Lowcountry Voice December 2020

LOCAL AUTHORS

LOCAL INNOVATION

LOCAL GIVING

BLUFFTON rejoice

IN THE SEASON

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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

ART DIRECTOR

Mike Lupi mike@hiltonheadmonthly.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN Allyson Venrick

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 Markey McInerney markey@hiltonheadmonthly.com 843-949-2591

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8 // H I LT O N H E A D M O N T H LY. C O M

IIDECEMBER ISSUEII

“must reads” READER

36

196 24 Year in Review A look back at the top stories.

36 State of the Art Lowcountry Celebration Park set to be an island attraction.

40 C onnect the Community Bluffton’s new police chief takes the helm.

HHH

HHH

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ICE ‘20

72 72 R eaders’ Choice Awards Your top picks for favorites throughout the Lowcountry.

144 G ift Guide A sleigh full of ideas for the perfect present.

196 Hang with Care Leal Christmas ornaments a family tradition.

LOCAL AUTHORS

LOCAL INNOVATION

LOCAL GIVING

BLUFFTON LOCAL AUTHORS

LOCAL INNOVATION

LOCAL GIVING

HILTON HEAD rejoice

IN THE SEASON

rejoice

IN THE SEASON D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 0 // $ 4. 9 5

D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 0 // $ 4. 9 5

ABOUT THE COVER: Hilton Head Dance Theater celebrates 35 years

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IIDECEMBER 2020II

contents

154

44 COMMUNITY

FINANCE

42 : Comforting Care VIM patient care director has family connection.

68 : Achieve your Goals Tips to plan a financial roadmap.

GIVING

70 : Year-round Guide How to get your money in order.

44 : Happy to Help: Watterson Family Fund makes profound impact.

48 : Spreading Goodwill Long Cove Fund dedicated to giving back.

50 : Gifting through Golf Charity raises funds during pandemic.

BUSINESS

54 : Education by the Book Bea Wray’s lessons from boardroom to playroom.

60 : Innovation Hub Don Ryan Center offers opportunities for companies.

64 : Strong Branding Cut through the competition.

+ IN

EVERY ISSUE

14 : At The Helm 16 : Opinion 18 : Contributors 20 : News

12 // H I LT O N H E A D M O N T H LY. C O M

LOCAL READS

142 : Books are a Perfect Gift Authors muse on the beauty of the Lowcountry.

HOME

154 : New Designs Kitchen remodeling on the rise.

164 : Lighthouse Awards Recognizing the best.

HEALTH

192 : Holiday Survival Balance the stress with wellness routines.

22 : Pets to Adopt 32 : Social Spotlight 52 : Community Connection 66 : On the Move

200 ARTS

200: The Nutcracker on the Big Screen Hilton Head Dance Theatre celebrates 35 years.

SPORTS

204 : Bonding through Rowing HHI Crew continues to be a mainstay.

WHERE TO WORSHIP

210 : Gift of Hope Lord of Life plans Christmas Eve services.

DINING

222 : Holiday Wine These favorites make the season special.

224 : For the Sweet Tooth Sugar cookie recipes.

1 74 : Real Estate News 214 : Calendar 232 : Dining Briefs 233 : Restaurant Listings 2 40 : Last Call

IIAT THE HELMII

dear reader...

The holiday season is a time to give, to cherish our loved ones and appreciate those who have enriched our lives. It is truly the most wonderful time of the year, and we are grateful you are spending some of your valuable time with us.

The joy of giving is always more gratifying than receiving. So many organizations stepped up when they were needed most during this trying year, like the tireless work of the Long Cove Fund or the Watterson Family Foundation, driven by its passion to make a difference.

To celebrate the end of the year, we are recognizing our local businesses and communities with our annual Readers’ Choice Awards, chosen by 87,400 votes. Thank you for voting.

Other highlights in this issue include the much-anticipated Lowcountry Celebration Park on Hilton Head Island, and learning about the goals of new Bluffton police chief, Stephenie Price.

Looking for some business advice, but also want to enjoy a fast-paced read during the holidays? Entrepreneur Bea Wray has written a book filled with humor and insight that details her business career and her experiences as a mom.

A selection of books by local authors and those that explore the beauty of the Lowcountry would make a great gift. We offer some suggestions.

The holidays are a great time for families to enjoy traditions together. Since 1985, the Hilton Head Dance Theatre has held a production of The Nutcracker. That tradition continues this year, but with a different experience. Inside, find out how the performance will transition to the big screen.

We are grateful that our region has fared relatively well during the coronavirus pandemic — but we remain vigilant as cases rise nationwide ­— and that the local economy has been helped in part by a strong fall tourist season.

This year has been challenging and unrelenting, but we are proud to have continued to serve the community, to give us all a sense of place, and connect us in a time where social distancing has become the temporary norm. We are so grateful for the support of our advertisers and our loyal readers. Thank you.

Our entire team sends you the warmest holiday greetings and best wishes.

ANUSKA FREY : Publisher anuska@hiltonheadmonthly.com

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READERS’ CHOICE AWARD WINNERS

HILTON HEAD, SEE PAGE 72 BLUFFTON, SEE PAGE 114

years

IIOPINIONII

“letter ” PUBLIC WILL HAVE INPUT ON FACE MASK ORDINANCE One of the responsibilities as chairman of the Beaufort County Council is to place items on the council agenda that will ensure and protect Beaufort County so that it will continue to be one of the most desirable places in the United States to live, work, vacation, enjoy and appreciate.

The super majority of council honestly believed that the emergency ordinance that we originally passed and renewed has helped to protect Beaufort County from suffering a greater loss of life and incidence of illness while ensuring that our economy stayed open as much as possible.

In the past few weeks, we have had differences with some members of the public regarding our emergency ordinance, which requires people to wear a mask in public places, and with the first reading of an ordinance to require people to wear face coverings in public.

Here are some of the facts about our efforts. There is an emergency ordinance requiring face coverings currently in effect. That emergency ordinance was controversial and remains controversial.

On Oct. 19 it was renewed and will expire on Dec. 19. During the same meeting in which we renewed the mask ordinance we also presented, for first reading, a new ordinance that was to replace the emergency ordinance but would require three readings and a public hearing before it is officially adopted.

The intent was to introduce an ordinance that would be proactive and would allow us to deal with the current and any future public health issues.

Our thought was that we would be creating a plan along the lines of the evacuation plans we have for hurricanes or any other natural disaster that hits our area.

County Council was never able to discuss whether this ordinance would be in place for a specified period or if it would be permanent.

Some members of the community assumed that we, and me specifically, wanted everyone to wear masks forever. That is not the truth.

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We, as public servants, look at this as a public health issue and that we should do anything in our power to control the spread of the virus. Masks are only one tool to help curb the spread.

Yes, they are inconvenient to wear, but if we wear them correctly, they help. Hand washing is another key tool and, finally, socially distancing is extremely important.

Here is what we are going to do now.

We will not continue with the proposed ordinance. Rather than be proactive with a plan, we will be reactive. When the emergency ordinance is about to expire, we will judge, at that time, what next steps we will take.

We may have to adopt another emergency ordinance if the number of cases in Beaufort County are stressing our health care facilities and our hospitals.

We may need to change the emergency ordinance to encourage certain key businesses to continue the use of masks, such as grocery stores, where people could spread the virus.

Alternatively, we may just let the emergency ordinance expire because we have fewer cases.

These are all possible scenarios, and we will not know until December, which is the right approach.

Let me assure everyone that the public will have ample time to weigh in and we will allow adequate time for public input.

The December meeting will be an in-person meeting to have the public input on the fate of the emergency ordinance.

Let us have a civil discourse between now and then. We will not always agree but we should listen and make changes that reflect the needs of the county that we serve.

Joseph F. Passiment Jr. is chairman of Beaufort County Council.

IIBEHIND THE SCENESII

“monthly ” CONTRIBUTORS MEET OUR FEATURED WRITER // DEAN ROWLAND Dean Rowland was born in New York City, raised in northern New Jersey and earned his journalism degree at Ohio University many moons ago.

He’s been in the publishing world ever since as a newspaper editor-writer and was on the corporate staff of an international publishing company in Princeton, N.J. Most recently, he was the editor in charge of the special sections department for 18 years at the Newark Star-Ledger, one of the biggest newspapers in the country.

Since moving here in 2012, after first vacationing here in the 1970s, he has been a freelance writer for magazines and newspapers.

He has been creating special projects and writing for this magazine for seven years.

Dean is an active martial artist, earning two black belt degrees in karate, trains in tai chi and practices yoga. His two adult children live in Virginia.

Words, sentences and thoughts are his passion. He lives where he wants to live and does what he wants to do in the Lowcountry.

He prides himself on writing a great article for every assignment he’s given.

MEET OUR FEATURED PHOTOGRAPHER // MATTHEW GARBADE Matthew Garbade was born in Beaufort, S.C., and raised in Ridgeland.

He developed a passion and love for scuba diving in 2016 — it was like getting bit by a bug. Matthew can’t get enough of scuba diving; he will dive anywhere, including local rivers with about a foot to zero visibility, to find artifacts and megalodon teeth.

He is currently a dive master and rescue diver with more than 400 dives logged. Through his diving experience, Matthew grew to love underwater photography, and because of his love for finding things underwater, it led him to buy a drone to help him find dive spots.

What he discovered was incredible. The view from above was nothing like he had seen, and Matthew realized that photos from a drone are like nothing else.

Little did he know that the pictures he took would bring so much attention and positive feedback that he would be able to start his own photography company, Edge of Reality Productions.

In less than six months the business quickly grew, and Matthew is now one of the most-requested real estate photographers in the area.

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ONLINE EXCLUSIVE

Michelin Junior Challenge Design Competition

REWARDS STUDENTS

Global industry leaders joined together recently to reward deserving students.

In collaboration with the Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival, the Michelin Junior Challenge Design competition was open to all Beaufort County high school students and is designed to encourage them to learn about the mobility and automotive industries in South Carolina.

Layla Dupont of Battery Creek High School was the overall winner of the fourth annual competition, “Land, Air & Sea.” Entries by individuals and teams of students were reviewed and selected by a distinguished jury of the world’s top automotive designers and industry experts.

“I believe this is one of the few events that brings this number of heads of design together,” said Lindsey Harrell, president of the Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival.

“It’s such a tremendous experience for these students – to interact with and present to industry leaders of this caliber, and we’re seeing this contest have a direct impact on what these students see of their futures.”

A top design was selected from each of the high schools, with scholarship awards of $500 for each finalist.

The overall winner also earned an additional $500 scholarship.

“We presented an added challenge to the students this year – design for an end user that wasn’t them,” said Michelin’s Ben Ebel. “We asked them to design a vehicle specifically for a wheelchair user, and I think that added to the interest and excitement for the students.

CHECK IT OUT @ HILTONHEADMONTHLY.COM

IILOCAL NEWSII

“in the know ” Voters went to the polls with many highly contested local and state races of interest. The Lowcountry also welcomed a new airline, and someone’s lucky ticket won them $2 million. Here’s a look at some of the top headlines.

HILTON HEAD HIGH

LOWCOUNTRY VOTERS ELECT LEADERS Election Day on Nov. 3 saw the area’s voters elect leaders locally and impact elections statewide. For Hilton Head Town Council, incumbents David Ames (Ward 3) and Glenn Stanford (Ward 6) were re-elected, and Alex Brown took Ward 1.

Earl Campbell overcame a challenge from Jevona Armstong to retain the Beaufort County school board District 1 seat. In District 9, school board chair Christina Gwozdz defeated challenger Jennifer Morrow.

Running unopposed for school board seats were Angela Middleton (District 6) and Ingrid Boatright (District 11).

Voters elected Logan Cunningham to the District 7 Beaufort County Council seat.

He defeated Jodie Srutek.

Running unopposed for county council were incumbents Gerald Dawson, District 1; York Glover, District 3; and Brian E. Flewelling, District 5.

In other county elections, Coroner David Ott; Clerk of Court Jerri Roseneau; and Solicitor Circuit 14 Duffie Stone ran unopposed.

For Hilton Head Public Service District, Stuart L. Bell took District 2; incumbent Patricia Flynn Soltys ran unopposed in District 3; and Jerry Cutrer took District 4.

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GREENWAY

Denise Parsick (incumbent) ran unopposed for a Beaufort County Soil and Water District Commission seat.

Statewide, Nancy Mace defeated incumbent Joe Cunningham in the race for U.S. House in the 1st Congressional District.

James Clyburn retained his District 6 U.S. House seat by defeating challengers John McCollum and Mark Hackett.

In the State House races, District 118 incumbent Bill Herbkersman defeated Mitchell Siegel; Michael Rivers defeated challenger Eric Erickson for the District 121 seat; incumbent Jeff Bradley retained his District 123 seat over Christine deVries; Shannon Erickson defeated challenger Barbara Nash for the District 124 seat; District 122 went to incumbent Shedron Williams over Ashley Lawton; and incumbent Weston Newton ran unopposed in District 120.

For the State Senate, incumbent Chip Campsen retained his District 43 seat with a win over Richard Hricik; Tom Davis defeated challenger Nathan Campbell for the District 46 seat; and incumbent Margie Bright Matthews retained the District 45 seat over Rodney Buncum.

In the race for U.S. Senator, incumbent Lindsey Graham defeated challengers Jamie Harrison and Bill Bledsoe.

BEAUFORT COUNTY HIRES GREENWAY AS INTERIM ADMINISTRATOR Eric Greenway is Beaufort County’s interim county administrator.

County Council and Greenway agreed to a contract which will keep him at the position until June 30, 2021.

“I appreciate Council’s confidence in me and am pleased to have this opportunity to further serve the citizens of Beaufort County,” Greenway said.

Greenway brings more than 26 years of experience managing, directing, and administering programs related to finance, land use, infrastructure, real estate development planning, entitlement, disaster recovery, and permitting, according to a news release.

He replaces Ashley Jacobs, who resigned in October.

HILTON HEAD HIGH WINS STATE VOLLEYBALL CROWN The Seahawks are champions.

Hilton Head High School’s volleyball team won the S.C. High School League Class AAAA state title.

The team topped Pickens High 3-1 (27-25, 25-23, 18-25, 25-21) for the crown in Irmo.

The Seahawks finished the season 18-2.

IILOCAL NEWSII

BLUFFTON FIRE OPENS STATION 38 The Bluffton Township Fire District has opened Station 38. The facility, its ninth fire station, is off Raider Drive and Hampton Parkway.

The building is Category 5 rated. It will be the district’s emergency operations center during natural disasters. The station was built for $3.4 million

“pets”

OF THE MONTH

SCHOOL DISTRICT PLANS FOR STUDENTS TO RETURN FIVE DAYS A WEEK The Beaufort County School District will resume face-to-face instruction five days a week beginning Jan. 4, a news release said.

The district said it decided to return to face-to-face instruction after reviewing COVID-19 infection rates in other South Carolina school districts that have resumed face-to-face instruction.

“What we and other districts are finding,” superintendent Frank Rodriguez said, “is that most COVID-19 cases among students and staff are from engagement in outside events and activities.”

LOWCOUNTRY WOMAN CLAIMS $2 MILLION LOTTERY TICKET A Beaufort woman won $2 million after she bought a lottery ticket after voting. The South Carolina Education Lottery said after casting her ballot, the woman stopped at the Parkers #58 on Savannah Highway in Beaufort with the intention to buy a drink. She also decided to play some numbers.

The next day, she checked her Mega Millions ticket and thought she won $1,000. But her husband looked at the ticket and disagreed, according to the S.C. Education Lottery.

“No, I think it’s more than that,” he said.

The couple matched the first five numbers drawn on Friday, Oct. 9 (5, 11, 25, 27, 64 and (Megaball) 13.

Because she spent the extra $1 for Megaplier, the prize was doubled to $2 million.

As for her plans: “I’m keeping it low key,” she said.

She overcame odds of 1 in 12,607,306 to win $2 million.

Parkers #58 received a commission of $20,000 for selling the claimed ticket.

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES ADDING SERVICE TO SAVANNAH/HILTON HEAD AIRPORT Southwest Airlines plans to begin service at Savannah/Hilton Head International in 2021. The addition of Southwest Airlines means nine airlines at the airport will operate with non-stop service to more than 28 destinations. No launch date or destinations have been announced. Last year, more than three million passengers flew in and out of the airport.

NAME: KEITH

Age: 4 years old Gender: Male Weight: 58 pounds Breed: Pit bull Temperament: Sweet, playful, high energy. Must be only animal in home.

NAME: RHETT

Age: 4 years old Gender: Male Weight: 60 pounds Breed: Pit bull Temperament: Sweet, playful, high energy.

Strong handler required.

BLUFFTON PLANS ‘REVERSE’ CHRISTMAS PARADE This year’s Christmas parade in Bluffton will be a socially distanced celebration. The town of Bluffton plans to host a “reverse” Christmas Parade on Dec. 5. The parade’s entrants will be stationary on May River Road as spectators drive by. Entrants will be positioned a minimum of 10 feet from each other and a safe distance from the traveling vehicles, the town said. No candy or promotional items may be distributed. The parade begins at 10 a.m.

Spectators will start at the intersection of Bluffton and May River roads and continue west on May River Road, finishing at Pin Oak Street and Thomas Heyward Street. The Christmas Tree lighting is set for Dec. 4. The town will stream the event on Facebook Live instead of having a crowd.

BEACH PARKING PASSES FOR HHI AVAILABLE The Town of Hilton Head Island is selling 2021-2022 beach parking passes, available only to Town of Hilton Head Island property owners and residents. The passes cost $30 per vehicle and are valid until Dec. 31, 2022. The pass allows property owners and residents to park in designated spaces at Islanders Beach Park at 94 Folly Field Road,

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Adopt them at: Noah’s Arks Rescue Noah’s Arks Rescue specializes in helping animals with special needs. Meet these pets and their other adoptable animals by appointment only at 231 Hazzard Creek Village, Suite 3 in Ridgeland.

843-540-6755 NOAHS-ARKS.NET

MCDORMAN

and Driessen Beach Park at 64 Bradley Beach Road. In addition, pass holders are not required to pay meter fees at any of the Town’s public access beach parking lots.

For more information, call 843-342-4580 or visit the Town’s website at hiltonheadislandsc.gov.

CITY OF BEAUFORT NAMES POLICE CHIEF Dale McDorman has been named chief of the city of Beaufort Police Department.

McDorman, who was appointed interim chief after the death of Matthew Clancy in July, has been with the Beaufort Police Department since 1995, according to the city of Beaufort.

He was selected among more than 25 applicants.

“I believe that the Beaufort Police Department is one of the best in our state and I want to continue that and make us better,” McDorman said.

McDorman was promoted to sergeant-operations supervisor in October 1999, and to lieutenant-operations in April 2005. In 2010, McDorman was promoted to deputy chief.

PALMETTO DUNES CARES SEEKS GRANT APPLICATIONS Palmetto Dunes Cares seeks grant applications for its 2021 grant program. It looks to provide grants to organizations providing services to citizens impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The focus will be in the areas of health, education, and human services. Applications are available at palmettodunescares.org and are due Feb. 1, 2021.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY, VISIT US @ HILTONHEADMONTHLY.COM D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 // 23

IIIN THE NEWSII

2020 IN REVIEW

01

LOOKING BACK AT LOCAL & NATIONAL HEADLINES STORY BY ANTHONY GARZILLI

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JANUARY: The year began with the death of Lowcountry legend Pete Dye. The visionary golf course architect, who designed Harbour Town Golf Links with his wife, Alice, and World Golf Hall of Famer Jack Nicklaus, was 94 years old. Dye built the Long Cove Club on Hilton Head Island and an 18-hole course in Colleton River Plantation. He also designed the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island, among many others.

Nicklaus paid tribute to Dye, tweeting: “I think Pete Dye was the most creative, imaginative and unconventional golf course designer I have ever been around.”

In Okatie, a mound of debris was finally removed from Able Contracting after forcing nearby residents to evacuate last year. The mound smoldered for months, creating fumes and releasing a foul odor in the area. In September, South Carolina and the state’s health department sued Able Contracting after spending $5 million to clean up the pile of trash.

The lawsuit stated the stockpile was a “flagrant disregard of the public health and welfare.”

Nationally, the Senate impeachment trial of President Donald Trump began. It ended with his acquittal in February. In Australia, wildfires raged, burning more than 12 million acres. At the time, more than 800 million animals were killed.

The global sports world was stunned by the death of basketball star Kobe Bryant, his daughter and seven others; they were killed in a helicopter crash.

And in China a virus was spreading.

IN RE 02

FEBRUARY: The World Health Organization

officially names the virus COVID-19.

Locally, the Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island was honored as Organization of the Year, the top honor given by the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce at the chamber’s annual ball.

“You wouldn’t find any more worthwhile people on the island,” Club fan Randy Brooks said.

Also, tree clearing on Interstate 95 was proving to save lives.

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety reported that the tree clearing along 34 miles of I-95 helped collisions drop almost 60 percent between 2018 and 2019.

In 2019, no one was killed after crashing into a tree along the highway.

The United States reported fewer than 100 confirmed coronavirus cases.

03

MARCH: The coronavirus pandemic began to spread

in the United States and throughout the world; shutdowns were enacted.

The RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing was post-

poned. The 52nd staging of the event at Harbour Town Golf Links, which was set to be held April 13-19, was rescheduled for June, without spectators.

The Hilton Head St. Patrick’s Day Parade was postponed on March 12. The next day, S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency. The first confirmed cases of coronavirus in Beaufort County were March 14.

Later in the month, McMaster closed businesses deemed “non-essential.”

Nationally, a $2.2 trillion stimulus bill was approved to boost the country’s economy.

Globally, COVID-19 cases reached more than 500,000; In

the United States, more than 80,000 cases were confirmed.

D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 // 25

IIIN THE NEWSII

2020 APRIL TO S

04

APRIL: A need for face masks inspired many volunteers in

the area to make hundreds of their own masks. From medical professionals to kind-hearted neighbors, the work of many unsung heroes helped lift spirits and provide comfort.

Hilton Head Island resident Paula Traver said she spent about 12 hours each day sewing masks, and the Arts Center costume shop at one point made more than 1,060 masks. Many others did their part to help keep the community safe, including Fire & Pine, which produced thousands of protective face shields.

Coronavirus cases worldwide reached 3 million, with the U.S. reaching about 1 million cases by the end of the month.

The concern was about the pandemic, but the presidential race was coming into focus. Sen. Bernie Sanders suspended his campaign, which left former Vice President Joe Biden as the expected Democratic nominee.

05

MAY: Protesters filled the streets after video emerged of Ah-

maud Arbery being shot and killed in Brunswick, Ga., and George Floyd’s death was filmed in Minnesota. People protested throughout the country, setting the stage for Black Lives Matter protests during the summer — including in the Lowcountry — including half a million people marching during one day in June, according to the New York Times.

Gov. McMaster ended the statewide work-or-home order

26 hiltonheadmonthly.com

May 4. Restaurants were given the OK to again begin to allow outside dining.

Locally, more than 250 businesses took the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce Path Forward Readiness Plan pledge to adhere to safety guidelines. Many local organizations chipped in to help during the pandemic.

The number of coronavirus cases globally exceeded 6 million. There were 1.7 million cases in the U.S.

06

JUNE : Hilton Head Island Town Manager Steve Riley announced his retirement, effective the end of the year. Riley, 60, has been town manager since 1994. In October, Hilton Head Town Council planned to name Deputy Town Manager Josh Gruber as its interim town manager.

The coronavirus continued to cripple the country, with 2.5 million confirmed cases. The prestigious Concours d’Elegenace Motoring Festival, set for the fall, was canceled and rescheduled for 2021.

“While all of us will sorely miss seeing you in 2020, we are immediately shifting our focus to organizing an especially amazing event for the fall of 2021,” a statement on the event’s website said.

The coronavirus reached 10 million confirmed cases worldwide.

O SEPTEMBER

07 JULY:

The area said goodbye to longtime Lowcountry journalist David Lauderdale, who announced his retirement after 43 years in newspapers.

A columnist and senior editor for The Island Packet and The Beaufort Gazette, Lauderdale was honored with the 2016 Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce’s Alice Glenn Doughtie Good Citizenship Award for his “selfless community service in the spirit of brotherhood.”

The Lowcountry also received promising news in the form of $120 million from the State Infrastructure Bank, which granted Beaufort County the funds to help pay for the replacement of Hilton Head Island’s bridges.

Nationally, civil rights leader and politician John Lewis died. The Georgia Congressman was 80.

The number of coronavirus cases globally exceeded 17 million, including more than 4 million in the United States.

08

AUGUST: Schools began to decide their plans as the coro-

navirus pandemic continued. The Beaufort County School District decides to start the school year virtually Sept. 8. In October, the school district resumed face-to-face educational instruction in a “hybrid model.” It plans to resume face-toface instruction five days a week in January, 2021.

Jonathan Griz of Hilton Head became the youngest cham-

pion of the 89th South Carolina Amateur Championship, finishing 14-under par for the tournament.

Scott F. Wierman is named president and CEO of Community Foundation of the Lowcountry. He will start effective Jan. 1, 2021.

Nationally, thousands gathered in Washington D.C. to commemorate the 1963 civil rights March on Washington and to protest police violence.

Globally, COVID-19 cases reached more than 24.8 million; In the United States, more than 5.8 million cases were confirmed.

09 SEPTEMBER:

The Lowcountry welcomed Stephenie

Price as the new Bluffton Police Department Police Chief.

Price officially began her new role in October.

Investment in the I-95 corridor was on the forefront as a

planned $314 million Agriculture Technology Campus was introduced for Hampton County. The 1,000-acre agribusiness cluster is expected to employ more than 1,500 people.

On Sept. 18, Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg died at 87.

The number of coronavirus cases globally exceeded 32.7 million, including more than 6.9 million in the United States.

D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 // 27

IIIN THE NEWSII

2020 OCT-NOV.

10

OCTOBER: Hilton Head Island again earned accolades as it

was named the top island in the U.S. according to the Condé Nast Travelers’ Readers’ Choice Awards. It is the fourth consecutive year the island has been ranked No. 1. Also, Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport was recognized as the No. 1 domestic airport in the country.

Beaufort County saw administrator Ashley Jacobs resign during a County Council meeting. Eric Greenway was named interim county administrator in November.

Coronavirus cases worldwide reached 45 million, with the U.S. reaching more than 8.8 million cases.

11

NOVEMBER: Joe Biden won the presidential election. The former vice president was projected to be the 46th president of the United States after garnering 306 electoral votes, according to the major news outlets. Biden was declared the winner over incumbent Donald Trump on Nov. 7 after Pennsylvania’s 20 electoral votes put him over the 270 electoral-vote threshold needed to win according to the Associated Press.

Kamala Harris is set to be the first woman and first woman of color to be elected as vice president.

28 hiltonheadmonthly.com

President Trump did not concede in the days after Biden was declared the winner; instead he filed lawsuits in five states, including Pennsylvania, challenging the results.

President-elect Biden still moved ahead with the transition, including establishing a coronavirus taskforce.

National recognition continued for the Lowcountry as Bluffton was recognized by the New York Times as an up-and-coming area. Along with worldwide spots, the town of Bluffton was one of six waterfront towns on the rise. Hilton Head real estate agent Stacy Benedik is quoted as saying that Bluffton has a “classic South Carolina Lowcountry feel.”

By early in the month coronavirus cases in the United States had reached more than 10 million; globally the number reached 50.6 million. A bright spot emerged as drug maker Pfizer said early studies of its coronavirus vaccine showed it was 95 percent effective; Moderna said its vaccine was 94.5 percent effective, based on early studies.

“We’re in a position potentially to be able to offer some hope,” Dr. Bill Gruber, Pfizer’s senior vice president of clinical development, told The Associated Press. “We’re very encouraged.”

V.

D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 // 29

IIIN THE SPOTLIGHTII

GET SOCIAL!

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1. Majka and Rastislav Mochnac enjoyed attending the Lighthouse Award Ceremony. 2. Bluffton police spreading Halloween cheer to the neighborhoods in Bluffton. 3. Pockets Full of Sunshine enjoys the Hilton Head Island Lantern Parade. 4. Palmetto Electric Cooperative was all dressed up for Halloween. 5. Enjoying some Halloween fun at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina.

TO SUBMIT A PHOTO O F YO U R EVENT, EMAI L EDITOR @ HILTONHEADMONTHLY.COM

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By Barry Kaufman

It goes without saying that this has been an unusual year.

In a year where so much has changed, and uncertainty still looms large, it’s nice to be able to count on some things never changing.

The sun will rise tomorrow. The tide will ebb and flow in the same rhythm it has for ages. And as long as there is a “Favorite Gift Store” category in the Readers’ Choice Awards, the win will probably go to Gifted Hilton Head.

And while The Village at Wexford shop has won the award every year since its inception (10 straight this year), the thrill is the same this year as it was the first.

“We don’t ever take for granted how grateful and humbled we are to win,” said Meredith Taylor, owner at Gifted Hilton Head. “We love our customers for showing their support, especially this year with everything going on.”

And while this year has presented its challenges, it has instilled in each of us a renewed appreciation for the small businesses that make up our community.

“Supporting small businesses and buying American is more important than ever,” said Taylor. “We’re proud of the huge number of local products we carry, and how much of our stock consists of items made right here in the USA.” Taylor has worked tirelessly to bring her customers the best from around the country, heading as far north as the frigid tundra of Minnesota for Thymes’ exquisite Frasier Fir-scented candles. Much of her jewelry comes from Rhode Island, a state that has become famous for handmade jewelry, including Dune Jewelry made with Hilton Head Island sand and John Medeiros sparkling creations.

“They’re still making these pieces one at a time,” said Taylor.

“It’s classic jewelry that’s easy to wear.”

You’ll find the South particularly well-represented among the many shelves at Gifted, whether it’s the Mississippi-

crafted McCarter Coasters (including the wine bottle coaster co-developed by Taylor), the Texas-made Consuela handbags or the gorgeous Lifetime Candles made in Arkansas. Closer to home, you’ll find Charleston companies like Grit and Grace well represented with their stunning gilded oyster shell dishes. Another Charleston company, MacBailey Candles, even incorporates tabby into its designs.

“We’re always trying to find the best that the region and the country has to offer in terms of quality,” said Taylor. “We firmly believe in buying as much American-made or locally made as we possibly can and offering it at the best possible prices.”

That even goes for our area crafters, with several Lowcountry-based businesses contributing to the local flavor at Gifted. You can deck your halls with ornaments from Flip-Flop Pottery, made with real Hilton Head sand, or stuff your stockings with jewelry from J. Mills, towels from Lowcountry Linens or beer-scented soaps from Beaufort’s Bootlegger Soap Co. When it comes time to send out thank you cards, you can keep it local with Sweet Pea Designs stationery, designed in Sea Pines and sold at Gifted.

Then there are the always-popular novels from author Kathryn Wall or a gift item boasting designs from artist Carla Marshall.

“We love their work,” Taylor said. “They both have a huge following.”

Ultimately, that’s part of the winning formula at Gifted Hilton Head, something that we may have taken for granted in years past. When you buy that perfect present and have it wrapped (for free, naturally) in that signature Gifted Hilton Head style, you’re not just supporting one local business — you’re supporting local businesses all over the country, the region and the island.

It’s truly the gift that keeps on giving.

SPECIAL ADVERTISER PROMOTION

IIDEVELOPMENTII

A PARK THAT’S STATE OF THE ART Located on the south side of Pope Avenue between Circle Center Shopping Center and Coligny Beach parking lot, the much-anticipated Lowcountry Celebration Park is destined to be a sought-after attraction.

The park includes a sprawling lawn, a small pavilion on a lake, a stage for events, walking trails, exercise stations, boardwalks and The Sandbox Children’s Museum.

It features a large reimagined Adventure Playground

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Ship, complete with mist cannons, named for the vessel captained by explorer William Hilton who discovered the island in 1663.

“The design of Lowcountry Celebration Park is a careful orchestration to address a number of community issues and needs in an effort to encourage reinvestment in the Coligny area,” said Town of Hilton Head Island project manager and urban designer Chris Darnell, PLA.

LOWCOUNTRY CELEBRATION PARK DESTINED TO BE A HILTON HEAD ATTRACTION STORY BY CARRIE HIRSCH PHOTOS BY MATT GARBADE

Darnell said the park’s lagoon is part of a stormwater drainage project that will reduce flooding upstream in and around Coligny Circle and Pope Avenue as well as downstream on Tanglewood Drive and Cordillo Parkway.

The parking spaces are pervious, which reduces stormwater runoff and, along with the planted wetland shelves in the lagoon, improves water quality, Darnell said.

The interactive water feature is an interpretation of

the tides on the beach and in the marsh. Parents will find shaded seating options, Wi-Fi access throughout the park and charging stations for smart devices in the playground, he said.

“The Pavilion puts a new twist on Lowcountry architecture and is designed to host shows and concerts.

Evening attractions include the unlighted “Setting Sun” sculpture and a fountain,” Darnell said.

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THE DESIGN OF LOWCOUNTRY CELEBRATION PARK IS A CAREFUL ORCHESTRATION TO ADDRESS A NUMBER OF COMMUNITY ISSUES AND NEEDS IN AN EFFORT TO ENCOURAGE REINVESTMENT IN THE COLIGNY AREA CHRIS DARNELL, PLA

D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 // 37

IIDEVELOPMENTII

RENDERED IN WEATHERED GRAY WOOD, SAVANNAH GRAY BRICK AND TABBY STUCCO, THEIR DESIGN IS TIED DEEPLY TO THE AESTHETIC AND CHARACTER OF THE TOWN OF HILTON HEAD. EUGENE BELL, AIA, LEED AP BD+C

LOWCOUNTRY CELEBRATION PARK WILL HAVE MANY FEATURES, INCLUDING WALKING TRAILS, A SPRAWLING LAW, AND AN ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND SHIP.

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Eugene Bell, AIA, LEED AP BD+C of the architectural firm Watson Tate Savory, said the buildings have their own unique character.

“While the buildings share a common materiality, each of them is conceived and executed in a different manner, giving each individual building its own character while simultaneously linking them all architecturally,” Bell said. “Rendered in weathered gray wood, Savannah gray brick and tabby stucco, their design is tied deeply to the aesthetic and character of the Town of Hilton Head.”

Bell said Watson Tate Savory worked with Kyle Theodore (project lead) and her team at Wood + Partners.

The Sandbox, a non-profit interactive children’s museum, is also an integral part of the new park.

The new building will have dedicated outdoor exhibit space, an art studio, and a separate program room, according to Nancy Fish, executive director of The Sandbox.

Fish said in addition to upgrading current exhibits, The Sandbox will add new exhibits that “reflect the culture of the Lowcountry.”

Said Darnell: “The town is excited to have The Sandbox Museum as a partner to complement the play and discovery themes of the playground.”

Lowcountry Celebration Park will likely attract locals and visitors year-round, which will benefit businesses.

“We could not be more excited about the opening of Lowcountry Celebration Park. We are a family community, and this will bring so many fun options to locals as well as our visitors,” says Erika Waronsky, owner of The Sandbar Beach Eats and Carolina Coffee & Crumbs in Coligny Plaza.

The town of Hilton Head said it plans to hold a small ribbon cutting ceremony on Dec 10. The town hopes to hold a larger celebration in the spring.

D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 // 39

IICOMMUNITYII

connecting with the

COMMUNITY POSITIVE INTERACTIONS TOP PRIORITY FOR NEW BLUFFTON POLICE CHIEF STORY BY JAMES A. MALLORY | PHOTO SUBMITTED

As cities and towns around the country grapple with tenuous relationships between communities and police, Bluffton has hired a police chief who places positive community relations at the top of her agenda.

Bluffton is a special place where the police department and the community are integrated, Chief Stephenie Price said. And even though she is the department’s third permanent chief of police since Joey Reynolds retired in 2017, morale is high, Price said.

“Much higher than any that I’ve been in, and that is no small statement,” she said. “They not only love to

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interact with their community, they thrive on it. And I feel that same way too.”

And that interaction is not directed to one segment of the population because “we police to our community,” Price said. No matter their race, origin or sexual orientation, everyone deserves respect when they interact with Bluffton officers, she said.

“We talk about our actions and the ripple effects that our actions have on others … how it is perceived in the community … how it is perceived within our peer group,” she said.

Price, 48, is the former assistant chief of police in Savannah. In announcing her appointment to the $120,000-ayear job, Town Manager Marc Orlando said she had “the conviction and compassion needed to serve as Bluffton’s chief of police.”

Price became a police officer in 1999, but she did not have a direct path to law enforcement. She worked in cosmetology, as an emergency medical technician, a paramedic, and became a licensed practical nurse.

Her husband, Chris, is a sergeant with the Kansas City Police Department.

The couple has had a commuter marriage since Price moved to Savannah.

“He has commuted back and forth,” she said. “Home to us is where our family is. This is his home. And he comes home as often as he can.”

Her first weeks in Bluffton were spent meeting with the community and learning the department’s culture, and reviewing practices, procedures and policies, she said. There are currently 52 officers and another five unfilled positions.

The department has 12 officers of color, including two females. In total, there are nine female officers.

Recruiting and retention is a department focus because if there are not enough officers on the streets, it causes more stress, she said. Traffic is one issue generating a lot of conversation, and the department is going to launch a campaign on distracted driving, she said.

“There are a lot of accidents and incidents with distracted driving and speeding,” she said. “That just leads to a myriad of things.”

One of her top goals as chief is to develop a wellness program for her officers.

“I’m pleased to say that on their own, there are pockets within the department that are addressing these issues,” she said. “But to me, mental wellness is as important as, or even more important than, physical health. They go handin-hand.”

Price said she decided early in her career that she wanted to be a police chief. In Kansas City, she served in a variety of roles, including detective, sergeant and captain in several divisions. She left Kansas City for the Savannah job.

“I spent many, many assignments, getting the information I needed and getting the experience I needed to be a police chief one day,” she said. “I left assignments that I loved because I knew I would need a wide variety of experiences to be a chief.”

When her officers asked how long she would stick around Bluffton, she told them that her plan was for her two teenagers to go to school here and that she and her husband had bought property to build a house.

“My message to them was this,” she said with her everpresent smile. “I am going to stay as long as I am respected and senior leadership wants me to stay.”

D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 // 41

IICOMMUNITYII

All in the family

NEW VIM PATIENT CARE LEADER INSPIRED BY HER MOTHER, THE NONPROFIT’S FIRST CLINIC DIRECTOR STORY BY MIKE SAMPOGNA | PHOTO BY ROB KAUFMAN

Jennifer Gatlin, VIM patient care director, left, and her mother, Angie Greenfield, the organization’s first clinic director.

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Life has a way of coming full circle. And that is the case at the Volunteers in Medicine Clinic on Hilton Head Island.

When the clinic opened its doors in 1993, Angie Greenfield was the organization’s first clinic director. Earlier this year, director of patient care, Julie Copp, retired.

She was succeeded by Jennifer Gatlin, Greenfield’s daughter.

In other words, the future of the clinic will be guided in part by the daughter of one of the clinic’s pioneers.

VIM is the flagship for about 100 free clinics across the United States. From the humble beginnings and vision of Dr. Jack McConnell, the organization’s founder, a movement has taken flight.

“I was familiar with the clinic though my mom’s experience and I was familiar with the beginnings of it — how cool of a place it was,” Gatlin said. “I always loved this organization.”

Her path to her current job became clearer when she began volunteering about a year and a half ago. At the time, she was working at Hilton Head Hospital.

“I started coming over on my lunch break to volunteer in medical records, and I saw just how much the clinic had grown,” she said. “I was so impressed with the scope of service and how it had grown since I had last really known a lot about VIM, which was in the very beginning stages. It opened my eyes to what the clinic was doing and what an amazing place it was.”

I ALWAYS LOVED THIS ORGANIZATION.

Shortly thereafter, Copp announced she was retiring after 17 years as director of patient care and Gatlin began the process of joining the clinic staff.

She joined the staff as the COVID-19 pandemic was unfolding. It’s been a unique year, to say the least.

“What’s impressed me and has really blown me away is the dedication of our volunteers,” Gatlin said. “The fact that they have stood up and really met this challenge, I get chills even talking about it.”

Greenfield said she has felt no small amount of pride watching her daughter embrace her role.

“I’ve been amazed at the way she has handled this,” Greenfield said. “Her devotion to the patients, to the process, to whatever she needs to do in a very difficult time has been very gratifying to watch. It’s not just a job to her. It’s a calling. The clinic is just a perfect fit for her. As a mom, I can brag on and on and on.”

Greenfield was the clinic director for less than two years, but Gatlin credits her mother’s position with inspiring her to enroll in nursing school at MUSC in Charleston.

“Nursing was a second career for me,” Gatlin said. “VIM certainly had an influence on the trajectory of my career

even choosing healthcare as a profession.”

Now, Gatlin’s position has led to her and her mother spending time together on weekends sprucing up the clinic and the landscaping.

“We’re picking up debris, her husband has been cutting grass; we JENNIFER GATLIN have been blowing off the driveway, planting flowers, all kinds of things on the outside,” Greenfield said. “I’m volunteering now but on the outside.

We’re having so much fun putting a little love on the outside because there is so much love on the inside.”

Gatlin has loved it, too.

“It’s really fun to be able to do that with her,” she said.

“It’s allowed her to continue to volunteer and give back to the clinic. Plus, it’s like having a giant yard you want to keep coming over and doing projects on.”

As for Copp, she has not really looked in the rearview mirror. Retirement, she says, suits her.

“I have time to do things,” she said. “I used to rush around and do everything and not enjoy the ride. I’m enjoying life.

I’m feeding feral cats like usual. I cook. I’m more organized.

I marinated meat. I never marinated meat in my life. I still see patients and volunteers around. I run into them. It’s a small town.”

D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 // 43

Brendra, left, and Billy Watterson started the Watterson Family Foundation to offer hope.

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HO PE. IIGIVINGII

offering

THE WATTERSON FAMILY FOUNDATION FLOURISHES AS A MAJOR FORCE FOR POSITIVE CHANGE STORY BY BARRY KAUFMAN

| PHOTO SUPPLIED

IIGIVINGII

HOPE

4

For many of us, this past year has been one of unimaginable struggle. Whether you have lost a loved one to COVID-19 or you’ve seen your small business hobbled or your livelihood destroyed by the financial meltdown that followed the pandemic, 2020 has been a year of almost unsurmountable challenge.

But sometimes, from the darkest days shine the brightest hopes. Sometimes adversity teaches us, makes us stronger as we turn our wounds to wisdom.

Few know how much of a motivating factor hardship can be better than Billy Watterson.

“I grew up in a… very complicated situation,” he said.

It’s not something he speaks of often, of the extreme poverty and abuse that marked his early years. Because, ultimately, his story did not end there.

It only began there.

“It’s hard to break the cycle. And harder because there’s no access, no network,” he said. “If you get in trouble, it’s exacerbated because no one’s coming to your rescue… A series of events have allowed me to transcend that, and as a result I have this desire, almost an obligation, to help others similar to myself.”

His obligations led Billy and Brenda Watterson to create the Watterson Family Foundation, fueled by the success of this relentless entrepreneur’s many ventures, be it Burnt Church Distillery, Pizza Co., or the bevy of midwestern agricultural and industrial businesses under the Watterson Brands umbrella.

“I’m a huge fan of the underdog. I’m not talking Band-Aids; I’m talking creating real opportunity. It’s what has driven us to view our businesses as cashflow machines that allow us to do what’s near and dear to our heart,” he said. “People dog on capitalism, but we believe in redeemed capitalism, where everything isn’t about the bottom line.”

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What would eventually become the Watterson Family Foundation began with the Watterson’s philanthropy in the Midwest. Having caught the generosity bug, the couple found themselves distributing funds to needy organizations nearly as fast as they could earn it.

“We were giving to about anything and everything… at some point we realized we were giving away an enormous amount of money with no intentionality. We couldn’t even keep track,” said Billy. “We decided to focus on stories of origin and what truly breaks our heart.

Beyond that, we needed a board to hold us accountable to our mission and values so we don’t keep going off the rails.”

After moving to Hilton Head and falling in love with the Lowcountry, Billy and Brenda pursued the Watterson Family Foundation with vigor, seeking out a board and putting all the pieces in place in 2019.

Their philanthropy is a big part of why Billy and Brenda Watterson were named Admirals at this year’s Yacht Hop on Hilton Head.

“Sometimes the smallest investment of time can impact someone’s life more than you know,” Brenda said.

Just a few months later, the COVID-19 crisis would shift the landscape of everything they were trying to do.

The Watterson Family Foundation responded to team with the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce with Help 4 Hope, an ingenious initiative that used charitable donations not only to provide meals for those in need, but to keep money flowing into local restaurants during the shutdown.

“Help 4 Hope almost started by accident. It wasn’t something we thought we’d be doing. It really changed the nature of our foundation,” he said. “All of a sudden we transitioned from getting together and writing checks to having boots on the ground using all of these skill-sets to establish a framework and pull together all of these elements of our community. That was a lot different for us.”

The community responded, with Help 4 Hope serving as a dazzling reminder during our darkest days of the spirit that binds the Lowcountry together. The initiative raised $250,000 as of this summer.

It also served as the Lowcountry’s introduction to a force for positive change that has only begun to make its mark in our region, with contributions flowing to organizations like Deep Well, The First Tee of the Lowcountry, Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, Tee It Up For the Troops, The Literacy Center, The Mitchelville Preservation Project and more.

“If you do the right things with the money that comes in, it’s amazing how you can transform the lives of people who are stuck,” said Billy. “More than that, it offers hope to those who have lost it.”

For more, visit wattersonfamilyfoundation.org.

D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 // 47

IIGIVINGII

REFLECTING

the character of the community

LONG COVE FUND GIVES BACK DURING UNPRECEDENTED TIME OF NEED STORY BY TIM WOOD | PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Roy Bowen visited Hilton Head for four decades before finally buying his dream island home five years ago. The CEO of the Georgia Association of Manufacturers and the Manufacturers Education Foundation knew the first time he and his wife, Karen, visited Long Cove Club that they had found more than a new residence.

“Every place has great golf courses and amenities, but I immediately felt this place was different. I found a community of caring and compassionate people,” said the new chairperson of the Long Cove Fund. “Giving back is in my blood and I found a new home that shares that purpose and drive.”

The members of the Long Cove Club formed the fund in 2003, becoming the first residential community on Hilton Head to create a charitable endowment fund. Seventeen years later, the residents have donated nearly $1.4 million to local nonprofit agencies.

“This work, it reflects the character of the community,” Bowen said. “Our residents don’t just write checks. So many of them are involved with these nonprofits, serving on boards and doing volunteer work.”

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The Fund was created in partnership with the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry (CFL) and concentrates on four areas of need: health, housing, hunger and education in Beaufort and Jasper counties, with a particular focus on Hilton Head and Bluffton-focused programs.

“It’s amazing to see the work that these nonprofits do in the community. They have very small staffs, but put forth Herculean efforts,” Bowen said. “They are vital to so many here, and our members are determined to do what we can to keep their organizations thriving.”

Half of each donation to the endowment fund is invested, with half committed to funding that year’s grants. The group created a separate charitable fund in 2014 that disburses all funds raised within that fiscal year. The Fund’s grants are awarded each June.

The COVID pandemic has created devastating challenges to nonprofits. The CFL put out an immediate call to organizations asking for a special COVID relief grant.

Long Cove responded with a $20,000 donation matched

by CFL. “To know $40,000 would be going to relief efforts, the

way our community responded, it just showed me once again that these folks’ compassion is unsurpassed,” Bowen said.

The endowment fund took a hit from the stock market downturn and the coronavirus shutdown damaged the group’s annual fundraising efforts. But Bowen said the Fund’s supporters proved to be at their best in the toughest of times.

“We typically have a pair of events, a Tour of Homes and a sports weekend extravaganza, to raise money and awareness, but we had to cancel both this year,” Bowen said. “That didn’t stop our sponsors, vendors and donors. We didn’t have one canceled contribution.”

The Fund awarded $151,750 in grants to 34 nonprofits in 2020, with particular focus this year on groups involved in hunger and housing efforts.

“The impact of COVID made it clear where we needed to pay special attention in 2020,” said Bowen, who said nonprofits such as Bluffton Community Soup Kitchen and Second Helpings got additional funds this year.

Bowen was named the fund’s chair in July and said that he and the Fund advisory committee know their work will be even more important in the years ahead.

“We’ve seen family and friends hit hard by COVID, but tough times challenge us to fight even harder for what we believe in,” Bowen said.

He said committee members are determined to raise the fund’s current $640,000 endowment to $1 million and beyond.

“Heart and goodwill wins out every time,” Bowen said. “We will come out of this pandemic stronger than ever.”

Above: Long Cove Fund Committee member Vickie Baumann presents a check to Laurin Rivers with Pockets Full of Sunshine.

Left: 2019 Long Cove Fund grantees.

D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 // 49

IIGIVINGII

GIVING THROUGH

golf

CHARITY AUCTION RAISES $100,000 FOR PANDEMIC WORKERS STORY BY JUSTIN JARRETT | PHOTO BY ROB KAUFMAN

When Eric Sedransk retreated to Hilton Head Island in mid-March, it was a two-pronged move. He thought it wise to escape New York City, where the COVID-19 pandemic was raging, and he wanted to be here to assist his newly widowed mother.

He could run errands, help around the house, and provide emotional support for a grieving mother suddenly faced with the additional stress of navigating a pandemic.

What he didn’t expect was the epiphany that came during a casual bike ride around the island, after which he returned home and told his mom and a friend who was visiting that he was ready to completely change his outlook on life.

“They just looked at me in bewilderment,” Sedransk recalls with a laugh. “They were like, ‘OK, so you’re just

50 // H I LT O N H E A D M O N T H LY. C O M

going to do stuff for fun? How will you pay your bills?’ ” Sedransk’s vision was a little more complex than that, but he felt as if he was at a dead end in his career after being laid off just before the pandemic and watching companies he had interviewed with push the pause button on the hiring process. Given the tumultuous time, a change of tack was warranted.

“Instead of thinking, ‘How can I get a job to make money?’ my mindset changed to, ‘How can I be productive, be creative, and also give back?’ ” Sedransk says. “It’s weird because I’m a capitalist, I have an MBA. I do a lot of charity work, but that’s a completely different mindset.”

After finding himself unemployed and living in the golf paradise of Hilton Head Island, Sedransk spent more time engaging with a robust audience of about 2,500 followers

for his @Member4ADay account on Instagram, where he documents his rounds of golf at well-regarded courses and allows followers to get a glimpse of what it’s like to spend a day on some of the nation’s finest tracks.

With his newfound mindset, the golf-crazed Instagram following seemed like his best asset, so he came up with the idea to solicit rounds of golf from some of the exclusive clubs where he has contacts and auction them off for Project Frontline, a charity aimed at purchasing meals from local restaurants in New York City and delivering them to frontline healthcare workers.

His first call bore fruit, resulting in a foursome at a prestigious club in the Philadelphia area.

“I’d like to think if he said no that I’d have kept going,” Sedransk says, “but getting that first ‘yes’ was big.”

He rounded up about 20 rounds of golf and let the bidding begin.

The initiative quickly went viral, and his audience and donations shot through the roof, along with the amount of money raised.

When all was said and done, a last-minute flurry of bids pushed the total raised to six figures, barely clearing the $100,000 mark.

Golf courses that participated included Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in New York and Pete Dye Golf Club in West Virginia.

“At least I knew I had 2,500 people who are obsessed with golf, so that’s a good start,” Sedransk says. “If you think about it, unbeknownst, I had been teasing my audience for three years of playing these great courses. Now you can play these great courses and support charity.”

Sedransk was floored, but he was also inspired, and he wasn’t alone.

Publications including the New York Post and Golf Magazine wrote about the endeavor and charities began approaching Sedransk about doing the same for their causes.

Now, Member for a Day has become a full-time charitable endeavor — a turnkey fundraising platform for non-profit organizations through golf.

Sedransk has used his network to find a group of trusted board advisors and brought on a friend with advanced tech knowledge, as well as a handful of college interns.

He is working with numerous groups to plan fundraising auctions, including one aimed at funding the relaunch of The First Tee Savannah chapter — an auction that already includes bucket-list items like a stay-and-play at Merion Golf Club and Ohoopee Match Club in Georgia. The goal for that auction, set for the first week in December, is $100,000, but Sedransk hopes to far exceed his target.

Sedransk’s background running business development for tech companies helped him avoid some of the pitfalls that otherwise might have awaited him, and he’s thankful for that experience helping lead him to his dream job.

“We all take roundabout journeys to get where we need to be in life, but it’s been super exciting because it’s been so clear to me that this is what I’m supposed to be doing,” Sedransk says. “It combines my tech experience with the game of golf and giving back to charity, which are pretty much my three favorite things. I honestly can say that I’m living my dream.”

D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 // 51

IIIN THE SPOTLIGHTII

“community connection ”

Peacock Subaru

Home Builders Association

Hilton Head Regional Hospitals

Stoneworks

PEACOCK SUBARU MAKES PLEDGE IN SUPPORT OF PALMETTO ANIMAL LEAGUE

Peacock Subaru Hilton Head supported Palmetto Animal League’s first virtual adoption event in October. The event led to the adoption of 34 pets in a week. Peacock Subaru pledged to donate $100 to PAL for every pet adopted, leading to a donation of $3,100.

For more information, visit PalmettoAnimalLeague.org.

LOWCOUNTRY TEACHERS AWARDED WITH BRIGHT IDEAS GRANTS

Palmetto Electric Cooperative and Palmetto Electric Trust awarded $44,875 in Bright Ideas grants to 50 Lowcountry teachers during a virtual Zoom presentation in October.

Local winners were: Bluffton Middle School, Heidi McAllister, $955; Hilton Head Island High School, Tarken K. Best, $1,000; Matthew Pheiffer, $1,000; John Wyatt, $1,000; Hilton Head Island Middle School, Kelley Duffy, $330; Irma Rameizl, $920; Hilton Head Preparatory, Louise Goodman, $800; Bethany Ramseur, $675; Cross Schools, Heather BroughamCook, $520; Pam Donahue, $1,000; Amanda Kropiewnicki, $675; Karen Penale, $1,000, Ashley Sanders, $900; Dr. Nancy Ungvarsky, $990; May River Montessori, Sari Kandel, $1,000; Okatie Elementary School, Siobhan

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Phil Hartman

McCann, $1,000; St. Francis Catholic School, Lesley Brewster, $745.

The Bright Ideas program was created in 2004. Since its inception, area teachers have received $603,941 in grants.

SIX NONPROFITS RECEIVE COVID-19 RELIEF FUNDS

Following its motto, “We Live Here, We Give Here,” the Fund’s mission is to support local organizations with the greatest needs consistent with the spirit of the Moss Creek community. The Fund is administered in association with the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry.

HILTON HEAD ISLAND-BLUFFTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EARNS 5-STAR ACCREDITATION

The Town of Hilton Head partnered with Community Foundation of the Lowcountry to award U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development grants to six nonprofits. The grants were awarded to Hilton Head Regional Habitat for Humanity ($25,000); Second Helpings ($12,000); Native Island Business & Community Affairs Association ($25,000); Mental Health America of Beaufort/Jasper ($25,000); Sandalwood Community Food Pantry ($13,500); and The Literacy Center ($25,000). The funds are part of HUD’s Community Development Block Grant Program.

The Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce was awarded a five-star accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. It is the second time the Chamber has earned the designation, which recognizes excellence in programming, fiscal responsibility, government affairs, communications, technology, facilities, and benchmarking. There are only 132 chambers out of 7,000 in the country that hold the five-star accreditation, a news release said.

MOSS CREEK FUND GIVES GRANTS TO CHARITIES

PALMETTO DUNES HONORED AS TOP PICKLEBALL RESORT

The support by residents of Moss Creek and sponsors of its annual golf tournament enabled the Moss Creek Charitable Fund to make its annual grants to 13 deserving charities in the Lowcountry totaling $24,515.

The Palmetto Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort has been named Pickleball Resort of the Year

by Racquet Sports Industry Magazine. Palmetto Dunes has 24 lighted pickleball courts.

Sarah Ansboury, the resort’s director of pickleball instruction, was named Professional Pickleball Registry’s member of the year. Ansboury is a five-time national pickleball champion, a news release said.

STONEWORKS EMPLOYEES HELP KEEP HHI CLEAN

Twelve StoneWorks employees recently served the community by picking up trash along Hunter Road on Hilton Head Island. They collected 11 bags.

ACES ABOUND AT SEA PINES COUNTRY CLUB

Holes-in-one are up exponentially at Sea Pines Country Club. The club reports that from February through October there were 16 aces, including six during a 30-day span this fall.

There’s a one-in-12,000 chance of making a hole-in-one.

“We might have to start tucking pins into their Sunday placements,” joked Robbie Ames, Sea Pines Country Club general manager.

Sea Pines Country Club also received the prestigious “Distinguished Club” recognition by BoardRoom Magazine.

The Distinguished Clubs program uses an exclusive rating system that recognizes facilities, management and staff based on a top-tier member experience.

PARKER’S GOLF TOURNAMENT RAISES $137,000 TO SUPPORT EDUCATION, HEALTHCARE

The eighth annual Parker’s Fueling the Community Golf Tournament raised a record $137,000 to support education and healthcare in coastal Georgia and South Carolina. All proceeds from the tournament will benefit local communities where Parker’s operates stores.

The event attracted 144 registered golfers from across the region.

HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION LAUNCHES EDUCATION FOUNDATION CERTIFICATE PROGRAM

The Hilton Head Area Home Builders Association has launched an initiative to recognize supporters of its Hilton Head Area Home Builders Education Foundation scholarship program. The program will enable supporters of the Education Foundation who donate $100 to receive a special framed certificate and a badge. Hardeeville-based KBRS is the first participant, donating $500 to the Education Foundation.

The donation will go toward the Foundation’s scholarship program presented to graduating high school seniors in Beaufort, Jasper or Hampton counties planning to attend a four- or two-year accredited trade/tech school, college or university. For more information, visit education.hhahba.com/home2.

HILTON HEAD REGIONAL HEALTHCARE HOSPITALS RECEIVE SAFETY AWARDS

Coastal Carolina Hospital and Hilton Head Hospital earned multiple 2020 Zero Harm awards from the South Carolina Hospital Association.

Since 2014, SCHA’s Zero Harm Awards have celebrated hospitals who have had extended harm-free stretches in major surgical areas.

MAY RIVER FOOTBALL STANDOUT A MR. FOOTBALL FINALIST

Ahmad Green, May River High’s quarterback, was named one of five finalists for the Touchstone Energy Cooperatives Bowl’s South Carolina Mr. Football award.

The S.C. Athletic Coaches Association established the Mr. Football award in 1995. The award winner will be announced in December.

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Bea Wray learned life lessons from her children, which inspired her to chronicle her experiences about business and family.

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LEARNED ENTREPRENEUR BEA WRAY PENS BOOK ABOUT HER EXPERIENCES FROM THE BOARDROOM TO THE PLAYROOM STORY BY MARK E. LETT | PHOTOS BY KEITH MORGAN

Bea Wray had a great education, earning degrees from Emory University in Atlanta and the Harvard Business School.

Great, but incomplete.

It wasn’t until she spent six years on Daufuskie Island — raising her three children — that she added essential life lessons to round out her people skills, ranging from effective listening to successful team man agement.

As it turned out, what she needed was island culture, casting a shrimp net, fishing, riding a bike and lots of precious, quality family time.

Wray, the daughter of parents with longstanding ties to Hilton Head Island, tells her story in a new book, appropriately titled “What an MBA Taught Me … But My Kids Made Me Learn.”

In just under 200 fast-moving pages that blend humor with wisdom, Wray shares life passages and takeaways that shaped her as a nationally recognized motivational speaker.

Bottom line, she says: Her kids were “the ultimate teachers.”

Her book draws from her heady business career and her experiences as a mom. Packed into the pages are personal stories, one-liners and knowledge gained from her days as a tech company chief executive and her globe-trotting life as a consultant, lecturer and entrepreneur.

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“With all due respect to Harvard, motherhood was what really taught me how to negotiate, communicate in the business world, think on my feet and adapt to ever-changing circumstance,” Wray writes.

What she learned, she says, were lessons that connect the “playroom to the boardroom.”

Among those endorsing the book is Lynn Vojvodich, a member of the Ford Motor Co. board of directors.

“As a working mother and HBS alum, I loved Bea’s insightful take on the value of parenting skills in the business world,” she said. “Lots of laugh-out-loud stories mixed in with proven, practical advice.”

The daughter of a nurse and an auto industry executive, Wray had a

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HILTON HEAD IS ABSOLUTELY ONE OF THE MOST INTERESTING PLACES TO LIVE AND ASSOCIATE WITH SOME OF THE MOST INTRIGUING PEOPLE FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD. Bea Wray

nomadic childhood as her father’s success took the family to factories across America, from California to New Jersey.

But the family’s “center” always was Hilton Head, Wray says, noting that her parents, Savannah natives Barb and Bill Strickland, enjoyed boat trips to the island when they first dated decades ago before a bridge to the island was built.

Growing up, Wray said, “Hilton Head was where we headed for holi days and vacations.”

Her parents, now retired, live in Savannah after owning a series of Hilton Head homes.

“I kid my parents that they buy homes more often than I buy milk,” Wray jokes.

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Her well-traveled youth — she counts 13 different homes — led Wray to develop techniques for commu nicating, resourcefulness and making friends “because I was always the new kid.”

It also helped prepare her for a business school degree focused on entrepreneurship and high tech, and a string of work world successes, including a stint as founder and chief executive of SourceHarbour Inc., a software escrow company serving Fortune 500 clients.

The company was sold in 2006 and Wray and her fam ily headed for Daufuskie.

The remote, bridgeless island was a dramatic change from Wray’s earlier, impactful business life with Siemens in Munich and with tech companies and start-ups.

And “Daufuskie was truly heavenly,” Wray recalls.

ABOUT THE BOOK FROM SIMON & SCHUSTER: Unleash your hidden leadership skills with this powerful, heartfelt guide.

Great business schools know that connection, more than curriculum, shapes great leaders. Every aspect of the experience intentionally maximizes relationship building.

What an MBA Taught Me...But My Kids Made Me Learn is a sometimes hilarious, other times harrowing journey through Harvard Business School, twenty years of business experience, and the most important academy of all: parenting.

Parenting?

That’s right. When Bea Wray returned to entrepreneurial work after six years as a fulltime mom, she worried. What relevant skills could she bring to the corporate table? Yet her career took off as her interpersonal expertise soared. Perhaps family time can be a breakthrough, rather than a break from professional advancement.

Psssst. “Soft” skills are actually pretty hard...but they can be mastered.

As kids demonstrate, we learn best when having fun. In this book, dozens of essential executive leadership lessons are carefully wrapped in humorous and heartfelt stories to inspire and encourage you.

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WITH ALL DUE RESPECT TO HARVARD, MOTHERHOOD WAS WHAT REALLY TAUGHT ME HOW TO NEGOTIATE, COMMUNICATE IN THE BUSINESS WORLD, THINK ON MY FEET AND ADAPT TO EVER-CHANGING CIRCUMSTANCE. Bea Wray “It’s the best place to live when your kids are young.”

When the family arrived at lightly populated Daufuskie (some 400 residents), the children were among three of 17 in the island school.

The family attended the First Union African Baptist Church, learned to milk goats and savored sunny days at the beach.

Wray said they also learned to listen, communicate, ne gotiate and collaborate — all skills that serve parenting and business leadership.

Among other things, Wray said she benefited from her children’s authenticity and ability to keep things “real.”

Reality hit home when her marriage ended in divorce and the family faced severe financial challenges.

Now remarried and living in Mount Pleasant, Wray said life on Daufuskie provided a foundation to build a new life.

These days, her daughter is a student at prestigious Vassar College in New York, son Robert is a 6-foot-4-inch high school basket ball player and her youngest son is a high school freshman.

Along the way, Wray spent three years as director of the Savannah-based The Creative Coast, a nonprofit that consults and advo cates for digital, tech and knowledge-based businesses. Lowcountry living — including stops in Hilton Head Plantation, Shipyard, South Forest Beach and Daufuskie — af firmed Wray’s affection for the Lowcountry, she said.

“I have a love for it as a hub of intelligence and intellect, not just a vacation spot,” she said. “Hilton Head is absolutely one of the most interesting places to live and associate with some of the most intriguing people from all over the world.”

Moreover, she says, it’s a place where chil dren and parents can learn. From each other.

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Louise Hodges

INCUBATOR FOR INNOVATION David Nelems

Ned Nielsen

Karam Tascoe

DON RYAN CENTER EXPANDS OPPORTUNITIES FOR STARTUPS AND GROWING BUSINESSES STORY BY JAMES A. MALLORY | PHOT0S BY LLOYD WAINSCOTT

When Louise R. Hodges entered the inaugural class of Bluffton’s Don Ryan Center for Innovation in 2012, it was like taking Business 101, she said.

The lessons paid off for Hodges’ Greenbug, Inc., and now the business owner is back with DRCI as a member of the Growth Program for businesses seeking assistance in the growth phase.

Greenbug is one of 50 businesses incubated at the DRCI since the town started it eight years ago. Early this year, the town completed a new facility for DRCI at Buckwalter Place Commerce Park.

Known as The HUB, the facility offers a flexible workspace for individuals and small businesses who are DRCI members or are enrolled in one of the Innovation Programs.

Bluffton created the non-profit to support startups and fledgling companies that could help grow the area’s economy.

It now has the Growth Program for expanding businesses, said David Nelems, vice president of innovation. The Resiliency Program was added earlier this year to offer businesses shortterm help during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The DRCI has been instrumental in our success as the

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support from the beginning was paramount to a good foundation,” Hodges said. “Now that we are in the Growth Program, we are working harder on our business as opposed to working in our business, which is key to long-term success.”

Producers of eco-friendly pest control products made from cedar, Hodges and her husband, Dan Hodges, 63, went to the DRCI with an idea that became the Greenbug System, which offers automatic pest control through lawn sprinklers, she said.

Greenbug contracts out its production to the South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Center, which employs disabled adults.

The center is now helping Greenbug as it looks to expand into new markets, she said.

“They helped us prioritize, develop business plans and find partners to help us,” said Hodges, 59, who serves on the DRCI Board of Directors.

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DRCI’s new location provides members with high-speed internet; computers; design and creative software; monthly education webinars; special Facebook groups; and meeting rooms. The idea is for entrepreneurs to be able to interact with, and provide support for, one another, said CEO Mike Levine.

Because of COVID-19, the center has waived annual membership fees ($99 for individuals and $450 for businesses with up to five employees) and rent for The Hub for 12 months from the time of sign-up, Levine said.

Innovator Karam Tascoe, 41, turned to DRCI about a year ago when he decided to move his business concept from idea to actuality. He is developing what he calls a web-based marketplace (called RightNowHelp) that will connect people looking for temporary workers to those seeking such employment.

“It’s like a Craigslist 2.0, but we will have done background

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IN MY EXPERIENCE, YOU WANT THE RIGHT IDEA AND PERSON WHO CAN MANAGE ALL OF THE DIFFERENT THINGS THAT HAVE TO HAPPEN TO START A COMPANY. David Nelems

contract expired, returned to the center in his current role.

“It’s challenging to start your own business but with the tools, resources and advice we offer, we make it easier,” he said.

The DRCI has more than 42 active volunteer mentors, mainly from this area, said Nelems, noting it has counseled more than 150 companies or individuals.

Ned Nielsen turned to DRCI for help in 2014 when he was trying to raise capital for his business. His original idea was turned down when pitched, said Nielsen, 73, who was once a multi-franchised car dealer.

Nelems helped him plot out a plan on a whiteboard.

Now, MonroneyLabels.com manufactures and sells automotive factory “as-built” data to new-and-used car dealers, insurance companies and salvage yards, Nielsen said.

“Our company wants to be an example for other small companies on how the Don Ryan Center can move their HOLE #18 - PETE DYE SIGNATURE GOLF COURSE company forward,” Nielsen said.

checks for security and allow parties to exchange funds electronically,” he said.

DRCI tries to have 12 companies in the incubator annually.

Applicants go through several evaluation steps, Nelems said.

“If it is a good fit, we invite them to a pitch event before the entrepreneur committee,” he said. “They have 15 minutes to pitch and then they go through 15 minutes of questions.”

The five-member committee assesses whether DRCI can help the entrepreneur move forward with his or her idea.

They are looking for companies that can be based in Bluffton and Beaufort County, but have the potential for a regional or national reach. Nelems said there isn’t one thing that makes a startup successful.

“In my experience, you want the right idea and person who can manage all of the different things that have to happen to start a company,” said Nelems, a serial entrepreneur who once ran DRCI. He left to help a graduate evolve their business and when that

“… And Then We Came to Hampton

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

Hampton Hall currently offers a limited number of non-resident golf memberships t to our Pete Dye Signature Golf Course, our comprehensive practice facility, and dini appointed community clubhouse and at Pete’s Grill in our golf clubhouse. We invi 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 at

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

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stand out with

STRONG BRANDING CUT THROUGH THE COMPETITION STORY BY NICK BERGELT

A question that is likely on all small business owners’ minds lately is this: How do you capture the limited attention of your target consumer through marketing when they are constantly being bombarded with more advertising and distractions than ever before?

Also, how do you compete with established corporations that have seemingly unlimited resources?

The answer is not in marketing, but instead through best-of-breed branding.

Brand is something that has never been more important to both individuals and businesses alike.

We’re living in an era where there has never been more “noise” and competition to cut through in what is becoming a digital-first marketplace.

Technology and the internet have made it easier than ever for consumers to research companies and products before making a purchase, leading to a much more discerning consumer that is more engaged, but as a result, has more options than ever before.

When setting out to develop your brand, there are three key layers that start with what I refer to as the “inner core.”

The inner core represents the emotional piece of the brand or the “why you do what we do”— whether as an individual or as a business.

From there, the next fundamental piece is determining “how a brand can execute on their why,” or the actual process. The last piece is the rational “what,” i.e, the product or service most people will see at first glance and associate immediately with any brand.

The next step is further defining connectivity between the three fundamental layers, which are composed of

multiple facets working in concert together to establish these layers.

This will be driven by the brand vision, brand values, brand positioning, brand personality and, ultimately, what I refer to as brand essence.

All of these factors combined lead to brand experience, which influences the way people “feel” about any particular brand.

From the lens of the consumer, the reality is that there is only one thing that defines a brand and that is how you feel in the moment you interact with that individual, product, service or business.

If you think of all the most established brands in our society today, as a consumer you have an innate reaction to your feeling about that brand — good or bad — which ultimately influences your behavior.

At the most foundational level, your brand’s mission should always be aligned with your story, values, language and tone.

It should be authentic and consistent with what you stand for.

This is critical if you are going to create more trust with your customers, which ultimately leads to brand loyalty.

The reality is, the greatest companies in the world don’t sell, they brand.

So, as an individual or small business, you need to think about business as a long-term relationship with your target consumer, not a single transaction.

When done right, a strong brand will stand out and make all the difference regarding your success in the increasingly noisy world we live in today.

Nick Bergelt is the creative entrepreneurial force behind the HospitalityX portfolio company, which develops, manages and consults on restaurant brands that break the mold of traditional dining, offering food and beverage experiences for guests throughout the country.

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“on the move ”

1. THE GREENERY NAMES CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Ben Campsey is The Greenery’s new chief financial officer. Campsey has more than 20 years of experience in finance and accounting. His new role will include business planning and operations management. Campsey earned a bachelor of arts degree in accounting and an MBA from the University of Arizona. He is a licensed CPA.

5. HILTON HEAD REGIONAL HEALTHCARE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION RECEIVES SCHOLARSHIP

1. CAMPSEY

2. DON RYAN CENTER APPOINTS VOTING MEMBER

Deborah E. Edmondson has been named a voting member of the Don Ryan Center for Innovation’s board of directors. Edmondson is a real estate agent, a certified grant writer and marketing consultant for nonprofit organizations. She received a bachelor of science degree in marketing from Hampton University.

Edmondson lives in Bluffton.

6. BMH ADDS ONCOLOGISTS FOR CANCER CENTER IN OKATIE

2. EDMONDSON

3. STONEWORKS WELCOMES SALES REPRESENTATIVE Carole May has been hired as an outside sales representative at StoneWorks. May is responsible for developing professional relationships and connecting different industries with the StoneWorks mission. Her professional background includes sales positions in the wholesale and retail industries, including the furniture industry and outside sales for soft goods.

5. ROBERTSON

4. CIFALDI CELEBRATES 10 YEARS WITH FELLOWSHIP OF CHRISTIAN ATHLETES

Paul Cifaldi recently celebrated his 10-year anniversary as area director with South Coastal Fellowship of Christian Athletes, a non-profit Christian sports ministry serving Beaufort, Jasper, Hampton and Allendale counties.

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Alyssa Robertson, Hilton Head Regional Healthcare Market Director of Education, earned a $3,000 scholarship from the American Association of Critical Care Nurses.

The scholarship will ­b e applied toward Robertson’s pursuit of her doctor of nursing practice in educational leadership degree at Grand Canyon University.

Beaufort Memorial has added two board-certified oncologists to its medical staff at the New River Cancer Center in Okatie.

Board-certified in medical oncology, hematology and internal medicine, Dr. Stephen Tiley comes to the Lowcountry from Vidalia, Ga., after seven years on staff at Meadows Regional Cancer Center. He earned a B.A. in human biology and anthropology at Temple University and his medical degree from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Dr. Paul A. Saconn, a boardcertified radiation oncologist, has been affiliated with cancer programs both in Beaufort County and throughout the country. A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a B.A. in psychology, he earned his doctor of medicine from Wake Forest School of Medicine.

7. CABRETTA CAPITAL NAMES CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Kevin Morelli has been named chief operating officer for Savannah-based Cabretta Capital. Morelli had served as Cabretta’s chief financial officer for three years.

7. MORELLI

8. ROC DENTAL PROMOTES PRACTICE MANAGER

Claudette Stewart has been promoted to practice manager at ROC Dental Group. Stewart has worked as a patient care coordinator at ROC Dental Group since 2017.

9. HILTON HEAD AREA COUNCIL OF ESTATE AND FINANCIAL ADVISORS HONORED

The Hilton Head Area Council of Estate and Financial Advisors has been recognized as a Five Star Council by the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils as a part of the Leonard H. Neiman and Walter Lee Davis, Jr. Council of Excellence Award program.

The honor recognizes estate planning councils that have demonstrated a high level of achievement in areas critical to a successful membership experience.

10. NEXSEN PRUET ADDS 4 MEMBERS TO TEAM

Columbia-based Nexsen Pruet, which has an office in Bluffton, has hired three attorneys and a patent agent to grow the law firm’s intellectual property group. The new team members will practice in Charlotte, N.C. and Greenville, S.C. Seth Hudson (Member) and Nick Stadnyk (Special Counsel) will be in Charlotte and Bryan Baysinger (Special Counsel) and Ryan Clairmont (Patent Agent) will be in Greenville.

8. STEWART

VISIT US @ HILTONHEADMONTHLY.COM FOR MORE HAPPENINGS

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FINANCIAL PLANNING IS A

ROAD MAP

to achieving your goals STORY BY BRANDON WITT

When we are young, we are taught that setting, monitoring, and achieving goals is a key factor in finding success in life.

As we grow into adults our goals change and evolve.

They become increasingly difficult to define and monitor as we begin juggling a full-time job along with family responsibilities. Many of these goals also have a price tag attached.

A financial planner will help you define, prioritize, and simplify the process of achieving your goals by constructing a comprehensive financial plan. They will analyze your situation and develop solutions that will help you achieve your goals in a financially responsible manner.

There is sometimes an assumption that the only job of a financial planner is to manage your investments and help you plan for retirement.

This may be true in certain cases, but for most, this is just a fraction of the services they offer. Financial planners also assist with insurance, education, tax, and estate planning.

Have you ever wondered what would happen to your plan if you were critically injured and could no longer work? Or, what would happen to your family if you or

your spouse were to experience an untimely death?

While these situations may seem unlikely, they are possible. A financial planner will do an insurance analysis and determine if a disability or life insurance policy makes sense for your situation. They will also determine how much coverage is right for you.

If you have kids, you know college is on the horizon, but have you really thought about how you’re going to pay for it?

A financial planner can estimate the future cost of college and develop a tax-efficient savings strategy that incorporates your current resources. They can also assist you in the financial aid process and help you determine a financial strategy once a college is selected.

Thinking of selling off that large quantity of stock or property you inherited from a family member? Pump the breaks.

This could potentially leave you on the hook for a large tax liability. A financial planner will work with your accountant and analyze your current tax situation to come up with a strategy to make sure that asset is sold efficiently, and the tax liability is minimized.

IT’S NOT JUST AN INVESTMENT OR RETIREMENT PLAN, IT’S MORE LIKE A LIFE PLAN THAT’S CUSTOM TAILORED TO REFLECT WHAT’S IMPORTANT TO YOU.

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You have a strong plan now, but what happens once you and your spouse are no longer able to manage your day-today lives due to old age or an advanced disease? What will happen to your assets when you pass away?

A financial planner will work with you and your attorney to establish an estate plan that will address these issues. They will help you establish a suitable will or trust to make sure your assets are passed on in the way that you intended.

They can also assist in taking the proper steps to establish a power of attorney and health care proxy so you can be assured that your decisions are being made by someone you trust, should you become incapacitated.

The job of a financial planner is to develop a plan that covers all these topics. It’s not just an investment or retirement plan, it’s more like a life plan that’s custom tailored to reflect what’s important to you. The plan serves as a roadmap that’s main objective is to work towards and achieve your unique set of goals.

Whether your goal is to retire early or buy a vacation home, there is a plan that can help you achieve it.

Brandon Witt is a Certified Financial Planner. He lives on Hilton Head Island with his wife and four children. He can be contacted at bwitt@aegiscap.com or 843-715-0182. Witt is a Registered Representative and Investment Advisor Representative with Aegis Capital Corp (member FINRA/SIPC) through which he offers securities and investment advisory products and services. The opinions expressed are for information purposes only and is not an offer, recommendation, or solicitation of any product, strategy or transaction. The views, strategies or products discussed may not be appropriate or suitable and may be subject to risk.

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YEAR-END FINANCIAL PLANNING

1O CHECKLIST TIPS TO GET YOUR MONEY IN ORDER

STORY BY ANDREW JONES, CFP™ VERITY INVESTMENT PARTNERS

As we near the end of 2020, it is a great time to review important deadlines that affect your income taxes and financial plan. We’ve created 10 action items you can employ now to get your finances in order.

1. FUND RETIREMENT ACCOUNTS

Here is a list of personal and employee contribution limits and deadlines: • Traditional and Roth IRAs: $6,000 ($7,000 if over 50)

by April 15, 2021.

• SEP IRA: Up to $57,000 by tax filing deadline.

• SIMPLE IRA: $13,500 ($16,500 if over 50)

by Dec. 31.

• 401(k): $19,500 ($26,000 if over 50) by Dec. 31.

• Health Savings Account: $3,550 (single), $7,100 (family), $1,000 additional contribution if over 55 by April 15, 2021.

2. FUND 529 COLLEGE SAVINGS ACCOUNTS

529 accounts offer tax-free savings for college education expenses. In many states (including South Carolina), you receive an income-tax deduction for contributions.

Contributions must be made by Dec. 31.

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3. CONSIDER CHARITABLE GIVING

Charitable gifts are tax deductible (assuming you itemize deductions). A great way to further the income-tax benefit of charitable giving is to give appreciated stock rather than cash, to avoid capital gains taxes.

If you can’t itemize, the CARES Act allows for an additional “above-the-line” deduction for charitable gifts made in cash of up to $300 in 2020 only. Also, if you are age 72 or older and have a retirement account, you may still make a charitable gift of up to $100,000 from the retirement account to give pretax dollars. Charitable gifts must be made by Dec. 31.

4. REVIEW CASH RESERVES

If cash has built up beyond your emergency savings goal, consider investing the cash to increase your passive income. If your emergency savings is getting low, create a plan to replenish the account.

5. REQUIRED MINIMUM DISTRIBUTIONS NOT REQUIRED

Due to the CARES Act, there are no required minimum distributions from retirement accounts in 2020. If you have not made a distribution and don’t need the cash flow, avoid the distribution to reduce taxable income.

6. REVISIT TAX PLANNING

If your income was unusually high in 2020, consider any ways to accelerate tax deductions to offset income and reduce taxes (For example, make future charitable gifts now). If your income was unusually low, consider ways to accelerate future income to utilize losses (For example, Roth IRA conversion).

7. REVIEW BUDGET

Take time to review your spending and see how your expenses align with your goals for the year. Update your budget and remember to focus on spending that maximizes enjoyment and fulfillment.

8. REVIEW CREDIT REPORT

Visit www.AnnualCreditReport.com to review your credit report annually with the three main agencies: TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian. Examine each credit line on the report in detail and be on the lookout for any accounts or loans you do not recognize or open accounts that you no longer use.

9. REVIEW LIFE CHANGES

Consider how your life has changed over the past year(s) and how those changes affect your life goals and needs. Does your investment plan, insurance protection, or estate plan documents (including IRA and insurance beneficiary designations) need to be updated to reflect the changes in your life goals?

10. REFLECT AND ENVISION

Focus on what matters most in your life and gauge if you are living your best life (purpose, relationships, health, enjoyment, finances). Envision what life would look like if you were living fully in all areas of life. Create a financial action plan that supports living the life you want to lead.

Andrew Jones is a Beaufort, S.C., native, a graduate of Clemson University and a Certified Financial Planner TM who has more than 10 years of experience in financial planning and investment management. He is the Senior Client Portfolio Manager at Verity Investment Partners, a Financial Times “Top 300” Registered Investment Advisory Firm.

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ACCOUNTANTS HPREMIER ACCOUNTING

From bookkeeping and payroll to personal and corporate taxes, Premier Accounting was our readers’ overwhelming choice.

ART GALLERY HART LEAGUE OF HILTON HEAD-GREER GALLERY

It’s a masterpiece of a win for this iconic Hilton Head Island gallery.

BANK HCOASTAL STATES BANK

They are your local bank, and now they are your favorite bank.

CAR DEALERSHIP HSTOKES TOYOTA Make room in the trophy case next to your eight President’s Awards, Stokes Toyota. You’ve got a Readers’ Choice Award to squeeze in.

FAMILY LAW & ESTATE PLANNING OLIVETTI OF MCCRAY & WITHROW LLC

LAWYER HALISA MCCRAY

A teacher, speaker and lauded attorney, McCray brings a truly customized approach to the often tricky world of estate planning.

LAWYER GENERAL PRACTICE HKENNEDY & BLACKSHIRE

Their dream team of talented lawyers offer expertise in a variety of fields, making them the clear choice for our readers.

PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER HBAUER & METRO Their relentless pursuit of justice and vigilant defense of their clients earned them a stellar reputation in the legal world and a Readers’ Choice Award wins.

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REAL ESTATE LAWYER (TIE)

HCATHERINE OLIVETTI-OLIVETTI, MCCRAY & WITHROW, LLC HEMILY BOATWRIGHT-BOATWRIGHT LAW FIRM, LLC

The results have been double- and triple-checked and it turns out our readers couldn’t pick just one favorite, making these two esteemed professionals co-favorites.

FINANCIAL ADVISOR HMARC STUCKART-ATLANTIC INVESTMENT ADVISORY GROUP

Instilled with discipline through service in the United States Marine Corps, Stuckart handles clients’ financial needs with precision and dedication. They rewarded him with a magnificent win this year.

GATED COMMUNITY HHILTON HEAD PLANTATION

HHP is the place to be. Family friendly and focused on community building, Hilton Head Plantation takes the win this year.

INSURANCE COMPANY HCHRIS & CJ TASSONE - PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL GROUP

Our readers gave Tassone the win based on his determination and ingenious approach to helping clients secure their financial future.

MORTGAGE COMPANY HMORTGAGE NETWORK

Perennial Readers’ Choice Awards winners, Mortgage Network has been recognized again. It’s impossible to picture a Hilton Head Island without their expertise and experience.

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NONPROFIT GROUP HVOLUNTEERS IN MEDICINE

Our own home-grown miracle workers have taken Dr. Jack’s selfless example to heart, spreading VIM far and wide as a force for good.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY HBEACH PROPERTIES

Trust is key in choosing a property management company.

That trust is usually earned by referrals, and we know a few thousand readers who have a solid recommendation for you.

REAL ESTATE AGENT HSETH TILTON- ERA EVERGREEN

The Hilton Head Area Association of Realtors named him Realtor of the Year last year, and this year it’s our readers’ turn to lend this local luminary well-earned kudos.

REAL ESTATE COMPANY HCHARTER ONE REALTY

The biggest is still the best, with a whole army of agents ready to serve clients and help new residents live their Hilton Head dream.

RETIREMENT FACILITY HTHE CYPRESS OF HILTON HEAD The utmost care, a true sense of community and beautiful surroundings make The Cypress the clear choice for favorite retirement facility.

WEDDING VENUE HTHE WESTIN It’s no wonder why young lovebirds flock from all over for a destination wedding at the Westin. Sophisticated, beautiful and completely Hilton Head Island.

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FAVORITE ENTERTAINMENT

REGGIE DE AS

LOCAL BAND HDEAS GUYZ

Reggie Deas and his gang of talented musicians have been the island’s go-to party band for decades. Our readers can’t get enough of the band’s sound.

FAVORITE FAMILY RESOURCES DAYCARE HFIRST PRESBYTERIAN DAY SCHOOL Generations of working families on Hilton Head Island have trusted the educational excellence and commitment to development that have made First Presbyterian this year’s favorite.

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FAVORITE EDUCATION FACILITY

HIGHER EDUCATION HUSCB Welcome back to the island, USCB. This higher education powerhouse has been the standard bearer for island hospitality for decades, and we’re proud to have them back on the rock.

KIDS ACTIVITIES/CLASSES HISLAND REC CENTER

The recent slate of improvements to their facility have made the best even better, with so many opportunities to stay active.

PRE-K HHILTON HEAD PREP

The stages before entering school are vital for a child’s development, and no one prepares young students for the classroom like Hilton Head Prep.

SCHOOLS K-12 HST FRANCIS CATHOLIC SCHOOL On

an island filled with rich educational opportunities, this award is always hotly contested. St. Francis takes the top prize based on their educational excellence.

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APPETIZER HWISEGUYS

Whether it’s sumptuous steak or fresh seafood, the small-plate artistry on display here is something you won’t “fuggedabout.”

BARBECUE HONE HOT MAMA’S

Mama Orchid’s famed low-and-slow pork is like a little forkful of heaven with every bite. A well-earned win for the crowd at OHM.

BURGER HSTREET MEET

Like the direct-from-the-butcher deliciousness of yesteryear, Street Meet’s throwback flair makes their burger a juicy, delicious and authentic bite of Americana.

BURRITO HJAVA BURRITO COMPANY Java Burrito Company wraps up another Readers’ Choice Award win, but then wrapping it up is kind of their thing.

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CRAB LEGS HCRAZY CRAB

Crack open the bubbly, Crazy Crab. Your mouth-watering crab legs have earned you yet another RCA win.

FRENCH FRIES HFIVE GUYS

There’s something about knowing the exact Idaho town your spuds came from that makes a French fry just taste better.

FRIED CHICKEN HANNIE O’S

It’s like the menu says – it just tastes better. We don’t know the secret to their senses-ensnaring seasonings, but we’ll happily take another few bites to try and guess.

HEALTHY MENU HHEALTHY HABIT

When you can actually see the ingredients growing on-site, you know you’re getting some garden-fresh goodness. Eating healthy has never tasted so good.

MARGARITAHSAN MIGUEL’S

Can you even consider yourself a local if you don’t have at least one story that starts with margaritas at San Miguel’s? A true island icon takes the win.

MILKSHAKEHHILTON HEAD ICE CREAM

Maybe it’s the salt air mixed in with their ice cream, maybe it’s the way each visit is a new unforgettable experience. Either way, their milkshake is top-notch and deserves the accolades.

OYSTERSHOLD OYSTER FACTORY

Oysters are their middle name – literally. So, it only makes sense their freshly harvested oysters are what makes the R months great.

PIZZAHGIUSEPPI’S PIZZA & PASTA

Even the biggest New York City pizza snob will admit that there’s something special in Giuseppi’s famous pies.

SALADHHEALTHY HABIT

These folks have made healthy eating their raison d’etre, so it only makes sense that they would offer up some killer salads.

SANDWICHHBRITISH OPEN PUB

Whether it’s the “English Dip” or the lobster roll, the pub-fare perfection of British Open Pub makes for one mouth-watering sandwich selection.

STEAKHCRANE’S TAVERN & STEAKHOUSE

Locals know where to go for a sizzling slab of marbled amazement, served with a side of classic steakhouse atmosphere.

SUSHIHHINOKI

Three cheers for chef Chichi and the artistry he brings to every delicate morsel. Y’all are on a Readers’ Choice Award roll.

TACOHAMIGOS CAFE Y CANTINA

Fast, authentic and always delicious, Amigos has been our go-to for tasty tacos for years. Our readers, it seems, agree with us.

TAKE OUT/CURBSIDEHIT’S GREEK TO ME

Opa! It’s Greek to Me got us through 2020 with full bellies and tastebuds that were dancing a sirtaki.

WINGSHWILD WING CAFE

Hilton Head Island’s own homegrown wing empire continues to be the local favorite for that perfect blend of savory goodness and deep-fried crispiness.

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BARBER SHOP HCROWN & ANCHOR BARBER CO.

We’d love these guys even if they didn’t have a bar in the back of their barber shop. (But for the record, the bar is a nice touch).

FITNESS CENTER HPEAK PERFORMANCE

As we all try to shed our quarantine pounds, we can thank the folks at Peak Performance for offering a safe, effective way to get in shape.

HAIR SALON HENLITEN SALON

These style experts have been behind some of the island’s most lavish looks, earning them Readers’ Choice Award glory.

MASSAGE THERAPY HART OF MASSAGE

Here’s the rub – these dedicated experts are wizards at soothing away stress. This year more than any other, we salute them.

MEDICAL SPA HSERENDIPITY

Medical science and the art of restorative relaxation meet at Serendipity, making them your favorite this year.

NAIL SALON HNAIL TALK

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Their gorgeous work has made them the talk of the town, and winners in this year’s RCA.

SPA HFACES DAY SPA

Perennial Readers’ Choice Awards favorites FACES Day Spa has long been the island’s premiere choice for a day of beautification and restoration.

YOGA/PILATES HJIVA YOGA CENTER

It’s no stretch to see what makes Jiva Yoga Center this year’s winner – it’s their balance between pushing you toward growth and supporting you in your journey.

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APPLIANCE STORE HBILLY WOOD APPLIANCE

The kitchen is the heart of the home, and it simply isn’t a luxurious Lowcountry home without the latest beautiful appliances from Billy Wood at its center.

ARCHITECT HGROUP3 DESIGNS

Eschewing a signature “look” for a philosophy of creative design and wow factor, Group 3 is behind some of the most amazing homes you’ve ever seen.

BLINDS/WINDOW COVERING COMPANY HLIBERTY WALLCOVERINGS & WINDOW BLINDS

We’re proud to raise the curtain on this year’s winners, Liberty Wallcoverings and Window Blinds.

CABINET COMPANY HPEACOCK CABINETRY INC

Strut your stuff, Peacock Cabinetry. You’ve earned the nod from our readers.

CARPET/FLOORING COMPANY HKPM FLOORING

Stone, wood, tile or carpet, KPM makes some of the most beautiful things you’ll ever walk all over.

ELECTRICIAN HRANDY MAY

Randy and his team at May Electric score a high-voltage win in this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards.

GRANITE/STONE/MARBLE COMPANY HDISTINCTIVE GRANITE AND MARBLE

These folks have scoured the globe to bring only the finest materials to Lowcountry kitchens and bathrooms.

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HEATING AND AIR COMPANY HHOWELL CHASE HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

In the always competitive HVAC category, Howell-Chase pulls off a cool victory.

HOME BUILDER HSOUTHERN COASTAL HOMES

Refined and elegant, a Southern Coastal Home is built with just a little bit more care. It’s what makes them a winner in the competitive home builder category.

HOME FURNISHINGS STORE HJOHN KILMER DESIGNS

The only thing better than the fabulous furnishings on offer is the always friendly staff ready to help make your home a masterpiece.

INTERIOR DESIGN COMPANY HJ. BANKS DESIGN GROUP

The Lowcountry look that made our region famous lives at J. Banks Design Group.

LANDSCAPING COMPANY HTHE GREENERY

An island institution, The Greenery has long dominated the Readers’ Choice Awards thanks to their stellar service and wizardry with greenery.

MOVING COMPANY HIANAZZO TRUCKING

For the thousands who are flocking the Lowcountry, these are the first folks they meet. We couldn’t pick a better representative.

NURSERY/GARDEN CENTER HBRUNO LANDSCAPE & NURSERY

It’s not just the selection of perennials and annuals, it’s the expertise that goes into helping you pick the perfect plant for your place.

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C L E A R WAT E R P O O L

PEST CONTROL HHILTON HEAD EXTERMINATORS

For pests of the Lowcountry, Hilton Head Exterminators are a nightmare. For our readers, they are miracle workers. We’ll side with our readers on this one.

PLUMBER HBUTLER’S PLUMBING

The awards just keep coming down the pipe for Butler’s Plumbing.

And they’ve earned every one of them.

POOL COMPANY HCLEARWATER POOL

When asked for your favorite pool company, you made your message clear: Clearwater Pool took the top honors.

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ALLIANCE ROOFING OF SOUTH CAROLINA

RENOVATIONS HROBERTS CONSTRUCTION

Brick by brick and beam by beam, Roberts Construction has built a solid reputation for craftsmanship and dedication.

ROOFING/FABRICATION HALLIANCE ROOFING OF SOUTH CAROLINA

In this year’s voting, Alliance Roofing comes out on top, both literally and figuratively.

TREE REMOVAL/ARBORIST HJONES BROTHERS TREE SURGEONS

With this win, Jones Brothers prove they are a cut above the competition.

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FAVORITE MEDICAL SERVICES & PROFESSIONALS

ACUPUNCTURE (TIE)HAGELESS ACUPUNCTURE H INTEGRATIVE PAIN RELIEF - BETH SCHOON

It’s a tie in the acupuncture category this year, leaving us with two great options for pursuing this ancient healing art.

ALLERGIST HDR. THOMAS BELLER

The last line of defense against the Lowcountry’s aggressive pollen, Dr. Beller brings a storied reputation and expert care to his Lowcountry practice.

CHIROPRACTOR HFRAUM CENTER FOR RESTORATIVE HEALTH

The stars have aligned to give Fraum yet another cracking win as Hilton Head Island’s favorite chiropractor.

DENTIST (COSMETIC)HROC DENTAL GROUP

Drs. Matt Mastrorocco and Jordan Haire bring a one-two punch of practiced precision and cutting-edge advancements to each patient’s smile.

DENTIST (FAMILY)HDR. KEN KOWALYK

A long-time favorite among Readers’ Choice Award voters, it brings a smile to our face to see Dr. Kowalyk take the top spot again.

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FAVORITE HEALTH & BEAUTY

DERMATOLOGIST HDR. BUNDY- HILTON HEAD DERMATOLOGY

ORTHODONTIST HWINNING ORTHODONTICS

Well regarded in his field, it’s no surprise to see Dr. Bundy once again taking the top spot.

The island’s most beautiful smiles start here, earning them Readers’ Choice Award glory.

DOULA/MIDWIFERY SERVICES HAPRIL LEWIS

ORTHOPEDIC HDR. MARK DEAN, MD-BEAUFORT ORTHOPAEDIC SPORTS & SPINE

Compassionate care at every step of the birthing plan sets April Lewis apart.

ENT DOCTOR (EAR,NOSE,THROAT)HDR. DAVID MAUER

This year more than most, a good ENT is a vital part of anyone’s healthcare. We’re fortunate to have one of the best.

FAMILY DOCTOR HMAIN STREET MEDICAL

Beyond simply treating sickness, Main Street Medical takes a balanced approach to health which has earned them loyal patients and numerous awards. We’re proud to hand them one more.

IN-HOME CARE HHOSPICE CARE OF THE LOWCOUNTRY

For the utmost in compassion in the most trying of times, Hospice Care of the Lowcountry is head and shoulders above the rest and has the RCA win to prove it.

OB/GYN HADVANCED WOMEN’S CARE OF THE LOWCOUNTRY, KATHERINE COLEY

Dr. Coley’s friendly bedside manner and in-depth expertise have earned her a solid win in this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards.

OPHTHALMOLOGIST (EYE

DOCTOR)HBISHOP EYE CENTER

Holy moley! Bishop Eye Center takes another Reader’s Choice Award, but we all saw that coming.

OPTOMETRIST (VISION OPTICAL SOLUTIONS

CARE)HDR. MICHAEL CAMPBELL,

When asked for their favorite optometrist, our readers had their eye on Dr. Campbell.

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Getting patients back up and moving with expertise and dedication has made Dr. Dean our readers’ pick in this year’s competition.

PEDIATRIC DENTIST HCOASTAL PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Is it possible to make going to the dentist fun? Step inside, and you’ll see the answer to that question is a resounding yes.

PEDIATRIC PRACTICE HPALMETTO PEDIATRICS OF THE LOWCOUNTRY, LLC

Guiding the development of Lowcountry children every step of the way, this team of dedicated experts takes the top spot among our readers.

PHARMACY HBURKE’S MAIN STREET PHARMACY

More than just a pharmacy, this island institution is one-stop shopping for a healthier you.

PHYSICAL THERAPIST HDRAYER PHYSICAL THERAPY

When you need dedicated care to get back on your feet, go to the place that has earned our readers’ trust and their vote.

PLASTIC SURGEON HDR. FREDERICK WENIGER

The art and science of plastic surgery come together in Dr. Weniger’s clinic, leading to a more beautiful you.

PRE-NATAL MASSAGE HHEAVENLY SPA AT THE WESTIN

Pregnancy is one of the most stressful things a woman’s body can endure. She deserves the best, and she’ll find it at the Westin.

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FAVORITE PET SERVICES

DOG TRAINER HPAWS ON LEARNING

Whether you have a problem pooch or just want that little bit of behavioral adjustments, our readers know to send you to the place where canine education is an art.

PET BOARDING HEVERGREEN PET LODGE

Like a day spa for your furry friend, you can rest assured they are being pampered and loved during their stay at our readers’ favorite.

PET GROOMING HGROOMINGDALES

Don’t trust your pet’s elegant look to just anyone. Our readers have been kind enough to point you toward the very best.

PET SUPPLY STORE HPETSMART

Think of it like a big-box store with a heart. The friendly, knowledgeable staff is always happy to help you with your picks from the massive selection of food, supplements, toys and habitats for your pet.

VETERINARIAN HDR. BEN PARKER COASTAL VETERINARY CLINIC

He’s an island institution and he’s just getting started. Dr. Ben Parker is an easy choice for favorite vet among our readers.

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ASIAN HOKKO JAPANESE SUSHI & HIBACHI RESTAURANT

BREAKFAST HPALMETTO BAY SUNRISE CAFE

From delicate sashimi rolls to the full dinner-and-a-show hibachi experience, the land of the rising sun lives on Hilton Head at OKKO.

Good days start here, with a slew of early morning favorites that have had visitors and locals alike packing the porch at Palmetto Bay Sunrise Café for years.

BAKERY HTHE FRENCH BAKERY

BREWERY HHILTON HEAD BREWING COMPANY

The delicate flavors of France live in every delectable bite of the baked goods at The French Bakery.

BAR/LATE NIGHT HTHE JAZZ CORNER

The Tropical Lager alone would be enough to lift these north end kegmeisters to the top spot, but it’s their full range of local favorites and experimental brews that keep them there.

BRUNCH HSUNSET GRILL

Cool, sophisticated and always swinging with the sounds of the area’s top musicians, The Jazz Corner is the island’s clear choice for a hip night out.

With some of the most dazzling views on the island, this north end hotspot is the place to start your Sunday funday.

BARTENDER HCARRIE ALBERG AT SAN MIGUEL’S

CATERING COMPANY HSERG TAKEOUT KITCHEN

When the island needs a drink (and we usually do), we head to San Miguel’s for the mixology mastery that Carrie brings to each sip.

The island’s biggest restaurant group didn’t get to where they are without knowing how to throw a party. Our readers voted loud and clear who feeds their favorite festivities.

BEER SELECTION HWORLD OF BEER

CHEF H MICHAEL CIRAFESI AT OMBRA

It’s literally a world of beer at this Shelter Cove watering hole, with expertly curated local craft and global goodness on top.

A true icon of the island’s culinary scene, Chef Cirafesi’s mastery of Italian ingredients and techniques have made Ombra an institution.

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N O N N A M A R I E ’ S G E L AT O & C O F F E E S H O P

COFFEE SHOP HNONNA MARIE’S GELATO & COFFEE SHOP

When you need something sweet with your morning pick-me-up, our readers say there’s no better place than Nonna Marie’s.

COUNTER SERVICE HJAVA BURRITO COMPANY

There must be something about serving up mouth-watering burritos and heavenly coffee that puts a person in a good mood, because the staff here is always on point and ready to serve.

DELI HGRUBY’S NEW YORK DELI

You know a deli is good when all the transplanted New Yorkers swear by it. Gruby’s is like a little bite out of the big apple right in our own backyard.

DESSERT MENU HTHE PURPLE COW COFFEES CONFECTIONS AND COCKTAILS

For a little something sweet, our readers know to point you to the cow. Sumptuous flavors of all kinds serve to satiate sweet tooths and rake in Readers’ Choice Awards.

EUROPEAN (NON-ITALIAN)HCHARLIE’S L’ETOILE VERTE

The green star shines just as bright today as it did when it first opened years ago. It’s the best of France, layered with Lowcountry flavors for an experience that is magnifique.

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FINE DINING HNUNZIO RESTAURANT BAR

Nunzio’s dedicated approach to fine Italian ingredients has made this relatively new eatery a fast-tracked entry into the island’s list of favorites.

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FOOD TRUCK HPIZZA CO.

It’s the same insanely good ingredients that have made Pizza Co. a favorite, just on wheels. What’s not to love?

HAPPY HOUR HSALTY DOG

Stunning scenery, mouth-watering apps and inspired cocktails combine in the iconic eatery where islanders meet to toast another day.

ITALIAN HPOMODORI ITALIAN EATERY

Viva Italia! Pomodori takes the top spot amongst a stacked field of Italian favorites, earning the accolades for their delicious oldworld cuisine.

KID-FRIENDLY HSKULL CREEK BOATHOUSE

The word genius gets thrown around a lot – but whoever put that playground right by the bar so parents could enjoy a drink while they supervise playtime is a genius in every sense.

LUNCH HJANE BISTRO & BAR

The exquisite salads and sandwiches have given this Shelter Cove eatery the edge in this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards.

MEXICAN/SOUTHWESTERN HSANTA FE CAFE

The ever-changing menu at Santa Fe Café has always had one constant – a relentless pursuit of authentic ingredients in mouthwatering combinations of pure south-of-the-border bliss.

NEW CHEF

CHEZ GEORGES BISTRO & BAR New to the island, maybe, but certainly not new to the kitchen, Chez George chef Burns Sullivan built his career in James Beard Award-

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NEW CHEF HCHEZ GEORGES BISTRO & BAR

Chez George chef Burns Sullivan built his career in James Beard Award-winning kitchens.

NEW RESTAURANT HBLUE LAGUNA GRILL & CANTINA

In its rookie year, this Mexican cantina has earned rave reviews for its hand-crafted cocktails and authentic flavors.

OUTDOOR DINING HHUDSON’S SEAFOOD ON THE DOCKS

The sprawling over-the-water outdoor section at Hudson’s gives you the rare opportunity to see your dinner as it’s being pulled off the boat.

PET FRIENDLY HCAPTAIN WOODY’S

The captain knows that islanders love their pets and is always happy to accommodate our furry friends.

RESTAURANT STAFF HMICHAEL ANTHONY’S

Expertly crafted cuisine is just part of the experience at Michael Anthony’s, where the wait staff is always ready to please.

SE A GR ASS GRILLE

SEAFOOD HSEA GRASS GRILLE

The freshest catch you’ll find is on the menu at Sea Grass Grille, served up with mouth-watering aplomb by their celebrated chefs.

SOUTHERN HRUBY LEE’S

Grab a bite of authentic native islander flavor and see why Southern soul food makes the world go ‘round.

SPORTS BAR HREILLEY’S GRILL & BAR

It might not be the best place to root against Notre Dame, but even the most ardent Michigan fans are welcome at this south end mainstay.

VEGETARIAN/VEGAN HDELISHEE YO

In a bowl, in a wrap or mixed with some tasty Fro Yo, you’ll find some of the freshest veggies on earth here – some right from the garden outside.

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HUDSON’S SE AFOOD ON THE DOCKS

WATER VIEWS HHUDSON’S SEAFOOD ON THE DOCKS

One of the first restaurants on the island, Hudson’s was given the rare opportunity to call “dibs” on waterfront property and nailed it.

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WINE SELECTION HALEXANDER’S

Foreign or domestic, reds or whites and everything in between, if you can’t find a wine that you absolutely love here, you won’t find it anywhere.

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FAVORITE RETAILERS

BRIDAL BOUTIQUE HBIRDIE JAMES

The island’s most lavish dream weddings start here, earning this boutique top honors from our readers.

CONSIGNMENT HCHURCH MOUSE THRIFT SHOP

GIFT/NOVELTY STORE HGIFTED HILTON HEAD

This makes the 10th straight win for this Village at Wexford mainstay, a decade of dominance built on mind-blowing selection and amazing pricing.

GROCERY STORE HHARRIS TEETER

Incredible buys await around every corner at this island institution, which is just a small part of the huge appeal that has earned them a Readers’ Choice Award.

The hometown favorite place to pick up the essentials and prepare for the next party, Harris Teeter has this win in the bag.

CHILDRENS CLOTHING HISLAND CHILD

HARDWARE STORE HGRAYCO HARDWARE & HOME

Your pint-size fashionista will definitely find their new look at Island Child, which has been serving well-dressed youngsters for years.

FLORIST HFLOWERS BY SUE

A perennial favorite among our readers, Flowers by Sue blooms once again as the favorite.

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With the kind of service the big-box stores can’t touch, Grayco continues to be the local leader for guiding islanders through those DIY projects.

HEALTH FOOD/VITAMIN STORE HTHE HERB ROOM

The organic apothecary that is The Herb Room takes a holistic approach to your health, with a huge range of treatments and natural remedies.

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FORSY THE JE WLERS

JEWELRY STORE HFORSYTHE JEWELERS

Add another jewel to Forsythe’s crown as this island institution takes home yet another Readers’ Choice Award.

MEN’S STORE HKNICKERS

The fashionable island man has made Knickers their personal shopper for decades, making it the clear choice for this year’s award.

NEW BUSINESS HAL’S ALOHA KITCHEN

The buzz has been as big as the Banzai pipe line since this Aloha State eatery opened its doors. For bringing authentic Hawaiian cuisine to a different island, our readers say mahalo.

OUTDOOR STORE HOUTSIDE HILTON HEAD

Since Mike Overton first hung out his shingle, Outside Hilton Head has been the place to experience the island’s beauty and prepare for your next adventure.

SHOPPING CENTER HSHELTER COVE TOWNE CENTER

The multi-faceted appeal of this waterside wonderland lies in its mix of shopping and dining and its dedication to local names.

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SPORTING GOODS STORE HPLAYER’S WORLD OF SPORTS

Everything you need to improve your game is here, along with a knowledgeable staff who can get you to the next level.

THRIFT SHOP HTHE LITTER BOX

Even if we didn’t know that every purchase helps out local adorable animals, we’d still shop here just for the selection and bargains.

TOY STORE HHILTON HEAD TOYS, COLIGNY BEACH

Our readers asked their kids, and their kids overwhelmingly gave this beachside shop the nod.

H I LT O N H E A D T O Y S , C O L I G N Y B E A C H

TIRE STORE HISLAND TIRE & AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES

For more than 40 years, islanders have trusted their rides to the experts at Island Tire.

WINE & SPIRITS STORE HROLLERS WINE & SPIRITS PALMETTO BAY ROAD

Beyond the massive selection, it’s the experience that puts Rollers over the top. Stop in for a bottle of your old standby or lean on their expertise when you want to try something new.

WOMEN’S STORE HCOASTAL BLISS

When your ensemble needs to be fun, frisky and fashionable, you need to start here. Our readers think so, and they have impeccable taste if we do say so ourselves.

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AUTO DETAILING HAUTO SPA

For that gleaming just-out-of-the-showroom shine, leave every detail of your car to the experts at Auto Spa.

AUTO REPAIR HH&H AUTO

A fixture among Readers’ Choice Award winners, H&H Auto dominates the field every year on the strength of their expertise and strong customer loyalty.

CARPET CLEANING HHIGH TIDE RESTORATION & CLEANING

More than just a deep clean, their scientific wizardry will have your rugs and carpets looking even better than the day you moved in.

EVENT PLANNING COMPANY (TIE)HAMANDA ROSE WEDDINGS

HDUNES CATERING AND EVENTS

Our readers were torn on this one, giving equal votes to two highly deserving companies. It’s a testament to the high-quality events that have become a Lowcountry hallmark.

HOME CLEANING HHH CLEANING SERVICES

The true white-glove service offered by HH Cleaning Services gives them a clean win in this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards.

PERFORMING ARTS VENUE HARTS CENTER OF COASTAL CAROLIINA

The stage at the arts center has seen some of the most talented actors on earth trodding its boards, giving our island a true cultural experience like no other.

PHOTOGRAPHER HBROOKE SIMONS PHOTOGRAPHY

From family portraits to events, this young talent is capturing attention with her vibrant images and artistic eye.

TECH SUPPORT COMPANY HCAROLINA IT

Whether it’s a business looking for advanced security or a homeowner looking to beef up their bandwidth, these are the trusted experts in the Lowcountry.

TELE COMMUNICATIONS PROVIDER HHARGRAY

Since putting in the island’s first phone lines, Hargray has led the way from dial-up to broadband and beyond.

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BIKE STORE & RENTALS BOAT RENTAL HTHE BIKE DOCTOR HILTON HEAD

The island is famous for our love of cycling, and these are the only people we trust with our wheels.

BOAT DEALER HTHE BOATHOUSE

More and more of us are getting out on the water these days, and The Boathouse has been there to help us care for our crafts and pick out our next vessel.

HOTEL HTHE WESTIN HILTON HEAD ISLAND RESORT & SPA

The epitome of Hilton Head sophistication, the Westin has been the standard bearer for our island’s hospitality for years.

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OUTDOOR EXCURSION/TOUR COMPANY

HOUTSIDE HILTON HEAD

Even to longtime locals, the island offers up a wealth of tantalizing possibilities to explore. The experienced guides at Outside Hilton Head are the best at showing you where they are hidden.

WATERSPORT RENTAL COMPANY HH20 WATERSPORTS

A longtime favorite among readers when looking to spend a day on the water, H20 continues to make waves with its Readers’ Choice Award win.

PRIVATE GOLF CLUB HLONG COVE CLUB

Offering up 7,000 yards of Pete Dye brilliance, Long Cove Club’s members enjoy one of the southeast’s premiere courses right in their backyard.

PUBLIC GOLF CLUB HHARBOUR TOWN LINKS

The course that put Hilton Head Island on the map is still our readers’ overwhelming choice to play where the pros play.

TENNIS CENTER HPALMETTO DUNES TENNIS & PICKLEBALL CENTER

Ranked among the top 25 in the world by Tennis Resorts Online, it’s no wonder why our readers love the Palmetto Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center.

TRAVEL AGENCY HAAA-HILTON HEAD

One of the top-rated agencies in the entire industry, AAA–Hilton Head is leading the travel advisor renaissance with in-depth destination knowledge and over-the-top customer care.

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FAVORITE BUSINESSES & PROFESSIONALS

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NONPROFIT GROUP HBLUFFTON SELF HELP

The spirit of Ms. Ida Martin lives on in the hearts of the angel volunteers at Bluffton Self Help.

FAMILY LAW & ESTATE PLANNING LAWYER

HREGINA M. BANIS, LLC

Her dedicated approach to clients and personable ethic make Banis a clear choice in this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards.

REAL ESTATE LAWYER HHALE & HALE

ACCOUNTANTS HINNOVA BLUFFTON

Smart, savvy and dedicated to protecting your financial wellbeing. It all adds up to a win for INNOVA Bluffton.

For more than 30 years, they’ve been helping clients navigate the tricky world of real estate closings. You can close the books on this year’s RCA, we have a clear winner.

ART GALLERY HSOBA GALLERY

PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER HVAUX MARSCHER BERGLIND, PA

The Society of Bluffton Artists has been defining Bluffton’s art scene for decades, and their art gallery remains the best place to discover new artists.

BANK HSOUTH STATE BANK

A true Bluffton institution, Vaux Marsher Berglind, PA is the Lowcountry’s first call for experienced legal protection.

LAWYER GENERAL PRACTICE HMIKKELSON LAW FIRM RYAN MIKKELSON

For more than 80 years, they’ve been serving the South with a customer-based approach that sets them apart.

A leader in our community and in the legal field, Ryan Mikkelson takes home a well-deserved win.

CAR DEALERSHIP (TIE) HHILTON HEAD HONDA HPEACOCK AUTO MALL

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY HCOASTAL RENTALS H FORESHORE

A worthy tie. Even if we can’t get their jingle out of our heads, we salute Hilton Head Honda. And with so many dealerships under one roof, Peacock Auto Mall is one-stop shopping for your next ride.

The votes tallied up as an even tie, and we couldn’t pick just one.

For a company that offers trustworthy care and expert service, Bluffton has two great choices.

REAL ESTATE AGENT HROBERT MOUL - WEICHERT COASTAL PROPERTIES

FINANCIAL ADVISOR HEDWARD JONES - SARAH E REED

One of the top Weichert agents in the country is the No. 1 choice in Bluffton for buying and selling real estate.

INSURANCE COMPANY HSTATE FARM - CHRISTIAN DAVIS

Built from the ground up to serve, Collins Group Realty isn’t just about making that sale, it’s about building that relationship.

That’s how you earn the top spot in Readers’ Choice.

Reed’s clients love her personal approach, and enthusiastically voted for her for favorite financial advisor.

Like a good neighbor, Christian Davis is there to accept this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards win.

GATED COMMUNITY HHAMPTON HALL

More than just great golf, tennis and natural beauty, it’s the sense of community at Hampton Hall that sets it apart for residents.

MORTGAGE COMPANY HMORTGAGE NETWORK

Mortgage Network earns yet another win on the strength of their experience, savvy and customer-centered approach.

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REAL ESTATE COMPANY HCOLLINS GROUP REALTY

RETIREMENT FACILITY HVINEYARD

With an emphasis on independence and a dedication to an all-around experience for seniors, Vineyard is changing the assisted living game.

WEDDING VENUE HPALMETTO BLUFF

Stately southern grandeur and mesmerizing views off the May River combine for a heavenly wedding experience.

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With multiple wins over the years, this amazing group of caregivers and educators has proven again and again why they have earned the top spot.

FAVORITE ENTERTAINMENT

Just as much a family as a school, Alliance balances experience instruction with a welcoming, friendly approach that has Bluffton’s toes tapping.

THE CHIGGERS

If there’s a bash in Bluffton, you’ll hear the signature sounds of this four-piece party band. Supplying the soundtrack to our good times, The Chiggers take the win.

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Diversifying to lead the next generation in technology and hospitality, TCL’s constant pursuit of quality education makes them the clear winner.

KIDS ACTIVITIES/CLASSES HALLIANCE DANCE ACADEMY

THE CHIGGERS

LOCAL BAND HTHE CHIGGERS

HIGHER EDUCATION HTECHNICAL COLLEGE OF THE LOWCOUNTRY

PRE-K HCROSS SCHOOLS

Their approach to inquisitive learning gives young learners all the tools they need to start off kindergarten with success.

SCHOOLS K-12HST GREGORY THE GREAT

Quoth the Ravens, what a great win!

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BURRITO HAMIGOS BELFAIR

Authentic ingredients prepared to perfection – no wonder Amigo’s has this win all wrapped up.

CRAB LEGS HCAPTAIN WOODY’S

The captain always finds that best catch for his customers, making this iconic Promenade eatery the clear choice.

FRENCH FRIES HR-BAR

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APPETIZER HPEARL KITCHEN & BAR

Under the care of Executive Chef Michael Hill, the already famous cuisine at the Pearl just keeps getting better.

BARBECUE HONE HOT MAMA’S BLUFFTON

Bluffton doesn’t forget that One Hot Mama’s was ours first. Their triumphant return to B-Town is already earning them accolades.

BURGER HR-BAR

Juice and flavorful, the burger at R-Bar is a classic pub creation that has Bluffton raving.

What goes together better than burgers and fries? At R-Bar, you get two kinds of award-winning fare on the same plate.

FRIED CHICKEN HCAHILL’S MARKET & CHICKEN KITCHEN

Cahill’s may in fact offer the best fried chicken on planet earth, so it stands to reason they would have the best in Bluffton.

HEALTHY MENU HFIRST WATCH

Light, fresh and delicious, First Watch has plenty of options for those looking to eat clean.

MARGARITA HAGAVE SIDEBAR

With so many flavors to choose from, each expertly crafted with care, we’ll have to say our favorite margarita at Agave is our next one.

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MILKSHAKE HCHEEBURGER CHEEBURGER

Thick and creamy, a milkshake at Cheeburger Cheeburger is like taking a delicious sip of heaven.

OYSTERS HBLUFFTON OYSTER CO.

The Toomers have been at it longer than anyone, so you know when it comes to oyster,s they’re going to know what they’re doing.

LOCAL PIE BLUFFTON

PIZZA HLOCAL PIE BLUFFTON

With their two pizza ovens constantly running, it’s like dinner and a show seeing your pie go from spinning disc of dough to a heavenly crispy savory sensation.

SALAD HTRUFFLES CAFÉ

Yes, it can be tempting to jump right into your favorite item off the menu, but you’ll definitely want a starter so you can sample the exquisite salads on offer.

SANDWICH HALVIN ORD’S SANDWICH SHOP

The Salvation is always the runaway favorite, and for good reason.

The signature bread and mouth-watering flavors are a sandwich experience unlike anything else you’ve tried.

STEAK HTHE BLUFFTON ROOM

Bluffton’s glitterati know where to go when they need something fork-tender, juicy and perfectly seasoned.

SUSHI HWASABI JAPANESE RESTAURANT AND SUSHI BAR

Whether it’s something more traditional or a unique creation like the Philly roll, the menu here offers the best of both worlds.

TACO (TIE)HAMIGOS

H CHOW DADDY’S

A well-deserved tie for these mouth-watering tacos.

TAKE OUT/CURBSIDE HCHICKEN SALAD CHICK

This Bluffton newcomer is already making waves with their delectable chicken salads served quick and ready to go.

WINGS HONE HOT MAMA’S BLUFFTON

Slow cooked to perfection and then seasoned in that signature OHM style, each bite is an award-winning experience.

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FAVORITE HEALTH & BEAUTY BARBER SHOP HJOE’S CLASSIC CUTS BARBERSHOP

Joe Gancio’s shop is like a step back in time, to when the barbershop was the capital of the world. Stop in for a cut or just a nip of bourbon.

FITNESS CENTER HPULSEOLOGY

Expanding on Pulseology’s mission to promote health and wellness, this massive facility has everything for strength and cardio.

HAIR SALON HSEA LA VIE SALON

Whether you’re going for fierce, fabulous or just frisky, this is the place for your next look.

MASSAGE THERAPY HINNER PEACE MASSAGE & SPA

Let’s face it – with the holidays coming up, things are about to get stressful. Book that appointment now for that much-needed relaxation session.

MEDICAL SPA HLUX ~ A MEDICAL SPA

With a firm foundation of medical excellence, LUX combines the art and science of looking and feeling your best.

FAVORITE HOME RESOURCES APPLIANCE STORE HBILLY WOOD APPLIANCE

From high-end to high-tech, your next dream kitchen starts here.

ARCHITECT HCOURT ATKINS GROUP

The brains behind nearly every lavish home at which you’ve ever marveled have earned their reputation for ingenious design and their multiple Readers’ Choice Awards.

BLINDS/WINDOW COVERING COMPANY HBUDGET BLINDS OF THE LOWCOUNTRY

Step into their showroom and you’ll find out that window treatment envy is a very real thing. Fortunately, they also have several cures in stock.

CABINET COMPANY HPALMETTO CABINET STUDIO

Customized to look amazing and last a lifetime, these are the experts behind dream kitchens across the Lowcountry

CARPET/FLOORING COMPANY (TIE)

HEASY 2 OWN FURNISHINGS HNIX FLOORING & DESIGN

Your look isn’t complete unless your nail game is on point. For that perfect final touch, this is where Bluffton goes.

NAIL SALON HPOLISH ME PRETTY

It’s a dead heat, and a tie for favorite carpet/flooring company.

Easy 2 Own takes it for their huge selection of rugs and options.

Nix takes it for the expertise of installation and vast array of flooring options.

SPA H SPA MONTAGE

ELECTRICIAN HBLUFFTON ELECTRIC

This is where Bluffton goes to get pampered like an A-Lister.

Some people fly all the way from Hollywood for this, and we have it right up the street.

No shocker here, Bluffton Electric is the company that Bluffton has charged with accepting a Readers’ Choice Awards.

YOGA/PILATES HDANCING DOGS YOGA BLUFFTON

Renowned for their selection and expert installation, Stoneworks chisels out yet another Readers’ Choice Award win.

Bluffton always knows where to go to find its center. Namaste.

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GRANITE/STONE/MARBLE COMPANY HSTONEWORKS INC

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HEATING AND AIR COMPANY HE.A.C.

In a crowded field of great heating and air companies, E.A.C. rose to the top, adding an award-winning year to a trophy case of well-earned accolades.

HOME

BUILDER HRANDY JEFFCOAT BUILDERS

Three generations of builders across 47 years in the Lowcountry have built countless homes as well as a reputation for quality.

HOME FURNISHINGS STORE (TIE) COASTAL HOME H EASY 2 OWN FURNISHINGS

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Another tie, as Coastal Home and Easy 2 Own Furnishings split the home furnishings vote. Each deserves the spotlight for their selection and service.

INTERIOR DESIGN COMPANY HKELLY CARON INTERIOR DESIGN

You know that Lowcountry look that you’re suddenly seeing in high-end houses all across the country? Caron and her team are the experts who perfected it.

LANDSCAPING COMPANY HTAYLORS

When your yard needs to look its best, accept no substitutes.

A well-deserved Readers’ Choice Awards win for Taylors.

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MOVING COMPANY HCOLLEGE H.U.N.K.S. HAULING JUNK & MOVING

We gotta hand it to these hunks. We weren’t nearly this dedicated to customer care when we were in college.

NURSERY/GARDEN CENTER HTHE GREEN THUMB–BLUFFTON

Beyond the rows and rows of lush plants and flowers in their nursery, it’s the expertise and dedication to getting your yard perfect that sets The Green Thumb apart.

PEST CONTROL HISLAND PEST CONTROL

The Lowcountry is home to some of the most persistent pests in the country, and no one keeps them in check like Island Pest Control.

PLUMBER HBLUFFTON PLUMBING

Another win is not just a pipe dream for these dedicated plumbing professionals.

POOL COMPANY HYEAR ROUND POOL CO., INC.

They’ve been building, repairing and maintaining the most beautiful pools in the Lowcountry for decades, and they have earned yet another win.

RENOVATIONS HBLUFFTON BUILDERS

They are the experts in giving your home new life, and the clear choice among our readers.

ROOFING/FABRICATION HMONARCH ROOFING HILTON HEAD ISLAND

ACUPUNCTURE HKIM’S YIN & YANG ACUPUNCTURE

We’ll get right to the point – Kim’s Yin & Yang can put a pin in this win, coming in as the clear choice in this year’s voting.

Hail to the king! Monarch roofing put a lid on this year’s Readers’ Choice Award, locking up a well earned win.

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REMOVAL/ARBORIST HTREE WISE MEN

We appreciate a good pun almost as much as we appreciate the expertise these folks bring to every job site.

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FAVORITE MEDICAL SERVICES & PROFESSIONALS

ALLERGIST HDR. DON CHRISTIAN - CHARLESTON EAR, NOSE, THROAT AND ALLERGY

In a region where the air is mostly pollen and in a time when one sneeze in public will get you ostracized, a good allergist is worth their weight in gold. Dr. Christian, we salute you.

CHIROPRACTOR HBLUFFTON FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC

Crack open the bubbly, it’s a well deserved win for Bluffton Family Chiropractic. You have our readers’ backs, and now they have yours.

DENTIST (COSMETIC)HDR. RICHARD PORCELLI

Bluffton’s best smiles all have one thing in common – the technical wizardry and dental artistry that Dr. Porcelli have made his trademark.

DENTIST (FAMILY)HPALMETTO DENTAL ARTS - DR. JESSICA GOWER

As the name implies, here dentistry is as much an art as it is a science. Dr. Gower excels at both, earning a big win this year.

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DERMATOLOGIST HDR. CARMEN TRAYWICKMAY RIVER DERMATOLOGY

Trusted care and experienced expertise made Dr. Traywick and May River Dermatology the clear winner.

DOULA/MIDWIFERY SERVICES HAPRIL LEWIS

Congratulations! It’s a beautiful, healthy Readers’ Choice Award!

ENT DOCTOR (EAR,NOSE,THROAT)HCHARLESTON ENT

Their Dr. Christian took the top spot for allergist, and the practice makes it official with a win in the ENT category!

FAMILY DOCTOR HBEAUFORT MEMORIAL PALMETTO MEDICAL GROUP - DR. KAMAL PATEL

Always friendly and willing to explain conditions, treatments and options no matter the case, Dr. Patel is the trusted choice for this year’s Readers’ Choice Award.

FAMILY DOCTOR HBEAUFORT MEMORIAL, PALMETTO MEDICAL GROUP - STEPHANIE L. LOVATO, PA-C

Lovato’s exceptional care is fueled by a depth of knowledge and a willingness to go the extra mile for patients.

IN-HOME CARE HHOSPICE CARE OF THE LOWCOUNTRY

During the exceptionally difficult final period of a loved one’s final days, thousands have trusted Hospice Care of the Lowcountry to provide the utmost care during transition.

OB/GYN HRIVERSIDE WOMEN’S CARE – BLUFFTON

Care that’s as compassionate as it is comprehensive, Riverside Women’s Care earns the top spot among our readers.

OPHTHALMOLOGIST (EYE DOCTOR)HDR. MARK T. GOULAS, MD

The ayes have it! Dr. Goulas wins this year based on his in-depth expertise and dedicated care.

OPTOMETRIST (VISION CARE)HDARLING EYE CENTER

All eyes were on Darling Eye Center when it came time to pick a winner for vision care.

ORTHODONTIST HDR. JIM MAGINNIS- MAGINNIS ORTHODONTIC GROUP

What separates the board-certified orthodontists at Maginnis isn’t just the artful way they create more beautiful smiles – it’s how that beautiful smile can change a life.

ORTHOPEDIC (TIE) H BEAUFORT ORTHOPAEDIC SPORTS & SPINE CENTER - DR. DOUGLAS R. SCOTT, MD H OPTIM ORTHOPEDICS: TOTAL JOINT (HIP & KNEE) - DR. CHARLES A. HOPE, MD

With so many great options to choose from, readers had a hard time just choosing one. So they didn’t! Congrats to Drs. Scott and Hope for splitting the electorate and earning a share of the title.

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PEDIATRIC DENTIST HSEA SMILES PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

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It can be tough to get kids to the dentist. But when the dentist’s office feels like a beachside vacation, with movies and tablets to play with? Your kids won’t want to leave.

PRACTICE HPALMETTO PEDIATRICS OF THE

PEDIATRIC LOWCOUNTRY, LLC

From newborns to teens, the whole family benefits from the expert care that has made Palmetto Pediatrics the clear winner.

PHARMACY HBLUFFTON PHARMACY

FAVORITE RESTAURANT

ICE ‘20

Combining years of experience with a focus on total health that encompasses supplements and compounding, Bluffton Pharmacy is the choice for this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards.

PHYSICAL THERAPIST HCORNERSTONE

One-on-one treatment makes all the difference when it comes to physical therapy. Cornerstone gets that, and it’s why they are the clear winner among our readers.

PLASTIC SURGEON HDR. FREDERICK WENIGER

The guy who (literally) wrote the book on facial rejuvenation, Dr. Weniger handles a host of procedures with skill and a dedication to keeping patients informed every step of the way.

PRE-NATAL MASSAGE HINNER PEACE MASSAGE & SPA

When mama needs it most, the gentle hands at Inner Peace are there to soothe the aches and pains she’s carrying while she’s carrying.

FAVORITE PET SERVICES

DOG TRAINER HABBY BIRD - ALPHADOG TRAINING ACADEMY

The most well-behaved dogs in Bluffton learned their sit, stand, roll over and heel from this expert in canine development.

PET BOARDING HCAMP GREEN DOG & DOGGIE DAY

Cage-free and staffed with animal experts, Green Dog is the place to send your pet when you both need an invigorating getaway.

PET GROOMING HCRUZIN 4 A GROOMING

Why put your pet through the hassle of a car ride when you can bring the groomer to you? Pretty smart, and well worth a win.

PET SUPPLY STORE HPETCO

If your family’s best friend has fur, fins, scales or feathers you’re going to find everything you need here, alongside resources to help them learn and look their best.

VETERINARIAN HBLUFFTON VETERINARY HOSPITAL

From the day they come into your life, you want to give them the finest care. Bluffton has made it loud and clear – the best care is at Bluffton Veterinary Hospital.

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ASIAN HSAIGON CAFÉ

It may seem cliché, but it’s true: People really do come from miles around to sample the truly authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Saigon Café. It’s that good.

BAKERY HALLJOY DONUT CO.

Taken on their own merits, each delightfully light and fluffy doughnut is a work of culinary art. But it’s what Alljoy Donut Co. does with these doughnuts, topping them in a kaleidoscope of flavors, that makes each donut spectacular.

BAR/LATE NIGHT HOLD TOWN DISPENSARY

The wide front courtyard at OTD is Bluffton’s premiere spot to see and be seen after dark, whether its for a rotating roster of musical acts or just a chance to knock back a few cold ones with the neighbors.

BARTENDER HCORY HUGHES AT THE BLUFFTON ROOM

The cocktails at Bluffton Room are legendary, and no one brings them to life with the artistry and flair that Cory Hughes brings to each potent potable.

BEER SELECTION HSOUTHERN BARREL BREWING CO.

From the old standby Damn Yankee to the ever-revolving array of craft beer inspirations, the wizardry in Southern Barrel’s tanks keeps both casual drinker and true hopheads thirsty for more.

BREAKFAST HSIPPIN’ COW CAFE & GRILL

From the big blue building in the Promenade comes an early morning smorgasbord of epic proportions. There isn’t a bad menu on the item, but if you ask us, we’d steer you toward the Big Bull burrito.

BREWERY HSOUTHERN BARREL BREWING CO.

When you win for favorite beer selection, and you only serve your own beer, it stands to reason that you’re going to win for best brewery. Well deserved on both counts, Southern Barrel!

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BRUNCH HTHE COTTAGE CAFE, BAKERY & TEA ROOM

You haven’t lived until you’ve had one of their scones. And you haven’t experienced Bluffton until you’ve dined on their adorable front porch, hearing the conversation drift off of Calhoun Street.

CATERING COMPANY HDOWNTOWN DELI

Whether it’s a sophisticated spread serving as the centerpiece to a lavish wedding or some good old-fashioned stick-to-your-ribs fare from their iconic food truck, Downtown Deli has defined what Bluffton’s celebrations taste like.

CHEF HPOUR RICHARDS

Go into the kitchen with Richard Canestrari and you’ll see a culinary artist at work. His dedication to fresh, local ingredients dates back well before the term “locavore” existed, and he has used the ensuing years to perfect the craft.

COFFEE SHOP HCORNER PERK BRUNCH CAFE & COFFEE ROASTERS

From the days when it was just a hole in the wall on Burnt Church to its current status as the region’s caffeine empire, Bluffton has been fueled by the rich fresh-roasted goodness at Corner Perk.

COUNTER SERVICE HSIPPIN’ COW CAFE & GRILL

Some of the friendliest faces in the world live in Bluffton, and the friendliest faces in Bluffton can be found here.

DELI HDOWNTOWN DELI

Picture that classic Manhattan deli, but with a decidedly Southern flair for hospitality and you have Downtown Deli. Top-notch ingredients and a menu that blends old standbys with some truly one-ofa-kind sandwiches make Downtown Deli a cut above.

DESSERT MENU HTHE COTTAGE CAFE, BAKERY & TEA ROOM

Earlier we told you that you haven’t lived until you’ve had one of their scones. We can confidently tell you that also applies to their cakes, pies, cookies, cheesecakes and tarts. Bring your sweet tooth.

EUROPEAN (NON-ITALIAN)HTHE GREEK TABLE

The mouth-watering cuisine of Greece has never been so monumental. Whether it’s more casual taverna fare or something more refined, you’ll have a Hellenistic good meal.

FOOD TRUCK HDOWNTOWN DELI CURBSIDE KITCHEN

Is it even a party if the Downtown Deli trucks don’t show up?

Curbside Kitchen was one of the first in the area, serving up everything from Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos to pulled pork wherever good times are had.

HAPPY HOUR HCALHOUN STREET TAVERN

Whether you’re taking your craft cocktail in the open-air brick terrace or before the vast library-style shelves of fine liquors at the bar, this is the place to unwind and experience a moment of Zen.

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ITALIAN HNONNA LUCIA ITALIAN RESTAURANT

With all due respect to your Nonna, she didn’t have Lucia’s chops. This is fresh, authentic Italian as it should be.

KID-FRIENDLY HFAT PATTIES

Whoever had the idea to install a kickball pool table where the kids could burn off energy while the parents enjoy a drink, we need you to know that you’re a genius. In a perfect world, you would have won a Nobel Prize for that innovation alone.

LUNCH HTHE COTTAGE CAFE, BAKERY & TEA ROOM

OK, take what we said earlier about the scones and the cakes, and apply that to everything on the lunch menu. The shrimp tacos are, of course, famous, but they are just one of a slew of tantalizing options.

MEXICAN/SOUTHWESTERN HCINCO

Scratch ingredients, inspired preparations and a dedication to authentic Mexican flavors help Cinco stand out and win the top prize.

NEW CHEF HNONNA LUCIA

The Italian cuisine gauntlet has been thrown down by the chefs at Nonna Lucia, putting a premium on fresh ingredients and classical preparation techniques.

NEW RESTAURANT HFRANKIE BONES-BLUFFTON

The SERG Group’s latest off-island foray put one of their most iconic restaurants at the heart of the bustling Buckwalter Place.

Hungry Blufftonians quickly mobbed the place, setting it up as everyone’s go-to for a classy night out.

PET FRIENDLY HSOUTHERN BARREL BREWING CO.

What’s better than knocking back a few ice-cold craft beers with man’s best friend? Knocking them back at a place where the beer is always delicious and both you and your pooch are among friends.

OUTDOOR DINING HOLD TOWN DISPENSARY

Beyond live music and people watching, the sun-dappled courtyard in front of OTD is the clear choice for favorite place to set a spell and enjoy something delicious.

RESTAURANT STAFF HCHOW DADDY’S

Easygoing, accommodating and always ready to serve, the staff at Chow Daddy’s exemplifies Southern hospitality.

SEAFOOD HMAY RIVER GRILL

Charlie Sternburgh was one of the first restaurateurs to call Bluffton home, cultivating relationships with local fishers and crabbers, then turning their wares into exquisite gourmet creations.

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SOUTHERN HFARM

As long as this remains a category, it’s hard to see anyone but FARM winning this one every year. Their approach is as simple as it is delicious – find the best ingredients the season provides, then use them to create magic.

WINE SELECTION HCORKS WINE CO

You may have trouble choosing just one of the mind-blowing array of reds and whites on hand. Fortunately, their knowledgeable staff has a knack for discerning your palette and guiding you accordingly.

SPORTS BAR HR-BAR

Bluffton’s home-grown success story, R-Bar is a sports lover’s paradise. The beer is cold, the TVs play every sport known to man, and there are always a few folks on hand rooting for the same team you are.

VEGETARIAN/VEGAN (TIE)HAVOCADO BLEU H THE JUICE HIVE

A deserving tie. Avocado Bleu has breakout options for everyone’s dietary path. The Juice Hive has healthy treats, but it’s also about setting you on a path to a healthier you.

WATER VIEWS HRIVER HOUSE

The majestic ruins at Wilson Village’s village green are all that remain of Richard Wilson’s opulent 1920s estate.

Next door, The River House now enjoys the same majestic May River scenery that once mesmerized America’s glitterati.

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HARDWARE STORE HHEUSER HARDWARE AT BUCKWALTER PLACE

In the big-box era, it’s refreshing to step into a hardware store where everyone knows your name and can tell you how to fix it, whatever it may be.

HEALTH FOOD/VITAMIN STORE (TIE)HTHE JUICE HIVE H ULMER FAMILY PHARMACY & WELLNESS CENTER

Our voters couldn’t decide because both are deserving of the crown. The Juice Hive is everything you need for a healthier you.

Ulmer Family combines a full-service pharmacy with an approach to whole-body wellness.

JEWELRY STORE HGOLIS FAMILY JEWELERS

Add another accolade to one of Bluffton’s most celebrated business, as Golis Family Jewelers snags yet another well-deserved Readers’ Choice Award.

MEN’S STORE HVINEYARD VINES

BRIDAL BOUTIQUE HBLUSH BRIDAL & FORMAL WEAR

When you want to trust your big day to the very best, go with the shop that Bluffton has chosen as their favorite this year.

CHILDRENS SHOP HMOONLIT LULLABY

Whether it’s for family photos, a special occasion or just for fun, when your young ones need to look their most dapper you bring them here.

CONSIGNMENT SHOP HVINTAGE MARKET

The Vineyard Vines look may have originated in Massachusetts, but it quickly became a staple of the well-dressed Southern gentlemen.

NEW BUSINESS HLOT 9 BREWING CO.

In just a few months since opening, Lot 9 has quickly become the hippest hangout in town. An ever-revolving lineup of freshly brewed beers pairs with a new food truck every night for an experience that feels new and exciting with each visit.

OUTDOOR STORE HPALM CASUAL PATIO FURNITURE

From funky to refined, shabby chic to sophisticated, there is something to suit nearly everybody’s tastes among the aisles at Vintage Market.

In Bluffton, we take outdoor living seriously. And our overwhelming choice for the best place to live that lifestyle is Palm Casual.

FLORIST HOLD BLUFFTON FLOWERS & GIFTS

A mainstay of Bluffton for decades, Tanger Outlets I and II have been Bluffton’s favorite spots to shop until we drop. And even then, once we’ve rested up, we’re right back at it.

When the occasion calls for flowers, go with the shop that Bluffton has dubbed their overwhelming favorite. Beautiful blooms in a kaleidoscope of colors are arranged with artistry and flair, helping set Old Bluffton Flowers & Gifts apart.

GIFT/NOVELTY STORE HBLUFFTON GENERAL STORE

Bluffton has emerged as a destination unto itself, and we have the topnotch gift shop to prove it. Beyond more Bluffton-centric items you’ll find all sorts of great gifts for guests or just for treating yourself.

GROCERY STORE HPUBLIX SUPER MARKET AT BUCKWALTER PLACE

In a truly competitive field, Buckwalter Place’s Publix emerges victorious as Bluffton’s favorite grocery store. Of course, you knew they had it in the bag from the beginning.

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SHOPPING CENTER HTANGER OUTLETS HILTON HEAD

SPORTING GOODS STORE HSOUTHERN DRAWL

If you’re headed out on the briny deep in pursuit of that trophy catch, you have to stop by here first. You’ll not only find the equipment you need to hook the big one, you’ll find unparalleled expertise in our area’s waterways.

THRIFT SHOP HGOD’S GOODS THRIFT STORE

If you’re looking for the unique item for your home, consider a little divine intervention. Stop by God’s Goods and you’ll not only find what you’re after, you’ll be helping those in need.

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TIRE STORE HALL PRO TIRE

It’s not just the selection of tires at All Pro that earned them the top spot. It’s the dedication to customer care and making sure you are in the right tires that truly put them in the driver’s seat for a win.

TOY STORE HMOONLIT LULLABY

Babies go gaga over the pillowy soft plushies that line the shelves at Moonlit Lullaby. A must-visit before that next baby shower.

WINE & SPIRITS STORE HBILL’S LIQUORS & FINE WINE

A Kittie’s Crossing staple for years, Bill’s Liquor picks up a wellearned award on the strength of its expertly curated selection of wines and liquors.

WOMENS STORE HSPARTINA 449

It’s not every international fashion powerhouse that chooses to call Bluffton home, so a win here only stands to reason. As Blufftonians we might be a little biased, but Spartina is the clear winner.

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FAVORITE SERVICES & PROFESSIONALS AUTO DETAILING HTOPTINT BLUFFTON

When your ride absolutely positively has to look fresh, accept no substitutes. And it’s not just about aesthetics – these guys keep your car, truck or boat safe from the brutal Lowcountry elements.

AUTO REPAIR HMORRIS GARAGE

The gearheads at Morris Garage have built a loyal following on fair pricing, expertise and stellar service. A well-deserved win by a hometown favorite.

CARPET CLEANING HHIGH TIDE RESTORATION AND CLEANING

High Tide Restoration and Cleaning isn’t just about making it look brand new. It’s about making it look better than brand new through technology and expertise that earned them the top spot.

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EVENT PLANNING COMPANY HHEWITT OAKS

At the heart of Hewitt Oaks is hospitality, building each event around stunning Lowcountry scenery and creating memories. If you’ve been to an event or wedding they’ve planned, you’ll know why they earned the top spot.

TECH SUPPORT COMPANY HSNS TECHNOLOGIES

The real genius of SNS Technologies is in the way it combines in-depth expertise and bleeding-edge technology with high-touch customer service and proactive protection. The Lowcountry’s clear favorite for digital security and more.

HOME CLEANING (TIE) IN & OUT STEAMING & CLEANING MELISSA’S HOUSEKEEPING MERRYMAIDS

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In a heated competition for favorite home cleaning, we wound up with the extremely rare three-way tie. In our eyes, all three are winners!

PERFORMING ARTS VENUE HROASTING ROOM

SNS TECHNOLOGIES

TELE COMMUNICATIONS PROVIDER HHARGRAY

The only thing better than the acoustics in the Roasting Room is either the bourbon selection or the terrific lineup of regional acts.

We can’t decide, but we can promise that further testing will be undertaken.

Hargray was here when the first phone lines connected our region to the world, and they’ve advanced with every step, offering hightech communications to an increasingly connected Lowcountry.

PHOTOGRAPHER HSILLY GOOSE PHOTOGRAPHY

Borrow a ride for your next trip around Old Town or trust one of their savvy technicians to get your cruiser running at its best. This is that classic neighborhood bike shop done right.

More than just a simple snapshot, Silly Goose Photography captures a moment in time, a treasured memory that will last forever.

BIKE STORE & RENTALS HOLD TOWN BIKE BARN & ADVENTURES

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MATTHEWS MARINE

BOAT DEALER HMATTHEWS MARINE

Whether it’s new or used, a yacht or a skiff, this has been Bluffton’s top choice for getting out on the water for 30 years, and now they have the hardware to prove it.

HOTEL HOLD TOWN BLUFFTON INN

Defined by sophisticated Southern hospitality, Old Town Bluffton Inn is introducing an entire world of visitors to the charms of Old Town Bluffton. If anyone is going to represent Bluffton to visitors from all over, we’re glad its owners are Vince and Danielle Harrison.

OUTDOOR EXCURSION/TOUR COMPANY HMAY RIVER EXCURSIONS

The marvels of the May River have never been easier to enjoy.

Whether it’s a fishing expedition or a sunset cruise, set sail with the Shoemakers and discover what waits around the next bend in the river.

PRIVATE GOLF CLUB HBERKELEY HALL

With two courses designed by the man himself, it’s easy to see why Tom Fazio once said Berkeley Hall “represents pure golf at its finest.”

PUBLIC GOLF CLUB HOLD SOUTH GOLF LINKS

Winding through picturesque forests, open pasture and tranquil lagoons, Old South Golf Links exemplifies the beauty and challenge that have made our region a mecca for the game of golf.

TENNIS CENTER HTENNISCLUB OF THE LOW COUNTRY AT ROSE HILL

The biggest is still the best! This year marks yet another well-deserved Readers’ Choice Award for this marvelous facility.

TRAVEL AGENCY HAAA - HILTON HEAD

Travel agents have come roaring back in recent years, offering a level of expertise and curated experiences you won’t find on any website.

And AAA – Hilton Head has been a sterling example of the kind of travel only AAA makes possible.

WATERSPORT RENTAL COMPANY HOUTSIDE PALMETTO BLUFF

In and around the waterways of Palmetto Bluff, this Moreland Village masterpiece has created the best opportunities for exploring the Bluff’s beauty.

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NEVER MISS AN ISSUE. FOR 35 YEARS WE’VE BEEN THE VOICE OF THE LOWCOUNTRY. MONTHLY IS THE PREMIER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE REACHING 122,000 READERS A MONTH.

TO CONTINUE RECEIVING MONTHLY FOR FREE FOR THE NEXT THREE YEARS. VISIT HILTONHEADMONTHLY.COM & LET US KNOW YOU WANT TO GET MONTHLY IN THE MAIL.

MONTHLY COVERS ALL THE NEWS FROM HILTON HEAD TO BLUFFTON, PLUS RESTAURANT GUIDES, WEDDINGS, LOCAL BUSINESSES, REAL ESTATE AND MUCH MORE.

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LOCAL READS

SAME BEACH, NEXT YEAR By Dorothea Benton Frank

A New York Times bestseller, Same Beach, Next Year is another of Frank’s engrossing tales of the Lowcountry. This story is about love, family and friendship, filled with humor and a rich feel for the Lowcountry. Two couples become friends during the summer. They reunite each year and grow closer. The friendships “withstand financial catastrophe, family tragedy, and devastating heartbreak.”

The book celebrates the power of friendship and the bonds of love.

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ON OCEAN BOULEVARD By Mary Alice Monroe

Monroe, also a New York Times best-selling author, returns to her Beach House series in this novel about a family’s summer inspired by new beginnings.

After 16 years, Caretta “Cara” Rutledge returns home to Charleston. Cara is preparing for her second wedding, but her life is about to change again.

The Rutledge family also experiences moments of “return, rebirth, and growth.”

MOON COASTAL CAROLINAS: OUTER BANKS, MYRTLE BEACH, CHARLESTON & HILTON HEAD

By Jim Morekis Get to know the scenic coastline with this book that offers can’t-miss sights and detailed tidbits on history and culture. In Moon Coastal Carolinas, Morekis also provides strategies that fit every budget: From five-day trips to beach outings or longer outdoor adventures.

MESSAGES OF HOPE By Suzanne Giesemann

Giesemann, a former U.S Navy commanding officer, asks: Can we connect with loved ones who have died, and with higher levels of consciousness than our own?

In Messages of Hope, Giesemann, a former skeptic, finds the answers to those questions and more through “evidential communication with the unseen realms.”

Giesemann used to walk the halls of the Pentagon and flew on Air Force One. She had little time for spiritual seeking. But a family tragedy propelled her on a mystical journey that turned her life’s path in an unexpected direction.

Giesemann, now a practicing psychicmedium, writes about her transition from disbelief to trust in a “reality beyond the physical senses.”

DAUFUSKIE ISLAND By Jenny Hersch and Sallie Ann Robinson A resource for those who want to learn more about the history of Daufuskie Island.

The book includes about 200 photos that capture the development of the island. Hersch and Robinson, a Daufuskie native, researched the history of the island between Savannah and Hilton Head and gathered stories in this informative collection.

A GOOD BOOK MAKES A GREAT HOLIDAY PRESENT, AND A BOOK BY A LOCAL AUTHOR OR ONE THAT HIGHLIGHTS THE LOWCOUNTRY IS EVEN BETTER. THIS HOLIDAY, GIVE A FRIEND OR LOVED ONE THE GIFT OF AN ENGAGING READ. LOVE LIFTED ME By Lisa Washington

Lisa Washington, a Pooler, Ga., resident, recently won the Author Elite Award for Clean Romance for her third book, Love Lifted Me. The award recognizes literary merit and publishing excellence in the writing and publishing industry, according to a news release.

The book follows secret operative Nehemiah Bolden, who retires from the military. He meets a woman and feels the need to protect her. He discovers that meeting her is more than a coincidence.

Washington previously won the Best Christian Fiction Award by the 2018 African American Literary Award Show with her first novel, When You Least Expect It. D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 0 // 143

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1. COCOON BLUFFTON 843.815.3315 Cocoonbluffton.com Wrap yourself or someone you love in luxurious comfort with this Sheepy Fleece robe. Monogramming available.

2. COASTAL BLISS 843.802.4050 Coastalblisshiltonhead.com Dolce Vita Pillar Faux Fur Slippers 3. SERENDIPITY MEDICAL SPA 843.342.2639 SerendipityMedSpa.com NeoCutis Lumière Firm - Illuminating & Tightening Eye Cream

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4.ENLITEN SALON 843.842.9200 enlitensalon.com Take Away. Includes Repair-Me.Wash and Repair-Me.Rinse plus a complimentary travel bag

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MAKING A LIST AND CHECKING IT TWICE! 6 5. . FORSYTHE JEWELERS 843.671.7070 ForsytheJewelers.biz Roberto Coin’s Portofino Collection 18K yellow gold 4 row hinged bangle with diamond edges, D=1.95 ctw.

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6. HERITAGE FINE JEWELRY 843.689.2900 HeritageJewelersHHI.com Show your love for the beautiful island we call home with this custom designed Sterling Silver and 14k Yellow Gold accented bracelets. Four different styles to choose from.

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7. LUX MEDICAL SPA 843.781.6672 luxhhi.com Bye-bye, Maskne! Clear the effects of wearing a face mask.

Tailored to your skin type 8. FACES DAY SPA 843.785.3075 FacesDaySpa.com

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Whipped Honey Fine Sea Salt Body Polish 9. JBANKS 843.681.5122 jbanksdesign.com Mistletoe Triple nut dish

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MAKE YOUR HOME MERRY & BRIGHT!

1. MOSS CREEK VILLAGE FURNITURE 843.837.4000 MCVFurniture.com Flexsteel Living Room Power Recliner With Power Headrest Zero-Gravity reclining technology puts you in a neutral posture position, providing spine and knee support. Single USB port is included on the power control.

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2. THE GREEN THUMB HOME & GARDEN Hilton Head 843.715.2908 Bluffton 843.837.3111 Greenthumbhhi.com 17-inch Santa with Basket makes the perfect gift for the passionate golfer. Adds fun and original style to any home or office.

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3. THE ART CAFÉ 843.785.5525 Artcafehhi.com Handcrafted Pottery 4. PAWS ON LEARNING 603-540-2614 www.pawsonlearning.com Give the gift of a well-trained dog!

Daytime board and train programs with owner and dog private lessons suit dogs of all ages, levels, and needs.

5. BRUNO’S LANDSCAPE & NURSERY 843.682.2624 BrunoLandscapeAndNursery.com The Christmas flower: Poinsettias remain one of the most popular holiday flowers you can find!

20% off any 1 item in the Nursery through 12/31/2020 **offer excludes Christmas trees**

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1. SALTY DOG 843.842.6331 SaltyDog.com Salty Dog Fleece Quarter Zip perfect for the changing fall temperatures and those early morning walks on the beach. Features a leather patch on the left chest and pockets.

(80%cotton and 20% polyester) 2. ART LEAGUE OF HILTON HEAD 843.681.5060 ArtLeagueHHI.org Sterling Silver Jewelry by Linda and Jim Saylor 3. MOONLIT LULLABY 843.837.6666 MoonlitLullaby.com Start the tradition with your little ones with Santa’s bells!

4. FOUR CORNERS GALLERY 843.757.8185 FourCornersGalleryBluffton.com Bluffton’s favorite book of sketches by Doug Corkern 5. TELFAIR MUSEUMS 912.790.8800 telfair.org/shop Sylvia Judson’s famous Savannah Bird Girl statue replica.

Available in three sizes (15-inch, 24-inch and 37-inch).

6. GIFTED HILTON HEAD 843.842.8787 Giftedhiltonhead.com Solid maple charcuterie boards. Perfect for entertaining!

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UNIQUE ISLAND KEEPSAKES

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1. PLAYERS WORLD OF SPORTS 843.842.5100 www.playersworld.com Babolat Pure Drive 2021 Tennis Racquet 2. STREET MEET 843.842.2570 streetmeethhi.com Ohhio T-shirts make a great gift.

3. BLUFFTON GENERAL STORE 843.837.4675 Blufftongeneralstore.com 30 oz Bluffton tumbler makes a great stocking stuffer 4. HILTON HEAD TOYS 843.785.9998 www.hiltonheadtoys.com Spikeball

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6 5.HASKINS & COMPANY 843.295.9003 www.haskinssupply.com Yochi Bee Cuff from Haskins & Company in Coligny 6. EVERGREEN PET LODGE 843.681.8354 EvergreenPetLodgeHHI.com

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DRESS YOUR PET UP IN IN THIS TARTAN BOWTIE FOR THE HOLIDAY

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DEMAND DESIGN

KITCHEN REMODELING SEES UPTICK DURING PANDEMIC STORY BY DEAN ROWLAND

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IIHOMEII The pantries are stocked, the fridges are full, the wine is racked, and the home kitchen has been the go-to room for the entire family for several months.

Many Lowcountry homeowners have doubled down on their cooking skills in the kitchen during the coronavirus pandemic.

Others have taken advantage of the slowdown to reassess the functionality and aesthetics of their kitchen fixtures and have turned to upgrading and installing solid wood facing, custom cabinetry and new appliances.

If there has a been a silver lining in an otherwise dismal, deadly and stressful year, you’ll find it in the local kitchen remodeling-design industry.

“It’s come roaring back,” said owner Bruce Zaidman of American Wood Reface in Bluffton.

He said business in March and April was non-existent but has surged since then.

“I never would have believed there would be an uptick like this,” said Zaidman, who opened his franchise in Bluffton in 2009 and serves customers in a 50-mile radius. “The pent-up demand boggles my mind.”

Like other dealers in the area, American Wood Reface provides solid wood facing, doors and drawer fronts, multi-step finishes, quality hardware and installation. It also can add or modify cabinets and install enhancement features, new countertops and under cabinet lighting. Custom services and specialty products are also important business calling cards.

Kitchen home improvement projects don’t just make the kitchen more functional and visually appealing; they can uplift a dispirited heart with emotional rewards of new beginnings.

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KITCHEN HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS DON’T JUST MAKE THE KITCHEN MORE FUNCTIONAL AND VISUALLY APPEALING; THEY CAN UPLIFT A DISPIRITED HEART WITH EMOTIONAL REWARDS OF NEW BEGINNINGS.

The pandemic has allowed homeowners to plan what they want to do with their kitchens — add more space, reface and renew, buy new, or rearrange the kitchen layout? Needs, wants, functions and budget are all considerations.

Be honest with yourself. Does the kitchen look old and outdated and make you feel the same way? Appliances need repair? Dream of something here or there that isn’t here or there now?

Trends in the Lowcountry suggest that some homeowners are moving away from their usual comfort zones in the kitchen and are embracing new colors, finishes and fixtures.

It’s a time to re-examine the home and everyday life and how so much of it resides in the kitchen.

Bold, enlightening colors, or soothing off-white hues, like Gullah-inspired haint blue on the ceiling? Smart technology, eco-friendly sustainable natural materials, affordable quartz instead of marble for the countertops and metal finishes on hardware like knobs and handles. Replace fixtures like sinks and faucets affordably.

“It’s been a good year,” said Zaidman, whose Bluffton location typically handles one kitchen project daily throughout the year.

Houzz, an industry research company and trends tracker, reports that 52 percent of homeowners have spent more time cooking and baking, and those who are improving their homes are spending 27 percent redoing kitchens with new décor, better lighting and upgraded layouts.

The south leads the nation regionally with ongoing home improvement projects during the pandemic.

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The Lowcountry’s top builders The Strimpfels have been active and designers were recognized at members of the HBA for more than the 21st annual LightHouse Awards 30 years, serving multiple terms as gala on Nov. 6 at the Sonesta Resort members as well as officer of the on Hilton Head Island.

Board of Directors. In 2014, PaMore than 100 building industry tricia Strimpfel served as the orprofessionals attended the event, ganization’s first and only female presented by the Hilton Head Area president.

Home Builders Association with Since 1999, the LightHouse the support of title sponsor BB&T Awards have been presented anHome Mortgage, now known as nually to qualified members of the Truist.

Hilton Head Area Home Builders “The LightHouse Awards are Association for projects throughtruly like the Academy Awards out the Lowcountry. for our local building industry,” Twenty-one builders, including said Dan Monroe, chairman of the remodelers, custom, semi-custom, LightHouse Awards program since and light commercial building its inception. “It gives builders and companies, submitted 44 home designers the opportunity to be entries. Four firms submitted 14 recognized for the hard work, talinterior and architectural design ent and vision they put forward in projects for a total of 62 qualifying building some of the most remarkprojects. able homes found in this area and The construction cost of this beyond.” year’s remodeled or newly built The Joseph C. Harden Comhome entries ranged from $100,000 munity Excellence Award, which to nearly $4 million.

STORY & PHOTOS SUBMITTED recognizes achievements in comThe judging panel included munity building by an HBA membuilders, remodelers, architects ber company, went to David Gaal of Gaal Custom Homes & and other industry professionals from North Carolina, and Remodeling. throughout South Carolina. The judges spent two-and-aGaal was recognized for the significant impact he’s made half days visiting entries from Hilton Head Island to Distant through projects with The Literacy Center, Deep Well’s LivIsland to Ridgeland. able Housing Program, The HBA’s Education Foundation Master of ceremonies Monty Jett announced the winners, Scholarship program and more. who received marble obelisk awards representing light“David’s work with Deep Well, to better the lives of some houses. of Hilton Head’s most vulnerable residents, is appreciated Also recognized were associate members of the Home and valued. He is a wonderful example of how people can Builders Association, including building industry profesuse their talent to give back to their community,” said Sandy sionals, subcontractors and suppliers, who participated in Gillis, Executive Director of Deep Well Project HHI. the design and construction of each of the competing new The gala also awarded the Premier Builder of the Year to and remodeled homes. the husband-and-wife team of Ron and Patricia Strimpfel of “For many of these builders, after spending 12 to 15 Reclamation By Design, Ltd. months or longer working on a project, where even the The HBA’s Premier Builder of the Year is presented to smallest detail could impact the overall outcome, the Lightone Premier Builder Program participant who not only House Awards symbolize one of the highest career honors, meets the program requirements but takes “doing business and is a true testament to their vision and talent,” Monroe with a member” to a whole other level. said.

THE LIGHTHOUSE AWARDS SYMBOLIZE ONE OF THE HIGHEST CAREER HONORS.

Minto Communities

DAN MONROE, AWARDS CHAIRMAN

Southern Coastal Homes

Reclamation by Design

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2020 Lighthouse Awards Honoring Building and design excellence by the Hilton Head Area Home Builders Association

SPONSORS

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C AT EG O RY 1

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CATE GORY 6

CATE GORY 1 1

Palatial Homes Design, LLC

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CATEGORY 2

Minto Communities

Logan Homes SC, LLC

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Built Right Homes

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Artisan Custom Homes, LLC

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RCH Construction, Inc.

Simpson Construction LLC

CAT E GORY 1

Best Exterior FULL REMODEL

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Roberts Construction Company

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Best Kitchen FULL REMODEL

Category 2: Roberts Construction Company, Inc. Category 1: TDC Builders Category 2: Palatial Homes Design, LLC NEW HOMES Category 3: RCH Construction, Inc. Category 1: Minto Communities Category 4: Roberts Construction Company, Inc. Category 2: Minto Communities NEW HOMES Category 3: Logan Homes SC, LLC Category 1: Minto Communities Category 4: Logan Homes SC, LLC Category 2: Minto Communities Category 5: Allen Patterson Residential Category 3: Village Park Homes Category 6: Southern Coastal Homes Category 4: Logan Homes SC, LLC Category 7: Built Right Homes, LLC Category 5: Stanley Martin Homes Category 8: Artisan Custom Homes Category 6: Allen Patterson Residential Category 9: Compass Custom Home Category 7: Reclamation By Design, Ltd. Category 10: Full Circle Development Category 8: Full Circle Development Category 11: Palatial Homes Design Category 9: Compass Custom Home, Inc. Category 12: Boshaw Residential, LLC Category 13: Ellis Construction Category 10: Full Circle Development Category 11: AR Homes Category 14: Simpson Construction LLC Category 12: Southern Coastal Homes Category 13: RCH Construction, Inc. Category 14: Simpson Construction LLC

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CATEGORY 4

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For a complete list of LightHouse Awards Finalists and Recipients, visit www.hhahba.com

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FULL REMODEL

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CATEGORY 13

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Palatial Homes Design, LLC

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

Court Atkins Group Pearce Scott Architects, Inc. Court Atkins Group Court Atkins Group Court Atkins Group

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Category 1: Kelly Caron Designs, ASID Category 2: Kelly Caron Designs, ASID Category 3: Kelly Caron Designs, ASID

Light Commercial

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BEST INNOVATION OF SPACE

RCH Construction, Inc.

About the Hilton Head Area Home Builders Association: Chartered in 1965 under the leadership of the late Joseph Fraser, Jr., the Hilton Head Area Home Builders Association is a not-for-profit professional trade association of business professionals that represent, promote and support excellence in the home building industry through education, community service and environmental stewardship. The organization is made up of nearly 500 member companies, representing residential and light commercial builders, subcontractors, suppliers and many other service professionals to the building industry throughout Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton Counties. The association also administers the Hilton Head Home Builders Education Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization formed to support and raise funds for deserving local high school graduates seeking further educational or technical advancement.

The Hilton Head Area Home Builders Association is affiliated with the Home Builders Association of South Carolina and the National Association of Home Builders.

BEACON SPONSORS

VEHICLE SPONSORS

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Ruhlin

David and Amanda Rutherford

WEICHERT REALTORS ADDS 4 AGENTS

Weichert Realtors has welcomed new agents.

David and Amanda Rutherford will work out of the Sun City office. They both have decorated military and federal service careers spanning more than two decades. David holds a master of business administration degree in hospitality management from Johnson and Wales University and is pursuing a master’s degree in finance. Amanda earned her bachelor’s degree in intelligence studies from American Military University and is working toward a second degree in accounting from the University of South Carolina Beaufort.

Eric Ruhlin will work out of the Hilton Head office. Ruhlin has been a part of the Hilton Head Island community for more than 40 years. He and his Kelly (a Weichert agent) moved here 28 years ago. He brings more than 20 years of experience as a trusted licensed S.C. general contractor working with investors, sellers and buyers, multi-homeowners and first-time homeowners. Ruhlin has built homes in five Hilton Head communities and has designed and installed new kitchens and bathrooms in hundreds of new and older homes on Hilton Head and in Bluffton.

Rhonda Pulte received her undergraduate degree in marketing from Ball State University and her graduate degree in system engineering from Illinois Institute of Technology. Pulte worked for many years in finance and IT. After moving to Savannah, Ga., she decided to make a change to follow her passion for real estate.

She will work out of the Savannah office.

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Pulte

Grymes

Ryan

Bryson Building

RYAN EARNS PRESTIGIOUS DESIGNATION

Karen Ryan, co-owner of Weichert RealtorsCoastal Properties, has been awarded the Certified Residential Specialist Designation by the Residential Real Estate Council.

Agents who receive the CRS Designation have completed advanced professional training and demonstrated outstanding professional achievement in residential real estate. Only 25,000 Realtors nationwide have earned the credential.

“The training I’ve received through the CRS Designation courses has given me complementary knowledge that will help me continue to provide exceptional service to our clients and guidance to our agents,” she said.

HOME SALES RISE DURING FALL SEASON

South Carolina Realtors said there was a 15.4 percent increase in one-year closed sales during September. Hilton Head (+65%), Beaufort (+49%) and Charleston (+49%) lead the state in sales. Homes were selling fast, with an average of 72 days on the market — an almost 8% decrease compared to this time last year, S.C. Realtors said.

STUDY SHOWS HIGH-DENSITY GAINS

The Hilton Head-Bluffton metro area in 2019 saw that 18.3% of building permits issued were for housing units in structures with five or more units, according to data from Porch.com. The study found that in the metro area, 17.9% of existing housing units were in high-density structures.

S.C. REALTORS: 15.4 PERCENT INCREASE IN ONE-YEAR CLOSED SALES. SAVANNAH’S HISTORIC BRYSON BUILDING RESTORED

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Bay Street Realty Group and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Cora Bett Thomas Realty moved into its new Georgia corporate headquarters in downtown Savannah, Ga. The historic Bryson building on Chippewa Square was recently restored. Designer Jerome Elder, CEO of J. Elder Studio, was selected by Bay Street Realty Group and Cora Bett Thomas Realty to oversee the design and construction of the project. The South Carolina headquarters is located at 701 Bay Street in Beaufort.

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY WELCOMES REAL ESTATE AGENT

Kathy Grymes has joined Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Bay Street Realty Group as a real estate agent. Grymes, a USGA licensed master captain, was recently a Realtor in Birmingham, Ala. She also co-founded and coached The Magic City Rowing Juniors for middle school and high school-aged athletes.

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IIREAL ESTATEII

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I I H E A LT H I I

HOLIDAY H E A LT H

I V V R A U L S Guide 20

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BY NELL CURRAN

Oh, December. The time to balance joy with stress, vegetables with cookies, and calendar overload with wellness routines. This year, COVID-19 has thrown an extra curveball in the mix. How do we keep the spirit of the season alive when things feel extra dark?

We made a list.

PARE DOWN

Ordinary years’ holiday cheer can leave us frazzled, signed up to office potlucks, neighborhood dessert parties, friends’ get-togethers and large family meals. This year, overcommitment is extra complicated as we try to have happy holidays but stay safe.

Risa Byars, Psy.D., a psychologist in Bluffton, offered suggestions for navigating decisions. First, follow advice from verified sources. Then, listen to your gut.

As Byars put it, “Don’t let anyone make you feel crazy or bad for doing what’s right for you.”

After all, you are unlikely to enjoy an event while worried that you shouldn’t be there.

Byars also emphasizes to keep hope alive.

“Even in this darkness, we have reason to be hopeful,” Byars said. “This won’t last forever.

It is temporary and it will end.”

For trusted information about the risks of holiday activities, the CDC has released a holiday risk guide on its website.

FIND JOY THROUGH CONNECTIONS

Humans are not built for social isolation, and it causes mental health to deteriorate quickly, so figure out how to stay connected and find joy.

In planning your season, cross anything off your list that feels like mere habit or obligation.

Then, consider which aspects of what remains make your heart sing. The sense of togetherness? Watching a loved one open a carefully chosen gift? Sharing a meal?

You can recreate all of these with some creativity. Video technology makes it possible to dine with family, host a holiday-games party, or even go caroling. The Lowcountry is blessed with great weather. You might enjoy drinks with friends or neighbors distanced in your driveway or an outdoor meal with loved ones.

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24 Cedar Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

24 Cedar Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926-1052

Anuska Frey

Anuska Frey

CEO

Date 10/26/2020 14:53:21 PM

PRIVACY NOTICE: See our privacy policy on www.usps.com

PS Form 3526, September 2007 (Page 2)

PRIVACY NOTICE: See our privacy policy on www.usps.com

I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties).

Marc Frey

18. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner Title

PS Form 3526, September 2007 (Page 1)

X None

24 Cedar Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

Anuska Frey

11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Hoding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds. Mortgages, or Other Securities. If none, check box Full Name Complete Mailing Address

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Managing Editor (Name and complete mailing address) Anuska Frey 24 CEDAR LN HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC 29926-1052

Editor (Name and complete mailing address) Anuska Frey 24 Cedar Ln Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

Publisher (Name and complete mailing address) Anuska Frey 24 CEDAR LN HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC 29926-1052

9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor

8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher 24 CEDAR LN HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC 29926-1052

Telephone (843) 842-6988 Ext. 250

Contact Person ANUSKA FREY

5. Number of Issues Published Annually 6. Annual Subscription Price 12 $ 12.00

7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication 52 NEW ORLEANS RD STE 300 HILTON HEAD ISLAND, BEAUFORT, SC 29928-4788

3. Filing Date 10/26/2020

4. Issue Frequency MONTHLY

ISSN 19430329

2. Publication Number 24796

Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation (All Periodicals Publications Except Requester Publications)

1. Publication Title MONTHLY MEDIA LLC/HILTON HEAD MONTHLY

PS Form 3526

0 0 0 0.00 %

0 0 0 0.00 %

in the 11/30/2020 issue of this publication.

X If the publication is a general publication, publication of this statement is required. Will be printed

17. Publication of Statement of Ownership Publication not required.

69.41 %

69.41 %

I Certify that 50% of all my distributed copies (Electronic and Print) are paid above a nominal price.

d. Percent Paid(Both Print and Electronic Copies)

c. Total Print Distribution(Line 15F) + Paid Electronic Copies

b. Total Paid Print Copies(Line 15C) + Paid Electronic Copies

a. Paid Electronic Copies

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Average No. Copies Each Issue No. Copies of Single Issue During Preceding 12 Months Published Nearest to Filing Date

09/30/2020

14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below

16. If total circulation includes electronic copies, report that circulation on lines below.

i. Percent Paid ((15c / 15f) times 100)

h. Total (Sum of 15f and 15g)

g. Copies not Distributed

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e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3), (4))

or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail (4) Free (Carriers or other means)

d. Free or Free or Nominal Rate In-County Copies included on (2) PS Nominal Form 3541 Rate Distribution (By Mail and Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes (3) Outside the Through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail) Mail)

or Nominal Rate Outside County Copies (1) Free included on PS Form 3541

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Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form b. Paid Circulation (2) 3541(include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser's proof copies, and exchange copies) (By Mail and Outside Paid Distribution Outside the Mails Including Sales the Mail) (3) Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS

Mailed Outside County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS (1) Form 3541(include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser's proof copies, and exchange copies)

a. Total Numbers of Copies (Net press run)

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MONTHLY MEDIA LLC/HILTON HEAD MONTHLY

13. Publication Title

I I H E A LT H I I

KEEP THE SPIRIT OF THE SEASON ALIVE.

NOURISH YOUR BODY

Wellness matters now more than ever. This means eating right, but nourishment isn’t just food. Amber Faust of Hilton Head, a wellness expert who blogs at Faust Island, suggested a well-rounded, simple approach. “Drink water, laugh, and get outdoors, even in the cold.”

She emphasized hydration: “Make sure you are drinking enough water. Holiday foods are full of sugar and alcohol can leave you slightly dehydrated. This could lead to headaches and run down your immune system.”

ASK FOR HELP AND GIVE IT TO OTHERS

Kimberly Hall is the Executive Director of Bluffton Self Help, which offers emergency financial assistance, a wellness food pantry, holiday-based programs and a wealth of education and resources. There has been an increase in need in the community since COVID began, and they rely on local donations, providing a great opportunity to support others and boost your mood.

But Hall implores people not to be afraid to ask for help — and not to feel hopeless.

“One of the things that can be hard in this moment is the loss of hope,” she said. “We want to remind people that there is a light at the end; we want to help give hope and light. It can be hard to ask for help. But more than a third of the growth in families we serve during COVID have never sought support before. Many pay it forward through donations or volunteering.”

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Hung Care WITH

THE LEAL FAMILY CHRISTMAS TREE IS MUCH MORE THAN JUST THE ORNAMENTS. IT’S THE STORY THOSE ORNAMENTS TELL. STORY BY BARRY KAUFMAN I PHOTOS BY RUTHE RITTERBECK

At Apollo Cards & Gifts in Totowa, N.J., there were few bigger days in the mid 1980s than the one Saturday each year when the latest Hallmark Keepsake ornaments would make their debut.

And on these Saturdays, there was no one more excited than Guillermo “Willie” Leal, the man they called the Hallmark Wizard.

“There would be 150 people lined up out front on opening Saturday,” said Rich Leal, son of the Hallmark Wizard. “And my dad would be inside prepping everything in his pink shirt covered in ornaments.”

As the Hallmark Wizard, the elder Leal made it a point to snap up nearly every keepsake ornament the company offered, filling boxes upon boxes in his attic and proudly displaying the cream of the crop on his tree each year.

It’s a tradition that Rich has kept up, decking his tree with a universe of colorful characters and keepsakes.

“I’d come home with a bag of 10 to 12 of them every year and my wife (Mary) would say, ‘Are you crazy?’… But I purposefully have a big tree for this very reason,” he said.

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IT’S A TRADITION THAT RICH HAS KEPT UP, DECKING HIS TREE WITH A UNIVERSE OF COLORFUL CHARACTERS AND KEEPSAKES. Like his father before him, Rich has made these collectible ornaments the heart of his holiday tradition. Starting the day after Thanksgiving, he’ll spend as much as two days putting up several hundred ornaments, working five hours at a time to re-insert batteries and meticulously place ornaments on each branch of his 9-foot tree.

A sci-fi nut from a very young age, you’ll notice right away that his ornaments tend to lean toward the fantastic.

“You’ll always find my original U.S.S. Enterprise around the top of the tree every year,” he said.

The Starfleet flagship boldly goes among an array of starships ranging from an X-Wing Fighter to a Klingon Warbird, intermingling with superheroes, iconic cartoon characters and several vignettes from The Wizard of Oz, a favorite film of daughter Dana.

“It turned our Christmas tree into a live tree,” he said.

More than just static figurines, these vibrant keepsakes come to life. The Wicked Witch melts into a puddle while lamenting “What a World.”

The Six Million Dollar Man ornament plays the iconic theme song. One special ornament emits a squeaky “Merry Christmas,” in the voice of one of Rich and Mary’s sons.

The Hallmark Wizard is now in his 90s, and his ornaments fill an attic. But his son has happily taken up the mantle.

“It’s probably been the last two to three years, he comes over here to see mine and relive it,” Rich said.

And the tradition lives on.

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HILTON HEAD DANCE THEATRE CELEBRATING 35 YEARS

THE NUTCRACKER AT THE CINEMA

Viewing dates and times: Saturday, Dec. 12, 1 p.m., 4 p.m., 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, 1 p.m., 4 p.m.

Tickets: Park Plaza Cinemas, 33 Office Park Rd., Hilton Head, or mannsparkplazacinema.com.

Online viewing available Dec. 18-25.Details: Visit hiltonheaddance.com

STORY BY CARRIE HIRSCH | PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Hilton Head Dance Theatre’s 35th anniversary season production of The Nutcracker will be a fresh and unique experience, as it will move to the big screens at Park Plaza Cinemas. Hilton Head Dance Theatre first presented the holiday classic in 1985.

The logistics of transitioning from performances in front of a live audience to preparing for filming have been challenging, said Lori Finger, board president of Hilton Head Dance Theatre.

“After 35 years of presenting The Nutcracker in front of a live audience, a total rethinking was necessary. We know that it will be difficult for our dancers to perform in a theater full of empty seats,” says Finger. “But as Artistic Director John Carlyle said, ‘One of the great things about dancers is their imaginations and their ability to convey what they can imagine through dance.’ ” The filming will be at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina.

Screenings at Park Plaza Cinemas are scheduled for Dec. 12-13.

Finger shared the history of the nonprofit organization and its mission to foster an appreciation of dance as an art form among Lowcountry residents and visitors alike.

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IIARTSII

BUT AS ARTISTIC DIRECTOR JOHN CARLYLE SAID, ‘ONE OF THE GREAT THINGS ABOUT DANCERS IS THEIR IMAGINATIONS AND THEIR ABILITY TO CONVEY WHAT THEY CAN IMAGINE THROUGH DANCE. LORI FINGER

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Margaret Jones, who later served as the first president of HHDT, approached John Carlyle and Karena BrockCarlyle, who were living and working in Savannah, about opening a school on the island, she said.

They asked if there were any children on Hilton Head, because they thought it was strictly a retirement community.

When they learned that there were kids on the island, they made the move and opened their school – Hilton Head Dance School – with an enrollment of just 17 students.

They soon met Mary Coleman and Allyson Harden who were instrumental in getting the school on its feet, says Finger.

“HHDS co-founder and HHDT Artistic Director BrockCarlyle has an incredible background and was named a Principal Dancer of the American Ballet Theatre in 1973, considered one of the greatest dance companies in the world,” Finger said. “She danced throughout Europe, Asia and Latin America and at the White House for two presidents. She brings her vast experience in the world of

classical ballet to everything that she does.”

Bill Dunnagan, founder of Dunnagan’s Alley, helped with the first production of The Nutcracker in 1985 by donating a dance floor and giving dates in the theater.

All productions were held there until the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina opened in 1996. Since 2012, the school’s production of The Nutcracker has been held at the Seahawk Cultural Center.

HHDT brings professional male guest artists to dance alongside company members as well as the rest of the cast.

This year’s guests will be Journy Wilkes-Davis from the Alabama Ballet and Hunter Solomon from the Boulder (Colorado) Ballet.

“We are so grateful to the Arts Center and Lucie and Larry Mann at Park Plaza Cinemas for the opportunity to take over all five screens at their theater,” Finger said.

“Social distancing will be planned. The silver lining? The dancers get to watch The Nutcracker on the big screen alongside their families and friends.”

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STOCK IMAGE

IISPORTSII

BONDING

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THROUGH

ROWING

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HHI CREW FOSTERS VALUABLE LIFE LESSONS ON THE WATER STORY BY JUSTIN JARRETT | PHOTOS BY ROB KAUFMAN

Trying to build the next generation of Hilton Head Island’s rowing community was enough of a challenge before the concept of social distancing became a ubiquitous phrase in the vernacular.

But Dave Erdman and Chuck Yocum have kept paddling.

HHI Crew has been a mainstay since 1995 — save for a brief hiatus in the mid-2000s — but the COVID-19 pandemic presented a new challenge, and right when things were really starting to sail. Yocum rejoined the organization in September 2019, and the program flourished, drawing rowers from throughout Beaufort County and across the Savannah River.

Then the pandemic hit.

The roster dwindled in the midst of uncertainty, but Erdman and Yocum charged on. Limited to rowing singles because “fours” and “eights” put rowers in close proximity and the physical exertion required makes wearing masks impractical, the team kept training, even with all the races on their schedule called off.

When they are able to get back in the bigger shells, the individual work should be beneficial.

“Rowing in a single improves your stroke,” says Erdman, who has been involved with the program

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since the outset. “You have nobody to blame but yourself.”

The club started at Hilton Head Island High School in 1995 and enjoyed a solid 10-year run before a change in state-funding rules pushed high school club sports to the fringes.

It was revived in 2007 when a group of five community members decided to put the leftover equipment and facilities to use.

Now operating under the umbrella of the not-forprofit Palmetto Rowing Club, HHI Crew showed steady growth and was poised for a big season before the world turned upside-down. Erdman and Yocum had to devise a new plan in a hurry.

The Palmetto Rowing Club agreed to offer its 15 singles shells for use, and 23 devoted young rowers set out from the Old Oyster Factory in two shifts a day to hone their craft.

Although they couldn’t travel to events in hubs like Charlotte, Atlanta, and Jacksonville, Fla., the rowers had a chance to see their hard work put into action with an intrasquad race to cap off the fall season.

“I think we’ve had a very good season considering all the challenges we were facing,” Erdman said.

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HHI CREW HAS SEEN 400 ROWERS COME THROUGH THE PROGRAM IN THE LAST 12 YEARS.

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And they’re not letting up.

There are no after-school practices until spring, but Yocum is running land-based workouts four days a week to keep the rowers in shape, and the club has planned several learn-torow events in an effort to introduce more middle school and high school students to try the sport.

Both Erdman and Yocum rowed in high school and college, so they’ve seen first-hand the benefits the sport offers and want to pass those perks on to a new generation.

“Not only success on the race course and what that means to a young person growing up, but also I see how the bond of rowing between the people that are on the team is something that has to be experienced,” Yocum said. “It’s a lifetime bond formed between the participants, and it’s something you can’t manufacture.”

During a season without formal competition, and with a unique set of challenges to overcome, Erdman and Yocum have seen that bond growing even closer among their team, and they’re excited to see what lies ahead.

“The kids learn life, leadership and confidence skills, and that’s going to help them throughout their lives,” Erdman said.

And he would know. He has seen nearly 400 rowers come through the program during the past 12 years, and while seven have earned scholarships to row in college, Erdman is prouder of another statistic — the program’s perfect high school graduation rate.

“I just enjoy working with the kids,” Erdman said. “It’s a cliché, but they do keep me young.”

To learn more, visit hhicrew.org.

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GIVING the gift of hope LORD OF LIFE LUTHERAN CHURCH PLANS OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES STORY BY AMY COYNE BREDESON | PHOTO SUBMITTED

All are welcome, but reservations are encouraged.

If there’s anything the The church will add another world needs right now, it’s Christmas Eve service if it is Christmas, according to the pastor of a Bluffton church. needed. Masks are required.

After a harrowing year Jennings said in general and many not being able to churchgoers have been great about wearing masks during gather for Easter, the Rev. Dr. Angela Jennings of Lord of the pandemic. The weekly serLife Lutheran Church is lookmons are shorter — about 30 minutes instead of an hour. ing forward to celebrating Rev. Dr. Angela Jennings Chairs are set up with names the birth of Jesus Christ this month. on them and spread out to cut “Everybody needs a down on the spread of germs. little Christmas right now,” Services are streamed on Jennings said. “Not the commercial stuff but a real Christmas, YouTube and Facebook for those who are not comfortable attending in person. where we focus on the simple things in life and the great gifts that “It’s really hard to look out and preach to my sheep when all I God gives to us.”

The church, located on Buckwalter Parkway, is planning outcan see are their eyes, and not being able to hug,” Jennings said. door Christmas Eve candlelight services at noon, 4 p.m., 6 p.m. and “So that’s been really hard, but we’re doing the best we can do.”

Jennings wants people to know that God is always with them 8 p.m. The services will take place on the church’s patio, which will and he has a plan. be decorated with lights and luminaries. The sermon will be shorter than usual this year.

“That plan is to save his children, and he’s done it since the beginning of time,” she said. “We will get through this. God’s Jennings thinks the church should get back to the basics of people have learned patience by waiting and waiting, but when Christmas, singing carols and lighting the tree on Christmas Eve as people did generations ago. She said having the services outside something wonderful does happen, we recognize it as a great gift.

We never lose hope because we know that God is faithful.” will make it safer for people to sing, something she said is a must For more information on Lord of Life or to make reservations for Christmas. for one of the Christmas Eve services, call 843-757-4774 or visit Lord of Life celebrates the 12 days of Christmas, beginning on the church’s Facebook page.

Christmas Day and going until Epiphany on Jan. 6.

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“where to worship”

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WINDMILL HARBOUR SET FOR ANNUAL FESTIVE WEEKEND STORY BY EDWARD THOMAS PHOTO SUBMITTED

Holiday

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For the Yuletide season on Hilton Head Island, Windmill Harbour is the venue for one of December’s most festive events in the area — the annual “Harbour Stroll Weekend.”

This year’s event — exclusively for Windmill Harbour residents, members of the South Carolina Yacht Club and their guests — is set for 6-8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 12-13.

Gaily decorated yachts, sailboats, catamarans and homes combine with twinkling lights and lasers to illuminate the perimeter of this renowned locked harbour.

Now in its 23rd year, the Harbour Stroll will be especially welcome in 2020.

Kitty Sperry, a six-year Windmill Harbour resident, said the event engenders “a huge sense of community . . . bringing the beauty of our community to another level.”

Said resident Ann Rinaldi: “As I wander on the promenade around the marina admiring the beautifully decorated homes and boats, greeting my neighbors with friends and family in tow, and listening to the music and enjoying the libations and freshly baked cookies offered along the way I stop and smile. I realize how fortunate I am to live in a scene in a snow globe – but it’s minus the snow.”

Although strollers are being asked by organizers to wear masks, children will still delight in the appearance of Santa Claus in a golf cart with his elves.

There are games and stations along the promenade that offer refreshments, including wine, apple cider, hot cocoa, and cookies. Boat owners and homeowners also host drop-ins along the promenade.

Secret judges tour the community during the event awarding prizes to the best decorated.

“The Harbour Stroll brings so much energy to Windmill Harbour,” said Leslie Richardson, co-founder of the South Carolina Yacht Club.

“It’s magical in the glow of Christmas lights. I remember how in 1997 at the first Stroll — just preparing for it got everyone into the spirit of Christmas. The whole community came out to help decorate, and the love and spirit of Christmas came alive. I’m thrilled it has continued every year since.”

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DEC. 12, 13 HILTON HEAD DANCE THEATRE’S THE NUTCRACKER: The 35th Anniversary Season production of Hilton Head Dance Theatre’s “The Nutcracker” will move to the big screens at Park Plaza Cinemas. The production will be recorded and then shared with the community over two exciting nights. For more details, visit hiltonheaddance.com.

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CALENDAR

DEC. 1

DEC. 1-31

THE MENTALISTS: An extraordinary show of mind-reading and telepathy.

Temperature screenings, face coverings and social distancing required.

Tickets are $49. 4 p.m., 7:30 p.m., Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island.

843-686-3945 or artshhi.com.

HOLIDAY GALLERY OF GIFTS: For the first time, Art League Gallery will be transformed into a holiday Gallery of Gifts, featuring one-of-a-kind decor and gift items handmade by Art League members. Free entry. 10 a.m-4 p.m.

Mondays-Saturdays; Noon-4 p.m., Sundays. Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843-681-5060 or artshhi.org.

VIRTUALLY CREATING: “DIY Winter Crafts”: Learn several DIY crafts like using grape vines to construct a festive wreath, and a simple marbling technique that can be used to make greeting cards.

Free. 5 p.m. Watch live on Facebook at the MorrisHeritageCenter. 843-2849227 or morrisheritagecenter.org.

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DEC. 2 13 STRIPES BEER DINNER: Enjoy an evening of delicious food and craft beer, featuring Greenville-based 13 Stripes Brewery. Guests will experience a five-course dinner, paired with five different 13 Stripes Brewery beers. Cost

is $35. 6 p.m., Old Oyster Factory, 101 Marshland Road, Hilton Head Island.

843-681-6040 or oldoysterfactory.com.

DISCUSSION WITH THE AUTHOR: Join author Beverly Bowers Jennings as she discusses her new book, “Shrimp Tales: Small Bites of History,” a unique photo book that portrays the people, places and boats of the commercial shrimping industry in the Southeast. Cost is $7 in-person, $5 virtual. 2 p.m., Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island.

843-689-6767 or coastaldiscovery.org.

DEC. 4 VIRTUAL LECTURE: “Global Nuclear Threats”: Alexandra Bell, Senior Policy Director at the Center for Arms Control

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and Non-Proliferation, will outline current global nuclear threats and their related policy choices. Cost is $10 for guests, free for members. 10 a.m. Watch live on Zoom. 843-384-6758 or wachh.org.

DEC. 4-5 A SINATRA SALUTE TO HOLIDAYS AT THE JAZZ CORNER: With Bobby Ryder’s Quartet. $10. 7:30-11 p.m., The Jazz Corner, 1000 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. 843842-8620 or thejazzcorner.com.

THE NUTCRACKER: An enchanting holiday experience as the Carolina Collective Dance Centre presents a holiday classic. Cost is $26. 2 p.m., 7:30 p.m. Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island.

843-842-2787 or artshhi.com.

DEC. 5 BLUFFTON REVERSE CHRISTMAS PARADE: Instead of the parade moving past you, you move past the parade in your vehicle. This allows spectators to enjoy the festivities of a parade while maximizing their social distance from other parade attendees. Free. 10 a.m.noon, May River Road, Bluffton. 843706-4500 or townofbluffton.sc.gov.

SECOND ANNUAL REPEAL DAY PARTY: Enjoy live music and specialty prohibition cocktails, plus small plates, a costume contest and more. Free entry.

Reservations recommended. 6-11 p.m., Whiskey Room, 33 Office Park Road, Suite 213, Hilton Head Island. 843785-2427 or whiskeyroomhhi.com.

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TED FLACH MEMORIAL CANDY CANE CLASSIC: Celebrating its 20th year, this annual golf and tennis tournament benefits the Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island. Fans are encouraged to support the event by purchasing a raffle ticket, making a donation or purchasing a sponsorship. The event is only open to Sea Pines Country Club members.

Cost is $200 for golf, $125 for tennis.

8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Sea Pines Country

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Club, 30 Governors Road, Hilton Head Island.

843-689-3646 or bgchiltonhead.org.

DEC. 5, 12, 19 SOCIALLY DISTANT SANTA: Enjoy a visit with Santa and socially distant family photos.

Free. 5-7 p.m., Shelter Cove Towne Centre, 40 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843686-3090 or sheltercovetownecentre.com.

DEC. 6 CHRISTMAS WITH THE CELTS: The Celts mix lively traditional Irish music and instrumentation with American pop music and their own originals. Cost is $61.

4 p.m., 7:30 p.m., Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-2787 or artshhi.com.

DEC. 8 SHOP LOCAL AND DINE EVENT: The Women’s Association of Hilton Head Island will celebrate a unique luncheon experience as local stores make donations from member and guest sales to the WAHHI Charitable Fund. All attending the event are encouraged to bring a wrapped children’s toy labeled with gender and age information. 11:30 a.m., Shelter Cove Towne Centre, 40 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. wahhi.com.

DEC. 9 HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE AT FORSYTHE JEWELERS: Browse from a large selection of top brand jewelry designers, MacKenzieChilds housewares and holiday decor at this fun and festive holiday open house. Enjoy complimentary gift wrapping with your purchase. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Forsythe Jewelers, 71 Lighthouse Road, Suite 311, Hilton Head Island. 843-671-7070 or forsythejewelers.biz.

DEC. 10 HENRY CHO: A comic genius with a Southern flair. From the stories of his southern childhood to bantering with the crowd, Henry Cho keeps the audience laughing all night long. Cost is $55. 4 p.m., 7:30 p.m., Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-2787 or artshhi.com.

SIPS AND STOCKING STUFFERS: A one-stop holiday shopping experience,

dd featuring local businesses, a food truck and donation-based beer and wine.

Free. 4-7 p.m., Bluffton Aesthetics, 3 Plantation Park Drive, Bluffton. 843305-5783 or blufftonaesthetics.com.

DEC. 12, 13 HILTON HEAD DANCE THEATRE’S THE NUTCRACKER: The 35th Anniversary Season production of Hilton Head Dance Theatre’s “The Nutcracker” will move to the big screens at Park Plaza Cinemas. The production will be recorded and then shared with the community over two exciting nights. For more details, visit hiltonheaddance.com.

DEC. 11 A MOTOWN HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR AT THE JAZZ CORNER: With Reggie Deas and Deas Guyz. $10. 7:30-11 p.m., The Jazz Corner, 1000 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. 843842-8620 or thejazzcorner.com.

DEC. 11-13 WATER SIDE WALK: Enjoy great savings during Shelter Cove Towne Centre’s semi-annual Sidewalk Sale. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Shelter Cove Towne Centre, 40 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843-6863090 or sheltercovetownecentre.com.

DEC. 11-31 WINTER WONDERLAND: Drive by the Island Rec Center to have a look at the Magical Holiday Scene. Free. 4-7 p.m., Island Rec Center, 20 Wilborn Road, Hilton Head Island. 843-6817273 or islandreccenter.org.

DEC. 12 CHRISTMAS AT THE CORNER: With The Mark Sterbank Quartet. $10. 7:3011 p.m., The Jazz Corner, 1000 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island.

843-842-8620 or thejazzcorner.com.

HARDEEVILLE MOVIE NIGHT: A drive-in movie experience featuring a screening of The Polar Express. All movie-goers will receive a golden ticket,

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as it was at the time of Jesus’ birth. There will be live animals, a nativity scene and more.

This year’s event will feature a drive through experience due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Free. 5:30-7:30 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. 843-681-3696 or fpchhi.org.

THROUGH DEC. 19 ANNUAL SOBA HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE: Shop for the holidays with hundreds of hand-crafted works by local artists. Free entry.

11 a.m.-3 p.m., Sundays-Wednesdays; 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursdays-Saturdays. Center for Creative Arts, 8 Church Street, Bluffton.

843-757-6586 or sobagallery.com.

DEC. 20 REINDEER GAMES: Over the course of an hour, children will rotate through three different stations: air rifle, archery and Silly Birds sight shot. 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m. Palmetto Bluff Shooting Club, 477 Mount Pelia Road, Bluffton.

866-276-0779 or palmettobluff.com.

DEC 9 : ORSYTHE JEWELERS OPEN HOUSE

keepsake believe bell, plus free popcorn and a drink. Space is limited. Free. 6 p.m., City Hall, 205 Main Street, Hardeeville.

843-227-4089 or hardeevillesc.gov.

LOT 9 BREWING HOLIDAY MARKET: Join local makers for a holly jolly Holiday Market, featuring Christmas tunes, Lowcountry Lobster and local vendors.

Noon-5 p.m., Lot 9 Brewing, 258 Red Cedar Street, Unit 14, Bluffton.

843-757-5689 or lot9brew.com.

DEC. 13 A BROADWAY CHRISTMAS: The talented trio of Chloë Agnew, Phillip Boykin and Roger Moss bring the best of Broadway together with festive holiday hits. Cost is $59. 4 p.m., 7:30 p.m., Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island.

843-842-2787 or artshhi.com.

restaurant gift cards, closet organization consultations and more. All proceeds will directly benefit The Children’s Center. 843681-2739 or thechildrenscentersc.org.

DEC. 15 TUESDAY TOAST TO WOMEN DRIVING AMERICA: A virtual happy hour series featuring Sarah Bellamy, owner and founder of Green Gator Resurrected Reptiles, a collection of vintage alligator and crocodile handbags and luggage. The event will also include an exclusive cocktail recipe selected by the host. Free. 4 p.m. Register online.

843-785-7469 or hhiconcours.com.

DEC. 18-19

THROUGH DEC. 14

A BOOGALOO CHRISTMAS AT THE JAZZ CORNER: With The WarmdaddyRapp Quartet. $10. 7:30-11 p.m., The Jazz Corner, 1000 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. 843842-8620 or thejazzcorner.com.

THE CHILDREN’S CENTER HOLIDAY ONLINE AUCTION: The Children’s Center will host their 2020 Holiday Auction online, featuring items like golf packages,

JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM: Bring the family for a tour of the city of Bethlehem

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DEC. 19-20

DEC. 21 A CARPENTERS CHRISTMAS: A joyful holiday variety show that will put you in the spirit of the season. Singer and playwright Lisa Rock and her six-piece backing band keep The Carpenters’ holiday traditions alive, bringing their unforgettable Christmas songs to the stage. Cost is $61.

4 p.m., 7:30 p.m., Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-2787 or artshhi.com.

DEC. 23 HOLIDAY GRACE CRUISE: Join Palmetto Bluff for the annual Holiday Boat Parade, where participants will cruise aboard the 1913 antique yacht, Grace. Float along the May River while sipping hot chocolate with marshmallows.

1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., Grace Dock, Palmetto Bluff, 477 Mount Pelia Road, Bluffton.

866-276-0779 or palmettobluff.com.

MORELAND HOLIDAY GATHERING: Enjoy the expansive views of the May River during this outdoor holiday celebration at Moreland Landing. Enjoy fresh oysters and Lowcountry boil. 5 p.m., 8 p.m., Moreland Landing, Palmetto Bluff, Bluffton. 866276-0779 or palmettobluff.com.

DEC. 24 JINGLE BELL DOG JOG 5K: Enjoy a jingle bell jog with your favorite canine friend. Dressing in the holiday spirit is strongly encouraged and a canine companion is not required. Must register prior to the day of the event. 9 a.m., Village Green, Palmetto Bluff, Bluffton. 866-276-0779 or palmettobluff.com.

S AV E T H E D AT E 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. 843-681-7273 or islandreccenter.org.

ONGOING EVENTS MONDAYS VIRTUAL KID’S 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 MEMORY MATTERS: “Virtual Compass Classes”: An online program designed for adults experiencing mild to moderate cognitive impairment. Compass provides curriculum-based activities, physical exercise, relaxation techniques, life-long learning, small group discussions and socialization. Free. 10 a.m., 1 p.m. 843-842-6688 or mymemorymatters.org.

TUESDAYS HILTON HEAD ISLAND FARMERS MARKET: Support our local farmers and producers and take home fresh produce, pastureraised 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.

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. 843-842-8488 or needlepointjunctionhhi.com.

ZION CEMETERY AND BAYNARD MAUSOLEUM COSTUMED CEMETERY TOUR: Visit the grave sites 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 and Matthews Dr., Hilton Head Island.

Reservations required- 843-686-6560 or heritagelib.org.

Tuesdays, Thursdays

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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.

WEDNESDAYS HAUNTED HISTORY TALES: Listen to graveside storytelling in the eerie setting of Hilton Head Island’s oldest burial ground and hear spine-tingling 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.

THURSDAYS 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. 843689-6767, ext. 223. or coastaldiscovery.org.

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.

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. 843-415-2447 or f armersmarketbluffton.org.

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.

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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.

SATURDAYS, SUNDAYS SANTA TRAM RIDES AT PALMETTO BLUFF: Children are welcome to take a ride on Santa’s Tram in front of the Inn beginning Dec. 5. Free.

Palmetto Bluff, 477 Mount Pelia Road, Bluffton.

866-276-0779 or palmettobluff.com.

D A I LY E V E N T S

SO MUCH TO SEE & DO

IN HILTON HEAD & BLUFFTON

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.

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. 843671-2810 or harbourtownlighthouse.com.

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TO FIND MORE VISIT US @ HILTONHEADMONTHLY.COM

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Wine

Pairings FOR THE HOLIDAYS

As the holiday season approaches, Monthly reached out to certified sommelier Stephanie Skager of Rollers Wine & Spirits for some of her favorite wines of the season and what she’ll be sharing with her family at the dinner table this year. Here are a few choices that will surely help make the holidays special.

MARY TAYLOR SAINT POURCAIN ROSE, LOIRE VALLEY, FRANCE Mary Taylor’s

wines reflect her passion, intelligence, and level-headedness. She has worked with European wine for more than two decades and loves the nuance and diversity of Europe’s extraordinary wine regions, from the tiny villages of France and Italy, to the countryside vineyards of Portugal and Spain. She developed a label based on the “place name” or “appellation” which designated the geographical origin of the wine.

This 100 percent Gamay is aged five months on its lees in stainless steel tanks.

It shows a light salmon-pink hue and reveals on-the-nose aromas of peach and apricot, along with hints of raspberries and rose petals.

Pair with a spicy or salty dish; holiday ham for example.

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OYSTERMAN MUSCADET, LOIRE VALLEY, FRANCE This wine is a collaboration

between Casey Davidson, who owns Charleston-based Toadfish Outfitters, which is dedicated to repairing and conserving coastal waterways, and Frederick Corriher, wine importer from Charleston. Corriher shared Davidson’s passion for the ocean, so he sought out winemakers Guy and Jean-Luc Olivier to make a wine to help the cause. Every sold bottle funds the planting of 10 square feet of oyster beds.

The wine is best with the holiday tradition, “The Feast of Seven Fishes,” as it pairs phenomenally with all-things seafood; it's also a lovely aperitif if your dinner plans bring you elsewhere.

JOLIE-LAIDE GAMAY NOIR, SEBASTOPOL, CALIFORNIA Jolie-Laide is a one-man operation

based in a Sebastopol winery. Winemaker Scott Schultz makes only 500 cases of wine a year under his own label. The name Jolie-Laide translates loosely to “Pretty-Ugly,” a French term of endearment to describe something that is unconventionally beautiful.

As beautiful on your table as in your glass, the Jolie-Laide wine labels feature a different artist every vintage. This year’s collection comes from Kate Scott, who takes raw scans of flowers that she then digitally paints pixel by pixel, capturing and magnifying detail often invisible to the naked eye.

This is a red that you can drink any day of the year, with or without food.

Pair it with a turkey this holiday season.

STEPHANIE SKAGER

CARNEROS SPRINGS CABERNET SAUVIGNON, NAPA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA If there is a silver lining for the COVID-19 pandemic here it is. Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is consistently excellent wine, but it takes a special skill bordering on art to source and blend these wines to make them truly exceptional. Often the top producers are caught with an excess of stock.

Carneros Springs Cabernet was made for a steakhouse chain in Texas, but since the pandemic hit they have not been able to move through the inventory they expected. With extra wine to sell and no storage for it, a broker approached a South Carolina distributor to help — and it is available at Rollers Wine & Spirits.

Drink up these fantastic, best of Napa Valley wines, while the opportunity is here.

Pairs with beef, but it would also be fantastic with lamb, venison, and hearty tomato sauce.

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Indulge YOUR SWEET TOOTH

SUGAR COOKIES KEEP IT EASY FOR THE HOLIDAYS

BY JESSICA FARTHING

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You have them — friends that deliver beautiful cookie trays at the holidays, full of handcrafted delectable treats. You’d think that they spent hours sculpting each perfect cookie, all individually delicious. They might have, but there’s a secret method to success for a holiday cookie collection: a cookie base that can perform more than just one job.

There are many cookie bases, but for holiday decorating, you just can’t beat a sugar cookie. This recipe is delicious and versatile, able to be shaped into intricate cut-out cookies or pressed into a cheesecake crust. Just don’t eat them all before it’s time to give them away.

THE PERFECT HOLIDAY

Gift

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The Best SUGAR COOKIE BASE Ingredients 2 sticks unsalted butter, room temperature 1 cup sugar 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon almond extract 3 cups flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt Mix flour, baking powder and kosher salt in a separate bowl. Set aside.

Cream butter and sugar in a mixer until light and fluffy. Add egg and mix until incorporated.

Add vanilla and almond extract. Mix. Add dry ingredients, scraping down the side and mixing again. Sugar cookies will form a ball and are now ready for the next step.

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Sugar COOKIE CUPS Cheesecake Filling 16 ounces cream cheese at room temperature.

1 cup powdered sugar.

2 teaspoon vanilla.

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice.

1 cup of heavy cream,whipped.

Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add in the sugar, vanilla and lemon and beat with mixer again. Whip the heavy cream separately and gently fold into the cream cheese mixture until blended.

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Fill the sugar cookie cups with a scoop of cheesecake filling, topping with strawberries, nuts, chocolates or sprinkles.

To make incredible sugar cookies, consider your ingredients. Buying Madagascar vanilla and a good brand of almond extract makes a difference in taste.

Preheat oven completely to 350 degrees.

Roll sugar cookie dough into small uniform balls.

Press balls into decorative muffin cups, pressing a well in the middle.

Bake until lightly golden brown. Allow to cool.

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SUGAR COOKIE

Cut Outs

The old standby, Sugar Cookie Cut Outs are easy after making the Best Sugar Cookie Base. Simply refrigerate the dough for at least an hour and roll out onto a floured surface. It helps to have a rolling pin to keep the width uniform.

Using a cookie cutter, make desired shapes. Put in refrigerator for 30 minutes to help sugar cookies keep their shape. Bake in a preheated 350degree oven.

Decorate with sprinkles before they are cooked; or just bake, cool and use the cheesecake filling for an easy icing.

THERE’S A SECRET METHOD TO SUCCESS FOR A HOLIDAY COOKIE SUGAR COOKIE

Pinwheels Using the Best Sugar Cookie Base, divide into three sections. Mix with two to four drops of food coloring to make festive colors. Leave one section plain.

Shape each section into a rectangle around the same size. Refrigerate for an hour.

Sandwiching each section between two pieces of parchment paper, roll out to a similar size. Layer all of the sections on top of each other, cut them into a rectangle to match. Then, roll them up longwise.

Using a sharp knife, cut cookie discs, revealing a swirl.

Bake 350 degrees until edges are crisp.

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Twix BAR

Using the same pressing method, shape sugar cookie base into a rectangular baking dish lined with parchment paper. Bake in preheated 350-degree oven until slightly golden. Cool.

The bars are layered with caramel and chocolate. The recipe is simple to make, just takes time to adequately cool in between.

Caramel Layer 1 bag of soft caramels 2 tablespoons heavy cream Take caramels out of their wrapper and add to a small saucepan over low heat. Measure and add heavy cream. Mix constantly until they are melted and mixture is smooth.

Pour onto cooled cookie crust and refrigerate until set.

Chocolate Layer 1 bag (11 oz.) high-quality milk chocolate chips 6 tablespoons unsalted butter Place both ingredients in microwavable bowl. Heat in 20-second bursts, mixing in between each turn. When chocolate is melted and smooth, add over cooled caramel layer.

Refrigerate until completely cool.

Pull bar out of baking dish by the parchment paper.

Cut into thin slices and add to a plate for individual bars.

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RESTAURANT

NEWS

Craft Kitchen

Maria's

NANOBREWERY HOSTS RE-OPENING

Bluffton-based Lot 9 Brewing Co. hosted its grand re-opening and ribbon cutting in early November. The brewery closed for a few weeks to update its brewing system. The new system will have the capability to brew more beer, a news release said.

“After opening in July, we could quickly see that Bluffton really loves beer,” said co-owner Dana Briggs.

GASTROPUB OPENS IN BLUFFTON

Craft Kitchen recently opened in Bluffton. The gastropub offers beer, wine, sandwiches, salads, appetizers and desserts. It is open five days a week, 12 p.m. to 9 p.m., Wednesday to Sunday.

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Lot 9

MARIA’S MEXICAN KITCHEN CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING

Maria’s Mexican Kitchen in Beaufort opened in November. The locally owned-and-operated restaurant serves a variety of authentic Mexican dishes as well as Tex-Mex plates. Maria’s Mexican Kitchen was inspired by all of the Marias in the owner’s personal life.

LONGTIME HARDEEVILLE FAVORITE CLOSES AFTER 30 YEARS

Gwen & Franny’s Fried Chicken, a local Hardeeville favorite for 30 years, recently closed its doors. Consistently ranked as one of the state’s best spots for fried chicken – including in 2017 when it was named the state’s best place for fried chicken by Best Things South Carolina – Gwen & Franny’s was run by Frances Jenkins when it opened in 1991; then her daughter Gwen Mervin and granddaughter Franny took over in 2008.

IIDINE OUTII

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.

Reilley’s North End Pub

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.

Street Meet: The American Tavern

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:

Jane Bistro & Bar

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.

Old Oyster Factory

Alexander’s Restaurant & Wine Bar

Big Jim’s BBQ, Burgers & Pizza

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.

Fishcamp on Broad Creek

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.

The French Bakery & Courtyard Café 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.

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 home-made cream cheeses. For lunch: specialty hoagies, classic sandwiches & salads.

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.

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.

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:

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.

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. Pet-friendly outside bar & patio.

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Catch 22

Cowboy Brazilian Steakhouse

Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte

CQ’s Restaurant

Chez Georges

Crane’s Tavern Steakhouse & Seafood

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

It’s Greek To Me

Nunzio Restaurant + Bar

Kenny B’s Cajun/Creole Seafood

Ombra Cucina Italiana

Michael Anthony’s

Palmetto Bay Sun Rise Café

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

>>

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Red Fish

Sea Shack

Reilley’s Grill & Bar

Slapfish

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.

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.

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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.

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.

VISIT US @ HILTON HEADMONTHLY.COM

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Rockfish SEAFOOD STEAKS STORY BY ANTHONY DAVID

Rockfish Seafood and Steaks is proud to call itself “Hilton Head’s Seafood Destination,” and locals and visitors agree.

The menu offers fresh shrimp, oysters, shrimp and grits, triggerfish, salmon, lobster, seafood pasta and a wide selection for “land lovers,” including steak, southern fried chicken, ribs and burgers. You can find their full menu on their website at rockfishhhi.com.

Don’t leave without trying their award- winning crab legs served nightly or stop by on a Tuesday for their all-you-can eat crab legs (reservations recommended).

The bar menu includes an extensive craft beer list including South Carolina brews, wine and creative cocktails- how about a “CBD Cosmo” (Deep Eddy Vodka, cranberry juice triple sec and CBD) or the “Ted’s Totally awesome beach cocktail” a concoction of Bacardi Silver rum, pineapple juice, Blue Curacao and coconut cream?

You can add CBD to any cocktail, beer or wine if you like!

Show up on NFL game day at Rockfish Seafood and Steaks on Hilton Island and you’ll find a special “Who Dey Menu” named after a catchphrase for the Cincinnati Bengals. It’s stocked with “Cincinnati Favorites” including Cincinnati Chili-Spaghetti heaped with chili and cheese.

They have happy hour offered Monday through Fridays from 4-6pm which includes $1 Oysters, $.60 Shrimp, $.60 wings, $4 tacos, $4 house liquor, $3.50 Bottoms up beer and much much more! Check them out on the weekends starting at 11am. They offer their “Game Day and Who Dey” specials offering lots of Cincinnati Favorites as well as Tacos, chicken wings and much much more!

Dinner starts at 4pm daily. Their NEW “Game Day” Menu is served Saturday and Sundays starting at 11am. 5 Lagoon Road, Hilton Head. 843-689-2662. rockfishhhi.com.

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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.

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.

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

A beacon of hope.

In troubled times, when uncertainty reigns supreme, despair or exhaustion sets in, or we simply feel overwhelmed with all the world throws at us, it helps to look for a signal, like the beam from a lighthouse that helps to guide sailors from the dark of night into safe harbor.

It is upon us to open our hearts and minds in order to find that signal. There is no absolute formula of how to find it, or how it finds you.

It can be something simple, like discovering that planting a hope garden has a soothing effect on your mind; re-discovering a passion for reading a good book; reaching out to a friend or stranger and receiving some advice; or something more ambitious, like learning a new skill via an online class; or making some grand plans for when the pandemic is under control.

Now, more than ever, it helps to lift your mood and spirit to focus on the positive rather than dwell on the destructive and negative. Anger has never cured anything, but sharing the news of good deeds and thoughts of hope will.

In my personal quest I came across the new book of historian and New York Times bestseller Rutger Bregman, titled: “Humankind: A Hopeful History.”

The basic premise is that history, literature, Hollywood, the news media and some scientists and philosophers instilled a belief in many of us that humans left alone (unchecked) are basically bad. But Bregman went to great lengths to prove that this is a false narrative. Full stop.

I rarely recommend a book to our readers, but I have no hesitation to say that this is an important piece of work well worth your time.

If you already believe that humans are profoundly good, you will find proof and reassertion. If you have given up on humankind and believe that it is only because of law and order that things are not getting out of hand, you will gain some new insights that will change your perspective.

When I say that Bregman goes to great lengths to prove his case, I mean just that. This is not a novel, not utopia, not philosophy, but a well researched re-casting of history by using a different lens and by questioning common beliefs.

He finds scientific proof that so many of the commonly held negative views are unfounded.

What emerges is a new kaleidoscope that paints human nature in a different, more positive light.

In the words of author Susan Cain: “Humankind changes the conversation and lights the path to a brighter future.”

I always preferred to have hope, because without hope, life is unbearable. Now there is a book that illustrates why having hope is well founded.

This type of thinking is also what is needed most now, in the short term, to abate the pandemic and in the long-term to create sustainable living conditions for humans.

On a closing note, I want to leave you with this: The one trait that separates humans from other living creatures and makes us successful is our innate ability to learn from each other and to collaborate. It’s time to apply this quality in spades now so that we can build a more hopeful future together.

Onwards!

THE ONE TRAIT THAT MAKES HUMANS SUCCESSFUL IS OUR ABILITY TO LEARN FROM EACH OTHER AND TO COLLABORATE.

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MARC FREY : media entrepreneur mfrey@freymedia.com [PHOTO OF MARC BY MIKE RITTERBECK]