At The Helm

dear reader...

It’s hard to choose a favorite issue or month of the year, but at Monthly we especially like putting the August issue together.

Each August we publish the results of our annual Cutest Pets contest. This year we had more than 300 entries, including a variety of dogs and cats, guinea pigs and even a chicken. The voting was close, and we had so much fun looking at all the entries, but once the votes were tallied, we had three winners; each of whom received their own professional photoshoot. Pets enrich our lives in so many ways, and one way we can return the favor is by making sure they stay as healthy as possible. The Lowcountry now has a new option for emergency care with a veterinary clinic in Bluffton that offers services late at night and during the weekend. In the South, August also means heading back to school. We spotlight retired four-star Gen. Lloyd “Fig” Newton, who recognized the importance education played in his life and seeks to inspire others. Deciding which school to send your children to, or what programs to enroll them in, can be overwhelming. Hilton Head Island and Bluffton offer different options for education, and we profile many of those in this issue. Learning is a lifelong quest, no matter your age. Osher Lifelong Learning Institute has adult classes on a multitude of topics that ensure there is something to be learned by everyone. Many of us are part of the so called “sandwich generation,” those who are adults who care for their own children and help aging parents navigate their care needs. We break down some of the options for senior assistance, from in-home to memory care. The only thing hotter than the weather seems to be the real estate market. In this issue we introduce our readers to some of the area’s top real estate agents and highlight why the real estate market is sizzling.

We hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together.

SASHA SWEENEY MEREDITH DIMUZIO Co-Publishers

CUTEST PETS Contest 2021

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