Feb. 1, 2022 • Volume 25, Issue 3 • Complimentary • BlufftonSun.com
INSIDE • Top Black-owned businesses awarded at Excellence Ball 10A • Volunteers work to corral community cast-off cats 12A • Bluffton artist spreads love through murals 18A • Sign-up open for senior softball 22A • Roasting Room sells out fast for Matt Stock’s comedy show 26A
Praise houses reflect a past rich in faith and tradition By Gwyneth J. Saunders CONTRIBUTOR
The small building on cinder blocks on Simmonsville Road doesn’t look much like a church, but for Bluffton’s Black community, the Praise House represents more than a century of worship. “The whole family worshiped there,” said native Blufftonian Renty Kitty Jr. A deacon himself, Kitty’s family was integral in the life of this particular place of worship. “My mother, father, sisters, myself. It was a family worship for the families in Simmonsville and Buck Island community,” he said. The Simmonsville house is one of three surviving Bluffton praise houses. Another is behind the Cordray House on the corner of
Calhoun and May River Road, and the other – known as the Bluffton Tabernacle, built in 1935 – is now a pottery studio on Church Street. Built about 1910, the Simmonsville structure used to be located on Belfair Plantation until the 1950s. Local history notes that volunteers – led by deacons with very familiar local family names – organized the move when the plantation was sold to developers. Among those were Rev. Jimmy Buncomb, and deacons Oscar Frazier and “Daddy Toy” Fields. Once in place, those who lived on Simmonsville and Buck Island who did not have the transportation to get into town
Please see PRAISE on page 8A
PHOTOS BY GWYNETH J. SAUNDERS
One of only three surviving praise houses in Bluffton, this structure on Simmonsville Road was built about 1910.
State of the Sound Symposium’ on ecology set for Feb. 11 The Port Royal Sound Foundation will host the first State of the Sound Symposium, moderated by Dr. Chris Marsh. The event will be held virtually, via Zoom, from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Feb 11. Several area experts from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and University of South Caroli-
na-Beaufort will discuss what knowledge currently exists about the ecology of the Port Royal Sound. The event will feature a series of short talks covering an array of topics including crustaceans, fish, underwater soundscapes, dolphins, shorebirds, water quality, geology, and land use. A roundtable discussion will follow
Volunteer at the Maritime Center…
for a Sound Future
GET INVOLVED TODAY!
“ Volunteering at the Maritime Center is my contribution to help protect our beautiful Port Royal Sound.” – Norma Duncan
310 Okatie Highway (843) 645-7774 PortRoyalSoundFoundation.org
SCAN TO LEARN MORE
that explores how future research can help citizens better understand and protect this incredible resource in the heart of the Lowcountry. Registration, information & schedule available at: portroyalsoundfoundation. org/event/sos. The Port Royal Sound Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is dedicated to
preserving the Port Royal Sound for the environmental, cultural and economic well-being of our area. The Foundation is committed to education, research, conservation and sustainability. For more information, contact Kat Armstrong at 843-645-7774 or email at karmstrong@portroyalsoundfoundation. org.
Page 2A
The Bluffton Sun
A NEW FOR
JOINT PAIN
THE LATEST ADVANCEMENT in hip and knee replacements Mako® Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery If hip or knee pain is keeping you from doing the things you love, it may be time to consider joint replacement surgery. To help you heal faster and get back to life more quickly, Beaufort Memorial surgeons are skilled in minimally invasive joint replacement procedures using the advanced Mako SmartRobotics® system. They use 3D technology to model your joint and customize a surgical plan unique to your distinct anatomy, then guide the robotic arm to implant the prosthetic components with greater precision.
Benefits include:
• Faster recovery • Less post-operative pain • Increased longevity of the implant • More natural feeling joint movement
Learn more by visiting BeaufortMemorial.org/MAKO
NOW OFFERING MAKO® HIP REPLACEMENT
After almost two years of highly successful knee replacements with the Mako® system, these Beaufort Memorial orthopedic surgeons are now offering the leading-edge technology for hip replacements, too: • Edward R. Blocker, M.D. • H. Kevin Jones, M.D. • Vandit Sardana, M.D. • Leland C. Stoddard, M.D.
Feb. 1, 2022
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 3A
SUNNY SIDE UP
Proud new senior embraces title, seeks great adventures By Lynne Cope Hummell EDITOR
Something weird happened to me in the midst of preparing this issue of our paper for publication: I turned 65. I seldom mention my age, especially in print, especially to thousands of people at the same time. This year is different, and I must address it. I am now eligible for the real senior discount: Medicare. Never mind the difficulties I ran across in applying – somehow, something in my online application caused a piece of my identity to be questioned. (At the time of this writing, there have been four emails, five text messages, and 11 phone calls back and forth trying to resolve the issue. No, I didn’t wait until the last minute to apply.) In chatting with my cousin Pam, who is 10 days older than I, we decided the celebration should last all year. This is
GET STARTED WITH A
FREE WATER TEST TODAY!
special! This is a big deal – like one’s 21st birthday all over again, except we’re a little older. But our brave and adventurous spirits remain the same youthful age. I have decided that this should be a year of “awesome.” I don’t often use that word – for me, it should be reserved for something truly astonishing in nature, like a magnificent mountain view or a brilliant full moon, or the Grand Canyon. I’m ready for some adventures of a different and remarkable sort – the kind of thing I’ve always wanted to do, but never quite got things together to DO it. Or something that I’ve done before and that I enjoyed but haven’t done in quite some time. One item in that latter category is coming right up. You might have heard that I am appearing in an upcoming play, “Steel Magnolias,” at May River Theatre. (See more information in our arts section!) This will be the first time in more than
a decade that I’ve been onstage. (Before that, there was almost a 25-year gap between my performances.) Another artsy thing I want to try is learning to weave (on a real loom). There’s something comforting in the feel of woven scarves, for instance. And how amazing is it that a one-color piece of woven textile is created from a single string? Maybe I’ll re-learn how to ride a motorcycle. I’ve always said, “When I’m 80, I want to be that granny on the Harley.” I have just 15 years to make that happen! Travel has to be on my list. There’s a big world out there, but honestly, I don’t think I’d have the patience for an international journey. I’d be fine to rent an RV and drive across the good ol’ USA. Perhaps I would start with seeking out every waterfall in North Carolina. Maybe a road trip would provide an opportunity to stop talking and start writing that book buried in my brain.
And, expecting that my husband would join me, he can illustrate it. (My book, not my brain.) Of course, if I hit the road, I’d have to either retire or edit this newspaper remotely. (Please don’t mention anything to my publisher until I have time to speak with him about this wild idea.) But it’s not just big adventures I seek. I know that real joy can be found in every day. I’ll close with these wise words from cousin Pam as our conversation ended: “Carpe diem – seize the day – for real! If you are 65, the reality is that there are more days behind you than in front. Let that scare wash over you. Then seize your days. Savor, experience and enjoy them as much as possible. This will create enthusiasm that is worth sharing You can let your joy be infectious and it will spread faster than COVID. Not too shabby for a senior citizen. Now, go get your day.”
Water Problems? Culligan has the Solution! No matter what your water problem, we have the solution. Call your local Culligan® expert today to learn more about our Water Softening and Drinking Water options for your entire home.
ASK US ABOUT 6 MONTHS NO PAYMENTS, NO INTEREST! Expires February 14, 2022. Credit approval required. Call your local dealer for details.
843-595-8203 CulliganHHI.com
Page 4A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
EDITORIAL
Current Circulation Via USPS is 24,720 Finalist: Small Business of the Year, HHI-Bluffton Chamber. Winner of the SAPA General Excellence Award; 1st place, Front Page Design; 2nd place, Most Improved Publication; and 3rd place, Self-Promotion Advertising. IFPA-SAPA 3rd Place, Business Coverage
PUBLISHER
Kevin Aylmer, kevina@blufftonsun.com
EDITOR
Lynne Hummell, editor@blufftonsun.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kim Perry Bowen
OFFICE MANAGER Melissa McCullough
CONTRIBUTORS Abby Bird Amy Campanini Stephanie Dion Collins Doughtie E. Ronald Finger Jerry Glenn Jean Harris Laura Kaponer Oswald Mikell Gwyneth J. Saunders
Cinda Seamon Larry Stoller Lisa Sulka Brian Treacy Ashley Valenzuela Scott Wierman Mark F. Winn Jennifer Wolfe Tim Wood
ADVERTISING
B.J. Frazier, Sales Director, 843-422-2321 Mike Garza 804-928-2151 Claudia Chapman 814-434-3665 Stan Wade 843-338-1900
VISIT:
BlufftonSun.com For more information, contact: Kevin Aylmer PO Box 2056, Bluffton, SC 29910 843-757-9507, 843-757-9506 (fax) Physical address: 14D Johnston Way Bluffton, SC 29910 All contents are copyrighted by Lowcountry Local Media Inc. All rights reserved. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. All submissions must include name, address and phone number. The Editor reserves the right to edit or reject any material, including advertisements. The Bluffton Sun does not verify for licenses, endorse nor warrant any advertised businesses or services. The opinions and views expressed in the editorials are not necessarily those of the Editor and Publisher. Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, Greater Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, Old Town Bluffton Merchants Society.
THE BLUFFTON SUN Issue 3, February 1, 2022 is published twice monthly by Lowcountry Local Media, Inc., 14D Johnston Way, Bluffton, SC 29910. Periodicals Postage Paid at Bluffton, SC and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE BLUFFTON SUN, PO Box 2056, Bluffton, SC 29910-2056.
Help is here for business recovery, growth By Lisa Sulka CONTRIBUTOR
Business owners are no strangers to challenges the past couple of years. From economic crashes, political turmoil, and COVID-19, businesses across the country have struggled to cope. With another year behind us, we’re ready to move forward with a better, smarter year ahead. Lisa Sulka These five lessons have made us better business owners and entrepreneurs. Embrace innovation. The businesses that survived and thrived during the pandemic were the ones that took action early. Rather than rely on what worked in the past, adopt a mindset that is flexible and prepared for any circumstance. Adopting a flexible business model and tailoring your products and services to meet current needs will help your business stay relevant. Remember to be personal in a virtual world. Zoom is great, but nothing can replace human connection. Whether your team is continuing to work remotely or is coming back to the office this year, finding ways to connect with your coworkers
will make for stronger company culture. Focus on relationships. Take the time to cultivate a strong client base so your business has a foundation to grow. Customers are more likely to support businesses that keep open lines of communication, care for their community, and take feedback seriously. Plan for the unexpected. Looking back at the past two years seems surreal. As entrepreneurs, be prepared for anything. Recognize issues and develop quick solutions. It’s important to not remain fixed in one way of thinking or seeing a situation, and instead be able to efficiently adapt to different circumstances and scenarios.
Balance is key. Balance is fundamental to building a healthy organization and managing the challenges that come your way. Take the time as a team to reflect and set short and long-term goals. Ready for a fresh start in 2022? There might never be a better time than now to go all-in on your business idea. The Town of Bluffton’s Business Incubator, The Don Ryan Center, can guide you through every stage of your business development process, from the initial planning stage to expanding your market. Contact them at 843-540-0405 or DonRyanInfo@townofbluffton.com. Lisa Sulka is the mayor of the Town of Bluffton. lsulka@townofbluffton.com
Letter to the Editor To the Editor: Some “food for thought” came to me after reading Lynne Hummell’s Sunny Side Up in the Jan. 19 Bluffton Sun about what might constitute a “feeling of community.” Her witnessing a gorgeous sunset while in the car brought to mind Sun City’s residents Facebook page. The site is administered beautifully, i.e., don’t even bother with political posts, nasty comments, anything unrelated to Sun City’s community. It’s a friendly group for asking questions, getting advice, sharing helpful information and celebrating our
Sun City Hilton Head lifestyle. I get a definite “feeling of community” when folks post photos of January’s glorious orange full Wolf Moon on the rise; photos of gorgeous flowers in someone’s yard; photos of flora and fauna captured during a walk along one of our nature trails or just in one of our many neighborhoods; photos of the adorable carrying on of numerous kinds of birds in their bird boxes and water fountains; photos of fabulous sunsets and sunrises; photos of golf cart parades over a holiday. All such posts prompt others to share their photos and saying, “Yes! I have the
same thing!” or “Wow! How did you grow that?” or “I saw it too – here’s the shot I took of it!” For me, sharing beautiful moments experienced within our contained yet vast complex of homes makes me feel connected to my neighbors, knowing that we are not living alone, that there are others witnessing those special moments in time as a community, that we can reach out to one another and share life’s bounties.
Barbara Costa Bluffton
Feb. 1, 2022
d
a n
The Bluffton Sun
Page 5A
Page 6A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
SUN ON THE STREET
’Tis the season of bringing back those lovin’ feelings With this feature, we seek to capture a glimpse of what you and your neighbors have to say about a variety of topics, issues, events – and just
Tracy Butts, Bluffton: “I feel loved when family and friends make an effort to spend quality time with me. I also feel loved when my husband helps with chores or plans a date night!”
(
plain fun questions. You might see us anywhere around town, with notepad and camera, randomly seeking out folks who are
Margy Oehlert, Beaufort: “I feel and know I am loved because God loves me so much. John 3:16. This in turn allows me to love others, because I know God loves them too!”
willing to participate. If we find you, we hope you will want to respond. At a rehearsal for “Steel Magnolias” at May River Theatre, we asked
Izzy Madden, Bluffton: “It makes me feel loved when people remember little things that I’ve said that I like.”
some members of the cast: “What makes you feel loved?”
Julie Siebold, Beaufort: “I feel loved every time my dog greets me at the door! And when my husband does the dishes.”
Christine Grefe, Ridgeland: “A long hug.”
WINTER WARM-UP PRE-OWNED BUYS!
2019 TOYOTA
2018 MERCEDES-BENZ
$30,000
$32,000
2015 TOYOTA
2019 LEXUS
$30,000
$45,250
SIENNA XLE
4RUNNER SR5 PREMIUM
GLC 300
RX 350
Cool Buys on Great Pre-Owned Vehicles.
2018 CHEVROLET
(
2018 BMW
SILVERADO 1500 LT
5 SERIES M550I XDRIVE
$30,000
$56,000
2019 AUDI
2016 FORD
$69,750
$16,500
Q8 3.0T PREMIUM
ESCAPE S
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 7A
COMPLIMENTARY WILLS and LIVING TRUST SEMINAR South Carolina Law Firm reveals the 7 costly mistakes families make in their estate plans! WILL YOUR BASIC ESTATE PLAN ADDRESS THESE ISSUES? 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
PROBATE COSTS AND DELAYS ESTATE TAXES IRA PROBLEMS DIVORCE REMARRIAGE INCAPACITY LOSS OF PUBLIC ASSISTANCE
When you attend one of our Wills and Living Trusts seminars, you’ll immediately discover how you can prevent this from happening to you and your family.
Bluffton/Sun City
Thursday, Feb. 24th • 10 - 12 Hampton Inn Sun City 29 William Pope Drive, Bluffton
Beaufort
Wednesday, Feb. 23rd • 10 - 12 Best Western Sea Island Inn 1015 Bay Street
Hilton Head
Wednesday, Feb. 23rd • 2 - 4
The Westin Hilton Head Resort 2 Grasslawn Ave, HHI SEATING IS LIMITED, SO CALL NOW
843.815.8580
RESERVE YOUR SEAT TODAY! Event is in compliance with all CDC protocols, social distancing and appropriate PPE provided
All seminar attendees will receive a FREE private attorney consultation to see how a proper estate plan will benefit you and your family.
I am an attorney who speaks on legal issues that affect our lives and estates. My law practice focuses on trust and estate planning issues, and I have practiced locally in this field for over 18 years. I am a member of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys. My speaking engagements have been said to be “informative, entertaining, and easy to understand.” - Hunter Montgomery
Wills . Trusts. Probate.
10 10 Pinckney Pinckney Colony Colony Road Road Suite Suite 402, 402, Bluffton, Bluffton, SC SC 29909 29909
Page 8A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
PRAISE from page 1A to worship at the “big churches” – such First Zion Baptist Church, St. John’s Baptist Church and Campbell Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church – could attend regular services at the praise house. “The praise house was mostly for Sunday night and weeknight services,” Kitty said. “At the main church for the Baptists and Campbell AME, the service was once a month. There wasn’t any local pastor, so when the pastor came to the main church, everyone would worship there on Sunday.” Praise house services weren’t particularly long, Kitty said. “They’d do a devotional service, and a hymn, and then one of the deacons would get up and speak to the people,” he said. “The deacons were Renty Kitty, Elliot Pinckney and Oscar Frazier. And George Bush would sometimes come out from Goethe Road.” Kitty recalls the singing. “They would sing all the old hymns, and there would be shouting and praise time. Most of the hymns these days, we try to keep them traditional, but I would think that if the opportunity came up people
Historic Places. There are several other praise houses in Beaufort County, perhaps the most notable is the Mary Jenkins House on St. Helena Island, which already is on the register. There will The Cordray praise house is on the corner of Calhoun Street and May River be a chance Road. The sign reads: The Cordray House, 1910. closer to home would sing the old hymns,” he said. “I reto learn about praise houses and the life member one of them was “I Had a Chance,” of enslaved people during the times when and “I Done Done What They Told Me To they were encouraged to attend church, Do.” We still sing “Amazing Grace” and “Go and “permitted” to have their own places of Down Moses.” worship. Repairing the little praise house is a work Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park will in progress, and a committee from First host the 2022 Freedom Walk in honor of Zion is working on getting the preserved National Freedom Day from 10 a.m. to 1 structure repaired and designated as a p.m. Feb. 5 in conjunction with the 26th historic structure on the National Register of annual Gullah Celebration.
One of the structures on the site is a reproduction of a praise house, a homestead house, a bateau and more; individuals can tour the site at their leisure or sign up for guided tours. Speakers at this event will include Rev. Dr. Robin Dease of St. Andrew By-The-Sea Methodist Church and Dr. John Newman of Volunteers in Medicine. The celebration also includes surprise guests, vaccine availability, screenings, and wellness information provided by Memory Matters, Hilton Head Hospital, Hilton Head Regional Healthcare Senior Center, and Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue’s Life Safety department. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the park’s mission is to replicate, preserve, and sustain an historically significant site and to educate the public about the sacrifice, resilience and perseverance of the freedmen of Mitchelville. Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park is at 229 Beach City Road, Hilton Head Island. For more information, visit exploremitchellville.org or call 843-255-7301. Gwyneth J. Saunders is a veteran journalist and freelance writer living in Bluffton.
Electric, Remote Controlled Attic Stairs
Majic Stairs allow you to safely access your attic storage space with the touch of a button. Free up garage floor space and add usable square footage to your home.
INTRODUCING
The All New Majic Attic Lift It carries your items for you!!
Majicstairsinc.com
CAROLINA ATTIC SOLUTIONS LICENSED & INSURED Call Joe (843) 301-4066
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 9A
2022 Real Estate Steering Factors
We’ve all heard (or said ourselves) the following: “I’d sell in a heartbeat, but then CHIP COLLINS, I’d have no place to go!” Such is the vicious Owner of Collins Group Realty cycle of our low inventory challenge, and we expect it to continue further into 2022. It would seemingly take some dramatic/ significant event to turn content homeowners into sellers, and we do not have any basis to predict this happening anytime soon or in any dramatic fashion. As such, we expect inventory to remain low, which generally sets up to favor sellers for the foreseeable future.
COVID The sharp spike in Omicron cases in January across the country (and Lowcountry, of course) caused widespread disruptions in the real estate cycle for the market kick-off in 2022. These disruptions are expected to be short-term, while the bigger factor is what we might see in early Spring. If COVID cases settle dramatically, we may arrive in a new era of confidence and enthusiasm that could fuel a new wave of buyer and seller activity. Conversely, others have renewed their own interest in calling the Lowcountry home, resulting in an increased level of property retention and a corresponding decreased level of property turnover. At the same time, rising property values, downsizing/simplifying, and general changes in housing needs are certain to fuel a much-needed level of new listings in the first two quarters of 2022. Therefore, inventory is shaping up to be the key steering factor in how the 2021 real estate market unfolds.
INTEREST RATES While we are not expecting any drastic increases in mortgage interest rates, we are pretty confident that rates will climb in 2022. In fact, indications here are the start of the year are that second home rates may experience a bump as early as April 2022. Since rates will still be historically low and extremely attractive, the challenge isn’t the rates themselves, rather the increase in rates as real estate values have climbed so significantly. The net-effect is reduced affordability as the borroweddollar doesn’t buy as much real estate as it once did, while some buyers (especially first-time homebuyers) need all the buying-power they can get.
Work From Home (WFH) is here to stay for a certain percentage/segment of companies, as workers desire autonomy, flexibility, and the opportunity to relocate to a more desirable location to meet their work obligations remotely. As such, we continue to see more and more people move to the Lowcountry where they can significantly enhance their quality of life (weather, natural amenities, year-round activities, etc.) in their WFH mode. This movement is additionally fueled by “life is short” and “why wait” mentalities that are compelling accelerated purchase timelines among those who may have been waiting to move upon retirement.
RELATIVE VALUE While we have all been impressed with the sharp increase in real estate values locally, we are not nearly unique in that vein as values have jumped dramatically across the country. The Hilton Head/Bluffton marketplace has long-since been a relative “value” in comparison to other coastal communities, and it still is. We expect this to continue to drive additional interest among buyer prospects, especially those who are selling high in areas like New York and California, only to buy here in the Lowcountry, feeling like they hit the lottery. For the complete 2021 Year End Report, visit CollinsGroupRealty.com/MarketReport
55 Magnolia Blossom Drive
113 Beckenridge Circle
VI D ON EO LI TOU NE R
INVENTORY LEVELS
REMOTE WORKPLACE
VI D ON EO LI TOU NE R
What are the factors that will shape Lowcountry real estate sales in 2022? Here are our thoughts on what will be most impactful in the months ahead:
Colleton RiveR Club Exquisite Design, 3 Car Gar. $2,275,000 | MLS#421450
CypRess Ridge 5 Bed, Large Fenced Yard $475,000 | MLS#420378
3 Mayfair Drive
9 Loblolly Lane
WoodbRidge Under Contract in 3 Days Listed for $384,900
Moss CReek Under Contract in 2 Days Listed for $700,000
(843) 837-6700 | Info@CollinsGroupRealty.com | CollinsGroupRealty.com
Page 10A
The Bluffton Sun
Paying Your Bill Has Never Been Easier
Feb. 1, 2022
Top Black-owned businesses honored at annual Excellence Ball
...with Palmetto Electric’s Convenient Payment Options: F Bank Draft
The amount of your bill is automatically drafted each month on the due date from your checking account or charged to your debit or credit card. F Auto-Pay
Your bill is automatically withdrawn from your checking account or charged to your debit or credit card on a date you choose. F Advance Pay
You pay when you want, in the amounts you want into a flexible payment account. Your usage is paid for daily out of this account. F MyEnergy Online
Accessing your account through our website portal allows you to pay online. F MyEnergy Mobile App
Pay your bill anytime, anywhere on your smart devices with with this free app that can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play. To sign up, login on your computer through MyEnergy Online at palmetto.coop or call 843-208-5551.
COURTESY CHARLES MITCHELL JR.
Charles Mitchell Jr., right, an officer with Bluffton Police Department, was named First Responder of the Year at the Black Excellence Ball Jan. 14. Pictured with him are his parents, Charles Mitchell Sr. and Lillian Mitchell.
By Gwyneth J. Saunders CONTRIBUTOR
Celebrations at the 2022 Black Excellence Ball held Jan. 14, hosted by WSAV-TV news anchor Tina Tyus-Shaw and KJ Kearney, founder and creator of Black Food Fridays, honored not only three notable community members, but recognized the achievements of the area’s black-owned businesses. Bluffton native Laura Bush was presented in absentia with the Lifetime Achievement Award; Philadelphia transplant Michael Lewis was recognized with the Social Justice Award; and Charleston native Chef BJ Dennis was awarded the Gullah-Geechee Gatekeeper Award for his efforts in elevating and preserving the Lowcountry’s rich culture. The evening’s event was organized by the Bluffton Martin Luther King Observance Committee, which had disseminated a survey within the community to select top Black-owned businesses and individuals. Earning two of the awards was the late Chef Colin Eady Sr., who passed in October 2021. Former executive chef of the Gullah Jazz Café and other area locations, Eady was named Best Caterer and Entrepreneur of the Year with his own line of spices. Other awardees are: Best Barbershop: Fresh Cuts Unlimited Best Hair Salon: TJ’s Styling
Realtor of the Year: Jessica Washington Best Day Care: Helping Hands with Love Best Law Firm: Law Office of Clifford Bush III Best Funeral Home: Compassion Funeral Home Educator of the Year: Latrice Campbell First Responder of the Year: Charles Mitchell Photographer of the Year: Norman Jenkins Coach of the Year: D’won Fields Sr. Best Event Designer: Simplicity Creations Best Restaurant: Shabazz Seafood Restaurant Best Dinners/Secret Eatery: Mamma Joy’s Kitchen Greek Organization Undergrad Chapter of the Year Award: Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Delta Nu Greek Organization Grad Chapter of the Year Award: Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Beaufort Alumnae Chapter Visual Artist of the Year: Deidre Young Entertainer of the Year: Gwen Yvette Best Live Entertainment: Gwen Yvette & TC Soul Small Business of the Year: New Level Nutrition Gwyneth J. Saunders is a veteran journalist and freelance writer living in Bluffton.
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
GARY THOMAS, MD SC CANCER SPECIALISTS
GREGORY M. HAIDEMENOS, MD SC CANCER SPECIALISTS
• Board Certified ABIM Medical Oncology, scored in top 8%
• Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Medical Oncology
• Fellowship at the Comprehensive Cancer Center of Wake Forest University
• Fellowship at The University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, and Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
• The only recommended physician by CLL Society in South Carolina. • Member of ASCO’s Cancer.net Lymphoma Advisory Panel.
• Serving the lowcountry since ‘21
Page 11A
MAJD CHAHIN, MD SC CANCER SPECIALISTS
• Board Certified ABIM Medical Oncology • Fellowship at Department of Hematology/ Oncology at Emory University, Atlanta • Principal investigator on more than a dozen clinical trials • Serving the lowcountry since ‘95
• Serving the lowcountry since ‘93
CANCER CARE BY SMART, SPECIALIZED ONCOLOGISTS.
We keep great oncology care in the community. As a QOPI® Certified Practice, we meet certain defined quality and safety standards in the administration of cancer care. Our team of medical oncologists are life-long learners who continue their education and apply their board-certified knowledge to help stop cancer in its tracks and get you back to living the life you want to live. There’s no reason to travel: compassionate and highly experienced medical expertise is right here in the lowcountry.
AT ST. JOSEPH’S/CANDLER, WE PROVIDE NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED CANCER CARE CLOSE TO HOME.
WWW.CANCERPAVILION.COM 100 BUCKWALTER PLACE BLVD BLUFFTON, SC 29910
Page 12A
The Bluffton Sun
EldEr law & EstatE Planning CEntEr
Plan For Tomorrow, Today! FREE FEBRUARY WORKSHOP
“Wills vs. Trusts” Trusts
Tuesday . February 15TH . 2-4pm ST. ANDREWS HALL 220 Pinckney Colony Road ELDER LAW WORKSHOP TOPICS INCLUDE: • Lifetime Planning • Wills • Trusts • Probate Administration • Blended Families • Special Needs Planning • Veterans Benefits • Medicaid Planning Receive a FREE CONSULTATION by attending the workshop! HHHHH
4.8 Google review rating with 100+ reviews!
Open Camera & Scan with your smartphone to view our website.
Call 843.757.5294 or Visit HiltonHeadElderLaw.com for more information. 10 PINCKNEY COLONY RD SUITE 400 . BLUFFTON, SC 29910
Feb. 1, 2022
Volunteers work to corral the cat community’s cast-offs
PHOTOS BY KATHY KLINE
When inhumane people dump unwanted cats into the community, local volunteers do what they can to shelter, feed and water. They also ensure all cats are spayed or neutered, get medical care if needed, and adopted out whenever possible.
By Gwyneth J. Saunders CONTRIBUTOR
To cat lovers, they’re cute, cuddly and part of the family, but to some people domestic cats are disposable, and that’s a problem for both the animal and the places they’re dumped. That prompted the growth of an army of volunteers who spend their time and their own money to trap, spay, neuter and feed the cats they return to the wild. “When these colonies started, we went to where the cats were,” said Bluffton resident Kathy Kline, who is one of the organizers on her side of the Hilton Head bridges. “Because they are looking for food, they tend to congregate around shopping centers and dumpsters. I read somewhere they can smell food from two miles away.” Kline said there are a number of cat colony locations, and volunteers go at least once a day to check on and feed them. Her volunteers cover Buckwal-
ter Parkway to Malphrus Road. “I try to put volunteers at places close to where they live. We trap (the cats) and make sure everyone is neutered or spayed,” she said. “I’ve probably trapped hundreds of cats. We try to help them with their lives, and then try to prevent more kitties coming into the world unwanted.” Sometimes the trapping is pretty quick, and sometimes it can take a month. Any cats that end up out there that are friendly enough, the volunteers try to get them adopted. The more feral ones are returned to the colonies after they’re spayed or neutered. “The population has grown, and people are dumping cats more often, and it’s expensive to fix cats,” said Hilton Head volunteer Megan Aylmer. “A lot of these women pay for it out of their own money, and we all pay for the food out of our own money. Some of the women are getting older, and
Please see CATS on page 14A
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
y e k r u o Y
Page 13A
e s i d a r a p o t
New homes from the mid $200s
Latitude Town Center – amenities now open!
Sunshine and cool breezes. Palm trees and margaritas. Welcome to Latitude Margaritaville, a 55-and-better community inspired by the legendary music and lifestyle of Jimmy Buffett, built on food, fun, music and escapism. Escape to the place where fun and relaxation meet. Escape to island-inspired living as you grow older, but not up. Escape to Latitude Margaritaville.
• • • • • • • • •
Paradise Pool with Beach Entry and Tiki Huts Latitude Town Square with Live Music Bandshell Latitude Bar & Chill Restaurant Changes in Attitude Bar Fins Up! Fitness Center with Indoor Pool Tennis and Pickleball Courts Barkaritaville Dog Park Walking Trails and Multi-Use Sport Court Best of all, No CDD Fees!
Call To Schedule Your Appointment With A New Home Sales Professional Today!
Hilton Head, SC (843) 310-5672
13 Model Homes Open Daily 356 Latitude Blvd., Hardeeville, SC 29927 Mon. - Sat. 9:00am - 5:00pm | Sun. 11:00am - 5:00pm
Visit online for more information LatitudeMargaritaville.com Obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. WARNING: THE CALIFORNIA BUREAU OF REAL ESTATE HAS NOT INSPECTED, EXAMINED, OR QUALIFIED THE OFFERINGS. Latitude Margaritaville Kentucky Registration Number R-201. For NY Residents: THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS FOR THE SALE OF LOTS IN LATITUDE MARGARITAVILLE AT HILTON HEAD ARE IN THE CPS-12 APPLICATION AVAILABLE FROM SPONSOR, MINTO LATITUDE HH, LLC. FILE NO. CP18-0021. Pennsylvania Registration Number OL001170. Latitude Margaritaville at Hilton Head is registered with the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Real Estate Brokers and Salesmen, 1000 Washington Street, Suite 710, Boston, MA 02118 and with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, 1700 G Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20552. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required and has not been completed. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only and are merely representative of current development plans. Development plans, amenities, facilities, dimensions, specifications, prices and features depicted by artists renderings or otherwise described herein are approximate and subject to change without notice. ©Minto Communities, LLC 2022. All rights reserved. Content may not be reproduced, copied, altered, distributed, stored, or transferred in any form or by any means without express written permission. Latitude Margaritaville and the Latitude Margaritaville logo are trademarks of Margaritaville Enterprises, LLC and are used under license. Minto and the Minto logo are trademarks of Minto Communities, LLC and/or its affiliates. CGC 1519880/CGC 120919. 2022
Page 14A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
CATS from page 12A
This covered triple-deck feeding station was built at one of the Bluffton cat colonies.
can’t feed anymore.” Kline said there are approximately 20 cat colonies throughout Bluffton, as well as a cat sanctuary run by the nonprofit All About Cats on the island. Claudia Kennedy, who heads the Hilton Head organization, said it is really just a way to group the people that help with cats. “We are a nonprofit but we use that money for dry cat food, which runs about $700 to $800 a month. We used to do vet care also but we can’t afford it,” Kennedy said. “The good news is we have Hilton Head Humane Association. They spay and neuter, and vaccinate for rabies and distemper as part of their feral cat program.” Kennedy said 10 or 12 volunteers feed twice a day: morning and night. “What we really need is for the people renting apartments and homes to allow cats, because we could reduce the number of cats enormously,” she said. “I understand the concerns about dogs because they are bigger, but if we could put cats in homes with people who would love to have them, we wouldn’t have any cats. I guarantee
you that Beaufort County Animal Services and Hilton Head Humane would empty out.” Althea Hicks, who works on the Bluffton side with Kline, covers the area from Moss Creek traffic light to the Tanger 1 complex. “People constantly drop off cats at our colonies, and you can’t always keep it a secret where you’re feeding. People see your car, see the cats, and sooner or later someone is going to drop an unwanted cat right where you feed,” said Hicks. “It happens several times a year to me, and to Kathy, too. Usually those cats are not adoptable. They have not been socialized with whatever person had it before, they weren’t treated very well or didn’t get a lot of attention.” When a new cat gets dropped off, she traps them, gets them to Hilton Head Humane or the county facility, and then works with local fosters. “The people who do fostering – they’re absolutely a godsend, and they will foster the cats or kittens for a while, and determine if they’re adop-
Please see CATS on page 16A
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 15A
Page 16A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
CATS from page 14A tion material. From there we work with the shelters to try to get them on the intake list,” Hicks said. “I would say eight out of 10 are back with us again because they’re not socialized enough to be in a shelter or in an adoption with other cats.” In most cases, people won’t see where the cats are fed by the volunteers. That’s because many of the colonies have been moved out of sight, and previous plastic shelter bins replaced by less visible “cat condos” made by Kline and others. Some are designed with inclement weather in mind, lined with Styrofoam and filled with straw. “There was a core group doing this beginning about 2009. When I first started getting involved in 2015, I noticed there were a lot of plastic bins turned on their side as feeding stations. I thought if they were better looking or cuter then the colonies wouldn’t look so bad,” Kline said. “I made painted wooden beds filled with straw as a place for them to go and
stay warm or sleep.” Most people are supportive of the volunteers assisting the abandoned felines. Other people are not, and think that feeding the cats is encouraging them to stay around. “A feral cat will not hunt enough to keep itself alive,” said Kennedy. “There’s not enough prey. It’s a bad outcome if these feral cats are not fed.” The volunteers try to explain the situations. The colonies overseen by Hicks range in population from one to about a dozen. “They are where they are to live out their lives. We make sure everybody is OK, and nobody is limping or has a gash in their head or their ears,” she said. “One last thing I like to say when someone is asking me about feral cats is the cats come from human neglect and abandonment. They’re not out here because they choose to be. They’re here because somebody neglected to get them fixed, and they abandoned them.”
Kline has also encountered some resistance about the colonies. “Sometimes people will literally yell at you for feeding the cats. Their viewpoint is ignore them, and they’ll go away. I try to explain to them that they are all fixed, and we try to help them,” said Kline. “Sometimes the property managers don’t want us there, and that’s when the county steps in because there are county ordinances protecting the colonies.” According to ordinance Sec. 14-42. Management of feral cat colonies, all authorized colonies are managed by a caregiver, and fall under the protection of the Beaufort County Animal Services. “Some of the locations are very supportive, and sometimes the employees will leave food out for us to help. A lot of times, if it’s somebody from this area that’s running the business, they know it’s a huge cat- and dog-loving area,” Kline said. “And then there are other times with people moving in from out-of-state, they feel like it’s
unprofessional. ‘We’re trying to run a business.’ They eventually come to see it’s even a positive.” Kline said they are always looking for volunteers. “Several volunteers have been doing this for years. You get to know the cats, it makes you feel good, and you’re doing something productive out there,” said Kline. “And I feel like these little animals are at the bottom of the priority list.” For more information or to support feeding the cat colonies, call Kline at 843-368-0167 for Bluffton or visit allaboutcats.org for information on the island colonies. To help offset the cost of the vaccines and surgeries, write a check to the Hilton Head Humane Association and send to 10 Humane Way, Hilton Head, SC 29962, and write For the Feral Cat Program in the memo line. Gwyneth J. Saunders is a veteran journalist and freelance writer living in Bluffton.
Featuring A Full Range of Flexsteel Furnishings
Recliners • Sofas • Sleepers • Sectionals Home Office • Bedroom • Dining
PURCHASE of $500 or more
ON SELECT FURNITURE PREVIOUS SALES EXCLUDED
EXCLUSIVE Limited Time Offer *Total purchase value must exceed $500 or more on select furniture for offer to be valid. For one time use only and can’t be used with any other offer or discount. This offer must be presented to sales associate prior to time of sale.
EXPIRES February 28, 2022 (BS)
@
Moss Creek Village Furniture
Locally Owned & d! e Op rate
We’re Selling Directly Off Our Showroom Floor. New Furniture Arriving Weekly. In-Stock Furniture Available For Delivery. 843.837.4000
Mon - Sat 10 - 6 • Sun 1 - 5 1569 Fording Island Rd (HWY 278) • Bluffton • www.MCVFurniture.com
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 17A
CONSIDERING A KNEE OR JOINT REPLACEMENT?
WHAT IS RESTORATIVE MEDICINE? Restorative medicine involves using Human Cellular Tissue Products (HCTPs) to help the body heal itself. Through restorative medicine, damaged tissue in joints are supplemented with healthy structural tissue to provide an opportunity to restore from within. KNEES, SHOULDERS, AND HIPS Dr. Heather Hinshelwood MD has helped thousands of patients with knees, shoulders, hips and more. The procedure takes only 30 minutes and allows the patient to leave with a simple band-aid over the site.
THE LEADERS IN RESTORATIVE MEDICINE
HILTON HEAD ISLAND FOR OVER 30 YEARS
RESULTS ORIENTED Many patients experience a significant reduction in knee pain within 48 hours due to the reduced inflammation. With restorative medicine therapy, most patients feel maximum results within 10 to 12 weeks and up to 95% within 6 months.
Over one million joint replacements are performed in the U.S. each year and according to the Cleveland Clinic, over 85% of knee replacements need to be redone within 15 years. Since 2018 the Fraum Center for Restorative Health has been offering a non-surgical alternative to joint replacement that is Beyond Stem Cells™. This cutting edge technology helps patients get back to living the life they love.
PRESENTATION SCHEDULE: TUES FEB 1ST MON FEB 7TH TUES FEB 15TH TUES FEB 22ND
NOON 6PM NOON NOON
*ALL PRESENTATIONS INCLUDE COMPLIMENTARY LUNCH OR DINNER
CALL 843.258.4317 FOR MORE INFO OR SCAN THIS CODE TO REGISTER:
1403 MAIN STREET VILLAGE, HILTON HEAD ISLAND
DR. BRAD FRAUM DC & DR. HEATHER HINSHELWOOD MD
/
843.258.4317
/
WWW.FRAUMHHI.COM
Page 18A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
Bluffton artist spreads love of art through community murals Superb deals all week before Sunday’s“Big Game” and Valentine’s Day! We have a full roster of specials for your football party on Feb. 13 Wings, Sausages & Marinades PHOTOS COURTESY LINDSEY SPEARS
We are featuring Filets, Lobster Tails & Chocolate-Covered Strawberries for Valentine’s Day TASTES LIKE LOVE! Come in and find the perfect flavors for your Gameday Party and Valentine’s Dinner! The Lowcountry’s Premier Gourmet Market • Bagel Bakery & Cafe´ • Grocery Items • Prepared Foods • Beer & Wine • Fresh Seafood • Prime Meat • Sushi
Located in Tanger Outlets 2 in Bluffton Open Daily 8am - 7pm • nantucketsmarket.com
Artist Lindsey Spears (kneeling, second from left) has been the creative force behind a number of community murals popping up across Bluffton.
By Tim Wood CONTRIBUTOR
What began as a response to a Facebook post has spawned a bit of a volunteer movement in Bluffton that is spotlighting how art can brighten up our daily lives. Lindsey Spears is a professional artist specializing in business and home murals, portraits, live paintings at weddings, and commission work as the owner of PaintingsNStuff. She has been gaining a following here since moving from her hometown Jacksonville to Bluffton four years ago when her husband, Kaleb, landed a job with the Bluffton Fire Department. Spears’ portfolio is a combination of live wedding portraits, in-home murals, and an array of noticeable business works, like painting the fence at Joe’s Ice Cream and Beverage Company. While working on a home mural for a client last year, she was alerted to a post from The Pines at Bluffton memory care facility, looking for someone to spruce up their backyard fence area with artwork. “It was a job too big for just me, so I decided to make a community project out of it,” Spears said. “We put the word out to
middle and high school students looking for community service hours and anyone who has an interest in art and wants to make something special.” Spears soon heard from students and adults alike who wanted to help out. She designed a concept on her iPad that was approved by officials at The Pines and her crew of eight volunteers went to work on the project, finishing in mid-October. “My grandfather lived in a memory care facility in Jacksonville, so this hit close to home. To see all these kids and adults so excited to brighten up these folks’ day with art, it was amazing,” Spears said. “My grandfather passed last summer. I wish he was here to see this come to life, but he was definitely an inspiration.” The mural of vibrant flowers and landscapes was well received and gave Spears an unexpected jolt of creativity. “When art is your job, it’s really easy to get burned out. I was talking with Kaleb and just told him how reinvigorating this was, and that I needed to do something like this every few months,” Spears said. True to her word, Spears next turned to
Please see MURALS on page 20A
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Happy New Year HHA HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION FROM OUR HBA FAMILY TO YOUR FAMILY. VOLUME 36
THE
Page 19A
MAR 25-27 2022
f
COMING MARCH 2022
WE BUILD RELATIONSHIPS.
36th Annual Lowcountry Home & Garden Show Tanger 1 - 1254 Fording Island Rd. Bluffton
Everything you need to renovate, decorate and landscape your home!
A lowcountry tradition for over 30 years is back! Save the date now for this yearly event that gives the gift of inspiration, tips and ideas for your home.
MARCH 25-27, 2022 MAR CH 27-29, 2020 Catch me at the show! KEEP WATCHING FOR DETAILS Hilton Head Area Home Builders Association
Page 20A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
MURALS from page 18A where her 5-year-old son, Danny, attended kindergarten, Pritchardville Elementary School. She asked if the school would be up for having a mural and received an enthusiastic “yes.” “For Danny, he thinks it’s all ho-hum, sees me painting every day, so he just figured every Mom paints like this,” she said. “But once we got into doing the mural and his friends thought it was cool, he gave me a smile or two, like I was doing something cool.” Danny and a number of students helped on the Pritchardville library mural, artwork themed around the ocean with a turtle swimming through a reef as the centerpiece. “We were there for two days painting and we got to talk to the kids about art and just like at The Pines, they got to see what being a professional artist looks like,” Spears said. “We had one girl who came up and said, ‘I’m good at this,” and she showed us drawings and sure enough, she was and we handed her a paintbrush. It’s just great to expose kids to this passion, unlock the creativity inside.” Spears has always loved art and began her
The finished mural at The Pines of Bluffton.
professional journey five years ago in Jacksonville. She majored in zoology in college and worked at the Jacksonville Zoo until she found out Danny was on the way. “I thought, ‘This is not the greatest career path for a Mom,’ and that’s when I turned to art,” she said. Spears began doing pet portraits and made enough money and gained enough customers to pursue more creative challenges, expanding to murals and more abstract work. She said the work she does at weddings – painting live onsite as the wedding is happening – is among her favorite and most challenging work. The Pritchardville piece was completed
right before Christmas, thanks to the help of two fellow artist moms, Shannon Lea and Analisa Chase. “I made a couple new friends and artists to bounce ideas off of there. Just awesome,” she said. “These projects, they are for the community, but they have given me so much as well. It’s just a win-win-win-win.” She didn’t have to look far for her next inspiration. She took Danny to a volunteer program at Palmetto Animal League, where humans read books to the dogs and cats at the shelter to get the future pets more acclimated to being around people. “He loved that. He’d bring his Storm-
trooper action figures and became an instant favorite with all the cats,” she said. Spears talked with intake coordinator Sally Dawkins about a mural in PAL’s clinic area. She is currently working on finalizing a design with PAL officials and hopes to complete the next community mural in March, before the outdoor wedding season kicks in to high gear. “The local hardware stores have been amazing, giving me mis-tinted and leftover paints to work with for these. I love that we have been spreading the art gospel and leaving a little beauty behind wherever we go next,” she said. “It has been a blessing in my life and a great way to get to know more folks in the community. We absolutely love it here, so I hope to just keep the murals coming.” You can follow Spears on TikTok @ the_paintingmama and her Facebook page, @PaintingsNStuffLLC. To volunteer for the PAL mural project, email her at paintingsnstuff@gmail.com. Tim Wood is a veteran journalist based in Bluffton. Contact him at timwood@blufftonsun. com.
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 21A
LET’S CLEAR THE AIR
WITH SUPERIOR AIR FILRATION AND PURIFICATION SYSTEMS
Now more than ever, nothing is more important than your health. Did you know that the air you breathe inside your home is 5 times more polluted than outdoor air and we spend more than 90% of our time indoors? We provide optimum solutions for indoor air quality with the highest quality systems, to deliver clean and pure air for your home or business.
Give the gift of clean air this month! $150 OFF installation of the Aprilaire 5” Media Air Cleaner. Call us today for more information on air quality products and this special. Make the Superior Choice today. Residential & Commercial: Heating & Air • Duct Cleaning • IT Services • Electrical Carpet Cleaning • Plumbing • Mold/Fire/Water Mitigation
SCAN THIS QR CODE WITH YOUR PHONE FOR MORE INFO 36 PERSIMMON STREET UNIT 202
BLUFFTON, SC 29910
843.773.5010
WWW. GOTOSUPERIORSERVICES .COM
Page 22A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
Senior softball sign-up, season are just around the corner
COURTESY RICK TRENARY
Beaufort Senior Softball League co-founders face each other. Dave Hofmann eyes a pitch from Rick Trenary in a Spring 2021 game. The league is open to players 50-plus who want to get back in the game. Workouts and scrimmages are scheduled to begin about Feb. 19.
By Gwyneth J. Saunders CONTRIBUTOR
Oil up that glove, dust off the bat, and buy new cleats. Senior Softball Beaufort is looking for you. The league, which is in its second season, is recruiting former players of any experience who are 50 and older, and who remember how much fun it was to play in high school, college, rec leagues and military base teams. Dave Hofmann, 71, is one of the co-founders who started the league in spring 2021. “When we moved down here a little over two years ago, I was shocked to find there wasn’t a senior league, given the ages of the community,” said Hofmann. “I played competitive senior softball in Maryland and in tournaments on the East Coast. When I moved to Hilton Head, I had to play in the adult men’s league. I was playing with guys in their 60s but also 30s and 40s, and the games were at night. It just wasn’t a whole lot of fun.” After that season ended, Hofmann, Rick Trenary and a few others got to-
gether and decided they were going to start a senior league that didn’t play at night and used “senior” rules. The team they had been playing for was sponsored by Stokes Toyota, and had several older players. Hofmann said about nine of his teammates said they’d join a senior league if there was one, and soon after articles in the papers and word-of-mouth, the new league was registering 90 individual players. “We had six teams and that shocked us,” he said. “We’d tapped into this resource and – outside of Sun City – there were no other senior teams in the area.” The league was accepted as part of the Beaufort County Parks and Recreation Administration, and when the first season ended, there was a celebration, a trophy currently housed in the North End Pour House on Hilton Head, and an end-of-season ceremony attended by Bluffton Mayor Lisa Sulka. There aren’t many women in the league, but Jean Heyduck, who played last year, said she is hoping to have more women join the league.
Please see SOFTBALL on page 24A
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 23A
Come Be Our Valentine! Stop By for a Tour of Our Community and Enjoy a Complimentary Slice of Cheesecake!
See Why our Residents LOVE Canterfield of Bluffton!!
Offer expires 2/28/22
SOPHISTICATED SENIOR LIVING!
Come live in a warm and caring environment with our trained and experienced staff! • Independent Living • Assisted Living • Memory Care
• Exceptional Staff to resident ratio • Chef prepared meals in Dining room
• 24-hour nurses and caregivers, on-site Director of Nursing and Activity Director • Medication Management
• Outings , shopping and dining excursions • In-house therapy • Individualized programs for Memory Care
ON-CAMPUS ONE-BEDROOM INDEPENDENT LIVING VILLAS (1,700 – 1,800 sq.ft. w/garage)
Our Base Monthly Rate Includes: • Chef prepared meals from our restaurant style dining room • All Utilities (except phone and cable) • Weekly Housekeeping • On Site Maintenance Director • Use of common areas in community, including Canterfield Theatre, Library, Activities Room and Private Dining Area
NO BUY-IN!
Canterfield of Bluffton 567 N. Okatie Highway Ridgeland, SC 29936
843-645-4000 www.canterfieldofbluffton.com
Please Call Jennifer Phillips, Marketing Director, to Schedule a Tour of our Community
843.645.4000
Page 24A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
SOFTBALL from page 22A “My experiences have been great,” she said. “It’s so much fun to pick up your glove again and play. I played a lot when I was younger and then didn’t play. It’s been at least 20 years since I picked up a ball glove. We’re a little slower, can’t throw as hard as we did, but it’s still a lot of fun.” Hofmann said he hopes to have two divisions: a Gold division that is more competitive, and the Silver division that would resemble the seasons played last year. “It is still recreational, it’s still competitive and you still want to win. But there’s a lot of camaraderie and you have fun with the people in the other teams,” said Hofmann. “This is an opportunity that if they loved to play to come out and rekindle that joy of playing softball.” The games are played with senior softball rules that include two first bases and two home plates. “It’s safety first. We’re not a coed league – we’re a senior league and we welcome women as well as men,” he
said. “We think we’re doing something good for the community, for the seniors. It’s all about moving – keep moving and have fun. When you’re on the field, you want to win, but if you don’t, it’s OK.” Teams are comprised of 16 players who will play at least three innings. Conditioning, practices and scrimmages will begin on or about Feb. 19 to help current players stay active, and new players to meet current players, get a feel for the rules of senior softball, and understand how the league is run. Individuals interested in playing need to register at seniorsoftballbeaufort.com. The league is also looking for team sponsors. Sponsorship fees of $750 include the county team fee and uniforms with the sponsor’s name and logo, plus equipment as needed. If you’re a business interested in sponsoring a team, contact Rick Trenary at 843-247-2832. Gwyneth J. Saunders is a veteran journalist and freelance writer living in Lissa Lontok Klipp is behind home plate as a Stokes Toyota Team player heads for first in a Spring Bluffton. COURTESY RICK TRENARY
2021 game in the Beaufort Senior Softball League.
FA N E W CT S HD I R EO RY OW CT RO OM
NEW & USED CARTS • FINANCING PARTS & ACCESSORIES • MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS
MON-FRI 9am - 5pm • SAT 10am - 1pm
25 SHERINGTON DRIVE, SUITE F SHERIDAN PARK • BLUFFTON
(843) 212-4195
EZGOHHI.COM
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 25A
JOB
FAIR Monday, February 21
10am to 2pm and 4 to 7pm Champions Ballroom, Harbour Town Clubhouse 11 Lighthouse Lane
Saturday, March 19
10am to 3pm Champions Ballroom, Harbour Town Clubhouse 11 Lighthouse Lane Learn about the new Quarterdeck at quarterdeckhhi.com
$1,50 UP TO
SIGN-ON B
0
ONUS!
NOW HIRING
managers, servers, bartenders, hosts and hostesses, sous chefs, line cooks, kitchen stewards, bussers and more
Along with an outstanding work environment and competitive wages, our employees enjoy: • Health, dental, vision, life and other insurances after 60-day waiting period • Additional voluntary benefits available through Colonial Life for full-time and part-time employees after 60-day waiting period • 401(k) with company match (after one year and 1,000 work hours) and profit sharing for all employees
• Employee referral program • Free unlimited golf rounds for all employees on Atlantic Dunes and Heron Point golf courses (cart fees apply.) • Discounts on resort dining, accommodations, resort apparel and on-site activities, including fitness center membership, tennis and golf • Discounted room rates at our sister properties
Apply at careers.seapines.com Questions? Email: ctaylor@seapines.com
Page 26A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
Stock hoping to start a Roasting Room comedy revolution By Tim Wood CONTRIBUTOR
“Matt Stock. Seriously?” That was the text that Roasting Room founder Jordan Ross received from a wellknown local musician the day that Stock, set to take the stage at the venue Feb. 2425, broke the record for the fastest-ever sellout at the Bluffton performing venue. Ross has spent the past six years building the listening room’s reputation as one of the premier spaces in the Southeast for musicians to play. So even he was surprised that a local comedian set the new standard for ticket sales at the Room. “He shattered it, man. Just obliterated the record,” Ross said of Stock, the 48-year-old Hilton Head Island scene fixture who just recently began his pursuit of a comedian career. “We knew he had an underground legion of fans who adore him, but this was just a revelation.” The pristine acoustics of the venue make it a musician’s dream space, but Ross and Roasting Room owner Josh
Matt Stock’s “I’m Not Alright: A Night of Positive, Inspirational Comedy” show at the Roasting Room, slated for Feb. 24-25, sold out in hours.
Cooke have also regularly rented out the room for business lunches and meetings for such groups as the Hilton Head Area Association of Realtors. Ross is a musician himself and has
played regular gigs throughout the Lowcountry. He launched The Roasting Room with no experience as a promoter and musician booker, so music has largely been the focus since the opening of the
When You Endow, You Enrich.
After living 50 years on Hilton Head Island, David and Nancy Ames have cultivated deep roots in our community. David, a land planner, developed Long Cove Club during Hilton Head’s early days. In 2016 he was elected to town council. They’ve both invested their invaluable talent, along with countless hours, to nonprofit boards and volunteer activities.
of their estate plan. Why? “We want to create a safety net for our community, and an endowment at the Community Foundation does that,” David says. Nancy agrees, “Building the Community Foundation into our estate plan allows us to continue to invest in the community we love, even after we’re gone.”
They wanted a way to continue to support the community after they’re gone. They found it at the Community Foundation.
Their love of our community shines in all they do now and, through our Legacy Society, that light will continue to shine for years and years to come.
As members of our Legacy Society, they’ve named the Community Foundation as part
What will you endow for future generations? Let’s start a conversation today.
Life Changing and Everlasting.
• 843.681.9100 • cf-lowcountry.org
room. He has earned a reputation with artists and music agents that has made the Room a must-stop for both rising stars and established acts looking for a more intimate space to connect with their fans. But booking music and comedy are two different worlds. “I think I know what’s funny but I never really knew how to sell it,” Ross said. “We had an improv group come in here a couple years ago, and people loved it. The performers all said this would make a great comedy room. But I didn’t really have any good guidance on how to build that avenue, since we really don’t have any regular comedy venues this side of the Talmadge Bridge.” Ross brought in Savannah comedian Dustin Sims for a show last summer, a regional star who is known for a more blue delivery (he swears a fair bit). “It sold well, and folks knew what they were getting with Dustin and his fans
Please see STOCK on page 28A
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 27A
TIRED OF THAT SAG? Renuvion is a minimally invasive solution to tighten skin on the neck, arms, abdomen, thighs, love handles and even breasts!
Renuvion requires only 1 treatment and downtime is minimal.
Call 912-354-4411 for a complimentary consultation. Visit www.fingerandassociates.com to learn more.
Page 28A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
STOCK from page 26A liked it,” Ross said. “His agent is a music agent and both Dustin and the agent both said it’s the most comedy-ready room they’ve played. I put those ticket sales and that advice in my back pocket, a lane to pursue for sure.” Stock approached Ross in the fall about the potential for a show in Bluffton. The general manager of the island’s Coligny Theatre, Stock is the poster boy for paying his island dues, going from a bouncer at The Lodge to a bartender and music promoter to working with longtime friend and musician John Cranford on both Southender Magazine and now at Coligny Theatre. The theatre’s general manager had always dreamed of launching a comedy career, but always felt it was a goal too far out of reach. That changed in 2019 when friend and fellow island scenester Brian Eason suggested a fundraiser for St. Jude’s that features funny folks taking the stage for the first time. The event, Laughs Against Cancer, was a huge hit and a coming-out party for Stock. He began to book more local
comedian shows at the theatre, taking the stage and honing his craft and his set. Stock was the headliner for a May 2021 concert, “Man of the People,” which sold out quickly and won raves from all who attended. That made the former bouncer, long-time holiday Santa think bigger. “The Roasting Room is a Cadillac destination. I’m at as many shows as I can watching friends like Jevon Daly and Cranford and Kyle Wareham just slay it,” Stock said. “I really see that room as a sleeping giant when it comes to comedy, and I want to show Jordan and Josh that it can be a win-win in selling tickets and giving local comedians a premiere spot to aspire to play.” That led to Stock’s show, “I’m Not Alright: A Night of Positive, Inspirational Comedy” being put on the Roasting Room calendar. What followed was a flurry of ticket sales that led to a sellout of his Thursday, Feb. 24, show in just four hours. “I never really even got to promote it on social, I had just barely posted it on the website, but Matt’s fans just gobbled
UN DE RC ON TR AC T
the tickets up,” Ross said. The speed of the sellout beat previous record holder Daly, the man behind the aforementioned sarcastic text and a long-time friend and huge supporter of Stock. Ross got with Stock and decided to add a second show on Friday, Feb. 25, which sold out just as quickly. “I’m just in awe. It was surreal to see the tickets go that quick. You dream of being on a level with these musicians you revere. I’ve just been working at it, getting my sets tighter and tighter, really learning the craft,” Stock said. “This is scary as hell, but I know I’m ready for this moment.” Stock hopes the Roasting Room shows will help propel him to more regional gigs in Savannah, Charleston and Jacksonville. But above all, he’s just thrilled to get the chance to cross the bridge and make folks smile a bit when we all need a good laugh the most. “I hope five years from now, we look at this as the beginning of a comedy revolution at the Roasting Room. Jevon has the most sell-out trophies, like six at this
point, so I’m looking to chase him down a bit,” Stock said. Daly will try to add to his record with his next performance at the venue set for April 1. “I’m just so grateful these guys gave me the shot,” Stock said. “So grateful to all the folks who have encouraged me, I want to make them proud. It’s a bit of pressure, but that’s a good thing. You got to keep pushing out of the comfort zone. It’s just never too late to chase down a dream.” Ross is transitioning out of management as he plans a full-time return to his childhood Ohio hometown later this year. But he, too, hopes this is the beginning of a new means of filling the space that is a dream fulfilled for him. “I could definitely see a comedy series here, a place for newer comics to really cut their teeth,” Ross said. “It’s the Wild Wild West when it comes to booking comedy here, a whole new frontier.” Tim Wood is a veteran journalist based in Bluffton. Contact him at timwood@blufftonsun.com.
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 29A
Restaurant Week celebrates best of Lowcountry cuisine
NOW HIRING
Positions Open in Bluffton and Hilton Head Join a dynamic team you can be proud of. We welcome friendly, dedicated people of all ages and backgrounds who bring their own unique experiences to the job.
Benefits COURTESY HILTON HEAD ISLAND-BLUFFTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Discover taste sensations and support new and old favorite restaurants during the 14th annual Restaurant Week in Bluffton and on Hilton Head Island.
By Tim Wood CONTRIBUTOR
It’s the seven-day stretch when local foodies rejoice, when waistlines are waxing and chefs get to flex their culinary muscles. It’s the 14th annual Restaurant Week around Bluffton and Hilton Head Island, the annual event presented by the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce that gives diners discounts galore and new dishes to try at more than 70 area restaurants. This year’s foodie fest runs through Feb. 5. “People call our front desk to ask about Restaurant Week to make plans around it,” said Chamber spokesperson Charlie Clark. “It’s a week for diners to try something new or hit that restaurant they have had on the bucket list, and for chefs, it’s a chance to try some new dishes to see how they’re received.” The idea behind the event was simple. The food and beverage industry drives
the Lowcountry economy, so the Chamber asked its restauranteurs the best way to spotlight the industry. The response was equally a gimme: Help us cultivate business and potential new regulars during a slower time of the year. The event was patterned after successful events in New York and other culinary centers. Restaurants create special menus for the week and create attractive package deals in hopes of filling the reservation list. All the deals are listed on the Chamber’s Restaurant Week website, with more restaurants being added daily. You can feast on the beef bourguignon as part of a three-course package at Chez Georges Bistro & Bar, the blacked Carolina catfish as part of a three-course meal deal at Fishcamp on Broad Creek, or the chicken saltimbocca at Frankie Bones Restaurant & Lounge – just three examples of the
Please see FOODIES on page 30A
We’re happy to invest in you, and offer these special incentives to eligible employees: • • • • • • •
Health insurance coverage 401(k), stock, and savings plans Paid time off Parental leave Education assistance Mental health support 50% match for Vacation Savings account (as little as $25 a month, up to $400) • Partner Perks (discounts on top brands, electronics, home appliances, and everyday essentials)
Apply today at STARBUCKS.COM/CAREERS
Page 30A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
FOODIES from page 29A hundreds of main entrees on parade for your palate this week. “We all get in that restaurant rut. This is the chance to expand those horizons,” said Clark, who plans to try at least a couple of new eateries this week. “It’s become one of our most enjoyable events because people are so enthusiastic to use this as a chance to broaden their culinary adventures a bit.” The week is just one part of the Chamber’s Foodie February, which includes the month-long Gullah Celebration, sharing recipes for local favorites and podcast interviews with chefs such as Andrew Carmines of Hudson’s on the Docks and Nathan “Nate” Beriau, the new director of food and beverage at Montage Palmetto Bluff. It culminates with the Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival on Feb. 25. “Nate is the former executive chef at the Ritz Carlton San Francisco. He is just the latest chef planting roots here, truly bolstering the Lowcountry as a foodie destination,” she said. “Culinary tourism has exploded across the country, and the talent we have here, it’s worth celebrating. Creative dynamos like Brandon Carter at FARM in Bluffton or Margaret Golson at Charlie’s, one of the few female certified sommeliers in the Southeast – it just shows how we are continually growing the restaurant scene here.” Local restaurant leaders say the event is a gentle nudge to remind Lowcountry residents that now is the best time to dine out before the next wave of tourists invade the region. “It’s a great opportunity at a slower time of year to give our locals that support us year-round a discounted dinner,” said Lauren Jordan, general manager at area staple Captain Woody’s Seafood Bar and Grill in Bluffton. The restaurant is offering a three-course meal at both their Bluffton and Hilton Head locations, featuring main entrée options like chicken Milanese, fried shrimp, salmon Oscar and fourcheese ravioli. “It’s a great time to let new residents or locals that haven’t tried us yet a chance to see what we offer for a great price.” It’s also a chance for newer restaurants to showcase their menus. Chronic Golf on Hilton Head opened last year, and is a spot some may think of more as a fun-night-out destination than a dining
option. “We decided to participate in Restaurant Week because we think now, more than ever, our community needs unifying events and promotions for our locals,” said Chronic Golf co-founder Ashley Pemberton. Chronic Golf is offering a deal that includes a two-course menu plus a 90-minute rental of their golf and sports simulators, with menu options including Hawaiian flatbread, shrimp scampi, shrimp Pomodoro, pasta and meatballs and chicken parmesan. “We are thrilled to be able to include something Restaurant Week has never seen before, an activity paired with a menu,” Pemberton said. This is also a chance for the Chamber to showcase its potential to restaurant owners looking to become members. “We regularly gain new members before and after Restaurant Week, because it’s driving thousands of folks to these eateries. It’s truly a win-win for everyone,” Clark said. The week is purposely designed to give locals two shots at a Saturday night on the town, but the sooner you make your plans, the better. “You want to get your reservations in before these hot spots get booked,” Clark said. For more information on Restaurant Week and all of the meal offers available, go online to chamberrestaurantweek.com. Tim Wood is a veteran journalist based in Bluffton. Contact him at timwood@blufftonsun.com.
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 31A
KEVIN AYLMER
Cross Schools has opened its newest addition to the growing campus, Phase VI: The High School Auxiliary Building. A ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the opening of the new building was held Jan. 22. Pictured from left to right are Pete Laugen, Head of School; Rick Hansen, president of the Board of Trustees; Joe Fraser, president of Fraser Construction; Rev. Nathan Weaver, director of spiritual life at Cross Schools and Church of the Cross; and Steve Kiser of Cross Outreach Ministries. The three-story, free-standing structure features over 13,500 sq. feet of finished space, including space for athletics, art, music, classrooms, administrative offices, and a faculty work area and lounge.
LET US UPDATE YOUR KITCHEN CABINETS! CALL FOR
FREE ESTIMATE!
Expert Cabinet refacing/repainting Keep your cabinets and let us provide a new, refreshed look • Quality paint • Quality craftmanship • 3-day turnaround • Locally Owned & Operated • Licensed & Insured • Now serving Bluffton, Okatie, Hilton Head, Beaufort, and Charleston AMAZING KITCHEN CABINET REFACING, LLC 843.247.2835 Amazingcabinets843@icloud.com
BEFORE
AFTER
Page 32A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
ON THE PORCH WITH …
‘Community sister’ turns a second chance into life of service
COURTESY MAYE RIVER QUILT GUILD
Community advocate Sharon Brown at her Bluffton home.
By Gwyneth J. Saunders CONTRIBUTOR
At age 12, children seem to have life by the horns – and their parents, too. Sharon Brown, whose roots are in Bluffton, was probably the same. Born in Savannah, and raised in Florida between Hollywood and Miami, she used to visit her grandparents here in the summer months. “My grandparents and everybody were born and raised here,” she said. “In Florida I enjoyed roller skating in the park. My mom was a hard-working woman, and she always had to work. I did a lot of tennis playing back then in Florida.” Brown is hard to miss in a crowd. She’ll be the one moving around, joking with friends, taking pictures and video, mixing with the kids, talking to people about issues that concern them, and finding out how she can do one more thing to make someone’s life better. But she will freely tell anyone that it’s been a long, hard road to become who she is now. Drugs, alcohol and time in jail marked a traumatic period in her life.
“My dad was in the Air Force and my mom did a lot of things. After my parents got divorced, we ended up back here because my mom decided she wanted to come back and take care of her aging parents,” Brown said. She was about 13, she recalls, when her mother moved her and her two brothers to Bluffton. It should have been a promising future, but it wasn’t long before tragedy struck. “I am the middle. I have an older brother, Jerome, and I had a younger brother, Tyrone, who drowned in the May River. He was 9. Tyrone’s Porch at the Oyster Factory is named after him,” she said. Then her mom died. “When my mom came back, she didn’t last. She was killed in a fatal car accident. Came here in August and died in November. Her intention was good, but it didn’t last,” said Brown. Brown loved her teachers when she attended H.E, McCracken when it was both a middle and high school.
Please see PORCH on page 33A
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
PORCH from page 32A “What I liked to do when I was here after she passed away, I went to school, and I played basketball one year. Coach said ‘I want you to play basketball.’ I said ‘Me?’ I sucked at it,” she laughed at the memory. “But I was just lost. It wasn’t the fault of my grandparents. They were forced to raise three kids and they were elderly country folk. I became a fullblown alcoholic at age 14, missing my mom. I was all over the place when my mom died. Life just seemed to stand still for a moment. I had no vision and didn’t want much of nothing.” Brown graduated high school and went to Bauder Fashion College back in Miami. “I wanted to go back to Florida. I graduated with an associate arts degree in fashion merchandising,” said Brown. “I was a free-flowing sister but I wanted to be a fashion designer and a model, but that’s not what I ended up doing. A lot of things came in the wake.” Brown traveled, visited her father who was then in New York, and finally returned to South Carolina. “I didn’t do anything with that degree, I just wanted to get away. When I came back, I went into the food and beverage business, and worked as a hostess starting out. I was a maid, a pantry worker, a cashier. I’m a multitasker, I’ve had it all. And I was so happy drinking and drugging. I couldn’t find my purpose in life back then,” said Brown. “I didn’t have my daughter at that time but when I did, I was still drinking and drugging. Through all of that I was living with my grandparents.” Then the law pushed pause on Brown’s life with time in jail. “When my daughter was about 5, I ended up in jail trying to steal something out of a store,” she said. “As a first-time offender, I went through a pre-trial intervention program, and had to go through a drug rehab program. I ended up in an 18-month pilot program in Florence.” Brown remembers it as a nice facility, but her time was shortened. “They kicked me out after six months because they said I thought I was a counselor,” she recalled. “So I came out and I knew that was no longer a life I wanted to live. So I got myself together and I thanked the Lord that I wasn’t a statistic. I said I would serve him until the day I die,
and it wasn’t all about me, it was about helping people from then on.” True to her word, Brown changed. She began working at a hospice agency, eventually becoming a manager. “I learned about hospice from Home Health Hospice. I learned a lot about death and dying, and I have great appreciation for death, and the families who have to put their families in hospice,” she said. Then she began volunteering. “I wanted to be a volunteer because you didn’t see many African-Americans volunteering many places. My internal thinking was, ‘Hey, you got to be involved.’ Everybody knew me because I was vocal,” said Brown. “If I thought it looked racial to me, I let them know it. I just wanted to be in the mix to be together as one. I said we got to do better and volunteer. That’s how I became a community advocate because I saw things happening in my community where I lived. I tell people, when you report these things, just tell them the facts. Emotion should be put aside.” When Bluffton High School was built, Brown began volunteering there and soon became a volunteer coordinator. “I loved it. Aretha Rhone-Bush was the first principal. And after I was a volunteer for a while she asked me if I’d be her secretary. I prayed about it and I’ve been there ever since. That was in 2009. I waited for my daughter to graduate before I took the job, so when she graduated in 2009, I came there,” Brown said. “The spirit had me there to help these kids, to be a mentor to them. I just thought I was that surrogate parent. Kids always need another parent. It is all about the children inside that building and the teachers.” Brown keeps a basket of snacks in her office – an act she chose because she knows some children don’t always get enough to eat. “They know they’re welcome to come in and get something any time,” Brown said. “It helps keep them going.” Once Facebook came out, Brown found another avenue to coordinate activities and volunteers. Her posts help boost such events as school backpack giveaways in the fall and Easter egg hunts in the spring. “Somebody gave me the name ‘Com-
Please see PORCH on page 34A
Page 33A
LET’S TACKLE
FISHING!
SHOP, LEARN AND MORE AT SOUTHERNDRAWLOUTFITTERS.COM
Big CLEARENCE sale going on! 30% to 75% off the original prices. Clothing, tackle and more!
HOW TO CLASSES FEB 1ST @ 6PM FLY TYING
$5
FEB 8TH @ 6PM Low Tide 101
$20
Tie one on Tuesday – Fly tying event. Local Baitfish pattern – Beginner’s welcome!
Focused on fishing low tide flats and creeks for redfish and flounder with artificial baits. Class includes a sample pack of baits and rigs!
FEB 15TH @ 6M FLY TYING
$5
Tie one on Tuesday – Fly tying event. “Big Boy Shrimp” Red’s cannot pass up a big boy shrimp
FEB 22nd @ 6PM Vertical Jigging $20 Presented by NLO Fishing! Learn the best techniques to out fish your friends with one of the most effective lures out there! If you take the nearshore class, this is a great skill to have!
Please call the store to secure spots for the classes. 843-705-6010 Class size is limited.
Located in the Moss Creek shopping center on Rt. 278 before the HHI Bridge
Page 34A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
PORCH from page 33A
COURTESY SHARON BROWN
Bluffton’s “Community Sister” Sharon Brown volunteers for the annual Frazier Family Feast at Thanksgiving.
that empowers people. It’s just to help the community thrive,” said Brown. “We came up with the Back to School Fun Day. We started out giving 68 backpacks and by the fourth year we were giving away 500. We’ve given away more than
3,500 backpacks through the years.” The parents pay for nothing at the fun day. Health screening with Beaufort Memorial Hospital health mobile, the Beaufort-Jasper Comprehensive Health offers a free dental clinic, and the Bluffton
COME SEE US AT SHERIDAN PARK
Police Department, the Bluffton Township Fire Department and the Beaufort County Emergency Services ambulance come out so they can educate the kids on what they do. “It’s been a ride. When I look back over my life, I have no shame,” Brown said. “I’m all about helping people, but I’m all about being real. My testimony about me being me might save somebody’s life. I was in the closet but you never know how you can save a soul by coming out and being in the open.” Brown is grateful for the opportunity to help others. “Life is too short to be in this community and have all the resources, and not help one another,” she said. “The Lord has given me a peaceful heart and peaceful mind. All our lives are predestined, and what’s going to happen is going to happen. I don’t have any problem sharing my life with people. My heart is in the right place finally and I am so grateful.” Gwyneth J. Saunders is a veteran journalist and freelance writer living in Bluffton.
Feel the Love This Valentine's Day
Eat More Bagels
NY Style Bagels Made Fresh Daily Serving Breakfast and Lunch Daily 7am-2pm
Hwy. 278 Sherrington Dr Pennington Dr S he
ridan Park Circle
Persimmon
Simmonsville Rd.
munity Sister.’ When Facebook came, I really moved along. Any event I go to, it’s on there,” said Brown. Currently raising her granddaughter, who now plays basketball for the Bobcats, Brown can be counted on to celebrate the girls as well as the boys and is an avid sports fan, certainly a leading Bobcat cheerleader. She’s also been known to practice what she preaches. “I was the first female soccer coach that worked at the Bluffton rec center for the little people,” she said. “Hey, let’s get the kinds involved in sports. I try to get people to bring them in. We’re in this as a community. When the Lord gave me that second chance I told him I was going to serve him until I die.” Brown currently sits on the Bluffton Chamber of Commerce board of directors as the chairperson for the Bluffton Area Community Association. The association had originally been a political organization but “flat-lined,” she said. “We paid the fees to start it back up and we wanted it to be a social, community educational organization, a nonprofit
Bluffton Parkway
TWO LOCATIONS!
Bluffton . Sheridan Park Circle . (843) 815-5300 Hilton Head . .841 Wlliam Hilton Pkwy . (843) 686-3353
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 35A
NEWBIE’S GUIDE TO BLUFFTON
Are you all ready to learn how to say y’all and mean it?
By Tim Wood CONTRIBUTOR
There are hundreds of pockets of land masses across the United States that have their own distinct accent. Just ask anyone from Philadelphia about “wooder” or an OG Mainah like myself about “lobstah.” While the South certainly has its own signature drawl, it also has a dictionary all its own. So much so that it becomes a very quick distinguisher between natives and newcomers. In Bluffton and the Lowcountry, that gets even more distinct when you add in the Gullah Geechee language. That’s more like a 102 course that needs the 101 prerequisite. The first mistake that visitors and newcomers make is to consider these instant identifiers as cute or quaint. Making a joke out of a way of communicating that goes back centuries, a tone and twist to the language at the very core of the Southern hospitality that drew most newcomers to come to these parts, well, that’s a big no-no. In my unofficial role as the liaison between natives and the come-latelies, I get asked about language more
than any other category of question. It happens so often that I feel like I could teach a beginner course on this stuff, because you truly need to know that that it matters – and why it matters to natives – before you go trying to appropriate their words. All roads of understanding Southern communication lead to a second-person-plural pronoun that is the make-or-break word for you to learn if you have any hope or aspiration to assimilate to Southern life. Y’all pickin’ up what I’m droppin’? It’s been called the most identifiable feature of the dialect known as Southern American English. Said correctly and with purpose, it’s a term that inspires instant camaraderie, a keycard into the gated community that is Southern culture. It’s not rocket science to figure out that y’all is a contraction for “you all,” which in and of itself is incorrect language that in my profession, left in the guardianship of any editor north of the Mason-Dixon line, will make their skin crawl. Many etymologists will try to paint the history of the term to one
Please see NEWBIES on page 37A
The Perfect Valentine:
A WHISPER CREEK SPA GIFT CARD
FREE Farmhouse Fresh Kissable Lip Kit ($30 Value) with purchase of a $150 Gift Card or more. Limit one per customer. Not valid with other discounts.While supplies last! Expires Feb 28, 2022
Luxury Day Spa The Whisper Creek Spa Difference • • • • •
Massage • Complimentary wine or champagne Hydrafacials • Try out the infrared sauna VIP Manicure & Pedicure in our resort-inspired Indulgent Body Treatments locker room Organic Facials
NOW OPEN
1196 Fording Island Rd., Bluffton | 843.960.0100 (Between Burnt Church and Malphrus Rds.) whispercreekspa.com @whispercreekspa
Page 36A
The Bluffton Sun
Exceptional Care. Trusted Quality.
Feb. 1, 2022
Get antiques appraised Feb. 19 The Kiwanis Club of Bluffton will host its annual Antiques Appraisal event from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 19 at Seaquins Ballroom, 1300 Fording Island Road in Bluffton. The event is an opportunity for attendees to find out what their antiques and collectibles are worth and to learn more about them from our knowledgeable local appraisers. Four sets of appraisers will be spaced throughout the ballroom, and social-distanced waiting areas will be provided. Masks are mandatory, and social distancing will be practiced. Educational verbal appraisals start at $10 per item, or three appraisals for $25. With prepaid tickets, purchasers can reserve a time slot. In addition, an online silent auction will held through Feb. 20. View, bid, and share the auction by visiting cutt.ly/bkcauction. There is no cost to bid. The Kiwanis Club will continue to follow town ordinances relating to COVID and mask mandates. Any updates will be
ional Care. Trusted Exceptional Care.Quality. Trusted Quality.
lled Nursing | Assisted Living | Memory Care | HomeCare | Hospice
posted on the group’s Facebook page and sent to paid ticket holders 48 hours in advance of the event. Net proceeds from both the event and the auction will support community programs that serve children and their families. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit cutt.ly/bkcappraisal. Walk-ins are welcome.
Rehabilitation | Skilled Nursing | Assisted Living Memory Care | HomeCare | Hospice
| Assisted | Memory | Hospice | Skilled | Assisted | Memory lled Nursing Living Care |Living HomeCare Rehabilitation Nursing Care | HomeCare | Hospice
thepalmettosbluffton.com
e | HomeCare | Hospice
mynhchomecare.com
carishealthcare.com
rdinary service and compassionate care for seniors in South Carolina. thepalmettosbluffton.com nhcbluffton.com
mynhchomecare.com thepalmettosbluffton.com
carishealthcare.com mynhchomecare.com
carishealthcare.com
dinary service andextraordinary compassionateservice care for seniors in South Carolina. Offering and compassionate care for seniors in South Carolina.
re.com
carishealthcare.com
Offering extraordinary service and compassionate care for seniors in South Carolina.
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
NEWBIES from page 35A specific regional immigrant. Some say we co-opted from the oodles of Scots-Irish that would say, “ye aw.” Others will have you believe it’s an African-American vernacular or an African-English creole. Truth is, both groups’ populations grew mightily in the South in the early 1800s. Others trace the term as far back as the early 1700s, as it appeared in a few 1730s poems and a 1750 English translation of a 1620s play includes the phrase, “But I know y’all for merry Wags.” Heck, one across-the-pond history of Ethiopia in 1631 includes a “y’all.” The general idea behind “y’all” isn’t much different from the “you lot” you’d hear in London today or “youse” that you’d hear in Philly or Australia. Like most communication distinct to the South, I think “y’all” is a cheerier word than any of those others. You break out a “y’all,” and it’s endearing, a bonding moment. Think of it as adult potty training. Parents know what I mean. That first time your little one goes to the bathroom on their own – no leaks, no puddles, no tears – it is a moment of immense pride. It’s no different for “y’all.” The first time a newcomer can correctly and without forced effort inject a “y’all” into their conversation, that is truly an occasional worthy of a celebratory pause. Because it’s not easy. So many folks just make too much of it. There’s too much accent so it comes out far too close to “you all,” or even worse, sounds like “ya’ll.” Putting the emphasis on the wrong side of an apostrophe (or spelling it the wrong way), it’s genuine cause for expulsion. Like, we’ll go eminent domain on all y’all and take back your house and your mortgage. (And these days, probably sell it for $200,000 than you bought it for six months ago. You’re welcome). I just went next level on you and you probably didn’t even notice, and in a bad way. Linguists will try to tell you that “y’all” is meant for two or three people, while “all y’all” is more meant to address a group. Bless their hearts (more on that later).
I tried to pull out an “all y’all” in a post on the “What’s Happening in Bluffton” Facebook group once and I had five or six native Blufftonians hit me up via DM and tell me, “Tim, you’re trying way too hard. Stop it.” That, in and of itself, made me look like a poser. Learn from my mistakes. Stick with “y’all.” I have spent 762 words making you think about this far too much. Truth is, if there is intention behind a “y’all,” that is all that is needed. The contraction is like an instant care detector, meant to suss out the folks planting roots here from the AirBNB crowd dipping their toes in our waters. That moment of graduation to true Southerner will happen organically when you stop thinking about whether you’re using it right or not. It will just feel right, and in turn, it will be met with a smile from your neighbor. So listen, as a special bonus, I’m going to give you a quick primer on some other truly Southern terms. “Bless your heart” is not an endearing term. It is code talk for Southerners, a way of sounding nice while taking a dig at your lack of Southern couth that goes right over your head. There is the 2% occasion that it is truly meant as a compliment, but the other 98 out of 100 times, it is the most Southern way ever of dropping the F word. Please don’t try to Google this stuff. They’ll tell y’all folks are still saying “down yonder” and “madder than a wet hen.” No, they are not. There are plenty of other truly unique Southernisms. For instance, you don’t get ready to do something down here. You’re fixin’ to do it. Again, that’s like Southern 102, whereas “finna,” the Atlanta-born contraction of “fixin’ to” is like junior-year Southern. Let’s just get y’all settled with using “y’all.” Then we’ll talk. Tim Wood is a veteran journalist based in Bluffton. Contact him at timwood@blufftonsun.com.
Light End Page 37A Thereat Isthe Always SUN TUNNEL of the Tunnel! Light at the End Technolog There Is Always Light at Experience the Newest the the of End of Tunnel! the Tunnel!
Call Natural Home Lite for to theBrighten Installation of: Spaces in Solar Lighting Dark
...in Hallways, Call Natural HomeLite Lite for for the of: of: Call Natural Home theInstallation Installation
Entryways, Baths, Laundry Rooms and Kitchens; no space is too small! Plus a BONUS TAX Experience the Newest Technology Experience the Newest Technology CREDIT Experience thetoNewest Technology in Solar Lighting Brighten Dark Spaces possible*
SUN SUNTUNNEL TUNNEL
in Solar Lighting to Brighten Dark Spaces
...in Hallways, in Solar Lighting to Brighten Dark Spaces ...in Hallways,
Entryways,Baths, Baths, Entryways, ...in Hallways, Entryways, Baths, Laundry LaundryRooms Rooms Laundry Rooms and Kitchens; no space is too small! andKitchens; Kitchens; and Plus a BONUS TAX CREDIT possible* small! no space spaceisistoo too small! Plus a BONUS TAX Plus a BONUS TAX CREDIT CREDITpossible* possible*
51% TAX CREDIT
TAX CREDIT 26%51% FEDERAL & 25% STATE TAX CREDIT
26% FEDERAL & 25% STATE TAX CREDIT
51% CREDIT 51%TAX TAX CREDIT
26% FEDERAL 25%STATE STATETAX TAXCREDIT CREDIT 26% FEDERAL& & 25% Your Lowcountry SKYLIGHT SPECIALIST
Your Lowcountry SKYLIGHT SPECI Getting Sun Tunnels has never been easier. CLICK. ORDER. SCHEDULE. INSTALL. Getting Sun Tunnels has never been easi Your Lowcountry SKYLIGHT SPECIALIST 246 Mead Rd., Suite D, CLICK. ORDER. SCHEDULE. INSTALL. Hardeeville, S.C. 29927 Sun Tunnels hasbeen never been easier. GettingGetting Sun IWANTLIGHT.COM Tunnels has never easier. 246 Mead Rd., Suite D, CLICK. ORDER. SCHEDULE. CLICK. ORDER. SCHEDULE. INSTALL. INSTALL. 843-412-5162
Hardeeville, 29927 246 Mead246 Rd.,Mead Suite Rd., D, SuiteS.C. D, IWANTLIGHT.COM Hardeeville, S.C. 29927S.C. 29927 Hardeeville, 843-412-5162 IWANTLIGHT.COM • 843-412-5162 IWANTLIGHT.COM
Page 38A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
Latitude Margaritaville’s phase two amenities well underway Construction is well underway on Latitude Margaritaville Hilton Head Town Center phase two amenities, according to the developer, Minto Communities. These amenities include a Workin’ ’n’ Playin’ Center with Coconut Telegraph Business Center, Arts & Crafts room, Clayground pottery studio, and multi-purpose rooms. Residents can trick out their golf carts and work on projects at the neighborhood Hangar and Woodshop. A Barkaritaville Pet Spa will offer grooming services, pet foods, grooming tools, and toys. The Last Mango Theater will be home to movies, shows and more. Two additional tennis courts, three additional pickleball courts, and bocce ball courts will have lighting for night play. The addition of phase two amenities will complete the Latitude Town Center. Phase one Town Center amenities opened in March 2020. They include a Latitude Town Square that features a thatched-roof bandshell with full-size concert stage, jumbo screen to show live concerts and movies, and a specially surfaced dance area.
Latitude Margaritaville Hilton Head phase two amenities include a Workin’ ’n’ Playin’ Center with Coconut Telegraph Business Center.
There also is a state-of-the-art Fins Up! Fitness Center with indoor pool as well as lagoon-style Paradise Pool with unique beach-style entry and its own Tiki Island. Dining options include the Latitude Bar & Chill Restaurant and the Changes in Attitude Bar that offers poolside drinks and dining. Completed outdoor amenities include tennis and pickleball courts, a nature
trail, and Barkaritaville Dog Park. Latitude Margaritaville Hilton Head is located in Hardeeville, the scenic gateway to Hilton Head Island. Just ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the most popular small towns to live in the U.S., Hardeeville is part of the Hilton Head Island metro area that is a major vacation destination as well as popular for year-round living.
Latitude Margaritaville communities are being developed by award-winning master developer Minto Communities and global lifestyle brand Margaritaville. Latitude Margaritaville communities are inspired by the lyrics and lifestyle of singer, songwriter, and best-selling author Jimmy Buffett, whose songs evoke a passion for tropical escape and relaxation. This dynamic approach to active adult living has captured the imagination of today’s vibrant and active 55-and-better market. Over 550,000 prospective buyers are registered as Latitude Margaritaville Paradise Club members to receive regular updates on the communities. The Latitude Margaritaville Hilton Head Town Center is located at 3295 Latitude Boulevard, off Highway 278, two-and-a-half miles east of I-95. Sales Center hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information on Latitude Margaritaville and to sign up to receive regular development updates, visit LatitudeMargaritaville.com.
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Noteworthy • The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is gearing up to provide free, IRS-certified tax return preparation for Lowcountry residents. VITA, a collaboration with the IRS, Beaufort County Human Services Alliance and United Way of the Lowcountry (UWLC), will kick off its popular tax filing support program beginning the first week in February and continuing through April 10. The Bluffton Branch Library, 120 Palmetto Parkway, is the only location in Bluffton; and the Deep Well Project, 80 Capital Drive, is the only site on Hilton Head Island. Other locations are open in Jasper, Hampton and Northern Beaufort counties. Staffed by local volunteers, VITA provides free preparation and electronic filing of income tax returns for individuals and families with low-to-moderate incomes who are eligible for tax credits. Last tax season, VITA helped file more than 2,400 free tax returns in Beaufort and Jasper counties – generating more than $4 million in economic impact. Taxpayers eligible for VITA services include people with annual incomes of less than $57,000; anyone with a physical disability; non-English-speaking citizens; and people older than 60. In addition to electronic filing for quick deposit of returns, VITA volunteers can inform taxpayers about special tax credits for which they may qualify, such as earned income tax credit, child tax credit, and credit for the elderly or the disabled. Masks will be required at all locations, and COVID-19 health and safety precautions will be taken to prevent the spread of illness. For more information about VITA services, site locations, dates, times and required documents, visit vitalowcountry.org. • The Maye River Quilters will meet Feb. 5 at the Church of the Palms, 1419 Okatie Hwy. The meeting will start at 10 a.m. The wearing of masks is encouraged. For more meeting dates and times, and for membership forms to join the group, call 843-530-1244. To attend the meeting as a guest, send an RSVP email to mayeriverquilters@gmail. com.
• The Christian Women’s Connection will host its next gathering, themed Celebrate Enduring Love, Feb. 16 beginning at 11 a.m. at Hampton Hall Club House. The luncheon program features Karen Gilmour’s “A Love Story Retold” and Aunt Laurie’s Gift Baskets along with Trapper the Wonder Dog, which supports job training and assistance to disabled. Music is provided by vocalist Laurie Haddock on Hampton Hall. Cost of the luncheon is $28 and must be prepaid by Feb. 9. Make checks payable to CWC Bluffton and mail care of Carol Mock, 607 Argent Way, Bluffton, SC 29909. For more information, call Mock at 843705-7604 or Julie Ott at 602-750-5465 or Julie.ott.az@gmail.com. • Registration is open for the Sporting Clays Shoot to be held March 11 for the benefit of Pockets Full of Sunshine. Proceeds from the event will help grow the nonprofit organization, which creates vocational and social opportunities for adults with disabilities and engages them in the greater Hilton Head Island/Bluffton communities. The event, which sold out in 2021, is open to shooters of all abilities. Early registration is suggested. Sponsorship opportunities are available and appreciated. Register at pocketsfullofsun.org, or contact Carol Bartholomew at 843-384-1315. • The Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival will return Feb. 21-27, offering a weeklong experience with celebrity chefs, local chefs, local seafood, artisans, musicians and more at various venues on the island. Events include the Celebrity Chef Dinner Feb. 24, master classes, “Secrets of a Pitmaster,” a Pig Pickin’ and Oyster Roast, and fireworks. The headliner event, the 15th annual Seafood Festival, will be held at Shelter Cove Harbour and Marina Feb. 26 from 1 to 4:30 p.m., featuring nearly 100 food, beverage and artisan booths, with wine, beer and spirits tastings. Celebrity chefs and cookbook authors will provide demonstrations. For more information and tickets, visit hiltonheadseafoodfestival.com.
Page 39A
What can I do to refresh my skin after the holidays? How can I learn about cosmetic treatments? Do I need sunscreen this time of year?
We have the Answers.
Oswald Lightsey Mikell, MD Cassandra Beard, DO, MPH
American Board of Dermatology American Board of Dermatology American Board of Cosmetic Surgery
Elizabeth Liggett MSN, AGNP-C
Taylor Owens MSPAS, PA-C
Schedule a Consultation Today.
Visit our website
www.dalcdermatology.com
Hilton Head Island - 843.689.5259 Bluffton-Okatie - 843.705.0840 Beaufort - 843.525.9277
Page 40A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
Business Briefs • Calhoun Station Thrift Store has reopened after six months. Significant renovations to the interior of the store are now complete, with new paint and merchandise organization. The all-volunteer run thrift store supports nonprofit programs throughout Bluffton. Any 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization can apply for funding by completing an application. Since it was founded in 1989, Calhoun Station Thrift Store has donated more than $1.5 million to help improve social services for Bluffton residents. Completely supported by donations and volunteers, Calhoun Station is continuously looking for volunteers to help the mission and vision of the organization. Donations are accepted during store hours Wednesday and Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The store is located at 77 Prichard St. For more information call 843-757-5191. • Rebekah Anderson, DMD, MSD has joined the practice of Maginnis Ortho-
dontics. She will be seeing patients at the offices in Beaufort and Bluffton. Dr. Anderson received her Bachelor of Arts in chemistry at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She went on to Boston University, where she received her Master of Arts in medical sciences and her Doctor of Rebekah Anderson Dental Medicine (where she graduated summa cum laude). She also earned her Master of Science in Dentistry at the Medical University of South Carolina. Dr. Anderson resides in Charleston with her husband, Ryan, and two doodles, Cooper and Charlie. For more information, visit maginnisorthodontics.com. • The Juice Hive, the Bluffton-based healthy eatery and sister restaurant to The Cottage Café, Bakery & Tea Room, has once again been honored with two pres-
tigious Good Food Awards. For the fifth consecutive year, the eatery has achieved high honors, rising to the top of nearly 2,000 entries, and honored for foods that “represent the highest standards of quality, sustainability and social responsibility.” The Juice Hive’s winning entries this year are Korean Pickled Elephant Garlic (category: Pickles) and Watermelon Rind Chutney (category: Pantry). In addition to these two winning entries, the Juice Hive also had an additional honor this year: their popular Superfruit Roll-up was named a finalist in the competitive Snacks category. For more information, visit thejuicehive. com and thecottagebluffton.com. • Bluffton resident Suzanne Giesemann has been named to the 2022 Watkins List of 100 Most Spiritually Influential Living People. Giesemann is honored for her global work as a spiritual teacher, author and medium. The list celebrates the positive influence of today’s teachers and leaders who nurture
spiritual growth and make the world a better place. Those on the list must have made a unique spiritual contribution on a global scale. Pope Francis is No. 1 and the Dalai Lama is No. 2. Giesemann debuts at No. 92. Former U.S. Navy Commander Giesemann’s service to S. Giesemann humanity as a spiritual teacher, author and medium comes after a distinguished 20-year career in the military where she served as a commanding officer and as aide to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Her transition from senior officer to her current work is featured in the award-winning documentary “Messages of Hope,” based on her memoir by the same name. More information about Giesemann’s work and many free resources can be found at suzannegiesemann.com.
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 41A
BUSINESS UPDATE
Nectar, food trucks, knitting, ice cream and sports facilities By Tim Wood CONTRIBUTOR
We have a full lineup of new businesses to share with you, as Lowcountry entrepreneurs are doing their darndest to make sure that business growth keeps pace with the ongoing population explosion. Here’s the latest on the newest shingles hung around town. Tayble’s On The Move, 10953B N. Jacob Smart Blvd., Ridgeland, 843-949-0893: This food truck is anchored in the parking lot of Schooner’s Bar and Grill for now, as truck owners Starla Taylor and O’Neill Able get fully up and running (the name is a combination of their two last names). Taylor grew up in the restaurant industry and is the long-time manager of Schooner’s. She said their menu is all about freshness, nothing frozen. That includes hand-cut potato chips and deep-fried loaded potatoes with your choice of plain, BBQ, Philly and cheese-
TIM WOOD
Bluffton Mayor Lisa Sulka joined SERG Group and Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce officials to cut the ribbon at the new Nectar Farm Kitchen on Bluffton Road in Old Town.
burger filling. The truck also offers Philly cheesesteaks, burgers (including an epic one-pounder), grilled or hand-breaded and fried chicken with garlic aioli and chicken tenders. The truck will be open Monday,
Wednesday and Friday to start and will offer a home-cooked special on Wednesdays. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram @ tayblesonthemove. Stormy’s at Riverwalk, 61A Riverwalk
Blvd., Ridgeland, 843-645-5544, stormys. cafe: The former home of Cheap Seats Riverwalk has a new owner, as Mike and Debby Comisac have taken over the space from their friend, Cheap Seats co-owner Rob Hummel. The couple are new to the Lowcountry but have big plans for the newly renovated space and have already made a splash since their early January opening by bringing Target the Band on as a Tuesday night fixture. The restaurant will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner with a wide selection of American pub sandwich and wrap favorites as well as pizza, pasta entrees, wings and salads. Try the Philly cheesesteak – I had it on one of the eatery’s first days open and it was tender and juicy with a perfect blend of cheese sauce. Nectar Farm Kitchen Old Town, 207 Bluffton Road, Bluffton, 843-706-2337, nectarfarmkitchen.com: The SERG Group
Please see UPDATE on page 42A
Join Our Classes and Get Wicked Smart! Who Has More Fun Than Us? We Do!
50% OFF INSTALLATION! *
Sign-Up For Charcuterie Classes! Feb. 3, 10, 17, 24.
Take The Gore Out Of Gourmet! Sign-Up for Cooking Classes Feb. 1, 8, 15 and 22.
Sign-Up For Art Classes. Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23.
SNOWBIRD Celebrate “GALENTINES” Day With Us! Feb. 14” Exhibit In Progress! Join Us For CRAFT NIGHTS! Feb. 7, 21, 28.
IT’S TIME TO LOVE YOUR KITCHEN AGAIN Call for FREE Design Consultation
(843) 428-1829 shelfgenie.com
*
Limit one offer per household. Applies to purchases of 5 or more Classic or Designer Glide-Out ™ shelves. Lifetime warranty valid for Classic or Designer Solutions. Exp 3/31/2022
BEST STORE FOR VALENTINES!
A Unique Repurposing Store….Antiques, Furniture, Lamps, China, Linen, Art, Décor, Fashion, Photography.
Open Monday thru Saturday 11 to 5 Who Has More Fun Than Us? WE DO! 6 Promenade Street • Old Town Bluffton • 843-422-6940
Page 42A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
UPDATE from page 41A eatery that has won consistent raves on Hilton Head for its farm-to-table freshness and outstanding customer service has opened in the former home of Fat Patties in Old Town. The official ribbon cutting was held Jan. 25. Head chef Christopher Carge and his team are serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, using ingredients sourced from more than 25 local farms and vendors. We have heard raves about the homemade cinnamon sugar and jam donuts, especially when paired with an egg, meat and cheese on a donut sandwich. Lowcountry Shrimp and Knits, 181 Bluffton Road, Suite 1031 Building F, Bluffton, 508-864-0718, shrimpandknits.com: Tracy Winslow and her family turned their vacation home into their permanent home last year. Winslow, a former morning radio show host and current Spanish professor and tutor, was training for the Daufuskie Marathon when she got COVID in February 2020 and has been dealing with long-haul symptoms ever since, still unable to return to running. So she turned to her other passion, determined to build a local yarn shop
for people to hang out, knit and learn. The shop offers heirloom-quality yarn for sale as well as classes for kids and adults and every level of knitter. The shop is located in Magnolia Village, behind Peaceful Henry’s. See the website for the full menu of classes, yarns and accessories. Ice Cream Stop, 2700 May River Crossing, Bluffton, 843-757-7867, theicecreamstop.com: Bill and Gayle Pollard have become fixtures in Richmond Hill and Pooler with their warm and inviting ice cream parlors. Bluffton was the obvious choice for expansion as Gayle’s mother, Paula, lives in Sun City – and was the first customer to have their picture on the wall at the Bluffton location that officially opened Jan. 7. The pictures are a family tradition of filling the walls with photos of happy customers. The menu includes a wide variety of handscooped ice creams, non-dairy sorbet and Italian ice, chocolate and vanilla soft serve and a treat from Heaven known as Dole Whip. The fruity creation with a cult following among the Disney crowd is a gluten-free taste sensation. We suggest trying the
THE KIWANIS CLUB OF BLUFFTON
5TH ANNUAL ANTIQUES APPRAISAL AND ONLINE SILENT AUCTION
ANTIQUES APPRAISAL FEB. 19, 2022 • 10 AM TO 4 PM SEAQUINS BALLROOM 1300 FORDING ISLAND RD, BLUFFTON, SC LINK TO APPRAISAL TICKETS: CUTT.LY/BKCAPPRAISAL
No cost to bid! This year’s silent auction will be held online, so anyone can participate!
ONLINE SILENT AUCTION BEGINS JAN. 20, 2022 THROUGH FEB. 20, 2022 LINK TO AUCTION: CUTT.LY/BKCAUCTION
Educational verbal appraisals, $10 per item, or $25 for 3 items
Net proceeds will support programs for local children and supporting local organizations that help children and families.
The Kiwanis Club of Bluffton will continue following city ordinances in relation to COVID and mask mandates. We will contact ticket holders and post on our Facebook page 48 hours before the event if masks will be requires by the city or our venue. The Kiwanis Club of Bluffton Foundation is a 501c3 not-for-profit corporation.
With your generous donation we can continue making a difference one child and one community at a time!
COURTESY BENJAMIN’S FOOD TRUCK
A funnel cake pretzel, just one of the delectable creations from Benjamin’s Food Truck.
Coconut Allman Joy – an ice cream named after the legendary singer Gregg, a frequent Georgia customer who recruited Bill as a groupie (a fact that has the true diehard fan Gayle feeling a bit salty). Check out their website for flavors of the month and new ice creams.
843 Sport, 139 Hartwell Ave., Ridgeland, 843-290-3638, 843sport.com: The new 8,200-square-foot training facility is the brain child of H2 Elite travel basketball founder Rob Benson. Billed as the “future of
Please see UPDATE on page 43A
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 43A
UPDATE from page 42A basketball and sports performance training in the Lowcountry,” the space offers basketball, volleyball and sports performance and Pilates training and indoor pickleball courts and instruction. Benson envisions the space as the kids’ “third place,” away from home and school, where they can meet fellow motivated athletes. The facility will be a melding of a number of different established programs. The H2 program has moved from Hilton Head to this new centrally located facility, as has the Marwin Kline Speed and Sport Academy, SeaSide Volleyball, Gunner Strength Club and Twisted Pilates. Benjamin’s Food Truck, 843-707-2114, benjaminssouthernfriedpies.com: You better be ready for full-on guilty-pleasure gluttony when you visit the creation of chef Benjamin Watterson. The food truck offers Monte Cristo sandwiches with ham or turkey, loaded tater tots in BBQ pork, buffalo chicken and veggie varieties and soft pretzel, funnel cake pretzel and funnel cake Oreo bites. Did we mention it’s all Southern fried? We tried some of the creations when they made a stop at Cypress Ridge and all
we can say is … mind blown. We haven’t even mentioned the six varieties of the main attraction pies – available in Lula Mae sweet potato, chocolate, lemon, Mub’s jalapeno popper, LJ’s Lowcountry boil and Bluffton blue crab – that have been winning raves on social media. Check out where they’re at next on Instagram @benjaminsfoodtruck. Ehwa Electric, Bluffton, 843-505-7161, Master electrician Dan Ehwa recently relocated to Bluffton from Massachusetts with wife Diane and their family and is excited about carrying on his 20-year-old practice in the Lowcountry. Ehwa is fully licensed and insured to handle any and all residential and commercial, including Ring alarm and smart home installations. Email Ehwa at Daniel@EhwaElectric.com. Travel By Steph and Dream Vacations, 843-816-4073, swise.dreamvacations.com: Travel agent Stephanie Wise has worked for brick and mortar agencies for more than 16 years, but has decided to hang her own shingle and put her expertise to use for adventurers looking to return to travel. Wise
is associated with Dream Vacations and can plan any size itinerary to all corners of the world. In-person appointments available and Wise will travel to clients’ homes as well. She offers referral discounts as well first booking discounts to new clients. Clist Café at the Culinary Institute of the South, 1 Venture Drive, Bluffton: The café is open at Technical College of the Lowcountry’s new 28,000-square-foot teaching facility in Bluffton’s Buckwalter Place. The café is offering an array of lattes, teas, coffee and hot chocolate and an evolving lineup of pastries and breads such as linzer torte, sour cream streusel muffins and potato herb rolls. The eatery is open 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday and will also offer pop-up specials direct from the learning kitchens, like the fresh fruit gateaus offered last week. Check the TCL Facebook page for the latest menu additions. Rumblings around town: Carrie and David Leffew have already put their own blueprint on the Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar, which they purchased from chef Clayton
Rollison in early 2021. Now comes word that they’ve purchased the old Carrabba’s building at the corner of Folly Field Road and U.S. 278 on the island. Plans submitted to the town show the new venue’s working title is Lucky Beach Bar + Kitchen. Social media was buzzing over the last couple weeks as word slipped that a Cinnabon food truck was headed to Bluffton. While we’re told the rumors are true and the truck will be anchored near the Bluffton post office on Johnston Way, the new owners want all the T’s crossed before they go any more public with details. The Sea Pines Resort has begun hosting job fairs to hire more than 200 positions to staff the newly rebuilt Quarterdeck restaurant that is looking at an April re-opening. We’re also hearing that both Tangerines Café and Bakery right outside the Sun City gate and Mama G’s Pizza Bistro & Bar the Moss Creek plaza are making progress toward mid-February openings. Tim Wood is a veteran journalist based in Bluffton. Contact him at timwood@blufftonsun. com.
40 Pennington Drive in Sheridan Park, Bluffton Is Your One-Stop, All-In-One Home Enhancement Center!
You Know & Love Our Glass Doors... Wait Until You See Our
Quality Custom Closets!
©2022 American Wood Reface. All rights reserved.
A mericA’ s F inest c Abinet reFAcing & custom cAbinetry
now hiring superior Qualitycompleted in less than a Week!
skilled trim & finish carpenters
lifetime Warranty
• amish-crafted doors • 1/4” solid wood faciNG • maNy styles, fiNishes wood reface .com • add, exteNd & modify loWcountry shoWroom cabiNets, make chaNGes Hardeeville, SC | open by appointment • couNtertops & more!
free consultation
843.815.6700
Mention ad code Bs2202 for a $ 500 discount offer. Please call for details.
• Local Ownership Since 2001. • Local Lowcountry Showroom In Bluffton. • Local Skilled Craftsmen Install Top Quality Products. • Complimentary Consultation & Professional Rendering. • Now 10 Stylist Colors to Select From
Now Celebrating our 20th Anniversary! We are your LOCAL Specialists.
Call Mark Today! 843-815-2538
Sheridan Park, 40 Pennington Dr., Unit C Mon-Fri 11:30am-4:30pm • And Always by Appointment
Page 44A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
LEGAL
Never give anything to someone you love, even the kids By Brian Treacy CONTRIBUTOR
Invariably, in every workshop I present, the question is asked: “When should I give my house (or other assets) to the kids?” My answer is quick, swift and with a smile: “You never want to give anything to anyone you love.” That usually gets their attention and Brian Treacy draws a frown. Giving assets to your children usually defeats the goal of every estate plan. Why would anyone want to give their assets to children? The usual response is “I want to protect the assets.” I respond, “So the way you protect your assets from your creditors and predators is to give it to your kids so
those assets are subject to all their creditors and predators? Who has more creditors and predators, you or your kids?” The key element in asset protection planning from creditors and predators, or for Medicaid eligibility and long-term care, is to know the options available. Transfer of assets to your kids subjects those assets to risk by the children’s potential bankruptcy, divorce, lawsuits and even their death. Transfers can have adverse income tax consequences because gifts or transfers are made with a “carryover” tax basis; they take the asset at what you paid for it. This is extremely detrimental with highly appreciated assets because it triggers income tax on sale that would not otherwise be due had the client held it until death and then transferred it to the children. The key point is to know how to get the best of both worlds. That’s where the MCT (Medicaid Compliant Trust) works. The MCT
allows the grantor to be the trustee; to benefit from the trust; to change beneficiaries or any other provisions they desire. This is very empowering to clients who believe once you create an irrevocable trust, you can’t change it, you can’t benefit from it, and you can’t control it. The core distinction in a MCT trust is that you must give up only what you want to protect. For example, if you want to protect your assets, you must give up, forever, the right to own those assets. But you do not have to give up the right to control those assets, manage those assets or even get the beneficial interest and use of those assets! Grantors benefit from their assets that they no longer can reach by living in the house they have transferred or by continuing to receive income and dividends from investments put in the MCT. Most people realize they don’t really need the assets; they just need the income pro-
Palmetto
Bluffton’s Neighborhood Pet Store
The Very Best in Pet Care WOOF GANG BAKERY® & GROOMING 7 Lawton Street • Old Town Bluffton, South Carolina 29910 Located across from DuBois Park
Schedule your grooming appointment or nutritional consultation today!
f woofgangpalmetto c
woofgangpalmetto.com
hello@woofgangpalmetto.com
843-757-W
F (9663)
Family owned & operated
duced from them and want to maintain control. For those who do need immediate access to all assets, they are not candidates for the use of the MCT asset protection trust. They would use a typical revocable living trust, which can accomplish their estate planning needs such as transferring assets to their children at death without probate, in a trust that children can control and benefit from any time they want – but creditors or predators can never invade those assets, for the life of the child! The money is flat-out safe. Why would anyone give anything to anyone they love when they can give it to an MCT that protects it for them while they’re alive, and for their children for their lifetimes after they’re gone? Brian T. Treacy is an elder law and estate planning attorney, and owner of Elder Law & Estate Planning Center in Bluffton. hiltonheadelderlaw.com
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 45A
LEGAL
How to ensure your children will not be disinherited By Mark F. Winn CONTRIBUTOR
To protect your children’s inheritance and to make sure the people you love ultimately inherit what is left, there are two primary tools we use: 1. trust law to protect the property and to control and direct the remainder interest, and 2. an agreement not to alter the plan. The chief focus of this arti- Mark F. Winn cle is on the agreement not to alter the plan. Let us assume John and Cindy are married and have two children, Michael and Janice. John and Cindy realize it is possible that, upon the death of one spouse, the survivor would get re-married. Given this possibility, when they are getting their
planning put together, it is advisable for them to sign an agreement that indicates neither will alter their estate plan without each other’s consent, and that if the
Share the Love with Homeless Pets by sending a Valentine to the animal lovers in your life!
Visit PalmettoAnimalLeague.org and click on Send a Valentine. Make a heartfelt donation and send an eCard or print at home.
survivor is to get re-married, then the new spouse will waive their spousal rights under a valid prenuptial agreement. What does this do? It creates equitable
rights for Michael and Janice and ultimately protects their remainder interest. If we do this, and we also utilize trust law to protect assets during the surviving spouse’s life, and to direct where the remainder will go (to Michael and Janice), then we will have taken substantial steps that will ensure the family assets will not be lost to a new spouse, will not be lost to a lawsuit, will not be lost to unnecessary taxes. If we further direct assets to the children “in trust” for their benefit, where they are in control as trustee of their own trust, then we can make sure the assets they inherit from you will not be commingled with their spouse (your in-law) and will stay in your family protected from almost all creditors claims. Now, that is good planning. Mark F. Winn, J.D., Master of Laws (LL.M.) in estate planning, is a local asset protection, estate and elder law planning attorney. mwinnesq.com
GET DONE!
RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INSURANCE SPECIALIST SERVING THE LOW COUNTRY FOR OVER A DECADE SINCE 1947
Your card will make someone’s day and help pets in need of rescue.
Send a Valentine SAVE A LIFE!
Offices in Bluffton, Charleston, Atlanta, Charlotte, Savannah • 912.414.5597 • www.HOWEROOFS.COM
Page 46A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022F
HEALTH
Tips for keeping skin healthy in cold winter weather By Oswald Lightsey Mikell CONTRIBUTOR
The cold weather has come to the Lowcountry. And with colder weather and drops in humidity you might experience cracked and pale skin. Dry skin during the winter months is something many people deal with. It can be unsightly and can itch or be painful. Very dry skin can even crack and be Oswald Mikell prone to infection. It’s best to take steps to prevent your skin from drying out – when it starts to itch or feel dry, you should begin treatment so it won’t get any worse. If you’re looking for ways to beat the winter blues, there are ways to look radiant. Q: What can I do to prevent dry skin?
A: The first step should always be to cleanse with non-drying cleansers and soap-free cleansers. The second step is to moisturize, especially after bathing, to hold the moisture in. Your winter skin routine may differ from your summer routine. If you’re feeling uncomfortable about how you look or feel, you should consult a dermatologist for a program customized for you. Q: What should I know about itchy skin? A: Itchy skin can be irritating, painful and accompanied by a rash. Symptoms of itchy skin may be red bumps, blisters and leathery thick skin. Many different things can cause itchy skin – including cool, dry weather. Proper treatment is important for long-term and even instant relief. Q: Can I treat my dry skin with over the counter products? A: If you go to your local drugstore, you’ll be hard pressed to find a salesperson who can give you good advice. A dermatol-
ogist can analyze your skin type, troubleshoot your current skin care regimen, and give you advice on the skin care products and treatments you should be using. Q: Is sunscreen helpful in the winter? A: Sunscreen isn’t just for summertime! It protects the skin from the long ultraviolet A rays and helps prevent redness. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to your face and your hands about 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply frequently if you stay outside a long time. Q: Can psoriasis become worse in the winter? A: Dry air and low levels of exposure to sunlight’s ultraviolet rays can aggravate psoriasis symptoms. Not only are the winter days shorter, but most people tend to spend less time outside lessening the exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun, which eases psoriasis in spring and summer. Also, the lack of humidity in the air outside and the dry heat in most buildings during the colder months can rob your
skin of moisture. Q: How do I know if my condition is more than just winter’s dry skin? A: Winter and eczema both can cause dry, itchy, flaky and red skin. Superficially, ordinary winter dry skin and eczema might look similar, but the conditions are unrelated, with different causes. You should call your dermatologist to have your condition assessed and proper treatment prescribed. If you are experiencing dry skin symptoms – there’s help both for your appearance and for your comfort. Or, if you want to learn about our newest lasers and techniques in skin rejuvenation, dermal fillers, and many other services that can give you a refreshed, youthful appearance without downtime, call a dermatologist. Dr. Oswald Lightsey Mikell, certified by the American Board of Dermatology and the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, is the owner of Dermatology Associates of the Lowcountry.
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 47A
HEALTH
Recovery journey differs for each traveler on the path By Laura Kaponer CONTRIBUTOR
When I started my mental health advocacy work, it was behind closed doors as a facilitator for NAMI Connections. It was the only place I felt completely safe to open my fence to allow a select few to come in. I had been told I was a valuable member of this Laura Kaponer group, but my value was in large part because of this group. Open dialogues about mutual struggles. Learning productive ways to cope through our challenges. But more than anything, celebrating one another’s triumphs. Recovery victories come in all shapes and sizes. They are all worth cele-
brating. They are all worth us taking a moment of pause to recognize we did something we once thought we couldn’t. In my advocacy, I find myself surrounded by others in recovery. We all have our own journeys that we take at different paces through different terrains. Sometimes our paths intersect. Other times they’re miles apart. My journey isn’t yours and yours isn’t mine. The day someone in a Connections meeting told me that I looked like I had it all figured out, I felt more like a failure than ever before. If I am making my own recovery present as shiny and easily attainable, then I am clearly doing something wrong. More than anything I’m doing a disservice to my peers if I’m creating unrealistic expectations that will most likely damage their own recoveries. Sending this message that I did it and
you can too, you SHOULD be able to. Recovery is hard. Recovery is ongoing. Recovery is not linear. Recovery is all about looking in that mirror when all I want to do is look away. Accepting the reality of who I am, especially the parts I don’t like. It’s looking at my battle wounds to understand what lessons I can learn from them; it’s finding comfort in my discomfort. Along the way I learned my top value was authenticity. The root of the greatest pain in my lifetime was when I acted in opposition to that. It was always out of fear that my most authentic self wouldn’t be accepted or would be attacked. And both happen all the time. Recovery for me is making that choice in every moment that it presents itself; to be my authentic self or be something I’m not because that’s what others want of me. To appear as that person who figured it all out, or admit everyday is a struggle in some way.
The day a childhood friend I had always envied for their perceived perfection messaged me and said “me too,” I had never felt more of a success. Showing my hardships somehow made others feel safe to show theirs. I can stand in front of everyone and say “I am no better than you; I am you.” I definitely don’t have it all figured out. But I’m okay with it. I still have so much personal growth ahead of me which is both daunting and exciting. I’m learning my recovery and my value is not necessarily in what I give to others but in how they have made me feel safe enough to break down my fence and allow everyone in. For this I thank you. Laura Kaponer is a mental health advocate and social media blogger, as well as a volunteer with the local chapter of NAMI. #LauraKaponeris1in5.
WE’VE REDESIGNED OUR WEBSITE FOR YOU!
CHECK IT OUT!
Top Stories
FEBRUARY IS DENTAL AWARENESS MONTH! Dentals through the month of February will be $389. Call today to set up your complimentary dental consultation! 843-288-4068. Call 843-288-4068 For Appointment. Masks required for all staff & clients. Curbside Service Available.
www.vetmedcenterhardeeville.com
468 D. Mark Cummings Rd., Suite 102, Hardeeville
Digital Edition
Bookmark Us Today!
Local News
UPDATED AND EASY TO NAVIGATE
BLUFFTONSUN.COM
Page 48A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
HEALTH
HPV vaccine for teens can prevent several types of cancer By Ashley Valenzuela CONTRIBUTOR
Vaccines have certainly received a great deal of news coverage recently and for good reason. Generally speaking, vaccines help prevent illnesses. January was Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and it brought attention to another vaccine – the HPV vaccine. This vaccine is effective in preventing Ashley Valenzuela cervical cancer as well as throat cancer, vaginal cancer, anal cancer, and others. The American Cancer Society estimates there will be approximately 14,000 new cases of cervical cancer diagnosed in the U.S. this year. More than 4,000 women are expected to die from cervical cancer. While it used to be the most common
cause of cancer death in U.S. women, an emphasis on screening has reduced the death rate. Most cervical cancers are caused by the human papillomavirus virus (HPV), which is a group of more than 150 related viruses. A few types of HPV are considered high risk because they can cause cancer. In fact, HPV is the leading risk factor for cervical cancer. Most individuals will be exposed to HPV during their lifetime.
Love Your Ride!
Tomberlin
Authorized Dealer of
Garia
Advanced EV
We Sell & Service All Makes and Models & Offer Pick Up & Delivery
VISIT OUR SHOWROOM TODAY
200 Bluffton Road • Bluffton, SC • 843-837-3355 www.oldetownegolfcar.com
As stated earlier, the HPV vaccine is effective in preventing cervical cancer. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates the vaccine can prevent more than 90% of HPV-related cancers. A study published online in The Lancet (Nov. 3, 2021) showed the success of England’s national HPV vaccine program in that young women who received the vaccine were 87% less likely to have cervical cancer than others who were not vaccinated.
The HPV vaccine is currently recommended for all children ages 11-12, and it can be given as early as age 9. It’s also recommended for everyone through age 45, if not vaccinated. Unfortunately, there are too many young people who are not receiving the vaccine. The 2020 CDC National Immunization Survey reported that about 58.6% of teens are up to date on the HPV vaccine and 75.1% had received at least one dose. While the HPV vaccine is very effective in preventing cervical and other cancers, we also know that the vaccine prevents only new infections; it does not treat existing infections. That is why it is so important for young people to be vaccinated at the recommended age and before they begin sexual activity. I strongly encourage parents to have their preteens and teens vaccinated for HPV. Dr. Ashley Valenzuela is a gynecologic oncologist with Memorial Health in Savannah.
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 49A
WELLNESS
Hate your love handles? Muffin tops? You are not alone By E. Ronald Finger CONTRIBUTOR
How did the term “love handles” come about, when there is nothing to love about them? After 50 years of plastic surgery, I can assure you that it’s a misnomer. They are universally hated. Fortunately, love handles can be eliminated fairly easily. A simple liposuction under local anesthesia usually takes care of the problem. If there is also excess loose skin, such as sun damage or lots of weight loss, there may be a need for the Renuvion. This is an instrument that is used through the holes for liposuction. The difference is it does not remove fat, but tightens skin with the use of heat. The Renuvion produces a form of matter called plasma. The best example of plasma is a bolt of lightning. These micro “bolts of lightning” basically shrink-wrap the skin. Occasionally, fairly thin men and women
will have love handles varying from small to quite large. The treatment is the same unless they are huge and there has been lots of weight loss. Then procedures as large as circumferential excision of skin and fat may be necessary, along with liposuction, regardless of the gender. All cases must be tailored specifically toward the patient’s needs and desires. As expected, the more extensive cases require general anesthesia. How about the famed “muffin-tops?” These are mounds of fat at the top of the lateral buttocks and can be quite unattractive.
Oddly, those with muffin-tops often have lateral depressions in the buttocks below the muffin-tops, which patients call the “hip-dip.” The muffin-tops make the depressions look worse and vice versa. Typically, the muffin-tops are liposuctioned, and the liposuctioned fat is grafted (transferred) to the depression. When can excess fat and loose skin in the abdomen be reduced without major surgery, such as a tummy tuck? If there is no actual overlapping of the skin, liposuction with Renuvion may be sufficient. It’s all a matter of degree, and your plastic surgeon will help you with this. Sometimes liposuction with Renuvion can be performed with a mini-tummy tuck,
according to how much extra skin there is to remove or tighten. Generally, if the extra fat and loose skin is in the upper abdomen, a full tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is needed. The variation of fat and loose skin appears to be unlimited, which is the reason individual assessments are necessary to establish a plan. Often all of the above or an assortment of the procedures mentioned above are required for optimal results. However, patients may choose to correct the part of the problem and are happy with the results or plan to do the rest of the procedures in stages. This is why a personal visit to their plastic surgeon is important. A careful assessment is necessary for the patients to understand the various options with expectations, limitations and recovery discussed in depth. E. Ronald Finger, MD, FACS is a board certified plastic surgeon with offices in Savannah and Bluffton. fingerandassociates.com
L & Company
New clients welcome! STYLISTS NEEDED. TWO BOOTH RENTALS AVAILABLE, INCLUDES 1 WEEK PAID VACATION!
Salon Hours: 10-6 Monday-Friday • 10-5 Saturday 68 Bluffton Road • Suite 3 Bluffton, SC 29910
Page 50A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
WELLNESS
Share a happy, healthy Valentine’s Day with one you love By Jennifer Wolfe CONTRIBUTOR
Mid-February is usually when the best of intentions for New Year’s resolutions start to fade. Exercise and diet routines give in to boxes of chocolates and wine in the spirit of Valentine’s Day. The best gift you can give to your significant other is the gift of couples-based wellness. Helping each other stay on track with goals through fun activities might be better than a box of chocolates this year. The American Psychological Association has noted that studies show individuals who went through weight loss programs with a partner saw more permanent results than those who went through them alone. A support system can make holistic health and wellness not just good for you but good for your relationship. It’s not all about weight loss. Wellness is a holistic approach to living that focuses
on physical, emotional, mental, spiritual and relationship health. Consider these great ideas for ways to support wellness with those you love this Valentine’s Day. • Take a healthy cooking class. One of the biggest challenges many couples face is how to cook foods that not only taste great but are healthful. Learning to cook healthy meals together can help you have fun and achieve better eating habits. If a class isn’t your thing, consider a subscription to one of the delivery
services that focuses on healthy eating. You might consider Home Chef, Sunbasket, Green Chef, Blue Apron, Gobble and Freshly to name just a few. • Go to a painting class. Whether your community offers regular classes or you choose one of the many options for a special painting class in the area, consider tapping into your creative wellness together. Painting can help not only foster creative growth, but stimulate memory, challenge your problem solving and motor skills and provide stress relief. • Fitness tracking. Whatever your exercise goals, tracking your progress has been proven to lead to greater success and help you feel stronger and healthier. Sharing your fitness achievements with
UPSCALE CONSIGNMENT AT BARGAIN PRICES
3147 Argent Blvd. Suite 1 (1 mile west of Hwy. 170)
(843) 645-2244
someone you love is a great way to support each other. Whether you are exercising on in-home fitness equipment, going to a fitness center or just tracking your walks on an Apple watch or Fitbit, use sharing platforms and send positive messages within your close circle to help boost your success. • Couples massage. Massage is proven to promote not only relaxation but to ease sore muscles and pains. Doing this together brings you even closer together. Plan a day together in the beautiful Lowcountry to take a long walk or bike ride and then wrap up the day with a relaxing couples massage. There’s no greater way to say I love you this Valentine’s Day than fostering healthy relationships by tackling health challenges together. Jennifer Wolfe is the co-owner of Whisper Creek Day Spa in Bluffton, which she opened with her husband last year. jen.wolfe@whispercreekspa.com or whispercreekspa.com
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 51A
BRIDGE
Finding the golden fit using Jacoby transfers NT opener must say hearts or spades. Let’s try some responder rebids (in all of these exercises, the bidding has proceeded 1NT by opener – 2H by responder, 2S by opener and now it’s time for the responder’s rebid):
By Kathie Walsh CONTRIBUTOR
1. QJ9753 1096 95 76 2. KJ987 K87 A 9876 3. K8763 K76 Q43 98 4. K98654 A53 32 87 5. Q98765 K54 Q9 A8 Why use it? You use Stayman and Jacoby transfers so that your partner can bid your suit and still be the declarer. Having the strong hand concealed can give you and partner extra tricks. So, if partner opens 1 NT, and if you bid 2 diamonds, the opener will bid 2H; and if partner opens 1 NT and you bid 2 hearts, the opener will bid 2 spades. Your next bid will tell the opening NT
bidder if you have five or six of the major and how many points you have so that the opener can decide the best final contract. You will pass if you have 0 to 7 points; you will invite game with 8 to 9 points; and you will make sure that game is reached with 10 or more points. This special bid must be announced to your opponents. That means once the responder bids 2 diamonds or 2 hearts, the
To learn all the details about this amazing bid – responder’s and opener’s rebids and the reason for announcing the bid –join us at the bridge workshops this winter at the Hilton Head Island Bridge Club on Friday mornings at 10 a.m. Kathie Walsh, accredited by ABTA, teaches all levels of bridge at Hilton Head Island Bridge Club. kbwalsh@roadrunner.com Answers: 1-Pass; 2-3NT; 3-2NT; 4-3S; 5-4S
What’s our all-time favorite opening bid? 1NT, of course, because it immediately tells partner how many points we have (15-17). What’s our all-time favorite contract? A major suit contract, because it allows us to have ruffing power. To play in a major suit contract, the partnership must first locate their “golden fit” – eight cards in hearts or spades. We know that we can find our 4/4 major suit fits when partner opens 1NT by using Stayman. But there is another wonderful way to locate a magic 8-card major suit fit. It’s time to enter the world of Jacoby transfers. We use Jacoby transfers when partner opens 1 NT and we have five or more cards in a major suit. How do we use it? After partner opens 1 NT, you bid the suit below your real suit: If your suit is hearts, bid 2 diamonds; if your suit is spades, bid 2 hearts.
Start the New Year off right by helping those in need! 501C3 NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION
Large
SeLection of ShadeS & LampS! Bring in LampS for Shading
Lamp repair! onLy $19.95!
Hours: Tues-Fri 10-4 Sat: open by appointment only Closed: Sunday & Monday
(843) 605-6657 Newpoint Corners 2 Merchants Ln., Ste. 113 Beaufort, SC 29907
LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS Medical • Dental • Office Call for Information (843) 706-7090 Ext. 104
Orientation sessions held the 3rd Thursday each month • 3:00PM-4:00PM Bluffton Location: 29 Plantation Park Dr., Building 600 • Bluffton SC 29910
Page 52A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
OUR SHOWROOM IS STOCKED WITH NEW CARTS AND READY FOR YOU!
COURTESY VINTAGE FOUR
Upgrade to a Lithium battery and never water again, plus get a 5-year warranty
Bintelli carts are priced to move! 6-Passenger $11,500 & 4-Passenger $10,500 PHONE: 843.705.6655 qualitygolfcars@gmail.com www.qualitygolfcars.co
The Vintage Four, a barbershop quartet, practices serenading in preparation for the Singing Valentine offerings of the Hilton Head Lighthouse Chorus. Quartets will be performing for individuals or groups by reservation Feb. 13 and 14 in Bluffton and on Hilton Head Island. Singing Valentines can also be sent virtually via email or Facebook. For more information, call Duke Andrus at 843-226-6262 or visit hhibarbershoppers.org/valentines.
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 53A
GIVING
Amplifying impact through Lowcountry Communities Collective By Scott Wierman CONTRIBUTOR
One of the many things I enjoy about my job is bringing together groups in our community that are working toward our common good. Building collaboration, pooling ideas, and sharing resources and manpower are some of the best ways to affect positive change. Group effort initiScott Wierman ates buy-in and, it is hoped, leads to more impactful outcomes. These same concepts have been adopted by a number of neighborhoods and communities in our area. Their residents have joined together to create philanthropic funds, realizing that by pooling their time, talent and treasure, they can
accomplish more. We proudly administer these funds for nine local communities. The funds and their missions include: • Belfair 1811 Fund, impacting the lives of those in need in the greater Bluffton area. • Hampton Hall Charitable Fund, supporting the charitable interests of Hampton Hall residents and assisting with needs in the community. • Hampton Lake Tiger Bass Race Charitable Fund, supporting the charitable interests of Hampton Lake residents. • Long Cove Community Charitable and Endowment Funds, supporting the needs of health, housing, hunger and education in Beaufort and Jasper counties. • Moss Creek Giving and Endowment Funds, supporting local charitable organizations and those with the greatest need. • Operation Colleton River, supporting the charitable interests of the Colleton
River Club. • Palmetto Dunes Cares, supporting the charitable interests of those who live, invest, work and play in the Palmetto Dunes community, benefiting the greater Hilton Head Island area. • Port Royal Community Charitable Fund, supporting the charitable interests and enhancing a sense of community while providing resources to improve the lives of people in the Lowcountry. • Women of Palmetto Bluff, providing support and resources for charitable programs and services of Women of Palmetto Bluff. Individually, these groups have accomplished phenomenal things. Each fund has established its own grant process and awarded thousands of dollars to local nonprofits. If we combine all their efforts, these nine funds have invested an astounding $3.38 million into our community. So one day a thought occurred to us: If
we gathered all of these groups together, could their impact be amplified even more? Thus, the Lowcountry Communities Collective was born. We held the first meeting in November. Not surprisingly, we learned many of the communities face similar challenges and have had comparable experiences in their philanthropic journeys. By discovering ways they might work together, even if on just a small scale to start, the groups will learn and grow together, and their impact on our communities can be even more powerful. Who knows what they might accomplish? Convening groups is just one of the many things community foundations do to bring people together and strengthen our communities. Learn about others at cf-lowcountry.org. Scott Wierman is the president and CEO of Community Foundation of the Lowcountry.
You Buy 4 consecutive days $92 and get the 5th day $92
FREE
s k l a W g o D Daily ks l a W g o D y l i Da
Ginger says “Give my Daddy, Lewis a call at 843-540-5049, he would love to take care of you!!”
$92 $92 Keep Loving Those Animals (843) 540-5049 • www.cbarleypetservices.com **Some restrictions do apply
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!
A gallery of handcrafted gifts Hrs: Mon - Fri 10-6, Sat 10-5, Sun 11-3 1127 Fording Island Rd. ~ Ste. 103 (Hobby Lobby Plaza) Bluffton • 843.757.7300
Page 54A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
COLLECTING
Anatomy of serious and interesting collectors: Ron and Carol By Jerry Glenn CONTRIBUTOR
Remember when your mom told you night-time fairytales? She would start by saying “Once upon a time.” Well, this is no fairytale, but once upon a time two college grads, both holding significant positions in the business world, made a decision. They looked at one another and said, “Do we want to continue in this rat race?” The answer was “NO! Ron and Carol moved to a small western New Jersey town, rented a small apartment, and searched for and found an available storefront space to set up shop on Main Street. Now, Ron and Carol were fringe hippies and of the Woodstock generation, therefore one could term them as “from the far side.” There would be no cute name for their shop, and their sign read, simply, “Antiques.” This town was made up of a high percentage of city commuters who were always on the lookout for the unusual. Ron and Carol took a month off and jumped in their Volkswagen bus and went on a picking trip. Upon their return they were excited about their purchases. The shop had large display windows and were perfect to display vintage clothing, stuffed animals, and other far out, crazy items. The shop was an instant success and prompted regular buying trips. This is the point of our story where collections come about. Ron would focus on one or two subjects and purchase items to satisfy his clientele. My wife and I were regular shoppers and would purchase soda pop or any food-related tin signs to satisfy our desires for country store décor. Ron would load up on signs for us. Upon a visit one Saturday, Ron had filled one wall with more than 20 paint-by-number images of the Lord’s Supper. What in the world was he
thinking? He said, “Aren’t they great”? No two were alike! Within two weeks they sold to a New York City dealer as an art form. The next project was a good quantity of early toasters – the kind with open filaments and art deco designs. Again, a décor dealer from Soho purchased the entire lot. This success prompted Carol to go hog-wild on Victorian clothing and accessories. Naturally, she would dress in these wares, and soon built up a good following of collectors of jewelry, head bands, and white lace dresses. We became good friends with Ron and Carol, and often shared exhibit space for big New York shows. This inventive couple was known for marching to a different drummer. Ron was also very good as a restorer and would take old steamer trunks and re-line them, add new locks, and refinish a $20 piece of junk into a $100 treasure. Possibly the farthest-out collection was a whole table of sock monkeys, crazy as it sounds. He marketed them as dog toys or just far out ornaments. We all like to think we are unique, different, and ahead of the times. Ron and Carol were all of the above. About 10 years ago, Ron passed away, and Carol had to leave the area to forget the many adventures that they shared. She took her mother and her collection of Victorian wares and moved to San Francisco. She became part of the Haight Ashbury scene and is very well thought of in the business, with several movie star clients and other regular collectors of her goods. Ron and Carol “did it their way” and escaped the rat race. Personally, we really miss this couple, as there was never a dull moment in this exciting collecting world. Jerry Glenn, former owner of Legends and Reminisce gift shop, currently is appraising trading card collections.
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 55A
FAITH
Sometimes, just turn around to see the best is yet to come By Stephanie Dion CONTRIBUTOR
A church member recently shared with me a story from his trip to the Louvre in Paris. He was mesmerized by the museum, even as someone who was not an art enthusiast. If you, too, have been to this same world-renowned museum, you were likely eager to see Da Vinci’s Stephanie Dion famous “Mona Lisa” – but then, like this church member, you were disappointed by the size of it, and by the crowd blocking its view. You might have even found yourself at the back of the crowd, only to turn around to see a huge, wall-sprawling Venetian painting by Paolo Veronese
portraying the Biblical story of the wedding at Cana. These two masterpieces are housed in the largest room in the museum to accommodate the size of Veronese’s “Wedding Feast at Cana” and the crowds eager to see the Mona Lisa. In line to see the Mona Lisa, my church member thought the best was yet to come … only to realize that right behind him was the true “best thing yet.” And the painting he saw taught that very lesson. No one person at that wedding in little podunk Cana, except maybe the mother of Jesus, knew the best was yet to come – there at the wedding, in their lifetime, or in the lifetime of the world. They were celebrating as people do at weddings, unaware that the wine was running out or that they were in the presence of God. Only the servants and Jesus’ disciples knew the problem and witnessed Jesus’
solution to it: turn an extraordinary amount of water into wine. The chief steward tasted the wine at Jesus’ request and, in bewilderment and delight, exclaimed that what he tasted went against both expectation and tradition: that the best wine was saved for last. This extravagant and first miracle in John’s gospel is one small revelation of a God who is full of abundance and grace, whose actions point to the reality that the best is still yet to come. Some of you might have had experiences like seeing the magnificent “Wedding Feast at Cana” in the Louvre after thinking “Mona Lisa” was the best yet to come. Some might think that you’ve gotten your hopes up too many times in your career, life, or love to keep hoping the best yet is just around the corner. Some might think the best is behind you, now that your kids and grandchildren are grown and the love of your life has passed.
SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICES
Lord OF Life LUTHERAN CHURCH LOVE GOD
LOVE NEIGHBOR
Lord of Life is an ELCA Congregation 351 Buckwalter Parkway Bluffton, SC 29910 (across from Publix) Email: lordoflifeassistant@gmail.com
843 757-4774 www.lordoflife-bluffton.org
All are welcome to the Lord’s Table on YouTube at 12 noon Lord of Life Lutheran Church
VIRTUAL WORSHIP on Facebook – Lord of Life, Bluffton
Stephanie Dion is the associate pastor at Lowcountry Presbyterian Church in Bluffton. LowcountryPres.org
Connecting to God, Connecting to One Another
at 8:30AM & 10:30AM
VIRTUAL WORSHIP SERVICE
There are many reasons we choose not to hope, but for those of us who believe in Jesus Christ as the one who turned water into wine, the one who healed the sick, the one who gave a place of belonging to the outcast, the one who died on a cross and surprised everyone by rising from the dead – we know to trust this one who tells us that indeed the best is yet to come. And we are reminded of this truth in small and magnificent and ordinary ways … like unexpectedly turning around to witness a masterpiece. May the small unexpected joys in life, whether a painting, a delectable dessert, or a conversation with a stranger, all be reminders that for you and for me and for the world, that thanks be to God – the best is yet to come.
Pastor Pete Berntson
www.palmsumc.org
Anna Marie Kuether Director of Music and Worship Arts
We are now in-person at 5:30 p.m. on Saturdays, and 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m on Sundays Live-Streaming the 5:30 and 11 services. February 5, 5:30 p.m. February 6, 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Casting A Deep Net ~ Luke 5:1-11 Pete Berntson, Proclaimer
February 12, 5:30 p.m. February 13, 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Scouting Ministries Sunday David Voyles, Proclaimer
A Stephen Ministry Congregation
1425 Okatie Hwy. (170)
Hwy 170 between River’s End & Oldfield.
843-379-1888 • www.palmsumc.org
Page 56A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
SPORTS
Consistent good putting can improve your golf score By Jean Harris CONTRIBUTOR
Golf can be a frustrating game. The best way to improve your score is to improve your putting. Remember that a 3-foot putt counts the same on your score card as a 300-yard drive. Putting accounts for approximately 40% of all shots taken on the golf course. As a golf Jean Harris professional, I think it is interesting that putting instruction accounts for less than 10% of all golf lessons even though it is the most important shot in the game. What can you do to improve your putting this year? It is important to know your dom-
inant eye when aiming the putt. All aiming decisions need to be done behind the ball with your eyes level. Left-eye dominant golfers tend to aim left of the target and should play the ball more back in their stance. Conversely, right-eye dominant golfers tend to aim too far right and should move the ball forward in their stance. Once you are astride the ball, you should keep your dominant eye behind the ball when setting up for the putt. Reading greens is an art and a science. A good system for reading a putt is to think of a clock. You need to read the green from 12 o’clock behind the hole first. This will help you determine if the putt is uphill or downhill. Next you have to look at 3 and 9 o’clock from the sides of the hole. Determine the low side of the hole and then walk back behind the ball, which is 6 o’clock. Always aim to the high side of
the hole and let the slope take the ball to the hole. To ensure more accuracy, a good method for aiming is to put a line on your ball and aim the line to where you want the putt to start. It is important to do this from behind the ball and not from astride. Distance control is more important than accuracy. If you want to improve your putting, you need to get your first putt within a 3-foot radius of the hole. In order to do this, you need to focus on distance control. If you can control the speed of your first putt, you should have a manageable second putt. Get a metronome and find your best tempo. There are free downloads for your phone. Start at 76 beats, since that is the average tempo of good golfers. Count one-two along with the metronome and keep this tempo for all of your putts. The only thing you change
is the length of your stroke back and through the ball. To be a good lag putter, you need to use the big upper body muscles in the shoulders and arms and not the “fast twitch” muscles in the wrists and hands. Get your arms “connected” to your body. Feel like your elbows are into your rib cage and that the shoulders and arms swing the putter back and through. You must also keep your lower body quiet throughout the stroke. Finally, make sure that your eyes are over the ball. It would also be a good idea to take that much-needed putting lesson in 2022. Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional and teaches at Pinecrest Golf Club. jean.golfdoctor.harris@gmail.com; golfdoctorjean.com
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
PETS
Adoptable dog loves bananas and trustworthy people
Page 57A
We Know The Car Washing Business Inside and Out
Bluffton’s Local Favorite Carwash
NOW OFFERING MONTHLY MEMBERSHIPS
24 HOUR SELF-SERVICE WASH BAYS AND VACUUMS
Daily 9 am to 5 pm
Rosie
By Amy Campanini CONTRIBUTOR
“Where there is great love, there are always miracles.” – Willa Cather At the Palmetto Animal League Adoption Center, miracles come in many forms. For some homeless pets, the miracle is being rescued from an overcrowded shelter just in time. For others, the miracle comes the day they form a profound connection with that special human they’ve been waiting to find. A dog named Rosie must wonder if miracles truly exist, and at PAL we assure her every day that they most certainly do. Rosie has been bounced in and out of the shelter environment her whole life. She has never experienced true comfort and stability that come along with a lifelong home. Through no fault of her own, Rosie has found herself discarded more times than she cares to remember. “She has been adopted five times and has spent 449 days in our kennel over the past nine years,” says PAL Adoption Coordinator Sally Dawkins. At PAL, we never give up on a pet. We see each animal as a unique and precious soul, hoping to find their perfect place in this world. In Rosie’s case, she has learned
to be careful with her heart. “It can take a few weeks to gain a true bonded relationship with Rosie,” said Natalee Marick, PAL dog trainer. “But, when she learns that she can trust you, the relationship is pure bliss.” Rosie longs for a forever home where she can relax with her people and watch Netflix at night. She is very obedient, a wonderful leash walker, enjoys the company of other animals, and is equal parts loving and quirky. “When it comes to treats, Rosie likes only bananas,” said Kennel Supervisor Shelby English. You can help animals like Rosie live out a miracle. Share the love with homeless pets by sending a valentine to the animal lovers in your life. Visit PalmettoAnimalLeague.org and click on “Create a Valentine.” You can send an eCard or print a card at home. Your donation will give homeless pets the gift of life proving that, “Where there is great love, there are always miracles.” If you’d like to meet Rosie, lover of bananas and people she can trust, call PAL at 843-645-1725 to schedule a visit to our adoption center. Amy Campanini is president of Palmetto Animal League.
NO APPOINTMENTS, FIRST COME FIRST SERVE, WAIT TIME VARIES.
THE BREEZE
3.00 THE TSUNAMI $20.00 $
REGULAR PRICE $5. COUPON GOOD ONLY FEBRUARY 1ST TO FEBRUARY 14TH
REGULAR PRICE $30. INCLUDES FULL VACUUM, INTERIOR WIPEOUT, WINDOWS, TIRE & WHEEL SHINE. COUPON GOOD ONLY FEBRUARY 1ST TO FEBRUARY 14TH
CoastalSunsetCarwash.com
4374 Bluffton Parkway • Bluffton, SC 29910 • 843-706-7194
Page 58A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
PETS
Find It games can help solve boredom, chewing, digging issues By Abby Bird CONTRIBUTOR
Puppy behaviors that might need to be addressed could be caused by boredom or short attention span. Behaviors such as digging, chewing, general unruly behavior, not paying attention, and other bad habits might fall under this category. An underused type of game that is appropriate for many terrier, hound, hunting and sporting breeds that will help with undesirable behaviors is “Find It.” You can play Find It games at many different levels. If you have a dog that enjoys digging, you can create an area in your yard where you allow the activity. Buy a child’s small plastic swimming pool and fill halfway with playground sand. Bury any of the following depending on your dog: bones, rubber toys or other hard washable toys, tennis balls, or rubber balls. If in-home games are what you’re look-
ing for, hide smelly dog treats in different areas and teach the dog to hunt for those. Make sure they are safely placed so the dog won’t knock things over to find them. If your dog has a favorite toy, you can choose to hide that instead and have the dog search for it. Then, of course, is the Find It game with people. Hide and Seek is the ultimate fun game for many dogs when played with their owners. Hide behind doors, furniture or around the outside of your house, and behind trees if the yard is secured. Dogs absolutely love to play this and it is a great way to work on your Recall commands. Another game is to hide treats and toys under small plastic containers and place them around the house or yard. The dog not only has to find them but knock the containers over to get their reward. Hide stuffed Kong toys in your yard or your home as a way to keep the dog busy
when you are gone. Or, how about practicing some runaways by having someone hold your dog and you go hide outside? Your dog can track your scent in order to find you. My personal favorite is hiding items in the yard and watching my dog go find them. Really smelly treats work wonderfully well. You can hide things at ground level and even in bushes or trees. Put them in a small bag or even an old sock.
When they find the item, have them bring it to you and reward them with another treat or play with a toy when they drop the Find It object. You have to begin by marking the ground with your scent by scraping your feet and planting a treat. Continue this as you work around your yard. Then your dog, on a leash or off leash in a fenced area can start searching for the items you’ve hidden. You can even stimulate your bored dog on a walk by hiding toys on your walking route, especially favorites. Use something that carries their scent and they will work hard. These games stimulate their brain and body and will help bored dogs or those with very short focus skills. Vary the games and you and your dog will have great fun. Abby Bird is owner of Alphadog Training Academy. AlphadogTrainingAcademy@ gmail.com
LOWCO GARDNERS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH CHS CLEAN HAVE TEAMED UP TO PROVIDE YOUR HOME THE BEST POSSIBLE IMAGE ALL YEAR ROUND! FULL-SERVICE LANDSCAPE INSTALL AND MAINTENANCE
843-521-7747 1 Marina Blvd
Beaufort, SC 29902 lowcogardeners.com Hours • Mon-Sat 8 AM–6 PM Sunday: Closed
We do More Than Cut grass Custom maintenance packages for lawn, garden, landscaping & outside home cleaning to fit your needs. Locally owned & run by local dependable friendly faces.
Pressure Washing Window Cleaning
(843) 522-3331 CHSCLEAN.COM
15% discount on all flowers & shrubs purchased from LOWCO Gardeners retail nursery. With 12 month Maintenance Contract
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 59A
NATURE’S WAY
When it’s this cold, the fish don’t bite, but kids still play By Collins Doughtie CONTRIBUTOR
Since I write my column days in advance of printing, it is probably 75 degrees and sunny outside when you’re reading this, but how about that cold snap around Jan. 20? For many of you transplants from up north, you were probably wearing shorts and a T-shirt during those three days but for this Southern boy, I had so many layers of clothing on I looked like the Michelin Man. Looking back at past January columns, I have a tendency to rant and rave about how much I hate the cold, so this time around, I’ll try to be a bit more up-beat. For the most part, we are pretty darn lucky to have a winter that lasts all of two months, specifically January and February. But do you know that since I have lived here, the January cold snap paled in comparison to a few of the weather events I have witnessed in the Lowcountry over my 60-something years living here? Let me tell you about one of these past weather events so that you’ll know that anything is possible if the conditions are just right. I know we had a few snow flurries on Christmas day in 2012, but back in 1989 we had a white Christmas that was one for the record books. In a 24hour period it snowed 12 inches on Christmas Eve!
If I had time to crawl up into the attic where my photo albums are stored, I would have grabbed a couple of photos to show you from that day. It snowed so much so fast while the tide was low that the beach on Hilton Head was a foot thick all the way to the edge of the water! It was bizarre looking. You know how the Chamber of Commerce describes “Wide beaches with sugary sand as white as snow”? In this case, the beach was just that. Also, because there weren’t quite as many folks around back then, there wasn’t a footprint to be seen in the snow, making the scene even more surreal. Another aspect of that blizzard that stands out in my memory was the palmettos draped in thick layers of snow. It was breath taking! As you probably have guessed, I was a wild man back in my younger years. I was living in Hilton Head Plantation; my kids were young, and my fishing mobile was a blue Suzuki Samurai with the floorboards rusted out, so you could see the road zoom by under your feet — kind of a Fred Flintstone car. Anyway, the snow began to melt pretty quickly but that night it froze again, turning the melted snow to ice. The next morning there were still a few patches of snow along the icy roads and – snow or no snow – I just
had to take my kids sledding for the first time. Since there were no hills around, I nabbed a large sheet of plywood, curled up the front a bit so it looked like a sled, and tied a rope to it so I could pull it behind my 4-wheel-drive vehicle. By the time I had finished making it, the roads were 95% ice with a thin layer of snow on top. Much to the chagrin of my wife, all the neighborhood kids wanted to get on board and, being the responsible parent that I was, my theory was “the more the merrier.” Loaded down with kids, I took off slipping and sliding down the street with the kids howling with glee. At some point that howling sort of changed to screaming, and I took that to mean “Go faster,” which is exactly what I did. Looking in my rear-view mirror, I saw what looked like smoke and figured it was simply the car’s exhaust in the cold air. It was only when the screaming reached a fevered pitch and one kid appeared to jump off the board and roll down the road that I deduced that something was wrong. The friction of the board on that ice was so great it caught the board on fire! I can laugh about it now, but neither my wife nor the neighbors would talk to me for weeks. Ah, the good old days.
Other weather events included an 8-inch snowfall in the ’60s, a spring hurricane in the early ’90s and again in the ’80s, when 24 inches of rain fell in a two-day period. I wish I had more space to tell you about some of these weather-related phenomena but that will just have to wait for some other time. Right now, I want to tell you about something I have up my sleeve, should there be enough interest. February is the perfect time for me to resurrect my two-part “How to Fish the Lowcountry” seminars. Should I find a convenient space to hold them, I will limit the seminars to 15 or 20 attendees, allowing for more one-on-one time, answering questions, or showing folks how to rig for different species. My plan is to cover every aspect of fishing our area. The primary emphasis will be on inshore fishing, but near-shore and offshore will also be covered. Bait and rigging for different species, the importance of tides, navigation and boat handling, throwing cast nets plus a lot of one-on-one instruction. I will also answer any and all questions. If you are interested, email me at collinsdoughtie@icloud.com. Collins Doughtie, a 60-year resident of the Lowcountry, is a sportsman, graphic artist, and lover of nature. collinsdoughtie@icloud.com
This Column Brought to You By:
Great Selection !
HILTO
OKATI
Pamlico Hoodies 4 05 SQUIRE POPE RD. | 5279 SC-170, Ridgeland, SC HILTON HEAD | OKATIE
PALM
HHBO
ANNUAL MAINTENANCE GENERAL
WARRANTY REPAIR
HILTON HEAD | OKATIE | PALMETTO BAY MARINA | 843.681.2628
Page 60A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
LOCAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES LOOKING FOR A NEW POSITION?
These Are A Few Openings Right Here In Our Own Backyard!! EMPLOYER
POSITION
SKILLS REQUIRED
FT/PT
COMPENSATION
LABORERS / CARPENTERS
Experience preferred BUT not required
Varies
$650 - $1100 based on experience / performance
BOYS & GIRLS CLUB – BLUFFTON
VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR
Bachelors degree preferred, great customer service, public speaking, working vehicle, basic computer skills
Part Time – flexible hours
$14 - $18 / hour depending on experience
E-mail: Jaala.miller@bgclowcountry.org OR Apply online: www.bgcbluffton.org
BOYS & GIRLS CLUB – BLUFFTON
ART INSTRUCTOR
Experience working with children with an art background
Part time during the school year / Full time during Spring break and Summer
$12 - $15 / hour depending on experience
E-mail: Jaala.miller@bgclowcountry.org OR Apply online: www.bgcbluffton.org
ISLAND EXPLORER DOLPHIN & NATURE TOURS
USCG – LICENSED MASTER CAPTAINS
Boat operations and entertaining guests
Flexible – part time to full time
$25 to $35 / hour E-mail: plus excellent tips info@dolphintourshiltonhead.com
TEAM MEMBER
Willingness to learn & a positive attitude
Varies, we are open 7am – 3pm / 7 days a week
$5 / hour plus tips w/ a 90 day evaluation and bi-annual reviews
Greet clients, OFFICE COORDINATOR scheduling, Excel, / FRONT DESK Word, Outlook, social RECEPTIONIST media, answer phones,
Mon – Fri 8am – 5pm
$14 - $16 / hour Based on experience
E-mail: accounting@prestigestoneinc.com
E-mail: info@thechildrenscentersc.org Call: 843-681-2739 In-person: 8 Nature’s Way, Hilton Head SC
HALLELUYAH RESTORATION
CORNER PERK CAFÉ
PRESTIGE TILE & MARBLE – RIDGELAND
Phone: 912-988-3667 OR Message on Facebook
Submit your resume to: cornerperkroastery@gmail.com OR fill out the application on the bottom of our website @ www. cornerperk.com
other office duties as assigned
THE CHILDREN’S CENTER
CLASSROOM TEACHER
HS Diploma required, experience preferred
Mon – Fri
Starting at $15 / hour
THE CHILDREN’S CENTER
KITCHEN ASSISTANT
Restaurant experience preferred
Mon – Fri 7am – 4pm
Starting at $15 / hour
Strong communication skills, computer literate, able to multi-task, reliable, strong organizational skills, phlebotomy
M – Th 9am – 5pm / Fri 9am – 12pm
$18 - $26 / hour
FROST FAMILY MEDICINE – HARDEEVILLE
CONTACT INFO
LPN / RN / CMA
E-mail: eighcagneyshw@gmail.com
EMPLOYERS: WANT TO ADD YOUR OPENINGS TO THIS LIST? THIS IS A FREE SERVICE. CALL MELISSA AT THE BLUFFTON SUN/HILTON HEAD SUN AT 843.757.9507
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
SAFETY
Everyday chores can be disastrous without safety precautions
Page 61A
NITE UTIRE & AUTOD WE ARE THE BEST RECREATIONAL VEHICLE REPAIR AND SERVICE CENTER IN THE LOWCOUNTRY!
By Cinda Seamon CONTRIBUTOR
We probably don’t give much thought to safety when our dirty laundry is piled up, then washed and dried. But, if we don’t pay attention, even the wash-day chores can turn into a serious accident. Specifically, we need to take care of the dryer so it doesn’t cause a fire. Let’s start at the beginning. Before using a new dryer for the first time, read the manufacturer’s instructions, warnings and care instructions. Have your clothes dryer installed by qualified personnel. Professionals can ensure the proper installation of your dryer and will be knowledgeable about the different kinds of units. A clothes dryer works by forcing hot air through a turning drum. Wet clothes are placed in the drum and then dried by moving hot air. Lint, consisting of small fibers from the clothes, is created from the clothes as they tumble. While much of the lint is trapped in the filter, some is carried along through the vent system. Make sure to clean the filter before and after each cycle. In addition, clean the lint filter every 6 months with a nylon brush. Don’t forget to clean the back of the
dryer, where expelled lint can build up. For optimum performance, the interior of the dryer and venting system should be serviced and cleaned periodically. Check occasionally to make sure nests of small animals and insects are not blocking the outside vent. Here are some more tips: • Do not store cleaning products, boxes and baskets of clothing around the dryer because they can cause a fire to start. • Do not dry anything containing foam, rubber or plastic, such as bathroom rugs or tennis shoes. • Do not leave a clothes dryer running if you leave home or when you go to bed. • Do not run a dryer without the lint filter, as this is your built in defense against lint build up. • Do not overload – a heavy load of clothing is too hard on the dryer. It can cause parts to work overtime, producing higher than average temperatures, which can cause a fire. A fire will change your life in ways that you cannot even begin to imagine. Fire safety starts with you, so practice fire safety every day! Cinda Seamon is the fire and life safety educator for Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue.
WE SPECIALIZE IN RV
TIRES • BATTERIES • BRAKES • OIL CHANGES • TUNE-UPS AIRCONDITIONERS • GENERAL MAINTENANCE • AND MUCH MORE!
VA L U A B L E C O U P O N F O R R V ’ s !
10% OFF RV PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE! Must Present Coupon. Valid through February 15, 2022.
WE LOVE CAR REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE TOO! OIL CHANGE & TIRE ROTATION FREE BRAKE INSPECTION AC SERVICE Includes up to 1 lb. of R134A. NOW ONLY • 15 point inspection • Drain old oil and install new oil filter
$10 OFF $35 OFF • Refill with 5w-30 oil (up to 6 qts) synthetic extra • Lubricate chassis (if needed)
FRONT OR REAR BRAKE SERVICE
With Bluffton Sun coupon only. Most cars & light trucks. With Bluffton Sun coupon only. Additional 7% charge for Diesel oil & filter extra. Oil disposal fee. Additional 7% shop supplies will apply. Not valid with any other offers. charge for shop supplies will apply. Expires 2/15/22. Expires 2/15/22.
$89.95
With Bluffton Sun Coupon Only. Additional 7% Charge for shop supplies will apply. Not valid with Other offers. Expires 2/15/22.
CALL OR STOP BY AND SEE US TODAY! Open Monday - Friday 7:30 am - 5:30 pm
843-987-0800
58 Schinger Ave., Okatie/Bluffton, SC (First Left on Hwy 170 After Riverwalk)
Page 62A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
REAL ESTATE
Beating the sell high-buy low real estate conundrum By Larry Stoller CONTRIBUTOR
Imagine selling your home for much more than you ever expected. That’s what happening these days as our hot Lowcountry seller’s market continues to crank out the heat. And if you make a profit on that sale, you might not have to pay any taxes on that money that you receive. Here’s what the Internal Revenue Service says: “If you have a capital gain from the sale of your main home, you may qualify to exclude up to $250,000 of that gain from your income, or up to $500,000 of that gain if you file a joint return with your spouse.” This “sell high” scenario sounds pretty good but there are two problems: 1. Where will you live after you sell?; and 2. Can you buy low after you sell high? (Answer: If it’s still a seller’s market, probably not). But here are some ideas about where you
SU NC ITY
can live: • Live with your adult children for some time while you are looking for your new home. • Lease back your home after you sell it until you find some place that satisfies your
The Preserve | 293 Landing Ln | $349,000
needs and wants. • If you qualify, move to an active lifestyle “55 and over” community with a lot of amenities (like Sun City Hilton Head). • Some 55-plus communities offer home-buying or home-renting options
(homes, cottages, townhomes, condos). • Think about right-sizing and buying a single-family home, townhome or condo closer to your family. • Explore independent living opportunities in other towns. Consider renting an apartment for a year or two in an area that you would love living in. • Rent or buy an RV and tour our great country for a year or so. There are plenty of places to see and stay; then decide where you want to live after your adventure. • If you love where you are currently living but need and/or want that gain from the sale of your home, think about right-sizing – buying a smaller home and aging in place. • If you are thinking that you might need some assistance down the road, think about independent living that allows transition to assisted living. Larry Stoller is a broker and Realtor with Real Estate Five of the Lowcountry. Larry@ RealEstateFive.com, RealEstateFive.com, SunCityOpenHouses247.com
CUSTOM CLOSETS • MURPHY BEDS • HOME OFFICES GARAGES • PANTRIES • LAUNDRY ROOMS • & MORE
Fabulous Villa Live the Lifestyle with Minimal Care 2 Bedrooms/2 Full Baths/Den Bright, sunny eat-in kitchen Spacious Master Suite Relaxing Screen Porch A must see villa!!
Sun City | 33 Landing Lane | $400,000 Location, Location, Location!! On the 18th tee box of the Hidden Cypress Golf Course Phenomenal views from this Egret model within walking distance to the clubhouse with restaurant/fitness center/pool
UND ER CO NTR ACT
Correctly priced homes are selling in record time, the demand is high and the supply is low. For an accurate market analysis on your home call me, have a full-service REALTOR working for you. References are readily available. Ruth Kimball | 843-540-0205 | ruthkimball@msn.com ASK ME ABOUT U.S. MILITARY ON THE MOVE! All information is believed to be accurate. Subject to verification by Buyer/Buyers Agent.
Stop in & see why we are #1 in custom closets & home organization in Bluuon!
• PROFESSIONAL DESIGN AND INSTALLATION • 1304-G Fording Island Road, Bluffton• 843-836-1304
10,000 Satisfied Customers | www.MoreSpacePlace.com © 2021 More Space Place. National network of independently owned & operated franchises.
Feb. 1, 2022
The Bluffton Sun
Page 63A
CLASSIFIEDS SPORTS CARDS WANTED: Vesci Sports Cards, specializing in pre-1972 baseball, football and basketball cards. Looking for personal collections. Cash paid for cards. Hilton Head resident Jim Vesci 215-266-2975 jdvescisr@gmail.com FOR SALE: PRISTINE 2007 PONTIAC SOLSTICE Roadster Convertible, 23,500 miles. $14,995. Email lreiners@hargray.com or call 843-705-5785.
SUN CITY RESIDENT needs person to run errands locally, $20 per hour. Please call 843-705-1940. YOUR AD HERE CAN REACH 25,000 households and businesses from Moss Creek to Sun City to Callawassie Island. Promote services, sell goods, announce a yard sale, buy a house, sell a house, find a job, find employees, ask for help, offer help! Ads starting at $28 for 40 words. 843-757-9507.
R YES, I Want to Continue My FREE Bluffton Sun Delivery (at no cost) In The Mail For the Next 3 Years!
Email Us At: FreeSubscription@BlufftonSun.com Please include: First & Last Name, Street Address, City, SC, Zip Code, Email address or Telephone Number (Delivery Available in 29909 & 29910)
CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507. CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507. CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507. CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507. CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507. CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507.
APPRAISING ALL SPORTS CARDS PRE 1976 AND...POKEMON, BEATLES, 3 STOOGES, INDIAN GUM, TOO
H
Call Jerry
OVER 50 YEARS EXPERIENCE References Call 843-384-0303
Page 64A
The Bluffton Sun
Feb. 1, 2022
Are you ready for
FASTER INTERNET?
You’re going to LOVE the SAVINGS. Internet Plans starting at
55
$ ONE MONTH* FREE
/MO. for 12 mos.
• FREE INSTALLATION
SAVE UP TO
575
$
Your first 12 mos.
A $50 value.
• UP TO $200 CREDIT To buy out your current contract.
• 3 MONTHS POWERBOOST FREE Enjoy symmetrical speeds - perfect for gaming, working from home and more.
NO CONTRACTS • NO DATA CAPS • NO THROTTLING
Limited Time Offer!
Call 843.949.4611
or visit hargray.com/bluffton-sun Limited time offer. Advertised price does not include equipment fees, taxes, surcharges or any other regulatory or governmental charges. Hargray does not require a contract for residential services. Additional Hargray services are allowed for additional monthly cost per service. Hargray Internet service plans feature unlimited data with no data caps, no overage charges, and no service throttling. Intentional speed reductions may be triggered at the customer-level when an individual customer drives network congestion that negatively impacts other customers. 30 Day Money Back Guarantee applies to subscribed service and installation fees if removed within 30 days after installation. Refunds are not applicable for longdistance, Video-on-Demand (VOD) or PPV Charges. Up to $200 credit for Early Termination Fee requires final competitor’s statement with early termination fee displayed. Broadband speeds may not be available in all areas, are not guaranteed, are subject to a number of factors and are measured via direct connection (not via Wi-Fi). Total savings up to $575 the first 12 months includes Free Installation ($50 value), up to $200 Early Termination credit, monthly Internet promotional savings of $20/month the first 12 months, 3 months Optional PowerBoost ($30 value) based on service availability, and first month free on 200 Mbps for $55/month plan ($55 value). Promotion is for new residential customers only, adding Hargray services for the first time. Promotion cannot be combined with any other promotional offers or Hargray Rewards. ©2022, Hargray Communications Group, Inc.; logos are registered trademarks and as such, protected property of their respective companies; all rights reserved.
ut llo ion Pu ect S
Feb. 1, 2022 • SECTION B Volume 25, I ssue 3
Mariah Lotz as Christopher and Samaria Nixon-Fleming as Siobhan in the Arts Center’s production of “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.” PHOTO BY GUSTAVO RATTIA
‘The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, Feb. 2-20 See page 6B
“Curious Incident” onstage at Arts Center - 6B
“Steel Magnolias” reprised at May River Theatre - 7B
“Arts Ob We People” on exhibit at Art League - 8B
Bluffton High art students featured at SOBA - 9B
Page 2B
Feb. 1, 2022
Feb. 1-27 “Arts Ob We People: Winter Exhibition and Sale,” display of original work by emerging and leading artists that represents the life of Gullah people. Art League of Hilton Head Gallery, 14 Shelter Cove Lane on Hilton Head Island. Opening reception 5-7 p.m. Feb. 9. Free. artleaguehhi.org or 843-681-5060 Feb. 1-27 Rose Cofield, mixed media abstract art, featured at La Petite Gallerie, 56 Calhoun St., Bluffton. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday and Monday. For more information please visit lapetitegallerie.com. Feb. 2-20 “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the NightTime,” based on Mark Haddon’s best-selling novel, Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. Tony Award-winning play. Performances 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, 2 pm. Sunday. artshhi.org or 843-842-2787 Feb. 4, 5 Chilly Willy Band appearances, Feb. 4 at Bluffton Trading Post, 7 -10 p.m. Feb. 5, Wild Wing, Hilton Head
Island, where it all began, 8-11 p.m. Feb. 12 Taste of Gullah, festival of arts and culture, noon-3 p.m. at Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. Free. artshhi.com Feb. 15-17 “Lively Skies, Seas and Trees,” three-day plein air painting workshop by Gary Baughman, at Art League Academy, 106 Cordillo Parkway, Hilton Head Island. Cost is $360 for Art League members, $400 for non-members. Call 843-842-5738, email academy@ artleaguehhi.org or visit artleaguehhi.org. Feb. 25-27, March 4-6 “Steel Magnolias,” May River Theatre, Ulmer Auditorium, 20 Bridge St., Bluffton. Performances 7:30 p.m. Feb. 25-26 and March 4-5; and 2 p.m. Feb. 27 and March 6. Tickets are $25 each and are available online at mayrivertheatre.com or by calling 843-815-5581. Through Feb. 26 “Young Talent,” works by art students of Bluffton High School at Society of Bluffton Artists (SOBA). Opening reception 3-5 p.m. Feb. 5. 6 Church St., Bluffton. Gallery open 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. sobagallery.com or 843-757-6586 March 4-6 “Legally Blonde the Musical Jr.” Main Stage Community Theatre, at Hilton Head Prep’s Main Street Theatre, 3000 Main St., Hilton Head Island. Tickets $25 adult, $15 student, $5 under age 8. mainstagecommunitytheatre.org or 843-689-6246. More info at info@msctheatre.org March 4 Mary Fahl, singer-songwriter, formerly of the New York City-based October Project, 8 p.m. at The Roasting Room, 1297 May River Road, Bluffton. Tickets $30. 843-368-4464 or roastingroom.live Through March 6 “Art Beyond Tradition: Interpretations,” exhibit of abstract works by 12 local artists, Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. Artist Walks every Thursday from noon to 2 p.m. Gallery hours 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday, and 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. coastaldiscovery.org March 7-April 3 SOBA 28th annual Judged Show, 100 selections from among all entries in six categories. Call for entries deadline March 1 (see pg. 11 for information). Awards ceremony 5-7 p.m. March 9. SOBA is located ata 6 Church St. in Old Town Bluffton. sobagallery.com or 843-757-3776
New Showroom Coming Soon!
36 Persimmon St. - Suite 206 Bluffton, SC 29910 Open Regular Hours
843.815.5783
Feb. 1, 2022
Page 3B
FEBRUARY/MARCH
ERIC BRITT + JASON BIBLE
GOOD-VIBING INDIE JAM
02.04
TALL TALL TREES MULTI-INSTRUMENTAL FOLK/PSCYH
02.11
MATTHEW B. MAYES SONGWRITER MADLIBS! (JUPITER COYOTE) ACOUSTIC JAM
02.05
SONGWRITER CHALLENGE!
02.17
OSHIMA BROTHERS SWAMPTOOTH LIGHTNING-FAST ATMOSPHERIC, HARMONIOUS FOLK
02.07
BLUEGRASS
02.19
ISAAC SMITH + MARIELLE SAM TAYLOE KRAFT + SKOUT (OF TIME SAWYER)
CELEBRATED SINGER/SONGWRITERS
02.09
ABOVE CORNER PERK
REFRESHING POP SONGWRITERS
03.03
1297 MAY RIVER ROAD
ROASTINGROOMLOUNGE.COM
Page 4B
Feb. 1, 2022
F I V E T I M E TO N Y AWA R D -W I N N E R
FEBRUARY 2–20
TONY AWARDWINNER FOR BEST PLAY!
“MAGICAL & MOVING”
Part mystery, part intimate family drama, this is an atypical adventure of someone completely, wonderfully unique. This visually dazzling story of bravery against all odds shows how special life is when you’re allowed to be yourself. Don’t miss this spellbinding theatrical experience!
– DAILY MAIL
“SPECTACULAR & TRIUMPHANT” – VARIET Y
MSCT brings ‘Blonde’ dreams to stage Dreams really do come true. You never have to compromise.” So says Elle Wood, the main character in Main Stage Community Theatre’s upcoming production of “Legally Blonde JR.” The play follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes, snobbery and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. When Elle’s boyfriend, Warner, dumps her and heads to Harvard, claiming she’s not “serious” enough, Elle takes matters into her own hands, crafting a showy song-anddance personal essay and charms her way into law school. Befriending classmate, Emmett, and spunky hairdresser Paulette, Elle finds that books and looks aren’t mutually exclusive. As Elle begins outsmarting her peers, she realizes that law may be her natural calling after all. It’s a fabulously fun journey of self-em-
“LIFE-AFFIRMING & UNMISSABLE”
You’ve Tried The Rest, Delivery and/or Pick-Up, Now Experience The Best Kept Secret!
– TIME
“BLAZINGLY EXPRESSIVE” – DEADLINE
Parental discretion advised: strong language/subject matter that at times may be difficult for younger viewers. Ages 12 & up. Masks are REQUIRED for attendance (regardless of vaccination status)
Always Healthy, Fresh & Free Delivery on Tuesdays with $46 order.
Mariah Lotz in Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time | Photogaphy by Gustavo Rattia
FEBRUARY 12
12:00 – 3:00 PM FREE COMMUNITY FESTIVAL
Lowcountry specialties such as shrimp and grits, grilled fish and okra gumbo will feed your spirit! Enjoy gospel music, native artwork, crafts and more! Sponsored By: SCAC, NEA, and Concours d'Elegance / Driving Young America
powerment and expanding horizons! The show features Sadie Beaumont as Elle Woods, George Hussey as Warner Huntington III, Sami Othmani as Emmett Forrest, Lilly Brashear as Paulette and a cast of sorority sisters, law school students, hairdressers and more. Performances will be at 7 p.m. March 4-5, and 2 p.m. March 5-6. Tickets are $25 for adults, $15 for students and $5 for children under 8 with easy online booking via MainStageCommunityTheatre.org or by calling the box office at 843-689-6246. Main Stage Community Theatre (formerly Main Street Youth Theatre) is a nonprofit organization established in 1997. For more information, visit MainStageCommunityTheatre.org, Facebook.com/MSCTTheatre or email info@msctheatre.org.
Call 843-812-8870 for Tuesday delivery or order online at gourmetonwheels.org Week of February 7
Week of February 14
Valentine’s Day Chicken & Artichoke Hearts Washington’s Boneless Cherried Pork Chops San Francisco Gr. Turkey Rice-a-Roni Chicken Parmesan Kansas City Beer Boiled Brats Teriyaki London Broil w/ Balsamic Roasted Veggies Egg Salad Plate Seafood Salad Plate EAT HEALTHIER. Los Angeles Mu Shu Shrimp Greek Salmon GIFT Cincinnati Chili CERTIFICATES New England Clam Chowder AVAILABLE Spinach & Mushroom Quiche Sausage & Onion Quiche *$20.00 meals w/sides included, large enough for 2 moderate eaters. $10.00 for QT. Soup or 1/3 Deep Dish Quiche. Always low salt/sugar delivered cold in microwaveable/freezeable containers. Let Us Know Your Allergies or Dislikes As We Pick Appropriate Sides
Feb. 1, 2022
Page 5B
FEBRUARY SPECIALS
198 Okatie Village Dr. Suite 105 Next To Sun City Food Lion 843.707.1750
Call Early For s n o i t a v r Rese
Open Wednesdays thru Sundays, 4:00PM to close
Valentine’s Day
WE ARE OPEN MONDAY FEBRUARY 14
Monday, February 14th
TREAT YOUR VALENTINE!
2
PASTA DISHES OR ENTREES
CARRY OUT ONLY
2
2
WEDNESDAY THRU SUNDAY SPECIAL
EXCLUDES VEAL ENTREES
SALADS (choice of Garden or Caesar)
CANNOLIS
48
$
All coupons valid through 2/28/22, coupon NOT VALID ON VALENTINE’S DAY and cannot be combined with any other offer
843.707.1750
CARRY OUT ONLY CARRY OUT ONLY CARRY OUT ONLY CARRY OUT ONLY CARRY OUT ONLY CARRY OUT ONLY CARRY OUT ONLY CARRY OUT ONLY
ALL SURFACES FULLY SANITIZED
Page 6B
Feb. 1, 2022F
‘Curious Incident’ director looks forward to sharing insights
The road to
CARNEGIE HALL begins on Hilton Head
2O22
HILTON HEAD INTERNATIONAL PIANO COMPETITION FOR PIANISTS AGES 18 - 30
MARCH 7TH - 14TH 20 pianists compete for $34,000 in cash prizes, a concert at Carnegie Hall, a return engagement with the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra and more!
Tickets on sale now at hhipc.org or by calling the box office at 843.842.2055.
Official Hotel of the HHIPC
Official Competition Piano
PRESENTED BY THE H I LTO N H E A D S Y M P H O N Y O R C H E S T R A
KELLY GENOVESE
Whitaker Gannon, second from left, directors the cast of “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina.
By Lynne Cope Hummell EDITOR
For the run of “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time,” opening Feb. 2 at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, its director hopes audiences will take away an appreciation of the many varied and beautiful ways the brain works. The play, based on the novel by Mark Haddon, opens with a young man named Christopher discovering that his neighbor’s dog has been murdered with a pitchfork. He feels empowered to solve the crime himself. Christopher sees the world differently, the playwright tells us. He never uses the word “autistic,” said Whitaker Gannon, director of the show. However, “Christopher’s behavior is similar to those with autism.” Gannon has personal experience with someone like Christopher: her brother. “My relationship with my brother, Blake, who is on autism spectrum, has greatly influenced how I see the world,” she said. “Growing up with Blake, I’ve been able to see autism in a way that goes beyond general perception. Because of him, I have seen things that I would not have noticed otherwise.” Gannon said the script stays pretty true to the novel, which is good because “we can use that as a guide for how to present the show.” Audiences can expect some twists and turns, not only in the story, but
in the way it is presented on stage. The cast is made up of 10 actors total, but Christopher encounters different people on his journey, and six of the actors play about 30 different characters. They stay very involved throughout the story. In some “stylized” moments, they become almost an extension of Christopher himself. “We are, as most other productions, using Christopher’s autism to tell the story – embracing that perspective of Christopher as autistic,” Gannon said. Interestingly for this production, the lead actor is on the autism spectrum. Gannon said her personal life experience will certainly inform how she directs the show. And, she said, her brother’s experiences have caused her to expand her own way of thinking. “I hope I can show audiences that autism is much more nuanced than what most people think,” she said. “There are many beautiful, wonderful things that Christopher sees. I am excited to bring my knowledge to this show and hope I do it justice. I want the world to see what autism does look like and what it can look like.” Performances are Feb. 2-20 at the Arts Center, 14 Shelter Cove Lane on Hilton Head Island. The show is recommended for ages 12 and up. For tickets and more information, call 843-842-2787 or visit artshhi.org.
Feb. 1, 2022
Page 7B
Steel Magnolias’ tackle life onstage at May River Theatre Southern women have long gravitated toward the beauty shop to connect with friends, share some gossip, have a glass of something – and get their hair done. In “Steel Magnolias,” onstage Feb. 25-27 and March 4-6 at May River Theatre in Bluffton, viewers can get an inside scoop on how precious life can be among small-town confidants. On Shelby Eatonton’s wedding day, the bride and her mother, along with friends, descend on Truvy’s Beauty Spot in Chinquapin Parish, La., for final touch-ups and the low-down. As the story unfolds, magnolia blossoms and gunfire cause anxiety, a young woman finds a job and a husband in a new town, two old broads trade jabs that cement their friendship, and a mother and daughter come to terms with difficult decisions. The play was written (in 10 days) by Robert Harling, a native of Natchitoches, La., about his mother, his sister and their friends during an uncertain time in their lives. Harling said he could “just hear those women” as they traded insults and jokes, lifted up one another, screamed a little, and eventually found solace in one another. The title of the play is a nod to the Southern women Harling knew who are like the beautiful, delicate magnolia (the state flower of Louisiana), and yet tough as steel. The play had a successful run off-Broadway in 1987. It was adapted into a movie by the same name in 1989, with an extended storyline and a cast of well-known actors in the lead roles.
r e t n i W
Old Town Bluffton
The cast of “Steel Magnolias” rehearses at May River Theatre. The play will run Feb. 25-27 and March 4-6 at the theatre.
The cast, directed by Liz McGinnis, includes Julie Siebold as Shelby; Christine Grefe as M’Lynn, Shelby’s mother; Tracy Butts as the effervescent and nosy Truvy; Izzy Madden as “the new girl” Annelle; Margaret Oehlert as Clairee, the stylish former mayor’s wife; and Lynne Hummell as Ousier, the crusty curmudgeon. Christa Fortney is assistant director, with Ellie Friedman as stage manager. Celebrating its 20th anniversary season, May River Theatre was founded by Ed and Jodie Dupuis in 2002. “Steel Magnolias” was produced during that first season. This all-new cast and crew, as well as the board of directors, honor the memory of the founders with this production. Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 25-26 and March 4-5; and 2 p.m. Feb. 27 and March 6. Tickets are $25 each and are available online at mayrivertheatre.com or by calling 843-815-5581. Seating is general admission. The theatre is located in Ulmer Auditorium at Bluffton Town Hall, 20 Bridge St. in Old Town.
Fine Art and Refreshments!
Many Shops and Galleries open late! Friday, February 18, 5-7 pm
shopoldtownbluffton.com
Page 8B
Feb. 1, 2022
Art League Gallery features Gullah artists, themes “Arts Ob We People: Winter Exhibition and Sale” is a display of original work by emerging and leading artists that represents the life of Gullah people on Hilton Head Island and the surrounding community. This featured exhibit will run Feb. 1-27 in Art League of Hilton Head Gallery, 14 Shelter Cove Lane on Hilton Head Island. An artists reception, free and open to the public, will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. Feb. 9. All artworks will be on display and for sale. This annual arts and crafts exhibition features the work of local artists’ interpretation of the people, food, dancing, and daily living of the Gullah people. Amiri Farris is the 2022 featured artist of this annual Gullah Celebration. Farris’ featured piece, “Da Island Life,” depicts the maintaining of wellness and a healthy lifestyle as the subjects revel in nature’s bounty and embrace the land and spirit that surrounds them. It celebrates creativity, using quality time to focus on the arts, mental positivity and other healthy habits inspired
“Da Island Life” by Amiri Farris
“Breezy” by Lisa Rivers
by Gullah culture. Other artists who will be featured in the show include longtime favorites Lisa Rivers, Alvin Glen, Patricia Sabree and Serena Hall. Art League Gallery is open every day, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, and 90 minutes before every Arts Center perfor-
mance. Art League Gallery is located mid-island inside Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane. Art League of Hilton Head is the only 501(c)(3) nonprofit visual arts organization on Hilton Head Island with a synergistic art gallery and teaching academy.
Make Your Reservations for Lulu Kitchen Wine Dinner
FEBRUARY 12TH STARTING AT 6PM Music | Wine | Art
“Waves of Courage” by Patricia Sabree
Art League Academy welcomes artists and students in all media at all skill levels, including true beginners. Taught by professional art educators, students can choose from many art classes and workshops that change monthly. For more information, visit artleaguehhi. org or call 843-681-5060.
Now Taking Reservations for Valentine’s
and a
5 Course Gourmet Dinner 5 Course Meal Paired with Taub Family Wine Music By Sara Burns Art by Local Artist Jeff Keefer Reservations are limited.
CALL TODAY
A Dining Experience With a 36 Item Hot & Cold Bar & 15 Meats Carved Tableside • Our Menu Comes to You 890 William Hilton Parkway Fresh Market Shops, Hilton Head 843-648-5858 (lulu)
The Village at Wexford, 1000 William Hilton Pkwy, Hilton Head (843) 715-3565 • www.cowboybraziliansteakhouse Reservations Recommended.
Feb. 1, 2022
Page 9B
Bluffton High School artists featured at SOBA in February The Society of Bluffton Artists will be showcasing the talents of some of the community’s young artists during February when it hosts “Young Talent” at SOBA’s Old Town Bluffton gallery. The exhibit runs through Feb. 26 and features varied media from the area’s most promising young artists, ranging from oil paintings to pottery. The show will feature the best works from 20 artists of Bluffton High School at various levels of art education. Many are members of the National Art Honor Society, which seeks to bring awareness of the importance of the visual arts to the community. “Providing art education and art appreciation to persons of all ages is part of SOBA’s mission statement,” said SOBA vice president Cynthia Van Nus. “For high schoolers, we provide the student art show and college scholarship award. The art show gives students a chance for public recognition for their talents and achievements, the same that is given to
“14th Street Port Royal” by Nikki Olivera, 12th grade, Bluffton High School “14th Street Port Royal” by Nikki Olivera, 12th grade, Bluffton High School
student athletes, science projects and music concerts.”
Mexicali Fresh is now open in Bluffton!! COME TASTE THE DIFFERENCE!!
HAPPY HOUR 3 TO 6 MON TO FRI OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
Visitors will be able to purchase the artwork and meet the student artists
A Great Dining Experience is at Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar
TAKE OUT AVAILABLE DELIVERY BY UBER EATS AVAILABLE
YOUR TABLE IS WAITING.
BUY ONE LUNCH & TWO SOFT DRINKS GET SECOND LUNCH
HALF PRICE!!
10% OFF DINNERS ALCOHOL NOT INCLUDED EXPIRES 2/15/2022
68 BLUFFTON RD SUITE 1 • BLUFFTON SC 29910 • P (843) 837-5544
www.mexicalifresh.net
during the show’s opening reception at the gallery from 3 to 5 p.m. Feb. 5. “As art teachers, we value the opportunity to give students real world experience with the demands and rewards of being a gallery artist, including presenting and pricing their work in a professional manner,” said Bluffton High art teacher Kristen Munroe. “The students are very proud of their work and gain self-esteem and confidence through displaying their work to the community at large.” SOBA is located in Old Town Bluffton’s historic district at the corner of Church and Calhoun streets. As a nonprofit art organization, SOBA offers regular art classes, featured artist shows, exhibitions, scholarships, outreach programs and more. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays. For more information and a calendar of events, visit www.sobagallery.com or call 843-7576586.
BRUNCH, LUNCH & DINNER TUESDAY-SUNDAY SOUTH ISLAND SQUARE 841 WILLIAM HILTON PKWY • HILTON HEAD (843) 715-3215 • WWW.LUCKYROOSTERHHI.COM
Page 10B
Feb. 1, 2022
La Petite Gallery features multi-media artist Rose Cofield La Petite Gallerie, an intimate Old Town Bluffton shop featuring local art, continues to introduce you to the gallery artists. This month the gallery is featuring abstract artist Rose Cofield. Art has been a life-long adventure for her. Her passion for exploring the possibilities of form and shape has been her prime motivation throughout her journey. Challenging herself with different materials has taught Cofield to bend to the inherent attributes as well as the limitations of her chosen medium. Her abstract works in mixed media include collage, acrylic paints, mixed media, canvas and found materials. Cofield’s fascination with architecture is evident in her current work. Her experience in sculpture allows her to see the content of her mixed media pieces as form and shape. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., Cofield credits some of her images to that urban environment. Cofield studied art at New York Uni-
“Half Moons” by Rose Cofield
versity and The Johnson Atelier Technical Institute of Sculpture. She has attended stone carving workshops at the Corsanini Studio in Carrara, Italy. Cofield has been on the other side of instruction, as she has taught sculpture workshops in schools and arts organizations through the South Carolina Arts Commission’s “Artist in Education”
Rose Cofield with one of her mixed media abstract creations.
program. Cofield has displayed her work at galleries and museums across the region, and is a member of the National Association of Women Artists of New York City, as well as the South Carolina Chapter. In addition to La Petite Gallerie, Cofield’s work is available on her website, art-rose-cofield.com, and on Instagram @
cofieldrose. She can be reached directly at therose3d@gmail.com or 843-290-6842. La Petite Gallerie is located in Old Town Bluffton at 56 Calhoun St. Hours are 11 am to 5 pm Tuesday through Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday and Monday. For more information please visit lapetitegallerie.com.
Feb. 1, 2022
Page 11B
Call for entries for SOBA’s 28th annual Judged Show Lowcountry artists are invited to submit their works of art for The Society of Bluffton Artists’ (SOBA) 28th annual Judged Show. Winners will be awarded first, second and third place cash awards in the following categories: Acrylic, Oil, Watercolor, Photography, Drawing (pastel, pencil/ graphite, pen and ink) and Miscellaneous (mixed media, collage, 3-D, stained glass). The Judged Show is limited to 100 entries. Registration is required by completing a form available at the gallery, located at 6 Church St. in Old Town Bluffton or by registering online at bit.ly/28thjudgedshow. The registration deadline is March 1. The cost to register is $25 for SOBA members and $50 for non-members.
Artists must drop off their art from 9 to 11 a.m. March 7 at the Center for Creative Arts, located next door to the SOBA gallery, at 8 Church St. No entries will be accepted after 11 a.m. Registration and a full list of rules are available at bit.ly/judgedshowdetails. The Judged Show exhibit will be on display from March 7-April 3 at the SOBA gallery. An awards ceremony will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. March 9. These events are free to attend and open to the public. Artists can pick up unsold artwork at the end of the show from 9 to 11 a.m. April 4 at the SOBA gallery. SOBA offers regular art classes, featured artist shows, exhibitions, scholarships, outreach programs and more. For more information, visit sobagallery.com or call 843-757-3776.
OME CLEARLY COASTAL HDECOR
Interior Designs by Clearly Coastal LLC
STOP IN SEE OUR NTEOW INVENTORY!
78D ARROW ROAD HILTON HEAD ISLAND • 843.715.4514 NEXT DOOR TO CHURCHMOUSE
Open Tuesday through Saturday 10 to 2
Like Us On Facebook
lpg sun ad feb 22_Layout 1 1/11/22 2:41 PM Page 1
Inner Space by Rose Cofield
Check Out The New Expanded FREE Parking on Dr. Mellichamp Dr.!
Featuring works in oil, acrylic, pastel, watercolor and mixed media by Rose Cofield | Kristin Griffis | Don Nagel Murray Sease | Lauren Terrett | Bill Winn & sculpture by Wally Palmer Adjacent to “The Store” 56 Calhoun Street lapetitegallerie.com
Page 12B
Feb. 1, 2022
YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR SUPER-BOWL BEVERAGES!
Something for Everyone!
Furniture • Art • Lighting • Consignments
FEATURING… • Brand New Beautiful Full Selection Display of Famous Maker Wines and Spirits • Welcoming, Friendly & Helpful Customer Service. • Convenient Old Town Location
•Dine! •Shop! •Fun! •Art! •Gifts! And More!
• Free parking in front of store or In New Area on Bluffton Road Just Steps Away.
10% OFF YO U R P U R C H A S E !
Mon-Fri 11am-4pm • Sat 10am-4pm (843) 815-4669 1230 May River Road, Bluffton SC 29910 Coastalexchangebluffton@yahoo.com
Maggie and Me
WOMEN’S, JUNIORS, BABY, TODDLER AND TWEEN CLOTHING, SHOES & ACCESSORIES
With This coupon Valid thru 2/12/22.
27 Mellichamp Drive Old Town Bluffton (Next to Miterria Restaurant) (843) 706-2122
Young TALENT ART EXHIBIT OF PROMISING YOUNG ARTISTS
EXHIBIT: JAN. 31-FEB. 26 RECEPTION: 3-5 P.M. FEB. 5
10-5 Mon-Sat • Closed Sun. 6 Bruin Rd, Bluffton, SC 29910 • (843) 707-9083 Úmaggieandmeoldtownbluffton
6 CHURCH STREET • OLD TOWN BLUFFTON SOBAGALLERY.COM