Celebrate Bluffton & Beyond Magazine / Celebrate Hilton Head: December 2018 Issue

DECEMBER 2018

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LOVELY LASSES

TIME TO VOTE FOR THE BACHELORETTE OF THE YEAR

page 41

GIFT GUIDE FOR HER page 87 HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

LA BODEGA

SURPRISE YOUR PALATE AT FARM LET’S DO BRUNCH!

BLUFFTON LASH LOUNGE CAROLINA DREAM ALL STARS

D E S TI N A TI O N :

MUSICIANS IN BATHROOMS PRESENTS:

HARLESTON

RE-FEATHERING THE NEST

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P A RT I I

CONTENTS 12.18 P24

“

Pickleball is a fast game that attracts elite athletes as well as kids, who are naturally quick and agile.

But if you are less mobile or just want to play for fun, it’s the perfect opportunity to socialize and get your blood flowing.” - PAGE 109

EDITOR’S NOTE Happy Holidays!

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A WORD FROM OUR MAYOR Lisa Sulka of Bluffton updates you on town happenings.

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SURPRISE YOUR PALATE AT FARM Let’s Do Brunch!

D ES T I NAT I O N :

DECEMBER 2018

10

TIME TO VOTE FOR THE BACHELORETTE OF THE YEAR

P AR T I I

plus HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

LET’S DO BRUNCH!

WHERE HIGH STYLE COMES DOWN TO EARTH

BLUFFTON LASH LOUNGE

PICKLEBALL IS HOT, HOT, HOT!

CAROLINA DREAM ALL STARS

page 109

P A RT I I

HILTON HEAD PREPARATORY SCHOOL

DECEMBER 2018

DECEMBER 2018

ALL THAT GLITTERS

DE S T IN A T I O N :

LA BODEGA

SURPRISE YOUR PALATE AT FARM

FAB’RIK HILTON HEAD

HARLESTON

RE-FEATHERING THE NEST

MUSICIANS IN BATHROOMS PRESENTS:

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LA BODEGA

PREPPING FOR THE REAL WORLD

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page 41

GIFT GUIDE FOR HER page 87

MUSICIANS IN BATHROOMS PRESENTS:

QUINN’S DIAMOND JEWELERS

THE FACE PLACE BY KC

LOVELY LASSES

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HARLESTON

CB2 CELEBRATE BLUFFTON & BEYOND

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CH2 CELEBRATE HILTON HEAD!

TIME TO VOTE FOR THE BACHELORETTE OF THE YEAR

page 41

GIFT GUIDE FOR HER page 87

ON OUR COVERS ON THE CH2 COVER

ON THE CB2 COVER

Photography by M.Kat Photography by M.Kat Ensemble by Birdie James Ensemble by CoastalBliss Styling by Kaila Manthei Styling by Kaila Manthei Hair and Make-up by Hair and Make-up by Bride’s Side Beauty Bride’s Side Beauty Thanks to Emma and Thanks to Emma and Halo Model and Halo Model and Talent Agency Talent Agency

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DEC. 2018

C2 MAGAZINE

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ALL THAT GLITTERS Quinn’s Diamond Jewelers carries on family tradition of exceptional service.

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DECEMBER 2018

LOVELY LASSES

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10

GIFT GUIDE FOR HER

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CH2’S TOP TEN BACHELORETTES OF THE YEAR Voting begins December 1 through December 12

EXPLORE SC: CHARLESTON PART II

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HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS Re-Feathering the Nest

LINE IN THE SAND Farewell Courtney Hampson

Model Emma Sonberg of Halo Model and Talent Agency stands next to an AH-1 Cobra helicopter at Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant.

WHAT’S BLACK, WHITE, & RED ALL-OVER Holiday with a Twist!

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THIS & THAT

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CAROLINA DREAM ALL STARS

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FAB´RIK HILTON HEAD Where High Style Comes Down to Earth

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BLUFFTON LASH LOUNGE

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THE SANDBOX

COOKING UP SOMETHING NEW Billy Wood Appliance expands to a beautiful new Bluffton showroom.

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FINDING THE RIGHT KEY The beat never stops for David Carroll, Hilton Head Island’s rock ’n’ roll Realtor®.

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PREPPING FOR THE REAL WORLD Hilton Head Preparatory School

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PICKLEBALL IS HOT, HOT, HOT!

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2018 NEW BUSINESS ROUNDUP

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BEYOND IT SNS Technologies is your first, last and best line of protection for any and all IT emergencies.

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LOWCOUNTRY CLEAN CARE, LLC Cleaning is what they do — Caring is who they are!

play DON’T FORGET TO FIND THIS ICON IN OUR DIGITAL ISSUE FOR BEHIND THE SCENES VIDEOS.

e EDITOR’S NOTE DECEMBER 2018

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s I write this on Thanksgiving Eve, it is hard to believe the most wonderful time of the year is upon us again.

This year has flown by, and we have much to be thankful for at the magazine. Kaila Manthei, the newest addition to our sales team and our stylist extraordinaire, is getting married this month and we can’t wait to celebrate with her and Rhett on December 15. We’ll be celebrating again later this month when our Ashton and her husband Steve welcome a tiny bundle on December 28. So many happy life events on the horizon!

The Town of Hilton Head Island has a new mayor, and we would like to extend a warm welcome to John McCann. We look forward to sharing his thoughts on leadership and our community in the years to come.

This issue had us spending time with our finalists for CH2’s Bachelorette of the Year contest. For their individual photoshoots, we asked them to take us to their favorite locations in the area—places where they felt the happiest. I guess it’s no surprise that sand showed up in a few of these shots. Please vote and let us know who should be on the cover of our January issue. Get to know them on pages 42-51 and then head over to our website, www.celebratehiltonhead.com to cast your ballot before December 12.

Starting on page 64, we continue our Explore SC series with the rest of our Charleston adventures. Patriot’s Point, the Gibbes Museum of Art and the United States Custom House were just a few of the beautiful backdrops on which our model, Emma

Sonberg modeled holiday wear for our local boutiques.

Where should we go next?

Do you have a favorite small town in South Carolina we should bring to these pages in the coming months? Write us and let us know!

Wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday season.

See you next year! 

MAGGIE WASHO

Publisher / Editor-in-Chief

*Editor’s Note: At press time we were just finding out that John McCann has been elected our new mayor.

Congratulations John! We look forward to bringing you his first column next month. < Bluffton Mayor

Photography by Krisztian Lonyai

A Note from Lisa Sulka

GROWTH MANAGEMENT

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want to give you a brief look into the Growth Management Dept., which consists of three divisions: Planning and Community Development, Building Safety, and Customer Service.

Planning and Community Development includes review of all development-related activities and permits, preparation and implementation of plans for the town, historic preservation, the Neighborhood Assistance Program, and affordable housing program.

M AY O R

Building Safety includes the review of all building permit applications and the associated inspections.

Customer Service includes the acceptance of all applications and permits and providing information to the public and Bluffton community. The Customer Service Division focuses on customers’ needs (as all divisions do). It includes four staff members: a manager, two customer service assistants, and a planning assistant.

They input all permit applications and plans in the permitting software (Energov), forward plans to the appropriate reviewers, ensure that all required documents are included in applications, take payments for all permits, assist with meeting coordination and inspection scheduling, answer questions concerning everything and anything, and operate as the town’s front desk and concierge.

Although one division is titled “Customer Service,” all departments and divisions operate on an “I’m here to help” attitude and culture.

When reviewing a development project and related building permits, staff becomes a member of the development team—to assist in getting the project built and operational as quickly as possible, while meeting all of the required rules and regulations.

Staff’s customer service role is to help you identify the next steps and how to proceed, assist with questions, provide related information on outside agencies and related information, identify challenges and solutions, and to inspect the site and make sure that everyone proceeds with no additional hurdles. Staff reviews plans as quickly as possible and will let you know anticipated timelines at the initial stage. Clear expectations are key to the process.

There is a customer service commitment to Town of Bluffton customers and the community through the processing and reviewing of applications, building and site inspections for safety and quality assurance. And you can expect that service to always be kind, happy, and respectful.

Staff is here to help, and we welcome comments and feedback through all steps of the process. It is important to know what issues need to be addressed and changed as well as what things we are doing right and should remain unchanged.

If you ever have questions or feedback on the town’s processes and customer service, please contact Heather Colin, the director of growth management, at (843) 706-4592. 

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DEC. 2018

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This & That

C2 Magazine • December 2018 Edition A Series of Fortunate Events, interesting news and a hodge-podge of other items.

You know…this and that! If you would like to submit something for this special section, please email m.washo@celebratehiltonhead.com. If we have room and it’s appropriate for public consumption, we’ll be happy to oblige.

An American in Paris: Music. Dance. Magic.

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n American in Paris, the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina’s holiday, perfect-forthe-whole-family musical sensation, is onstage December 6-30. One of the most captivating musicals ever to be adapted for the stage, An American in Paris is inspired by the Academy Award-winning film and features the music of George and Ira Gershwin. The Arts Center is proud to be the first regional theatre in the Southeast to produce this new musical, which won four Tony Awards in 2015; in fact, it was the most awarded show of any other that Broadway season.

Hoping to start a new life, World War II veteran Jerry Mulligan chooses newly-liberated Paris as the place to make a name for himself as a painter. But Mulligan’s life becomes complicated when he meets Lise, a young Parisian shop girl with her own secret, and realizes he is not her only suitor. The stunning combination of musical favorites, a timeless story, breathtaking dance and a beautiful design results in a spectacular musical that includes the Gershwin songs “I Got Rhythm,” “Liza,” “’S Wonderful,” “But Not for Me,” “Stairway to Paradise” and orchestral music including “Concerto in F,” “2nd Prelude,” “2nd Rhapsody,” “The Cuban Overture” and “An American In Paris.”

Directed by Mark Martino (director of the Arts Center’s Newsies and White Christmas), the cast of 21 brings immense triple-threat talent, most of whom hail from New York City and are dancing, singing and acting their way through the holiday season on our lovely island.

A visual feast, this elegant and exuberant musical features everything from Gene Kelly-style dance to stunning ballet en pointe, and in lush settings that transport you from a masquerade ball to the Grand Opera and of course along the Champs-Elysées.

Tickets for preview performances December 5-6 are $50 for adults and $37 for children ages 5-15.* Regular performances, December 7-30, are $60 for adults and $47 for children. To purchase, visit www.artshhi.com or call (843) 842-ARTS (2787).  *Recommended for ages 8 and up. (There is no official rating system for live theatre. We encourage you to use your judgment based on your child’s age and maturity level.)

Women’s Association Holiday Luncheon: You are Invited!

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he Women’s Association of Hilton Head Island (WAHHI) is pleased to announce the Holiday Luncheon to be held at the Sonesta Resort in Shipyard Plantation on Monday, December 19, with a social hour starting at 11 a.m. followed by the luncheon and program at noon. Entertainment for the luncheon will be provided by the cast of An American in Paris from the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. WAHHI will also collect children’s toys for The Children’s Center and Bluffton Self Help.  To register for the luncheon, please visit www.wahhi.org, contact Anne Lambdin at (443) 418-6445 or reservations@wahhi.org. Tickets are $30 ($32 online) for members and $38 ($40 online) for guests.

Season of Giving: A Resource for Holiday Giving and Volunteering

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s the holidays approach, many of us feel a desire to give back or help those less fortunate. Local nonprofits plan seasonal drives and activities to ensure their clients experience holiday cheer. And residents of the Lowcountry answer this call by donating toys and coats, serving meals, helping at agencies’ holiday parties, or doing other generous acts.

If you’re looking for an opportunity to help local nonprofits during the holidays, Community Foundation’s Lowcountry Volunteer Connection’s Season of Giving is your perfect resource. Season of Giving is a listing of holiday needs, drives and volunteer activities in the Lowcountry. Whether you want to sponsor a family for the holidays, donate a toy, or help serve a meal, all the opportunities are listed on Season of Giving.

Just visit www.cf-lowcountry.org/seasonofgiving and you’ll find a listing and instructions on how to participate. Check back frequently, as the list is updated often.  If you’re nonprofit or agency would like to post a seasonal need, contact Debbie Cahoon at dcahoon@cf-lowcountry.org or (843) 681-9100.

Mary Vaux Bell and Mary Jeans Otto have joined the Bluffton office of Celia Dunn Sotheby’s International Realty as a sales associates. A Bluffton native with an extensive knowledge of the area, Bell has been an agent in the Lowcountry for two and a half years. Otto has been a Realtor for nine years, seven of those in the South Carolina Lowcountry.

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DEC. 2018

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New Home for the Holidays at HHSO’s SoundWaves The Hilton Head Symphony’s new headquarters, SoundWaves at Coligny Plaza, offers a holiday season that keeps giving this December. The inaugural musical performance at the recently opened venue featured a special benefit concert by a young pianist who’s no stranger to Hilton Head Island. Xiaoxuan Li, second prize winner at the 2015 Hilton Head International Piano Competition, took a break from his studies at The Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia to return for a special one-time recital, featuring works by Bach, Chopin, Schubert, Rachmaninoff Liszt & Prokofiev. This year, Xiaoxuan won first prize (senior division) at the Cleveland International Piano Competition for Young Artists.

In mid-December, Lean Ensemble graces the performance space of SoundWaves with its popular production of Bad Dates, by Theresa Rebeck. Founding Artistic & Executive Director Blake White described the show as “a hilarious story which begs the age-old question: not ‘who hasn’t struggled with love?’ But rather ‘who hasn’t had a bad date? I mean really!’” White added that the production features one of the funniest women in Lean Ensemble, Megan Bowers, who trained at New York’s famed Upright Citizens Brigade, home of Amy Poehler and Kate McKinnon.

Bad Dates runs December 12-16. Shows begin promptly at 7:30 p.m. except for the matinee on Sunday, December 16, which features a 2 p.m. performance at SoundWaves. Tickets for regular shows are $40. Matinee is $15. For other ticket information, please visit www.leanensemble.org or www.hhso.org.

December’s grand finale at SoundWaves is Saturday December 22, when HHSO presents a holiday SoundBites performance featuring John Cranford with friends Yannie Reynecke, David Kimbell and Cathy Klimoff. They’ll perform music from Cranford’s solo album Posture and Praise as well as some holiday favorites. SoundBites’ unique blend of relatable and classical music will accompany a generous helping of music to your taste buds, including a range of sweet and savory small plates, plus wine and spirits at the SoundWaves café. Tickets ($50) are limited for this intimate concert, so please reserve yours at www.hhso.org or check out the SoundBites Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/HHSOSoundBites.

Coming up in the new year, SoundWaves opens its doors for three regular season HHSO performances January 12, 13, and 14 featuring the music of Haydn and Dvorak.

We look forward to sharing the SoundWaves spirit of the holidays with you, your families and friends this December. For more information on the December HHSO schedule and other upcoming events, please contact us at (843) 842-2550 or visit www.hhso.org. 

This & That Karli Dixon is pleased to announce the recent opening of Luna and Lillie’s home boutique in Main Street Village on Hilton Head Island, offering trendy chairs, candles, flatware, decor and more, with a mix of bohemian vibes and a traditional, yet contemporary flare. Store hours are Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information, swing by 1401 Main Street or visit www. lunaandlillies.com.

Bridge Anyone?

Hilton Head Island Bridge Club’s Winter Workshops will be held January through March at the Hilton Head Island Bridge Club at Port Royal Plaza, off mile marker 5 on Hilton Head Island. These workshops are for beginner, beginner plus, and intermediate players and are open to the general public. All clinics are $15.

For more information, email kbwalsh@ roadrunner.com.

C2 Magazine • December 2018 Edition A Series of Fortunate Events, interesting news and a hodge-podge of other items.

You know…this and that! If you would like to submit something for this special section, please email m.washo@celebratehiltonhead.com. If we have room and it’s appropriate for public consumption, we’ll be happy to oblige.

O Coffee and Chocolate Fest

n Saturday, December 8, from noon-4 p.m., Bluffton will be brimming with the incredible sights, smells and tastes of the region’s finest coffees, desserts and chocolates— when the first-ever Bluffton Coffee and Chocolate Fest takes decadence to a whole new level. The outdoor event, to be held on the green next to Gigi’s, will bring together many of the region’s leading coffee roasters, specialty dessert makers and chocolatiers— and is expected to attract foodies, coffee aficionados and chocolate lovers from throughout the Lowcountry (and beyond).  For more information, including a complete line of vendors, visit http://thecottagebluffton.com/bluffton-coffee-chocolate-festival.

Responsible Oystering

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n December 19 at 3 p.m., the Coastal Discovery Museum will host Andrew Carmines, general manager of Hudson’s Seafood Restaurant on Hilton Head Island, who will discuss in detail the process of producing single oysters from the brood stock, to the hatchery, to the upweller, and ultimately to the consumer. He will take attendees through the process from start to finish and also answer questions on where the project is going and what the future holds for oyster farming in the Lowcountry.

Cost is $7 per person (for ages 12 and older please). Seating is limited, and reservations are required by calling (843) 689-6767 ext. 223. The Museum is located at 70 Honey Horn Drive on Hilton Head Island, with a temporary entrance on 278 eastbound between Spanish Wells Road and Gumtree Road. 

Bucci & Murray’s Pub on the Harbour

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H2 wishes to correct misinformation from our November issue story and invite you to visit Bucci & Murray’s Pub on the Harbour for food, sports, and entertainment. The restaurant is owned and operated by husband and wife team Bob Murray and Christina Bucci-Murray. Their recent renovations include a 26-ft. inside bar, facing Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina, with four 50-inch televisions for sports watching and a view all in one. Executive Chef Roberto Juarez leads the culinary team, with a newly revised menu featuring Italian favorites along with New England-style pub food. Happy hour is offered Monday-Friday only, from 4-7 p.m. (closed on Tuesdays until the beginning of the year). See website for lunch and dinner hours as they are subject to change seasonally. Reservations are available for parties of eight or more, otherwise, seating is first-come, first-served. The restaurant is located at 13 Harbourside Lane at Shelter Cove Harbour and Marina.  For the entertainment schedule and more information, please visit www.buccishhi.com or call (843) 785-3300.

C2 MAGAZINE

DEC. 2018

31

This & That

C2 Magazine • December 2018 Edition A Series of Fortunate Events, interesting news and a hodge-podge of other items.

You know…this and that! If you would like to submit something for this special section, please email m.washo@celebratehiltonhead.com. If we have room and it’s appropriate for public consumption, we’ll be happy to oblige.

Illustration by Patricia Van Essche

TD Bank honors Matt Webster and Mike Quigley as two of the bank’s top mortgage producers.

Both Webster and Quigley finished in the top 10 for mortgage originators at TD Bank nationwide. The two combined for over $100,000,000 in loan production in 2018 and will be recognized at TD Bank’s annual sales conference in Atlantic City.

J.McLaughlin has opened its third retail location in South Carolina in the heart of Old Town Bluffton. With stores in Charleston and Johns Island, J.McLaughlin is looking forward to further introducing the brand to South Carolina and growing with this fast evolving community. The store is located at 5 Promenade Street, featuring a full assortment of women’s and men’s clothing and accessories. Open MondaySaturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday 12 p.m.-5 p.m.

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Collins Group Realty announced the addition of a new staff member, Mary Gundling, who joins the Real Estate Group’s full-service staff as a team support specialist in their Hilton Head Island office. A former high school teacher of 17 years in New Jersey, Gundling brings with her a high level of knowledge, caring and attention to detail that will help her excel in her support of both the in-house closings and marketing departments.

Art for Poster Contest

he All Saints Garden Tour scheduled for May 18, 2019 is looking for artists who would like to enter a picture of flowers or a garden in our poster competition. All of the works will be displayed at Hilton Head Hospital in February and will be for sale; part of the proceeds are contributed to the tour. While six finalists will be selected from the submitted artwork, which can be in a variety of media—a painting, photography, a single work will be selected for the poster and the cover of the Garden Tour ticket. Deadline for submitting application is January 15, 2019.  For application information, visit www.allsaintsgardentour.com and select Poster Contest.

And the Winner Is …

ore than 500 vehicles made their way to the Lowcountry to participate in the seventeenth annual Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance and Motoring Festival, held at the Port Royal Golf Club on Hilton Head Island. The coveted “Best of Show” was awarded on November 4, at the closing event. The top honor was awarded to a 1931 Stutz DV32 Convertible Victoria owned by Joseph and Margie Cassini of West Orange, New Jersey.

Attendees at the event chose a 1929 Ford Station Wagon as their People’s Choice winner. The car is owned by Thomas and Donna Fitzgerald of Selma, North Carolina.

In addition to the vehicle awards handed out on Sunday, winners were announced during Sunday’s festivities for the second Annual Michelin Junior Challenge Design, a scholarship program in partnership between the Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance, Michelin, and the Beaufort County School District. Lily Tothero from Hilton Head High School was the overall winner.

The eighteenth annual Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance Motoring Festival is scheduled for October 25-November 3, 2019. For more information, visit www.HHIConcours.com. 

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DEC. 2018

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This & That

C2 Magazine • December 2018 Edition

Lawrence A. Colby, #1 Amazon bestselling author and former Hilton Head Island resident, is proud to announce the launch of his second book The Black Scorpion Pilot. As a former military pilot, Colby brings you exciting stories in The Ford Stevens Military-Aviation Thriller Series, including The Devil Dragon Pilot, 2018. Writing with full authenticity from being part of a small group of pilots that completed both U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force undergraduate pilot training programs, he includes real-world action from his experiences. Details: https://www.amazon. com/Lawrence-Colby/e/B01MRET59D.

Century 21 Diamond Realty is pleased to welcome Coleen McBournie and Carla G. Raines.

Although new to Century 21 Diamond Realty, McBournie is not new to real estate, having earned her e-pro and accredited buyer’s representative designations and living true to her slogan, “Professional Service with a Personal Touch.”

Raines, a Lowcountry resident for over 32 years, has witnessed the tremendous change and growth that’s transformed the area into one of the East Coast’s most soughtafter destinations. Her vast knowledge of the area and her creative, enthusiastic and caring nature is perfect for matching each client’s desires as well as skillfully featuring a home’s unique presence and character.

Coffey Kubec, LLP has recently established a law practice on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. The firm is comprised of three compassionate, experienced, and dedicated attorneys, Maureen T. Coffey, Ed Kubec and Leighanne Kubec, who combine local knowledge and world class experience to raise the bar in the Lowcountry. Coffey Kubec provides legal services in the areas of civil litigation, criminal defense, business law, personal injury, family law, immigration law, and special education law.

Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) announced today that Brian Parkkonen has been promoted to chief operating officer. As COO, Parkkonen will oversee organizational development and staff collaboration.

C2 MAGAZINE

DEC. 2018

35

Ê LINE IN THE SAND One Topic Ê s n o i n i p O o w T S)

ETIME

(SOM

SO LONG, FAReWELL Courtney

ill Barry will st be here

Opinion 1: Barry Kaufman

A

ll good things must come to an end. In the case of this column, it’s come to the end of a chapter, but what comes next is still up in the air. As I’m sure she’ll mention, since by far her favorite subject is herself, this will be Courtney’s last column. As much fun as I have at her expense, and as many snide barbs as I lob her way, it has been an honor sharing this space with her.

I first met Courtney the same way many of you did, through her words. She was a columnist for Bluffton Today when I was working there and although I’d admired her work from afar we didn’t actually meet face to face until many years later. When we finally did, I discovered that she was even more charming and witty in real life than she was on the page.

It made taking on the task of disagreeing with her once a month in this column daunting, but somehow over the years we’ve been able to find at least one thing we don’t see eye to eye on. Except for all the times we totally didn’t, but even then we found some way to have fun with it.

With Courtney bowing out, there have been several discussions about what to do in this space.

I selfishly enjoy having this space to vent about whatever issues have crossed my transom, and the folks at Carbon Dihydrogen and Carbon Diboron have been kind enough to offer to continue Line in the Sand, despite my habit of inserting chemistry jokes no one will get into my writing.* But that will require a thorough, exhaustive search for a replacement. So with that in mind, please cut out the following and post it around town as you are able.

HELP WANTED: Do you have opinions on things? Want to share those opinions with a highly sophisticated, savvy readership? Do you yearn for the

A

s I sat down to write this, my last column, I received a text from a friend. Just a few hours ago, his son Jackson Walsh was born. I wouldn’t know this if it were not for this magazine. I met Jackson’s father quite by accident and ended up writing a story about him.

And, then another. We chronicled his time as an Army medic in Iraq, the horrors of war, and his battle with PTSD. I watched him get married last summer and graduate the fire academy earlier this year. Today, he is a dad. I wouldn’t know any of this if it were not for C2 magazine. What started as my desire to write stories about interesting people turned into this column that I have been writing for almost nine years. (Thus, making C2 and its readers my longest serious relationship on record.)

If your memory is better than mine, you’ll recall that Barry wasn’t my first adversary on these pages. No, the other guy was a certified jerk, and after a couple years, I sought a friendlier foe.

Barry was my perfect sparring partner.

More often than not, we agreed on the topic but took opposing sides to entertain you. We stretched our brains and our research acumen in the process.

We wrote about traffic circles, wisdom (and its opposite—Donald Trump), kindness, beach etiquette, teachers, cheaters, heroes, redemption, jury duty, gratitude, racism, history, masculinity, guns, marriage, Halloween, lying, swearing, cats, television, music, movies and more. We’ve covered a lot.

We bonded over our shared northern heritage, our disdain for hypocrisy, and enjoyment of making people laugh. Barry made me a better writer. With each issue, I would read his column and think, “His was better than mine. I’ll get him next time.”

a e Felici

(WELL

, THEY

By

TRY)

Opinion 2: Courtney Hampson I upset the people of Sun City when I wrote about the pineapples and risqué behavior. I’ve lost friends for using their Facebook posts as column fodder. I’ve been pulled aside by folks I’d assumed were conservative to tell me they loved my column and liberal opinions. I’ve written about first dates, an ex-boyfriend who loved porn (yeah, he doesn’t talk to me anymore), and other relationship ups and downs. It’s all been real. In some ways, this column has been my journal.

I will miss my monthly email exchanges with Barry and the opportunity to tell you what I think. My editor will get to breathe a little easier not waiting for my column to arrive just minutes before deadline. On that note, thank you, Maggie, for taking a chance on me. It’s been quite a ride.

In the end, I’m not that interesting.

Writing about others and uncovering their stories is what inspires me. I’ve met some of my closest friends, like Jackson’s dad (and the man sitting on the couch next to me right now), writing feature stories. And I’ll keep doing that.

Thank you for reading. It’s meant the world. 

kind of celebrity status that comes with regional publication notoriety? If so, we’re looking for you.

Line in the Sand is a monthly feature in the pages of CH2 and CB2, wherein the topics of the day are dissected across two occasionally opposing viewpoints. And we’re actively searching for the Lowcountry’s Next Top Courtney.

The ideal candidate will have the ability to put up with their counterpart’s obscure pop culture references, keeping the conversation on track and brainstorming monthly topics. Ability to meet deadlines is preferred, but we will also weigh heavily any experience in making excuses for not meeting deadlines. Access to a well-stocked liquor cabinet is a plus, as is the willingness to bring some along to photos shoots.

To apply, send resume and writing samples to Whatsmyline@Celebratehiltonhead. com or just friend Barry on Facebook and give him the business.  *For the record, the chemical symbols for those compounds I mentioned would be CH2 and CB2, respectively.

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DEC. 2018

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As the thecool coolweather weather settles things in the Holy As settles in, in, things overover in the Tequila kitchen at Park continue to heattoup.

The culinary Holy Tequila kitchen at Plaza Park Plaza continue heat up.

The culinary team, headed by executive chef has been team, headed by executive chef Jorge Covarrubias, Jorge Covarrubias, has been building momentum for building momentum for the past few months, recently voted the past few months, recently voted Hilton Head’s Hilton Head’s Best Tacos and Margaritas again for 2018, thus Best Tacos again for 2017.as the preeminent destination for all establishing themselves Rolling into December, the Holy Tequila culinary things tacos and margs now four years running, back-to-back. team is debuting their new winter menu, with a Additionally, the team just got back from competing at the variety of seasonal additions, just in time for the World Food Championships, where they placed twenty-third holidays. New menu items include Adobo Molcajete, in the world for their Deconstructed Seafood Paella Taco, Fried Rice Bowl, Harvest Carnitas Taco, Enchilada amongst a field of over 350 world food champ competitors.

Especial and Sweet & Spicy Creme Brûlée, among Rolling intowith December, the Holy Tequilalike culinary is others, paired new seasonal cocktails the team > Sweet & Spicy Creme Brûlée > Blood Orange Bomber debuting their new winter menu, with a variety of seasonal Blood Orange Bomber and the infamous Fallgarita > Oaxaca Stuffed Pork Chops additions, just in time the year’s holidays. menu items that won everyone over for at this TasteNew of the include new mouth-watering signature dishes that Season.

All the new seasonal items are designed to the team has been testing guests over thetaste pastbuds few months, push the limits a bitwith further and take your paired with new seasonal cocktails that won everyone over on an adventure.

These newTaste itemsof will stay true toAll the Holy Tequila at this year’s the Season. the new seasonal items style you’ve become accustomed to, combining are designed to push the limits a bit further and take your elements taste budsofonauthenticity, an adventure.seasonal flavors, fresh gourmet ingredients, andstay culinary finesse, taking These new items will true to the Holy Tequila style the menu items from average to far from ordinary, in you’ve become accustomed to, combining elements of all the best ways possible.

To complement the new authenticity, seasonal flavors, fresh gourmet ingredients, and menu roster, Holy Tequila is featuring promotions culinary finesse, taking the menu items from average to far aimed at showcasing the best products they have from ordinary, in all the best ways possible. To complement to offer, while encouraging guests to experiment > Adobo Molcajete the new menu roster, Holy Tequila is featuring promotions and try new things. Think Margarita Mondays, Taco aimed at showcasing the & best they have to offer, & Tequila Tuesdays, Fajita Ritaproducts Wednesdays...You > El Chapo Surf & Turf while encouraging guests to experiment and try new things. get the picture. To top it all off, Holy Tequila’s unique Their mostisanticipated is their festive Tacos & Tunes monthly ambiance complemented by their house flamenco event, the first of which will be December 15 5 to 8 p.m., guitarists, playing live music every night of thefrom week, featuring live DJ, exhibition outdoor whole hog starting atahappy hour, which greatly enhances the cooking, tequila tasting and more!

Toatop all off, every other night of experience for those seeking funitand casual cantina environment at prices thatunique won’t break the bank. the week, Holy Tequila’s ambiance is complemented Now house that the summer guitarist, crowds are gone, check out by their flamenco starting during happy hour, all the new offerings from the amigos at Holy Tequila. which greatly enhances the experience for those seeking You becasual glad you did. environment Just remember to takethat won’t a funwill and cantina at prices advantage of their call-ahead seating to guarantee break the bank. yourNow spotthat on a the busytourist night! crowds You can are givegone, them a call atout all the check (843) 681-8226 to reserve your next night out on the new offerings from the amigos at Holy Tequila. You will be town or visit online at www.HolyTequila.com; check glad you did. Just remember to take advantage of their callout #HolyTequilaWinterMenu for pictures of the new > Fallgarita > Fried Rice Bowl ahead seating to guarantee your spot on a busy night! You seasonal creations! can give them a call at (843) 681-8226 to reserve your next night out!

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It’s time to VOTE for CH2’s Bachelorette of the Year! We invite you to get to know our finalists over the next several pages, and check out their videos on our website and digital issue on Issuu.com.

The winner will receive $5000 and the cover of this magazine in January. Our Bachelorette of the Year will also receive a check for $2500 for the 501(C)3 charity they are playing for. One vote per person.

Voting will be open from December 1- December 12.

To vote, go to www.celebratehiltonhead.com and look for the VOTE HERE link.

VANESSA STEWART Dental Hygienist

Fun fact about me: My favorite type of music is the “oldies.”

If you were the newly elected mayor of Hilton Head Island or Bluffton, what would be the first thing on your agenda?

I would address better street lighting to help eliminate the number of accidents and deaths, but still keep the turtles in my mind, of course!

Favorite holiday movie: Home Alone.

What quality do you most admire in others?

Being kind no matter what; you never know what some else is going through in life.

What local event is a “mustdo” for you every year?

Chamber of Commerce event—“Taste of the Season.”

Why should our readers vote for you as Bachelorette of the Year?

I have a huge heart and would do anything for anyone. I am active in our community and, to be completely honest, the number one reason I agreed to this nomination is because I was told I get $2,500 towards the charity of my choice—which is a rehab center, due to the death of my younger brother who passed from an overdose June 2, 2016.

Charity you are playing for: Any Length Recovery Center, Sumter S.C. Would things get better or worse if humans focused on what was going well rather than what’s going wrong?

Things would get better, because positive thinking is key! Focus on the good and more good will happen!

To what do you attribute the biggest successes in your life?

My strong-willed personality and drive to make a better life for myself. My childhood wasn’t the greatest growing up, but I knew I would work hard in everything I did to achieve my goals.

How about your largest failures?

Thinking I can do everything on my own, and not asking for help when needed.

What is your personal mantra: To surround myself with positive people who will bring out the best in me, and I hope I can do the same for them.

To vote for Vanessa Stewart, go to www.celebratehiltonhead. com and look for the VOTE HERE link.

Voting will be open from December 1- December 12.

Winner will be announced on the January cover of CH2 magazine.

One vote per person.

Bach e lor sette

To vote for Mandy Matney, go to www.celebratehiltonhead. com and look for the VOTE HERE link.

Voting will be open from December 1- December 12.

Winner will be announced on the January cover of CH2 magazine.

One vote per person.

MANDY MATNEY News Editor at the Island Packet Fun fact about me: I almost died from an appendectomy-gone-wrong when I was 23. So, you won’t see me at a rural hospital again anytime soon!

If you were the newly elected mayor of Hilton Head Island or Bluffton, what would be the first thing on your agenda?

I would love to see Hilton Head Island get some kind of free/ cheap ferry system where you could hop on and go island-exploring to places like Daufuskie, Hunting Island, and the most mysterious island of the Lowcountry: Morgan Island.

Three thousand monkeys live on that island! People aren’t allowed there, but you can see the monkeys from the boat.

How cool would it be to take a ferry and see the monkeys roam around? **Full disclosure, I’m the editor for all Hilton Head Island government stories in the Island Packet, so I’ve been following this mayor’s race very closely and can’t really comment seriously without compromising our reporting.**

Favorite holiday movie: Christmas Vacation. Or Elf. It’s a close call.

What quality do you most admire in others?

Honesty. I’ve surrounded myself with best friends who aren’t afraid to tell me when I’m being ridiculous about something or if my outfit is awful. And also, the first rule of journalism is to tell the truth, and that’s a principle I carry with me in all realms of life. Or, as Ron Swanson says, “The only thing I hate more than lying is skim milk, which is water lying about being milk.”

What local event is a “mustdo” for you every year?

Hilton Head Wine and Food Festival. Easy.

Why should our readers vote for you as Bachelorette of the Year?

I’m honestly just so grateful to be in the Top 10 and to be a part of this, so everything from now on is just bonus. I will say I absolutely love the Lowcountry and fundraising for this Bachelorette contest made me love it even more. In my job, every day, I work very hard so that the people of Bluffton and Hilton Head Island are informed and educated about what’s

happening in our neighborhoods.

It’s been so rewarding to do something different to serve the community.

Charity you are playing for: Hilton Head Heroes, an organization that gives families with very sick kids a week vacation on Hilton Head Island. My brother died when he was nine years old, and I will never forget the last vacation we had as a family before he died. Hilton Head Heroes gives families in need the gift of memories, and I know how important that is.

Would things get better or worse if humans focused on what was going well rather than what’s going wrong?

I got into journalism because I believe that exposing the bad things in society can ultimately lead to making it better. I think it’s important to stay positive and hold on to the belief that we can all take roles in making our community and our world a better place, but choosing to be ignorant and dodging all of the bad things isn’t helpful. My mom made me start watching the news from a young age and would tell me, “Mandy, it’s important to know about all the bad things that happen in the

world so you can understand how lucky you have it.” And I’ve really framed my life around that.

To what do you attribute the biggest successes in your life?

My failures ... and I have many of those. When I was 22, I took my first job out of college as the managing editor of a small daily newspaper in the Ozarks. I had virtually no idea how to run a newspaper, and I made huge mistakes every day. But I learned from those big mistakes. The best thing in the world for every 20-something is to learn how to fail and learn how and when to let yourself take a risk that could lead to failure.

How about your largest failures?

It all depends on your definition of failing. I don’t consider a lot of the big, embarrassing mistakes I’ve made as failures, because they shaped me and helped make me better. Most of my “failures” are really stories I never published. But I’ve learned even from that. It’s much easier to finish a difficult story than it is to quit it. Fear stops me from doing a lot of things I should be doing, and I’m working on that.

What is your personal mantra: Prove them wrong.

Bach e lor sette

To vote for Mary Beth King, go to www.celebratehiltonhead. com and look for the VOTE HERE link.

Voting will be open from December 1- December 12.

Winner will be announced on the January cover of CH2 magazine.

One vote per person.

MARY BETH KING Pharmacist Fun fact about me: I danced jazz for over 10 years and have been trained in ballroom dancing. It’s definitely been a while since I’ve used it!

If you were the newly elected mayor of Hilton Head Island or Bluffton, what would be the first thing on your agenda?

I would make sure people were properly educated on how to drive around traffic circles!

Favorite holiday movie: Christmas Vacation.

What quality do you most admire in others?

I admire people who have a strong drive and sense

of motivation, who strive to be the best versions of themselves. I think it is infectious and inspires me to be my best.

What local event is a “mustdo” for you every year?

I haven’t been here too long to have the opportunity to go to all of the events, but I really enjoy going to the farmers market in Bluffton whenever I have the chance!

Why should our readers vote for you as Bachelorette of the Year?

Readers should vote for me because I’m playing for a great charity that provides amazing opportunities for our local special needs community. I’m also from Ohio, and, let’s be

real; everyone here is basically from Ohio!

Charity you are playing for: Programs for Exceptional People.

Would things get better or worse if humans focused on what was going well rather than what’s going wrong?

I believe things would be a lot better if people focused on what was going well in their lives. Life is a very short and precious thing, and there is a lot to be thankful for. I heard a quote once and it’s stuck with me ever since: “Was it a bad day, or was it a bad five minutes that you let ruin your day?”

To what do you attribute the biggest successes in your life?

Hands down, my biggest successes are due to my family.

Being the youngest of four, I’ve had great examples in my siblings and an amazing support system. I’m very lucky to have them.

How about your largest failures?

Some of my failures are probably be due to me struggling to say no to people and spreading myself too thin at times.

What is your personal mantra: This is not necessarily a mantra, but it is something I live by. Whenever I have a negative thought, I make myself think of two positives about the situation. It really changes your perspective!

MYRANDA MCAFEE Director of Fitness, Lava 24 Fitness Fun fact about me: I love to entertain friends, and I am a game fanatic—any kind of game whether it be board games, hide and seek or a made up game, so I am always having game nights at my place!

If you were the newly elected mayor of Hilton Head Island or Bluffton, what would be the first thing on your agenda?

As the mayor, my first priority would be to listen to the residents to ensure our efforts and future plans were in the best interest of this island and the community. Listening to all residents—young professionals to the people who have been here for years—will definitely help create a healthier community. As part of the young professional group, I would love to see that sector grow and make everyone feel like they are a fit and have a say here.

Favorite holiday movie: Elf, because smiling really is my favorite.

What quality do you most admire in others?

Patience, because I wish I had more of it!

What local event is a “mustdo” for you every year?

The Shop More Local Festival.

I had a blast last year, and I think it is huge to support the local businesses as the Shop More Local company helps us all daily.

Why should our readers vote for you as Bachelorette of the Year?

I feel that I am the embodiment of the Hilton Head Island spirit and community. The people I have met here made me realize right away how well I fit in, and I am not going anywhere.

Hilton Head Island is my true home. Every day at work and outside of work, I try to help others with their overall wellness goals—and sometimes something outside of that—by spreading more positive vibes and sometimes by just smiling.

I think the magazine can help me reach even more people to do just that. Not to mention Special Olympics South Carolina, because a vote for me is a vote for them.

Charity you are playing for: Special Olympics South Carolina Would things get better or worse if humans focused on what was going well rather than what’s going wrong?

I originally wanted to answer this question with, “better, duh!” But I think it’s a catch-22. A key to success

To vote for Myranda McAfee, go to www.celebratehiltonhead. com and look for the VOTE HERE link.

Voting will be open from December 1- December 12.

Winner will be announced on the January cover of CH2 magazine.

One vote per person.

is focusing on opportunities over obstacles. However, with humans, if we were to focus on our shortcomings, rather than highlighting our progression, we may be enlightened to change more for the better. If we never admit there is room for improvement, we never try to improve. So, I think we could benefit from focusing on what is going wrong to make it better.

To what do you attribute the biggest successes in your life?

My entire family but especially my big sister, Candice. She taught me so much starting from how to brush my teeth to how to be a professional after college. I have always tried to follow her footsteps such as joining cheerleading, just because she did, or going to bible studies because I saw how much she loved hers. She has been a role model to me since I was born and will be for the rest of my life. She is currently going through a very difficult time with her health and has not been able to participate in some major events in my life, but I believe I am making her proud and I cannot wait for her to be able to come see all that I am doing because of what she has taught me.

How about your largest failures?

Absolutely my own stubbornness. I have been blessed with so many amazing people in my life, and I am always given great advice. If it has ever not been taken, it is because I think I can do everything on my own. I make my own limitations. I take that as a positive, though, because at this point in my life, I am learning not to hold myself back anymore.

What is your personal mantra?

Practice wellness. This is on my business card as my quote, and it is what I tell people to always focus on, because wellness has eight dimensions which are all important: emotional, environmental good health, financial, intellectual, occupational, physical, social, and spiritual. I absolutely practice focusing on all of these as it is essential for well-being.

DARLENE SCHUETZ Director of Community Relations, Hospice Care of the Lowcountry

Fun fact about me: I lived in Yosemite National Park for almost 30 years.

If you were the newly elected mayor of Hilton Head Island or Bluffton, what would be the first thing on your agenda?

Workforce housing and transportation.

Favorite holiday movie: Love Actually.

What quality do you most admire in others?

Kindness.

What local event is a “must-do” for you every year?

The Yacht Hop. Why should our readers vote for you as Bachelorette of the Year?

I am passionate about raising awareness and money for Hospice Care of the Lowcountry.

Communicating the hospice message can be difficult. It makes people uncomfortable to discuss death. While many people believe that hospice care is for the older population, Hospice Care of the Lowcountry provides care to many in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and younger.

These patients are our friends, neighbors and loved ones in this community, and HCL does all they can do to provide comfort and the best quality of life possible for the entire family.

Hos-Pets Pet Therapy, Pet Peace of Mind, Hop Aboard, and We Honor Veterans are a few of the many programs created to provide additional comfort.

Charity you are playing for: Hospice Care of the Lowcountry Would things get better or worse if humans focused on what was going well rather than what’s going wrong?

Better. It would create a more positive mindset, encouraging optimism and helping people treat others with respect.

To what do you attribute the biggest successes in your life?

My biggest successes in business have come from having a strong work ethic and by treating people with respect.

I would say finding the humor in any situation and always having gratitude has helped me throughout each stage of my life.

How about your largest failures?

Pride.

What is your personal mantra: Be kind, for everyone you know is fighting a battle you know nothing about.

Bach e lor sette To vote for Darlene Schuetz, go to www.celebratehiltonhead. com and look for the VOTE HERE link.

Voting will be open from December 1- December 12.

Winner will be announced on the January cover of CH2 magazine.

One vote per person.

JOSIE GREGORY Marketing and Closing Coordinator for Hilton Head Exterminators Fun fact about me: The type of green eyes in my family is part of the two percent of the world’s population that have this color.

If you were the newly elected mayor of Hilton Head Island or Bluffton, what would be the first thing on your agenda?

If I were elected mayor of Bluffton or Hilton Head Island, I would work more to preserve the historic integrity of the Gullah neighborhoods as well as the area’s plantation past. I would also work more to retain the small-town quaintness the two towns have to offer. Yes, big business is good, but in order to keep the small-town feel, I believe strict building exterior requirements should be in place to help with the overall atmosphere of the two towns.

Favorite holiday movie: My all-time favorite holiday movie is It’s a Wonderful Life. I always look forward to watching it with my mom when I go back to Nashville for Christmas each year.

What quality do you most admire in others?

I most admire loyalty in other people.

I always use the example of “if one of my friends got into an argument with someone else” scenario. I will back them up 100 percent, even if they’re wrong.

Later, I’ll tell them they were wrong, but I will always have their back. I expect that same level of loyalty in return.

What local event is a “must-do” for you every year?

I love going to Harbourfest! The live music, the food, the people…you can’t go wrong! I love that it goes all summer long at Shelter Cove. I’ve gone multiple times to just sit back and enjoy the Lowcountry lifestyle.

Why should our readers vote for you as Bachelorette of the Year?

I believe I am a well-rounded woman. I don’t rely on anyone to help me pay for my bills, trips, or vet expenses. I keep a mean, clean house and cook dinner almost every night. I get my hostess skills from my mom, so I love entertaining. I love watching sports, especially football, and play in fantasy football every year. I am a huge family person; I will always choose trips to see my family over trips to exotic places. I strive to make others laugh and smile. I just believe I have a lot to offer someone as a partner in life.

Charity you are playing for: I am playing for Palmetto Animal League, a no-kill shelter. My rescue, Nash, is a Pit Bull mix and is typically the first euthanized in kill shelters across the country for their perceived reputation.

However, if you met Nash, you’d fall in love with him. PAL takes in any dog or cat and gives them a second chance at finding a home, no matter their breed or its stigmas.

Would things get better or worse if humans focused on what was going well rather than what’s going wrong?

I think we should all try and focus on the good things happening in the world. This is so hard for me to do, because I worked in news as a reporter where 99 percent of the time, the bad is what is wanted.

If more feel-good, uplifting stories are shared every day through mass media channels (not just through social media), I

To vote for Josie Gregory, go to www.celebratehiltonhead. com and look for the VOTE HERE link.

Voting will be open from December 1- December 12.

Winner will be announced on the January cover of CH2 magazine.

One vote per person.

believe overall wellness and morale would improve. However, people crave the bad and juicy stories that make us turn our heads. It is change in a person’s state of mind that will overshadow the world’s negative with the positive.

To what do you attribute the biggest successes in your life?

I attribute my biggest successes in life to my determination. I am never scared to try and achieve something, and I am determined to be self-sustaining.

How about your largest failures?

I think my biggest failures come when I don’t ask for help. I am determined to try and figure something out on my own first, and then if it is absolutely necessary, I’ll ask for help. My stubbornness to ask for help leads to not succeeding the first time around.

What is your personal mantra?

My mantra has always been, “It’s fine, I’m fine.” These simple words really calm me in stressful or overwhelming situations. Try it sometime! Say it sarcastically, too; it really rolls off the tongue.

HEIDI GARDNER Real Estate

Fun fact about me: I’m obsessed with finding sharks’ teeth when I go to the beach.

If you were the newly elected mayor of Hilton Head Island or Bluffton, what would be the first thing on your agenda?

I would work on making the crosswalks safer at night.

Favorite holiday movie: Elf! I never get tired of it!

What quality do you most admire in others?

Perseverance What local event is a “mustdo” for you every year?

Oh, gosh, that is hard. There are so many great ones! I guess I’ll go with Harbourfest.

Why should our readers vote for you as Bachelorette of the Year?

Because I am a true Hilton Head Island local, and I embrace all things about the area and the needs of the local animals and people.

Charity you are playing for: Rogue Rescue Would things get better or worse if humans focused on what was going well rather than what’s going wrong?

Things would most definitely get better. What seems to be an obstacle can often be an opportunity to go in a better and more rewarding direction. We only need to stop complaining and start looking at things with fresh eyes. Problems require us to become smarter, more resourceful, and more determined.

To what do you attribute the biggest successes in your life?

Hard work and a need to always be improving.

How about your largest failures?

The times I have failed at something, it was because I had been focused on the wrong thing and let a “little thing” get in the way of the big picture. Although, I still don’t see them as failures because I learned from them.

What is your personal mantra: May I never borrow anything from tomorrow’s happiness.

Bach e lor sette To vote for Heidi Gardner, go to www.celebratehiltonhead. com and look for the VOTE HERE link.

Voting will be open from December 1- December 12.

Winner will be announced on the January cover of CH2 magazine.

One vote per person.

To vote for Lori Martin, go to www.celebratehiltonhead. com and look for the VOTE HERE link.

Voting will be open from December 1- December 12.

Winner will be announced on the January cover of CH2 magazine.

One vote per person.

LORI MARTIN Recruiter/Employment Manager for National Healthcare Company Fun fact about me: I have an associate degree in marine biology. I wanted to be a marine biologist and train dolphins for a living (and still do)! But I ended up switching to a bachelor’s degree in business when everyone told me I would be jobless!

If you were the newly elected mayor of Hilton Head Island or Bluffton, what would be the first thing on your agenda?

I’m really concerned about the amount of growth and development. I’ve lived here 35 years and would like to see more protection of our land and resources. I believe some of our monies would be better spent on repairing and widening the bridge to Hilton Head Island.

I would work to make our schools and roads safe.

Favorite holiday movie: The Holiday. I know … one of those sappy Lifetime movies, but a girl’s gotta dream! Lol!

What quality do you most admire in others?

I most admire honesty, integrity, and humility. Nothing is more important to me in my relationships than honesty and integrity. And humility is refreshing.

What local event is a “mustdo” for you every year?

Go Tri Sports Beach Bum Triathlon –my first ever triathlon and still my favorite!

Why should our readers vote for you as Bachelorette of the Year?

I ignored the email. I thought, “I’m too old, and I can’t do this!” It has definitely caused me to step out of my comfort zone and has given me a chance to raise money for some great causes such as the Island Recreation Center, and hopefully the American Heart Association. I’ve also had the chance to meet a lot of new people and make new friends. I’ve lived on Hilton Head Island for over 30 years, and I can’t imagine wanting to be anywhere else. I feel blessed to live in such a beautiful place and would be honored to represent CH2 as their

Bachelorette of the Year!

Charity you are playing for: American Heart Association.

My family has a lot of history with heart problems and stroke. I was born with a mitrovalve prolapse and a ventricular septal defect.

My mother has heart issues and has suffered several strokes. My grandfather and grandmother both died of heart-related issues. I had a three-year-old nephew who passed due to complications after surgery from a heart defect he was born with. So, it is a cause that is near and dear to my heart. Someone has a heart attack or stroke every 40 seconds in America.

Would things get better or worse if humans focused on what was going well rather than what’s going wrong?

I do believe it is important to live in the moment and that having a positive attitude influences everything we do. Focusing on our goals and our dreams can allow us to move forward in a positive way, even when we suffer setbacks. But I also believe that failures and bad things that happen to us serve a purpose.

Usually they strengthen our faith and cause us to grow and become stronger.

To what do you attribute the biggest successes in your life?

I’m thankful to have grown up in a family who taught me morals and the value of honest, hard work. But mostly there was love and compassion. I believe that if we have our priorities in order and focus on what is important, success will follow. I try to remember to live each day with the thought in mind of doing to others as I would want them to do to me.

You never know what someone is going through, and just showing kindness each day to those we meet and work with brings joy and its own rewards.

How about your largest failures?

I attribute my largest failures to when I have fallen away from my beliefs or lost focus on my priorities and goals. When I lose sight of the long-term outcome for the short-term fix, things usually don’t work out.

What is your personal mantra: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Philippians 4:13

Bach e lor sette

To vote for Meghan Klunk, go to www.celebratehiltonhead. com and look for the VOTE HERE link.

Voting will be open from December 1- December 12.

Winner will be announced on the January cover of CH2 magazine.

One vote per person.

MEGHAN KLUNK Physical Therapist Fun fact about me: I can literally dance anywhere, and I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need music: grocery aisle, my car, walking my dog ... anywhere! Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a talent really, I think If you were the newly elected mayor of Hilton Head Island or Bluffton, what would be the first thing on your agenda?

I would find a way to create affordable housing for those in the service industry.

Favorite holiday movie: Elf. I think I laugh just as hard

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as I did the first time watching it every time since.

What quality do you most admire in others?

Boldnessâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;standing up for what they believe even in the face of opposition.

What local event is a â&#x20AC;&#x153;mustdoâ&#x20AC;? for you every year?

Bluffton Seafood and Art Festival.

Why should our readers vote for you as Bachelorette of the Year?

I feel so fortunate already to have made it this far and to have the opportunity to shine a spotlight on the charity Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m

participating for: Young Life. I absolutely love our Hilton Head Island and Bluffton community.

And the key to maintaining and even improving the quality of our community is through our youth, because they are our future. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why Young Life is so close to my heart, because it invites kids to follow Christ; adults care for them regardless of their response to Christ, and these high school studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lives are changed for the better in the process.

Charity you are playing for: Young Life Would things get better or

worse if humans focused on what was going well rather than whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going wrong?

I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think you can have success only focusing on one or the other; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to have a healthy balance of both!

To what do you attribute the biggest successes in your life?

Trusting God with my future.

How about your largest failures?

Not listening to the loving concerns of the people closest to me.

What is your personal mantra: Follow what brings you peace!

NINA ZORCH Second Grade Teacher

Fun fact about me: I’m really good at golf.

If you were the newly elected mayor of Hilton Head Island or Bluffton, what would be the first thing on your agenda?

I would start a strong effort to bring in affordable housing for those who work in the education and hospitality fields in our community.

Favorite holiday movie: Jingle All the Way What quality do you most admire in others?

A kind heart.

What local event is a “mustdo” for you every year?

Any time Deas-Guyz is playing!

Why should our readers vote for you as Bachelorette of the Year?

I would consider it an honor and privilege to represent our beautiful island! As a teacher, I am passionate about helping others in the community. If I win, this opportunity will aid me in helping my chosen charity, Neighborhood Outreach Connection. NOC provides an effective platform to help students strengthen their education. This has been such a fun experience for me, so either way it is a winwin, because I know that a charity will be supported.

Charity you are playing for: Neighborhood Outreach Connection Would things get better or worse if humans focused on what was going well rather than what’s going wrong?

It is better to focus on what is going well than wrong.

I believe that positive reinforcement always works.

To what do you attribute the biggest successes in your life?

God. How about your largest failures?

I don’t believe in failures.

Instead, any set back that I have had I view it as an opportunity to learn and grow as an individual.

What is your personal mantra?

Pray more, worry less.

To vote for Nina Zorch, go to www.celebratehiltonhead. com and look for the VOTE HERE link.

Voting will be open from December 1- December 12.

Winner will be announced on the January cover of CH2 magazine.

One vote per person.

Macerated Blackberries vanilla bean, lemon balm

Sausage Dumplings black pepper, sage, chives

the best Bloody Mary you will ever consume

Braised Homemade Bacon sherry gastrique, gremolada

Fried Egg preserved tomato, red onion, mint, pumpkin seeds

Buttermilk Chicken Fried Hindquarters nine herbs & spices, hot sauce

Nine Grain Toast f.r.o.g. jam

Photography by M.Kat

Article by Linda S. Hopkins Photography by M.KAT and Jessica Carter

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farm Let’s Do Brunch!

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o your taste buds need a wakeup call? Are you craving a culinary adventure? Surprise your palate every Sunday, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., because that’s when FARM in Old Town Bluffton is serving their knock-your-pajamabottoms-off brunch.

Entering FARM for the first time, senses stand at attention. The rustic interior of the restaurant transports you to a simpler time when food and conversation were the highlight of every meal. Instead of staring at a flat

“There’s a common belief that the universal ingredient in a Bloody Mary is Worcestershire. I looked at Worcestershire and the ingredients in it and asked myself, why is it in there? We make our own kind of Worcestershire.”

- Josh Heaton Cocktail Specialist

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screen television (or your smart phone), you’ll have the opportunity to peer into the wide-open kitchen, where farm fresh ingredients show their colors, pots simmer with secret brews, and chefs’ hands work their magic for your entertainment pleasure and ultimate delight.

TASTE THE PASSION The creative team at FARM consists of four gentlemen, Ryan Williamson, founder; Brandon Carter, executive chef; Josh Heaton, cocktail specialist; and Thaddeus Miller, sommelier, who co-own the restaurant—each with a separate role, but all with a rare spirit of collaboration evident in the entire FARM experience.

farm Photography by Jessica Carter

Photography by Jessica Carter

“I think what everyone notices and what makes the energy so special is that every single person here really cares about what they do and works really hard to be really good at it,” Heaton said. “We want to come together for the best possible food, but also the best relationships. Our guests see the whole point, and they taste the difference.”

While the scents of braised bacon, buttermilk fried chicken, and biscuits fill the air, put away your preconceived notions. The tiny but mighty menu, presented on a half letter size card, hints at a complexity beyond the expected and is loaded with unique, wellcomposed dishes that pack a punch.

“We want to take traditional ideas from this part of the world (the Lowcountry) but pull ideas and theme styles from all around the world, finding corollaries and putting them together,” Miller said. “We’ve got a collective voice here. Stepping into FARM is viewing the world from our lens. It makes us raconteurs. It makes us storytellers— whether you sit down as a guest or you’re one of the farmers who are kind enough to sell us their produce. This restaurant should be a way of making the world a little bigger and a little smaller. It’s about expanding your perspective but drawing on commonality.”

The menu concept is simple. You can choose brunch and three (one entrée and three sides) or skip the entrée and go crazy over the sides, choosing three, four or five.

If you prefer not to think so much, opt for the family meal (for two or more) and let the chef choose for you.

One thing you can count on is freshness.

Every item on the menu begins with clean 54

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The FARM Creative Team (from left to right) Thaddeus Miller, Josh Heaton, Brandon Carter and Ryan Williamson

ingredients, many of which are homegrown on Williamson’s farm (including the eggs).

Beyond what they can grow themselves, the owners work with local farmers and purveyors and strive to highlight seasonal produce, which means the menu changes frequently.

Inspired by peak freshness and flavor, the magic continues with Carter’s culinary wizardry, primarily based on his personal palate. “I cook what I like to eat,” he said.

“You’ll see patterns on the menu in terms of favor profile—spices, acid, salt—all those things that kind of punctuate. There are nuances and little things you don’t expect.

Our food—it hits. You know the ingredients, and it becomes an emotional experience.”

“A lot of people will look at what we’re doing and think it’s bizarre. They just want brunch,” Heaton added. “If you’re not interested in one of the mains, you can have three, four or five sides. For example, if you come in and you want bacon, eggs and waffles—perfect. We have that. You get an extraordinary traditional breakfast, because the egg is not just an egg; it has this incredible dressing on it. And the waffle is not just a waffle, because it’s got homemade butterscotch or something crazy like that.

You never know!”

The bacon is different, too, Carter explained, because it’s thick cut and braised in sherry gastrique, making it crispy on the outside but tender inside for a flavor explosion—like bacon dipped in maple syrup.

But don’t worry about being overstuffed and having to nap your Sunday away. Plates are portioned modestly in an effort to encourage guests to try a variety of dishes as opposed to going all in on one thing, Heaton explained. “There’s so much depth and consideration to our menu … the brunch and three program is great. If that’s not how you roll and you just want a waffle, you can get three sides of waffle and two sides of bacon and call it a day. You’d be full but not uncomfortable.”

COCKTAILS ANYONE? While the food is always the star at FARM, the team is equally excited about

the cocktails. “As biased as I am about our restaurant, I’ve had Bloody Marys all around the country, and Josh has created one of the best I’ve ever had,” Williamson said.

“The reason why is because it is literally one of a kind,” Heaton explained. “There’s a common belief that the universal ingredient in a Bloody Mary is Worcestershire. I looked at Worcestershire and the ingredients in it and asked myself, why is it in there? We make our own kind of Worcestershire. I just kind of twisted that. I have all the components, but I just broke it down and customized every element of it so that it would be my dream bloody Mary. It has a level of depth and character that most drinks don’t have. There are no additives. It’s made here, fresh.”

With a nod to Miller, Heaton continued.

“In the spirit of collaboration, I would not do this without his palate tasting it. I gave the horseradish completely over to my trusty sidekick Thaddeus. He broke down the process for a real pure, spicy taste. Now it’s part of our story and its’s all intertwined.”

Not a Bloody Mary fan? Taste and change your mind … or look to the medley of additional craft cocktails—all made with the same signature care and enthusiasm. Alternatively, enjoy a selection of craft beer, bubbles and wine. (Yes, brunch is a perfectly legitimate reason to imbibe before five o’clock.)

Head on down to FARM this Sunday and be part of the story. Take a seat at the community table and get to know your neighbors, reserve a table in the dining room, or ask to sit outside on a pretty day.

Settle in and prepare for a reinvented version of familiar ingredients, brimming with farmfresh deliciousness, and topped off with the passion that makes all the difference. Oh, and save room for the hand pie.

Surprise!  FARM serves brunch on Sunday only from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., with lunch from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and dinner from 5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.

FARM is located at 1301 May River Rd. in Old Town Bluffton. For more information, visit www.farmbluffton.com or call (843) 7072041. Reservations are recommended.

Malted Yeast Waffle

butterscotch, candied pecan, honey crisp apple

DMK 14Kt square exclusive design bracelet w/ .66ctw of diamonds $5,850

QU i nn A ll Th at Gl i t ters

Art icle b y B a r ry K a u f m a n

Qu in n ’ s Di a mon d J e w e le rs

ca r r ies on fa m i ly t r a di t io n

Photogr a p hy b y M. kat

of except ion a l s e rv ice

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arrel Quinn was a young lad of 12 or 13 when his jewelry career began. It’s a journey that has brought him to the pinnacles of the industry, working with some of the biggest brokers in the country and establishing himself as one of the most soughtafter jewelers in the Midwest. And it started at the counter of his father’s jewelry store, where he got in on the ground floor of a family legacy by repairing watches.

The Quinns are synonymous with jewelry; Darrel’s uncles, brothers and cousins are all jewelers.

His son Brad was GIA-certified before he left high school. And now, it sounds like a fourth generation Quinn is getting ready to get into the business.

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d

DMK 14Kt. two-Tone swirl ring w/ .67ctw of diamonds $2,850 DMK 14Kt. two-tone swirl bracelet w/ 1.16ctw of diamonds $6,500 Kashi 14Kt. two-tone ring, semi mount w/ 1.15ctw of diamonds $5,370. (Price does not include center stone)

Darrel & Nancy Quinn, Babs Echtenkamp and store mascots Kasey and Kodie.

“We were babysitting my seven-year-old grandson Asher one Saturday, and he said he wanted to go to Target,” Darrel said.

“No, he was just bored. You told him we had to stay until two and sell some jewelry,” Quinn’s wife Nancy chimed in. (The rapport between the two is inspiring to be around— high school sweethearts who have built a life together and have a tendency to tell stories as a team.)

“Right. I said we need to sell jewelry so we can go to Target and buy toys.”

“Then he was all for staying.”

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“He found the gold chain on my desk.”

“We have this great picture of him at the counter.”

Being around the Quinns in their Village at Wexford shop is like joining them for Christmas dinner, albeit one enjoyed around glistening display cases filled with brilliant diamonds, bracelets, necklaces and earrings. They share stories of their grandson, and his burgeoning love of gemstones that leads him to burrow through his grandparents’ drawers, snapping up costume pieces and keeping them in his treasure box. It’s a bit like being a part of the family; and just like any member of the Quinn family, you can even try your hand at making jewelry.

“The latest thing right now is that iPad. You can design anything you want,” Darrel said. The iPad in question is more akin to a flat-screen TV, with touchscreen enabled controls that let you choose from a plethora of colorful stones and threedimensional settings to create a one-of-akind work of wearable art. A smartphone application links to your saved designs, letting you tinker with it on your own time before giving Quinn the go-ahead to craft your dream piece.

It’s not the only high-tech gadget the couple is using to augment their years of experience, chronicled in certifications and degrees that line the walls of their shop.

Darrel is especially proud of his hand-held diamond detector, looking like something out of Star Trek, that can spot a fake with the push of a button. He’ll happily tell you about taking it around the Atlanta Jewelry Show, going table to table and testing stones. And yes, he found one that was glass.

“You have to trust the person you’re buying from,” he said. “A lot of these diamond sellers were car dealers the week before.”

A l l Th at G l i t te rs With Quinn’s Diamond Jewelers, you not only get a jeweler you can rest assured has never sold a car in his life, you also get someone with deep experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction.

A three-ring binder on one counter is testament to that—pieces he worked on diligently until clients were completely happy with the outcome: earrings made from scratch to match a necklace whose coordinating earrings had been discontinued; old wedding bands reforged as a double-heart pendant; a wedding band flattened and straightened out to form a cross; a custom piece based on a nineyear-old-girl’s drawing.

“As long as the customer gets what they want,” Darrel said, flipping through the binder and showing off his favorites.

That service extends beyond the sale, with a 100 percent trade-in promise and a commitment long after the transaction is concluded. I service after the sale. If prongs get loose or ring get distorted, I correct it at no charge.”

These custom pieces are in addition to the wide range of stunning jewelry from designers like Alamea, Gabriel & Co., Kordansky, Lafonn, Stuller and Southern Gates that line the cases at Quinn’s Diamond Jewelers. A trunk show is planned for December featuring exquisite pieces from PiYaRo. “Since he’s started doing the trunk shows, it’s been fabulous for us since he owns the factory and he can tell people all about what they’re buying,” Nancy said.

And when you stop by for the trunk show, you can set a spell amid an expertly curated array of glittering gems and gold works of art and make yourself part of the Quinn family tradition.  Quinn’s Diamond Jewelers if located in the Village at Wexford.

To learn more, call (843) DIAMOND or visit www.diamondland.com.

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 Kathy Cooksey, owner of THE FACE PLACE by kc

THE FACE PLACE by kc

Article by Becca Edwards

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“

love what I do! I actually get to see a person’s skin change as I am working on it,” said Kathy Cooksey, L.E. and owner of THE FACE PLACE by kc. “And the more I work on it, the more it changes.”

Cooksey has 16 years of experience in esthetics, six of which are in medical esthetics. She is a creative person, especially when it comes to problem solving.

“Most people who come to me come for anti-aging treatments. I like to work with them to customize a skincare program that really speaks to their needs yet keep it a realistic routine for them,” Cooksey said.

Cooksey also has a very scientific mind, and when she talks about skincare, she explains it in a very understandable and physiological way. One session with her and not only is your skin more radiant and youthful, but you will walk out with countless takeaways.

“The best way to take care of your skin is to cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize and to use sunscreen daily,” explained Cooksey, who then went on to dispel some myths about each facet of facial care.

CLEANSING “Some people think just because you washed your face before you went to bed you do not need to clean it again in the morning, but whatever came out of your vents during the night, you are going to have on your face in the morning. Plus, everyone sweats at night, and most people only wash their sheets once a week, so your pillow case is not as clean by week’s end,” Cooksey said. “A lot of times I can tell what side someone sleeps on because of breakouts or wrinkles.”

Cooksey also recommends washing your face twice before bed, even if you don’t wear makeup or sunscreen. “Really that first wash is removing the day’s dirt and grime. The second wash is actually cleaning your face.”

EXFOLIATING Common exfoliators are often called scrubs but, “Don’t scrub your face,” Cooksey warned—especially with a product that contains “crushed” ingredients such as almonds, peach pits or the like. These crushed ingredients can leave microscopic cuts on the surface of the skin, she explained. “Whatever product you are using should contain round beads, especially encapsulated beads that contain useful ingredients for your skin’s health. Use only your ring and middle fingers gently rubbing in a circular motion for 30 seconds. Let the product do the job. And make sure to avoid the delicate skin of the eye area.”

MOISTURIZING Cooksey then explained the difference between moisturizing and lubrication. “Some people avoid all

 A treatment room at The Face Place by KC

 The welcoming entrance invites you to relax

moisturizers, particularly if they had acne or problematic skin as a youth.

But they are confusing moisturizers with lubricants. Lubricants are oil based.

Moisturizers are water based. We all need moisturizers. Our body mass is over 60 percent water. Moisturizers help retain that water, making the skin look hydrated, smooth, soft and supple. Without enough water, cells begin to break down, leaving the skin dry and dehydrated, leaving the skin looking old and weathered.” When choosing a moisturizer, Cooksey says the two most important ingredients are peptides, which are amino acid chains that penetrate the skin and help firm it by forming new proteins such as collagen, and hyaluronic acid, which deeply moisturizes and plumps up the skin, improving fine lines and the depths of wrinkles.

APPLYING SUNSCREEN Lastly, Cooksey shared some important information about sunscreen and sunblock. “You don’t need an SPF of more than 35, which provides 96 to 98 percent sun protection.” Also, there is a difference between sunscreen and sunblock. “Sunscreen contains active chemical ingredients like oxybenzone and avobenzone and should read broad spectrum. Sunblock contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. You want a sunblock that contains at least 9 to 11 percent zinc oxide. Sunscreen should be applied daily, regardless if you are going out in the sun. Even the overhead fluorescent lights in an office setting give off UV rays. Sunblock should be applied when you are going to be outdoors for an extended period of time whether playing sports or riding with your top down in your sports car.”  THE FACE PLACE by kc’s new location in Bluffton is 23 Plantation Park Drive, Suite 201. For more information, call (843) 384-5451 or visit thefaceplacebykc.com.

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Article by Becca Edwards

CAROLINA

DREAM All stars

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he heart is pumping. The hair bow is poised. Everyone is in position. You are terrified. The music starts, and your muscle memory takes over as you move into each segment of your team’s routine. And when you finish, you run off the stage elated and ready to do it all over again.

This is how Connor Dafler, owner and head coach of Carolina Dream All Stars, describes an all-star cheerleading competition.

Dafler fell in love with all-star cheerleading at the age of seven, and she has been tumbling, pulling off stunts, building human pyramids, dancing, and cheering since then. “My mom owned Island Cheerleading Academy on Hilton Head. I started there and then went on to Cheer Savannah. Throughout the time I competed, I also coached. My mom started a special needs cheerleading team in 2003, and I started working with them. I always knew one day I would open up my own gym.”

That day finally came two years ago. “We started in a laundry room warehouse with very little equipment and four kids,” Dafler said. “We have since moved to a much larger location, have much more equipment, including a fullsized competition spring floor, and around 100 all-star and recreational athletes.”

As Dafler talks about all-star cheerleading, her passion for the sport is contagious. You realize there are several misconceptions about who an all-star cheerleader is and what she (or he) does. “There are negative connotations associated with cheerleading.

Some people may hear the word cheerleader and think of a rah-rah, pretty, perfect blonde, but that’s not a true depiction. We are not superficial. Also, a lot of people don’t think of cheerleading as a sport, but they might be thinking of sideline cheerleading. Cheering is challenging,” Dafler explained.

Dafler described just what sets all-star cheerleading apart from other team sports.

“All-star cheerleading is different from any other team sport. It is much more about community and learning how to problem



2017-2018 Tiny Bolt at their last competition in Jacksonville, FL!



Teammates make the best friends!

Some members of our 2019 team Spotlight posing at practice! solve. You laugh together, you cry together, you get frustrated together, but ultimately you love your team. It’s hard to explain, but your squad becomes your family.”

The theme of family is pervasive throughout Carolina Dream All Stars. Dafler’s mom Julie is the office manager and head coach for the Island Special Team. Dafler’s sister Alex is the tumbling and cheer coach. And, Ashley Mitchell, Dafler’s best friend from childhood, is the other head coach. Together, they all work to promote strength, power and beauty. “We want all our all-stars to have strong bodies and strong minds, power in skills and power to make a positive impact, and to have a beautiful heart that radiates in all that they do,” Dafler said.  Carolina Dream All Stars is located in Bluffton at 39 Sheridan Park Circle, Unit 6. To learn more, visit carolinadreamcheer.com or call (843) 816-0528.

Carolina Dream offers classes, clinics and their all-star program, as well as private lessons.

Here is a breakdown of the classes: Pre-school Tumbling - Mondays 4:45-5:30 p.m.

This class focuses on basic tumbling skills and body awareness, as well as listening skills.

Beginner Tumbling - Wednesdays 5-6 p.m.

This class focuses on basic tumbling skills and building up the muscles necessary to complete those skills.

Back Handsprings - Mondays 6:30-7:30 p.m.

This class is for athletes who are working on back handsprings or higher-level tumbling and will focus on strength exercises, drills and skills.

Flyer Fit N Flex - Wednesdays 5-6 p.m.

This class focuses on flexibility and body control.

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Styling by Kaila Manthei, Photography by M.Kat , Hair & Makeup by Brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Side Beauty, Clothing modeled by Emma of Halo Model & Talent Agency

E XPLORE: South Carolina

In our continuing series, Explore S.C., our creative team traveled to Charleston for a few days of sightseeing.

Charleston: Part 1 can be found in the November 2018 issues of CH2 & CB2.

To kick-off Part II of our Holy City adventures, we made

our way to Patriotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Point in Charleston Harbor. As you make your approach over the Cooper River Bridge, you will see the massive World War II aircraft carrier, the USS Yorktown, from a distance.

This ship is home to the Medal of Honor Museum, and

the surrounding area boasts the only Vietnam Exhibit in the United States. The USS Yorktown was the tenth aircraft carrier to serve in the United States Navy. It was built in 16 months in Newport News, Virginia and was commissioned on April 15, 1943.

Amoralle Gown $284, Bajra Shawl $450, Diane Cotton Cuffs $280, Diane Cotton Necklace $520 Available at DLuxe

C FUN FACT: The presence of an incoming AH-1 Cobra helicopter is an aweinspiring or frightening sight, depending on your friend or foe perspective.

Developed in the 1960s, modified Cobras continue to be flown by the United States Marines as its narrow footprint is ideal for shipboard use.

FUN FACT: a Just one block over from Upper King Street, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find Madison Row, a destination for brides looking to say yes to the dress. This bridal boutique is open by appointment only, and gowns start at $3,000.

(Far Right)

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The College of Charleston has been featured in numerous films. To see this school from your couch, just rent The Patriot, Cold Mountain, The Notebook (who doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t love this one?), or Dear John. Another fun fact about the College of Charleston? It was established before the United States, in 1770, and five of the campus buildings are designated as national historic landmarks.

Jack by BB Dakota White Top $55, BB Dakota Fur Vest $105, DL1961 Jeans $199, Able Wristlet $78, Able Suede Flats $98, Tassel Necklace: $88 Available at Coastal Bliss

E XPLORE: South Carolina

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mk Flowy Vest $152, EsQualo Blouse $65, EsQualo Skirt $72, Kendra Scott Earrings $95, Nature Breeze Bootie $40 Available at Gigiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

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C One of the premier landmarks in Charleston is the United States Custom House, situated between East Bay Street and the Cooper River.

The building is almost identical from each side with imposing columns and a massive stone steps. This architectural masterpiece took over 30 years to complete.

Construction began in 1849 but was not completed until 1879 due to a slight interruption by a wellknown event: the Civil War. It is a federally owned building, and the lower level is open to the public Monday-Friday.

Asher Dress $74, Liliana Black Heel $41 Available at fabâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;rik

EXPLORE: South Carolina

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C For Sunday brunch and a little shopping, head over to the Palmetto CafĂŠ, located in the Belmondâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Charleston Place. The hotel is wellappointed with a spa, several dining options, and well-known luxury brand stores.

Tempo Paris Blouse $70, Jane & John Suede Jacket $79.95, Michael Tyler Pants $105, Bueno Bootie $140, Purse: $39.95, Earrings: $29.95, Bracelet: $99 Available at Pink Pineapple

(Far Right)

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Need a little sugar rush to keep you moving? We suggest swinging by Cupcake Downsouth at 433 King Street for a frostingcovered delight and some java. This sweet shop is cheerful in bright white tones accented by pink; vegan and gluten-free options are available.

EXPLORE: South Carolina

Lucy Paris Dress $84, Kendra Scott Earrings $70, Cofi Clutch $59 Available at Haskins & Co.

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C The Gibbes Museum of Art is located at 135 Meeting Street, in the heart of downtown Charleston. The building, completed in 1905, looks almost identical to the way it looked over 100 years ago. The first floor features a creative education center that engages the public through classrooms, artist studios, lecture spaces, a cafĂŠ and a museum store.

The rear reception area opens to the garden, part of Charlestonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic Gateway Walk founded by the Garden Club of Charleston. Serving as a creative gathering place for the community, the entire ground floor of the museum is admissionfree. The upper floors feature art on exhibit, and tickets can be purchased for access by visiting their website at www.gibbesmuseum.org.

This stunning building is also available for private events and weddings.

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Lilla | P Dress $185, Amici Sweater Vest $365, Donald Pliner Bootie $325 Available at Palmettoes

EX PLOR E: South Carolina

FUN FACT: The benefactor, James Shoolbred Gibbes, donated $100,000 to the Carolina Arts Association upon his death in 1899 for the â&#x20AC;&#x153;erection of a suitable building for the exhibitions of paintings.â&#x20AC;?

Receipt of the money by the city, however, was delayed by a will contest filed by nieces and nephews of Gibbes. Their case was heard in the state court of New York during 1900 and 1901.

On December 6, 1901, the New York Supreme Court issued an opinion declaring that the gift to Charleston was valid.

C The Charleston Rickshaw Co. has been transporting visitors around the city on three wheels for over two decades. You can call from anywhere on the peninsula and be picked up within a few minutes.

Drivers are friendly and knowledgeable about the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a sort of mobile concierge as you take the scenic route from point A to point B. Be sure to catch a ride at least once on your visit to Charleston!

EXPLORE: South Carolina

Draper James Dress $195, Pearl Bracelet Mix: $39 ea., Pearl and Crystal Necklace: $106 Available at Too Belles Boutique

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C When the sun goes down, the night is just getting started in a city full of college students and vacationers. The restaurant scene is unmatched in Charleston, and clubs and bars run the gamut from casual to decadent. Craft beer, curious cocktails and unique atmospheres abound. In Charleston, you can literally just step outside and start walking and come upon too many hot spots to hit in one night of revelry.

EXPLORE: South Carolina

Elliatt Dress $248, Linda Richards Luxury Fur Jacket $1,878, Julie Vos Pearl Earrings $48, Gigi New York Clutch $225 Available at Birdie James

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ARTICLE BY LINDA S. HOPKINS

fab´rik H

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WHERE HIGH STYLE COMES DOWN TO EARTH

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f you’ve ever walked into a boutique and felt invisible or out of place, you are in for a pleasant surprise at fab´rik , one of the hottest women’s clothing stores to arrive on the scene at Shelter Cove Towne Centre on Hilton Head Island.

The franchise lives and breathes the corporate motto: “High style with heart, no attitude or sticker shock,” as established by founder Dana Spinola, who set out to create a highend boutique experience without the high price tag. Local franchise owner Kelly Welch explains how she is putting that philosophy to work every day at fab´rik Hilton Head.

HIGH STYLE, NO STICKER SHOCK If you’ve seen it on the runway or the cover of a magazine, chances are you’ll find it at fab´rik . And while fab´rik is a national brand, unlike typical big-box stores, franchisees have flexibility to personalize the merchandise to match the needs of their customers. “fab´rik is fashion forward, on-trend pieces—kind of effortless style—something different,” Welch said. fab´rik also looks out for those who appreciate a unique sense of style by carrying a limited quantity of each item. “We get new merchandise in every week, and we only get six of every item, so you can be confident you won’t see everyone wearing your same outfit.”

According to Welch, the advantage of being a franchise is the national branding and the buying assistance. “Our buying team is finding what’s hot next so that this store has the ontrend pieces. I do about 40 percent of the buying, so I can infuse my personal style and focus on what’s right for the island,” she said.

Best news yet: All items are priced under $100 except for the designer denim collection and the Spanx leggings for fall.

WITH HEART, NO ATTITUDE One of the most important ways fab´rik sets itself apart is its caring culture—no snooty attitudes or judgements, regardless of your age, what you’re wearing, or where you came from. The goal at fab´rik is to make each customer feel valued from the moment she walks in the door.

fab´rik:

Noun. A fancy way of spelling the English word fabric. Lowercase, on purpose, with an accent to emphasize the first syllable.

(It’s a branding thing!)

Rhymes with stick, not creek.

 Local franchise owner, Kelly Welch

“A lot of people are surprised when they come in fab´rik . Everyone is greeted, welcomed and helped. I think our customer service is remarkable—something that a lot of stores don’t have,” Welch said. “It’s not just about selling clothes. It’s about making a difference in someone’s day.”

Beyond the commitment to customer care and an exceptional in-store experience, the belief that clothing can change lives is truly at the heart of this business. fab´rik seeks to empower women who have survived human trafficking, domestic violence, and other hardships, through the non-profit arm of the corporation, free fab´rik, Welch explained.

By collecting donated clothing and hosting free shopping sprees, fab´rik restores dignity and hope and helps women regain their confidence as they dress for success.

DON’T BE A STRANGER If you are looking for personalized styling in a fun, friendly environment without the high price tag, stop in fab´rik today and get acquainted with Welch and her team, including store mascot Rooney, an adorable Bichon Frise puppy—Welch’s pet and everyone’s favorite “sales assistant.” You’ll leave looking and feeling like a million bucks, minus the stress of an overstretched budget. Mention that you saw it here in CH2 magazine and get an additional 20 percent off the price of one item!  fab´rik Hilton Head is located at 28 Shelter Cove Lane, Suite 108, in Shelter Cove Towne Centre. Get a sneak peek at new arrivals by following them on Facebook and/or Instagram @ fabrikhiltonhead. Call (843) 681-4300 for more information.

Article by Becca Edwards Photography by M.Kat

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Lash Lounge uite often, when you walk into a spa, salon or studio, there is this implied sense that you must suddenly be Zen. Enya fills the air. The decor is either in muted tones or reminiscent of old Hollywood. And everyone is quietly contained, making sure not to make eye contact or crack a smile.

This is not Bluffton Lash Lounge.

Instead, Bluffton Lash Lounge plays music that, though chill, you can groove to. The colors are vibrant yet cozy and very much bohemian. And everyone, while respectfully quiet, exudes this “you-go-girl” energy. In short, it’s rejuvenating and reinvigorating all at the same time.

“We want people to feel a relaxing vibe. If they’re having a bad day, they can come in and think, ‘Okay, I can chill out here,’” said Bethany James, co-owner of Bluffton Lash Lounge. “Many of our clients take a lash nap while they are here.”

“And many of our clients become our friends,” added Jenifer Locklair, also co-owner of Bluffton Lash Lounge.

As business partners, James and Locklair opened Bluffton Lash Lounge in 2014, and their friendship, paralleled with their professionalism, is the reason why you feel so amazing after an appointment.

“She is the yin to my yang,” joked James.

Locklair laughed and then added, “We complement each other. We’re like sisters.”

Both James and Locklair share a road-less-traveled route to being estheticians. James wanted to be a full body make-up artist. Locklair was, at one point, pursuing pharmacy school. But both earned their certification from the same school, met each other working at the same spa, and share like goals when it comes to helping women feel beautiful/confident.

Bluffton Lash Lounge’s services include lash lifts, tints, waxes and extensions. James and Locklair breakdown each service. “Lash lift, which used to be called a lash perm, lasts up to eight weeks and is great for curling straight long lashes,” Locklair said.

“Tints are good for color enhancing your lashes and last about four weeks.”

“For waxing, we use a soy-based wax called Nufree,” James said. “It is great for sensitive skin.” “It’s also anti-microbal, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial,” Locklair added.

Q

“That’s the pharmacist coming out in her,” James joked.

For people with delicate skin who need to define their brows, Bluffton Lash Lounge also offers threading. “Threading is a great alternative to removing hair for people who are using Retin-A or for some reason have very sensitive skin,” Locklair said.

“But for most people, we recommend lash extensions,” James said. “It causes no damage to the eyelashes, lasts two to three weeks, and you don’t need to mess with mascara—ever.”

“And especially for those working moms, it’s a time saver,” Locklair said.

When it comes to deciding which service is best for you, know you are in good hands. “When you enhance your eyes with say extensions, you really give someone an eye lift. It awakens someone’s face and makes them more youthful,” said James, who went on to explain that when she and Locklair do extensions there is a craft. “We will ask you what you want and then creatively problem solve based on your natural lashes, your eyes, and your eyebrows and whether they are low or high and their shape.”

“We can do something natural and start with a thinner shorter lash or, for a more dramatic, glamorous look, we can add volume or go longer,” Locklair said. “Really, we can do single to volume lashes for any occasion.”

“When someone comes in, we are sure to work our lash magic,” James said.  For more information, visit www.blufftonlashlounge.com or call (843) 505-0645.

the Sandbox A R T I C L E BY B E CC A E DWA R DS

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alking into The Sandbox recently, a wave of nostalgia rushed over me as I heard the happy and distinctive squeal of a child going down a slide. I was taken back to when my babies where actually babies and we did what The Sandbox does best: “disguise learning as playing.”

“Right now, our programming is for children up to age eight,” said The Sandbox’s executive director Nancy Fish. “But when we move into the new Lowcountry Celebration Park location in Coligny, our programming will go up to age 12.”

Lowcountry Celebration Park is a new development led by the town, and The Sandbox is excited to be included in it. “They break ground on the infrastructure buildings this coming summer and hope to have the grand opening in June of 2020,” Fish said. “Lowcountry Celebration Park will include a green space for concerts and events, a pavilion, a playground and, of course, our new museum.” At the new location, you can expect to see the same high level of programming, events and exhibits The Sandbox provides our island today.

Currently, The Sandbox’s programs include Imagination Hour (Thursdays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.), Free Family Fun Night (first Friday of every month from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.), Summer Camp (July), and the Make, Take, and Playdate Series.

According to Fish, “Imagination Hour features story time and related arts and crafts projects. Family Night is so much fun we have families coming from Savannah to participate. And Make, Take and Playdate is a new fun, DIY series for adults to engage in while their children play downstairs in a camp environment. We also have several outreach programs that serve all members of our community.”

EXHIBITS AT THE SANDBOX INCLUDE: An International Bazaar—A grocery store that exercises the child’s physical, cognitive and social skills.

Builders of Tomorrow—A “construction zone” for children to use their imagination and learn about physics.

Charlie’s Perfect Place—A gated area dedicated to infants and toddlers.

Flight Deck—A simulated cockpit where children develop their sense of play and their fine motor skills while maneuvering switches and throttles throughout the cockpit.

Learner’s Loft—The upstairs section of the museum that offers places to read, interact with STEM-based stations, and engage in art, puzzles and games.

Loggerhead Castle—With a magical wand children can move creatures around a magnetic “aquarium” or create their own aquatic scene with sea creatures that cling to an ocean window.

The Aquarium—Children explore aquatic life in this 48-inch salt water aquarium filled with tropical fish.

Rhythm and Hues Room—Kids explore their creative side in this comprehensive art room.

South State Bank—With two teller stations, children learn about money and mathematics.

The Adventure—Modeled after William Hilton’s ship, the exhibit allows children to play with an array of elements including a ladder, periscope, and buttons that create natural sounds.

“Many times older siblings will come with their younger siblings and the older ones are the ones who do not want to leave.

They are busy with the light table, or spelling things with pegs, or in the art room—because there really are no other places on the island where they can just create,” Fish said, jokingly adding, “and sometimes the mom’s ready to go and the dads are playing Legos with the kids and they are like, ‘Wait I’m not done yet!’ We think this great because we are all about parents really playing with their kids.”  The Sandbox is located at 18A Pope Avenue Road. For more information, please visit www.thesandbox.org or call (843) 842-7645.

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WHAT’S BLACK, WHITE, & RED ALL-OVER: H O L I DAY

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B Y S A R A H P E R R Y, L A U R E N M C AV O Y, A N D T H E B R A N C H E S T E A M PHOTOGRAPHY BY CELIA G CARROLL

As holiday season approaches here in the Lowcountry, so does the desire to add fresh looking, festive florals to our homes. At Branches, we specialize in the highest quality, most lifelike looking permanent botanicals to keep the beauty of holiday fresh and merry all season long.

The hottest holiday trend we love? A classic red and white theme with contrasting, bold black.

It’s traditional with a hint of contemporary! Why else do we love faux florals?

• Pre-planning is the real Christmas Secret! - Let’s face it – the holiday season is busy and the SC season can be warm. Permanent arrangements and design take the stress out last minute planting, arranging, and frankly, messiness. Faux florals can last through the “naughty or nice” holiday season weather with minimal maintenance and will be reused for years to come. This is the simplest way to enjoy the season without the stress of replacing arrangements each time you host.

• Make Your Statement! Pick bold, vibrant colors to make your porch and tablescapes pop. Red is one of our all-time favorites to add immediate holiday, curb appeal. We also love adding oversized ornaments, bells or pine cones for a clean, “Wow!” impact. The unexpected elements are what make your decorations yours. Don’t hesitate to add those cherished family ornaments or kids decorations, crafted with love, as that is what will make your home a home.

• Fresh & faux place nice together. - Using fine, faux foliages to deck out those important spots in your home early in the season and then add fresh into it at event time. This is a great way to have the best of both worlds. Fresh evergreens, magnolias, and other seasonal greens can handle it out of the water for a few days, adding that fresh touch we crave, with out the stress and mess.

• To Bow or not to Bow? No doubt that adding the right bow , can dress up a tired design. Put together two or three types of ribbon for more color and texture, or try running sashes throughout for even more design drama. But a bow doesn’t top off everything. Tree toppers have gone far beyond past design trends, with sparkly branches, oversized coral elements or even old Frosty’s top hat, make a fun and out of the box way to top off your holiday look. 

Village At Wexford - Hilton He ad Is l a n d , S C - 84 3 .785 . 2 535 - www. b ra n c h e s d e s i g n s .co m

Louette Mare leather handle clutch, available in black, cognac and bone $78

Club Car Sea Foam Special Edition 4P Lifted Onward $11,650

Quinn’s Diamond Jewelers Kashi 14Kt. two-tone ring, semi mount w/ 1.15ctw of diamonds $5,370*

Haskins & Co. (the old traveling chic)

Kendra Scott Schuyler Navy Gunmetal Cocktail Ring $95

* price does not include center stone.

Little Fish Boateak Cheetah fur earrings $62

Eggs n tricities Oyster necklace - local vintage rain $54 Wild Birds Unlimited Set of two flour sack towels $17.99, Spiced mug mat $15.99, Cardinal ceramic mug $9.99, Cardinal Birdie Gourd Ornament $14.99

Pink Pineapple Poncho rain jacket $65, Umbrella $35

Too Belles Tartan scarf wrap $33.95

Amy Vandervoort, Rodan+Fields Skincare Consultant Lash Boost $150

Heritage Fine Jewelry Belle Etoile’s Meridian Bangle Bracelet.

Exclusively at Heritage Fine Jewelry. $595

Modern Barn Element Tree Essentials Lotion Candle - $28

Coastal Bliss Beaded iWatch band $70

Eyeland Optique ILA Eyeworks Pancha in Lake. $410

D-Luxe Mongolian fur $895

Luna and Lillie’s Metal side table, small $249.95; also available in large $299.95 Throws, varied $51-$59 Pillows $29.99

Bella Dae Spa Fresh water pearl necklace $120

Gigi’s Erimish bracelet bar in milkshake $75

2018

gift for her

2018

gift

Gifted Uno de 50 pearl bracelet, handmade in Spain $125

for her shop!

W by Worth faux coyote fur jacket $598

AR Workshop Custom plank wood sign $59

Birdie James Cashmere, wool scarf in ice blue $125

Pinnacle Pure Skincare Line, Dr. Klenkeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s private label $156

fab´rik Spanx leggings $68-$110

Magic Mitt by Jane Iredale $15

Island Winery 2016 Malbec $18/bottle

Spirited Hand Hardwear by Renee $89.00

J.McLaughlin Tartan print and velvet bow Lyon mules $198

Forsythe Jewelers Gabriel Bujukan bracelet in 14K yellow gold with seven diamond stations $805

doTerra (Michelle Gula) The Emotional Diffused Kit Wholesale $195

So Sandra Luggage set $249.99 Sativa Health Kat’s Naturals Balance CBD (15ml) $25

2018

gift for her

Silver Garden Tennis earrings in sterling with peridot $359

ACM Jewelry Co. Choker $57, Double wrap necklace $119

Needlepoint Junction Handmade wooden yarn bowl $110 Indigo driftwood interchangeable knitting needles from Lykke. $175 for the set.

“Ode to Crescendo” knitting yarn $45 per skein.

Abode Ali and Bird necklace $176

Branches Assembled Christmas bell $68.00; unassembled available at $29.99

The Greenery Lowcountry Local— Gerri “Gigi” Wilson $29.95

R E - F E A T H E R I N G

Home

FOR THE

T

he Friday, Saturday, and Sunday following Thanksgiving Thursday may be three of my all-time favorite consecutive days of the year. While I enjoy a turkey-cranberrystuffing sandwich and have made a point to spend my dollars locally in the shops where I know the owners and love their aesthetics, for me, it is not about the food or the shopping.

These three magical days are like the wind-up of a holiday Jack-in-the-Box, locking in plans for the coming weeks and making lists, lots of lists: gifts to buy, holiday cards to buy-personalize-mail, parties, menus, grocery lists, travel plans, and on and on and on. The anticipation is exhilarating and fuels the fun for the coming weeks. This year our 20-something progeny will be arriving

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soon for her four-week break from the world of academia, and for those of us whose nests have been empty, or emptier, for a few months, or even years, who are about to experience this particular blessing … well, we have things to do.

At the top of the list: PREPARE GUEST ROOM. In the spirit of full disclosure, what we now refer to as the guest room is our daughter’s former bedroom—a room I am certain she envisions filled with fluffy quilts, photos of friends scattered about, piles of treasured books, and her acoustic and electric guitars standing guard on either side of her cozy bed. This room now ebbs and flows between a) craft room, b) storage facility, and c) exercise equipment graveyard. I’m not sure

L Y N N I E

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there is even a spot to perch on the edge of the bed, much less room to snuggle into the mountain of pillows she is likely anticipating.

We should not encourage the idea that life comes to a standstill for mom and dad when the chicks fly the coop, and I don’t expect that our daughter thought her room would be preserved in perpetuity to honor her former life in it. However, its current state of confused identity will not convey the message that we are happy to have her home for the holidays … and we are oh so happy she is coming home.

Giving children the idea that life continues in their absence serves them well in the long-run—less worry and guilt about mom and dad being lonely or bored in their empty nest years. No need to hide the crafts or the exercise equipment (you never know when someone may get the urge). However, the to-do list should include moving storage items to another room, the attic, basement, or a climate-controlled storage unit down the road (the juice is worth the squeeze here). And bring on the familiar: a mountain of pillows, fresh sheets, familiar quilt, and those guitars. GUEST ROOM READY—check.

Holiday cards are a big part of my Thanksgiving weekend list-making.

Mr. Honey and I make a point of choosing the family’s annual card together.

Admittedly, I do the signing, note writing, addressing, stamping, and mailing; however, we enjoy the choosing together. Over the years we have collaborated on selecting the annual picture of our daughter that is tucked inside each card. This year, as I sorted through last year’s holiday card database, adding new friends, changing addresses for those who have moved, and crossing through, but never deleting those we lost this year, I asked myself, “Is it still appropriate to include our daughter on the card?” In her seventh year out in the world, I am not sure about “appropriate,” but it doesn’t feel “right” to exclude her, either. Here are my thoughts. If the kids are still in school, even if living away from home, a family card is a nice way to send seasonal wishes and keep everyone up-to-date. Even if the kids are past their teen years, a

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picture is still appreciated. That being said, if the children have a significant other or children of their own, allow them to share holiday wishes, stories, and photos of their choosing from their hand and their return address. HOLIDAY CARDS—check.

Your children’s holiday hiatus may rock the status quo when it comes to stocking the pantry. Since the chicks flew the coop, you and Mr. Honey may have found that splitting a chicken breast and tossing a salad is the perfect accompaniment to your daily happy hour of cocktails and noshy bits. Now you may find your once-ravenous collegiate has become a nibbler, or the prodigious grazer now has a hollow leg to fill. Before the holiday homecoming, give a call and make a list. Ask what you should stock-up on … coffee, juice, eggs, fruit, veg, snacks, treats, etc.

Don’t be surprised if the list consists of power bars and energy drinks; these may be their go-to at school, despite the expensive meal plan you purchased at the beginning of the semester. As the holidays roll on, and as family and friends descend, don’t despair; your listmaking abilities will keep everyone wellfed. GROCERIES—check.

It may come as a revelation that while living independently at school, your offspring may be ill-equipped to return home where there are house rules related to curfews, cell phone etiquette, car sharing, bathroom sharing, daily chores, family responsibilities, etc., that don’t jibe with their new way of living.

You have heard it before; choose your battles. Of course, if there are dealbreakers, communicate, communicate, communicate. Listen to each other and compromise. Everyone is navigating new territory.

Taking the Thanksgiving weekend to schedule and prepare for the upcoming holiday season is a magical time for me: planning for time with family and friends, scheduling what’s most important, celebrating each other and our traditions, and welcoming home those we have missed, and loved, and encouraged while they have been away. It’s a bit like holding your breath while waiting for Jack-inthe-Box to pop his lid. I can hardly wait for it all to unfold.  Lynnie Leavenworth is a writer, blogger, and emptynester who is happily in the midst of re-feathering her nest … literally and figuratively. www. lynnieleavenworth.com.

BILLY WOOD APPLIANCE EXPANDS TO A BEAUTIFUL NEW BLUFFTON SHOWROOM

Cooking up Something new

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A rt icle by B a r ry K au fm a n

nvision your dream kitchen. Perhaps it involves a luxurious 36- or 60-inch stainless steel range and an accompanying range hood, double-wide refrigerator, dishwasher and wine cooler. Or maybe it involves colored enamel appliances, highlighted with beautifully contrasting knobs or door pulls.

Whatever your taste, you can find the precise appliances you seek, perfectly positioned among custom cabinetry, granite and quartz countertops, tile backsplashes and great task lighting at Billy Wood Appliance. Or at the very least, you’ll find the appliances that make your dream kitchen really cook. The range of ovens, ranges, refrigerators, wine coolers, coffee makers, washers and dryers you’ll find here, carefully curated to offer only the utmost in reliability and style, speak for themselves.

In 2015 when Mike and Brantley King purchased the Hilton Head Island institution located at 6 Marshland Road, Brantley got to work filling the storefront in with dream kitchens of every kind to properly showcase beautiful appliances.

“We re-designed every kitchen vignette here,” said Brantley, who remodeled her share of houses before entering the appliance business. Her efforts are beyond impressive, with a walk offering an experience akin to flipping through the pages of Better Homes & Gardens. If you don’t have your vision board put together yet, pay them a visit. You’ll walk away with no shortage of inspiration.

“I don’t think there’s a showroom in the Lowcountry like this,” Brantley said. “Well, maybe one—our new showroom opening in Bluffton in early 2019.”

BWA is committed to making appliance selection an enjoyable experience by enabling homeowners and builders to touch, try and use appliances in actual kitchen settings. “And this philosophy was a driving force behind our new showroom located a 1223 May River Road in Bluffton,” Brantley said. The new showroom is an integral part of the rebirth of May River Row, which also houses the Downtown Deli and Venue 1223. BWA’s signature style fits in perfectly with the new Lowcountry aesthetic of this burgeoning Old Town hotspot.

Within the new showroom, more than a dozen new kitchen vignettes will highlight appliances from lines like Sub-Zero, Wolf and Jenn-Air to the latest and greatest from KitchenAid, GE, Bosch and others. “There’s going to be something for everyone,” Brantley said.

And of course, it wouldn’t be a kitchen without coffee. The new Bluffton showroom will offer an inviting atmosphere to get a hands-on demo of the newest appliances, and that welcome begins with coffee from a chic in-wall Miele coffee maker when you arrive. BWA strives

to offer something a little different including experienced consultants who can identify the right brands and models based upon your needs, or a special continuing education event for designers hosted by preferred appliance vendors.

“The sky’s the limit,” Brantley said.

“It’s that little bit extra which has been BWA’s hallmark for decades—and we’re taking it to the next level,” she continued. You can purchase an appliance online, but here you’ll not only find it for the same price or better; you’ll have the opportunity to engage our seasoned staff and see how appliances look surrounded by your dream kitchen.

And when it’s time to install, BWA’s ultra-experienced techs will put the finishing touches on your dream kitchen with their famed expertise and customer service.

“We work hard to help you select the perfect appliances, and the entire team doesn’t stop until you’re smiling after the installation in your home. We’re uniquely focused upon the journey and the destination,” Brantley said.  Billy Wood Appliance is located at 6 Marshland Rd., Hilton Head Island and will soon open a second location at 1223 May River Rd., Bluffton. For more information, visit www.billywoodappliance.com or call (843) 681-8441.

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David Carroll and his daughter Emma Carroll jam with Julia Clark of J X Rose in the front yard of their home in Port Royal with dog Koda.

What song are they singing? Go to this story on our website to see the behind the scenes video.

ARTICLE BY BARRY KAUFMAN P H OTO G R A P H Y BY M . K AT

Finding the Right Key T

here are a few noticeable differences between David Carroll’s office and the other spaces scattered around the Charter One offices on the north end. While other Realtors may display lush photos of sandy beaches or crisply manicured golf courses, Carroll’s office feels a little more … hip. Between the guitars and the CDs proudly displayed in framed mattes, it’s clear this is not your typical Realtor.

“One of my clients who’s a musician saw me at one of my shows and pulled me aside after and told me, ‘You know what?

You’re not a Realtor who makes music; you’re a musician who sells real estate,’” Carroll said with a laugh. “As far as I’m concerned, I’m here to help.”

The truth is, Carroll is both. As a musician, he’s effortlessly talented, with a stage presence that has made him a mainstay of the island’s music scene. As a Realtor, he has spent nearly 30 years developing an unparalleled knowledge of the island’s industry, framed by a driving ethos he calls “real estate with heart.”

THE BEAT NEVER STOPS FOR DAVID CARROLL, HILTON HEAD ISLAND’S ROCK ’N’ ROLL REALTOR®.

“I look at it like this—I’m helping people with one of the most important things in their life. To be able to cradle that need … anyone can sell a house; but when you take care of people’s needs, it takes it to another level,” he said.

It can be tricky to separate yourself from the pack as a Realtor on highly competitive Hilton Head Island, even without walls adorned in rock ’n’ roll credentials. Carroll does so by placing his focus on his clients’ success, sometimes above his own. “I’ve had other agents tell me I care too much,” he said.

That dedication was developed early on in his real estate career. When other Realtors were selling property to far-flung clients on a few photos and a promise, Carroll was mailing VHS tapes of home tours he’d film using then-state-of-the-art technology.

“I had this big honking camera I could hold on my shoulder for about eight minutes at a time,” he said.

These days, he’s hung up the camera (much to his shoulder’s relief), but his dedication to giving his clients the full experience continues. It’s just easier on his back.

“I’m working with Trevor Harden, who did music videos for some of my songs. He’s been hired by Charter One to do some of our video walkthroughs and drone shots,” Carroll said. “Now, instead of me getting this heavy thing on my shoulder, I just call Trevor.”

Filming houses with the creative force behind his music videos is just one way the lives of David Carroll, Realtor and David Carroll, musician intersect. He recorded his second CD, Reign, with famed local producer Greg Critchley, and ultimately their business relationship became a brotherhood. So naturally, when Critchley left the Lowcountry briefly, he knew where to go when he returned. “He moved back, and now I’m his Realtor.”

Carroll’s music career began long before he moved to Hilton Head Island from Pittsburgh, where he put himself through college playing clubs around Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Following one particular gig where the Pittsburgh chill actually froze the hair on his head, Carroll decided to seek a warmer climate. That’s when he happened across a want ad advertising work on Hilton Head Island.

“I had to actually get an atlas out to find Hilton Head Island,” he said. “I remember finding it and thinking, ‘Well, it’s on the beach. Sounds good.’”

He wasn’t here long before the stage beckoned, as he joined a music scene that was just beginning to come into its own. “Back then, there weren’t a lot of drummers,” he said with a laugh. He landed his first gig with the Chilly Willy Band, whose drummer

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Finding the Right Key Carroll’s music career began long before he moved to Hilton Head Island from Pittsburgh, where he put himself through college playing clubs around Indiana University of Pennsylvania. couldn’t make their Tiki Hut shows due to conflicts with his day job as a postman. That led to spots at the Old Post Office with some of the biggest names at the time, from David Wingo to Jason D. Williams.

“I still perform with Chilly Willy Band, but when I started having children, it became harder to stay out,” he said. “That’s when I turned to songwriting.”

Those songs filled three albums so far, Peace One Day, Living Legacy, and Reign.

And in a case of the apple not falling far from the tree, Carroll’s daughter Emma is one half of songwriting duo J X Rose. It’s not every Realtor who has a discography and a family legacy of making music, but David Carroll is not every Realtor.

“At first I used to keep the two worlds separate,” he said. Ultimately, he found that the creativity and guts it took to get up on stage and perform fueled his real estate business in a symbiotic relationship that enriched both sides of his persona. “It’s a whole different gift you have to honor.”

And it’s a gift he’s shared with the island in more ways than one. As someone with a foot in the arts and real estate, it helped him back when a few intrepid islanders were looking to launch an arts center on the island.

“I was on the Cross-Easement Governance and Management Task Force for what was then the Self Family Arts Center,” he said. “It was my job to convince the board presidents of all the nearby condo associations that this was something the island needed.”

His efforts bore fruit, and thanks to his diligence, the island now has a world-class performing venue in the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. It’s a level of community involvement he’s continued as a former Rotarian, American Red Cross volunteer, cancer fundraiser, and founding board member of the St. Francis School; he continues to volunteer for organizations like Habitat for Humanity and Pockets Full of Sunshine.

Ultimately, this is David Carroll’s home.

It’s where he and his wife Beth have raised a family and where he has built his career as a Realtor and a musician. It’s a deep love he has for this island, lifted by a simple concept he calls real estate with heart.  To learn more, visit hiltonheadhomesource. com, and check out his music on iTunes and YouTube.

Students assembled in the courtyard at Hilton Head Preparatory School in Sea Pines.

A RTICLE BY B ECCA EDWA R DS

Prepping Real World FOR THE

H I LTO N H E A D P RE PA RATO RY S C H O O L

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hen you walk onto Hilton Head Preparatory School’s campus, you will see international students playing basketball on the outdoor court, lower schoolers conversing with upper schoolers, teachers sitting with students going over homework, and parents volunteering. You will see a scholarly environment that exudes community, harmony and happiness. In short, you will see a place where you know your child will excel—academically and beyond.

Though Hilton Head Prep’s mission is to prepare students in a safe environment for a successful college experience, the co-educational day/boarding school, which

enrolls approximately 400 students in junior kindergarten through twelfth grade, is also prepping today’s youth for the real world. “I believe we have established ourselves as an outstanding academic option on the island,” said Jon Hopman, headmaster of Hilton Head Prep. “But I hope parents understand that we stress not just academics when it comes to preparing your child for life.”

Hopman went on to say, “To help our children grow, we have to look at the complete picture and introduce age-appropriate concepts that teach them not just how to function in college, the workforce and the world, but how to succeed in college, the workforce and the world.”

For Hopman and his faculty, this means emphasizing Hilton Head Prep’s core values, which in addition to academics include strength, service, integrity, community and creativity/ innovation. Addressing strength, Hilton Head Prep believes in teaching their students how to overcome adversity through personal resilience. “Hilton Head Prep is constantly assessing and asking, ‘What are our students facing? Is it stress? Is it time management?’ Prep is not an easy school. We are known for our rigorous academics. But we help our students find their own

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solutions,” Hopman said. “In the end, we believe great challenges lead to greater rewards.”

When it comes to service and the community, Hilton Head Prep motivates their students to view volunteerism as an opportunity in leadership and in building character, as well as a way to better the students’ world around them. “Our students, whether on scholarship or not, recognize that they have been given a gift to go to a school like ours,” Hopman explained. “Their parents have worked really hard to send them here. We ask them, ‘How are you going to take advantage of that gift? How are you going to apply yourself and give back to your community?’” Adding on, Hilton Head Prep’s director of development and finance, Margot Brown said, “We want our students to think beyond themselves. We want them to break out of the ‘me attitude’ and into the ‘we attitude.’”

As for integrity, Brown explained, “The buzz phrase is ‘character education,’ but we simply say it is teaching children to do the right thing. Sure, we are proud that our students do well on standardized tests or get into great universities, but we also want them to be present with themselves. We believe in project-based learning that simultaneously strengthens character.”

“Integrity comes from accountability,” Hopman said. “We hold ourselves to a higher standard. And though not everyone is perfect, we believe in being accountable for yourself and your actions.”

The final Hilton Head Prep core value Hopman and Brown discussed was creativity/innovation. Prep encourages its students to define their passions and connect with mentors and contemporaries to pursue these passions. “Our students are not just a football player, or a musician or an artist. They can be all three and more,” Hopman said. “We believe in a renaissance mentality in which the students are well rounded.”

Hilton Head Prep also believes in being flexible to accommodate their students’ interests. From sports academy students, to students pursuing an honors diploma in a specific discipline, to students involved with the theatre, Hilton Head Prep will work with each child and family to ensure his or her aspirations beyond academics are accomplished.

Hilton Head Prep also takes pride in its programs like Bold and Gold, which stands for Boys and Girls Outstanding Leadership Development. Under Bold and Gold, eighth graders train and work with sixth and seventh graders as mentors, helping them navigate through middle school. “In the upper school, we also have a prefect program where students function as student ambassadors, promote school spirit, and partner with the student government—and a cadet teacher program that allows students to assist teachers in the classroom. In the lower school, we have a program that teaches the students a word of the month like integrity, and the Pooh Pal program that connects upper school students with lower school students. There are also our annual service and language trips,” Hopman explained. “And in the future, we hope to have more internship programs.”

Hilton Head Prep is the area’s preeminent, only NAIS-affiliated independent school. Prep is also SAIS and SACS accredited. In the 2019 K-12 Niche ratings, it was recognized as the number one private school in Beaufort County, the number one boarding school in South Carolina, the number three private school in South Carolina and in the top 15 percent of private schools in the nation.

Another bonus about attending Hilton Head Prep is parent involvement. According to Hopman, “It is important to us that we maintain a level of trust with our parents. We trust them and we want them to trust us. We also want parents to know that if they express an interest in volunteering, we will find a place for them.”

Equally important, whenever a new student enrolls at Hilton Head Prep, the family sits down with the appropriate division head and, together, they map out the child’s academic path. “We believe in communicating one-on-one so there are no surprises,” Hopman said.

“Our main goal is to take every child from where they are and help them achieve their highest potential,” Brown said.

Agreeing Hopman added, “We put a great deal of effort and emphasis on taking a holistic approach to learning. We want to see our students go far.”  Hilton Head Preparatory School is located at 8 Fox Grape Rd., Hilton Head Island. For more information, please visit www.hhprep.org or call (843) 671-2286.

PICKLEBALL I

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ove over tennis and golf. There’s a new game in town. It’s called pickleball, which may sound kind of silly rolling off the tongue, but about 2.8 million people say it’s the bombdiggity. That’s the number who are currently playing the sport in the U.S., according to the 2017 Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SIFA) Pickleball Participant Report—a 12.3 percent increase over the previous

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year, making pickleball one of the fastest growing sports in America.

The Lowcountry is seeing clear evidence of this explosion, and demand for pickleball courts is at an all-time high as players of all ages discover the fastpaced, fun game with a funny name.

Local participation is “growing by leaps and bounds,” according to Bob Rozek, Island Rec Center’s recreation director.

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Based on conferences he has attended and what he is observing, “this is no passing fad but is only going to get bigger.”

MASS APPEAL Behind the growth is the mass appeal of a sport that is playable for most everyone. Combining elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, pickleball can be played indoors or

Jevon Daly, Mike Ray and Raul Romero hit the pickleball courts at the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center.

ARTICLE BY LINDA S. HOPKINS

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY M.KAT

“Raul Romero is the best player in the area,” said Jevon Daly, another pickleball enthusiast. “He’s a very cerebral player.”

outdoors, as singles or doubles, using a modified tennis net, a paddle, and a ball that is similar to a whiffle ball but a bit sturdier and more durable. The badminton-sized court is shorter than a tennis court, which attracts older players who can still compete without having to run too far, local enthusiast Bob Soltys explained. But don’t get the notion this is the new shuffleboard.

“I challenge anyone to call pickleball an old person’s sport,” said local musician and avid pickleball player, Jevon Daly. “There are a whole lot of shots in the game. And you sweat; even if it’s 40 degrees, you sweat your butt off.”

Pickleball is a fast game that attracts elite athletes as well as kids, who are naturally quick and agile. But if you are less mobile or just want to play for fun, it’s the perfect opportunity to socialize and get your blood flowing.

Whatever your fitness level, it’s a mind game, which adds to the fascination. You can work on strategy instead of just hitting the ball, which is where the finesse comes in that will take your game to the next level, Daly explained. Describing pickleball as “chess on steroids,” (a term he picked up from one of his fellow players), he extolled the value of the dink—a soft shot that arcs over the net and falls into the opposing nonvolley zone. “You gotta have touch. Every game is like going on your first date.”

Professional Pickleball Registry Conference

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ow hot is pickleball on Hilton Head Island? So hot that the Professional Pickleball Registry (PPR) will host a conference here February 1516, 2019. The two-day event, February 15-16, will be followed by a PPR certification workshop at Long Cove Club February 17, and PPR Championships tournament February 17-18. The conference will feature 20 on-court and classroom sessions, covering everything from teaching to programming, including doubles, junior development and how to start a pickleball program. Industry experts will lead interactive discussions to educate and inspire. The event also includes a trade show, a certification course, and a Margaritaville dinner party.  For more information, please call PPR at (843) 842-9777 or visit www. pprpickleball.org.

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According to John Kerr, Palmetto Dunes Tennis and Pickleball Center director, the sport has been tremendously popular with families visiting Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. “It’s a great family activity, because the learning curve is much shorter than tennis,” he said. “Nobody is a beginner for very long, and soon they are smiling and laughing. The grandparents can compete with grandkids on court, making it a multigenerational activity.”

THE SOCIAL SIDE Participants also rave about the social element and the friendliness of the sport.

“Pickleball is relatively new, so someone doesn’t come here knowing everything there is to know. The sport itself is an equalizer,” Soltys said. “There’s not the stuffiness. People don’t dress up for pickleball. They sort of dress in common stuff, and you almost always have conversation.”

“It’s like the snowboarding versus skiing type of thing,” said Sarah Ansboury, touring professional and director of pickleball instruction at Palmetto Dunes Resort. “It’s a little bit more relaxed and a lot more sociable, and it’s expanding and growing as we speak, so you can’t really deny wanting to be a part of it.”

“Pickleball people are mostly an incredibly humble, incredibly limber group,” Daly said. While there is an etiquette to it, and a high level of respect among players, the competition can be fierce, he warned.

“But nobody talks politics, and everyone says ‘thank you’ at the end.”

WHAT’S NEXT FOR PICKLEBALL? Soltys sees pickleball not only as a popular sport for area residents, but as a potential new

Mike Ray was the number one Racquetball player in the world in 1991.

He is currently on the Parks and Recreation committee for the town of Hilton Head Island.

Jim Mlyniec and Judy Bastion play pickleball at the Island Rec Center

PICKLEBALL

revenue stream for the island. “This is a sport that is not going away, and people will pay to play. There are economic and lifestyle benefits,” he said, suggesting that Hilton Head Island can become a pickleball destination—just like it is for tennis, golf, biking and the beach.

With the growing popularity of the sport, one of the greatest challenges for area players is finding enough courts and divvying up court time. “We’re trying to make it a public activity. We don’t want it to be exclusive. We want everyone to have the opportunity to play,” Soltys said. To that end, he is an outspoken advocate for the Hilton Head Island Pickleball Club, whose overall objective is to create a centralized larger pickleball complex. “This blends well with a similar recreation initiative that the Greater Island Council and others are lobbying the town to create. We have piggybacked on that initiative to request the inclusion of pickleball,” he said.

To date, the town has invested in three ways: by supporting the Island Rec Center’s programs as a whole, by resurfacing existing courts at Adrianna (Hilton Head Park), and by funding and supporting the creation of four more courts at Chaplin Park (basketball courts now converted to multi-use courts). But many more courts are needed to keep pace with the rising interest in the sport, Soltys said.

This time of year, on any given day, it’s not unusual to have 50-60 people lined up to play pickleball, according to Rozek. (Courts are available on a first come, first served basis.) “Do we want individual courts? Absolutely,” he said.

“Can it generate dollars? Absolutely.”

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As of now, the Island Rec Center is the primary public facility for pickleball on the island and a good place to meet and get matched up with players of similar level.

GET IN THE GAME Apparently, the best way to get in the game is to show up. “I’d say to anyone who wants to start playing that the first thing to do is get out on the court,” Ansboury advised.

“Pickleball has probably one of the easiest learning curves compared to most racket or paddle sports. So come out, enjoy some open play with just random people, and then take a couple of lessons and really get to know how to play the sport properly. Then you can be out competing or socializing any way you want.”

As of now, the Island Rec Center is the primary public facility for pickleball on the island and a good place to meet and get matched up with players of similar level.

Starting in January, they will also be offering beginner and intermediate classes with a certified instructor.

Private clubs are also embracing the pickleball craze, some with dedicated courts, certified teaching professionals, and burgeoning pickleball programs.

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Pickleball History: What's in a name?

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lthough seemingly still in its infancy, pickleball has been around for over 50 years.

It was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, near Seattle, by three dads, Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum, who were desperately seeking an activity to entertain their restless children while on summer vacation.

Folklore has it that the game was named for Pritchard’s family dog Pickles, who loved to chase stray balls and hide them in the bushes.

But Pritchard’s mother, Joan, set the record straight in a column she wrote for West Virginia’s Parkersburg News and Sentinel: “The name of the game became pickleball after I said it reminded me of the pickle boat in crew where oarsmen were chosen from the leftovers of other boats. Pickles wasn’t on the scene for two more years. The dog was named for the game, but stories about the name’s origin were funnier thinking the game was named for the dog.”

The game began with homemade gear and a loose set of rules. Over time, courts and equipment were standardized and official terminology, rules and regulations established. By 1990, pickleball was being played in all 50 states—indoors and outdoors; in high school gyms and senior centers; in leagues and tournaments with official nets, balls and paddles. The Pickleball Association, USAPA, was chartered as a non-profit corporation in 2005. And you might say the rest is history...

Bob Soltys returns the ball during a hot volley at the Island Rec Center.

All public courts are multipurpose, with permanent lines painted for pickleball in addition to basketball (Rec Center & Chaplin) or tennis (Adrianna). Dedicated play times exist. Courts are managed and maintained jointly by the Hilton Head Island Pickleball Club and Island Rec Center. $3/day or $40/year (pay at the Island Rec front desk). Playing inside the Island Rec Center carries an additional fee not covered by yearly membership.  To learn more about public playing opportunities, visit the Island Rec Center at https://islandreccenter.org or call (843) 6817273. For more information or to join the Hilton Head Island Pickleball Club, visit www. hhipbc.com.

Residents and guests of these private communities can contact their respective clubs for information on court availability, instructional programs, organized activities, and more.

PICKLEBALL COURTS NEAR YOU: Public Island Recreation Center/Hilton Head Island Pickleball Club 20 Wilborn Rd. – 6 outdoor, 2 indoor courts Hilton Head Park (Adrianna Lane) 152 William Hilton Pkwy. – 4 courts Chaplin Park 11 Castnet Dr. – 4 courts Private Palmetto Dunes Pickleball Center Port Royal Golf & Racquet Club Port Royal Plantation Long Cove Club South Beach Racquet Club Sun City The Haven Rose Hill

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Giving Back BELFAIR CHARITABLE CHARITABLE FUND FUND BELFAIR HELPS LOCAL LOCAL COMMUNITY COMMUNITY HELPS

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Lowcountry Legal Volunteers provide free critical legal service to low income families. They focus their efforts on families with children with the goal of making the children’s environment more stable. In 2017, they assisted 105 local families in court.

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Meals on Wheels delivers nutritious meals to people in need on a temporary or permanent basis.

Not only are the meals appreciated, the clients who are isolated value the social interaction these visits provide as well.

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This is one of the happy children with her aide attending the program funded by the grant to the Lowcountry Autism Foundation while her parents enjoyed a three hour respite from her care.

Article by Stephen Prudhomme

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he residents of Belfair Plantation in Bluffton enjoy tennis, golf and other recreational pursuits associated with Lowcountry living. With a temperate climate not found in many of the places from which they moved, they’re able to participate in these activities throughout the year.

However, not everything is about ground strokes, serves and tee shots for the residents of Belfair. They’re hitting winning shots off the court and course by donating money to a number of local charities and organizations.

Three years ago, a committee comprised of plantation residents started the Belfair Charitable Fund to give back to the local community in southern Beaufort County, primarily on Hilton Head Island and in Bluffton. Through an annual golf tournament and donations, the fund raises money for a number of local groups and organizations. Last year, it raised close to $90,000, $50,000 of which came from the golf tournament. This year, it collected nearly $70,000 from the golf tournament.

“We felt like we should give back to the community,” said committee member Ken Louis. “There’s a lot of need out there.”

According to Louis, the fund focuses on charities that fly under the radar. (The charities submit a request for financial assistance, and the committee visits them to determine the scope of the need.)

Last year, money was donated to 14 organizations. “We’re always looking for one that doesn’t stand out,” Louis said, noting they had three to four new recipients last year.

Among the organizations benefiting from the fund’s largess are Neighborhood Outreach Connection, which offers an after-school tutoring program to help youngsters; Lowcountry Meals on Wheels; Lowcountry Legal Volunteers, featuring attorneys who volunteer their time to help individuals who can’t afford legal assistance; and Lowcountry Autism Foundation. The latter group serves Beaufort and Jasper counties and has impressed the committee with its good work.

Likewise, the autism foundation is impressed with Belfair’s work. Program coordinator Sophia Townes said the funds from Belfair will sustain their Parents’ Night Out program, which offers a monthly respite for parents of children with autism—three hours of self-care, a date, catching up with friends or talking to other parents of autistic children.

“We’re very grateful for the support of Belfair,” Townes said. “It’s a very generous donation. We feel the Belfair community is made up of many generous people with great hearts who care about putting their money into the local community and nonprofits.”

When it comes to making a positive impact in the local community, Louis and other residents of Belfair are stepping up to the service line and hitting a winner. “We’re all volunteers,” Louis said. “It’s a community pride effort. As members of the community, we ought to give back to charities that need support.” 

DECEMBER 2018 ISSUE

New Business Roundup WE WOULD LIKE TO SEND OUT A WARM WELCOME TO THESE NEW BUSINESSES THAT STARTED UP IN 2018.

BE SURE TO SHOP SMALL THIS HOLIDAY SEASON AND SUPPORT YOUR NEIGHBORS AND OUR COASTAL ECONOMY.

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SATIVA HEALTH PRODUCTS MODERN BARN

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ROSE HEARING HEALTHCARE CENTERS

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WINK REILLEY LAW FIRM, LLC

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ORANGETHEORY FITNESS EYELAND OPTIQUE

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AR WORKSHOP PEAK PERFORMANCE FITNESS

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ACM JEWELRY CO. SPRENGER HEALTH CARE BLUFFTON

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SHOP! OLIVE & FIG MEDITERRANEAN KITCHEN

Cynthia Gr off

Health Sativa cts Produ 18 R 20

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INCE: SE

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WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER? High quality hemp CBD products including tinctures, drops, salve, balms, vapes, edibles and pet products. My goal is to educate people on the positive health benefits of CBD products (legal in all 50 states) vs. medical marijuana (still illegal in 20 states, including South Carolina).

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO OPEN IN THIS AREA? I have lived on Hilton Head Island and worked on the island in healthcare for the last 18 years.

Considering our active community and healthy lifestyles, we can truly benefit from CBD products that may help with muscle pains, sleep issues and more.

WHO IS YOUR CLIENTELE? Both men and women 18 years and older and their pets: golfers, tennis players and people looking for alternative health products to live an active lifestyle without the side effects of traditional medications.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO OPEN THIS BUSINESS? After 20+ years in healthcare and seeing the growing number of people asking for and needing pain medications, sleep aids and mood-stabilizing drugs, I wondered if there was an alternative to these drugs—something that wouldn’t cause the risk of addiction and/or side-effects. I quickly learned of hemp CBDs, which can offer help to those who suffer from these type of conditions.

Hilton Head Island, SC (843) 683-3692 www.sativahealthproducts.com

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER? Modern Barn carefully curates a collection of home decor and accessories that are unique and affordable.

Our style is simple. Our products are fresh and modern...mixed with our love for everything farmhouse.

Deena Paradiso Modern barn

OPEN SIN

CE: JUNE

2018

WHO IS YOUR CLIENTELE? Lovers of modern farmhouse and vintage home decor and accessories.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO OPEN THIS BUSINESS? After moving my family from New York to Hilton Head Island (and embarking on my third new home project!) the lightbulb went off. I figured out that I loved shopping for my home and designing my new spaces.

One challenge I’d encountered when shopping for my own home was that I often had to visit multiple stores to achieve the eclectic, modern farmhouse aesthetic I was going for. This is ultimately what inspired me to open Modern Barn on Hilton Head Island. Designing my own home decor store allows me to merge my favorite items and inspirations from New York City and Hilton Head Island.

37 New Orleans Road, Suite B Hilton Head Island, SC, 29928 (843) 802-2837 www.modernbarnhhi.com

Randy Rose G ROSE HEARIN HEALTHCARE CENTERS

AY 2018

OPEN SINCE: M

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER? We offer a full line of hearing aids, batteries, and accessories. We sell and repair most makes and models. We also offer free hearing evaluations, including video otoscopy.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO OPEN IN THIS AREA? We moved here to be closer to our son and grandchildren. We realized early that there was a need for quality hearing healthcare. We believe everyone deserves to have the very best. We strive for excellence, whether it be the technologically advanced hearing systems we offer, the level of service we provide, or the staff we hire—and an office that is clean, comfortable, organized, and wellequipped.

WHO IS YOUR CLIENTELE? Anyone who needs help with their hearing.

Everyone should get an annual hearing evaluation. The idea that only seniors need hearing aids is a myth. We have customers from children to adults. We even have patients over 100 years of age. We help anyone who needs help.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO OPEN THIS BUSINESS? We have a passion for helping others.

There are no words to express the level of joy that comes from giving the gift of hearing.

“I have been serving the hearing impaired for 40 years. I fell in love with my profession. Since the day I first started, at the end of each day, I look back and say, ‘I helped people communicate better.’ I do not think you have to have hearing loss to be good at dispensing hearing aids, but I would say I am a better dispenser because I do have a hearing loss and wear hearing aids. I have true empathy for and understanding of what my customers are going through. I live in their shoes!”— Randy Rose.

1505 Main Street Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 55 Sheridan Park Circle, Ste. B Bluffton, SC 29910 (843) 802-2957 www.rosehearinghealthcarecenters.com

Alexis Sargo WINK OPEN SINCE: MARCH 2018

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER? We specialize in semipermanent individual eyelash extensions, volume eyelash extensions, lash and brow tinting, facial waxing, lash, brow, body products, and fun boutique gift items.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO OPEN IN THIS AREA? When I recently moved from Hilton Head Island to Old Town Bluffton, I just knew Old Town was a perfect spot to open Wink. I love the energy on Calhoun Street. There is always something going on, and I feel grateful that I get to be a part of it.

WHO IS YOUR CLIENTELE? We definitely appeal to women of all ages looking for a low-maintenance beauty routine.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO OPEN THIS BUSINESS? My goal was to offer a canvas for independent lash stylists to succeed, running their own business in a positive and artistic space. I wanted to empower women and stylists in our industry; all it takes is determination and a tribe around you, whether they are friends, family, or the clients who become your very best cheerleaders.

3 Lawton Street Bluffton, SC 29910 www.winklashroom.com

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER? My primary area of practice is residential and commercial real estate closings. I also provide assistance with business formations and basic estate planning.

Jeffrey Reilley Reilley Law Firm, LLC

OPEN SIN

CE: 2018

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO OPEN IN THIS AREA? After graduating law school in 2006, it was always my desire to move back home to Hilton Head Island, where I was born and raised. I began my legal career on the island in 2007 and have been practicing law here ever since.

WHO IS YOUR CLIENTELE? My clients are anyone buying, selling or refinancing a home in the Hilton Head Island or Bluffton area.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO OPEN THIS BUSINESS? I enjoy assisting clients in purchasing and selling their homes. It is a rewarding experience to be a part of their new beginnings.

22 Bow Circle, Suite E Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (843) 715-9101 www.reilleylawfirm.com

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER? OTF is a one-hour group fitness class led by a coach.

The classes are split into intervals of cardio and strength training with heart rate monitors to track intensity and maximize metabolic burn.

Kelly Ogd en

orange theory fitness hilton h ead OPEN SIN

CE: JUNE

2018

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO OPEN IN THIS AREA? I’ve lived on Hilton Head Island for 25 years and have participated in fitness one way or the other. I was a runner for years and used a heart rate monitor and loved the results from using one. The kids were all grown, and once I found Orangetheory, I thought “This is it… the island needs this!”

WHO IS YOUR CLIENTELE? Our clientele is all ages 16 + and all fitness levels.

Because of the heart rate monitor training, the coaches, and the way the workouts are designed, you can set your own pace.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO OPEN THIS BUSINESS? We have a very active community, and I wanted to share this incredible science-backed and technology tracked workout with all ages and levels. We have a lot of fun, and before you know it, the hour is over and you continue to burn calories for up to 36 hours after class!

430 William Hilton Parkway Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 (843) 473-4505 https://hilton-head.orangetheoryfitness.com

Billy Simmons ique

Eyeland Opt

OPEN SINCE 18 NOVEMBER 20

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER? We are a full-service optical boutique providing comprehensive eye exams, independent handmade eyewear collections, state-of-theart prescription lens technology, advanced and specialty contact lenses, and expert styling and fitting by licensed experienced opticians.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO OPEN OPEN IN THIS AREA? As residents of Hilton Head Island, we have worked hard to provide excellent service and selection to our neighbors and friends. We discovered there is a real need for unique eyewear collections here that people could not find anywhere else.

We know combining a precision eye examination with fashion and function is the key to a client having an amazing eye care experience.

WHO IS YOUR CLIENTELE? Our clients expect expert care and attention to detail. They love to shop local and appreciate experience and quality. They have generally been looking for the perfect pair of eyeglasses or sunglasses.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO OPEN THIS BUSINESS? We believe that vision is one of our most precious gifts.

This is the driving force behind everything we do. Providing personalized expert care is always our goal. Our passion is finding the perfect eyewear for every client and their lifestyle.

When our clients receive compliments about their new eyewear, we have succeeded.

890 William Hilton Parkway, Suite 93 Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (843) 681-2020

Christine Clegg p AR Worksho d ea H Hilton OPEN SINCE: AUGUST 2018

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER? AR Workshop is a boutique create-your-own studio, offering customized and trendy home decor projects. We offer plank and framed wood signs, serving trays, pedestal trays, lazy Susans and round signs, centerpiece boxes, wooden photo frames, canvas pillows, canvas wall hangings, canvas totes, and more. We are available for a girls’ night out, birthday party, teambuilding event, bridal shower, or private/ workshop rentals. Guests can bring wine or beer and even snacks to every class!

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO OPEN IN THIS AREA? I have lived on Hilton Head Island for 26 years, and my husband grew up here.

We love Hilton Head and thought it was the perfect place to have a studio where ladies (and gentlemen) can come to make a piece of customized art without having to be an artist. The instructor shows you how to do each step, you get to pick your own project and design as well as stain and paint colors.

We know people here love to make their houses look as pretty as the island is!

WHO IS YOUR CLIENTELE? We welcome ages seven and up. We have youth designs offered on the website that are great for kids. Ladies and gentlemen are welcome, too. We offer Date Nights a few times a month, where you and your significant other can make a project together. We offer some oversized projects, and these nights are perfect for that.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO OPEN THIS BUSINESS? I have always enjoyed art and the satisfaction of DIY! Hilton Head Island has many things to offer, and this studio puts us in today’s world with the trend of DIY and farmhouse home decor. Tourists love that we are here, too, because they are familiar with who we are and love making a customized sign while on vacation. We have special local designs such as the Hilton Head Island foot shape and the lighthouse that are fun for both tourists and locals.

1000 William Hilton Pkwy.

Village at Wexford, Ste. E8 Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (843) 802-4071 www.arworkshop.com/hiltonhead

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER? Peak Performance Fitness Center is a fitness studio that offers one-on-one personal training, small group personal training, and small group fitness classes.

The services are by appointment only, Peak Pe rforma and we do not have memberships. nce Fitness Center The studio is equipped with cardio, functional strength equipment, stretch OPEN SIN table, small group classroom, towel OCTOBER CE: service, showers and retail. Classes 2018 include yoga, hip hop, TRX functional, Core Circuit, bootcamps, mat Pilates, balance and strength, LaBlast and many more! Peak Performance also has three Titleist Performance Institute-certified personal trainers, offering some of the highest level golf fitness programs.

Chr istina Lindste dt

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO OPEN IN THIS AREA? I grew up in Philadelphia and vacationed on Hilton Head Island as a child. After receiving my bachelor of science in health and exercise science from Furman University, I moved to Hilton Head Island. I have been training on the island since 2002 and love living here with my two boys, Cole and Tyler.

WHO IS YOUR CLIENTELE? Peak Performances clientele includes all ages and levels of fitness.

The hip hop class has clients as young as seven years old, and the oldest client training is turning 97 in December. We love to train clients to improve their functional movements and also enjoy training high level athletes. With a dynamic group of personal trainers and fitness instructors at the studio, we can accommodate almost everyone’s needs and goals.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO OPEN THIS BUSINESS? I have always dreamed of owning my own small fitness studio, and after 16 years of training, I finally decided I was ready. I have had a lot of support and encouragement from my wonderful parents, and my two sons are my biggest fans. It has been fun to see my visions become reality in this amazing fitness studio that I think is both unique and has incredible energy.

Port Royal Plaza 95 Mathews Drive Suite 3-4 (843) 715-0540 www.hhi.fitness

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imeless yet trendy, ACM Jewelry Co. launched in August 2018 by designer and founder, Kaila Manthei. Drawing ACM Jew from her bachelor’s degree in elry Co . apparel design and merchandising management, her years of OPEN SIN CE: experience in the industry, and her AUGUST 2018 love for detail, the idea was sparked to begin a jewelry line. Naming the company in her sister’s memory, Alyssa Carrie Manthei, Kaila has always found importance in working with charities and giving back to the community. Founding and launching ACM has allowed her to do just that, working closely with Sepsis Alliance to help build awareness to the sickness that took her sister’s life. Ten percent of all purchases, wholesale and retail, are donated to advance this cause.

ACM Jewelry Co. offers jewelry for both men and women with a focus on unique, one-of-a-kind pieces, all handmade in her studio with soldered metals, wire-wrapped gemstones and antique coins. Everyone has a story, and Kaila’s hope is to design pieces that can be treasured and worn to commemorate moments in time that hold significance to the one wearing ACM. Building relationships in the community, Kaila is excited to work closely with local boutiques surrounding the Lowcountry and in her home state of Washington, surrounding the Pacific Northwest.

Kaila is always up to the challenge of creating a custom piece, so reach out and start that holiday shopping while giving back to a great cause.

ACM is currently available online at www. acmjewelryco.com and through Instagram, username: ACM Jewelry Co. What’s your story? Check out ACM to find a piece that commemorates yours.

Kaila Manthei

Sprenger Health Care Bluffton

TIENTS: ACCEPTING PA JANUARY 2019

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER? We are a 60-bed, all private suites, skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility offering stays covered by Medicare and commercial insurances. We have a 3,000 +-squarefoot therapy gym for post-hospital stay rehab and 24/7 nursing for skilled nursing services while recovering from illness. Also available are hospice services, respite stays and private pay long-term placement. In addition to our skilled nursing unit, we also have a 45-apartment assisted living unit with seven different floor plans.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO OPEN IN THIS AREA? Being an Ohio-based, family owned company, this beautiful area has been one visited by the Sprenger family for years. When looking to expand into new regions, the Lowcountry was noted of one to be in high need of skilled nursing and rehab services along with assisted living apartments for the continuously growing population. We wanted to bring a beautiful facility to the Lowcountry and offer personalized health care services to the aging population, with our hallmark strong focus on innovation and quality.

WHO IS YOUR CLIENTELE? Those needing therapy or skilled nursing services to gain strength and endurance to return to their home in the community. Potential assisted living residents are given the option to reside in their room and utilize extra nursing assistance as needed or can remain as independent as they wish in their apartment.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO OPEN THIS BUSINESS? Since 1959, when Grace Sprenger started the business of caring for others in her own home in Amherst, Ohio, Sprenger Health Care Systems has been a leading developer, owner and operator of senior living communities. Almost 60 years later, the Sprenger family continues to strive for providing the highest quality of care to those we serve.

60 Okatie Village Drive Okatie, SC 29909 (843) 548-2500 www.sprengerhealthcare.com

Kim Hall and Roxanne Gilleland shop!

OPEN SINCE:

MARCH 2018

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER? We sell women’s clothing, shoes, and accessories—but we are far more than a retail boutique. In addition to our selection of fine clothing, we offer personal styling, in-home consultations, closet reorganization, special ordering, and alteration guidance. Whether you need to create a wardrobe foundation, discover your personal style, refresh your look with new seasonal items, or find something to wear for a special occasion, we are here to help.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO OPEN IN THIS AREA? We are both Hilton Head Island girls with deep family roots here. With a longstanding, upscale boutique closing its doors, we saw an opportunity to fill a gap and create a special place for local ladies and area visitors to shop. Our friendliness,

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU OFFER? We offer full food and bar services, dine in or take out; small off-site catering; and can accommodate special parties up to 25 people at the restaurant.

Chef Munjid an d Tammy Yousif

Olive an d fig Mediter ranean kitchen

OPEN SIN

CE: JUNE

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO OPEN IN THIS AREA? With little authentic cuisine in the area, we feel that Moss Creek Village is centrally located to accommodate diners from both Hilton Head Island and Greater Bluffton area.

WHO IS YOUR CLIENTELE? Our clientele is mostly locals. Visitors in the area who know about middle eastern, Lebanese and Greek cuisine do find us.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO OPEN THIS BUSINESS? Chef Munjid has been chefing and opening restaurants around the world for others and felt it was time to do it for him and his wife Tammy. Tammy has worked in both sales and social work and has the knowledge and skills to assist in the front of the house. Combined skills between the two, it is a perfect match in making Chef’s dream come true.

1533 Fording Island Rd. Suite 326 Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 (843) 605-4093

2018

superior customer service and high level of personalization set us apart.

WHO IS YOUR CLIENTELE? We are fortunate to have worked with clients ranging in age from 16-86. Our clients are women who appreciate quality fabrics and well-constructed clothing, who want to be stylishly dressed for every day and every occasion.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO OPEN THIS BUSINESS? Too many reasons to pinpoint just one. Ultimately, it was our combined total of 45 years’ retail and customer service experience, coupled with some extra time on our hands that brought us to where we are today—at our little store called shop! Come see us for a unique experience and discover a whole new way to shop. We’ll have some fun, and you will leave feeling confident in your purchases and your individual look.

32 Office Park Road, Suite 105 Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (843) 785-7467 www.shopourshop.net

Beyond IT SNS TECHNOLOGIES IS YOUR FIRST, LAST AND BEST LINE OF PROTECTION FOR ANY AND ALL IT EMERGENCIES. ARTICLE BY BARRY KAUFMAN . KELLIE MCCANN PHOTOGRAPHY

I

t’s 3 in the morning; do you know where your files are?

They’re currently locked away in a server with a problem – hackers have made their way in through an unsecured port and are in the process of making your data their data. By the time you even know it’s a problem, you’ve already received the email with instructions for meeting the hackers’ ransom demands.

Or perhaps less scary, your files are simply on a hard drive that has gone dark, crippled by a hardware error. Now the data you depend on to do your job is lost forever, since backing up your data always hovered somewhere in the middle of a long to-do list.

Now let’s try the least scary option of all: It’s 3 in the morning and you’re protected by SNS Technologies. Do you know where your files are?

The answer is, right where their supposed to be, protected by SNS Technologies state-of-the-art suite of hardware, software and cloud solutions.

“These days, we’re able to be much more proactive, rather than reactive,” said SNS Technologies Founder Michael Ray. “We can see when something could be a catastrophic failure and fix it before it crashes.”

The preemptive strike against outages and data loss is possible thanks to SNS Technologies powerful managed services, which run as a single app on every computer and device on your network, monitoring everything and alerting SNS staff in real time. “Our guys are on-call 24/7,” said Ray.

The preemptive strike against outages and data loss is possible thanks to SNS Technologies powerful managed services, which run as a single app on every computer and device on your network, monitoring everything and alerting SNS staff in real time.

Coupled with that up-to-the-second monitoring is a comprehensive suite of protective measures including firewalls to thwart any and all attempts to hack into your network.

“If you’re going to be a client of ours, you have to have a firewall because at the end of the day, we’re responsible for your network,” said Ray. “If one of our clients has someone trying to hack into their firewall, we can see where it’s coming from, see what we can do to stop it and report the IP address to the FBI.” It’s a bleeding-edge set of technologies that ultimately serves that most elusive goal set forth by every computer company since the dawn of time: it does what it’s supposed to. It keeps your network safe and running smoothly and lets you focus on your business. 

“We recently had one client experience a total system crash,” said Ray. “Alex (Gonzalez, Network Engineer) was able to remote in and they were working without data loss within the hour.” Part of that involved some very complicated geekery that involved cloud computing and virtual backups of the whole server that took a 3-4 day disaster and turned it into a brief hiccup. To those of us whose tech savvy extends to rebooting the phone when it starts glitching, it’s essentially wizardry. To SNS Technologies, it’s another day at the office.

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TAKING INSURANCE BACK TO BASICS

Premier Insurance Advisors > Article by Barry Kaufman

T

here’s one word missing from Premier Insurance Advisors sign—but please know that it is very much by design. You won’t hear the firm referred to anywhere as an insurance “agency,” for one simple reason. Insurance agents work for insurance companies. Premier Insurance Advisors does things a little differently.

“We’re advisors first. As an agent, you’re representing the company,” said Brian Knapp, one of three founders of this unique new idea in insurance.

“We believe we’re the counterpoint.”

Part of being that counterpoint lies in being able to offer something most large corporate insurance agencies can’t: truly personalized coverages and services. As a brokerage firm, they enjoy access to hundreds of different products, giving Premier Insurance Advisors the ability to completely tailor coverage to the needs and risks of clients across the Lowcountry, whether personal or business. Delivering that personalization is a collective 70-plus years of experience between the firm’s three founders, Paul Schmidt, Kevin Regan and Brian Knapp.

Premier Insurances three founders Paul Schmidt (white), Brian Knapp (blue) and Kevin Regan (red).

look at your existing policy and copy that. We’re going to look at it, dissect it, find any holes in it, and educate you.”

Originally from Long Island, Regan also ran a large agency, but spent enough time in corporate insurance to realize there were limitations on what he was allowed to do for his clients.

“One of the driving factors that took us out of the corporate world is that the corporate world does not focus on the client,” he said. “They do not want to have that hands-on experience with the client, which we feel is important.”

Instead Regan thrives on the way Premier Insurance Advisors puts an emphasis on direct consultation, where it’s not unheard of for one of the three founders to lay down complete coverage options and explain each right at a client’s kitchen table.

“It’s the experience like our parents had with their insurance agent where they sat down and talked about things, not just put a piece of paper in front of you,” he said.

Rounding out the trio is Knapp, who is the young gun of the group with nearly a decade of experience in insurance. He specializes in commercial lines, something that he feels also sets Premier apart from other insurance options.

“You can’t be everything to everyone, and you can’t be a Jack of all trades and be the best at what you do,” he said. “An educated consumer is our best client. Each of us have our own expertise and we focus on being the very best at it.”

We want to educate the client, so when they walk out of here, Likewise, since combining their experience, insight and they know exactly what they have, what they’re protecting passion for helping clients, the three founders of Premier and why they’re protecting it. We’re not an agency that is Insurance Advisors have allowed themselves to be the best at going to look at your existing policy and copy that. We’re going what they focus on: delivering a customer-focused experience to look at it, dissect it, find any holes in it, and educate you. and personalized insurance with a human touch.  After leaving the Army and going back to Premier Insurance Advisors is located at 800 Main Street, college, Schmidt worked in insurance in Kentucky, Suite 110, Hilton Head Island. For more information, visit www. including several years running his own successful premierinshhi.com or call (843) 689-5300. agency. With his emphasis on personal lines, Schmidt sees the unique nature of his new firm as a way to educate clients on their options.

“We want to educate the client, so when they WHAT TYPES OF INSURANCE DOES PREMIER INSURANCE OFFER? walk out of here, they know exactly what they have, what they’re protecting and why they’re protecting it,” he said. “We’re not an agency that is going to

L O W C O U N T R Y

CLEAN C A R E ,

L L C

C L E A N I N G I S W H AT T H E Y D O — C A R I N G I S W H O T H E Y A R E !

Article by Linda S. Hopkins

e’ve all heard the saying, “It’s not what you know but who you know.” While often cited in the context of getting ahead in life, it also applies to finding the right person to get a job done. You don’t necessarily need to understand the process, but you need to know the person who does.

Over a cup of coffee at the Corner Perk in Bluffton, Gerald Brant gave me a thorough rundown on his rug washing business among many other cleaning services his company offers. His eyes danced as he explained in detail what he cleans and how. (The depth of his knowledge is mindboggling.)

He’s cleaned everything from rugs to antique dolls, applying knowledge he’s picked up over the years. He knows about natural dyes, hand-spun wool, and rayon. He knows what to do to prevent colors from bleeding and how to fix it if someone else got it wrong. He knows what cleansers and pre-treatments to use, how to remove

W

pet stains, and how to repair side cords and fringes. His attitude? “Can do.”

But setting him apart beyond his experience and expertise is the satisfaction he gets from providing exceptional customer service. “Obviously, I want to make money,” he said. “But in the same sense, you’ve got to feel good about your work. If I can’t feel good about what I’ve done for you, I don’t feel good about charging you. In short, we try to treat people like we would like to be treated.”

Knowledge + Integrity + Teamwork Brant started his cleaning business in 1979, when he purchased a franchise, Guaranteed Systems Carpet Cleaning and Dye, with a focus on wall-to-wall carpet.

But as the business grew, he became a sponge, attending seminars and classes all over the Southeast and as far west as Denver, soaking up knowledge about fabrics, chemicals, and the science of cleaning. He gradually transitioned away from the franchise and began offering a

diverse set of cleaning services including rug washing and repair, upholstery, draperies, tile and grouting, water damage/ structural drying, and more. “What I tell people is I have a lot of tools in my tool box,” he said.

One of the biggest misconceptions people have, according to Brant, is the amount of time and energy that goes into his rug cleaning process. “This is not a glamorous business, and sometimes it’s a thankless business, because people don’t always realize what we actually do,” he said. “It’s not a matter of just running a vacuum and throwing it in the washer.”

Cleansing sprays and pre-spotting treatments are carefully selected for each rug and every row of knots or fringe, depending on the level of soil, the source or the stains, the material composition, and the color.

While Brant is a walking encyclopedia with 40 years’ experience in the cleaning business, he is quick to praise his support

Lowcountry Clean Care owner Gerald Brant explains the rug washing process at the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s headquarters.

Photography by M. Kat

staff—a tight-knit, like-minded group, always willing to go the extra mile for the customer. “Sometimes you look at other companies and they are big, but they don’t have what I call quality control,” he said. “I started this thing so long ago, and I had always been sort of a perfectionist. That’s trickled down to everyone who works with me. They know the importance of quality work and doing what you say you’re going to—including being on time, being responsible.”

Although rug cleaning and repair is Brant’s primary business, the array of cleaning services he offers today is astounding, especially considering he has only four employees. “People are amazed that we process as much as we do with the number of employees. It’s because of the planning. I’ve already got my plan before I’m there, and then I oversee the execution of it. I’m not going to go on a job unprepared,” he said.

Preparation begins with meticulous scheduling, which starts with office manager Jessi Ohl. Employed by the company four years, her responsibilities include answering the phone, scheduling jobs, communicating with customers, preparing gift bags for customers, bill paying, payroll, running errands, etc.

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“PEOPLE ARE AMAZED THAT WE PROCESS AS MUCH AS WE DO WITH THE NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES. IT’S BECAUSE OF THE PLANNING. I’VE ALREADY GOT MY PLAN BEFORE I’M THERE, AND THEN I OVERSEE THE EXECUTION OF IT. I’M NOT GOING TO GO ON A JOB UNPREPARED.” - GERALD BRANT “Pretty much I do everything, and on top of that, I do some of the rug repairs,” she said—a skill she learned from Brant.

What Ohl believes sets the company apart, in addition to the quality of service they provide, is their customer relations. “We’re more down to earth,” she said. “At the bigger companies, you don’t get to know the people you work with or the customer. We’ll take the time to get to know our customers, and we show them we appreciate their business.”

Ohl, who has worked in the childcare industry and still does on Sundays, is hands-on and self-taught. She enjoys interacting with people on the phone, and most people remember her by name. On a rare occasion when a customer is unhappy, she is the calm voice with the level head who does what it takes to fix it, she said. “That comes from working with kids, you know.”

While Ohl is behind the scenes running the office, it’s John Moseley who is in the field with Brant doing the physical labor.

Employed by the company 11 years and skilled in multiple trades, he said, “Mr. Gerald has taught me everything I know about the business.

He’s good to me and takes care of me, and I return the favor.”

Brant is also grooming a young man, Nathan Owens, who is still in high school but working for Lowcountry Clean Care on weekends and in the summer. “He’s a big boy. He’s my muscle,” Brant said. In addition, new hire Justin Crews is working part-time. “He’s worked for me before, and I can see that he’s grown and matured. He brings a good work ethic,” Brant said.

Moseley said he particularly enjoys meeting the customers and the variety of tasks he performs. “When I go to work, I’m doing something different every day. It’s a steady challenge of what’s coming up next. Every job is different. You have to pay attention and proceed as you would want it done and make sure it’s right,” he said.

He also appreciates the close connections within the company.

“We’re not kin, but it’s family oriented. We put more effort to do it right, and we’re going to make sure we do whatever it takes to please the customer,” he said. “People love it that we do extras that other companies don’t do.”

For superior rug cleaning, repair, and much more, get to know Brant and his crew at Lowcountry Clean Care. Experience the difference in quality and service that comes from a company that cares. Lowcountry Clean Care is Master Rug Cleaner Certified. They are located at 27 Cemetery Rd. in Hampton, S.C. They pick up and deliver to all areas of Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Beaufort, Fripp, Bray’s and Dataw Islands. For more information, visit lowcountrycleancare.com or call (803) 943-4416 to arrange pickup. Gilman Floors, Door to Door Dry Cleaners & The Clothes Press also accept rugs for Lowcountry Clean Care.

Todd T. Toho and Guy Smiley performing in the CH2 bathroom.

#alwaysperforming

What’s your sign?

Todd T. Toho: Taurus Guy Smiley: Aries Most underrated song that, in your opinion, should be a classic: TT: “Late in The Evening,” by Paul Simon GS: “My Downfall,” by Notorious BIG

H O G R A P H Y B Y M .

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in bathrooms

T

A Q&A Series with Local Artists

O A T

BAND: LA BODEGA

MUSICIANS

P

MUSICIANS: TODD TOHO AND GUY SMILEY

Biggest compliment you’ve ever gotten from a fan: TT: I remind them of Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick. I’ll take it; he’s a Hall of Famer.

GS: “Your voice and style are amazing.”

What is your favorite song to perform?

TT: “Fire,” a La Bodega original. Any of

our originals really. It’s a thrill to be able to perform songs we wrote and for the crowd to get into them and even sing them back to us.

GS: “Simply Beautiful,” by Al Green What do you sing in the shower?

TT: I do not sing; I rap. “Eat ’em Up L Chill,” L.L. Cool J. GS: “My Prerogative,” by Bobby Brown Favorite cereal: TT: Peanut Butter Crunch. I love me some peanut butter.

GS: Cocoa Pebbles Where is your favorite performance venue?

TT: Tough question. Don’t want to play favorites, but we do love Bluffton, or any venue on the beach.

GS: Calhoun’s. They gave us a home.

Most requested song at shows: TT: That’s a tough question, too. There are quite a few: “Hotel California,” “Brown Eyed Girl,” “Sweet Home Alabama,” “Wagon Wheel,” to name a few. We also get “Play one of your originals,” which is always nice.

GS: Anything by Prince, and “Big Poppa,”

by Notorious BIG. WE DON’T DO “WAGON WHEEL!” First concert you attended?

TT: Bruce Springsteen – Born in the USA Tour at Cleveland Municipal Stadium GS: Salt and Pepper, Big Daddy Kane and EST at the county fair Favorite artist?

TT: Really can’t name one. AC/DC is why I started playing guitar. But I also love Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Black Sabbath (Ozzy era), Prince, and for someone current, Jack White.

Love my hip hop too—N.W.A, Run-D.M.C., LL Cool J. GS: Ghostface Killa Place you go to get away from it all: TT: On stage. Playing live is definitely my escape. Life goes on hold for two and a half hours. No worries, no stress, just pure love of the moment.

GS: My front porch.

Do you tweet, gram or book? What’s your handle?

TT: I have all three, but I am a simple guy. I don’t have time to keep up with all of them. I am mainly a book person. My handle is just my name. Although for the band, the handle is La Bodega Man for everything.

GS: All three: @labodegaman, @GUYSMILEY, or Frederick Freon (because I’m so cold).

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Finish this verse as if it were the hook of a song: “Sally went down to the bayou...”

TT: She went down, down, down; Sally went down to the bayou, Every day without a frown.

GS: In red bottom shoes. She posted up on a bar stool, to douse her flaming blues.

Who would star as you in the epic retelling of your life on film?

TT: Nicholas Cage or Johnny Depp—he’s pretty rock star.

GS: Idris Elba First instrument you learned to play: TT: I grew up with a baby grand piano in the house and learned some basic stuff: “Chop Sticks,” “Axel F” (Theme from Beverly Hills Cop), and “The Entertainer” (Theme from The Sting). But there was no piano in AC/DC, so I had to quit and learn guitar.

GS: Voice box Song you were thrilled to finally master: TT: I get thrilled when I learn how to play any song. But if you had told me as a kid that I would get to play “Children’s Story” by Slick Rick or “Microphone Fiend” by Eric B & Rakim in a band, whoa, I never would have believed it.

It’s fun to play hip hop with a band since you do not see it often. However, I am always thrilled to learn another Led Zeppelin song.

GS: “Slow Motion,” by Juvenile What do you wish you knew more about?

TT: Space; I believe it contains the answers to life.

GS: Music production What famous musician would you love to sing a duet with?

TT: Hmmm, Madonna is pretty cool.

GS: Sade or Anita Baker What animal do you most identify with?

TT: Lion—king of the jungle, baby.

GS: Birds of prey If you got super-famous and you had to change your name, what would your new name be?

TT: Again, I am simple guy. I would just go by a letter, T. GS: Alejandro Fiesta 

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