VOLUME 12, ISSUE 4 • APRIL 4, 2023

By Barry Kaufman CONTRIBUTOR

We’ll start with an easy one: 55 – as in the 55th iteration of the RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing, set to tee off April 10-16 over at Harbour Town Golf Links in Sea Pines Resort.

Traditionally, this would be the part of the story where we explain what the RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing is. But honestly, you should already know that. It’s the Heritage. If you’re unfamiliar with it, we can assume 55 is also the number of years you’ve been living under a rock.

But, to be on the safe side: The RBC Heritage is the only annual PGA TOUR event in South Carolina, and the event that essentially put Hilton Head Island on the map in 1969. In October 2022, the PGA TOUR elevated the event to “Designated” status and increased the purse to $20 million. Consequently, a higher number of top golfers will

be signing up to play.

Here’s an interesting set of numbers to go with that thought: 1, 2, 3, 4. In this case, they refer to Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm and Patrick Cantlay and their respective ranks among golf’s worldwide elite –that is, the Official World Golf Ranking. Follow that thought with No. 6 through No. 20, which includes Xander Schauffele, Justin Thomas, Collin Morikawa, Tony Finau. And defending champion Jordan Spieth.

In case you missed the significance of those numbers, let’s just say that this year’s field includes 19 of the top 20 golfers in the WORLD!

All will be vying for the tartan jacket this year, alongside other greats of the game like Rickie Fowler, Adam Scott, and Team RBC ambassadors Sam Burns, Corey Conners, Sahith Theegala and Cameron Young.

The Heritage has a long tradition of welcoming some of the game’s best, offering an opportunity to relax somewhat after The Masters. As much as the event is defined by its traditions, there is one that they will be setting aside for this year – the role of chairman typically going to a member of the Heritage Classic Foundation. This year, that honor will be going to Davis Love III, the golfer who has racked up the most Heritage

PHOTOS COURTESY RBC HERITAGE

Jordan Spieth receives his tartan plaid jacket from Stan Smith after winning the 2022 RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing.

wins of anyone on earth with five. And there are far more numbers involved when it comes to Davis Love III. Of the record 33 times he’s played the tournament, he’s made the cut 22 times. His first win came in 1987 when he was just 23, and this year he’ll celebrate his 59th birthday during

the tournament. And his father, Davis Love II, played in the first Heritage when the chairman was just 5 years old.

Even if golf isn’t your thing, there’s one number you can definitely appreciate:

Please see HERITAGE on page 14A

Megliore named state Business Owner Mental health nonprofit a source of light to those with issues 16A

Driving 55: Top golfers bring RBC Heritage up to cruising speed

Like any competition, golf is a numbers game. You’ve got your handicap, your course rating, your elevation, your par, your distance to the pin, your irons and woods in a bevy of numbers. You might think it’s all about getting your shoulders down and your head straight, but there’s a lot of math involved.

Nationally Ranked Health Care

RIGHT HERE

We all want access to top healthcare, because we know that “top” means a commitment to pursuing and achieving the best, which is especially important when you’re looking for medical services and care. And the good news: it’s right in our backyard.

We’re proud to be among the select group of hospitals recognized by the national hospital safety watchdog organization The Leapfrog Group for putting patients and their safety first every day. Not only does it mean our team is focused on you, it means you can feel confident in trusting us when it matters most.

Only 5% of hospitals in the U.S. have earned the Top Hospital award for patient safety and quality — and Beaufort Memorial is one of them. BeaufortMemorial.org/TopHospital

Being friendly is easy, smart and uplifting for both parties

By Lynne Cope Hummell EDITOR

Have you ever considered just how smart you are? Do you know that just by virtue of being human, you have an amazing cognitive superpower?

We all have it – humans, I mean. We have the innate ability to be friendly.

It has been passed down by generations of our ancestors, going back to the beginning of homo sapiens, some say. What allowed us to survive back then was our ability to effectively communicate and cooperate with others – being friendly – in order for us to domesticate ourselves.

Cooperation is action based on recognizing the benefit of working together with others to achieve a common goal – whether gathering food, or building a shelter, or making sure the fire keeps going.

Someone just told me about a book that

was first published in 2020, with the fascinating title “Survival of the Friendliest,” by husband and wife Brian Hare, an anthropologist, and writer Vanessa Woods. The subtitle is “Understanding Our Origins and Rediscovering Our Common Humanity.”

The writers start the book with a chapter on “Thinking about Thinking,” and tell us how we all started communicating by pointing as babies, and how sophisticated that simple action is.

They say, “pointing is the gateway to reading other people’s minds, to what psychologists call ‘theory of mind,’” a useful and important social-cognitive skill. In just a few years a child can understand what others are thinking based on the others’ actions.

And we will forever after base our own words, actions and decisions on our perception and understanding of what others think.

(Side note: It’s called “theory” of mind because we can never know exactly what an-

other person is thinking, even if they tell us.)

But let’s get back to the friendliness thing, and the survival of those who are friendliest. Let’s note that “survival” means more than living longer – it means living well, living purposefully, living fully.

And it’s not just friendliness toward those you know. We can be kind to strangers. It’s a simple matter of communication and collaboration.

Recently my younger son and I attended a fundraising event in Florida for an organization that supports research on the neuro-muscular disease, Friedrich’s Ataxia (FA), that my son has. It was our first time attending one of these national RideAtaxia events. There were about 300 people attending, and we knew only two of them when we arrived.

From the beginning moments of a meet and greet reception to the final remarks the next day, we experienced a flood of welcoming kindness. Others who have FA, their

families, the national spokesperson, top neurologists who are researching the disease – so many people who share the experiences of living with the disease welcomed us to this community new to us.

It was an amazing experience. Here in the South, and especially in our Lowcountry, we are already known for our hospitality. We are nice to our visitors and customers so they will come back again, of course (and we base our actions on what we believe they think of us).

But I believe if we are genuinely friendly and kind to everyone we meet, then we can all enjoy a better way of being. We can begin to thrive emotionally, physically, mentally, spiritually. Other benefits might include lower stress, more joy, and a potentially increased lifespan.

If we can achieve those benefits by showing friendliness, imagine what those on the receiving end might feel.

• A wire-brushed surface reveals the distinctive creating a uniquely textured surface infused and timeworn charm.

• Durable engineered hardwood planks are Dura-Luster Urethane finish, which is highly and stains.

widths; ranging from 6-1/2" up to 9" create an airy and spacious feel to the home.

• Sliced-faced Oak hardwood comes in a wide variety of colors including; delicate, light color washes or deep, warm rich stains.

Install on Any Level Tongue & Groove 5/8” x 9” planks

Current Circulation Via USPS is 25,266

PUBLISHER

Kevin Aylmer, kevina@blufftonsun.com

EDITOR

Lynne Hummell, editor@blufftonsun.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Kim Perry Bowen

OFFICE MANAGER

Melissa McCullough

CONTRIBUTORS

Jeff Bradley

Amy Campanini

Collins Doughtie

Mathew Epps

E. Ronald Finger

Jean Harris

Gary Heller

Jennifer Herrin

Edwina Hoyle

Managing island growth takes thoughtful approach

By Alan Perry CONTRIBUTOR

Throughout my involvement with the Town government, there is one thing I know for sure – we will always have to manage growth on Hilton Head Island.

termine the best use for this property.

Barry Kaufman

Audrey Klenke

Bill McCutchen

Alan Perry

Gwyneth J. Saunders

Cinda Seamon

Larry Stoller

Tim Wood

ADVERTISING

B.J. Frazier, Sales Director, 843-422-2321

Claudia Chapman 814-434-3665

Mike Garza 804-928-2151

Mary Pat Gifford 912-414-7122

CONTACT

For information about The Hilton Head Sun, 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 copyright protected 20220. All submissions must include name, address and phone number. The Editor reserves the right to edit or reject any material, including advertisements. The Hilton Head 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. Member, Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce.

Our traffic, the strain on our roadways, our increasing population, and the building of new communities indicate that growth management strategies are critical for the island. As Town leaders, we identify and implement ways best suited to manage and balance growth for the short- and long-term.

One strategy we recently employed was the purchase of a 12.019-acre tract of land along Jonesville Road, between The Paddocks and Graham Lane. Ownership of this property strengthens our commitment to managing growth and essentially pauses some development in the Jonesville Road area. In the coming months, Town Council will work with the community to de-

Another strategy underway is reviewing and proposing amendments to the Town’s Land Management Ordinance, commonly called the LMO. Town staff worked with consultants to thoroughly review the LMO and address residential and commercial development design standards, natural resource regulations, and administrative procedural improvements. This strategy will align the LMO with the Town’s Comprehensive Plan, called Our Plan, incorporate a growth framework strategy and district planning recommendations, and provide for land use policy recommendations.

At Town Council meetings in March, we approved several amendments that resulted from this review. In addition, on the Town’s website (hiltonheadislandsc.gov), we have added a specific page about the LMO. It details these amendments and future work that will take place as part of the LMO overhaul.

Balancing and slowing growth requires a thoughtful and thorough approach, which is why this next strategy is so important. When Town Council met for its strategic plan workshop in January, we identified establishing a growth management strategy including

Letter to the Editor

To the Editor:

In regards to repealing the Blaine Amendment, Mr. Weston Newton (editorial, March 14 issue of Bluffton Sun) doesn’t mention

that the money diverted to non-public religious schools will further deprive funding public schools.

This is not necessarily to right a wrong,

Editorial Policy

creating and adopting island-wide district plans as one of our top 15 priority projects.

Town staff is already working on this growth framework project that includes an assessment of demographics, economics, workforce, real estate, natural environment, housing, governance, and community engagement. This information will provide a baseline to establish acceptable levels of service, consider island capacity, and provide critical data for the growth framework and district planning for island communities. We will also use this information to create a growth framework map, a tool to guide a sustainable future for island development. With these approaches, we hope to have a better handle on projects that impact the quality of life in communities across the island and on the island itself. At various times, we may come to community residents for input. Or, if you have feedback on growth management that you would like to share, please reach out to me at AlanP@ hiltonheadislandsc.gov or your Town Council representative.

Do you have some thoughts you would like to share about local issues? Have you wanted to commend a local business or organization for its good work in the community?

The Bluffton Sun welcomes letters to the editor from Bluffton residents or visitors. Letters must be no longer than 250 words. Longer op-ed pieces on timely topics will be consid-

but toward the further destruction of public schooling in South Carolina.

David Glazer Bluffton

ered on an individual basis. All submissions must include the writer’s name, address and phone number. Email submissions to editor@blufftonsun.com.

Alan Perry is the mayor of Hilton Head Island.

Alan Perry

Find something to love about spring in the Lowcountry

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 plain fun questions. You might see us anywhere around town, with notepad and camera, randomly seeking out folks

who are willing to participate. If we find you, we hope you will want to respond.

At the 50th Anniversary celebra-

tion for the Deep Well Project, we asked: “What’s the best thing about spring in the Lowcountry?”

Shavonne Vasquez, Bluffton: “The sound of birds on an early spring morning.”

Jesus Rodriguez, Bluffton: “There’s no snow! And nature is coming alive and in full view.”

Lavon Stevens, Hilton Head Island: “The music, the arts and the culture, of course! It’s the beginning of the season – bees, birds and blooms.”

Mary Stuart Alderman, Hilton Head Island: “The promise of Easter and new growth.”

Sandy Gillis, Hilton Head Island: “I love the azaleas, the RBC Heritage Golf Tournament, and seeing old friends return.”

CelebratingSuccess Success

RE/MAX Island Realty is proud to recognize the outstanding achievements of our 2022 Performance Award winning agents. All of our agents work tirelessly, every day, to achieve results for youour clients, our neighbors, our friends.

As a result of this commitment, RE/MAX Island realty was the #3 RE/MAX Office in SC by Sales Volume with $450 Million.

Mariann Virgona Doreen Shaw

Ann Seger Katie Oliva

Laura Nitz Tom Miller

Piper Martel

Leslie Ford George Capuzello

Lori Queen Queen Alliance

Paul Kozumplik The Premier Group

Jordan Blaine

Heidi Gardner Velinda Fisher Gina Faucette

Ann Eden Lou DiMaio

Stephen Brown Kathy Bolton

Jeff Rockett

Sandy Roberts Cathie Rasch

Mary McNeill

Pamela Battaglia

Susan Schiavon Rick Ross

Garrett Leal

Peter Geary Jackson Massey Brad Lemon

Cheryl Kenton Roger Halweg

Debbie Sullivan Jean Woods

100% CLUB

Carey North Coastal Shores Group

Jackie Jedrzejek SeaStar Premier Group

Marianne Blaine Blaine Group

Carey Clamens

Steph Cauller

John McMahon McMahon Team

TITAN CLUB TEAM

Maureen Houston Richard Gataveckas

Debbie Iredell Toni LaRose-Gerken

Janice Ross Hilton Head Home Group

Tony Stegall Robert “Moose” Rini Lea Smith

Elise Witman Caddell Czura

Top Sales - Individual, Caddell Czura

Top SalesTeams, McMahon Team

2022 Top Sales by Volume, Sarah Smith

More money and choice for education in South Carolina

By Jeff Bradley CONTRIBUTOR

March 2023 was one of the more significant months I have experienced during my time as your legislative representative in the South Carolina General Assembly.

I’m proud of the direction we are currently taking on many fronts in the House during this session – especially with education initiatives that I believe will have long-lasting benefits.

This House budget includes a $14 billion spending plan. The big takeaways came down to our emphasis on education, infrastructure and law enforcement. Many of our educational initiatives have been bolstered by the House with its new budget we passed during the week of March 20. I will have more to say about the entire budget in my next month’s column after we see how the Senate tinkers with the details

of our proposal.

One significant feature was spending $69 million to freeze tuition rates increases for in-state students at our South Carolina colleges and universities. We also provided an additional $15 million for a tuition freeze at our technical colleges, plus another $100 million for workforce development (S.C. Wins Scholarships) through our state’s technical colleges.

If we are to improve our state’s overall educational system, I believe it is imperative we give flexibility to parents to make the best choice for their child’s education. We are now giving flexibility to parents who have been hamstrung for more than 100 years by a state constitutional amendment referred to as “the Blaine Amendment.”

The genesis of the Blaine Amendment reflects the unfortunate religious bigotry and prejudices that prevailed across parts

ZION CEMETERY & BAYNARD MAUSOLEUM COSTUMED CEMETERY TOUR

HERITAGE LIBRARY

TUESDAYS AT 10:30AM

Visit the gravesites of four Revolutionary War heroes and find out about the bloody skirmish that was fought just steps away.

Site on the SC Liberty Trail.

Corner of Hwy. 278 & Mathews Dr.

$10/ADULT • $8/CHILD

Registration required. HeritageLib.org/Tours

of our nation in the late 1800s against immigrant Catholics as well as against newly freed slaves, whose educational opportunities were starting to be improved by various missionary organizations. The Blaine Amendment was originally proposed to the U.S. Constitution but failed to pass Congress. Nonetheless, 38 states, including South Carolina, passed their own similar amendments called “Baby Blaine Amendments.”

The amendment’s namesake, James G. Blaine, was a former Speaker of the House in Congress who strongly opposed Catholicism in the United States. He ran for president in 1884 using his “anti-Catholic” messaging but was defeated in a tight election by Grover Cleveland.

The South Carolina version reads: “No money shall be paid from public funds nor shall the credit of the State or any of its political subdivisions be used for the direct

HISTORIC FT. MITCHEL TOUR

benefit of any religious or other private educational institution.”

We voted 83-27 to approve the resolution to repeal this amendment. The measure now heads to the Senate, where it needs a two-thirds majority. Then, it would finally be decided upon by voters in the November 2024 general election.

I firmly believe this new bill will allow parents to make the better choices for their children’s education. Attorneys in the General Assembly also believe it will help protect many state-funded programs such as S.C. Tuition Grant Programs, LIFE Scholarships, Palmetto Fellows, Full Day 4-K programs and Early Reading programs which could be vulnerable to legal challenge under the Blaine Amendment.

Jeff Bradley is the representative for District 123 in the State House of Representatives.

The Heritage Library provides...

ANCESTRY RESEARCH

Build your family tree with us.

• Experienced volunteer genealogists to assist in your research

• On-line library edition databases, census data, microfilm, vertical files, state, international, genealogy and family history book collections

The Library is an affiliate library of the Family History Library in Salt Lake City and named one of the 10 best places to research your family roots by USA Today.

HILTON HEAD ISLAND HISTORICAL ARCHIVES

THURSDAYS AT 10:30AM

Fort Mitchel contains the remains of a coastal defense battery erected in 1862 to protect the Port Royal Sound by way of Skull Creek from incursions by Confederate gunboats.

65 Skull Creek Dr., Hilton Head Plantation

$10/ADULT • $8/CHILD

Registration required. HeritageLib.org/Tours

The Heritage Library is the history repository for Hilton Head Island.

• Local, regional and state history collections

• African-American and Native American collections

• Vertical Files

• Local Authors

We document, preserve and present our local history.

Costumes supported by Bargain Box

Help save our democracy: Learn the art of civil discourse

By Crosscurrents Group CONTRIBUTOR

Scholars of democracy, political observers, and everyday Americans of all stripes have come to fear for our democracy.

Former President Jimmy Carter, whose Carter Center is a strong defender of democracy around the world, made the profoundly disturbing assessment about polarization that exists in the United States: “Our great nation now teeters on the brink of a widening abyss. Without immediate action, we are at genuine risk of civil conflict and losing our precious democracy. Americans must set aside differences and work together before it is too late.”

One important remedy for this crisis is to renew our ability to talk and listen to one another. As Benjamin Ginsberg, a Republican commentator, clarified at a New York Times panel discussion, “It seems to me that if there is an avenue that’s going to work, it has to be that we

all swallow hard and again start talking to people with whom we really don’t agree, and maybe think we don’t respect, to see if there is common ground. We need, as a country and as individuals in communities, to take the difficult step of figuring out how to start having those conversations.”

Unfortunately, most Americans are not comfortable participating in conversations about public problems and can feel powerless to play a meaningful role in rehabilitating our democracy. We need a more active and participatory approach. Crosscurrents, our dialogue group composed of liberal and conservative voices, has been in continuous dialogue about public problems since 2019 and recently discussed the numerous threats to our democracy. We reached bipartisan agreement that respect for facts and a shared knowledge of reality are fundamental to our democracy, and we called on Americans to seek and build on factual common ground to address and solve

pressing public problems (Bluffton Sun, Nov. 14, 2022; Aiken Standard, Nov. 5, 2022).

Our Crosscurrents group has reached agreements in bipartisan fashion on a variety of other potentially divisive topics such as health care, gun control, electoral reform, police reform, immigration and shared American values. This article briefly describes the Crosscurrents dialogue model. We call on our fellow citizens to join the initiative by extending the model to more Americans.

Crosscurrents conversations are structured with a small size of 12 to 15 persons and take place twice monthly in person or virtually. Participants must:

• be curious – interested in learning from others

• be willing to consider the possibility that their own opinion is wrong

• agree to disagree respectfully

• be tolerant of hearing ideas they dislike

• have the patience to backtrack if the

group hits a dead end

• select one member as discussion moderator

Set up in this fashion, the process unfolds in two stages. The first is a divergent phase characterized primarily by exploration and similar to brainstorming but also incorporating fact checking. Four steps in this phase are:

1. Propose and agree on a topic/problem for discussion

2. Collect relevant facts from reliable sources

3. Discuss and agree on a limited and common set facts

4. Consider the possible causes of the problem

In this first phase, the discussion can backtrack through the steps, possibly even selecting a new topic. Here, members employ critical thinking and sound decision-making approaches to prepare for the second phase, which is the convergent

Please see EDITORIAL on page 12A

HILTON

HEAD

BRIDGE CLUB SPRING CLASSES

JOIN US AND LEARN

PREEMPTS STAYMAN JACOBY TRANSFERS

Please join us on Friday mornings in April and May while we learn about preemptive bids, the Stayman convention and the Jacoby Transfer convention. Lessons will be held at the Hilton Head Island bridge center on Friday mornings from 10 – 12. You can attend the lessons as they fit your schedule.

April 21 Preempts

April 28

Weak Two Bids

May 5 Stayman Basics

May 12 More on Using Stayman Responses

May 19 Jacoby Transfer Basics

May 26 More on Using Jacoby Transfers

Each lesson is $15.00. The lessons will be taught by Kristi Menees, kristimenees@mac.com or 551-795-6329.

ADVANCEDBEGINNERBIDDING&PLAYANALYSIS

6ConsecutiveWednesdaysBeginningApril19thfrom10amtoNoon Cost:$15PerSession

For those who recently completed the Winter ‘23 lessons, and for those needing a review of the following bridge disciplines, this course will be dedicated to the play of hands which feature Preempts, Weak 2’s, Takeout Doubles, Stayman & Jacoby Transfers. Each week participants will play at least 4 hands which will be analyzed by your instructors from a bidding, play & defensive point of view. This course looks to further educate the beginning bridge player on how to recognize when to employ these bidding techniques and how to use them effectively.

Instructors: Joe & Bev Meyers. Register at jmeyers247@aol.com or call 917-836-3459

SUPERVISED PLAY THURSDAY MORNINGS AT THE BRIDGE CENTER, 10 – 12

Each session begins with a ten minute mini-lesson, and then each table plays hands at their own pace. You are able to ask questions at any time about bidding, defending, playing the hand. It is a perfect way to practice in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. Come alone, come with a partner, or come along with a full table. Cost is $10. Any questions: kristimenees@mac.com 551-795-6329

HILTON

EDITORIAL from page 10A phase characterized

Sometimes the group experiences a collective “aha moment” during the convergent phase that requires them to return to the first phase. Six steps in this phase are:

1. Think of feasible solutions

2. Consider pros and cons of key solutions

3. Find common ground needed for agreement

4. Propose a potentially agreeable solution

5. Discuss and agree on a solution

6. Write up the agreement and submit it for publication

The agreement might not cover all aspects of the topic, but on a divisive topic, even limited agreement is a success.

The successful Crosscurrents statements listed above provide proof of concept that Americans of different persuasions can agree on facts and work together productively. The remedy that concerned experts are calling for is within our capacity and can be successfully implemented in our communities if we

muster the will to do so.

Our original national motto is “e pluribus unum” (“out of many, one”), an aspiration echoed in the Preamble of the Constitution’s phrase, “to form a more perfect Union.” We know from the Founders that “united we stand, divided we fall.” All have a stake in rediscovering and refocusing on common ground and shared interests.

Common ground exists only if we are willing to look for it. It can serve as a springboard to finding a compromise on our most divisive public problems and, perhaps, help save our democracy.

For more information about how to join the Crosscurrents initiative and help expand productive civil conversation in your area, contact rogbernier@gmail.com.

Current members of the Crosscurrents group are Starr Barnum, Roger Bernier, Greg Blackburn, Haim Bober, Bruce Bunevich, George Clare, Gerry Cyr, Rob Darling, Raymond Dominick, Ray Haley, Mark Koenig, Laura McFadden, Michael Sacks, Linda Sheets, and Suzanne Yuskiw.

Endora is a peach! This beautiful girl loves to talk and play with new people who visit her room. She enjoys her time looking out the window or lounging with one of her roommates. She is 2 years old, spayed, up to date on vaccines, and microchipped. To make an appointment to meet Endora, or for more information, call the Palmetto Animal League Adoption Center at 843-645-1725 or email info@ palmettoanimalleague.org.

The Century 21 A Low Country Realty HOME

The Century 21 A Low Country Realty HOME

Century 21 Office Location

Century 21 Office Location

Our Century 21 office has been serving the Hilton Head Area for 34 years. Our location at the Hilton Head Beach & Tennis Resort has 1000’s of visitors each week, many of whom see our listings and ask us about buying on Hilton Head Island.

Our Century 21 office has been serving the Hilton Head Area for 35 years. Our location at the Hilton Head Beach & Tennis Resort has 1000’s of visitors each week, many of whom see our listings and ask us about buying on Hilton Head Island.

HHBT OCEAN VILLAS

MLS 433157 $385,000

OH THE VIEWS! Just a few back from ocean front, this beautifully appointed & pristine villa has all of the bells & whistles & an incredible view. Luxury vinyl plank throughout the villa, beautiful cabinets & pantry, fabulous island w/granite counters with a lot of added storage & cool pot rack above. Tile/glass backsplash, pretty furnishings & the bed, bunks & sofa have gel foam mattresses for extra comfort! Ceilings are smooth with canned lights. 2022 HVAC. Bath has added cabinet & shelves, newer vanity and lights too. Tub with tile surround. Bedroom has a great nook for dresser. This is turn key for rentals or make a perfect vacation villa.

Century 21 Real Estate

Century 21 Real Estate Referral Network

40 FOLLY FIELD RD #B323 HHBT OCEAN VILLAS MLS 433361 $389,000

WOW! TOP FLOOR HUGE OCEAN VIEWS. When you first open the door you will see this is like no other! Opened BR w/cool new closet design, shiplap accent wall, sliding barn door, beautiful new furnishings, smooth ceilings & upgraded lighting pretty LVP floors & it just gets better from here! Bath has hand painted mural wall, walk in shower, newer vanity & extra storage, kitchen has an expanded open design with great storage, pull out shelves, pantry, granite counters, glass backsplash, pendant lights, a smaller mural, beautiful decor & crown moldings throughout. Portable, expandable table for dining. Great desk area for computer! Balcony w/TV.

54

#54 MLS 432817 $379,000

MLS 433020 $379,000

One of the finest remodeled ocean villas on the market. It’s light and bright with an open floor plan, incredible kitchen & bath & oh what a view! Smooth ceilings, pretty luxury vinyl floors & upscale coastal decor throughout. Enjoy a very comfortable living space with dbl recliner sofa. Kitchen has been completely redone, beautiful cabinetry, Quartz counters, pretty backsplash & extra storage, outstanding bath with custom tile walk in shower w/river stone flooring, new lighting & vanity. The bedroom is open and spacious & don’t miss the storage drawers built under the bed!. You’ll love the ocean view from the balcony! This is a perfect 10

The one you have been waiting for! .8 mile to the BEACH! Complete reno in late 2021, this stunning villa has the BEST floorplan in Sailmaster. Incredible detail w/rich, coastal decor. Wide open kitchen w/ceilings lifted & smooth, large center island w/storage, new cabinetry, gorgeous LVP flooring throughout, exceptional fixtures, beautiful trim work, quartz counters, marble b/splash, the list goes on & on. Fireplace w/ pretty tabby finish Bedrooms are generous in size & both are ensuite. Baths are luxurious w/custom marble tile, beautiful lights & vanities. Extra office/sleep space too. Beautiful Courtyard entry & golf/landscape views WOW!

CALL DEE TO SELL YOUR HOME OR VILLA TODAY!

40 FOLLY FIELD RD #B235

40 FOLLY FIELD RD #A218 HHBT OCEAN VILLAS

SAILMASTER COMMON

RBC Heritage spectator policies

The safety and well-being of everyone are of the utmost importance at the RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing, and spectators are reminded to adhere to the standard tournament policies.

All individuals will be subject to security screening, including metal detector screening and inspection of bags. Tickets must be worn at all times on the grounds.

Mobile devices: All devices must be on silent at all times; flash may not be used. Devices may be used to capture video, audio and photos throughout the tournament – for personal use only. No live-streaming or real-time coverage is allowed. Selfie sticks are not allowed.

Autographs: Per PGA Tour rules, autographs may be obtained only in designated Autograph Zones. On-

course autographs are not permitted. Bags: No bags larger than a small purse (6”x6”) are allowed, including carrying cases, backpacks, camera bags or chair bags. Clear plastic or vinyl bags cannot be larger than 12” x 16” x 12”.

General: No glass cups or bottles of any kind are allowed, except for medical or infant needs. No over-sized chairs with extended foot rests; no seat cushions in cases with pockets. No pets, except for service animals. No knives, firearms or weapons of any nature. No video cameras, no point and shoot, film or DSLR cameras are allowed during competition rounds. Patrons may not bring in beverages or coolers. Food and beverage stations are located throughout the grounds. For a complete list of rules, visit rbcheritage.com.

50,000,000. That would be the $50 million that the Heritage Classic Foundation has distributed over the long history of the tournament, filling the coffers of charity organizations and nonprofits that help lift up our neighbors in Beaufort County.

Ready to get your tickets and add yourself to the number of spectators lining the fairways at Harbour Town Golf Links? The

bad news is, the tournament has already sold out. The good news is, Hilton Head Island offers countless ways to secure a ticket from a friend or in the resale market. Crunch the numbers, make it happen, and we’ll see you out on the links.

Lowcountry resident Barry Kaufman is a freelance writer.

Spectators have as much fun at the RBD Heritage as any of the golfers. The tournament is arguably the largest social event on Hilton Head Island.

SMART CANCER CARE STARTS IN YOUR COMMUNITY.

We’re proud to provide compassionate, innovative infusion therapy at our newest location in Bluffton. Built with patient comfort in mind, this state-of-the art building enhances the patient experience. A water wall provides a soothing tranquil environment, a meditation chapel is available for prayer and reflection, and the furniture keeps you plugged in to your favorite devices to help pass the time – all complimented by the expert care of board certified medical oncologists, nurses and pharmacy staff.

Expect the very best from the Nancy N. and J.C. Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion at its newest location in Bluffton, serving Hilton Head, Bluffton, Okatie, Hardeeville and Beaufort.

Nonprofit is a source of ‘light’ for those with mental

By Gwyneth J. Saunders CONTRIBUTOR

“You are so desperate for somebody who has the light, all you want is to find the person with the light. Because what you’re in, there’s no roadmap, there are no guide books, there are precious few people who really want to help. Or at least that was our experience back home,” said Sun City resident Terri Reutter.

Reutter, whose daughter Holly spent her last 20 years in and out of psychiatric hospitals and rehabilitation programs before committing suicide in 2020, was sharing what she and husband Wes found out about Mental Health America of Beaufort-Jasper.

“Had I known that this existed when we moved here in 2014, we would have brought our daughter down here,” Reutter said, “but we were told by two fairly reliable sources that there wasn’t really any mental health support down here, particularly not for women.”

The 501(c)(3) organization was founded

in 1976 on Hilton Head Island, and provides “diagnostic, preventative and rehabilitative procedures recommended by a physician or other licensed practitioner of the healing arts,” according to its website.

While attending an author’s lunch at Bel-

fair, Reutter sat next to the organization’s cochairs, Joyce A. Braude and Susan Williams.

“They began to tell me a little bit about Mental Health America, and about Island House. Because we had a daughter who had mental health issues, a bell went off in

my head and I wanted to know more,” said Reutter.

After Braude gave her a business card and an invitation to visit the Bluffton location where Mental Health America was now located, Reutter made an appointment, and toured the entire facility at 4454 Bluffton Park Crescent.

“Holly would have been an ideal person to live at the Canal Apartments because she could have lived independently, and she could have held down a job as she did over the years,” Reutter said. “It just breaks my heart that we didn’t know. But you can’t play the ‘what if.’”

The apartments are one of four locations that serve clients: La Isla House, which shares with Island House; Canal Apartments in Beaufort; and Jasper House in Ridgeland. Each house can serve eight people per counselor, and at the moment only Island House is full. In anticipation of clients for La Isla House, Steve Caywood, executive

Please see HOUSE on page 18A

presented by Dave & Patty Ekedahl

Sun City resident Terri Reutter holds a photo of her daughter, Holly, who suffered from borderline personality disorder.

GWYNETH J. SAUNDERS

HOUSE from page 16A

director of Mental Health America of Beaufort-Jasper, hired Maria Renee Rodriguez Josey, a bilingual counselor from Guatemala. She has been connecting with Spanish ministries in area churches.

The organization is “probably one of the oldest, least-known charities in the whole region,” Caywood said. The nonprofit treats clients ages 18 and older who have been diagnosed with a mental illness, mostly bipolar or schizophrenia, in an outpatient mental health group counseling model. They might also treat those who have suffered serious head injuries.

Reutter said Holly was a dual diagnosis person, with the most significant issue being a borderline personality disorder that professionals told the family was very difficult to treat.

“We came down here in 2014, and Holly was still in Delaware. Her sister, our only other child, lives in New York City, so (Holly) was on her own. When we came down here, it was okay, and then it was really not okay. And then it was okay,” Reutter said. “She would go through these cycles, and she

couldn’t really support herself.”

In 2020, Holly had just come off a very long psychiatric hospital stay, said her mother, and then a person who was very significant to her died in March 2020.

“His death just threw her into an even deeper depression than she normally dealt with, and she went back into a psychiatric hospital for a month. When she came out, I don’t think she was out for more than 48 hours, and she took her own life,” Reutter said. “I just think it was all too much.”

Caywood, who has headed the local Mental Health America organization for 18 months, after leaving the top spot at Hilton Head Hospital, said he figures more than 200 clients have passed through the organization in the past 47 years.

Very few of those who come for treatment are able to leave and become fully independent, he said.

One who did is Wendye Savage, now a local author and motivational speaker.

Caywood said she and her husband married young, they were in the military and when they transitioned out, they had four chil-

dren. It was then that the husband became extremely abusive, Caywood said.

“All kinds of things happened, and she basically spiraled down to the point that they ended up admitting her to a psychiatric unit. He divorced her and she lost her kids. Eventually she got into the Island House program,” he said. “She was in five or six years and got herself back together. She now is kind of a motivational speaker, and has a book out called ‘What’s in Your Purse,’ and she has a pretty decent, active life.”

Caywood said Savage paid Island House a visit the day of this interview.

“When she walked in, the people in our program knew her right away, and one woman started crying. But she’s just a wonderful, wonderful lady, and she’s wildly accepted,” he said.

Savage, however, is the rare exception.

“The answer is there’s no one in our program currently that’s ever going to go out and live independently,” Caywood said.

Everything is aimed at giving them daily living skills, including being responsible for making their own meals as a group, and

talking openly in group counseling about their particular mental illnesses.

“This is trying to get them comfortable so they can understand what it is and deal with it, and try to remove the stigma of having that mental illness,” said Caywood.

Clients are referred to MHA through their doctors or other resources such as Coastal Empire Mental Health on the island or the National Alliance on Mental Illness. The nonprofit is funded by client fees, donations and grants. Caywood said $300,000 will be paid from client fees and other sources, but he still needs $200,000 to cover the cost of the operation.

There are three other Mental Health America affiliates in South Carolina: Greenville, Spartanburg, and the main office in Columbia. They are among more than 200 others that fall under the corporate offices in Washington, D.C.

For more information about Mental Health America Beaufort-Jasper, go to mhabeaufortjasper.org or call 843-757-3900.

Gwyneth J. Saunders is a veteran journalist and freelance writer living in Bluffton.

New Poetry Trail designed to engage public in literary art

By Edwina Hoyle CONTRIBUTOR

To mark April as National Poetry Month, Lowcountry residents and tourists will be introduced to a new Poetry Trail on Hilton Head Island.

It is a collaboration between the Town of Hilton Head Island’s Office of Cultural Affairs and the Island Writers Network (IWN). The Poetry Trail is a way to celebrate poetry and engage people in literary activity.

Elizabeth Robin of Hilton Head, a published poet, spearheaded the initiative through the Island Writers Network. She was inspired by O Miami in Florida, where the organization brings poetry into public spaces to broadcast poetry, engage people in a literary community, and create intimate experiences that encourage cultural exchange.

For example, Robin said, they hid poems inside conch shells and put them

all over town, they stuck poetry on gas pumps and painted poems on rooftops. They hung poetry on buses, and even used rain paint to showcase poetry on sidewalks.

“The question, ‘how can we do something here?’ kept percolating in my head,” Robin said.

So, she met with Natalie Harvey, director of the Office of Cultural Affairs.

“Our office can pull artists and projects together for public art,” Harvey said.

“This is exciting. We have a great arts and culture environment and the Island Writers Network took the ball and ran with it.”

The Poetry Trail is a marriage of technology, creative writing, public art and businesses, and will showcase a new way to experience this corner of paradise: through the eyes of local poets.

Bill Schmidt, a volunteer with the Arts Council of Hilton Head, is the technology guru and idea man on the project. He

came up with the idea of using interactive technology in the form of QR codes, and developed the logo, the sign design, and the Facebook page.

Fifteen sculptures and nearly 10 businesses await their signs to kick off National Poetry Month. Sites include seven signs in and around Shelter Cove and the Veterans Memorial area, Red Fish, Tio’s, the Beach House, Sea Turtle Marketplace, Rollers Wine & Spirits, and more.

Along the trail are easy-to-find signs containing two QR codes. One code takes you to a poem written by a local poet and a short bio. The other code takes you to the Facebook page, where users can find the entire route, plan a full tour, comment on the poem, the art, or the business visited along the way. Every time a sign is scanned, the Harvey’s office will track the traffic and key data that helps direct new projects.

“It’s a clever way to bring poems to the public and make it alive,” Robin said. “Poetry speaks to us in an immediate way. The signs will showcase art in real

Please see POETRY on page 22A

W.O.W. A Social Group for Widows or Widowers

This organization was founded in 2002 to help those who have lost a spouse move on with their lives, by forging new friendships with others while enjoying the group’s social, athletic, and cultural activities. Meetings are held bi-monthly at the Hilton Head Library on Beach City Road, at which time activities are planned for the following two months.

The communities of Hilton Head Island and Bluffton include many people who have moved here from other places leaving behind life-long friends and relatives, making it even more difficult to remain active after losing a spouse. W.O.W. aims to provide the support and fellowship needed to “pick up the pieces” and get on with a fulfilling life.

For more information please contact Steve Strandmark at 812-599-2025 or sstrandmark7@gmail.com or Anne Richter at 843-802-0228 or abr711@aol.com

We look forward to hearing from you and welcoming you to one of our upcoming events!

Pedal Hilton Head set for May 7

The Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head Island will host its 16th annual cycling fundraiser, Pedal Hilton Head, May 7, starting as early as 7:30 a.m.

The event is the club’s second largest annual fundraiser and is expected to draw 700 cyclists. All proceeds go directly to support the Club’s mission to serve local youth.

There are six staged route options for cyclists to choose from. All routes start and finish at Lowcountry Celebration Park. Those ride options range from a 2-mile family-friendly option to a 62-mile Metric Century ride for avid cyclists – with several options in between.

Pedal will also host a pre-party event at The Boys & Girls Club of Hilton Head on May 6, with live music, beer and wine, and food options. This themed event will draw riders to the club to bring a sense of community and

purpose to the Sunday ride.

Riders who have registered since April 2 will also be able to pick up their T-shirts and ride package (those who registered before will receive theirs in the mail).

After the event Sunday, participants and families will enjoy a light meal that is included in the cost of their event registration.

All registered participants (except for the family registration) will receive a complimentary Pedal Hilton Head 2023 T-Shirt, backpack and other goodies provided by sponsors.

Registration fees start as low as $50 for a family fun ride with up to five family members, or ride for a specific club member for $300. Sign up at pedalhhi.org.

Follow the Facebook page and Instagram at @pedalhiltonhead for real-time updates on the event.

POETRY from page 20A

time. The poems will change regularly. And they are not one-hit wonders. There is lots of talent. Poetry is open to very individual interpretation, and it will be appropriate for all ages and all people.”

“The Poetry Trail adds a new layer to enjoyment of our sculptures,” Harvey said. “I’m excited because visitors and residents will experience it as they traverse around the island’s cultural sites. The signs can be updated very easily, poems can be added or changed, and that’s better than a static sign.”

Harvey said that information will be posted on culturehhi.org, and in the cultural affairs newsletter.

Harvey oversees the sculptures approved for the project and the affixing of signs near the public art installations. Robin recruited the poets and businesses that are participating, and the Island Writers Network has committed to paying monthly costs of the QR codes.

The public is invited to attend a Poetry Trail launch reading with live readings

by the poets from 4 to 6 p.m. April 19 won the deck at Rollers Wine & Spirits, 9 Palmetto Bay.

National Poetry Month, the largest literary celebration in the world, was created to encourage the artistry and legacy of poets and to encourage the reading and teaching of poetry.

It was launched by the Academy of American Poets in 1996, and in a formal declaration, President Bill Clinton said: “National Poetry Month offers us a welcome opportunity to celebrate not only the unsurpassed body of literature produced by our poets in the past, but also the vitality and diversity of voices reflected in the works of today’s American poetry….Their creativity and wealth of language enrich our culture and inspire a new generation of Americans to learn the power of reading and writing at its best.”

Hoyle is a freelance writer in Bluffton.

SHOE REPAIR

Edwina

Longtime island businessman David Martin wins impact award

David Martin, owner of Hilton Head’s Piggly Wiggly grocery store, was announced as the inaugural Joan and Wade Webster Community Impact Award winner at Community Foundation of the Lowcountry’s Annual Community Meeting, held March 29 at the Arts

Center of Coastal Carolina with more than 300 people in attendance.

Community Foundation Board of Directors chair Jackie Rosswurm, along with Joan and Wade Webster, longtime supporters of the Community Foundation, presented the award to Martin.

Martin’s heartfelt acceptance speech referenced the charitable work of his late father, Gene.

Martin, who has resided on Hilton Head Island since 1969, has been a giving member of the community for decades. His nomination for the award focused on his important work with Lowcountry Alliance for Healthy Youth (LCAHY). The mission of LCAHY is “to bring together all sectors of our community to identify and implement strategies

that promote positive youth development by addressing substance use/abuse and related risk behaviors.”

Two LCAHY initiatives that Martin led were cited in the presentation: Banning the

sale of tobacco products in Piggly Wiggly and the establishment of the “We I.D. the LCAHY Way” training program that educates local businesses about underage drinking laws and their consequences.

Martin received a crystal memento along with a $10,000 grant to distribute to a nonprofit organization based in the Community Foundation’s four-county service area of Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper Counties. Martin chose the following local organizations to receive funds from the grant: Child Abuse Prevention Association of Beaufort (CAPA); Deep Well Project; Hilton Head Island High School Booster Club; LCAHY; Sandalwood Food Pantry; Volunteers in Medicine (VIM); and You Are Not Alone (YANA) Club.

The award was the culmination of a memorable evening, which included moving and inspiring speeches by Nazli Flores, a Krum Scholar and first-generation college graduate; Lesley Gilbert, Women in Philanthropy chair; and keynote speaker Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International.

To learn more about Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, visit cf-lowcountry. org or call 843-681-9100.

David Martin displays the award he received during the March 29 annual meeting of the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry. Also pictured are Joan and Wade Webster and Jackie Rosswurm.

COURTESY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF THE LOWCOUNTRY

CONSIDERING A KNEE OR JOINT REPLACEMENT?

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 one of the only facilities in the United States, offering a non-surgical alternative to joint replacement that is Beyond Stem Cells™. This future of healthcare, cutting edge technology helps patients get back to living the life they love.

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.

RESULTS ORIENTED

TUES APRIL 11TH NOON

MON APRIL 17TH 6PM

TUES APRIL 25TH NOON

MON MAY 1ST 6PM

*All lecture series include complimentary lunch or dinner

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. HEAR FROM OUR

ArtWare owner Jennifer Megliore wins state business honor

Jennifer Megliore, the owner of ArtWare on Hilton Head Island, was named South Carolina’s Small Business Person of the year for 2023.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced March 14 this year’s Small Business Person of the Year winners – more than 50 outstanding small business owners and entrepreneurs from across the United States – ahead of National Small Business Week.

ArtWare was founded in 2000 when Megliore left the corporate event industry to start her own small business, which offers unique and South Carolina Lowcountry-inspired gifts.

AertWare is also the first store in the country to be named a Queen Bee Store in partnership with the Savannah Bee Company. The store is located in Shelter Cove Towne Centre.

“I’m so humbled and thrilled to be named the South Carolina’s Small Business Person of the Year,” Megliore said. “Being a small

business owner runs in my family, and I’m proud to carry the tradition. I am blessed to be a cheerleader for the 33 million Americans like me who own, or work for, a small business.”

“We are so proud the South Carolina Small Business Person of the Year is our very own Jennifer Megliore,” said Bill Miles, president and CEO of the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce. “ArtWare has been an active member of our chamber for 20 years, and a valuable asset to our community.”

Each year, the SBA celebrates National Small Business Week by recognizing the achievements of outstanding small business owners and entrepreneurs across the United States.

All winners will be recognized during the National Small Business Week awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., on April 30 and May 1.

To learn more about National Small Business Week, visit sba.gov/nsbw.

Jennifer Megliore, owner of ArtWare on Hilton Head Island, was named Small Business Person of the Year for the state of South Carolina.

The Seahawk Times

A Hilton Head Island High School Student Newspaper

Re-Imagining HHIHS: The Design Process Begins And Meeting The Architects By: Emily

Recently, teachers and staff all came together to talk about the new school building and what they would like to see implemented. The meeting was called “Re-imagining HHIHS” and was orchestrated by Don Baus- who represents Little Diversified Architectural Firm. The firm has six locations, including one in Charleston, and 50+ years in designing schools (40+ high schools, 30+ middle schools, and 60+ elementary schools). It can be said that the construction of the new HHIHS is in good hands.

The primary focus of the meeting was to get staff input on: safety and security implementations throughout the process, the end product, education, student success, and inspiration/engagement. During the meeting, all staff participated in writing down ideas on sticky notes and categorizing them based on: needs, wants, and concerns. Another activity staff collaborated on was placing green or red stickers on images and/or concept boards to determine what staff liked or did not like. This was to help develop ideas for the new building under the categories: engage, collaborate, gather, regenerative, dining, career tech, exterior, athletics, create, learn, discover, and outdoor connection. Staff also d id a variety of online survey activities. The atmosphere among the staff was upbeat and exciting. The design process is starting and all the thoughts put forward by the staff will give architects ideas on how to improve the potential design of the building. There is a plan to gather all the staff to meet again in March for an update.

Three teachers at HHIHS gave their thoughts about the possible new school building. All of them were excited for the new school building. They talked about new collaborative spaces for both students and teachers and new rooms with better technology. Journalism teacher, Ms. Spisz, mentioned that she hopes for areas around the school that would allow for different styles of teaching. All teachers said that the new school building would motivate them to stay long er at HHIHS. Even though a new school is exciting and very necessary, HHIHS holds the history of 40 years worth of high school students. On almost every wall here, there is a mural representing a senior class or an art student's vision. Most of the art is painted on the brick so most, if not all, will not be able to be saved physically, but art painted on boards attached to the wall may be salvag ed and moved to the new building.

Of course with a 40 year old building, there are things that will not be missed once the building is torn down. Things brought up by the teachers were leaky ceilings, bad plumbing and outdated bathrooms, dim lighting, and poor air conditioning. On a more positive note teachers hope for flexible teaching locations such as an outdoor space, and they hope to have lar ge windows that would allow for soft natural light to help brighten up their classrooms.

Bocialetti

On Wednesday, February 22, students participated in a survey asking for their input on designs for potential facilities in the new building. Most of the designs offered a modern high school look with collaborative spaces, communal areas, flexible classrooms, flexible lunch room seating, and multi-use outdoor ar eas. All of it looks beautiful and open with lots of natural light. Two current HHIHS students were asked to talk about the necessity of a new school building and their thoughts on the importance of student opinion.

Juniors Maggie Simms and Angie Hernandez both agree that a new school building is necessary and that HHIHS is lacking compared to the other schools around us. “We are a decently old sch ool and things don’t last forever,” Maggie stated. Both juniors hope to see new bathrooms and more diverse class options implemented into the new school building. Even though construction of the new school building will not begin until 2024 (if the referendum passes), and will not be finished until four-five years in the future, this means all students that attend HHIHS now will not be able to att end a new school building. So are their opinions even necessary? Both Maggie and Angie believe that they absolutely do! Angie stated that if they had surveyed people who had the potential to attend HHIHS when the new school was built, they may give a completely different viewpoints from students who actually attend HHIHS and what they need. Maggie shared a similar sentiment that the survey made stu dents feel included, and allowed them to voice what HHIHS actually needs.

There is a lot of excitement about the potential for a new school building. Both juniors expressed that they are disappointed they will never get the opportunity to attend a more adaptable school since a referendum has yet to pass. However, they both agree that it is beneficial for the future generation of HHIHS students and will provide them with what they need to succeed. They are very excited to see a new school even though they will not attend it and even hope to come back to see the final product. Angie exclaimed that, “I know a lot of the students that attend the high school [who] have younger siblings who will get the chance to see the new building!”

The architects from The Little Diverse Architectural Firm meet with staff.

The architects from The Little Diverse Architectural Firm meet with SGA.

A sample question from the student survey.

The architects from The Little Diverse Architectural Firm meet with SGA.

HHIHS Students Enter Drexel University

Every year Drexel University holds a photo contest open for all high school students in the United States. Hilton Head Island High School started participating in this contest in the 2018/2019 school year. Participants from HHIHS have had great success in the contest. Mrs. Schoelkopf-Lewis, the photography and yearbook teacher here at HHIHS, stated, “It’s only been a couple years for us but we have managed to fair pretty well.”

The contest only accepts photos, but any type of photo is allowed to be entered into the contest. Such as black and white photos, colored photos, portraits, and more. Mrs. Schoelkopf-Lewis stated, “It’s a pretty prestigious contest.”

Students are allowed to submit up to three photos and once all the photos have been submitted judges select the finalists, and then they have the photos printed and shipped so they can have a paper copy of the photos from which they select the place winners. However, all finalists have their photographs displayed in a gallery for a month created by Drexel University.

Photo Competition

By: Lizzy M. and

Celia W.

A 112 students and their artwork were selected to be displayed out of over 15,000 entries. Four HHIHS students, Camden Bernstein, Skylar Bruner, Ashlynn Fleming, and Karen McDonnell will have their photos displayed in a gallery in Philadelphia from February 4th to March 1st 2023. HHIHS has also had finalists in previous years as well. In 2021 Camden Bernstein received second place in the competition. All of the previous finalists and exhibited photographs are posted on the website dedicated to the contest (https://drexelphotocontest.com/).

The contest has had representation from every state and territory in the United States over the 22 years that it has been a contest. In the 2022 contest, 34 states submitted artwork and students from 24 states were chosen to have their artwork displayed in the gallery. For the past couple of years HHIHS has been one of the few schools representing South Carolina in the contest. Mrs. Schoelkopf-Lewis stated, “A lot of times we’re like the only ones from South Carolina represented.”

Along with having their photographs displayed in a gallery in Philadelphia, winners of the contest also get cash prizes. Cash prizes are available to students who place first through third. First place receives $500, second place receives $250, third place receives $100. There are several honorable mentions that also get prizes, which receive a $50 B&H Photo Gift Certificate.

HHIHS is proud to be represented in such a prestigious photo contest.

Coming Home Comes to HHIHS

By: Jessica S, Lexi M, Gaby R, and Hannya V.

Coming Home was from January 25 - 27 and students had the opportunity to dress up to celebrate. Wednesday was Adam Sandler Day, Thursday was Squad Up Day, and Friday was Soccer Mom vs. Barbeque Dad Day. Events like these are received well from the student body. To end Coming Home Week there were basketball games where students cheered on the Seahawks who played Colleton. These games were on Friday, January 27. Both the girls and boys basketball teams played.

When asked about his thoughts on this Spirit Week, Patrick Balfour stated, “I am happy to get the chance to dress up in fun ways for a few days this week.” Tristen Simmons responded with “It was a really fun opportunity and I hope we get to do it again soon!” To finish off Coming Home there was a winter formal on Saturday, February 4th. The theme for this dance was a wintery fest, students were able to dress up and come and dance in the HHIHS cafeteria under snowflakes and stars.

Coming Home at HHIHS is an event at the school that is like homecoming, but there was no coming home court this year. Senior Elizabeth Monzon stated "This year students and teachers played games to help raise money for the fundraiser for the scholarship in the name of the school counselor, Miss Tammy Videla, who sadly passed away this past summer.

Coming Home positively impacts the students by having fun with the school spirit. It is noticeable that all the students love to have fun at the pep rallies. Coming Home at HHIHS has been a thing at the school for about fifteen years or more. Miss Lee also stated, "It's a tradition that has been at the school for years and will continue in the future.”

There is a Coming Home documentary video on the school YouTube page, The Seahawk News Network (HHIHS), that shows highlights from the week and the school spirit.

Senior Camden Bernstein's submission (left) and junior Karen McDonnell's submission (right).

Seahawk E-sports Is Nationally Ranked By: Patrick Balfour

The E-Sports team for the Hilton Head Island Seahawks have gone national. They were ranked between 1st and 4th between February 7th to the 18th . The Varsity Smash Bros team played a scrimmage match against Piedmont Community Charter School on Wednesday, February 15th. The players on the varsity team were Mario, Edwin, and Miguel. The game consisted of six rounds, and each round was played between two players, one from each team going against each other.

Edwin played the first round against Joker. Unfortunately, The Seahawks lost the first round. Mario played as Steve in the second round and faced off against Joker. It was a close game, but Mario lost 2-3. Miguel played the third round with Hero against Captain Falcon. Miguel played exceptionally well and won the round for the Seahawks. Miquel played in round 4 and same as round 3, he played Hero and they played Captain Falcon. Miguel dominated the game and won round 4. Edwin played in round 5 and round 6. He won both games securing a win for the Seahawks. They won 4-2.

Tutoring the Tots By: Deja Godsun

Dance Honor Society By: Carmine G, Nick K, Ashton J

Students can now join the newly formed National Dance Honor Society at HHIHS! Ms. Montgomery founded the dance program at HHIHS and now is taking the program to new heights!

What is the National Dance Honor Society? Ms. Montgomery said “The NSDA is a society that is located throughout the entire US, which is dedicated to showcasing the highest performing dance students.” This honor society is new, “Because our dance program is so new, I wanted to find a new way to spread the word about it.”

There are many benefits of being a member of National Dance Honor Society, such as “ Since it is such a small and elite group, it looks very good on college resumes.” Not everyone can join the society, they have to meet the minimum requirements of “In order to join, you have to meet a requirement of a 3.0 GPA along with a certain amount of hours in dance classes to join.”

Finally, what are the future plans for the program? Ms. Montgomery replied “I'm hoping the society will be able to take part in events around the school such as a dedicated art month.”

Students from third to fifth grade at IB and Creative Arts will be given the opportunity to be tutored by Hilton Head High School students. The tutoring will take place in the mornings at 7:30, instead of after school due to the elementary school students dismissing school at an earlier time than the HHIHS tutors. It will happen three to four days a week depending on the number of volunteers available each week. Junior and IBDP candidate, Anthony Bynum was the student who came up with the idea to tutor the elementary students.

Following the pandemic, younger students began to struggle in academics. Junior Anthony Bynum said, “Younger students definitely struggle with math because of the pandemic. However, the tutors will help with any subject the students need.”

As of now, Mr. Schidrich along with the principal at IB elementary and the principal at Creative Arts are working together to make this tutoring session and location happen and make it a success.

Bynum stated, “The more the merrier,” following, “the volunteers will tutor anyone who needs extra help since the teacher can’t be everywhere at once.” Tutoring will be another way to help support younger students and assist hard working teachers.

Tutoring began the second week of March.

Photo by: Andrea Garcia

Dance students practicing their routine during class.

Varsity Smash Bros. team practicing after school.

Artwork to Nigeria and Ukraine

The Idea to send artwork to Ukraine came from the Memory Project. Art teacher, Ms. Dobbelaere, said, “We have been participating in the Memory Project for 22 years. The Memory Project was founded by Ben Schumacher in 2004. It is a global arts initiative where art students across our nation create unique works of art for children and young adults in challenging situations.”

For this project, students created many different types of artwork. For this to be accomplished students used different types of colors and paints. Ms. Dobbelaere had this to say “Some students create portraits and learned how to mix skin tones with color pencil or paint, and others created 'emotional support' artwork that is unique to the person.”

This is not the first time HHIHS has sent out artwork. Throughout the years HHIHS has sent artwork to many different countries. Ms. Dobbelaere stated “We (HHIHS and other BCSD schools) participate twice a year, or once per semester.” This is a tradition arts students often do. HHIHS will definitely continue doing these art projects in the future.

HHIHS also sent artwork to Ukraine this year.

By: Gabby R., Hannya

T., and

Emily G

Ms. Dobbelaere said that, "The photos of the children supplied by Ben Schumacher (founder and director of the Memory Project) come with the following information about each child: name, age, favorite color, hobbies/goals, and 3 words that describe themselves. Our students learn about the culture as well and use these things to create a unique artwork tailored to their assigned person.”

Ms. Dobbelaere also said, "As coordinator of the Memory Project for BCSD, I collect all artwork and send it to Ben, who has a team of people who travel to the countries and distribute the artwork. For 22 years, all artwork have made it to the destination!”

Do art students ever get to see the reactions from the students across the globe when their artwork arrives in different countries? Ms. Dobbelaere stated, ”We receive a 'portrait delivery video' from the Memory Project each time we participate, so we can see the reactions of the children.”

A simple drawing or painting, though small can make a big difference to someone who is going through a lot. "I hope that when the art students see these videos, they will never underestimate the power of a small act of kindness,” Ms. Dobbelaere stated.

HHIHS and other area schools will participate in the Memory Project again this spring. Art can bring a small moment of peace and a little bit of happiness all around the world.

Winter NLI Signing: Seahawks to Continue Athletic Careers Beyond High School

By: Lizzy M. and Celia W.

The Seahawks are proud to announce that five seniors have signed up to play sports at the collegiate level during the Winter NIL signing. Emily Ruckno is playing tennis for West Point Military Academy in New York. Audrey Perry is swimming for Rollins College in Florida. Blaise Minckler is swimming for the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in Connecticut. Max Arnot is playing lacrosse for Brevard College in North Carolina. Sam Thibodeau is playing lacrosse for Guilford College in North Carolina. There were several other senior athletes who signed to play in college during the Fall NIL signing last semester.

The signing ceremony was on February 2nd at 6 p.m. in the HHIHS Media Center. The ceremony took place to celebrate the Seahawk athletes continuing their athletic careers past high school. The ceremony has become a bigger deal over the last few years to celebrate student-athletes and their accomplishments. Most athletes planning on playing in college have already signed their letter of intent for the college they plan to attend. Athletic Director, Mr. Monmonier, stated, “A lot of kids already signed earlier or they sign earlier in the day.” With the athlete’s letter of intent already signed the ceremony is more of a celebratory activity and a way that athletes can celebrate the continuation of their career as a student-athlete. Mr. Monmonier stated, “It’s more about a ceremony, about a picture.”

Emily Ruckno, one of the seniors signing to play at the collegiate level stated, “Signing gives me an opportunity to be a part of a bigger and much more competitive tennis program that will allow me to grow and compete as well as challenge myself in different ways.” The seniors that signed are excited for the next step in their athletic career and the NIL signing allowed them to have a fun way to officially announce their collegiate athletic careers.

LET US UPDATE YOUR KITCHEN

High school seniors awarded Heritage Scholarships

Expert Cabinet Painting

Eleven outstanding Beaufort County seniors have been named Heritage Classic Foundation scholars for the 2022-2023 school year. The students come from seven different high schools and one is home schooled.

Seniors in all Beaufort and Jasper County high schools were eligible to apply and applications were reviewed on the basis of academic success, community service, essays written by the student and financial need. Thirteen finalists were interviewed by the Scholar Committee; the two not selected were awarded a one-time $2,500 grant.

During the March 10 awards presentation, held at the Harbour Town Clubhouse, Heritage Classic Foundation Scholar Committee Chairman, Scott Richardson told the audience, “This is always an exciting day for the Heritage Classic Foundation. We believe the resumes of these young adults are better than ever. The teachers and administrators of our school systems, as well as the award winners, deserve special praise.”

Six of the newly named Scholars will receive a $16,000 scholarship over the next four years. Four additional awards carry a $20,000 opportunity.

Two of the latter scholarships honor Scholar Committee chairmen who have passed, John Zimmerman and Mike Malanick. One honors the late Scholar Committee member Charlie Brown, and the Tartan Club Award recognizes the donations made by the Tartan Club.

The Kirby Scholarship, a one-year $4,000 scholar award, was created in memoriam

of past Scholar Committee chairman Ward Kirby and will be granted every year moving forward. Two additional students will receive a one-year $2,500 award.

Next fall, a total of 41 Beaufort County collegians will be attending school and will have received Foundation grants at an expenditure of $200,000.

A grand total of $5 million will have been awarded to 375 students after the 2023 distribution.

In addition to these 11 scholarships, the Foundation is funding four $2,500 annual scholarships to the University of South Carolina Beaufort and two $1,500 annual scholarships to the Technical College of the Lowcountry.

The following graduating seniors were selected:

Ella Gordon, Battery Creek

Benjamin Steen, Beaufort Academy

Megan Alvarez and Susan “Elizabeth” Livesay, Beaufort High School

Kellen Kubec, Heritage Academy

Cynthia Gudaitis, Benjamin Lewis and Laurel Hawkins, Hilton Head Island High School

Emma “Hayes” Wilkinson, Hilton Head Preparatory School

Samantha Reilly, John Paul II Catholic School

Levi Bates, Homeschooled

For more information, call 843-671-2448, visit heritageclassicfoundation.com, or find us on Facebook (Heritage Classic Foundation) and Twitter (@HCFGolf).

The 2022-2023 Heritage Scholars pose with members of the Heritage Classic Foundation, which provides funding for the annual scholarships.

COURTESY HERITAGE CLASSIC FOUNDATION

Chabad to distribute handmade matzah for Passover

Chabad Greater Hilton Head plans to distribute hundreds of packages of handmade Shmurah Matzah and Passover Handbooks this year to assist Lowcountry Jews to participate in the upcoming Passover holiday.

The Matzahs will be distributed, or they can be requested at jewishhiltonhead.org/matzah.

Passover, celebrated this year from Wednesday evening, April 5 until after nightfall on April 13, commemorates the exodus of the Jews from Egypt in 1313 BCE. Directed by God to leave Egypt hastily, the people of Israel could not wait for their dough to rise, and thus ate unleavened crackers called “matzah.”

Round, kneaded and shaped by hand, present day “shmurah” matzahs (literally “watched matzahs”) are similar to those eaten by the Jews when leaving Egypt more than 3000 years ago.

From the moment the wheat is harvested, the ingredients are carefully watched to ensure that they do not become leavened, which would be prohibited on Passover.

In addition, Chabad Greater Hilton Head will host a Community Passover Seder, “Relive the Passover Exodus” with Rabbi Mendel Hertz.

All Jewish residents are invited to participate in community seders to be held on April 5 and April 6.

Few Jewish holidays evoke the same warm sentiments as Passover. Memories of family and friends gathered as the four cups of wine are poured, the four questions asked, and the matzah served, all contribute to Passover’s popularity in the Jewish community.

The Seders take participants through the liberation of our ancestors from Egyptian bondage, while sharing the relevance and beauty of the age-old festival in our modern lives. Included in the Seder will be a delicious Passover dinner, and a

meaningful experience.

“Passover is not simply a celebration of the historic liberation of an ancient people,” said Rabbi Mendel. “Passover is about our own personal liberation – physically, emotionally and spiritually. Passover inspires us to break free from the shackles restraining us from reaching new heights – in our lives, relationships and connection with God.”

Chabad’s Community Seder is part of a global Passover campaign that began in 1954, when the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, considered the most influential rabbi in modern history, launched the Shmurah Matzah initiative as part of an effort to create awareness and promote observance of the holiday. An estimated four million hand-baked Shmurah Matzahs will be distributed by the Chabad-Lubavitch movement this year.

All Jews are welcome to join the community seder, regardless of Jewish affiliation or background. Reservations can be made at jewishhiltonhead.org/seder.

Chabad of Greater Hilton Head offers Jewish education, outreach and social service programming for families and individuals of all ages, backgrounds and affiliations. For more information, contact Chabad Greater Hilton Head at 843-301-1819 or visit jewishhiltonhead.org.

‘Let’s Rock’ concert features local alumni musicians

The Foundation for Educational Excellence will present “Let’s Rock!” a fundraiser concert, from 7 to 10 p.m. April 22 at Hilton Head Island High School’s Seahawk Cultural Center, 70 Wilborn Road, Hilton Head Island.

The event is an evening of classical rock performances by well-known local bands and musicians, and students. The concert is a fundraiser for the Foundation, and also a celebration for the 40th anniversary of Hilton Head Island High School.

The concert will feature local favorite, The Beagles: Steve Richard and Richie Dreier playing music of the Beatles. Other local musicians performing include Chick O’Shea, Annie Thompson and Bob Savarese playing classics from legends like Tom Petty, Simon & Garfunkle, Carole King and more.

Some of the local alumni celebrity performers include Sara Burns, Duncan Aspinwall-Winter and Domino Theory, Adriana Urato, Emma Stanton and The Alumni Band: Dakota Sabados, Dallas Ackerman and Alex Tye.

Plus, there will be a special performance by the HHIHS Arts Department.

All proceeds of the concert will benefit the Foundation for Educational Excellence, serving the students and teachers of the Beaufort County school district since 2007.

“What better way to celebrate the school’s 40th birthday than with a giant party with the entire community?” said Cindy Sturgis, Foundation Board member and event coordinator. “I hope that everyone shows up ready to have a great time for an amazing

cause – supporting the Foundation.” General admission tickets are $20 and can be purchased online. Tickets for students are $5 with ID at the door and teachers will be admitted for $10 with ID at the door. To purchase tickets or for more information, follow @foundationedexcellence on Facebook or visit foundationedexcellence.com.

The Foundation for Educational Excellence is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that raises funds to support the mission and goals of the Beaufort County School District by furthering student instructional activities and projects through Innovative Teacher Grants, Innovative School Resource Grants and Student Enrichment Grants.

Established in 2007, the Foundation awarded its first grants in 2009 and has awarded more than $325,000 in grants to the teachers and students in the public school system since its inception, benefitting thousands of students across the county each year.

The Foundation is supported by individual donations and these local charities: The Bargain Box of Hilton Head, Friends of Callawassie Island, Italian-American Club of Hilton Head, Moss Creek Charitable Fund, the Women’s Association of Hilton Head Island, and Women In Philanthropy of Hilton Head. We are grateful for their ongoing support of our work.

The Foundation is a fund of Community Foundation of the Lowcountry. Donations are tax deductible as allowed by law and can be made at oundationedexcellence.com/ donate.

Separating best from better for springtime outdoor dining

By Tim Wood CONTRIBUTOR

This is one of those topics you’re going to scoff at right now but thank us for in about a month.

No, it’s not just you. The first wave of our yellow snow, otherwise known as pollen, started far too early this year. While it wreaked havoc on ears, noses and throats all across the Lowcountry, it seems to be a non-issue now.

The good news is that your car will no longer have a coat of this sneeze-inducing hellraiser. Your eyes will not be too watery to actually see the blue skies and your nose will be unblocked enough to take a deep inhale of all the majesty that makes our corner of the world an unparalleled gem.

It feels like a bit of a fool’s errand to tackle a list of best outdoor dining spots. When I first broached the topic with

friends, they gave me side eye and said, “Uh, a-doy, everywhere.” And yes, that is true, but some postcard views are better than others.

My food and beverage friends gave me a more pointed, angry scoff when I raised the topic.

“You think you have issues keeping your windshield clean, try keeping an exposed bar and 42 table tops clear of this stuff for just 15 minutes,” one FNB rock star said. “Just when you feel you’ve got a handle on that, the no-see-ums start attacking ankles and shins relentlessly.”

So when we consider outdoor dining, it is far more about the outdoor part of the equation than the dining. If an eatery is in a prime location to capitalize on sunsets and primetime people watching, nine times out of 10 they have proven that their food is stellar enough to pay the rent

Please see HOT SPOTS on page 36A

ROB DILLS Founder and Managing Attorney

BS, University of South Carolina, JD, University of Dayton, School of Law,

2020 Hilton Head Island Bluffton Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program Graduate

Recipient of the Silver Medal Award for Estate Planning

PRACTICE AREAS

Estate Planning

Wills, Trusts, Powers of Attorney, and everything needed to protect your family and your assets while providing peace of mind.

Real Estate

Closing services for residential and commercial propertiesBuying, Selling, Refinancing, 1031 exchange.

Business Services

Business Formation, Compliance, Contract Review, Mergers, Acquisitions. Buyouts & Sales

Speak to an Attorney in Person, By Phone or Video Call

The sunset view over the water never gets old for visiting or resident patrons of Skull Creek Boathouse. COURTESY SERG

HOT SPOTS from page 35A

consistently.

So for this Hot Spots, we’re going with volume to give you options and to try to decipher what differentiates one view from the next in paradise – a guide for both newcomers and longtimers who might have taken some of the gems for granted for too long.

THE ELITE FOR ASSAULTS ON THE SENSES

The Tiki Hut, South Forest Beach, Hilton Head Island: It is iconic for so many reasons and its inclusion here will give you a sense of what we’re classifying best in show here. This iconic island locale gives you oceanside bites and that intoxicating mix of sea salts, lotions and some of the best people watching on the East Coast. Plus, you will get a steady stream of the premier musical talents daily.

Fishcamp (11 Simmons Road, Hilton Head Island; 1699 11th Street,

Port Royal): I had been away from the Lowcountry for a couple of years. I drove down one weekend to make sure that with all the growth, this was still the heaven I remember. I met a friend at the Port Royal Fishcamp. It took me all of four minutes soaking in the views to know. This is one of those spots where you truly can get drunk on the scenery. These two locales are just that perfect.

Quarterdeck, 160 Lighthouse Road, Hilton Head Island: It took losing this Harbour Town legend for months which bled into years which seemed like decades to truly understand what we were missing. And then they went and built a completely reimagined version of this topic OG on Calibogue Sound, with 270-degree views and uninterrupted views of one soul-soothing sunset after another.

The Squire Pope Road Classics: There are camps here, to be sure. Though they

are just a rock skip across Skull Creek from each other, Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks, Dockside and Skull Creek Boathouse have their distinct fans. Whether it be the table they’ve scoped out for decades, their spot at the bar, or the signature dish or cocktail, each set of fans is equally passionate about these three locales. For me, they each check every single box I could ever create when it comes to outdoor dining nirvana. It’s like choosing between two brands of $100,000 caviars. Either way, you win.

THE SPLITTING OF HAIRS BEST OF REST

First of all, this list is dominated by Hilton Head Island locations, for good reason. It’s about prime real estate. Entrepreneurs staked their claims on the waterfront on the island and the same can not be said about Bluffton.

Some would say it’s criminal that Bluffton does not have that mainstream waterfront eatery. There are an equal volume of

voices that will tell you that’s what makes Bluffton better, that we were smarter in keeping the best away from the masses. For the sake of this list, Bluffton is a onetrick pony and that’s people watching. And all of that comes in the classic one square mile in Old Town. The best peak-season people-watching spots to scout out the sidewalk-side tables are at The Cottage and The Pearl on Calhoun Street, and Calhoun’s, Corner Perk, The Bluffton Room and Captain Woody’s in The Promenade (the latter has the upstairs outdoors bar that gives a good look down on the action.

Now, in terms of taking in the sea of humanity in Bluffton, there are two top plays.

Okatie Ale House (25 William Pope Drive): The O’Gormans have mastered the blueprint of creating a scene in areas once laughed at as a potential landing spot for the masses. They did this in the

Please see HOT SPOTS on page 38A

*Total purchase value must exceed $500 or more on select furniture for o er to be valid. For one time use only and can’t be used with any other o er or discount. This o er must be presented to sales associate prior to time of sale.

Trolley season geared up for summer

The 2023 Trolley Season on Hilton Head Island has begun.

The service will run every day through Labor Day (Sept. 4) from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m., and until 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The Breeze is scheduled to serve each stop every 30 minutes.

The 2023 season marks the service’s sixth season of operation.

The Breeze will again be serving two routes: The South Island Route will utilize full-size trolley vehicles connecting the Coligny Beach/South Island area with the Shelter Cove area including several stops in-between.

The Mid-Island Route will again utilize shuttle vehicles to connect people in the Shelter Cove and Folly Field areas with transfers to and from the South Island Route. New to this route is an additional trolley stop on Folly Field Road near William Hilton Parkway.

The Breeze has invested in an important new safety enhancement that will be especially beneficial in areas with heavy pedestrian and bicycle traffic. Each of the Breeze’s four trolleys now has an “annunciator” system which alerts nearby pedestrians and bicyclists when the trolleys are turning. The system’s announcements are made in both English and Spanish.

“Safety is always our highest priority, and we all know how busy the pathways and intersections on the island are –especially during the high season. We have invested in this new technology as another way to avoid the potential for any incidents,” said Mary Lou Franzoni, executive director. “If we avoid even just one accident with the new ‘talking trolleys,’ it is well worth the investment.”

For more information, visit palmettobreezetransit.com.

HOT SPOTS from page 36A

early part of the new century at Bluffton Ale House, which is now British Open Pub in Sheridan Park. And now, with their deck and manmade pond just a strong fairway wood from 278, there is a consistent mix of the Sun City crowd and an older millennial parent crowd looking for a mildly wild night out.

Old Town Dispensary (15 Captains Cove, Bluffton) is off the beaten path of Calhoun Street but is worth seeking out. It has everything you want in an outdoor dining mecca except the water.

Back on the island, there are classics like Crazy Crab (on Jarvis Creek as you come onto the island and in Harbour Town) and Black Marlin (86 Helmsman Way) and Salty Dog Café (232 South Sea Pines Drive) that will give you the textbook sunsets, musical moments and people watching wonders that make braving the bridge traffic sooooo worth it. Coast (87 North Sea Pines Drive, Hilton

A BRAND NEW

AirportExperience

ONLY ONE STEP AWAY

Head Island) is everything you could ever want in a casual beach club eatery. Fish, Big Bamboo and Skillets are your best classic plays at Coligny Plaza.

It’s not like there are hidden gems here – kind of an oxymoron for the list. But in terms of spots you might not be thinking of top of tongue, Poseidon (38 Shelter Cove Lane) is best away from the water, while Elas on the Water and Top Dawg Tavern over at Shelter Cove are the best waterway-adjacent spots on the come up. And there’s the classic you thought I forget. They are still packed consistently, so I’m not crying for them, but far too many people forget Old Oyster Factory off Marshland Road when it comes to primetime waterfront dining. There, you should be set for a few weeks. Make sure to visit your faves before the weather gets warm and they will be overwhelmed with summer guests.

Tim Wood is a veteran journalist based in Bluffton. timwood@blufftonsun.com.

Dining on the deck at Crazy Crab on Jarvis Creek offers serene views over the water with some of the most amazing sunsets on the island.

COURTESY CRAB GROUP

Noteworthy

• The monthly Palm Trees & Pistons car show will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. April 8 at Sea Turtle Marketplace on Hilton Head Island, in the parking lot of the former SteinMart store.

The show will feature vintage, antique, exotic, muscle and unique cars owned by area locals. Any car owners who would like to display their vehicles are welcome to bring them for show and tell.

• Calling all members of Delta Delta Delta: The Lowcountry S.C. Alumnae Chapter is expanding.

The next meeting is a Beach Sweep on Earth Day, April 22, starting at 9:30 a.m. at Fish Haul Beach, 124 Mitchelville Road on Hilton Head Island. Dress for the weather and dirty work. We will supply trash bags and gloves.

Join us by contacting Sunday Molen, president, at 843-505-0108.

• The next monthly meeting of Liberal Men of the Lowcountry will begin at noon, April 12, at the Country Club of Hilton Head. Guest speaker is Erin Erenberg, co-founder and is executive director of Chamber of Mothers.

Luncheon is $27. Non-members who are considering joining are welcome, but must email bew_50@hotmail.com before April 5.

• The Savannah/Hilton Head/Bluffton chapter of Silverliners International will meet at noon April 12 at Colleton River’s Jack Nicklaus Clubhouse for lunch.

We are a social and charitable organization of current and former flight attendants. To join, contact Sue Smith by phone or text at 973-670-5832 or email camhillsue@ gmail.com.

• Palmetto Quilt Guild will meet from 1 to 3 p.m. April 20 at Hilton Head Beach and Tennis Resort, 40 Folly Field Road on Hilton Head Island. Social hour begins at noon.

Carolyn McCormick of Colorado will be the speaker. Her Company is CM Designs, and quilters know her most famous product: The Add-A-Quarter ruler. Also, a workshop will be held from 9 a.m.

to 3 p.m. April 21 at Palmetto Electric Community Room in Hardeeville. It will include four techniques using the Add-A-Quarter Plus ruler. Contact palmettoquiltguild.org to reserve a place. Non-member cost is $54.

• April 22 will be a day of fun and fundraising for the Lowcountry Autism Foundation.

Hilton Head Lakes Golf Club will host a golf tournament benefiting the Foundation with a shotgun start that morning. Cost is $135 a person or $540 for a four-person team.

The fun continues at the annual Ales For Autism Night. From 5 to 10 p.m., Southern Barrel will donate 10% of all sales from the evening to LAF.

For more information, call Sophia Townes, program coordinator, at 843-8007171 ext. 3, or email stownes@lafinc.org.

• The Children’s Center will host its second annual Celebration Dinner April 29 at The Westin Hilton Head Island.

The evening will include a cocktail reception, seated dinner, live and silent auctions. Tickets are $140 per person and can be purchased at thechildrenscentersc.org/annual-celebration, or checks can be mailed to The Children’s Center, 8 Natures Way Hilton Head Island, SC 29926.

• The Hilton Head Chapter of the American Needlepoint Guild welcomes anyone who is interested in needlepoint to join them for stitching, learning and fellowship.

The group meets the first Tuesday of the month from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Upcoming meetings are May 2 at the Indigo Run Clubhouse on Hilton Head Island and June 6 at Palmetto Electric in Hardeeville.

For more information, email hiltonheadislandchapter@needlepoint.org.

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT NEWS

The Bluffton Sun welcomes news of community, club, church, school and organization events. If the event is open to the public, email info to editor@blufftonsun.com.

Palmetto Electr 2023 Annual Meeting!

Early Drive-Thru Only

Registration and Voting

Thursday, May 4 7 a.m.– 7 p.m.

Friday, May 5 7 a.m.– 7 p.m.

In-Person Only Saturday, May 6

Registration & Voting begins at Noon

Auction, Concessions, Flea Market and Kid’s Activities open at Noon

Entertainment, MUDDYCREEK at 2 p.m.

Registration & Voting ends at 4 p.m.

In-Person Business Meeting

Saturday, May 6 begins 4:30 p.m.

Members will be able to view the business meeting on Palmetto Electric’s website, palmetto coop, by May 8

Registration Gifts

Each member who registers and votes in person will receive a H $25 credit on their electr

Preparing to carry forward the family business legacy

H Lots of Prizes Ever y member who registers and votes will be entered for prize dra wings Prize dra wings will be held a t the conclusion of the business meeting.

Norris and Lois Richardson didn’t realize they were building a legacy when they came to the island in 1955 to create the Forest Beach Supermarket, now known as Piggly Wiggly in Coligny Plaza. But their grandson Collins certainly does. He has seen what his family is capable of, how his father J.R. carried Coligny into the new century and created communities like Windmill Harbor and most recently, attainable housing.

South Carolina Yacht Club, Local Pie and FISH Casual Coastal Seafood.

But don’t be deceived by the family pedigree. Collins followed his own path to an economics degree at Sewanee and a spot in the highly competitive Clemson Masters in Real Estate Development program.

prizes

Members do not have to be present to win. Winners will be notified, and the names will be posted on our website and our Facebook pa ge

Collins has witnessed this legacy’s construction, and what’s more, he has his own vision for moving the island forward.After a five-year successful career in Charleston, Collins and his wife Morgan knew they were going to choose Hilton Head Island to live and build a famialy.

Collins (named for his late uncle, J.R.’s brother) has become a valuable part of The Richardson Group, which owns Coligny Plaza, Richardson Group Real Estate & Development,

Building on the generational knowledge of smart development with a talent for finance, he began his corporate career with Charleston’s family-owned Beach Company, with an focus on Kiawah River.

And now, he brings that experience back to his Island home. “Seeing what my grandfather and my father built here, being part of that legacy, is deeply rooted in me,” Collins said. “My father saw my passion for the financial side of development and wanted modernization within The Richardson Group companies. It’s exciting to step into his 50 years of successful development and use my skill set.”

Collins and Morgan Richardson at Coligny Center Stage

Entrepreneur Day 4 Kids starts new season of popup shops

Petals & Stars will kick off a new season of Entrepreneur Day 4 Kids popup markets in Beaufort County starting April 15 at Martin Family Park in Bluffton.

From noon to 3 p.m., children and their parents will be onsite selling slime, cupcakes, jewelry, artwork and a variety of other items. Bluffton Police Department will also be on hand with a static display for public interactions.

This is the second year Petals & Stars has organized the events in Beaufort County, after holding markets on the University of South Carolina Bluffton campus and Hilton Head Island’s Shelter Cove Community Park last year.

Local businesses and organizations are pitching in to support the project by donating coupons, promotional products and other items to the “small” business stars.

The vendor fee is $15 per booth for children 16 and younger.

The event is free and open to the public.

For info and to reserve a space or donate, visit the Facebook page @

petalsandstars or email hope@petalsandstars.org.

Petals & Stars is a local program with a mission of spreading hope to its neighbors. Its signature initiative, the Kindness Creations Project, invites students to write encouraging messages on small, specialty paper for distribution to animal helpers, veterans, first responders, farmers and other community workers.

To date, thousands of notes have been shared with targeted groups in Beaufort and surrounding counties.

The Entrepreneur Day 4 Kids popup market was started in 2022 for children with aspirations of entrepreneurship. In addition to families with “small” business stars setting up booths to sell baked goods, jewelry, artwork, and other fun products, local community helpers present onsite static displays for fun interactions.

For more info, email us at hope@ petalsandstars.org or visit petalsandstars.org, Facebook @petalsandstars or Instagram @ petalsandstarsproject.

Dominik Guerrero, 10, and his mother Vianney Guerrero sold comic books, toys, and drawings at the Petals & Stars Entrepreneur Day 4 Kids event held on the University of South Carolina Bluffton campus in October 2022.

COURTESY PETALS & STARS

Care for your mouth like you care for your home

By Gary Heller CONTRIBUTOR

Each year the multi-billion-dollar health and wellness industry introduces more fitness fads that promise greater health as long as you prescribe to their levels of daily exercise, balanced diets and sleep.

I have never seen a health trend that prescribes better teeth-brushing habits, increased flossing and regular dental visits as part of its program, but I wish I would! I admit, a new Peloton or a Whole 30 diet plan seems more exciting than a regular oral hygiene routine, but the connection between your oral health and your overall health should not be ignored.

Oral health is much more than just healthy teeth. A recent study by University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry explained how it includes the health of many other anatomical structures like the gums, bones and muscles. Many oral health issues stem from plaque resulting from inadequate dental hygiene.

Bacteria feed off plaque, which eventually develops into gum disease. Sore, bleeding gums provide an entry point for bacteria to travel into the bloodstream and organs and throughout the body. Bacteria in the bloodstream cause respiratory and circulatory conditions or blood clots, which can cause a stroke. A growing body of research has also identified a connection between oral health

and chronic diseases such as heart disease, Alzheimer’s and diabetes.

I tell my patients to approach removing plaque as they would a splinter. Most people stop everything to work at removing the splinter, knowing that it could eventually fester, cause an infection, and lead to more serious issues.

The same goes for plaque; it’s best to remove it ASAP!

I also tell my patients to think of oral health maintenance in the same way as they care for their homes. In this scenario, the house they currently live in is the house they will live in forever, just like their one and only mouth!

Ignoring an isolated issue like a leaky roof or a drafty window can cause damage throughout their entire home. Just like preventing a damaged roof or window, regular hygiene and dental appointments are imperative. Not only is it impossible to replicate professional cleanings at home, many in-office instruments, such as digital X-rays and intraoral cameras, can catch issues early to save time, money, and discomfort later.

Remember, as you strive to improve your overall health, include your oral hygiene routine as a part of the plan! It will have as much impact on your lifespan and quality of life as a healthy diet and exercise.

Gary Heller, DDS practices at the Hilton Head Island office of ROC Dental Group.

Answers to questions about ancillary plastic surgery

By E. Ronald Finger CONTRIBUTOR

Q: What can be done for droopy ear lobes?

A: Like most things, more time equals more droopiness for just about everything on our bodies. Regarding earlobes, earrings cause even more sagginess, and heavier earrings logically cause the problem even faster.

But even without earrings, earlobes will sag over time. Earlobes lose their volume with aging and consequently become saggy – much like a beachball that loses air.

The simplest treatment is to use a small amount of a hyaluronic filler. This expands the earlobe to a more youthful shape, reducing the sagginess.

If the sagginess exceeds what can be corrected with a filler, then the excess skin can be excised.

Lastly, wrinkles from excess sun exposure causes loss of elasticity and can be treated with an ablative laser. Sometimes a combination of treatments must be used to get the optimal result.

Q: My son has a weak chin. Can anything be done about it?

A: Chin implants have been the mainstay treatment for decades, providing the mandible is not too deficient. In these cases, the mandible must be advanced, and this also aligns the teeth.

Chin implants are a cosmetic treatment, and they come in different projections, shapes and lengths. The treating surgeon must make these determinations and take necessary measurements to provide the proper implant.

Recently, chin injections with fillers have

been used very successfully to augment the chin. The advantage of an injectable filler is that the injection can be accomplished during an office visit in about 10 minutes with minimal to no recovery time needed. The mandible can also be injected with a filler and to create a more defined jawline.

Q: My upper lip seems to have disappeared. Can anything be done about this?

A: As with any patient, the treatment must be individualized. Some people have very little lip volume to begin with, but even those with ample lips (meaning the red part of the lips called the vermillion) diminishes with advancing age.

This shrinkage is from a combination of thinning and lengthening of the cutaneous lip (between the vermillion and nose), loss of volume, and loss of elasticity, which in addition results in wrinkles.

If the cutaneous lip is too long, it covers the teeth excessively and the lip turns under making the vermillion look smaller – not a youthful look.

A “buck-horn lip lift” excises a carefully measured buckhorn shaped horizontal width of skin just under the nose, shortening the distance between the nose and upper lip. This turns the lip up exposing teeth as in a more youthful person.

For wrinkles, a combination of an ablative laser, as in a CO2 laser, with PDO threads to increase collagen and elastin production, and even fillers can be used. A good professional cosmeceutical skin care line should be used to diminish future wrinkling.

l et A meric A n Wood r efAce create your new dream kitchen in less than a week with our premium 1/4'' Solid Wood c abinet refacing. Saves time and hassle, and saves up to half the cost of custom cabinet replacement.

Our experienced carpenters painstakingly reface the cabinet boxes with premium furniture-grade 1 ⁄4” solid hardwood

We install brand new Amish-crafted solid wood doors and drawer fronts –cabinets look and perform JUST like neW AGAin!

Huge selection of styles, colors, and wood finishes in eight different domestic woods.

Beautiful new stone countertops.

Modify and customize cabinets: change function, extend, reduce or add new cabinets. Roll-outs† and drawer banks for accessibility and convenience.

compare our quality

A superior refacing job starts with quality materials. Gorgeous solid hardwoods and custommade components enhance your kitchen’s beauty and value.

Components are built using time-honored craftsman methods, such as mortise-andtenon and dovetail joinery.

OURS

THEIRS

Our 1/4" solid woodfacingisfar superior to thin laminates and veneers used by other refacers.

†ROLLOUTS AvAiLAbLe wiTh OR wiThOUT RefAcing

with full kitchen reface.

trust your kitchen to m asters of the c raft.

E. Ronald Finger, MD, FACS is a board certified plastic surgeon with offices in Savannah and Bluffton. fingerandassociates.com

HydraFacials 101: Benefits and how they work

By Audrey Klenke CONTRIBUTOR

If “HydraFacial” sounds like something out of science fiction, then you’re not totally wrong. HydraFacials rely on state-of-theart technology and a drastically improved understanding of skin physiology to accomplish skin rejuvenation like never before.

Making the most of exfoliating and extracting technologies as well as concentrated medical-grade serums, HydraFacial offers a complete facial for remarkable results in under an hour and can be easily tailored for anti-aging, acne, lymphatic drainage and even the neck and neckline areas.

Best of all, the process is every bit as comfortable as a spa facial!

To demystify the HydraFacial, we need to understand how they work step-by-step.

Step 1: Vortex exfoliation. Cleaning your windows and cleaning your face have more in common than you might think. Before we buff any glass surface to brilliance, we have to clean it.

During the first step of your HydraFacial, an esthetician uses a vortex exfoliating wand to remove dead skin cells, revealing the newer, supple skin below.

Dead skin cells can dull our complexion. Removing these dry, lusterless cells evens out skin tone while also allowing the skin underneath to hydrate and breathe.

Once your face is cleansed and exfoliated, it’s time for the next step.

Step 2: Peel hydration. Without our realizing it, our skin pores are hard at work each day. Pores serve as output channels for sweat, oils and other toxins that may damage or dull our skin. Cleaner pores allow for more toxins and oils to escape, improving

overall appearance and health.

In this step of your HydraFacial, an irritant-free chemical peel is applied for two key purposes. First, the peel extracts debris and leftover toxins from your pores. Next, the nutrient-rich peel permeates the skin to provide deep, nourishing hydration.

Unlike traditional chemical peels, this special solution won’t leave your face feeling hot or scoured. Instead, immediately after step 2, you should notice softer, refreshed-feeling facial skin. A vacuum may also be used during step 2 for total pore penetration, giving you the cleanest possible pathways for naturally removing toxins.

Step 3: Protection. After exfoliating, cleaning and hydrating, what could possibly come next?

Similar to a premium car wash, the third and final step is a protecting serum to maximize results and longevity. An esthetician will use the HydraFacial wand to apply a collagen- and antioxidant-rich serum. Although our skin naturally produces collagen, its maximum output diminishes as we age. This collagen-rich serum puts the bounce back into your skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Sun damaged and greasy skin, along with blemishes, should also see immediate improvement.

HydraFacials are the cutting-edge in spa skincare treatments. In just three easy steps, you can rejuvenate your skin for unbelievable results lasting six weeks or longer.

With HydraFacials, there’s no intense downtime or restrictive recovery period. Aside from avoiding certain topical ointments or acne medications for one or two days after the treatment, you’ll mostly just need to avoid tanning beds or intense UV exposure.

Dr. Audrey A. Klenke, MD, FACS, is a co-owner and medical director of Pinnacle Plastic Surgery, Pinnacle Dermatology and Pure Medical Spa with offices in Bluffton and Beaufort.

Audrey Klenke

Browlift option can improve tired appearance, even vision

By Mathew T. Epps CONTRIBUTOR

This month’s primer on facial rejuvenation will focus on the upper third of the face –the forehead and brow. These techniques offer a large “bang for the physiological buck.”

The risk/benefit ratio is quite low, with a great impact on a refreshened “look” for the recovery time and money invested.

But first, consideration must be given to both anatomy and aesthetics. For example, the usual brow position for women is above the bony ridge above the eyelid. Anatomical position and shape should be tailored with the goal of a natural lift or “look” where the brow is slightly higher with a subtle lateral peak. In men, the youthful brow is a lower, more flattened shape.

Guidance from a plastic surgeon is important in addressing various desired brow positions.

Any surgical consult addressing upper eyelid surgery should also address the brow position. Commonly, patients seek improvement of a chronically tired appearance, including hooding around the eyes with a look of fatigue and anger. Brow descent can be severe enough to obstruct a person’s vision.

On occasion, a patient consults for eyelid surgery yet really needs a browlift – or both, but simply are not offered it or do not know of the technique’s availability.

For the past decade or so the population has settled into the use of neurotoxins such as Botox, Dysport and Xeomin to create a temporary “chemical browlift.” However, browlift surgery offers a considerably more long-lasting return to a refreshed look without the temporary “frozen” or “over-lifted” look as with neurotoxins.

There are several variations of browlift techniques, and these can be performed simultaneously with eyelid surgery when needed. Browlift can be performed endoscopically with small incisions hidden at or behind the hairline. Short-scar lateral

browlift alone can elevate treated hooding around the eyes.

A more traditional, full browlift can be performed with a hidden incision just behind the hairline as well. The technique is typically patient and surgeon specific.

A recent study in JAMA Plastic Surgery stated patients undergoing browlift had a 93% satisfaction rate, with 96% recommending the procedure to others. Further, browlifts are particularly safe with thousands being performed every year under local anesthesia with conscious sedation in an outpatient setting.

Like upper eyelid surgery, browlifts in general do not require much downtime. Mild swelling and bruising may occur but do not typically interrupt a speedy recovery and return to work.

If you have been thinking about brightening your appearance, seek an evaluation with a plastic surgeon to see if aesthetic surgery of the forehead and brow might be right for you.

Mathew T. Epps, MD, MS, DABS is a plastic surgeon, triple- fellowship trained in facial, eyelid, and breast surgery. matheweppsmd. com or

The dissonance of tragedy and loss, balanced with hope

By Bill McCutchen CONTRIBUTOR

I am standing at my desk trying to write something that somehow captures the dissonate emotions clamoring for primacy in my heart. I am lamenting the relentless pursuit of Evil as it again and again shows itself in tragedy and loss like the school shooting in Nashville.

I am also preparing for Easter and the hope that Jesus Christ defeated sin and death by being raised from the dead. As I wrestle within the crucible of these conflicting thoughts and feelings, I find that they are inextricably bound together.

Jesus’ death, though the fountainhead of hope for humanity, was bound within the experience of tragedy and loss. The most beautiful, perfect, loving, kind and compassionate person to ever walk the face of this earth was brutally destroyed and murdered by Evil’s intentions and designs.

Calvary is so much more than a tragedy, but it is not less than that. It mysteriously and wonderfully intertwines the suffering of this world with the hope that has penetrated time and space in and through the person and work of Jesus Christ.

Easter is only a few days away. Many of us are looking forward to it with sacred anticipation. But very quickly Easter will be in your rearview mirror – an afterthought perhaps clouded by golf tournaments and spring break plans.

But I would posit for you today that you should read the small text on the bottom of that rearview mirror that says, “Objects in the mirror are closer than they appear.”

For the Christian, Easter informs absolutely everything! If Jesus rose from the dead

(and He did), that grinds the lens through which I see and experience the world. It must have an effect on my life. It must, or else it is of no value. It is closer than it appears.

Easter doesn’t remove the sense of loss that we feel when we read about shooters in schools and 9-year-olds and adults being murdered. It does not remove the feelings of loss as cancer ravages the bodies of our loved ones. Or when dementia disintegrates the once beautiful mind of our family member.

Easter doesn’t eradicate lament and loss and mourning, but it does inform them.

Easter says, “There is hope beyond this world. There is something beyond the grave. There is beauty even in the midst of loss. There is a shard of light penetrating the darkness.” The psalmist writes in Psalm 94, “If the Lord had not been my help, my soul would soon have lived in the land of silence. When I thought ‘My foot slips,’ your steadfast love, O Lord, held me up. When the cares of my heart are many, your consolations cheer my soul.”

The hope of Easter – the reality of Easter’s resurrection – keeps my foot from slipping and my soul from falling into utter darkness. I cannot begin to speak to the depths of loss experienced by those in Nashville or for many of you reading this article.

However, I can speak to the fact that Jesus Christ lived and died and rose from the grave and ascended to be with the Father. But He won’t stay there forever. He will return one day to make all things right and new; bend guns into plowshares; and wipe every tear from our eyes.

His own story of tragedy and loss points us to the true story of hope for us found only in Him.

I wish for you a blessed Easter.

Rev. Bill McCutchen is lead pastor of Hilton Head Presbyterian Church. bill.mccutchen@ hiltonheadpca.com or hiltonheadpca.com

Bill McCutchen

Piano store attracts people like kids to a candy shop

By Jennifer Herrin CONTRIBUTOR

Spring is here! It’s a new season of growth and new beginnings.

If you’ve thought about starting something new, “spring” into your local piano store. If you’re wondering what you might find there, here is a sampling:

Your neighbors: You might be surprised to find that many people you know play the piano and rely on their hometown piano store to service their piano with annual tunings, small repairs, string replacements, piano dehumidifiers and cleanings.

Speaking of neighbors, the Hilton Head International Piano Competition just wrapped up its 26th year of offering a stellar piano competition that draws pianists from all over the world. The community comes together to volunteer time and provide host homes for these competitors.

Your local piano store is proud to play a role in helping the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra host such a renowned event.

Local musicians: On any given day in your local piano store, you might hear local musicians like Martin Lesch, James Berry or Charlie Curtis tickling the ivories. Piano stores draw recording artists and virtuoso pianists like kids to candy stores. If you stop by, you might just be treated to a mini performance. There are also ticketed events such as recitals and chamber ensembles that dot the yearly calendar and provide an evening of musical entertainment.

Piano students: A piano store without piano lessons is like a zebra without stripes, and we get very excited about the families and students that come to the piano studio for lessons each week. These students (young and older) bring excitement, energy and music to the store. We love to see them get lost in the racks of piano music.

Recently, we were thrilled to loan a new baby grand piano to the piano students at Hilton Head Christian Academy – helping neighbors and musicians alike in their pursuit of music.

Friendly staff: It’s hard to have a bad day at work when you work in a candy store – I mean, a piano store! Everywhere you look, there are beautiful pianos, baby grands, electronic keyboards, and the potential for exciting, romantic, jazzy, fanfare, or dance music to emanate from any of them at the hands of a pianist or at the touch of an iPad.

Spring is an excellent time of the year to find growth in a new hobby or passion. Find your way to your local neighborhood piano store this season, and perhaps discover a new beginning.

Jennifer Herrin is the co-owner of Kawai Piano Gallery by Herrin in Bluffton. @ kawaipianogallerybyherrin or kawaipianogallerybyherrin.com

Suffering from dry, itchy, red or burning eyes? You are not alone. Between 30 to 40 million Americans are estimated to suffer from Dry Eye Disease. We know how tough and frustrating this can be – and you deserve a solution. Bishop Eye Center is proud to announce the addition of treatment with OptiLight to our range of services. Call us today to schedule a consultation and get started on the path to relieving your dry eyes.

Start here. Your eyes will thank you.

Spring cleaning around the home can eliminate fire hazards

By Cinda Seamon CONTRIBUTOR

With somewhat warmer weather and longer days approaching, this is a good time to take on long-neglected projects like deep cleaning, home repairs, and yard work.

Start by reducing the amount of clutter inside and outside your home. While clutter does not start fires, it can become fuel for a fire.

Household and pool chemicals, paints, and poisons should be marked and stored out of a child’s reach. Dispose of any that are leaking or expired.

Make sure gasoline and cleaning fluids are also marked and stored in a cool dry place away from the house and away from children and pets. Use only approved containers for gasoline storage.

Common household chemicals can fuel a fire and can also be hazardous to your health. Maintain only the amounts you need and be sure to use, store and dispose of household hazardous materials in a safe manner as outlined on the product.

Your medicine cabinet is not meant to be a storage area for all the medicines that you have ever been prescribed. Spring cleaning is a good time to get rid of them and any

expired over-the-counter medicines that you may have.

Maintain your yard by trimming bushes, plants and trees. Removing vegetation clears fuel for any potential fire. Keep gutters and roofs clear of leaves and other buildup. Check the kids’ play area for sharp objects, poisonous plants, and tripping hazards. Clean up work areas by putting tools and other work items away from children’s reach. Remove all fire hazards, including stacks of rags, newspapers and magazines.

Pay attention to spaces around hot water tanks, fireplaces, space heaters and dryers, as well as under stairs.

Check your barbeque grill for leaks and cracks and be sure to store any propane tanks at least 10 feet away from your house and garage. Locate grills a safe distance – at least 10 feet – from buildings or wooden decks.

Test all your smoke alarms to ensure they are working. Change the batteries at least once a year and the actual smoke alarm every 10 years.

Spring cleaning can greatly improve the safety of your home and family.

Cinda Seamon is the fire and life safety educator for Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue.

Blind shelter puppy searches for a soulmate and a home

By Amy Campanini CONTRIBUTOR

Close your eyes and picture, for a moment, the stark contrast between darkness and light. Imagine the darkness as it might be experienced by an abandoned animal.

A 3-month-old puppy found himself dumped at a shelter. But this puppy is different. He is blind. Without the benefit of sight, he is left to navigate this scary place using only his senses of hearing, smell and touch.

The nights are loud, long, and cold. The days are even worse. Then a hand reaches into the terrifying void and gently leads this puppy out.

The warmth and calm of the Palmetto Animal League Adoption Center must have come as a huge relief for the pup who was named Wonder. A rural, underfunded shelter contacted the adoption center when they realized he was completely blind.

Since his eyes show no outward signs of his disability, we can’t help but think how long this precious soul was left to fend for himself, literally, in the dark.

“Wonder wants to be close to people and feel like he is not alone,” said Sally Dawkins, PAL foster coordinator. “He especially enjoys being swaddled like a baby and held close to your chest.”

Wonder came to PAL in February, and while we provide him with all the care and

comfort possible, an adoption center is no place for a blind puppy. He deserves a family and all the stability that comes with having a real home.

“He is a very smart puppy, and if we can find him a foster or adopter with experience or a willingness to do the research on blind dogs, he will adapt in no time,” said Dawkins.

Wonder’s other senses have been adapting quickly since coming to PAL. Our devoted dog care team is working hard to provide him with the positive interactions he needs to feel safe and learn how to adapt in different surroundings and situations.

“He is incredibly eager to learn new skills,” said Dawkins. “He loves to be outside for playtime and his favorite game is tug of war.”

Wonder is the perfect mixture of sweetness and determination. He’s ready to take on the world, but first he needs to find a soulmate. Wonder will be a loyal, loving companion and in return, he just asks for someone to devote a little extra time to teaching him the ropes.

To meet Wonder, lover of warm hugs and toys that tug, call PAL at 843-645-1725 to schedule a visit to our adoption center in Okatie. If you’re unable to adopt, but you’d still like to help more homeless pets like Wonder, visit PalmettoAnimalLeague.org.

Amy Campanini is president of Palmetto Animal League.

Part of Plaid Nation Since 2000

For over 20 years our locally owned, private practice has provided our community with the most advanced dental care in the country.

It would be our privilege to welcome you to our dental practice and help you achieve your best oral and overall health.

#rocheritageweek

Wonder is completely blind, but eager to learn new skills.

The Deluxe HydraFacial will elevate your experience with a custom selected booster and the custom HydraFacial red & blue light therapy. The booster will help to improve skin tone, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and minimize pores while the LED light therapy will address acne and help to heal damage caused by environmental factors. Packaged services expire 9/30/23.

Assigning human traits to animals is the stuff of folklore

By John Riolo CONTRIBUTOR

Since the beginning of human history, we humans have anthropomorphized non-human animals. That is, we often attribute human characteristics to non-human animals. Our folklore is rife with examples of attributing human qualities to animals also. Let’s take a look at some examples:

• Lions are majestic. We call them the “king of the jungle.” It may be a small point, however, lions are rarely found in jungles – rather their habitat is the savannahs of Africa. Tigers, who live in jungles, are larger and arguably just as majestic, but are on the verge of extinction in their natural habitat.

• Dogs are referred to as our best friends. Any dog owner will tell you that. The wolf, however, from which all dogs are descended is considered the “Big Bad Wolf,” which we have nearly exterminated to extinction and are only now beginning to see the importance of wolves in keeping the balance of nature.

• Also in the canine family, we have the fox and the coyote. We have the “wiley coyote” and the “crafty fox.” Many people see the fox as cute and adorable, but the coyote is seen as a menace and a pest. Yet both are skilled carnivores and hunt the same prey for the most part.

If you’re a pet owner like me, you take anthropomorphizing to the next level. Scientific data suggests that dogs can learn up to 90 or so words and phrases. Cats may only understand 25 to 35 words.

A dog may follow a few basic commands. A cat may or may not understand those commands, but we will never know, since they are unlikely to follow them. If a dog is man’s best friend, we are more often than not our cat’s loyal servants.

I have been known to have long, wordy conversations with our cat, Madison. On an emotional level, I am convinced she understood every word, even if she did whatever she chose. For example, like most cats, she did not take medicine well and would run and hide when she thought it was medicine time. So, my wife and I have been known to whisper or even text her when her meds were ready so as not to have her running and hiding under the bed.

Sadly, Maddie had a variety of health issues that destined her for a short life despite the best care we and our vet could provide her. Her life might have been short, but it was filled with love both given and received. You don’t get more anthropomorphizing than that.

John Riolo of Moss Creek teaches graduate research online at Walden University. john.a.riolo@gmail.com

Madison the Cat lived a short life, but it was full of love.

It’s that time: Turkeys and wahoo and redfish, oh my!

By Collins Doughtie CONTRIBUTOR

If you are sitting around twiddling your thumbs trying to figure out something to do with your spare time, then you must be from another planet.

It’s April, folks! This is turkey hunting time, redfish time, sheepshead time, and my personal favorite – wahoo time. It only seems appropriate that April begins with an “A” because for outdoorsmen like myself, I give April a solid A plus.

Though I haven’t been turkey hunting yet, I know that many of my friends were chasing these big birds when the season opened April 1. For years I was a turkey fanatic, hopping up long before the earliest rooster crows, then driving an hour or more to get to some turkey territory.

And how do I know this? I did the same thing for darn near 20 years when I would go every single morning during turkey season. I guess age and my back have dampened my enthusiasm to go, but I still dream about a big gobbler strutting and drumming just a few feet from me.

If you have never experienced this awesome spectacle, it ranks up there in my top five outdoor memories. If this piques your interest, the state has several game management areas not that far away that are loaded with gobblers.

If you have never tried turkey hunting, it is fabulous. At times if can be frustrating,

but if you stay real still, and know two or three calls, the odds are in your favor.

April also means the water temperature is reaching that magic mark that triggers every fish out there to feed and feed and feed some more, trying to pack on pounds they lost during the winter months. In both fresh and saltwater, the feed is on.

I don’t do that much freshwater fishing, but if I did, April is the month to go. There is one pond I know of that is loaded with small gizzard shad, and during April those shad go into a spawning ritual that drives the big bass crazy. It happens at first light, and the shad congregate by the thousands right up against the shoreline.

The first time I saw it, I couldn’t believe the carnage as every big bass in that pond exploded under the shad. I found that a Rapala shallow-running Shad Rap mimicked the shad perfectly, and on a good morning I could catch a bass on just about every single cast. And talk about exploding on a lure,

the bass will hit it so hard and fast it will scare you the first few times it happens.

We still have a while before the cobia show up, but in the Gulf Stream the water is already in the mid-70s. So what does that mean? That means it is time to get the heck out there! It’s a long run for sure, but boy is it worth it. The water there is such a brilliant blue it is hard to describe.

And clear? You can watch a quarter flutter down nearly 30 feet before it disappears. What really gets my heart pumping is to be trolling big lures and big baits and watching them skip across the surface. Then, almost like magic a huge shape appears right behind one of the baits.

If it is a mahi-mahi, its dorsal fin is standing straight up and it weaves back and forth with super quick movements as it eyes its prey. When it finally decides to eat, it changes from a vibrant blue to a kaleidoscope of yellows, oranges and greens. This is called being “lit up.”

Most all the pelagic species out there possess the ability to change colors as quickly as if you had just flipped a switch. Marlin and sailfish do it, tuna do it and my favorite fish

of all – wahoo – do it too.

Why am I so all fired up about wahoo? I guess it is their raw, savage power that attracts me. With a unique hinged jaw chock full of razor-sharp teeth, a wahoo doesn’t mess around when it decides to eat. Reaching speeds of 60 mph, there is no mistaking when one has hit the bait.

They can dump tons of line off a reel in the blink of an eye, they will shake and thrash their head like a mad bulldog. And there isn’t a better eating fish in the ocean. With the S.C. Wahoo Series in full swing, with more than 150 boats entered, you surely won’t be alone out there on those days when the wind allows. Thus far, it seems like the wind has been honking for weeks but that isn’t unusual for March.

One final note: I am considering another two-part “How to Fish the Lowcountry” seminar. I have yet to schedule exactly when and where, but once I figure out the logistics I’ll let you know.

These are usually limited to 15 attendees, which allows me more one-on-one time, whether it be inshore, near shore or offshore fishing. For now, April is the beginning of multiple choices chasing either fins or feathers. A set of three turkey tags for residents is $5 ($100 for non-residents) and can be ordered online at SCDNR.

Collins Doughtie, a 60-year resident of the Lowcountry, is a sportsman, graphic artist, and lover of nature. collinsdoughtie@icloud. com

Harry Morales and Don McCarthy with a nice wahoo.

Remembering Jim Ferree, local legend and Hall of Fame golfer

By Jean Harris CONTRIBUTOR

Golf fans and friends are mourning the passing of golf icon Jim Ferree, a resident of Hilton Head Island, who died March 14 at the age of 91.

Ferree was born in Pine Bluff, North Carolina and learned the game of golf from his father, Purvis, a longtime golf professional at Old Town Club in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

The younger Ferree played golf at Reynolds High School in Winston-Salem and college golf for the University of North Carolina from 1951 to 1953. During his time at UNC, he won the Southern Conference Championship.

He was a member of the Southern Conference 75th Anniversary team that included Arnold Palmer and Brad Faxon. In 1991, Ferree was the first golfer inducted into the University of North Carolina Hall of Fame.

After college, Ferree served in the Armed Forces and participated in intramural military golf competitions. He had a lifetime commitment to supporting and respecting America’s active armed services women, men and veterans.

In 1955, Ferree turned professional. He won once on the PGA circuit – at the 1958 Vancouver Open, where he had a one-shot victory over golf legend Billy Casper. He played in 295 tour events and had two runner-up finishes.

In 1966, Ferree became the head pro at Savannah Inn and Country Club. He later became the golf pro at Westmoreland Country Club in Export, Pennsylvania. At Westmoreland, Ferree coached many great junior golfers, including well-known PGA Tour winner Rocco Mediate.

In its inaugural 1981 season, Ferree joined the Senior PGA (now the Champions Tour). Because of his knickers,

trademark hat and signature swing, Deane Beman chose Ferree to be the model for the Senior Tour logo.

While still playing on the Senior Tour, Ferree became the first Director of Golf at Long Cove Cub on Hilton Head Island. In 1981, he and his longtime friend, Karen Shapiro, a golf pro at Long Cove, married.

Ferree won twice on the Senior Tour. In 1986, at the Greater Grand Rapids Open beating Gene Littler and Chi-Chi Rodriguez in a playoff and in 1991, winning the Bell Atlantic Classic beating Lee Trevino by 2 strokes. Ferree also had 12 runner-up finishes.

In 1998, Ferree was inducted into the Carolinas Golf Hall of Fame. When Karen was inducted in 2014, they became the first husband and wife pair to earn the honor. They are both members of the Lowcountry Golf Hall of Fame as well.

He stayed active in golf, and in 2002 and 2003 he teamed with Miller Barber and won the Demaret Division of the Liberty Mutual Legends of Golf. In 2019, Ferree was inducted into the Western Pennsylvania Golf Hall of Fame.

Ferree remained committed to the local golf community with his support of the First Tee of the Lowcountry in his final years.

Last year, Ferree was the guest of honor at a 90th birthday celebration held on the Long Cove course as he finished his round of golf. Dozens of friends, members and golf pros gathered near a large sign to sing “Happy Birthday” as the legend dropped his ball into the final hole.

For a video of the celebration, search YouTube for “Jim Ferree Birthday Long Cove Club.”

Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional and teaches at local golf courses. jean.golfdoctor.harris@gmail. com; golfdoctorjean.com

Help your agent sell your home faster, for higher price

By Larry Stoller CONTRIBUTOR

While successful real estate listing agents go the extra mile for their sellers, sellers can help their agents get their home sold faster and for a higher price.

Here are three ideas/sales strategies that sellers and agents can add to the marketing plan to get from “Just listed” to “Just sold.”

1. Create a selling book. Tell the story of your home through photographs, descriptions and graphics, all combined in a beautiful book format. Not only is this a powerful selling tool, but also a nice keepsake for the sellers and the new buyers.

A selling book will give the home its own identity, highlighting all the special features that the home has to offer – i.e., the beauty of the home in every season, the home’s appeal during special holidays, information about the architect and builder, views of the

forest, the lagoon, nature that surrounds the home, wildlife outside the window and anything else that shows how special your home is.

Once the selling book is complete and in print, it can easily be developed into a digital flip book that can be added to various real estate websites.

2. Create a renovation book. List all the

home improvement projects that have been completed. Show before and after photos of renovations that made the property more comfortable and appealing. This is a very persuasive tool for buyers to see that your home has more added value than the competition.

It also helps sellers get offers as close to their asking price (or more) as possible, as

most purchasers do not want to take the time, effort, energy, vision and expense of doing the remodeling themselves.

3. Create an exclusive single property website. While this can be done by ambitious sellers using an online marketing program like propertiesonline.com, many savvy real estate agents will include this marketing method in their services for their seller clients.

Routinely, when you list your home, it immediately is displayed in the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS), Zillow, and a number of other online real estate portals. Adding an exclusive single property website (e.g., 1234HomeSt.com) can syndicate your home listing to hundreds of other online real estate directories.

Larry Stoller is a broker and Realtor with Real Estate Five of the Lowcountry. Larry@ RealEstateFive.com, RealEstateFive.com

Hilton Head Library offers special programs in April

The Hilton Head Branch of the Beaufort County Library will host several books and other special programs during April. The library is located at 11 Beach City Road.

The Classics Book Club will meet at 2 p.m. April 4 for a discussion of “Manhattan Transfer” by John Dos Passos.

Tea, Talk & Tales Book Club will meet at 2 p.m. April 18 with hot tea and discussion of the monthly selection, “The Thursday Murder Club” by

Richard Osman.

The Novel Choice Book Club will meet at 4 p.m. April 24 to discuss “The Personal Librarian” by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray.

Other programs include “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up Your Archives,” set for 10 a.m. April 13. Led by certified archivist and reference librarian Warren Cobb, the program will offer guidance on spring cleaning of your documents, includ-

ing paper, analog, and digital media – what to keep, what not to keep, and what to give away and to whom. Registration is encouraged.

Enjoy a few rounds of “Live Trivia with Warren” at 5:30 p.m. April 17. Exercise your brain muscles in an hour of trivia, music, and plenty of witty banter from your host! There will be prizes for first and second place. Topics include Pop Culture, Literature, Movies, Music, History, Science, and more.

An Earth Day Plant Swap will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. April 20, celebrating Earth Day a little early. Participants should bring a healthy plant or cutting to the library to swap for free. Indoor or outdoor, big or small – all plants are welcome. Be sure to check out the library’s gardening section for books on plant care.

For more information on any of the events, contact the reference desk at 843-255-6525.

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

CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507.

Go-Go Batteries

CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507. CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507.

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.

CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! CALL 843-757-9507.

John K. Crum at Art League of Hilton Head

April 11-May 13

“Sea Breeze” by John K. Crum

April 6

“Disney’s Frozen Junior,” Sea Pines Montessori students at Seahawk Cultural Center, 5:30 p.m. Hilton Head Island High School, 70 Wilborn Rd., Hilton Head. Tickets $12 children 5-17, $15 adult at spma.com.

Through April 8

“Art + Quilt = Art,” exhibit by Art Quilters of the Lowcountry at Art League of Hilton Head, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head. Free and open to public. artleaguehhi.org or 843-681-5060

Through April 8

Savannah Music Festival, 34th season. A cross-cultural musical event, with artists in classical, contemporary, Americana, blues, jazz, funk, pop fusion and more. Tickets starting at $31 for various venues. Savannahmusicfestival.org or 912-5255050.

April 11

“Twitty & Lynn, A Salute to Conway & Loretta,” performed by their grandchildren, Tayla Lynn and Tre Twitty. 7:30 p.m. Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island. Tickets $56 at arthhi.org or 843-842-2787.

April 11

“Gullah Me, Gullah You” Gullah Cultural Series event, “Taste and See: Gullah Cuisine and Art,” 6:30 p.m. at SoundWaves, 7 Lagoon Road, Hilton Head Island. Gullah dinner, Gullah

basketmakers’ demo and discussion, music by Lavon Stevens Band. Tickets from $29 (concert only) to $49 (reserved, dinner and concert) at hhso.org or 843-842-2055.

April 11-May 13

“Art That Makes You Smile: The Gently Surreal Art of John K. Crum,” at Art League of Hilton Head, 14 Shelter Cove Lane. Opening reception

5-7 p.m. April 12. Art demonstrations 11 a.m. April 17-18. Gallery hours 10 am.-4 p.m. Monday-Saturday, noon-4 p.m. Sunday, and 90 minutes before every Arts Center performance. artleaguehhi.org or 843-681-5060

April 20-30

“Ripcord,” by Lean Ensemble Theatre at HH Prep Main Street Theatre, 3000 Main St., Hilton Head Island. 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets $45 at leanensemble.org or 843-715-6676.

April 21

Joe Jencks, folk singer-songwriter, in concert, 7 p.m. at Music on Malphrus, 110 Malphrus Road, Bluffton. General admission tickets $25 at door; doors open 6:15 p.m. uulowcountry.org or MusicOnMalphrus@gmail.com

April 21, 22

“Dance ... Rhythm in Motion,” annual Rainbow of Rhythm production, featuring the dance clubs of Sun City. Performances 7 p.m. April 21; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. April 22. Tickets $15 at Magnolia Hall box office or 843-645-1870.

April 22

“Let’s Rock,” 7 p.m. concert at Seahawk Cultural Center, 70 Wilborn Road, Hilton Head Island. Fundraiser for Foundation for Educational Excellence, featuring local bands, solos and students of Hilton Head Island High School, and celebrating the school’s 40th anniversary. General admission tickets $20 at foundation excellence.com and at the door. Students with ID, $5 at door; teachers with ID, $10 at door.

April 28-May 7

“The Rise and Fall of Little Voice,” May River Theatre at Ulmer Auditorium, 20 Bridge St., Bluffton. Performances 7:30 p.m. April 28-29, May 5-6; 2 p.m. April 30, May 7. Tickets $26 at mayrivertheatre.com.

April 29-30

“Terpsichore,” presented by Hilton Head Dance Theatre, 7:30 p.m. April 29, 2:30 p.m. April 30, at Seahawk Cultural Center, 70 Wilborn Road, Hilton Head Island. Tickets $20 adult, $10 students and children 18 and under.

Through April 30

“Bring Nature Home,” art exhibit by Karen Richards at SOBA gallery, 6 Church St. in Old Town Bluffton. Opening reception 5-7 p.m. April 6, free and open to public. sabagallery.com or 843-757-6586

Through May 6

Bluffton 8th Grade Juried Art Show, featuring student art from Bluffton schools, on exhibit at Bluffton Library. People’s Choice voting through April 29. Artist Awards reception May 4.

Crum’s magical expressionism on exhibit at Art League in April

“Art That Makes You Smile: The Gently Surreal Art of John K. Crum” is the title of the artist’s latest exhibit in the Art League of Hilton Head gallery.

The works will be on view April 11 to May 13, with an opening artist’s reception from 5 to 7 p.m. April 12.

Crum’s whimsical and graphic work features bright color palettes, bold designs, and, in his own words, “gentle, surreal landscapes” sure to brighten the viewer’s mood. Perspectives are often distorted in curious, whimsical scenes in order to tell his joyful stories.

“I love to paint themes such as life experiences, romance, love and the human spirit,” said Crum. “I want to make people smile while taking them on an unexpected and magical journey.”

Crum has enjoyed a long, successful career in illustration, graphic arts, and mural painting. He came to Hilton Head Island more than two decades ago from Bay Village, Ohio, and continues to exhibit his work locally.

Artist’s demonstrations will be held at 11 a.m. April 17 and 18, when guests can learn more about the artist and his

APRIL 11

ONE OF THE MOST UNIQUE SHOWS IN ALL OF COUNTRY MUSIC

techniques.

The exhibit, reception and demonstrations are all free and open to the public.

The gallery is open every day: Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday noon to 4 p.m., and 90 minutes before every Arts Center performance.

Art League Gallery is located mid-island inside Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, 14 Shelter Cove Lane on Hilton Head Island.

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.

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.

Art League Gallery features local artwork in all media created by more than 170 member artists. All artwork on display is for sale and exhibits change every month.

For more information, visit artleaguehhi.org or call 843-681-5060.

The high-energy, heartfelt show highlights not only the bond Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty had as best friends and musical partners, but the unique bond Loretta and Conway’s grandkids, Tayla and Tre, have formed through years of an intertwined family history and their own musical relationship.

APRIL 26 – MAY 28

On the night of his 35th birthday, Robert struggles to think of a wish to make as he blows out his birthday candles. The lone New York bachelor, surrounded by his married friends, is uncertain whether he should simply be happy with his lot in life or wish for his own romantic partner.

Company, Stephen Sondheim’s groundbreaking modern musical, is a mature, intelligent, and wildly funny look at relationships, vulnerability, and “being alive.”

FIVE TIME TONY AWARD-WINNER, INCLUDING BEST REVIVAL OF A MUSICAL.

DIRECTED BY RUSSELL GARRETT

Prize Winners

The 2023 Hilton Head International Piano Competition was held March 13-18 at St Luke’s Anglican Church and First Presbyterian Church. An international jury selected these winners, shown on stage following the finals, from left: Zhonghua Wei (China), First Prize; Donghwi Kang (S. Korea), Second Prize; Xinran Shi (USA), Third Prize; Nathaniel Zhang (USA), Medalist; and David Choi (USA/S. Korea), Medalist. In addition, Zarin Mehta (USA) won the Sascha Gorodnitzki Memorial Prize, and Zhonghua Wei won the Peter Takacs Classical Sonata Prize. The competition is a program inaugurated in 1996 by the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra.

April 11 – May 13

Mon-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 12-4pm and 90 minutes before every Arts Center performance

Opening Reception: Wed, April 12 • 5-7pm

Enjoy refreshments and meet the artist • Free and open to the public

Shelter Cove Lane, HHI www.ArtLeagueHHI.org 843.681.5060

Artist Demos:

Mon, April 17 • 11am

Tues, April 18 • 11am

Learn more about the artist and his process

Presented by Art League of Hilton Head Inside Arts Center of Coastal Carolina 14

COURTESY HILTON HEAD INTERNATIONAL PIANO COMPETITION

A

‘Terpsichore’ show features classical, contemporary dance

Hilton Head Dance Theatre will present an exciting program of classical and contemporary dance featuring company members and distinguished guest artists this month. Shows are 7:30 p.m. April 29 and 2:30 p.m. April 30 at the Seahawk Cultural Center on the campus of Hilton Head Island High School, 70 Wilborn Road.

The program takes its name from Terpsichore, the Greek muse of dance, and is always an audience favorite. Dancers and audience members alike enjoy the unique collection of dance genres. The program opens with “Gershwin Suite,” Ballet Master Jamal Edwards’ exuberant ballet set to some of George Gershwin’s most beloved tunes. Featured will be Alex Watts and guest artist Anatto McMillan.

Also on the program is an elegant pas de deux, featuring Jordan Gentemann and guest Will Scott, set to the exquisitely beautiful “Gymnopédies” by Erik Satie.

Changing the mood will be “Sunnyside of the Street,” HHDT artistic director and co-founder John Carlyle’s spin on the music of the Irish rock band The Pogues. This piece will star Colleen Ott and Jamal Edwards.

Deana St. Hillaire will dazzle in “A

Rose for Ecclesiastes” – a dance ode to beauty.

Edwards was inspired by the music of “They Might Be Giants” and has restaged the fan favorite “Istanbul (Not Constantinople).” It will feature Caroline Denckhoff, Jamie Hanley and Alex Watts.

Edwards was also inspired to create “Empowered,” a tribute to the talented and amazing women of the Hilton Head Dance Theatre. It will be performed for the first time on this program.

The finale of this spectacular program is HHDT artistic director and co-founder Karena Brock-Carlyle’s staging of the third act of Marius Petipa’s masterpiece, “Don Quixote,” featuring the iconic wedding pas de deux. Featured as Kitri and Basilio are Lucy Peltz and guest artist Will Scott.

Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students and children 18 and under. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit hiltonheaddance.com.

Purpose of annual dance showcase is multifaceted

By Sandro Virag

Once a year we do a ballroom dance showcase and people often ask why we do it. To raise money? To advertise?

Although those might be good reasons, it is really more about the people involved. For some it may be the only opportunity to take center stage at this point in their life.

Some of our students danced – perhaps professionally – 20 and 30 years ago, took a very long break and then came back to dancing. For them to be on stage again brings back those feelings of their long-ago years when they were under the professional spotlight. It is their opportunity to shine again.

For many it is the journey that creates the memories.

Showcase also allows time for students to work together and bond more closely, because everyone has the same goal – which is to produce the best show

possible. This is a time when everyone really pulls together.

Some of our people end up sometimes staying after rehearsals to brainstorm with others about hair, makeup, costumes and dance steps. They end up forming close friendships with people they previously knew only in passing at the studio.

This kind of teamwork is important because it promotes a positive atmosphere. Newer students can overcome obstacles by learning from more experienced dancers who may have different backgrounds and dance history. Some of the more experienced dancers can offer valuable insight to newer students.

Toni Wald has been dancing for more than 15 years. She makes an effort to help newcomers by lending them a costume or ball gown for their first performance, as someone did the same for her when she started.

Monica Bohrer will often invite

others to come and join her in between rehearsals if they would like some extra practice time.

This kind of teamwork allows students to create something they could not do alone and also presents an opportunity for celebration once the show is complete.

On the day of the showcase, observers will see the dressing room buzzing with everyone helping one another. There is constant lending and borrowing of curling irons, bobby pins, hair spray, makeup – you name it.

Even during the show, if someone has a very quick costume change, others jump to the call to make sure that person is ready to go.

Would you like to see the end result of all this preparation? Then don’t miss our showcase April 8! Titled “Broadway My Way,” the production will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. at Seahawk Cultural Center, 70 Wilborn Road on Hilton Head Island. For more information visit hiltonheadballroom.com.

Sandro Virag is a partner and instructor at Hilton Head Ballroom Dance Studio of Hilton Head, located in Bluffton at Seaquins Ballroom. hiltonheadballroom.com

Showcase performances include lots of Hilton Head Ballroom Dance Studio students and their instructors.

COURTESY HILTON HEAD BALLROOM DANCE STUDIO

Sweet Summer by Sue Grilli

Photo by