CH2 Magazine: May 2021 by CH2/ CB2 : Celebrate Hilton Head / Celebrate Bluffton

RENEW YOUR RESIDENCE

featuring

LOCAL INTERIOR DESIGNERS, TIPS FOR UPDATING YOUR KITCHEN, AND CUTTING-EDGE ROOFING TRENDS CH2 SPECIAL SECTION

ATTORNEYS OF THE LOWCOUNTRY

MAY 2021

THE THIN BLUE LINE FEATURING BEAUFORT

COUNTY’S LIEUTENANT ANDREW P. FAUCETT

25 THE THIN BLUE LINE

Meet the men and women behind the badge who are keeping the streets of Beaufort County safe.

WHAT’S INSIDE

CHIEF PRIORITY FOR PRICE IS RELATIONSHIPS: MEET BLUFFTON’S NEW POLICE CHIEF

HOW TO GET DIVORCED

DON RYAN CENTER FOR INNOVATION LAUNCHES HEROES INITIATIVE

CLIMB ABOARD A FREEWHEELING ADVENTURE BUS WITH LOCALS LEXY SHAW AND CRAIG RYAN.

GOTCHA COVERED: LOTS OF OPTIONS FOR NEW ROOFS

A REASON TO CELEBRATE: FIRST THURSDAYS ART MARKET

PARENTS REJOICE! IT'S TIME FOR SUMMER CAMP.

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MUSICIANS IN BATHROOMS FEATURING ZACH STEVENS

O N O U R C OV E R S

47 C2 SPECIAL SECTION: LOWCOUNTRY ATTORNEYS

These local professionals are ready to assist with business, real estate, family and criminal law.

73 MEET THE INTERIOR DESIGNERS These ladies are ready to take your home to the next level.

98 ON THE CH2 COVER Beaufort County's Lieutenant Andrew P. Faucett in Shelter Cove Harbour and Marina.

ON THE CB2 COVER Bluffton's new Police Chief Stephenie Price, photographed in her office.

SIGN OF THE TIMES Under the steady hand of Captain Tom Doyle, Commander Zodiac sails toward the future.

GENIUSES AT WORK

play

Rainbow Infused Space Unicorn Maggie Marie Washo Beautiful Tropical Fish 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 Opalescent Tree Shark Jevon Daly The Gatekeepers Greta Von Bowser Vincent Von Bowser The Cut & Paste Crew Jeff Cline Catherine Colby Writing Specialists Cheryl Alexander Amy Bartlett Jesse Blanco Becca Edwards Linda S. Hopkins Allyson Jones Barry Kaufman John McCann Lisa Sulka Eldon Weaver Tim Wood Lighting Experts M. Kat Photography Krisztian Lonyai

Find Us Here PO Box 22949 Hilton Head Island, SC 29925 843.689.2658 m.washo@celebratehiltonhead.com

EDITOR'S NOTE M

ast month, as the C2 crew was leaving Salon Karma to embark on a fun-filled day of shooting fashion for local boutiques, we paused to have someone take our group photo. At that moment, a pretty blonde woman in uniform strolled up to say hello and asked what we were doing. We introduced ourselves and chatted for a moment, pulling her into our group shot. Turns out, that pretty blonde woman was Bluffton’s new police chief, just strolling through Old Town, keeping an eye on things and being friendly. She made such a positive impression on me in that moment that I made a mental note to find a way to feature her in a future issue. Fast forward to now, and I am thrilled to feature Stephenie Price, Bluffton’s first female police chief, on the cover of CB2’s Law & Order issue. Read all about how she landed in the Lowcountry and what her main priorities are on page 32. Chief Price is not the only one featured in this issue, however. We interviewed six locals in law enforcement and asked them everything from their favorite song to what they wish the public knew more about when it comes to their position in our community. Be sure to check out that spread on page 25. It was great to reconnect with Liz Farrell (writer extraordinaire, formerly of The Island Packet) and Detective Bob Bromage as we photographed some of Bluffton and Beaufort County’s finest around Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina and Old Town.

We also have a rather substantial section in this issue relegated to the home. Cheryl Alexander writes about what’s hot in kitchen renos and shares the latest in roofing trends. We also feature interior designers who are at the top of their game. Last but not least, all parents are encouraged to check out our Summer Camp listings on page 93. I’ve never had so many moms ask me if we were including that content in one of our upcoming issues. I guess if I had children I would understand why that’s such a highly anticipated and widely read piece. Hmmmm. Just a reminder, if you aren’t following us on social media, you could be missing out on a lot of fun content and contests, including a brand new collab with Dunes Real Estate and the Hilton Head Music & Arts Coalition. See our Facebook and Instagram pages for details to be released soon. See you next month!

MAGGIE WASHO Publisher / Editor-in-Chief

Be sure to follow us on Social Media

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

PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT

THE THIN

Blue LINE

MEET THE MEN AND WOMEN BEHIND THE BADGE WHO ARE KEEPING THE STREETS OF BEAUFORT COUNTY SAFE.

s you make your way around Beaufort County, their reassuring presence is everywhere. Not just behind the wheel of a police cruiser, you’ll find the men and women of law enforcement walking the streets, engaging the community and fulfilling their promise to protect and serve. Sure, you may not be so glad to see them when you get caught playing fast and loose with the speed limit; we’ve all been there. But when you need them the most, it’s comforting to know how seriously our police officers take their sworn duty. And for them, that’s exactly what it is. Not just a job. Not just a calling. Theirs is a vow to guard over our community, risking life and limb every day they walk out the door. On behalf of our entire community, it is a privilege to spotlight a few of our finest.

DETECTIVE ZATCH J. POUCHPROM Years as an officer: 8 Department: Bluffton Police Department, Criminal Investigation Division

What is your favorite part of your job? Being able to help people and make a positive difference is the absolute best thing about this profession. Describe the moment you knew this was the career for you. I knew that I had chosen the right career when I realized that I couldn’t wait to go to work every morning or every shift, and that has not changed even years later. What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our community in regard to law enforcement, and what could the general public do to assist? Effective and clear communication between law enforcement and our fellow citizens is paramount. We want the public to fully understand our goals, objectives and intentions in keeping the community safe and keeping it a great place to live in. I would invite the public to look into and study the realities of law enforcement, which is quite different from its portrayal in movies and TV shows. What do you wish more people knew about the day-to-day of being an officer of the law?

It would be my wish that more people have a clear understanding of the intense amount of training that officers go through on a continuing basis in order to do their jobs safely, effectively and in full compliance with legal and ethical standards and how committed law enforcement officers are to doing the best job we can and helping as many people as much as we can. Current favorite song you listen to on repeat? “Zombie” by Bad Wolves When not working, where can we find you? What is your favorite way to spend a day off? I can be found in a chair at home reading or listening to audio books while I cook. What do you love most about your town? I love the spring in Bluffton. April-May is my favorite time of the year here. You can’t beat the bright sunshine, the flowers and green grass with an 83-degree temperature. Perfect.

ANGELA VIENS Years as an officer: 24 Department: Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office

What is your favorite part of your job? I really enjoy the fact that every day is different, every day presents a new challenge, and every day I learn something new. Describe the moment you knew this was the career for you. My entire law enforcement career has been serving this community. I was 22 when I started, and my original plan was to work in local law enforcement for a few years and then pursue a federal law enforcement job. The first two years with the agency I spent on patrol. I saw and experienced a different side of life. I would say that twoyear period was when I knew this career was for me. I loved it. Nothing was repetitive; I encountered new people every day, and I learned a lot about myself. I was happy to have a job that I enjoyed, and the pay really didn’t matter. Sheriff Tanner afforded me the opportunity to pursue my interest in criminal investigations, and I never looked back. The community, the camaraderie with my peers, and the relationships that I built through my work kept me here. What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our community in regard to law enforcement, and what could the general public do to assist? We live in an area that makes members of our community and visitors vulnerable to a variety of crimes, including fraud, scams, and property crimes. The aging population is a regular target for internet and telephone scammers. Aside from car break-ins, internet scams are one of our more regular calls. Please don’t entertain phone calls or emails from companies that you don’t regularly communicate with. Don’t give any account or Social Security numbers over the phone. Always log out of online banking accounts, and never allow someone to remotely access your computer. The Social Security Administration does not solicit payments via

telephone. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office does not seek payment over the telephone to fulfill any court/warrant requirements. And my last piece of advice for the general public to assist law enforcement would be to LOCK YOUR CAR DOORS! What do you wish more people knew about the day-to-day of being an officer of the law? We are human. Every day we may encounter someone’s worst day. We are educated to enforce and uphold the laws of the state. We are trained in defensive tactics. We are certified to use weapons by meeting qualification standards. There is no training that can prepare you for the emotional responses we may have after some of the situations we encounter. Current favorite song you listen to on repeat? I grew up listening to Motown and beach music with my parents, and I still enjoy that sometimes. I like some country, some classic rock, and a little hip hop every now and then. The last song that played on my music app was “Different Kind of Fine,” by Zac Brown Band, but it’s definitely not on repeat! When not working, where can we find you? What is your favorite way to spend a day off? I’m pretty routine. Monday through Thursday are work, gym, home. My favorite way to spend a day off is exploring and enjoying the waterways that surround our beautiful county. What do you love most about your town? There are so many things I enjoy. The sense of community is probably one of the things I love the most. As a lifelong resident and a law enforcement officer, I have seen tragedy and conflict in many different forms. Our community always rises above and supports one another in so many ways, and it’s awesome to be a part of it.

AMANDA BILBREY Years as an officer: 2 Department: Bluffton Police Department, Patrol Team

What is your favorite part of your job? Meeting the people in our community. We have such a diverse community. I have met people from all over the world that either have moved here or are visiting. Describe the moment you knew this was the career for you. My uncle was chief of police in Indiana when I was growing up, and I admired him. That is a big reason why I have always wanted to be in law enforcement. I took a different career path for a while, but when the opportunity arose to become an officer in my own community, I could not pass it up. What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our community in regard to law enforcement, and what could the general public do to assist? Recruiting new officers. It is not easy to go through the hiring process, but once that part is over, it is so worth it! Once you are in, you are part of the family. In addition, it is important to maintain a strong community relationship by being a transparent agency. I believe our department does this very well. The public can join the department or recommend friends and family to join our department. If they are not sure if law enforcement is for them, they can schedule a ride-along through our front office.

What do you wish more people knew about the day-to-day of being an officer of the law? Don’t be afraid to start a conversation with us. Patrol officers spend most of the day in patrol vehicles, so having the opportunity to converse with our community members is one of the best parts of our day. We strive to create and maintain a safe community. Most of our interactions are aimed at education. Current favorite song you listen to on repeat? “Way Down We Go” by Kaleo When not working, where can we find you? What is your favorite way to spend a day off? Outside! Whether it is in my backyard hanging with my two rescue dogs and fiancé, or out fishing, kayaking, or exploring, I love the outdoors. What do you love most about your town? Bluffton always has something to do. My family and I enjoy visiting our locally owned restaurants and businesses. We are looking forward to enjoying as many festivals as we can this year! I also enjoy learning about the history of our area. There are so many historical sites to visit and explore in Bluffton!

OSCAR JAMES FRAZIER JR. Years as an officer: 9 Corrections, 7 Police Department: Bluffton PD

What is your favorite part of your job? Helping people in the town that I grew up in and being a positive influence in my community Describe the moment you knew this was the career for you. There’s not a single moment I can recall, but helping people that have had crimes committed against them, assisting injured people after collisions, being able to converse with young people who have aspirations of being future LEO’s are great feelings for me as an officer. What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our community in regard to law enforcement, and what could the general public do to assist? Citizens generally associate police officers with arrests and citations. We have community outreach programs, officers interacting with the youth—many positive things associated with law enforcement. I believe the public having an open mind to be receptive of those things is good.

What do you wish more people knew about the day-to-day of being an officer of the law? It’s far from easy. We can go from a positive community relations call to an accident with injuries to a violent crime in a matter of hours. We have to decompress and handle everything accordingly, but that’s a lot to think about with a lot of different emotions. Current favorite song you listen to on repeat? “Paid In Full” by Eric B. & Rakim When not working, where can we find you? What is your favorite way to spend a day off? I enjoy being with my family, working out, and playing softball. What do you love most about your town? Bluffton is home. It’s not the small quaint town that I grew up in, but there are still a lot of positive things going on here, and it will always be a beautiful place to reside.

ANDRES F. FLORENCIO Years as an officer: 23.5 Department: Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office

What is your favorite part of your job? Helping people in crisis and solving problems. I really like being able to have a positive influence in people’s lives. Describe the moment you knew this was the career for you. It was during my first day as a field training officer. I was responding to a call and ended up assisting a victim who could only speak Spanish. The immediate sense of relief I observed on their face once they were able to communicate their needs left an impression on me. I knew right then I was doing what God had called on me to do. What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our community in regard to law enforcement, and what could the general public do to assist? The biggest challenge facing our community is the negative perception some people have about the men and women serving as law enforcement officers. Because of the actions of a few, we are all put in the same category. We are not all the same. Most of us, 99 percent of us, want to do the best job we can, and we voluntarily risk our lives every day for our communities. What do you wish more people knew about the day-to-day of being an officer of the law?

Most importantly, we are regular people and no different from the people we serve. Additionally, being a law enforcement officer isn’t just about investigating crimes and making arrests. When we’re on calls, we often encounter people who are experiencing really tough times, whether its financially, mentally or even in their relationships. We’re not counselors by training, but there is definitely an element of the job that requires us to listen and be able to de-escalate tensions. Current favorite song you listen to on repeat? “There Was Jesus” by Dolly Parton and Zach Williams When not working, where can we find you? What is your favorite way to spend a day off? You can find me spending time with my wife and kids. What I’m doing really doesn’t matter to me as long as I’m with them. What do you love most about your town? What I love the most about Hilton Head is the ability to spend time in the outdoors surrounded by nature. I grew up in Brooklyn, New York (“The Concrete Jungle”), and we didn’t have a lot of green space there.

LIEUTENANT ANDREW P. FAUCETT Years as an officer: 25 Department: Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, Enforcement Division, Southern Branch

What is your favorite part of your job? My favorite part of the job is mentoring new deputies and seeing them develop and succeed as law enforcement officers. Describe the moment you knew this was the career for you. At a young age, I knew I wanted to be in law enforcement. This desire grew during my service in the Marine Corps. I knew my military experience would help prepare me for a career in law enforcement. Prior to leaving the service, I was fortunate to become a reserve police officer, and it was during that time that I felt I had found my calling. The daily challenges of being a law enforcement officer, the interactions with the public, and the opportunities to disrupt criminal activity sealed this as my career choice. What do you think is the biggest challenge facing our community in regard to law enforcement, and what could the general public do to assist? It can be challenging to get the community’s assistance in reducing the number of property crimes here, which are on the rise. Most property crimes are “crimes of opportunity.” So, securing valuables by locking car doors would be extremely helpful in preventing theft. What do you wish more people knew about the day-to-day of being an officer of the law? I wish more people knew the extent of training that goes into being a law enforcement officer. A good officer must

have a strong knowledge of criminal and traffic laws; be able to effectively communicate with citizens during a crisis or other stressful events in their lives; and be able to make sound, split-second decisions to protect the public. Current favorite song you listen to on repeat? I do not have a song I listen to on repeat, although I do consistently listen to ’80s hard rock and current country music artists. If I did have a repeat artist, it would have to be the greatest of all time, Stevie Ray Vaughn. When not working, where can we find you? What is your favorite way to spend a day off? When I am not working, you can find me either enjoying some physical activity at the local gym or hovering around my garage; there’s always something to do. Also at the top of my list is enjoying the local waterways, but it has been too long, so I think buying another boat is in the near future. Sometimes, though, I like just taking a break and relaxing in the shade with my aging pup. What do you love most about your town? I love our local businesses, the incredible local foods we have here, and the stunning views of the Lowcountry I see during my daily travels. A trip across any of the larger bridges in Beaufort County at the right time of day can reset your heart and mind.

IH EF PRI ORIT

RELATIONSHIPS I E PRIC

Bluffton’s new police chief brings big-city experience but is focused on fostering personalized policing.

tephenie Price spent 20-plus years working her way through the ranks, from officer to detective to sergeant to captain in Kansas City and as assistant chief of police in Savannah. She hoped to fulfill the dream one day to make the next career leap but never expected the opportunity to come up just over a year after moving to the Hostess City. “We came over to Bluffton all the time to ride bikes and just soak up the Lowcountry vibe. Bluffton is the type of town you dream of leading; it’s the type of moment I simply could not pass up,” said Price of potentially moving across the Talmadge Bridge. “It’s the chance I’ve been preparing for my entire career. When I saw the job posting, my husband and I looked at each other and smiled. I just had to go for it.” Price emerged as the clear choice among a strong field of finalists and was sworn in to succeed interim chief Scott Chandler on Oct. 11, 2020. And yes, she’s the first female chief of the department. It is a historic moment for the town, but for Bluffton officials, it’s merely a fringe benefit of finding the best candidate.

ARTICLE BY TIM WOOD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT | DESIGN BY JEFF CLINE

STEPHENIE PRICE, BLUFFTON’S FIRST FEMALE POLICE CHIEF.

“She won the job on her own merit. If it had been THE VOICE and we were doing blind auditions, it would have been the same pick. It’s great we’ve hired our first female chief, but more importantly, we’ve hired the best person to lead this department into the future.” — BLUFFTON MAYOR LISA SULKA

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“She won the job on her own merit. If it had been The Voice and we were doing blind auditions, it would have been the same pick,” Bluffton Mayor Lisa Sulka said. “It’s great we’ve hired our first female chief, but more importantly, we’ve hired the best person to lead this department into the future.” Price said her experience in Kansas City, a city of 538,000 residents, 1,500 sworn officers and 500 civilian officers, has given her a bigger picture of policing that gave her a strong foundation for leading. She worked every beat, from property crimes to internal affairs, domestic violence to narcotics and vice. “K.C. is a well-oiled machine. They’ve experienced everything, and I was exposed to every kind of interaction with the citizens we serve. But there’s always room to improve personally. I needed to go to a place where the department worked on a more personal level with the community and the city council, and so I treasure my time in Savannah,” Price said. She supervised the administration and management bureau of the SPD, including budgets, the canine unit, emergency management, recruiting, technology, and training. Her résumé was impressive, but her preparation was even more exemplary. “She spoke to concerns we had before we even asked them. She did her research,” Sulka said. “She had a plan for training officers to better assist in our mental illness efforts, and she had a clear focus on community policing. That was huge—two areas we want to improve on.” The Northwest Missouri native put herself through college and grad school as a hairdresser, a job she said helped grow her love of service and communicating with others. It’s where she met her husband Chris, a long-time sergeant with the KCPD. As much as she still enjoys cutting hair, being part of a police force was always the dream. She has two brothers in law enforcement; the draw to serving others is in her blood. The public’s relationship and views of the police are arguably at an all-time low nationally, but the Bluffton community has a love and appreciation for their police—so much of an industry anomaly nationally right now that BPD uses that appreciation as a selling point in their recruiting efforts. “It’s an atmosphere that lets officers do what they got into policing to do, get to know the people on a personal level, to establish trust and get in to help better the neighborhoods. So many of our officers have been in Bluffton for a long time, they are part of the community. They love taking the time and initiative to interact, both in and out of uniform,” Price said. “That’s what policing was supposed to be since the time of Sir Robert Peel. It’s a relationship and I’m so proud of our officers and their commitment to growing that connection all the time.” She started in the middle of a pandemic, with tensions high over mask mandates and overall community mental health a major concern. But Price came in with the kind of even keel positivity that her peers say is a trademark of her career. “I observed and listened out of the gate. It’s not ‘my’ department. This is all about our officers, and I made it clear C2 MAGAZINE

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Price said that the focus on building community faith and trust is critical when the BPD must do the hardest parts of the job, such as the investigation into the March 5 death of beloved Bluffton teen Dwon (D.J.) Fields Jr. that they will have a say in how this department evolves and grows,” Price said. “We are a growing community; we’re recruiting to meet the challenge of that growth.” And she and her staff are attracting talent with an approach historically unheard of in the state—organizing a multijurisdictional recruiting event on June 26, where departments from across the region will gather in one place for a career fair. Price said that the focus on building community faith and trust is critical when the BPD must do the hardest parts of the job, such as the investigation into the March 5 death of beloved Bluffton teen Dwon (D.J.) Fields Jr. “Our officers knew who to talk to, who to lean on to progress the fact finding and the pursuit of justice there, and that only happens through strong community relationships,” she said. “It’s a tragedy; it has left a hole in this town, and this was personal for so many of our officers. They coached D.J., they know the family well. We’re focused on building airtight cases across the board, but there was extra motivation here.” Price brings an abundance of field work to better her staff’s training efforts, but she knows her most important job is ensuring her team nurtures the trust that citizens have put in the BPD. She has started Operation Conversation, where she will do live Q&A sessions from a business or a front porch that are streamed via social media. And she has launched an initiative to bring community leaders in to share experiences and mentor her staff in leadership and accountability. The BPD has also launched a

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program where department leaders hit the streets with patrol staff to introduce themselves to business owners. “I’m at the Farmers’ Market, I’m in the schools meeting kids, you’ll see me walking around The Promenade. I’m focused on educating myself as a resident and a neighbor so I do my job even better,” Price said. Sulka said that while she does not directly supervise Price (the department is under the guidance of the town manager), she has been impressed with Price’s visibility and focus on getting to know the people she serves. “It’s crucial. You can’t lead behind the desk all the time in a special place like that, and the chief knows that,” Sulka said. “She is walking the walk she sold us on.”

“We have a lot of tough days and hard work in law enforcement, but at the heart of it, those connections, that’s what drives every single one of us.” — CHIEF STEPHENIE PRICE

The job of police chief has become a far from secure gig nationally, with studies showing chiefs last three to five years on average. Bluffton has not been immune to that volatility. Joey Reynolds served five years from 2012 to 2017, but the department is now on its third police chief in less than four years. Price is focused on ending that tenure trend. She’s planted roots here with her children, 14-year-old daughter Quin and 18-year-old son Jase, a Georgia Southern student. Chris is headed here full-time after retiring from the K.C. force in 2022. “It’s the first question you get asked applying for the academy: ‘Why do you want to be an officer?’ It’s simple. To serve my community. Nearly 25 years into this, I feel the same way,” Price said. “This community reignites that feeling in all of us daily.” The latest example: a five-yearold boy and his mom came to BPD headquarters on April 14. The boy told his mom that all he wanted to do during spring break was bake cookies for the police and deliver them to the chief. Price gladly accepted the cookies and a painted picture and swore the boy in as an honorary officer. “That’s what it’s all about right there. That’s our why,” she said. “We have a lot of tough days and hard work in law enforcement, but at the heart of it, those connections, that’s what drives every single one of us.” C2 MAGAZINE

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hough I have never sought a divorce, several friends and family members have, and each have shared insights into their experience both during and after their divorce. Whether it was an “amicable” Gwyneth Paltrow-Chris Martin consciously uncoupling divorce, or it was more of a Kathleen Turner-Michael Douglas in War of the Roses divorce, undoubtedly one distinct fact remained: Divorce is hard. “It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” said one friend, who in addition to being a competitive mountain biker, also survived thyroid cancer prior to his divorce. Bree Kennedy of the Law of Office of Kennedy & Blackshire, LLC has been practicing family law since 2000, and though there is a lot of sadness and heartache in the family law practice, she says it is largely rewarding to work with families and parents who are doing their best in difficult situations. “It is a privilege to help clients navigate through tough domestic times,” she said. Kennedy, who has presided over countless divorces, also said, “The divorce process is very individualized. No two cases are the same.” She then continued by outlining a to-do list for people seeking

a divorce that hopefully provides a basic framework for the process. The list is similar for both someone who is seeking a divorce and someone whose spouse is seeking a divorce. DIVORCE TO-DO LIST • Set goals. It is necessary to set both temporary and permanent goals, regardless of whether or not you are the one who wanted to separate. Start small. What are the goals for your family situation for the next 30 days? The next 90 days? The next year? Thereafter? • Discuss the children’s schedule. Think about what schedule for the children best fits the family and how it will change over time. Will the children’s school stay the same? What about extracurriculars? Vacations? What is the best way to maintain stability for the children? What can be done to help the parents co-parent? What is important to your family? Maybe it’s a holiday tradition. Maybe it’s the children’s annual summer stay with grandparents. • Address finances. It is important to figure out what financial decisions need to be made on a temporary and permanent basis. These issues may seem overwhelming, which is why you and your lawyer will break them down, one issue at a time. Start small and enlist financial experts when needed. • Seek counseling. We are lucky to have many wonderful counselors in Beaufort County. Counseling is not only important prior to making a life-changing decision such as a separation, but also throughout the entire process. Find a counselor with whom you have great rapport and take comfort in knowing that you have someone to help you navigate the emotional ups and downs. There will be many.

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ASK QUESTIONS. DO NOT HESITATE TO ASK YOUR LAWYER QUESTIONS. THE PROCESS OF FILING FOR DIVORCE OR SEPARATE SUPPORT AND MAINTENANCE AND NAVIGATING A CASE IS COMPLEX. THROW IN THE EMOTION OF IT ALL, AND IT CAN SEEM MORE COMPLICATED. THERE IS NO ONE RIGHT WAY TO GET FROM A TO Z. THEREFORE, ASK AND ASK AGAIN. • Choose a lawyer. Choosing a lawyer is much like choosing your counselor. Find someone with whom you feel comfortable. Family lawyers often have to deliver not-so-great news. It is better to hear it from someone you like. • Get a second opinion. At the Law of Office of Kennedy & Blackshire, LLC, the firm often encourages clients to seek second opinions, because family lawyers may differ in opinions. By getting an opinion from another experienced family lawyer, you have the ability to identify the person and legal course that best fits your needs and wants. • Ask questions. Do not hesitate to ask your lawyer questions. The process of filing for divorce or separate support and maintenance and navigating a case is complex. Throw in the emotion of it all, and it can seem more complicated. There is no one right way to get from A to Z. Therefore, ask and ask again. • Be responsive to your needs. Do not apologize when you change your mind. This is your life. Sometimes your goals change, and that is okay. Do not be afraid to express your thoughts. Maybe a career path has shifted? Maybe you have re-thought selling your home? Speak up. • Determine the grounds for divorce. There are five grounds for divorce in South Carolina: adultery, habitual drunkenness, physical cruelty, abandonment and no fault, which is based on the parties living separate and apart for at least one year. • Begin the legal process. Like other types of litigation, the legal process of divorce or separate support and maintenance begins with a Summons

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and Complaint. After the Complaint is filed with the Clerk’s office, the other party is served with the documents. Service can be by acceptance—meaning, a spouse can sign to accept the documents rather than waiting on a third party to serve them. Sometimes, a temporary hearing is requested to decide temporary issues, and sometimes a temporary hearing is unnecessary initially. Next, comes the time-consuming process of discovery if warranted. To simplify, this is the process by which a litigant can request documents and ask questions. Then, mediation is set. Mediation is mandatory in family law cases that have not resolved by agreement and is a wonderful tool. Note: Typically, the lawyers on both sides will agree on a mediator, taking the litigants personalities into consideration. Mediators cannot make decisions but rather help the parties arrive at a conclusion together. Though most cases settle at mediation, if mediation does not work (meaning an agreement is not reached), sometimes a second mediation is conducted, or either party can request a trial date, which may take months, in which case the emotional and financial burden can be significant on the litigants. • Practice self-care. Establish a regular exercise routine; explore a meditation practice; commit to a healthy lifestyle such as drinking alcohol in moderation, eating whole foods and a set sleep schedule; form a supportive group of friends and family members around you; envision your new life; practice gratitude; find a new hobby, sport or craft. Regardless of everything, Kennedy wants you to know, “There is light at the end of the tunnel. Sometimes the light cannot be immediately seen or even imagined and sometimes it takes months or even years, but there is light.”  Becca Edwards is a wellness professional, freelance writer, and owner of Female IQ (femaleIQ.com).

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LAUNCHES NEW PROGRAM TO HELP THE LOWCOUNTRY’S HEROES BECOME ENTREPRENEURS With grant from the SC Department of Commerce Office of Innovation, DRCI “gives back” to those who give so much to the community

very day, the heroes of the Lowcountry give tirelessly of themselves while giving back to all those in our community. Now the Don Ryan Center for Innovation, with a grant from the South Carolina Department of Commerce Office of Innovation, has created a program to help provide our region’s heroes with the tailored resources, skills and support to help them become successful entrepreneurs. The new program, the DRCI HEROES Initiative, is open to all military, veterans, police, firefighters and emergency medical personnel throughout the Lowcountry and is a groundbreaking new way to help our valued heroes transition to business ownership. The HEROES Initiative formally kicks off in May and already has two innovators in the program. With many of our region’s heroes having strong technical training and a deep understanding of technology, but many not having been exposed to the concepts of being a business owner or taking their ideas into the marketplace, the DRCI HEROES Initiative will provide the mentorship, guidance, space and business-building tools to help the Lowcountry’s heroes become independent entrepreneurs and take their business ideas to the next level. Not only was the program designed to greatly help the many heroes in our community (with many police, firefighters, and EMTs working as shift workers, which allows time for entrepreneurial ventures), but it was created to help launch and grow new businesses of all sizes and further grow our Lowcountry economy. “The Don Ryan Center for Innovation has a long history of providing the community with entrepreneurial support and has the experience, connections and resources to help our region’s heroes succeed in business,” said Mike Levine, CEO of

the DRCI. “We are looking forward to making this program a reality through this important grant and the support of the South Carolina Department of Commerce and are excited to provide our Lowcountry heroes with the help they may need in starting and growing a business.” Two Lowcountry residents who can already attest to the value of the DRCI’s efforts to help heroes become successful entrepreneurs are Kevin Ryan, a mentor at the Don Ryan Center for Innovation and former Army commander, and Matt Gulick, a retired Marine. As the co-founder and CEO of the Savannah-based Service Brewing Company (one of the sponsors of the DRCI HEROES Initiative) Ryan’s mentorship was critical in the launch, and success, of Gulick’s business invention: Pourzilla. Pourzilla is a cap that seals in freshness on any woven reinforced cloth and plastic packaging in its current iteration. After the early stages of product development under the guidance of local mentors and another veterans’ organization

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helping veterans transition to civilian life, he was led to the Don Ryan Center for Innovation in Bluffton—and Kevin Ryan—for additional guidance and mentorship through every stage of the entrepreneurial process. Working closely with Ryan, as well as with other DRCI mentors, Gulick has taken his initial idea to the next level—and beyond—and has been able to present Pourzilla to interested corporations on a national scale. In the next five years, Gulick hopes to see Pourzilla in the marketplace with the pet market as a beachhead— with Pourzilla’s “easy to attach/easy to pour/easy to reuse” product benefits for pet food including sealing in freshness, preserving nutritional value and preventing

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spoilage. Gulick, along with his mentorship team at the DRCI, is also continuing to make further product innovations, currently working on designing a new version of Pourzilla for paper products as well. Kevin Ryan’s work with Matt Gulick in launching and growing Pourzilla is just the first example of how the DRCI’s new initiative to help heroes can help our military, veterans, police, firefighters, and EMTs become entrepreneurs … with many more “success stories” now on the horizon, thanks to this new entrepreneurial program tailored specifically for our heroes. “The HEROES initiative is a great way for us to give back to those who have given so much to our community for so long,” said Brad Barnett, DRCI HEROES program director and retired Air Force Lt. Col. “We’re looking forward to welcoming our heroes to the Don Ryan Center for Innovation and providing them with the resources that we know can help them not only launch and grow a business but can change their lives through business ownership.” For additional information about the Don Ryan Center for Innovation and the DRCI’s Heroes Initiative, including how to join the program, become a mentor, or make a donation, visit donryancenter.com.

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Lowcountry L AW Y E R S Featuring: THE BANNON LAW GROUP, LLC • PRINCE LAW FIRM, P.C. • MONTGOMERY LAW FIRM, LLC AKINS LAW FIRM, LLC • BERRY & CARR • CLARK & STEVENS, P.A. THE LAW OFFICE OF MICHAEL J. HOWELL, P.A. • MIKKELSON LAW FIRM, LLC • REGINA M. BANIS, LLC BUTLER & COLLEGE, LLC • KENNEDY & BLACKSHIRE, LLC • JOHNSON & DAVIS, PA • DILLS LAW FIRM NOVIT & SCARMINACH, P.A. • HEALY & FOREIT, LLC • VAUX MARSCHER BERGLIND, PA

BERRY & CARR

erry & Carr provides their clients with the highest level of legal representation and personal service, tailored to meet their individual needs. Serving the Lowcountry since 1985, they now have two offices on Hilton Head Island as well as a Beaufort location. The law firm of Berry & Carr represents cases involving catastrophic injuries, wrongful death, work related injuries, employment discrimination claims and other civil legal matters. All of the firm’s attorneys are experienced trial lawyers and savvy negotiators. Named partners David Berry and Patrick Carr each served as lead counsel in more than 100 jury trials. Berry, the founder of Berry and Carr, is licensed in four states: Ohio, South Carolina, Georgia, and South Dakota, as well as all federal courts in those jurisdictions. His areas of

expertise include personal injury, workers compensation and automobile accidents. Berry is also a Diplomate with the American Association of Justice and is a South Carolina Certified Civil Mediator. Patrick Carr has been a civil trial attorney since 1998. Also a Certified Circuit Court Mediator, Patrick previously worked for one of South Carolina’s largest insurance defense law firms for more than ten years. Patrick moved to Hilton Head Island in 2009 to form Berry & Carr and focus on representing injury and wrongful death victims and their families. He and David Berry have achieved some of the best personal injury verdicts in Beaufort County. Luke Paulick and Michael Bennett joined the firm with experience in immigration law, civil litigation and criminal defense. Paulick began his

2 Spanish Wells Rd Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 (843) 686-5432 www.HiltonHeadLawyers.com

law career in 2013 and has since been recognized by the American Bar Association’s Immigration Justice Project. Bennett is admitted to practice by the Supreme Court of South Carolina, the United States District Court for the District of South Carolina and the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. Together, these experienced and accomplished attorneys know how to fully investigate your injury, negotiate with insurance companies and other atfault parties, and make sure your claim is fully and properly valued.

REGINA M. BANIS Regina M. Banis, LLC I 181 Bluffton Road, Suite F-202 Bluffton, SC 29910 I (843) 757-5500 I reginabanis.com What is your area of practice? I practice in the areas of real estate, family law, estate planning & probate.

real estate, ending a marriage, getting custody of their children, or properly setting up their estate planning.

What is your most memorable case? The cases that stick with me are the ones involving Guardian ad Litem work. In most custody cases, both parents are good, loving parents who just can’t agree on custody. But that isn’t always the case.

What is something your clients would never guess about you? I am shy and experience social anxiety. I hide that side of myself in professional settings, including public speaking.

How do you avoid bringing your job home? I don’t know any lawyers who successfully avoid bringing work home with them, including myself. What inspired you to become a lawyer? My mother told me more than once that I argue about everything and I should become a lawyer. I do have the ability to see both sides of a situation, which is a great asset for an attorney.

What’s the most important tool you use? My ears are my most important tool. Listening to my clients allows me to gather enough information to help them accomplish their goals. What is the last great book you read for pleasure? Michael Connelly’s The Law of Innocence, a Lincoln Lawyer novel.

What is the most valuable thing you do for your clients? Helping clients accomplish their goals, whether that is closing on a piece of

ASHLEY ADAMS BROWN, ESQ Butler & College, LLC I 10 Pinckney Colony Road, Ste. 401 Bluffton, SC 29909 I 843.410.5607 I bandclawfirm.com

t Butler & College, LLC, we focus our practice on helping businesses, individuals, and families with their real estate and estate planning needs in a manner that is honest, affordable, and customer-oriented. Our firm has deep community ties and six convenient locations along the coast of the Carolinas—stretching from Calabash, NC to Bluffton, SC. When it comes to real estate, it is important to understand the role of an attorney in buying, selling, or refinancing a home. At Butler & College, LLC, we are with you from contracting to closing. Our seasoned attorneys and legal staff have established reputations as proven performers while continuously adhering to the highest standards of quality and service. Estate plans can be as simple or as elaborate as the client needs or desires. We customize plans that provide for your loved ones in the event of your death and ensure that you retain control over your medical

care and financial well-being should you become ill or disabled. Butler & College, LLC is happy to provide initial consultations free of charge. The firm created B&C Commercial to offer individuals and businesses across the Lowcountry an alternative to large, costly law firms. B&C Commercial utilizes state-of-the-art technology and cutting-edge practice management software to serve our clients more efficiently, more attentively, and in the most cost-effective way possible. B&C Commercial focuses on commercial real estate services, business services, and legal consulting for businesses. Butler & College, LLC is your partner for real estate closing success and thoughtful estate planning and business services.

CLARK & STEVENS, P.A.

lark & Stevens’ signature strength is the ability to provide preeminent representation led by the most reputable team of professionals. Together, William C. Clark and Robert E. Stevens boast over 80 years of handling complex legal matter with the utmost care, a sterling reputation, and careful attention to detail. Curating an individualized approach towards every case they handle, clients can expect to receive the personal attention and personalized care they deserve. Bob Stevens Bob Stevens’ practice is focused on successfully navigating all family court matters. Since the firm’s founding in 2001, Bob has established a reputation for handling the most complex matrimonial cases with the utmost discretion. He has been practicing in the family courts for 40 years and understands

the sensitive nature of arduous family law matters, while remaining dedicated to maintaining the privacy of his clientele and their loved ones. As a seasoned divorce attorney, Bob delivers exceptional services in all facets of divorce issues, including marital property distributions, spousal and child support, child custody cases and prenuptial and marital settlement agreements. Bob is the current SC delegate to the National Board of Governors, a Fellow the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and is the past president of the South Carolina Chapter (2016-2018) of AAML. Additional credentials include: Certified AAML Matrimonial Law Mediator and Arbitrator. William Clark Bill Clark practices in the fields of family law, personal injury, medical malpractice, construction litigation, and civil litigation. He earned his Juris Doctorate from the

60 Arrow Rd., P.O Box 7788 Hilton Head Island, SC 29938 (843) 842-3500 clarkandstevens.com

University of South Carolina and was admitted to the South Carolina Bar in 1974. He is a member of the National Trial Lawyers Association, graduate and Fellow of the National Litigation Academy, member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, Christian Legal Society, SC Association for Justice, American Society of Legal Advocates, and the Beaufort County Bar Association. Bill is admitted to practice before the District Court for the Fourth Circuit and U.S. Supreme Court, among his many outstanding credentials including: Certified Circuit & Family Court Mediator, Certified Circuit & Federal Court Arbitrator, and Fellow of the National Litigation Academy.

P.A.

DALE AKINS Akins Law Firm, LLC I 6 Johnston Way # A-2 Bluffton, SC 29910 I (843) 757-7574 I daleakinslaw.com What is your area of practice? Civil trial work, mainly for people who are injured. What is your most memorable case? Over my 30 -year career, there have been so many memorable cases and it’s a very hard question to narrow down into a simple answer. Back in 1993, I represented a wonderful Native Islander, Diogenes Singleton. He had a pig farm off Marshland Road that had been there since the 1870s. He fed the pigs discarded Krispy Kreme doughnuts, and he was charged with “casting garbage before swine.” The jury acquitted him. A few years back, I represented the famous musician Prince in a case against Jeff Lowe, who, oddly enough, years later became famous from the Tiger King show. How do you avoid bring the job home? I don’t. My long-suffering wife, Sally, is a lawyer/mediator in

Savannah, and often times, our discussions about the law go deep into the night. What inspired you to become a lawyer? I always liked history, and it seemed to me that lawyers had always been impactful on society. What is the most valuable thing you do for your clients? I actively listen to their cases and problems. I try to put myself in their shoes to understand what they are going through. What’s the last great book you read for pleasure? Unexampled Courage: The Blinding of Sgt. Isaac Woodard and the Awakening of President Harry S. Truman and Judge J. Waties Waring, By U.S. District Court Judge Richard Gergel. This book is a fascinating and detailed recount of one of the worst instances of racial prejudice of the 20th Century.

BREE R. KENNEDY & PAMELA W. BLACKSHIRE Kennedy & Blackshire, LLC I 70 Arrow Road, Bldg. 6

Hilton Head Island SC 29928 I (843) 341-5555 I kennedyblackshire.com

ennedy & Blackshire, LLC focuses their practice on family law matters, including divorce, separation, custody and visitation, child support, alimony, name changes, adoptions and related legal issues. Their team recognizes the uncertainty, fear and complicated emotions that clients may be facing. They offer compassionate and caring counsel to families and individuals who have tough family law questions and concerns. They take time to listen and understand each client’s unique case, offering quality representation and support. With more than three decades of combined legal experience, Bree and Pam provide skilled representation in the Family Court arena. They are zealous advocates in the courtroom, but they also

recognize that, with proper handling, many times parties are able to reach settlements and avoid contentious litigation. The firm’s thorough preparation and extensive family law knowledge often helps cases settle in a fair and reasonable fashion. In addition to their role as litigators, both Bree and Pam are certified Family Court mediators who assist parties in resolving their disputes. Their compassion, experience and wealth of legal knowledge helps parties successfully mediate disputes, often saving legal fees and the emotional strain of the litigation process. Consultations may be scheduled in person, by phone or by Zoom video conference.

MIKKELSON LAW FIRM, LLC What is your area of practice? Real Estate Transactions, Life & Business Planning, and Family Law. What is your most memorable case? Our mission at Mikkelson Law Firm is to know our community and clients as we help to navigate life’s trials. While there is not a single most memorable case, we particularly love establishing relationships with our clients and are so happy that many clients continue to return to our firm time and time again. We are honored to be able to assist our clients and help them navigate through their legal needs. How do you avoid bringing the job home? As partners in business and partners in marriage, it’s nearly impossible to separate us. You will often find our children at the office in the afternoons as we juggle the demands of the business and the kids’ schedules. We are proud to have our children learn what it takes to operate a business and hopefully instill a strong work ethic in each of them as well. Our family enjoys lots of time together outside of the office on weekends at the kids’ sporting and dance events. What inspired you to become a lawyer? After Ryan decided he could not follow in his father’s footsteps and pursue a medical degree due to his rather “weak” stomach, he landed on

law school instead; Tiffany found law school after watching Legally Blonde and wanting to be like Elle Woods. Despite the paths that led us to a legal career, we both knew that service to our community was a priority. Our vision for Mikkelson Law Firm was actually mirrored by Ryan’s father’s medical practice, which has served the local Bluffton community for 30 years. Being an attorney in a small town where we can make a lasting impact on the community and build a family of staff members for years to come was our dream. What is the most valuable thing you do for your clients? We desire to practice law in a very personal way and truly try to meet the needs of our clients. We do not want clients to feel overwhelmed when they go through life’s events that require legal services. We have created a warm and friendly office environment for clients to feel welcome to discuss their legal needs. One important legal matter that we encourage clients to consider is Life & Business Planning, which is essential for all adults, especially those with children and those who are business owners. We tailor our approach to ensure that each plan is unique to our clients. It’s probably the most important thing you can do for your family and business, and it’s never too early to start planning!

214 Bluffton Road Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 757-9330 blufftonlawfirm.com What’s something your clients would never guess about you? We have six kids! What’s the most important tool you use? Client communication is definitely the most important “tool” we use in our law firm. Keeping the clients informed and always being accessible to talk to clients is one of our firm’s core values. We have implemented various client and case management systems and processes to keep our office and cases organized, especially with real estate closings. We want our clients to always feel comfortable to call us with any questions or ways we can assist them with future legal needs. What’s the last book you read for pleasure? We probably should not admit this, but neither of us has probably read a physical book for pleasure since law school. We often joke that the amount of reading we did in law school was enough to last a lifetime. With our busy schedules, reading often looks like a children’s bedtime story (Ryan’s favorite is “Once Upon a Potty”) or listening to a podcast while traveling.

HUNTER MONTGOMERY Montgomery Law Firm, LLC I 10 Pickney Colony Road, Suite 402 Bluffton, SC 29909 I (843) 815-8580 I montgomeryestateplanning.com What is your area of practice? Estate planning. What is your most rewarding case? My most rewarding cases are, frankly, the family’s estates where there is no conflict whatsoever when a parent dies due to our careful planning ahead. There are few greater rewards than to see a family being able to avoid the common legal headaches that can occur upon death or incapacity. In plain English, I get the greatest joy when there is never a court case in the first place. How do you avoid bringing the job home? Having chosen the estate planning area of law, I enjoy a mostly positive experience in a client’s life, and therefore, there is very little negative to worry about bringing home. What inspired you to become a lawyer? Having seen my own family struggle through my grandfather’s incapacitating stroke, I became aware that there was a specific type of lawyer who addresses these issues: an estate planning attorney. Loving order despising chaos, and protecting family were (and are) my primary motivations for becoming an estate lawyer.

What is the most valuable thing you do for your clients? The most valuable thing I do for my clients is provide a smooth and safe roadmap for life’s troubles and inevitabilities. Also, of equal value, is helping my clients understand their options and why we plan in the first place. What’s something your clients would never guess about you? I can’t imagine that any of my clients are aware that I have *perfected* the best mustard-based barbeque sauce. One of these days, you may see my sauce on market shelves near you: MontyQue! What’s the most important tool you use? My most important tools in assisting clients are my taking the time to comprehend the client’s true unique underlying issues and compassionately planning to address those issues. What’s the last great book you read for pleasure? Starship Troopers by Robert A. Heinlein and A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole.

HEALY & FOREIT, LLC 181 Bluffton Road, Suite B102 Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 815-2550 I healyforeitlaw.com

ealy & Foreit, LLC was established in 2019 by Luke Healy and Christopher Foreit. The firm specializes in residential and commercial real estate along with estate planning and business law. Luke, born and raised in Florence, South Carolina, received his Bachelor of Arts from Clemson University and Juris Doctorate from Florida Coastal School of Law. He has lived in the Lowcountry for the past four years and is licensed to practice law only in South Carolina. In his free time, he enjoys playing golf, cooking, and working with the Lowcountry Legal Volunteers. Chris grew up in Dunedin, Florida. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Florida State University and received his Juris Doctorate from the University of Georgia. He is licensed in both South Carolina and Georgia and has been practicing real estate law in the Lowcountry and Coastal Empire for over 10 years. In his free time,

he enjoys traveling with his wife, hiking, and cheering on the Florida State Seminoles. Healy & Foreit goes above and beyond to ensure your closing is a smooth process. Whether you are a purchaser, seller or builder, each client receives our five-star customer service. Our dedicated and informed staff work on a personal basis with you, your real estate agent and your lender to ensure a flawless closing experience. Realtor review: “Luke Healy handled a closing for one of my clients. On the day of closing, my client and I were out of town. There was a last-minute HVAC repair requested, but the repairman could not get into the backyard because the gate was locked. Luke Healy went over to the property, jumped the fence in his suit, and opened the gate for the repairman. The closing took place on time. That is customer service!”

JOHNSON & DAVIS, PA

ohnson & Davis, PA is a local law firm that has over 100 years of combined legal experience in the Lowcountry. This experience has resulted in an extraordinarily deep understanding of the area, its history, and its people. Our firm has effectively and prudently represented clients in a variety of civil matters, such as: home/property owners association matters, land development/zoning, business and transactional matters, professional liability defense, medical law, regulatory agency representation, construction law, and complex civil litigation. Our attorneys and staff are well experienced in construction and other complex civil litigation matters. This translates into a more knowledgeable and efficient understanding of less complex legal matters in real estate, contracts, and probate. The firm is headed by Barry L. Johnson and Hutson S. “Buster” Davis, Jr. Barry holds an

undergraduate degree from Harvard University and a J.D. degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law and focuses primarily on complex civil litigation, POA/ HOA matters, and land development matters. He was involved with the early development of Hilton Head Island, and other Lowcountry areas. Buster holds an undergraduate degree and J.D. degree from the University of South Carolina and served as a United States Air Force Captain in the JAG Corps. Buster originally practiced general defense litigation, but his practice has since evolved almost exclusively into medical malpractice defense, regulatory matters, and other medical legal issues. The firm has two associate attorneys, S. Harrison Williams, who holds an undergraduate degree from Clemson University and earned his J.D. from the University of South Carolina, and W. Lamar Johnson, II, who holds an undergraduate degree

10 Pinckney Colony Road, Suite 200 Bluffton, SC 29909 (843) 815-7121 JD-PA.com

from the University of South Carolina and earned his J.D. from Charleston School of Law. Harrison and Lamar are great additions to the firm and are ready and willing to handle the complex legal needs of all of the firm’s clients. At Johnson & Davis, we believe in practicing law with honesty, integrity, passion, and decorum. We are always striving to do things in an appropriate and ethical manner. We understand that hiring your attorney is a very important decision, and we and our very experienced and capable staff make it our mission to protect and advance our clients’ interests, both legally and otherwise. Contact us today for a FREE consultation.

JAMES P. SCHEIDER, III Novit & Scarminach, P.A. I 52 New Orleans Rd., Jade Building, Suite 400 Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 I (843) 785-5850 I ns-lawfirm.com

What is your area of practice? Residential & Commercial Real Estate Law; Business & Corporate Law; Estate Planning & Probate

What is the most valuable thing you do for your clients? Take time to listen to them and understand their situation.

What is your most memorable case? They are all memorable. Every client is unique, and every case brings a new set of experiences.

What’s something your clients would never guess about you? I spent a month camping out of a kayak in the wilderness of Alaska.

How do you avoid bringing the job home? My wife is also an attorney, and we agree to leave our work at the door when we get home. What inspired you to become a lawyer? Lawyers are given the opportunity to make a lasting positive impact on the lives of their clients, and that was something I wanted to be a part of.

What’s the most important tool you use? My coworkers. The attorneys and paralegals in our office have a wealth of knowledge. What’s the last great book you read for pleasure? Camino Winds by John Grisham.

ROB DILLS Dills Law Firm I 4 State of Mind Street, Suite 200 Bluffton, SC 29910 I (843) 868-8210 I dillslawfirm.com What is your area of practice? We are a full-service law firm in the Bluffton Promenade with a focus on real estate, estate planning, and business needs—serving Hilton Head Island, Bluffton and the greater Lowcountry area with flatfee and subscription services. The beauty of our expertise areas is that we get to be a resource and partner during your larger life events: when you are buying or selling a house, planning for the future of your family, or starting a new business. These are big moments. Helping to support our clients navigate the legal side of these events is why we love doing what we do. What inspired you to become a lawyer? I actually worked for both the Oakland Raiders and the Washington Redskins before I went to law school. My undergrad was in sports and entertainment management, and I really took an interest in the contract and negotiation side of the industry. The exposure to the importance of understanding the legal implications in not only sports, but with any business, was key. That with my desire to help people through the most crucial moments of their lives eventually led me to law school. What is the most valuable thing you do for your clients? Provide support and guidance as their dedicated legal resource. I view myself

as my client’s partner. It’s more than just a transaction when they come into the office. I am there to help them make the best decisions to reach their goals and to direct them with actionable advice when needed. Whether looking at a home contract or setting up an estate plan, the flat fee structure allows us to spend the time needed to really understand needs and wants and plan accordingly. I am always just a quick phone call away. What’s something your clients would never guess about you? I can’t wait until the day I can go shark diving. It has been number one on my bucket list for years. If I can convince my wife that it is safe enough, I am there! What’s the most important tool you use? Our law firm technology. It allows our clients to provide information with ease from phones, smart tablets or computers through secure portals. It allows us to securely store past information that can be accessed when needed, like a 1099 during tax season, and streamline sometimes outdated and slow processes in the legal field.

THE LAW OFFICE OF MICHAEL J. HOWELL, P.A. LOWCOUNTRY TRUSTS AND ESTATES: IT’S A FAMILY MATTER!

f you happen to notice this team dynamic seems closer than normal, you would be right! This father-daughter duo has been practicing together since 2009. They are your Lowcountry family source for all things trusts and estates! Michael’s skills (and his local roots) date all the way back to the 1970s, when, as a young lawyer working for a tax litigation defense firm in Columbia South Carolina, he accepted a position with the Bank of Beaufort to serve as their Hilton Head Trust Officer. He rose in the ranks at the bank, eventually serving as vice president. Taking the valuable experience he gained

as a trust officer, he settled into private practice and has been exceeding client expectations ever since. Over the years he has served on countless state bar boards and committees, including tenure on the South Carolina Bar Board of Governors. Michael is certified by the South Carolina Supreme Court as a Specialist in Estate Planning and Probate Law and is known for his detail-oriented approach to complex planning situations. He has also earned an excellent reputation as a strong team member in probate and trust litigation. Margaret is a born and bred local. She is currently the vice president of the firm, more specifically in charge of probate and trust settlement. She has noticed that the experience she’s gained

1 Corpus Christi Place, Suite 112 Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (843) 785-7590 hiltonheadestateplanning.com

throughout her focus on probate and trust settlement matters has greatly assisted her in helping clients with their estate planning as well. She has also earned an honored position as a valued team member in probate and trust litigation matters. Margaret currently serves on the Professional Responsibility Committee, Unauthorized Practice of Law Committee, and Resolution of Fee Disputes Board. Both Michael Howell and Margaret Up De Graff are licensed to practice law in South Carolina as well as in Florida, and both are certified in South Carolina as Probate and Circuit Court Mediators. Their office is located on the south end of Hilton Head Island.

M A R K B E R G L I N D , TA B O R VA U X , A N D R I C K M A R S C H E R

VAUX MARSCHER BERGLIND, PA

aux Marscher Berglind, PA is deeply rooted in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. The law firm was established in 1973 by Roberts Vaux. Over the years, the firm has provided legal services to thousands of individuals and businesses in Beaufort County, Jasper County and the surrounding areas. Rick Marscher was born and raised in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. He focuses his practice on real estate. Tabor Vaux, son of Roberts Vaux, was also born and raised in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. He focuses his practice on personal injury. Mark Berglind joined the law firm in 2008 and focuses his practice on workers’ compensation

and personal injury. Rick, Tabor and Mark take pride in their Lowcountry community, and the firm is actively engaged in community events and programs. In addition to real estate, personal injury and workers’ compensation, the lawyers at Vaux Marscher Berglind, P.A. offer the best legal services in many other areas including probate, estate planning, family law, criminal law, and general litigation. The attorneys and staff members institute a team approach to understanding and resolving their clients’ needs. Collectively, the team works to offer insightful legal counsel and diligent representation to each and every client. The lawyers at Vaux Marscher

1251 May River Road, Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 757-2888 www.vmblawfirm.com Berglind, P.A., have more than 100 years of combined experience and use that experience to assist their clients with their legal needs. Whether a client is injured in a motor vehicle accident or buying his or her first home, experience allows the lawyers at Vaux Marscher Berglind, P.A. to confidently and efficiently handle their needs and goals. Their clients always come first. Vaux Marscher Berglind, PA currently has offices in Old Town Bluffton and Okatie.

Bus Life Craig Ryan and Lexy Shaw with their dog Koda and their newly remodeled adventure bus, Touch of Grey.

A R T I CL E BY B A R RY KAU F MA N P HOTO G R A P H Y BY M . KAT

THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED C L I M B A BOA R D TH E F R E E -W H E E L I N G A DV E N TU R E BU S OF LOC A L S L E XY S H AW A N D C R A I G RYA N .

here’s something inherently American about the open road. Sure, you can probably thank the ancient Romans for coming up with the concept, but it was Americans, from Kerouac’s beat generation to Farley and Spade’s Tommy Boy, who turned the road trip into an art form. Today, that spirit finds its ultimate manifestation in a niche culture that calls itself the “Bus Life” community. These are the rubber tramps who traverse the country like vagabonds, carrying everything they need on four wheels. Don’t confuse them with RVers. At its essence, an RV is a commodity. You walk into the dealership, you sign some papers, and you walk out an RVer. For those who live the Bus Life (sometimes called “Skoolies”), initiation into the culture is an act of creation. It’s a point of pride to show other members your own unique ride and share the stories of the work that went into building it with your bare hands. When local couple Lexy Shaw and Craig Ryan got their hands on an old 32-foot Freightliner school bus, they knew they were going to have a few stories to share by the time their new ride was road-ready. “The floor wasn’t sealed,” Shaw said. “The guy we got it from had used it as a camper when he would go to dirt track races. We gutted it completely, starting with the insulation and flooring, then framed everything out once we figured out the layout.”

Lexy enjoys a cup of coffee in the kitchen of their adventure bus. The living area is a cute, comfortable place for humans and animals to enjoy a little down time.

Fortunately, Shaw said, both she and her boyfriend were well versed in construction—Shaw because her dad was a contractor and Ryan because this was not his first remodel. His first was a 25foot school bus he purchased just after his high school graduation, renovating the entire thing at his parents’ Ashton Cove home. “He says he pretty much went to every college on the East Coast on that bus,” Shaw said. THE BUILD Feeling like they needed more room, the couple secured their new ride in a trade for an old shuttle bus they had converted. As

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mentioned, there was a little bit of work that needed doing just to get the 20-year-old school bus operational, much less Instagram-worthy. “All the caulking is getting old, so every time it would rain we would have a new leak,” Shaw said. “We’d just get everything figured out, and then the next time it would rain we’d find a new puddle.” Once that was under control, however, the time came to turn this bus into a home on the road. Locating the right tanks for hot water, black water and gray water proved the most challenging, but Ryan was able to find everything he needed between Amazon, Lowe’s and Home Depot. Then came the simple matter of securing

a fully functional home against the rigors of the road. “The furniture all has pads on the bottom so it doesn’t slide around … the cabinets all have baby locks. We have a lot of bungee cords to keep stuff secure,” Shaw said. “One thing we have to fix is the fridge. It doesn’t tip, but it will slide around. We took one corner a little hard, and I’m just yelling, ‘Fridge! Fridge! Fridge!” It’s one thing to build an apartment on wheels from the ground up. Making it look as fabulous as this one is something else entire. “I was the Pinterest board person. It’s kind of crazy,” Shaw said. “I had stuff saved up, but all the little details you see are adhesive peel and stick. People think I actually tiled in here. I’m like, ‘That’s just a sticker.’” Sticker or not, the results are gorgeous, especially compared to the bus’s state when the couple first laid hands on it. Spanish tile accents on the stairs, serve as the first hint of what awaits inside, from reclaimed hardwood flooring and riverstone accents in the shower. It’s all stickers, of course, but the effect is one of luxurious comfort. Once everything was complete, all that remained was the last and highest hurdle. “The most difficult part was getting insurance for it, and the whole DMV process. It’s becoming more common, but it’s still uncommon,” Shaw said. The bureaucratic difference between a bus and an RV might seem pedantic, but for the redtape-ready denizens of the DMV, it makes all the difference in the world. “People at DMV had never done anything like this. We spent a month going back and forth with one person or another. There were a few temper tantrums at the DMV.” Ultimately, the decision was made that as long as the bus had air conditioning, running water, sleeping space and separate tanks for grey and black water, the government would give its blessing. One afternoon in the Smokehouse parking lot, an inspector determined all had been met, and the bus was an RV in the eyes of the State of South Carolina.

THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED THE ROAD Each step in construction was documented on the couple’s Instagram account, @touchof_grey, which has also made stars of their two pets, Koda the dog and Hendrix the cat. “The cat is way better on the road than the dog. Not that Koda is uncomfortable, but Hendrix loves it,” Shaw said. “The dog likes being able to stop every few miles and go on a cool new hike.” Having already put a few miles on the bus, the animals are seasoned veterans. “We went on our first trip in June down to Florida Springs and camped out there for a few days,” Shaw said. As they drove, they connected with Bus Lifers across the nation. “There’s a huge community and you get connected with people. The community is really cool. It’s all about sharing ideas and trial and errors.” An even longer trip planned for later this year will see the couple immerse themselves more in the community. Running for up to three months, their route will see them travel to New Orleans before heading west to Austin to visit some of Shaw’s family and then making their way to California, ground zero for the movement. “It’s called Skooliepalooza, where all these school bus people and even people in Sprinter vans just meet up and camp together,” Shaw said. “The whole point is not just to see the west, because Craig has not been. We love Hilton Head Island, but we’re looking for something different for a little while.” Wherever they wind up, the point was never the destination, but the journey. “I’ve always dreamed about it. I couldn’t believe people get to live in a bus and travel in bus,” Shaw said. “I’ll still be riding around and think, ‘I can’t believe this is real.’” You can follow the couple’s journey on the great American road trip on Instagram @touchof_grey. 

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“When I’m listing a property, it’s more than just black and white. It’s more than just a list price.” - Tammy Moody

THE FIVE-STAR EXPERIENCE READY TO TACKLE THE PERPLEXING REAL ESTATE MARKET? LET REALTOR TAMMY MOODY, ‘AGENT ON DUTY,’ BE YOUR GUIDE. ARTICLE BY BARRY KAUFMAN

or those who don’t follow the ins and outs of real estate, it may come as some surprise to learn that the market is booming right now. Especially here in the Lowcountry, where the rise of remote working and a shift in people’s priorities have created a desire to start living the good life now. “Today’s market is different than anything I’ve seen in my 20 years in real estate,” said Charter One agent Tammy Moody. “It’s exhausting, but I mean that in the best possible way. You have to be ready for pretty much anything, anytime of day or night.” Moody speaks from experience. Long before she made her mark as one of the Lowcountry’s top real estate professionals, she was a fixture of Hilton Head Island’s hospitality and marketing scene. A 30-year resident, she and her husband Kent met, married, and have raised two children on the island. “I’ve seen Hilton Head grow quite a bit since I first started coming to the island in the 1970s on vacations. Like a lot of people, I came here one summer and never left,” she said. “I can’t imagine living anywhere else; we are truly blessed to live this extraordinary lifestyle

our island offers. I love sharing it with my clients and basically anyone who will listen.” Moody’s extensive tenure as an islander built a significant knowledge base, but it is her background in hospitality and marketing that truly showcases her approach to real estate. Going above and beyond for each client, she has created what she refers to as the “FiveStar Experience” as part of her offerings as a Realtor. Being Moody’s client means knowing that every aspect of your home will be considered, every possible area for improvement will be suggested, and everything humanly possible will be undertaken to get you the most money for your property in the least amount of time. “When I’m listing a property, it’s more than just black and white. It’s more than just a list price,” Moody said. “You have to look at everything: is the home updated, will the owner stage and clean, what can they do to add curb appeal…. I’m not an agent who is just going to walk into a listing appointment and give you a price and that’s it. I am hands-on throughout the entire process.” In a market like this, where inventory

of available properties is at the lowest it’s been in decades, that five-star approach can make all the difference. “I recently listed a home that had been completely remodeled and staged perfectly to attract buyers. I knew it would photograph well and I could design a unique marketing plan which would appeal to multiple buyers. So, we listed it at the top of the market and set the bar,” Moody said. “We had multiple offers before it hit the public market.” Even buyers competing against the other countless buyers who are driving this surge benefit from her steadfast attention to service. “Right now, I’m trying to search for properties that are not on the market or are coming onto the market soon. This gives my buyers a little time to get prepared for an offer. In today’s seller’s market, buyers need to present their best offer first if they want the property.” Whether buying or selling, the bottom line is Tammy Moody will give you all of her 20 years of experience as a Realtor and the personalized attention her hospitality and marketing background engenders. “My Southern roots and upbringing instilled the Golden Rule of treating others the way you want to be treated,” she said. “Offering this principle to my clients is something I pride myself on. Over 80 percent of my business is referrals or repeat clients. I don’t have a huge team, but I will make sure that you get great service. That is why my clients and friends refer to me as ‘Tammy Moody, Agent On Duty.’ I am always ready to work hard and help you achieve your real estate goals.” To see what a difference the five-star experience can make, visit HiltonHeadIslandLifestyles.com, email Tammy@HHILifestyles.com, or call (843) 384-9126. C2 MAGAZINE

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CHERYL

ALEXANDER

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hen you are in the market for a new roof, too few options to consider will not be a problem. There are lots. New technologies and innovations in the industry now make it possible to have just about any look you desire no matter where you live. Plus, a new roof will add value to your home and upgrade the overall exterior appeal in terms of look, style, and color. With so many different types of roofing materials to choose from, a bit of research will help you decide whether to install a new type of roof rather than simply replacing with the same material you now have. When choosing roofing materials, consider the following questions. • How heavy is this material, and will it require special framing? • Is the material available in a variety of colors and styles that complement your home? • Does the material meet the fire codes in your local area? • Are there special installation and maintenance issues to consider? • Does this material offer good performance in extreme weather conditions that are common in the Lowcountry? • What is the cost, life span and warranty for this product? The answers to these questions, along with the following information we’ve compiled, will help you determine the best choice for your home.

GOTCHA COVERED ASPHALT SHINGLES Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in the U.S. because they are economical and easy to install. Made of a woven fiberglass base mat, covered with a waterproof asphalt coating, and topped with ceramic granules that shield the product from harmful UV rays, they are available in a full range of styles and colors to complement any home’s architectural style. Most are guaranteed up to 30 years, and replacing individual damaged shingles is easy. Virtually every roofing company is familiar with installing these shingles. Composite shingles excel at flexing and adapting to a roof’s movements due to expansion and contraction. Pros: Asphalt comes in a variety of colors, is widely available and is one of the least expensive materials. Cons: Asphalt has a shorter life span than other roofing materials, doesn’t provide the insulation other materials offer, and the quality varies. House styles: Asphalt shingles work with many architectural styles, especially traditional suburban styles. Cost and life span: Prices range from $70 to $120 a square and, if maintained properly, shingles will last 20 to 25 years. CLAY AND CONCRETE TILES Clay and concrete tiles add texture and elegance to a roof. Genuine flat, ribbed, or scalloped clay tiles are extremely durable but also very heavy and must be installed by a professional. Concrete tiles are versatile and are less expensive than genuine clay but are also heavy. Concrete tiles are also more colorfast than clay. Pros: Clay and concrete tiles are long-lasting and noncombustible. These are great options for hot climates where salt air and high winds are present. Cons: Clay and concrete tiles are expensive, heavy, and usually require additional framing. House styles: Clay and concrete tiles work well with Mediterranean, Mission, Southwestern and Spanish-style homes. Cost and life span: Concrete $200-$800 / Clay $500-$1,000 per square installed. Life expectancy is 50 to 100 years. METAL ROOFING No material is better for protecting your home from wind, rain, hail, fire, or rot than a durable and energy-efficient metal roof. They come as panels or shingles, and different types of metal (aluminum, copper, stainless steel, and zinc). These roofs are sleek, lightweight, long-lasting, and recyclable, and great for rainwater harvesting. But installation requires special skills, and not every roofing company is prepared to install a standing seam metal roof. For many years, having a metal roof meant corrugated panels, which to lots of people look like a barn roof. Currently, though, steel or 68

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aluminum shingles or shakes are available. Made from stamped metal and finished with either a high-quality baked-on coating or mineral granules, metal shingles can be fabricated to look very much like traditional asphalt shingles, wooden shakes, or even slate or clay tiles. Pros: Metal roofing is durable, lasts longer than asphalt or wood, and offers high solar reflectance. Cons: Metal roofing is relatively expensive, and installation may be an issue with some companies. House styles: Metal looks great on bungalows, cabins, contemporary and cottage-style homes. Cost and life span: Prices usually start around $100 to $300 per square, but some styles can cost $600 to $800 per square. Metal roofing can last 40 to 75 years. SLATE A slate roof is perhaps the most beautiful roofing material there is—a choice for the most discriminating homeowner with the finest taste. Slate quarried for roofing is dense, sound rock, and is remarkably tough and durable. While installation is labor-intensive and costly, a natural slate look will give character to a building unlike any other roofing material. Available in lots of colors, slate tiles are non-combustible, waterproof, and require little to no maintenance over the course of a long life. Pros: Slate is durable, fire-resistant, and sustainable roof material that can be recycled. Cons: Slate is expensive, heavy, and requires extra framing and professional installation. The quality can vary with imported slate. House styles: Slate works well with Colonial, European and French chateau homes. Cost and life span: Prices start at about $600 per square and up. Slate can last more than 50 years and sometimes 100 years or more. WOOD SHINGLES AND SHAKE Wood roofs, though incredibly attractive, are also quite expensive and have limitations. They are not particularly long-lived, and they are a poor choice in areas that get lots of moisture or where wildfires are a danger. Still, they are beautiful, which makes them a popular choice for luxury homes. Although both are made from natural wood, there is a difference between wood shakes and shingles. Shingles are typically thin, wedge-shaped slabs of wood that are produced by precise sawing. Shakes are produced by splitting wood, and they are thicker wedges with a rougher texture. Pros: Wood shingles offer a rustic look and are a natural product usually made from cedar, redwood, and Southern pine. Cons: Fire codes in some areas prohibit use. Wood shingles can be a concern in wet climates, and can mold, split, or rot. House styles: Shake’s rustic aesthetic pairs well with bungalow, Cape Cod, cottage, Craftsman and Tudor-style homes. Cost and life span: Shingles—about $4.50 to $9 per square foot, installed; shakes—around $6.50 to $11 per square foot, installed. In dry climates, a wood shingle or shake roof can last 60 years; in damp conditions, maybe 20 years. SYNTHETIC ROOFING PRODUCTS If you want the look of slate, tile, or wood shake without the installation and maintenance costs, consider today’s composite roofing. Made from poly-based products, companies like CertainTeed, EcoStar, and DaVinci Roofscapes all offer superior products that are lightweight, fade-resistant, fire-safe, and warrantied for up to 50 years. Some are so realistic that they have been approved for use in historic preservation. They’re more durable, easier to install and much less expensive than authentic products. Make sure to check with the manufacturer and inquire about warranty information. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) suggests you look at full-size samples of the synthetic product and the manufacturers’ brochures. Look for installations that have been in place at least 10 years to see what the wear characteristics of that material are in this area. Pros: Synthetic roofing is often not as fragile, heavy, or expensive as natural products. C2 MAGAZINE

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GOTCHA COVERED Cons: Some of these products can absorb water, and the quality varies. Newer products aren’t as time-tested as traditional materials. House styles: Synthetic roofing products work with different architectural styles. Cost and life span: Prices start at about $300 per square and are warrantied for up to 50 years. GOING GREEN Creating a green “living” roof is an investment that holds many benefits, among them better insulation, reduced run-off, and extended life to your roof. A green roof requires several layers of support vegetation, including a waterproofing membrane to protect the roof, and depending on the slope, probably a root barrier and irrigation system. There are three types of living roofs: Intensive roofs will have a variety of vegetation and can be easily accessed for maintenance; extensive roofs will only support a light weight, such as a thin layer of soil and ground cover like mosses, and they usually require little attention from owners; semi-intensive roofs fall between these two. Pros: A living roof offers improved air quality, less pollution, better insulation (reducing heating and cooling costs), water conservation, and wildlife habitat. Cons: Green roofs are expensive to install. Reinforcing the roof of an existing home can necessitate expensive structural

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changes. Improper installation, inadequate drainage, or roots penetrating the protective membrane can cause leaks. House styles: Green roofs work with many different architectural styles. Cost and life span: Depending on intensive, extensive, or semi-intensive, costs range from $10-$50 per square foot; average lifespan when properly maintained is 40+ years. 

Meet the Interior Designers pg. 74 Linda Conklin seasons pg. 75 kelly caron Kelly Caron Designs, ASID pg. 76 Karen Glassford coastal home pg. 77 Southern Grace Interiors

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LINDA CONKLIN SEASONS

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My go-to color for painting a dining room is: Most of our projects have open floor plans, so the dining room usually ends up being the main house color. Distant Gray and Chantilly Lace are whites that we use a lot. Favorite vacation spot? French Riviera/Lake Como I’m best known for… Clean, edited interiors—less is more approach.

DESIGN

How would you describe your style? Modern, organic, timeless. What design trends are you most excited by in 2021? I am excited about all the new options available for exterior fabrics and furniture. Where do you go to get new ideas and inspiration? I get new ideas from travel and working closely with the amazing Erin Wasem! So thankful to have

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met her. We share a very similar design philosophy. What or who inspires you right now? Mexican architect Luis Barragán. What’s your most treasured item in your home? Art by amazing artists/friends.

The Village at Wexford 1000 William Hilton Parkway, Suite D4 Hilton Head Island, SC (843) 785-6280 seasonshhi.com

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My go-to color for painting a dining room is: I prefer a lovely textured wallcovering or a material like painted buttboard in the house trim color. Favorite vacation spot? Cayman Islands I’m best known for… Mixing materials with finishes and styles. I call the mixing of luxury and comfortable selections “highlow” design. I personally love a comfortable home and design but with a little flair. How would you describe your style? I like layers of design, from fashion in clothes to design details in a home. I have always loved textiles and materials. Comfortable luxury at home is my personal style and what I hope to create in my interior design as well. What design trends are you most excited by in 2021? Amazing wallcoverings! Not your old “wallpaper” … Wallcoverings are everything from metallic cork and mica to horsehair grasscloth, mural panels, and wood veneer patterns. We carry amazing vendors in our design library. Where do you go to get new ideas and inspiration? I love Instagram, but honestly, I stay on top of design brands and new materials with our incredible reps who visit our design showroom and update our product library. What or who inspires you right now? My clients inspire me to push myself to create different looks in each home. I do not like to reuse anything I have designed before.

KELLY CARON

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ASI D

What’s your most treasured item in your own home? My art. I collect an original every year … it is my growing collection.

5778 Guilford Place Bluffton, SC 29909 (843) 540-9759 kellycarondesigns.com

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My go-to color for painting a dining room is: Off white. Favorite vacation spot? Florida Keys I’m best known for… Blue and white wardrobe. How would you describe your style? Transitional. What design trends are you most excited by in 2021? The clean, fresh, crisp look. Where do you go to get new ideas and inspiration? All over, really. Everywhere I go, there is something that catches my eye. What or who inspires you right now? Brainstorming with colleagues. What’s your most treasured item in your own home? I just got them—Henry Dean blown glass candle holders.

KAREN GLASSFORD COASTAL

HOME

1528 Fording Island Rd. Hilton Head Island, SC (843) 837-4100 coastalhomehhi.com

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SOUTHERN GRACE INTERIORS

outhern Grace Interiors is an interior design firm known for infusing living environments with “Approachable Southern Luxury.” Based in Bluffton, S.C., we draw inspiration from our stunning coastal surroundings to create timeless interior spaces that reflect the richness of life in the Lowcountry. While our process is always consistent, we view each project as completely one-of-a-kind. Our experienced team of professional designers is adept at understanding your aesthetic in order to create a custom-tailored home that truly feels like a reflection of you. We specialize in serving the South, but we are available nationwide. You’ll frequently find us working with clients and builders in Lowcountry communities such as Palmetto Bluff, Oldfield, Hampton Lake, Sea Pines, Hilton Head Island, as well as Beaufort, Savannah, and beyond. The design firm was founded with the belief that great design can come from designers who are approachable,

honest, and creative, while also being professional, experienced, and detailoriented. While Southern Grace Interiors was founded by Principal Designer, Mikaelah Seifrit, Associate ASID, the name of the company is reflective of her business approach in making her focus all about her design team and the clients. In taking a fee-based approach to the design process, the focus stays on excellent services, not on using the most expensive products. Seifrit, like many of her clients, is Southern by design, after migrating to Bluffton from West Virginia six years ago. With 16 years of design experience under her belt and five years of success in business in the Lowcountry, she has assembled a team of superstar interior designers to meet the growing demand. In addition to great design services, customers can shop our curated line of home accents via our online store, Grace Home Decor. The idea is less house, more home: when quality, functional pieces that reflect our personal style are chosen for

our house, it becomes our home. For the Southern Grace Interiors design team, each client is treasured, and each project is an opportunity to develop a meaningful relationship with new friends, while creating design solutions and a beautiful home from start to finish. Our team manages every phase of the design process in a truly full-service fashion. To schedule a design consultation or to learn more, visit our website at SouthernGraceInteriors.com.

59 C Sheridan Park Circle Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 715-6770 southerngraceinteriors.com

Article by Cheryl Alexander

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t used to be that the kitchen was a small room situated in the back of the home, away from the center of activity. Today not only are kitchens much larger, but they’ve become the hub of family life, connected and open to the big common areas and a gathering place for friends as well as family. Consequently, it’s not at all surprising that we invest time and money into remodeling our kitchens. A recent survey conducted by Houzz.com revealed the median spend on major kitchen remodels, in which all the cabinets and appliances are replaced, is $35,000, whereas median spend for all other minor remodels is $8,000. We want the heart of our home to be up-to-date, modern, and geared to function in a way that suits our lifestyles. Countertops are the biggest change homeowners will make in their kitchens this year. According to Houzz, more than 90 percent of survey respondents planned to change them, with light-colored quartz as the top choice due to aesthetics, durability, and low maintenance. At the beginning of 2020, many engineered-surface companies launched collections featuring dark colors. Then the pandemic hit, and the mood shifted. A desire for light, uplifting colors that

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give a sense of cleanliness and optimism took hold. So, throughout 2021, you’ll see many new collections centered on warm, welcoming whites, with marble looks dominating the styles. Caesarstone, a popular countertop manufacturer, has debuted three white-based styles of engineered quartz for its new Whitelight collection. The collection

COUNTERTOPS ARE THE BIGGEST CHANGE HOMEOWNERS WILL MAKE IN THEIR KITCHENS THIS YEAR. ACCORDING TO HOUZZ, MORE THAN 90 PERCENT OF SURVEY RESPONDENTS PLANNED TO CHANGE THEM, WITH LIGHT-COLORED QUARTZ AS THE TOP CHOICE DUE TO AESTHETICS, DURABILITY, AND LOW MAINTENANCE. C2 MAGAZINE

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also includes four previously released light colors. You’ll see more of a focus on creamy whites in matte finishes rather than crisp whites in polished looks, and that was intentional. “We didn’t want it to be super sterile or clinical or look like a lab,” said Elizabeth Margles, vice president of marketing for Caesarstone North America. Aterra Blanca features a warm white background with subtle, almost translucent veining. Arabetto, also from Caesarstone’s new Whitelight collection, mimics the look of Arabesco marble with a vivid white background and large, busy, graphic veining. Corian,

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which makes solid-surface products, debuted several light colors in its new Endura collection, including Ancient Marble. Concrete-look and other worn, nonprecious styles showed up frequently in new engineered-surface collections. Alabaster Cement from Corian’s Endura collection forms a countertop with waterfall edge on a narrow island. Silestone’s new engineeredquartz collection, named Loft, takes inspiration from urban industrial-style dwellings. The collection features several concretelook styles in the countertops, backsplash, and island cladding.

However, don’t completely rule out natural stone just yet as folks still love the unique patterns offered by its look. Largescale veining patterns give the kitchen an artistic look and make any space more distinctive, although it’s important to be sure fabricators match the veins properly or the space can easily turn from luxury to bargain barrel. Dramatic edges, such as the waterfall and knife profiles, are popular in both the quartz and natural stone in contemporary kitchens. In farmhouse and traditional styles (which, interestingly, are losing popularity), rock and eased profiles are popular. Color is another popular way to freshen up a tired kitchen. Renovated kitchens continue to feature neutral tones of gray, white and beige on wall surfaces. That said, some homeowners are going for more colorful looks. Blue is a favorite and works well as a complementary color to orange, which shows up in tones found in wood and brass, two common materials used in modern-day kitchens. Faucets and hardware are great ways to breathe new life into your kitchen. In the Houzz survey, high-tech features appear in more than half of upgraded faucets, and “touchless” is the current buzz word. More than ever, people are aware of how easily hands spread germs and bacteria from surface to surface. Many faucet manufacturers are making touchless tech a standard option in all new lines, and some are making it available in older styles as well. Kohler’s new Riff collection features an upgraded model equipped with voiceactivated Kohler Konnect, allowing a user to sync the faucet with an Amazon Alexa, Google Home or Apple HomeKit device. This allows you to control the faucet with voice commands. Azure and Trattoria, two new sleek, modern lines from Riobel, also feature touchless technology. C2 MAGAZINE

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The modern touchless technology also comes in more traditional styles. Moen’s Weymouth style, available in matte black (a new trend), features U by Moen’s voice and motion technology. You can wave a hand to turn the faucet on and off, or you can program preset voice commands. For example, if you know your dog likes two cups of water at room temperature every morning, you can set that up in the Moen app, then walk up to the faucet and say, “Alexa, fill the dog bowl.” The correct amount and temperature of water will come out. Two-tone finishes are a new thing expressed in products that balance rough and smooth textures, matte and polished finishes, and warm and cool tones. For Rohl’s new Eclissi line of kitchen faucets, you can mix and match finishes for three separate components. Choose from four finishes for the spout, four finishes for the inner knob, and six finishes for the outer ring portion of the knob. Kohler’s new aptly named Tone collection offers two distinct finishes. Choose combinations of Polished Chrome, Vibrant Stainless, Matte Black and Moderne Brushed Brass. Many

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companies now offer the popular matte black and brass two-tone combination. Moen’s Sinema style, with new touchless wave- and voice-activated technology, comes in a matte black finish with a brass lever. The two-tone finish scheme wasn’t limited to faucets. Some appliances touted a mix of finishes. Monogram’s new professional range features a stainless-steel finish punctuated by solid brass knobs and burners. Samsung’s new Bespoke fourdoor Flex refrigerator comes with customizable front panels in eight colors and two finishes. Beyond mixing finishes, many manufacturers introduced a combination of textures, balancing smooth and polished surfaces with roughed-up or wavy ones. Another buzz word for faucet knobs and ends is “knurled.” The new Tenerife line by Rohl, features a crosshatched texture on the lever and spout end, a pattern inspired by crosshatching seen on palm trees. Appliances are at the top of the list with more than half of survey respondents who want to upgrade. Several appliance manufacturers have released lines for small homes and apartments, rental properties and empty nesters or retirees who have downsized and don’t need larger family appliances. Miele’s new G 5000 series of dishwashers offers a slim 18-inch size and features a quick wash-and-dry option that completes the cycle in 58 minutes. Thor debuted a lean 24-inchwide gas range, Fisher & Paykel’s is offering a 24-

WHAT’S COOKIN’? inch bottom-mount refrigerator and freezer, and Samsung has a new Slim OTR (over-the-range) microwave, all which come with Wi-Fi and voice connectivity. In fact, the Houzz survey indicates that nearly one-third of all upgraded appliances are equipped with high-tech features. Homeowners are individualizing their appliances by dressing them up with decals created by artists online as well as ordering custom appliance panels. BlueStar is offering a BlueStar by Design feature for ranges and refrigerators, which allows you to send any high-resolution image, text, or art to BlueStar and the company will turn it into a pattern on the appliance paneling. From wallpaper, art, wood textures, kids’ drawings, your favorite quilt ... you name it, they will convert anything into paneling in about eight to 10 weeks. In fact, their range panels can be swapped out as your mood changes, but the fridge panels are permanent. Storage was key in 2020, with nearly all kitchen renovators performing some work on their cabinets (94 percent) and nearly two-thirds replacing all kitchen cabinets (63 percent). “Storage has really come into focus as people have spent more time at home during the pandemic,” said Liza Hausman, Houzz vice president of Industry Marketing. “We’re seeing an increase in the amount of cabinetry added in renovations, and more homeowners are reaching out to professionals for help making their kitchens work better, most often within the same layout and square footage.” According to Houzz, more than a third of kitchen renovations include specialty shelving trays, such as revolving trays (Lazy Susans) and pullout or swing-out trays, making deep or hard-to-reach spaces more accessible. The most popular organizers are for cookie sheets and spices, while the most common specialty drawers are pullout waste or recycling drawers.

Many manufacturers are taking a cue from the popularity of drawers. Fisher & Paykel has been making drawer dishwashers since 1997, and its newest version, the Series 11, features a 60-minute wash-and-dry option and comes in stainless steel or integrated panel exterior. Signature Kitchen Suite’s new 24-inch undercounter dual-drawer refrigerator allows users to program the temperature of each drawer separately, from minus 7 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also monitor and adjust the temperatures from a smartphone app. Sharp’s new microwave drawer has a touchless feature that allows you to wave a hand in front to open it. The sensor detects only up and down motion, so it isn’t activated when a person or pet walks by. Sharp’s new convection microwave drawer and oven features an air fry option and has voice command technology. Beko’s new French door refrigerator has a produce drawer with temperature and humidity control as well as a light that simulates natural light to keep produce fresher longer. Interestingly, hardwood flooring steps down among survey respondents as vinyl steps up. Following the spike in interest for hardwood flooring in 2019, it dropped six percentage points and returned to the number two position (23 percent), after ceramic or porcelain tile (24 percent). Vinyl continues to grow as a desired flooring material, with 19 percent choosing vinyl or resilient flooring in 2020, up six percentage points from the previous year. 

STORAGE WAS KEY IN 2020, WITH NEARLY ALL KITCHEN RENOVATORS PERFORMING SOME WORK ON THEIR CABINETS (94 PERCENT) AND NEARLY TWO-THIRDS REPLACING ALL KITCHEN CABINETS (63 PERCENT).

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Our favorite “wearable art guides,” Dennis Jaworski and Chuck Hall of Palmettoes, with a painting by First Thursdays artist Donna Barnako.

U Artist Robin Ross showcases her colorful landscapes and fun and funky pet portraits. R Four-legged friends love First Thursdays Art Market too. 84

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A R T I C L E B Y E L D O N W E AV E R P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y M . K AT

a reason to

Celebrate in Sea Pines

T H E F I R S T T H U R S D AY S A R T M A R K E T IS GROWING BY THE MONTH

ast summer, in the middle of a pandemic, artist Pam White was looking for a way to bring her art and that of her Sea Pines neighbors back to the attention of Lowcountry art lovers. “Local artists had been in their homes for the past six months, creating art,” White said. “We couldn’t recall ever being more productive, but where could we show it?” At the same time, Mark King of The Club Group, property managers for The Shops at Sea Pines Center, was looking for a way to keep a promise. “We put a big poster up, facing Lighthouse Road, as the precautions began,” King said. “A graceful swimmer in a tank suit was headed for the surface, where the words said, ‘Adventures are ahead. This will not last forever.’ I was sure we meant that. I just wasn’t sure yet how we would do it.” ART OFFERED THE ANSWER The irrepressible Lowcountry arts scene provided the answer. “The Artists of Sea Pines’ home gallery is located in the Conference Center at The Shops at Sea Pines Center, so it was a natural extension to step out into the plaza and meet people there,” King said. “And we had some ongoing experience in practicing sensible precautions in the plaza, thanks to hosting our Farmers & Makers Market every Tuesday.” White offered to organize an outdoor event, and in September, The Shops at Sea Pines Center premiered a monthly celebration they called the First Thursdays Art Market. With a pattern already developed for such an event, that first market showcased a dozen Sea Pines artists, posted with care throughout the open-air plaza, with

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A Reason To Celebrate In Sea Pines

Amos Hummell’s whimsical art is inspired by “living in the bright happy vibe of a beautiful coastal community for almost a half century.”

of the area’s most popular musicians perform at the Art Market, including Matt Robbins, Sara Burns and T Some John Cranford. X SCAD industrial arts student and Lowcountry native Hailey King creates one-of-a-kind steel art.

several favorite local musicians (who were also having a tough time finding an audience for their work), serenading and setting the mood. “The precautions made people more comfortable all around,” White said. “The setting, and the music, and even the time of day, with evening approaching, it felt like a big, outdoor reception.” A WIDER EMBRACE The inaugural First Thursdays Art Market was a hit, so the monthly celebration continued. “I have had many friends tell me that First Thursdays was their only regular outing during Covid,” White said, “and the only time life seemed somewhat normal.” From the beginning, artists and fans alike asked if the Art Market could include artists from beyond Sea Pines, and beginning earlier this spring, the answer became a resounding “yes.” More artists, more art

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forms, and more fun have been possible, thanks to the warm reception people have given to First Thursdays—and thanks to the abundance of art available here. “People really seem to enjoy the chance to talk with the artist about his or her work,” said White, who regularly exhibits and continues to volunteer as the event’s chairperson. “The feeling at First Thursdays is so relaxed that you might say the art becomes interactive.” WHY ART LOVES THE LOWCOUNTRY “People who’ve been everywhere move to the Lowcountry and remark on what a big, vital, bubbling arts scene they find,” White said. The success of First Thursdays Art Market in the Shops at Sea Pines Center is one sign of a much bigger story. Surprising as it might seem to the newcomer, there are reasons behind the abundance of art in the Sea

Spectrum Studio showcases the fun and festive work of local artists with S Full disabilities. Pines artist Pam White organized the First Thursdays Art Market last fall S Sea and continues to exhibit and chair the event. Islands and along our Carolina coast. “Inspiration is the reason that comes to mind first,” White said. “Established artists who visit our region have been known to drop everything and move here in response to the different world of beauty they find. The birds, the trees, the subtropical plants, and even the ground itself—all these remarkable sights prompt practicing artists to see things in a different light.” And many who’ve kept the artist within them, as they lived the life of careers and families, are inspired to let that artist loose when they move to the Lowcountry. “Whether it was classes at the Art League, or simple self-discovery, this area has produced notable artists from among those who moved here and were inspired to begin practicing their art when they first breathed in the natural beauty they find all around them,” White said. Jeff Keefer is one such artist. The Ohio native had a successful career with DuPont, rising in the ranks to executive vice president and CFO, before retiring to Hilton Head Island in 2010. Inspired by his new surroundings as well as what he calls “a new awakening” after a

The Shops at Sea Pines Center installed a billboard during quarantine promising “adventures ahead.” First Thursdays Art Market offered an opportunity to fulfill that promise.

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diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, Keefer began experimenting with photography, eventually opening VIVID Gallery in The Shops at Sea Pines Center. “The beauty of this place, and the time to devote to a longtime interest, just came together,” Keefer said. His success as an artist also enables him to support his other passion— research for a cure for Parkinson’s Disease—as Keefer donates the proceeds from VIVID Gallery to the Michael J. Fox Foundation. MUSICAL ARTISTS ADD THEIR MAGIC From the beginning, music has been an essential ingredient in the First Thursdays Art Market, and the musicians are as homegrown and authentic as the visual artists they accompany. It was Jeff Keefer’s VIVID Gallery that introduced singersongwriter Sara Burns to the First Thursdays scene, and Burns’ songs have been a cornerstone of the relaxed and expressive atmosphere that takes over the plaza as the evenings take shape. Long respected for her originality, Burns honors her roots with her devotion to the local arts scene. Hilton Head’s own Jazz Corner ranks as one of the nation’s leading venues among jazz lovers and musicians alike, and Jazz Corner resident artists Davey Masteller, Martin Lesch and Chris Russell have been part of First Thursdays too, often accompanied by other impressive area musicians. And thanks to Mike and Debbie Kilgore at Hazel Dean’s, local favorite John Cranford often appears solo, or occasionally forms a duo, outside their gourmet grocery shop. Cranford’s popular rock and alternative band, Cranford Hollow, is a proud product of the Lowcountry art and music scene. In May, the Shops at Sea Pines Center will welcome back The Nice Guys, a musical quartet that’s been described as “perfect for the vibe in the plaza.” Playing everything from jazz to funk to yacht rock, these local guys have been wowing audiences and winning awards since they formed the band five years ago as high school sophomores. WHY THEY CELEBRATE “Our support for the artists has a really local intent,” King said. “As a group of local businesses ourselves, The Shops at Sea Pines Center thrive partly because of the energy, the creativity, and the power of attraction that the Lowcountry arts scene provides.” First Thursdays Art Market was seen as a way to give back. “Beginning with the Artists of Sea Pines, whose home gallery is right here, we saw the opportunity to spread that support beyond, and to include local artists from all around the area,” King added. And it’s good for business too, as First Thursdays Art Market also gives residents and visitors an opportunity to support the locallyowned shops, restaurants and businesses at the center. “Shopping local is so important to a community,” said Andrea Bragg

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at the First Thursdays Art Market: U Seen VIVID Gallery owner Jeff Keefer; Michael Neiderer; Ellen Difazio; Julie Harden; Dick Dupre; Jazz Corner musicians Jonathan Lovett and Davey Masteller; Emilie Reid

of Forsythe Jewelers, who chairs the Merchants’ Association at the center. “We are your neighbors; we shop in your shops, we eat in your restaurants, so please support your local businesses and local artists.” Art Market guests get to do just that, while ushering in the evening every First Thursday of the month from 4 to 7 p.m., sampling good wines, strolling the shops, talking with the artists, listening to the music ,and relaxing in the plaza. “Seeing the pleasure that art can bring to people, we are excited to have a setting that adds to it,” Bragg said. “We hope people will continue to join us, to enjoy, to support, and to celebrate the local art inspired by our lovely Lowcountry.” 

Tiny Free Art Galleries The Town of Hilton Head Island’s Office of Cultural Affairs recently announced its newest Community Creates initiative, Tiny Free Art Galleries placed at various locations around the island. Produced in partnership with the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina and the Art League of Hilton Head, the tiny free art galleries are similar to the popular free little libraries, a book sharing movement inspiring readers and expanding book access to all across the country. Instead of books at the tiny art galleries, you will find local art: whimsical, miniature pieces that can fit right in the palm of your hand. Residents, guests and local artists are invited to take a piece of art, leave a piece of art, or just stop by the tiny galleries and enjoy what’s featured inside. Public galleries can be found at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, The Shops at Sea Pines Center, the Art League Academy on Cordillo Parkway, and Beautiful Island Square on Marshland Road. “The Tiny Free Galleries will be a public forum to highlight local artists and resident amateur artists, creating a space to showcase their (tiny) work and an opportunity for our town to honor the important role arts play in our community,” said Jennifer McEwen, director of cultural affairs for the town. “Also, they are fun and whimsical, and I think we can all use a little whimsy in our lives right now.” C2 MAGAZINE

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LOVE

THE SKIN YOU’RE IN Vitality Med Spa offers full-service boutique skincare experience

Tavia Osterstock, L.E. and Jessica Ware, L.E..

tepping out in faith, Tavia Osterstock, licensed esthetician, partnered in opening Vitality Med Spa in the heart of Bluffton. Originally renting a small room to see her clients in Bluffton Village, her passion for skincare and vision for what could be blossomed in May of 2018 when she opened Vitality Med Spa with Dr. Kristi Blessitt. Blessitt, a medical doctor who had taken some family time, was now ready to go back to work with a focus on hormone replacement therapy and aesthetic injectables. Shortly after, Joanie Vilcheck, RN, joined Osterstock and Blessitt in providing IV vitamin therapy to further complete their spa services. Now, Vitality occupies the entire building where Osterstock had previously rented a room, and they have continued to expand, bringing on Jessica Ware, licensed esthetician to tag team with Osterstock in providing the Lowcountry with exceptional skin care services. “We work endlessly to source and bring the best products and services to our clients. It is our goal that every person who walks through our doors feels welcomed, accepted and individually treated for their skin care concerns,” Ware said. Beautiful skin requires commitment. There is no miracle treatment, but with advanced treatments and the right skin care tailored to your needs and skin type, great results can be achieved. Vitality’s mission involves offering a personalized experience from inside out with a truly boutique approach. Some current client favorites include PRP (platelet-rich plasma) micro-needling, which is great for everything from pigment issues to pore size, scarring, fine lines and laxity. Beginning with a standard blood draw from patient’s arm, the tube of blood is then placed in a machine called a centrifuge, which spins the blood and separates the red blood cells from the plasma. The plasma is then micro-needled back into the skin, using the only FDA-approved device, SkinPen. “Our blood is made of two main components, red blood cells and plasma which are rich in growth factors,” Osterstock said. She further explained that growth factors send signals to skin cells to function. This science has been used in

medicine to treat a range of health issues including arthritis, and now signs of aging. The results are refined skin texture and tone with reduced signs of aging. Clients also love the Deka Motus AY laser hair removal because it is the only laser approved for hair removal that is pain-free, safe, and effective for all skin types and does not require you to avoid the sun prior to treatment. An added bonus is that you do not have to refrain from shaving prior to treatment, as many other laser treatments require. This laser utilizes new technology that cools the skin and is also non-reactive to sun exposure. Ultherapy® is a well-known cosmetic procedure that uses ultrasound therapy to tighten and firm the skin. Commonly used on the neck, jawline and brows, it is another favorite recently added at

Vitality. There is no downtime, and the treatment pushes back the client’s need for a facelift or preserves the investment of a previous facelift. Results from Ultherapy typically last two years before requiring maintenance but can work in tandem with other services for a more youthful, rested appearance with longer lasting results. Among other services, such as custom facials and chemical peels, the ladies at Vitality Med Spa strive to be your one-stop shop for all aesthetic and wellness needs. Osterstock believes what sets Vitality apart is their client approach. “We only give people products that will truly help them,” she said. “We won’t ever talk people into treatments or products they don’t need just to make a sale. More than anything, we understand the value of reputation and continue to prioritize an exceptional experience for each client.” At Vitality, Osterstock and her team are committed to making clients feel comfortable and confident that they are in the right place for their skincare goals to be achieved. “I am so excited to be a part of this team and look forward to serving our clients and growing with Vitality,” Ware said. Jessica Ware is now accepting new clients and is the creative mind behind their social media platforms. For monthly specials and all things skincare, follow along on Instagram, @ vitalityskincarehhi.

PRODUCT LINES: COLORESCIENCE, ELTA MD, NEOCUTIS, SKINBETTER SCIENCE, SKINCEUTICALS, AND ZO SKIN HEALTH. 159 State Street, Bluffton Village | (843) 757-2270 | vitalityhhi.com | H: M-FR 10:00a.m.-4:00p.m. C2 MAGAZINE

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ALLIANCE DANCE ACADEMY Summer Dance Camps Summer Princess Camps Every day is filled with activities based on the princess of the day. Celebrate with crafts, books, movies and dances. Ages 3 and up. Princess Camp I July 19-23 Monday-Friday, 11a.m.-4p.m. Price: $200 Princess Camp II August 9-13 Monday-Friday, 11a.m.-4pm Price: $200 Summer Dance Camp July 19-23 Monday - Friday

from 11 a.m.-4pm Includes ballet, jazz, hip hop, lyrical and musical theatre Ages 7 and up. Price: $200 Sizzling Summer Session July 6-15, Tuesday & Thursday Tiny Stars Ages 2.5 -3 5:30-6:30 p.m. Creative movement, ballet and tumbling Price: $45 Twinkling Stars Creative movement, ballet, tap and tumble. 6-7pm Ages 3-5. Price: $60

Shining Stars Ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop and tumble. 7-8pm Ages 5-8. Price: $60 Hip Hop Workshop July 26-29 Bring a water bottle and enjoy an entire month of dance in just four days. Classes can be taken in the studio or online. Ages 5-9 6:00-7:00pm Ages 10 and Older 7:00-8:00pm Price: $60

*Pricing changes and human error occurs. Please see camp listed for final pricing on all C2 activities. MAGAZINE

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Cheer/Acro Workshop July 26-29 Bring a water bottle and enjoy an entire month of dance in just four days. Classes can be taken in the studio or online. Ages 5-9 5:00-6:00pm Ages 10 and Older 6:00-7:00pm Price: $60

THE ARTS CENTER OF COASTAL CAROLINA Summer camps are back at the Arts Center, June 28 – August 6, for ages 6 – 14 and grouped

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accordingly. Class sizes will be smaller, but in person this year! Spanning performing and visual arts, camps will include the everpopular Theatre Camp, Mixed Up Masterpieces, Creative Storytelling through Collage, and many more! Visit www.artshhi.com/camps for the full schedule. BLUFFTON SCHOOL OF DANCE Summer is the PERFECT time to try dance! From Classes to Camps, BSOD invites dancers ages 2-13 to join us for a week or an entire month this Summer! Your dancer will THRIVE this summer all while staying active,

expanding their imagination and putting on confidence-building performances for their biggest fans! Interested in learning more? Please visit our website https:// blufftonschoolofdance.com/ summer-2021/ COASTAL GYMNASTICS CENTER Gymnastics Camp June-July Ages 5-12 Monday- Friday 9am-1pm June 7- 11 (Under the Sea) Jun 21-25 (Disney) July 5-9 (Super Heroes) July 19-23 (Olympics)

May Tennis (3 Sessions): Mondays (ends 5/24), 5-6:30pm, Wednesday, 5-6:30pm, or Saturdays, 3:305pm. Coed, ages 6 - 16 | $60. Located at Chaplin Tennis Park. View on the website: islandreccenter.org/summersports Tuition and Fees $120/week $35/day *non-refundable deposit due upon registration* ISLAND REC CENTER Surf Camp: 16 sessions, times vary on tides. $160/2 day camp, Ages 5 & up (Adults too). Located at Burke's Beach. View on the website: islandreccenter. org/summer-sports HHI Crew - Learn to Row: S1: May 1-2 | S2: May 22-23 | S3: June 19-20 | S4: June 26-27. Coed, ages middle and high school students. Saturday & Sunday, 9am12pm. $50, includes shirts Located at the Rowing and Sailing Center. View on the website: islandreccenter. org/summer-sports

All American Football Camp: May 21-23. Price on or before May 1st: $125. Price May 2nd or after: $150. Register by May 21. Coed, grades K-8. Price includes camp t-shirt and autograph poster. Located at HHIHS Football Stadium and Practice Field. View on the website: islandreccenter.org/summer-sports June Tennis (3 Sessions): Mondays, 5-6:30pm: $60, Wednesdays, 5-6:30pm: $75, or Saturday (ends July 3), 3:30-5pm: $75. Coed, ages 6 - 16. Located at Chaplin Tennis Park. View on the website: islandreccenter.org/ summer-sports Volleyball Camp: June 28 - July 1. Coed, ages 11-18 | $135. Monday-Thursday, 9-11:30am. Located at the Island Rec Center. View on the website: islandreccenter. org/summer-sports

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July Tennis (3 Sessions): Mondays, 5-6:30pm, Wednesdays, 5-6:30pm, or Saturdays (starts July 10), 3:305pm. Coed, ages 6 - 16, $60. Located at Chaplin Park. View on the website: islandreccenter.org/summer-sports Tormenta Soccer Camp: Session 1: 7/5 - 7/9, Register by July 4. Session 2: 8/2-8/6, register by 8/1. Coed, ages 5 - 14 | $150. Monday-Friday, 9am-12pm. Located at Barker Field. View on the website: islandreccenter. org/summer-sports Karate Camp: July 12 - 16 | $150. Coed, Ages 5-18. Monday-Friday,

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9 am-12 pm. Located at the Island Rec Center. View on the website: islandreccenter.org/summer-sports Seahawk Cheer Camp "There's No Place like Home": July 12-15 | Coed, ages 4 -12. Monday-Thursday, 9am-12pm. Located at Hilton Head Island High School. $115 includes the Seahawk camp shirt (participants must register by June 15th to ensure the correct size). View on the website: islandreccenter.org/ summer-sports Learn to Row Camp: July 26 - 31, Register by July 19. Coed, middle and high school students. Monday-

Saturday, 9am-12pm. $100, includes shirt. Located at The Rowing and Sailing Center. View on the website: islandreccenter.org/summer-sports Scoops Lacrosse: July 19-23. Coed, ages 5 - 12 | $130. Monday-Friday, 9am - 12pm. Location TDB. View on the website: islandreccenter.org/ summer-sports Volleyball Camp: Aug 2-5 | Coed, ages 9 - 17. Monday-Thursday, 9:30am - 12pm. $135. Located at Island Rec Center. View on the website: islandreccenter.org/ summer-sports

Pre-registration is required by no later than Wednesday of the previous week. • Children will be supervised according to a 1:5 ratio of staff to children. • Children will be divided into groups according to age. • A minimum number of children are required each week to hold camp. • Additional cleaning and health procedures based on local, state, and national guidelines will be conducted. KIDS COLLEGE Kids College offers an exciting Full Time Summer Camp for children ages 5- 10 yrs old. Our program is planned so that children are never bored and no two days are the same! Our fieldtrips include Coastal Discovery Museum, parks, gymnastics, dolphin tours and more. Soccer shots is an outsourced soccer program that will be coming in twice a week to offer each child a chance to work on their ball skills in a fun way. Fieldtrips are done in small groups and cost of most fieldtrips are included in weekly price. Your child will have at least one fieldtrip a week.

Weekly: 9 a.m.-12 p.m. (half day) 9 a.m.-3 p.m. (full day)—Tanger 2 only Member Half Day $175, Full Day $300 Member Sibling Half Day $140, Full Day $240 Non-Member Half Day $225, Full Day $390 Non-Member Sibling Half Day $180, Full Day $312 Please call (843) 842-7645 to reserve your spot.

THE SMART COMPANY KIDS ZONE The Smart Company Kids Zone is a family entertainment center for all ages that was created for fun but learning is in the air. Become a company detective as you learn fun facts about the companies you know and use everyday. Come and have a blast learning about the power of financial intelligence. From Ninja Classes to Escape Rooms, Laser Tag and mirror mazes fun and play leads you through each activity as you discover that companies are the wheels that drive the economy. Come spend the summer at The Zone! Summer Classes M-F 8:30am -9pm Group Rates, Camp Days and Events available www.SCKZONE.com 843-836-3701

*Pricing changes and human error occurs. Please see camp listed for final pricing on all activities.

LAVA 24 FITNESS At LAVA 24 Fitness, we’re committed to helping athletes across Hilton Head Island and beyond get the very most out of their game. Our team is helping student athletes of all ages improve their strength and apply it directly to the field, court, track, or wherever it is that you compete. We are currently offering class every Tuesday at 4:00 PM and will be expanding time offerings this summer. Stay Tuned! THE SANDBOX June 14 – August 6, 2021 The Sandbox Children’s Museum offers a summer camp program for children ages 4-12 years (4-10 years at Hilton Head & 6-12 years at Tanger 2). Through the guise of play and exploration, this 10-week program provides children enrolled an opportunity to explore a variety of themes that integrate hands-on learning with S.T.E.A.M. activities as well as daily staff supervised play with the exhibits. C2 MAGAZINE

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Sign of the Times

ARTICLE BY BARRY KAUFMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT

UNDER THE STEADY HAND OF CAPTAIN TOM DOYLE, COMMANDER ZODIAC SAILS TOWARD THE FUTURE.

or the time being, we’re going to assume that you don’t need to be told what Commander Zodiac is. This is, after all, an operation that shepherded countless people across the waves toward life-long memories every day for 34 years in South Beach Marina. If you’re one of the lucky few who grew up on the island, you may have even spent a summer or two working for its captain, Tom Doyle. If you’re one of the many who came here on vacation and never left, that decision may have well been made aboard one of their signature rafts.

On a busy morning in late March, Tom Doyle gets a boat ready for adventure at Broad Creek Marina, where Commander Zodiac is located.

Nestled among the live oaks and sparkling water views of Broad Creek Marina, Commander Zodiac and its captain, Tom Doyle, are starting a new chapter.

You may have even heard the stories Doyle tells of his days on the water—saving stranded animals, escorting VIPs across our waters and helping build new memories with each trip. But all the years as an institution, and all the stories Doyle’s tenure have helped him amass spin off one driving passion: the dolphins. “They’re just so beautiful,” he said. “When you have a dolphin look you in the eye for the first time, there’s a real connection. You can’t help but feel in awe.” HEADING UP THE CREEK Just about a year ago, Commander Zodiac departed South Beach Marina for the last time, drawing to a close 34 years as one of the area’s biggest attractions. Now, nestled among the live oaks and sparkling water views of Broad Creek Marina, Commander Zodiac and its captain are starting a new chapter. “There’s a lot of activity down here,” Doyle said, his eyes trailing off to where a group was making their way into Up the Creek Pub for a quick bite after a session at Zipline Hilton Head. Nearby, a forklift gently pulled a boat down from the towering racks of Broad Creek’s boathouse while families milled about waiting for their chance to escape the shore on a zodiac. “This has been a great move.” While the location has changed, the experience has not. “We like to keep it small,” Doyle said. “A small boat can get into small creeks, so it keeps the experience very intimate. That’s always been our core business model— small, personalized trips. That’s worked out well for us.” The core of the Commander Zodiac notion came when then 24-year-old Doyle landed on Hilton Head Island after extended stays in Aspen, Colorado and Maui, Hawaii. “A little lightbulb went off when I was in Hawaii on a glass bottom boat tour … Hilton Head has a lot of dolphins,” Doyle said. “My business partner Jana Moore and I came back that following year and opened Zodiac in 1986. We

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SIGN OF THE TIMES Tom Doyle and Graham Cotter get organized for a busy day of entertaining Island visitors on the water.

were doing dolphin and nature tours, and we were pretty much one of the first to do it on the island.” Moore, who serves as operations manager, has been Doyle’s secret weapon since the beginning, and has helped build Commander Zodiac into an institution. “I knew we’d made it when we would have three generations on a boat,” Doyle said. “I would have a family I took on a tour when their kid was 12, and now the kid was bringing her kids.” MORE THAN A TOUR For Doyle, his years at the helm of Commander Zodiac haven’t just been about giving families memories that will last a lifetime. It’s also been about giving back. Since the early 1990s, he’s been one of the handful of people on the island given the state’s blessing to help stranded animals. “Every now and again I’ll get a call. They strand everywhere, even on Daufuskie,” he said. “DNR likes to look for any cause of death—entanglement, crab traps, fishing gear. If it’s not too deceased, they will take it to Charleston and do necropsy to try and find cause of death.” Not all of his stories have a happy ending, but one that does sounds almost too much like a Disney movie to be true. “I was on a tour, and out of the corner of my eye, I saw something that looked like the Loch Ness monster. It ended up being a juvenile humpback whale,” Doyle said. A rarity in our waters, humpback whales tend to stay about 50-60 miles offshore

S Tom Doyle takes a couple out on the water for an episode of HGTV’s House Hunter’s, which was filmed on and around Hilton Head Island.

as they migrate past Hilton Head Island. This juvenile, Doyle reckons, had become separated from its pod and wound up here in its confusion. Unfortunately, as the young whale was leaving the sound, it became stuck on a tidal sandbar at the south channel. With its skeleton under threat of collapsing under its own weight and its skin at risk of burning in the sun, Doyle knew he needed to act fast. He and his crew brought out buckets and towels to keep the whale wet while they waited for the tide to shift him loose. “I just looked into his eye, it was the size of a grapefruit, and I told him, ‘Nice whale; we’re here to help,’” he said. With his team fighting off the sun, the waiting game ended with the tide coming in to free the trapped whale. As if on cue, a pod of dolphins approached to escort the young whale to sea. “Three weeks later, I got a call from a whale network in the northeast saying, ‘We have your whale here,’” Doyle said. The young whale had found its herd and was safe with its family. “That was pretty neat.” WELCOME ABOARD Having spent decades as one of the most visible captains on Hilton Head Island has led to no shortage of notoriety for Doyle. “In the mid-’90s, National Geographic wanted to do a documentary on strand feeding, which is really prevalent here,” Doyle said. “They contacted Tom Murphy and asked who the local guy was, and he gave them my name. That first one we did was with Nat Geo, and it ended up being one of their worldwide shows.”

The subsequent popularity of that doc put Doyle on the radar for nature shows and networks of all kinds, with the Discovery Channel and the BBC lining up to take their cameras out with Commander Zodiac. He even took a couple out for an episode of House Hunters. (“I wasn’t on camera very much, but I’m in it,” he said). One filming trip saw Doyle sharing a boat with the legendary Sir Richard Attenborough. “I got to spend two weeks with him out on the boat, which was fantastic,” he said. “We had him over for dinner, and his stories were just amazing.” The knighted naturalist wasn’t the only A-lister to have had the Commander Zodiac experience. “A few years ago, I got a call … that First Lady Rosalynn Carter and her daughter wanted to book a dolphin tour,” he said. “It was the two of them and their whole entourage. The sheriff’s office brought a boat with one Secret Service guy, and I had a Secret Service officer on the boat with me, Mrs. Carter and Amy. Of all the days for the water to be rough, it was that day.” Despite a little chop on the waves, the former First Lady and First Daughter enjoyed their time with Commander Zodiac. “She was a wonderful lady,” Doyle said. “The Secret Service agent told me, ‘I wish we could do this every day.’” Hearing Tom Doyle tell these stories and knowing that he actually does get to do this every day, you can tell that after decades behind the mast, he still loves what he does. “For me, I love when kids get out on the water, they see a dolphin for the first time in their life and they’re freaking out,” he said. “It reminds you of the first time, how you felt when you saw a dolphin for the first time. The reaction is priceless.” As are the memories made by everyone who gets out on the water with Commander Zodiac. 

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nood good mood food Article by Becca Edwards Photography by M.KAT

orget peanut butter and jelly. Alex Vitto and Robbie Colson, the cocreators of Nood Good Mood Food, go together like Asian fries and ginger yuzu aioli. Like spam and gourmet cheese sauce. Like, well, every thoughtfully and creatively imagined dish they serve up at their “gourmet fast food” restaurant located in Coligny Plaza (under The Big Bamboo). “Robbie came into Al’s and we ended up hitting it off,” Vitto said, referencing his other successful restaurant, Al’s Aloha Kitchen. “We met again at Michael Anthony’s and I was like, ‘Snapchat, dude, you’re killing it (with photos Colson posted of his pasta). I told him I was thinking about starting a noodle thing…” “We couldn’t stop talking about it,” Colson said, finishing Vitto’s sentence. We spent hours talking about noodles and good mood food.” “That’s how the name came up,” Vitto added. “We wanted to make good mood food.” The way Vitto and Colson feed off of each other, it’s obvious they serve up more than delicious Polynesian- and western Pacific-inspired plates. They feed each other with friendship, a shared enthusiasm for delivering a unique food concept to Hilton Head Island and its guests, and a mutual love for exotic ingredients like “gochujang,” a Korean chili paste that Nood regulars and the restaurant alike call Gucci gang because, as Colson attests, “It’s just that awesome.” What is equally awesome is Nood’s supportive approach to other local restaurants. “It’s not competition, it’s community. With three million people hitting Hilton Head’s beaches during the summer, there’s plenty of love to go around,” Vitto said. “And other restaurants have been super supportive of us. We come together and discuss things like purveyors and point-of-sale systems. We want to keep going forward and spreading good vibes.” Many people think starting a new restaurant venture takes guts. But launching one during a global pandemic takes, well, “Aloha rice balls” (Al’s Aloha spicy tuna, sticky rice ball, nori, yummy sauce, tamari glaze, masago and fried rice “noodz”). “We had just gotten super comfortable with business at Al’s,” Vitto said. “We did not need to do this. But yet, we thought there is no way we can not do this.” To which Colson interjected, “And when Al says he wants to get something done, I’m more than positive he will get it done.”

Aloha Rice Balls

Brock serves guests at Nood Good Mood Food.

Alex Vitto

Both Colson and Vitto say that Nood Good Mood Food is an evolving restaurant. “When we first opened, we offered build your own bowls, but now we’ve decided to go with our signature bowls with plenty of variety,” Vitto said. On the menu, you will find already local favorites like the House Made Noodz with Colson’s crowning glory—his bone broth, in-house made kimchi, jalapeño, shaved onion, and your choice of chicken, beef or tempura shrimp; and Colson’s favorite, the Wavy Noodz, again, with Colson’s bone broth as well as green onions, gourmet mushrooms, soft boiled egg and pork belly. With the exception of mainstays like the aforementioned Aloha rice balls (“Those should never go away, they’re way too good!” Colson said.), the menu will continue to evolve in response to their commitment to support local growers and Vitto’s and Colson’s passion for experimenting with new ingredients and flavors. In the near future, you will also see a pick-up window, a partnership with COOL Delivery and live music. But there’s no time like the present to try out Nood Good Mood Food. Nood Good Mood Food is located at 1 North Forest Beach Drive, Suite 1 B. For more information, visit noodhhi.com or call (843) 715-9244. C2 MAGAZINE

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At age six, Zao took third at Tulsa, a national event; at 10, she won overall champion at Tulsa, beating both boys and girls.

Mat Warriors T HILTON HEAD WRESTLING TEAM MAKING HISTORY ARTICLE BY CHERYL ALEXANDER

he Boulware name in the South Carolina pulls some weight; in fact, in many circles, it is synonymous with the name Pinckney, both of which have been making history in this part of the country for a very long time. Today’s generation is no exception. Many people know Patrick Boulware as a hometown baseball hero who played professionally in the Frontier League for the Southern Illinois Miners and who now coaches SEB Travel Baseball; some know him as the assistant varsity football coach at Hilton Head Island High School; some know him as a dirt oval race car driver; others recognize him as the general manager of Coligny Plaza. Boulware wears lots of hats. What you might not know is that he is having a big impact as a wrestling coach. Like many in the wrestling community, Boulware comes from a family of wrestlers—his dad and older brother were in the sport, so he followed in their footsteps. “Wrestling really changed me for the better at a time in my life when I really needed confidence,” Boulware said. Boulware was a small kid with a learning disability, which meant he wasn’t the most popular kid at school. When he began to wrestle competitively, he gained strength, both mentally and physically, along with the confidence to try other sports. “My wrestling career ended after high school because I chose to go to college on a baseball scholarship, which I thought would offer a better career path,” he said. He attended college at Immaculata University on a baseball scholarship, and after college he was drafted to play professionally with the Frontier League as a catcher for the Southern Illinois Miners. During spring training, Boulware sustained an injury that ended his baseball dream. He also found out his wife was expecting a baby, so knew it was time to focus on family and a sustained career. After a while, Boulware began to miss the energy of sports, so he moved back to Bluffton where he was born and raised and got a job at Bluffton High School, his alma mater, as the assistant wrestling coach. From there, he took the assistant job at Hilton Head Island High, where, since 2017, he has served

as the head wrestling coach. His strategy was to implement his wrestling style and match it to the Hilton Head standard of wrestling that had been implemented from previous coaches and wrestlers. “My goal is to honors the lineage I’m from as well as the people who have moved the program forward on the island,” Boulware said. “I still communicate with many former coaches and players. This is a team that truly has a family mentality, and that’s an extraordinary motivator.” His approach is working. From a group of 15 kids in 2017, the wrestling team at Hilton Head Island High is now one of the bigger male sports at the high school. “A typical sports team for this size school will have between 15-25 boys. Our wrestling team (grades 9-12) has 46 kids on the team,” Boulware said. He attributes his astounding numbers to the fact that wrestling instills so much confidence and the will to win into kids who might otherwise not participate in sports. Because wrestlers are grouped into weight classes, the kids are competing against others who are of equal stature and weight, so the playing field is level. The success of the team is evident, too, and not just from the number of participants. As a team, they recently qualified to compete at the lower state championships—a feat which hadn’t been accomplished since 2016. Hilton Head Island High also has an individual state wrestling boys champion—James Levy, a senior who has been wrestling since he was 10 years old. Boulware has surrounded himself with a great group of assistant coaches whom he is quick to credit. Tyler Rosenlieb, head assistant couch, is Boulware’s right-hand man. He is a Bluffton High graduate and Bluffton’s first ever state wrestling champion. Mason Moreavinski and Jeff Goodwin are both assistant coaches. Jefferey Estrada, an assistant and an elite club wrestling coach, also brings a lot to the team. Prior to moving to Hilton Head in 2020, Estrada coached several teams— both male and female—in Colorado. He brings a different style of wrestling. “Wrestling is like a dance,” Boulware said, “and not everyone dances the same. We have five C2 MAGAZINE

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coaches that bring different styles, which is a great advantage. One kid might learn better from one style than the other. Our kids learn diverse methods, which strengthens our team.” Estrada’s experience with female wrestlers is changing the face of wrestling in the Hilton Head community. Zao Estrada, Coach Estrada’s 15-year-old daughter, is first varsity and only female wrestler this year on the team. Zoe began wrestling at age four on her dad’s team. Like Boulware, she was influenced by her dad and older sister, both wrestlers. She would attend local tournaments with her family and would get thrown into the ring where, she said, “It felt like I was just playing.” At age six, Zao took third at Tulsa, a national event; at 10, she won overall champion at Tulsa, beating both boys and girls. At age 13, she took second place at the Pan Am International event. This year, on March 6, Zao competed in the South Carolina boys individual state tournament, an event which she was able to compete in because South Carolina doesn’t currently have a sanctioned girls’ event. She finished second in the lower state tournament—the first time a girl ever finished in the top two. She qualified for the state tournament, finishing third—again, the first time ever for a female to medal in the state tournament. On March 30, Zao was named overall winner at the USA Wrestling Girls Folkstyle Nationals. “We are working towards getting girls sanctioned in South Carolina so they will have their own state championship and not have to compete with boys,” Boulware said. “What I want to see is more overall interest in the sport of wrestling and, in particular, more awareness and female interest in the sport.” Boulware believes that whether a kid wins or loses a tournament, what wrestling gives them is a “never give up” mentality. They also learn self-reliance. “We teach our kids how to go to battle alone,” Boulware said. “They know that someone will win, and someone will lose. Our motto is ‘You can’t point the finger; you have to point the thumb’ which forces a kid to self-examine and see exactly what they need to work on, all the while knowing they have an entire team behind them supporting them and lifting them up.” Boulware and his coaches have opened a club for youth wrestling on the island that meets Monday and Tuesday afternoons at The Hanger on 12 Finch St. on Hilton Head Island for both entry level and advanced boys and girls, ages four and up. The club will also offer pop-up camps and clinics during the summer.  For more information, follow Hilton Head Wrestling on FB or call (843) 422-7327. For more information about Hilton Head Island HS wrestling, visit the school website, hhihs. beaufortschools.net.

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A R T IC L E BY A L LYSON J ON E S

Lowcountry Soil A R T I S T A N D IE F R E E M A N

ontemporary artist Andie Freeman has been named the Coastal Discovery Museum’s first Artist in Residence for 2020-2022. Currently based in Raleigh, N.C., this long-time Hilton Head resident has a connection to the island and the museum spanning 30 years. C2 recently sat down with the artist to learn more about her work, her inspiration, community engagement and her first exhibition showcasing Gullah culture, which opens in The Artist’s Gallery at the Island Recreation Center on May 1. TELL US ABOUT YOUR ART. I am a contemporary realist painter. To me, that means I attempt to have areas of rendered realism in my paintings but also areas that are more abstract in the background. I traditionally paint in oil—still lifes and nature-inspired work—although with this exhibition, I am painting six pieces in watercolor as well. I have been painting since college [Freeman earned her BFA from College

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Lowcountry Soil b Artist Andie Freeman in her studio in Apex, NorthCarolina.

of Charleston followed by a graphic design degree from Miami Ad School in Atlanta], but I have really put more time into my artwork over the last 10 years since we’ve been living in Raleigh. WHAT IS YOUR CONNECTION TO HILTON HEAD ISLAND AND THE COASTAL DISCOVERY MUSEUM? I moved to Hilton Head Island when I was 15, in 1985, and went to Hilton Head Island High School. I’ve also had a relationship with the Coastal Discovery Museum for a long time in different ways. I’ve always loved the Museum and have a sculpture in their Heritage Garden. I have also participated in the Art Market. Their mission and programs inspire me, in particular the sea turtle program. There are so many things they protect and show to the public in a way that’s really valuable. Tourists come to the island and they may go straight to the beach and not see all the amazing and important things going on. My hope is that the

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art will help bring light to some of those things so that they can also shine and have their moment. YOU ARE THE MUSEUM’S FIRST ARTIST IN RESIDENCE. WHAT DOES THAT MEAN? As Artist in Residence, I am creating work on a continual basis to interact with the community on Hilton Head Island, even though I’m in Raleigh. I really want to have paintings and work that interact with the museum’s mission of “inspiring people to care for the Lowcountry.” This first exhibition is focused on Gullah culture, which is obviously important to the island overall and which is also highlighted quite a bit at the Coastal Discovery Museum. The second exhibition will feature a lot of paintings focusing on other museum programs—whether that’s ecology, cultural heritage or things in their collection that talk about the history of the region. WHAT INSPIRES YOUR WORK? I am inspired by how objects tell the story of someone who has been here and left their mark. Some of the pieces I’ll be painting will be inspired by objects that have been used by people. My still life work utilizes natural elements that bring life to the painting as well as cherished objects that bring them to a level of artifact—telling a story of someone’s past. In this case, I’m taking what I usually do in still life and pairing it with the Coastal Discovery Museum’s mission. Part of it has to do with my love for ecology, for nature and the preservation of natural resources on the island. I often create paintings featuring birds—

c Midnight, oil on panel, 2021

g The Gullah Museum,watercolor, 2022 g Tea Day, oil on panel 2019 g Nurture No., oil and gold metal leaf on panel, 2018. that is an extension of my love of nature—inspiring people to protect our natural resources. This also includes culture. We are in a rapidly changing world, but there are still things from the past that we need to respect and hold on to. TELL US MORE ABOUT THIS EXHIBIT AND ITS GULLAH INFLUENCE. The first exhibit, “Faith, Family, & Foundation,” is a smaller one. It includes one large, 3’ x 4’ oil painting anchoring the show—a still life showcasing many of the gifts imparted to the region through the Gullah culture—along with six smaller watercolor paintings inspired by historical photos that show multiple sides of this culture. The Gullah people gave us a lot, and we should respect and understand the culture they have shared. I’ve been interviewing people from the island so that I understand a little better the messages they would like to present. They have worked hard to preserve their family, their faith, their love of the land and their connection to it. As a young resident of the island, I didn’t appreciate the culture that was already there. I came from the North, like so many other people, with very little understanding of the region, although I loved a lot of things about it. I spent a lot of time walking in the cemeteries and enjoying the nature and beauty of the land. That made a real impact on me. Now, as an adult, I am focused on how we relate to our past— how the stories we’ve been told and which have been passed down from generation to generation help us with self-esteem. I recognize that the Gullah people of Hilton Head Island have given a lot and have not necessarily been well understood. The point of the show is that everyone should find something or someone in their past that they can feel proud of and know that they can do great things, too. I hope the Gullah people of the island recognize that they are important, impactful and special. As a culture, they should be honored and respected for the positive impact they have had on the region.  Andie Freeman’s Gullah exhibition, “Faith, Family & Foundation,” opens May 1 in Culture HHI’s Artist’s Gallery at the Island Rec. Center. For more information about the artist, visit andiefreeman.com. To learn more about her role as Artist in Residence at the Coastal Discovery Museum and upcoming exhibitions, visit lowcountrysoil.com. C2 MAGAZINE

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M A Y O R

Hilton Head Island Mayor Photography by M.Kat

A Note from John McCann

MAKING SACRIFICES TO PROTECT THE COMMUNITY: THAT’S GOTTA FEEL GOOD

ecently, I had the opportunity to attend our Fire Rescue Department’s annual service award program, where our firefighters and other professionals in this frontline industry are recognized for their service, promotions, and retirement. While I appreciated all of our emergency response employees for their milestones, I was most amazed by the sacrifices so many of them have made to be a member of this team of responders. One firefighter did so on his own accord because he wanted to give back to our community in a meaningful way. Typically, the awards program includes a fancy dinner affair at a local resort property; everyone comes dressed to the nines. But this year, due to COVID-19 precautions, it was a low-key event held at one of our fire stations. In spite of this, it was a beautiful event, and it was a pleasure for me to thank the honorees for their service and contributions. During this year’s awards and advancement ceremony, Fire Rescue welcomed eight new members to the town. Nine honorees, including one dispatch supervisor, seven fire apparatus operators, and one lieutenant were recognized for their promotions. Members that started their careers with Fire Rescue were highlighted, and uniformed firefighters were presented and took an oath of office. We also had time to meet and learn a little bit about our new members. I was particularly struck by the story Brock McDaniel

< Bluffton Mayor

shared about his path to becoming a firefighter with Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue. It’s a true testament of the personal sacrifice he made to pursue his dream and be in a position to serve our community. Brock came to our area as an employee of the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce. But, after experiencing a medical emergency involving a family member, he decided he wanted to do more to give back. In 2019, he applied to Fire Rescue and completed all the requirements to be placed in our hiring pool. On the day that he passed his physical abilities test, he was given a

A Note from Lisa Sulka

M AY O R

MARTIN FAMILY PARK HONORS SPIRIT OF GIVING

T Photography by Krisztian Lonyai

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he Martin Family Park ribbon-cutting was held Thursday, April 8, with dozens of family members who traveled to celebrate the legacy of service by Ida and Jacob Martin. This park has been referred to as an “outdoor living room,” which is fitting because it has comfortable chairs, open space and provides a beautiful spot for people to gather. Little did we know when the park quietly opened in November 2019 that 2020 would give Bluffton a global pandemic to work around. Finally—nearly a year and half later—we were able to celebrate the Martin Family, their legacy and this beautiful park. Jacob and Ida Martin showed the Bluffton community how one idea can be so powerful that it can change to a community. This park embodies and is symbolic of the spirit of Ida and Jacob—beautiful, understated and here to provide for the Bluffton community for years to come. Their giving spirit started in the activities of Campbell Chapel AME Church and then expanded the philosophy of “neighbors helping neighbors” into the greater community. As you all may know the story, Ida collected donated items in her garage and gave them to neighbors in need. That outreach was formalized in 1987 when she founded “Bluffton Self Help.” This organization is still the premier organization in our community, which gives neighbors a bridge to help make life work better during challenging times.

sheet of paper explaining the next steps. On that piece of paper was Brock’s future. It simply stated that if you possess any fire or emergency medical services certificates, please forward them to us. Brock had to accomplish this list of items to improve his chances of joining our team. He was undaunted by this challenge, which required him to commit personal time and finances. Brock enrolled in Technical College of the Lowcountry, where he earned his emergency medical technician certificate. He next applied and was admitted to the South Carolina Fire Academy (SCFA) Recruit School, which required him to be sponsored by a local fire department. He joined Jasper County Fire Rescue as a volunteer firefighter with the hopes of being sponsored. Brock eventually attended the SCFA Recruit School and graduated in late 2020. He remembered that piece of paper he was handed and realized he had finished all the necessary requirements to become a firefighter. We hired him within weeks of his graduation from the academy. My hat goes off to Brock McDaniel for his personal sacrifice, to our honorees for their service, and to every member of our Fire Rescue Department for all they do to serve and protect our community. It’s gotta feel good when you serve, protect and give back.

A Note from Lisa Sulka continued Bluffton Self Help provides financial assistance, food donations and fellowship so neighbors can find their financial footing with dignity, support and love. As if that wasn’t enough, Ida also founded the Bluffton Community Kitchen in 2012, which is still going strong through Campbell Chapel AME Church. President Barack Obama awarded Ida the Presidential Citizens Medal in 2011. The Town of Bluffton also inducted her into the Town’s Wall of Honor in 2012; she was the first woman to receive this honor. Along with his wife, Jake Martin also led a life of serving his community. Spanning decades of public positions, Jake began his career as a police officer in Detroit and a police chief in Illinois. When he returned to Bluffton, he taught government and economics at McCracken High School and retired as an administrator after 23 years of service to the Beaufort County School District. Jake didn’t stop in retirement. He was a municipal court judge for the Town of Bluffton from 1992- 1995. The town is honored to name this beautiful park after these wonderful couple.

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This & That

C2 Magazine • May 2021 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.

TEN BURNING QUESTIONS FOR 10 YEARS OF EAT IT AND LIKE IT

hen you’ve been doing this as long as I have (10 Years), you have very likely heard and/or seen it all. There’s a good chance that I have. One day I will share some horror stories. I’ve also been asked any question you can possibly imagine about food in this area. Still, there are so many people out there who have no idea who I am, what we do or how we do it. So, I thought I would take this opportunity to share. Who are you? (Yes, I’ve been asked that.) Hi! My name is Jesse Blanco. I originally moved to this area in 1999 to be a sportscaster on WSAV-TV. After a few years away, I returned in 2008 to anchor a local newscast. Food was always a hobby. In 2010, we started a blog about food in the Savannah/Hilton Head Island area. Nine months later, we launched a television show. Within a year, we were nominated for an EMMY Award and a brand was born. Our television show currently airs Saturdays at noon on WTOC (CBS) TV. Also available on ROKU app. Are you a chef? No, I’m not. I never claimed to be either. As you can see from my previous response, my background is as a journalist—insatiably curious about food. I am also an expert on my own opinion, which we have shared about food mannnnny times over the years, and fortunately, more people have agreed with me than haven’t. So, do you consider yourself a food critic? No, I do not. Never have either. Have I eaten food I’ve hated? Yes, all the time. Do I write about it? No, I do not. Why not? Because a lot of the food that I hate at times is very popular. I don’t think it’s my place to tell you that you shouldn’t like it. If you do? Good for you. Similarly, I don’t find it productive to waste time dogging people’s hard work. It’s nice to have input, but the market will ultimately determine whether or not a restaurant succeeds or fails. How do you determine who gets featured on your show? The idea was always to share stories about people doing good food. For 10 years, we’ve largely done that. We have always been fascinated by great stories behind your favorite eats. How do we narrow it down? It’s a tough call sometimes. I can also tell you we eat a lot of bad food in search of good food. At one point, I had put on almost 50 pounds. I’ve since given half that back and am always looking to give back some more. And I must mention that no restaurant has ever paid to be on our show. How far do you travel for your show? We’ve gone as far as Nashville, Miami, Charleston—obviously. Atlanta. It’s all about food in the Lowcountry and my travels. There’s a lot of great food out there. Why not share my experience when I find it? Of course, I will. What is your favorite food to eat? Chinese food, all day long. I’ve been known to visit New York City and have Chinese three times in four days. What we have around

here is usually good enough to scratch an itch, but not much more. I am also a huge fan of the classic old-school steakhouse. Our closest example would be Hall’s Chophouse in Charleston. Do you have a favorite restaurant? This is actually my most frequently asked question. And the honest answer is, I do not. I eat out so regularly that it always comes down to what I am in the mood for—usually dish driven. Cravings. Just like you, if you want casual you will go to one spot. If you want fancy, you are going to go somewhere else. In the mix are FARM, Nunzio, OMBRA and Coast. In Savannah, St. Neo Brasserie, Erica Davis Low Country and Collins Quarter. What’s the best compliment you’ve ever gotten? I’ve been told many times that I look like I am having a blast. I absolutely am. I am incredibly lucky. Yes, I eat for a living, and I refuse to complain. But don’t get it twisted; there is a lot of hard work involved. Ultimately, I am a small business owner just like the rest. Tell us one thing people would be surprised to know about you? People are shocked when they hear me say I can be shy and a bit introverted. A lot of times, because I am a television personality, it gets misconstrued as arrogance. I’m glad to talk to anyone who approaches me. But I am also just as fine keeping to myself. Far more than you think, I’ve got nothing to say. Where do you go from here? What’s next for Eat It and Like It? Eat It Florida. I cannot wait. More soon.

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American Heart Association is pleased to announce that MC Riley Elementary School received an athletic equipment donation from Southern Coast Heart Ball sponsor Enmarket. The American Heart Association’s Move More initiative, which encourages physical activity for better physical and mental health is a great time to commit to building in more activity. For information on supporting the American Heart Association’s mission, please contact Ansley Howze, development director, at ansley.howze@heart.org.

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A changing of the guard is underway at one of the country’s best-known golf resorts. Following a 44-year career at The Sea Pines Resort, Cary Corbitt, vice president of sports and operations, is passing the reins to long-time director of golf, John Farrell. Corbitt’s retirement date is May 14, after which Farrell will assume the duties.

On May 12, from 8-9 a.m., the Don Ryan Center for Innovation will be offering a free Zoom webinar, “They ‘Aced It’ and You Can Too: Strategies for a Successful Family Business.” The webinar will be led by Bob, Renee and Bobby Heuser, owners of Heuser Ace Hardware, who will offer their insight into what it takes to launch a family business today plus tips on how they have succeeded in making a family business thrive and grow. To register for the DRCI free Zoom webinars, or for more information, visit the DRCI website at donryancenter.com or the DRCI Facebook page at DonRyanCenter.

This & That

Bonnie Page (left) and Laurie Haven were among the winners of the Hilton Head Island Pickleball Club tournament March 19-20, but the champion was the Deep Well Project, which received $1,872 from the entry fees and donations. The 240-member club is based at the Island Recreation Center, where it offers low-fee drop-in play six mornings a week. For more information, visit hhipbc.com.

Captain Jack Crouch is pleased to announce the opening of Reel Easy Charters, specializing in inshore, nearshore, and offshore fishing, sandbar and shark teeth excursions, and having fun on the water! Reel Easy Charters operates from Broad Creek Marina at Broad Creek Marina Village on Hilton Head Island.

HOTWORX is a revolutionary exercise concept coming to Bluffton this spring. The studio will feature nine infrared saunas (set to 125 degrees) offering an array of HIIT and isometric workouts to members 24/7.

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This & That

The Hilton Head Island Council of the Navy League announced that the Annual Memorial Day Remembrance is scheduled for Monday, May 31 at Shelter Cove Veterans Memorial Park. Brigadier General Julie Nethercot, Commanding General, MCRD Parris Island (invited) is planned to be the guest speaker. A proclamation from the Town of Hilton Head Island will be presented along with the Hilton Head Choral Society performing. Due to COVID restrictions, social distancing will be in effect and the attendance will be limited to 250 guests. RSVP at www. eventbrite.com/e/memorial-day-tickets-149774203675.

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Spending four weeks in January in northern Wisconsin recording a record is not what some might call a vacation. But John Cranford of Cranford Hollow spent his winter vacation recording a new project with a childhood friend in the great white North. Stylistically different from anything Cranford has ever done, the record is called Hwy 40 and is a mix of relaxing tunes he wrote with Ben Hoffmeister. The two have been releasing various singles for over two years, but a full-length album will be available May 20 via bandcamp and on all digital platforms. Join Cranford in Bluffton May 21 at the Roasting Room, where he will perform a few tunes from the record as well as other new material. Check it out via Facebook.com/swampfirerecords or follow HWY 40 on Instagram.

This & That

C2 Magazine • April May 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.

The Women’s Association of Hilton Head Island (WAHHI) recently recognized five area high school students for their community service by awarding one thousand dollars to each of them. The 2021 Youth Community Service recipients are: Ella Brooke Simons, Hilton Head Island High School; Grace Weismantel, Hilton Head Island High School; Madison MacCabe, Hilton Head Christian Academy; Emma Drury, May River High School; and Jack Paul Barney, Hilton Head Prep. In addition to the Youth Community Service Awards, WAHHI announced the selection of two sixtieth anniversary community gifts. The Coastal Discovery Museum will receive $20,000 to fund the construction of a garden labyrinth, and The Sandbox Children’s Museum will receive $2,500 for their new facility at the Lowcountry Celebration Park.

The road to the 121st U.S. Open Championship at Torrey Pines Golf Course (South Course) in San Diego, California will begin with 18-hole local qualifying at 110 sites in 43 U.S. states and Canada between April 26-May 18. Final qualifying, conducted over 36 holes, will be held at 11 courses, including two international, to determine the last spots in the 156-player field for the U.S. Open, June 17-20, 2021. Long Cove Club was selected for local qualifying on Monday, May 10 and a final qualifying site on Monday, June 7. The addition of Long Cove Club as a final qualifying site is due to the recent addition of the PGA Tour event at Congaree Golf Club in Ridgeland, S.C. which will be held June 10-13. Due to COVID-19, the course will be closed to spectators, but you can find results on the USGA website.

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I S C IANS MU in bathrooms M UMUSICIAN: S I C I A N : ZZACH ACH S TEVENS STEVENS

What’s your sign? Leo Most underrated song that, in your opinion, should be a classic? “Reminiscing” by Little River Band Biggest compliment you’ve ever gotten from a fan? Biggest? Not sure. Most frequent? “You sound like John Mayer.” What do you sing in the shower? Funny enough, I don’t. I listen to a podcast. Favorite cereal? Special K Red Berries What is your favorite piece to perform? “You Can Call Me Al” At what venue do you most like to perform? Sandbar Most requested song at shows? Anything James Taylor First concert you attended? Toby Keith, lol Favorite artist? John Mayer

Place you go to get away from it all? The woods Do you tweet, gram, or book? Instagram is @ZachStevensMusic Finish this verse as if it were the hook of a song: “Sally went down to the bayou…” “To eat some gumbo.” Who would star as you in the epic retelling of your life on film? Denzel Washington First instrument you learned to play? Guitar Song you were thrilled to finally master? “My Life,” Billy Joel What do you wish you knew more about? Music theory What animal do you most identify with? A cat If you got super-famous and had to change your name, what would your new name be? Jackie Daytona What famous musician would you love to sing a duet with? Paul Simon

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M AY 2 0 2 1 1 HILTON HEAD HUMANE ASSOCIATION’S DOG WALK ON THE BEACH Saturday, May 1st at 8:15am on Coligny Beach. hhhumane.org

EVERY TUESDAY!

SEA PINES FARMERS MARKET

FARMERS MARKET AT HONEY HORN

Sea Pines Shopping Center 10am-2pm

Coastal Discovery 9am-1pm

MON-SAT KIDS NIGHT OUT The Art Cafe 5:45- 7:15pm $38/child reservations required

SUNDAYS

Shops at Sea Pines Center 4-6:30pm Meet the Artists of Sea Pines

THURSDAYS OLD TOWN BLUFFTON FARMERS MARKET Green Street at Martin Family Park Old Town Bluffton 12-5pm (843) 415-2447

20 CHALKBOARD WORKSHOP EVENT The Art Cafe 6pm-8pm Supplies & instruction provided -Call (843) 785-5525 to sign up!

PICKLEBALL AT PALMETTO DUNES Palmetto Dunes Pickleball Center 9am-6pm palmettodunes.com.

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FIRST THURSDAYS ART MARKET

24 24 31 HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!

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JOHNNY MERCER: THE MAN AND HIS MUSIC Arts Center Tickets: $35 for Single Adult tickets.

PREAKNESS PARTY South Beach Marina Starts at 12pm Live music on the docks and, of course, good ol’ fashioned horse racing!

21 SALTED SOUND HEALING Pure Salt Hilton Head Private hour sessions from 3pm-7pm puresaltstudios.com

28-29 BLACK JACKET SYMPHONY’S RUMOURS Arts Center A Celebration of Fleetwood Mac’s Legendary Album Tickets: $62 for Single Adult tickets artshhi.com

SOUTH BEACH MARINA DERBY PARTY South Beach Marina Starts at 12pm Enjoy mint juleps, bourbon and big hats as we show the race on all our screens.

15 MAY DAY 5K Bluffton Oyster Factory Race starts at 8 am. A virtual option is available.

22 SUMMER KICK OFF BBQ South Beach Marina Live music and mouthwatering bbq to kick off the summer season!

SATURDAYS OUTDOOR YOGA ON THE MARINA Under the Pavilion at Shelter Cove Harbour and Marina at 7:30am puresaltstudios.com

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