Hilton Head Monthly January 2021

COMMUNITY FOCUS ON PHILANTHROPY

2021BRINGS CHANGES TO THE C O M M U N I T Y F O U N D AT I O N On January 1, Scott Wierman joined the Community Foundation as our president and CEO. As an introduction, we’re sharing his responses to a recent Q & A session we conducted in late November, as he was packing up his house in Winston-Salem to move to the Lowcountry.

Q: What do you enjoy most about working for a community foundation?

A: I enjoy the breadth of the work. Strong community foundations can be engaged in numerous areas of civic life, with an eye toward improving the quality of life for its residents. Connecting charitable people with causes that matter makes the work invigorating and rewarding.

Q: What is the greatest value a community foundation brings to the community?

A: Bringing together a coalition of groups to address local challenges and opportunities is the “sweet spot” for community foundations. Seldom is the foundation the expert on any specific issue, but its perspective and networks can help advance conversations and move them toward positive action.

Q: Share the most meaningful story you have from your community foundation work.

A: In 1990 a homeless man called to ask about the process of establishing a scholarship fund.

Obviously, I had some questions about the appropriateness of accepting money from a person who didn’t have safe housing. He showed up to our offices with all his belongings and a check for $45,000. I shared my discomfort with accepting such a large gift when he had other personal needs.

He explained that the money was from his mother’s estate, that she had been a career teacher, and

that he needed to do something positive with “her” money. We established the scholarship that day; since then dozens of students have benefited from his generosity. I was curious as to how he had found out about the foundation and our scholarship program. He laughed and shared that many years earlier he had applied for a foundation scholarship and had been declined, which he said was the right decision, so he knew that the foundation would make the best decisions for his mom’s fund. We remained in touch for many years until his passing. He carried my business card in his wallet and I carry his lesson of generosity with me to this day.

Q: What is the accomplishment you’re most proud of?

A: Other than my family, I am most proud of my work in growing relationships with hundreds of people who chose to work with The Winston-Salem Foundation. Growing relationships with nonprofits, civic leaders, and donors in order to collaborate on community issues allowed our community to become a better place to live.

Q: When you’re not working, what do you do to relax and have fun?

A: I enjoy cycling and look forward to the flat bike paths across the island!

Q: Dogs or cats?

A: We have one dog, a 10-year-old rescue named Sadie.

Q: Sunrises or sunsets?

A: I am an early riser so I’ll go with sunrises; I like the potential each new day brings.

OUR COMMUNITY UNDERSTANDS A CRISIS

AND RE S PO ND S GE NE RO USLY.

When we established our Lowcountry Community COVID-19 Response Fund in March, you responded with quintessential Lowcountry generosity. You donated, set up crowdfunding campaigns and supported other pandemic fundraising efforts.

We responded, too, by matching $200,000 of your donations.

We invested those combined dollars back into our community by supporting local nonprofits addressing food and housing insecurity, domestic violence situations and, now, virtual educational challenges, resulting from the pandemic.

With your help, we’ve granted more than half a million dollars in COVID-19 response funding to 41 nonprofits in Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper Counties.

The hardships created by the pandemic aren’t over, and may continue for months. But the Lowcountry Community COVID-19 Response Fund is nearly depleted.

Please consider donating to the Lowcountry Community COVID-19 Response Fund so we can continue making life-changing grants to help our Lowcountry neighbors.

843.681.9100 • cf-lowcountry.org

Visit our website at cf-lowcountry.org.

PLEASE CONSIDER DONATING SO WE CAN CONTINUE TO CHANGE LIVES, ONE GRANT AT A TIME.

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January 2021 7

MOnthLY

VOICE of the LOWCOUNTRY

843-842-6988 | hiltonheadmonthly.com MEDIA ENTREPRENEUR

Marc Frey marc@hiltonheadmonthly.com

PUBLISHER

Anuska Frey anuska@hiltonheadmonthly.com

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Anthony Garzilli anthony@hiltonheadmonthly.com

SENIOR CREATIVE DIRECTOR Sasha Sweeney sasha@hiltonheadmonthly.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Rebecca Cashwell cashwell@hiltonheadmonthly.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Madison Elrod madison@hiltonheadmonthly.com Allyson Venrick allyson@hiltonheadmonthly.com

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Meredith DiMuzio meredith@hiltonheadmonthly.com 843-384-4488

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Majka Mochnac majka@hiltonheadmonthly.com 843-290-9372 Mary Ann Kent maryann@hiltonheadmonthly.com 843-384-9390

Bridal Guide 2021 coming this Feburary!

Markey McInerney markey@hiltonheadmonthly.com 843-949-2591 Kevin Paige kevin@hiltonheadmonthly.com 843-298-6168

SUBSCRIPTIONS

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IIJANUARY ISSUEII

“must reads”

34

58 34 F amily Business

The Greenery landscapes the community.

44 F uture Farm

Agricultural campus projected to be a game-changer.

58 I ntriguing People

Meet a collection of the Lowcountry’s unique personalities.

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102 80 Top Teacher Megan DeWeese is enthusiastic about education.

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

NEW YEAR NEW YOU

BLUFFTON

BUSINESS

102 Welcoming, Warm A Callawassie Island home with a French touch.

146 P ositive Mindset Joyful steps to health in 2021

SCHOOL PROFILES

FINANCE

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

NEW YEAR NEW YOU

SCHOOL PROFILES

HILTON HEAD BUSINESS FINANCE

people TEN INTRIGUING

people TEN INTRIGUING

J a n u a r y 2 0 2 1 // $ 4. 9 5

162 S howcasing History Fort Howell a path to the island’s past.

ABOUT THE COVER: Rebecca Cashwell took inspiration from Andy Warhol when designing our Intriguing People cover.

IIJANUARY 2021II

contents

52

82

BUSINESS

84 : Kids Reads Libraryrecommended winter tales.

32 : Take on Tourism The economic outlook for 2021.

40 : Mentoring for Success SCORE helps small businesses grow.

FINANCE

56 : What Matters Most Prioritize your goals in the new year.

EDUCATION

82 : A Learning Community HHCA readies for move to Bluffton campus.

EVERY ISSUE

BRIDAL

136 : 2021 Trends The top colors emerging this year.

52 : Retirement Solution Growing a business owner’s wealth.

+ IN

86 : School Profiles Celebrating first-class centers of learning.

14 : At The Helm 16 : Opinion 18 : Contributors 20 : News 22 : Pets to Adopt

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NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

140 : Holistic Health Yoga for beginners.

150 : Exercise Your Mind Stay active to boost your brain.

158 : Happy and Healthy Be safe when losing weight.

24 : Photo of the Month 26 : Social Spotlight 28 : Community Connection 50 : On the Move 85 : Education News

168 SPORTS

168 : Title Teams: High school squads enjoy state success.

WHERE TO WORSHIP

176 : Serving the Community First Presbyterian’s mission to change lives.

DINING

188 : Pioneers in the Industry Celebrate women in winemaking 192 : Smart Substitutes Bites to help maintain your overall health.

118 : Real Estate News 178 : Calendar 186 : Dining Briefs 196 : Restaurant Listings 2 08 : Last Call

IIAT THE HELMII

dear reader...

The Lowcountry is full of intriguing people from all walks of life that make our community unique.

Our annual Intriguing People of the Lowcountry issue celebrates who we are and showcases the compelling backgrounds of our neighbors.

You may know some of the people featured, but we promise you’ll learn things about them you didn’t know.

In our business section, we showcase the landscaping team at The Greenery, which for nearly five decades has been committed to beautifying our surroundings.

Learn about the “farm of tomorrow” that is expected to bring thousands of jobs to our area and spur economic development.

Discover how SCORE SC Lowcountry helps small-business owners navigate through the unique challenges caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

We salute Megan DeWeese, Beaufort County School District’s teacher of the year, who brings her passion for learning to her students at Okatie Elementary School, and profile many of the great school options available to students in this region.

The new year is time to focus on being your best self. We offer tips that will not only help you physically but also provide a mental boost (don’t worry, sleep is encouraged).

Small shifts in habit and mindset can make a big difference in our well-being as we all strive for a positive outlook this year.

We also celebrate the high school sports fall season.

Despite the pandemic, the Lowcountry’s teams persevered, and two were crowned champions. Read about the state-titlewinning Hilton Head Island High School volleyball and Hilton Head Christian Academy football teams.

Their efforts are worth applauding.

We wish you all the best in 2021. The team at Monthly is looking forward to sharing the area’s most engaging stories with you and writing the history of the Lowcountry as it unfolds.

ANUSKA FREY : Publisher anuska@hiltonheadmonthly.com

SEE OUR

SCHOOL PROFILES PAGE 86

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IIOPINIONII

“letter ” MANY REASONS TO BE GRATEFUL Last February, Dr. Sanjay Gupta came to visit Volunteers in Medicine prior to giving a speech for the Lowcountry Speakers Series.

Little did any of us know the extent of the crisis we were about to face.

Since then, Dr. Gupta and Dr. Anthony Fauci have been reliable sources on the extent of the pandemic and strategies to mitigate its disastrous consequences.

During his speech, Dr. Gupta talked about our obsession with metrics and measurable outcomes.

While important, he challenged the audience to remember the importance of things that can’t be measured, like gratitude.

I’ve been turning that over in my head recently and realize that, despite all the strife that 2020 wrought, there are still many things that merit our enduring gratitude.

I’m thankful to have grown up in a loving family with parents who instilled the importance of faith, family and education.

I am grateful to have grown up in a safe neighborhood that was so typical it had a gauzy Rockwellian feel, even during the snowy winters. I was fortunate to have attended some of the best schools in the country.

It was a blessing to have had some truly talented teachers and mentors.

Having traveled abroad a bit, I am truly grateful to live in the United States of America.

You may have noticed that my expressions of gratitude were for unearned privileges afforded by dint of birth, place and chance.

That is no reason to feel ashamed or guilty for my good fortune. It does mean that I bear more responsibility to ensure others can improve their circumstances.

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As Peter Parker’s uncle once said, “to whom much is given, much is expected” (paean to Stan Lee).

To that end, I have been fortunate to have had a career that exceeded my expectations to improve the lives of those I have been honored to serve.

The joy of having assisted in delivering thousands of babies, some of whom I have watched grow and succeed, is immeasurable.

Contributing to the education of thousands of students, residents and colleagues has been humbling.

Of course, my greatest blessing has been the good fortune of having my soulmate by my side for the past 40 years.

Marilyn’s empathy, pragmatism and grace have been crucial to my success and happiness. We have been pleased to watch our sons grow to be successful and well-adjusted men, despite the uncertainties that all parents experience at times.

Lastly, I must confess that I never thought I would end my career on such an elevated note. It has been an honor and a blessing to carry Dr. Jack’s vision for Volunteers in Medicine forward.

As I near my retirement as executive director in June, I am especially grateful to have worked with such a talented, purposeful and engaged group of volunteers, staff and board.

You have made these past eight years of “semiretirement” some of the best years of my life. I hope you will always remember to “have some fun, do some good.”

Warmest personal regards.

Dr. Raymond Cox has served as Executive Director of the Volunteers in Medicine Hilton Head Clinic since 2013. He plans to retire on June 30, 2021.

IIBEHIND THE SCENESII

Meet

MADISON & VICKIE MEET OUR MONTHLY TEAM MEMBER // MADISON ELROD Madison Elrod is a designer and artist from Montgomery, Ala. She is passionate about anything that requires creativity. Her first love is graphic design; however, she dabbles in all kinds of visual arts, from painting to photography.

Her love of photography was discovered when she was introduced to a film camera. She enjoyed getting away from computers and gear and getting back to an analog world where imperfections were embraced.

Her love for film cameras has grown into a love for digital photography.

Since then, Madison has captured nature, portraits, and product photograph.

Madison graduated from Auburn University in 2019 with a bachelor of fine arts degree in graphic design and a minor in business. She grew up in a family of math teachers and accountants, so this was an exciting path she discovered on her own.

She relocated to the Lowcountry in August where she enjoys capturing the beauty around her. She joined Monthly in December as a designer and photographer.

MEET OUR FEATURED WRITER // VICKIE MCINTYRE Vickie McIntyre is a Pennsylvania native. She and her husband Phil lived in State College for more than 30 years as they raised their two sons.

The couple and their Great Dane-Labrador mix moved to the Lowcountry in 2018, following a five-year stint in Los Angeles where McIntyre was the ghostwriter for Dianna De La Garza’s memoir, “Falling With Wings: A Mother’s Story.” (De La Garza is the mother of pop singer Demi Lovato).

Her love of words and stories has been lifelong. While living in Pennsylvania, she taught English and ESL at the Grier School, a private school for girls, and was a frequent contributor to several regional magazines. Using the elements of story, she has also co-facilitated self-empowering workshops that explore where people are in their own life stories.

Thrilled to be living in Moss Creek, she spends part of each day enjoying the natural beauty of the local beaches, bike paths, and waterways.

Although “retired,” she has no plans for slowing down, preferring instead to fill her days with yoga, reading, and exploring all things metaphysical while also attempting to write her first novel.

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ONLINE EXCLUSIVE

Called to Serve USCB STUDENT WINS COUNTY COUNCIL SEAT

BY CAROL WEIR

Noah Alexander is only 19 years old, but the University of South Carolina Beaufort sophomore’s drive to help Hampton County evolve has already made headlines. Alexander is the youngest County Councilman in the county’s history, and likely the youngest elected official in South Carolina’s history.

Elected in November 2020, he takes office this month and said he’ll spend the first few weeks getting to know the county’s staff and fellow elected officials and learning about their responsibilities.

“Sometimes you need new people with new ideas,” he said. “I’m grateful to the older generation of leaders for what they have done, but they are not going to be here forever, and younger people need to step up.”

Alexander majors in biology and works about 30 hours a week as an administrative assistant for Dr. Crews and Mills Dentistry in Hampton. When he graduates from college, he hopes to attend dental school at the Medical University of South Carolina and then return to Hampton County to open a dental practice.

A graduate of Wade Hampton High School, he was class president during his junior and senior years. He’s also an active member of Varnville First Baptist Church. Politics was something he thought he might get into “when I was about 40.” However, he said, God had other plans.

“God put it on my heart to get involved now,” he said. “I tried to run from it, but it kept coming back to me.”

CHECK IT OUT @ HILTONHEADMONTHLY.COM

IILOCAL NEWSII

“in the know ” As the coronavirus pandemic persists, the face-mask ordinances were extended in Hilton Head and Bluffton. A Lowcountry airport has added new nonstop routes, and a new bill is geared to spur aspiring entrepreneurs. Here’s a look at some of the month’s top headlines.

SEA PINES COUNTRY CLUB

HILTON HEAD, BLUFFTON EXTEND MASK REQUIREMENTS

The coronavirus continues to surge throughout the country. In South Carolina, cases rose after Thanksgiving.

“Now is not the time to let up. Now is the time to redouble our efforts,” state Gov. Henry McMaster said during a news conference in December.

Locally, Hilton Head Town Council voted to extend its emergency ordinance requiring people to wear face coverings in certain circumstances and locations in the municipal limits of the town, effective through Jan. 31, 2021. Town Council cited following recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control among reasons for continuing to extend the ordinance.

The ordinance, which has been in effect since July 1, 2020, includes commercial spaces such as restaurants, grocery stores, pharmacies, bars, and other establishments.

The town of Bluffton voted to extend its ordinance until Feb. 12.

It requires people to wear masks in public businesses and buildings. It requires employees at restaurants,

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SCOTT

retail stores, salons, grocery stores and pharmacies to wear masks when around the public.

In early December, Pfizer’s vaccine was approved by the Food and Drug Administration, with health care workers and nursing home residents expected to be the first priority.

BILL AIMS TO BOOST ENTREPRENEURS

Sens. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Chris Coons, (D-Del.), and Reps. Jason Crow, (D-Colo.), and Troy Balderson, (R-Ohio), introduced the Next Generation Entrepreneur Corps Act, which aims to boost new businesses and job creation in underserved communities through a competition, a news release said. The act is a fiveyear $368 million investment that plans to directly support the creation of 320 new businesses each year.

Barriers to capital access have only risen during the COVID-19 pandemic and minority groups in particular wrestle with being twice as likely to be denied loans and often pay higher interest rates than peers, according to the release.

A selection committee of 12 industry experts will review

applications for the program and select 320 entrepreneur fellows annually from diverse backgrounds to start traditional and high-growthpotential businesses in distressed, low-income census tract areas, the release said.

SEA PINES COUNTRY CLUB PLANS ENCHANCEMENT FOR CLUB COURSE

Sea Pines Country Club has approved a two-phase enhancement plan for its Arnold Palmer, Clyde Johnston golf course, according to a news release.

Work on Phase I, comprising the practice facility, short-game area and re-grassing, will start May 1, 2021 and is scheduled for completion by Oct. 31, 2021.

Phase II, slated for development and construction between 2028 and 2030, entails a full-scale renovation of the golf course coinciding with the installation of a new irrigation system.

The practice facility expansion will lengthen the range floor by 50 yards, expand the depth and width of the tee area for additional hitting stations and double the size of the practice putting green.

IILOCAL NEWSII

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES NAMES NEW ROUTES TO SAVANNAH/HILTON HEAD INTERNATIONAL

“pets”

OF THE MONTH

Southwest Airlines has five new nonstop routes from Savannah/Hilton Head International starting March 11. The airline will offer two daily flights to Baltimore/Washington; one daily flight to Chicago (Midway); one daily flight to Nashville; one daily flight to Houston (Hobby); and one daily to Dallas (Love Field).

Southwest will be the airport’s ninth airline to bring service to the area.

“It’s great to see that Southwest has made the decision to connect Savannah/Hilton Head International to five of its busiest markets,” said Greg Kelly, Executive Director of the Savannah Airport Commission. “We greatly appreciate the confidence Southwest has shown in our market and look forward to a mutually beneficial and long-lasting partnership.

HERITAGE CLASSIC FOUNDATION SCHOLAR APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

Applications are available online for the 2021 Heritage Classic Foundation Scholar Awards for all high school seniors in Beaufort and Jasper counties.

Each scholar will have an opportunity to receive a four-year grant totaling up to $16,000 or $20,000.

Scholarship applications are based on academic success, community service, essays written by the student and financial need. An interview is required by all finalists. Applications can be found at www.heritageclassicfoundation.com.

All applications must be completed by Jan. 15. Since this Scholar program was instituted in 1993, 342 graduating seniors have been named Heritage Scholars.

STATE HIGHWAYS RANKED MOST DEADLY IN THE NATION

A report from the nonprofit think tank Reason Foundation finds that South Carolina has the highest overall fatality rate in the United States. The report also ranks South Carolina 47th in rural fatality rates.

Overall, the state’s highway system ranks sixth in the nation in overall costeffectiveness and condition, an improvement from 14th in 2019, according to its Annual Highway Report.

“To improve in the rankings, South Carolina needs to reduce its fatality rates. Compared to nearby states, the report finds South Carolina’s overall highway performance is better than Georgia (ranks 26th), Tennessee (ranks 7th), and North Carolina (ranks 14th),” said Baruch Feigenbaum, lead author of the Annual Highway Report and senior managing director of transportation policy at Reason Foundation.

NAME: ANGEL

Age: 3 years old Gender: Female Weight: 55 pounds Breed: English Pointer Temperament: Energetic, loving but shy. Gets along with cats.

NAME: EMMA

Age: 6 years old Gender: Female Weight: 50 pounds Breed: Coonhound Temperament: Laid back, aloof, shy.

“in memoriam” STAN STOLARCYK

Stan Stolarcyk, director of volunteers at Volunteers in Medicine Hilton Head Island, died after battling COVID-19, the nonprofit clinic said.

Stolarcyk served at VIM for 13 years and was praised for his kindness and professionalism, according to a message from VIM director, Dr. Raymond Cox. Stolarcyk grew up in Binghamton, N.Y., and moved to Hilton Head Island in 1989. He volunteered with the Hilton Head Humane Association, Beaufort Alliance for Human Services and the Deep Well Project.

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Adopt them at: Rogue Rescue & Sanctuary Located in Bluffton. By appointment only. Donations and foster families also needed. For more information: 843-816-0097 OR ROGUERESCUE.ORG

The report measures the condition and costeffectiveness of state-controlled highways in 13 categories, including pavement condition, traffic congestion, structurally deficient bridges, traffic fatalities, and spending (capital, maintenance, administrative, overall) per mile.

BEAUFORT COUNTY AIRPORT GETS NEW NAME

Beaufort County’s airport has a new name: Beaufort Executive Airport. The change was made official in the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Facility Directory and associated aviation publications.

“We feel strongly the new name will help business and will highlight our focus on delivering an excellent experience for our local friends and for our visitors,” Airports Director Jon Rembold said.

For more information, visit beaufortcountyairport.com

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY, VISIT US @ HILTONHEADMONTHLY.COM HOLE #18 - PETE DYE SIGNATURE GOLF COURSE

“… And Then We Came to Hampton

That’s what so many of our members throughout Bluffton and beyond have said They searched all over the Lowcountry for a private golf club that was prominen robust, and a lot of fun. And then they came to Hampton Hall, and their se

Hampton Hall currently offers a limited number of non-resident golf memberships to our Pete Dye Signature Golf Course, our comprehensive practice facility, and din appointed community clubhouse and at Pete’s Grill in our golf clubhouse. We inv our 60-day trial membership andanddiscover why From the very first moment you arrive at Hampton Hall in the heart of Bluffthrough ton, SC, you’ll feel a connection to both the place the people whoyour search will end a

You’ll Feel at Home in Hampton Hall

make this community so enticing. Instant friendships are formed on the Pete Dye Signature golf course, at the resort-style pool and over dinner in our stunning clubhouse. Our members are from all over the country — each with their own unique stories — and each drawn together to form and solidify a tight-knit community in every sense of the word.

We invite you to discover the robust lifestyle at Hampton Hall. Experience the inclusiveness, the laughter, the modern luxury and the timeless spirit that permeates throughout this special place. Feel content. Feel connected. Feel at home.

(843) 815-9343 | hamptonhallclubsc.com

(843) 815-9343 | hamptonhallclubsc.com J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1 // 23

IILOCAL CONTESTII

PHOTO MONTH OF THE

Local resident Marc Alexander caught an incredible sunset while out kayaking with his wife in Mackay’s Creek.

FO R F E B RUA RY O U R TH E M E I S LOV E. H AV E A N I N C R E D I B LE P H OTO TO S H A R E? W E’D LOV E TO S E E IT. //SUBMIT All YOUR PHOTOS — INCLUDING FROM WHERE MONTHLY HAS TRAVELED — TO EDITOR @ HILTONHEADMONTHLY.COM

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Xxxxxx

J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1 // 25

IIIN THE SPOTLIGHTII

GET SOCIAL!

1

3

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1. The Town of Hilton Head officially opened Lowcountry Celebration Park with a ribbon cutting. 2. Sacks of toys and books were distributed to Palmetto Breeze passengers who requested them to make the holidays brighter. 3. The Town of Bluffton named public works division manager Derrick Coaxum, left, the Lori McLain Award winner. Beginning in 2018, the town named its Employee of the Year Award in memory of McLain. 4. Santa Claus and a helper enjoyed the Town of Bluffton’s Christmas parade.

TO SUBMIT A PHOTO O F YO U R EVENT, EMAI L EDITOR @ HILTONHEADMONTHLY.COM 26 H I LT O N H E A D M O N T H LY. C O M

J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1 // 27

IIIN THE SPOTLIGHTII

“community connection ”

WAHHI

Boys & Girls Club

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF THE LOWCOUNTRY AWARDS $211,500 IN GRANTS

Four organizations were awarded grants totaling $211,500 from the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry. The grants will combat workforce transportation challenges, provide dental services to the uninsured, promote Gullah heritage and culture, and advance educational support of at-risk children.

The funds were awarded to Antioch Education Center ($110,000); BlufftonJasper Volunteers in Medicine ($35,000); Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra ($16,500); and Neighborhood Outreach Connection ($50,000).

WAHHI COLLECTS HOLIDAY STOCKINGS FOR THE TROOPS

The Women’s Association of Hilton Head Island’s “Difference Makers” group collected 108 filled holiday stockings for the troops.

Renee Smalley, who led the effort, and Linda Donohoe delivered the goods to the local contact of Operation Morale Support. Many WAHHI Difference Makers worked more than 50 hours sewing custom camouflage stockings.

PLAID PLEDGE CAMPAIGN FUNDS DISTRIBUTED TO FOOD BANKS

The Heritage Classic Foundation recently distributed $20,000 of Plaid Pledge donations to food banks throughout South Carolina. The Plaid Pledge was a campaign that encouraged donors to contribute to those impacted by COVID-19. A total of $40,000 was divided between the South Carolina Hospital Association Foundation and Heritage Classic Foundation registered charities impacted by the pandemic. Groups that received $2,000 included Bluffton Community Soup Kitchen, Bluffton Self Help, The Deep Well Project (Hilton Head), HELP of Beaufort, Meals on Wheels (Hilton Head), 28 // H I LT O N H E A D M O N T H LY. C O M

Dewitt Tilton Group

Sandalwood Food Pantry (Hilton Head), Second Helpings (Hilton Head), Harvest Hope Food Bank (Columbia), and Lowcountry Food Bank (Charleston).

WIP OFFERS COVID-19 GRANT OPPORTUNITY

Women in Philanthropy is offering a COVID-19 recovery grant opportunity to assist Beaufort County nonprofits fund a new major impact program to assist in recovery from the pandemic in one of three areas: medical and mental health issues; education K-5 (including special needs); and employment issues.

No more than four grants will be awarded, each $20,000-$25,000, with a projected timeline of May 2021 through April 2022.

Grant applications must be submitted online to the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry and are due by Jan. 15, 2021.

To submit, visit cf-lowcountry.org/givingcircles/women-in-philanthropy-wip.

For more information, contact Andi Purple at andipurple@aol.com.

WIP also organized a sock drive that collected 308 pairs of soft, warm socks for those in need. The socks were dropped off at Community Foundation and donated

by All Saints Episcopal Church members.

The socks were taken to Deep Well to be distributed.

BLUFFTON SCHOOL EARNS AWARD

Cross Schools of Bluffton was presented the prestigious W. Keller Kissam School of Honor Award by the South Carolina Independent School Association. The award was given to Peter Laugen, Head of School, at the association’s annual Fall Heads’ Conference meeting. The award was established to recognize member schools who demonstrated “extraordinary” academic service to their school community and SCISA.

Women in Philanthropy

LONG COVE FUND ACCEPTING 2021 GRANT APPLICATIONS

The Long Cove Fund will accept applications starting Jan. 15 for grants that will be made this year to 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations in Beaufort and Jasper counties.

To be considered, organizations should have plans for a project to improve health, housing, hunger or educational issues. The deadline is March 31.

Visit longcoveclub.com, go to the “People” tab and “Caring Community.” For more information, questions contact Jordan Potter at jpotter@longcoveclub.com or 843-686-1070.

ANNUAL CHARITY EVENT RAISES MONEY FOR BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

Players from Sea Pines Country Club supported the Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island at the annual Ted Flach Memorial Candy Cane Classic charity event. Ninetyfour players participated. Because of safety protocols instituted due to the coronavirus pandemic, only members of SPCC participated.

Kim Likins, Boys & Girls Club director, said, based on preliminary numbers, net proceeds were 4 percent ($1,800) higher than last year.

“It never ceases to amaze me how this community rallies to support local non-profits in times of need,” she said.

COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION FIRM WINS FIVE STAR BUILDER AWARDS

Dewitt Tilton Group won three Master Builder Awards, one Top 10 Award, and a 2019 Outstanding Builder Award from Star Building Systems of Oklahoma City for 2019 projects. Dewitt Tilton Group was one of two builders to receive Master Builder recognition for two separate projects. Star partners with local builders, providing metal building systems and products, estimating software, cutting-edge design tools and training.

2021

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2021

LOWCOUNTRY BUSINESS & FINANCIAL JOURNAL

BUSINESS FINANCE

TOURISM OUTLOOK FEATURED BUSINESS: THE GREENERY SCORE ASSISTS SMALL BUSINESSES AGRICULTURE CAMPUS: BRINGING JOBS TO REGION ON THE MOVE RETIREMENT SOLUTION FOR BUSINESS OWNERS PRIORITIZE YOUR GOALS J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1 // 31

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OPTIMISTIC

FOR LOWCOUNTRY ECONOMY IN 2021

With 2020 now in Golf courses also the rearview mirror saw sharp increases. and vaccine distribution According to Steve on the horizon, the year Birdwell, president & STORY BY ahead holds promise for our CEO of The Sea Pines BILL MILES Lowcountry economy.

Resort, they saw one of their We continue to navigate a unique best years in resort history. time in history, and in the Lowcountry We’re cautiously optimistic about we’ve once again risen to the challenge. We’re 2021 as a banner year for the regional proud of our community and how we supported each other economy and property values, thanks to a booming throughout 2020. real estate market and the potential return of corporate As words like “pivot” and “new normal” became part meetings so vital to local resorts. of our national lexicon, we learned to work through The announcement that Southwest Airlines will service challenges and uncertainty collaboratively. Last year was the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport with a testament to the human spirit and what’s possible when daily non-stops to five cities is stellar news for the coming a community comes together. year. New markets mean additional travel opportunities There were bright spots in our 2020 regional economy for resident and new visitors. Over half of all passengers which bodes well for what’s ahead in the new year. coming into the airport are headed to Hilton Head Island The Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and South Carolina. focused on staying safe together. Tourism is the backbone Fall was a great indicator of where we’re headed this year. of our Lowcountry economy and residents have been With visitors working remotely and on “schoolcations” in coexisting with visitors for decades. Our launch of the the Lowcountry, our home and villa rental partners saw Path Forward Readiness Plan, in partnership with over visitors with longer stays and larger spends.

150 residents, businesses and government officials, helped September saw a 68-percent increase in occupancy. pave the way for a safer community moving forward. The October was also up 29 percent in home and villa plan was recognized by several national media outlets and occupancy and 22 percent in average daily rate compared used as a model for other communities and organizations to 2019. Our strong fall meant much to the bottom line of like the Vacation Rental Management Association. many businesses large and small in the Lowcountry.

With wide-open spaces, miles of pristine beachfront, We have a phrase around the chamber that notes we are and numerous outdoor activities, Hilton Head Island saw all in the tourism business, and it’s so true. Each of us is visitors throughout the summer. July of 2020 outpaced interconnected to tourism as the provider of jobs and our 2019’s busiest month with the home and villa rental quality of life. market as the driving force.

Here’s to a positive year for our Lowcountry economy.

Bill Miles is President and CEO of the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce.

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J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1 // 33

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COMMITMENT TO THE

Community THE GREENERY TEAM TAKES PRIDE IN LANDSCAPING THROUGHOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY STORY BY MARK E. LETT | PHOTOS BY LLOYD WAINSCOTT

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Lee Edwards, chief executive officer of The Greenery.

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IN THIS OFFICE: WE ARE HELPFUL. WE ACHIEVE GOALS. WE HAVE FUN. WE ARE COURTEOUS. WE ARE PATIENT. WE ARE FRIENDS. WE ARE SUCCESSFUL. TOGETHER WE ARE A TEAM.

Planting trees, mowing grass and sculpting the grounds of homes, businesses and resorts does not fully describe the work of The Greenery, Hilton Head’s largest and most prolific landscaping company.

What the company’s legion of employees really does ­— from dawn to dusk — ­ is put out a colorful welcome mat for road-weary vacationers and seasonal residents eager for downtime in the Lowcountry.

When chief executive Lee Edwards talks about the company’s role, he imagines a family from Ohio, worn from a long day in a cramped car, feeling revived and relieved when they roll into the lush landscapes of Hilton Head.

“We want them to be happy,” he says. “We are part of the vacation experience.”

A big part.

The Greenery’s handiwork is evident throughout the Lowcountry including Sea Pines, Palmetto Bluff, Sun City, Shipyard and Palmetto Dunes. For more than two decades, The Greenery has handled landscape work for the annual Heritage golf tournament at Harbour Town Golf Links. In Hilton Head, Beaufort and Bluffton, 36 // H I LT O N H E A D M O N T H LY. C O M

The Greenery has contributed labor, leadership and materials to enhance public projects.

It’s a big business, to be sure. To Edwards, it’s also personal. The company was created nearly a halfcentury ago by his parents. He grew up in Sea Pines, married a Hilton Head native and is raising three daughters.

“I love having my family here,” he said. “You have a small-town feel while enjoying the amenities of something larger.”

Family, tradition and a commitment to community well-being are essential to The Greenery’s’ corporate culture. Inside the company’s offices on Arrow Road, strategically placed signs declare a double-barreled message: Our mission: To be the best landscape company in the markets that we serve.

Our purpose: Enhancing people’s lives through beautiful landscaping.

“This is a great community,” said Jim van Dijk, the company’s Regional Manager for Hilton Head. “We want to make our clients happy when they look across

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Van Dijk, who joined The Greenery as a college intern 22 years ago, said the company nurtures a training and development envi ronment that “challenges and supports” employees who “’want to do something bigger and better.”

That approach has helped The Greenery grow from a compa ny with six employees at its founding in 1973 to a multi-state powerhouse with branches extending from South Carolina’s Upstate to central and northern Florida. The company is Charles ton’s largest landscaper and — in the past year — has bucked an uncertain economy to extend operations serving Daytona, Orlando and Jacksonville.

Growing the business, Edwards said, depends on attracting, re taining and collaborating with a team of motivated employees.

A key ingredient for The Greenery has been its employee stock ownership plan, established in 2003 and fully imple mented in 2007.

An ESOP enables employees to acquire a financial share of the business. More than 6,000 ESOP plans are up and running, according to the California-based National Center for Employee Ownership.

Edwards said the ESOP strengthens recruiting and retention while building a shared sense of purpose among team members.

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while building a shared sense of purpose among team members.

The Greenery fully implemented its ESOP 13 years ago and “we are maturing as an employee-owned company,” Edwards said, emphasizing that participative ownership encourages employees to have a financial stake and an emotional investment in the company.

“Some companies talk about employees as a big cost,” he said. “We see employees as our biggest asset.”

Jerry Ashmore, The Greenery’s director of Workforce Development and Safety, said employee ownership is a valuable selling point when he recruits talent from Colorado to Clemson to Puerto Rico.

Moreover, he said the ESOP inspires employees to be “good to their equipment and good to each other” because they are part owners.

“They don’t waste bales of straw, they don’t let vehicles idle, they look out for one another,” said Ashmore, a 20-year veteran of The Greenery. “If you own something, you take better care of it.”

Another sign in the company’s offices affirms that message: In this office: We are helpful. We achieve goals. We have fun. We are courteous. We are patient. We are friends. We are successful.

Together we are a team.

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success MENTORING FOR

SCORE SC LOWCOUNTRY HELPS SMALL BUSINESSES GET GOING 40 // H I LT O N H E A D M O N T H LY. C O M

Jennifer Megliore of ArtWare, left, and her SCORE mentor, John Ferrara.

STORY BY NINA GREENPLATE PHOT0S BY MADISON ELROD

SCORE SC Lowcountry is a small business’ resource dream, and for 31 years it has successfully connected volunteer mentors to clients with an impressive outreach model.

SCORE was founded in 1964 and established locally in 1989. Nationally, 2020 saw more than 140,000 business clients receive assistance from more than 11,000 mentors. The Lowcountry SCORE chapter is one of 250 nationwide, with 45 active volunteer mentors serving Beaufort, Colleton, Jasper and Hampton counties. The nonprofit was named 2019’s chapter of the year for the small business market.

The goal is to foster vibrant small business communities through mentoring and education.

From start-up issues and business-plan development, to maintaining, growing, or even selling, SCORE’s experienced mentors are excited to help the business communities remain vibrant.

“It’s hard to put into words the charge I get watching others achieve their dreams,” said Rod Casavant, SCORE SC Lowcountry chairman, who is a retired Eli Lilly executive. “With having an expert mentor in your business, the chances of success are higher.

‘Our clients’ success is our success,’ summarizes a company-wide core value.”

The challenge of the coronavirus pandemic required swift and accurate guidance to support SCORE’s clients. The Small Business Administration was instrumental, and in cooperation with the Hilton Head-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, provided critical answers to essential resources: The CARES Act, Paycheck Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loans and similar relief support.

Workshop education and seminar training has always been elemental to SCORE’s system and is now imperative.

One appreciative recipient of SCORE’s dedication is Jennifer Megliore, who recently celebrated 20 years as owner of her artisan gift store, ArtWare, in Shelter Cove Towne Centre.

Her support of SCORE is a testament to the mentors and this chapter’s dedication. She first contacted SCORE in 1999 to “firm up” her business plan, she said.

Megliore keeps a laminated photo of her first two SCORE mentors by the sales register.

“It reminds me of their guidance, and why I think I’ve been successful,” she said. “They’re my business guardian angels because they gave me something that was precious to them: their free time.”

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John Ferrara

SCORE

SC

During the pandemic Megliore reached out to SCORE and was paired with mentor John Ferrara, the 2019 SCORE SC Lowcountry mentor of the year. He was instrumental in helping navigate her through unique challenges due to the pandemic, including finding available loan options. Ferrara also helped develop appropriate pricing formulas to streamline her overall operation.

“John is wonderful, and so generous with his time,” she said. “To have someone who has lived this corporate life and share that advice is really valuable.”

Megliore is one of 23 clients Ferrara is advising through SCORE. His devotion to share his expertise spans 11 years, and says he finds satisfaction helping others avoid the “potholes” that he fell into in his past.

SCORE’s greatest advantage, Ferrara believes,

Jennifer Megliore

is how it utilizes corporate knowledge from all backgrounds. Uniform among all mentors is proficiency in SCORE’s methodology modules, such as a strict code of ethics. Webinars and continuing education are also utilized.

Belief in diversity of people and of thought is another core value, and it compelled the Lowcountry team to create a more tangible outreach in the wake of the pandemic.

“We wanted SCORE to be more encompassing and have greater impact in this area,” says Casavant.

SCORE Lowcountry, in collaboration with the South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs, is now collectively providing resources with the focus on minority business owners being able to take advantage of available funding, workshops, mentoring and business-plan development assistance.

NAME HERE

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Knowing Our Community and Clients As We Help To Navigate Life’s Trials

Your Lowcountry Attorneys for Real Estate, Life & Business Planning, and Family Law 843-757-9330 blufftonlawfirm.com 214 Bluffton Road Bluffton, SC

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THE FARM of Tomorrow

AGRICULTURAL CAMPUS PROJECTED TO BE LOWCOUNTRY GAME-CHANGER STORY MARK E. LETT | PHOTOS COURTESY MASTRONARDI/SUNSET

An example of a greenhouse operation of Sunset Grown, an arm of Mastronardi Produce, that is similar to the project planned for Hampton County.

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J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1 // 45

IIBUSINESSII South Carolina’s newest “hotspot” — a 1,000-acre tract drawing international attention from as far away as Japan — is about an hour’s drive from Hilton Head.

In rural Early Branch, a few miles from I-95 in Hampton County, futuristic-minded farmers, scientists, techies, environmentalists and government leaders are cooking up the farm of the tomorrow.

They intend to deliver a farm “under glass” that will combine greenhouses, processing, packing and distribution for an array of products — from peppers to pesto.

The results, they predict, will be thousands of jobs, increased market opportunities for the state’s traditional farmers, and enhanced food security for America’s East Coast.

The project’s ripple effect is expected to stir economic development along the I-95 corridor through Jasper and Beaufort counties to the Port of Savannah.

Economic development pros in the Lowcountry and Columbia say the project — ­­ the Agricultural Technology Campus — is a vital part of an expanding mosaic of technology, manufacturing, agriculture, life sciences, logistics, warehousing and shipping.

Taken together, the initiatives form a potentially potent economic supplement to South Carolina’s pandemicvulnerable tourism and hospitality industry.

THE SHEER SIZE OF THIS PROJECT IN TERMS OF CAPITAL INVESTMENT, WAGES AND JOB CREATION WILL HAVE A GAMECHANGING IMPACT ON THIS ENTIRE REGION. DANNY BLACK PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE SOUTHERN CAROLINA REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE

A 1,000-acre agricultural campus in Hampton County is projected to bring thousands of jobs to the region.

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Mastronardi Produce is a partner in the planned 1,000-acre campus with Clear Water Farms, LiDestri Food and Drink and GEM Opportunity Zone Fund. [pictured is a similiar Mastronardi Produce greenhouse site]

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THE AGRICULTURE CAMPUS IS SOUTH CAROLINA’S NEWEST HOTSPOT. “The sheer size of this project in terms of capital investment, wages and job creation will have a gamechanging impact on this entire region, and the project is already attracting interest from other agribusiness companies engaged in both research and development,” said Danny Black, president and chief executive of the Barnwell-based Southern Carolina Regional Development Alliance, serving the counties of Beaufort, Jasper, Hampton, Allendale, Bamberg, Colleton and Barnwell.

The project is a target of interest among farming, engineering and technology companies in the U.S., Europe and Japan, said Kay Maxwell, vice-president of marketing for the Alliance.

Added Sandy Steele, operations director for the Alliance: “It’s gonna be huge.”

The project’s vital stats are, indeed, staggering.

A sampling: • A $314 million private-public investment to create more than 2,000 jobs by 2025, when growing and packaging operations are expected to be fully up and running.

• A campus to generate more than $267 million in annual sales and nearly $80 million in compensation.

• T wo-day delivery access to 75 percent of the U.S. population, providing attractive markets for S.C. farmers.

Before the Tech Campus can get growing, it has to get going.

Developers face a long list of decisions about how to best utilize the property for greenhouses, co-packing and distribution. Experts are converging on Early Branch to take measurements and size up access to water, highways, railroads, shipping, and more.

Among the tasks: To monitor the paths of the sun and the moon so round-the-clock growing facilities can take advantage of what the earth and the solar system have to offer. In high-tech greenhouses, trained crews will grow pesticide-free, leafy greens like lettuce, arugula and basil.

Their goal: To use cutting-edge agricultural science techniques to maximize production while economizing on land and water use.

Partners in the so-called “controlled environment

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agriculture” joint venture include Mastronardi Produce, LiDestri Food and Drink, Clear Water Farms and the GEM Opportunity Zone Fund. Opportunity zones have been championed in South Carolina and nationally by U.S. Sen Tim Scott, a South Carolina Republican.

State Rep. Shedron Williams, a Democrat serving Beaufort, Hampton and Jasper counties, said government support for the project is a heartening example of bipartisanship.

“This was done without any political party affiliations or economic status to be considered,” he said.

Mastronardi is a pioneer in the greenhouse produce industry, with operations dating to the 1940s. With more than 5,000 acres of controlled environment operations across the nation, the company is considered a world-class producer of year-round, greenhouse vegetables. Its brands include Campari cocktail tomatoes and Sunset Splendido grape tomatoes.

Decades ago, Mastronardi leaders incorporated indoor farming techniques from the Netherlands. The nation known for its tulips and wooden shoes is the world’s second-largest vegetable exporter, largely on the strength of its greenhouse technology.

The Netherlands’ performance is so powerful that SC Agriculture Commissioner Hugh Weathers traveled to the low-lying country for a look-see.

“The Netherlands is just half the size of South Carolina, but has three times its population,” he said. “Growing indoors allows them to grow much more food in a fraction of the space. There will always be conventional outdoor farming, but certain fruits and vegetables thrive under glass.”

State Sen. Tom Davis, a Beaufort Republican, said the agricultural campus “spells good things for the entire region.” He pointed to the project’s public-private collaboration as setting the tone for Lowcountry growth – and preservation.

Davis ­— who said he grew up in the Chesapeake Bay of Maryland-Virginia, where explosive growth contributed to a declining ecosystem — said the challenge for SC leaders is to expand the economy while protecting land and water essential to Lowcountry lifestyles.

With growth comes responsibility, Davis said.

“As we grow, we need be careful. We need to be aware,” he said.

J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1 // 49

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“on the move ”

1. HODGE JOINS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF THE LOWCOUNTRY Lisa Hodge has joined Community Foundation of the Lowcountry as a program associate. Hodge will support grant and scholarship applicants; serve as liaison to giving circles, nonprofit agencies and scholarship funds; perform general accounting functions and work in various data management platforms. Hodge had served as credit manager for The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa for 24 years. Originally from Philadelphia, Hodge graduated from Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania with a B.S. in business administration. She moved to the Lowcountry in 1996 and lives in Bluffton with her husband and son.

2. CITY OF BEAUFORT WELCOMES NEW MAYOR

1. HODGE

4. BERNARD WILLIAMS & COMPANY NAMES CHAIRMAN FOR SBAC

2. MURRAY

Stephen Murray was sworn in as mayor of the city of Beaufort at City Council’s regular meeting on Dec. 8. Murray has served on City Council since 2014 and was founding chairman and is a board member of the Beaufort County Economic Development Corporation.

The meeting also honored outgoing mayor Billy Keyserling, who has served the position for 12 years, and did not seek re-election last year.

3. EDWARD JONES FINANCIAL ADVISOR EARNS TOP DESIGNATION

Financial advisor Amy Covington of Edward Jones on Hilton Head Island has achieved the professional designation of Accredited Asset Management Specialist.

Covington successfully completed the Accredited Asset Management Specialist, Professional Education Program from the Denver-based College for Financial Planning.

Those who complete the program,

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pass a final exam, and sign a code of ethics and disclosure form earn the AAMS designation.

This advanced training offers investment professionals the hands-on information needed to provide comprehensive financial services. Study topics include understanding the asset management process and understanding asset allocation and strategies.

Brett Goodwin, vice president of Commercial Lines at Bernard Williams & Company, has been named board chairman for the Small Business Assistance Corporation. He has been a SBAC volunteer since 2013. The Savannah SBAC provides loans and technical assistance for new and existing businesses in Southeast Georgia and the Lowcountry.

5. CABRETTA CAPITAL HIRES SENIOR VP OF TAX CREDIT INVESTMENTS

3. COVINGTON

Peter J. A. Rourk has joined Savannah-based Cabretta Capital as senior vice president of institutional tax credit investments. Rourk will focus on the development and maintenance of institutional investors looking for opportunities to impact communities.

6. BUSINESS ADVISORY FIRM ADDS STAFF ACCOUNTANT

4. GOODWIN

Drew Butterfield has joined Charleston-based Jarrard, Nowell & Russell, LLC, as staff accountant in the accounting and business advisory firm’s downtown Charleston office. Butterfield will prepare tax returns, review financial statements, and perform monthly bookkeeping duties.

7. ELROD

7.PAIGE

7. MONTHLY MAGAZINE HIRES TWO

Hilton Head Monthly and Bluffton Monthly added two to their team.

Madison Elrod, a designer and artist from Montgomery, Ala., joins Monthly as a photographer and graphic designer. She graduated in 2019 from Auburn University with a bachelor of fine arts degree in graphic design and a minor in business.

Kevin Paige joins the staff as an account executive.

Paige, a Bluffton resident, has a degree in business administration and marketing from University of South Carolina Beaufort (2014) and an associate of arts degree in business from Coker College (2012).

Paige has five years experience in sales. He is a Bluffton High School graduate.

VISIT US @ HILTONHEADMONTHLY.COM FOR MORE HAPPENINGS

J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1 // 51

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A sophisticated way to

RETIRE

THIS PLAN CAN QUICKLY GROW A BUSINESS OWNER’S WEALTH STORY BY THOMAS DOWLING

A select group of entrepreneurs are taking advantage of a more sophisticated retirement solution that most business owners are unaware of, let alone, benefiting from.

A “typical” retirement plan may not serve business owners’ best financial interests.

Sophisticated retirement solutions, such as Cash Balance Defined Benefit plans, may enable business owners to make sizable contributions and receive large tax deductions.

Many business owners have a retirement plan called

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a Defined Contribution Plan, such as a 401k, because they have become a popular way for people to help save for retirement.

However, business owners are a unique group with unique needs. We find business owners are not utilizing retirement plans as effectively as they could.

The issue for the business owner is the “typical” retirement plan is mainly for the employees and it limits the amount of money that an owner can contribute. This can be a problem when you are starting your retirement savings a little later in life.

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One of the unique aspects of a business owner, we find, is that while their business is growing, they are often using all available excess cash to fund the growth of the business. As the business finally gets to a point where it is producing significant amounts of cash flow, the business owner could be in his or her 40’s or 50’s or maybe even 60’s. At that point they have a lot of catching up to do for their eventual retirement.

The Cash Balance Defined Benefit plan can help a business owner solve this problem.

Defined Benefit Plans were common years ago but have fallen out of favor with large corporations. However, the Cash Balance Plan version may be more beneficial for small businesses, such as a family-run business, that generate good revenue and have relatively few employees.

Cash Balance Defined Benefit Plans have similar characteristics to Defined Contribution Plans such as, contributions are tax deductible and will not generate income tax until the funds are withdrawn from the plan. However, a big difference with a Cash Balance Plan, as opposed to a ‘typical’ retirement plan, is that a Cash Balance Plan allows you to contribute much larger sums of money annually.

These plans allow for large contributions for the owner/employee of up to $300,000 depending on factors such as income and age. That is a lot more than the $57K max (as of 2020) allowed in s a 401k plan. The employer/owner gets the deduction, and the employee/owner does not pay income tax until the money is withdrawn at retirement. Therefore, saving current tax and helping to catch up on funding his or her inevitable retirement.

Additionally, if you combine a 401k and Cash Balance Defined Benefit Plan it can allow for even larger contributions.

A Washington Post story, “How Jeb Bush’s firm made him rich – and created a nest egg for his family,’ illustrates how Jeb Bush, the former Florida governor, turned speaker/consultant, used this sophisticated retirement strategy to acquire wealth for him and his family.

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A “TYPICAL” RETIREMENT PLAN MAY NOT SERVE BUSINESS OWNERS’ BEST FINANCIAL INTERESTS.

It appears to me that business owners may not be utilizing the advantages of a Cash Balance Defined Benefit Plan because they have not been educated enough about the plan to allow them to determine whether it is appropriate for them.

As with all advanced planning solutions, it is important to understand the benefits and drawbacks for your circumstances. Contact your financial advisor to see if this type of plan would be right for you.

Thomas M. Dowling CFA, CFP®, CIMA® is an Executive Managing Director with Aegis Capital Corp. Dowling has been featured in various publications and has been a guest speaker at various financial events. Locally, he is a member of the Rotary and sits on the Board of Directors of the Hilton Head Baseball Association, Hilton Head Boys and Girls Club and the Town of Hilton Head Parks and Recreation Commission. Dowling is a Registered Representative and Investment Adviser Representative of and offers securities products and investment advisory services through Aegis Capital Corp Member FINRA/SIPC. The opinions expressed are for information purposes only and is not an offer, recommendation, or solicitation of any product, strategy or transaction. Any views, strategies or products discussed may not be appropriate or suitable and may be subject to risk. He can be contacted at tdowling@aegiscap.com or 843-715-2239.

J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1 // 55

2021

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what matters

MOST. ESTABLISH YOUR PRIORITIES IN THE NEW YEAR

BY WILL VERITY | VERITY INVESTMENT PARTNERS

As investment managers, we believe the purpose of investing is to expand what is possible financially so that you can align your life with what matters most to you. Therefore, the first step to developing a successful investment strategy is to get greater clarity on your life priorities. Once your priorities are clear, then you can create a financial plan and an investment strategy to bring your priorities to life. The beginning of a new year is a great time to sort out your priorities – especially a new year that holds great promise for seeing the end of a pandemic and a return to life as we once knew it.

We believe the following envisioning process can help you get clarity on what you would like your life to look like in 2021 and beyond.

Will Verity is the CEO of Verity Investment Partners (VIP), a boutique investment advisory firm serving individual investors and their families with offices in Bluffton and Beaufort. VIP offers a holistic approach to investment management that encompasses financial planning, investment strategy and ongoing portfolio management.

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First, assess the following five areas of your life: 1. HEALTH: Do you feel healthy? Are you in the shape you want to be? Are you happy with your weight? What areas of your health would you like to work on in 2021?

2. WEALTH: Are you making more than you are spending?

Are your expenses aligned with what matters most to you?

Are you happy with the amount you are saving and with how you are investing your savings? Are you on track to meet your financial goals? What could you do to increase your wealth in 2021?

3. PEOPLE: Who do you spend the most time with? Who would you like to spend more time with? Are their people in your life that you would like to spend less time with? Are you in supportive and fulfilling relationships at home, with your friends and in the workplace?

4. PLACES: Do you enjoy where you live and work? Are there changes you could make to your home or your office that would make them more enjoyable?

5. PURSUITS: Are you doing things that bring you happiness? Do you enjoy your work? Are there sports or hobbies you would like to start? Is there training or learning you would like to pursue? Are there activities in your life that you would like to eliminate?

Next, answer the following questions: • Based on your answers to these questions, how would you rank your current satisfaction with each area of your life on a scale of 1 to 10?

• What would a 10 look like in each area?

• What actions are you willing to commit to taking the next 90 days to move towards a 10 in each area of your life.

IT CAN BE SIMPLE: Walk two miles twice per week, keep track of what you spend for a week or sign up for guitar lessons. Hold yourself accountable or do this with your spouse and help to hold each other accountable. Set some goals and then after 90 days, do the same exercise again.

Incrementally, you will begin to pay attention and bring more intent and consciousness to how you are living your life.

The firm specializes in structuring dividend growth investment solutions designed to deliver targeted levels of annual income and income growth while keeping savings invested to grow over time. Learn more at verityvip.com.

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ip INTRIGUING PEOPLE

The Lowcountry is immersed with fascinating personalities.

Allow Monthly to introduce you to a few of the area’s most intriguing people.

OF THE LOW COUNTRY

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REALITY SHOW

sisters

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BLUFFTON NATIVES KAYLYNN AND HALEY WILLIAMS BROUGHT SOUTHERN CHARM TO THE AMAZING RACE STORY BY BARRY KAUFMAN | PHOTO BY LLOYD WAINSCOTT

It started in 2018 with a photo that Kaylynn Williams had posted on Instagram. The photo itself was nothing particularly remarkable for the young Bluffton native, just a shot of her and a friend. What was remarkable was the comment posted beneath it, from a casting director at CBS’ The Amazing Race telling her to check her DMs. “I had to look him up. I thought I was getting catfished,” she said with a laugh.

She wasn’t. Something in that photo had piqued the interest of the show’s producers, and within days Kaylynn and her sister, Haley, were whisked away to a Los Angeles hotel where they and several dozen other hopefuls were monitored, interviewed, subjected to psychological screenings and otherwise filtered down to determine whether they had what it took to create compelling television.

“We were super sequestered in this hotel; it was so boring,” said Haley. “We were only allowed to leave our room for interviews or to go to the gym. We literally spent our time throwing an apple back and forth in our room until it broke.”

The boredom ended abruptly when the sisters found out they had been cast, at which point the excitement shifted into high gear.

As contestants on the reality show, they squared off against other teams that included former Carolina Panthers players DeAngelo Williams and Gary Barnidge in competitions all over the world. Goat racing in Trinidad and Tobago. Navigating a Brazilian market with a list written in Portuguese. Solving puzzles inside a film studio in Kazakhstan.

Globetrotting was nothing new to the sisters, who had traveled together for six years with Audi Sports Experience. Yet everywhere they went, they faced the same hurdle that pesters nearly all Americans who travel abroad.

“Driving a stick was not comfortable for us. It was in Paris, it was snowing, and we were in rush-hour traffic,” said Kaylynn. “Every time I’d have to stop the car, it would stall.”

“We returned that car heavily damaged,” added Haley.

And since this is reality television we are talking about, there was plenty of drama along the way. When

they crossed the finish line for the final time, it was clear to viewers that the sisters had been victim of the “Mine Five,” an alliance that had formed among several of the other teams.

“We’ve received so much love because people think the Mine Five bullied us. That’s how it looked on TV,” said Kaylynn. “Editing definitely played a hand in making it look like they did it in a nasty way. But even after the show, we grew close to them.”

After elimination, the sisters found themselves members of their own alliance, a group they called the “Sequester Six.” While the remaining contestants continued their adventures, the Williams sisters joined their fellow eliminated cast mates at a luxurious house in Prague where they were feted with mani/pedis and meals cooked by a private chef.

“If you’re going to lose on this show, lose early because you get a paid vacation in an awesome city,” said Haley.

As teams joined them in exile one by one, true bonds formed that still last to this day.

“When we got back in 2018, we started a group chat.

We have all talked every single day,” said Haley. “We’ve done two reunions that we planned ourselves. We genuinely love each other.”

With two years between shooting and airing, and strict confidentially demanded from CBS, the Williams sisters had to keep a tight lid on what was going on.

“It was extra tricky, because we all got really close,” said Haley. “We went on multiple trips together, took pictures together, and people would ask, ‘Who are your friends?’ We had to make up little white lies. We were surprised we didn’t hear anything (from CBS).”

And now that the secrecy is past (viewers witnessed their elimination in November), it’s allowed the sisters to relive their race around the world.

“I still can’t believe Haley and I got to experience all that,” said Kaylynn.

Ultimately, despite elimination, The Amazing Race was worth running for the sisters, who now live in Charleston. And their adventures together are only beginning, with the sisters opening a real estate business together called Selling the South.

You can stream past episodes of The Amazing Race featuring Kaylynn and Haley Williams at cbs.com.

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SUZANNE GIESEMANN’S JOURNEY FROM NAVAL OFFICER TO SPIRIT COMMUNICATOR STORY BY VICKIE MCINTYRE | PHOTO BY LLOYD WAINSCOTT

Former U.S. Navy Commander Suzanne Giesemann once gave orders daily. Now, the Moss Creek resident receives them from another dimension.

In her book, “Messages of Hope: The Metaphysical Memoir of a Most Unexpected Medium,” and in the “Messages of Hope” documentary available on Amazon Prime, she details her journey from skeptic to believer.

Her transformation began while serving as aide to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on 9/11 when she witnessed firsthand the destruction of the Twin Towers and severe damage to the Pentagon.

So many questions lingered: Why do some live while others die? What happens after death? What’s our life purpose?

In 2003, Giesemann retired and happily embarked on a three-year sailing adventure with her husband, Ty, a former naval captain. Tragedy struck again off the coast of Croatia, when the couple received news that Ty’s daughter, a sergeant in the Marine Corps, was fatally struck by lightning.

As Giesemann grappled with the heartache of loss, she revisited those troubling questions and set out to find answers. In the process, she discovered that not only was it possible to communicate with those who had passed, but those in spirit had a great deal to say.

Mentored by Janet Nohavec and Mavis Pittilla, both acclaimed evidential mediums, Giesemann said she began communicating with her beloved step-daughter and other spiritual beings.

Then, she honed her skills so she could help others do the same. The transition from commanding officer to communicator with unseen realms wasn’t easy.

“That’s what makes my story so compelling,” she says.

Her military training gets some of the credit.

“It instilled in me the discipline to work hard, to do whatever it takes to fulfill the mission,” Giesemann said.

Now it’s a different mission, but one that’s just as important.

“I want other people to know that life continues after death and that it’s safe to believe,” she said.

Giesemann relies on evidence – facts about the de-

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ceased like names, hobbies, or dates — to validate that her communications are real.

Sometimes the deceased even describe their own funerals. Convincing people that mediumship isn’t just “woo-woo” was motivation for writing her story.

“Hopefully, my background shows people this,” she says. “To me it’s sacred work and it needs to be understood. It’s the evidence that helps you do that.”

Committed to integrity and service, Giesemann begins every day with meditation and personally answers all of her emails.

Her goal isn’t only to serve those who have lost loved ones; she also wants to serve those across the veil who no longer have a voice.

“It’s got to be an equal balance,” she insists.

No longer taking requests, Giesemann tries to do one reading daily to whittle down her threeyear waiting list. Her current focus is teaching and speaking about the tools she has developed to expand consciousness — or what she calls “awareness with a capital ‘A’. ” In addition to hosting a weekly radio show, posting daily messages from her spirit-guides on her website, and conducting monthly mentoring programs, Giesemann speaks at conferences across the country and offers on-line courses.

Whether it’s walking on the local beaches, traveling with her husband in their RV, or working on a new book (she’s published 13 and another is on the way), Giesemann, who moved with her husband to the Lowcountry in 2019, tries to let Spirit guide her efforts.

“I remember being 12,” she muses, “and knowing I had to write a book but I had no life experience.”

Now she marvels at the “team of helpers” who keep opening doors to new truths, new opportunities, and ever-changing missions.

“That’s how my life flows. When I open it up to Spirit, it always turns out so much better than anything I could have planned,” she said.

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ARTIST D. PIERCE GILTNER REBORN AS BUDDING TABBY MASTER STORY BY TIM WOOD | PHOTO BY LLOYD WAINSCOTT

D. Pierce Giltner is not much a fan of playing it safe. His path to acclaimed artist status has come by way of a winding creative road rooted in unconventional carpentry and a forte for chronicling the lives of laborers working the Lowcountry land.

“I knew I had born talent, it was just about teaching myself art and putting it out into the world,” said the Bluffton resident who began using house paint and canvases of reclaimed wood and roofing tin in his native Chester in the mid-1990s.

Construction work paid the bills out of high school until Giltner got the nerve to put his early efforts, depicting early-1900s tenant workers, on exhibition in a Columbia show in 2004. That drew both Best of Show awards and the attention of famed artist Pat Kabore, who offered to mentor Giltner.

“She taught me discipline, time management and how to talk to galleries and market myself,” he said.

“She schooled me to always find a niche that no one’s doing and make it a business.”

Giltner decided to move to the Lowcountry in 2007, where he found a champion in Calhoun Street legend Babbie Guscio and an unlikely muse in a Bluffton Oyster Factory worker named Drack.

Giltner launched his open-air “Gallery Without Walls” on Calhoun Street, showcasing his distinctive art and signage work and his depictions of Drack’s life as an oysterman. In 2009, he displayed his “The Oysterman of the Lowcountry” collection via solo shows and in exhibitions at Piccolo Spoleto in Charleston and the Telfair Art Fair in Savannah.

Giltner has spent much of the past decade taking on commission work while transitioning his portfolio from less-durable paints and materials to more collector-friendly oil paints and canvas. He has also continued to evolve his artisan carpentry business, Rustic Installations, crafting one-of-a-kind furniture pieces and installations.

A unique request from the J. Banks Design Group

in 2017 has led Giltner to a new adventure that’s combined his world with that of his subject-turnedfriend and newfound collaborator.

“I was asked to build a tabby fireplace in Kiawah Island and it was like this creative awakening,” Giltner said of mastering the artisanry technique centered around an oyster shell-based mixture that’s been a high-end Lowcountry building staple since Colonial days. “Drack and me, we are in this together. He’s my right-hand man in this. It’s a very timeconsuming building method but it’s a style that’s in high demand.”

After earning kudos for his Kiawah masterpiece, Giltner made tabby work a cornerstone of his business, branching out to tabby-based fire pits, coffee tables and lamps over the past three years.

“These become works of art when done right, and while there’s plenty of folks trying to create the tabby look, few are actually taking the time to do it right,” he said.

Giltner has shifted his base of operations from Calhoun Street and a brief residency at Bluffton’s Cahill’s Market to his new Burnt Church Road studio, a warehouse behind The Sugaree bakery where he showcases both his paintings and his tabby creations.

While gallery shows and art competitions were canceled over the past year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Giltner has continued to stay busy with construction work and new commission projects. He looks to have a formal studio opening in the spring and a new solo show in fall 2021.

While his tabby clientele is rapidly spreading to Charleston and Savannah, Giltner said Bluffton will always be his creative home front.

“This place is magic,” he said. “The people and the inspiration here are too special for me to ever dream of living anywhere else.”

See more of D. Pierce Giltner’s art online at dpiercegiltner.com and rusticinstallations.com.

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MARTIN LESCH FOSTERS THE COMMUNITY THROUGH MUSIC STORY BY MARCO FREY | PHOTO BY KIM SMITH

If you speak with him long enough, let’s say you even interview him for your local magazine, you’ll eventually realize you still don’t know Martin Lesch.

That’s because he rarely talks about himself.

If you’re close with him, you may have enjoyed his Szechuan cooking without knowing he’s a practicing Buddhist. You may think he never hits the beach unless you catch him on a moonlit stroll.

His unpopular opinion?

He quips, “Music is a good business to go into.”

You may have watched him jangle the keys for the last 12 years at The Jazz Corner, late into the night, without knowing he wakes at the crack of dawn to attend public discussions at Town Hall.

Raised in New York City, Lesch’s mother convinced his father to spend his Christmas bonus on a piano, a dubious decision paid for in karma. Lesch got the lessons he asked for on his fifth birthday, quickly making friends with the instrument. He studied with an NYU professor from an early age, graduating high school a year early to attend the Berklee College of Music.

Most of his youth he was focused inward, on his craft.

As he says, “I was concerned with what music meant to me.”

But that would soon change.

Lesch came from New York on a visit to Hilton Head in 1997 and ended up on records with local musicians. When he returned to play a summer gig a few years later, he simply never left.

Knowing how taxing the New York City scene could be, with even the best musicians often strapped for cash, he planted a seed on Hilton Head’s fertile ground. He got hired to record for Grammy winner Angie Aparo.

They began running songwriting sessions and Aparo hired Lesch to hit the road, part of a fruitful sevenyear journey in the music business together.

Weekdays between tours, you could find him hugging the bar at The Jazz Corner, soaking up the music of the late Bob Masteller, the club’s beloved owner and a flügelhorn player himself.

Noticing his talents and in need of a pianist, Masteller took Lesch under his wing. That started a lifelong friendship between the two and Martin became

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the staple pianist in the band.

“It was through Bob that I got to know the direct effect music could have on people,” Lesch says.

And yet, Bob’s influence didn’t stop at the notes.

He’d often ask Lesch to sit in on meetings with arts organizations and local non-profits. Lesch, underslept from the night past, woke early to see what it was all about.

Little did he know how much local activism would come to mean to him.

Today, besides gigging regularly, Martin is a board member of the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra, the budding Crescendo festival and the Junior Jazz Foundation, something Masteller began that has blossomed in his wake.

In the past year the Junior Jazz Foundation, a nonprofit with no paid staff, has provided more than $25,000 in grants and scholarships to local schools, Lesch said, and it subsidizes the Hilton Head Jazz camp where students from all over the country come to study jazz.

What started with nine students has grown in 10 years to over 100, whose families often join them on the island. Now, the Junior Jazz All Stars, a group of camp alumni, can be seen performing locally— “A group of phenoms given the resources to rise to new heights,” as Lesch says.

In his TEDx Talk three years ago, Lesch posed a strong question to the audience—how much were they willing to contribute to make the Lowcountry an arts destination?

The arts are thriving here, he assures us, but they need more community support and institutional structure. Golf greens and beach sand will always be a draw, but he sees the island becoming an arts mecca, pulling in tourists in the off-season who tend to spend more than their sun-tanned counterparts.

Herbie Hancock, one of Lesch’s idols on piano once said, “Creativity and artistic endeavors have a mission that goes far beyond just making music for the sake of music.”

But Martin Lesch, in his own wry way, puts it bluntly: “The thing I’ve learned most is to shut up and listen.”

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DR. ROBERT CLODFELTER KEEPS HIS SENSE OF HUMOR AFTER DECADES LEADING HILTON HEAD HOSPITAL’S EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

BY JUSTIN JARRETT | PHOTOS BY LLOYD WAINSCOTT After more than 20 years running the emergency department at Hilton Head Hospital, preceded by a decade working in a busy trauma center in Florida, Dr. Robert Clodfelter has his share of stories.

Not all of them are family friendly.

“But I’ll tell you some anyway,” Clodfelter says with a sly smile, hinting at the sense of humor required to not only survive threeplus decades starring in a real-life medical drama, but to thrive in such a position.

And to think he wasn’t even planning on practicing medicine.

Dr. Clodfelter wanted to be a marine biologist and was studying to do so while working at the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.

He thought he had it all figured out until a chemistry professor set him straight.

“He told me if I really wanted to do what I wanted to do, I’d have to join the Navy,” Clodfelter recalls. “I didn’t want to join the Navy.”

So he shifted gears, taking a volunteer shift at a local hospital, where he was assigned to the ER. On the first day, he and every available nurse raced to the trauma bay with a motorcyclist who had clipped a concrete pylon and was in danger of losing his leg — if not his life.

Clodfelter vividly recalls trying not to lose his lunch.

The doctors couldn’t save the leg, but they saved the life.

“That was what got me into emergency medicine,” Clodfelter said. “I had to give up my dream of being the next Jacques Cousteau.”

Dr. Clodfelter likes to say serendipity brought him and his wife, Tracy, to Hilton Head Island in 1997, and after hearing his tales from the Florida Panhandle, one would have to agree the move was quite fortuitous.

He has stories of hunters who have tumbled out of a tree stand and impaled themselves, people with speargun wounds from angry roommate disputes, and loads of gunshot victims.

On HHI, it’s a steady stream of visitors from the north who drink too much and wind up with severe sunburn, heat exhaustion, and dehydration or tennis players who overdo it in

the Lowcountry’s often-stifling heat and humidity.

“If you were to make a TV show about our ER in the summer, you’d have to have a pina colada in your hand and see what’s going on at the beach,” Clodfelter laughs.

And whatever you do, don’t pee on that jellyfish sting. No, really, it’s a common enough question that Dr. Clodfelter has written articles debunking it.

Thanks, Chandler and Monica.

The serendipity didn’t end when the Clodfelters got to Hilton Head.

In fact, some 15 years later, chance blessed the family again.

After putting her nursing career on pause, Tracy became a school nurse when the couple’s youngest daughter, Ali, was in middle school.

But Elaine Hastings, then the hospital’s chief of nursing, had other ideas. She coaxed Tracy to apply at the hospital, promising to keep her in a separate department from her husband.

Tracy was hesitant. She completed the application online but couldn’t bring herself to submit it.

A few days later, Hastings called to set up an interview, pleased that Tracy had decided to apply.

It took some time to piece together that Ali had presumably hit the enter button, submitted the application, and revived her mom’s clinical nursing career.

Just another sign that all those wild twists and turns along the way were leading Dr. Clodfelter to Hilton Head, where he relieves the stress of running an emergency department by biking, kayaking, gardening, and playing copious amounts of tennis.

The past year was more trying than most, with the constant cloud of the COVID-19 pandemic hovering.

Dr. Clodfelter is grateful for the support provided by Tenet Healthcare, which has coordinated resources between Hilton Head and Coastal Carolina hospitals, as well as an outstanding staff that has navigated the pandemic exceptionally well.

“It’s great to have the dedication of the institution and its parent company to ensure we’re taking the best care of the patients and staying safe,” he said.

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HEATHER RATH IS PASSIONATE ABOUT UNITING HILTON HEAD STORY BY BARRY KAUFMAN | PHOTO BY LLOYD WAINSCOTT

If you live on Hilton Head Island long enough, and if you travel in the circles through which policies are set, courses are charted and decisions are made, there is one question you will inevitably be asked: “Do you know Heather Rath?”

If you travel in these circles, and if you’ve been here long enough, you’ve probably both asked and answered this question. And while you may answer yes, do you really know Heather Rath? You might think you do, but the fact is, the more you learn about her the more you come to realize how much richer our community is for her presence.

Not that you’d ever hear that from her.

“My family… it lends itself to being humble yet very persuasive, and doing the right thing always,” she said.

“Always serving others, but doing it in a way that isn’t flashy or out there.”

Even before setting foot on Hilton Head Island, she had shown her tremendous ability to effect positive change. As a teenager, she was featured in Seventeen magazine for filing a lawsuit against her own high school. The principal had forbidden her from selling ad space in the school paper to a gay and lesbian outreach center, so Rath took it to the school board and got the whole community involved.

Selflessness comes naturally to Rath. As she puts it, it’s in her DNA. Her great-grandparents migrated to Hawaii in the late 1800s to help found Palama Settlement, an organization that to this day provides a wide range of educational and community services in Honolulu. The Rath family stayed and immersed themselves in the community because, “it was very important to live the life of the people they were serving in Hawaii.”

That family legacy of enriching communities and their people is strong with Heather. After splitting her childhood between California and Hawaii, she attended college at University of Wyoming where she worked on the Fort Collins redevelopment project. She was there when the nation’s eyes fell on Laramie and the university following the death of Matthew Shepard.

“It was an important reminder to why we need to be committed to all people, especially in difficult times,” she said.

In that moment, her natural impulse to always stand with those who need an ally was galvanized. In the summer of 1998 at a professor’s recommendation, she took classes at Alabama State University and traveled the state documenting elementary school history books that were still portraying slavery in a positive light. “I met with a lot of principals and superintendents that summer and received a HBCU experience,” she said

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Eventually she’d wind up on Hilton Head, where she began to make her mark on the island and also met her husband, Joe Dimaria.

The couple has raised three boys together — Graydon, Hale and Reed — sharing in the adventure of parenthood.

Amid all the coronavirus debates surrounding masks and lockdowns, Rath was a near-constant source of facts and positive change, sharing the latest numbers, working with leaders to create public testing events and advocating at the state level to ensure CARES Act money was used responsibly.

As a community advocate, her CV reads like a list of the island’s greatest hits. She championed a master plan during her tenure on the town’s parks and rec commission and Greater Island Council that was recently approved. She was chair of the parks and rec commission during the creation and implementation of the rowing and sailing center, Lowcountry Celebration Park and Shelter Cove Community Park.

She became heavily involved with politics as a means to influence policy, counting people like former governor Mark Sanford among her close friends. She worked alongside community leaders on events like the 350/30 Celebration and One Island One Community One Hilton Head. The common thread running through these events, you’ll notice, is community unity.

And that unity lies at the heart of what Heather Rath brings to the island. When she talks about her work, she talks about it in terms of people.

Whether it’s the native islander working to enhance community and culture, retired CEO’s, fellow parents, or the person driving the school bus, she believes each person is an indelible part of our community.

“I find value in the people that weave together the fabric of our community, and I strive for us to stand together to better the Island,” she said.

And along the way she’s found mentors at every turn, whether it’s Linda Piekut formerly of the Heritage Library, Leslie Richardson, Sen. Tom Davis, the late John Curry and Bob Masteller, and community advocates like Frank Babel, Thomas Barnwell Jr. or Morris Campbell, who recently brought Rath to tears in the best way.

Rath had been a big part of Alex Brown’s successful town council campaign, and Campbell’s accolades on a recent Zoom call started up the waterworks.

“When you have somebody like Mr. Campbell, who believed in me 20 years ago, who didn’t know investing in me would make me stay…I cannot tell you how meaningful that is to me,” she said. “One of my greatest prides to have these community leaders say, ‘Your work matters and you’re doing great things for the community and I want to be on your team.’ ”

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MATTHEW SHERBURNE NAMED SC EAGLE SCOUT OF THE YEAR STORY BY ANTHONY GARZILLI | PHOTOS BY LLOYD WAINSCOTT

Matthew Sherburne loves being outdoors. The Bluffton High School senior enjoys mountain climbing, biking, and being on the water with the Hilton Head Island Crew team.

He also enjoys helping others.

Always has. Sherburne joined the Cub Scouts in third grade with his twin brother, Andrew, thinking he’d do some camping, learn survival skills and have fun. But he quickly learned he could help make a difference in the community.

“I found out that helping people in a time of need and being a better person is what I wanted to go after,” Sherburne said. “Overall, it was a win-win: having fun and helping people.”

Sherburne has been a Boy Scout for eight years — he’s a member of Bluffton Boy Scout Troop 241 — and has enjoyed the opportunity to impact the community, including serving Thanksgiving dinners for those in need, being an overnight host for Family Promise of Bluffton, and being involved in a variety of community service projects.

His efforts to give back were recognized recently as Sherburne was named 2020 Eagle Scout of the Year by the South Carolina Department of the American Legion.

Sherburne was recognized for his Eagle Scout project, the construction of a 24-foot-long by 8-foot-high grape arbor for the Boys & Girls Club of Bluffton.

Sherburne said building the structure was meaningful because being a member of the Boys & Girls Club had been a big part of his life since he was 6 years old.

“They gave so much to me,” he said. “It was a great experience. My mom worked late at night and (the Club) helped me do new things and meet new people.

They helped me and my brother try new experiences.”

Sherburne said the project was a challenge because

neither he nor his mom had experience in construction, but he was determined to make it happen. He received help from many people, including those in Troop 241, Lord of Life Lutheran Church, and Habitat for Humanity.

“They were very supportive,” said Sherburne, whose brother, Andrew, is also an Eagle Scout.

“Without them it wouldn’t have gotten done. I learned that it’s OK to be inexperienced; if you have teamwork you can get things done.”

The project also inspired him to focus on a potential major in college. He plans to study to be a civil or electrical engineer. Sherburne has applied to Georgia Tech, Clemson, Boston University and the University of South Carolina.

Being a scout has been fulfilling, Sherburne said, and allowed him to experience different cultures and backgrounds.

In 2019, he attended the World Scout Jamboree in West Virginia. The event aims to bring youngsters together to promote peace and mutual understanding and to develop leadership and life skills, according to its website. Sherburne said for 12 days he enjoyed meeting people from around the world and learning about various ways of life.

“It was an eye opener,” said Sherburne, who noted he remains in touch with people from the jamboree.

With the Boy Scouts Sherburne was able to go sailing in the Florida Keys at the Florida National High Adventure Sea Base. He saw stars at night and learned to sail a schooner.

For Sherburne, being a scout has truly been worthwhile.

“Through my experiences, the people treat you like family; you develop long-lasting friendships that will last a lifetime,” Sherburne said.

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BILL MILES IS HILTON HEAD ISLAND-BLUFFTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE’S TIRELESS LEADER STORY BY BARRY KAUFMAN | PHOTO BY ROB KAUFMAN

There are some people so ideally suited for their job, it’s almost impossible to picture them doing anything else. Bill Miles is definitely one of those people.

As president and CEO of the Hilton Head IslandBluffton Chamber of Commerce, it almost seems like he was molded from Indiana clay to be transplanted onto the island and head up a successful chamber of commerce.

“I loved it from day one down here,” he said. “I really could tell that this was my calling.”

Having spent more than 30 years with the chamber, guiding it through periods of explosive growth not only on the island but in the areas around it, Miles is as much a part of the island as its beaches. There have been controversies and a handful of vocal critics, to be sure, but by and large his status as a fixture of the island simply seems to be a given.

But what do we really know about the man who has helped steer the chamber, and by extension the Lowcountry, through so much? Possibly more than we think. As it happens, the more you peel back the layers of Bill Miles, tireless chamber CEO, the more you find Bill Miles, tireless chamber CEO. “I don’t think a day goes by where I’m not writing emails,” he said. “It just doesn’t end. Even when I was a kid, I just like to work. As crazy as that sounds.”

That’s not to say he doesn’t take a day off. In between emails and meetings and Zoom calls, he’s been known to find a good stretch of beach to relax (if you press him to name a favorite, however, he’ll answer diplomatically that he loves all the island’s beaches).

He loves to bike, but hasn’t been on the bike since March as the chamber has dealt with the logistics of the pandemic. He boats occasionally, but admits his boat is “too small for a name.” His passion for Indiana University athletics runs deep as well. And when you get him in front of a Big Green Egg, prepare for some mouth-watering barbecue.

“I think it’s a great Saturday in the fall when you can have something on the Egg, football on TV and a sunny day on Hilton Head,” he said, describing his ideal day off.

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But even in describing that day off, he’ll get right back to describing his passion for the chamber and what it does. He’s exceptionally proud of what the organization has accomplished, and with good reason.

Beyond earning a five-star accreditation as one of the top chambers in the country, they developed a path forward at the start of the pandemic that became the model for organizations across the country.

“Those things are really big, and speak volumes about the team we have here,” he said.

He is, essentially, a guy who loves his job. It’s just a part of his strong midwestern work ethic, cultivated on the family farm where he would spend long hours working the fields before school and after basketball or baseball practice.

“The guy taking care of our livestock retired, so my dad decided to sell the livestock and plant some grain,” said Miles. “I told him, ‘Before you do that, give me a shot at it.’ So, I got two other buddies of mine and every morning before school I’d pick these guys up at about five in the morning, drive out there, feed all our livestock, do what needed to be done, come back and go to school.”

The next year, a flier from Marathon Oil (which, at the time, owned Shipyard) landed in the Miles’ mailbox and served as his first introduction to the island.

“I just happened to see it on our counter, read it, and told my mom and dad, ‘You know we gotta go do this.’

It was three or four nights for this unbelievable price… so we came down here for a few nights and loved it.”

The journey from tourist to resident brought him through the halls of Indiana University, then to jobs at chambers of commerce in Daytona, Florida and Raleigh, North Carolina.

“Once I got my eyes open to what a chamber of commerce did, I loved it from day one,” he said.

That love brought him back to Hilton Head Island, where he belonged.

“I care deeply about our people here. I care deeply about Hilton Head Island and Bluffton,” he said. “And I think over the years we’ve demonstrated successes that have benefited business and residents of the community.”

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FOUNDER STEVE CARB LEADS GROWTH OF AWARD-WINNING RESTAURANTS STORY BY MIKE SAMPOGNA

The largest employer on Hilton Head Island emerged from humble beginnings. It started many years ago with a single location in an island hot spot.

“The first SERG restaurant was Giuseppi’s in Shelter Cove,” said Steve Carb, the founder and president. “We just celebrated our 35th anniversary.”

That was the launching pad for 17 restaurants and counting. Carb’s determination, vision and acumen were a driving force.

Carb is proud of the SERG Group’s success but is incredibly happy to share the credit for the company’s growth. What does he see as the key to sustaining the company’s success?

“We have good partners,” he said. “I think that’s what has kept us going all these years.”

The SERG motto is “Real People. Real Food.

Real Passion.” What does that mean to Carb?

“It’s all the people that make up our company,” he said. “We’ve offered a lot of partnerships to newcomers. We give them a fraction of the action.

It’s kind of our thing. It motivates them to work hard.”

Like so many people who are locals now, Carb’s journey didn’t begin here. He moved to Hilton Head Island from Pittsburgh, Pa. Like many transplants he’s carried his sports loyalties with him across the years and miles.

To this day he bleeds black and gold.

“I consider myself a big Steelers fan,” he said.

“This season has been very impressive. The Steelers and the Penguins are my two favorites for sure.”

Despite being immersed in the restaurant industry and the island’s food culture for many years, fitness and health have become especially important to him. Carb said he works out every day with a

| PHOTO BY LLOYD WAINSCOTT

personal trainer.

And the coastline has been calling him. Carb recently made a big-ticket purchase that will eventually take up a lot of his time.

“I just bought my first boat,” he said. “It’s down in Florida. I haven’t had a chance to use it very much (because of COVID-19).”

Carb lives on Hilton Head in Windmill Harbour.

While he’s never been married, he has two dogs he loves that keep him busy.

“I have a miniature Yorkie named Frankie Bones and a terrier mix named Sheldon that loves to dig,” he said. “Frankie Bones was my first and he’s been around for 18 years. And I adopted Sheldon from the Hilton Head Humane Association.”

Frankie Bones shares a name with two of SERG’s locations, including one that opened this year on Buckwalter Parkway in Bluffton. While Carb wouldn’t pick a favorite SERG location, he did say that Frankie Bones has his favorite steak.

“They have my favorite steak of all time,” Carb gushed. “It’s the coffee-rubbed ribeye. The flavor is just unique.”

Despite many hardships last year, SERG is going to expand in 2021. Marley’s Island Grille outside Sea Pines will re-open as Nectar, a new concept for the company.

“We decided to open a breakfast, lunch, and dinner place. It’s Lowcountry farm to kitchen,” he said.

“We don’t have anything like it at all. We wanted to do something new to help add to our variety. It should be open sometime in February or March.”

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, Carb is happy SERG is still going strong.

“I’m just happy we were able to dine inside and outside,” he said. “We have patios at most of our restaurants. That’s been the saving grace.”

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MAKING THE

GRADE

LOWCOUNTRY FAMILIES HAVE MANY FIRST CLASS OPTIONS FOR THEIR CHILDREN’S EDUCATION. EXPERIENCED ADMINISTRATORS, PASSIONATE TEACHERS AND MOTIVATED PEERS MAKE THE DIFFERENCE FOR STUDENTS. IN THIS SECTION WE CELEBRATE HIGH-QUALITY EDUCATION IN BLUFFTON AND ON HILTON HEAD ISLAND.

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ENTHUSIASTIC FOR EDUCATION

Megan DeWeese, Beaufort County School District Teacher of the Year, pictured with her class during the 2019-2020 school year.

OKATIE ELEMENTARY’S DEWEESE IS TEACHER OF THE YEAR Megan DeWeese has wanted to be a teacher for as long as she can remember. She has fond memories of playing school with her brother, using a large green chalkboard, which her daughters now use to “teach” their stuffed animals.

Now she’s not only a teacher; she’s teacher of the year.

The Okatie Elementary School first-grade teacher, who recently earned her doctorate degree, was named the 2020-2021 Beaufort County Teacher of the Year.

DeWeese was shocked to hear she had won the honor.

“Everyone in our district should be teacher of the year,” she said. “Every single teacher in our district is amazing.

It was truly humbling to be given this honor, to be the voice of our teachers.”

Okatie Elementary Principal Jamie Pinckney was not at all surprised to hear DeWeese had earned the title. She described the teacher as genuine, compassionate, dedicated, reflective and innovative.

“I’m very proud of her,” Pinckney said. “She is

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well-respected in the school and the community, a positive role model with a big heart.”

Before teaching, DeWeese spent six years in the Army Reserves. For the past 10 years, in addition to teaching, she has worked as a 911 dispatcher.

Now in her sixth year of teaching at Okatie, DeWeese is working from home, raising her two daughters and a nephew, and caring for her sick mother.

DeWeese admits that teaching during the pandemic has been difficult, but her students are doing well and she just smiles through whatever challenges come her way.

Because of her mother’s illness and the current situation with COVID-19, DeWeese teaches an all-virtual class from her dining room, which is set up similar to her normal classroom. She incorporates lots of color, a word wall and a beloved stuffed lion named Rasheed, who is the class’ phonics mascot. Rasheed takes the students on adventures to teach them all about phonics.

DeWeese is enthusiastic and animated in her teaching.

She can often be seen jumping up and down, dancing and having fun with the kids, even on Zoom.

Despite the changes in school over the past year, DeWeese continues to work one-on-one with students and have them work together in small groups.

“It’s challenging, yes,” DeWeese said. “Sometimes it’s really challenging, but I didn’t become a teacher because there wouldn’t be challenges. I became a teacher for these kids. They’re my ‘why.’ I do it for the kids.”

As teacher of the year, DeWeese assumes the role of vicechair of the Beaufort County School District Teacher Forum.

She has already gotten to know teachers across the district and is looking forward to working closely with district leaders in her new role.

BCSD deputy superintendent and chief of schools Duke Bradley III said DeWeese’s work at Okatie has benefited her students, her school and the district as a whole.

“I come to this with a heart of gratitude, a depth of appreciation for not just teachers but for exemplary teachers like Dr. DeWeese,” Bradley said.

Now DeWeese is up for state teacher of the year. She has mixed emotions about the opportunity since it would mean leaving the classroom for an entire school year to serve as a traveling ambassador for the state. Leaving her students would be a challenge, but if anyone is up for a challenge, it’s DeWeese.

“Children hold a very special place in my heart,” DeWeese said. “Teaching is just me. It’s my passion. It’s my life.”

DeWeese and her students during the 2019-2020 school year.

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A LEARNING COMMUNITY HILTON HEAD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY SET TO MOVE INTO BLUFFTON CAMPUS

BY JAMES A. MALLORY | PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Hilton Head Christian Academy students will enter a new learning community, not a new school, when the 70,000-square-foot Bluffton campus opens, which is expected to be this month, school officials say.

The $23-million campus, near the corner of Bluffton Parkway and Masters Way, is designed to fit the student and not the other way around, according to school leaders and campus designers.

Students will interact with each other and their teachers without the confines of traditional classrooms on the new campus. There are flexible learning suites where multiple teachers can gather and teach, said Zenos Morris, project manager of Court Atkins Group.

“We actually refer to the campus as a learning community versus a school to denote the fact that it was designed to be different from traditional school buildings,” said Doug Langhals, HHCA’s Head of School, in an email response to questions. “The spaces are meant to communicate that we care about our students.”

The abundance of natural light and comfortable furniture sends a similar message, he added.

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adapt to multiple learning opportunities,” said James C. Atkins, Court Atkins Group partner.

“There are no hallways, but a series of interconnected learning environments that can support an entire grade level presentation or an independent study session with the student’s mentor.”

Art, science and fabrication laboratories (fab labs) are dispersed throughout the building, Atkins said The art and fab labs connect to patios and porches that allow students to work outside on projects, such as pottery or painting.

“Research has shown that students learn better in a collaborative, open environment,” Langhals said. “Not everyone learns the same way. What works for one student may not be effective for another and the learning environment plays a part in that.”

The setup of the building fosters movement, Morris said. “There isn’t a space that feels stagnant,” he added.

The Bluffton campus, sitting on 27.7 acres, was designed to anticipate needs HHCA may have in 10 to 15 years. A multipurpose building for performing arts and athletics joins the academic building in the spring.

IIEDUCATIONII “Every space was intentionally designed to accommodate our unique project-based learning model,” Langhals said.

HHCA has 72 people on its faculty and staff. The 45 teachers are called mentors, who visitors will see “walking through the classroom, guiding students with questions or making suggestions on multiple ways to approach a challenge,” Langhals said.

HHCA, which opened on Hilton Head in 1979, has nearly 500 students from around the Lowcountry in its K-12 program. The ground was broken for the new campus in May 2019.

And while the campus was designed as an open environment, planners did not forego safety. There is a network of technology through the building for any type of emergency, Atkins said.

There are the expected card readers and access control.

Doors from the learning suites are only accessible from inside.

And there is interior shading that can be pulled down in case of an emergency to prevent someone outside from looking in.

The new facilities were financed through the sale of the Hilton Head campus, private donations and financing.

Supporters of the first campus contributed to the funding of the new one, Langhals said, building on a legacy started 41 years ago.

“That’s quite a legacy of academic excellence,” he said.

“We’re excited about the new year on a new campus and to see that legacy continue. It’s part of the reason we named the road leading up to the campus entrance Legacy Lane. It serves as a great reminder of what’s happening on campus each day.”

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Winter time

KIDS READS THESE TITLES ARE OLD AND SOME ARE NEW, BUT WE LOVE THEM JUST THE SAME COURTESY OF KATHLEEN MCTEER OF THE BEAUFORT COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM

WINTER IS THE WARMEST SEASON by Lauren Stringer (2006). Most people think summer is the warmest season. This story, however, is brimming with evidence to the contrary —from roaring fires to grilled cheese sandwiches to toasty flannel pajamas. A unique twist on the traditional wintertime picture book, the beautiful visual narrative follows a boy and his family through a day of hot breakfasts, steaming afternoon cocoa, and a festive candlelit party before bed.

COZY by Jan Brett (2020). Cozy is the softest musk ox in Alaska, with the warmest fur you ever did feel. When a storm hits while he’s separated from his family, he starts to feel lonely – but not for long. As the snow piles up, animals start to notice just how warm and cozy Cozy really is! One mama lemming has a bright idea . . . maybe the best place to spend the winter is under Cozy’s fur!

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BLIZZARD by John Rocco (2014). One winter day it started to snow and it did not stop. At first it was fun. But four days later, the snowplows still hadn’t come, cabin fever was setting in, and rations were running low. Someone had to take action. Will one intrepid boy be able to triumph over a fearsome blizzard?

SHELTER, by Celine Claire (2017). As a blizzard approaches, two strangers emerge from the fog enveloping the forest. From the windows of their houses, the neighbors wonder: who is outside? What do they want? Desperate for shelter, the strangers turn to the locals, hopeful someone will take them in.

“The wind is cold. In exchange for some tea, could we warm ourselves by your fire?”

Will anyone help?

MALAIKA’S WINTER CARNIVAL by Nadia L. Hohn (2017). Malaika is happy to be with

Mummy again, and Mr. Frederic and her new sister, Adele seem nice. But being part of a new family means moving to a different country where everything is strange. It’s cold in Malaika’s new city, no one understands her when she talks, she misses Grandma, and the winter carnival is nothing like carnival in the Caribbean. This story shows the importance of family, especially when adjusting to a new home.

THE SNOWY NAP by Jan Brett (2018). Snow is on the way, and as Hedgie trundles around the farm all his friends tell him of the wintertime fun he will miss as he hibernates: Icicles decorating the chicken coop! Lisa making snowmen! The pond turned to slippery ice! It sounds so amazing, Hedgie decides to stay awake instead of going to his burrow.

But then a snowstorm starts. Luckily, Lisa finds him and brings him inside so Hedgie gets to see the wonders of winter from inside the cozy house.

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EDUCATION

NEWS CROSS SCHOOL TEACHER SELECTED FOR NATIONAL HISTORY DAY

Lauren French, a teacher at Cross Schools in Bluffton, is one of 58 teachers selected for a National History Day fall professional development program. The course focuses on using online Library of Congress primary and secondary sources to develop and support student research skills and is a feature of NHD’s membership in the Library of Congress Teaching with Primary Sources Consortium.

French will work with her peers around the country and National History Day staff to build knowledge for teaching with primary sources. After completing the series, she will have demonstrated the ability to pair Library of Congress resources with active learning strategies to support her students.

DAUGHTERS OF AMERICAN REVOLUTION HONORS BLUFFTON TEACHER

The Emily Geiger Chapter of the National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution recently honored William Moore, PhD, at Bluffton Middle School, as the chapter winner of the Outstanding Teacher of American History. Dr. Moore is a veteran teacher with more than 37 years in the classroom and teaches American history and social studies. The award is to recognize a notable, full-time teacher of American History (and related fields), in public, private and parochial schools in grades 5-12.

FOUNDATION AWARDS 26 GRANTS TO TEACHERS AND SCHOOLS

The Foundation for Educational Excellence awarded 19 Innovative Teacher grants and seven School Resource grants to teachers across Beaufort County from 18 different schools. The grants totaling almost $30,000 were given to teachers whose educational activities and projects surpass regular school lessons. The innovative learning projects range from robotics to ukuleles to special education, music, art, science and ESOL. For more information, visit foundationedexcellence.com

BORN TO READ RECEIVES DONATION OF REUSABLE BAGS

Nonprofit Born To Read, Inc., received reusable bags from Sea Island Rotary Club which will primarily be used for the resource bags containing board books and other information items given to parents of newborns at Beaufort Memorial, Coastal Carolina, and Hilton Head hospitals.

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PROFILES:

HILTON HEAD PREPARATORY SCHOOL

The 2021 rankings are in, and Hilton Head Prep is leading the way in education — just as it has since its founding in 1965.

According to the Best Schools Rankings list from Niche, Prep is the No. 1 private K-12 school in Beaufort County, the No. 1 boarding school in the state, the No 1. college prep school in the state, the No. 2 private K-12 school in South Carolina, and in the top 14% of all K-12 private schools nationwide.

It all starts with Prep’s faculty — who average 20 years of experience and two-thirds have advanced degrees — and the administration, with more than 30 years of experience, on average — delivering Prep’s rigorous college prep curriculum, a strong arts and athletics program along with community service and character education. But here’s what matters more than the numbers: Faculty and staff members are passionate about learning and love the kids they teach.

MAY RIVER MONTESSORI Located in the heart of “Old Towne,” Bluffton, we have proudly served the children and families of the Lowcountry since 1987. Our mission is to nurture each child’s natural development; to inspire curiosity, creativity, and imagination and to foster academic excellence. We cultivate an environment rich with warmth, kindness and respect. We are committed to the development of the whole child, enabling each to celebrate individual gifts and reach his greatest potential. In addition to a rich academic learning environment, there is a strong emphasis on the arts and environmental and community stewardship through our unique whole-campus Organic Gardening Program.

EXPANDED PROGRAM: The farm-based Adolescent Program will expand to eighth grade this fall. In addition to a daily academic and traditional curriculum, adolescents will operate their own organic, farmbased business. They will learn trade skills, financial planning and budgeting, human resource, and general management skills. Future plans include the acquisition and transition to a second “farm” campus dedicated to this program.

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FACULTY SPOTLIGHT: History department chair Steven Moe has been named the statewide SCISA Teacher of the Year for Upper Schools, chosen from more than 130 schools and 7,500 teachers in South Carolina. Moe grew up on Hilton Head Island and has been teaching for 15 years. As an upper school history and social sciences teacher, he teaches several Advanced Placement courses where he has guided his students to a 96% passing rate on the national Advanced Placement exam. He has also had the pleasure of coaching both the boys and girls golf teams to several state championships. He holds a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in education.

VACATIONS Hilton Head Island & Bluffton

SPRING 2021 ISSUE

Coming Soon forkandfun.com

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HILTON HEAD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY The HHCA community is excited to begin 2021 on its brand new, state-of-the-art Bluffton campus. Christian Academy’s K-12 campus, home to 460 students, was designed from the ground up to deliver an innovative learning environment geared towards deeper learning. HHCA’s authentic learning model focuses on outcomes that matter, a culture that empowers, teaching that engages, and technology that enables – all within a Christ-centered environment.

HHCA has a 41-year history of successful college placements. 100% of HHCA students who apply to college are accepted and over 90% earn merit-based scholarships. Ranked among the top K-12 private schools in South Carolina, HHCA has an awardwinning fine arts program and over 30 sports teams offering opportunities for students to excel.

Hovering at 100% enrollment this year, interest in HHCA is at an all-time high. Families are encouraged to inquire now if interested in 2021-2022 admission.

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT: Excellence is often born out of experience and longevity. For HHCA’s academic resource center mentor and most senior faculty memberAnne Poole, this has certainly been true. Poole has served HHCA students with excellence for 33 years, equipping them with the tools they need for success in the classroom and in life. She, along with many of HHCA’s founding families, helped lay the foundation of HHCA’s Hilton Head campus and now has the privilege of helping HHCA transition to the new campus in Bluffton.

“We had such a small start, with a small group of children, and now we’re bursting at the seams,” Poole said.

“It’s exciting to see how far we have come and even more exciting to think about all that lies ahead for us.”

ANNE POOLE

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:LINDSAY MARSHALL, AGUSTINA CARDOZO, ALANA MCBRIDE, KATE TAPLEY

LOWCOUNTRY DAY CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL & CAMP Established in 1997, Lowcountry Day schools are privately owned, state-licensed Christian preschools.

Lowcountry Day provides a year-round pre-kindergarten curriculum, welcoming families from all denominations and encouraging learning through the creative arts by providing a ballet and music room on campus.

The schools’ mission is to provide a safe, nurturing environment and the highest quality care to meet the needs of every child.

WHAT’S NEW: In January, Lowcountry Day preschools, under new private ownership, will implement the worldrenowned The Creative Curriculum for Preschool program. It is based on 38 objectives for development and learning that focus on all the areas that are most important for school success: social-emotional, cognitive, math, literacy, physical, language, social studies, science and technology, and the arts.

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT: Lowcountry Day Schools directors Lindsay Marshall, Agustina Cardozo, Alana McBride, and Kate Tapley are the heart and soul of the schools and offer a combined experience of over 20 years in early childhood education and experience. Our team trains and develops a nurturing staff and we are focused on providing a safe and nurturing environment for our children and families through trained personnel, family events, and excellent programs.

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SAVANNAH CHRISTIAN PREPARATORY SCHOOL Savannah Christian Preparatory School is an independent, non-denominational PK-12 college prep Christian school. The only Savannah school triple-accredited through CESA (the Council on Educational Standards and Accountability), SAIS, and Cognia, SCPS offers 27 pre-AP and AP courses. Fifty-two lower school, middle school, junior varsity, and varsity teams are available within 17 different sports, as well as 32 fine arts program offerings from pre-k through 12th grade. Located just 34 minutes from Bluffton, consider Savannah Christian Preparatory School for your child’s education.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: Cooper George, Savannah Christian Preparatory School class of 2021, is a student-athlete and Bluffton resident. Cooper began attending Savannah Christian in 2019 and says, “Savannah Christian is a school that makes you feel at home. People are engaged in after-school activities and most importantly, there is a high-level of respect for everybody on campus. It is a fun school and I would recommend it to anyone I know.”

For his abilities in basketball, Cooper earned honorable mention for the Savannah area basketball team and was named first team all-region for basketball. In his spare time, he teaches baseball lessons to children in Bluffton. He has been offered an athletic scholarship for baseball at the University of Mount Olive, where he plans to attend in the fall.

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COOPER GEORGE

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ST. FRANCIS CATHOLIC SCHOOL For the past 24 years, St. Francis Catholic School, a fully SACS-accredited parochial Catholic school for students in prekindergarten through eighth grade, has provided an excellent academic environment for all its students. St. Francis Catholic School’s mission is to nurture students’ spiritual and intellectual growth in a Catholic community committed to academic excellence, with a focus on faith formation, quality academics and community. The school offers a variety of opportunities and enrichment activities for students and helps students mature in their faith through participation in the sacramental life of the Church. St. Francis strives to develop each child’s intellect and motivate the child to action and service. Our hope is that every graduate is a person of faith, integrity and scholarship.

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HERITAGE ACADEMY Rooted in academic excellence and dedicated to students’ pursuit of extracurricular interests, Heritage Academy is a college-preparatory school where champions are made. The goal is to personalize education for each student ensuring success as student-artists, student-athletes, and students seeking to build their academic achievements. Whether their interest is academics only, a sport, the arts, or their own specialized extra-curricular activity, the educational standard to which students are held will prepare them for top-tier colleges and universities. Lowcountry students who have the desire to attend Heritage Academy and the aptitude required will find themselves learning alongside students from other countries. Students enter our halls driven to succeed. They graduate as life champions. That is the Heritage Academy difference.

AMANDA WILLIAMS-O’NAN

WHAT’S NEW: After 16 years of serving youth in our community, Head of School Gloria Shoemaker is retiring from Heritage Academy. Amanda WilliamsO’Nan is pleased to follow in the footsteps of this well-respected educator and leader. WilliamsO’Nan’s vision for the school is to support students in small classes, to provide a state-of-the-art college preparatory education, and to keep Heritage Academy affordable. Flexible hours and a comprehensive program allow students to end their school day early to enjoy and pursue what may be important in their lives. As the face of education is changing, Heritage Academy is committed to meeting these challenges by providing a flexible alternative for students who want a safe, supportive, accredited, half-day academic experience in place of spending most of their day in a rigid educational setting.

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA BEAUFORT CENTER FOR EVENT MANAGEMENT AND HOSPITALITY TRAINING USCB’s Center for Event Management and Hospitality Training offers valuable professional development opportunities, event management resources and assistance with service quality evaluation and management. Its Island Ambassador program is popular with local businesses and includes inperson or virtual seminars about the culture, knowledge and ecology of Hilton Head Island. After the three-part Island Ambassador session, attendees can confidently discuss with island visitors and guests topics ranging from wildlife commonly seen on the beach to Hilton Head Island’s early history.

More than 2,300 Island Ambassadors have been certified to date. A similar Bluffton Ambassador Program educates attendees in its virtual classroom about Bluffton’s rich history, unique amenities and diverse ecology. As part of the Center’s event management services, USCB students assist with local community events to learn real-world skills and provide extra hands. The quality management program assists local hospitality businesses in their efforts to understand and improve the guest experience. Last year, the Center opened its Research Center. The Research Center conducts festival and event research in compliance with the Center for Disease Control’s COVID-19 guidelines. For more information contact Keri Olivetti at olivetti@uscb.edu.

CROSS SCHOOLS Established in 1998, Cross Schools provides a Christianbased education for children ages 12 months through 9th grade. The 2020-20201 academic year welcomed the first high school class. Cross Schools strives to create an atmosphere where students develop a passion for learning through small classes, rigorous academics, various enrichment courses, and faith-based learning. At Cross Schools, students attend weekly chapel, participate in community service projects, and can join multiple clubs. The athletic program features nine sports and 18 different competitive teams. The guiding principles of the Cross Schools community are academic excellence, Christian values, and community service.

WHAT’S NEW: Cross Schools is excited to have Pete Laugen join the team as its new Head of School. Laugen brings more than 25 years of experience, working in the classroom, on the athletic field, and in administrative roles. His experience has proven very beneficial as the new high school continues to grow.

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PETE LAUGEN

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FIRST PRESBYTERIAN DAY SCHOOL First Presbyterian Day School was established in 1984 and serves working parents in our community. We are open year-round from 7:45 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with our school year beginning each August. Tuition includes two healthy snacks and a nutritional, well-balanced lunch each day. The Day School is licensed by the South Carolina Department of Social Services and holds an A+ ABC Quality rating through South Carolina’s statewide quality rating and improvement system (QRIS) for early care and education providers. Applications are now being accepted for the 2021-2022 school year.

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT: Amy Dungan has been the Director of First Presbyterian Day School since 2015. She earned a B.S. in marketing from Miami University, a Master of Teaching from USC, and a Master of Education Administration from Cambridge College. The Day School is staffed by committed faculty who fully support children and the development of their creative, social and intellectual potential.

AMY DUNGAN

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JOHN PAUL II CATHOLIC SCHOOL John Paul II Catholic School offers students of all faiths an exceptional education in a safe and secure Christ-centered environment.

Students are well prepared to succeed in college through our rigorous Honors, Advanced Placement, and Pre-AP courses. Beyond the classroom, an extensive athletic program, wide-ranging clubs and activities, and a growing performing arts program offer students the opportunity to learn valuable teamwork and life skills. Community service-learning is embedded in our curriculum allowing students to understand how their Christian faith calls them to be joyful servants to those less fortunate. Our graduates are truly scholars with a soul.

FIRST ALUM ON STAFF: Sam Richardson ‘18 is coming back to JPII as director of music to teach band, advise the jazz band, and direct liturgical music and the spring play. Sam earned a B.S. in Media Communications from Full Sail University last fall.

“It is an immense pleasure to call the teachers and staff who shaped my upbringing, my colleagues,” he said.

“I am so grateful for this opportunity.”

STEVEN MOE

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ST. GREGORY THE GREAT CATHOLIC SCHOOL St. Gregory the Great Catholic School opened in 2006 and serves students in pre-kindergarten through sixth grade with an enrollment of 185 students. St. Gregory strives to create a well-rounded environment that meets the needs of all students. The school’s motto of “Where Faith and the Sciences Excel” is enhanced with premiere science and technology labs where all students can explore their faith and the sciences.

In Oct. 2019, St. Gregory the Great Catholic School became the first non-public school in South Carolina and first Catholic school in the Diocese of Charleston to receive STEM Certification through Cognia (formerly known as Advanc-ED). This was a great accomplishment for the students, families, staff, and community of the parish. SGGCS worked to meet this goal through collaborative efforts, a strong transdisciplinary approach to education, and introducing new programs to allow students the opportunity to grow in their faith and their learning. Not only does SGGCS provide a Catholic education that is faith-based and built on the tenets of the Catholic Church, it provides students with opportunities to explore the world around them with complex and authentic learning experiences.

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SCAD SCAD, the university for creative careers, offers more than 100 academic degree programs in more than 40 majors at its Georgia locations in Savannah and Atlanta, in Lacoste, France, and online via SCAD eLearning. SCAD enrolls more than 15,000 undergraduate and graduate students from more than 115 countries. The innovative SCAD curriculum is enhanced by advanced, professional-level technology, equipment, and learning resources, as well as opportunities for internships, professional certifications and collaborative projects with corporate partners. Career preparation is woven into every fiber of the university, resulting in a superior alumni employment rate. www.scad.edu SCAD ALUMNA PROFILE: South Carolinian Louisa Dunn (B.F.A., fibers, 2020) is weaving her dream. Her textiles are showcased in the SCAD documentary Fashion in Frame, highlighting the future of creativity and the fashion experience. Dunn helped create stunning garments by hand-painting motifs for patterns, printing them digitally, and adding free-motion embroidery embellishments. She currently works at Lulie Wallace Art in Charleston.

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LOUISA DUNN

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TECHNICAL COLLEGE OF THE LOWCOUNTRY The Technical College of the Lowcountry elevates each student and every community it serves through transformative technology and exceptional teaching. TCL is the region’s primary provider of post-secondary education and workforce training. The public, two-year, multi-campus community college serves approximately 5,000 students annually. The college offers a variety of curricular programs including university transfer options, career and continuing education, online learning, and dual enrollment for area high school students.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: Dejarvis Eaddy turned to TCL to get his life on track and recently graduated with an associate degree in industrial electronics.

“The cost was affordable, the classes were smaller, and the professors actually knew my name,” Eaddy said.

“Technical College changed my life.”

DEJARVIS EDDY

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THE NATURE OF THE SITE DICTATED EVERYTHING… THE VIEW

INSPIRED

COZY &

WARM CALLAWASSIE ISLAND HOME WITH A FRENCH TOUCH

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BY D E A N R O W L A N D | P H OTO S BY R I C H A R D L E O J O H N S O N Nancy Rapp is an enthusiastic home chef.

She has French cuisine by her culinary side and an abundance of cookbooks for reference in her back “messy” space where she has a working kitchen for prepping and a desk.

Julia Childs was her cooking mentor in the early 1970s – cookbooks and TV. Beef bourguignon is her favorite dish to cook on Callawassie Island, where she and her husband, Rob, live. She mixes her braised beef with gravy beef stock, red wine and cognac, carrots and onions.

“It’s a wonderful, rich and beautiful beef dish,” she said.

Other favorites are roasts and stews, cog au vin, cabbage and squash. She said her husband makes seriously good chili and fajitas.

They do it all in their new kitchen designed

by Anne Pappas, owner of Anne Pappas Interiors in Savannah, who has a master’s degree in interior design from the Savannah College of Art and Design and has had clients worldwide during her 10-year career.

The couple from Florida enlisted Pappas to work with the architect and builder to weave her interior magic into their new home before they moved in late 2019.

Pappas designed every room in their Lowcountry home. When the couple sat down

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with Pappas in pre-commitment interviews, they presented general plans and ideas.

“They wanted to evolve their tastes and styles more fitting with the Lowcountry,” she said. “So, it’s my job to get her from point A to point B. Before I saw the space and the site, I saw the plans from the architect. So, I worked with the architect and builder from the beginning. The nature of the site dictated everything…the view.”

Said Rob: “There’s a view from every room in the house of the Colleton River and marshes.”

“It feels like home,” Nancy said. “It’s very comfortable, very welcoming and very warm.”

Pappas kept the interiors colors muted with different textures fitting for the Lowcountry coastal-design spirit in a country home.

“We didn’t have to introduce overwhelming color palettes,” she said. “It’s a clean and aesthetic design style that a lot of people are looking for…I think it’s giving them warmth without being too cool and modern. It’s creating a calming environment.”

Signature elements in the kitchen are a custom-made copper hood above the range, marble counter tops, mossy green colored cabinets and a French custom-made La Cornue gas range with multiple cooking features.

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IT’S GIVING THEM WARMTH WITHOUT BEING TOO COOL AND MODERN. IT’S CREATING A CALMING ENVIRONMENT.

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As much as Nancy loves to cook and entertain, she doesn’t really know where it all began.

“I don’t know where my love of cooking came from,” she said. “I love to eat, I love to take care of people through food, I love to show my love through food, and I have a husband who loves to eat what I make. And I love entertaining.”

Pre-pandemic, she would host dinner parties for eight or so guests. Since the pandemic struck, she’s hosted three dinner parties over nine months for two to five guests.

But she and her husband still plan their three daily meals in the early morning in their coastal French country home — sometimes divine and sometimes casual.

As for collaboration?

“Anne was excellent working with us; she read who we were,” Nancy said. “She always pointed us in the direction she knew was right for us. We just hit it off.”

Said Pappas: “She’s lovely. So easy to get along with.”

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Halley

Kelly

SCHEMBRA REAL ESTATE GROUP ADDS ASSOCIATE

Whitney Halley, a lifelong resident of Hilton Head Island, has joined Schembra Real Estate Group as assistant to the brokerin-charge. She was most recently client service supervisor for Spherion in Columbia.

Halley graduated magna cum laude from USC Darla Moore School of Business with a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing and management.

WEICHERT REALTORS WELCOMES AN AGENT; SAIN AWARDED TOP DESIGNATION

Shelly Gentile has joined the Weichert Realtors real estate team. She will work out of the Hilton Head office. Gentile came to Hilton Head Island three years ago in search of a second home and was instantly charmed by the Lowcountry life. After 30 years of running her own company in New York, she sold the business and pursued her passion for real estate. She comes from four generations of construction and real estate experience and holds a real estate license in New York and South Carolina.

Nancy Sain of Weichert Realtors was awarded the Accredited Buyer’s Representative designation by the Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council of the National Association of Realtors. She joins more than 25,000 real estate professionals who have earned the ABR designation.

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GeShelly Gentile

Arroyo

Coolican

Collins Group

COLLINS GROUP REALTY PROVIDES FOR COMMUNITY DURING HOLIDAYS

Collins Group Realty helped give back during the holidays.

The 20th year of the Collins Group Realty Thanksgiving food drive was held in Windmill Harbour, Long Cove Club and the Point Comfort communities. The initiative collected 4,000 pounds of food for The Deep Well Project; 293 bags of food and pantry items were donated.

Collins Group Realty utilized its Community Vehicle (a box truck they loan, free of charge, to community organizations, nonprofits, schools, and clients) and volunteers from within the real estate company, including real estate specialists, staff and family members to collect the donations and deliver them to Deep Well.

Also, in partnership with the Hampton Hall Charitable Fund and The Haven Social Committee, Collins Group Realty conducted toy drives in Hampton Hall, The Haven and the Sam’s Club parking lot, filling nearly two box trucks with toy donations.

The real estate company and Hampton Hall Charitable Fund have been conducting a toy drive in the gated community for years, collecting donations for Bluffton Self Help’s Holiday Toy Shop.

KELLER WILLIAMS WELCOMES FIVE NEW AGENTS

Matt Kelly, Lara Arroyo, Michael Gates and Joy Gentile have joined Keller Williams Realty Lowcountry as new agents at its Hilton Head office, and Kim Coolican to its Beaufort office.

REPORT: MORE ADULTS LIVING WITH ROOMMATES

The number of “doubled-up households” has increased in the area, according to a report from Porch.com. In the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton area, 27.2% of adults live with roommates.

The study says roommates in a twobedroom unit in Hilton Head Island-Bluffton save 37.2% on rent.

Nationwide, the typical doubled-up household consists of adult family members living together in a house that one of them owns. Doubled-up households increased by nearly 5 million from 2007 to 2011.

SOUTH CAROLINA HOME SALES UP

South Carolina Realtors said there was a 19 percent increase in closed sales in the state compared to 2019, as of its October data. The median sales price rose almost 17 percent to $255,450 compared to the same time in 2019. Nationally, in Oct. 2020, 72 percent of homes were on the market for less than a month.

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TOP 10 MARKETS DURING COVID

The National Association of Realtors identified the top 10 markets that have shown resilience during the pandemic and that are expected to perform well postCOVID-19. The top 10 markets are: AtlantaSandy Springs-Alpharetta, Georgia; Boise City, Idaho; Charleston-North Charleston, South Carolina; Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, Texas; Des Moines-West Des Moines, Iowa Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson, Indiana; Madison, Wisconsin; Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler, Arizona; Provo-Orem, Utah; and Spokane-Spokane Valley, Washington.

Factors considered included unemployment rate; net domestic migration, including movers from West Coast areas; and leisure and hospitality industries.

Low unemployment rates compared to the national average signaled strong employment environments. At 4.2%, Provo-Orem boasts the lowest unemployment rate among those listed, followed by Madison at 4.3%, Charleston at 4.7% and Des Moines at 5%.

HILTON HEAD REGION PENDING SALES UP 28%

According to the November Housing Supply Overview from the Hilton Head Area Association of Realtors, from December 2019 to November 2020, pending sales in the Hilton Head region were up 28 percent. The overall median sales price was up 13 percent to $363,700.

Market-wide, inventory levels were down 41.9 percent. This amounted to 2.1 months’ supply for single-family homes and 1.8 months’ supply for condos.

REPORT: 2021 GROWTH EXPECTED

Top U.S. economic and housing experts expect a post-pandemic economic rebound, improving job conditions and stable interest rates to continue in 2021, according to a report from the National Association of Realtors.

The group of experts’ predictions include a Gross Domestic Product growth of 3.5% in 2021 and 3.0% in 2022; an annual unemployment rate of 6.2% this year with

a decline to 5.0% in 2022; annual median home price to increase by 8.0% in 2021 and by 5.5% in 2022; and the share of the U.S. workforce working from home to be 18% in 2021 – down from 21% in 2020 – and 12% in 2022.

Small declines in office and hotel vacancy rates in 2021, with a slight increase in retail vacancies next year, are predicted.

“It is an understatement to say the year 2020 has been filled with challenges and full of surprises,” said Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist and senior vice president of research. “Yet, one astonishing development has been the hot housing market as consumers eyed record-low mortgage rates and reconsidered what a home should be in a new economy with flexible work-from-home schedules.”

In 2020, home sales will reach 5.52 million, the highest annual mark since 2006, according to the NAR report.

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N M A I

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2021 TOP WEDDING

In the 1989 movie Steel Magnolias, the bride Shelby chose two shades of pink (Blush and Bashful) for her wedding. Today’s couples aren’t afraid to venture out on the color wheel. Exploring the top wedding colors of the year is a great way to start your wedding planning. There are some new trends and consistent favorites to help make your special day the best day ever.

BY ANTHONY DAVID

Here are a few colors that are trending in 2021.

LIGHT BLUE // Blue is a traditional favorite, but in lieu of dark hues, The Knot says lighter blue tones are more popular, including cornflower, French blue and periwinkle.

Powder blue is making a comeback, according to Wedding Wire. It is versatile, good for “ballroom weddings to laid-back rustic dinners.”

Powder blue can be used in bouquet ribbons, shoes or flowers, Wedding Wire said.

SHE

SAID

THROWBACKS // The 1980s and 1990s are back – in color. The Knot said fuchsia, yellow, teal and bright red are in fashion in 2021, with the trend being to use a combination of all of them.

Use these bright colors on “patterned dinner plates to rainbow flower arrangements,” The Knot suggests.

Bold colors are fun and popular this year, Wedding Wire said. A 1990s-inspired wedding can include cherry red and purple, good for complementing balloon backdrops or neon signs.

GREEN // Green, considered an “unsung hero” by Wedding Wire, is ready to blossom in 2021. Lighter greens are the trend. Matcha green, olive or pistachio offer a retro look, Wedding Wire says.

The color will be eclectic this year, according to The Knot, with mid-range greens, like avocado, bringing a 1970s vibe to your wedding.

As a “universally flattering” color, The Knot, suggests a green jacket or fitting your bridesmaids in green slip dresses. Or, a green engagement ring can make for a throwback look.

PURPLE // Making a comeback in 2021, The Knot and Wedding Wire agree lilac and lavender are surging in popularity.

Lighter versions of purple are trending, and lilac and lavender are “whimsical yet sophisticated,” according to weddingwire.com, good for garden weddings.

Involve them in your wedding with bouquets or centerpieces, theknot.com said. The colors are also being seen in colorful cakes and pressed flowers. No matter how you incorporate them in your wedding, lilac and lavender bring a refreshing vibe.

PAPAYA ORANGE // Packing some punch is papaya orange. Orange tones are rising in popularity and papaya is eye-catching and playful, weddingwire.com said. Works well with a tropical theme.

Papaya orange can be “bohemian and artsy, or tropical and lively,” The Knot said.

Makes for a great pairing with vivid hues (turquoise, lime, fuchsia, magenta) for a beach wedding.

NEUTRAL // Bright colors are not the only trend. There’s still a demand for neutral colors. Ivory, gray and cream are trending, Wedding Wire said, especially with floral arrangements. For a minimalist look, weddingwire.com suggests accenting the colors with dried flowers, pampas grass and bleached greenery.

The Knot says in-demand colors include taupe, ivory and dusty rose. For a formal affair, use black as an accent color.

YELLOW // Vibrant yellow is hot in 2021, The Knot said. The color is popular at summer beach or outdoor fall weddings.

Tuscany yellow is possibly the “boldest” color of the year, according to Wedding Wire. The golden tones of the shade are why Wedding Wire gives it the “Tuscany” moniker.

Yellow flowers are a favorite, or include the color to tablescapes. For fun, The Knot suggests fresh lemons, grapefruits and oranges to add to your centerpieces.

MA RY A N N & GE OFF KE N T OF B L U FFTON

are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, LA U R A A N N E KE N T

to Jayson Michael Johnson, son of Christine Aliotti and Michael Johnson of Pinellas Park, Fla. Laura is a graduate of James Madison University and Technical College of the Lowcountry Nursing Program and is an RN at Beaufort Memorial Hospital.

Jayson joined the Marines in 2012 and is a drill instructor at Parris Island. A 2022 wedding is planned. The couple will reside in Beaufort and will be moving to San Diego next summer.

RECENTLY

OR SOON TO BE To have your engagement or wedding announcement included in next month’s Monthly, register online by January 15.

HILTONHEADMONTHLY.COM/WEDDINGS

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I I H E A LT H I I

NEW YEAR NEW YOU! The catalyst for change for many is often the coming of a new year.

Start the year off right with small, manageable changes to your lifestyle that will help you conquer your New Year’s resolutions.

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YOGA YOGA POSES FOR THE BEGINNER

BY ANTHONY DAVID

A holistic approach to health can be invigorating — and intimidating. If you are looking for a new approach to health in 2021, yoga is good place to start. Yoga, which combines breathing, meditation and body poses, improves flexibility, strength and helps relieve stress. If you are uncertain about the intricacies of yoga, here are some poses to get going.

1. DOWNWARD-FACING DOG

The “poster pose” for yoga, according to verywellfit. com, it’s the one that is best-known. The pose stretches the hamstrings and calves and strengthens the arms, legs, and back.

An important tip is to keep your weight mostly in

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your legs and reach your hips high, with your heels stretching toward the floor, verywellfit.com said.

Downward-facing Dog can also help relieve back pain, according to the New York Times.

The focus should be on keeping your spine long, self.com said.

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2. MOUNTAIN POSE

This is a standard yoga pose that improves posture and strengthens your legs, according to verywellfit.com. The mountain pose focuses on alignment; it draws a straight line from the crown of your head to your heels, with the shoulders and pelvis stacked along the line, verywellfit.com said.

Keep your arms parallel with your ears, self.com said..

The focus should be on keeping your spine long, self.com said.

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3. WARRIOR II

A standing pose that strengthens the arms and legs and tones the abdomen, verywellfit.com said.

Warrior II is good for stretching a tight back and legs and “develops balance and stability,” according to harmonyyoga.com.

A beginner’s tip from Very Well Fit: Watch your right knee. It may drift toward the center. Work on keeping your shin perpendicular to the floor with the knee over the middle toe of the right foot.

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4. TRIANGLE POSE

The triangle strengthens the legs and stretches the hips and spine, the New York Times said. It also offers flexibility (hamstrings, hips) and helps with balance. The pose is good for endurance.

A tip from the New York Times: Lifting your arm toward the ceiling helps keep the pose “buoyant.”

5. BRIDGE POSE

A “gentle way” to start working the spine, verywellfit.com said, the bridge pose improves the mobility of the spine and helps reverse the effects of sitting for too long. It can improve core stability by working the abdominal muscles and the lower back and hip muscles.

This pose stretches the muscles of the chest, back and neck, according to the New York Times, and builds strength in the back and hamstring muscles.

6. TREE POSE

This pose is excellent for working on your balance and can strengthen your core, the New York Times said.

It is often the first standing balance pose taught to yoga beginners because it is simple, Very Well Fit said.

It’s fun to try to keep your balance while standing on one leg. Wobbling is expected.

The pose can also help strengthen your calves and spine.

Before trying these excercises, it’s best to consult your doctor to find out what’s best for you. Be safe. Be healthy.

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HEALTH SIMPLE, JOYFUL STEPS TO HEALTH IN 2021

BY NELL CURRAN

Good news! 2020 is over. Normally, the turn of the calendar feels like it crept up, aided by too many rushed and regretted cookies or cocktails. This year, we hope it can offer a welcome chance to finally wipe our slates clean from some of last year’s chaos. Paying attention to our health is more important than ever. Even so, major New Year’s resolution lifestyle overhauls feel like a lot in the current atmosphere. Instead of packing into overcrowded daily aerobics classes or eliminating shelf-stable carbs from our diets, 2021 might be a year to make small shifts in habit and mindset. Want to take advantage of the renewal of a new season’s offerings without doubling down on stress, deprivation, disruption or guilt? Here are some tips:

EMBRACE WHERE YOU ARE NOW

It can be tempting to try to create change by looking for the areas in our lives full of dissatisfaction or regret.

Yet as Jean Rioux, the owner of Jiva Yoga in Hilton Head pointed out, healthy mindsets don’t start from a negative place.

She reflected on the axiom that, “No matter how far you’ve gone down a path, you can always turn around.”

Instead of criticizing your body and letting negativity control the conversation in your head, she encourages people to, “come from a place of self-love. Show up for yourself compassionately.”

CELEBRATE GOOD DECISIONS, NO MATTER HOW SMALL

It’s much easier to build off success. As Rioux puts it, “do one good thing for yourself a day.”

Then, keep track of the healthy things you did rather than regrets. In that vein, some dietitians suggest changing your diet by setting goals to do more positive things rather than restricting.

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Instead of counting calories, count grams of fiber or incorporate more good delicacies rich in healthy vitamins or protein.

PLAN FOR DISRUPTION

Last year was an unending cycle of “hurry up, then wait.” This year is likely to start off the same way with shifts in vaccination availability, guidelines or mandates regarding gatherings or distancing. This year, we have the advantage of forewarning, as the current events function like road signs announcing we should “expect delays.”

Andrea Roberts, the COO of HHI Hospitality Group, runs Hilton Head’s Healthy Habit eatery. She emphasizes that thinking ahead is the difference between a healthy choice and a makeshift lunch from a drive-thru or vending machine: “By planning for life’s curveballs in advance, you are formulating a realistic game plan that will work with the daily ebb and flow of life’s realities.”

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PRIORITIZE JOY

Countless minimalists have told us to focus on “what brings joy,” and they are right. Endorphins and oxytocin, natural hormones that come from movement and pleasure are both keys to good health and hard to come by when we’re isolating at home. Plenty of things can still bring us joy if we treat ourselves well.

Try including special ingredients for a delicious sounding, indulgent healthy recipe on your weekly grocery list. Take walks or bike in the sun, play a socially distanced tennis game, or try your hand at growing fresh herbs in the garden.

BE OPEN WHEN OPPORTUNITY COMES: Disruption can be good or bad; you get to decide if it’s an annoyance or an opportunity. That traffic jam can become a singalong when your kids’ devices lose their connection.

A shift in work environment may eliminate commute time and open up a morning walk around your neighborhood. Embrace the adventure of change whenever you can.

Optimism works. With a little bit of grace and a realistic but positive outlook, 2021 can definitely bring about change for the better.

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EXERCISE YOUR WELL BEING

STAYING ACTIVE HELPS REDUCE STRESS, PROVIDES MENTAL BOOST

By Anthony David A “new you” in the new year is about truly taking time for you. As we envision a more hopeful 2021, there are ways you can give yourselves a boost.

Exercising can be a grind, but it’s important to stay active to help you not only physically, but mentally.

Here are some benefits of exercise.

REDUCES STRESS Getting your body moving helps you reduce stress. The Mayo Clinic said exercise “pumps” up your endorphins

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– giving you a “high” that makes us feel empowered.

Exercising also helps protect your body from harmful effects of stress and can help you take your mind off your concerns.

Give yourself an “emotional lift,” the Mayo Clinic said. Exercise helps us stimulate brain chemicals that could help us feel happier and less anxious.

It’s important to do things you enjoy. Make exercising fun, whether it’s walking, jogging or riding a bike. Do what you enjoy doing.

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I I H E A LT H I I IMPROVES SLEEP A good night’s sleep is important for overall health, and exercise plays a vital role.

“We have solid evidence that exercise does, in fact, help you fall asleep more quickly and improves sleep quality,” Charlene Gamaldo, M.D., medical director of Johns Hopkins’ Center for Sleep at Howard County General Hospital in Maryland, said on the hospital’s website.

Exercise helps increase “slow-wave sleep,” the website said, which is a deep sleep that gives the brain and body a chance to rejuvenate. Exercise also helps decompress the mind, which Johns Hopkins said is important to “naturally transitioning to sleep.”

How much exercise is ideal for a good sleep? Johns Hopkins says about 30 minutes of “moderate aerobic” exercise might help people see a difference in sleep quality.

INCREASES CONFIDENCE Exercise can give us a burst of improved self-esteem.

Feeling good while being active gives us renewed confidence and can improve our outlook on life. Livestrong.com said regular exercise and sticking to a schedule gives people a sense of achievement.

Having an exercise routine and sticking to it provides a mental boost.

HEALTHYHABITS

GETTING EXERCISE IS IMPORTANT TO HAVING A HEALTHY AND FRUITFUL YEAR. HERE’S A HEALTH OUTLOOK BY THE NUMBERS:

9.7 6.2 30 75 150

Added average years of life expectancy for those who frequently play tennis.

Added average years of life expectancy for those who frequently play badminton.

Minutes of recommended daily exercise.

Minutes of suggested vigorous aerobic weekly activity.

Minutes of recommended moderate aerobic weekly exercise.

Sources: Mayo Clinic; Mayo Clinic Proceedings

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HELPS YOU FEEL PRODUCTIVE The motion of excercise gives off the pump of endorphins, a rush of positivity and increased energy, the Cleveland Clinic said.

The bolt of energy leads people to claim they feel more productive when they exercise.

There’s a feeling of accomplishment after a workout, and exercise can make you feel less groggy and irritable, the Cleveland Clinic said.

Livestrong.com said exercise helps productivity by boosting alertness. The increasing blood flow to the brain can help sharpen awareness.

More energy often means you feel more awake, LiveStrong said.

Small things can help, such as walking during a lunch break.

You may excercise to lose weight or to try to keep from running the risk of heart disease; the reasons are personal, but the motivation to being active leads to production.

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EXERCISE YOUR WELL BEING

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EXERCISE YOUR WELL BEING

HELPS FIGHT DISEASES

Being active might help clear our heads of worries, but it also helps prevent many health problems.

Regular exercise can help against a stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes and arthritis, the Mayo Clinic said. It can also help prevent weight gain. A little bit of exercise each day can help burn calories.

Even taking the stairs instead of the elevator can help.

AUGMENTS COGNITIVE FUNCTION Improved blood flow to the brain is a benefit of exercising, the Cleveland Clinic said, which improves cognition. Regular exercise helps us think clearer; exercising your brain is a way to stay mentally sharp.

Engaging in mentally stimulating activities helps build your cognitive reserve, the Cleveland Clinic said.

A recent study showed each hour of “light-intensity” physical activity and 7,500 steps or more daily was associated with higher total brain volume, which was “equivalent to approximately 1.4 to 2.2 years less brain aging,” according to the Cleveland Clinic.

So, try a new hobby, such as chess, crossword puzzles or a word search, or read a book each week.

Or dance. Dancing gets the heart rate going and your blood flowing.

The Cleveland Clinic said in study of “memory-impaired older adults,” those who participated in one-hour ballroom dance lessons twice a week for 10 months showed improved brain function and mood and behavior.

Exercise is crucial to staying healthy in 2021. Make being active a priority in the new year. Engaging in a routine of (fun) activities for your body and your brain will help you feel rejuvenated.

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GETTING IN SHAPE TIPS FOR A HEALTHY WAY TO LOSE WEIGHT

By Marie McAden

Losing weight. It tops the 2021 to-do list for millions of Americans. While fitting into those old jeans may be a motivating factor for some, a growing number of people are being inspired to drop those extra pounds to improve their health.

And with the pandemic still raging, it’s more important than ever. Along with an increased risk of developing serious health issues like type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease and certain cancers, overweight adults are much more likely to become severely ill from COVID19. Studies have found the likelihood of being hospitalized doubles if you are obese, and the likelihood of dying increases by nearly 50 percent.

Despite those sobering statistics, losing weight remains a bedeviling New Year’s resolution with a high fail rate. But you can increase your odds of succeeding with some simple strategies — and a little help from today’s technology.

Board-certified obesity medicine specialist Dr. Yvette-Marie Pellegrino of Beaufort Memorial Lady’s Island Internal Medicine suggests using the free app MyFitnessPal. “It doesn’t just provide the calorie content of the foods you eat, it tracks the macronutrients of fat, protein and carbohydrates,” she said. “It helps you make educated choices. In time, those choices become second nature.”

If you cut 500 to 1,000 calories out of your diet each day, over a period of a week you’ll lose about 1 to 2 pounds, considered a healthy weight loss by the CDC. “The key is to make changes gradually,” Pellegrino said “It shouldn’t be all or nothing. Any change is a good change.”

To start, she said, identify your personal obstacle and reduce your consumption in increments. For instance, if your weakness is soda, mix half a glass of soda with

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carbonated water or limit yourself to three cans a day instead of five.

“That’s a win,” said Pellegrino, who oversees Beaufort Memorial’s Healthy Weight program. “Even cutting one soda a day will make a difference.”

In her practice, Pellegrino never tells her patients anything is off limits. It’s a matter of making choices.

“You can have a McDonald’s burger, just don’t get french fries and soda to go with it,” she said.

“If you’ve got to have the fries, then eat the burger without the bun.”

And sometimes a friend or family member can help.

“Get a buddy to keep you accountable,” Pellegrino said. “You’re less likely to cheat if you’re reporting to someone.”

HERE ARE SOME COMMON DIET PROBLEMS AND PELLEGRINO’S TIPS FOR OVERCOMING THEM: • Instead of fast food for lunch, pick up a bag of prepared salad and add tuna or chicken for your protein.

Top it with oil and vinegar or a healthy salad dressing.

•Drink half your body weight in ounces of water each day. It keeps you feeling full and has no calories.

•If you don’t have the time or energy to prepare dinner on week nights, make a meal or two on Sunday and double the recipe to have leftovers.

•Rather than snacking on processed foods like chips, opt for an apple with peanut butter or raw veggies and hummus.

•If you’re a supermarket impulse buyer, order your groceries online to avoid those tempting donuts and cookies in the bakery aisle.

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HEALTH

I I H E A LT H I I

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

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Bishop Eye Center 4818 Bluffton Parkway, Bluffton 224 Pembroke Drive, Hilton Head 300 New River Parkway, Hardeeville 843.689.3937 | BishopEye.com Bluffton Pharmacy 167-B Bluffton Rd., Bluffton 843.757.4999 Burke’s Main Street Pharmacy 1101 Main St., Hilton Head Island 843.681.2622 Crown & Anchor Barber Co. 115 Arrow Rd., Hilton Head 843.341.5637 | crownandanchorbarber.com

Darling Eye Center 576 William Hilton Pkwy., Hilton Head Island 843.342.2020 19 Promenade Street Bluffton 843.815.4343 darlingeyecenter.net Davis & Wine Dental Associates 12 Sheridan Park Circle, Bluffton 843.815.5400 4 Okatie Center Blvd S #103, Okatie/Sun City 843.705.9551 Davisandwine.com Enliten Salon 37 New Orleans Rd A, Hilton Head Island, Orleans Plaza 843.842.9200 | www.enlitensalon.com

Faces Day Spa The Village at Wexford 843.785.3075 | FacesDaySpa.com Finger & Associates 350 Fording Island Road, Bluffton 912.214.4005 | Fingerandassociates.com Fraum Center for Restorative Health 1403 Main St., Hilton Head Island 843.681.7777 fraumchiropracticofhiltonhead.com Goulas Eye 29 Plantation Park Drive, Bluffton 843.815.5454 | GoulasEye.com The Herb Room & The Art of Massage 14 New Orleans Rd., Hilton Head Island 843.422.8372 | HiltonHeadWellness.com

Hilton Head Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, P.A. 15 Hospital Center Blvd., Hilton Head Island 843.689.9200 Hiltonheaddermatology.com

The Pain Center & Regenerative Institute 19 Moss Creek Village, Suite C Hilton Head, SC 29926 843.949.7790 | Paincentersc.com

Integrative Pain Relief (Beth Schoon) 4 Dunmore Ct, Hilton Head Island 843.422.2592 Hiltonheadislandacupuncture.com

Peak Performance 95 Mathews Dr., Hilton Head Island (in Port Royal Shopping Plaza) 843.715.0540 | Hhi.fitness

LUX Medical Spa 350 Fording Island Rd, Bluffton 24 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head 843.781.6672 | Luxhhi.com

ROC Dental Group 4101 Main St, Unit D, HHI 843.682.4601 | Rocdentalgroup.com

Maginnis Orthodontics 11 Hospital Center Common, Hilton Head 843.681.5556 1050 Fording Island Rd., Bluffton 843.757.9760 maginnisorthodontics.com

Winning Orthodontic 3901-C, Main Street, Hilton Head 843.305.6649 102 Buckwalter Parkway, Bluffton 843.836.3010 960 Ribaut Rd, Beaufort 843.525.6228

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IIENVIRONMENTII

A PATH TO HISTORY FORT HOWELL GIVES VISITORS A VIEW OF THE CIVIL WAR

BY CLAY BONNYMAN EVANS | PHOTOS BY MADISON ELROD

On Nov. 7, 1861, some 20,000 Union forces charged ashore on Hilton Head Island only to find that all Confederate fighters and white civilians had fled inland. The island was soon to become the United States’ Southern military headquarters for the duration of the war.

About a year later, Gen. Ormsby M. Mitchel decided to create Mitchelville, a town run entirely by, and for, formerly enslaved island residents.

And in late summer 1864, members of the 32nd U.S. Colored Infantry Regiment and the 144th New York Infantry hand built Fort Howell, a hulking earthworks fort, to protect the new town.

“Mitchelville was way ahead of its time, ahead

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of the Emancipation Proclamation,” the 1863 law that eventually led to the abolishment of slavery, says Lauren P. Williams, president of the Hilton Head Island Land Trust.

Many decades later, in the 1990s, Greenwood Development conducted an archaeological survey of the area in advance of a new development in Palmetto Hall. Though the sharpened-log palisade and artillery were long gone, the fort’s moat and massive earth walls were still visible.

After archaeologists discovered a treasure trove of artifacts, from tents to jewelry to pots and pans, the company decided to deed the land to the trust for preservation.

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WE’RE BOTH SHOWCASING HISTORY AND PROTECTING THE SITE

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LAUREN P. WILLIAMS

“They realized it was an important site,” Williams says, “and they wanted to be sure it was protected.”

Now, thanks to a $15,000 grant funded by the town of Hilton Head’s tourist tax, historic Fort Howell has a new walkway to provide better access to visitors.

The recently completed path follows the northeast contour of the fort along the remains of the moat to the north bastion, the highest point.

“It takes you halfway around the fort, so you can really get a different view,” Williams says. “What we wanted to do with the path was give visitors the same experience as an approaching enemy and give people a tangible connection to the history of the island.”

As of late 2020, about 1,700 people had visited the fort, 1,400 from out of town. Williams says the new path is also intended to give people a good view without having to climb on the walls which are subject to erosion.

“We’re both showcasing history and protecting the site,” Williams says.

Still ahead for the $18,000 Fort Howell project are installation of interpretive signs and a refurbished parking area, Williams says. The site also features an information kiosk and figures representing soldiers created by local artist Mary Ann Ford. The fort is open from dawn until dusk, and admission is free.

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Fort Howell is just a half mile southwest of Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park (exploremitchelville. org), which is currently amid its own archaeological survey in advance of a restoration project. The Coastal Discovery Museum’s “Uncovering the Roots of Reconstruction” tour takes visitors to both sides year-round (coastaldiscovery.org).

Fort Howell is one of five properties, totaling about 260 acres, protected by the trust, which was created in 1987 to protect significant parcels of land on Hilton Head for the enjoyment of future generations, according to the trust’s website.

Besides the fort, the trust also protects four wetlands areas: 137-acre Whooping Crane Pond Conservancy in Palmetto Hall; the 64-acre Northridge Tracts, which are not open to the public; 51 acres known as the Cypress Conservancy; and the 3.3-acre Museum Street Property.

“The wetlands that the land trust oversees must remain healthy habitats for future generations,” says trust board member Carol Rivers, a certified master naturalist who conducts nature and history tours of the island. “Each strand in the web of flora and fauna we protect through proper management promotes an outcome that will continue to be positive for the future of Hilton Head.”

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IISPORTSII

HIGH SCHOOL SUCCESS FALL SEASON PRODUCES STATE-TITLE TEAMS STORY AND PHOTOS BY JUSTIN JARRETT

The fall high school sports season began with trepidation and proceeded with cautious optimism.

But for a pair of Hilton Head Island teams, it ended in glory.

The Hilton Head Island High School volleyball team capped an incredible season with a South Carolina High School League Class 4A state title in November — the program’s first championship since 2015.

And the Hilton Head Christian Academy football team wrapped up a perfect season with the South Carolina Independent School Association Class 2A crown two weeks later, bringing home the program’s first title since 2012.

Hilton Head High narrowly missed another state title in cross country, falling a point shy of Class 4A champion James Island in another terrific performance from a storied program.

Unfortunately, there was a tragic footnote to that story when legendary Seahawks coach Bill Wrightson died in November after a long bout with cancer.

In 13 seasons under Wrightson, the Seahawks won 13 state championships — eight boys and five girls — and for an eight-season span from 2008-

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15, both teams finished first or second at the state championships.

The Seahawks also claimed runner-up finishes in boys and girls swimming, as seniors Cohen Bruner and Tommy Hughson capped their outstanding careers with four gold medals each for the boys, while the Seahawk girls showcased their depth by finishing second without winning a single event.

Winning a state championship or being there with a chance to win one at the end is always a colossal accomplishment, but doing so during this strange season took even more of a team effort.

Coaches, administrators and athletic trainers were faced with the seemingly impossible task of keeping their teams clear of the COVID-19 pandemic, and typically carefree teenage student-athletes were asked to take extra precautions to ensure their seasons could continue.

HHCA’s football team saw another SCISA title contender lose its shot at competing in the playoffs when undefeated Class 3A power First Baptist had to forfeit its playoff spot when a player tested positive for COVID-19 on the eve of the postseason.

Hilton Head Island High won the SCHSL Class 4A state volleyball crown.

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IISPORTSII

Hilton Head Christian Academy captured the SCISA Class 2A state football title.

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Tommy Hughson of Hilton Head High won four gold medals at the SCHSL Class 4A state swim meet.

But the Eagles stayed healthy — which took on a dual meaning for coaches this season — and the two-headed monster of Jace Blackshear and JP Peduzzi and a defense that earned the nickname of “Junkyard Dogs” navigated through a perfect season that culminated with a dominant 42-14 win over Carolina Academy in the championship game.

Not every team was as fortunate.

Hilton Head High’s football team played only three games after twice being sidelined by positive COVID-19 tests within the program despite coach BJ Payne and the school’s athletics administration taking every possible precaution.

Their swift actions to quarantine players who

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might have been exposed likely helped keep the virus from spreading to other students at the school, including the volleyball squad that was determined not only to complete its season, but to end it on top.

The Seahawks took staying on the court seriously, wearing masks even while playing throughout the regular season and carefully contract-tracing to help ensure their dream season wouldn’t be interrupted.

“This team is all about resilience and overcoming obstacles, whether those obstacles are on the court or in life,” senior Brooke Simons said. “We didn’t even know if we were going to have a season six months ago, and now we’re state champs.”

PHOTO BY MARY BETH LYONS

IISPORTSII

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IIWHERE TO WORSHIPII

SERVING the community FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH CONTINUES ITS MISSION TO CHANGE LIVES STORY BY AMY COYNE BREDESON | PHOTO BY MADISON ELROD

Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, First Presbyterian Church has never stopped being the hands and feet of Jesus. Even when its doors were closed, the church never stopped living out its mission to change lives and make disciples.

The church has continued to worship every Sunday mornRev. Dr. William Robinson ing through the pandemic, either in person or virtually. First Presbyterian follows health and safety protocols approved by the local governing body of the church. Masks and social distancing are required.

During services, the Rev. Dr. William Robinson and Lisa Schrott, associate pastor for pastoral care, wear masks that are specially designed for singers so a microphone can fit inside them.

“We believe that we’re loving our neighbors by wearing masks and social distancing,” Pastor Robinson said. “We’re protecting not only our members but visitors to the church as well.”

Worship services are held at 10 a.m. Sundays at the church, located at 540 William Hilton Parkway on Hilton Head Island.

Prerecorded messages are available at www.fpchhi.org and on YouTube for those who would rather stay at home. The church hopes to begin live streaming in early 2021.

Another way First Presbyterian is loving their neighbors is by serving them.

“We have never stopped loving our neighbors, especially those in need, both locally and globally,” Robinson said.

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readily available, church members made them for first responders and for communities with vulnerable populations.

They raised thousands of dollars for local organizations, donated to global partners in the ministry and collected food for people in need.

The church also runs a People In Need ministry, which assists local residents with utility bills, rent and food. The ministry is open from 9 a.m. to noon Mondays and Tuesdays.

In partnership with First Presbyterian Day School, the church also offered an emergency learning hub for 30 public school students during the fall 2020 semester. While there was a cost to attend the program, scholarships were available.

Throughout the pandemic, the church has stayed connected to its members and the community as a whole. About every month or so, the church hosts an outdoor event to allow people to gather without getting too close.

Members call other members to check on them and give updates on the church. The church hosted a Zoom discussion in December with a licensed counselor who spoke about coping with the holidays during a pandemic.

“We just want people to know we’re here for them,” Robinson said. “We want to connect with more people, and we want to connect them with God. COVID has not stopped us. If anything, it has allowed us to be more creative, and it has made us even more determined to do the work that God would have us do.”

For more information on First Presbyterian Church, call 843-681-3696 or visit fpchhi.org.

“where to worship” Grace Coastal Church Come. Experience Grace.

Saturday Night “Come As You Are” Service Online at 7pm Sunday Morning Schedule Worship Services 9am and 11am 15 WILLIAMS DRIVE OKATIE SC 29909

843 379 5520 GCCOFFICE16 GMAIL.COM

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JAN 30 HILTON HEAD SNOW DAY: A fun family event featuring inflatable rides, a snowfield and entertainment. Cost is $10.

11 a.m.-4 p.m., Shelter Cove Community Park, 39 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843681-7273 or islandreccenter.org.

FUN EVENTS FOR EVERYONE!

CALENDAR

JAN. 2

JAN. 3

JAN. 4

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION RUN CHALLENGE: Start the year off on the right foot with this group event, open to runners, walkers and beginners of all levels. There will be 5K, 6- mile and 12-mile courses available. Family and dog-friendly event. Free. 7 a.m., Palmetto Running Company, 28 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head. 843-815-1718 or palmettorunningcompany.com.

SUNDAY BRUNCH AND BREW: Join Lot 9 Brewing for the hippest brunch spot in Bluffton, featuring Micheladas, Beermosas, and guest food truck Maiz Taqueria. Free entry. 10 a.m., Lot 9 Brewing Co., 258 Red Cedar Street, Suite 14, Bluffton. 843-757-5689 or lot9brew.com.

VIRTUAL PRESENTATION: “Winter Raptors”: Join Aaron Palmieri from the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy for a virtual presentation about winter raptors found throughout Beaufort County during the winter. Cost is $5. 2 p.m., Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-6896767, ext. 223 or coastaldiscovery.org.

JAN. 3 LIVING DELIBERATELY: 2020 was a difficult year to navigate, and now it’s time to step boldly into 2021. Join Connie Cappy as she guides participants through the 5 Ps of living deliberately. Cost is $20.

2:30-3:30 p.m., Jiva Yoga Center, 1032 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island.

843-247-4549 or jivayogacenter.com.

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JAN. 4-31 ART EXHIBIT: “Reflections of the Lowcountry”: Marianne Stillwagon is the SoBA featured artist in January. Her work reflects her love for two homes and two studios in New Hampshire and the Lowcountry. Free. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Society of Bluffton Artists, 6 Church Street, Bluffton.

843-757-6586 or sobagallery.com.

JAN. 5-30 ABSTRACT ART DONE THREE WAYS: An exhibit of work by local artists Rose Cofield, Jennifer Rocco Stone and George Watson. An artists’ reception will be held Jan. 6 from 5-7 p.m. Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843-681-5060 or artshhi.org.

JAN. 6

Lowcountry. Cost is $5. 2 p.m., Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-6896767, ext. 223 or coastaldiscovery.org.

BONFIRE AND OYSTER ROAST: Join the Old Oyster Factory for a classic Lowcountry bonfire and oyster roast.

6-9 p.m., The Old Oyster Factory, 101 Marshland Road, Hilton Head Island.

843-681-6040 or oldoysterfactory.com.

JAN. 7 BEAUFORT OYSTER FESTIVAL: Conceived and hosted by the Beaufort Area Hospitality Association, the Beaufort Oyster Festival will celebrate all aspects of the Lowcountry and Carolina Sea Islands oystering culture and agri-tourism economy. This featured event takes place during the 11-day Beaufort Restaurant Week. Free. Times and locations vary.

“Like” the event on Facebook.

JAN. 6 LENNY BOY BEER DINNER: Enjoy an evening of delicious food and craft beer, featuring Charlotte-based Lenny Boy Brewing Company. Guests will experience a five-course dinner, paired with five different Lenny Boy Brewing beers. Cost is $35. 6 p.m., Old Oyster Factory, 101 Marshland Road, Hilton Head Island.

843-681-6040 or oldoysterfactory.com.

JAN. 8

JAN. 6 VIRTUAL PRESENTATION: “THE DAY OF JUBILEE HAS COME”: Join Chris Barr, supervisory interpretive ranger at Reconstruction Era National Historical Park, for a presentation about the dawn of Reconstruction in the South Carolina

JAN 6: THE DAY OF JUBILEE HAS COME

GREAT POWER RIVALRIES: David Eisenhower of the Annenberg School at the University of Pennsylvania, will examine great power rivalries though the rearview mirror. Cost is $10 for guests, free for members. 10-11:30 a.m., First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. 843-384-6758 or wachh.org.

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JAN. 21: MARIE BOSTWICK

JAN. 9 POLAR BEAR 5K RUN: A fun New Year 5K walk or run through the streets of Old Town Bluffton. The event will start and finish at Oyster Factory Park.

Registration deadline is Dec. 30. Cost is $35. 9 a.m., Bluffton Oyster Factory Park, 63 Wharf Street, Bluffton. 843-757-8520 or bearfootsports.com.

JAN. 12 VIRTUAL EVENING SPEAKER PROGRAM: Join Jonathan Haupt, Executive Director of the Pat Conroy Literary Center, for a presentation about acclaimed southern storyteller Pat Conroy. Cost is $10 for guests, free for members. 7-8:15 p.m. Register online for access to Zoom link. 843-384-6758 or wachh.org.

JAN. 13 EDUCATIONAL PRESENTATION: “RIGHT WHALES”: Join Professor Michael Williamson for a presentation about Right Whales. He will discuss the current status, research and effects of climate change on this species. Cost is $7 in-person, $5 virtual. 2 p.m., Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-689-6767, ext. 223 or coastaldiscovery.org.

JAN. 15 ALBUM RELEASE WITH ALAN PRICE: Join musician and songwriter Alan Price as he releases his debut 12-song album “Goodlow.”

Tickets are $20-$50. 8:30 p.m., The Roasting Room, 1297 May River Road, Bluffton. 843-368-4464 or roastingroomlounge.com.

JAN. 15 COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS WITH ALEX: Join Alex Brown of Town Council Ward 1 for a community conversation around topics that matter to Hilton Head Island. Free. 4:30-5:30 p.m., Hilton Head Community Rowing and Sailing Center, 137 Squire Pope Road, Hilton Head Island. “Like” the event on Facebook.

JAN. 16 AIRY HALL PLANTATION EQUESTRIAN FOX HUNT: Join the Women’s Association of Hilton Head Island for a visit to the Lowcountry Hunt’s American Foxhounds to see the plantation and horses up close. Non-member guests welcome. Advanced registration required. Cost is $50 for adults, $25 for children. 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., 8961 Bennetts Point Road, Green Pond. wahhi.com.

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JAN. 18

JAN. 21

EDUCATIONAL PRESENTATION: “SANTA ELENA”: Join Christopher Allen for a presentation centered on the Spanish interaction with the American natives who eventually became known as “The Powhatan Confederation.” Cost is $7 in-person, $5 virtual. 2 p.m., Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-6896767, ext. 223 or coastaldiscovery.org.

WAHHI VIRTUAL AUTHOR SERIES: Marie Bostwick, author of “Restoration of Celia Fairchild,” will be the featured speaker at this month’s Women’s Association of Hilton Head Island’s Author Series. Free for members.

5 p.m. Register for Zoom link. wahhi.org.

JAN. 22 COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE: Blood donations are a critical need right now. Please join our community during this blood drive supporting the American Red Cross. Free.

9 a.m.-3 p.m., Correll Insurance Group, 15 Bow Circle, Suite 101, Hilton Head Island.

888-668-8082 or correllhhi.com.

JAN. 19 USCB LUNCH WITH AUTHOR: Bestselling author John Cribb is the featured author for January’s luncheon. Cribb has written about subjects ranging from history to education, including co-authoring New York Times bestsellers The American Patriot’s Almanac and The Educated Child. Cost is $45. 9 a.m., Breakfast; Noon, Lunch. Belfair, 200 Belfair Oaks Boulevard, Bluffton. 843521-4145 or uscbcenterforthearts.com.

JAN. 30

JAN. 15: COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS WITH ALEX

HILTON HEAD SNOW DAY: A fun family event featuring inflatable rides, a snowfield and entertainment. Cost is $10. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Shelter Cove Community Park, 39 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island.

843-681-7273 or islandreccenter.org.

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MARCH 18 LOWCOUNTRY SPEAKER SERIES: Tickets are on sale now for the next Lowcountry Speaker Series in March. This rescheduled live lecture will feature Robert O’Neill, one of the most highly decorated combat veterans of our time. Cost is $85-$150. 4 p.m. or 7:30 p.m., Sea Pines Resort, 32 Greenwood Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-823-4111 or lowcountryspeakerseries.com.

ONGOING EVENTS MONDAYS VIRTUAL KIDS STORY TIME: Listen to Rebecca read family favorites about the Lowcountry’s natural and cultural history on the Coastal Discovery Museum’s Facebook page. Watch on Facebook Live at @ coastaldiscoverymuseum. 843- 689-6767 or coastaldiscovery.org.

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS, FRIDAYS

JAN. 12: VIRTUAL EVENING SPEAKER PROGRAM: JONATHAN HAUPT

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MEMORY MATTERS: “VIRTUAL COMPASS CLASSES”: An online program designed for adults experiencing mild to moderate cognitive impairment. Compass provides curriculumbased activities, physical exercise, relaxation techniques, lifelong learning, small group discussions and socialization. Free.

10 a.m., 1 p.m. 843-842-6688 or mymemorymatters.org.

TUESDAYS

TUESDAYS

THURSDAYS

HILTON HEAD ISLAND FARMERS MARKET: Support our local farmers and producers and take home fresh produce, pasture-raised chicken, free range rabbit, pork, seafood, salsa, sausage, cookies, bread, she-crab soup and more. Entrance and parking are free. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Coastal Discovery Museum. 70 Honey Horn Dr, Hilton Head Island.

843-473-5231 or hhifarmersmarket.com.

ZION CEMETERY AND BAYNARD MAUSOLEUM COSTUMED CEMETERY TOUR: Visit the gravesites of four Revolutionary War heroes and learn about the blood skirmish fought just a few steps away. $15 Adult/$10 Child, 11 a.m., Corner of U.S. 278 & Matthews Dr, Hilton Head Island. Reservations required843-686-6560 or heritagelib.org.

CIVIL WAR ERA: Hilton Head Island was home to thousands of Union soldiers during the Civil War. Join this presentation featuring maps and historic photos of this time on Hilton Head from 1861-1865. Reservations required. Cost is $12 for adults, $7 for children.

3 p.m., Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-6896767, ext. 223. or coastaldiscovery.org.

TUESDAYS

TUESDAYS, THURSDAYS

OPEN MIC NIGHT AT CORKS: Show up and show off your talent during this open mic night, every Tuesday night at Corks Bluffton.

7-10 p.m., Corks Wine Bar and Restaurant, 14 Promenade Street, Bluffton. 843-8155168 or corkswinecobluffton.com.

MARINA MORNINGS: Outdoor Yoga: Practice yoga on the pavilion at Shelter Cove, with draft kombucha to follow. All levels welcome. Cost is $20. 9:30 a.m., Pure Salt Studios, 1 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843-707-7027 or puresaltstudios.com.

TUESDAYS

HAUNTED HISTORY TALES: Listen to graveside storytelling in the eerie setting of Hilton Head Island’s oldest burial ground and hear spinetingling tales of the Island’s shadowy past. Cost is $25 for adults, $20 for children ages 8-16. 9 p.m., Zion Cemetery, 574 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. 843-686-6560 or heritagelib.org.

SIT AND STITCH IN THE EVENING: Enjoy knitting, crochet, needlepoint, rug hook practice as Needlepoint Junction stays open late. All levels welcome. Outside food and drink permitted.

Free. 5-8 p.m., Needlepoint Junction, Suite J-7-E, Village at Wexford, Hilton Head Island. 843842-8488 or needlepointjunctionhhi.com.

WEDNESDAYS

THURSDAYS

DUELING PIANOS SHOW: The only Dueling Pianos Show on Hilton Head Island takes place each Thursday night on the Rooftop Bar. Cost is $5. 8-11 p.m., Rooftop Bar at Poseidon, 38 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island.

843-341-3838 or therooftophhi.com.

THURSDAYS FARMERS MARKET OF BLUFFTON: Meet local farmers, chefs and artisans every Thursday on Calhoun Street. Buy a fresh assortment of strawberries, produce, beets, potatoes and more. Also, hear local, live entertainment and see Chef demonstrations.

Noon-3 p.m., Calhoun Street, Bluffton. 843415-2447 or farmersmarketbluffton.org.

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THURSDAYS: BLUFFTON FARMER’S MARKET

THURSDAYS PAINT ’N PARTY ONLINE: A fun evening of painting online.

Any number of people can join, plus no need to pay for a babysitter or an expensive dinner out. Cost is $15 per household.

6:30-8:30 p.m. 843-342-5439 or scartstudio.com.

FRIDAYS SIT AND STITCH: Practice needlepoint every Friday during this casual sit and stitch event. All levels welcome. Free. 10 a.m., Needlepoint Junction, 1000 William Hilton Parkway, Suite 6134, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-8488 or shopneedlepointjunction.com.

SATURDAYS YOGA ON THE BEACH AT TYBEE: All levels are welcome to attend this beach yoga session on Tybee Island. Bring a beach towel or mat. Cost is $20. 9 a.m., North Beach at Tybee, Gulick Street, Tybee Island. “Like” the event on Facebook.

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D A I LY E V E N T S ALLIGATOR AND WILDLIFE BOAT TOUR Alligator and Wildlife Boat Tour with H2O Sports in the Sea Pines Forest Preserve.

Get an up-close view of indigenous plant and animal life, including the American alligator, on a one-hour guided boat tour. Reservations are required, 843-671-4386 or h2osports.com.

CURBSIDE CRAFTS TO-GO Children and adults can order a variety of craft activities pre-assembled and ready to enjoy at your home or villa. Book online. Cost is $12-$20. Sea Pines Resort Fitness and Recreation Department, 71 Lighthouse Road, Suite 122, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-1979 or seapines.com.

TRAIL RIDES THROUGH THE SEA PINES FOREST PRESERVE WITH LAWTON STABLES Trail Rides through the Sea Pines Forest Preserve with Lawton Stables. Meander through the preserve on horseback for the true feel of the untouched Lowcountry. Trail riders must be at least 8 years old. Reservations are required.

843-671-2586 lawtonstables.com.

SO MUCH TO SEE & DO

IN HILTON HEAD & BLUFFTON

ENDLESS BEACHES, BEAUTIFUL MARSHES, GOLF AND MORE! OUR EVENT CALENDAR WILL KEEP YOU UPDATED ON WHAT IS GOING ON IN OUR BEAUTIFUL CITIES. TO FIND MORE VISIT US @ HILTONHEADMONTHLY.COM

PICKLEBALL AT PALMETTO DUNES Learn how to play Pickleball with daily clinics and round robins at the Palmetto Dunes Pickleball Center in Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. Courts and equipment are available to rent. Reservations recommended. palmettodunes.com THE HARBOUR TOWN LIGHTHOUSE MUSEUM Explore Hilton Head Island’s rich history and learn the story behind its famous lighthouse in a unique, museum-like setting. Admission is $4.25/person, complimentary for children ages 5 and younger. 149 Lighthouse Rd. 843-6712810 or harbourtownlighthouse.com.

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RESTAURANT

NEWS Underground Burritos

Casablanca Mediterranean Grill

FARM-TO-TABLE RESTAURANT OPENING SOON

Crystal Beer Parlor

MEDITERRANEAN GRILL OPENS ON HILTON HEAD

The SERG Group plans to open Nectar Farm Kitchen, a farm-to-table restaurant, in February or March. The location is expected to be in the former Marley’s Island Grille spot on Hilton Head Island. The restaurant will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, SERG founder Steve Carb said.

“Enjoy all the fruits of the Lowcountry in one special spot,” the SERG Group website said.

Casablanca Mediterranean Grill officially opened shortly after Thanksgiving.

Chef Hicham Elmadi has 24 years of experience in the industry. He specializes in French and Mediterranean cuisines, with an emphasis on using fresh products with a farm-to-table focus, a Facebook post said. The menu includes wraps, falafel and chicken kebab.

UNDERGROUND BURRITOS HAS NEW BLUFFTON HOME

Crystal Beer Parlor, which has been a popular eatery in Savannah, Ga., since 1983, took to GoFundMe in December seeking the public’s help. According to a Facebook post, sales were behind about 46 percent from 2019. To stay in business, Crystal Beer Parlor hopes to raise $150,000.

“We've exhausted all emergency cash reserves and are now very concerned for our future survival,” the Facebook post said.

Underground Burritos opened its new location on Nov. 27. The popular grab-and-go spot is now open at 1253 May River Rd. The original spot opened last February. It offers ready-made burritos that can be bought in boxes or individually.

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SAVANNAH MAINSTAY SEEKS PUBLIC’S HELP

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pioneers in the

Industry

SELECTIONS THAT CELEBRATE WOMEN IN WINEMAKING

by Stephanie Skager

As we surge into the new year, certified sommelier Stephanie Skager of Rollers Wine & Spirits has hand-picked wines that celebrate women and winemaking. These selections offer a “cheers” to women who are pioneers in the industry:

LORENZA ROSE, CALIFORNIA

This wine is the product of a power mother-daughter team.

Lorenza Rose was founded in 2008 by Melinda Kearney, a wine industry veteran from Napa Valley, and her daughter Michele Lorenza Ouellet, an international fashion model.

Sharing a love of the beautiful Provençal Rose, they set out to create in California a wine of intention that was vineyard 188 // H I LT O N H E A D M O N T H LY. C O M

driven, delicate, dry, low alcohol and full of light. In 2008 they traveled to Lodi. Strangers became friends and doors generously opened to the outstanding vineyards that have been the source of Lorenza True Rosé. The grapes are chosen from old vines and picked early to maintain acidity to make rose, not with rose as an afterthought.

POST FLIRTATION RED BLEND, CALIFORNIA

Post Flirtation is crafted by one of my personal favorite winemakers, Martha Stoumen. She went to work in the vineyard, olive orchard, and winery of a small farm and learning center in Tuscany. Martha entered the world of wine production through the lens of a vigneronne, rather than a typical modern California winemaker who spends little to no time in the vineyard. She also worked with farm animals, bees, and vegetables. Grape growing and winemaking aligns a vigneronne’s actions with the seasons. Patience in the vineyard means composting rather than adding synthetic fertilizers, allowing predatory insects the ability to outcompete pests rather than spraying insecticides, and doing proper handwork, such as pruning for vine longevity rather than high yields.

MARY-SESSILE L’INATTENDUE, CHAMPAGNE, FRANCE

This family-owned-estate wine is not only made by a woman, but women have been farming, vinting, blending, marketing, and have been the backbone of the business for generations. Post World War I, Cecile, the great grandmother of the current operators, replanted the plot of vine at a location called les Ricordaines. Bernard, Cecile’s son, accompanied by his wife, Marie, took over farming the estate in 1974 and began marketing their Champagne. By the turn of the century, daughters Maude and Claire inherited a passion for nature, wine making, and oenology. In 2004, when Bernard and Marie retired, they left the family business to their girls. As a family, they created the brand "Mary Sessile" as a tribute to the woman who started their farm many years ago.

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Smart EATING

SUBSTITUTES TO MAINTAIN YOUR OVERALL HEALTH STORY BY ANTHONY GARZILLI

The new year often brings resolutions of getting healthier. Many times that involves a renewed dedication to workout routines or finally taking the initiative to exercise more. But new eating habits can help you maintain overall health.

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There are many healthy substitutions that can help cut down on sugar, sodium or saturated fats, the American Heart Association said. When thinking about healthier food options, here a few recommendations.

Healthy Munchies

Looking for a quick snack to get you through the afternoon? The American Heart Association suggests putting down regular potato chips and instead grabbing pretzels or low-fat potato chips (with reduced sodium).

The AHA also said baked tortilla chips (reduced sodium) are better than fried tortilla chips.

For something cool, try frozen fruit bars instead of ice cream.

Low-sugar, whole-grain granola bars with 3 grams of fiber,or just a handful of unsalted or lightly salted dryroasted nuts are tasty and healthy snacks, according to WebMd. Oatmeal cookies make for a good snack. A recipe at delish.com uses less-than-usual butter and sugar but includes a little applesauce. Raisins or dried cranberries can also be used.

Preparing a meal

If you are cooking for dinner time, there are some healthy ideas. Use a cup of fat-free or low-fat milk and a tablespoon of liquid vegetable oil instead of a cup of whole milk.

Instead of a tablespoon of butter, the American Heart Association suggests using a tablespoon of soft margarine or ž tablespoon of liquid vegetable oil.

Low-fat unsalted cottage cheese and low-fat yogurt is are alternatives for sour cream.

The Mayo Clinic suggests substituting rolled oats or crushed bran cereal for bread crumbs. If a recipe calls for eggs, the Clinic recommends two egg whites or a Âź cup egg substitute for each whole egg.

A recipe for salmon sliders is a healthy option, suggested by brighamandwomens.org. The simple but tasty recipe calls for dill weed sprigs, baby spinach, a splash of white wine, and thin mushrooms. A tasty dish good for protein and increased nutrients.

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Eating out

Sometimes, you just don’t want to cook. It’s nice to have someone else prepare your meal occasionally. But eating out doesn’t mean you can’t eat healthy.

The American Heart Association said to get started, pass on soups that are creamed-based and instead try broth-based soups with vegetables.

When thinking about an entrée, hold off on a steak and instead choose a veggie burger. As a side to your entrée, avoid the French fries and choose a baked potato, brown rice or steamed vegetables.

WebMd suggests the healthy choice of fish, including salmon and tuna or a grilled fish fillet. Read the menu for dishes that aren’t best if you are concerned with high cholesterol or diabetes. If so, WebMd says to avoid dishes that are fried, buttered or creamed.

Healthy options include dishes that are baked, grilled, poached or steamed.

Pizza doesn’t have to be completely excluded. If you want to indulge, order a thin crust, WebMd said, and toss in some vegetable toppings, but don’t add meat. Ask for half the cheese.

Fast food is not often associated with eating healthy, but the AHA has recommendations in case you need a quick bite.

A grilled chicken sandwich is better than a cheeseburger.

Instead of a Danish pastry, grab a small bagel.

SPRING 2021 ISSUE

Coming Soon forkandfun.com

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Delicious dessert

Ready for dessert? Resist a sundae or ice cream and look to nonfat yogurt or sherbet, the AHA said.

Dark chocolate is better than milk chocolate, eatthis.com said, noting cocoa flavanols help lower blood pressure.

A healthy dark-chocolate bark recipe at everydayhealth. com is quick but delectable. It includes melted dark chocolate, dried fruit, mango, almonds and chia seeds.

Almonds and chia seeds add fiber. Add some pistachios for more flavor.

Enjoying savory foods doesn’t mean you can’t eat healthy.

These suggestions can help you eat well and stay healthy.

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OUR FAVORITES

restaurants BROUGHT TO YOU BY MONTHLY, FORK & FUN AND VACATION GUIDE

HILTON HEAD // NORTH END:

Crazy Crab Jarvis Creek

Hwy. 278 | 843.681.5021 | thecrazycrab.com A Hilton Head tradition for over 30 years, enjoy genuine service and fresh seafood. Menu feature crab clusters, local oysters, seafood “your way,” fresh local shrimp.

Healthy Habit

33 Office Park Road | 843.686.5600 | healthyhabithhi.com A quick service style restaurant with a focus on chopped salads and other plant based items utilizing the freshest ingredients possible with hand crafted dressings.

Il Carpaccio

200A Museum St. (Across from Walmart) | 843.342.9949 Authentic Italian cuisine, ranging from cuisine of Northern Italy to crispy, thin-crust, Italian-style pizza. Casual restaurant, with a genuine brick pizza oven (imported from Italy).

Old Fort Pub

65 Skull Creek Drive | 843.681.2386 | OldFortPub.com Enjoy beautiful views of the Intracoastal Waterway. The only AAA Four Diamond Restaurant on Hilton Head. (Won 11 times!) Reservations Recommended.

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Reilley’s North End Pub

Fishcamp on Broad Creek

Street Meet: The American Tavern

The French Bakery & Courtyard Café

95 Mathews Dr. | 843.681.4153 | reilleysnorth.com An island institution, Reilley’s has been serving up steaks, seafood, pasta & sandwiches for more than 35 years. Kids eat free Tuesdays with an adult entrée.

Port Royal Plaza | 843.842.2570 | streetmeethhi.com Street Meet specializes in homemade versions of regional American bar food. Best Wings, Fish & Chips, Homemade Soups, Salads, Vegetarian Menu, Seafood.

HILTON HEAD // MID-ISLAND:

Alexander’s Restaurant & Wine Bar

11 Simmons Road | 843.842.2267 | fishcamphhi.com Fishcamp’s menu consists of seafood and American cuisine, including steak and lobster. They have an outdoor bar and open patio. Family friendly.

28 Shelter Cove Ln. | 843.342.5420 | frenchbakeryhiltonhead.com Breakfast or lunch inside or outdoors in this bakery/café.

Enjoy crepes, breads, baguette & panini sandwiches, salads, soups, quiches & pastries. Traditional French recipes.

Giuseppi's Pizza & Pasta

76 Queens Folly Rd. | 843.785.4999 | alexandersrestaurant.com Menu uses seasonal ingredients with a strong emphasis on seafood while paying homage to Alexander’s original favorites. Dinner from 5–10pm daily.

50 Shelter Cove Lane | 843.785.4144 | giuseppispizza.com They take pride in serving excellent, award-winning pizza (since 1984), plus a broad variety of well-prepared pastas, sandwiches, wings, garden fresh salads and more.

Big Jim’s BBQ, Burgers & Pizza

890 William Hilton Parkway | 843.842.9111 grubysnydeli.com Bringing Authentic New York Sandwiches to the South. A New York-style deli offering classic sandwiches, soups & breakfast dishes in a casual setting offering breakfast and lunch. >>

7 Trent Jones Ln. | 855.878.1966 | palmettodunes.com/big-jims Big Jim’s offers signature Southern dishes, gourmet burgers, pizzas, soups, salads, seafood, steaks and ribs. Open daily for breakfast, lunch & dinner.

Gruby's New York Deli

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Island Bagel & Deli

S. Island Square | 843.686.3353 | islandbagelanddeli.com The island's only New York style boiled bagels made daily. 16 flavors of bagels and 12 homemade cream cheeses. For lunch: specialty hoagies, classic sandwiches & salads.

Jane Bistro & Bar

28 Shelter Cove Lane | 843.686.5696 | janehhi.com Classic bistro fare with Lowcountry influences. Favorites include jumbo lump crab cakes, pecan cranberry chicken salad, crispy flounder and petit filet mignon. Open daily.

Old Oyster Factory

JUST GOOD FOOD. BREAKFAST | LUNCH | MORE HILTON HEAD South Island Square ½ Mile South of Palmetto Dunes Open Daily 7AM-2PM 843.686.3353

BLUFFTON Sheridan Park Off of Hwy. 278 near the DMV Open Daily 7AM-2PM 843.815.5300

101 Marshland Rd. | 843.681.6040 | OldOysterFactory.com Panoramic marsh and water views. Specializes in fresh seafood and some of the best steaks on Hilton Head. Featured in The Wall Street Journal's “Off the Beaten Track.”

San Miguel’s

9 Harbourside Ln. | 843.842.4555 | sanmiguels.com Located directly on the harbour at Shelter Cove and provides good food and fun. Extensive California/Mexican menu. Lunch and dinner served daily.

More at IslandBagelandDeli.com

Santa Fe Cafe

807 William Hilton Pkwy 843.785.3838 | santafecafeofhiltonhead.com Casually elegant dining that captures the spirit of New Mexico. Signature items include Parmesan Chipotle Grouper, 24-oz bone-in ribeye steak, fajitas, & Painted Desert Soup.

Sea Grass Grille

807 William Hilton Pkwy | 843.785.9990 | seagrassgrille.com American and Lowcountry Continental cuisine. Chef Chad brings 38 years of hands-on culinary expertise. More than 50 wines by the glass. Winner of Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence.

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HILTON HEAD // SOUTH END: Amigos Cafe y Cantina

70 Pope Ave. | 843-785-8226 | amigoscafehhi.com Quick, Casual, Healthy. Serving Authentic Mexican Food. food is prepared fresh daily using the finest ingredients possible and served by friendly, helpful people, in a clean comfortable atmosphere.

Aunt Chilada’s Easy Street Café

69 Pope Avenue | 843.785.7700 | auntchiladashhi.com Excellent Tex-Mex and American fare. Enjoy the crab legs, sizzling fajitas, & margaritas.

Reservations & large parties welcome. Private dining/event area. Seasonal live entertainment.

Big Bamboo

1 N. Forest Beach Dr. | 843.686.3443 | bigbamboocafe.com The South Pacific meets the Carolina Coast just steps from the beach. A casual hangout serving burgers, seafood and festive libations. Come for the food, stay for the live entertainment!

British Open Pub

Village at Wexford | 843.686.6736 | thebritishopenpub.com Family-friendly pub style restaurant with authentic English food with American favorites and certified Angus beef. Try the signature fish and chips or their shepherd’s pie.

Captain Woody's

6 Target Rd | 843.785.2400 | captainwoodys.com Grab a seat at the outside deck, inside, or just belly up to the bar and enjoy a casual awesome meal. Offering a full lunch and dinner menu day and evening, happy hour daily, live music seasonally, and brunch on Sundays.

Carolina Crab Company

86 Helmsman Way | 843.842.2016 | carolinacrabco.com Enjoy water views and fresh seafood at an affordable price in a family-friendly atmosphere. Petfriendly outside bar & patio.

Catch 22

37 New Orleans Rd. | 843.785.6261 | catch22hhi.com Catch 22 is locally owned. Dinner is served nightly from 5 p.m. Early Dining Menu from 5:00– 6:00 p.m. All their beef is aged 28 days, U.S.D.A prime, hand selected and cut in house.

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>>

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Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte

8 New Orleans Road | 843.785.9277 | charliesgreenstar.com Open since 1982, Charlie’s writes its menu daily based on the freshest seafood available. Dinner offers 14 fresh fish, rack of lamb, filet mignon and more. An extensive wine list.

Chez Georges

37 New Orleans Rd | 843-785-3200 | chezgeorgeshhi.com.

Chez Georges serves traditional bistro staples such as steak frites and mussels mariniere, incorporating fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

ChowDaddy’s

14b Executive Park Rd. | 843.757.CHOW | chowdaddys.com Offering a wide variety of menu items focusing on buns, bowls, and tacos and great libations.

Lunch & dinner daily.

Cowboy Brazilian Steakhouse

1000 William Hilton Parkway, B-6 843.715.3565 | cowboybraziliansteakhouse.com A unique, all-you-can eat “Churrascaria.” Enjoy a 30 item salad bar, 6 Brazilian hot dishes and a “parade” of 16 USDA Prime cuts of beef, lamb, chicken and pork carved tableside.

CQ’s Restaurant

140 Lighthouse Rd. | 843.671.2779 | CQsRestaurant.com Fine dining, an intimate atmosphere and a bit of Hilton Head history. Signature dishes include fresh seafood, beef & game.“Bistro” menu offers smaller portions.

Crane’s Tavern Steakhouse & Seafood

26 New Orleans Rd. | 843.341.2333 | cranestavern.com Perfect for steak and seafood lovers, serving cuts of only USDA Prime grade beef, their Famous Prime Rib. Excellent selection of fresh fish, seafood & pasta dishes.

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Crazy Crab Harbour Town

Harbour Town | 843.363.2722 | thecrazycrab.com Genuine service and fresh seafood; a Hilton Head tradition for over 30 years! Menus feature crab clusters, local oysters, seafood “your way,” local shrimp and more.

Delisheeyo

32 Palmetto Bay Road | 843.785.3633 | delisheeeyo.com Vegetarian. Smoothies, Buddha Bowls and more. They provide meals that you can trust, that are real, and healthy.

Healthy Habit

33 Office Park Rd. | 843-686-5600 | healthyhabithhi.com Quick service style restaurant with a focus on chopped salads, superfood bowls, fresh bottled juices, smoothies, breakfast and organic coffee & teas and other plant based items.

Hinchey’s Chicago Bar & Grill

70 Pope Avenue | 843.686.5959 | hincheys.com Hinchey’s has much in common with a sports bar, but is very much a restaurant, too. It is casual, with beach-goers invited to stop by for lunch, or for drinks or dinner. Dine inside or out.

Hinoki Restaurant & Sushi Bar

37 New Orleans Rd. | 843.785.9800 | hinokihhi.com Serving traditional Japanese dishes including grilled fish, chicken and steak, sukiyaki, noodle dishes, tempura, and daily specials, plus sushi and sashimi.

Reservations recommended.

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It’s Greek To Me

11 Lagoon Rd. | 843.842.4033 | itsgreektomehhi.com Genuine Greek cuisine, from gyros to fried calamari to souvlaki to baklava for dessert. Food is prepared with authentic Greek recipes and they have the only gyro machines on the island.

Kenny B’s Cajun/Creole Seafood

70-A Pope Ave. | 843.785.3315 New Orleans traditions such as jambalaya, red beans and rice, and authentic gumbos. Home of the Island’s best po’ boys and fried seafood. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch.

Michael Anthony’s

37 New Orleans Rd. | 843.785.6272 | michael-anthonys.com Offering upscale classic Italian fine dining featuring innovative preparations and farm fresh ingredients. Open Table rates them as one of the country's Top 50 Italian Restaurants.

Nick’s Steak & Seafood

9 Park Lane | 843.686.2920 | nickssteakandseafood.com Nick’s Steak & Seafood offers steaks, seafood, barbecue, sandwiches, salads, appetizers, soups, burgers, pasta and a kids’s menu. Reservations accepted. Large parties welcome.

Nunzio Restaurant + Bar

18 New Orleans Road | 843.715.2172 | nunziohhi.com Nunzio Restaurant + Bar specializes in fresh seafood and homemade pasta. Beautiful 1,300-square-foot restaurant with a large bar area and two outdoor seating areas.

Ombra Cucina Italiana

1000 William Hilton Pkwy | 843.842.5505 ombrahhi.com Chef Michael Cirafesi promotes the foods & wines of Italy. He prepares all pastas, homemade gnocchi, desserts and breads daily. A European-style bar & lounge with Italian cocktails.

One Hot Mama's

Reilleys Plaza | 843.682.6262 | onehotmamas.com One Hot mama’s is a family-friendly restaurant. Try their delicious Meat & 3 combo platters, authentic BBQ platters, hand-cut steaks, burgers, char-grilled chicken and “the world’s best” wings.

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Palmetto Bay Sun Rise Café

Palmetto Bay Marina | 843.686.3232 palmettobaysunrisecafe.com Breakfast fare starting from 6 a.m. Breakfast and lunch items are available continuously. The cafe offers to-go lunches for charter boats, the beach or any occasion. Open 7 days a week.

Phillys Cafe & Deli

55 New Orleans Rd. | 843.785.9966 | phillyscafe.com Phillys’ motto is “Best sandwiches on the island...Period!” Custom sandwiches with bread baked fresh daily. The pita wraps and salads are both imaginative and health-conscious.

Red Fish

8 Archer Rd. | 843-686-3388 | redfishofhiltonhead.com Red Fish specializes in beautifully prepared seafood and steaks. Choose from a 1,000-plus bottle selection of wines from around the world. Private dining room for large parties.

Reilley’s Grill & Bar

7D Greenwood Dr. | 843.842.4414 | reilleyshiltonhead.com Reilley’s has been serving up steaks, seafood, pasta & sandwiches for more than 35 years.

Lunch & dinner daily, & Sunday brunch. The bar is open late.

Rockfish Seafood & Steaks at Bomboras

5 Lagoon Road | 843.689.2662 | rockfishhhi.com A family seafood restaurant and bar near the beach. Offering fresh and local lowcounty ingredients paired with craft beers and wines. Kids menu. Lunches to Go for the beach.

Salty Dog Cafe

South Beach Marina Village | 843.671.7327 | saltydog.com One of Hilton Head’s favorite outdoor cafes for more than 20 years. Fresh seafood. Both indoor and outdoor seating. Live music & children’s entertainment nightly seasonally.

Sea Shack

6 Executive Park Rd. | 843.785.2464 | seashackhhi.com One of the island’s most extensive menus of seafood & more. Voted one of "South Carolina’s best seafood spots" by Coastal Living and Southern Living.

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Slapfish

1024 William Hilton Pwy (by Sea Pines Circle) | 843.521.5830 | Slapfishrestaurant.com Slapfish, the nation’s fastest growing seafood restaurants is locally owned and operated by the Lomasney family serving honest flippin’ seafood infused with lots of flavor!

Stack’s Pancakes & More

2 Regency Pkwy. & Hwy. 278 | 843.341.3347 Enjoy pancakes, waffles, house-made fruit sauces, crepes, Crème Brûlée French Toast, shrimp & grits, crab benedict, shrimp omelet with lobster cream sauce. Gluten free items.

Stellini

15 Executive Park Rd. | 843.785.7006 | stellinihhi.com Family owned & operated since 1989! Popular Italian appetizers and entrees from NY & Northern NJ. Delicious pasta, poultry, veal, seafood, beef and lamb all expertly prepared.

The Studio

20 Executive Park Road | 843.785.6000 | studiodining.com Dine while enjoying watching artists paint in the elegant studio. The menu uses the finest regional, natural & organic ingredients. Gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan menu offerings.

Truffles

Sea Pines Center | 843.671.6136 | trufflescafe.com Local seafood, Black Angus steaks, baby back ribs, soups, sandwiches, and salads. Specialties include glazed grouper, mango salmon, crab cakes, meatloaf and fried shrimp.

Vine

1 N Forest Beach Drive | 843.686.3900 From marinated octopus to field greens from nearby St. George, the offerings at this intimate bistro are a treat for all. Mediterranean cuisine with a hint of Asian fusion. Reservations.

BLUFFTON:

Amigos, Bluffton

133 Belfair Town Village | 843.815.8226 Authentic Mexican taqueria, serving delicious food “inspired by Mexican cuisine from Baja, Mexico, to Santa Barbara, California.” Owner Andrew Farbman created Amigos’ famous BBQ Chicken Salad. Amigos uses the finest ingredients.

British Open Pub

Sheridan Park | 843.815.6736 | britishopenpub.net Pub-style restaurant featuring authentic English food. Excellent signature fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, steak and mushroom pie, and bangers and mash. Also wide selection of American appetizers and entrées. Lunch & dinner daily.

Captain Woody's

17 State Of Mind St | 843.757.6222 | captainwoodys.com Grab a seat at the rooftop deck, inside, or just belly up to the bar and enjoy a casual awesome meal. Offering a full lunch and dinner menu day and evening, happy hour daily, live music seasonally, and brunch on Sundays.

ChowDaddy’s

15 Towne Dr. | 843.757.CHOW(2469) | chowdaddys.com Focusing on buns, bowls, and tacos and great libations. Enjoy salads, sliders, a house ground rib eye burger, or their famous smoked fried chicken. Serving lunch & dinner daily.

Cinco Mexican Grill

102 Buckwalter Pkwy | 843.815.2233 | cincomexgrill.com Authentic Mexican cuisine made from scratch using traditional and modern recipes. Popular dishes include Cinco Bowl, Piña Fajitas, Carnitas, Enchiladas, Chimichangas, Flautas & flan.

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Corner Perk Brunch Cafe & Coffee Roasters

1297 May River Road | 843.816.5674 | cornerperk.com Corner Perk is a locally owned Brunch Cafe and coffeehouse that takes great pride in it’s house roasted coffee, homemade syrups, and high quality service. Enjoy Breakfast Wraps, Sandwiches and Lunch Wraps, Sandwiches, and Salads.

Giuseppi's Pizza & Pasta

25 Bluffton Rd | 843.815.9200 | giuseppispizza.com They take pride in serving excellent, award-winning pizza (since 1984), plus a broad variety of well-prepared pastas, sandwiches, wings, garden fresh salads and more.

Island Bagel & Deli

17 Sherington Dr. | 843.815.5300 | islandbagelanddeli.com The island's only New York style boiled bagels made from scratch daily. Choose from 16 flavors of bagels, 12 home-made cream cheeses, pastries & breakfast sandwiches. For lunch: specialty hoagies, classic sandwiches & salads.

Nonna Lucia

5 Godfrey Place | 843.707.4281 | blufftonnonnalucia.com Bluffton's only BYOB! Nonna Lucia is a casual award winning Italian Restaurant, Early dining daily, live music every Friday and Saturday evening. Opens 4pm. Closed Mondays.

Olive & Fig

1533 Fording Island Road | 843.707.1934 Olive & Fig provides guests with a unique opportunity to experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine. The menu features Lebanese and Greek dishes alongside traditional Mediterranean fare, and gluten free and vegetarian options.

Truffles

Belfair Towne Village | 843.815.5551 | trufflescafe.com Casual cafe featuring the “freshest and finest of everything!” Fresh local seafood, Black Angus steaks, baby back ribs, homemade soups and garden salads. Covered patio. Lunch, dinner daily.

Full cocktail bar. Happy hour from 4-6.

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MP IIMARC’S PERSPECTIVEII

we need social trust TO DEFEND AGAINST EMERGING THREATS

When we decided to move permanently from Switzerland suited to mount a defense compared to a decentralized to the U.S. in 1991, I viewed the country as one of the safest system where a uniform reaction to a crisis is more diffiplaces on earth. It produced enough food to feed its populacult to organize. (Switzerland has not fared better than the tion without having to rely on imports and it had a superior U.S., exactly for the same reason; the independent counties could not agree to an identical approach of how to deal with military power to dwarf any attacks from adversaries.

Three decades later my view has been altered, and the coronavirus).

I’m concerned about three different type of threats, none The third is the threat from within. of which can be countered with conventional defense In October, the FBI stopped a plot to kidnap Michigan’s capabilities. governor —a downsized plan that originally intended to The 9/11 attacks were the first time storm the state house. In the aftermath, I felt that the shield had been pierced.

13 people have been charged.

I can’t help but think that simiBefore then it seemed inconceivable lar forces are plotting other scenarios that we could be attacked on our own soil without enough advanced warning that could lead to mayhem. While it is to prevent it. Since then, the threat from unlikely that any of these home-grown para-military groups will reach their foreign terrorist attacks within our own border has diminished, but there are new goals, it is nevertheless very disturbing emerging dangers we have to face. that there are organized and well-armed The first is cyber hacks from forforces at work that will attempt to threaten our national security. eign countries, especially the ones believed to be sponsored by the Russian As a nation we are more than capable of devising answers to any of these government. threats, but it all starts with the need We just got word that several governBryce Harlow ment agencies experienced hacks to their to stop politicizing topics that are of computer systems that are considered “unacceptable risks.” national interest.

These incidents are not new; a more complete list (53 For this to happen, we all need to learn how to listen, pages) of cyberattacks can be found at www.csis.org accept different viewpoints, and in the end agree to an (Center for Strategic and International Studies). outcome and go along with it for the greater good of all, What vexes me is that we are the leader in computer techeven if it means making a compromise to our own pernology and the military reportedly has massive cyber-attack sonal conviction. It is time to restore social trust because as capabilities (the Georgia Cyber Center in Augusta, a new George Schultz (who recently turned 100 years old), former Secretary of State, reminds us: “When trust was in the room, $100-million, 330,000-square-foot campus is part of the effort to strengthen our competence). whatever room that was—the family room, the schoolroom, the coach’s room, the office room, the government room, or So why can’t we protect our own cyber borders?

The second is more speculative, but I started to notice the military room—good things happened. When trust was that China is bragging how well the state-controlled comnot in the room, good things did not happen. Everything else munist system faired compared to the democratic West in is details.” (Read the full essay at hoover.org). dealing with the COVID-19 threat.

Onwards!

Of course, that is part of their political propaganda, but MARC FREY : media entrepreneur I suspect that the increasingly aggressive and adversarmfrey@freymedia.com ial Chinese apparatus is analyzing the advantages of using [PHOTO OF MARC BY MIKE RITTERBECK] bioweapons, where a central authoritarian system is better

TRUST IS THE COIN OF THE REALM.

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