One of the first times I ever met or talked to Randy Rose of Rose Hearing Healthcare Centers, he said that to me. I remember it so vividly – even to this day. It must have been something I needed to hear at the time, although, as it has been almost a decade, I can’t remember the reason why. I guess he was right – things did work out.
I ’m a sucker for one-liners and concise words of wisdom. Perhaps that comes from my former mentor Pierce Lowrey. He was the king of inspirational posters on the wall. My favorite might be, “If a customer asks you to do something, you either find a way to do it, or lose a customer.” Not sure why that particular one stuck with me but there is some truth in it. And sometimes it’s OK to lose a customer – after all, “everything always works out.”
I really enjoyed reading through the profiles for this month’s Men in Business. We featured more than 50 local businessmen and I always look forward to gleaning bits of info about their pathways to success. I have to admit that, as I get older, there’s not a lot that surprises me. After almost 20 years putting this magazine out every month, I know what the secret to success is: hard work, day after
day. Or, as Ryan Lockhart, owner of group46 put it, “Simple things done consistently over time create extraordinary results.”
Doug Hoover of Stone Restore shared this business tip: “You’ll never be late if you’re early.” The way I remember it is, “Early is on time, on time is late, and late is unacceptable.” Same message, different verbiage.
Jeff Rehling, the new director of the Institute for Business and Innovation at Hilton Head Preparatory School, shared this advice from his dad: “Everyone says you have to earn a person’s respect. That’s not true. Everyone is born with respect. It’s yours to lose.” Amen, Jeff, amen! Check out his article on page 104.
As the summer winds down and the temperature remains in the high 90s, I hope you take some time to enjoy this issue – and perhaps learn something from the entrepreneurs featured within.
Cheers to all the men in our community doing good things!
MAGGIE WASHO Publisher / Editor-in-Chief
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAYLOR KENT
Article by Cheryl Ricer . Photography by M.Kat
I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream
The dessert that unites us
In 1984, without controversy or protest from either side of the aisle, then U.S. president Ronald Reagan declared July National Ice Cream Month and the third Sunday of said month to be National Ice Cream Day. His proclamation read, “I call upon the people of the United States to observe these events with appropriate ceremonies and activities.”
Since that momentous day in American history, options and innovations for flavors and flairs of this all- and any-occasion treat have expanded our creativity (and sometimes our waistlines) beyond anything that Ronald Reagan could’ve imagined.
According to the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), the average American eats roughly 20 pounds of ice cream each year, or about 4 gallons. Most ice cream companies are family owned and have been in operation for more than 50 years. Ice cream has historically been a part of American communities, and not surprisingly, ice cream companies help support the U.S. economy, contributing more than $13 billion directly to the national economy and supporting nearly 29,000 jobs that generate $1.8 billion in wages, according to IDFA’s Dairy Delivers. In 2021, ice cream makers in the U.S. churned out more than 1.3 billion gallons of ice cream.
So, what is the U.S.’s favorite ice cream flavor? According to IDFA’s 2024 Ice Cream & Frozen Novelty Trends Survey, vanilla is America’s flavor of choice in ice cream, followed by chocolate and strawberry. And according to Statista. com, Ben & Jerry’s is the most popular ice cream brand in the U.S. However, aside from the store-bought brands that we enjoy at home, Americans also enjoy visiting their favorite ice cream shops and are pretty loyal with their patronage.
We pulled together a list of some of the most popular ice cream shops and confectionaries on the island to give you some ideas about where to find the dessert that unites us. Read on for more about the sweetest and smoothest dessert on the planet and what makes each of these island shops unique.
Carolanne O’Fee is phototgraphed next to The Moosual Suspects, a mural she painted at The Ice Cream Cone in Coligny Plaza.
Sno Cones by Chris 114 Helmsman Way (843) 683.0592
For 14 years, Chris Sudduth has been making his own ice (with the texture and consistency of sorbet) and concocting his own flavors (40 in all) that are free from nuts, dairy, and high fructose corn syrup. He also offers sugar- and dye-free options. Sno-Cones by Chris isn’t just a dessert shop; it’s the only custom Lego gallery in the Lowcountry with more than 300 custom-built creations inside. For the past decade, he’s been the highest rated Hilton Head dessert shop on Trip Advisor, and he has a perfect five-star rating on Google.
Hilton Head Ice Cream 55 New Orleans Road (843) 842-6333
This island institution has been making award-winning ice cream since 1982, and the store manager, Jeff, has been there for 20 years. Everything in the store has always been homemade in the back by islanders using the best ingredients to produce the highest quality product. Based on tradition and consistency of product, there are no shortcuts or fillers here, which means no ice crystals or freezer burn, just great taste. The three most popular flavors are Oreo (made with real Oreos), banana pudding (made with real bananas), and salted caramel fudge brownie (made with real salt, caramel, and chocolate).
Kilwins
28 Shelter Cove Lane, Unit 112-B (843) 785-2727
With recipes and methods that haven’t changed since the first store opened in 1947, people love Kilwins because they have all the good stuff- ice cream, cased chocolates, hand paddled fudges, caramels, other confectionary creations, and amazing waffle cones. The Kilwins heritage was built on the simple premise of creating products from the finest ingredients and providing customers with great service. The most popular ice cream flavors are vanilla sea salt caramel and vanilla toasted coconut in those famous waffle cones. Kilwins also offer ice cream cakes for birthdays and other special occasions.
The Frozen Moo Coligny Plaza
1 N. Forest Beach Drive (843) 842-3131
The Frozen Moo is a family-owned dessert parlor serving more than 90 flavors of ice cream, frozen yogurt, and sherbet- the largest selection on the island, maybe even the East coast. It is custom-made in Florida using special pasteurization and homogenization processes specifically for ice cream with fresh, raw (not frozen and thawed) milk and cream. Frozen Moo ice cream is frozen once, which means your ice cream hasn’t been overworked and over-processed.
The Ice Cream Cone Coligny Plaza
1 N. Forest Beach Drive (843) 785-4440
Another island institution, The Ice Cream Cone has been scooping up their famous ice cream, sundaes, frozen yogurt, malts, banana splits, and ice cream cookie sandwiches since 1971. The thing that sets this dessert destination apart is the fun and inviting atmosphere, which includes top-notch service with a smile from some of the friendliest local kids on the island. Along with local artifacts, like shark teeth and arrowheads from our beaches to the one-of-a-kind cow/movie art on the walls. The most popular flavor is their Sea Turtle Ice Cream.
Ryker and Paisley enjoy ice cream cones at Captain Jax on Palmetto Bay Road.
Nonna Marie’s Gelato & Coffee Bar
The Village at Wexford, Suite. G1 (843) 593-0096
Nonna Marie’s Gelato & Coffee Bar opened in 2019 when Nonna and Tom Klinect decided to share their Italian family artisan gelato with the folks on Hilton Head. With lower milk fat and sugar content, this homemade daily treat is more easily digestible than traditional ice cream. They also offer a full Espresso bar, teas, Italian pastry, cookies, cannoli, tiramisu, and cheesecake. What started as a treat they made for their kids at home has now grown to more than 60 flavors that they share with the community. The most popular gelato flavors are the Italian Dark Chocolate or the refreshing Pear and Fig.
The Salty Dog Ice Cream Shop
South Beach Marina
232 S Sea Pines Dr #304 (843) 671-2233
At the Salty Dog Ice Cream Shop in South Beach Marina, every day is the perfect day for ice cream. Jackie, the ice cream creator, is always busy cooking up fun, new, seasonal flavors unique to the Salty Dog that are served up in bowls, cones, or waffles along with your favorite toppings. In fact, making a flavor choice may be the toughest decision you make all day. If you’re craving something special, email icecream@saltydog.com to request it.
Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard
Coligny Plaza
1 N. Forest Beach Drive (843) 341-5587
Rita’s is celebrating their 31st season on Hilton Head this year as a sweet treat island icon. Their famous Italian ices are made fresh daily and when it’s hot, there may be nothing more refreshing. Their soft serve custards, too, are a big hit. If you can’t decide between the two, no problem! Just order a combination of the two in either a shake or gelati. The most popular flavor is mango, followed by lemon and cherry, but if you love chocolate, then you’ll love the Rita’s chocolate. With a rotating selection of more than 95 flavors, you’re sure to find your
favorite. “Have an “ice” day!!”
The Cinnamon Bear Country Stores Harbour Town
149 Lighthouse Rd., Unit
For more than 25 years, The Cinnamon Bear has been helping guests make special memories with their unique variety of local gifts, gourmet foods, children’s toys, apparel, and their delicious ice cream and frozen yogurt. Their claims to fame are delicious ice cream, generous servings (single, double, and triple scoops), and free toppings served in a waffle cone, sugar cone, or bowl. Feeling adventurous? Try their floats, milkshakes or slushies… you won’t be disappointed.
Captain Jax
24 Palmetto Bay Road, Suite G (843) 715-0737
Captain Jax is Hilton Head’s newest destination for all things comics, ice cream, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a casual reader, or just have a sweet tooth, there is something for everyone, including comics for all ages and interests- from the latest superhero releases to classic graphic novels. They serve up Blue Bell ice cream in a variety of flavors along with light, fluffy, mini pancakes, bubble waffles, and a variety of Boba Tea flavors. Captain Jax is also constantly expanding their selections with fun toys, unique finds, and exciting new treats, as well as weekly events and performances.
ARTICLE BY BARRY KAUFMAN
Return of the Draft Kings
How the fantasy of football overtook the reality of football
Alot of people try to pinpoint exactly when the world started going downhill. Some point to the invention of the television, others to the advent of Jeep owners putting little rubber duckies on their dashboard. A few conspiracy theorists note that ever since Harambe the gorilla died, things have been pretty dark.
But I think you have to follow this thread all the way back to 1963 to determine when we lost our way. It was that year when a group of Bay area businessmen formed the “Greater Oakland Professional Pigskin Prognosticators League,” likely after a night of heavy drinking. (But since they were Raiders fans, that’s sort of a given.)
This league, a secretive enclave of administrators and season ticket holders of the then-Oakland-based team, originally ran by invite only. It wasn’t until one of the original members, a guy named Andy Mousalimas, brought it to his bar that it caught on with the public (who had also been drinking pretty heavily by that point. It was the ’60s, after all).
Then, like everything else, the internet took something fun and made it worse. It was only when people could get connected to the entirety of human knowledge through their home computers that they could more efficiently pick out a tight end who was good against a 33 stack defensive scheme.
Fantasy football as we know it today was born, a $3.6 billion industry that combines the excitement of football with the number-crunching delight of doing your taxes.
Look, I don’t want to come down too hard on fantasy football. I love football. Specifically, I love football on Saturdays and Sundays for 18 weeks out of the year. Also Mondays, when the Steelers are playing. And Thursdays if there’s nothing else on. But having to follow individual players I’ve never heard of who play for teams I don’t particularly like? And being emotionally invested in how many rushing yards they get that day? And having to do math? I’ve just never seen the appeal.
It’s almost like they combined the most boring parts of both football and Dungeons & Dragons. But I am clearly alone in this.
Something like 33 million people play every year, almost entirely when they should be working. My own wife joined a league last year, leading to me watching at least four more games a week than I’d normally watch. She ended up placing pretty low in her league, partially because she was leaning on me for pointers and I really just watch it for the violence. (Why do I need to know the guy’s name who just pancaked on an open-field tackle? I’m not his orthopedist.)
My wife’s league, run by a bunch of the wives in our neighborhood, was won by my neighbor Rebekah Runyan. Not only is she an avid Packers fan, her husband, Doug, is like the Ken Jennings of football knowledge. You can ask him who was the second-string quarterback for the 2007 Miami Dolphins and I can almost guarantee he’ll know.*
Myself, I had to google whether Miami fielded a team that year. (They did. But they went 1-15 so they really only fielded a team in the most technical sense possible.)
We asked ChatGPT to generate an image for “guys doing a Fantasy Football draft in a bar” and this is what it spit out. Look closer.
“This was my first year playing fantasy football and I enjoyed it way more than I ever expected to,” Rebekah said. “I definitely watched more football than normal – games I normally wouldn’t care about and teams I don’t like!”
Because she’s a Packers fan, the list of teams she doesn’t like can get kind of long.
“There were a lot of mixed emotions,” Rebekah said. “Prior to being in a fantasy league, I could never have imagined cheering for players on any team other than the Packers – especially rivals (Vikings/Bears), but I’m pretty competitive, so I got over that really quickly.”
So competitive that she won the top prize – a few hundred bucks and a “Fantasy Football Champion” shirt in Packers green and yellow.
And, not for nothing, it brought her and Doug closer together.
“My husband has been telling me for years I should play, but I just didn’t understand the appeal,” Rebekah said. “He loved that I was in a league this year because we ended up watching a lot more football together.”
And while a T-shirt is a pretty amazing prize, it’s nothing compared to what some of the big leagues offer their players. The top prize for one of the two leagues run by Bluffton resident Dick Dancer (not his real name, because I’m pretty sure he runs all this at work and doesn’t want his boss finding out) is $750 and a beautiful “Fantasy Football Champion” belt.
It sure beats what the loser wins. “You have to eat a dozen diner pancakes in one sitting,” Dancer said. “You have to sit there until they’re all gone.”
For Rev. Dancer (yes, he has a fake title for his pseudonym), who’s been running the league for the past 12 years, the football is only part of it. The aggravation is the real job.
“It’s like herding cats,” Dancer said. “You have to get all the guys together for the draft, make sure everyone agrees on rules, league fees, draft dates, trade deadlines, things like that. Most of the time no one gets along. Because they’re guys.”
But once you get past the fights, the scheduling, and the math, you get to the heart of why Dancer has run this league for more than a dozen years, even though he hasn’t won it once.
“We all do it because we all used to work together and it’s become a way to keep in touch over the years,” Dancer said. “We have an in-person draft, so we fly up to New York and all rent a restaurant every year.”
There are a million reasons why people do it. To bond with other fans of the game. To enjoy the camaraderie of forcing someone to eat pancakes. To win $750 and a belt.
Maybe I’ll give it a shot this season. Anyone know if Cleo Lemon is still playing?
*It was Cleo Lemon. I had to google that.
Mike Overton’s passion for the tides led him to set up a windsurfing school on the island in 1979.
MEN IN BUSINESS: LEADING THE LOWCOUNTRY
Article by Lesley Francis
Photography courtesy of Outside Hilton Head
MIKE OVERTON
OF OUTSIDE BRANDS
When Lowcountry residents think about successful men in business, Mike Overton is often one of the first people to spring to mind. The sight of Overton with his beloved Black Labrador, Cali, is a common one around Hilton Head – usually near or around the water.
“What I love best about the Hilton Head Island area is the tides,” Overton said. “Everything here is about the tides: our nature, our history, our culture, our literature. This area and the people in it are bathed in the tides and channeled by the tides.”
Overton’s passion for the tides led him to set up a windsurfing school on the island in 1979. Now, 45 years later, Outside Brands has grown into a dynamic four-division business with operations in South Carolina and Georgia. Driven by a mission to enrich lives by connecting people to exceptional places, products, and experiences, Outside Brands offers fully customized group travel services, team-building programs, activities, and specialty retail.
When he began his windsurfing school, Overton had no idea that he would end up building such a large and successful company.
“I started the business thinking that a windsurfing school on a Southern resort island would be a fun summer job and would help with my business studies,” Overton said. “I did want that summer to be a success, but I did not go into it in 1979 with longterm intentions.”
Like any successful business person, Overton freely admits to learning on the job. “My development as a CEO, like Outside Brands overall, has certainly been an ongoing learning experience,” he said. “I worked hard to expand my knowledge and education, especially when it came to leadership skills. There have been many trials and errors along the way. Among the top things I think I’ve learned is that results are best when the whole team can say they did it themselves.”
Looking back at his early life, Overton acknowledges that his family and education played a significant role in laying the foundations for his later success. “I was fortunate enough to grow up in a family environment that nurtured a strong work ethic, the priority of service, and the value for the outdoors and recreation,” he said.
Unlike many, the focus of Overton’s career has been about the great outdoors and all the recreation,
experiences, and opportunities it offers. He recalls that his father got him and his brother into skiing and sailing almost before they could walk.
“My grammar school was small and in the heart of Washington, D.C. There, I had a headmaster who was passionate about the outdoors and would take us on extended backpacking trips in the Shenandoah mountains,” Overton said. “I went to a high school in the Berkshire Hills of Massachusetts, where much time was spent in the mountains and log cabins that I and other students built. Outdoor trips and adventures as a teenager solidified my love for the outdoors, with climbs of some of the world’s highest peaks, competing internationally in windsurfing, and a nine-month trip in East Africa to climb, sail the Indian Ocean, and trek the length of the Nile River.”
When it came time to go to college, it seemed natural for him to use the opportunity of a business class project to do a study on starting a business in a resort community.
This year, Overton is especially excited about Outside Brands introducing a new era in its premiere destination management services for the Lowcountry of South Carolina with the newly branded Outside DMC. After 15 years of serving as the area’s go-to destination management company, Outside Brands has created the new Outside DMC brand to redefine, reflect, and expand its destination management services. Team members are experienced ambassadors between organizations needing the highest quality tailored events and the best venues, experiences, and contacts in the region.
Outside DMC offers unparalleled knowledge of the region and is uniquely positioned to create corporate events, team-building initiatives, celebrations, and more. Serving the destinations of Hilton Head Island, Palmetto Bluff, and Savannah, Outside DMC has access to and partnerships with exclusive and exceptional locations, restaurants, caterers, experts, and guides, and has the experience to create unforgettable experiences of exceptional quality.
In addition, Outside Brands offers the option of incorporating its private, unspoiled Page Island and the Outside Ohana – a 47-foot luxury catamaran – into curated itineraries for its Outside DMC customers.
“Outside Brands has a four-discipline model of retail, leisure recreation, team and leadership development, and destination management. The launch of Outside DMC to represent our destination management services ensures that all our business sectors are under the umbrella of the Outside name,” Overton said. “We have built our reputation in destination management since 2009 and the new branding reflects the excellent reputation and extensive reach of our company’s name.”
Under Overton’s leadership, Outside Brands has successfully enriched hundreds of thousands of lives by connecting people to amazing places and experiences. His team has helped countless young people who have cut their teeth in the work world at Outside and moved on to create great things and enhance their lives.
Mike Overton on Page Island.
Giving back to the community is important to Overton personally and to Outside Brands as a whole.
“A major goal of Outside Brands is to use the company, to use business as a tool for social change,” Overton said. “To that end, we have a strong focus on protecting and preserving our local environment and supporting the next generation – who often are obsessed with the online and digital world – to simply go outside and play.”
In 2014, Outside Brands was in a position to create the nonprofit Outside Foundation. This organization has allowed thousands of local children to get into kayaks and learn about the Lowcountry’s remarkable environment. The Outside Foundation also works to protect and preserve the Carolina salt marsh and the pristine environment of the Port Royal Sound basin. Find more information about their mission and how to get involved at outsidefoundation.org.
Overton shows no signs of slowing down as he plans to continue to lead the Outside Brands team.
“I’m looking forward to our company’s continued success and growth. I look forward to having the organization continue to be a leader and mentor for both individuals and the community,” Overton said. “I am proud that we now have a team that is leading the company and, while I am still intimately involved, this team is allowing me time to immerse in some of my passions.”
Those passions include kite boarding, wing foiling, outrigger canoeing, standup paddle boarding, hiking, climbing, and his girls. “Personally, my greatest reward has been watching two young ladies that have been in my life since they were toddlers grow to be amazing women,” Overton said.
In his free time, Overton loves to spend time with his family, to challenge himself in the great outdoors, to seek dignity in leadership, and to travel, especially to Third World countries.
When asked what advice he would give to any young adult looking to start a business today, Overton’s answer was simple: “Follow your passion, take risks as life is short, work hard and play hard.”
MEN BEHIND THEBUSINESS
FEATURING...
Nunzio Patruno , John Mallett, Mike Ray, Scott Odom, Matt Tenwolde, Jeff Hunt, Tom and Shawn Pritchard, Doug Hoover, Darrel Quinn, Charles Russo, Judd Tracy, Brian Kinard, Lary Setola Jr, Jim Buser, Mathew Epps MD, Mark Anthony, Randy Rose, Jeff Rehling, Dave Miller, Liam Cronin, Ryan Lockhart, Michael Gonzalez, Robert Moul, Jeff Bradley, Charlie Taylor, Henry Criss, Bob Engler, Kamal Patel, Lowcountry Paver/CurryCrete (Steven Vega, Matthew Curry, Jim Babits, Christopher Curry, and Nick Hesik), Andrew Ambler, HighTide Restoration, Alex Brown, Brendan Downey, Michael E. Frazier, James Dismond, Dr. Grant Evans & Dr. William Durrett, Patrick Carr and Michael Bennett, Andrew Carrabba, and Lucas Brinsa.
JEFF HUNT
Dunes Real Estate 6 Queens Folly Road, Hilton Head Island (843) 842-0893
If you need to understand what sets Jeff Hunt apart as a real estate professional, you could look at the results of the RealTrends Verified rankings. Those numbers tell quite a story, ranking him first for volume in the Hilton Head Island area, seventh in the state of South Carolina, and 842nd in the entire country.
The numbers tell a story, but they only tell part of the story of what sets Hunt apart.
“For me to stand on a stage and say, ‘I’m number one’ is a bit of a falsehood,” said Hunt. “Nobody is successful on their own. It’s my wife, Christine. It’s my assistant, Jenny Filkins. It’s the agents in my company, my attorney, my inspectors … everyone gives me something that makes me better every day.”
And Hunt doesn’t merely rely on those around him for success. He reciprocates, making his successes theirs.
“His approach is always collaborative, never combative,”
REALTOR
said Filkins. “He treats all clients at all price points with the same unwavering level of respect. He takes time out of his day to thank the janitor and remind our support staff exactly how crucial they are to our success. He treats me, as his employee, more like a partner and has created a workplace that has built my confidence as a Realtor as well as a woman in business.”
That collaborative approach has created a community of success around Hunt, extending to those with whom he does business and even to Realtors who would technically be his competition.
“I love working with Jeff. He is a true professional who cares deeply about his clients and takes the time to thoroughly understand their needs,” said Kieron O’Grady of Movement Mortgage. “A big part of this is that he has assembled a strong team to handle all aspects of the transaction – for example, an attorney, mortgage lender, insurance agent, inspector, etc. This professionalism and care lay the groundwork for repeated smooth closings. Basically, Jeff sets up his clients for success.”
Jenny Wells of Keller Williams Realty added, “Jeff is an exceptional realtor known for his outstanding ability to collaborate effectively with other agents. His approach is marked by open communication, mutual respect, and a genuine commitment to achieving the best outcomes for all parties involved. … Deals close (often within 30 days) because great Realtors, like Jeff, make it seem easy.”
JOHN MALLETT
State Farm Insurance 15 Mallett Way, Bluffton (843) 815-4888
Even though it’s a business that he’s made his calling for the past 53 years, John Mallett will be the first to tell you that he entered into insurance with more than a little trepidation.
“I started on April 1, 1971, fresh out of college, and figured it was something I could do until I could find something better,” Mallett said.
In case it isn’t obvious, insurance turned out to be all the “something better” Mallett needed. “I didn’t think I’d like working in contractual
At SNS Technologies, we believe in a tailored approach to IT solutions. Each client’s needs are unique, and we excel in creating customized solutions that provide not just functionality but flexibility. Our proactive approach sets us apart, as we continuously monitor systems to preemptively resolve issues, minimizing downtime and enhancing system reliability. Moreover, our expertise and extensive experience across IT management, cybersecurity, and cloud services empower us to offer not just solutions, but strategic insights that drive business success.
Running a business generally requires you to wear many hats. Is there a specific side of the business you enjoy most?
One of the aspects I enjoy most is working directly with new clients. It’s incredibly rewarding to help them understand how strategic technology solutions can not only protect and grow their business but also enhance how they interact and communicate with their clients securely.
law, but insurance isn’t about contracts. It’s about people, their needs, and aspirations. This business is about helping them meet those needs and get through their problems.”
With that as his guiding star, Mallett has spent 53 years in the people business. And that includes the people he’s gathered around him as staff who have grown to be so much more than just employees. “I’m loyal to them, and I always look forward to coming to work with them, because it’s like working with family,” he said.
Mallett was going to be in insurance only until something better came along. It turned out, State Farm was the best thing that would ever happen.
“I’ve never worked a day in my life,” he said. “I love what I do and I do what I love.”
What do you do for fun when you aren’t working?
When I’m not at work, I love to spend time outdoors, particularly on the water. Taking the boat out around the Hilton Head Island and Bluffton area with friends and family is a favorite pastime.
What is the best business advice you were ever given?
The best piece of advice I’ve received is straightforward but powerful: Do what you say you’re going to do, and show up when you say you’re going to show up. It’s about reliability and trust, the foundations of any successful business relationship.
Do you have any local charitable organizations you support or would like to give a shout-out to?
One organization close to our hearts at SNS Technologies is the Hilton Head Humane Association. Their commitment to making a difference in the community inspires us, and we encourage everyone to consider how they might help. It’s a great reminder of the impact compassionate service can have.
JEFF BRADLEY
Edward Jones Investments 94 Main St., Suite 101, Hilton Head Island (843) 342-6918
When Jeff Bradley was a youth growing up in Alabama, his father, the plant manager of a large manufacturing enterprise, often brought home members of his staff for dinner. Each time, his father expected Jeff to shake each guest’s hand, look them in the eye, and memorize their name.
“My dad was larger than life to me,” Bradley said. “I watched him closely. Lessons like that built in me an expectation of what a man was supposed to do to be successful.”
Bradley learned his lessons well.
Today, Bradley has built a successful career as a financial advisor with Edward Jones Investments, rated among the top five financial services firms in the USA. Here, he helps people of all
ages plan for their financial future by evaluating their personal goals and risks.
Aggie Schmidt, senior administrator for Bradley’s office, said, “Jeff knows how to build trust with our clients by taking a holistic view, which usually leads to more comprehensive, sustainable solutions.”
Bradley is also a highly respected legislator in the South Carolina House of Representatives. He represents District 123, which includes Hilton Head Island, Daufuskie Island, and the southern portion of Jasper County.
Serving since 2014, Bradley has been appointed to several significant leadership roles. He is chairman of the House Regulations and Administrative Procedures Committee, which influences nearly every industry in South Carolina. He is also vice chairman of the House Education Committee, with oversight of the state’s K-12 programs. And, more recently, he was selected as chairman of a newly formed AI, Cybersecurity, and Cybercrime Committee, dedicated to addressing the rapidly developing
technologies of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity in the state.
Rep. Shannon Erickson of Beaufort, chairman of the Education Committee, said Bradley’s business skills lend themselves to good constituent service. “He’s easy to work with and can be trusted,” she said. “He has an innate ability to quickly cut to the heart of what any person he is speaking with needs to have solved.”
Lee Lucier, COO of The Richardson Group on Hilton Head agrees: “Jeff has been a champion for our hospitality industry. He is always a good sounding board for our issues. He helps explore options and consistently provides honest assessments and good guidance.”
During the legislative session, from December to June, Bradley travels to Columbia three times a week. Days begin at 6:30 a.m. and end at 10 p.m. He claims his key to success is “time management and surrounding myself with competent people.”
“Cooking and boating are my therapy, plus saving quality time with my wife,” Bradley said. “Anne is my rock. I never want to disappoint her.”
MATTHEW TENWOLDE
Carolina Veterinary Critical Care
21 Buck Island Road, Bluffton (843) 706-9200
It can be hard for anyone to resist the temptation to bring their work home. As much as we’d like to draw that dividing line between our professional and personal lives, those lines can sometimes become entangled.
When one works with animals, drawing that line can be nearly impossible. In veterinary medicine, “bringing work home with you”
sometimes means adding a new member to the family.
“I try not to do that. Otherwise, we’d end up with a serious menagerie,” said Dr. Matthew Tenwolde with a laugh. “But that’s part of being a vet.”
His family cat is testimony enough to that. Boo Boo Kitty, as he is now known, was a Carolina ditch cat in need of the kind of specialty care that the experienced vet had made his career. “I don’t know what had happened to him, but he needed 10 different surgeries to put him back together,” Tenwolde said.
As the owner of Carolina Veterinary Critical Care, Tenwolde
VETERINARIAN
provides the full array of veterinary services. This does not mean regular checkups and prevention, but emergency services and surgical intervention when your animal is in critical need. He has been doing so for Bluffton’s pets since arriving here in 2019. If anyone could help Boo Boo Kitty, it was him.
Boo Boo Kitty wouldn’t be the last time the good doctor would bring his work home. Miss Lima Bean, a 10-week-old golden retriever, is the latest addition to the Tenwolde home.
“She’s a cute little thing,” Tenwolde said. “She was a relinquishment from a client and the kids love her.”
After a week at Carolina Veterinary Critical Care, she was all fixed up and ready for her forever home. But what does Boo Boo Kitty think?
“He’s very accepting of the new puppy,” Tenwolde said. “I had no idea how it was going to go, but I think they’re going to be good friends.”
But before he expands his menagerie any further, Tenwolde is focusing on expanding his practice. Currently operating primarily after hours and weekends with staff on hand 24/7, he will soon expand into a new facility to allow for that same emergency care around the clock.
“This will allow us to push out our hours and add specialty service,” Tenwolde said. “We’ve recently added a new ER doctor, Madelyne Pieroni, and she’s been a great addition.”
The location is still a work in progress, but once completed, it will allow Tenwolde and his team to help pets across Bluffton – just like Boo Boo Kitty and Miss Lima Bean.
SCOTT ODOM
Sir Grout Lowcountry (843) 920-5559
If you study the great titans of industry, you’ll find one remarkable shared trait. Whether it’s the oil and steel tycoons of the Gilded Age or the future-focused tech gurus of today, they all began building their empires the day they started working for themselves.
It’s a trait you can see in Scott Odom, owner of a Sir Grout empire of franchises here as well
in Scottsdale, Arizona. His entrepreneurial spirit has not only helped him launch these businesses, but to grow them into some of the most successful franchises in the company. And it all started when he decided to bet on himself.
“I worked for a big Hewlett-Packard distributor for a while, and I just got burned out sitting behind a desk,” Odom said. Discovering the possibilities of the Sir Grout franchise model set him on a trail that, for the first time, he would be blazing for himself.
Beginning with a franchise in Charlotte, he asserted himself as a dynamic entrepreneur in this highly specialized field. Upon making his way to the Lowcountry, he would eventually sell the Charlotte franchise
FLOOR RESTORATION
while opening Sir Grout Lowcountry, operating it alongside his other business, 1st Floor Surface Care.
He not only launched these businesses, but also he has proven that he can run them with results that speak for themselves.
“For the past year, Sir Grout of the Lowcountry has been the No. 2 franchise in the entire country,” he said. “I also own Sir Grout Phoenix in Arizona, and that’s a Top 10 franchise.”
It’s an impressive feat in a company that has led the way in the science of restoring stone and tile through proprietary technology and a focus on service.
“The core of our business is resealing and refinishing travertine and marble,” Odom said. “But we still do an awful lot of tile and grout. Not only cleaning, but also color sealing, so we can change the color of grout without changing out grout. And this is not a Band-Aid solution. As long as it’s maintained, it will last indefinitely.”
Of course, like any titan of industry, Odom knows that an entrepreneurial spirit and a quality product are only part of the recipe for success. The key ingredient is getting the right people around you.
“Every person on my team has been with me a couple of years at least, and I have a great GM in Jonathon Russell, who has been with me for almost eight years,” Odom said. “I couldn’t grow my business unless I could trust these guys.”
TOM PRITCHARD, SHAWN PRITCHARD
Absolute Merchant Services LLC
Tom@amscc.net
Shawn@amscc.net (843) 341-6700
Hilton Head Island offers one of the most unique ecosystems in the world when it comes to business. We’re not a center of industry in any sense of the word, and we’re notoriously resistant to corporations. As such, it is fertile ground for growing a small business on the strength of our community’s tight network.
Every one of those small businesses
DOUG HOOVER
What makes your business unique? The specialized skills, and the years that it takes to attain them, make our business unique.
Who was instrumental in setting you on your path to business success? Did you have a mentor?
Serving in the U.S. Marine Corps instilled a work ethic and desire to attain excellence at a
will tell you the same thing – they need to accept credit cards as payment, even if they have to hold their nose while paying the associated fees. For Tom and Shawn Pritchard, brothers and co-owners of Absolute Merchant Services, this created the ultimate opportunity to help small businesses succeed by offering processing that works for them.
“Hilton Head is the only place I’d want to do this, because it’s a relationship type of business,” said Tom Pritchard. “It’s really about being hands on and making life as simple as possible so our clients can just run their business. And if something comes up, they have someone here to help them instead of some customer service rep in another state.”
He’s so sure they can help small businesses, he’ll even offer a free audit of their processing.
“There’s no risk, it’s completely free,” Pritchard said. “We just want to make sure you have the best relationship with your credit card processor.”
very young age, and that has served me well through my business life.
Running a business generally requires you to wear many hats. Is there a specific side of the business you enjoy most?
Generally, I love every aspect of my business, especially the physical act of polishing stone.
What do you do for fun when you aren’t working?
I enjoy boating, hunting, and camping – I love the outdoors.
What is the best business advice you were ever given?
You’ll never be late if you’re early.
Do you have any local charitable organizations you support or would like to give a shout-out to?
Veterans organizations in general, specifically Wounded Warriors.
What would you do differently if you had to do it all over again?
I would start my business at a much younger age.
DARREL QUINN
Quinn’s Diamond Jewelers 1000 William Hilton Pkwy., G-5 Hilton Head Island (843) 342-6663
In the world of diamonds, where labgrown gems have exploded in popularity and caused shockwaves throughout the industry, the value of something is often found only by looking closely.
“When lab-grown diamonds hit the market, I went back to school to learn everything about them,” said Darrel Quinn, the ebullient owner of Quinn’s
Diamond Jewelers. “I had to buy special equipment that’s able to distinguish whether a diamond is lab-grown or earth-mined. Most places aren’t going to invest in that kind of equipment.”
With factories overseas pumping out lab-grown diamonds that are virtually indistinguishable from the real thing, causing prices to plummet, most jewelers have taken a hard-line stance against them. Quinn looks at it differently, simply seeing another option for customers.
“If you want, you can buy a lab diamond, and if you want better quality, you can buy a mined diamond,” Quinn said. “We went
JEWELER
through this same trend with cubic zirconia. We survived that, Moissanite, Yehuda… We’ll get through this and I think the diamond market is only going to increase.”
That perspective is one that Quinn has earned over more than 50 years in the jewelry business, following a family tradition that goes back generations. He has seen the industry inside and out, and he has learned what stones create lasting value and become treasured heirlooms. And he’s also learned that the true value of a jeweler lies in the knowledge they bring to the table, and the trust they earn with each customer.
“You have to trust the place you’re buying a diamond from,” Quinn said.
Earning that trust is a matter of going above and beyond. “I had a customer just yesterday pick out their diamond. I ordered the mounting yesterday and he picked it up two hours ago,” he said. “You can’t get that at most stores; they don’t have the schooling and many years of experience that I have accumulated. A lot of times I will put the diamond in its setting right in front of the customer so they know they’re getting the stone they wanted.”
Looking closely at a diamond is the best way to reveal its true brilliance. And it’s the same way with Quinn. When you walk into his store, greeted by his wide smile and array of fascinating quips, jokes and stories, you see a natural showman. But when you look closely, you see a true master of his craft and an expert with decades of experience.
“After graduation, my dad told me, ‘You’re here to entertain the customer,’” Quinn said. “And by golly I give them a show.”
CHARLES RUSSO III
Russo’s Fresh Seafood Bluffton 246 Red Cedar St., Bluffton (843) 837-7000 russosfreshseafood.com
What makes your business unique?
Russo’s Fresh Seafood Bluffton is a complete processing facility. You can find our team at the docks buying the whole fish directly from the captains, breaking it down for wholesale and retail, all in-house. We control the entire process, eliminating unnecessary chemicals for a purer product. Our store offers spices, pasta, and sauces, as well as wine and beers, that pair perfectly with our seafood.
Running a business generally requires you to wear many hats. Is there a specific side of the business you enjoy most?
JUDD TRACY
Charter One Realty The Reed Team (843) 290-1833
When you’re buying a home in the Lowcountry for the first time, a real estate professional you can trust is something that you want. But when you’re buying a home in the Lowcountry from hundreds of miles away, that trust becomes something you need.
Earning that trust is something around which Judd Tracy has built his real estate career.
“It’s just a matter of taking that extra step to be there for clients,” Judd said. “Most people don’t live here, so I get very hands-on, serving as their ‘boots on the
I truly enjoy building and maintaining relationships with our local fishing captains. It’s more than just business – their knowledge of the waters ensures the freshest seasonal catch reaches our shores, and ultimately, your plate. By collaborating with chefs, we can translate the ocean’s bounty into innovative seasonal menus. This, in turn, ensures responsible fishing practices and prevents overfishing. It’s a winwin for everyone: vibrant menus, happy customers, and a healthy ocean for generations to come.
What do you do for fun when you aren’t working?
The ocean has always been a part of my life. When I’m not at the market, there’s nothing I enjoy more than being out fishing and spending quality time with my family.
Do you have any local charitable organizations you support or would like to give a shout-out to?
This year, we proudly supported the Palmetto Animal League with our successful oyster roast. We look forward to continuing this event every year.
ground’ and getting them all the information they need.”
His thorough knowledge of the Lowcountry comes from the 18 years he’s lived here, raising children and becoming a part of the community. And even then, he goes above and beyond by combining that local knowledge with insights gained during his previous career in banking.
“My background in banking is beneficial because I can point them in the right direction toward whatever it is they’re looking to do,” Tracy said. “Having worked in the business, I know which lenders are going to be the best fit for their needs.”
That broad base of experience has provided a foundation for a career with Charter One that has let Judd serve as an ambassador for Hilton Head and Bluffton and a valuable local guide to countless clients across the country.
BRIAN KINARD
Dunes Real Estate
6 Queens Folly Road, Hilton Head Island (843) 301-0814
Of the Lowcountry’s many titans of industry, there are few who wear as many hats as Brian Kinard. Regular readers of C2 may remember him as one of the “Surf Gods with Dad Bods” profiled in June 2024.
An avid outdoorsman and surfer, Kinard is raising the next generation of the island’s surfing community, having been
drawn to the island to work as a boat captain after teen years spent in the rodeo.
These days, he’s left the rodeo and the captain’s hat behind and entered an entirely new arena as one of the island’s most serially involved real estate professionals.
“Getting contracts to the closing table for buyers and sellers and working alongside other committee members in shepherding real estate legislation is definitely harder than roping calves,” Kinard said with a laugh.
But to hear him talk about it, and to hear the excitement in
REALTOR
his voice when talks about the work he does for the real estate community, you can see he’s having just as much fun now as he ever did in the rodeo. As he has built his career and his reputation at Dunes Real Estate as a trusted service-oriented real estate advisor, he has immersed himself in leading the business behind the scenes.
“I think we have an obligation to serve our professional body and to serve our community,” Kinard said. “It’s not about what you sell, it’s the whole picture. I just think it’s important to give back and to be a servant leader.”
A past president of the Hilton Head Area Realtors organization, he has served on committees and boards that have advocated for better flood insurance coverage, crafted a strategic vision for the island’s next 30 years, and worked with legislators at the state level to benefit homeowners.
“I enjoy the policy and politics side of it,” Kinard said. “That advocacy is an area in which the association of Realtors really excels and does a lot of good, not just for the Realtor member, but also for homeowners and the community at large.”
In recognition of all the work he has done, not just for his clients but for his colleagues and community, he was named Realtor of the Year in 2022. This well-earned accolade adds one more hat to Kinard’s head, and another dimension to a father, surfer, Realtor, and vital asset to our community.
LARRY SETOLA JR.
Hilton Head Furniture Company
Just Cushions & Upholstery
45 New Orleans Road
hhifurniture.com
It’s one thing to hang out your own shingle and launch a business that’s all your own. It’s quite another to carry on a legacy by taking the family business, and supersede it while honoring the generations that came before you.
It was precisely this tightrope that Larry Setola Jr. began walking over a decade ago when he joined the business that his father, Larry Sr., founded 30 years ago. A thirdgeneration crafter with a needle and thread,
Larry Sr. launched Just Cushions & Upholstery in 1994 as a shop where the traditions of his craft could continue. Reupholstering furniture to bring older furniture to new life and crafting custom cushions, Larry Sr. built a business that has become an institution on Hilton Head Island.
Larry Jr. joined the firm with an eye on the future. This meant expanding beyond the niche trade in which the generations before him specialized by escalating their offerings to include home furnishings and new, custom, American-made furniture that would live up to the family’s high-quality standards.
“Through Just Cushions, we were seeing the reprehensible ‘quality’ of newer furniture coming through our
doors, and I knew that we could find better quality products for our clients than what was being offered out there,” Larry Jr. said.
Underpinning this expansion was the personal service and commitment that Larry Sr. had established.
“We began doing something new, but I instilled the generational core principles in the forefront. We’re still in the business of educating our clients, offering top-quality products, all while going above and beyond on the customer service side of things,” Larry Jr. said. “It’s a mix of our old school philosophies with my new school vision.”
It was immediately evident that Larry Jr. was on the right track. In just a short time after finding a worthy and exclusive North Carolina-based custom furniture manufacturer, he began offering new 100% Americanmade furniture to their clients in 2018, starting from a catalog. Then in 2020, he expanded into a 1,500-square-foot showroom, cutting into the vast warehouse space at the rear of the storefront. And now they’re expanding again.
“By the fall of 2024, we will have converted 90% of our 7,000-square-foot building into our showroom and design center space that will showcase our custom American-made new furniture,” Larry Jr. said. “We’re still going to have our upholstery shop; we’re just going to condense the workshop area to maximize our retail space.”
Just as he has for 30 years, Larry Sr. will continue to use his seasoned craftsmanship to tailor custom cushions and reupholster furniture. But now, he’ll do it surrounded by his son Larry’s new and improved furniture showroom, which will exhibit furniture that meets even his stringent standards, revealing how the next generation is leading the family business into the future.
JIM BUSER
SA Sports Inc. Sports Addiction
200 Okatie Village Drive, Bluffton (843) 815-8281
Of the many ventures that Jim Buser now runs, which includes Old Town Bike Barn, Hilton Head by Boat, and Golden Isles Bike Rentals, his first taste of success came when he opened the cycling and fitness store Sports Addiction. As such, you’d assume that the name of the firm under which he runs it all, SA Sports Incorporated, draws from that first venture.
But the SA in SA Sports Incorporated doesn’t stand for Sports Addiction. It serves as a constant reminder to Buser to Stay Active.
“That’s the whole premise behind all my businesses, staying active. That’s what I’m all about,” Buser said. “Keep moving, keep living – whether it’s playing sports, biking, swimming, running, or whatever.”
It’s not just a slogan, it’s something he lives every day, whether it’s the hour-long bike ride every other morning or the three days a week he spends swimming, he’s always on the move.
“My wife Marri says I walk around with a tail, because I never sit down,” he said with a laugh. And while he’s under strict doctor’s orders to cut back on the running, he gets more than his steps in running his various business ventures.
There is, of course, Sports Addiction, the flagship enterprise he founded more than 20 years ago. A full-service cycling and fitness equipment store, it has become the destination for people in the Lowcountry who, like Buser, are always on the lookout for ways to stay active.
Then there’s Old Town Bike Barn, the iconic little blue structure in Bluffton’s Promenade that rents and repairs bicycles. Hilton Head by Boat followed, a fleet consisting of the center console Triton and the 26-foot Hurricane Godfrey, offering sunset sail and dolphin cruise charters. And his latest venture, Golden Isles Bike Rentals, sees his empire expand beyond the Lowcountry and into St. Simons Island, Georgia.
And while the purpose of most empires is to conquer, Buser sees it as a rising tide that lifts all ships. “There’s so much more opportunity now than when I was starting out, so I’m always trying to help someone else who’s trying to open their own business,” he said. That includes occasionally referring customers to the cycling club run by a rival bike outfitter or pointing them towards other charter companies.
“When I was running, I just worried about myself, not about my competition,” Buser said. “If I concentrate on myself, I’m going to be OK and the guy next to me is going to be OK.”
MARK ANTHONY
Musician / Entertainer
Hilton Head Island
markanthony55@gmail.com
706-714-4402
markanthonyhhi.com
What makes your business unique?
My music is unique because I can play songs that date back 50 years – from Frank Sinatra to Jimmy Buffett. I also use a loop that allows me to have drums and bass accompany me – so my performances sound more like a full band than just guitar. I am very conversational and love to mingle in the audience as I play.
Who was instrumental in setting you on your path to business success? Did you have a mentor?
I began playing in my church at a very young age and later developed into several bands that actually paid my way through school. I was on a music scholarship as well at the University of Georgia.
Running a business generally requires you to wear many hats. Is there a specific side of the business you enjoy most?
I absolutely have to wear many hats in the music business. I am very easy to work with and am very flexible yet professional when it comes to details. I have to rehearse old songs and learn new ones to be the best at entertaining. I have learned to read an audience and can choose my
MUSICIAN
songs based on their satisfaction. I also have to keep fit, because moving equipment is hard work. But I love the people mostly, and it is absolutely all worth it to make my audience happy.
What would you like to never do again if you didn’t have to?
I am very content in being a solo performer – I do not want to play in bands again. Depending on other people to give their best at every job can be disappointing.
What do you do for fun when you aren’t working?
I love to ride my bicycle on the beach – it’s one of my favorite things! I am a for-fun golfer (I don’t take it too seriously). I also love to cook. When my wife had her knee surgeries, I took up cooking and now I love it. But my greatest love is playing music for my family. They are my biggest fans.
What is the best business advice you were ever given?
My mother and father gave me probably my greatest advice in this business. They said, “Son, you will not be the greatest guitarist or the greatest singer – but if you choose the greatest songs, people will love your music.”
Do you have any local charitable organizations you support or would like to give a shout-out to?
I have always thought it was important to give back to one’s community. I support Tunnels to Towers as well as the YMCA and, of course, my church and several organizations that distribute the Gospel. I love to play at senior living homes because I know such a diversity of songs and they love to hear songs they grew up with.
as he chased his calling in plastic surgery.
time four children 5 years old and under – all over the East Coast, including Long Island, New York, and Atlanta. All the while, Dr. Epps has felt a pull back home, recalling “the beauty of the Lowcountry, our friends and family, Southern manners, and the river. It’s also a wonderful place to raise children.”
As fate would have it, Dr. Epps and his family relocated from Atlanta to Bluffton, which is now their home. Mathew Epps MD Plastic Surgery/FACE Aesthetics Medical Spa opened a few years ago, where Dr. Epps offers non-surgical and surgical treatments for facial rejuvenation.
Mathew Epps MD Plastic Surgery 29 Plantation Park Dr Suite 302, Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 707-7060 matheweppsmd.com
Returning home to the beauty of the Lowcountry with a family of six is a dream realized for Dr. Mathew Epps. He brings with him decades of accomplishment and unmatched training in his field of aesthetic plastic surgery. Dr. Epps, a third generation Blufftonian and third generation physician, left his home behind
Not only did Dr. Epps earn his medical doctorate alongside a graduate degree in medical pharmacology, he pursued the type of advanced education that few achieve while working alongside legends in the field of plastic surgery. While most plastic surgeons complete their training in three years, Dr. Epps realized his passion for facial plastic surgery and pursued further advanced training for an emphasis on facial, oculoplastic (eyelid) and aesthetic breast surgery.
His endeavors took him, with his family in tow – including at one
The practice is unique to this area as it offers expert advice and direct supervision from an advanced trained plastic surgeon to ensure patients receive the best treatments, techniques, and results. The concierge style of the practice allows Dr. Epps and his staff to spend ample time with patients. It allows Dr. Epps to focus on the art of facial plastic surgery and procedures that drove him to become a plastic surgeon, including facelift, brow lift, and eyelid surgery.
The true honor for Dr. Epps is seeing the confidence he gives his patients.
“These folks come out so happy, it’s life changing,” Dr. Epps said. “They’re all active, social, and they want to look the way they feel.”
Mathew T. Epps MD, MS, DABS is a triple fellowship trained aesthetic plastic surgeon specializing in facial, eyelid, and breast surgery. Visit matheweppsmd.com or email info@dreppsmd.com.
RANDY ROSE
Rose Hearing Healthcare Centers
1505 Main St., Hilton Head Island (843) 547-5832
108 Buckwalter Pkwy., Suite 2G, Bluffton (843) 594-1787
What makes your business unique? We are considered medical retail, providing Class III medical devices. We are licensed to provide hearing evaluations and hearing aids to help those afflicted with hearing loss.
Who was instrumental in setting you on your path to business success? Did you have a mentor?
I was fortunate. I was working at the Tinnitus Research Center just out of college and an audiologist named Ron came to learn about what we did. He and I hit it off, and he invited me to visit his office in Oregon. During the visit, I watched him help people hear better, and their happiness was inspiring. As I was leaving, he asked me to come and work for him. I said yes! Now, 45 years later, I still love what I do.
Running a business generally requires you to wear many hats. Is there a specific side of the business you enjoy most?
JEFF REHLING
Hilton Head Preparatory School 8 Fox Grape Road, Hilton Head Island (843) 715-8506
What makes your business unique? While teaching at the University of South Carolina, I was frustrated with the lack of business acumen from our freshmen. Hilton Head Preparatory School approached me about leading a new business program and I accepted. The school’s approach to curriculum and their flexible schedule gives me the freedom to build the program in the best interests of the students, which is unique and at the heart of Prep’s entire college preparatory focus. We are just getting started, but it will be a unique business program with innovation integrated throughout. Our goal is to create a next practice learning experience unique not only to the island, but to the region and the entire state.
Running a business generally requires you to wear many hats. Is there a specific side of the business you enjoy most?
I love the creative side of business,
My wife and I had multiple offices in California before moving here, and what was hard was dealing with employee issues. When we landed here, all I really wanted to do was work with patients to help them find a better life with better hearing. So, my wife handles the books and the advertising. I handle everything else, mostly providing treatment for the hearing impaired. Having built a great team I could not do what I do without the support of my team, we have synergy!
What would you like to never do again if you didn’t have to?
I truly have no regrets; we have had a great time. Someone once said, “If you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life.” I found my place!
What do you do for fun when you are not working?
We love to travel, walk on the beach, read, listen to music, play games, ride bikes.
What is the best business advice you were ever given?
The harder you work the luckier you get!
Do you have any local charitable organizations you support or would like to give a shout out to?
The Bargain Box, The Litter Box, God’s Goods, and Bluffton Self Help
What would you do differently if you had to do it all over again?
I pondered this question a lot, and I cannot think of anything. We are who we are by what we go through in life, and I love my life.
including building new things, solving problems, and telling stories. It’s what I enjoy about Prep – every day is different, so there are definitely many hats, although that’s also part of the challenge and opportunity.
What do you do for fun when you aren’t working?
No better place than Hilton Head for my lifestyle! I enjoy playing pickleball and golf, being on or in the water, biking, or walking our dog, Rona. Fishing is next on my list. We also enjoy traveling and spending time with our four kids.
What is the best business advice you were ever given?
My dad told me early in my career, “Everyone says you have to earn a person’s respect. That’s not true. Everyone is born with respect – it’s yours to lose.”
Do you have any local charitable organizations you support or would like to give a shout-out to?
First is Hilton Head Prep. Besides teaching, I’m involved in community outreach, mentoring, and much more. I also volunteer at Deep Well, which does great work in our community. We’re relatively new to the area, so I’m still learning about new ways to get involved.
DAVE MILLER
To become superior at what you do, one has to be consistent at getting things done, and doing the right things. At Superior Services, owner and president Dave Miller has gotten this right this for a quarter century, growing the business, taking chances, and building a team with a combined 500 years of expertise to deliver on the promise that “The customer is always right, and the experts are always there.”
To Miller, “always” means always, all the time, which over the years has become the
well-known Superior Services calling card. Customers know they’ll receive all-inclusive, all the time, 24/7/365 support from the team, a vision that Miller birthed and is proud of. He is quite aware that in order to keep an “always” promise, you need a superior team, cultivating a culture of buy-in to that level of commitment. This takes setting the tone from the top, from the leader. To forge a superior team, it takes a superior leader.
Miller remembers a time in his teens when he “borrowed” his father’s boat and got it stuck on a sandbar. Instead of waiting for the tide to rise, his father brought him a shovel to dig it out of the sand to get it back to shore sooner, not later. This lesson taught Miller the value of problem-solving and never settling or giving up. This spirit of perseverance has been priceless in Miller’s journey.
Starting with just a single pickup truck, a keen business sense, and a lot of hustle, Miller built the company on a foundational understanding that residential and commercial heating and air conditioning services are always needed, especially in the sweltering summers and wet winters of the Lowcountry.
After establishing a recognized name throughout the area, Miller could have let it ride, maintaining the pace of success. Instead, he took the risks necessary to level up. Drafting a team of experts that has grown into a 100-member organization, Miller succeeded at connecting multiple home services (adding plumbing, electrical, air quality, water filtration, restorative services, and more) providing everything his customers need to bring a home to life, under one brand.
Maintaining this level of precision performance has not been easy but worth it, according to a community of satisfied clients and Miller. Miller said the one consistent factor through the years is the understanding that, “Life is going to throw everything at you, but it’s not how many times, or how hard it’s thrown, it’s how many times you get back up. I am committed to getting back up again and again, persevering through any challenges in business and in life. It’s hard to beat a person who never gives up.”
That philosophy mirrors what Superior Services delivers to clients: Life throws the unexpected at you and your home. And when it does, the team at Superior helps get your systems back up again (or provides preventative care) to keep your home running, responding to “always needed” by being “always there.” All led by someone who won’t be sitting down on the job, but found leading by example and forging through the obstacles to a superior success.
LIAM CRONIN
The Lowcountry Group
Engel & Völkers Hilton Head 800 Main St., Suite 110 Hilton Head Island 843-290-7770
What makes your business unique?
We are a cohesive brokerage of full-time agents with tremendous energy. One of our differentiators at Engel & Volkers is our expansive national and global presence. Our esteemed brand recognition and robust networking capabilities set us apart, enabling effective marketing outreach beyond the Lowcountry to tailor our clients’ homes to specific target
markets. It’s one thing to track where (in the country) our buyers are coming from and another to reach out directly to that market and create relationships with shops and realtors.
Who was instrumental in setting you on your path to business success? Did you have a mentor? I’ve been fortunate to have had several mentors throughout my life who have helped me prepare for the future, long before my real estate career began. They know who they are, and if I’ve done my job, they know how deeply grateful I am for their guidance, lessons, encouragement, unwavering support, and drive.
Running a business generally requires you to wear many hats. Is there a specific side of the business you enjoy most? Having a past client reach out for help or referring me to a neighbor, friend, or family member has got to be at the top of the list for most enjoyable and rewarding. It says everything you need to know about how you are conducting your business and the value you provide.
What would you like to never do again if you didn’t have to? I don’t like turning my socks right side out; guess I’m not old enough. (Jevon plug)
What do you do for fun when you aren’t working?
I love spending time with my wonderful family; my beautiful and talented wife, Candice Rae, keeps a busy schedule with her jazz band Folderol (shameless plug) and our adorable son, Caleb. We thoroughly enjoy Sunday golf cart rides to brunch and a sunset cruise on the May River with friends.
What is the best business advice you were ever given? Focus on the relationships, not the transaction, and be consistent with your activities.
What would you do differently if you had to do it all over again?
Honestly cannot say that I would do it differently. I am grateful for the lessons I’ve learned and proud of the business and relationships I have created. Both of those take time, energy, and intention – not something that can be fast-tracked.
RYAN LOCKHART
group46 Marketing 1323 May River Road, Suite. 202 Bluffton, SC (843) 540-0567
Abrand visionary and innovator in the advertising landscape, Ryan Lockhart has spent 15 years sculpting identities and devising strategic marketing initiatives. He summarizes his success in one unwavering principle: “Simple things done consistently over time create extraordinary results.”
According to Lockhart, president of the results-making brand development agency group46 marketing in downtown Bluffton, that’s the core cure on which he has built the business. It’s also one of the top tactics he teaches his portfolio of high velocity clients and companies he serves as a fractional chief marketing officer.
“Not much works in life in bursts or sprints. You can’t brush your teeth for 24 hours straight and quit for the year,” Lockhart said. “You must create patterns and disciplines you can deliver on with regularity and dependability. The consistency of the actions you take in life can bring the results and growth you’re looking
for, no matter what’s going on in the world. Times may be uncertain; business doesn’t have to be.”
Watching so many businesses try to get off the ground with shortterm vision and die out, Lockhart is on a mission to explain why that’s not sustainable and exchange that plan for one that lasts.
“Success breeds complacency. Someone with a goal of losing 20 pounds may get to 15 and reward themselves with cake. Students get lax before graduation,” Lockhart said. “In business, we see when sales and cash flow is high, complacency sets in and marketing efforts relax. We believe in setting goals that take years and breaking them down into simple steps that can be consistently done. Set a deliberate plan and work towards it over time. Your growth will be not just dependable, it could be exponential.”
Practicing what he preaches, Lockhart has maintained consistent wins all over, constantly moving the goal marker forward. “Goals should make you nervous while challenging you,” he said. “Being an Ironman athlete is a great example of a goal that takes me a year to prepare for, for a competition that lasts just one day.”
“Raise Your Game” serves as his
company’s mission statement – one for himself, as well as for the clients he encourages to set a goal, all while helping them get to that goal and pushing them to see beyond the finish line towards more. For Lockhart, this means engaging on a level deeper than superficial transactions, building relationships with his clients and community.
“This philosophy is important in business, in life, and in faith. The world is so transactional today. Fast-food relationships. Fast-food business. Fast-food faith,” Lockhart said. “In my personal life, in raising kids, and as a follower of Christ, I’ve learned it doesn’t get easier. Commitment is a consistent uphill climb, but you get stronger on the level you’re at and discover heights you didn’t have in sight before. I am grateful to understand that I need the supernatural strength and wisdom of God and not just myself.”
The enthusiasm with Lockhart is a fire starter that trades flash-inthe-pan for long-term plan and with a faith-filled belief system. It’s not five seconds of fame, nor is it a sprint, but a life marathon. It’s lighting an Olympic flame and carrying it far beyond a finish line.
MICHAEL GONZALEZ
B-Jack’s Deep South Mercantile ERA Evergreen Real Estate 16 Church St., Suite 101 Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 816-2624 michael@bjacksdeepsouth.com
What makes your business unique?
As the owner of ERA Evergreen Real Estate for 25 years and the broker for many of those, I was looking for another business to put my creativity in. I got my inspiration for B-Jack’s Deep South Mercantile from my kids, Braeden and Jack. They are both outdoor boys and May River rats, with Jack being the fisherman and Braeden being the sporting clays enthusiast and a member of the Cross Schools Sporting Clays Team. There really wasn’t anywhere to get what I call “Bluffton-wear” in Old Town for men or boys, so the idea for the store came from trying to fill that need. Our space on Church Street opened up unexpectedly right next to my Bluffton real estate office so I went for it! We did also start selling a large selection of women’s Free Fly Apparel soon after opening.
ROBERT MOUL
Moul Enterprises 1132 May River Road, Bluffton (843) 321-9036
What makes your business unique?
As a real estate investor, short term rental operator, owner of a local real estate brokerage and resident of the Lowcountry since 2007, I can provide a unique insight into the local market, whether you are looking to buy or sell property for personal or investment reasons.
Who was instrumental in setting you on your path to business success? Did you have a mentor?
I have had several mentors over the years during key times in my career development. Rich Pesce was my first boss in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, who always said “If you accept second best, you’ll always be second best.” And my father, Bob Moul, has always been an instrumental figure in my life as a serial tech entrepreneur forging his own paths in Philadelphia.
Running a business generally requires you to wear many hats. Is there a specific side of the business you enjoy most?
I love the real estate investing side of the business – specifically in the development side, from purchasing property for renovation and sale as well as rental investments. My wife and I own seven local Airbnbs, all of which we renovated completely and staged. And she now
Running a business generally requires you to wear many hats. Is there a specific side of the business you enjoy most?
Being a real estate broker and retail business owner are definitely two different animals. Real estate requires a lot of contract and legal knowledge and the ability to manage 45 agents and four offices. The store is where I can express my creativity, from the store design to the selection of inventory. Really, I enjoy both, because they allow me to use my knowledge of real estate to help clients buy and sell homes, but I get to have fun with the store.
What do you do for fun when you aren’t working?
It can be a lot of work but we really enjoy getting out on the river on the boat and heading to Hudson’s for brunch, then the sandbar and Daufuskie. Also, golf carting around Old Town Bluffton is one of our pastimes.
Do you have any local charitable organizations you support or would like to give a shout-out to?
Both companies are huge supporters of the Bluffton Chapter of the Coastal Conservation Association. We also support the Lowcountry Autism Foundation and Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, as well as various other fantastic charities.
manages the rental side full time, while staying at home with our two boys.
What do you do for fun when you aren’t working?
My wife always says I work too much and I need a hobby, so I’ve recently gotten into the classic car scene and made my first purchase – a 1970 Ford Mustang Mach I. I spent the past 10 months having it renovated in Daytona Beach and I’m excited to get it on the road!
What is the best business advice you were ever given?
I’ve gotten lots of great advice over the years. But I think finding The Secret – using the power of positive attraction – really changed my life.
Do you have any local charitable organizations you support or would like to give a shout-out to?
We actually have our own charity program, The Moul, REALTORS® Heroes Program, where we give back to our local heroes –teachers, firefighters, police officers, EMS, doctors, nurses and our wonderful military. We have two ways of giving back: We provide a 25% rebate of our commission when a hero buys or sells a property; and we also give back directly through our donations program by funding lunches for our local heroes and school supplies for teachers, for example.
What would you do differently if you had to do it all over again?
Get into sales sooner. Success comes from not being the best but doing your best every single day, consistently, over and over.
NUNZIO PATRUNO
Nunzio Restaurant + Bar 18 New Orleans Road
Hilton Head Island (843) 715-2172 www.nunziohhi.com
What makes your business unique?
Nunzio is in the business of making people happy and we love what we do.
Who was instrumental in setting you on your path to business success? Did you have a mentor?
There were many great people who influenced me along the way, but in the end it came down to one person, Maribel Patruno. Chef Angelo Consoli was my mentor as a chef. Michele Piepoli was a business visionary, and under him I learned everything is possible as long as you are committed to the vision you want to realize.
RESTAURATEUR
Running a business generally requires you to wear many hats. Is there a specific side of the business you enjoy most? What would you like to never do again - If you didn’t have to?
I enjoy putting together the entire concept to be a great restaurant. I would like to never be in a business partnership.
What do you do for fun when you aren’t working?
I like to spend time with my wife traveling and visiting friends.
What is the best business advice you were ever given?
Pick your field, establish your reputation, and capitalize on it.
Do you have any local charitable organizations you support or would like to give a shout-out to? We work with many good organizations. The Italian American Club of Hilton Head is one that we support with their work in raising funds to help underprivileged youth.
What would you do differently if you had to do it all over again?
I would not change anything. I always look forward.
CHARLIE TAYLOR
May River Mattress Company 1060 Fording Island Road, Suite B, Bluffton (843) 836-2337
What makes your business unique?
Mattress shopping can be incredibly confusing. Under normal circumstances someone generally shops for a mattress every 10 years or so, which means there’s very little that’s going to be similar to the last time you purchased one. Our approach is based in education and tailored to the person’s specific sleep style. We guide you through the process and
tell you what to look for with each mattress that will affect how you sleep each night.
Who was instrumental in setting you on your path to business success? Did you have a mentor? I’ve been fortunate to have many guiding forces in my life that I feel have led me to this venture. Probably none are more important than my grandfather and my father, both of whom started and ran businesses here in the Lowcountry. Being lucky enough to have that as an example growing up, there was never much hesitation.
Running a business generally requires you to wear many hats. Is there a specific side of the business you enjoy most?
I’m lucky to have a little parttime help so I can spend some time with my wife and girls, but yes, I wear all the hats. Working with customers and helping them find a better night’s sleep is certainly the most rewarding.
What would you like to never do again if you didn’t have to?
Unloading big, heavy kingsize beds is certainly a hat I’d willingly give up.
What do you do for fun when you aren’t working?
Getting out on our boat with the wife and kids. There is something special about the waters of the Lowcountry.
What is the best business advice you were ever given? Take care of the customer and do what you say you’re going to do; the rest will take care of itself.
Do you have any local charitable organizations you support or would like to give a shout-out to?
We believe heavily in giving back to our community and have done so to groups that align closely with what we value most, our Lowcountry environment and our children. We proudly support the Outside Foundation, Coastal Conservation Association, Island Recreation Center, and others.
What would you do differently if you had to do it all over again?
Nothing. All of my decisions have led me to exactly where I am right now and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
HENRY CRISS
The Fraum Center 1403 Main St., Hilton Head Island (843) 755-6191
When you find a way to make good on an already rewarding service, you’re on the precipice of community-changing influence. That’s where Henry Criss and The Fraum Center find themselves amid a transformative journey into an integrated medical facility committed to impacting and changing lives in this community.
Established on Hilton Head Island in the early 1990s, The Fraum Center has a three-decade legacy as a premier clinic in the Southeast and is now entering “a new era of proactive health” under its new owner-operators, Criss and Dr. Heather Hinshelwood.
While Hinshelwood runs the medicine, Criss runs the business, and it’s a business for which his career to date has prepared him well, building on years of leading organizational change, healthcare management, and public policy work. Criss’ history of multi-sector management from a servant-leadership
perspective sets the practice’s tone of being relationally centered. It also reaches an even more personal level with Criss and Hinshelwood, as they are not only partners in business, but in life.
“I’ve spent years as a student of human behavior and people-centered leadership. In business, you can manage money, equipment, logistics, schedules, etc., but you have to lead people and be passionate about relationships,” Criss said. “Without leadership, a team can suffer – and ultimately patients and quality of services will too. No matter your industry, it must be about the people and how you can make the greatest impact in their lives.”
Criss brings much to the new era of The Fraum Center by putting his multi-sector management skills to powerful use each day to manage, plan, strategize, execute, and solve problems.
“You have to count the beans and put them in the right piles, because you can’t improve what you can’t measure,” Criss said. “More importantly, you must understand why what you are doing works. Without that, you can’t build on it and go farther. We’re looking to go farther, and to meet greater and growing needs for our patients and maximize their outcomes.”
Criss acknowledges that he and his partner work well together, each in a
defined part of the business.
“Knowing Dr. Hinshelwood is no stranger to the triage side of medicine and the fast-paced, high-level of activity necessary out front, I provide the complimentary side behind the scenes as the businessperson managing those demands and wrapping up the process successfully,” he said.
Criss is in the final stages of completing his MBA at the Citadel Graduate College, which will be another top achievement on his list without trumping the pride of raising his family alongside Dr. Hinshelwood. He also serves on the board of directors for the Hilton Head Island VanLandingham Rotary Club, is a graduate of the Hilton Head IslandBluffton Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program (for which he also serves on the program’s board of regents) and has recently been selected to participate in Leadership South Carolina’s Class of 2025.
Criss’ determination to lead with purpose and lead to meet a purpose is already sending ripples of positive influence throughout his business and his personal life – to their staff, patients and the community – whether measuring by outcomes, outreach, or relational rewards that make risk worth the ride.
BOB ENGLER
Budget Blinds of Hilton Head 11 Sheridan Park Circle, Bluffton (843) 837-4060
What makes your business unique? Our personalized service and exceptional team make us unique. Every blind, shade, shutter, or automated solution is custom designed to fit the unique needs of each homeowner. Our team is truly a partner, from the initial consultation to the installation and beyond with our awesome warranties.
Who was instrumental in setting you on your path to business success? Did you have a mentor? No one person. I have been fortunate to have several people that have been influential over the years at different times.
Running a business generally requires you to wear many hats. Is there a specific side of the business you enjoy most?
The part I have enjoyed most over the years has been meeting with customers to help them make
KAMAL PATEL
Lotus Health, Mobile Concierge Care
What makes your business unique?
Both medical businesses offer individualized, high-level care. Lotus Health is a membership-based primary care practice and Mobile Concierge is a concierge-level model, providing exemplary care without memberships, in the convenience of an individual’s home.
Who was instrumental in setting you on your path to business success? Did you have a mentor? I grew up in a family business where everyone had a part. I credit both of my parents for giving me the foundation to have my own business(es). There are so many people that have provided support, encouragement, and advice along the way. They all know who they are and I would need a legal pad to list them all by name!
Running a business generally requires you to wear many hats. Is there a specific side of the business you enjoy most?
I’m a people person so I enjoy most providing direct care. I love getting to know my clients and giving them
the right decisions for their window coverings. I have also enjoyed building a great team and providing them opportunities to grow with our business.
What would you like to never do again if you didn’t have to?
This is a great question. We have changed and improved many things over the years but I don’t really have any regrets that I would never do again.
What do you do for fun when you aren’t working?
We love to travel, relax, and I play golf when I can.
What is the best business advice you were ever given?
Some of the best advice I received was when we started to hire more people, and that was to make sure that we had job descriptions, as well as policies and procedures in place, to set expectations.
Do you have any local charitable organizations you support or would like to give a shout-out to?
We have supported many organizations. The ones we have tried to support the most are junior sports and activities.
What would you do differently if you had to do it all over again?
If I could do anything over again, I would have hired a team sooner.
time to tell their story without feeling rushed.
What would you like to never do again if you didn’t have to?
If I never had to deal with the regulatory challenges of health insurance, I could do without that!
What do you do for fun when you aren’t working?
I love outdoor activities. This includes playing sports with my family, biking, swimming, boating, and, most recently, hiking. Doing these with my family is a great way for us to connect and make new memories.
What is the best business advice you were ever given?
Work hard. Nothing can replace dedication and putting in the time. Luck only gets you so far.
What would you do differently if you had to do it all over again?
I would have entered the wellness space a lot sooner. Getting to the root cause of problems and truly preventing illness before it strikes is achievable. It’s encouraging to see how making changes to lifestyle can be so impactful to our health.
LOWCOUNTRY PAVER / CURRYCRETE
535 Stiney Road, Hardeeville (877) 458-0862
Some businesses are more than just an organizational chart and a ledger. Some businesses build their community while building on a family legacy. The men of the Curry family businesses are proof of that.
The patriarch of the Curry clan, and CEO of its respective business ventures including Lowcountry Paver, Lowcountry Turf, CurryCrete Ready Mix, Curry Disposal and American Roof Experts, Tom Curry has established himself as a leader in Lowcountry business. Since arriving in the area in 2003, buying into and eventually taking over Lowcountry Block, LLC, he has created a business empire on a foundation of honesty and integrity.
But perhaps the career achievement he’s most proud of is seeing his sons pursue their own lofty ambitions. Matthew Curry and Christopher Curry
both trained under their father as employees of Lowcountry Paver and are flourishing in their new roles. Matthew now operates a new arm of the growing family of businesses alongside the team at Lowcountry Paver, CurryCrete. Christopher is now managing the finances for all the Curry brands, on track to become CFO of the entire portfolio.
“The most rewarding aspect of my job at CurryCrete is witnessing the tangible impact of our innovative products on the community and industry,” said Matthew. “Seeing our team’s hard work translate into highquality, sustainable concrete solutions that shape infrastructure and improve lives brings me immense satisfaction.”
And that team operates in a way that makes each a member of the family and a key leader within all of the businesses.
Before coming to work for the Curry family seven years ago, Lowcountry Paver Vice President of Sales Steven Vega had been in sales following a career in education. His journey with Lowcountry Paver began because of a
stirring president’s letter penned by Tom Curry.
“After reading Tom’s President’s letter and learning how committed the company was to excellence, I knew I wanted to be a part of the team,” Vega said.
Lowcountry Paver Chief Operating Officer Jimmy Babits has seen the industry from the ground up, quite literally, starting back in 1984 on the jobsite and rising through the ranks. These decades of experience provided a foundation of hands-on knowledge for his naturally inquisitive mind to put to work. To him, the most rewarding part of the job is “being completely in charge of quality. In some facilities, it’s impossible to have eyes on everything that goes into production, but I’m able to be hands-on with everything here.”
After a lengthy career in the automotive industry, CurryCrete ReadyMix COO Nick Hesik’s life was changed during a chance encounter with Tom Curry. Afterwards, he knew he wanted to be a part of the team. Now, working alongside CEO Matthew Curry, Nick has been instrumental in transforming CurryCrete from a small startup idea into an unstoppable force in the local industry. And along the way, he became a part of the Curry family.
From left to right: Steven Vega, Matthew Curry, Jim Babits, Christopher Curry, Nick Hesik
ANDREW AMBLER
N Hance (843) 715-8420 nhance.com/lowcountry
What makes your business unique?
We have found a niche market doing only kitchen and bathroom cabinet refinishing and refacing. With custom cabinet painting and/or refacing, you can get a dramatic transformation in approximately five days or less, guaranteed. Not only is the process quick, but it is a quality solution that is cost friendly. With more
than 12 years of experience, we have mastered our craft, and are extremely proud of our work.
Who was instrumental in setting you on your path to business success? Did you have a mentor? I didn’t necessarily have a mentor, but my parents have played a huge role in my business success. They instilled an old-school mentality in me: Work hard, show up on time, treat people how you want to be treated, and give 100% to everything I do.
Running a business generally required you to wear many hats. Is there a specific side of the business you enjoy most?
I have always enjoyed working with my hands. The most rewarding part of my job is seeing the before and after, seeing happy customers, and working with my crew.
What do you do for fun when you aren’t working?
I love to spend time with my family. We enjoy driving up to the mountains as much as we can. My step-daughter is an awesome volleyball player and I am looking forward to some travel volleyball tournaments this fall. I really enjoy college football and Saturday Gamedays!
What is the best business advice you were ever given? The best advice I was ever given was from an old boss. He said, “If you are going to do something in construction, specialize in kitchens and bathrooms. The kitchen is the heart of any home, and if you’re looking to give your home a fresh new look, it’s the most important place to start.”
What would you do differently if you had to do it all over again?
I wouldn’t do anything different. I am extremely grateful for my employees and customers I have had in the past 12 years. It truly has been a pleasure owning and running a successful business in the Lowcountry. I look forward to many more years of working with my crew and meeting new customers.
HIGH TIDE RESTORATION
22 Spanish Wells Road Hilton Head Island (843) 682-2000 hightiderestoration.com
The true nightmare of a disaster in the home begins when you have to start calling all of the numerous professionals that are needed to help you get your home back to normal. Calls to insurance companies, contractors, plumbers, electricians, and inspectors can be overwhelming.
Sometimes you just want to make one call to make it all go away. That’s what High Tide Restoration is for. Our team will see every aspect of the job through until your home is exactly the way it was before disaster struck. It’s a no-excuses, make-
it-happen methodology that has helped homeowners rebuild after disasters including mold infestations and the ravages of hurricanes.
“We are a full-service cleaning and restoration company offering 24/7 emergency services, fire, mold, smoke, and water restoration along with a multitude of cleaning services, including carpet, tile, and upholstery,” said Founder and CEO Ryan Moore. “Our team is the backbone of our company. I take a lot of pride in hearing compliments from homeowners about our team members and the professional jobs they do every day. In an economy where everyone has a hard time finding staff, we are fortunate to have team members that have been with us for more than a decade.”
This dream team of disaster recovery consists of (left to right) Vice President Chris Wells, Moore, General Manager Fabian Chambella, and Project Managers Connor O’Banion and Anthony Martucci. Serving the Lowcountry for more
than 20 years, the men on this team have become leaders in this constantly evolving industry because they take pride and value their ongoing training, certifications, and licenses. Certifications, such as IICRC certified Master Textile Cleaner, Journeyman Water Restorer and Journeyman Fire & Smoke Restore, are an essential part of our business and required so that we can provide the very best service on every single job.
Moore and his team pride themselves in customer service and professionalism, making sure each client is treated with respect. These high standards are the reason High Tide Restoration and Cleaning has become the gold standard of turnkey disaster remediation in the Lowcountry.
ALEX BROWN
Camp Hilton Head Town of Hilton Head Island Councilman
As a fifth-generation native islander, Alex Brown’s roots on the island run as deep as Broad Creek at high tide. Professionally, many know Brown as the long-time vice-president of operations at Camp Hilton Head, who understands the unique business of the island. And as a member of Hilton Head Island’s Town Council representing Ward 1 since 2020, Brown is tasked with guiding residents through policy decisions to enhance our island community.
In a place where residents, businesses, and the town’s interests can sometimes find themselves on opposing sides of an issue, he offers a keen understanding of all three groups and a remarkable ability to find common ground and bring them together.
“This is a very intriguing and interesting time on the island as we see an increase in our visitors (who can work from anywhere) become island residents,” Brown said. “To maintain our quality of life and natural spaces – while remaining the best place to retire, raise a family, or visit, we need to work together.”
A key issue for Brown is the preservation of natural spaces. He spearheaded discussions for the Ward 1 neighborhood of Jonesville to preserve more than 12 acres and secure a $7.6 million investment in land preservation for the area, known to locals as “the horse stables.”
“Our beaches provide a beautiful place
BRENDAN DOWNEY
KickFees 843.505.1590
bdowney@kickfees.com kickfees.com
When Brendan Downey first launched KickFees, he did so with a simple goal of revolutionizing credit card processing. Essentially, KickFees allowed small businesses across the Lowcountry and around the world to increase their profits by carrying over their processing fees to the customer.
And just when you thought the revolution was won, Downey is about to do it again. “We now have our own banking tools, so within the next few months we’ll have become a full-blown bank,” Downey said.
to play and relax, but we must ensure a diverse range of recreational opportunities for all ages, from children to seniors,” Brown said. “I am proud to have led many of our land purchases and park development projects to create more play opportunities in Ward 1. By effectively utilizing the real estate transfer fee with zero tax increase to our residents, we have preserved more than 26 acres in less than three years. This achievement is particularly significant on an island with limited land, and it is something our community can be proud of. Through community conversations and smart planning, we can ensure the needs of the community – both those who have been here for generations and those who are new to the island – are being met.”
Another issue in which his business experience allows him to speak with authority is workforce housing. He sees it as a key driver not only for businesses, but also for residents and visitors who expect a certain level of service on the island.
“Our residents and our visitors all expect excellent service on the island – in healthcare, hospitality, and retail, and that’s threatened when we don’t have a quality workforce,” Brown said. “In business, I’m a numbers guy. And the numbers don’t lie. It’s astonishing how much of our workforce has left the island due to lack of housing opportunities. For people to have a great quality of life, for us to have a holistic community, we know it’s best when folks live, work, and play in the same area.”
Bridging these issues requires a balanced understanding of the island community as a whole and a representation of all the people of Ward 1.
“This is the perspective I bring,” Brown said, “as I live it every day.”
Much in the same way that industries from ridesharing to healthcare have been forced to evolve with new technology, Downey looks to disrupt the credit card model. First, by offering small business instant funding from each credit card batch.
“With instant funding, there’s no float. No holding time,” Downey said. “If you close your restaurant at 11:30 p.m. and close your batch of credit cards, at 11:32 p.m. that money is in your account.”
His billboards say that Downey is your business’ best friend. His business cards refer to him as “your credit card guy.” But he’s much more than that. While building his business into a massive lifeline for small businesses, Downey has also given back to the community, whether to First Tee – The Lowcountry, local cancer research, the Savannah Ghost Pirates, or to HHBA Baseball.
MICHAEL E. FRAZIER
Gray’s Heating and Air Conditioning (843) 689-3111 graysinc.com
What makes your business unique?
We have been doing business on Hilton Head and Bluffton for 35 years and that itself is unique. We are a locally owned family business that prides itself on taking care of our staff and clients.
Who was instrumental in setting you on your path to business success?
I have been very fortunate to have some great people in my life who have made me the businessman I am today. I owe to my father first and foremost. He always stood for doing the right thing and being honest.
Gray’s Heating and Air was set up by Tim Gray with hard work and honesty, along with taking care of staff and customers. When I first met with Cindy Gray, I knew this was the right fit and I will honor my father and Tim each day striving to be the best I can with the same values.
Running a business generally requires you to wear many hats. Is there a specific side of the business you enjoy most?
That always will be a tough question for me as I have a passion for this business and truly love what I do. We are very fortunate to have an amazing team that will go the extra mile for each other and our clients. I am honored that Cindy has given me this opportunity – and the best is yet to come!
What would you like to never do again if you didn’t have to?
For me this is easy. I would like to never let anyone down!
What do you do for fun when you aren’t working?
I enjoy fishing our local waterways. Most importantly, family time. I am very proud of what I do and try to give to my family each day. Golf used to be something I loved to play but as we all know, things change, and sometimes you can’t do all the things you love. I am thankful for everything in my life and enjoy each day!
What is the best business advice you were ever given?
“Make your vocabulary A-M, and P-Z. NO never gets in the way of what you can accomplish.”
Do you have any local charitable organizations you support or would like to give a shout-out to?
I try and give back and be involved within the community. I am honored to serve as vice chair of the Town of Bluffton Law Enforcement Advisory Committee. I am a proud Rotarian. I also sit on the board for the Herman Fuqua Memorial Scholarship Program. This event raises money for scholarships at Bluffton and May River High Schools. Gray’s Heating and Air Conditioning is the proud Title Sponsor for our annual Golf Tournament. We have given more than 30 scholarships and are growing each year.
What would you do differently if you had to do it all over again?
Each day we are all on a journey and meant to be where we are. I am thankful for everything in my life and know I could have done things better when I was younger, but I am proud to be right where I am each day!
JAMES DISMOND
Hospice Care of the Lowcountry (843) 706-2296
James Dismond’s journey to becoming CEO of Hospice Care of the Lowcountry is a testament to his profound dedication to serving others and making a positive impact on his community – a commitment well recognized by those who know him.
Dismond’s path was shaped early on, after being adopted. The experience instilled in him a deep appreciation for the power of community in fostering love and acceptance, ultimately leading to his pursuit of a career that would allow him to pay it forward through nonprofit work.
Over the past decade, Dismond has had the privilege of serving in development roles for several nonprofits across the Southeast. When he was recruited to be the director of
DR. GRANT EVANS &
For those experiencing the chronic pain that comes from degenerative joint or tissue damage, options were generally scarce in years past. There was the temporary relief with the use of physical therapy, chiropractic care, and use of multiple steroidal based therapies. If these were ineffective, often the last resort would involve the drastic step of joint replacement and/ or spinal surgery. Or there was the unthinkable possibility of just living with it.
development for Hospice Care of the Lowcountry in 2020, he was deeply inspired by their mission. His perspective on endof-life care shifted even more dramatically when his mother passed away in 2023 under hospice care. The compassionate services he and his family received fundamentally changed his approach.
Dismond’s personal connection to the care offered by Hospice Care of the Lowcountry allows him to remain committed to a relentless vision of providing accessible, quality care in chronic symptom management, end-oflife, and grief care.
Dismond’s community involvement goes beyond his profession. From volunteering with local charities, participating in fundraising events, and serving on boards of various organizations, including the Hilton Head Island Chamber of Commerce and South Carolina Home Care & Hospice Association, he is dedicated to enhancing the lives of others and inspiring others to get involved in their communities.
But with the advent of regenerative medicine, particularly Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy (MSC), there is finally a long-term treatment option that has been proven to be highly effective at eliminating pain and discomfort associated with degenerative joint conditions.
“We’ve had amazing positive results,” said Dr. Grant Evans, co-founder of NOVO Regenerative with Dr. William Durrett. Evans, an experienced chiropractor, and Durrett, a board-certified anesthesiologist and interventional pain management physician, have combined their wealth of expertise and knowledge to form a pain center that does more than simply offer temporary relief.
“We’re really trying to increase the overall quality of life, while helping patients avoid some of the less-ideal alternatives,” Evans said. “With MSCs, it’s typically a one-time treatment involving an injection similar to a cortisone shot. We then follow up with patients a couple of weeks later to include MLS laser and/or other therapies to ensure a successful outcome.”
Durrett added, “And with success rates greater than 90% or higher, our unique blend of skills and advanced technology are helping more people than ever in living a higher quality, active life.”
PATRICK CARR & MICHAEL BENNETT
Carr Legal Group
1 Corpus Christi Place, 113 (843) 733-4493
Everyone at Carr Legal Group understands that knowing the law is just as important as knowing why the law exists. Pure and simple, the law exists to help the people. And that’s exactly what Carr Legal Group does.
“We try to give every case and every client a personalized approach and individual attention,” said Patrick Carr. “We don’t treat them like numbers on a spreadsheet, because that’s what the big TV lawyers do. They spend millions of dollars trying to increase market share, but I’m not sure the attention they give to clients is adequate.”
Working alongside Carr at Carr Legal Group, attorney Michael Bennett shares that dedication to giving every client the utmost.
“We’re here to make sure people who have been hurt
through no fault of their own are not taken advantage of,” Bennett said. “And also to make sure their claims aren’t disrespected by the insurance carriers whose job it is to pay as little as possible.”
Born in Columbia, Bennett made Hilton Head Island his home in 2006. Leaving here to attend USC for his undergraduate (“and to get free football tickets,” he added with a laugh), he stayed on to attain his juris doctor in law from USC’s School of Law.
Returning to be closer to family, and to practice in the areas of personal injury, wrongful death, dram shop liability, and workers compensation, he quickly found that Carr Legal Group shared his dedication to clients.
“I always had a passion to learn and practice law, and to help make a difference in people’s lives,” Bennett said. “Patrick approached me to practice with him, and in my opinion he’s the best around.”
As a native South Carolinian, cum laude graduate of University of South Carolina Honors College, and Lowcountry resident for the past 15 years, Carr has lived his life among the people of the Palmetto State. Since leaving the insurance world behind to start representing the little guy, he has fought for the people. Now, he’s looking to his next chapter as he starts taking the fight back to the big guys.
“What we’re currently facing, as an organization of trial lawyers, is this concept of tort reform,” Carr said. “When people say ‘tort reform,’ it’s almost a catchphrase. It sounds cool. But what they’re really saying is we want to help wrongdoers and take away rights that injury victims have. … You can impact public safety and community wellness by holding wrongdoers responsible, so they change their behavior. If you take that away, there’s no accountability.”
ANDREW CARRABBA
Color Splash Painting (843) 415-9152
colorsplash-painting.com
What makes your business unique?
Our business stands out because we’re revolutionizing the painting industry. Our slogan, “Drama-Free Painting. Period,” addresses a common pain point, but what truly sets us apart is our exceptional customer service and the positive culture we foster within the company. We consistently deliver exceptional value and aim to make every customer’s project journey as seamless as possible.
Who was instrumental in setting you on your path to business success? Did you have a mentor?
My father was an entrepreneur his entire life, and growing up in that environment was truly inspiring. He has been a mentor to me, along with my older brothers, who have built successful business in New York. Their guidance and example have been instrumental in shaping my entrepreneurial journey.
Running a business generally requires you to wear many hats. Is there a specific side of the business you enjoy most?
Marketing and branding are, without a doubt, my favorite aspects of the
LUCAS BRINSA
Palmetto Upholstery 106 Arrow Road (843) 785-4002
If you’re looking reupholster anything in your home or patio – or just want to see something really cool – head down to 106 Arrow Road, where the bright blue Palmetto Upholstery trucks rest between deliveries, and step inside. The whirlwind of activity inside is like nothing you’ve ever seen.
“We do a lot of walk-ins, and we love when people come by and see us,” said owner Lucas Brinsa. “We’re kind of half showroom, half workroom – you’ll see people back there sewing and cutting, you’ll hear the staple guns going, and see the sewing machines working.”
Brinsa knows how fascinating the process of reupholstering chairs and sofas can be, because he watched with the same fascination as his dad, Wolfgang, worked his magic as owner of Magnolia
business. I have a natural flair for creativity and find this side of the business to be the most enjoyable and engaging.
What do you do for fun when you aren’t working?
I cherish spending time with my wife and two kids. I also enjoy staying physically active and playing the cello and guitar.
What is the best business advice you were ever given?
The best advice I’ve received is a quote from entrepreneur Alex Hormozi: “I get happier about the harder it gets because I know no one else will follow. If you can shift from ‘this is hard’ to ‘no one else will be able to do this,’ it changes from ‘poor me’ to ‘poor everyone else who’s going to have to try.’”
Do you have any local charitable organizations you support or would like to give a shout-out to?
Heroes on Horseback is doing incredible work, and I’d love to give them a shoutout for their dedication and impact. Their efforts are truly amazing!
What would you do differently if you had to do it all over again?
I wouldn’t change a thing. Every mistake and loss I’ve experienced has been a crucial part of my journey, shaping who I am today. I firmly believe that the more challenges God places in our path, the more opportunities we have to grow. Each obstacle we overcome brings us closer to our best selves. Without failures, we can’t truly evolve.
Upholstery on the island. Learning the trade from his father, Lucas went out on his own in 2004 and has seen Palmetto Upholstery grow by leaps and bounds ever since.
“It’s been fun to train people and to teach the trade,” Brinsa said. “We live by the three F’s here – foam, fabric, and furniture.”
He applies those three F’s in bringing beautiful furniture back to life, whether restoring a favorite sofa or aiding in renovations, such as the Harbour Town Clubhouse or Berkeley Hall Clubhouse.
“New foam padding in your furniture can really bring it back to life,” Brinsa said, adding that they also build custom kitchen banquets, cornice boards for windows, any size living room bench, and headboards for the bedroom. “We can help make that custom furniture fit you and your house.”
If you want to see how it’s done, or if your own furniture could use a little of Palmetto Upholstery’s magic, now you know where to go. You can even get an estimate by sending in a photo.
A rendering of a streetscape of The Grove, Palmetto Bluff’s newest built-for-sale enclave in the heart of the Moreland Forest neighborhood.
Article by Morgan Stewart
Photography courtesy of Palmetto Bluff
BUILDING THE DREAM AT PALMETTO BLUFF
Anyone who has ever stepped foot in Palmetto Bluff knows it is unlike any other place they’ve been, vast and vibrant, enriched by wilderness and wildlife, consisting of unspoiled vistas where a diverse group of people create their own legacy of living well while enjoying the best of classic Lowcountry traditions.
Dedicated to creating elegant homes within this majestic and protected environment, Palmetto Bluff Builders – the community’s innovative approach to built-for-sale properties – offers discerning homeowners turnkey ease with no sacrifice on superior quality. Working with local architects and craftsmen who approach each project with a deep understanding of the landscape, the homesite, and the ideal structure to complement it, Jason Kimes, vice president of homebuilding at Palmetto Bluff Builders, and W. Bryan Byrne, broker-in-charge at Palmetto Bluff Real Estate Company, expertly guide this revolutionary, no-fuss experience that promises residents a simpler journey to a distinctive new home.
As the undisputed market leader, and the sole real estate firm with two sales offices at the famed Lowcountry community, Palmetto Bluff Real Estate Company has been involved in more than $1.2 billion in Palmetto Bluff specific real estate sales over the past five years. With more than two decades of experience in introducing the beauty of the Bluff to discerning buyers,
Jason Kimes, Vice President of Homebuilding at Palmetto Bluff Builders
Byrne’s knowledge of the community is unmatched, which makes him the ideal partner to present the Palmetto Bluff Builders product and help ensure a seamless experience throughout the buying process.
“We have spent more than two decades building an incredible brand here at Palmetto Bluff,” Byrne said. “Everything we have done, from a dedicated focus on conservation, to unparalleled community event programming, to best-in-class architectural guidelines, has made Palmetto Bluff one of the most sought-after communities in the country. The launch of Palmetto Bluff Builders was the natural extension of our commitment to this great place.”
Conceived to guide the future of the built environment of the community, Palmetto Bluff Builders exemplifies the core principles of designing with nature, with a focus on reimagining a community’s connection to the environment. Deeply embedded in the mission of the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy, and embracing the idea that conservation and amenities enhance value, Palmetto Bluff Builders’ construction and development plans are driven by a deep respect for the land and a constant search to understand the best practices with which to exert as light a touch as possible.
Drawing on a long career working with both production and custom home developers, Kimes is singularly committed to the goal of Palmetto Bluff Builders, which seeks to take the effort out of new home construction by designing plans that people truly want to purchase and by curating interior design selections in advance so that all buyers have to do is say “yes.”
“I am very fortunate to be a part of the team here at Palmetto Bluff. South Street Partners continues to have success with their communities by being forward thinking and having a great leadership philosophy,” Kimes said. “Palmetto Bluff Builders grew from this, offering turnkey,
Bryan Byrne, Broker-in-Charge at Palmetto Bluff Real Estate Company
“Everything we have done, from a dedicated focus on conservation, to unparalleled community event programming, to best-inclass architectural guidelines, has made Palmetto Bluff one of the most sought-after communities in the country. “
well-appointed homes with fine finishes that allow buyers to begin enjoying the Palmetto Bluff lifestyle much sooner than later in homes where families can build memories for generations to come.”
By partnering with local best-in-class architects using design layouts that have already been approved by the community’s Design Review Board – thereby avoiding potential delays which can impact the move-in timeline – Palmetto Bluff Builders’ streamlined process allows for customization of fixtures and finishes while taking advantage of economies of scale. This efficiency is passed on in terms of less construction time versus a fully customized build from the ground up. Incorporating interior design capabilities in slightly different ways for each property, they also ensure there is a cohesion between the structure and the interiors, in terms of both the process and the aesthetics. Most importantly, Palmetto Bluff Builders provides management of the homebuilding process from start to finish.
W.
An aerial view of Palmetto Bluff’s Moreland Forest neighborhood, where new homesites have recently been released and Palmetto Bluff Builders are in the planning stages of their second built-forsale neighborhood.
Taking advantage of the coastal setting and climate by incorporating wraparound verandas, porches, and raised foundations to ameliorate the climate impact and take advantage of breezes and the sun, and orienting houses to maximize views, Palmetto Bluff Builders will continue the vision of Palmetto Bluff – a community of homes that have evolved over time and where the architecture and interior design are inexorably intertwined.
Refined design elements – such as heavy trim detail, cased openings, dormer windows, vaulted architectural beams, shiplap, coffered ceilings, floor-to-ceiling custom built-ins and large cased windows – provide the foundation that inform the interiors.
The interior aesthetic of Palmetto Bluff Builders homes is defined by Southern sophistication and coastal comfort, using natural materials like seagrass, brick, and reclaimed wood with earth-toned palettes of grays, blues, whites, browns, and greens that reflect the dwellings’ exterior landscapes. The indoor-outdoor connection sought by Palmetto Bluff residents reflects traditional Lowcountry detailing such as tabby stucco, Cherokee Old Savannah brick, and wide-plank heart pine flooring.
Given the centrality that nature plays in the life of Palmetto Bluff residents, attention is paid to all elements of outdoor living. Screened porches are designed as comfortable spots to relax, sip on sweet tea, enjoy the cool breeze, and appreciate the natural setting while simple, open landscape schemes allow for less maintenance, using low, formal hedges to accent the porch details and expand the seamless transition between indoors and out.
Palmetto Bluff’s coveted lifestyle is one of the community’s biggest draws and therefore always top of mind for Palmetto Bluff Builders. The company’s designers incorporate community spaces and some sort of shared amenity such as parks, fire pits, or bocce courts. Using a specific range of demographics, including price points, family formations, and proximity to Palmetto Bluff’s worldclass amenities, Palmetto Bluff Real Estate Company and Palmetto Bluff Builders engage with prospective buyers to identify which area is most appealing.
The Grove, the first neighborhood ownership offering from Palmetto Bluff Builders, celebrates courtyard living, thoughtfully designed to embrace the surrounding preserved wetlands and 7.5-mile Inland Waterway. Community trails weave throughout Moreland Forest and The Grove, providing access to the preserved forest super trail, the new King-Collins nine-hole golf course and a future wellness and recreation campus.
Palmetto Bluff’s enduring appeal is that there is truly something for everyone – the nature lover, the sportsman, the artist – and the expert teams at Palmetto Bluff Real Estate Company and Palmetto Bluff Builders, led by Byrne and Kimes, are uniquely qualified to match every buyer with the Palmetto Bluff home that will realize their and their family’s Lowcountry dreams.
Article by Cheryl Ricer
Fitness + Fellowship + Faith = F3
No-frills men’s fitness gathering pushes physically and emotionally
It’s 5:15 a.m. and several groups of guys around the Lowcountry are meeting up in what they call
“the gloom” (meaning the sun isn’t even up yet) for a free, outdoor workout where they’ll experience a physical beatdown that they fully expect will leave them lifted physically, mentally, emotionally, and even spiritually.
This is F3 – which stands for Fitness, Fellowship, and Faith –the last of which the group simply defines as a belief in something bigger than oneself. They stress that while they certainly don’t shy away from each man’s individual faith, they are open to all men.
Founded in 2011 in Charlotte, North Carolina, by David Redding, a former Green Beret, and Tim Whitmire, a former journalist, when their group workout class became too crowded, F3 is a fast-growing network of men’s fitness groups that fuse exercise with spiritual fellowship. Redding used military terms for exercises and hoped that maybe 10 men would show up to their first class on January 1. But
Photography by M.Kat
after they had emailed friends to join them for a quick morning burn, 35 guys showed up in the parking lot of a middle school.
Then, F3 blew up during the pandemic, expanding from about 1,900 groups to more than 3,400 groups across the country and internationally, with a mission to resolve, as John Lambert (aka Slaughter; all F3 participants have a nickname given to them by their group), the network’s CEO, explained, “a problem that society at large and men definitely didn’t even know they had: middle-age male loneliness.”
“Our credo is ‘Leave no man behind, but leave no man where you find him,’” said Mark Berglind (aka Judge Judy), co-founder of the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton F3 chapters. “And the way we do that is through adherence to our five core principles which state that all workouts are free of charge, and workouts are open to all men. They also are held outdoors – rain or shine, heat or cold. The guys who participate also lead the workout in a rotating fashion, with no training or certification necessary. Finally, workouts end with a Circle of Trust.”
“The Circle of Trust element is simply two to three minutes at the end of each workout where someone shares a devotional or inspirational quote and usually a prayer for each other, our families, our community, our country,” said Joey Varin (aka JV).
That Circle of Trust element might explain why F3 quickly became about more than fitness – the other two F’s stand for fellowship and faith. The shared workout struggle and the shared fellowship that comes from involvement with an F3 group also brings a deepened sense of faith for many participants and is making a difference in the lives of hundreds of men, ages 20 to 60-plus from all walks of life and fitness levels.
After their first F3 workout, men are given a nickname after they’ve shared a little about themselves with the others. While it might not be something they’d pick for themselves, it’s all in good fun, and when F3 workout buddies run into each other around town, they use their F3 nicknames. It’s
all part of the “fellowship” aspect of the group that results in the bonds these men form with each other.
Varin, owner of Lee Built Homes and the F3 Lowcountry Nantan (what F3 members call their leaders), grew up on Hilton Head Island and lived in Charleston for a long time, which is where he was introduced to F3.
“That was about 11 years ago, and there wasn’t even a formal F3 chapter there yet,” Varin said. “I loved the concept so much that I ended up being one of the initial leaders in Charleston.”
Back then, the F3 chapters were only in North Carolina and South Carolina, with a couple in Georgia. Today, there are 4,676 chapters that span the United States, throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa.
“It has been a grassroots movement that’s taken off, where men support each other in a great workout that also allows us to bond as we attempt to better our family lives, our homes, our neighborhoods, our communities, and the world at large,” Berglind said.
Berglind, a partner at Vaux Marscher Berglind law firm, found his way to an F3 workout eight years ago when he was visiting his brother-in-law in Rock Hill, near Charlotte.
“It was already spreading like wildfire then,” Berglind said. “I went to my first workout and really enjoyed it, just seeing the fellowship of the guys and quite frankly, it was a beatdown that I still remember. I was sore for about a week after. So, I decided this is something that I wanted to try to start in the Lowcountry.”
At the end of each workout, during the Circle of Trust, when the men stop to talk and pray, is where the building of trust and friendships begins.
In 2015, Berglind attended the first F3 Lowcountry workout in Bluffton, which grew into what is called in F3 jargon an AO, or area of operation. Now Bluffton has two workout locations. The Hilton Head AO launched in 2017, and now there are three locations on the island.
Workout attendance can range from two or three guys to more than 30, but typically, attendance averages 12 participants.
Jason Broene (aka Buckeye), principal and studio manager at Court Atkins Group, started going to the first early morning F3 workouts in Bluffton in the spring of 2015 at DuBois Park in Old Town and has not looked back since. After separating from the Marine Corps in 2007, his physical conditioning had plummeted due to a new career and two small children at home.
“When I experienced the getting-up-early, outdoor bootcamp style workouts that I was familiar with and knew I needed to get back to, not only did my physical fitness improve, but I started to meet and workout with a lot of great guys with similar life situations,” Broene said. “I began to feel the camaraderie and esprit de corps with this group that I hadn’t felt since serving in the Marine Corps.”
The group pushed Broene to improve physically, which he says allows him to keep up with his three active boys and set an example for them. He said the group has connected him with great men who push each other physically and mentally, joke with each other, and encourage and lean on each other.
“Most importantly, though, the group continuously challenges me to ‘live third’ and be the leader in my community and the husband and father at home that the Good Lord has called me to be,” Broene said.
Andrew P. Schumacher (aka Spaulding), CEO of Palmetto Dunes Property Owners, recently celebrated his seven-year anniversary with F3. He admits that he had no idea what he was getting into, but he was hooked early on. With a wife, kids, and a big job, he found little time to take care of himself, so F3’s early morning schedule and meeting men with common goals provided the answer for him.
“F3 has afforded me the opportunity to meet a new group of men where friendships have thrived,” Schumacher said. “The impact we have on one another is one of the main reasons I continue to get up at 4:45 a.m. The camaraderie in the morning is infectious – from the grunting and sweating to the shouts of encouragement and occasional jabs. (These) are what builds the fellowship which keeps us coming back for more. It has changed my life physically, mentally, and spiritually.”
At the end of each workout, during the Circle of Trust, when the men stop to talk and pray, is where the building of trust and friendships begins. Those relationships have paid dividends in the daily lives of these men, many of whom had meandered in their faith.
“F3 has made my faith a priority again,” Schumacher said. “By prioritizing fitness, fellowship and faith, this group has helped me grow personally, build meaningful friendships, and improve my overall well-being. It has also challenged me outside my comfort zone: I am able to confide. I am able to be counseled. I am able to be built up by other men or return the favor to another. It helps me to be a better person.”
One thing great about F3 that all the guys agree on is that, no matter where you post (workout), the names and faces may be different, but it is the same group of men –getting after it in the gloom with a common goal.
A NIGHT OUT AT ZZ TOP WAS CORRECT; EVERY GIRL’S CRAZY ‘BOUT A SHARP-DRESSED MAN. FOR THIS MONTH’S FASHION FEATURE, WE HEADED OVER TO CHOPHOUSE 119 FOR AN ELEGANT GUYS’ NIGHT OUT. FEATURING LOOKS BY PALMETTOES, JOHN BAYLEY CLOTHIERS, SOUTHERN TIDE, B. JACKS AND J. PARKER LTD. SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR MODELS STEVE HARMON, MATTHEW SPRUILL AND SCOTT PRITCHARD.
CHOPHOUSE 119
Ensembles listed left to right: J.Parker Ltd. on Calhoun Street in Bluffton (Steve), John Bayley Clothiers in the Village at Wexford (Scott), Palmettoes in Sea Pines Center (Matthew)
Shop Scott’s look at John Bayley Clothiers in the Village at Wexford.
Get
Steve’s look at J.Parker Ltd. on Calhoun Street in Bluffton.
Matthew’s ensemble by Palmettoes in Sea Pines Center.
Get Steve’s look at J.Parker Ltd. on Calhoun Street in Bluffton.
Find Scott’s ensemble at Southern Tide in Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina.
Shop Scott’s look at John Bayley Clothiers in the Village at Wexford.
Shop Steve’s look at B.Jack’s in Old Town Bluffton.
Matthew’s ensemble by Outside Hilton Head in The Plaza at Shelter Cove Shopping Center.
Matthew’s ensemble by Outside Hilton Head in The Plaza at Shelter Cove Shopping Center.
Find Scott’s ensemble at Southern Tide in Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina.
Shop Steve’s look at B.Jack’s in Old Town Bluffton.
Dr. Timothy Gross
ARTICLE BY BARRY KAUFMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT
OPEN WIDE AND SAY ‘WOW’
DR. TIMOTHY GROSS HAS SEEN THE FUTURE, AND IT’S IN YOUR MOUTH.
Dr. Timothy Gross has been in dentistry for 31 years. At this stage in their career, having achieved as much success as Dr. Gross has, most professionals might be content putting the whole endeavor in cruise control until retirement. But Dr. Gross has never been one to sit still.
His practice, Dr. Timothy Gross’ Dental Excellence, has built its reputation over the last 15 years on the island on the strength of his ceaseless pursuit of new and better ways to improve the health of his patients. For him, it’s not just about cleaning their teeth. It’s about treating the entire patient, using all the considerable means at his disposal.
“I think every dentist will tell you that there’s kind of an evolution to your practice,” he said. “You’re always looking to expand your horizons and learn more and more. You know, I don’t want to be on autopilot. If I practice until I’m 80 years old, I want to be learning things until that last day and stay on the cutting edge.”
That evolution in his practice has seen Dr. Gross looking beyond the boundaries of dentistry, to view the mouth as a bellwether of the entire body’s wellbeing.
Dr. Gross consults with a patient before treatment begins.
“It’s become more heavily into diagnosis now, asking how can we maintain your health? What do we see that could be a potential problem down the road?” he said. “And if we see it, what can we do to intercede and prevent problems down the road?”
He points to a slew of new technologies, all of which are as much a part of his practice as floss and paper bibs, that are leading the way toward offering patients greater insight into their own health.
Take the classic dental X-ray. In the past, you might just get a static image showing where cavities might be lingering on your enamel. With the three-dimensional X-rays that Dr. Gross offers his patients, he can essentially create a fully realized 3D image of not just your teeth and jaw, but all the areas affected by changes in your health.
“We can see basically everything from the eyes down to the neck,” he said. The images this 3D X-rays creates are astoundingly detailed, laying bare everything that might be impacting a patient’s health. He’s had 3D X-rays that showed a patient’s sinuses filled with effluent from a deep abscess. He’s spotted nasal polyps that he could pass along to his patient’s physician. He’s even potentially saved a few lives. “I’ve had three patients in the past year where we found enough calcification in their carotid artery that we sent the images to their physicians,” Dr. Gross said. “Two ended up getting stents put in and another had to have a
bypass of their artery.”
Another way that Dr. Gross is expanding beyond typical dentistry is in treating a malady that he has suffered from for the past 19 years, sleep apnea. Like many who suffer from this deceptively deadly condition, he grew frustrated with the cumbersome masks of a sleep machine and the discomfort of a one-size-fits-all oral device.
“We have multiple sleep monitors here to screen people, so if we can see a bad disorder we send them off to a pulmonologist,” he said. “If it’s a minor sleep issue, we can make an oral device to pull your jaw forward and get you breathing again. We also give you a monitor to take home for a few nights so we can check if your oxygen and everything is good. If not, we adjust the appliance until you’re breathing well.”
It goes to show what a vital role Dr. Gross can play in a patient’s health.
“There is no pill, there is no surgery that cures sleep apnea,” he said. “And the problem is, sleep apnea kills people. That’s the bottom line. It just breaks your body down and eventually kills you.”
And speaking of things that could break down and eventually kill you, Dr. Gross was among the first dentists in our area to see the malignant threat that most patients faced without even knowing it. If you had fillings put in prior to the late 90s, odds are good you have toxic metals
in your mouth.
“I have plenty of patients with a mouthful of mercury -based fillings, and they’re healthy. But, we have other people who get referred to us by their physicians because they have a lot of heavy metal toxicity,” he said. “They have us safely remove the mercury- based fillings.”
These fillings, crafted with the second-most-toxic element on earth besides plutonium, have been a staple of dentistry going back decades.
“I started placing mercury fillings in dental school, but a conference I attended in 1998 completely changed my mind,” he said. “If I take a mercury filling out of your mouth, it’s illegal for me to flush it down the toilet. But somehow it’s OK to have it in your mouth.”
Gross perfected the art of safely removing mercury fillings, ensuring that the minute shavings produced when the filling is removed are kept out of your airways and our waterways.
“The number one cause of mercury pollution in the environment nowadays is dental offices,” he said. “You have to have special training to safely remove mercury fillings. There are only a couple of us that I’m aware of in Beaufort County that do it that way.”
Sometimes, the priority is promoting overall health and well-being through these new cutting-edge dental techniques. But the mouth has maladies of its own, and Dr. Gross has remained on the vanguard of techniques and technologies that lead to a healthier, more beautiful smile.
“When you look at something like Invisalign, the technology has come so far even in the last five or six years,” he said. “It’s not just for straightening teeth anymore. You can actually fix the bite. So if patients are having TMJ problems, you can use Invisalign to correct it without having to wear braces.”
And, like any technology, it’s still evolving, with AI now augmenting the effectiveness of Invisalign. “Instead of having to come in every 6-8 weeks to get new aligners made, we can gives you six months or a year’s worth of aligners and have you take photos with your phone,” he said. “You send them to us, the AI analyzes it and we can tell if you’re on the right track.”
It’s a bold new world in dentistry, one that goes far beyond the old drill-and-fill days. And for patients on Hilton Head Island, Dr. Timothy Gross’ Dental Excellence offers the best way to greet the future with a smile.
Dr. Timothy Gross and his wife, Melissa, at their dental practice located at 15 Bow Circle on Hilton Head Island.
Article by Margaret Crenshaw
Musings from Across the Creek:
HILTON HEAD ISLAND: THE PLAYGROUND OF MY YOUTH
From my desk across Broad Creek, I’m feeling nostalgic for the summers of my youth here on Hilton Head Island and remembering all the activities that we engaged in once school was out and we were left to our own imaginations to drum up some fun.
It was a time when there wasn’t much organized activity for kids here. As the island was just starting to take off as a community, the next phase of development would become what to do to keep the children busy.
Thus, the island itself was our playground. Wide open and wilderness abounding, Hilton Head invited the young and the old to explore her and to find fun. We found entertainment mostly in the swimming pool or on the beach, but even that got old day after day. All the kids in my neighborhood would ride bikes and make believe we were riding horses instead. (This was how I ended up being one of the first emergency room patients when the hospital opened its doors in 1975.) We were members of the make believe Unga Bunga Indian tribe that dwelled in the Sea Pines Forest Preserve, where we imagined that we had created the ancient Shell Ring ourselves. We pretended to be superheroes and we climbed trees.
Hours and hours were spent on the Harbour Town playground, and no one ever died. The idea for the playground was well researched by Mary Fraser (wife of Sea Pines Resort developer Charles
Fraser) and the very best equipment was installed for its purpose. By today’s standards, most of it would be considered dangerous. The treehouse was absolutely the coolest thing ever.
We climbed to the top of the lighthouse over and over again. Gregg Russell was our nightly entertainment. He was like a babysitter who sang songs to us. Widely revered as one of the highlights of everyone’s summer vacation, we local kids got to experience Gregg’s familyoriented show from the very beginning. His music is essentially the soundtrack of my youth. No one other person has endeared guests and locals alike to this island quite like Gregg has.
Golf and tennis were part of the original infrastructure of the island and were created to be enjoyed by retirees and residents alike. To me, golf courses served no purpose other than to provide ample space to practice gymnastics or play in rain puddles.
My brother excelled in tennis, beating me 6-0, 6-0 every time, even when playing with his non-dominant hand. That was OK, though, as I excelled in gymnastics, which was promoted by Frances Ferrene, physical education teacher at Sea Pines Academy. Her love of the circus and aerial arts inspired her to create the annual circus extravaganza performed by students at the end of each year.
In my lifetime, I’ve never heard of another school that offered so much gymnastics as part of the physical education program – and I’ve
Captions are listed left to right, top to bottom: 1) Alan Perry, current mayor of the Town of Hilton Head Island, enthusiastically played soccer for Sea Pines Academy in high school and has spent a lifetime advocating for recreational activities on our island; 2) Margaret Crenshaw and Jay Morgan crabbing off the dock in Moss Creek in the mid -1970’s; 3) Students at Sea Pines Academy in the early 80s bust out of the front doors on their last day of school to enjoy summer activities.
certainly never heard of another school performing a circus routine at the end of the year. That was brilliant, creative, and physically challenging.
As island kids, we had fun fishing, shrimping, and crabbing. Playing in the pluff mud was lots of fun, but our mothers hated it because the stuff would stain our clothing.
When Fairway Lane Villas was being built in Sea Pines, there were ginormous hills of dirt to tumble down. In Palmetto Dunes, my friend Ria would drive us around on the newly built 11-mile-long lagoon system in her family’s little outboard motorboat. We would sing and entertain the residents who sat on their docks as we drifted by.
Speaking of docks, jumping off them into the salty waters that surround the island became my most favorite pastime. It is still my favorite island thing to do. It is imperative that you make sure the tide is high enough before you jump!
Frances Ferrene, PE teacher at Sea Pines Academy, spots a young gymnast in preparation for the annual circus performance in the gym.
Due to the scarcity of organized activity, we created activities that required being outside. My hair wasn’t blonde – it was white, bleached by sun and chlorine. Sunscreen wasn’t a thing back then, so we were all brown as berries.
Perhaps the first organized sports team to exist came in the 1960s in the form of Gator Football. This kids’ league was started by Sonny Graham, Ed Crosby, Ernest Marchetti, and Maynard Barker, to name but a few. There were cheerleaders, so boys and girls participated. The first coach was Alicia Hack. This program still exists and is run by the Island Recreation Center, according to Alan Perry, Mayor of the Town of Hilton Head Island and and longtime supporter of the Rec Center.
Alan’s name is synonymous with the Rec Center as he has spent most of his entire life supporting and advocating for this entity. It’s in his blood as his father, Charles, was a huge part of the motivating force behind this movement.
The Rec Center bloomed from what was originally called the Island Youth Center. In 1980, Charles Perry, Brian and Gloria Carmines, Maynard Barker, and members of the Hilton Head Rotary Club, among others, banded together to create the island’s first place for kids to hang out.
Their dream was realized in the building that now houses the Art League Academy on Cordillo Parkway. I remember knocking on doors and asking residents to donate money to the cause of getting it built.
A young Byron Sewell, owner of Native Son Adventures, catches a wave.
The first director was Joe Owen. He endeared himself to the kids and the community and is still admired today for his wide smile, sage advice, and juggling expertise.
The Youth Center, though wildly popular, didn’t quite quench the thirst of the island youths’ need for activity. So, that same group of adults who started it teamed up with the Town of Hilton Head Island and sought to expand the idea.
In 1984, the nonprofit Hilton Head Island Recreation Association came into existence. The next year, the organization made an agreement with the town to serve as its recreation arm. A facility was built in its current location on Wilborn Road next door to Hilton Head Island High School. An expansion was completed in 2019, and the Rec Center is now used by 250,000 people yearly, including its programs, festivals, and fundraisers.
Essentially, the Rec Center created a lot of activity that didn’t exist, but it also consumed the fledgling and loosely formed activities that began early on. For example, there was once a swim team that practiced at the old Hilton Head Inn since it was the only Olympic-sized pool on the island. That morphed over to the Rec Center, as did the pick-up basketball game league that was started by the Interact Club at Sea Pines Academy (now Hilton Head Preparatory School). Other pick-up games on the various existing school fields eventually worked their way into the current rec program. Lacrosse, soccer, flag football, tennis, fencing – the list is endless of activities the Rec Center provides our community.
Also, of notable mention is the dynasty that the Sewell family created with their preschool, Kindred Spirits, at St. Luke’s Church in 1980. Hamp and Sis provided organized activities for kids to explore the natural environment, offering floating in the creeks, fishing, crabbing, shrimping, surfing lessons, and hunting for shark’s teeth. Their son Byron, who started leading these activities with his parents when he was 17, said it was his experience with the school that later led him to create his business, Native Son Adventures. Byron has become a local legend for having taught thousands of kids, both locals and visitors alike, how to surf. He still offers surf lessons, fishing charters, eco tours, and cruise boats.
Aside from sports and outdoor activity, the island had arts organizations in the early days as well. Notably, the Hilton Head Community Theatre had its humble beginnings as a readers’ theatre until it moved into an old boat building warehouse owned by Robert Graves on a side road now known as Dunnagan’s Alley. The theatre started a youth program in the late 1970s. This is where I hung out and became inspired to pursue the arts as a career.
In 1985, the founders of the Hilton Head Dance School/ Theatre recruited a young Karena Brock-Carlisle (principal dancer and director of the Savannah Ballet) and her husband, John, to create a dance school and that became a reality with the first 17 students in May of that year. They now teach hundreds of students.
As I reflect on my wonderful upbringing on Hilton Head Island, I realize that I am leaving out a ton of stuff. It’s impossible to mention it all in this format, so I’m sorry if I didn’t mention everything that you might remember or activities in which you were involved.
Even though the wild, carefree days of the 1970s and my youth have long since passed, I think of them every single day. All I have to do is turn my head to the wind, close my eyes, feel the sun on my face, and smell the fragrant salt air and pluff mud in the distance – and it all comes flooding back.
Jeff Rehling, Director of the Institute for Business and Innovation at Hilton Head Preperatory School.
Article by Jeff Rehling
The Education of Business
Business education is often thought of as a distinct path or choice: “I’m going to business school” or “I’m going into business.”
Over the past 13 years as a member of the marketing faculty at the Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina, I was primarily responsible for teaching our senior marketing strategy capstone course. During this time, I learned that business education is so much more than a class, a major, or a college within a university. Business education is truly the business of life.
Let me provide some context. We are all in business. The editor of this publication is a writer, but her business is this magazine. The director of Deep Well is running a nonprofit business. My doctor works for a hospital system, which is definitely a business. A homemaker manages a household budget, which requires business knowledge. Even as a teacher, I am part of a business.
We are all in the business of business.
Think about taking a class in sales. Sales is about learning how to influence people. A class in marketing is about how to tell our story and what makes us unique. The foundational principles in finance, like understanding a balance sheet, are transferable to balancing a checkbook. Being able to work as part of a team? That’s human resources. The point is that much of business education is transferable to our daily lives, regardless of our career path.
Here’s another way to look at it: You have probably heard of the need for young people to develop both hard and soft skills. We talk a lot about this at the business school. Hard skills are the tangible skills you need to do your job –creating an income statement, writing a press release, running a statistical T-test, drawing blood – whatever it takes to do your job day in and day out. However, there are also the soft
skills, such as working as part of a team, being agile, communicating well, showing empathy when appropriate, and knowing how to compete (and win).
In business, we certainly teach the hard skills, but through understanding business principles, working on case studies, and doing projects, students also develop these soft skills. These are the skills you can’t teach in a textbook. Whether you are a doctor, attorney, marketer, or journalist, these soft skills can often be the difference between success and failure. It’s why I like to think of hard and soft skills as functional and foundational skills.
We all want to have strong functional (hard) skills; however, we also need to have strong foundational (soft) skills. Don’t just take my word for it. I work with dozens of leading companies around the world, and when I ask them what they look for in young talent, the first three are always foundational skills, like agility and grit, communications skills, and the ability to work as part of a team. It’s these foundational, or soft, skills that differentiate job candidates and the ones that help young talent add value to their first job on day one.
At the university, when students approached me about picking a major, I always told them to find a major they like, one that doesn’t feel like work, and/or one that fits their interests and strengths. I’ve never told a student what major they should choose. That’s the first and most important choice: find a major that will lead to a career where you enjoy going to work every day. Then, no matter what you choose as a primary study area, add at least a business minor to it. If you’re in a business school, great. If you’re not, that’s fine too. But add business as a second major or minor.
It’s for this reason that everyone should have at least a basic understanding of business. Gaining an understanding of business principles
Photography by M.Kat
and having the chance to apply them earlier than college is a recipe for success – not only in helping students identify their strengths, interests, and passions but also in preparing them for college and life. I’m a firm believer in helping
Gaining an understanding of business principles and having the chance to apply them earlier than college is a recipe for success.
Hilton Head Preparatory School is launching a new Institute for Business and Innovation that is committed to integrating business education at the high school level.
By fostering a strong foundation in business from a young age, we are not only preparing our students for academic success but also empowering them to become the innovative leaders and problem-solvers of tomorrow.
students find business experiences in high school, even in middle school.
Whether through coursework, joining a business or investment club, participating in DECA, finding a summer
internship, or finding a mentor who has been successful in business, there are plenty of opportunities to get started earlier than college when it comes to the education of business.
This approach is catching on. Many public schools now offer business courses, participate in DECA, and are involved in their community. Locally, Hilton Head Preparatory School is launching a new Institute for Business and Innovation that is committed to integrating business education at the high school level. In fact, two of their new business courses will be required for all high school students. The school has many other parts to the Institute, but what’s important is engaging and inspiring students earlier about the opportunities and roles business plays in our everyday lives.
Paul Horgan, head of school at Hilton Head Prep, talked about their investment in this program. “In late 2023 and early 2024, as we were going through our school’s five-year strategic planning process, we asked the question, where are our students going to school and what are they studying?” Horgan said. “We learned that about 30% were going into business school and 70% were going into what I call businessadjacent majors, for example, hospitality, retailing, sports management, advertising, and journalism. These paths may not live specifically in a university business school, but they are, without question, business career paths. It was then we realized that really all of our students are going into business in one way or another. This was when the Institute for Business and Innovation was created. We knew we needed to add a business component to our already rigorous college preparatory curriculum.”
As we look to the future, the one thing I am certain of is uncertainty. The world around us, and certainly the world of business, is transforming at a pace we have never seen before. I believe it’s clear that understanding business principles and developing essential functional and foundational skills early on are not just valuable but vital.
Although certainly not the only school investing in business education, the Institute for Business and Innovation at Hilton Head Prep is a local testament to the belief that providing students with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in an increasingly complex world is critical. By fostering a strong foundation in business from a young age, we are not only preparing our students for academic success but also empowering them to become the innovative leaders and problem-solvers of tomorrow.
Let’s invest in our youth today, for they are the foundation of a prosperous and dynamic future for all of us.
ARTICLE BY SHEILA TUCKER PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT
COFFEE, CRITIQUE, & COMPASSION:
NAVIGATING YOUR INNER CRITIC
In grad school, I was taught to take tea with my inner critic. That sounds great and all “kumbaya” – sitting at a cute cafe, cuddled up on a comfy sofa, with the smell of coffee beans wafting through the air.
Imagine it: You with your Americano, and your inner critic with a double-shot expresso. Your inner critic is a bit twitchy, and that double-shot expresso isn’t helping things.
Nonetheless, you sit and talk.
Well, you talk. Your inner critic speaks loudly, a few decibels below a yell; to make a point, they speak through gritted teeth.
For someone who likes to play it safe, your inner critic knows how to make a scene.
Your inner critic spells out what you’re doing wrong and where you can improve, moving inch by inch through your life like they’re editing it with a thick red Sharpie. Sitting calmly with your Americano cupped in your hands, slightly resting on your chest, you take it all in with a hint of curiosity – your eyebrows raising from time to time for effect and a twisted sort of solidarity.
Occasionally, you’ll ask, “Oh, what bothered you?”
They’ll pause to sigh. You try to let it wash over you, not taking it personally.
You do this for about an hour. Your inner critic insists you avoid everything at all costs because you might embarrass yourself, or you’re not good enough to do this or that. I mean, who do you think you are?
You ask the occasional question for clarification and offer validation of your inner critic’s fears. You provide a place of comfort and understanding so that your inner critic can vent and feel reassured that everything is OK-ish. It is only then that they calm.
Well, sort of. It is usually a temporary calming. Often fleeting. Always unpredictable.
Sheila Tucker is a licensed marriage and family therapist and owner of Heart Mind & Soul Counseling. I
Your inner critic has a way of wearing you down. These days, you give in, shrink, and believe the stories they’ve laid out in great detail.
Not every day is a coffee chat with your inner critic. There are days when restraining and ignoring are far more appropriate. You don’t always have the time to engage with your inner critic in a way that says, “Hey, I see your concern. Let’s chat about this.” No. You need to get stuff done, and they are square in your way with a defiant look and hands on their hips.
Coffee in hand, you’ll ask them politely to move. Under your breath, you’ll utter, “Don’t make me put this mug down.” And then, if there’s not the slightest movement or more digging in, you’ll take your inner critic by force – because you just don’t want to hear it and don’t need off-putting ideas messing things up. Unfortunately, your inner critic has mad Houdini-like skills. They have a way of beating their best time to free themself of
Small, intentional, measured steps will guide you from “stuck-ness” to fulfillment.
the binds you think will stop their antics. Your inner critic has a way of wearing you down. These days, you give in, shrink, and believe the stories they’ve laid out in great detail.
“I can’t do it. I shouldn’t do it. What would people think or say? Maybe this isn’t what I’m cut out to do. So many people do it so much better. Why does everyone but me seem to have it all together?”
These are the days you feel tired and uninspired. All your usual tricks to jumpstart your motivation no longer work. You’re numb. Without words. Without much emotion.
Your inner critic knows this and grows silent. They have you right where they want you – in this little box that grows smaller by the day. Your inner critic feels safe here, with your hands tied behind your back, in this little box – with them having all the control.
You know the only way out is to make a move – to free yourself from the constraints. It won’t be easy. You’ve formed this odd toxic relationship. Your inner critic promises to keep you safe if you agree to play by their rules.
But the old rules don’t work for you anymore. There need to be new rules and boundaries that align with who you want to be. So, little by little, you start to assert yourself – taking baby steps that are hardly noticeable to anyone else but you.
You begin to notice that your inner critic is quiet during certain times of the day. This is the time you make your moves – when your inner critic is too groggy to say “no”
or notice you’ve inched closer to the edge of the box, even tip-toed out for a moment.
This is when you start to look at those stories your inner critic tells you. Dissect them to see what’s helping you and what isn’t. Even more so, now is the time to notice who you want to be and how that person moves through life.
You tell yourself it’s OK not to know. Instead, you can imagine what someone else might do, and then imagine yourself doing that. There’s a lot of power in acting out the vision in your mind and then in reality.
When your inner critic becomes fearful and notices you’ve strayed from the confines of smallness, they’ll do everything they can to pull you back in, somewhat like a toddler having a meltdown in the grocery store because you said “no.”
The goal of the outburst is to hear a “yes.” Giving in is the easiest way to handle such an emotionally charged experience. Only, it teaches your inner critic that they get their way if they scream.
Learning to remain calm, centered, and driven toward your best hope is critical here. Small, intentional, measured steps will guide you from “stuck-ness” to fulfillment. It won’t be an easy road to traverse. The unknown often brings up thoughts of failure and doom, where fear is the currency of choice.
Putting one foot in front of the other with such a volatile head space is tricky, to say the least. However, it can be done, albeit with a touch of discomfort.
That’s one of the secrets of people who easily navigate negative self-talk – moving forward even when it feels wonky.
With coffee in hand, you begin to wonder what needs to be true for you to stand up to your inner critic.
A LINE IN THE SAND
COURTNEY’S OPINION:
Hey, 18- year- old Courtney, “Let them” and girl, you do you and carry on!
In April I bought a bracelet that reads, “Let them.” I saw it in my social media feed, no doubt a subliminal sales pitch to counteract the content about stress, leadership, and imposter syndrome that I like and follow. But those two words, gosh, they spoke to me. “Let them.”
Let them – think what they will. Let them – say what they want. Let them – do what they are going to do. Let them.
And I, I will focus on me. Not them. Somehow a $25 bracelet completely changed my mindset. I slapped that thing on my wrist and suddenly I had superpowers. I began to stop caring about what other people thought. I stopped doing more than was needed. I started saying “No.” I stopped worrying about what I couldn’t control (kind of) and instead I took control. I booked a last-minute flight to join my husband on a dive trip he’d had planned for a year. I surprised myself and I unplugged for four relaxing days on this tiny island with just two hotels (we were at the one with the subpar toilet
paper) that caters to scuba divers, which I am not. As the only non-diver in the group, I had hours of peace, solitude, and Caribbean breezes each morning. And afternoons and evenings with a great group of people, now friends.
When I returned from my trip, I had a regularly scheduled appointment with my primary care physician, whom I love. She listens when I advocate for myself and advocates for me when I don’t. I marched into that appointment with a nine-point agenda of things to discuss. And walked out a little lighter. (Ironically, this was also the first time in my life that I weighed less on the doctor’s scale than at home.)
My mind races all day and most nights. When I do manage to fall asleep, I grind my teeth due to stress. I have a crown, a falsie, and a pin in my jaw to prove it. Managing my stress has become uber-important. And once I started looking at the source of my stress it was – unsurprisingly – other people. And once I started letting the worry about other people go, I started sleeping better.
Why did I wait so long to “let them”?
So, if I could go back to 18-year-old me, who 33 years ago was preparing for what would be a lackluster launch into college life (despite my cannon ball approach), I would tell her, “Let them.” Don’t do things you don’t want to do. Don’t change for anyone. Create your own plan. Develop your own schedule. It doesn’t matter what other people are doing, let them.
Don’t do things you don’t want to do. Don’t change for anyone. Create your own plan. Develop your own schedule. It doesn’t matter what other people are doing, let them.
You should continue doing everything you did to get to this point – your study habits, your workout and wellness routine, your friends. Surround yourself with people like you, whose priorities align with yours. Study on school nights. Go to the library. Don’t sleep in. Move your body. And get to know your instructors. Keep drinking water more than anything else and that green smoothie you love, keep enjoying that too. (Did anyone even tell us 30 years ago how important water and greens were?)
I know it is unbelievably hard to wrap your brain around this right now, but you don’t have to prove anything to anyone but yourself – and maybe your parents who are footing the bill. But ultimately, be unapologetically you. It’s OK to mess up. This first semester will be a hard transition. But hang in there. Because I can tell you from experience, even if you leave freshman year with a 2.0 and it takes you every bit of three years to bring that up to a 3.5, you will turn out just fine.
BARRY’S OPINION: 18 year old Barry, sit down before you fall down and start taking this list down!
It was Courtney’s idea that we use this space this month to give advice to our younger selves, rather than my idea, which was to argue about whether Batman could beat Superman in a fight. I agreed, since in hindsight there’s no question that Batman would wipe the floor with Superman.
But it was only after I agreed that I realized a gigantic issue with this conceit – my younger self was an idiot. He was given great advice by people much smarter than him, and he ignored pretty much all of it. I can’t honestly think of anything I could say to the kid that he hadn’t already heard. And even if I could tell him something worth hearing, good luck getting that moron to listen.
So, I decided to put together some advice for a different 18-year-old instead, one who actually has a chance. In the month that this issue lands in mailboxes, my oldest daughter Sofia will both turn 18 and leave the nest, moving into her dorm at the University of South Carolina. With her standing on the precipice of adulthood, I offer her the following advice.
First, trust people by default. I realize that they make this very difficult
Young Barry! You are going to need these words of advice. Trust your past self - he knows you... he knows best!
1. Trust people by default
2. Invest in yourself
3. Enjoy these years...
4. Don’t enjoy them too much
at times, and many of them will reward your trust with deception. But the second you stop opening up to people is the second they close themselves to you. If you go down that road, you’ll miss out on knowing some remarkable people.
Second, invest in yourself. Start socking away a little bit of each paycheck, no matter the size of the paycheck. Eventually it will become a habit and then you won’t even notice it. When you need it most, it will give you the security to get through the lean times. And if you never need it, then you’ll at least have more to pass on to your kids than I will (comic books, mostly. Sorry about that).
Third, enjoy these years. My parents moved to the middle of nowhere after I graduated high school, so I took classes every summer during college rather than spend a semester out in the sticks. As a result, I whizzed through college in under four years. I made some lifelong friends and had some fun times I will never tell you about, but I can’t help but wish I’d eased off the gas a little while I was passing through.
Fourth, don’t enjoy these years too much. During my freshman and sophomore years, I was constantly on the brink of academic expulsion because I was having too much fun. At one point, I happened to show up to a class I’d skipped for a month straight to find myself taking a midterm I was in no way prepared for. After that, I started actually putting in the effort and wound up on the dean’s list. You’re smarter than me, though, so I don’t know that you have to worry as much about this one.
Finally, if you love what you do, never do it for free. For example, if you were going to give advice to someone who means the world to you, make sure you can at least get a column out of it.
First Tee -The Lowcountry participant Jeep Patrick at the 76th US Junior Amateur at Oakland Hills with his caddy, AJ Barger.
ARTICLE BY BARRY KAUFMAN
PALMETTO PRIDE
JEEP PATRICK CARRIES LOWCOUNTRY BANNER TO CLEMSON WITH HIS FINISH AT FIRST TEE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
This past June, young golfers from across the country made their way to the Palmetto State to test their golf game on the challenging links at Clemson University’s Walker Course during the 2024 First Tee National Championship.
But these weren’t just any young golfers. These were the selected champions from nationwide chapters of The First Tee, the organization dedicated to teaching young people the fundamentals of golf and the importance of good character.
During the tournament, guest speakers led conversations around First Tee’s values and life skills experience, augmenting the challenge of the tournament with the personal development that sets the organization apart.
One competitor didn’t have to travel far.
“It was a great experience, being able to represent the Lowcountry,” said Jeep Patrick. A long-time student of First Tee – The Lowcountry, Patrick began his journey when he was 11 years old. He has not only proven himself a phenomenal golfer, with impressive wins at regional tournaments against competitors much more experienced, but he has also shown himself to be a standard bearer for First Tee’s values.
“We are incredibly proud of Jeep and his performance at the First Tee National Championship,” said Pat Zuk, executive director of the local chapter. “His dedication to the sport and his representation of our values both on and off the course are truly commendable. We look forward to supporting Jeep in his future endeavors and watching his continued success in the world of golf.”
With the support of First Tee – The Lowcountry, Patrick finished out the 2024 First Tee National Championship with a strong fourth place finish in a field of 24 other student-athletes, finishing five under par after 54 holes.
“I felt honored to represent First Tee – The Lowcountry. They’re the ones who got me into golf.”
“I felt honored to represent First Tee – The Lowcountry. They’re the ones who got me into golf,” Patrick said. “Mr. Pat Zuk and the entire board at First Tee showed an immense amount of support throughout my high school career. I tried my best to represent the First Tee and walked away with a good result.”
The strong finish at nationals marks another stepping stone in a golf career that looks poised to take off.
“Next up, I’m playing in the U.S. Junior Amateur in Oakland Hills, Michigan,” Patrick said. “That will be my last junior golf tournament.”
Between that and the day he departs for college, he’s keeping his golf game on point caddying at Harbour Town Golf Links, studying under another legend of the game, John Farrell. “He’s been a very good mentor and it’s an honor to work with him.”
The future looks bright for this young golfer and model of First Tee’s dedication to molding young people into champions, whether on or off the course.
To learn more about how to get your child involved in First Tee, visit firstteelowcountry.org/register.
Photography by M.Kat
BOAT BITES
CHEF LYNN MICHELLE AND CASSANDRA SHULTZ SHARE EASY RECIPES TO TAKE WITH YOU ON YOUR NEXT SUNSET CRUISE. DON’T FORGET TO PACK LOTS OF WATER AND YOUR OTHER BEVERAGES OF CHOICE. SPECIAL SHOUTOUT TO CAPT. ERIC SHULTZ FOR TRANSPORTING US SAFELY ON LOWCOUNTRY WATERS AND TO THE FREEDOM BOAT CLUB FOR THE LUXURIOUS RIDE.
LOWCOUNTRY SHRIMP & ORZO PASTA SALAD
By Chef Lynn Michelle
Salad Ingredients
1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled, deveined, cooked; set aside for topping or omit due to an allergy of shellfish
1 small box orzo pasta, cooked and cooled
½ of each – small yellow, orange, and red peppers, chopped
½ cup kalamata olives, chopped
1 small container cherry tomatoes, washed, whole, or sliced in half
½ cup banana peppers, drained
2 cups uncooked broccoli, washed and cut into bite-size pieces.
2 raw carrots, washed, peeled, and cut into small pieces.
Feta cheese for topping as desired
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, place all the above ingredients and blend carefully together, season with salt and black pepper as desired.
Add dressing and toss lightly to coat all the ingredients. Transfer into a serving dish, top with cooked shrimp and feta cheese.
Dressing Ingredients
½ cup olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to season
Crushed red pepper, as desired and optional.
1 tablespoon honey
¼ cup regular or flavored balsamic
Directions
In a shaker, add all above ingredients and shake together.
SNACKLE BOXES
Mix and match your small bites in an actual fishing tackle box for easy transport to your next boating adventure. We stuffed ours with cheese straws (of course!), dried cranberries, gummy worms, dried pineapple, peanuts, Goldfish crackers, soft pretzel bites, and assorted candy. This is a great way to pack charcuterie on the go as well.
HAM SALAD
By Chef Lynn Michelle
Ingredients
2 inches deli spiced ham
2 inches deli rosemary and sundried tomato ham (end, for more flavor)
1 inch deli pepper ham (end, for more flavor)
1 inch deli smoked ham
1 inch deli tavern ham
1 inch deli sweet ham
1 small jar dill relish
1 cup pimentos (roasted red peppers), chopped
1½ - 2 cups mayonnaise
Directions
Cut all the ham chunks into smaller pieces to place into blender or Cuisinart.
Chop/pulse into small pieces, do not puree. (It may take a few times in smaller quantities.)
In a large mixing bowl, place all the ham; add jar of dill relish, pimentos, mayonnaise; mix thoroughly. Chill in fridge. Serve with crackers, pita, bread.
These can be made with your favorite fruit combinations, providing a healthy snack that’s easily shared and transported. We used blackberries, strawberries, kiwi, orange slices and a bit of coconut to make ours.
FRUIT KABOBS
KIELBASA WITH MUSTARD DIP
Ingredients
1 ¼ pounds smoked kielbasa (Polish sausage)
olive oil
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon of whole-grain mustard
1 teaspoon of prepared horseradish
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Slice the kielbasa crosswise ½-inch thick diagonally. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a medium (10- to 11-inch) sauté pan, add the kielbasa, and cook over medium-high heat for 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kielbasa is nicely browned on both sides.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, horseradish, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper.
Serve the kielbasa hot from the pan with small wooden skewers and a dish of the mustard sauce on the side for dipping.
PEANUT BUTTER AND JELLY BARS
Ingredients
½ pound (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 ½ cups sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 extra large eggs, at room temperature
2 cups (18 ounces) creamy peanut butter
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1½ teaspoons of kosher salt
1½ cups raspberry (or other) jam
2/3 cups salted peanuts, coarsely chopped
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9 x 13 by 2-inch cake pan. Line with parchment paper, then grease and flour the pan. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the butter and sugar on medium speed until light yellow, about 2 minutes. With the mixer on low speed, add the vanilla, eggs, and peanut butter and mix until all ingredients are combined. In a small bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
With the mixer on low speed, slowly add the flour mixture to the peanut butter mixture. Mix just until combined. Spread 2/3 of the dough into the prepared cake pan and spread over the bottom with a knife or offset spatula. Spread the jam evenly over the dough. Drop small globs of the remaining dough evenly over the jam. Don’t worry if all the jam isn’t covered; it will spread in the oven. Sprinkle the chopped peanuts and bake for 45 minutes, until golden brown. Cool and cut into squares.
ARTICLE BY BECCA EDWARDS
EASY BREEZY GETAWAY:
JEKYLL ISLAND
Two and a half hours by car, five hours by boat, Jekyll Island, which once was where the rich and famous wintered and had a hunting club, is now a year-round destination for common folk like you and me. Walking in the historic district, you might notice the smell of old money and the brine of Lowcountry air cast their charms.
Victorian homes structurally symbolize the magnetism of mega tycoons like Morgan, Vanderbilt, and Pulitzer, while the modesty of Spanish moss cloaking old oak trees brings a sense of humility to this Golden Isle gem.
With only 35% of the island developed, the absence of pretense will transport you back to a time when our waterways and beaches were uninhabited and, daresay, uninhibited. In short, Jekyll Island is not an excursion: It is an experience. But before you go, here are a few things you need to know.
FOR A FAMILY VACATION
Where to Stay:
Jekyll Ocean Club Resort provides a little something for mom and dad, as well as the kids. The AAA Four Diamond property offers 40 suites, a spacious outdoor pool deck with a fire pit, oversized hot tub, lounge chairs, and dining served from the resort’s beachfront kitchen and bar, Eighty Ocean Kitchen and Bar.
What to See and Do:
• Georgia Sea Turtle Center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is truly impressive. It is Georgia’s only sea turtle education and rehabilitation facility. Not one for plaquereading? This is one of the few times you and the kids will want to read the information presented in the museum and in the rehab facility. It is concise and informative.
• Jekyll Island Mini Golf is located just across from Great Dunes Park and offers two courses, one for beginners and one for the more advanced. Giving off vibes of Walley World from National Lampoon’s Vacation, this place is a great late afternoon activity.
• Summer Waves Water Park is the place to go for those who are a child of the ’80s and remember water
parks favorably. Relax, beat the heat, and connect with your inner child, while your real children zoom down the Pirate’s Passage or float along Turtle Creek.
Where to Eat:
Tortuga Jacks, a Baja Mexican restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, is across from Summer Waves Water Park and provides a beachfront view with funky decor and delicious food. The salsa and chips are essentially obligatory – ask for a side of queso and guacamole to complete the tasty trifecta. You cannot go wrong with the fish or shrimp tacos and if you sit outside, Jorge the bartender will keep the adult and kid drinks coming.
FOR THE HISTORY OR NATURE ENTHUSIAST
Where to Stay:
The Jekyll Island Club has three “cottages” – Sans Souci (which is pet friendly), Cherokee, and Crane Cottage (an ideal venue for weddings). The quotation marks around the word “cottages” is intentional because these are not true cottages. They are well-preserved and renovated mansions with contemporary decor and oftentimes original artwork or photographs. (Note: We stayed in Cherokee and had the entire cottage to ourselves.)
What to See and Do:
• Rent or bring a bike. If you bike the entire island at a reasonable clip, it takes only a few hours and you get to see so much more than if you were in a car or golf cart. (Note: There are three bike rental companies on the Island, Beachside Bike Rentals, Jekyll Island Bike Barn, and Jekyll Wheels.)
• Driftwood Beach is a must for anyone who enjoys a soulful stroll. Located on the northern end of the island, this section of Jekyll Island feels almost Jurassic. Sun-bleached, gnarled trees lay like weathered storytellers, inviting you in to simultaneously hear their story and at the same time keep walking along the beach to meet and hear the next one.
Where to Eat:
Plan for a picnic and pick a spot that speaks to you. There are many places to lay out a few beach towels or find a beachside bench and savor some local take-out flavors.
FOR A ROMANTIC GETAWAY
Where to Stay:
Dating back to 1888, the Jekyll Island Club Resort exudes classic romanticism and is the ideal place to spend a little “chicka wow wow” time with your significant other. The rooms are plush with comfortable beds, scenic views, and stylish decor.
Driftwood Beach is a must for anyone who enjoys a soulful stroll. Located on the northern end of the island, this section of Jekyll Island feels almost Jurassic.
Jekyll Island Club Resort
What to See and Do:
• For the couple that just wants to chill, check out the Jekyll Island Club Resort pool. Olivia (from nearby Sea Island) is there to get your drink and snack orders (the black-eyed pea hummus platter, chicken nachos, and chilled watermelon cubes with sea salt, lime and chili are all light and delicious).
• For the couple that wants to pack in the fun, check out the Jekyll Island Club Resort activities. Upon check-in, you will receive a map of the property and an itinerary of events. You might also enjoy playing croquet on the lawn while sipping refreshing cocktails.
Where to Eat:
Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. (the bar until 10 p.m.), The Wharf offers open air dining on the pier overlooking the water as well as indoor dining. Shareables include the pimento cheese appetizer and oysters on the half shell. You will also find other Lowcountry fare like shrimp and grits, seafood chowder, and a coastal shrimp boil, as well as key lime pie and if, you are feeling aristocratic, after dinner drinks.
Jekyll Island is the perfect easy breezy getaway for everyone. Time is a constant, but it is places like this special island that encapsulate the zeitgeist of a specific era and enable us to celebrate and enjoy all that the Lowcountry provides (culturally and environmentally). Whether you stay the week or just overnight, you will leave Jekyll Island feeling reinvigorated and rich with happiness.
One of the joys of living by the beach is that you can almost always feel like you’re on vacation! With a visit to Coligny, you’ll enjoy the tunes of local musicians and the enjoyment of shopping small, among the laughter of happy people. We chatted with locals who are squeezing in every last bit of summer at their favorite shops and attractions in Coligny.
Retired Hilton Head Island Firefighter Mick Mayers, a local since the ’80s, gets the “biggest biscuit in town” at Bad Biscuit when he’s out shopping with his daughters Caroline and Honora. Then it’s time to hit Piggly Wiggly to get some peanuts for boiling. Mick loves shopping and supporting his local friends like David Martin and Dave Peck!
Lowcountry- born hairstylist Denice Brown enjoys shopping with her freshman at Hilton Head Island High School, Mckenzie, at Black Market Minerals. Kenzie recently made the Varsity Cheer Team as a freshman - Go Seahawks!
An avid supporter of all things happening on the Island, Sea Turtle Patrol HHI volunteer Taylor Ladd enjoys kicking back with friends at Big Bamboo for some delicious drinks and the best live music scene on the island.
For Addie, Victoria and Caleb, no day at Coligny is complete until they’ve grabbed a seat by the center stage to enjoy the outrageous antics and toetapping tunes of Hilton Head Island’s clown prince of good times, Jevon Daly. Addie especially loves Daly’s “Pelican Bomb Squad,” and hops on stage to sing it with him all summer long.
When she needs to get in a little post-deadline retail therapy, you can usually find CH2’s own Kim Conrad Crouch picking up new looks at Haskins & Co. with her daughter Palmer.
and OT Gibbons, the folks behind the hugely successful “Hilton Head
and sunglasses at Quiet
“Man of the People” and the island’s leading soup aficionado Matt Stock is a huge Earle fan. Fun fact, he’ll never turn down a lunch date request to The Earle of Sandwich pub for made-from-scratch soup and the best burger (and he’s an expert) on the island!
Jessica
Livin’” on social media, enjoy supporting local by shopping for their flip-flops
Storm.
In June, Erin McMahon walked across the Bluffton High School graduation stage, fifth in her class, president of the National Honor Society, and into a career in dance.
Article by Courtney Hampson
CENTER STAGE:
ERIN MCMAHON
From tiny dancer to poetry in motion
It was 20 degrees below zero when she stepped out of the St. Louis airport in January – the air so cold it took her breath away. She gasped, laughed, and soldiered on, climbing into a cab to take her to yet another hotel in a city that she wouldn’t get a chance to explore, but where she would dance 12 hours a day, until another cab took her back to the airport (this time, in an ice storm).
For the past year, Erin McMahon has been traveling two weekends a month to cities across the United States – Chicago, Baltimore, Atlanta, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Boston – to dance.
In June, she walked across the Bluffton High School graduation stage, fifth in her class, president of the National Honor Society, and into a career in dance. The week prior, her signing ceremony to CLI Conservatory filled the high school auditorium with fellow dancers, classmates, teachers, family, and friends.
When Bluffton High’s valedictorian spoke at graduation she noted, “Some of us will pursue academics, others athletics, and some … dance.” It was a nod to her friend Erin, and the road less taken.
Now, as she prepares to move to the Northeast to fulfill her dream, Erin said, “It didn’t faze me that my path is different.” Oh, but it is.
After an intense high school career, focused on all AP/ honors classes, and near-perfect grades, choosing a nonacademic route is a bold, yet beautiful, move. Erin applied to seven colleges for dance education or commercial
dance. After being offered scholarships at Winthrop, South Carolina, the illustrious Boston Conservatory at Berklee, as well as the CLI Conservatory, she cancelled the rest of her auditions and knew it was time to dial in her choice.
When she stepped onto the campus of CLI Conservatory in Southampton, Massachusetts, and it had, as she said, “everything I wanted it to have,” she knew. Two rounds of video auditions and an interview preceded her visit and, as she traveled north on I-95, it became clear. Signs along the way pointed her in this direction – the lucky number 343, with which her mother has a bit of an obsession, appeared on license plates, gas pumps, and the arrival time on their GPS.
ERIN MCMAHON
Her visit included the opportunity to take classes and, Erin said, “They made me a better dancer in just one day.”
The CLI Conservatory is a 10-month intensive dance program designed to prepare students to enter the world of professional dance. More than 100 industry-leading choreographers comprise their faculty. Not only are they great educators, but they are also the most in-demand choreographers working in every area of the dance industry.
Uniquely, the faculty combines educational and practical work experience so that their students can make strong connections with the choreographers they want to work with once they graduate. Thousands from across the world apply, less than 200 are accepted each year, and they dance eight hours a day, five days a week.
The goal? This time next year, Erin is working as a professional dancer. Lofty? Yes. But, “I’ve danced my whole life, I can’t picture life without it,” Erin said.
And that is true. Erin’s onstage debut was at just 3 years old. She wore a little red and green dress, her hair in a bun with a perfect bow, a dash of lipstick. Her family blanketed her with flowers after her 90 seconds in the spotlight and a tiny dancer was born.
Erin danced for fun until fourth grade, and along the way her parents tried to convince her to expand her horizons and try other sports. At age 6, she came downstairs dressed for her first soccer practice in shin guards and a tutu. That’s when they knew: Dance is it. After a brief hiatus, in fifth grade Erin started dancing again at Alliance Dance Academy – and what began as a recreational pursuit soon became competitive, thanks to a nudge from studio owner Rochelle Clarkson.
For the next seven years, Erin danced multiple days a week and traveled to competitions on the weekends, officially making her mom a “dance mom” and setting the stage. According to Clarkson, “Erin has always been dedicated to learning, focused on being the best she could be, picked up new steps
very quickly, took corrections willingly and more importantly, was able to apply them. She shined bright when she was in class and even brighter onstage.”
But where does this commitment and drive come from? That is easy. “Surrounding yourself with the right people,” Erin said. “I’ve always been on this AP track and every year I would have a conversation with my advisor about my goals that didn’t necessarily include college – and every year she would say, ‘You’re not struggling. You are a hard worker. Stick with the AP classes. Don’t give up.’”
Erin gives a lot of credit to her advisor, Dana House, who was also her crosscountry coach. Yes, in addition to dancing every day after school and not getting home until after 8 p.m., to then tackle her mountain of AP homework, Erin started her mornings at 6 a.m. at cross-country practice.
“Cross-country gave me support and focus,” Erin said. “We pushed each other to be better. I loved practice, when there was no clock, just me and my teammates running together … I guess that is why I love dance – I’m surrounded by other people who are just as passionate as I am.”
Her love of performing also spawned a love for teaching, inspired in part by Bluffton High School dance teacher Beth Herring. “Beth makes a connection with every student – she cares. She is supportive and brings a positive energy into the room,” Erin said.
The teaching side of dance has been a part of Erin’s journey for the past few years – as a teacher cadet at the high school and M.C. Riley Elementary School, as the leader of the dance club at Bluffton
Middle School, and as the hip hop competition team teacher and choreographer at Alliance Dance Academy, racking up awards along the way.
Not many 16-year-olds are tapped to teach but, according to Clarkson, “Not only is she an amazingly talented dancer, Erin has a knack for teaching, too. Not every great dancer is able to teach. That is a gift that she was born with.”
As senior year neared and her friends and classmates were talking about colleges, majors, and scholarships, Erin was focused on a different route. “I can go to college anytime, I may not always be able to dance,” she said. With her parents and family firmly in her camp, it was full steam ahead on chasing her dream.
This time next year, with her intensive 10 months at CLI Conservatory in the rearview, Erin will be focused on her career path as a dancer. She’ll have auditioned for agencies, dance companies, tours, and shows. The dream job? “Touring with an artist as a dancer, but I know that will take time,” she said. “Maybe commercials? A cruise line? Whatever opportunity gets me first, either way, I will be happy.”
As for what the stage feels like and why this is the path she’s chosen, “It’s like a fever dream,” Erin said, as her eyes twinkled. “Most of the time, I don’t even remember what just happened onstage. I get to disconnect and be 100% myself.”
Erin’s friends, family, teachers, describe her as quiet, humble, kind. And then she steps onstage and becomes another person. “When I dance people say, ‘Whoa, who is this?’”
She is a relentless force. Get ready, because this time next year, we’ll see her on the biggest stage of her life and the world will be saying, “Whoa, who is this?”
ENHANCING PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT AT TOWN MEETINGS
As mayor of Hilton Head Island, I have the privilege of presiding over numerous meetings and listening to a wide range of opinions from our residents and stakeholders. We actively encourage this feedback because it helps us understand the community’s stance on various issues, allowing my fellow town council members and me to make informed decisions.
To ensure that every voice is heard and our town meetings are conducted efficiently, we have updated our guidelines for public participation. These new procedures aim to facilitate a more orderly and inclusive public comment process, reflecting our commitment to community engagement.
At our meeting on June 18, the town council approved an ordinance amending the Town Code to revise the public comment rules and procedures for both agenda and non-agenda items. These new guidelines took effect on July 1.
How to participate in town meetings
Residents who wish to speak at town meetings are encouraged to submit an online public comment form at least two hours before the meeting. This form is easily accessible on our website. For those who prefer a more traditional approach, physical forms will be available at all public meetings. These can be completed and submitted to the town clerk or the secretary of the relevant board, commission, or committee up to 10 minutes before the meeting starts.
During the meeting, the presiding officer will call for public comments following the presentation of each agenda item. The town clerk or secretary will then invite speakers based on the order in which forms were received. To ensure everyone has a fair opportunity to speak, comments are limited to three minutes per speaker per
A
MAYOR
WHAT DOES THE NEW TOWN BUDGET MEAN TO YOU?
Stormwater, pollution, economic development, and affordable housing transcend the boundaries of Bluffton. These issues impact not only our town but also our neighboring cities, towns, state, and country.
This is why regional partnerships are crucial; they act as “force multipliers,” enabling us to address these challenges comprehensively. I want our residents to know how our neighboring cities, towns, Beaufort County, and various agencies are collaborating with the Town of Bluffton to tackle these issues that affect us all.
Stoney Creek Sewer Project
The Stoney Creek Sewer Project is designed to enhance water quality in our region by reducing pollution in the May River. The Stoney Creek area is in unincorporated Beaufort County on May River Road and includes the Stoney Crest Plantation Campground. This area currently lacks public sewer service, leading to runoff contaminants affecting the May River.
In collaboration with Beaufort County and the Beaufort Jasper Water Sewer Authority, we are working to fund, construct, and connect sanitary sewer systems for the residents in this area. This project, which benefits both the residents and the May River, is funded by a $6 million grant from the South Carolina Infrastructure Investment Program and contributions from each agency.
A Note from Hilton Head Island Mayor, Alan Perry
Note from Bluffton Mayor, Larry Toomer
agenda item. Additionally, there will be a designated time for comments on non-agenda items after the formal town council business has concluded.
Why your voice matters
These updates are more than procedural changes; they are part of our broader effort to enhance civic engagement and ensure that all community members have an opportunity to voice their concerns and suggestions. Your input is invaluable to us, whether it’s about local development, public services, or any other issue affecting our community. By fostering a more inclusive and structured public comment process, we hope to create a community where everyone feels heard and valued. Your participation is crucial in shaping the future of Hilton Head Island, and we are committed to making this process as accessible and effective as possible.
For more detailed information about speaking at public meetings or to access the public comment form, visit our website at hiltonheadislandsc.gov or contact town clerk Kimberly Gammon at KimberlyG@hiltonheadislandsc.gov. We look forward to hearing from you.
Beaufort County Economic Development Corporation (BCEDC)
BCEDC serves as the economic development arm of Beaufort County government, offering incentives for companies to expand, locate, or relocate to our area. The Town of Bluffton partners with BCEDC to enhance our own economic development incentives, attracting businesses to Bluffton specifically.
Buckwalter Place Commerce Park
The Town has designated approximately five acres of land near the Bluffton Police Department in Buckwalter Place for economic development. We are collaborating with a private developer to build 50,000 square feet of commercial space, with 14,000 square feet donated to the Town’s economic development department, The Don Ryan Center for Innovation (DRCI). This space will be used to offer reduced commercial rates for start-up and growth businesses in the region.
The SC Power Team, a coalition of 19 electric cooperatives, awarded the town a $1 million grant for this project, and the Beaufort County Economic Development Corporation contributed an additional $130,000. This initiative aims to attract knowledge-based, clean businesses to Bluffton.
Public-Private Partnership/Affordable Housing
In late May, the Town of Bluffton and Workforce State of Mind, LLC broke ground on a 12-home affordable housing community at 1095 May River Road, a parcel purchased by the town in 2018. We are also working with Beaufort County and Beaufort Memorial Hospital to provide more affordable housing on a parcel across from Buckwalter Place, where Beaufort Memorial will develop medical facilities alongside the housing.
Additionally, the Town has a 10-acre parcel at 115 Bluffton Road, across from the Burnt Church Distillery, earmarked for another affordable housing project.
Town leaders and staff are grateful for these partnerships as we continue to work together, across agencies, to implement solutions in our region to continually improve and protect our quality of life.
A Note from Larry Toomer continued
A Note from Alan Perry continued
WEXFORD PUB:
Savannah’s New Irish Crown Jewel
This is going to be a tourist attraction.
You don’t need a four-year degree in “Savannah” to know and understand how deep its Irish heritage runs. We all know how big St. Patrick’s Day is around here, yes? That’s the lowest of low hanging fruit whenever the Irish and Savannah come up. What most people don’t know is how deep the ties run between the Hostess City of the South and Ireland. Unless you ran a google deep dive, there wasn’t really a place to see what those ties were all about.
Now you can, while enjoying a pint, some food, or a good book inside Savannah’s newest pub. It’s called Wexford Pub and it is equal parts Irish pub and history lesson. It promises to be one of the most popular stops for any visitor for many, many years. Yes, it’s that beautiful. Yes, it’s that well thought out.
Wexford Pub opened to the public in July in the City Market space formerly occupied by Wild Wing Cafe. The 14,000-square-foot (not a typo) restaurant and live music venue has been a project four years in the making. July 2020 is when it was agreed that the business partners involved would go for it and make this restaurant as much of a museum and homage to Irish heritage as they possibly could.
They’ve spared no expense. It’s a home run.
The journey began with a visit to a historian at Georgia Southern University, someone who knew how deep the ties run between Savannah and County Wexford, Ireland. They were overjoyed that someone was looking into bringing this chapter of Savannah’s history to the masses.
The story, you see, goes back to the Great Potato Famine of 1845. Roughly a million people died as a result of the famine, and 2 million more fled the country. Many of those landed in Savannah, to start a new life. The relationship has been intertwined ever since.
Wexford Pub’s walls are adorned with as much of the history as they could find. If they couldn’t use an original artifact, they had replicas made. A Dublin-based design firm was hired to create what has become known in the industry as a “Super Pub.” We are told there are fewer than five such pubs in America. The newest one in the heart of Savannah.
There’s no wasted space. Anything you see on a wall or in a cabinet has a story or a tie to the history. The furnishings are simply beautiful. It’s a warm, inviting, and beautifully appointed pub. It’s a tighter squeeze, frankly, than I thought it would be, but that is part of its charm. Two bars on the ground floor dominate the space. Tables and booths are everywhere else. I loved it.
The food is what you would expect. Fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, pot roast, and many other classics. There’s a burger, of course, and wings and chicken tenders. Salads and shareables. Everything I had I very much enjoyed. The Bailey’s Irish Cream Cheesecake is made locally and will leave you talking about it for hours. Exceptional. I cannot recommend it enough.
The ground floor pub is welcoming and lively. Televisions are scattered. It’s not a sports bar, but you can figure a big game will be on when the need arises. In the interim? They have a livestream feed of the Temple Bar in the heart of Dublin. Quite clever and fascinating, frankly. Those televisions will also be able to show the music going on
upstairs. Live music will be a big part of this project. Acoustic sing-along types will be out front seven days a week downstairs. On the weekends upstairs there will be more formal musical enjoyment.
There’s also another bar on the second floor as well as any number of well appointed “snugs,” sections of the space that offer a little more privacy. I think it’s perfect. Beautiful as well.
I’m surprised no one took a stab at anything like this sooner. No matter, it’s done now and waiting for you to enjoy it. And I believe everyone will. What I’ve come to learn in my now 20 years in this beautiful city is that, yes, the Irish roots are cause for a good time here, especially in March. But beyond all of that, it’s the love and the passion that the families bring to the equation that make Savannah’s ties to Ireland felt as strongly as they are. And now they have a new gathering place to enjoy year-round.
A visit to Wexford Pub should be on your day trip plans across the Savannah River. Come see it for yourself.
A visit to Wexford Pub should be on your day trip plans across the Savannah River.
Jesse Blanco
A Series of Fortunate Events, interesting news and a hodge-podge of other items. You know…this and that! If you would like to submit something for this special section, please email maggie@ch2cb2magazine.com. If we have room and it’s appropriate for public consumption, we’ll be happy to oblige.
Harry Battle, left, and Floyd Coker have joined the team at Gray’s Heating and Air Conditioning. With a combined experience of more than 40 years in the industry, they look forward to serving the community.
Couzens Dental has announced the retirement of esteemed dentist Dr. Robert G. Savarese, who has served the Hilton Head community with distinction for many years. With heartfelt gratitude, the practice recognizes his invaluable contributions and unwavering dedication to patient care.
“We are deeply grateful for the long and distinguished career of our friend, Dr. Savarese,” said Dr. Susan Couzens. “His commitment to providing high-quality dental care has left an indelible mark on our community. While he may be stepping down, his spirit of service will continue to guide us.”
Dr. Savarese has been a pillar of the dental profession in Hilton Head, earning the trust and admiration of generations of families through his exceptional skill and compassionate service. His departure marks the end of a remarkable era, but his legacy of excellence will continue to inspire the team at Couzens Dental.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit couzensdental.com.
Jessica Shefsick has started a new business, Net Not Debt Bookkeeping, to help business owners get their financials in order.
Shefsick is a long-time local and founder of Bride’s Side Beauty, which she sold in December 2023.
“My favorite part about running my business was the financials and the budgeting,” Shefsick said. “Having clean books, sticking to a budget, and showing profit allowed me to have a sellable business. I want to help others achieve that – or, at the very least, help to get their business financials in line and their net in the green!”
For more information, call (843) 368-2660 or visit netnotdebt.com.
Alliance Dance Academy STARS recently danced aboard Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas. The show was open to the 6500 passengers aboard the ship and it was a full house!! Such a wonderful experience for the 70+ family members that joined in the fun!
DISCOVER THE LIFECHANGING BENEFITS OF JOINING FIRST TEE —THE LOWCOUNTRY
Joining First Tee opens the door to a world of opportunities and personal growth for young participants ages 7-17. Whether your child is new to golf or looking to enhance their skills, First Tee offers a comprehensive range of programs designed to build character and instill life-enhancing values.
Year-Round Classes and Camps
First Tee provides seasonal Golf and Life Skills classes throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter sessions. Our summer camps are a highlight, offering an immersive experience where participants can develop their golfing skills while learning essential life skills such as honesty, respect, and perseverance. Classes are offered in Bluffton, Hardeeville, Beaufort, Ladys Island, Ridgeland, and Hilton Head Island.
Exclusive Events and Experiences
Members can participate in exciting events such as the RBC Heritage Field Day and Chronic Golf/First Tee Experiences, in addition to playing tournaments. These events provide unique opportunities to engage with the community and enjoy the sport in a fun and supportive environment. Additionally, our Hilton Head Island Junior Golfers’ Association events are open to all participants, fostering a sense of camaraderie and teamwork.
Leadership and Volunteer Opportunities
First Tee encourages young people to give back to their community through junior volunteer opportunities. Participants can get involved in coaching and mentoring, assist in organizing the Awards Banquet, and become Champions of First Tee. These roles help develop leadership skills and a strong sense of responsibility.
Advanced Programs for Qualified Participants
For those who meet the qualifications, First Tee offers advanced programs such as the First Tee—The Lowcountry Tour Card Program and the First Tee Leadership Series with the PGA Tour Superstore. National opportunities like the Pure Insurance Championship at
Whether your child is new to golf or looking to enhance their skills, First Tee offers a comprehensive range of programs designed to build character and instill life-enhancing values.
National Competitions and Career Opportunities
Qualified participants can also compete in prestigious events like the First Tee—New Orleans National Team Tournament and the First Tee National Championship. Additionally, part-time range attendant opportunities offer a practical way to gain work experience in the golfing industry.
College Scholarships
First Tee is dedicated to supporting the educational aspirations of its members. College scholarships are available through both First Tee— The Lowcountry and First Tee National, helping to ease the financial burden of higher education.
Join First Tee—The Lowcountry, with classes in Bluffton, Beaufort, Hardeeville, Ridgeland and Hilton Head Island, and empower your child to achieve their dreams on and off the golf course.
Learn more at firstteelowcountry.org/register
Pebble Beach, Game Changers Academy, and the Drive Your Future Academy presented by John Deere provide invaluable experiences that can shape a young golfer’s future.
Haig Point has been recognized as a wildlife-friendly community by the National Wildlife Federation’s Community Wildlife Habitat program. To receive this designation, community leaders commit to building collaborative relationships with residents, educators, youth, city officials, families and more to educate them about and engage them in the creation of native plant habitat for people and wildlife. To be recognized, a community is required to certify a proportion of their residential homes, schools, and public spaces as a National Wildlife Federation Certified Wildlife Habitat. These critical pockets of habitat throughout their community provide the four basic elements that all wildlife need to thrive: food, water, cover and places for wildlife to raise young, and are managed using sustainable gardening and landscaping practices.
Participants educate and engage Haig Point residents through events, workshops and hands-on service projects. Haig Point is the 164th community in the country and the 15th community in South Carolina to earn this designation.
Burnt Church Distillery has introduced a new flavor, Watermelon Lime, to its Amethyst Non-alcoholic Spirits brand.
“Watermelon Lime is full of flavor and gives you that natural essence of Summertime. Quintessentially fresh and bright, Amethyst Non-alcoholic Spirits are not an alternative to alcoholic beverages, they are a unique, approachable product unto themselves. In fact, we deliberately do not refer to our products as being like any existing spirit (gin, vodka, tequila, vermouth, etc.) as our recipes are a product classification of their own that is evident upon your first sip,” said Amethyst Brand Manager Jane Harmon. “Enjoy Amethyst Watermelon Lime for the natural botanicals and the clarity that comes with prioritizing wellness and intentionality.” Burnt Church Distillery, 120 Bluffton Road, hosted a prelaunch celebration in early July.
The Port Royal Community Charitable Fund recently awarded $128,385 to seven nonprofit organizations. This brings the total amount of grants awarded to $232,885, since the fund was established by residents of the Port Royal neighborhood on Hilton Head Island in 2021.
Six local organizations received grants ranging from $12,500 to $20,000 for programs focused on breaking the cycle of poverty through education by improving academic readiness and performance for children, birth through elementary school.
Recipients of the 2024 Port Royal Community Charitable Fund grants are Neighborhood Outreach Connection, Real Champions, The Children’s Center, Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head, Antioch Educational Center, and Mental Health America of the Lowcountry.
In addition, a special grant of $20,000 was awarded to Coastal Community Development Corporation to help the local workforce obtain affordable housing so they can live in the community where they work.
Karen Ryan, broker/owner of Weichert, Realtors Coastal Properties on Hilton Head Island, appeared on an episode of HGTV’s “My Lottery Dream Home” that aired in June. To watch the episode online visit hgtv.com/shows/my-lotterydream-home/episodes/low-country-comfort.
The show takes recent lottery winners on house hunts for their new dream homes. The show is hosted by David Bromstad, an American designer and popular television personality. In this episode, Ryan met with Bromstad and provided expertise on the area and suggested properties for Bromstad to show to a Connecticut couple who were looking to retire in the Lowcountry.
Weichert, Realtors Coastal Properties was the thirdtop producing company – out of more than 230 – in the Weichert national franchise system last year. The brokerage has offices in Hilton Head Island, Okatie, Bluffton, Beaufort, and Savannah.
Ryan is a luxury home specialist who has sold more than $150 million on Hilton Head Island and regularly ranks among the top brokers in sales on the island. She’s a Certified Residential Specialist, Accredited Buyer Representative, Luxury Home Specialist, Resort and Second Home Specialist, and is e-Pro Certified. Ryan graduated from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and has lived on Hilton Head Island for more than 30 years.
COLIGNY PLAZA SUMMER MUSIC SERIES
COLIGNY CENTER STAGE - 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Sunday, Wednesday, Friday - Jevon’s Kids Show
Monday - John Cranford & Alice Gould
Tuesday - Kyle Wareham
Thursday - Nick Poulin
Saturday - Mike Kavanaugh
FARMERS & MAKERS MARKET
Every Tuesday
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
The Shops at Sea Pines Center
RICK HUBBARD’S KAZOOBIE KAZOO SHOW
8-9:30 p.m.
Music, comedy, kazoos. Liberty Oak in Harbour Town
TEACHERS’ CLASSROOM
SUPPLY DRIVE
Aug 1 - Aug 21
Bluffton Self Help Wishlist: https://a. co//bEAu4cU
SOUTH CAROLINA TAX-FREE WEEKEND
Aug 2 - Aug 4
dor.sc.gov/ taxfreeweekend
LEGO BUILD WITH CHRIS 11 a.m. Sandbox Children’s Museum. Reservations required. thesandbox.org
ISLAND VIBES WITH GROOVE TOWN ASSAULT
Sea Pines Beach Club 5-7 p.m.
3 13 24 23 20 19 9 2 8 28 5 4 6 10 11 14 22 18 31
HARBOURFEST @ SHELTER COVE
6 p.m. Tuesdays, Shannon Tanner, Cappy the Clown. Fireworks at dusk
HARBOURFEST @ SHELTER COVE
6 p.m. Tuesdays, Shannon Tanner, Cappy the Clown. Fireworks at dusk
Grammy Awardwinner QUIANA PARLER WITH LAVON STEVENS TRIO 9 p.m. TheJazzCorner.com
PARROT PALOOZA
Shannon Tanner & The Oyster Reefers Every Thursday Shelter Cove Harbour. 7 p.m.
HARBOURFEST @ SHELTER COVE
6 p.m. Tuesdays, Shannon Tanner, Cappy the Clown. Fireworks at dusk
“UP HERE: HUNTING ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE” Program for National Lighthouse Day. 1 p.m. at Hilton Head Branch Library Free (843) 255-6525 “IMAGINE” EXHIBIT BY ART QUILTERS OF THE LOWCOUNTRY
All Month Long - Coastal Discovery Museum Mon-Sat, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-3 p.m. coastaldiscovery.org
GREGG RUSSELL CONCERTS
Liberty Oak in Harbour Town
8-9:30 p.m.
Mon-Thurs Aug. 1-8 Mon, Wed, Fri Aug. 12-23 Thurs-Sat Aug. 29-31
