VALENTINE’S GIFTS • GULLAH DAYS • FOSTER MOMS
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FEBRUARY 2020
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Marc Frey marc@hiltonheadmonthly.com PUBLISHER Anuska Frey anuska@hiltonheadmonthly.com EDITOR IN CHIEF Carol Weir carol@hiltonheadmonthly.com SENIOR CREATIVE DIRECTOR Sasha Sweeney sasha@hiltonheadmonthly.com ART & PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Michael Lupi mike@hiltonheadmonthly.com MANAGING EDITOR Anthony Garzilli anthony@hiltonheadmonthly.com GRAPHIC DESIGN Allyson Venrick DIRECTOR OF SALES Mary Ann Kent maryann@hiltonheadmonthly.com 843-384-9390 ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Rebecca V. Kerns rebecca@hiltonheadmonthly.com 843-816-2732 Cathy Flory cathy@hiltonheadmonthly.com 843-384-1538 Majka Mochnac majka@hiltonheadmonthly.com 843-290-9372 PHOTOGRAPHERS: Matt Garbade, Rob Kaufman, Amia Marcell, Ruthe Ritterbeck, Lloyd Wainscott, Will Warasila, Tim Zielenbach CONTRIBUTORS: Clay Bonnyman Evans, Michael D. Barbano, Randy Boehme, Amy Coyne Bredeson, Carlos Chacon, Melinda Copp, Suzanne Eisinger, Jessica Farthing, Anne Feldman, Ellis Harman, Carrie Hirsch, Justin Jarrett, Barry Kaufman, James Mallory, Robyn Passante, Dean Rowland, Nicole Schultz, Denise Spencer
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February’s
Must Reads
38
59
122
38 Eric Scot Shaw
122 Bird Emergency
42 Foster Moms
128 Gullah Celebration
What happens when one of the writers of the hit children’s cartoon “SpongeBob SquarePants” moves to Bluffton? Sheila Rivera and Cyndi Addison are good friends who are making a huge difference in the lives of Lowcountry children.
59 Bridal Guide
Everything you need to plan a Lowcountry wedding to remember and ensure that your big day is a success.
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Can you imagine life without birds soaring overhead, or hearing them sing as we go for a walk on a summer day?
The Hilton Head Island Gullah Celebration is woven into the fabric of the Lowcountry. The monthlong event captures the culture.
132 Tabby Ruins
USCB and the Barnwell family have partnered in an archaeology project that sees the tabby ruins as a key to the past.
››In this Issue 91
126 NEWS
48 WEDDING
24 Lowcountry Celebration Park
62 The Right Dress
New park aims to revitialize area.
Wedding styles for every body.
26 Stage Right
66 Hunter and Meena
Performing Arts Center planned for Bluffton.
When two cultures wed.
PEOPLE
What’s in style and in bloom.
46 The Keys to Happiness Cynthia Gorski-Popiel loves music.
48 Helen Ryan Her life’s passion is education.
HEALTH
52 Memory Matters Brain Health Summit returns.
72 Petal Power 76 Photo Tips Wedding photographers advise.
80 Kyle and Lucie Rain couldn’t spoil their big day.
86 Wedding Choreography Learning to dance is in vouge.
HOME & GARDEN
PARENTING
91 Featured Home
Parents confront anxiety.
Culture
54 Teen Driving
SHOPPING
56 Valentine’s Gift Guide Make your sweethart’s day.
J. Banks designer wows.
126 Gullah Days Local authors explore HHI history.
RELIGION
136 St. Andrew By-the-Sea Minstry of love is church’s focus. 8 hiltonheadmonthly.com
10 At The Helm 12 Opinion 14 Behind the Scenes 16 News 18 Pets of the Month 20 Social Spotlight 22 Where in the World? 28 Community Connection 29 On the Move 100 Real Estate News 139 Calendar 151 Dining Briefs 152 Restaurant Listings 160 Last Call
››At the Helm
Dear Reader
“
Carol Weir – editor carol@hiltonheadmonthly.com
››
Anuska Frey – publisher anuska@hiltonheadmonthly.com
There is only one happiness in life, to love and be loved.” While reading about love and thinking about Valentine’s Day, we happened upon this quote by 19th-century French author Amantine Lucile Aurore Dupin, who wrote under the pseudonym George Sand. At Monthly, we agree: Nothing compares to love — not money, intelligence, good looks or fame. Luckily, love exists in many forms. In this issue, selfless love is celebrated in our profile of Sheila Rivera and Cyndi Addison, good friends and foster moms who have welcomed children in need into their homes and their hearts. Cynthia Gorski-Popiel’s love of classical music led her to serve the International Piano Competition and The Performing Arts Consortium. For Carolyn Grant, Tom Barnwell Jr. and Emory Campbell, the love of the Lowcountry’s Gullah culture — of which they are part — led to collaboration on a very special new book called “Gullah Days: Hilton Head Islanders Before the Bridge.” Read these extraordinary love stories inside. At Monthly, we also love the Gullah Celebration — the monthlong tribute to Gullah history, culture, food, art, crafts, music and dance that happens on Hilton Head Island each February. Since 1996, the nonprofit Native Island Business & Community Affairs Association has showcased the island’s rich Gullah heritage, and the Gullah Celebration has become a major draw for visitors from around the region. See our story for an update on what’s new at the event this year. Looking for a unique Valentine’s Day gift for your significant other? We’ve got you covered — be sure to check out our local gift guide, starting on page 56. February is also our big bridal issue, and your reminder to buy your tickets for the 2020 Hilton Head Bridal Show. Now in its 13th year, this annual event has grown into the biggest bridal event in the region and is a natural extension of our work with the local bridal industry. This year’s show takes place from 1 to 4 p.m. Feb. 16 at the gorgeous Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. Come meet the area’s best vendors, taste cakes, view wedding portraits and check out the latest in bridal fashions. Tickets are $9 and include a free mimosa with advance purchase. To buy your ticket before the big event, go to mylowcountrytix.com; on the day of the show, tickets are $12 at the door. We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we loved creating it. Happy reading!
Our annual Bridal Show is Sunday, Feb. 16 at Sonesta Hilton Head Island Resort. Get your tickets at mylowcountrytix.com
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››Opinion
Letters to the Editor: On Jan. 15, the League of Women Voters Hilton Head-Bluffton Area held a meeting at the Hilton Head Island Library to inform the public about the importance of the 2020 census. About 40 members of the league and the general public attended. The information presented by the two speakers, Ernest White and James Bradley, spurred a few attendees to sign up to be census takers. It is important for every resident of the United States to participate in the 2020 census. The data collected affects many aspects of our lives — for example, the count determines how many representatives each state gets in Congress. The U.S. Constitution requires that a count of the people living in the United States take place every 10 years; the first census was carried out in 1790. White, the census partnership specialist for Beaufort and Jasper counties, and Bradley, recruiter for Beaufort and Jasper counties, said it is safe, easy, and important to answer the questions on the census forms. Safe because it is illegal to share specific data with anyone else and the data is encrypted. Easy because the forms can be filled out online, by phone — in at least 12 languages — or on paper. Important because about $675 million in federal funds is dispersed based on population. The census begins April 1. By then, each household will have received a postcard giving directions on how to provide the information the U.S. Census Bureau needs and wants. The count will be completed in September. In 2010, the response rate for sending in the census forms was 75%. Many minority groups were undercounted, as were young children. The hope is that a much higher response rate will be achieved in 2020. Undercounting can affect how much federal money is distributed to an area. For example, undercounting in Beaufort County could reduce the amount of federal aid given for education or disaster relief, like hurricane recovery. For more details about the importance of the 2020 census, contact the U.S. Census Bureau at census.gov or email White at ernest.e.white@2020census.gov. The U.S. Census Bureau needs many more workers to help carry out the count between April and September. For more information about available jobs, which pay $14.50 per hour plus mileage, contact Bradley at james.r.bradley@2020census.gov. Please do your part to make the 2020 census a complete and accurate account of the U.S. population. The League of Women Voters of Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Area is a partner in facilitating the carrying out of the 2020 census.
“Do your part for a successful census”
Joan Kinne-Shulman Vice president and program chairwoman League of Women Voters of Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Area
“Thanks for highlighting immigrant contributions” Just a note to tell you how much I enjoyed the January issue and especially the articles concerning immigrants in this community. In this day and time, with all of the craziness in Washington and elsewhere, it was nice to read about the contributions so many new people to our country and community have made. Tom Taylor
“Bluffton Monthly has welcomed us” My husband, our two children and I just moved to Bluffton from San Diego in October and are happy to have found your publication. Bluffton Monthly has helped us get to know the people, places, history and wildlife of our new home. When my husband’s company told us we were being transferred to the Savannah area, we decided to live in Bluffton because we heard good things about the schools here. I thought I would find a provincial Southern town with not much going on. I am very happy to have been wrong. Thank you for letting us know what’s going on around town. Kaitlyn Marsh-Kindall
Let us know what you think. Email editor@hiltonheadmonthly.com 12 hiltonheadmonthly.com
››Behind the Scenes
ONLINE
EXCLUSIVE
CHECK IT OUT AT: HILTONHEADMONTHLY.COM
ISLAND WRITERS’ NETWORK RELEASES 20TH ANNIVERSARY ANTHOLOGY Monthly staff and contributors took winter vacations. Clockwise from top left: Editor Carol Weir and husband Carlos Chacon went to Costa Rica. Account executive Rebecca Verbosky-Kerns and husband Dave snowshoed in Grand Teton National Park. Writer Clay Bonnyman-Evans hiked 50 miles of the Appalachian Trail.
MONTHLY CONTRIBUTORS
A Hilton Head Island newcomer chases a Palmetto bug around the house for hours. In an unlikely pairing, a cat and horse become best friends. Defying international real estate norms, a woman takes ownership of 1 square foot of Scotland. These scenarios are all part of “Reflections,” the 20th anniversary anthology from the Island Writers’ Network of Hilton Head Island. More than 50 local contributors —including novelists, essayists, poets, photographers and journalists — share their works focused on life in the Lowcountry and beyond. The Island Writers’ Network aims to support, inspire, and mentor writers in the business and the craft of writing. The group meets at 7 p.m. on the first Monday of each month at Heritage Library on Hilton Head Island. “Reflections” is available on Amazon.com and at the Coastal Discovery Museum. For more information, go to islandwritersnetworkhhi.org. Go to hiltonheadmonthly.com/writers to read about authors featured in this anthology who are also contributors at Monthly.
TIM ZIELENBACH Photographer
GUSTAVO RATTIA Photographer
AMIA MARCELL Photographer
While based in South Africa, Tim’s Zielenbach’s photographs of Somalia and Rwandan refugees were nominated for Pulitzer Prizes. Now based in the Lowcountry, he tells the stories of couples, families and companies, one milestone at a time. Find him at zielenbach.com
Gustavo Rattia is co-owner of Oceano Blue LLC Photography and Videography. He is an FAAlicensed drone pilot and a member of the Professional Photographers of America. He also has a degree in systems engineering. Contact him at oceanoblue.net
Born in Colombia and now a Hilton Head Island resident, Amia Marcell describes herself as an artist who is dedicated to immortalizing moments that create unforgettable memories. She has also worked in interior design. See more of her work at amiamarcell.com
VALENTINE’S GIFTS • GULLAH DAYS • FOSTER MOMS
VALENTINE’
S GIFTS
• GULLAH
TER DAYS • FOS
2020
Bridal Guide
MOMS
VOICE
Yes! Yes! 35 YEARS
0 RY 202 Y.COM FEB RUA ONTHL HEADM HILTON
H I LTO
N HEA D, BL UFF
TON & THE L OWCO U
VOICE
35 YEARS
Yes!
FEBRUARY 2020
HILTONHEADMONTHLY.COM
ABOUT THE COVERS
PHOTOGRAPHY FOR OUR FEBRUARY COVERS PROVIDED BY TIM ZIELENBACH OF ZIELENBACK PHOTOGRAPHY
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NTRY
Bridal Guide
News Briefs IN MEMORIAM
PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENT UNDER CONSIDERATION
The Town of Hilton Head Island wants to extend a property tax assessment that would raise $65 million if approved by voters in May. The Town Council would use the funds to improve parks, recreation and arts organizations. The tax assessment would replace the special hurricane assessment that taxpayers approved in 2016 after Hurricane Matthew. The Town Council must vote to approve this tax and plans to host two public meetings before submitting these questions to the ballot. In a first vote, the council voted unanimously on Jan. 21 to approve a project list that includes $5 million for the Coastal Discovery Museum for a museum building amd $5 for Mitchelville for its master plan. The town would also contribute $25 million for an arts campus on the site of the current Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. Parks, including projects planned for Planters Row Land Track, Chaplin Park and Crossings Park, would receive $30 million.
DHEC REMOVES DEBRIS FROM OKATIE COMPANY
A mound of debris has finally been removed from Able Construction in Okatie after forcing 30 nearby residents to evacuate last year. The mound smoldered for months, creating fumes and releasing a foul odor in the area. More than 115,000 tons of debris were removed from the site. DHEC declared Able Construction’s fire a federal Superfund site and has since ordered a closure process for the facility.
PALMETTO BAY MARINA REBUILDS
The docks at Palmetto Bay Marina have officially reopened after Hurricane Matthew destroyed the marina in 2016. Wet slip rentals will be available beginning at the end of this month. Palmetto Bay Marina, LLC, took ownership of the property in 2019. As the renovations continue, the marina will construct several new aluminum docks with space for about 144 boats.
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BLACKSHEAR
ARRIETA
ROBINOWICH
TREY BLACKSHEAR
Hilton Head Island lost a soccer standout two days before Christmas. Trey Blackshear, 18, was killed Dec. 23 in the Lord of Life Lutheran Church parking lot in Bluffton in what police say was an attempted robbery. Blackshear had just graduated from Hilton Head Island High School on Dec. 19 and was preparing to enroll in college in January to play soccer, according to his obituary. He also played club soccer for Tormenta FC Academy. A 16-year-old turned himself in and a 19-year-old and a 20-year-old have been arrested in connection with the shooting. The investigation is ongoing and Bluffton Police do not believe the incident was connected to the church.
COTESY ARRIETA
An already grieving Hilton Head Island family lost another son in January. Cotesworth “Cotesy” Arrieta took his own life Jan. 14, his parents said, adding that he never recovered from the loss of his brother, Alex. Alex Arrieta died in 2016 after a long battle with acute myeloid leukemia that saw the Lowcountry community rally around the family. Cotesy, 16, was a junior at Hilton Head Island High School and an avid soccer fan who loved playing the sport. The Arrietas hope to raise awareness about the destruction childhood cancer can cause in families, including adding PTSD training for families to Lambs for Life, the foundation they started during Alex’s illness. Lambs for Life delivers care packages to children with cancer and advocates for federal resources for pediatric cancer research.
JEFFREY ROBINOWICH
One of Old Town Bluffton’s most beloved characters, Jeffrey Robinowich, 60, died unexpectedly Jan. 20 after suffering a stroke, according to his son, Samuel. Robinowich owned and operated Morris Garage and Towing on May River Road, where customers share the waiting room with his python, Tiny. In November, Robinowich’s photo was added to Bluffton’s Wall of Fame at Town Hall, and he is remembered for his kind heart and his support of many community events.
PETE DYE
Visionary golf course architect Pete Dye passed away in January at age 94. In 1969, Dye designed Harbour Town Golf Links with his wife, Alice, and famous golfer Jack Nicklaus. 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. Dye, as The New York Times reported shortly after his death, would go on to “design many of America’s most famous courses and become known as the mad scientist of golf architecture for his imaginative and supremely challenging layouts.”
››News
MAY RIVER HIGH SCHOOL
Frank
Duke
PETS
of the month
Frank
RUCKER
PARKER
GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONIES FOR NEW PROJECTS
The Beaufort County School District held two groundbreaking ceremonies in January for the first two referendum-funded projects at River Ridge Academy and May River High School. The projects will cost over $25 million and construction is expected to conclude late-summer 2020. Four new classrooms are being built on each of two existing wings at River Ridge, and a new eight-classroom wing also is being added for a total of 16 new classrooms. At May River High, a new two-story wing containing 23 classrooms is under construction.
BEAUFORT NATIVE RETIRES FROM NFL
Beaufort native Ron Parker announced his retirement from the NFL in January. The defensive back played for the Kansas City Chiefs for the past five years. He gave no indication for what’s next, including for the annual football camp he hosts each year in Beaufort.
LONG COVE CLUB HOSTS DARIUS RUCKER TOURNAMENT
Long Cove Club, in partnership with Darius Rucker and the University of South Carolina, is hosting the ninth annual Darius Rucker Intercollegiate Golf Tournament presented by Kroger and PXG. The tournament will be held March 6-8. Top women’s teams from around the country will travel to the island to compete for the title. Spectators are welcome at no charge. For more information, go to longcoveclub.com 18 hiltonheadmonthly.com
Age: 4 years old Gender: Male Weight: 17 Pounds Temperament: Frank is one relaxed dude. He came to Palmetto Animal League with his brother, Roscoe, in September. He likes to chill in a basket that is not necessarily big enough for his substantial physique. He enjoys a good belly rub – on his terms, thank you – and will greet you whenever you enter Cat Room 6 at the adoption center. He’s hard to miss: He is one handsome boy with piercing blue eyes.
Duke
Age: 9 years old Gender: Male Weight: 40-50 pounds Breed: Mixed Temperament: Relaxed and cuddly. He has been at the Palmetto Animal League Adoption Center since July and would love to find a home with a big screened-in porch to lay on. He loves to relax on his bed while snuggled up in a blanket, especially with a yummy bone. He enjoys going on walks and loves his enrichment training, proving that “experienced” dogs really can learn new tricks.
Adopt them at:
Palmetto Animal League 56 Riverwalk Blvd., Okatie SC 29936 Open: Noon to 7 p.m. Monday-Saturday 843-645-1725 | info@palmettoanimalleague.org
›› Social Spotlight
››News
A gala evening at Colleton River to support the Gullah Museum included a screening of “Hilton Head Island Back in the Day: Through the Eyes of the Gullah Elders.”
The Southender Soup Appreciation Society gathered at Skillets in Coligny Plaza to sip and savor.
Volunteers cleaned Pinefield Cemetery at the Historic First African Baptist Church during the MLK Day of Service.
Richard and Lynn Allen hosted Jill Biden at their home in Moss Creek. Myra Rivera, chair of the Beaufort County Democratic Party, next to Biden.
Suzanne Eisinger and daughter Elizabeth raced at the Bluffton Oyster Run. Elizabeth beat her mom. ######. To submit a photo of your event for Social Spotlight, email editor@hiltonheadmonthly.com
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Swimmers braved cold at the annual Polar Bear Swim at Harbour Town Pool.
February 2020 21
››Where in the World? Atlanta Kayla Mcneil took Monthly along on a recent visit to Atlanta.
Philadelphia Bob McCormick and Monthly visited the “Rocky” statue at the Philadelphia Art Museum.
Italy David Chacon read Monthly at his host family’s home, on exchange in Sicily.
Wales
››
Monthly accompanied Dinny and Elmer Cuthbertson to Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, a town in Wales famous for having the longest name in any English-speaking country.
We love to see where Monthly travels! Submit your photos to editor@hiltonheadmonthly.com for this section. Space is limited.
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February 2020 23
››News
Park Prep HILTON HEAD OFFICIALS FOCUS ON PEDESTRIAN SAFETY AHEAD OF NEW PARK OPENING BY JAMES A. MALLORY | PHOTO BY MATTHEW GARBADE
N
ew life was breathed into Hilton Head Island’s midsection thanks to Shelter Cove Towne Centre, a resort village-style retail center fashioned from a nearly abandoned suburban-style mall. With apartments overlooking Broad Creek, a waterfront park, restaurants, boutiques and walking paths, Shelter Cove has become a popular gathering place with an energetic atmosphere. Boosters are hoping to replicate that atmosphere later this year thanks to the new Lowcountry Celebration Park in the Coligny area. With nearby Heritage Plaza almost empty and some adjacent buildings in disrepair, the area needed attention. “Coligny has always been a relaxed, funky resort village district,” said landscape architect Mark Baker, president of Wood + Partners Inc., which designed Shelter Cove Town Centre, the new park and the renovated commercial area in front of it. “The district needs leverage to stimulate revitalization.” That leverage is the 15.8-acre, $13 million public green space that will include The Sandbox: An Interactive Children’s Museum, an adventure playground and an entertainment stage. It sits across from a new Courtyard by Marriott Hotel at a revamped Heritage Plaza, both being developed by Southeastern Development Associates, which also developed Shelter Cove Towne Centre.
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The park is on land the town has owned for years and is in a tax increment financing district (TIF), said Chris Darnell, the town’s urban designer. TIF is a way for municipalities to use tax revenues from a designated area to fund public-owned projects, such as parks and roads, in hopes of stimulating private investments. Shelter Cove’s and the Coligny area’s revitalizations are a needed jolt for a town that has seen many of its commercial areas decline due to age and competition from Bluffton. “When you add a civic open space, that is like a pebble in the pond,” Baker said. “It creates ripple effects that energize the commercial and residential properties surrounding it.” But success heightens the need for better traffic flow and safety in what are being touted as pedestrian-friendly areas. Town officials say they have made improvements to move traffic around the new park at Coligny and to enhance safety. “The paths will be wider,” Darnell said. “There is an existing path on Tanglewood being redone and new paths on South Forest Beach. All of the paths in and around the park are new.” The town is adding 100 parking spaces around the park, including parallel spots on Nassau Street — formerly a drive-thru for the Circle Center strip mall parking
Shelter Cove’s and the Coligny area’s revitalizations are a needed jolt.
lot. Nassau Street has been widened and walking paths added to improve traffic flow between Pope and Deallyon avenues, which should also make the area safer for pedestrians. “Because Nassau has been formalized, traffic will move easier,” Darnell said. Darrin Shoemaker, Hilton Head’s traffic and transportation engineer, said the town has made other improvements near the park, like a new traffic signal at Pope and Lagoon roads and crosswalk lights controlled by pedestrians. The project also straightens the crosswalk where Cordillo Parkway crosses Pope and gives more room for people waiting to cross to stand, Shoemaker said. A pedestrian-activated traffic light will be added on South Forest Beach, about 50 yards from the Coligny traffic circle. “Improvements throughout the corridor have been significant,” Shoemaker said. Larry LaBanc, president of the Forest Beach Owners Association, likes the idea of a neighborhood park but remains concerned about the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists in an area that has 3,160 households and a speed limit of 35 mph, he said.
Town officials have “initiated a dialogue” with the state about lowering the speed limits, and “the state has indicated a willingness to study it in the near future,” Shoemaker said. In addition to safety concerns, resident and community activist Patsy Brison said parking could remain an issue during big events. People who live behind the park may also have to deal with increased noise, she added, though Darnell said event planners will have to follow the town’s noise ordinance. Some residents also want the town to revisit its Land Management Ordinance, which allowed an exemption for the taller new Marriott on Pope Avenue. The town has heard from residents concerned that the hotel will change the character of the area. Meanwhile, traffic concerns in the immensely popular Shelter Cove area are also being addressed, Shoemaker said. A traffic light will be added where Shelter Cove Lane intersects with William Hilton Parkway. Another light will be added on the east side of William Hilton and the acceleration lane removed. And street improvements will be made at the Palmetto Dunes intersection.
February 2020 25
Stage Right PERFORMING ARTS CENTER PLANNED IN BLUFFTON BY JESSICA FARTHING | PHOTO BY ROB KAUFMAN
T
We began to dream about a space of our own that the community could use for performing arts. – MICHAEL BEAUMONT, PASTOR OF LIVE OAK CHRISTIAN CHURCH
Michael Beaumont (left) and Daniel Cort, shown here at Bluffton High School, are spearheading the drive to build a performing arts center near the Bluffton Library.
wo local organizations have teamed up to bring a performing arts center to Bluffton. Live Oak Christian Church and Main Street Youth Theatre are combining their efforts to build a cultural arts center on property the church owns near Old Town Bluffton. The 400-seat venue, leaders of both groups say, will have a variety of uses, from housing the church to theater productions by local and national talent, plus uses by other local organizations. “Our desire is not to build a church building that the community uses. It’s to build a performing arts center that the church uses,” said Michael Beaumont, pastor of Live Oak Christian Church. In 2010, church leadership started discussing how a performing arts space fit into the church’s mission to “love God, love people and bring the two together.” “We looked at Bluffton and saw the town was thriving with arts and creativity and asked ourselves why there wasn’t a performing arts theater,” Beaumont said. “We began to dream about a space of our own that the community could use for performing arts.” The church purchased the property in 2015 in State Street’s Bluffton Village development, near the post office and library, with the intent to develop it. Daniel Cort, a Live Oak member and local Realtor who also is vice-chairman of Main Street Youth Theatre, shared the church’s vision. The church and the theater formed a partnership and commissioned a design. Plans by architectural firm Court Atkins Group show a 17,000square foot facility with green rooms, state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems and an adjustable stage appropriate
for different types of youth and adult productions. The initial fundraising effort for the performing arts center will be $5 million, Beaumont said. Main Street Youth Theatre will be responsible for 33.5% of the construction cost and Live Oak Christian Church will raise the remaining 66.5%. Injoy Stewardship Solutions of Anderson, S.C. has been hired to help plan a capital campaign, marketing, branding, golf tournaments, galas, play readings and other events to raise money. If all goes as planned, a fall ground-breaking is expected and the first performance will take place in fall 2021. For Cort, the location of the property is key. “It sits on the border of the historic cultural center of Bluffton, which allows us to explore grant opportunities,” he said. Main Street’s agreement with Live Oak will allow the theater to produce up to six performances in the building each year. Other community organizations and national programs will be able to schedule time in the space by approaching a board made up of members from Live Oak Christian Church and Main Street Youth Theatre. A performing arts summer camp is also planned. Bluffton Mayor Lisa Sulka sees the partnership as a positive, but said that the plans for the project haven’t yet been submitted for review and approval by the town. “I love when private entities can see a need and work toward solving it,” she said. “We are a young town and they are providing a venue for our youth. It’s exciting.”
February 2020 27
››Community Connection
Lowcountry Women’s Golf Association
Hilton Head Prep Students
SOBA ACCEPTING ENTRIES FOR JUDGED SHOW
The Society of Bluffton Artists is accepting entries for the group’s 26th annual judged show. Winners will be awarded first-, secondand third-place cash awards in the following categories: acrylic, mixed media, oil, pastel, photography, watercolor and 3-D. To be eligible for an award, each category must have a minimum of seven pieces on display. The exhibit runs March 2-April 6, with an opening reception March 4. Register at sobagallery.com.
‘BLUFFTON BOOK FAIRY’ LAUNCHES NONPROFIT GROUP
Denise Bowers, a pre-kindergarten teacher at River Ridge Academy, is the organizer of a new nonprofit group called Bluffton Kids Love Books. She and a few other volunteers have been leaving tightly sealed plastic bags in Bluffton where they know children will be, such as playgrounds or dance studios. The bags contain a children’s book with rhyming instructions signed by “the Bluffton Book Fairy.” Bowers created Bluffton Kids Love Books to encourage kids to turn to reading instead of their smartphones.
HILTON HEAD PREP STUDENTS DONATE BLANKETS
As part of their annual winter outreach program, students from Hilton Head Preparatory School’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes made dozens of fleece blankets for the Sandalwood Community Food Pantry to be given to those in need. The students also delivered the blankets to the recipients.
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BLUFFTON POLICE SET UP DROP BOX FOR UNUSED PRESCRIPTIONS
The Bluffton Police Department now has a safe way for community members to discard old or unused prescription drugs. A drug drop box is now located in the department’s lobby, allowing the public to dispose of old medicines from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fridays. The drop box was purchased and given to the police department by the Lowcountry Alliance for Healthy Youth.
PIANO COMPETITION NAMES 20 FINALISTS
WOMEN’S GROUP SEEKS TO HONOR AREA YOUTH
The Women’s Association of Hilton Head is seeking applicants for its Youth Community Service Awards. The award rewards distinguished area high school seniors who have exhibited outstanding service to school and community with a $1,000 award. Applications must be submitted by March 2. For more information or to apply, go to wahhi.org.
LOWCOUNTRY WOMEN’S GOLF ASSOCIATION AWARDS THREE
Organizers of the Hilton Head International Piano Competition announced the selection jury has chosen 20 pianists, ages 13 to 17, from 110 applicants from 16 countries. The pianists will compete March 9-14 on Hilton Head Island. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 843-842-2055 or go to hhipc.org.
Three students from area high school girls golf teams were awarded scholarships from the Lowcountry Women’s Golf Association in January. The recipients were Jennifer Richardson of Bluffton High School, Hannah Harris of May River High School, and Lexi Milbrandt of Hilton Head Island High School. Each received a $500 scholarship.
COMMUNITY BABY SHOWER TO HELP MOMS-TO-BE
THRIFT SHOP ACCEPTING GRANT REQUESTS
Six local expectant mother who need help with baby items will benefit from the Harper Project’s Community Baby Shower, an initiative of Hospice Care of the Lowcountry. Nominations for moms-to-be in need, who must live or work in the Lowcountry, are due by Feb. 15. The Community Baby Shower and Mimosa + Mocktail Brunch is at 11 a.m. March 7 at the Wexford Clubhouse on Hilton Head Island. Tickets to the event are $75 and are available at hospicecarelc.org/community-baby-shower/.
Proceeds from St. Francis Thrift Shop are distributed as grants to 30 to 40 local nonprofit organizations. Applications for this year’s grants are due by April 1. The shop also offers free pickup for donations of furniture in good condition, in addition to selling clothes, housewares, jewelry, books, sports equipment and other treasures at the store at 6 Southwood Park Drive. Its hours are 1-4 p.m. Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays, and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays. For more information or to apply for a grant, go to stfrancisthriftshophhi. org/Grants.aspx.
Generosity is one of the best things about the Lowcountry. Has your business or organization given back to the community? Submit your photos to editor@hiltonheadmonthly.com for this section. Space is limited.
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››On the Move LED LOWCOUNTRY HIRES MASTER ELECTRICIAN, EXPANDS SERVICES
Thomas
McEwen
Nathan Thomas, a master electrician, has joined the team at LED Lowcountry. Thomas has 16 years of experience in the electrical trade and became a master electrician before the age of 30. Thomas’s expertise expands LED Lowcountry’s services to include installation and maintenance of electrical equipment.
Reeves
PHOTO BY GUSTAVO RATTIA
GARZILLI JOINS FREY MEDIA
TOWN OF HILTON HEAD EMPLOYEE ELECTED TO NATIONAL COMMITTEE
Jennifer McEwen has been elected to the Americans for the Arts’ Advisory Councils. She currently serves as director of cultural affairs for the Town of Hilton Head Island. McEwan will advise the council staff on developing programs and services that will build a deeper connection to the field and network membership. As part of the Private Sector Council, McEwen will work with fellow arts leaders to develop and implement privatesector advocacy programs and serve as leaders to other local arts agencies seeking to connect with the private sector.
ARTS CENTER APPOINTS NEW CEO
Jeffrey S. Reeves has been named the new chief executive officer and president of the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. He previously served as the executive vice president and chief operating officer after joining the Arts Center in 2001. Reeves has held leadership roles for more than 30 years and has worked in banking, corporate and consultant environments.
Anthony Garzilli has been named managing editor at Frey Media. He previously served as editor of the Jasper County Sun Times. Garzilli has more than 20 years of experience in journalism and has won 23 S.C. Press Association awards. He has a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from Iona College in New Rochelle, New York. Garzilli
SONESTA RESORT NAMES NEW DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
Peter Conboy has been named the new director of finance at Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. In his new role, Conboy is responsible for overseeing the accounting staff, negotiating contracts and preparing financial statements and analyses of hotel operations. Previously, he served as director of finance at Wild Dunes Resort near Charleston.
PARTY CYCLE BOAT TO SET SAIL SOON
Bluewater Adventure company will soon be offering a party cycle boat, Hilton Head Island’s first-ever pedal tavern. The floating party boat will operate on Broad Creek and can accommodate 20 people. Passengers are invited to bring their own booze on board for the two-hour cruise. The shaded pontoonstyle boat features sets of paddles operated by bicycle pedals.
USC DIRECTOR JOINS SECOND HELPINGS BOARD
Latoya Robinson is joining the board of directors for Second Helpings, a food rescue organization. Robinson currently serves as the student support services director for the University of South Carolina Salkehatchie. She has 23 years of experience at all levels of education.
MOBILE FLOOR SHOWROOM NOW OPEN
Scott and Cathy Ramsland of Fripp Island have opened Floor Coverings International of Hilton Head Island, a mobile operation that will serve customers throughout the Lowcountry and the Savannah area. The mobile showroom is stocked with thousands of flooring samples from top manufacturers. Scott Ramsland has 25 years of experience in retail and human resources.
CYCLE STORE NOW OPEN IN BLUFFTON
Bill Tomiso has opened Lab Cyclery in Bluffton. Tomiso has 30 years of experience in the cycling industry as a certified bike fitter and authorized repairman. His new store carries new bike and trike lines, including Catrike three-wheelers, Felt performance bicycles and Benno hybrid-inspired cruiser bikes.
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100 C E L E B R AT
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The Power of the Vote LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS CELEBRATES 100 YEARS BY AMY COYNE BREDESON | PHOTO BY GUIDO FLUECK
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n 1920, American suffragist Carrie Chapman Catt founded the League of Women Voters. What began as an effort to help 20 million women cast their first ballots has become a powerful nonpartisan organization with more than 700 chapters across the U.S. This Valentine’s Day, the League of Women Voters will celebrate its 100th anniversary. “We’ve certainly been gearing up for the 100th anniversary of the League and also the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, which will come in August,” said League of Women Voters of Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Area president Patricia Felton-Montgomery. The local chapter will celebrate with an invitational reception
Feb. 10 at All Saints Episcopal Church on Hilton Head Island. For 100 years, the national League of Women Voters has encouraged citizens to take an active role in government, educating them about various public policy issues and promoting public discussion of civic reforms. Much has changed for women over the past century. Six months after the League was founded, the 19th Amendment was passed, granting women the right to vote. The Equal Rights Amendment was introduced in Congress just a few years later. However, women still face many challenges: wage discrimination, employment and health issues, domestic violence and sexual assault, among others. Ninety-seven years after the ERA was introduced, the amendment has not been ratified by the states.
P.O. Box 23862 | Hilton Head Island, SC 29925 | 843.842.5622 | lwvhhi.org
(Left to Right in the back row) Ruth Wilwerding,
Kathy Quirk, Kay Roshnow, Ellen Dahl, Barb Hammes (Left to Right seated) Sandy Stern, Patricia Felton-Montgomery (President of the LWV HHI-BA), and Barbara Swift
HOW HISTORY HAPPENED: MILESTONES FOR FEMALE VOTERS
Carrie Chapman Catt founded the League of Women Voters on Feb. 14, 1920, during the convention of the National American Woman Suffrage Association.
The 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified Aug. 18, 1920, granting women the right to vote.
Congress introduced the Equal Rights Amendment in 1923. The League of Women Voters of Hilton Head Island was founded in 1981 and merged with the Bluffton chapter in 2010. Made up of nearly 200 members, the group meets once a month. Membership is open to anyone — male or female — age 16 and older. In her quarterly newsletter to members, Felton-Montgomery reflected on the local group’s accomplishments in 2019. Among other things, she said members educated almost 5,000 voters, registered 364 new voters, and hosted five nonpartisan candidate forums that were broadcast live on county and town channels. Felton-Montgomery said the group’s goals for 2020 include establishing an independent redistricting commission in South Carolina, supporting a complete and inclusive Census 2020, and passage of the ERA. Felton-Montgomery would like to encourage residents to participate in the 2020 Census. “We want people to understand that funding for community programs is based on census counts,” she said. “And therefore, it’s to all of our benefits to have an accurate count.” Felton-Montgomery made the connection between the Census, redistricting and gerrymandering. Results from the U.S. Census are used to establish the number of seats each state gets in Congress. Redistricting is the process of drawing new congressional and state legislative district boundaries. Gerrymandering is when those boundaries are manipulated to benefit one party over another. Felton-Montgomery said South Carolina is one of the most gerrymandered states in the country. “Those are critical, critical issues to our democracy,” she said. “These are issues that determine if we are a true democracy for every individual or not.” To Felton-Montgomery, getting young people involved in politics is crucial. The local league will continue working with high schools to educate students and help them register to vote. To help with that goal, the national voters league recently announced it will award the Lowcountry group a $700 grant. “When I talk to younger potential voters, too many of them are disenfranchised with the whole process of voting because they feel their votes don’t count,” Felton-Montgomery said. “We want to engage them as much as we can because if you don’t vote, you don’t have a voice.”
The Voting Rights Act of 1965 prohibited racial discrimination in voting. The League of Women Voters added men as members in 1974.
League of Women Voters of Hilton Head Island was founded in 1981.
The league won Emmy Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Broadcast Journalism in 1976, 1980 and 1984.
The National Voter Registration Act was passed in 1993.
The league launched an online voter information guide in 2006.
The Hilton Head and Bluffton chapters merged in 2010.
The local League of Women Voters ignited efforts to make South Carolina the 38th state to ratify the ERA in 2019. LWV is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2020.
LWV launched the People-Powered Fair Maps campaign in 2019.
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C E L E B R AT
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Legal Aid LOWCOUNTRY LEGAL VOLUNTEERS MARK 20 YEARS BY ANTHONY GARZILLI | PHOTO BY ROB KAUFMAN
A
single mother reaches out to Lowcountry Legal Volunteers. She has two jobs, three children and a desperate desire to care for them and spend more time with them. But the children’s father isn’t providing child support and she can’t afford to hire an attorney. The staff at Lowcountry Legal Volunteers, which includes a small team of full-time employees and about 30 volunteers, steps up to help. Child support is secured. The mom quits her second job and gets to spend more time with her children. She attends more school events and is more present in her children’s lives. She feels better about herself; her self-esteem rises. “It’s liberating,” said Brad Zervas, executive director of the nonprofit Lowcountry Legal Volunteers.
This type of success story has been a hallmark at Lowcountry Legal Volunteers for 20 years. Since it was founded in 2000, the organization has helped provide legal services for low-income residents in Beaufort, Jasper and Hampton counties — meeting with more than 2,000 clients, securing close to $2 million in overdue child support and providing about $12 million in free legal representation. “We’ve affected more than a generation at this point,” said Anne Caywood, the group’s executive attorney who has practiced law for 18 years. Located in Okatie in the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office’s Victims Services Center, Lowcountry Legal Volunteers handles a variety of cases, but Zervas said it primarily helps residents dealing with
108 Traders Cross | Okatie, SC 29909 | 843.815.1570 | lowcountrylegalvolunteers.org
LEGAL MILESTONES
(Left to Right) Icela Bowers, Delighla SebastianBrehm, Anne Caywood, Jennifer Rosen-Chapin, Brad Zervas (sitting)
1999: Keri Jordan Olivetti and Maureen Coffey recognize a need among the area’s low-income residents for affordable legal help.
2004: South Carolina Bar Foundation awards the group a $50,000 grant; over the years, it gives more than $1 million in funding.
SINCE IT WAS FOUNDED IN 2000, THE ORGANIZATION HAS HELPED PROVIDE
2015:
The amount of child support secured on behalf of clients exceeds $1 million.
LEGAL SERVICES FOR LOW-INCOME RESIDENTS IN BEAUFORT, JASPER AND HAMPTON COUNTIES.
child support, child custody and divorce cases. The group’s services are free — except for any filing fees — to potential clients who meet income requirements. Eligible families and individuals are those living at or below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines. Individuals are not asked about their immigration status when they seek services. The group employs two full-time attorneys, one full-time paralegal, a full-time executive director and a full-time office administrator and grants manager, a position funded by a grant from Community Foundation of the Lowcountry. In addition to the staff attorneys, retired lawyers volunteer with the group and help clients. Other donors include S.C. Bar Foundation, United Way of the Lowcountry and Beaufort County Human Services Alliance. Have a milestone coming up? email Anuska Frey at publisher@hiltonheadmonthly.com
2020:
Lowcountry Legal Volunteers marks 20 years serving more than 2,500 clients and 10,000 family members and providing more than $12 million in attorney representation.
2000:
Lowcountry Legal Volunteers launches with Bree Kennedy as executive director thanks to grants from Community Foundation of the Lowcountry and The Bargain Box.
2005:
United Way of the Lowcountry, The Heritage Classic Foundation, St. Francis Thrift Shop, Hargray Caring Coins Foundation, Coastal Community Foundation and the Beaufort County Human Services Alliance become supporters.
2018:
The group relocates to the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office Victims Services Center.
Source: Lowcountry Legal Volunteers
20TH ANNIVERSARY GALA
When: 6-10 p.m. Feb. 22. Where: Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort Cost: Tickets start at $150 Speakers: James Smith, former Democratic state representative (keynote); S.C. Sen. Tom Davis; Supreme Court Justice John Few Details: lowcountrylegalvolunteers.org
BLUFFTON The Faces of Bluffton... TOP ROW (left to right):
• The Face of Bluffton Mayor Lisa Sulka • The Face of Dance Instruction Alliance Dance Academy
3rd ROW (left to right):
• The Face of Greater Bluffton Commerce Greater Bluffton Chamber of Commerce
• The Face of Granite, Stone and Marble AGM Imports Granite & Marble
• The Face of Comfort and Reliability, Heating & Air Howell-Chase Heating and Air
• The Face of Emergency Response Bluffton Township Fire District
• The Face of Direct Primary Care Laura C. Knobel, M.D. LLC
• The Face of Innovative Window Coverings Budget Blinds
• The Face of Boutique Kitchen & Bath Designs Palmetto Cabinet Studio
2nd ROW (left to right):
• The Face of Digestive Health The Center for Digestive and Liver Health & The Endoscopy Center
• The Face of In-Home Care Right At Home BOTTOM ROW (left to right):
• The Face of Spine Medicine Charles J. Nivens, M.D. Spine Medicine
• The Face of Supporting Local Business Shop More Local
• The Face of Economic Development and Innovation Don Ryan Center for Innovation, Inc.
• The Face of Office Networking and IT SNS Technologies
• The Face of Long-Term Property Management Foreshore Rentals • The Face of Family Urgent Care Global Urgent Care
• The Face of Wealth Management Stifel, Nicolas & Company, Inc. • The Face of Senior Living Life, Your Way Vineyard Bluffton • The Face of Marketing Your Local Marketing Team
Pick one up today or view online at facesofthelowcountry.com
Meet the Faces of Bluffton 2019-20 Are you the next Face? To book your spot for the 2020-21 edition of Faces or for more information contact Anuska Frey at anuska@hiltonheadmonthly.com
HILTON HEAD The Faces of Hilton Head... TOP ROW (left to right):
• The Face of Hilton Head Mayor John McCann • The Face of the Arts Arts Center of Coastal Carolina • The Face of Youth Development The Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head • The Face of Next Level Hydration Cera Products 2nd ROW (left to right):
• The Face of Hospice Serving the Lowcountry Compassus Hospice • The Face of Granite, Stone and Marble Distinctive Marble and Granite • The Face of Color and Cut Enliten Salon • The Face of Floral Artistry Flowers by Sue • The Face of Lifetime Customers Farmers Heating & Air Conditioning • The Face of Restorative Health Fraum Center for Restorative Health 3rd ROW (left to right):
• The Face of Unique Gifts & Accessories Gifted Hilton Head • The Face of Building Industry Hilton Head Area Home Builders Assoc. • The Face of Education and Extracurricular Excellence Heritage Academy • The Face of Pest Control Hilton Head Exterminators • The Face of Fire Rescue Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue • The Face of Local Journalism Hilton Head Monthly
4th ROW (left to right):
• The Face of Leading the Way in Education Hilton Head Preparatory School • The Face of Healing Through Oxygen Hyperbaric Therapy of the Lowcountry • The Face of Comfort, Reliability, Heating & Air Howell Chase Heating & Air • The Face of Innovative Education The Island Academy of Hilton Head • The Face of Kayak & Dolphin Boat Adventures Kayak Hilton Head | Dolphin Discoveries • The Face of Your One Stop Shop Just Cushions 5th ROW (left to right):
• The Face of Kitchen Face-Lifts N-Hance Wood Refinishing • The Face of Italian Cuisine & Wine OMBRA Cucina Italiana • The Face of Plant Based Eating Palmetto Plant Eaters Club • The Face of Expert Hearing Solutions Rose Hearing Healthcare Centers • The Face of Future Leaders Sea Pines Montessori Academy BOTTOM ROW (left to right):
• The Face of Premier Tennis Smith Stearns Academy at The Sea Pines Resort • The Face of Heavenly Spa by Westin Westin Hilton Head Resort & Spa
Meet the Faces of Hilton Head 2019-20
Are you the next Face? To book your spot for the 2020-21 edition of Faces or for more information contact Anuska Frey at anuska@hiltonheadmonthly.com
Pick one up today or view online at facesofthelowcountry.com
››People
Local famous
SPONGEBOB’S SCREENWRITER EMBRACES LIFE IN BLUFFTON BY MICHAEL D. BARBANO PHOTOS BY LLOYD WAINSCOTT
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hat happens when one of the writers of the hit children’s cartoon “SpongeBob SquarePants” moves to Bluffton to teach at SCAD and announces in a local Facebook group that he’s here and wants to get to know locals? Hundreds of people respond enthusiastically. Luckily, Eric Scot Shaw is excited to meet them. Some might expect Shaw — a Columbia graduate, college professor, Hollywood screenwriter and Emmy Award winner — to be jaded by his association with Tinseltown. But it’s his favorite job — and, he said, his most important one — as a family man and proud father of three that keeps him grounded. That, and his sense of perseverance. “To succeed in Hollywood,” he said, “you must be lucky and persistent.” It took persistence for him to even get to Hollywood. With only a reference from a friend on the West Coast, Shaw loaded up his trusty Toyota Corolla and drove from Jericho, New York, to sunny California to try to find a writing job. He hustled and sent resumes to more than 200 production companies. Only one answered: Wapello County Productions — owned by Tom and Roseanne Arnold. After one short interview, he got the gig. He was gainfully employed and working in Los Angeles — for comedian and actor Tom Arnold. After just a year at Wapello, and with a good word from Arnold himself, Shaw landed a job at Fox and started working as a writer’s assistant. In between coffee runs and photocopying scripts, he was offered a chance to write his own script for an episode of the network’s “Secret Service Guy” — a series that never made it to air, thanks to the unpredictability of network television. Over time, as reality TV became more popular, opportunities for sitcom writers began to dwindle. Sensing a need to expand his horizons, Shaw returned to New York and enrolled in Columbia University, earning a bachelor’s degree in political science. And though his sitcom writing was temporarily on hold, he kept his hand in the game by writing for the Columbia Daily Spectator, the college newspaper, and working at a stock footage company in Manhattan. After graduating in 2003, he reached out to an old boss at Fox. A few months later, he found himself chatting with an executive producer for “SpongeBob SquarePants”
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February 2020 39
››People
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— which led to another move to Los Angeles to work as a staff writer for Nickelodeon. While he loved the opportunity to write for such a fun show, it came with a price. Nickelodeon is based in Burbank, California, and Shaw’s kids were in Long Island, so he would fly across the country nearly every weekend to visit them.
To succeed in Hollywood you must be lucky and persistent. – ERIC SCOT SHAW
“I would take the Burbank to JFK redeye Friday night, and then I’d be back at JFK for a 6 a.m. return flight on Monday,” Shaw said. “I just couldn’t stand being away from my kids.” After his stint with “SpongeBob” ended, Shaw moved on to PBS and “WordGirl” — for which he won an Emmy Award as head writer. He’s also written for production companies like Jim Henson Studios, Walt Disney and DreamWorks. Eventually, he decided he was ready for a new challenge: teaching. In the fall, he moved to Bluffton and began teaching a screenwriting course at SCAD. The 30-minute commute doesn’t bother him, he said; it’s nothing compared to the traffic he faced in Los Angeles and New York. “It took me 15 minutes just to get out of my driveway in Glendale,” he said. “That Lowcountry drive is a great part of my day. I honestly look forward to it.” Other things he’s looking forward to? The slower pace of Lowcountry life and more time with his kids. And, of course, “the warm ocean water in the summer is beyond cathartic.”
February 2020 41
››People
Sheila Rivera has cared for more than 25 foster children in two decades.
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Resort & Pre-Spring 2020
For the love of children
c l o th i n g • s h o e s ac c e s s or ie s 843.815.4450 • 40 Calhoun Street • Old Town Bluffton Mon - Sat 10-6 • FOLLOW US! M @Gigis.Bluffton P @GigisofBluffton
LOWCOUNTRY WOMEN WORK TO SAVE THE WORLD, ONE KID AT A TIME
BY AMY COYNE BREDESON PHOTOS BY LLOYD WAINSCOTT
S
heila Rivera grew up with nine older siblings. After their mother died and their father left, her brothers and sisters became her parents.
“I’m the youngest of all 10,” Rivera said. “And they gave me all the love and attention I needed.” Rivera was only 1 year old at the time. Her siblings raised her, and she has never forgotten their sacrifices and willingness to step up for the good of the family. Because of her siblings, the Burton woman has always wanted to help children who are in difficult situations like she was in as a baby. From a young age, Rivera dreamed of running a group home for children. And while she hasn’t quite made that happen, she’s still made a huge difference in the lives of Lowcountry children: Since 1994, she has fostered at least 25 children. Rivera, 59, has two biological children, three adopted children ranging in age from 14 to 18, and currently is caring for four foster children ages 2 to 14. Her example also inspired her close friend Cyndi Addison to become a foster mom too.
February 2020 43
››People
“I just love them and give them what they need,” Rivera said. “If you love them, they don’t need much because then they understand that ‘I have somebody who really loves me and wants me and takes care of me.’” She said foster children often deal with a lot of trauma. They are put into situations where they have no control and are moved from foster home to foster home. When she sees that one of the children is having a particularly difficult time, she comforts them with a hug. “I try to protect them,” Rivera said. “Like I can save the world. But I try. I do.” It was this urge to save children that led her to adopt. At the time, she was single and had no money, and didn’t think the judge would let her adopt the three children. She told him that all she had to give them was her love. He said that was all they would need. Rivera’s journey to becoming a foster parent began in 1994, when she was the director of a day care for children whose parents were participating in a GED program and heard about a teenage mother whose home was deemed unfit by the state. Her baby was going to be taken away. “My heart went out to this young girl and her baby,” Rivera said. “I just had to help.”
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Rivera offered to take them in and soon began the process to become a licensed foster parent. She has also worked with teen moms through South Carolina Parents as Teachers, a national program run locally by S.C. First Steps. Rivera is now an assistant teacher in a special education classroom at Whale Branch Middle School. She also works as a therapeutic foster parent at the nonprofit S.C. Youth Advocate Program. “I do what I do because I love doing it,” Rivera said. “It’s not work to me. If I didn’t love it, I wouldn’t be doing it.” Even with the monthly stipend Rivera gets for each foster child, money is tight. To help make ends meet, she cleans rental villas on Hilton Head Island on weekends in the summer. She is thankful for her daughters, sisters and friends who help with the children when they can. One of those friends is Addison, who lives near Rivera in Burton and decided to become a foster parent after watching Rivera interact with the children in her care. She is currently caring for two foster children. “When I was around her with her kids, I thought that looked like something I could do,” said Addison, 61, who retired early from the Orangeburg school system after breast cancer treatments left her with neuropathy. “I can’t work a full-time job but my heart goes out to these kids.”
Cyndi Addison was inspired to become a foster mom after helping her friend, Sheila Rivera.
Addison became a licensed foster parent in 2018, and she and Rivera babysit for each other when one of them needs to be away from home. She, other friends and family members were a big help when Rivera was having health problems. In addition to having diabetes, she was diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2018 and underwent a mastectomy. “I was there for her as a friend. I took her to her treatments and comforted her,” Addison said. Rivera calls Addison her “backbone” during this difficult time. “I don’t know how I would even be here without her,” Rivera said. Both women are now cancer free. Strengthened by each other, they are focused on the children who need them.
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THE KEYS
to Happiness CYNTHIA AND GEORGE GORSKI-POPIEL HELP KEEP HILTON HEAD ISLAND IN TUNE
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BY BARRY KAUFMAN | PHOTOS BY ROB KAUFMAN
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hen Cynthia and George Gorski-Popiel moved to Hilton Head Island a little more than 20 years ago from the Washington, D.C. area, they knew they would find golf courses and tennis courts, but they weren’t sure what kind of cultural life would be available. At lunch at a local restaurant shortly after moving to the island, Cynthia, a pianist, tried out a piano the restaurant had for sale by playing a Mozart sonata, and was surprised by applause from a nearby table. As it turns out, her audience included members of the board of the Hilton Head Orchestra.
“I had no clue they were there, but that turned out to be the beginning of our involvement in the wonderful music on this island,” she said. The board members told the Gorski-Popiels about classical music on the island including Hilton Head International Piano Competition to the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra and a group called Low Key Piano. Their introduction to the International Piano Competition turned into an ongoing commitment. The Gorski-Popiels have hosted young competitors or judges in their home nearly every year and all those competitors now seem like part of their extended family. “People think that having these young people in their homes for 10 days is quite a lot to take on, but the time flies and you build wonderful relationships,” Cynthia said. “Last year we hosted a pianist from Poland, which is where George is from, and it was the first time we’ve had a finalist.” Kuba Kuszlik, who stayed at their home, finished second last year. Several years ago, Geneva Griz asked Cynthia to join the board of The Performing Arts Consortium (TPAC), an organization Griz started in 2008 to support young classical musicians at critical points in their careers. When Griz retired as president three years ago, board members asked Gorski-Popiel to take on the role. After some reluctance, her passion for promoting classical music won out and she agreed. The organization has helped in many ways, including buying a clarinet for an up-and-coming performer to underwriting a concert at Carnegie Hall for a pianist facing deportation unless he proved his value as a musician. “We’ve helped young musicians from all over the world,” says Gorski-Popiel. This year, Gorski-Popiel was excited to expand the consortium’s visibility and give a gift to the community by bringing one of its unique recipients - The Concert Truck - to Hilton Head Island on the opening day of Crescendo, the island’s monthlong celebration of the arts. The Concert Truck is a mobile venue that brings classical music out of stuffy concert halls and into unexpected spots ranging from curbsides to school yards. This month, TPAC’s annual benefit honors the memory of founding board member Robert (Bob) Rada, a former chairman of the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra board, trombonist in the orchestra as well as a former trombonist with the Chicago Symphony. Rada also was one of the founders of the island’s Concours d’Elegance. Ukranian pianist Dasha Bukhartseva and cellist Marcel Krasner will perform. When she was only 13, Bukhartseva was discovered by Mieke and Hendrik Smit, longtime TPAC supporters who heard her play and arranged to bring her to the U.S. With others, they helped her finish high school at Juillard, earn a bachelor’s degree at Peabody and a master’s degree at the University of Miami. She is finishing her doctorate at Stony Brook University. Bob Rada, who was good friends and neighbors with the Smits, knew Dasha and watched her grow professionally. The concert is at 7 p.m. Feb. 4 at Tidepointe, 700 Tidepointe Way on Hilton Head Island. Tickets are $50 and include champagne and desserts sponsored by TidePointe. For more information, go to theperformingartsconsortium.org.
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››People
Higher Education HELEN RYAN IS A POWERHOUSE FOR LOCAL STUDENTS BY DENISE SPENCER PHOTO BY RUTHE RITTERBECK
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ell known locally for her tenure as principal of Hilton Head Island High School and her role in developing John Paul II Catholic School, Dr. Helen Ryan has been many things: wife, mother, nurse, educator, faith leader. One constant in all aspects of her life, though, was serving others. Growing up in Connecticut, Ryan attended a Catholic parish school through eighth grade. But almost two-thirds of her seventh-grade year was spent in a hospital in Hartford, trying to determine what was wrong with her. Eventually, she was diagnosed with polio, and she had to wear leg braces until her senior year of high school. This experience had an impact on her future career choice: She received her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Salve Regina University in Rhode Island and served as a charge nurse in Hartford; a nursing supervisor in Kirkwood, Missouri; and a professor of nursing in both Kansas and Maryland. After receiving her master’s degree in nursing from Wichita State, she began to focus on education, earning a Ph.D. in human services from Walden University and becoming an assistant principal in Rockville, Maryland. Eventually, Ryan and her family — husband Don and their son and daughter — began to consider what they would do when she retired. The family had a second home on Hilton Head Island, so Ryan sent her resumé to Beaufort County Public Schools, planning to apply for a job in the future. But the school district wanted to bring her onboard immediately, and her would-be retirement was short-lived: Ryan became the principal of Hilton Head Island High School in 2000. “Dr. Ryan had more energy than teachers half her age,” said current Hilton
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Head High principal Steven Schidrich, who had worked under Ryan’s leadership. “She was always seen about the building engaging students and teachers … was always trying new ideas that would increase student achievement. She was integral in growing our International Baccalaureate program. During her time here, our school gained national recognition as one of our nation’s top schools.” Working with students, parents and the greater community was always a big part of Ryan’s daily life. This can be seen in a comment from Dennis Jaworski, the parent of one of Ryan’s students: “Helen was a tremendous emotional support to my son Kale. During his senior year, Kale’s mother, also an educator, died of cancer. Helen took Kale under her wing and helped him through a very tough time. Helen was also instrumental in organizing our fundraising efforts to provide college scholarship money to honor Kale’s mom’s teaching legacy. Kathy’s Race, an annual 5K race, took place on school grounds with the additional support of the National Honor Society. Later, when Helen’s husband, Don, passed, it was my turn to repay the hugs that she so freely gave.” In 2007, Ryan announced her retirement — again. This time, she planned to help move her husband’s business to Bluffton. Members of the senior class that year invited her to baccalaureate Mass at Holy Family Catholic Church, and she was happy to accept. That invitation lead to another: The parish priest asked her to assist with the development of a Catholic high school in the Lowcountry. Ryan was intrigued, and the opportunity fit with her personal motto: “To positively impact the intellectual, spiritual and cultural life in the community where I live and work.” In addition to helping her husband with his business, Ryan spent the next 10 years working on curriculum development and fundraising for the $12 million project. The end result: John Paul II Catholic High School, grades 7-12, in Okatie is at capacity and plans are underway for the next “innovation” building to expand its commitment to STEM strategies across the curriculum. This May’s graduating class — the school’s fourth — is a class of 42 students. Today, Ryan still hasn’t slowed down. Instead, she was inspired by a senior research project presented by a student at John Paul to launch a new project requiring research into Christian doctrine, a feasibility study, and a review of current programs to build a case for inclusion that Ryan plans to present to college presidents to create a four-year residential program for students with special needs. It’s all part of her focus on caring for others and her community. “If we had more Helen Ryans,” said Bluffton Mayor Lisa Sulka, “our world would be a better place.”
SECOND ACT Those who define retirement as “withdrawal from one’s position or occupation or from active working life” have never experienced retirement in the Lowcountry. Here, many people’s “Second Acts” are just as purposeful as their first — boosting the economy, supporting area nonprofit groups, generating creativity and enhancing quality of life for the community. This column captures their stories. February 2020 49
Health ››Support Main Street. Not Wall Street.
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#OurLowcountry
Galas Galore By Carrie Hirsch
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ebruary is prime gala and fundraiser season for many nonprofit organizations in the Lowcountry. Both locals and snowbirds are in town and happy to enjoy these social and philanthropic events for good causes. Here are just a few of the groups holding fundraisers this month:
Meet Your Community Philanthropics
SECOND HELPINGS
AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION
Details: southerncoastheartball.org
“The Souper Bowl of Caring event supports hunger across the country. This is a perfect match for Second Helpings, which is the only agency that rescues food in Beaufort, Jasper and Hampton counties,” said Lili Coleman, Second Helpings’ executive director.
Details: eventbrite.com or “Like” the event on Facebook
“Hunger in our community makes no sense. Through our partnership with local food donors, our 340plus volunteers pick up and deliver food the same day to over 57 agencies, providing 80% or more of perishable food for agencies to distribute to their neighbors. This event also is a great example of giving back locally. All funding to Second Helpings remains right here in our community. Let’s eat soup for food rescue and to stop food waste.” The annual Souper Bowl of Caring will be held from noon to 4 p.m. Feb. 1 at Coligny Plaza. For $10, patrons will enjoy soups, stews and chilis served up by local restaurants set to live music by The Matt Brantley Band.
Lili Coleman
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“We appreciate all the hard work and enthusiasm of the businesses in Coligny Plaza. We couldn’t do it without them. We love the Richardson Group,” Coleman said. “We will also be doing this event in 2021 in Bluffton.”
“Our annual black-tie festivities begin with the pre-event reception, which includes an amazing silent auction, followed by an elegant dinner, an inspiring program, a spectacular live auction and incredible entertainment to fund cardiovascular research, professional and public education, school site programs, and advocacy efforts through the year,” says Jennifer Waites, marketing and communications director for the South Carolina chapter of the American Heart Association.
The Local Lady
Local businesses are vital for our community
Heart disease remains the No. 1 killer of all Americans; stroke is the fifth-leading cause of death in South Carolina. The Southern Coast Heart Ball will be held at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 8 at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa. Proceeds will help the American Heart Association work to change health outcomes relating to heart disease and stroke.
Katie Schumacher
“We are planning a special evening of fine dining, celebration and camaraderie,” says Rose Fotia, founder and chairwoman of the Children’s Relief Fund. “Only 140 reservations can be accepted, and we urge our friends and supporters to reserve their spots now. Chef Ryan McCarthy will create a multi-course dinner paired with fine wines in an exciting and glamorous venue.”
CHILDREN’S RELIEF FUND Details: thechildrensrelieffund.org
Here at ShopMoreLocal.com, our mission is simple: Advocate for local business, stress the importance of supporting locally owned businesses, and help businesses owners remain competitive.
The event, An Evening of Love Wine Pairings Dinner, will be held Feb. 14 at Venue 1223 in Bluffton and will include a limited live auction.
Join us in the fight to keep Hilton Head Island unique and to strengthen the Bluffton state of mind!
Children’s Relief Fund helps provide families with funding for much-needed equipment such as wheelchairs, prosthetics and medical supplies, as well as financial support for physical, occupational, behavioral and speech therapies and life-enriching programs. Money raised at the Feb. 14 event will support Area 8 Special Olympics, Heroes on Horseback, SOAR, Fishing with Friends, Pockets Full of Sunshine and the Island Rec Center.
Small-scale, locally owned businesses create communities that are more prosperous, entrepreneurial, connected and generally better off. How we choose to spend our money matters. Do we want the Lowcountry to be “Anywhere, USA,” where chain stores and corporate behemoths dominate? Or do we want to live in a community with a rich, unique character created by the locally owned boutiques, stores, bakeries, restaurants and galleries— businesses run by knowledgeable local residents who care about and are invested in our area. Ordering from Amazon — which does not pay local or federal taxes, does not give back to the community and does not support local charities —does not support your neighbors. The choice is ours, and every day we vote with our wallets.
Enjoy,
Meredith DiMuzio
Rose Fotia
843-384-4488 meredith@shopmorelocal.org
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››Health
Feed Your Brain MEMORY MATTERS SEMINAR TO FOCUS ON BRAIN-HEALTHY LIFESTYLES BY CLAY BONNYMAN EVANS | PHOTOS SUBMITTED
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emory Matters has come a long way since it was founded in 1997 to support the Lowcountry caregivers of people diagnosed with dementia. After years of a nomadic existence, in 2009 the nonprofit group moved into a 7,000-square-foot facility licensed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control to care for up to 60 participants daily. In 2018, Memory Matters expanded its vision to “encompass everyone, brain-healthy or brain-compromised” and “proactively tackle memory loss by encouraging early intervention and promoting a healthy lifestyle.” With that in mind, that year the organization held its inaugural Brain Health Summit, drawing 300 participants; in 2019, 450 attended the summit. This year’s Brain Health Summit is slated for March 11 and will feature a lineup of experts on nutrition, exercise, art and more. “This is for anyone who is interested in proactively caring for their brain and learning new things,” said Debbie Anderson, community education director for Memory Matters. “And we make it fun in the process.”
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Wendy Suzuki, professor of Neuroscience and Psychology at New York University’s Center for Neural Science and author of “Healthy Brain, Happy Life,” will give the keynote address. Other speakers include registered dietician Holly Mlodzinski, who also is the health promotions coordinator for Hilton Head Regional Healthcare, and Ashton Sullivan of Whole Health Bluffton, who will talk about “Your Brain on Art.” “A lot of times people think it’s overwhelming to eat a healthy diet,” Mlodzinski says. “But truly, being healthy does not have to be difficult. We’re trying to make it easy for everybody.” Experts are increasingly promoting brain-health strategies to delay or even potentially stave off dementia — which encompasses a set of symptoms, often associated with aging, like impaired memory and thinking; Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, causing an estimated 50% to 70% of cases. London-trained chef Kim Baretta, the volunteer chef-in-residence for Memory Matters, will host a live culinary competition at the summit similar to the TV show
“Truly, being healthy does not have to be difficult.” – HOLLY MLODZINSKI, HILTON HEAD REGIONAL HEALTHCARE
Left: Chef Kim Baretta will prepare healthy dishes at the summit. Right: Holly Mlodzinski will discuss lifestyle changes for brain health.
“Chopped.” Three conference participants will come onstage to prepare healthy main courses, which will be judged by three local chefs. Baretta and Memory Matters promote a “Mediterranean lifestyle” diet as a tool to proactively tackle memory loss and tout a “70:30 rule”: Vegetables and whole grains should cover 70 percent of your plate, while proteins should make up the remaining 30 percent. “Everyone has been touched by Alzheimer’s or dementia in some way,” Baretta said. “It’s true there is no cure for it. But we know that lifestyle choices can help prolong or delay, or even help us not get the disease.”
IF YOU GO What: Memory Matters’ Brain Health Summit 3 When: 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. March 11 Where: Hilton Head Beach & Tennis Resort Cost: $60, which includes lunch and wellness package drawing Details: mymemorymatters.org or 843-842-6688
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››Parenting
Behind the Wheel BEHIND EVERY TEEN DRIVER IS AN ANXIOUS PARENT
BY SUZANNE EISINGER
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earts pounding, our eyes anxiously scanning the surroundings for danger, our fingers gripping the seat beneath us. One foot hovers in mid-air, poised to slam against a non-existent brake pedal. A nightmare? A scene from the latest horror movie? No, just another exciting episode in the ongoing saga we call parenting — teaching our teens to drive. South Carolina teenagers can apply for their beginner permits at the age of 15. It’s one of the many steps that eventually leads to them navigating the roads of life without us. But before they can truly get behind the wheel solo, they must practice. So, buckle up, Mom and Dad, because you’ve got to log 40 hours of driving with your teen driver before he or she can qualify for a permanent license.
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Of course, they’ll also need eight hours of classroom driver education and six hours of behind-the-wheel training with a licensed instructor. That’s where companies like 123 Drive! come in. Doreen and Mark Haughton-James have been providing behind-the-wheel and classroom driving education on Hilton Head Island and in Bluffton for almost 10 years as the co-owners of 123 Drive! And they’ve seen it all from their spot in the passenger seat. “It’s a fun job,” Doreen said, reflecting on some of the more hilarious — and slightly unnerving — moments she’s had teaching teen drivers. Luckily, she comes equipped with a sense of humor and lots of patience, not to mention a passenger-side brake pedal, an extra rear-view mirror, “and a long left arm” she uses to
reach across the car to steer drivers back on course. Still, turning 15 is not in itself a license to drive, she said. “There’s a numerical age and a maturity age,” Doreen said. “Some kids at 15 are totally mature enough to drive a car. Some kids at 20 are not. Parents need to ask themselves, ‘Do I trust this child to take a 3,000-pound vehicle on the road?’” If the answer is yes, Doreen recommends parents begin with “commentary driving”: “Make your kids put their phones away and pay attention as you verbalize everything you’re doing as you drive,” she explained. “‘I’m pulling out of the driveway. I’ve got the car in reverse. I’m going to turn the wheel this way, because I want the car to go this way…’ There’s so much that
we do when we’re driving that we don’t even think about.” Once your child actually gets behind the wheel, continue this practice by describing what they’re doing, what they should be checking for and what’s up ahead. Empty church or school parking lots are great places to get in a little practice, and when you think your teen is ready for a challenge, the “Sonic in Bluffton is the hardest drive-thru (to navigate) anywhere,” Doreen said. The most important thing to keep in mind, Doreen warned, is that “you will make mistakes.” And both teens and parents can learn from these errors. Just ask Hilton Head attorney Bree Kennedy, whose son took the family car for a spin and flattened a neighbor’s mailbox in the process, or Kathleen Sanz, a Hilton Head teacher whose daughter had a slight mishap at the local drive-thru: “$5,000 worth of damage for a $5 cup of coffee,” Sanz recalled ruefully. Still, lessons were learned, and those teens — and countless others — eventually became successful drivers by learning what not to do next time. Some teens might be more nervous than excited to take the keys. If that’s
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the case, Doreen offers this advice: “Baby steps. Have them drive down your street 20 times before venturing out. Driving is mostly confidence and a little bit of skill.” One Hilton Head mom said she waited until she was 18 to get her license. Years later, her son also was less-than-eager to drive, changing his mind only after realizing a license meant he could take his girlfriend out on dates without bringing Mom or Dad along. And there might actually be a benefit if your teen is anxious: A nervous driver is a cautious driver. So, parents, take heart. While it may take time to recover from the experience of teaching your teen to drive — Hilton Head author Susan Riley said she was unable to sit in the passenger seat for years without instinctively slamming her foot into the floorboard when her child was behind the wheel — know that when your teen walks out the door, keys and license in hand, you’ll have prepared him or her for any road hazards. And there’s always a bright side: Despite the inevitable insurance hikes and auto body bills, your newly licensed teen can finally start to help with running errands.
DRIVE TIME Have a teen who’s about to get behind the wheel? Here are a few resources you might find helpful: • 123 Drive! Driving Academy: 123drivedrivingacademy.com • The Parents Supervised Training Program: This helpful driving manual provides lesson plans for beginning drivers and their parents. It’s available at scdmvonline.com or at 123 Drive! locations. • Safe Driving apps for parents: Life360 and Canary are two apps to help parents monitor unsafe driving behavior such as excessive speed, abrupt braking and texting while driving.
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February 2020 55
Handcrafted pottery. The Art CafĂŠ 843.785.5525 ArtCafeHHI.com
From Gabriel & Co.'s Bujukan Collection 14K yellow gold ruby and diamond bracelet. Forsythe Jewelers 843.671.7070 ForsytheJewelers.biz
y r a u Febr
NUFACE MINI-Facial Toning Device. Faces Day Spa The Village at Wexford 843.785.3075 FacesDaySpa.com
Gift Guide
Salty Dog 843.842.6331 SaltyDog.com
Show your love for the beautiful island we call home with one of these custom designed Sterling Silver and 14k yellow Gold accented bracelets. Four different styles to choose from. Exclusively at Heritage. Heritage Fine Jewelry 843.689.2900 HeritageJewelersHHI.com
Hand forged in solid iron, this transitional bar cart features three tray style mirrored shelves finishes in antiqued gold, complete with rolling casters. J. Banks Design Group 843.681.5122 jBanksDesign.com
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Salty Dog Red Buffalo Sauce Jake's special blend of peppers and spices is sure to show your sweetie just how HOT you think they are! A tasty one-of-a-kind buffalo sauce perfect for shrimp, chicken, ribs and more. 100% homegrown in South Carolina.
Lumen Skin Care Products. February 2nd-8th Special in office and online. LUX Medical Spa 843.757.3223 LumenSkinCare.com
Treat yourself or drop a hint for your favorite hand-crafted jewelry by Julie Vos. Cocoon 843.815.3315 CocoonBluffton.com
Stay-In-Bed-Red Blend by J. Brix Wines. “Unfined and unfiltered, this medium bodied, fruit, and delicious California red blend will make you want to order a pizza, cue up a movie, open a bottle, and stay in bed!” Rollers Wine & Spirits 843.842.1200 RollersWineAndSpirits.com
Silver heart padlock hinged bracelet by Uno de 50, handmade in Madrid, Spain. Gifted Hilton Head 843.842.8787 GiftedHiltonHead.com
Skin Products from ZO Skin Health by Zein Obagi MD. Envision Med Spa Services at The Office of Dr. David Remigio 843.815.7222 Envisionmedspaservices.com
Camellia’s - This beautiful, flowering shrub has a long blooming season and loves the Southern climate. Your sweetheart can enjoy for years to come! Bruno’s Landscape & Nursery 843.682.2624 BrunoLandscapeAndNursery.com
February 2020 57
YOU’RE INVITED TO THE
2020
BRIDAL SHOW February 16, 2020 | 1:00-4:00 pm
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WIN 2 TICKETS to the Hilton Head Bridal Show Enter Now at hiltonheadbridalshow.com Winner will be announced Feb 14th, 2020
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2020 H I LTO N H E A D , B LU F F TO N & T H E LO W C O U N T RY
Bridal Guide
Yes!
Your Best Dress BY ROBYN PASSANTE
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any brides already have an idea of what they want their wedding dress to look like before they even begin shopping. And, maybe more importantly, they often have in mind what they don’t want their dress to look like. But whatever your preferences, it’s easier for that perfect dress image to come into focus if you understand the styles and hues that flatter you to the fullest. We asked Christina Vicaro of Lowcountry Bride & Gown and Cassandra Gamble of Blush Bridal & Formal Wear to help us help you.
All Brides
Regardless of your size or circumstance, Gamble and Vicaro both agree that shopping earlier is better: “It can take up to six months to get a gown in once it’s ordered, and a bride should have her gown at least three months before her wedding for fittings,” Gamble said. And in order to find that perfect dress, don’t say no to trying on styles you’re sure you won’t love. “Be open-minded about trying styles that may be unexpected,” Vicaro said. “Fifty percent of my brides end up with a dress style completely different than what they originally planned on purchasing.”
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Full-Figured Brides
A-line and drop-waist ball gowns are great for curvy bombshells, Vicaro said. Gamble also adds mermaid gowns to that list: “Curvy brides look beautiful in anything that will show off their shape,” she said. “Most curvy brides think to hide their beautiful shapes. Do just the opposite! Show it off!”
Lean Brides
Lean brides have the luxury of being able to wear just about anything they love, from fit-and-flare to A-line to ball gown. Gamble said sheath dresses can be a show-stopper for these women as well, and these brides can have fun with varied necklines. “Dresses with low backs are also great on a lean figure,” she said.
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Petite Brides
Anything with a higher-defined waistline will flatter a petite bride, Gamble says. A fitted dress looks great on petite frames, and Vicaro suggests opting for a designer that does custom sizing.
PHOTO BY AMIA MARCELL
Second-Chance Brides
That old rule about only being allowed to wear white on your first wedding day is as outdated as the one about matching bridesmaid dresses. Vicaro said that more mature brides who are getting married — or remarried — later in life typically are drawn to elegant, simpler styles, perhaps with some lace details. “Understated and chic” are their go-tos, Gamble said, with simple fitted and flowy gowns being most popular among this crowd.
Skin Tones
“Fair skin tones look fabulous in light blush and champagne undertones,” Vicaro said, and darker skin tones look great in white. Plus, all skin tones look beautiful in classic ivory, she said. These days, designers are offering dresses in an array of colors, from nude to caramel to smoky lavender to blush. “The best piece of advice when it comes to colors is to try it on,” Gamble said. “You may be surprised on what looks good with your skin tone.”
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HUNTER ANDERSON AND MEENA RAO
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When Two Cultures Unite WEDDING BLENDS COUPLE’S HERITAGES WITH THEIR LOVE OF THE SEA BY JESSICA FARTHING | PHOTOS BY TIM ZIELENBACH
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unter Anderson and Meena Rao aren’t from Hilton Head Island, but their wedding at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa reflected their love of the sea. The beach has always been an important part of their relationship, and as they began to plan their big day, Meena knew she wanted the ocean to play a part. So they settled on Hilton Head as the perfect place for their family and friends to gather and celebrate. When Meena moved to North Carolina, she never expected to meet her future husband on her first day in town: “We actually met the day that I moved. The power was out in my apartment and Hunter lived close by. He saw me sitting on the balcony, waiting on the power to come on. He came over and asked how I was doing.” They became friends almost immediately, spending time together and walking on the beach near their homes in Wrightsville Beach. Romance soon blossomed, and they moved in together in a house near the sound. When Hunter began planning his proposal, he knew that their mutual love of the coast had to play a part. One night, he picked Meena up for dinner and asked her to go on a beach walk with him. She didn’t know that he had paid a local sandcastle builder to create an ornate, personalized castle with a special message. “I noticed a sandcastle that had ‘Meena, will you marry me’ written on it,” she said of the surprise. “Dolphins are special to us̀ , and he had two dolphins on the sandcastle. He dropped to one knee and proposed, right on the beach.” They started looking for a wedding venue on the beach that could accommodate Meena’s family, who would be flying in from California for the event and staying for the weekend. One of her relatives had enjoyed a
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wedding on Hilton Head, so it began to be discussed as a possible destination. Wedding plans incorporated many family traditions. Meena’s family is Indian, while Hunter’s mom is of Lebanese descent and his dad is from Eastern North Carolina. The food for the rehearsal dinner included both Indian and Lebanese dishes. For the wedding ceremony, the couple decided to combine the parts of their heritages that they valued most. The first half of the ceremony was a tribute to Meena’s Indian family, while the second half of the wedding was more traditionally American. Meena’s mom’s uncle, Sri Hari das Kanuru, helped them with the Indian ceremony, and Hunter’s brotherin-law Albert Almore, a pastor, officiated the American-style exchange of vows. Dr. Kanuru performed the first ceremony under a flower arch called a “mandap”, and then the couple stepped in front of the arch and let the pastor take over for the exchange of the vows and rings. The couple chose their wedding planner, Beth Baldwin of Beth Baldwin Weddings, specifically because of her experience with Indian weddings. She helped Meena decide on the rituals she wanted to include – and how to blend both cultures together. “I chose the parts that I thought were really fun and important. All my bridesmaids were wearing Indian outfits and I wore a sari,” Meena said. But “my parents and I walked down the aisle like you would at an American wedding. We exchanged flower garlands but also vows and rings.” The result of their planning was a ceremony reflecting the cultures and personality of the bride and groom. And, true to
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their love of the coast, they planned a beach wedding— the cake was decorated with flowers and starfish. But rain changed their plans, and The Westin was able to move the event indoors. Meena didn’t seem to mind: “I hoped that we’d get a thunderstorm with the view out of the windows. We still included the beach. We had dinner in the oceanfront room, which is beautiful with high ceilings, big arches and a view of the dunes and the ocean.” Both Hunter and Meena said the Celebrity All-Star Band was one of the best parts of the night. The band had everyone at the reception dancing — including a few moves Meena hadn’t seen before. “At one point, Hunter got up and busted out The Worm,” she said. “I had no idea.” Hunter and Meena feel lucky to have gorgeous pictures to remember the event, thanks to award-winning local photographer Tim Zielenbach: “He spent time with us and got to know us. He really went above and beyond.”
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RAO-ANDERSON WEDDING VENDORS Wedding Venue: The Westin Resort Hilton Head Wedding Planning and Design: Beth Baldwin Weddings Mehndi Artist: Bhavya Patel Wedding Cake: Chef Anne Marie Romano Caterer, Indian Cuisine: District Events and Catering Ceremony/Cocktail Hour Music: Hilton Head Entertainment, Ami Rabinowitz Florist: A Floral Affair Hair and makeup styling: Brides Side Beauty Photography: Tim Zielenbach Reception Music: Celebrity All Star Band Rentals: Amazing Event Rentals Audio/Video: PSAV Draping: Meeting Dynamics February 2020 71
Petal POWER BY ROBYN PASSANTE | PHOTOS BY AMIA MARCELL
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T
he types and combinations of popular wedding flowers come and go, but one trend with staying power is the bridal bouquet. We asked local wedding florists for the inside scoop on today’s trends, inexpensive alternatives, timeless wedding flowers and the latest ways couples are letting nature beautify their nuptials.
Latest and Greatest The pretty peony still reigns among many Lowcountry brides, along with hydrangeas and white panda anemones, said Angela Mandigo of Gardenias Event Floral: “Other added textures of gray brunia berries, Lysimachia and astilbe are also favorites; they give a more distinct shape and flow to bridal bouquets.” Kelly Corn of Flowers By Sue is seeing more “edgy” flowers like protea, scabiosa pods and different kinds of orchids, like anthurium. “It looks a little bit like a peace lily; it has a tropical vibe,” Corn said. “We’re seeing brides wanting more unique things than your classic flowers.” Many brides are also opting for more greenery, including a variety of eucalyptus and dark greenery “with a tropical twist of palm fronds, monstera leaves and succulents,” Mandigo said. And for that Lowcountry look, couples often add pampas plumes to bouquets and centerpieces.
Timeless Options Tried-and-true blooms include White Mondial roses, majolica spray roses, baby’s breath and disbuds — an alternative to beautiful-but-pricey dahlias, Mandigo says. Corn says she’s starting to see a once-ubiquitous bouquet element make a reappearance. “This year, two brides are asking for massive baby’s breath balls,” says Corn, who remembers a surge in baby’s breath orders several years ago after a “Sex and the City” character used it in her wedding. Another bloom that has staying power in popularity, but not so much in bouquets, is the hydrangea. “A lot of brides really like hydrangea here in the South. It works great in centerpieces, but unless you’re going to keep putting your bouquet back in water, in the hot months it definitely will shrivel up within a couple hours,” Corn says. “It’s very popular in the South, but not a great bouquet flower.”
Peony Partners Peonies are the No. 1 wedding flower year-round. The problem is their season is limited to June. Corn said that greenhouses set up in Alaska are now producing peonies throughout the year, though they are not as big, full and fluffy as what brides see in magazines. But if you want big peony-like blooms, take heart. “Since peonies grew in popularity over the past 10 years, they’ve now created some beautiful breeds of garden roses that open up bigger and fuller, with more and more scale of colors,” Corn said. “They’re definitely different than a standard rose.” Another beautiful peony stand-in is a creamy white football mum, Mandigo said, which is also a more cost-effective alternative.
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Other Trends Bouquets are shrinking compared to their super sizes last year, the florists say. “Brides are commenting that their friends had these huge bouquets, and one could not see the bride and her dress,” Mandigo said. “They’re opting for the smaller, elegant garden look, still with loose greenery but more tucked and collared with the floral of choice.” Flowers are showing up in other places too, including greenery accents and candles used as aisle markers — and which can then be repurposed as decorative elements at the reception — draped greenery accents with fairy lighting, and more fresh flowers gracing cakes. One more interesting and elegant change Mandigo has noticed: “Pin-on and wrist corsages for the mothers are changing to a single stem of floral and greenery with a simple ribbon.”
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It’s a Snap! BY ROBYN PASSANTE PHOTOS BY AMIA MARCELL
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our wedding day is just that: 24 hours that seem to be over in a flash. Thankfully, a skilled photographer can capture the best moments from that whirlwind day, providing a lasting way to relive the magic for years to come. Entrusting the picture-taking to a professional is the first step, but there are other things you can do to ensure the most breathtaking wedding album possible.
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Choose Wisely “Finding the photographer that fits your taste is essential,� said Gustavo Rattia of Oceano Blue, who has been a wedding photographer since 2007 and a Lowcountry resident since 2015. Experts advise couples to hire the photographer and the videographer from the same company. Pros who have worked together will
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have similar styles and a shared vision — and there might be a discount on a photo-video package. “At the very least, you should ask your photographer if they have ever worked with the videographer you are considering,” said Rob Kaufman of Kaufman Photography, who has been shooting weddings in the Hilton Head Island area since 1995. “This is a small island, and chances are most of us have worked together before and know how to ‘dance’ with each other.”
Make a Connection Making a personal connection is important when choosing a photographer. “Many of my most powerful images are made during private, deeply emotional scenes where I have been welcomed to document the moment,” said Tim Zielenbach, who was nominated twice for a Pulitzer Prize in feature photography. “I would not be there without having built up a sense of trust with the bride.”
Know Your Style Goals Well before the wedding, communicate your style preference to the photographer. “There are so many styles and photography tendencies nowadays,” Rattia said. “Do you want classic? Light and airy? Dark and moody? Research different styles before hiring your photographer; some photographers are traditional, and some are more adventurous when composing a shot.” Create a mood board with images you love for your photographer. A good photographer will know if his or her style doesn’t match yours, and should recommend an alternative. “Pinterest and Instagram are great places for inspiration,” Kaufman said. “Find photos you like and pass them along to your photographer. It gives us a good idea of the style that you prefer.”
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Be a Good Scout If your photographer is local and available to visit the wedding site in advance, that will save you time when the big day arrives. But you should do your homework, too. “Have different options and get to know where the best spots are to get the best light, according to the time of the day you’re planning your event,” Rattia said. “A sun ray can make a big difference in a picture.” That goes double for water. “Don’t forget to check the tides if your wedding is on or near the beach,” Kaufman said. “Nothing can make photography more difficult than having only a few feet of beach to work with.”
Plan for Weather If by some fluke the perfect sunset portrait you envisioned isn’t going to happen, you’ll be less stressed if you’ve got a backup plan. “It is important to always have a Plan B,” Rattia said. “Find out if your venue can offer an indoor option in case of rain; that way, you can plan with your photographer to have alternatives and find pretty locations for photos.” You can also consider a nearby church, barn or museum for stunning portraits that’ll keep you dry.
Don’t Skimp on Makeup Hilton Head Island-based photographer Amia Marcell said finding the right makeup artist is essential. “Hire the best makeup artist you can afford,” she said. “(The) right makeup will make you enhance your natural beauty, and you will look fantastic and happy on your wedding day.
Have a Helper Your photographer will probably bring an assistant, but you’d be wise to designate one of your own. “It’s important for you to have someone you trust to be close to you, helping to make sure your makeup, your dress and your hair are perfect,” Rattia said. It might behoove you to choose someone who wants you to look your best and who won’t also need to be in pictures with you.
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LUCIE AND KYLE DUFFY
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A Perfectly Planned Affair BY ROBYN PASSANTE | PHOTOS BY TIM ZIELENBACH
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very destination wedding requires a fabulous wedding destination, of course. But it takes a savvy couple like Lucie and Kyle Duffy to truly honor and capture the magic of both. The Duffys, who met in Chicago and now reside in London, were married at Sea Pines Country Club on May 4, 2019. But playing the role of good Hilton Head Island hosts to their 130-plus guests began days earlier. From rounds of golf to beach outings, as well as a cocktail reception, an intimate bridal luncheon and a wedding-eve welcome dinner for 125 people at Dockside, the couple helped their loved ones take full advantage of the getaway and the island before the wedding day even dawned. “Everyone mingled and was together, it was like a nonstop party and was super fun,” Lucie said. The wedding itself was also a perfectly planned affair inspired by the beauty of the Lowcountry.
“Knowing the quietness of the island and how much greenery was around, I wanted something that had that small, soft, romantic feel,” Lucie said. That mood was set with her mermaid wedding dress by Anne Barge, which had a lace overlay with a soft blush undertone. The bride complemented it with a bouquet of peonies, small sierra roses, blush pink roses and eucalyptus: “Dawn from A Floral Affair did our flowers, and they were stunning.”
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The Duffys’ wedding was full of meaningful touches and intentional details. “I wanted everything to cohesively speak throughout each part of the wedding, from the invitations to the table settings,” Lucie said. The same gray font was used for the invitations, the place cards, even the menus. The invitations matched the bridesmaid dress hues of whipped apricot, rose petal and chai. And a ribbon wrapped around the invites was made by a woman in London, a sweet nod to the locale the couple knew would be their next home. In fact, the only detail that didn’t go exactly as planned was the weather — it poured from the moment the couple finished their “first look” and formal wedding portraits before the ceremony until moments after they said “I do.” “The second we were done, we finished our vows and walked down the aisle, it stopped,” Lucie said. “We still had the cocktail hour outside, and that marsh turned this gorgeous pink. We got the prettiest photos; it turned into this gorgeous, beautiful day — and it cooled off, which was nice.” The couple served two signature cocktails: a margarita, since Cinco de Mayo was the following day, and an Old Fashioned,
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the groom’s favorite. The cocktail napkins were printed with a sketch of their beloved Yorkie, Jake — who took “first look” photos with the couple but was not included in the ceremony. Then it was time for the seated dinner, which they kept moving at a pretty good clip in order to maximize dance floor time. “Kyle and I were adamant about a fast dinner service,” Lucie said. “[Wedding planner] Beth [Baldwin] kept everyone on a timeline, and it was perfect.” Guests had plenty of time to enjoy the sounds of Atlanta-based band Cashmere, which kicked things off with their own version of The Paper Kites’ “Bloom,” the couple’s first dance song. After more than two hours of dancing, the couple enjoyed a sparkler sendoff as they walked out into the night — and the rest of their lives together. “I love us so much,” Lucie said. “We’re individuals, and we’re a couple.”
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MILOTA-DUFFY WEDDING VENDORS Wedding Venue: Sea Pines Country Club Wedding Planner: Beth Baldwin Weddings Mini Desserts: Bernie Bernstein of Purple Cow Transportation: Kelly Transportation Wedding Cake: Anne Marie Romano Musicians: David Kimbell, Aija Silina Flowers: A Floral Affair Team Event: JLK Events Officiant: Rev. Steven Schulte Photography: Tim Zielenbach Entertainment: Cashmere Band Rentals: Eventworks Rentals Videographer: Brad Cheshire February 2020 85
In Step
DANCE INSTRUCTION HELPS COUPLES FIND THEIR RHYTHM BY SANDRO VIRAG
It’s becoming more popular to have your wedding dance professionally choregraphed. Some brides and grooms are even building their wedding themes around the dance. People are also willing to spend more time preparing for this special moment, which gives them more “together” time to get know each other in a different way. And it’s not just the bride and groom who want to make sure they don’t hit the dance floor with two left feet: The rest of the family wants to put their best foot forward, too. A family dance is becoming a growing trend at weddings — it seems almost like a formal presentation of the family. And what couple wouldn’t want to get up and dance that first dance with confidence? The process begins with choosing a song. Occasionally, the couple may choose a song that really isn’t “danceable” — they might love the song, but it might not have a good rhythm or beat. That’s where a dance professional comes in: He or she can help make the choreography fit the music. The instructor will also factor in all kinds of things that can have an impact on the dance: the bridal gown, the bride’s shoes, the venue, etc. And, in a way, dance lessons can help prepare a couple for marriage. It is an interesting process to see the couple trying to achieve this first dance when they are not yet married. It is so important that they work together and that they listen to each
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other. This process brings out things couples sometimes don’t see in each other in everyday life, and they get to know each other in completely different settings and situations. As an instructor, it is so much fun to see how dedicated couples can be in learning their dances. They come to lessons, go home and practice, and come back week after week showing more and more improvement. The final step is when the bride brings her gown to the studio and makes sure the dance works with the dress — of course, the groom is not allowed to see this part of the process. It really is the final dress rehearsal, and any tweaks that need to be made can be done. The bond couples form when dancing is amazing, and it makes it sad that it seems to take a wedding to get some people to take dance lessons. Everyone should be doing this on an everyday basis — who knows how it could improve their lives.
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››Home
Coastal Living by Design BY DEAN ROWLAND | PHOTOS BY LYNDI LEARY
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very talented interior designer is able to look at an empty space and envision how it will look when the work is completed. And then she works a little magic to turn that empty space into a well-designed reality. Hannah Fulton Toney of J. Banks Design Group on Hilton Head Island was able to work just that type of magic on a new 5,500-square-foot, second-row ocean home in Sea Pines. Some of the
bones were already in place — cabinets, tiling, light fixtures, kitchen finishes, shelving — but the home was far from complete. “It was waiting for furniture and finishing touches,” she said. Toney and her team spent a year on the project, turning the space into a showpiece of Lowcountry comfort and elegance using carefully selected colors, furniture and fabric accents that played up
its livability and cool coastal aesthetics. She had only two goals to meet for the home’s owners, who lived in northern Georgia. They wanted a family-friendly getaway ocean home to enjoy with their loved ones, and they wanted to make the five-bedroom, seven-bathroom home a prime rental. “I so enjoyed working with Jay and Shawn Eckard on their beach home,” said Toney, who has been a designer
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››Home
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Hannah Fulton Toney of J. Banks Design Group on Hilton Head Island designed this Sea Pines beach house to be enjoyed by the owners and renters.
with J. Banks for 16 years. “The process included being mindful of renters, while designing a fun beach getaway for my clients to share with friends and family — and four-legged family as well.” It’s not easy to create a space that feels personal, like home, but that’s also impersonal enough that strangers can make themselves comfortable. But Toney and her team nailed it. “I think it was a lovely project, because I think the clients had a unique
perspective on how they wanted it to feel like theirs and feel like home, but they also wanted it to feel coastal and attractable to renters,” she said. “It has an eclectic and classic feel that I think is very timeless. We tried to have a coastal feel and give a nod to the marshes and ocean.” She started with the colors. “For the color palette to set the tone for a coastal feel, we used blues and greens,” she said. “Small stripes and different patterns, which give a lot of interest
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››Home
‘‘
It has an eclectic and classic feel that I think is very timeless.
– HANNAH FULTON TONEY, INTERIOR DESIGNER
and texture. We varied the materials and patterns to give a lot of richness, and then we pulled in some antique pieces.” The antiques made the house feel like a home: “They didn’t want it to look all brand new,” Toney said of the Eckards. “They wanted to add a lot of character to it.” The lived-in look suited the homeowners just fine. “We are homebodies at heart,” said Jay, who said that his family had vacationed for many years on the same street where they eventually built their new home. “The interior design is perfect for relaxed, casual living with family and friends. Each space visually invites you to gather to enjoy loved ones.” Toney created that welcoming, casual vibe with careful design decisions. “The rugs we selected have a lot of depth to them and they’re made to look like look antique classics,” she said. “We also have woven shades in several of the rooms just to give a nod to the coastal setting.” Antique oars on a wall in the media room from Jay’s collection are “beaten up and looked washed up,” she said, accentuating the coastal, lived-in vibe. “I love the window treatment choices and kitchen/den area the most,” said Jay, a professional services businessman. “They were able to balance durable beach house materials with a subtle elegance.” Many of the accessories and accent pieces came from the J. Banks showroom collection. For major pieces, clients choose a frame that is then customized. “The frame is our design, and then we
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personalize each piece with the client,” Toney said. Elsewhere in the home, guests will find woven wine jugs from Europe, weathered lock-and-key art, and wooden oyster sticks imported from southern France on the back porch patio. “Adding those accents really give the home character,” she said. Indoor/outdoor furniture fabrics were chosen for their versatility and low maintenance, a plateware and flatware from the J. Banks retail collection fills the kitchen
cabinets, and high-back spool chairs in the living room add a classic touch. The outdoor living space has a comfortable sitting area with a fireplace as the focal point. “Hannah and J. Banks were fantastic,” Jay said. “They provided designs and options in a very timely manner with exceptional communication through all phases of the process. I would use them again for sure.” It’s home, sweet home, for owners and visitors alike.
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HILTON HEAD: 843-681-2590 BLUFFTON: 843-706-9933 WWW.HILTONHEADEXTERMINATORS.COM
››Real Estate News
Mary Martinez
Chip Collins
ARRIERO REALTY NOW OPEN
Jacob and Debbie Arriero recently opened Arriero Realty in Bluffton. The Arrieros have more than 45 combined years of real estate experience and Debbie Arriero is a certified military relocation professional. The office is at 198 Okatie Village Drive, Suite 103-344.
CENTURY 21 DIAMOND REALTY ADDS NEW AGENTS
The O’Connor-Howell Team and Lisa Fries have joined Century 21 Diamond Realty as real estate professionals. Barbara O’Connor and Michael Howell have 21 years of real estate sales experience. They moved to Sun City Hilton Head in 2015 and have ranked among the top five real estate teams for Sun City Common in the last two years. Fries moved to the area several years ago to continue her therapeutic massage practice. Upon purchasing her first home in Bluffton, she discovered an unknown passion for real estate. She is originally from Columbus, Ohio.
PALMETTO DUNES WINS WEDDINGWIRE.COM AWARD
For the third consecutive year, Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort on Hilton Head Island has won the Couples’ Choice Award from WeddingWire.com. The award recognizes local wedding professionals who demonstrate excellence in quality, service, responsiveness and professionalism. Winners 100 hiltonheadmonthly.com
Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort
are determined by reviews from more than 1 million WeddingWire couples. Palmetto Dunes received 4.8 out of 5.0 stars.
WEICHERT REALTY WELCOMES ONE
Weichert-Realtors Coastal Properties recently added Mary Martinez to the team. Prior to real estate, Martinez worked in the insurance industry. She will work out of the company’s Beaufort office at 1613 North St.
LONG COVE CLUB AWARDS GRANTS
Long Cove Club, in partnership with Darius Rucker and the University of South Carolina, is hosting the ninth annual Darius Rucker Intercollegiate Golf Tournament presented by Kroger and PXG. The tournament will be held March 6-8. Top teams from around the country will travel to the island to compete for the title. Spectators are welcome at no charge. In addition, the Long Cove Fund is accepting applications for grants for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in Beaufort and Jasper counties. Applicants must support current needs in the areas of health, housing, hunger and education in the community. The deadline for applications is March 31. To apply, go to longcoveclub.com.
COLLINS GROUP REALTY LAUNCHES ‘200TH HOME SALE FOR CHARITY’ Collins Group Realty announced a new charitable initiative, the “200th Home Sale for Charity.” The group will donate the commission
from its 200th home sale in 2020 to charity. The real estate group is accepting nominations for nonprofit groups in the Hilton Head Island and Bluffton areas through Feb. 29 at its website: CollinsGroupRealty.com/200thHomeSale. On March 2, the group will announce the three finalists with the greatest number of nominations, and a final vote will be held in the spring.
STATS SHOW STRONG LOWCOUNTRY REAL ESTATE MARKET
Statistics posted by the Hilton Head Area Association of Realtors on hhrealtor.com showed that 2019 was a solid year for Lowcountry real estate. Last year saw almost the same number of new listings (7,114) as 2018, with the number of sales contracts up 8.7%. This resulted in a 12% drop in inventory at the end of the year. As inventory shrunk, average and median sales prices rose by 3.4-3.8%. Buyers in 2019 paid sellers an average of 96.8% of list prices, with properties sitting on the market for 140 days on average. The mild hurricane season boosted sales in the last quarter of the year, and December’s pending sales were up 22% from the same month in 2018. Local real estate experts point to the last three years of moderate, steady growth as an indicator of a healthy marketplace. They are predicting that 2020 will again be a strong year for local real estate, based on the strength of the U.S. economy, performance of the stock market and continued demand for the Lowcountry lifestyle.
EASTERN BLUEBIRD
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PHOTO BY JOHN BLOOMFIELD
BALTIMORE ORIOLE
BROWN-HEADED NUTHATCH
PHOTO BY CAROL TUNNICLIFFE
PHOTO BY MARY ALICE TARTLER
››Environment
››Environment
Bird Emergency HELP RARE AND COMMON SPECIES RECOVER WITH THESE SIMPLE STEPS BY RANDY BOEHME AND CARLOS CHACON
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Black cherry trees provide a good food source for fruit-eating birds.
an you imagine what life would be like without seeing birds soaring overhead, or hearing them sing as we awaken or set off for a walk on a beautiful summer day? If something isn’t done to reverse a worrying trend, this scenario is not far-fetched. A recent study in the journal Science found that North America is home to nearly 3 billion fewer birds today than in 1970 — meaning one in four birds have disappeared from the landscape in a mere half-century. “This was an astounding result, even to us,” said lead author and Cornell Lab of Ornithology conservation scientist Ken Rosenberg. The study marked the first time that experts have tried to estimate sheer numbers of avian losses in the Western Hemisphere. Typically, conservation studies focus on specific species, habitats, regions, or types of threat. By taking a higher-level view, the study highlighted that many birds we still consider common are actually posting heavy population losses over time. The researchers mined 12 databases built from decades of on-the-ground bird observations in the United States and Canada, often relying on citizen scientists. Yearly observations built a record of population-level changes in 529 species, representing 76% of birds that breed
in North America. A statistical analysis let the team estimate population trends since 1970 compared to current population estimates. The study didn’t examine the causes of the decline, but other research has shown that climate change, habitat loss and population growth are negatively affecting birds. To put it in perspective, for the period covered by the study, the earth’s human population has grown from 3.7 billion people to 7.6 billion people — an increase of nearly 4 billion. Bird populations are experiencing the opposite, and environmentalists are asking us to act positively before time runs out for backyard birds and their more exotic cousins. What can we do to help birds? Lessons for Lowcountry communities and residents can be found at Palmetto Bluff. The Palmetto Bluff Conservancy is dedicated to increasing the understanding of the natural and cultural environment of the Lowcountry and is home to a “citizen science” bluebird survey. Other bird research taking place at the 20,000-acre community includes monitoring bald eagle nests and a study of cavity-nest use and correlation with habitat. The Coastal Discovery Museum on Hilton Head Island is also actively engaged in protecting birds on the 68-acre Honey Horn property where the museum is located. The museum has installed an osprey nesting platform,
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which is used every summer by a pair of ospreys. From the ground, museum visitors observe the birds without disturbing them. The Coastal Discovery Museum has also installed numerous nesting boxes for Eastern bluebirds, great-crested flycatchers, screech owls and barred owls. Several gardens on the property feature plants that are attractive to birds. Tubular red flowers with abundant nectar attract hummingbirds, and the museum has planted Carolina honeysuckle, buckeye, coral bean and sweet pepperbush plants to attract these tiny birds.
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BUCKEYE TREE
PHOTO BY JOHN BLOOMFIELD
PINE WARBLER
PHOTO BY JOHN BLOOMFIELD
YELLOW THROATED WARBLER
PHOTO BY PATRICIA KAPPMEYER
››Environment
EASTERN TOWHEE
Fruit-eating birds — such as American robins, catbirds and waxwings — feast on the museum’s black cherry trees and yaupon holly bushes. Native insects make their home in the museum’s insect house, providing food for insect-eating birds. The insect house makes for a great nature show in the spring, fall and summer, when it is regularly visited by mason wasps, grass carrier
wasps and cuckoo wasps — the birds are able to snap them up as they fly in and out of the insect house. Want to learn more? The Coastal Discovery Museum and the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy offer numerous lectures on bird-related topics to promote awareness and conservation. Reservations are required for most of these events; details are available online.
RANDY BOEHME IS A MASTER NATURALIST AND AUDUBON AMBASSADOR. HE LIVES IN PALMETTO BLUFF. CARLOS CHACON IS THE NATURAL HISTORY MANAGER AT THE COASTAL DISCOVERY MUSEUM.
PHOTO BY JOHN BLOOMFIELD
CAROLINA CHICKADEE
FOR THE BIRDS
Of the roughly 10,000 species of birds in the world, 1,100 live in North America; an estimated 300 species are found in the Lowcountry, according to the birding app eBird. Palmetto Bluff Conservancy and the Coastal Discovery Museum recommend the following steps to help local birds thrive: • Plant native grasses, flowers, bushes, and trees. These provide shelter and approximately 80% of overall food sources for birds. • Install bird feeders, which provide about 20% of birds’ diet and are lifesavers in times of scarcity. • Construct water sources or bird baths and keep them clean and chemical-free. • Create your own micro-habitat by building a small nature area of natural clippings and dropped leaves. This provides shelter from predators and introduces insects, a wonderful food source for birds. • Don’t use toxic chemicals on your lawns, shrubs, trees and flower beds. • Provide housing opportunities by installing bird houses and cavity boxes. • Prevent bird strikes on windows by installing clear UV-sensitive decals. Most strikes result in death for birds from wing breaks and internal organ damage. • Do not allow cats to wander. February 2020 125
››Culture
Thomas C. Barnwell, Jr., Emory Campbell and Carolyn Grant.
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Bridging Past and Future NEW BOOK PROVIDES THE DEFINITIVE GULLAH HISTORY OF HILTON HEAD ISLAND BY BARRY KAUFMAN | PHOTO BY ROB KAUFMAN
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he brochures may tell you that the story of Hilton Head Island was written in greens and fairways, but make no mistake: the true story of this island is the story of its people. In their new book, “Gullah Days: Hilton Head Islanders Before the Bridge,” authors Carolyn Grant, Thomas C. Barnwell, Jr. and Emory Campbell present a meticulous history of the Gullah people, beginning with “the day of the big gun shoot.” It was on this day during the Civil War that Union forces took the island, scattering slave owners to the breeze and sowing the seeds of freedom. Tracing the story of freedom up to the present day, the book weaves together carefully researched historical records with personal stories of native islanders collected over the past 40 years. “We've been working on this book for at least 20 years,” Barnwell said. “We also worked with a researcher/writer, who helped us dig into records like pension files that revealed a lot of history pertaining to Mitchelville, land ownership and peoples' lives during the period we wrote about.” While the details shed new light on the island’s history before the bridge, it’s the personal stories that serve as the book’s most compelling narrative thread. All three authors are native islanders who have worked for years to ensure their Gullah culture is preserved. That dedication is evident in every page. “There are so many books written about the history of Hilton Head Island and the Gullah culture, but none actually share our true history by people who lived it,” Campbell said. “We hope, from reading our book, that people will have a greater understanding of the island's African American history, including its Gullah culture and people.” It’s an eye-opening look at the island’s true history. “We think people will be surprised at the sheer history of Gullah people on Hilton Head Island,” Grant said. “Through personal accounts, you get a glimpse into how people survived on this barrier island before the rest of the world even knew it existed.” The book is available at Barnes & Noble, at blairpub.com and on Amazon.com
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››Culture
A Gullah Celebration
ANNUAL MONTHLONG EVENT PAYS TRIBUTE TO NATIVE ISLANDERS’ HERITAGE BY ANNE FELDMAN | SUBMITTED PHOTOS
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he Hilton Head Island Gullah Celebration is woven into the fabric of the Lowcountry; this year’s 24th annual event is no exception: It’s a monthlong series of events capturing the spirit and significance of Gullah culture. “The Gullah culture is alive and ever-evolving,” said Courtney Young, director of marketing for the Hilton Head Island Gullah Celebration. “Whether you’re from here or new to the island, once you experience the festival it becomes part of you too, and we want you to take a piece with you.” The February celebration is hosted by the Native Island Business & Community Affairs Association. The variety of cultural programs offers a look at the traditions maintained by descendants of West Africans brought to the coastal islands of South Carolina and Georgia as slaves centuries ago. Events include the Gullah Heritage Music Series, the Gullah Institute, Gullah Market at Honey Horn, Freedom Day, Taste of Gullah, and the “Arts Ob We People” exhibit, among others. New features for this year’s celebration include the featured artwork “Two Pounds” by Charleston artist and educator Alvin Glenn and “Gullah Tales and Songs” with nationally known performer Ron Daise. “In many ways, the Gullah celebration is the barometer for how we developed cultural tourism on the island, and it has served as the launchpad for much of what has come after, from our Gullah tours to the Gullah Museum, and now Mitchelville,” Young said. With a glimpse into historic churches across the island, the Gullah Heritage Music Series celebrates the music of the Gullah people. At Mitchelville, Freedom Day reflects on Feb. 1, 1865 — the historic day that President Abraham Lincoln signed the 13th Amendment, outlawing slavery. This tour highlights Mitchelville in 1862, before the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. A native islander, Young’s roots extend to three generations of islanders: her father, grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles. From her shared history comes the desire to keep things authentic, the way her elders and ancestors would want it, she said.
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You get to know the culture and expand your mind and heart— you leave as a changed person. – COURTNEY YOUNG, DIRECTOR OF MARKETING FOR THE GULLAH CELEBRATION
“There are very few events that last so long, where you get to know the culture and expand your mind and heart – you leave as a changed person,” she said of the festival’s impact. The “Arts Ob We People” arts exhibit and sale is the longest-running event of the annual celebration, showcasing works by local and regional artists. It’s held at the Art League Gallery located at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. With a full roster of events held at significant historic sites across the island, the Gullah Celebration uses a textured, layered approach to paint the story of the Gullah culture, conveying the richness of the Lowcountry’s Gullah history and what it means as a cultural beacon far beyond the island. For a full schedule of the event, go to gullahcelebration.com.
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››Culture
Hilton Head Island Gullah Celebration Event Calendar n THROUGH FEBRUARY 28
“Arts Ob We People” Winter Exhibition and Sale Original work by emerging and leading artists that represents the lifestyle and traditions of the Gullah people. Artists will be onsite at various times throughout the exhibit. Free. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Art League Gallery at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843-681-5060 or gullahcelebration.com.
n FEBRUARY 1
Ol' Fashioned Gullah Breakfast A traditional Gullah breakfast featuring stewed oysters, shrimp in Lowcountry gravy, fried freshcaught fish, hot butter grits and fresh biscuits. All proceeds benefit the Hilton Head Island Gullah Museum. Donations accepted. 8 a.m.-noon, Cherry Hill School, 209 Dillon Road, Hilton Head Island. gullahcelebration.com. Freedom Day Established in 1948 by President Harry Truman in remembrance of Feb. 1, 1865 — the day President Lincoln signed the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, outlawing slavery. Take a journey through historic Mitchelville and learn what the people of Mitchelville were busy creating in 1862 before the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. Donations accepted. 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park, 226 Beach City Road, Hilton Head Island. gullahcelebration.com.
n FEBRUARY 1 & 6
“Hilton Head Island Back in the Day: Through Eyes of Gullah Elders” A feature-length documentary featuring Gullah elders, the descendants of freedmen and their personal stories about their communities, farming, fishing, upbringing, church, education, Northern migration, food ways and language, as well as the development that came with the construction of the bridge in 1956 and how it greatly impacted their lives. $10. 7-8:30 p.m., Coligny Theater, 1 North Forest Beach Drive, Hilton Head Island. gullahcelebration.com.
n FEBRUARY 4
Family and Friends Day Join Historic First African Baptist Church for a family night. The program will focus on traditional and contemporary Gullah songs, followed by a reception with samples of authentic Gullah food. Donations accepted. 7-8:30 p.m. Historic First African Baptist Church, 70 Beach City Road, Hilton Head Island. gullahcelebration.com.
n FEBRUARY 7
Gullah Heritage Music Series Featuring Male Quartets Celebrate and honor the spiritual thread that binds African ancestors and the Gullah of today. This installment of the Gullah Celebration’s heritage music series features the male choruses from Campbell AME Church, Historic First African Baptist Church, Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church and St. James Baptist Church. Donations accepted. 7-8:30 p.m., Historic First African Baptist Church, 70 Beach City Road, Hilton Head Island. gullahcelebration.com.
n FEBRUARY 8
Taste of Gullah An afternoon filled with authentic Gullah dishes like okra gumbo, conch stew, fried shrimp dusted in traditional Gullah seasonings and classic barbecue chicken and ribs. While you eat, enjoy the entertainment of local artists including traditional dancers, musicians and storytellers. $12. Noon-3 p.m., Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. gullahcelebration.com.
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n FEBRUARY 13 & 27
Paint and Sip Join us for a two-hour session and create memories that will last a lifetime. Exhibiting artists in the annual “Arts Ob We People” exhibit and sale will guide you with stroke-by-stroke instructions to help you paint your own unique masterpiece. $30. 6-8 p.m., Art League Academy, 106 Cordillo Parkway, Hilton Head Island. gullahcelebration. com.
n FEBRUARY 14
Gullah Heritage Music Series Featuring Gospel Classics Celebrate and honor the spiritual thread that binds African ancestors to the Gullah of today. This installment of the Gullah Celebration’s heritage music series features the Central Oak Grove Missionary Choir and First Zion Gospel Choir. Donations accepted. 7-8:30 p.m., Central Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church, 161 Matthews Drive, Hilton Head Island. gullahcelebration.com.
n FEBRUARY 15
Gullah Institute Presents: “How to Preserve Gullah Culture, Heritage & Family” This interactive discussion on how to collect and preserve Gullah cultural heirlooms including artifacts, recipes, stories, pictures and artwork with presentations from the Heritage Library, the Gullah-Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor and other leading experts. Donations accepted. 9-11 a.m., Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. gullahcelebration.com. Native Island Golf Classic: The golf tournament will be held at Bear Creek Golf Club in Hilton Head Plantation, 237 Whooping Crane Way, Hilton Head Island. Donations accepted. 9 a.m. registration and 10 a.m. shotgun start. 843-290-5943 or gullahcelebration.com.
n FEBRUARY 15-16
Gullah Market & Block Party: An Arts, Crafts and Food Expo The 2-day Gullah Market offers Gullah and African crafts and food, traditional storytelling, music and performances by Gullah Geechee Ring Shouters, Wona Womalan West African Drum and Dance Ensemble, Gullah Ooman Louise Cohen and Gullah Rappers, as well as a celebration of local African American authors on Feb. 16.
Rain or shine. $5 and free for those younger than 4. 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. gullahcelebration.com.
n FEBRUARY 21
n FEBRUARY 28
Gullah Heritage Music Series: Closing Night: Celebrate and honor the spiritual thread that binds African ancestors and the Gullah of today. This installation of the Gullah Celebration’s heritage music series features the St. James
Baptist Church choir and Time 4 Two. Donations accepted. 7-8:30 p.m., St. James Baptist Church, 209 Beach City Road, Hilton Head Island. gullahcelebration.com.
Gullah Heritage Music Series featuring the Voices of El Shaddai Celebrate and honor the spiritual thread that binds African ancestors and the Gullah of today. This installment of the Gullah Celebration’s heritage music series features the renowned Voices of El Shaddai. Donations accepted. Queen Chapel AME Church, 114 Beach City Road, Hilton Head Island. gullahcelebration.com.
FEBRUARY 23
Gullah Tales and Songs with the Legendary Ron Daise Singer, songwriter and Gullah preservationist Ron Daise presents Gullah tales and songs, freedom stories and regional folktales. Seating is limited and reservations are suggested. Donations accepted. 5 p.m., Comedy Magic Cabaret, 843 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. gullahcelebration.com.
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››History
132 hiltonheadmonthly.com
Tabby Treasure ARCHAEOLOGY PROJECT HOPES TO FILL IN GAPS IN HISTORY BY MELINDA COPP | PHOTOS SUPPLIED BY USCB
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s a child growing up on Hilton Head Island, Thomas Barnwell Jr., saw his dad let people break off souvenir pieces of a tabby ruin that sat, crumbling, on their Squire Pope Road property. Today, the University of South Carolina Beaufort and the Barnwell family have partnered in an archaeology project that sees the tabby ruin as a key to the past. The Barnwells, who have lived on the island for four generations and are descendants of enslaved people who worked on the property, didn’t know much about the ruin. As is the case for many descendants of slaves, there are gaps in their family history and genealogy. The structure is located on private property that was probably once part of Cotton Hope Plantation, and before that, Skull Creek Plantation. They know that it’s made of tabby — a composite building material made of shell, lime, and sand that has been used over the last 400 years — but that’s about it. As a child, Barnwell didn’t agree with his father letting people damage the building for souvenirs, and now that he’s an adult, he’s taken steps to preserve the structure.
February 2020 133
››History
He had it partially restored and covered with a roof, a process that started over 10 years ago. With the assistance of the Heritage Library on Hilton Head Island, he and his family have partnered with the University of South Carolina Beaufort’s Students Connected program to research the building’s history, hoping to determine when it was built, what purpose it served, and how his ancestors might have been involved. In the spring and summer of 2019, USCB anthropology professor Dr. Kimberly Cavanagh and her students spent almost every weekend excavating at the site. Inside the building, the students removed layers of soil covering a prepared cement floor and sifted through this fill. They found pieces of charcoal, animal bones, and a handful of glass and pottery fragments. Excavations in the center of the ruins uncovered a thick layer of tabby and lots of charcoal, suggesting that there might have been a hearth. All the artifacts they found are being processed and analyzed for clues. In addition to the excavation site, they’re searching historical archives for information about earlier plantations thought to have existed there. Cavanagh has enlisted help from other experts, including Dr. Audrey Dawson-Croft, an archaeologist from Columbia; Dr. Eric Plaag, founder and principal consultant at Carolina Historical Consulting, LLC; and Michelle Nelson, lab
134 hiltonheadmonthly.com
The tabby ruin on Squire Pope Road belongs to Thomas Barnwell Jr. and is the site of USCB archaeological research by students and others.
director of Utah State University’s (USU) Luminescence Laboratory. Nelson collected samples from various locations within the ruins and used a lab technique called optically stimulated luminescence to determine when the quartz sand grains in the samples were last exposed to sunlight. These test results and Plaag’s preliminary archival research suggest that the tabby ruins date from an earlier period than originally believed. The ruins may date from the island’s colonial period, but more archival research and analysis of the artifacts are needed to confirm this hypothesis. In addition to the Barnwell family’s contributions, other support for the project has come from Community
Foundation of the Lowcountry, the Seas Islands Institute at USCB, the University of South Carolina, a Hometown Humanities grant and the South Carolina Humanities Council. The ultimate goal is for Barnwell and the research team to be able to share what they learn with the community. Last spring, USCB conducted several school field trips to the site, where kids learned about the tabby ruin and got to help with the excavation. With guidance from the Barnwell family, Cavanagh and Dawson intend to develop a traveling educational exhibit and a digital archive based on the excavation. The Heritage Library’s bike tours also stop at the tabby ruins. Find out more online at heritagelib.org
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››Where to Worship
Members of St. Andrew-By-TheSea and First Zion Missionary Baptist Church partnered for a Bible study in Bluffton. Below: Children get ready to play Upward Basketball.
Love is the answer ST. ANDREW-BY-THE-SEA MINISTERS TO THE LOWCOUNTRY BY AMY COYNE BREDESON | PHOTOS SUBMITTED
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t the heart of the mission of St. Andrew By-The-Sea United Methodist Church is the idea that love should be demonstrated by ministering to others. The church believes that all members are “ministers” and should find ways to serve in the community. St. Andrew’s senior pastor, the Rev. Neil Yongue, said that love was part of the church long before he arrived in 2007. Since its founding in 1968, the church has ministered to the people of the Lowcountry, he said. For more than 40 years, St. Andrew, located at 20 Pope Ave. on Hilton Head Island, has hosted a fall festival to raise money for local charities, church outreach ministries and missions. The church supports several local nonprofit organizations, including Bluffton Self Help, The Deep Well Project, Backpack Buddies of Hilton Head and Bluffton, The Children’s Center, Penn Center and Lowcountry Legal Volunteers. “This church has in its heart a desire — an imperative that lives in the character of the church — to engage the community and to find ways to reach out to the Lowcountry,” Yongue said.
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That outreach includes free health screenings, blood drives, and an Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregiver Support Group. St. Andrew partners with Hudson’s Seafood House On the Docks to sponsor the annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner; the church also runs a soup kitchen from noon to 1 p.m. Fridays. Its Upward Sports program shares the Gospel through athletics. Part of a national initiative, St. Andrew offers Upward basketball for youth. “We’ll have 1,000 people come through on Fridays and Saturdays to watch their little ones play ball,” Yongue said. “For some folks, it’s really the only church that they’re going to know.” In 2014, St. Andrew opened a second campus in Bluffton. Now located at 39 Persimmon St., the Bluffton campus offers a more contemporary service than the traditional one at the Hilton Head location. The Rev. Daniel Burbage, who leads the Bluffton congregation, said the church has members of all ages, and is diverse ethnically and politically. “It’s a place where all people can come together, no matter what side of the coin
you find yourself on, and just focus on Jesus,” Burbage said. The Bluffton campus offers children’s programming during both services and a youth group for older kids. A monthly First Friday ministry is available so parents can drop off their children and have some time to themselves for a couple of hours. Yongue said the church has purchased a piece of property on Buckwalter, possibly to be used initially for an Upward Soccer program or similar. Eventually, the church will have its own building there. Along with all the work St. Andrew does throughout the community, the church makes sure to take care of its own members through its Stephen Ministry, which offers spiritual and emotional support to people going through difficult times. “The whole idea is to be a church that’s open and nurturing to the community,” Burbage said. Sunday services at the Hilton Head campus are at 9 and 11:15 a.m.; in Bluffton, services are held at 9 and 10:30 a.m. For more information, call 843-785-4711 or go to hhiumc.com.
Where toWorship
Lowcountry Presbyterian Church Surrounded by God’s grace, we are a family of faith joined together through Christ, offering meaning and hope to all by the way we worship, serve and live.
Sunday Worship Services at 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Childcare available at 10:30 a.m. service 10 SIMMONSVILLE ROAD BLUFFTON, SC 29910 (INTERSECTION OF HWY 278)
843-815-6570 LPCOFFICE1@HARGRAY.COM LOWCOUNTRYPRES.ORG
Lord of Life Lutheran Church
We at Lord of Life Lutheran Church seek to serve in the name of Christ.
Sundays 8:30am and 10:30am 351 BUCKWALTER PARKWAY BLUFFTON, SC 29910
A strong faith community starts with a powerful message.
LORDOFLIFE-BLUFFTON.ORG 843-757-4774
LET US HELP YOU REACH NEW MEMBERS. Contact: Heather Edge 843-707-2098 heather@yourlocalmarketingteam.com
UU Congregation of the Lowcountry An open-minded, open-hearted spiritual community
Sunday Schedule Meditation 9:15 a.m.
Service 10 a.m.
Childcare available 110 MALPHRUS ROAD, BLUFFTON, SC 29910 UULOWCOUNTRY.ORG
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Feb. 1 LOCAL RESTAURANTS WILL SERVE THEIR FAVORITE SOUPS FROM NOON TO 4 P.M. OUTSIDE AT COLIGNY PLAZA DURING THE SOUPERBOWL OF CARING FUNDRAISER TO BENEFIT NONPROFIT SECOND HELPINGS . LIVE MUSIC BY PRETTY DARN. $10. COLIGNYPLAZA.COM/ EVENTS
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Calendar | FEBRUARY
››Arts & Culture
the annual Mountainfilm Festival in Telluride. $10 for matinee, $50 for evening gala showing. 4:30 p.m. matinee; 7:30 p.m. evening gala showing. Coligny Theatre, 1 North Forest Beach Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-342-9826 or theislandacademy.com.
FEB. 1 ILLUMINATE BLUFFTON-HILTON HEAD: Holistic wellness, featuring jewelry, gifts, art and mini-sessions for the body. Admission includes hourly workshops on a wide range of topics. Tickets are $5 if purchased online, $6 at the door. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Hampton Inn & Suites, 29 William Pope Drive, Bluffton. 575-519-5883 or illuminatefestivals.com.
FEB. 1 INTERNATIONAL VEGAN FILM FESTIVAL SCREENING: A local screening from the International Vegan Film Festival, featuring a movie snack potluck and silent auction. Tickets are $10 online, $15 at the door. 6 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Lowcountry, 110 Malphrus Road, Bluffton. eventbrite.com.
FEB. 14 FEB. 5 RICHARD GRANT EXHIBIT: “GOOD VIBRATIONS”: Enjoy an opening reception for artist Richard Grant’s newest exhibit. Free. 5-7 p.m., SoBA Gallery, 6 Church St., Bluffton. 843757-6586 or sobagallery.com.
FEB. 7 MOUNTAINFILM ON TOUR: Mountainfilm on Tour travels to communities worldwide with a selection of current and best-loved films from
“JOURNEY TO THE MIDDLE”: Some of the area’s top comedians are at it again, just in time for date night. Tickets are $15-$70. 8-11:30 p.m., Coligny Theatre, 1 North Forest Beach, Hilton Head Island. “Like” the event on Facebook.
FEB. 17 ARTIST WORKSHOP: “LANDSCAPE WITH A LIMITED PALETTE”: A three-day workshop with Vermont artist TJ Cunningham. Instruction will center on creating compelling landscapes with just the three primary colors. Open to February 2020 139
››Calendar students of all levels. $315 for members, $350 for nonmembers. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Art League Academy, 106 Cordillo Parkway, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-5738 or artleaguehhi.com.
››Community/Charity FEB. 1 CHAMBER BALL: Chefs from Manhattan’s famed Windows on the World restaurant will partner with local chefs for course after course of tapas-style cuisine. Ticket prices start at $155. 6:30 p.m., Marriott Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa, 1 Hotel Circle, Hilton Head Island. 843-785-3673 or hiltonheadchamber.org.
FEB. 7 PUBLIC POLICY MEETING: A meeting for an exchange of ideas and dialogue on matters of public policy in the community. Free. 8-9 a.m., Chamber of Commerce, 1 Chamber of Commerce Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843785-3673 or hiltonheadchamber.org.
FEB. 15 FOR THE LOVE OF PAWS FUNDRAISER: Bring the whole family to this fun Valentinethemed fundraiser to support Hilton Head Humane Association, featuring live entertainment, a silent auction, cake walk and bake sale, dog adoptions and free photos. Free. 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Shelter Cove Community Park, 39 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843-681-8686 or hhhumane.org.
ARGENTINE TANGO LESSONS: Couples will learn the basics of the Argentine tango. Cost is $50 per couple for all four sessions. 6:157:30 p.m., Art League Academy, 106 Cordillo Parkway, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-5738 or artleaguehhi.org.
FEB. 13
FEB. 17
NAMI MARDI GRAS GALA: Join the National Alliance on Mental Illness for a Mardi Gras gala to find help and find hope. Colorful masks are a must. $125. 6 p.m., Sonesta Resort Hilton Head, 130 Shipyard Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-363-3100 or namilowcountry.org.
“THE AMAZING KRESKIN”: A performance by The Amazing Kreskin, who has astonished audiences worldwide with his unearthly ability to translate thoughts, predict the future and see the unseen. Suitable for all ages. $52. 8 p.m., Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-2787 or artshhi.com.
JAMMIN’ FOR HILTON HEAD HEROES: A night of live music to benefit Hilton Head Heroes, featuring dinner, drinks, a silent auction and more. $50. 6:30 p.m., Big Bamboo Cafe, 1 North Forest Beach Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-422-6343 or hhheroes.com
FEB. 1, 2
SOUTHERN COAST HEART BALL: An annual black-tie gala benefitting the American Heart Association’s lifesaving mission. Featuring a silent auction, dinner, live auction and entertainment. Tickets are $225-$1,500. 6 p.m.-midnight, The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa, 2 Grasslawn Ave., Hilton Head Island. 843-422-4542 or southerncoastheartball.org. 140 hiltonheadmonthly.com
FEB. 5, 12, 19 & 26
FEB. 27
››Dance & Theatre
FEB. 8
Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-2787 or artshhi.com.
LEAN ENSEMBLE THEATER PRESENTS “THE CHRISTIANS”: Pastor Paul has spent 20 years successfully growing his church from a small storefront to a gleaming megachurch, but now he fears that there may be a crack in the theological foundation. Written by Lucas Hnath and directed by Jay Briggs. $25-$40. 7:30 p.m. ThursdaySaturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. Lean Ensemble Theater, 3000 Main St., Hilton Head Island. 843-715-6676 or leanensemble.org.
FEB. 19-23 HILTON HEAD PREPARATORY SCHOOL PRESENTS “BEAUTY AND THE BEAST”: Join the Hilton Head Prep Theatre for a production of “Beauty and the Beast,” based on the Broadway musical. Prices vary. 7 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday; 2 p.m. matinee Saturday. Main Street Youth Theatre, 3000 Main St., Hilton Head Island. msyt.org.
››Food & Drink
FEB. 4-23
FEB. 1
NEIL SIMON’S “RUMORS”: A comedy about four couples who arrive at an anniversary celebration for New York’s deputy mayor and wife only to find the mayor with a gunshot wound and his wife nowhere to be found. The madcap antics at the dinner party spin off into farcical hilarity. Ticket prices and times vary.
SOUPERBOWL OF CARING: Local restaurants will be serving up their favorite soups for participants to taste and enjoy. All proceeds benefit Second Helpings. $10. Noon-4 p.m., Coligny Plaza, 1 North Forest Beach, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-6050 or colignyplaza.com.
FEB. 2 THE BIG BOWL 54: Watch the Super Bowl on the big screen. Featuring discounted beer, hot dogs, chili dogs, bowls of chili, Bud Light draft and beer buckets. Free. 5:30-10 p.m., Park Plaza Cinema, 33 Office Park Road, Hilton Head Island. 843-785-5001 or mannsparkplazacinema.com.
FEB. 3-9 CHAMBER RESTAURANT WEEK: Over 70 Bluffton and Hilton Head Island restaurants will offer specially priced or prix-fixe menus. It’s a great way to dine your way across the Lowcountry and try new places. hiltonheadisland. org/restaurantweek.
FEB. 7 LOWCOUNTRY LADIES LUNCHEON: An event to help support local women-owned businesses, featuring lunch, networking and meeting new friends. $30. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., EmployAbility, 1249 Eisenhower Drive, Savannah. 843-940-7116 or eventbrite.com.
FEB. 12 BENFORD BREWING BEER DINNER: Enjoy an evening of delicious food and craft beer, featuring Lancaster-based Benford Brewing. Guests will experience a five-course dinner, paired with five different Benford Brewing beers. $35. 6 p.m., Old Oyster Factory, 101 Marshland Road, Hilton Head Island. 843-681-6040 or oldoysterfactory.com.
BUFFALO TRACE BOURBON RAFFLE: A special pop-up dinner and bourbon tasting with a portion of proceeds going to support The Literacy Center. Enter a raffle to win a rare bottle of Buffalo Trace Distillery bourbon. Robert Simonson, the spirits writer for The New York Times, will draw the winning raffle ticket. $10 per raffle ticket. 5-7 p.m. and 7-9 p.m., Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar, 841 William Hilton Parkway, Unit A, Hilton Head Island. 843-815-6616 or theliteracycenter.org.
››Music FEB. 1 YOUTH CONCERTO COMPETITION: Ten finalists will compete in a rare opportunity for a young musician to perfect a concerto movement. Musicians who play violin, viola, cello or bass and are 18 years old or younger will perform their selections from memory for judges and a live audience. $15 for adults; free for students ages 18 and younger. 1 p.m., SoundWaves, 7 Lagoon Road, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-2055 or hhso.org.
FEB. 2 JOHN SHEPPARD IN RECITAL: Pianist John Sheppard will perform a selection of Bach, Brahms, Chopin, Joplin, Rachmaninoff, Scriabin, Debussy, Prokofiev and Shostakovich. Suggested donation is $20. 1 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Lowcountry, 110 Malphrus Road, Bluffton. 843-837-3330 or uulowcountry.org.
FEBRUARY 2020
FEB. 25 Feb 1 Feb 2 Feb 3 Feb 4 Feb 5 Feb 6 Feb 7 Feb 8 Feb 9 Feb 10 Feb 11 Feb 12 Feb 13 Feb 14 Feb 15 Feb 16 Feb 17 Feb 18 Feb 19 Feb 20 Feb 21 Feb 22 Feb 23 Feb 24 Feb 25 Feb 26 Feb 27 Feb 28 Feb 29 Feb 30 Feb 31
AM 5:46L 12:48H 1:38H 2:28H 3:20H 4:12H 5:03H 5:54H 12:21L 1:11L 1:59L 2:47L 3:36L 4:26L 5:19L 12:12H 1:12H 2:12H 3:13L 4:14L 5:14L 6:09H 12:29L 1:16L 2:00L 2:41L 3:20L 3:56L 4:33L 5:11L 12:01H
AM 12:27H 6:35L 7:32L 8:34L 9:35L 10:32L 11:24L ––– 6:42H 7:29H 8:14H 9:01H 9:50H 10:42H 11:36H 6:16L 7:19L 8:26L 9:33H 10:35H 11:32H 12:24L 6:59H 7:44H 8:26H 9:05H 9:43H 10:21H 11:01H 11:42H 5:53L
PM 6:25L 1:15H 2:03H 2:54H 3:46H 4:39H 5:30H 12:15L 1:03L 1:51L 2:38L 3:24L 4:11L 4:58L 5:49L 12:32H 1:29H 2:27L 3:26L 4:26L 5:24H 6:17H 1:12L 1:57L 2:38L 3:16L 3:52L 4:27L 5:02L 5:39L 12:26H
PM ––– 7:12L 8:04L 8:57L 9:50L 10:42L 11:32L 6:19H 7:06H 7:51H 8:37H 9:25H 10:17H 11:13H ––– 6:43L 7:42L 8:44H 9:45H 10:43H 11:38L ––– 7:06H 7:51H 8:33H 9:13H 9:53H 10:34H 11:16H ––– 6:21L
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››Calendar FEB. 13 SHORE NOTES: “BRINGIN’ DOWN THE HOUSE”: An award-winning show featuring the quartets Glamour, 4 The Moment and Songbird. $20. 7 p.m., Seahawk Cultural Center, 70 Wilborn Road, Hilton Head Island. 843-705-6852 or hiltonheadshorenotes.com.
FEB. 28 THE AFRICAN CHILDREN’S CHOIR PRESENTS “JUST AS I AM”: A special performance featuring well-loved children’s songs, traditional spirituals and gospel favorites. Free. 7 p.m., Christian Renewal Church, 95 Gardner Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-342-5433 or africanchildrenschoir.com.
››Outdoors/Sports FEB. 1 HILTON HEAD ISLAND RELAY: A Hood To Coast relay race. Each team of six will run or walk 58.5 miles, with every participant completing two legs of the race. Free. 4 a.m.-5 p.m., Beach House, 1 South Forest Beach Drive, Hilton Head Island. For more information, “like” the event on Facebook.
THROUGH FEB. 2 FIELD + FIRE FESTIVAL: Celebrate Palmetto Bluff’s rich sporting traditions in style with three days of shooting tournaments, a Lowcountry fox hunt, sporting dog and birds of prey exhibitions, a 13-station sporting clays tournament and more. Ticket prices, times and location vary. palmettobluff.com.
FEB. 3
FEB. 9
“BROADWAY AND THE AMERICAN SONGBOOK”: Attendees will experience a sampling of music from the era being discussed, followed by engaging discussion with presenters. Free. 6 p.m., Davenport House, 324 East State St., Savannah. 912-236-8097 or davenporthousemuseum.org.
“SUPERHEROES, ACTION AND ADVENTURE”: Enjoy cinematic scores from some of the biggest films of all time, like “Captain America,” “Batman,” “Iron Man,” “Thor” and “Superman.” Tickets are $30-$60. 5 p.m., 540 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-2055 or hhso.org.
FEB. 8
FEB. 13
SUTTON AND GRANSDEN AT THE JAZZ CORNER: Eight-time Grammy-nominated jazz vocalist Tierney Sutton will perform with trumpeter and vocalist Joe Gransden, as well as The Eric Jones Trio. $10. 7:30-11 p.m., The Jazz Corner, 1000 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. 843-842-8620 or thejazzcorner.com.
CHAPEL CONCERT SERIES: An evening of live acoustic music with the duo behind “Tobacco Road.” Cash bar. $35. 6:30-8 p.m., Palmetto Bluff May River Chapel, 476 Mount Pelia Road, Bluffton. palmettobluff.com.
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FEB. 1, 2 SEA PINES JUNIOR HERITAGE: Amateur golfers ages 13-19 are invited to participate in this two-day tournament that will feature some of the country’s finest junior golfers. Reservations required. $300. 8:30 a.m., The Sea Pines Resort, 32 Greenwood Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-363-8385 or seapines.org.
FEB. 2 SUPER BOWL SUNDAY 5K: A 5K, Kid’s Fun Run and golf cart decorating contest to benefit THON, a student-run philanthropy that aims to conquer pediatric cancer. $30. 10 a.m., Okatie Ale House, 25 William Pope Drive, Bluffton. 843-706-2537.
FEB. 8 HILTON HEAD MARATHON: A marathon, halfmarathon and 8K with a percentage of proceeds to benefit several area charities. $109 for marathon, $79 for half-marathon, $49 for 8K. 8 a.m., Jarvis Creek Park, 100 Jarvis Park Road, Hilton Head Island. hhmarathon.com.
FEB. 24 VIM PRO-AM GOLF CLASSIC: The William P. Stevens, Jr. Pro-Am Golf Classic will raise money for Volunteers in Medicine Hilton Head Island Clinic. An awards celebration with beer, wine and heavy hors d’oeuvres will follow. Golf registration is $250, awards celebration is $40. 10:30 a.m., Long Cove Golf Club, 399 Long Cove Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-689-6612 or vimclinic.org.
››Festivals/Events
A Big Deal
FEB. 1-28 HILTON HEAD ISLAND GULLAH CELEBRATION: Celebrate the native island Gullah culture through food, arts, crafts and traditions. An arts, crafts and food expo will be held at historic Honey Horn. For a detailed calendar of Gullah events, see pages 138-139 or go to gullahcelebration.com.
FEB. 7 KIDS’ OSCAR PARTY: Swing by after school to walk the red carpet, munch on some popcorn and watch Oscar-winning and Oscar-nominated Pixar short films. Registration required. Free. 3:30-4:30 p.m., Hilton Head Library, 11 Beach City Road, Hilton Head Island. 843-255-6529.
FEB. 8 MEET ME UNDER THE SEA: A daddy-daughter dance with light refreshments. $25 per couple, $10 per additional child. 6-8:30 p.m., Poseidon Rooftop Bar, 38 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. 843-681-7273 or islandreccenter.org.
FOR PLAYERS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD, THE BEST WAY TO GET TO HILTON HEAD IS BY BRIDGE BY BARRY KAUFMAN
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or the uninitiated, it seems like playing bridge requires speaking a foreign language. Swiss teams. Holding a blank hand. Biffing the led suit. Death holding. Double dummy. Gold points. Black points. Red points. Knockouts. But to those in the know, it’s the language of love — right up until you’re sat. Then silence rules, lest accusations of table talk begin to fly. “There is absolutely no communications (when you’re playing) other than the bidding box,” said local Silver Life Masterlevel player Marcia Cornell. And she means it. Cornell will be one of thousands of bridge players heading to the island Feb. 24-March 1 for this year’s Hilton Head Island Lowcountry Classic Regional at the Marriott Hilton Head Resort & Spa. That’s right. Thousands. The American Contract Bridge League holds hundreds of tournaments all over the continent, with each drawing massive crowds. Among these events, the Hilton Head Island tournament holds a spot of high distinction. “It’s consistently been among the top four or five in the country,” said event chairman Tom Schlossberg. “It’s an interesting thing about this tournament — Hilton Head Island is a very popular destination and even more so among bridge players. We’re kind of unique. I don’t know any other tournaments that offer an
oceanfront setting like Hilton Head.” Coming from as far away as Europe, players will flock to the island to compete for top honors. And their skill levels will range from complete beginners just earning their first gold points on up. All the way up. “Some of the top players in the world come not only to play, but to give lessons,” Cornell said. In addition to playing, Cornell will serve as a caddy representing the Shore Notes. Volunteers from Second Helpings will also be on hand as caddies, running boards between tables so players can remain seated during the game. “We bring in about 30 staff members for the technical things related to the game, but a lot of the work is done by volunteers, including the caddies,” Schlossberg said. And they will be kept busy, as the Marriott is transformed into a frenzy of activity during one of the bridge world’s biggest events. In fact, the tournament has grown so popular that this year is the first time in its decades of history that it will be held annually, rather than every two years. “The American Contract Bridge League asked us to do it every year,” Schlossberg said. “It’s just such a successful, pleasing venue that we were happy to step up and support it.” For more information, go to district7bridge.org.
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››Calendar FEB. 8 VALENTINE HEART HUNT: Children ages 12 and younger are invited to search South Beach for hidden hearts, redeemable for sweet treats at the Salty Dog. Wear pink and red. Free. 10 a.m., The Salty Dog, 232 South Sea Pines Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-671-2233 or saltydog.com.
FEB. 10 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION: Celebrate 100 years with the League of Women Voters of Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Area during a night of hors d’oeuvres, wine and special promotions. Free. 5-7 p.m., All Saints Episcopal Church, 3001 Meeting St., Hilton Head Island. 843-8373436 or lwvhhi.org.
FEB. 12 BLUFFTON BUSINESS EXPO: Staples of Bluffton has partnered with the Bluffton Chamber of Commerce to exhibit 40 local businesses and showcase their products and services. Free. 4-7 p.m., Staples, 1050 Fording Island Road, Bluffton. 843-757-1010 or blufftonchamberofcommerce.org.
FEB. 12 JUDE FRANCES TRUNK SHOW: View the new spring collection and pieces that will take you from day into evening. Enjoy a complimentary gift with purchase, light bites and bubbles. Free. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Forsythe Jewelers, 71 Lighthouse Road, Hilton Head Island. 843-671-7070 or forsythejewelers.biz.
FEB. 13 FEB. 24-MARCH 1 HILTON HEAD ISLAND SEAFOOD FESTIVAL: The 13th annual week-long event includes culinary and cultural celebrations showcasing the very best in savory dishes, crafted cocktails, gourmet wines and more. Enjoy samples prepared by celebrity guest chefs, family-friendly activities, barbecue from some of the best Southern pitmasters, hands-on cooking demos, eclectic tastings, live music and more. One hundred percent of the festival’s proceeds benefit the David M. Carmines Foundation, a 501c3 non-profit organization, founded by the Carmines family, which in turn donates its proceeds to other local charities, such as Coastal Discovery Museum, Port Royal Sound Foundation, Gullah Heritage Museum, Island Recreation Scholarship Fund, and the Medical University of South Carolina. Over $200,000 was donated to participating non-profits in 2019 with over 5 million dollars in new economic impact to the local area during the month of February each year. Event times, ticket prices and locations vary. hiltonheadseafoodfestival.com.
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TEEN OSCAR NIGHT: Come in and view a recent Oscar-nominated movie on the big screen. Pizza, popcorn and drinks will be served. Free. 5-7 p.m., Hilton Head Library, 11 Beach City Road, Hilton Head Island. 843-255-6529.
FEB. 13 “VALENTINES, VITTLES & VOICES”: To benefit its outreach programs, The Mary Green Chorale presents the full chorus, solos and small ensembles, along with a cooking demonstration by a professional chef, tours of the facility, a silent auction, hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. Tickets are $35 and available at marygreenchorale.org
and at Hilton Head Oils, Burke’s Main Street Pharmacy and Markel’s Card & Gift Shop. 5-7 p.m., University of South Carolina Hilton Head Campus, 1 Sand Shark Road, Hilton Head Island. marygreenchorale.org.
FEB. 14-16 SOUTHEASTERN WILDLIFE EXHIBITION: A three-day showcase of wildlife and nature. Featuring fine art exhibits, conservation education, sporting demonstrations, parties and more. Single-day admission is $25, a full weekend pass is $50; free for children ages 10 and younger. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Marion Square, 329 Meeting St., Charleston. sewe.com.
FEB. 13 SAVANNAH BOOK FESTIVAL: Celebrate books and the written word at this weekend-long festival, featuring national author appearances. Free. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Telfair Square, 121 Barnard St., Savannah. 912-598-4040 or savannahbookfestival.org.
FEB. 15-16 SAVANNAH IRISH FESTIVAL: A celebration of Irish heritage, featuring live musical acts, Irish dancers, activities and more. Ticket prices vary. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday; Noon-5 p.m. Sunday, Savannah Civic Center, 301 West Oglethorpe Ave., Savannah. savannahcivic.com.
FEB. 16 HILTON HEAD MONTHLY BRIDAL SHOW: The premier event of the year for brides, grooms, families, and wedding parties to meet and greet Lowcountry wedding professionals specializing in gowns, cakes, decorations, invitations and more. Free samples, raffles and contests. Get a free mimosa with advance tickets. $10. 1-4 p.m., Sonesta Resort Hilton Head, 130 Shipyard Drive, Hilton Head Island. hiltonheadmonthly.com.
FEB. 21 ANTIQUES APPRAISAL AND SILENT AUCTION: The Kiwanis Club of Bluffton’s annual fundraiser helps you learn more about your antiques, collectibles and other unique family heirlooms while helping the community. Featuring authorized appraisers and a silent auction. $10 per item appraised, $25 for three appraised items. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Seaquins Ballroom, 1300 Fording Island Road, Bluffton. “Like” the event on Facebook.
FEB. 28 COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE: Try acupuncture, relieve stress and relax. 4-7 p.m. at Integrative Pain Relief, 4 Dunmore Court, Hilton Head Island. 843-422-2592.
FEB. 28-MARCH 1 SATURDAY SEAFOOD FESTIVAL: The Seafood Festival’s headlining event features tasty cuisine, celebrity chef cooking demonstrations, a five-story Ferris wheel, expanded activities for kids, a silent auction, a beer garden, an artisan market, live music and more. $10. Noon-4 p.m., Honey Horn, Hilton Head Island. hiltonheadseafoodfestival.com.
STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT, AND CIRCULATION 1. Publication Title .................................................................................... FREY MEDIA INC/HILTON HEAD MONTHLY 2. Publication Number ....................................................................................................................................................24796 ISSN ........................................................................................................................................................................19430329 3. Filing Date ........................................................................................................................................................... 10/24/2019 4. Issue Frequency .................................................................................................................................................. MONTHLY 5. Number of Issues Published Annually ..............................................................................................................................12 6. Annual Subscription Price ..........................................................................................................................................$12.00 7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication 52 NEW ORLEANS RD, STE 300, HILTON HEAD ISLAND, BEAUFORT, SC 29928-4788 Contact Person ............................................................................................................................................... ANUSKA FREY Telephone ............................................................................................................................................(843) 842-6988 Ext. 250 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher 14 WESTBURY WAY, STE 200, BLUFFTON, SC 29910-7491 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor Publisher ............................................................................................................................................................... Anuska Frey .............................................................................................. 14 WESTBURY WAY, STE 200, BLUFFTON, SC 29910-7491 Editor .......................................................................................................................................................................Carol Weir ............................................................................................... 14 WESTBURY WAY, STE 200, BLUFFTON, SC 29910-7491 Managing Editor ................................................................................................................................................... Anuska Frey ............................................................................................... 14 WESTBURY WAY, STE 200, BLUFFTON, SC 29910-7491 10. Owner Full Name Complete Mailing Address .....................................Monthly Media LLC, 14 WESTBURY PARK WAY, STE (RANGE 200 - 202), BLUFFTON, SC 29910-7491 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Hoding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds. Mortgages, or Other Securities. .....................................................................................................................N/A Full Name Complete Mailing Address 13. Publication Title .................................................................................. FREY MEDIA INC/HILTON HEAD MONTHLY 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below ............................................................................................................. 10/01/2019 15. Extend and Nature of Circulation Average No. Copies Each Issue No. Copies of Single Issue
During Preceding 12 Months
Published Nearest to Filing Date
a. Total Numbers of Copies (Net press run) ................................................ 16000 .......................................16378 b. Paid Circulation (By Mail and Outside the Mail) (1) Mailed Outside County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541(include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies) .............................................. 0 ...............................................0 (2) Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541(include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies) ........................................... 8000 .........................................7800 (3) Paid Distribution Outside the Mails Including Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS.......................................... 0 ...............................................0 (4) Paid Distribution by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail) .......................................................................... 1000 .........................................1324
c. Total Paid Distribution (Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3), (4)) .............................. 9000 .........................................9124 d. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (By Mail and Outside the Mail) (1) Free or Nominal Rate Outside County Copies included on PS Form 3541 ............................................................................ 1000 .........................................1001 (2) Free or Nominal Rate In-County Copies included on PS Form 3541 ................................................................................................ 5000 .........................................4551 (3) Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes Through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail) ........................................................ 0 ...............................................0 (4) Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or other means) ............................................................................. 4000 .........................................4223 e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3), (4)) ........................................................................ 10000 ........................................9775 f. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15e) .................................................. 19000 .......................................18899 g. Copies not Distributed ............................................................................... 300 ...........................................300 h. Total (Sum of 15f and 15g) ...................................................................... 19300 .......................................19199 i. Percent Paid ((15c / 15f) times 100) ........................................................ 47.37% .....................................48.28% 16. If total circulation includes electronic copies, report that circulation on lines below. a. Paid Electronic Copies ............................................................................... 600 ...........................................640 b. Total Paid Print Copies(Line 15C) + Paid Electronic Copies .................. 9600 .........................................9764 c. Total Print Distribution(Line 15F) + Paid Electronic Copies ................. 19600 .......................................19539 d. Percent Paid(Both Print and Electronic Copies) ................................... 48.00% .....................................49.00% X I Certify that 50% of all my distributed copies (Electronic and Print) are paid above a nominal price. 17. X If the publication is a general publication, publication of this statement is required. Will be printed Publication not required. in the 11/01/2019 issue of this publication. 18. 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). Michael Lupi, Art Director
February 2020 145
››Calendar
››Education FEB. 3 “TRACKING BIRD MIGRATIONS”: Bob Speare will present a variety of ways that birds are being tracked, both locally and on a global scale. Reservations required. $7. 2 p.m., Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-689-6767 or coastaldiscovery.org.
FEB. 4 TPAC ANNUAL BENEFIT RECITAL: Ukranian pianist Dasha Bukhartseva and cellist Marcel Krasner will play a concert in honor of TPAC founding board member Bob Rada. 7 p.m. Feb. 4 at Tidepointe, 700 Tidepointe Way on Hilton Head Island. Tickets are $50 and include champagne and desserts sponsored by TidePointe. theperformingartsconsortium.org
FEB. 4 CAMELLIAS: Master Gardeners Donna and Fred Manske will present the history and romantic stories of the camellia, also called the “winter rose.” Reservations required. $10. 10 a.m., Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-689-6767 or coastaldiscovery.org.
FEB. 4 GULLAH DAYS: “Hilton Head Islanders Before the Bridge”: The book launch for Carolyn Grant, Thomas C. Barnwell, Jr., and Emory Shaw Campbell’s new book. Free. 6 p.m., First African Baptist Church, 70 Beach City Road, Hilton Head Island. 843-681-7066 or gullaheritage.com.
FEB. 5 H.L. HUNLEY PROGRAM: Historian Steve Quick will discuss H.L. Hunley, the submarine that was sunk off the coast of South Carolina during the Civil War. Reservations required. $7. 2 p.m., Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-689-6767 or coastaldiscovery.org.
FEB. 5 LUNCH AND LEARN: Learn about the art of barbecue from the folks at Jim ’N Nicks in Bluffton. Includes chicken, pulled pork and 146 hiltonheadmonthly.com
fixings, plus tips for at-home preparations. Free. Noon-1 p.m., Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage, 10782 South Jacob Smart Blvd., Ridgeland. 843-284-9227 or morrisheritagecenter.org.
FEB. 5 PALMETTO PLANT EATERS CLUB: Chef Amber Marie will discuss overcoming food addictions and emotional eating, which foods are most addictive and why, and how to manage related habits and challenges that interfere with health and wellness goals. Free. 6:30 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Lowcountry, 110 Malphrus Road, Bluffton. palmettoplanteaters.com.
FEB. 6 WAHHI LUNCHEON: Join the Women’s Association of Hilton Head Island for a luncheon focused on “Celebrating the Craft of Writing,” featuring a panel of local authors. $32 for members, $36 for guests. 10:30 a.m., Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island, 130 Shipyard Drive, Hilton Head Island. wahhi.org.
FEB. 8 ROSA PARKS PRESENTATION: “Building Bridges”: A presentation by Dr. Patricia FeltonMontgomery about Rosa Parks and the iconic moment when she inspired change in America. Registration required. Free. 10 a.m., St. Andrew By-The-Sea UMC, 39 Persimmon St., Bluffton. 843-705-3918 or hhiumc.com.
FEB. 10 “A FEATHERED WHO’S WHO IN THE LOWCOUNTRY”: Diana Churchill will give you an entertaining introduction to some of the Lowcountry’s bird celebrities. Reservations required. $7. 2 p.m., Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843689-6767 or coastaldiscovery.org.
FEB. 11 LOWCOUNTRY SPEAKER SERIES: Dr. Sanjay Gupta, neurosurgeon and chief medical correspondent for CNN, is this month’s featured speaker. Tickets are $110$130. 6:30 p.m., Marriott Hilton Head Resort & Spa, 1 Hotel Circle, Hilton Head Island. lowcountryspeakerseries.com.
FEB. 13 SWEETGRASS BASKET MAKING CLASS: Learn about the history of the sweetgrass basket from a local Gullah basket maker. Participants will start their own baskets using locally found natural materials. Reservations required. $65. 5-7 p.m., Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-689-6767 or coastaldiscovery.org.
FEB. 18 WORLD AFFAIRS COUNCIL’S EVENING SPEAKER SERIES: New York Times bestselling author Alex Kershaw will discuss a new perspective on D-Day. A book signing will follow the presentation. Free for members, $15 for guests. 5:15-7:15 p.m., SoundWaves, 7 Lagoon Road, Hilton Head Island. wachh.org.
FEB. 19 HERITAGE LIBRARY AUTHOR’S CHAT: Meet local authors who tell their stories of Lowcountry inspiration. They will join the group for tea, share about their books, and be available for book signings. $45. 1:30-3:30 p.m., South Carolina Yacht Club, 10 Yacht Club Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-686-6560 or heritagelib.org.
››Calendar FEB. 19
FEB. 21
FEB. 25
LOWCOUNTRY CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S CONNECTION: Lila Arnold, founder of Low Country Raptors, will have live birds on display. This month’s speaker is Sheree Darien from Ridgeland. $26. 11:30 a.m., Hampton Hall Clubhouse, 170 Hampton Hall Blvd., Bluffton. 843-705-7604.
“NUTRITION AND CANCER”: Part of a three-part series presented by Jan Kirk, RD, MPH. This month’s presentation will focus on eating healthy after a diagnosis. Nutritious snacks and recipes will follow the presentation. Free. 1 p.m., H.O.P.E. Life Lymphedema & Rehab Center, 60 Main St., Unit G, Hilton Head Island. 843-715-4146 or hopelifeandlymphedema.com.
MORRIS CENTER LECTURE: Charles Baxley will present a discussion about Francis Marion and the legend of the Swamp Fox. Free. 5 p.m., Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage, 10782 South Jacob Smart Blvd., Ridgeland. 843-2849227 or morrisheritagecenter.org.
FEB. 19 “THE HIDDEN BEAUTY OF SAND”: Explore the beauty and complexity of sand while examining actual samples from lecturer Tom Anderson’s private collection. Reservations required. $7. 2 p.m., Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843689-6767 or coastaldiscovery.org.
FEB. 21 WORLD AFFAIRS COUNCIL: Pulitzer Prizewinning author and journalist Joby Warrick illuminates the surprising roots of some of the most dangerous Islamists movements and explains how past policy decisions inadvertently contributed to their global expansion. Free for members, $15 for guests. 10 a.m., First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. wachh.org.
FEB. 26 “CONSERVATION THROUGH SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD”: Amy MacKown will demystify what sustainability means when it comes to fishing and eating seafood. Reservations required. $7. 2 p.m., Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-689-6767 or coastaldiscovery.org.
FEB. 24 BATTLES AND BREWS: This new program combines a local history lesson with a beer tasting. This month’s program will discuss the Battle of Honey Horn. $50. 5-7 p.m., FISH Casual Coastal Seafood, 1 North Forest Beach Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-686-6560 or heritagelib.org.
FEB. 20 DISCOVERY NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: “SEA CREATURES”: Host Stella Ann Anderson will discuss what lives under the sea. After examining some live creatures, guests will create their own unique sea creature using discarded items. Reservations required. $25. 5-7 p.m., Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-689-6767 or coastaldiscovery.org.
FEB. 21 MORRIS CENTER BOOK CLUB: This month’s book is “Trouble the Water” by Rebecca Bruff. Inspired by the life of an unsung American hero, Robert Smalls, this book navigates the rich tributaries of courage, betrayal and redemption. Free. 6 p.m., Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage, 10782 South Jacob Smart Blvd., Ridgeland. 843-284-9227 or morrisheritagecenter.org. 148 hiltonheadmonthly.com
FEB. 24 OYSTER SHELL RECYCLING: Jean Fruh will discuss how a small grass-roots nonprofit group received funding from environmental giant Patagonia to establish a community-based oyster shell recycling and bed restoration project in the area. Reservations required. $7. 2 p.m., Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-689-6767 or coastaldiscovery.org.
FEB. 24-28 LOWCOUNTRY SEAFOOD EXPERIENCE: A two-hour excursion that includes instruction on shrimping, oystering, clamming and crabbing with a couple of the Lowcountry’s foremost watermen. Guests will enjoy the fruits of their labor afterwards. $89. 10 a.m., Noon, 2 p.m., daily. Hudson’s Seafood House On the Docks, 1 Hudson Road, Hilton Head Island. 843-6812772 or hudsonsonthedocks.com.
FEB. 27 “INDIGO EXPLORATION”: Take a journey to the past to “meet” Eliza Lucas Pinckney, learn how indigo dye was made and make your own indigo dye T-shirt. Family friendly. Reservations required. $15. 5-7 p.m., Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. 843-689-6767 or coastaldiscovery.org.
FEB. 28-MARCH 1 “THROUGH THEIR EYES”: Spend an afternoon with Harriet Tubman and Robert Smalls. Through first-person storytelling and reenactment, this special program engages the audience with the lives of the historic icons. Free. 3 p.m., Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage, 10782 South Jacob Smart Blvd., Ridgeland. 843284-9227 or morrisheritagecenter.org.
››Save the Date MARCH 6 – 8
DARIUS RUCKER INTERCOLLEGIATE GOLF TOURNAMENT: Long Cove Club, in partnership with Darius Rucker and the University of South Carolina, is hosting the ninth annual Darius Rucker Intercollegiate
Golf Tournament presented by Kroger and PXG. The tournament will be held March 6-8. Top teams from around the country will travel to the island to compete for the title. Spectators are welcome at no charge. longcoveclub.com/darius-rucker-intercollegiate
MARCH 6 SPORTING CLAY FUNDRAISER: A unique fundraiser to benefit Pockets Full of Sunshine, featuring a full day of food, exhibition, shooting, awards and reception. Also includes an auction highlighting handcrafted and screen-printed items made by special-needs adults. $45 for spectators, $300 for individual clay shooters, $1,200 for teams of four. 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Forest City Gun Club, 9203 Ferguson Ave., Savannah. 843-384-1315 or pocketsfullofsun.org.
MARCH 7 JEWELS AND JEANS: Put on your denim and dancing shoes for the Foundation for Educational Excellence’s annual event. Featuring Deas Guyz, appetizers and food. 6-9:30 p.m., Hilton Head Beach & Tennis Resort, 40 Folly Field Road, Hilton Head Island. 843-301-7150 or foundationedexcellence.com.
MARCH 9-14 HILTON HEAD INTERNATIONAL PIANO COMPETITION: one of the leading international piano competitions in the U.S. holds its 24th competition. Twenty of the world’s best pianists, ages 13 - 17, compete for $22,000 in cash prizes, a return concert with the HHSO and other engagements. 540 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island. Tickets available at hhso.org
MARCH 14 GOLF TOURNAMENT AND VEGAS CASINO NIGHT GALA: A special fundraiser for St. Francis Catholic School. Kick off the afternoon with a round of golf at Palmetto Hall, followed by an evening of casino games, prizes, dancing, dinner and live and silent auctions at the Vegas Casino Night Gala. Golf is $100 per player; gala tickets are $80 per person. 1 p.m. golf tournament, 6-11 p.m. gala. St. Francis Catholic School, 45 Beach City Road, Hilton Head Island. 843-681-6501 or stfrancishhi.org. TEDXHILTON HEAD: A day that brings together prestigious national and local speakers, celebrating those who are “making waves” to create a positive impact in the world. $72. 8:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. tedxhiltonhead.com.
MARCH 21 BOYS & GIRLS CLUB GALA: The theme of this year’s Boys & Girls Club Gala is “Creating Pathways to Great Futures.” Featuring a cocktail reception, silent auction, live auction and dancing. Black-tie optional. $225 per person or $2,250 for a table of 10. $6 p.m., The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa, 2 Grasslawn Ave., Hilton Head Island. 843-689-3646 or bgchiltonhead.org.
FOR A FULL LIST OF THIS MONTH’S CALENDAR AND ONGOING EVENTS OR TO SIGN UP FOR OUR WEEKLY NEWSLETTER VISIT HILTONHEADMONTHLY.COM February 2020 149
Upcoming purchase tickets today
Events
March 27-29 Order your tickets on My Lowcountry Tix For more information go to www.paradeofhomestour.com
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2020
5-7 pm at the USCB Hilton Head Campus 1 Sand Shark Road • To Benefit the MGC Outreach Program
VALENTINES VITTLES & VOICES
YOU’RE INVITED TO THE
2020
BRIDAL SHOW February 16, 2020 | 1:00-4:00 pm
Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT MYLOWCOUNTRYTIX.COM BUY YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE AND GET A FREE MIMOSA
Featuring The Mary Green Chorale
Music • hHors d’oeuvres cooking demo • tours silent auction • cash bar tickets $35 online at marygreenchorale.org also available by cash or check at these locations: Hilton Head Oils, Wexford Village • Burke’s Main Street Pharmacy Markel’s Card & Gift Shop in Bluffton
WIN 2 TICKETS to the Hilton Head Bridal Show Enter Now at hiltonheadbridalshow.com Winner will be announced Feb 14th, 2020
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For Additional Information, Call (843) 271-1334
For more information on promoting your next event: call Karrie at 843-949-2591
››Dining Briefs
LUCKY ROOSTER’S NEW LOOK
Brigid and Brian Fackrell
SLAPFISH RESTAURANT NOW OPEN
Slapfish, the nation’s fastest growing seafood restaurant, has opened at 1024 William Hilton Parkway near Sea Pines Circle. Slapfish on Hilton Head is locally owned and operated by the Lomasney family. The restaurant’s marketing materials say it “serves honest flippin’ seafood infused with lots of flavor.”
TRATTORIA DIVINA CLOSES
South-end Italian restaurant Trattoria Divina closed its doors permanently in January. Owners Harry Morales and Tamara Bream posted the announcement to the restaurant’s Facebook and Instagram pages. In the post, they thanked the restaurant’s staff and patrons for seven years in business.
NEW DISTILLERY COMING TO BEAUFORT
RLB Distillery will open this spring in a 5,000-square-foot space on Boundary
Street. The business will produce rum, vodka, moonshine and bourbon on site at the former K-Mart site in Beaufort Town Center. Visitors will be able to sample the spirits from a room overlooking stills and towers where the process will unfold. The business will include retail sales of merchandise such as shirts and shot glasses and the bottled products. Owners are Lady’s Island residents Brigid and Brian Fackrell. Grain will come from Orangeburg and sugar cane from Hampton
FALLEN OAK LAGER NOW AVAILABLE
Falling Oak Lager, the latest offering from Southern Barrel Brewing, is now available in multiple Sea Pines locations. This dry-hopped lager is named after a tenacious Southern Live Oak that blew over more than 170 years ago on what is now the property of The Sea Pines Resort. The lager is available in the pro shops at Harbour Town Clubhouse and Planation Golf Club, and also on draft at all restaurants in The Sea Pines Resort.
After closing for renovations in December, Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar has reopened with a new look. The interior renovations follow an update to the restaurant's patio this summer, which was completed in time for a watch party of Rollison's appearance on Guy's Grocery Games. The new look also comes with new dishes from their updated winter menu.
LONGHORN STEAKHOUSE NOW OPEN IN BEAUFORT
LongHorn Steakhouse officially opened its newest restaurant in Beaufort in January. The restaurant celebrated the opening with a “lasso cutting” ceremony. The 5,660-squarefoot restaurant seats more than 180 guests and will be led by Amy Otterline as Managing Partner. The restaurant will add more than 60 jobs in Beaufort.
CONSTRUCTION BEGINS ON BURNT CHURCH DISTILLERY
Construction on the new Burnt Church Distillery began in January. The 20,000-square-foot facility will include a tasting room, a pizza restaurant, a manufacturing building and a rick house to store whiskey barrels. Owners Billy and Sean Watterson expect the facility to create around 27 new jobs. February 2020 151
Our Favorite
Restaurants Brought to you by Monthly, Fork & Fun and Vacation Guide
Hilton Head – North End CocoNutz Sportz Bar
40 Folly Field Road HHI Beach & Tennis Resort 843.842.0043 Open to the public. Imagine your favorite sporting events shown on dual 125” high-definition screens and 18 other TV’s tuned in to every sporting event imaginable. That’s what you will find at CocoNutz. If you get hungry, try the “Island’s Best Wings,” 1st place at Wingfest 2017, craft burgers and brews, prime rib.
Crazy Crab Jarvis Creek Hwy. 278 (near Mile Marker 1) 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.
Gator’z Pizza
40 Folly Field Road HHI Beach & Tennis Resort 843.842.0043 Be sure to stop by Gator’z Pizza and order the “Bigly” MEGA Pizza. It’s 400 square inches of pizza perfection! These delicious pizzas are available for both dine in and take out.
Healthy Habit
33 Office Park Road Suite 227 843.686.5600 | 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.
Old Fort Pub
Healthy Habits
33 Office Park Rd., suite 227 843-686-5600 | 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 utilizing the freshest ingredients possible.
Il Carpaccio
200A Museum St. (Across from Walmart) 843.342.9949 Serving a wide variety of authentic Italian cuisine, ranging from cuisine of Northern Italy to genuine crispy, thincrust, Italian-style pizza. Casual, attractive restaurant, with large, attractive bar and a genuine brick oven (imported from Italy) for baking pizza.
65 Skull Creek Drive 843.681.2386 | OldFortPub.com Dine indoors or on the patio, 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. (Port Royal Plaza) 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. 152 hiltonheadmonthly.com
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 Alexander’s Restaurant & Wine Bar 76 Queens Folly Rd. (Palmetto Dunes) 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.
Big Jim’s BBQ, Burgers & Pizza 7 Trent Jones Ln. (Palmetto Dunes) 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.
ELA’S Blu Water Grille
1 Shelter Cove Ln. (Shelter Cove) 843.785.3030 | elasgrille.com
Fresh catch seafood and prime cut steaks of the highest quality, artfully prepared by their team of culinary experts, compliment the extensive boutique wine selection. Overlooking Shelter Cove marina and Broad Creek, ELA’S offers the island’s best water views. Reservations recommended.
Fishcamp on Broad Creek
11 Simmons Road (Adjacent to Broad Creek Marina) 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
Have breakfast or lunch inside or outdoors in this bakery/café. Enjoy crepes, omelets, breads, baguette & panini sandwiches, salads, soups, quiches & pastries. Traditional French recipes.
Jamaica Joe’z Beach Bar
40 Folly Field Rd. (Mid-island) 843.842.0043 | hhibeachandtennis.com Open 7 days. Steps from the beach and a great place to kick back, snack on some pork nachos or a burger, and cool off with a frozen cocktail,cold beer or a soft drink.
Jane Bistro & Bar
28 Shelter Cove Lane (Shelter Cove Towne Centre) 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 with pommes frites. Open daily.
Island Bagel & Deli
S. Island Square 843.686.3353 | islandbagelanddeli.com The island's only New York style boiled bagels made daily. Choose from 16 flavors of bagels, 12 home-made cream cheeses. For lunch: specialty hoagies, classic sandwiches & salads.
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Old Oyster Factory
101 Marshland Rd. 843.681.6040 | OldOysterFactory.com Panoramic marsh and water views. Specializing in fresh seafood and some of the best steaks on Hilton Head. featured in The Wall Street Journal's “Off the Beaten Track.” Wine Spectator magazine’s “Award of Excellence.”
Healthy Habits
33 Office Park Rd., suite 227 843-686-5600 | healthyhabithhi.com
San Miguel’s
9 Harbourside Ln. (Shelter Cove Harbour) 843.842.4555 | sanmiguels.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 utilizing the freshest ingredients possible.
Located directly on the harbour at Shelter Cove and provides good food and fun. Extensive California/Mexican menu. Try San Miguel’s Fish Tacos, fajitas and chimichangas. Lunch and dinner served daily.
Santa Fe Cafe
807 William Hilton Parkway (Plantation Center by Palmetto Dunes) 843.785.3838 | santafecafeofhiltonhead.com
Charlie’s L’Etoile Verte
Casually elegant dining that captures the spirit of New Mexico. Signature items include Parmesan Chipotle Grouper, 24-ounce bone-in ribeye steaks, fajitas , & Painted Desert Soup.
8 New Orleans Road 843.785.9277 | charliesgreenstar.com Open since 1982, Charlie’s, an island favorite among locals and tourists alike, writes its menu daily based on the freshest seafood available. Dinner menu offers an array of 14 fresh fish, rack of lamb, filet mignon and more. An extensive wine list.
Sea Grass Grille
807 William Hilton Parkway (Plantation Center by Palmetto Dunes)
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.
Up the Creek Pub & Grill
18 Simmons Rd. (Broad Creek Marina) 843.681.3625 | upthecreekpubandgrill.com Located on Broad Creek with great marina and water views. Known for smoked wings, hush puppies, buffalo chicken dip, beer selection and the best burgers. Kids menu available. Dogs are welcome.
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 all-youcan-eat crab legs, sizzling fajitas, & margaritas. Reservations & large parties welcome. Private dining/event area. Live entertainment (seasonally) on the covered patio. 154 hiltonheadmonthly.com
Big Bamboo
1 N. Forest Beach Dr. (Coligny Plaza) 843.686.3443 | bigbamboocafe.com Where the South Pacific meets the Carolina Coast just steps from the beach. A casual hangout with a local vibe 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, steak & mushroom pie, lobster pot pie and bangers & mash.
Carolina Crab Company 86 Helmsman Way 843.842.2016 | carolinacrabco.com
Boasting water views, enjoy fresh seafood at an affordable price in a family-friendly atmosphere. Offering an array of seafood; peel-n-eat shrimp, giant Po Boys, burgers, Maine lobster, & crab legs. Pet-friendly outside bar & patio.
Catch 22
37 New Orleans Rd. (Orleans Plaza near Sea Pines Circle) 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 of our beef is aged 28 days, U.S.D.A prime, hand selected and cut in house.
ChowDaddy’s
14b Executive Park Rd. (off of Pope Ave.) 843.757.CHOW(2469) | chowdaddys.com Offering a wide variety of menu items focusing on buns, bowls, and tacos and great libations. Serving lunch & dinner daily.
Cowboy Brazilian Steakhouse
1000 William Hilton Parkway, B-6 843.715.3565 | cowboybraziliansteakhouse.com A unique, all-you-can eat “Churrascaria.” Enjoy a 30 item salad bar, 6 Brazilian hot dishes and a “parade” of 16 USDA Prime cuts of beef, lamb, chicken and pork carved at your table by their gauchos.
CQ’s Restaurant
140 Lighthouse Rd. 843.671.2779 | CQsRestaurant.com Fine dining, an intimate atmosphere and a bit of Hilton Head history. Signature dishes include fresh seafood, beef & game.“Bistro” menu offers smaller portions.
Crane’s Tavern Steakhouse & Seafood 26 New Orleans Rd. 843.341.2333 | cranestavern.com
Perfect for steak and seafood lovers, serving cuts of only USDA Prime grade beef, their Famous Prime Rib. Excellent selection of fresh fish, seafood & pasta dishes.
Crazy Crab Harbour Town Sea Pines at 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. Dine in the heart of Sea Pines at Harbour Town.
Captain Woody’s
6 Target Rd. (off of Palmetto Bay Rd.) 843.785.2400 Enjoy “Fresh Seafood, Cold Beer & Great Happy Hour & Still A Locals Favorite For Over 30 Years!” Dine inside or outside on the patio. Serving a variety of fresh seafood, sandwiches, award winning soups and salads all at affordable prices.
Delisheeyo
32 Palmetto Bay Road 843.785.3633 | delisheeeyo.com Vegetarian. Delisheeyo owner Blake Wearren set out to create a place for people to escape for lunch. The fruit and veggie smoothies are a quick meal by themselves. Their Buddha Bowls, consisting of steamed grain and healthy toppings of your choice, is a favorite of the regulars. Delisheeyo’s mission is to provide meals that you can trust, that are real, and healthy.
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Kenny B’s Cajun/Creole Seafood 70-A Pope Ave. 843.785.3315
Nunzio Restaurant + Bar 18 New Orleans Road 843.715.2172 | nunziohhi.com
Popular New Jersey chef Nunzio Patruno has brought his acclaimed cooking style to Hilton Head Island. Nunzio Restaurant + Bar specializes in fresh seafood and homemade pasta. Enjoy a delicious meal in the beautifully renovated 1,300-square-foot restaurant equipped with a large bar area and two outdoor seating areas.
“Creole cuisine with a Lowcountry influence.” Order New Orleans traditions such as jambalaya, red beans and rice, and authentic gumbos. Kenny B’s is home of the Island’s best po’ boys and fried seafood. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch.
Michael Anthony’s
37 New Orleans Rd. (Orleans Plaza) 843.785.6272 | michael-anthonys.com Family owned and operated since 2002, 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. Dinner is served Monday - Saturday. Reservations suggested.
MidiCi Italian Kitchen Hilton Head Diner
7C Greenwood Dr. (Reilley’s Plaza) 843.842.7999
House-made crusts: traditional hand tossed, thin crust and thick Sicilian. Create-Your-Own-Chopped Salad from 40 different item choices. Specialty subs are served on Amoroso rolls.
One of the island’s only 24-hour restaurants. Modern diner boasting one of Hilton Head’s most extensive menus. All baking is done on the premises. Beer, wine & mixed drinks available. breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.
MidiCi Italian Kitchen brings Italy’s original Neapolitan woodfired pizza and authentic pasta to Reilley’s Plaza on Hilton Head Island. Taste the freshness of quality ingredients – pizza made with Italian flour in authentic wood-fired ovens. Enjoy signature appetizers, salads, and desserts made with fresh, natural and mostly non-GMO ingredients.
Flatbread Grill & Bar
Hinchey’s Chicago Bar & Grill 70 Pope Avenue 843.686.5959 | hincheys.com
9 Park Lane 843.686.2920 | nickssteakandseafood.com
Upscale, casual dining. Enjoy Neapolitan pizza, fresh pasta, gourmet salads, burgers, wraps, flatbread sandwiches and more. Dough & sauces are freshly made.
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. Open seven days a week serving lunch and dinner.
Nick’s Steak & Seafood emphasizes steaks, seafood and barbecue and offers sandwiches, salads, appetizers, soups, burgers, pasta and a children’s menu. Reservations accepted. Large parties welcome.
Hinoki Restaurant & Sushi Bar
Palmetto Bay Sun Rise Café
Serving traditional Japanese dishes including grilled fish, chicken and steak, sukiyaki, noodle dishes, tempura, and daily specials, plus sushi and sashimi. More than 20 entrées. Reservations are recommended for dinner.
Breakfast fare starting before the sun rises, from 6 a.m. Breakfast and lunch items are available continuously. The cafe offers to-go lunches for charter boats, the beach or any other occasion. Open seven days a week.
Gusto Ristorante
It’s Greek To Me
Phillys Cafe & Deli
Voted Hilton Head's Best New Restaurant. Executive chef/ owner Giancarlo Balestra and his wife Nancy bring the flavors of his hometown of Rome Italy to Hilton Head. Closed Monday.
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. Greek beer and ouzo. Reservations accepted.
Locally owned and operated for more than 25 years, 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.
Dough Boys Pizza
1 New Orleans Rd. 843.686.2697 | DoughBoysHHI.com
2 N. Forest Beach Dr. (Beach Market Center) 843.341.2225 | flatbreadgrillhhi.com
Frosty Frog Cafe & Pizza Coligny Plaza 843.686.FROG | frostyfrog.com
Dine inside or out on the large patio w/retractable roof. Enjoy daiquiris, wine, beer & a full liquor bar; menu includes burgers, crabcakes, salads, wraps, pizza, calzones, crab legs, shrimp, extensive gluten-free options & a kids menu.
890 William Hilton Parkway (Fresh Market Plaza) GustoHiltonHead.com
156 hiltonheadmonthly.com
Hwy. 278 at Yacht Cove Dr. 843.686.2400 | hiltonheaddiner.com
37 New Orleans Rd. (Orleans Plaza) 843.785.9800 | hinokihhi.com
11 Lagoon Rd. 843.842.4033 | itsgreektomehhi.com
Nick’s Steak & Seafood
Palmetto Bay Marina 843.686.3232 | palmettobaysunrisecafe.com
55 New Orleans Rd. 843.785.9966 | phillyscafe.com
Red Fish
8 Archer Rd. (a half mile from Sea Pines Circle) 843-686-3388 | redfishofhiltonhead.com Red Fish specializes in beautifully prepared seafood and steaks. Diners may choose from a 1,000-plus bottle selection of wines from around the world. Private dining room for large parties. Multi-course early dining specials from 5-5:45 p.m. feature soup or salad; choice of seven entrées; and complimentary glass of chef’s choice of wine.
Reilley’s Grill & Bar
7D Greenwood Dr. (Reilley’s Plaza) 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. Enjoy Mon.Night Lobster and Fri. & Sat. Prime Rib (reservations required).
Sea Shack
6 Executive Park Rd. (off Pope Ave.) 843.785.2464 | seashackhhi.com Serving up 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. Open Mon.-Sat. for lunch & dinner.
Ombra Cucina Italiana
1000 William Hilton Parkway (Village at Wexford) | 843.842.5505 | ombrahhi.com Chef Michael Cirafesi promotes the foods & wines of Italy. He prepares all pastas, homemade gnocchi, desserts and breads daily. An extensive wine list from every region in Italy. A European-style bar & lounge with a vast selection of Italian cocktails. Peanut-free. Gluten-free pasta available. Open 7 days a week from 4:30. Reservations recommended, walk-ins welcome.
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››Dining | Favorites BLUFFTON
Amigos, Bluffton 133 Belfair Town Village 843.815.8226
Rockfish Seafood & Steaks at Bomboras
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.
A unique family seafood restaurant and bar that is located right near the beach. Offering fresh and local lowcounty ingredients paired with craft beers and wines. Kids menu. Lunches to Go for the beach.
British Open Pub
5 Lagoon Road 843.689.2662 | rockfishhhi.com
Salty Dog Cafe
South Beach Marina Village, Sea Pines, 843.671.7327 | saltydog.com One of Hilton Head’s favorite outdoor cafes for more than 20 years. Fresh seafood. Located at South Beach Marina, overlooking Braddock Cove. Both indoor and outdoor seating are available. Live music and children’s entertainment nightly during the season.
Stack’s Pancakes & More
Truffles
Family owned & operated, serving breakfast & lunch, 7 days. Enjoy pancakes, waffles, house-made fruit sauces, crepes, Crème Brûlée French Toast, shrimp & grits, crab benedict, shrimp omelet topped with lobster cream sauce. Gluten free items.
Fresh local seafood, Black Angus steaks, baby back ribs, homemade soups, sandwiches, and garden salads. Specialties include glazed grouper, mango salmon, crab cakes, chipotle chicken, meatloaf and fried shrimp. Daily from 11am.
2 Regency Pkwy. & Hwy. 278 843.341.3347
Stellini
Sea Pines Center 843.671.6136 | trufflescafe.com
11 Palmetto Bay Road, #102 (next to Staples) 843.802.0510
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. Gluten Free & Children’s Menu.
Open Monday through Saturday, 5-11 p.m. A local cocktail and wine bar. You can find it in Festival Center Plaza, near the Sea Pines Circle.
Vine
20 Executive Park Road 843.785.6000 | studiodining.com
Coligny Plaza Shopping Center 1 N Forest Beach Drive 843.686.3900
Dine while enjoying watching artists paint in the elegant studio. The menu is inspired by American and global cuisines and uses the finest regional, natural & organic ingredients. Gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan menu offerings.
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. Dinner starting at 5:30 p.m.
158 hiltonheadmonthly.com
Calhoun Street Tavern
9 Promenade St. 843.757.4334 | calhounstreettavern.co A place where fine spirits are drunk, laughs are had, and stories are told. Cold beer, classic cocktails, and familiar faces paired with a chef driven menu of southern plates and comforting lowcountry classic food.
ChowDaddy’s
15 Towne Dr. (Belfair Towne Village) 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.
Twisted Cork
15 Executive Park Rd. (near Sea Pines Circle) 843.785.7006 | stellinihhi.com
The Studio
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.
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 homemade cream cheeses, pastries & breakfast sandwiches. For lunch: specialty hoagies, classic sandwiches & salads.
Captain Woody’s
17 State of Mind St. (Calhoun Street Promenade)
843.757.6222 Enjoy “Fresh Seafood, Cold Beer & Great Happy Hour & Still A Locals Favorite For Over 30 Years!” They have dining inside and outside on the patio. A big outdoor deck bar featurs beer, wine and specialty cocktails. Captain Woody’s serves fresh seafood, great signature sandwiches, award winning soups and salads all at affordable prices.
Cinco Mexican Grill
102 Buckwalter Parkway, Suite 3D (Berkeley Place) | 843.815.2233 | cincomexgrill.com Authentic Mexican cuisine made from scratch using both traditional and modern recipes. Popular dishes are the Cinco Bowl, Piña Fajitas, Carnitas, Enchiladas, Chimichangas, Flautas and flan.
Corner Perk
843.816.5674 | cornerperk.com A coffeehouse/brunch restaurant where city meets South. Corner Perk offers the most amazing locally roasted Coffees, Teas, Espresso drinks, Cold Brew, Frappes as well as Skillets, Omelettes, Wraps, Sandwiches, and Salads.
Gourmet on Wheels/Grab and Go
61 Riverwalk Blvd., Unit E | 843.970.3030 | gourmetonwheels.org Gourmet on Wheels Delivery provides individually prepared healthy meals and delivers to your door weekly. Go online and choose your entrees with sides each week. Also, check out their Gourmet Grab and Go store with fresh made salads, meals, smoothies and more.
Grind Coffee Roasters
1 Sherington Drive, Suite J | 843.368.3348 | grindroasters.com Grab a cup of Grind’s specialty coffee made with beans from Columbia, Brazil, Guatemala, Honduras, Kenya and more. Other options include infused coffee barrel-aged in bourbon and whiskey barrels, and coffee infused with essential oils. Come inside or take advantage of the drive-thru.
Jack Frost
25 William Pope Center | 843.705.5669 | jackfrosticecream@gmail.com Fresh, frozen treats from scratch. Try flavors like cake batter and cookie dough, or their sorbets made with seasonal fruits. Stop by the parlor, where you can sit outside and perhaps sight Jack the alligator. Planning an event or party? They'll bring all the sweet stuff to you! Open Mon Sun, 1pm - 9pm.
Olive & Fig
1533 Fording Island Road, Suite 326 (Moss Creek Village) | 843.605.4093 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. Open Mon-Sat Closed Sundays.
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. February 2020 159
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIKE RITTERBECK
››Last Call
Where has the truth gone?
Marc Frey – media entrepreneur mfrey@freymedia.com
Does anybody ever scroll through 900 pages of results?
A list of my trustworthy websites: Aspen Institute Ideas, BBC.com, Brooking Institute.com, C-Span, The Economist, Foreign Policy.com, Real, Clear Politics.com, Reuters.com, PBS The News Hour, Ted Talks, Wall Street Journal, Wikipedia 160 hiltonheadmonthly.com
I
n these “modern” times, discerning the truth seems more challenging than ever. I analyzed why this appears to be the case and list the main facts that I believe contribute to this perception: 1. The narrative is constantly changing. The convergence of ideas, technology, communication and capital is accelerating change and giving us less time to understand the world. 2. The Internet has created an information explosion that has led to a more informed society. But for “truth,” it has created new challenges; it has become more difficult to differentiate what matters and what is noise. 3. We have become less patient to find answers. A willingness to compare multiple sources and question the motivation of the author is not practiced regularly by those who are not scientists or journalists. On a more technical level, search engines’ business model make it possible to push messages to the top, and frequently the “good stuff” gets buried deep down in search results. Does anybody ever scroll through 900 pages of results? Of course not, given that we live in a time of constant swipes and 140-character messages. 4. We are inundated with messages everywhere. Unless we seek solitude in the wilderness or manage to be completely off the grid, we are constantly exposed to information overload. As a result, we tend to be “over-newsed but underinformed;” we allocate more time to a variety of information but less time to think it through, analyze it and put in perspective.
5. Paid messages are hiding in plain sight, making it more difficult to distinguish genuine content from content that should be labelled as propaganda or advertising. Disinformation has now become a business model, which on a commercial level is not terrible — but in politics it is tragic. 6. The manipulation of a singular recipient will become more prevalent. A combination of data collection combined with artificial intelligence allows messages to be customized and targeted on a personal level. This is problematic because what we are being “fed” as individuals is starting to isolate us from reality. 7. We hear what we like to hear. This has always been the case, but with like-minded social media bubbles hanging over us and biased news channels on both sides of the political spectrum, it has become clearer than ever. If we believe a particular narrative strongly enough, we take comfort in thinking that we have found the truth and simply hold on to it — regardless of the facts. Maybe the truth has always been elusive. Maybe the truth has always been with us and sometimes we simply fail to recognize it. Maybe there has never been an absolute truth and we have to get used to a “matrix” kind of world in which several realities compete with each other. Of course, the truth has not gone anywhere. However, in this fast-moving world, with its changing narratives and technology that both connects and divides, it’s simply become more of a task to keep up with it.