An investor might have a target for bonds of 40% and 60% for stocks. As the investor’s opinion of the world and the capital markets changes, allowing for deviations from baseline targets in either direction is acceptable. For example, when an investor is feeling cautious, it would be acceptable to reduce stock exposure and increase bonds. Shifting 10% here or there is not going to have much of an impact on the bottom line; the changes need to be more significant to make an impact. One might consider changes of 20-25% around baseline targets; these changes will be more meaningful but prevent the investor from going too heavily into any one asset class. Understand valuation! Typically, when the market declines,

as it did in the last week of February and most of March, we think of stocks as being “on sale.” This time around, since earnings dropped faster than stock prices, the market became more expensive. Today, we are forecasting earnings on the S&P of roughly $127; therefore, a current valuation of 3195 leaves the S&P with a price to earnings ratio of roughly 25. This is a dramatic over-valuation to the historical average of 14 to 17 times earnings. And even if the second half of the year turns out to be robust, which seems like a stretch to me, and we finish with earnings of, say, $150 per share, that still leaves us with an earnings multiple of 21.3. Accordingly, I would argue that the downside risk is greater than the potential gain in the near term. In most bear markets, the S&P does not recover in a “V” shape; it tends to move in a “W” or “WW” pattern. Consider the decline in 2002-2003 pictured below. The market made three attempts at establishing a bottom from July 2002 through March 2003.

I believe the market today is overdue for a “re-test” similar to what we saw in 2003. That is not a bad thing so long as your allocation properly reflects your tolerance for risk. Remember, three things: (1) Investment management is the management of risks, not the management of returns; (2) Patience is your friend when it comes to investing; and (3) Your short-term strategy does not have to align with your longterm strategy. You’ll serve yourself well by being aware of the potential outcomes, ultimately arriving at a conclusion of whether it’s a good time to take excessive risk or not. But do not take risks you cannot afford lest you end up like Wimpy—unable to pay for a hamburger today. C2 MAGAZINE

JULY 2020

, s , s r r u u o o Y Y y y all M Musuisciacll Mabel

Mabel Safe, Weezie and Stutz Wimmer

Article by Amy Bartlett . Photography by M.Kat abel Safe started playing guitar at age six, “just as that thing you do as a kid.” You pick a sport or an instrument, you play. Years later, touring the South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities with her family, her dream of pursuing music was discovered—and just as quickly challenged when she learned the school no longer accepts guitar players. Undeterred, Safe simply reconfigured how to get in—because she was getting in; that much she’d decided.

At St. Francis Catholic School, where she was in seventh grade at the time, she found an old, donated saxophone in the corner of the music room and thought to herself, it would be cool to play sax. The school had a small band (“and I mean tiny,” she specified, “like five kids”) and no sax player. So, she asked to borrow the instrument for the summer, and like any member of the class of 2022, turned to YouTube for answers. That’s when a series of unremarkable moments came together to compose a remarkable story. While Safe hit the internet, Carla and Stutz Wimmer were

moving into Hilton Head Plantation, “two doors down from Nana,” Safe said. GUESS WHAT? Mabel got a call from her Nana (maternal grandmother Connie Killeen), who said with a bit of plotting, “Guess what? Two great musicians just moved in down the street, and one of them plays the saxophone!” Having taught in Atlanta for 37 years, the Wimmers had finished the school year and retired to Hilton Head the next day. Stutz’s retirement plan was to play fulltime, and he began on the island at The Jazz Corner, Ocean Club, Red Fish Grill, and Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra. He was “done teaching,” he said. “As a new retiree, I had my sights set on picking up where I’d left off as a performing musician 30+ years prior. My plan was (still is) to focus on my playing and to explore a long list of things I hadn’t yet gotten to as an artist.” That was before being asked if he would please

ours, Y y ll a Music Mabel

consider helping Safe get started, “just a couple of lessons?” “I’ve never had much success at saying no to a request for help if I had some inkling I may be able to do so, especially when regarding a little person. Mabel’s Nana Connie doesn’t take no for an answer all that well either. I figured it was worth the risk, assuming Mabel would quickly discover she’d bitten off more than she could chew. She was sure to bail in no time. It would be inaccurate to say that I was disappointed to have gambled and lost.” THE IMPOSSIBLE DREAM Stutz made Safe a deal she could refuse: she had to practice, prepare, and realize it was a longshot—an uphill battle to catch up with kids who had been chasing this goal with near Olympic-level training most of their lives. The word impossible was thrown around a lot.

JULY 2020

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Matriarchs to the rescue, Nana bought a new sax to replace the old/donated Vito, and Grammie (paternal grandmother Patti Catalano-Braddock) paid for lessons and academy programs. Stutz saw a wave forming. “I figured out there was no way Mabel was going to give up. Teachers (who love to teach) find it hard to resist the opportunity to share what they do and know with a curious youngster. Mabel’s goals soon became my own, and Carla remained relentlessly insightful and supportive—an indispensable partner from day one.” Carla returns this praise. “Stutz is a masterful teacher and learned from extraordinary teachers as well. It’s rare to have an instructor who plays as well as he does and can also effectively teach. Mabel has an underlying fire that fuels her tenacity for perfection. At every lesson, she walked through our front door smiling because she was prepared and ready to take on the next hurdle. The most inspiring part was experiencing the joy of a student reaching her goal. It’s simply why teachers teach. I have started thousands of beginning instrumentalists over 30 years as a middle school band director. At first, Mabel was just another beginner. Each week I listened to her struggle with the same hurdles as all new instrumentalists: breath support, diminished fine motor skills, a large instrument to hold. I truly didn’t think her goal of making the Governor’s School in such a short amount of time was reachable. Clearly, I underestimated two things: Stutz and Mabel!”

Stutz said his perspective shifted weekly “until it dawned on me six months before her audition that she really had a chance at this. She can play. I would ask, ‘Have you practiced this week?’ And one week she looked at me and said, ‘I thought we’d gotten past that’ because the answer was always going to be yes. ‘I’m going to go to this school, and you need to help me get there.’ She made me believe.” For Safe, the test run was the school camp. “I loved being surrounded by kids who wanted to play music like I wanted to play music,” she said. On campus, Stutz asked, “Do you still want to do this?” Safe returned, “I would stay right now if I could.” THE MOMENT OF TRUTH Safe was more than prepared, having gone from googling saxophone to winning first chair in the S.C. Region Band, a spot in All-State, and the Jazz Corner Scholarship at Rising Stars. Of the final audition, Stutz and Safe’s conclusions were humble. His: “I’ve done all I can for her.” Hers: “I walked out of the audition room and the next kid came in.” The story of the phone call, though, comes out more like “hold my latte” as Safe pinpoints the location of every person in the house. Mom and sister outside, her in her room, dad working in garage, near the answering machine. “He heard the message start and ran into the house full-on screaming. Not calling—screaming, banging on the sliding glass door.” The whole family was listening as Dr. Zhang said, “Mabel….” It should be noted that only two saxophone students were accepted from the state. One of them was Safe. THE VILLAGE AND THE VISION To say there were tears is a minor footnote to the larger story of contribution, commitment, certainty, and celebration by so many invested players. Noting this, Safe quietly said, “I am lucky.” She’s also determined, grateful, and going to Greenville this fall. “Mabel had developed a clear vision for herself,” Stutz said. “Carla, her parents, her grandparents and I simply worked together to help her fulfill that vision. It’s a validation of the power and value of thoughtful teaching, hard work, tenacity, and the support of a village. I’ve known that power for years. Mabel now knows it too. My hope is that she will, in time, find it equally difficult to say no to the little people who find their way into her sphere of influence. “She’s bound to,” Stutz added, in the perfect parting shot of a jazz musician who knows how to turn a phrase, musically or otherwise. With equal flair, his protégé signed off with the quietest determination and “I told you so” one can fit into an email signature: “Musically yours, Mabel Safe.”  C2 MAGAZINE

JULY 2020

New Treatment Options for Chronic Neck and Back Pain Article by John P. Batson, MD, FACSM

rthritis of the spine is very common and typically affects patients after the age of 50 years. Patients often complain of pain or stiffness in the morning or after periods of sitting for some time. The pain is concentrated on either side of the neck or low back but can be referred into the shoulders/shoulder blades and buttocks/upper legs respectively. To an extent, when you move around, the pain will typically feel better, as with any arthritic joint. Some patients notice more pain or stiffness with the weather changing, especially with colder weather. The joints in the neck and low back which are affected with arthritis are called facet joints. You have two facet joints per level in the spine (one on either side). The facet joints can be seen on x-rays or studies like an MRI. Arthritis of the spine is treated with medications, physical therapy and home exercises. Staying fit and maintaining a healthy weight limits stress to the joints. Nutrition plans high in plant-based foods and low in processed foods may help with pain and inflammation. Some patients report relief with nutritional supplements such as turmeric, tart cherry extract and CBD oil. It is important to discuss these supplements with your medical doctor as some supplements do have side effects or interact with certain medications.

Arthritis of the spine is treated with medications, physical therapy and home exercises. Staying fit and maintaining a healthy weight limits stress to the joints.

For patients who obtained short term, but not lasting relief, we have a relatively new procedure to offer which is a more permanent treatment for the arthritis of the spine. It is called radiofrequency ablation (RFA). In this procedure an insulated radiofrequency probe is placed on the nerves that transmit the arthritis pain signal. When the pain does not respond to conservative measures, injections may be suggested to help reduce the pain from these joints. We use an X-ray machine to guide needles to the correct location to ensure the procedure is safe and accurate. The medication used is typically a small amount of a steroid preparation and a long-acting numbing medication. Patients are encouraged to keep a pain diary so they can keep track of how their neck or low back feels after the procedure. Some patients note near complete or total improvement from the facet joint injection. For patients who obtained short term, but not lasting relief, we have a relatively new procedure to offer which is a more permanent treatment for the arthritis of the spine. It is called radiofrequency ablation (RFA). In this procedure an insulated radiofrequency probe is placed on the nerves that transmit the arthritis pain signal. The radiofrequency probe generates high frequency radio waves, which heat the tip of the probe. The nerve conduction from the joint is disrupted. The joint still has the arthritis, but the pain signal is not transmitted as much or as often. The procedure takes about 15-30 minutes to perform and can provide 6-18 months of relief. It is a procedure (not a surgery) performed in the office without sedation. RFA is covered by most insurance plans. There is little down time after facet joint injections or the radiofrequency ablation procedure. Some new treatment options for arthritis in the spine include prolotherapy and PRP injections. Prolotherapy involves injecting Dextrose (sugar solution) in and around the joints. This triggers a mild inflammatory response, and the body reacts by sending healing cells to the area to help with pain. PRP is a step up from this. We take some of your blood and use a centrifuge to isolate the platelet cells, which are known to have a lot of healing properties. When injected into the joint, platelets have helped some patients with pain and function in recent studies. Managing arthritis in the body takes a commitment every day, just like managing diabetes or cholesterol. There are rarely any silver bullets in the treatment plan. Often we implement multiple strategies to figure out what will work with the patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s individual condition and needs. Flare ups from time to time may happen, but hopefully we have strategies to help with this. Staying healthy and avoiding injuries to the spine are the best prevention strategies we have for patients. ď&#x201A;? John P. Batson, MD, FACSM is the owner and provider at Lowcountry Spine & Sport. For more information, visit spineandsportmd.com.

Managing arthritis in the body takes a commitment every day, just like managing diabetes or cholesterol. There are rarely any silver bullets in the treatment plan. Often we implement multiple strategies to figure out what will work with the patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s individual condition and needs. C2 MAGAZINE

JULY 2020

ARTICLE BY LINDA S. HOPKINS

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, ttom ck bo ack o r b e rom cry f e . In th a far n myself s can’t b ly in i a io d h t t e r T s t e “ e la c , u rds, to q s saying lcohol-re ork anda lead me a a t c s c w e l ifi h e t socia ough to spec voic ped n little e I had no n, I pop io but e mind, a g c t . in ic s s dd ut y sippin , ear of m or you.” B signs of a last 18 y 19, while e g a p T f e 0 O ood N rious ht for th end of 2 book lled g e e s c M r a ca he so yF nig I A. I A illnes y—every towards t rolling m anization ed sc g trigu LIND NOR AM OL. rg wa in d o in y n n S n it n I e a a a t v fe y e u r , E a o o e r H n f C b n M he li O LI A ga CO rdon ped up ethin ry of how onial f cha p m o MY N ALCOHO VER AL o o p s S m s i o . st est O a gla sored ad (OYNB) am AN Her t began to man’s ful I LESS Beer st—a wo rinking. spon e I R ower h o a a t p d E N n h r d o a w take ho Yea ity, he p d wit rug ped s d e t POW a p e n io r e to h d o r O e t I a u id s v e d c c e r o e e n I c y d h d o e is o s m m ld I the ly d me, s ed when to pique estee in six shou cent hip— pen ve re relations d socially f alcohol rink. ang enough p a h a h c h k. I uld ct, ’cloc to d oxic le an just op o In fa at wo n. gat five o g to was ailab had a dr tempted h r v in w e a v t r f a e go da thin ven by le ommonly ave not wond that wa s frien ome h c ger e best e day—s ork. It wa on ip y h e most planet. I ’m no lon s m y id n e e r h o w o t h i d m t t ’s f I o e a , y o o l , c t h a t king on t s. In fac he re e had be the end a hard d mething n m i . T d r y le e h l d b th so for Win treat at ou w , help coho t o p p e d .” My pro mon ward ights and f the day e fun, tell y ” with al t an s y e o m r e I m n le a m r s e , b n o t— of Let blem l l p e o p l d a “pro It wa rward to n lonely nigh modern edge herings m lieved I “pro ine a I ha no I te k fo e k the by at w o The b o e io g e n f o I l n lo n e m t m o a ia s u u Wh soc hol o omp ss e s ed. It nefit cons y ass my c was bor nd made e the be rinks alco o gla lcohol to ticall a w t m I r d ,a auto ed to ount of a when t relaxed These we ne who limit nyo a e ge hought. was onable am e m k s I t nd li unrea or so ceiving. A e r was

I’LL JUST H AV E WAT E R .

TO FREEDOM

a regular basis, I could always rationalize it: “I’m ‘only’ having two.” I was quick to ignore health warnings (alcohol use increases breast cancer risk by 30-50 percent) and recommendations for women (women should limit their alcohol intake to one drink per day). Maybe I thought the rules didn’t apply to me, or perhaps I took my good health for granted. After all, my blood work was fine; I was at the gym every day; I never got drunk or had a hangover. I had noticed some evidence, however, that alcohol wasn’t doing me any favors. The most telling signs were dehydrated skin and disrupted sleep. After dozing off in my evening wine fog, I would wake up a couple of hours later and toss and turn the rest of the night. I refused to acknowledge that my “friend” had anything to do with it, but deep inside, I knew. How we met Ironically, I was never much of a drinker in my younger years. I was introduced to alcohol in college, where I did my part to support the beer industry. But by my senior year, I was done with beer busts and keg parties, ready to settle down. In my early 20s, I married a health-conscious, athletic nondrinker. We would occasionally have a glass of wine with dinner at a

JULY 2020

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restaurant or at a social event, but we never drank at home or even had alcohol available in our home unless we were hosting a party. It was after my husband passed away in 2001 that I began drinking nightly. Back on the dating scene for the first time in 20 years, it was the social thing to do, and it helped me escape, however briefly, the pain of my profound loss. In 2002, I began dating the man I would eventually marry, who was/is a wine connoisseur. I got caught up in his way of life, which included wine with dinner every night, frequent wine tastings, happy hours, wine-themed parties, wine club memberships, a fully stocked wine fridge in the house, etc. The habit took hold, but I continued to believe it was all in fun. I was in control. I didn’t really need wine; I just liked it. That was the story I told myself. It was only this year when I decided to quit that I discovered how sneaky alcohol had been. Like a malicious cyber attacker, it had secretly infiltrated my operating system without my being aware. The breakup The Facebook post for OYNB included an offer to participate in a complimentary five-day alcohol-free challenge. I took the bait, unsure if I would complete five days but figuring I had nothing to lose. I told no one, not even my husband, for fear I might fail or that I would be less socially accepted. For the next five days, I had hot tea with dinner. My throat felt a little scratchy, providing the excuse I needed to substitute tea for my usual wine. This was one of the first of many aha moments. Why on earth would I need an excuse not to drink? The challenge included brief daily videos offering educational resources, encouragement, and support. One of the attractive things about the program was that it didn’t require a label, a daily meeting or an admission of weakness—only a desire to make a change, however big or small.

After five evening meals with no wine and marking my progress on a calendar, not drinking started to feel slightly less awkward and more natural. And so I decided to up the ante by signing up for the 28-day challenge—a paid program that included continued support and more resources, including access to an online library of materials and membership in a private Facebook group, where people from all over the world meet to share their AF journey. With a decidedly British cultural feel (because that’s where the program originated), the thing I had in common with everyone there was a desire to release myself from a harmful and potentially progressive habit. Goals varied. Some participants were looking to moderate or become occasional drinkers, others to quit forever. For me, it was an experiment to see what my life would look like without alcohol. The benefits The first benefit I noticed was a significant improvement in my sleep. Within a week or so, I began sleeping soundly through the night and having vivid dreams for the first time in years. The added bonus? No more leg cramps, sour breath, or cotton mouth. I woke up feeling refreshed and energized each day without the underlying anxiety and depression that had so often visited in the past. Next, I began noticing an improvement in my skin tone and complexion. Additional benefits I’m noticing now include effortless weight management, more time, more money in my bank account, increased energy and productivity, clear thinking, improved concentration, less marital conflict, higher self-esteem, greater self-confidence, more patience, and a strong sense of empowerment and accomplishment. The ultimate freedom When I started the OYNB alcohol-free challenge, I had no intention of quitting forever. But that is where I am today, the decision firmly made—alcohol, like a bad boyfriend, in the rearview mirror for good. How did I go from nightly drinker to not-eventempted teetotaler?

After reading several books and articles, commonly referred to as “quit lit,” my eyes are wide open. (I recommend “This Naked Life,” and/or “The Alcohol Experiment,” by Annie Grace for starters.) It’s clear to me now that there are zero benefits to drinking, therefore eliminating my desire for alcohol and the need for any self-control around the substance. I’m no longer lured in by the empty promise of a more fun version of myself, and I find no need for alcohol’s false sense of relaxation or artificial happiness. I’m no longer trapped by a belief that life without alcohol is boring. I’m having the time of my life without it. Quitting is easy once you see alcohol for what it is: attractively packaged poison. But simply understanding that fact would not, in and of itself, inspire change. Rarely do we stop a behavior because it is bad for us. We stop when it holds no appeal. Alcohol masquerades as the cool, sophisticated, fun, glamorous, sexy thing to do, much like smoking did back in the 1950s. And yes, everybody’s doing it. According to the 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 86.3 percent of people ages 18 or older reported that they drank alcohol at some point in their lifetime; 70 percent reported that they drank in the past year; 55.3 percent reported that they drank in the past month. Based on my personal observations, I would say the numbers might even be higher, as the vast majority of my friends, family members, associates, and acquaintances drink. But here’s what I’ve learned. No one likes me less because I don’t drink, and no one really cares what’s in my glass. I personally don’t care what’s in yours either. So, if you see me at my favorite restaurant or at a party, please don’t avoid me for fear I will judge you by your drink order. If I talk about my new alcohol-free life, it is not to convince you but to share the positive changes that have come about for me. It’s hard to contain my excitement. Cheers to health and happiness. Cheers to freedom. 

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From left to right: Jennifer Stokes, FNP-C, Lynn Goetze, M.D., Scott Cummings, M.D., Erica Roper, PA-C, Kamal Patel, M.D., Stephanie Lovato, PA-C.

Innovative Partnerships, Superior Care PALMETTO MEDICAL GROUP TEAMS UP WITH BEAUFORT MEMORIAL HOSPITAL A R T I C L E BY M A R I E M C A D E N

P H OTO G R A P H Y BY PA U L N U R N B E R G

almetto Medical Group, a Bluffton primary care practice established in 2008, has joined Beaufort Memorial Hospital’s (BMH) growing network of health care providers serving patients south of the Broad. The board-certified providers, including internist Dr. Scott Cummings, family medicine physicians Drs. Lynn Goetze and Kamal Patel, physician assistants Stephanie Lovato and Erica Roper, and family nurse practitioner Jennifer Stokes, have become official members of Beaufort Memorial Physician Partners effective July 1, 2020. “We’re very excited to add such experienced physicians and advanced practice providers to our team,” BMH president and CEO Russell Baxley said. “Providing access to high quality primary care is critical to Beaufort Memorial’s mission to enhance the quality of life in the Lowcountry through improved health, innovative partnerships and superior care.” Drs. Cummings, Goetze and Patel are all founding partners of the practice, which currently boasts a team of 28 medical and administrative staff members. Cummings has been a physician for more than three decades, serving as an emergency medical services physician and section chief at medical centers in Virginia and

Georgia before moving to the Lowcountry in 2004 to practice at a local primary care and urgent care clinic. Over the course of her career, Dr. Goetze has worked in family medicine, urgent care and occupational health practices in the Midwest and Northeast. She has been in the Lowcountry since 2000. Dr. Patel was two years out of his medical residency at Ohio’s Barberton Citizens Hospital in Ohio, where he served as chief resident, when he joined the practice in 2008. Specializing in family medicine, Lovato has been a physician assistant in the Hilton Head Island area since she earned her Master of Science from South University in Savannah in 2008. Her colleague, Roper, was born on the island and graduated from Clemson University in 2008. She completed her medical training at the Medical University of South Carolina four years later. Stokes started her career in health care as a registered nurse at Beaufort Memorial Hospital. Since completing her family nurse practitioner studies at South University in 2016, she has specialized in family medicine, sports medicine and urgent care. The practice, which has been renamed Beaufort Memorial Palmetto Medical Group, will remain at its current location at

4818 Bluffton Parkway and can be reached at (843) 706-0600. “Recognizing the growing need for health care services in the southern part of Beaufort County, Beaufort Memorial has stepped up to meet the demand with an ambitious expansion plan that will benefit us all,” Dr. Cummings said. “Our patients will now have access to the specialist care available through the hospital and its affiliation with MUSC Health, as well as the ancillary services only a hospital can provide.” BMH opened its first medical office in southern Beaufort County— the 4,000-square-foot Bluffton Medical Services—in July 2006. Within three years, it tripled the size of the facility, adding a dozen new exam rooms for physicians, a rehab center and diagnostic technology. In 2011, it added another 4,000 square feet of office space to accommodate more exam rooms and a full-time OB/Gyn practice. As part of its south-of-the-Broad capital improvement plan, the nonprofit hospital added May River Medical Pavilion last fall, featuring both a primary care practice and walk-in clinic. Later this year, it will complete construction of its new Okatie Medical Pavilion, a three-story, 70,000-square-foot complex that will offer full-time primary and OB/Gyn care and appointments with specialists, a cancer center, women’s breast health services, outpatient rehabilitation, laboratory and imaging services, and another walk-in clinic. The facility will replace the current multispecialty offices in Westbury Park. In addition, BMH has partnered with MUSC Health to build a $44 million micro hospital—the first of its kind in South Carolina—on 13 acres near the corner of Buckwalter and Bluffton Parkways. C2 MAGAZINE

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ARTICLE BY BECCA EDWARDS

ou have probably heard the saying, â&#x20AC;&#x153;You are what you eat.â&#x20AC;? But research shows you may also be what you eat due to when you eat. As a triathlete, I practice this concept by exercising the fundamentals of sports nutrition and eating specific macronutrients like carbohydrates and protein around my workout schedule. But once I hit the big four-oh-no, I began to learn more about intermittent fasting. Despite its growing popularity, intermittent fasting is not just a fad diet. In fact, it is not really a diet at all because it does not restrict the foods you eat. Instead, it is a food eating pattern that cycles between time spans of eating and not eating.

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Leading health contributors like my guru Dr. Sara Gottfried (The Hormone Cure and Brain Body Diet) educated me on the many benefits associated with abstaining from eating breakfast 16 hours after eating dinner. (Men can wait for 14 hours because, well, men often have it easier than women when it comes to food.) Dr. Gottfried encouraged me to integrate this eating pattern into my life and, as I will explain in a bit, I have devised my own strategy to intermittent fasting.

BENEFITS OF REGULAR INTERMITTENT FASTING INCLUDE: • • • • • • • •

•

Hormone balance. Reduction of oxidative stress and inflammation of the body. Better brain health and possibly the prevention of Alzheimer's disease. Weight loss, specifically belly fat. Improved digestion. Improved sleep. Reduction of insulin resistance, lowering your risk of type 2 diabetes. Improvement of numerous different risk factors, including blood pressure, total and LDL cholesterol, blood triglycerides, inflammatory markers and blood sugar levels. The initiation of autophagy, a cellular waste removal process which involves the cells breaking down and metabolizing broken and dysfunctional proteins that build up inside cells over time. Possibly cancer prevention.

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The first three benefits were what intrigued me the most. So many times, clients come to me wanting to restore hormonal balance, reduce inflammation and experience better brain function. I find this interesting for one important reason. Whereas several years ago many women may have just accepted part of aging was suffering through hormone imbalance symptoms such as disrupted sleep and hot flashes, chronic conditions like low back pain and a general lack of focus, women today are standing up and saying, “I’m not going down without a fight.” To those women, I say, “Hell, yeah. Let’s do this.” And we can do this oftentimes without the introduction of topical creams, prescription pills and the like. I am a big fan of making small, subtle, holistic changes to affect my clients’ desired results, and I have found intermittent fasting to be an example of a simple, yet effective lifestyle tweak. And by simple, I mean you do not need to go out and buy anything or deny yourself favorite foods like pizza, but you do have to understand there might be a one-week to two-week rough patch while you adjust to your new eating schedule. Also, if you are an endurance athlete, you may opt to fast only on certain days. For example, if I am training for a triathlon, especially in the summer months, I do not fast before taking a long run, bike, swim or workout. Having said this, I do know some serious CrossFit and other competitive athletes who have managed to do it, but I bonked whenever I tried it. For those of you who maintain a more moderate training program such as walk or run two to six miles, take kick-butt exercise classes at fitness studios like CycleBar, or hit the mat at yoga studios like Jiva regularly, intermittent fasting is very doable. Just remember you are working toward optimal health, and sometimes, as the saying goes, “You’ve got to pay to play.” MY PERSONAL PLAN I’m going to share with you my intermittent “cheats” and overall plan. Low-calorie drinks like black coffee and tea have

been purported to reduce your appetite. I, however, seem to get hungrier after a cup of un-jazzed-up java. Also, I am not necessarily trying to stave off my hunger, but rather fast for 16 hours. Plus, I still want to fuel my body even if it is not with food. So, to bridge the time between last night’s dinner and today’s breakfast I opt for a cup of tea, such as Traditional Medicinals organic EveryDay Detox tea (lemon flavored) and one of the following: • 4-ounce cup of celery juice (approximately 20 calories) • 4 to 6-ounce cup of kombucha (approximately 30 calories) • 1 scoop of collagen powder in my tea (approximately 20 calories) • 1 serving of a no sugar added electrolyte like Nuun (approximately 10-20 calories) • 1 serving of The Art of Broth Savory Chicken or Vegetable Vegan savory flavored tea bag (approximately 15 calories) I also only fast Monday through Friday. That way, I am free to be surprised by an impromptu breakfast from my middle daughter who likes to make poached eggs infused with doTERRA’s lemon essential oil and fairy-dusted (a.k.a. nutritional yeast) avocado toast or have a late dinner with the hubby or some friends. My last tip is, commit to a schedule. Think about when you get home from work or when your family typically likes to eat and pick a dinner time. Ideally it would be between 6 and 7 p.m. so that you are eating breakfast between 10 and 11 a.m. If you are living with someone who works late, let them know you see the value in dinnertime but you are also trying to accomplish a health goal and that perhaps there are other ways of connecting in the evening such as going for a walk with the dog. Note: Any changes you make to your wellness program should first be discussed with your healthcare practitioner. Also, intermittent fasting may not be appropriate for people who have suffered from an eating disorder such as anorexia in the past; it is not recommended for those individuals currently struggling with an eating disorder. Becca Edwards is certified in several wellness modalities and is the co-owner of Female IQ Podcast.

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ONE MOTHER’S HEARTBREAK, ANOTHER MOTHER’S HOPE LOCAL MOM ON A MISSION TO FIND CURES FOR CHILDHOOD CANCERS Article by Linda S. Hopkins Photography by M.Kat

ometimes our deepest pain serves as a launching pad for a higher purpose. Such is the case for Jessica Mugrage, whose devasting loss of her 16-year-old son Michael has set her on the warpath against childhood cancers. Her mission: to fulfill her son’s dying wish by searching for a cure and saving another child’s dreams. According to Mugrage, she was just “a regular mom” before cancer came roaring into her life. “I knew nothing. I wasn’t ever thinking about cancer. Now, I know at least 12 kids in our area who have cancer, and there are probably more. Twenty percent of them will die within five years. Another 30 percent will not make it to age 30.” The National Pediatric Cancer Foundation states the following facts: one in every 285 children will be diagnosed with cancer. Fortythree families per day will hear the devastating words, “Your child has cancer.” Cancer is the number one cause of death by disease among children; about 1,190 children under the age of 15 are expected to die from cancer in 2020. It’s time to take action. MICHAEL’S STORY Michael Mugrage was born in Kauai, Hawaii and lived there 12 years before relocating to Bluffton. He was known for his great sense of humor (even during treatment) and for always flashing a Shaka—a hand gesture residents of Hawaii use to convey the Aloha spirit. It is a sign of friendship, compassion, and respect.

At age 15, Michael was a typical high school teenager. He liked playing Xbox, loved football, was looking forward to getting his driver’s license, and was taking classes to pursue a future career in law enforcement. But he was losing weight and complained of severe leg pain, abdominal pain, and headaches. Finding no definitive cause, his doctor dismissed the symptoms as growing pains. Days later, Michael was in urgent care with a collapsed lung. Two hospital transfers via ambulance in a matter of hours and several tests later would bring devastating news: Michael had a large mass that doctors were confident was cancer, and he would need surgery for a biopsy. The result came back as high-risk (stage 4) alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS), an aggressive soft tissue cancer with the majority of cases affecting children under the age of 18.

PAINT A NEW PICTURE: JOIN THE FIGHT TO SAVE LIVES Prior to the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, a Hawaiian-themed evening fundraiser, “Luau for Life,” was in the works to raise funds locally for CURE. While those plans are temporarily on hold, committee members are needed to help get it off the ground in the future. “This is going to be a casual and fun event for adults,” Mugrage said. “This is not about the grief part. This is the action part—something you can get involved in every year and be excited about.” Meanwhile, the march continues towards awareness and other means of fundraising. By mid-July, Mugrage will have gold mailbox and wreath bows available for sale (gold is the color symbolizing childhood cancer), to display during September, which is Cancer Awareness Month. A link to purchase the bows ($25 each) will be posted on Mugrage’s Facebook page. “We can talk about adult cancers, but people get incredibly uncomfortable talking about kids with cancer. Meanwhile, those kids don’t have a good outcome because they don’t get the funding for treatment,” Mugrage said. “Only 4 percent of federal government cancer research funding goes to study pediatric cancer, with 96 percent going to adult cancers.” Please join in the effort to paint a new picture by donating and/or volunteering. “I can’t run a whole charity by myself. CURE is established, and we have a named fund honoring Michael,” Mugrage said. “This is 100 percent volunteer. I’m not benefiting financially from this. It’s just a life’s mission now.”

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“Michael was at tough age—an age when children have dreams and when they are very aware of what’s going down,” Mugrage said. “They told us not to Google it.” After diagnosis, Michael endured months of high-intensity chemotherapy treatments, surgery to remove the mass, and the lifetime maximum amount of radiation to his lung and abdomen. For a while, the treatment seemed to work, and Michael was counting down his remaining treatments with hopes of remission and returning to school. “We thought Michael was going to be like a miracle, because he was so stubborn. He felt like if anybody was going to beat it, it would be him,” Mugrage said. “But the chemo was just to stabilize him and give him a chance to be alive in the event of a medical breakthrough. Part of me feared he wasn’t going to make it, but he was trying to reassure me that he would.” Unfortunately, eight months into treatment the cancer returned with a vengeance, and Michael was given days to live. There are no current options when the standard protocol fails. Michael accepted his fate and asked to enroll in a trial to help other children, even after being told it would not help him. “They were clear with Michael that the existing treatments would not help him,” Mugrage said. “But the doctor said, ‘If you want to go guns a-blazing, you might be able to help some other kid down the line.’ And that’s what Michael chose to do.” An appointment was made in Atlanta, but his health deteriorated quickly, rendering Michael unable to travel for the trial. His dying wish was to leave a legacy of raising funds for pediatric cancer research, naming CURE Childhood Cancer, so that other children after him might have more effective treatments and hope for life. Michael passed away on August 28, 2018 at age 16. THE MISSION Mugrage is not looking for sympathy by retelling her son’s story. As painful as it is for her to rehash his suffering, she has a much larger message to convey. “If no one talks about it, nothing’s going to change,” she said. “Nobody believes it can ever happen to them. It doesn’t matter how much money you have or what kind of car you drive … my big push is awareness. I think it needs to be an ongoing discussion in our community.” Beyond her willingness to open the conversation, Mugrage is taking action per Michael’s directive. “Before Michael died, the teen social worker at the hospital had given him a will to fill out stating his final wishes,” Mugrage explained. “He said, ‘This is what I want you to do: you need to raise money for cancer research for kids.’” He specifically wanted the money raised for CURE Childhood Cancer, an organization dedicated to conquering childhood cancer by funding targeted research, while supporting patients and their families. “The reason he chose CURE is because they come into the

room the week your child is diagnosed. They are a non-profit, top-rated charity on Charity Navigator,” Mugrage said. “They invest over $4 million a year in pediatric cancer research.” Through CURE, Mugrage has created a named fund, which offers a way for friends, family members, neighbors, colleagues, and others to commemorate Michael’s life and build a meaningful legacy. The primary purpose of the Michael’s Fund 4 a CURE is to fund pediatric cancer research through precision medicine, which brings personalized medicine and a second chance to children for whom the standard protocol is ineffective—children like Michael. “Precision medicine entails genetic sampling and personalized medicine to target what went wrong and not just give them something they know isn’t going to work,” Mugrage explained. This approach will allow doctors and researchers to predict more accurately which treatment and prevention strategies for a particular disease will work in which groups of people. It is in contrast to a one-size-fits-all approach, in which disease treatment and prevention strategies are developed for the average person, with less consideration for the differences between individuals. MAKING SENSE OF THE SADNESS Mugrage does not believe Michael is here with her, although his memory remains top of mind. She is comforted by her faith, knowing that he is in heaven where he sees and knows no pain or suffering. So how does she make sense of her own suffering and that of Michael’s younger brother Matthew? “Our scientific education and our spiritual beliefs don’t always match,” Mugrage said. “I take the facts of pediatric cancer, which usually has no known cause. It’s either environmental or it’s genetic. Most of the time, it’s a chromosome switch, and then the cells keep multiplying, which was most likely true in Michael’s case. So, can I make something out of his death? Yes! “I’ve always been of the Christian faith. Being in grief therapy, you are reminded that God knows your first day and your last day and every day in between. What do I take from that? Not only did Michael suffer, but why did he have to suffer? Maybe we’ll raise enough money and help several kids survive. That’s the goal. “Michael didn’t choose his path, but in the end, he chose to help others. It was very, very important to him. He basically said, ‘This is your purpose now.’ “I don’t want people to feel sorry for me. Let’s make a difference!”  For more information or to donate to Michael’s Fund 4 a CURE, please visit curechildhoodcancer.org/about-cure/ named-funds/michaels-fund/. To find out how you can help locally or to speak to Mugrage personally, please email her at michaelsfund4acure@gmail.com. Follow on Facebook at michaelsfund4acure. C2 MAGAZINE

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10 DAYS WITHIN: UPROOTING SUFFERING IN SILENT MEDITATION

ince childhood, I was fascinated with the idea of sensory deprivation in a cave. Imagine if I couldn’t see or hear anything, and I just sat there for several days in the pitchblack, not eating or moving—what would happen to my mind? I felt I must either have a breakthrough or go mad, and the prospect called to me. Not like I actually intended to do it; I was just very interested in the potential of the human mind. So, when I met a stranger on the train who told of meditating 10 hours a day for 10 days straight on silent retreat, I signed myself up immediately.

ARTICLE BY MICHELE ROLDÁN-SHAW

THIS IS LIKE THE BOOT CAMP OF SPIRITUAL RETREATS WITH SEEMINGLY ENDLESS HOURS OF CUSHION-TIME BROKEN UP ONLY BY SPARTAN MEALS, SHOWERS, AND LITTLE AMBLES AROUND THE WALKING PATHS. NO OTHER DISTRACTIONS ARE PERMITTED.

What does happen to the mind in such a scenario? The answer is as varied as the universe itself. Sitting in a cool, quiet, dimly lit room doing absolutely nothing, as much can transpire as on a journey to the sun. Intense highs and lows, long stretches of tedium, elaborate delusions that sucked me in like a movie, even lapses of disconcerting oblivion from which I would “wake up” and wonder where I went. Meanwhile, every other participant sitting silently and motionlessly around me was taking their own trip too, within the little self-contained universe of their mind and body. The implication of this was profound: if we can go through so much when nothing is even happening, maybe all our other drama is self-created too. 4 A.M. A gong breaks the stillness of a country morning outside Jesup, Georgia, one of hundreds of sites worldwide where free Vipassana courses are given. I linger reluctantly in bed until another gong rings at 4:20, summoning us to the meditation hall for a two-hour session before breakfast. This is like the boot camp of spiritual retreats with seemingly endless hours of cushion-time broken up only by spartan meals, showers, and little ambles around the walking paths. No other distractions are permitted. They don’t serve dinner, and we can’t talk. Watching carp in the lotus pond suddenly seems like a luxurious diversion. Otherwise, it’s an all-out confrontation with our inner selves, and by the end of each day I’m exhausted. Why go through all this? Let’s hearken back to the origins. Two thousand five hundred years ago in Northern India, a prince got a real bad wakeup call. After living a sweet life in the palace with every indulgence at his command, one day he ventured out and was shocked to witness a sick man, an old man, and a corpse.

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That’s the beauty of it—what’s going on outside doesn’t matter so much as how we handle it within. This would have been the breakthrough in the cave: facing down one’s own self-created suffering, then mastering it at the depths of the mind. Herein lies the promise of real peace.

The story goes, this was his first awakening to the inevitability of human suffering, and it utterly horrified him. All the pleasures of the palace—the fine food and dancing girls, the golden jewelry and decorated elephants—turned to dust for him in an instant. The next sight he encountered was a monk meditating serenely under a tree, and the possibility of real answers opened up. That night, the prince abandoned his wife, son, parents, home and everything he held dear to take up the quest. His mission was nothing less than to find out why we suffer, and how to put a stop to it. It would take him another six years of pursuing every available spiritual practice in India at the time—homeless wandering, moral purity and celibacy, deep trance-like meditations, fasting and other forms of austerity— before he finally discarded all that and started a fresh investigation. Sitting beneath the fabled Bodhi tree with a vow not to move until either he became enlightened or his bones crumbled, this prince, known today as the Buddha, made a landmark discovery. Using his own mind as the ultimate scientific instrument, he dug down to the very bottom of the mind-matter experience and realized where it all went wrong. He struck at the root of suffering ... and then he liberated himself from it. Hard to believe, but the way he learned to meditate that night is the same method they teach in Jesup, Georgia. It’s a powerful technique of mental purification that progressively uproots the destructive tendencies of the mind—anger, depression, anxiety,

greed, fear, egotism etc.—until all that’s left is wisdom, peace and love. When the mind has reached this unshakeable state, suffering no longer exists; the game has been won, the quest over. The teaching was carefully handed down through many successive generations of monks, nuns, and laypeople who have reached the highest spiritual heights by practicing it. Or, if they’re like me, they’ve just lived a little better, little happier life, thanks to Vipassana. Since my first 10-day course, I have returned many times, keeping up my daily practice at home in between, and each time I dig a little deeper into the mass of suffering inside myself. I pick it apart and examine its true nature, try to make peace with it and slowly smooth it out. The path of Vipassana is very serious and long, but the benefits are vast and immediate—qualities like patience, humility, kindness, generosity, clear-mindedness, strength, purpose, composure and equanimity. And happiness— most of all, happiness. We can never solve all the problems of the world much less the essential human condition of old age and death. But we can rectify our minds so that these sorrows never touch us. This is what the Buddha meant when he said that enlightened beings are “in the world but not of it, like a lotus rising above the water, growing in it yet unsullied by it.” This possibility of true liberation from suffering—upheld by faith, tasted incrementally through practice— was vital in ancient India with its hunger, poverty, deprivation and disease. It’s vital now in our era of senseless killing, horrible viruses, industrial-scale greed, environmental destruction, and a rising tide of mental illness. It will be vital in a future of unknown particulars, which most certainly will entail misery in one form or another. That’s the beauty of it—what’s going on outside doesn’t matter so much as how we handle it within. This would have been the breakthrough in the cave: facing down one’s own self-created suffering, then mastering it at the depths of the mind. Herein lies the promise of real peace.  For more information on Vipassana visit dhamma.org.

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MEETthe DOCTORS “The practice of medicine is an art, not a trade; a calling, not a business; a calling in which your heart will be exercised equally with your head. Often the best part of your work will have nothing to do with potions and powders, but with the exercise of an influence of the strong upon the weak, of the righteous upon the wicked, of the wise upon the foolish.” — Sir William Osler, FRS, FRCP

MEET

the DOCTORS

MATTHEW MASTROROCCO, DMD R O C D E N TA L G R O U P At what point did you decide you wanted to be a dentist and why? To be honest, it wasn’t until I was a junior in college when being a dentist just clicked for me. My uncle and his daughter (my cousin) and her husband were all dentists, and I loved taking to them about the art and science of dentistry. Being able to help people look and feel better seemed like a huge side benefit. What is your field of expertise? We do everything from routine family care to TMJ treatment, but my favorite area is cosmetic dentistry because I can create or recreate a beautiful smile. I placed my first dental implant in 2007 and haven’t stopped learning all I can about them. An implant is such an incredibly efficient alternative to a bridge when a tooth cannot be saved. While they cost a bit more, implants last longer and offer a

single tooth solution to a single tooth problem, rather than having to drill down into adjacent teeth to make a bridge. Do you have a story about a special patient? I had someone who had lived years of her life self-conscious, embarrassed about her teeth. She never wanted to smile in pictures. We were able to help her with a series of implants and crown work; she was moved to tears of joy when she saw the final results! What inspires you in your practice? I have a lot of older patients who are unassuming, humble, selfdeprecating. They share some cool stories. When I find out what they accomplished in their lives, it inspires me to get to know people, rather than just treating their problems or making assumptions about them.

What healthful advice would you give to our readers? Routine visits greatly lessen the chance that dental problems will occur! Just today I saw a patient who was new to the practice two weeks ago. Back then, I showed her that an abscess was forming on a tooth, but she didn’t have symptoms. I told her we needed to treat the tooth if she wanted to keep it. She came in today because the tooth was killing her; she couldn’t even touch it. I encourage people not to be driven by symptoms but to be proactive with their oral health care. 4101 Main Street, Suite D Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 (843) 682-4601 www.rocdentalgroup.com

MEET

the DOCTORS

Photography Paul Nurnberg

NIKKI KEISLER, M.D. BEAUFORT MEMORIAL MAY RIVER PRIMARY CARE What is your field of expertise? I am a family medicine physician. I have been trained to care for patients from birth to death and everywhere in between. I provide preventative care, such as ageappropriate and history-appropriate screening tests and labs as well as vaccines. I also take care of longterm chronic disease processes like diabetes and hypertension. Where did you study medicine? I attended the University of South Carolina School of Medicine in Columbia. Following completion of my medical degree, I completed a three-year family medicine residency at Palmetto Health Richland Hospital in Columbia. If you had some “healthful” advice for our readers, what would it be?

I would tell everyone to start moving. Find an exercise you enjoy and do it every day. If you already have an exercise you love, try something new. The more you move, the better you feel and the better your long-term health becomes. When you have 30 minutes of free time, how do you spend it? I have a full-time practice and two small children at home, so “free time” is not something I have often. If I do get away, you will usually find me in my garden tending to the vegetables I have growing there. What advice would you give someone who just started their career? I think in any career you have to stay open minded. Often when you start out, you have an idea and an ideal

of how everything will be or should be. You have to be flexible as things change. The way you feel about things changes. Medicine changes all the time. Stay true to who you are and learn to adapt. What inspires you in your practice? It’s the people. From the people I get to work with every day to the patients I see every day, people keep me going. I am blessed to get to do something that I truly love every day of my life. Beaufort Memorial May River Primary Care 1 Burnt Church Road Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 706-2287

RAVINA BALCHANDANI, MD FACC FSCAI FASNC

H E A R T A S S O C I AT E O F H I LT O N H E A D , L L C What is your field of expertise? As a cardiologist, I specialize in Interventional Cardiology, which deals with the diagnosis and treatment of coronary artery disease and vascular disease. While I find great enjoyment in performing noninvasive procedures such as applying stents and pacemakers, my primary philosophy is that prevention is significantly more important than a cure. My main passion, however, is women and heart disease. Heart disease is the #1 leading cause of death for women in the United States, and it often presents very mildly compared to how it presents in men, so I focus on empowering women to really understand their own heart. Where did you study medicine? I graduated from Gandhi Medical School in India in 1987. Shortly afterward, I moved to the United States and completed my medical residency, cardiology residency, and then interventional cardiology residency all at Maimonides Medical Center in New York City. Later, I practiced at Stony Brook University Medical Center on Long Island, after which I then decided to take myself to the sunnier Hilton Head Island here in South Carolina, which feels the most like home to me. If you could give some “healthful” advice to our readers, what would it be? The most “healthful” activity one can do for themselves is to learn their body. Every person’s body is different; not just outwardly,

but inwardly as well. Many of my patients approach me to ask if they should be plantbased, or try the Mediterranean diet, or go low-carb. Each person’s body composition and blood work is unique, and can tell a story of what their individual needs are. I invite anyone reading this to set up an appointment with your own doctor to get that testing done so that your doctor can have all the information they need to set you up powerfully with your customized nutrition and lifestyle plan that will suit your needs and goals. What inspires you in your practice? Seeing people get healthy is the most rewarding feeling in the world. A lot of times people feel like they are at the end of a rope, or are confused by the information they’re receiving about their health. I do my best to listen to my patients and make them see that there is hope and a solution. You can often hear me cheering from inside a patient’s room in my office when they come back showing me their blood pressure has stabilized, or that they’ve released the weight they needed to in order to feel better, healthier, and happier. 35 Hospital Center Commons, Suite 101 Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 14 Westbury Park Way, Suite 103 Bluffton, SC 29910 843-682-HOPE (4673) https://heartassociate.wixsite.com/hahh

THOMAS P. LENNS, MD D R . T H O M A S P. L E N N S , L LC What is your field of expertise? Internal medicine, which is the comprehensive care of people from age 18 and above.

When you get symptoms of illness, best to call your doctor sooner rather than later. We like to fix molehills, not mountains.

Where did you study medicine? Drexel College of Medicine (formerly Hahnemann Medical School), Philadelphia, Pa. and Temple University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pa., and St. Luke’s Hospital, Bethlehem.

When you have 30 minutes of free time, how do you spend it? During the week, at the end of a busy afternoon, there is nothing better than a quick “power nap.”

At what point did you decide you wanted to be a physician and why? Honestly, I believe I decided that around age nine. I was fascinated by how my family doctor was able to get me and others in my family and friends well. Do you have a story about a special patient? I’ve been practicing 30 years on Hilton Head Island. The other day, a patient left me a voicemail thanking me for getting him and his wife through a serious illness for each of them. Said they were so thankful that I was there to get them back to good health. That kind of thing never gets old—makes me want to go on another 30 years. If you had some “healthful” advice to give to our readers, what would it be?

What advice would you give someone who just started their career? Keep studying; new treatments keep coming. Treat every patient like they are the only one you have. What inspires you in your practice? My patients inspire me. The vast majority are kind, considerate and have a zest for life. Thus, they usually do whatever it takes to help me get them well. 89 Main St. Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 (843) 681-5305

Brian Thorpe and George Sutherland at Optim Orthopedics in Bluffton.

ARTICLE BY BARRY KAUFMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT

A JOINT O EFFORT O

DR. GEORGE SUTHERLAND AND PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT BRIAN THORPE ARE HERE TO HELP SHOULDER YOUR BURDEN.

efore you can understand the technical expertise and experienced care that Dr. George Sutherland and physician assistant Brian Thorpe bring to Optim Orthopedics, you will need to relieve yourself of a few misconceptions. The first deals with the particular focus that Sutherland and Thorpe have pursued, which is the anatomy of the shoulder. While they are both wellversed in all areas of orthopedic medicine, their expertise in treating shoulder injuries and ailments is unsurpassed. And time and time again, they’ve seen the damage caused by the misconception that shoulder surgery is something you should put off until you absolutely can’t stand the pain anymore.

SHOULDER JOINT

Not only is shoulder surgery vastly different than it was even a few years ago, with new technologies and medications offering better results with less pain, you can do real damage by waiting...

“A recent study revealed that ninety-two percent of patients who had undergone shoulder surgery wished they had done it sooner,” Sutherland said. Not only is shoulder surgery vastly different than it was even a few years ago, with new technologies and medications offering better results with less pain, you can do real damage by waiting, he explained. “You can actually get shoulder deformities if you wait too long,” Sutherland said. “We see much better outcomes when we get to shoulder problems early. Our options for early arthritis are much easier than options for advanced arthritis.” The second misconception you need to get rid of is that a PA can give you anything less than the utmost care. “I’ve trained Brian to do what I do, so when I’m not available or when patients are seeing him, they’re essentially seeing me,” Sutherland said. “He’s trained in the same protocols and recommended pathology as I am. In this day and age, the way medicine works, that’s where we’re headed.” “I’m the good cop,” added Thorpe with a laugh. Having worked together for the last four years and having been part of the same group for several years before that, Sutherland and Thorpe exude a chemistry and a depth of knowledge that sets them apart in their field. Both avid outdoorsmen and military school grads, this dynamic duo are quick to joke around with one another, but that

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Jenn Kelly

chemistry flips instantly to calculated precision once they’re in the operating room. For Sutherland, it’s been a journey through medical school at Eastern Virginia Medical School, a residency at LSU Medical Center (a level one trauma center) and a sports medicine fellowship at the Hughston Foundation. “In my practice, I cover pediatrics, trauma and sports medicine. I have a lot of experience in a lot of different areas,” he said. Cross-training between trauma and sports injuries in particular have given him a uniquely well-rounded perspective on the anatomy of the shoulder. As the other half of this tag team, Thorpe earned his Bachelor of Science in biology from UGA and his Master of Science in physician assistant studies from Savannah’s South University. The two of them have built a reputation as a team that knows the inner workings of the shoulder like few others, doing call coverage locally at Hilton Head Hospital and Coastal Carolina and at St. Joesph’s/Candler in

Savannah and treating injuries and degenerative shoulder conditions of all kinds. “We’re helping treat advanced shoulder problems all the way from simple rotator cuff repair and arthroscopic stuff to complex reconstruction of the shoulder,” Sutherland said. Aiding them in this task is some of the latest technology for imaging the shoulder, allowing for a more precise pre-operative plan. Before the first incision is made, Sutherland and Thorpe have already generated a model of the patient’s shoulder in three dimensions and know precisely what needs doing. “We know the anatomy of the patient going in, which helps us identify pitfalls such a deformity of the glenoid (the shoulder socket),” Sutherland said. “There’s not a lot of bone there, and we have to get everything correct so that the shoulder replacement can function.” The technology at hand makes treating an injured or chronically painful shoulder much more successful, but it is the expertise and experience behind it that truly sets Sutherland and Thorpe apart.  To request an appointment, visit https://www.optimhealth.com/providers/ george-sutherland-md/.

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red Ravishing in

O n e e y e - c atc h i n g a d o r n m e n t s p e a ks v o l u m e s a b o u t t h e w h i m sy w i t h i n t h i s wat e r f r o n t d r e a m h o m e .

t first glance, the home of Mike and Jane Rivers might seem like your quintessential waterfront Lowcountry retreat. All the classic hallmarks are there: a light and airy sense of spaciousness, a sprawling backyard oriented to capture every ounce of the blissful Carolina sun, and materials from brick to tabby that reflect the aesthetic of coastal chic. This is what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll notice at first glance, assuming you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t look up. Should you do that, the first thing that catches your eye will doubtlessly be the bold red roof that caps this beautiful Lowcountry home.

A R T I C L E by B A R RY KAU F M A N | P H OTO G R A P H Y by A N N E | I N T E R I O R D E S I G N by K E L LY C A R O N B U I L D by J . M AT T H E W S CO N S T R U C T I O N | D E S I G N by J E F F C L I N E

“I wanted a Lowcountry home because that’s where we came from,” Jane said. “But I wanted a red roof. We would do without something else if I could get my red roof.” “It was something she’d always wanted, and she always said she thought it was cute,” added designer Kelly Caron, who took Jane’s vision and created a blend of classical Lowcountry and whimsical chic that informs that look of the house. Those of you bound by restrictive covenants and HOAs, we feel your jealousy. “The owners really wanted that red roof,” Josh Mathews of Matthews Construction said. “Not being in a gated community, they were able to do that.” Building from plans developed by TomParker,Matthewsandhisteamworked closely with the Rivers as Jane and Caron developed the look of the home. “We decided early on that comfortable,casual and cute would be her vibe,” Caron said. That vibe was realized exquisitely throughout the home. Perhaps no space best exemplifies this like the main living space, where

this custom chandlier by lowcountry originals anchors over the family dining space.

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“You can see from my kitchen to the water,” Jane said. “And the bedroom and the porch and the living room… it’s just a darling house.”

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CUSTOM MADE HANGING ROPE TWIN B E D S B Y B L U F F T O N M I L LW O R K S ADD AN EXTERIOR LOWCOUNTRY VIBE TO THE GUEST BEDROOM.

soaring ceilings and lush views out to the water could very easily cross the line into ostentatious. Here, the vibe is decidedly more casual. Just ask the resin-carved alligator who serves as a wine caddy. “Jane loves animals, so you see that in some of the whimsical accessories throughout the house,” Caron said. “It was all about being comfortable in their home.” The Rivers have now lived comfortably here for two years, having downsized from a much larger house nearby. “We lived in Spanish Wells for nine years, and I’d done what I wanted to do,”

“We decided early on that comfortable, casual and cute would be her vibe,” Caron said. That vibe was realized exquisitely throughout the home.

whimsy

Jane said. “We left Spanish Wells to get on the water.” The water wasn’t the only thing on their mind when they entered into competitive bidding for the then-vacant lot. Jane especially had a vision in her head of a Lowcountry home that would spend part of the year as a dazzling free-standing Christmas display. “I needed a big attic to put all my holiday decorations in, and another must was plugs for Christmas lights in the ceilings,” she said. “And I wanted a Moravian star right outside my door.”

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splash With Christmas comes family. For the Rivers family, everyone got to contribute to the wish list. “My son is big into music, so his big thing was speakers in every room and outside,” Jane said. “He was also the one who wanted the pool, so we gave in.” Jane added her own big-ticket item to the punch list when she asked for a spring porch. She got her wish, and the house is infinitely richer for it, with the sprawling outdoor space now offering the perfect vantage point for the sparkling waters of Broad Creek nearby. “It’s gorgeous. I was just lying out there on my sofa bed reading, just enjoying the dolphins. They’re big down here,” she said. The youngest members of the family even got their own space, in the form of a darling upstairs bunkroom. “When you walk in the room everyone goes, ‘wow.’ I built that room for my grandchildren,” Jane said. “I have toys up there from my two oldest grandchildren. I have toys in that room from my children that I’ve saved all these years.” The bunk beds were just one piece of the many specialized carpentry items created by J. Matthews on the spot. The bunk beds were handmade on site based on pictures she showed us,” Matthews said. “We’ve actually done that same bunk bed setup since then in a different house.” 104

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M AT T E B L A C K B A R N S L I D I N G GLASS DOORS IN THE KIDS bat h r o o m A D D S A N E N E R G E T I C V I B E T O T H E S PA C E .

the design of the home offers year-round entertainment whether you are inside the home or enjoying time outside by the water.

It wasn’t just the carpentry. As a sum total of the Rivers family’s wish made manifest, the home abounds with examples of creative artistry from the whole team. For example, in your typical Lowcountry home, you’ll find the master bedroom just off of the main living space. Jane had other ideas. “I was insistent that my bedroom door not come off the living room, so Tom put the master suite under the staircase,” Jane said. “I wasn’t sure how that was going to work, but it worked perfectly.” Ultimately, it was the water that brought the Rivers family to the shores of Broad Creek. And that water, the way the home showcases it at every opportunity, defines the home. “You can see from my kitchen to the water,” Jane said. “And the bedroom and the porch and the living room … it’s just a darling house.”

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‘Dogs Well-Loved’ A COMPLETE RE-THINKING OF DOG GROOMING

“F

Article by Amy Bartlett . Photography by M.KAT

urbabies,” “FurEver Friends,” the classic children’s book Little Fur Family … there’s a reason “fur” is the cultural keyword that describes our pet pals. They’re covered in it, and if it’s not handled by the pros, then you and your Lowcountry home are likely covered in it too. While we humans have spent 2020 growing our manes out more than preferred (some of us went from short-sheared to Where the Wild Things Are), the experts at Dog People fired up the mobile fleet and kept our canine counterparts looking better than ever. Jane Misra (Dog People founder/CEO) is a Hilton Head Island entrepreneur who left corporate America in 2008 to run a regionally successful cookie company, distributing through Whole Foods. From there, she applied her skills to benefit local leaders like herself, consulting for small business owners. But she wanted more skin in the game (or fur as it turns out). “We started Dog People in 2016 with two goals in mind: to revolutionize the grooming world with a state-ofthe-art mobile grooming fleet and to bring the quality, convenience and overall better grooming experience for dog, owner, and groomer. We pride ourselves in being the premiere grooming company and want to up-level the experience so that everything we do results in ‘Dogs Well-Loved!’” Why does up-leveling matter for clientele like Mochie, who, according to one of many satisfied-customer posts on the Dog People Facebook page, “did go straight outside and roll in the dirt”? Because it’s not just upgrading the salon experience for the pup and the outcome for the owner; the focus is also on the groomer and business operations with a distinctive commitment to training, retention, and the well-being of groomers in a highly unregulated industry. New to the Hilton Head area, Misra and longtime grooming business partners were already mobile and had just become ready to open shop physically when the pandemic hit. Rather than stepping back, they rolled out and introduced a new lifestyle brand to this community via mobile service. “We went from a full schedule to booking weeks out in what was truly a case of being in the right place at the right time, a step ahead of an industry shift.” Since then, Dog People did add brick-and-mortar, opening their headquarters in the old Woof Gang Bakery building at 807 William Hilton Parkway. “When we saw the size we were working with, we knew we could do (and be) everything we wanted for this area: bath, mini, full groom, daycare, boarding, groomer training— plus operate a fleet, offering a convenient, pleasant experience at a fair price,” Misra said. Misra and crew have re-engineered the mobile experience via “the Mercedes of grooming vans” (the Mercedes Sprinter), utilizing a Hanvey Engineering conversion that is “such an industry separation from the standard Wag’n Tails,” Misra said. Add to this sourcing talent, tools and proprietary equipment, and you

f Donnie Blackburn gives love to two visitors at Dog People.

have a next-level shampoo and oxygen-infused bathing system that provides a better-quality bath and protects groomers long-term. “Everything we do is rooted in Dog People’s standard of excellence that comes from the holistic, energetic exchange between groomer and dog and the relationship we want with the community. We’re not trying to be a Petco or PetSmart. We want to be community-involved, your neighbor down on Main Street. It’s not enough that your dogs come out well-groomed unless every aspect has contributed to them also being ‘Dogs WellLoved.’ It’s why we’re here.” Dog People is located at 807 William Hilton Parkway, Suite 100, on Hilton Head Island. For more information, follow on Facebook at dogpeople.dog or call (843) 341-3322.

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A ring on display at Luis Quintero Jewelry in Port Royal Plaza.

THE ONLY THING MORE ENCHANTING THAN THE JEWELRY AT LUIS QUINTERO JEWELRY IS THE STORY BEHIND IT ALL.

ARTICLE BY BARRY KAUFMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT

t’s been said that every piece of jewelry has a story. An engagement ring speaks of young love and the coming together of two hearts. A locket may hold the story of a family’s lineage, passed down through generations. Even something as unadorned as a simple gold chain can tell the world a story of refined taste and sophistication. The cases at Luis Quintero Jewelry hold a wealth of stories. Each piece within is a custom-crafted work of art, molded from the living metal into something remarkable then honed to a dazzling sheen. Once they find a home around your neck, wrist or finger, they’ll tell your story.

QLuis Quintero sets a diamond onto an engagement ring at his workbench.

Juliana Quintero

Luis Quintero

Until then, they tell Quintero’s story. Each intricate design in gold, silver or platinum and every sparkling diamond speaks of a highly-skilled jeweler with a driven passion for what he does. “Back when I was in Colombia, this was my business,” Quintero said. “It was the family business.” Along with his shop, his brothers and father each had their own stores, carrying on a family legacy that they were taught nearly from birth. The Quintero family took great pride in what they’d built in Colombia, but soon the situation there would become untenable. Fighting had been going on for decades in Colombia between the government and an array of groups from revolutionaries to criminal syndicates, but the fighting hit too close to home when a family member of Quintero’s was kidnapped by guerilla fighters. “It was my cousin,” he said, “and he told me, ‘They were looking for you.’ I made the decision to come here because I didn’t want to be in that situation.” Arriving in the U.S. in 2001, Quintero found that jewelry work was difficult to come by in a new country, so he rolled up his sleeves and got to work doing whatever he could—construction, window cleaning … he did everything. Eventually, he was able to get work at a jeweler in Miami, but the dream remained to one day get back to owning his own store. It’s the classic pursuit of the American dream, and thus it’s fitting that he first came to Hilton Head Island on the Fourth of July. “I came here to visit my cousin, and he put me in contact with somebody who made me an offer,” Quintero said. “I decided to move here and start looking to open my real business. This is what I know, you know?” As before, pursuing his dream meant working twice as hard as the next guy. While building a fanbase from his booth at Keller’s Flea Market, he worked at jewelers including Geiss and Sons. When he wasn’t doing that, he was installing kitchen cabinets and helping friends out with small jobs. “I was working seven days a week for 15 years,” he said. And now, that hard work has paid off. After nearly 13 years at Triangle Square on Mathews Dr., he has opened his new shop in Port Royal Plaza. With its eye-catching corner location, where windows on all sides showcase the glittering goods within, he’s never been busier. “We have a better location; it’s more visible … it’s a much better place,” Quintero said. And from this new place, it’s easier than ever to stop in and see the American dream in action. And while you’re there, pick out something that tells your story.  Luis Quintero Jewelry is located in Port Royal Plaza Shopping Center, 95 Mathews Dr., Hilton Head Island. For more information, visit luisquinterojewelry or call (843) 298-2244. C2 MAGAZINE

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Bobby Ryder and his Chihuahua, Scarlett.

I S C IANS MU in bathrooms MUSICIAN: BOBBY RYDER

What’s your sign? Gemini

Favorite artist? Bobby Darin

Most underrated song that, in your opinion, should be a classic: “I am Singer,” by Jack Jones

Place you go to get away from it all? Our boat and the golf course

Biggest compliment you’ve ever gotten from a fan? That I bring joy and happiness to my audience. What is your favorite piece to perform? “Try a Little Tenderness” What do you sing in the shower? I don’t sing in the shower. Favorite cereal? I used to like Sugar Pops years ago, but I don’t eat cereal.

Do you tweet, gram or book? What’s your handle? No Who would star as you in the epic retelling of your life on film? Zac Efron First instrument you ever learned to play? Clarinet Song you were thrilled to finally master? “How Do You Keep the Music Playing” What do you wish you knew more about? History

At what venue do you most like to perform? The Jazz Corner

What animal do you most identify with? According to my daughter, a peacock

Most requested song at shows? “Night Train” and “Sweet Caroline”

If you got super-famous and had to change your name, what would your new name be? I like my name.

First concert you attended? When I was a kid, I saw Louis Armstrong at Madison Square Garden in NYC.

P H O T O G R A P H Y

What famous musician would you love to sing a duet with? Michael Bublé or Tom Jones

B Y

M . K A T

J U LY 2 0 2 0 1 TO DO #1 SHOP AT COASTAL BLISS FOR A FOURTH OF JULY OUTFIT!

FARMERS MARKET AT HONEY HORN

Sea Pines Shopping Center 10am-2pm

Coastal Discovery 9am-1pm

MOVIE NIGHT IN THE PARK Shelter Cove Community Park Every Thursday night; 8:30pm July 9 - Hotel Transylvania 3 July 16 - Free Willy July 23 - Hook July 30 - Shrek

OUTDOOR YOGA Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina 9:30am Tuesday and Thursday mornings

26 GET OUT ON THE WATER!

TO DO #4

GET IN A WORKOUT TO START YOUR WORK WEEK!

NATIONAL

KITTEN DAY!

GURHAN TRUNK SHOW

NATIONAL FRENCH FRY DAY! 20

Shelter Cove Towne Center 9am-5pm Enjoy great savings during our semi-annual Sidewalk Sale!

16&17

SIDEWALK SALE

EVERY TUESDAY! SEA PINES FARMERS MARKET

BLUFFTON FARMERS MARKET Calhoun Street in Old Town 12-5pm

THURSDAYS

Forsythe Jewelers in Sea Pines Shopping Center Join us for a presentation of new collections, featuring an exquisite selection of one-of-a-kind and handcrafted designs in high karat gold and sterling silver layered with 24K gold. Thursday, July 16, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday, July 17, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

TO DO #2

FIRE’ EM UP AND CRUISE IN!

SCHEDULE A FISHING CHARTER WITH ONE OF OUR CAPTAINS! SEE PAGE 46

Shelter Cove Towne Centre from 5-8pm. Great fun for the whole family!

29 “JUST ONE SMALL POSITIVE THOUGHT IN THE MORNING CAN CHANGE YOUR WHOLE DAY.” DALAI LAMA

24 SUNSET CELEBRATIONS

Shelter Cove Community Park Every Friday night thru August 14, 7-10pm July 10 Target The Band July 17Deas-Guyz July 24 Stee and the Ear Candy July 31The Headliners *Check with website for updates

25 TO DO #3 TREAT YO’SELF TO AN ICED COFFEE!

EVENTS AND MORE COVID-19 INSPIRATIONAL THOUGHTS

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